Earlier tonight Rob and I were discussing the non-alcoholic bubbly we were going to drink at midnight--that is if we made it that long. We both like the same kind--it's called Pink Sparkling Catawba. I had just come from the store and told him they didn't have any left, so he went downstairs and was able to find an unopened bottle from last year. He brought it upstairs and said something smart-alek like, "Boy, you wouldn't even know this stuff existed if I hadn't introduced you to it." I said, "That's not true, I've been drinking this since I was a little kid. My parents used to get it for us."
Never mind that we've had this conversation before and can't seem to remember it. They say memory is the first thing to go, you know. But, I digress. Rob and I are still talking about the bubbly when Jonathon stops us in our tracks. All of the sudden, we hear him pretty loudly and with an incredulous tone say "MOMMY, YOU WERE A LITTLE KID?!
Oh my goodness, this kid doesn't miss a trick! I thought I'd bust a gut. Goodnight Gracie. Lol.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Sunday, December 29, 2013
ICKY SICKY
It's been a really busy week. As I said, our Christmas was so nice--we really did have a good time with each other. First, we had everyone up for Grandma's birthday and then, on Christmas day we celebrated with our family and Grandma and Grandpa.
Then, on the 28th our niece got married. She had a family dinner the night before and then we were involved all day and evening the day of her wedding (attending) and helping. The wedding and reception were lovely, unfortunately Rob was really sick both days with a really bad cold/virus but was a real trooper and made it through all the events.
On the morning of the second day, I started getting sick but when we got home after everything was over and were getting the kids ready for bed I found that Jonathon was really warm. When I took his temperature it was over 103. Then I took mine and it was 101.5. Rob's was about 100 degrees. Plus, we were all coughing and achy. On top of that, I had one of the worst migraines I'd had in a long, long time. The migraine lasted all night long and into the morning. No matter what I took I couldn't get rid of it. Suffice it to say it was an icky illness to have. Jono hung onto his fever most of the day today but thankfully, by this evening our fevers were gone, and our coughs are better. Luckily, Carly never had anything but a mild cough and I sure hope it stays that way.
Grandma got sick yesterday, too. She was coughing and not feeling well -- even last night she was still feeling poorly. But this morning she was doing much better. We are hoping Grandpa and Carly can avoid the whole mess!Here's to ringing in the new year in good health! Hope you are doing well!
Then, on the 28th our niece got married. She had a family dinner the night before and then we were involved all day and evening the day of her wedding (attending) and helping. The wedding and reception were lovely, unfortunately Rob was really sick both days with a really bad cold/virus but was a real trooper and made it through all the events.
On the morning of the second day, I started getting sick but when we got home after everything was over and were getting the kids ready for bed I found that Jonathon was really warm. When I took his temperature it was over 103. Then I took mine and it was 101.5. Rob's was about 100 degrees. Plus, we were all coughing and achy. On top of that, I had one of the worst migraines I'd had in a long, long time. The migraine lasted all night long and into the morning. No matter what I took I couldn't get rid of it. Suffice it to say it was an icky illness to have. Jono hung onto his fever most of the day today but thankfully, by this evening our fevers were gone, and our coughs are better. Luckily, Carly never had anything but a mild cough and I sure hope it stays that way.
Grandma got sick yesterday, too. She was coughing and not feeling well -- even last night she was still feeling poorly. But this morning she was doing much better. We are hoping Grandpa and Carly can avoid the whole mess!Here's to ringing in the new year in good health! Hope you are doing well!
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
MERRY, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
We had a really nice Christmas day. Although it started a wee bit too early with a little boy prying my eye lids open telling me Santa had been here! Luckily, that same little boy was content to tell me that and then climb into bed with me and cuddle a little, then fall asleep again. That was great until about a half hour later when big Sis came along with the same Santa story. She climbed in bed for a cuddle, too but her cuddle was about two seconds long and then she wanted everyone up and at 'em! We did get up but we made everyone eat breakfast first and then we took turns opening gifts. It was a little rough on Carly and Jono but we did let them go first.
Other than Rob, Carly and Jono having colds, it's been a really good day. Everyone else is doing well. Julie came up last night and had to go back this evening. Megan came over for the day. Grandpa and Grandma are doing well. I will write more, hopefully tomorrow. We have a niece getting married on Friday, so the week is hectic, but I will try to write more this week and post a few pictures.
Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!
Other than Rob, Carly and Jono having colds, it's been a really good day. Everyone else is doing well. Julie came up last night and had to go back this evening. Megan came over for the day. Grandpa and Grandma are doing well. I will write more, hopefully tomorrow. We have a niece getting married on Friday, so the week is hectic, but I will try to write more this week and post a few pictures.
Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!
Sunday, December 22, 2013
CELEBRATING WITH GRANDMA
Yesterday (Saturday) my sisters and their families came and we celebrated Grandma's birthday (a little early.) It was so great to get everyone together. We went out to eat and then came back to the house for cake and ice cream. Grandpa has been feeling a little better so we were even able to get him out of the house!
We have about 7 or 8 inches of snow on the ground. It has been snowing for about 3 or 4 days now--and looks like we have a few more in store. Somehow, I don't think our white Christmas in any jeopardy!
Rob and I are still trying to pull Christmas together and we have a niece getting married this week. So, I apologize for not being very consistent on the blog.
We have about 7 or 8 inches of snow on the ground. It has been snowing for about 3 or 4 days now--and looks like we have a few more in store. Somehow, I don't think our white Christmas in any jeopardy!
Rob and I are still trying to pull Christmas together and we have a niece getting married this week. So, I apologize for not being very consistent on the blog.
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| Grandma with her girls |
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| Blowing out the candles |
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
MY SILLY BOY
Last night I was helping the kids with one of their happy meal games and it had some random names from Despicable Me 2 in it. Agnes was one of the little girls names. Carly picked right up on it and said, "Agnes is a really pretty name Mommy. I really like it." "Oh," I said. "I'm glad." I was kind of shrugging the whole thing off, but Carly continued. "Mom, why didn't you name me Agnes?" I said, "Well, honey, because I love the name I gave you and Agnes really isn't one of my favorite names, but I'm glad you like it."
Now Jonathon who had been listening intently to our conversation piped up and said (rather indignantly), "Yah Mommy! Why didn't you name me Grandpa?! I nearly burst out laughing. (Well, maybe I did actually laugh a little bit out loud.) Then I explained to him that he is actually named after both of his Grandpas, his Father and an Uncle. He is one little boy with a very BIG name! I sure love him -- and some days he is just my silly, silly boy!
Now Jonathon who had been listening intently to our conversation piped up and said (rather indignantly), "Yah Mommy! Why didn't you name me Grandpa?! I nearly burst out laughing. (Well, maybe I did actually laugh a little bit out loud.) Then I explained to him that he is actually named after both of his Grandpas, his Father and an Uncle. He is one little boy with a very BIG name! I sure love him -- and some days he is just my silly, silly boy!
Sunday, December 15, 2013
NICE VISIT, NICE PUPPY, NICE EVENING
We had some really close friends come by tonight to bring some Christmas goodies and they also brought their new Sheltie pup to show us. The kids were in Heaven! What an adorable puppy! She was so sweet and gentle and the kids were so cute with her! And we had such a nice visit with our friends.
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| Carly with Justie |
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| Jono playing with Justie |
Saturday, December 14, 2013
SHOPPING AND ERRANDS
I think I could have stayed in bed and slept all day today but I didn't do that. Hubby, me and the kiddos went shopping, ran errands and such for most of the afternoon and early evening. It's pretty darn cold outside but we still have quite a bit to do before the holidays get here so we braved it.
Grandma and Grandpa's vehicle is acting up. We thought it was the battery the other day so they took it and had a new one put in but then it wouldn't start again yesterday so Rob and I took it back over to the shop to have it looked at. I'm guessing they will not know what's going on with it until Monday. Rob was able to start it, though, so we could drive it over.
We came home tonight and had pizza and watched Despicable Me 2 with the little ones. They love it and it's one of the animated movies I really get a kick out of. I'm not huge into animated movies. Don't know why, I'm just not. I also like The Incredibles, though.
We have our tree up and Rob has the train running around it. We put candy in the train and he stops it every night and lets the kids get some train candy. It's a "sweet" treat for them--one they will remember long into their adult lives, I think.
Well, that's been our Saturday. Nothing very exciting, but that could be good news, I guess. Hope you have a fabulous Sunday!
Grandma and Grandpa's vehicle is acting up. We thought it was the battery the other day so they took it and had a new one put in but then it wouldn't start again yesterday so Rob and I took it back over to the shop to have it looked at. I'm guessing they will not know what's going on with it until Monday. Rob was able to start it, though, so we could drive it over.
We came home tonight and had pizza and watched Despicable Me 2 with the little ones. They love it and it's one of the animated movies I really get a kick out of. I'm not huge into animated movies. Don't know why, I'm just not. I also like The Incredibles, though.
We have our tree up and Rob has the train running around it. We put candy in the train and he stops it every night and lets the kids get some train candy. It's a "sweet" treat for them--one they will remember long into their adult lives, I think.
Well, that's been our Saturday. Nothing very exciting, but that could be good news, I guess. Hope you have a fabulous Sunday!
Friday, December 13, 2013
OUR FRIDAY
Wow, I just glanced at our temperature here and it's a balmy 22 degrees! Lol! That's almost twice as warm as it's been all day and it's midnight now! It's really been quite cold here. I haven't wanted to wander outside for anything unless I've been desperate for it.
I am more than happy to stay inside and do my Christmas shopping on Amazon and let them deliver everything to my doorstep when it's this cold out. I guess what I'm really saying is I'm a bit of a whiner! Lol.
Not much going on here. The kids are having fun making cute things at school in preparation for the holidays. Carly got to wear her jammies to school today. They had a jammie party, watch a movie, got to have hot cocoa and cookies. She loved it! She is such a little social butterfly and loves having tons of friends. I love her teacher, too. She is so good with the kids and makes learning fun for them.
We are about halfway done with our Christmas shopping--gotta get moving on it or we'll be in real trouble. Well, not much else to tell. Hope you are more ready then we are! Take care!
I am more than happy to stay inside and do my Christmas shopping on Amazon and let them deliver everything to my doorstep when it's this cold out. I guess what I'm really saying is I'm a bit of a whiner! Lol.
Not much going on here. The kids are having fun making cute things at school in preparation for the holidays. Carly got to wear her jammies to school today. They had a jammie party, watch a movie, got to have hot cocoa and cookies. She loved it! She is such a little social butterfly and loves having tons of friends. I love her teacher, too. She is so good with the kids and makes learning fun for them.
We are about halfway done with our Christmas shopping--gotta get moving on it or we'll be in real trouble. Well, not much else to tell. Hope you are more ready then we are! Take care!
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
OUR DAY
Grandpa went to the doctor today. She is pretty sure his stomach trouble is ulcers and they will begin treatment with medication for ulcers. That's a really good outcome considering all the alternatives. Hopefully, the medication will help pretty quickly and he can feel up to eating more soon. He's gotten pretty skinny. :(
Rob and I had a date tonight. We went to a musical called The Forgotten Carols. It's a lovely Christmas Musical. We went to see it last year and loved it so much we went back again. It was really nice. We got a babysitter for the evening and really enjoyed ourselves.
It's biting cold here. It was 12 degrees when we got out of the musical. I am really glad to climb into my warm bed tonight. Well, not much else to tell. Hope you are all safe and warm. :)
Rob and I had a date tonight. We went to a musical called The Forgotten Carols. It's a lovely Christmas Musical. We went to see it last year and loved it so much we went back again. It was really nice. We got a babysitter for the evening and really enjoyed ourselves.
It's biting cold here. It was 12 degrees when we got out of the musical. I am really glad to climb into my warm bed tonight. Well, not much else to tell. Hope you are all safe and warm. :)
Monday, December 9, 2013
HAPPY MONDAY~THE WEEKEND'S OVER!
We had a ton of snow here over the weekend--like 6-8 inches. But then you probably did too since half the country did. We hear there is more on its way. It's cold here, too. It was 11 degrees when I came in from shopping around 7:00 p.m. and my computer says it's 14 degrees now but I don't believe my computer because I'm freezing!
Rob was on-call all week-end and kept getting called out in the middle of the worst of the storm. I was white-knuckling it for him even if he wasn't! I hate having anyone out driving in this stuff.
Julie came up on the train in the middle of it but that seemed a bit safer. She stayed and played with the kids and helped them build a Gingerbread house. Then we made cookies and had hot cocoa together. Unfortunately, she completely missed seeing her dad as he was out on call the whole time she was home. I put her back on the train late Saturday night but he didn't get back home until early Sunday morning in the wee hours. :(
Everyone here is starting to get a little better--cold wise anyway. Mine and Jono's are clearing up. We have been able to lessen Jono's breathing treatment's a bit. I'm even letting him go back to pre-school tomorrow. Yay!
Grandpa seems a bit better, too. Although, his stomach still gets a bit queasy here and there when he eats. He does have a Dr. appt. on Wednesday, though--and he is responding to medicine for the Cellulitis.
So, the good news is we are on the mend. Hope you have good news and not a lot of snow at your house!
Rob was on-call all week-end and kept getting called out in the middle of the worst of the storm. I was white-knuckling it for him even if he wasn't! I hate having anyone out driving in this stuff.
Julie came up on the train in the middle of it but that seemed a bit safer. She stayed and played with the kids and helped them build a Gingerbread house. Then we made cookies and had hot cocoa together. Unfortunately, she completely missed seeing her dad as he was out on call the whole time she was home. I put her back on the train late Saturday night but he didn't get back home until early Sunday morning in the wee hours. :(
Everyone here is starting to get a little better--cold wise anyway. Mine and Jono's are clearing up. We have been able to lessen Jono's breathing treatment's a bit. I'm even letting him go back to pre-school tomorrow. Yay!
Grandpa seems a bit better, too. Although, his stomach still gets a bit queasy here and there when he eats. He does have a Dr. appt. on Wednesday, though--and he is responding to medicine for the Cellulitis.
So, the good news is we are on the mend. Hope you have good news and not a lot of snow at your house!
Sunday, December 8, 2013
EVIL DID NOT WIN
You need to watch this video. On the 14th, it will have been one year since the Sandy Hook massacre. This is about one of the families who lost a little six year old girl. They are from near here. It is a very sweet tribute and shows we can overcome almost anything. (Click on the link below.)
http://m.ksl.com/index/story/sid/27945070?mobile_direct=y
http://m.ksl.com/index/story/sid/27945070?mobile_direct=y
Thursday, December 5, 2013
MY SICK, NOT SO SICK CHILD
Both of my little kids were sick today. I kept Jono home from pre-school and Carly home from Kindergarten. Carly was coughing and sneezing. She felt OK other than that but I didn't want to send her and have her get everyone else sick. That said, I should have sent her. Lol. I was sick, too -- sore throat, coughing, sneezing, headache and had one energetic, sneezing coughing Kindergartner who thought I should entertain her all day! Seriously? Holy Cow. Lay down child--you're sick!
I found a couple of art projects for her and then I let her watch cartoons--so sue me!! Tomorrow--coughing or not, school! When Mommy doesn't feel good she does not want to entertain!
Jono didn't feel very well, either so he didn't need as much entertaining. But alas, not so much with his sister. Well, the little ones are finally in bed, so Mommy is putting herself down too. Night all.
I found a couple of art projects for her and then I let her watch cartoons--so sue me!! Tomorrow--coughing or not, school! When Mommy doesn't feel good she does not want to entertain!
Jono didn't feel very well, either so he didn't need as much entertaining. But alas, not so much with his sister. Well, the little ones are finally in bed, so Mommy is putting herself down too. Night all.
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
JUST A LITTLE CATCH UP!
Julie came up on the train today and we celebrated her birthday. It was good to see her and spend some time. Megan came by and had cake with us. Grandpa was feeling good enough to come upstairs and have cake with all of us, too. Grandma has been taking good care of him.
It is only 15 degrees here so we are all freezing. Jono's asthma is doing okay but not going away. I am having to keep a constant watch on it. Lots of late hours with him this week but if we can get him through it, it will all be worth it. I let him go to pre-school on Tuesday but am going to keep him home tomorrow to see if we can get ahead of it.
I got my van back today! Crossing my fingers and saying lots of prayers that it's GOOD and FIXED for a long while!
Oh, and my friend Shelli and her husband got to take their new baby, Gunnar, home tonight--all the papers signed! Yippee! Yay! Yahoo!!! I am soooooo happy for them!
Well, that's all the news for today! Hope you are warm where you are!
It is only 15 degrees here so we are all freezing. Jono's asthma is doing okay but not going away. I am having to keep a constant watch on it. Lots of late hours with him this week but if we can get him through it, it will all be worth it. I let him go to pre-school on Tuesday but am going to keep him home tomorrow to see if we can get ahead of it.
I got my van back today! Crossing my fingers and saying lots of prayers that it's GOOD and FIXED for a long while!
Oh, and my friend Shelli and her husband got to take their new baby, Gunnar, home tonight--all the papers signed! Yippee! Yay! Yahoo!!! I am soooooo happy for them!
Well, that's all the news for today! Hope you are warm where you are!
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
COUPLE SICKEES
We had a close call with Jono a few nights ago. He's had a cold and ended up going into severe asthma. So, the last few nights have been long--every 3 hours he and I've been meeting for nebulizer treatments. He's even less fond of them than I am. Lol. He is finally doing better, though. I am hoping this will be the last night of the all nighters. He has had to have the treatments during the day as well but only every 4-6 hours so he is really tired of the nebulizer.
Then today Grandpa woke up with a fever and nausea again. We still aren't sure what the nausea is but the fever turned out to be his Cellulitis returning. Mom was able to get him into the doctor and get him started on some strong antibiotics. Hopefully, those will take care of it before it goes any farther.
Well, it's late and I just wanted to get a short update out on what was going on. We also got snow today! Yippee! :) (Tongue in cheek!) Hope all is well with you. Have a lovely Wednesday!
Then today Grandpa woke up with a fever and nausea again. We still aren't sure what the nausea is but the fever turned out to be his Cellulitis returning. Mom was able to get him into the doctor and get him started on some strong antibiotics. Hopefully, those will take care of it before it goes any farther.
Well, it's late and I just wanted to get a short update out on what was going on. We also got snow today! Yippee! :) (Tongue in cheek!) Hope all is well with you. Have a lovely Wednesday!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JULES ~ WHERE DID MY TEENAGER GO?!
12/2/13
Twenty years ago today a beautiful baby girl was born named Julie Ann. I am blessed to be one of two women she calls Mom. One, she lost at the tender age of ten. The other (yours truly) is so blessed to have inherited this sweet daughter, and still feels privileged to have been able to actually adopt her and call her mine. Some days I still pinch myself to make sure it's all real.
Julie is beautiful on the inside and out and I love her more than I can even express. Happy,Happy Birthday my sweet Jules. You're growing up way too fast! STOP IT! I love you mostest! Mom
Twenty years ago today a beautiful baby girl was born named Julie Ann. I am blessed to be one of two women she calls Mom. One, she lost at the tender age of ten. The other (yours truly) is so blessed to have inherited this sweet daughter, and still feels privileged to have been able to actually adopt her and call her mine. Some days I still pinch myself to make sure it's all real.
Julie is beautiful on the inside and out and I love her more than I can even express. Happy,Happy Birthday my sweet Jules. You're growing up way too fast! STOP IT! I love you mostest! Mom
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| Julie, as a young girl with her Mommy, Lisa, The one who gave birth to her and whom she inherited her beauty from. |
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| Me and my Julie taken during her Senior Pictures. What a joy it is to call her my daughter! I love this young woman with my whole heart! |
Saturday, November 30, 2013
JED'S WISH - THE FAITH OF A CHILD
My friend Shelli, whom I met when I worked at BYU is on a similar journey in life. She and her husband adopted a son a short time after we blessed to adopt Carly. He is a handsome little boy named Jed. He started Kindergarten this year just like Carly did.
Jed has wanted a sibling for a long time now and his parents have been working, hoping and praying to have that blessing come about. My heart is so full and happy for them because today Jed got his wish! He had a little brother born today they are adopting! (I would bet a lot of things come about in life because of the faith of our children.) I am so excited for my friend and her family I can hardly stand it!
Sometimes when you have walked down a difficult road it is hard to see someone you love have to walk it, too. It is a huge blessing when you see them come to the end of that rocky road and hit the pavement! So my friend, may the ride from here be smooth and calm. OK, with two boys that may be too much to ask--but may your journey be filled with much joy and laughter! I love you my friend! God Bless!
Jed has wanted a sibling for a long time now and his parents have been working, hoping and praying to have that blessing come about. My heart is so full and happy for them because today Jed got his wish! He had a little brother born today they are adopting! (I would bet a lot of things come about in life because of the faith of our children.) I am so excited for my friend and her family I can hardly stand it!
Sometimes when you have walked down a difficult road it is hard to see someone you love have to walk it, too. It is a huge blessing when you see them come to the end of that rocky road and hit the pavement! So my friend, may the ride from here be smooth and calm. OK, with two boys that may be too much to ask--but may your journey be filled with much joy and laughter! I love you my friend! God Bless!
Friday, November 29, 2013
BLESSED LIVES -- MINE AND MY BABY GIRL'S
11/29/2013
You wonder about this day. You worry about it. You pray about it and prepare for it--but still you worry. Will you be ready? Will you say the right things. Will you have the right words and answers for your sweet little one when their tender hearted curiosity finally turns into actual questions? Will you be able to satisfy their minds and calm their hearts when they truly understand what the word you've been saying to them for the past few years means? You know the one you've been reading to them in all the pretty stories trying to help them understand--so it didn't come as a huge surprise later--the "adoption" word?
Well, that day you wonder and worry so much about ended up being tonight for us--at least with the oldest of our little ones. It was a tender and poignant discussion and even though she is not yet six--it was a weighty matter for her heart. I have felt for several years that it would be. She has a very tender spirit and feels things deeply. She is also very bright and perceptive. I believe Rob and I were able to explain things in a way that helped her see how many amazing blessings she has. And that she has these blessings because Our Father in Heaven loves her very much, and because her birthmom who also loves her deeply loved her enough to give her more than she could give her at that time.
We helped her understand that just because I couldn't carry her and give birth to her did not mean she was not meant to be ours. We believe very much that the Lord had a plan for us and she was meant to come to us. We told her how we prayed hard for the right child to come to our home--and that even though I didn't give birth to her she was born in our hearts long before she came to our home.We know she was meant to be our child.
She will have one blessing most children don't get--she will one day get to have two moms. We told her how much we love her birth mom and how grateful we are to her for bringing Carly into our world. I will be the mom who raises Carly but then, we will help her find her birth mom so she can have both of us in her life.
In the end, Carly will have the blessing of having two families and two mom's -- where most people only get one in life--and that's pretty darn amazing when you think about it! A blessed life for certain--just like she has blessed mine. :)
You wonder about this day. You worry about it. You pray about it and prepare for it--but still you worry. Will you be ready? Will you say the right things. Will you have the right words and answers for your sweet little one when their tender hearted curiosity finally turns into actual questions? Will you be able to satisfy their minds and calm their hearts when they truly understand what the word you've been saying to them for the past few years means? You know the one you've been reading to them in all the pretty stories trying to help them understand--so it didn't come as a huge surprise later--the "adoption" word?
Well, that day you wonder and worry so much about ended up being tonight for us--at least with the oldest of our little ones. It was a tender and poignant discussion and even though she is not yet six--it was a weighty matter for her heart. I have felt for several years that it would be. She has a very tender spirit and feels things deeply. She is also very bright and perceptive. I believe Rob and I were able to explain things in a way that helped her see how many amazing blessings she has. And that she has these blessings because Our Father in Heaven loves her very much, and because her birthmom who also loves her deeply loved her enough to give her more than she could give her at that time.
We helped her understand that just because I couldn't carry her and give birth to her did not mean she was not meant to be ours. We believe very much that the Lord had a plan for us and she was meant to come to us. We told her how we prayed hard for the right child to come to our home--and that even though I didn't give birth to her she was born in our hearts long before she came to our home.We know she was meant to be our child.
She will have one blessing most children don't get--she will one day get to have two moms. We told her how much we love her birth mom and how grateful we are to her for bringing Carly into our world. I will be the mom who raises Carly but then, we will help her find her birth mom so she can have both of us in her life.
In the end, Carly will have the blessing of having two families and two mom's -- where most people only get one in life--and that's pretty darn amazing when you think about it! A blessed life for certain--just like she has blessed mine. :)
A FEW MORE THANKSGIVING PHOTOS
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| The older grandkids who were able to come to Thanksgiving Dinner--L to R, Julie & Megan Dyer, Ashley & Alyssa Ridgeway, Caitlin & Ian McOmber |
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| Susan Ridgeway, Grandpa, Caitlin McOmber |
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| My favorite photo--My daughter Megan towering behind Grandma, Lol! |
Thursday, November 28, 2013
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Hope you had a wonderful holiday! We certainly did -- though, I think we are all tuckered out. We may need a nap till Christmas now!
We had most of the family here. Susan came with her family for a bit and then went on to her husband's family's for dinner. Sarah and her crew came and stayed. We had most of mine here and we all had a great time and of course, ate way too much--but it was all yummy!
Grandpa got the results from his gallbladders tests and they came out negative. They didn't find any problems with his gallbladder or liver. His regular doctor wasn't in to give him the results so he will probably hear more next week on how they will proceed next to see what may be causing his upset tummy. I will let you know what we hear.
Sarah took lots of photos--and of course, I don't have any of the ones she took. I only took a few so I will post those. Have a great weekend!
We had most of the family here. Susan came with her family for a bit and then went on to her husband's family's for dinner. Sarah and her crew came and stayed. We had most of mine here and we all had a great time and of course, ate way too much--but it was all yummy!
Grandpa got the results from his gallbladders tests and they came out negative. They didn't find any problems with his gallbladder or liver. His regular doctor wasn't in to give him the results so he will probably hear more next week on how they will proceed next to see what may be causing his upset tummy. I will let you know what we hear.
Sarah took lots of photos--and of course, I don't have any of the ones she took. I only took a few so I will post those. Have a great weekend!
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| Grandpa with Sarah |
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| Grandma with Sarah |
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| Julie with Jono |
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
NO NEW NEWS
Grandpa had his gallbladder tested but we don't have the results yet. We are hoping to get them before Thanksgiving but aren't holding our breath. Other than that-- we are just holding out for Turkey. Yep, that's the only reason we're still here, hahaha! We'll let you know if it's any good! Hope you have a great holiday with your family!
Saturday, November 23, 2013
WHAT A GOOD KID!
It's very cold here. We had a nice Saturday where for once Rob was not on-call. He and I tried to work our way through mountains of old paperwork to file it and or trash it. (I'm a recovering paper-collector.) Paper drives me nuts. I never know what I can throw away and what I have to keep. Gah!
Rob and I traded headaches today but in between doing that we watched the BYU-Notre Dame game. Then we took the kids to a Trampoline Park they'd been begging to go to. Plus, Carly had gotten a free ticket for being a good citizen at school at school this week so we needed to let her get her reward. Then afterward we took them out to dinner, again with a certificate she had for a free kid's meal for being good. She really is a good kid.
Grandma and Grandpa have been pretty low-key today. I don't think any of us left the house until evening-and then it was just us to go do our thing. I guess none of us are crazy abou the cold. Go figure. At least we didn't have snow today! Keeping our fingers crossed!
Rob and I traded headaches today but in between doing that we watched the BYU-Notre Dame game. Then we took the kids to a Trampoline Park they'd been begging to go to. Plus, Carly had gotten a free ticket for being a good citizen at school at school this week so we needed to let her get her reward. Then afterward we took them out to dinner, again with a certificate she had for a free kid's meal for being good. She really is a good kid.
Grandma and Grandpa have been pretty low-key today. I don't think any of us left the house until evening-and then it was just us to go do our thing. I guess none of us are crazy abou the cold. Go figure. At least we didn't have snow today! Keeping our fingers crossed!
Friday, November 22, 2013
UPDATE
Grandpa's still been having a few episodes here and there of becoming nauseous when he eats so Grandma called the doctor yesterday. The Dr. decided to have him go and do a gallbladder test before they do anything else. I believe he is going to do have that done on Monday. Hopefully it won't take long, even with the holiday, to get the report back. We will keep you posted though.
We had 70-80 mph winds here last night. It was really bad. There was a stretch of highway near us where they had semi's double parked for five miles in one of the far lanes of traffic with the cops waving other cars over. They had to pull all the semi's over to keep them off the road so the wind wouldn't topple them. Pretty darn scary when the wind is that strong.
The wind brought in some pretty cold air and tonight it is 36 degrees. The temperature has really dropped. I just want to stay inside in my jammies and veg this weekend. It sure would be nice if I can! I'm not going to count on it though!
Well, not much else happening. Better go for now! :)
We had 70-80 mph winds here last night. It was really bad. There was a stretch of highway near us where they had semi's double parked for five miles in one of the far lanes of traffic with the cops waving other cars over. They had to pull all the semi's over to keep them off the road so the wind wouldn't topple them. Pretty darn scary when the wind is that strong.
The wind brought in some pretty cold air and tonight it is 36 degrees. The temperature has really dropped. I just want to stay inside in my jammies and veg this weekend. It sure would be nice if I can! I'm not going to count on it though!
Well, not much else happening. Better go for now! :)
Thursday, November 21, 2013
SOME NEW PICTURES
My friend Tammie just sent me some pictures she'd taken of our family at an event we all attended together. We were all dressed up so she started snapping photos. I'd forgotten she even took them but I am grateful she did as they turned out so nice--even if I do say so myself. My little ones are growing so fast, I can't snap enough photos of them.
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| My cute family--minus our older girls |
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| My handsome men |
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| Mama and her sweetie pie |
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| Mama, Daddy and our little ones |
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
MY VERY BAD BILL COSBY DAY :)
I had such a frustrating day with the kids today. In fact, it's been two days in a row! Gah! Such temper tantrums--golly gee! I made hubby take me out for dinner and I was starting to talk to him about it when he cut me off and turned on the cd player in the car. I clammed up and was feeling for myself and he was cheerfully trying to get me to listen to the cd. It was Bill Cosby. I was too frustrated with him at first to listen much. After all, he didn't even let me get out my whole yukky story about my day and I had just said "Honey, I don't know what I am going to do with Jono and his little tempers!" Then he wants to play me a cd.
Turned out he had a method in his madness. It was Bill Cosby's cd on raising kids and it was pretty hilarious and it had to be 30 or 40 years old. It also sounded like he'd been in my house today. :D My cute husband was trying to tell me my little ones were being normal and it would be okay. He was also trying to get me to lighten up a little bit and get me to laugh. He accomplished all of the above.
Some days you just don't know if you are doing all the right things or not--and you certainly don't always know what it normal until you talk to other parents to see if their kids are acting like your kids. I went out to the mailbox late the other night and happened to meet my neighbor coming home late and we both found out we'd had a rough day with our kids. We were able to reassure each other it must be something in the air and that they would calm down again. Sometimes, that's all we need is a little common ground with someone else and a little space and things are all better.
Bill Cosby said something about parents always having a stressed out or unhappy look on their face because of all the life their children suck out of them--that is until their children are grown with children of their own. Then when they are watching their grandchildren give their children the identical problems --they get this smirk that says it all. (It was much funnier the way he said it.)
But, I bring it up only because last week, when I went downstairs for a minute, between loud, long tantrums, my Dad called me into his bedroom. I went in and he said, with a knowing smile, "Nancy, I'm so happy you got the chance in life to "experience" having children." I want you to know I didn't miss a beat. I said, "Dad, me too--and I am so grateful you are right here to be a part of it!" Lol!
Turned out he had a method in his madness. It was Bill Cosby's cd on raising kids and it was pretty hilarious and it had to be 30 or 40 years old. It also sounded like he'd been in my house today. :D My cute husband was trying to tell me my little ones were being normal and it would be okay. He was also trying to get me to lighten up a little bit and get me to laugh. He accomplished all of the above.
Some days you just don't know if you are doing all the right things or not--and you certainly don't always know what it normal until you talk to other parents to see if their kids are acting like your kids. I went out to the mailbox late the other night and happened to meet my neighbor coming home late and we both found out we'd had a rough day with our kids. We were able to reassure each other it must be something in the air and that they would calm down again. Sometimes, that's all we need is a little common ground with someone else and a little space and things are all better.
Bill Cosby said something about parents always having a stressed out or unhappy look on their face because of all the life their children suck out of them--that is until their children are grown with children of their own. Then when they are watching their grandchildren give their children the identical problems --they get this smirk that says it all. (It was much funnier the way he said it.)
But, I bring it up only because last week, when I went downstairs for a minute, between loud, long tantrums, my Dad called me into his bedroom. I went in and he said, with a knowing smile, "Nancy, I'm so happy you got the chance in life to "experience" having children." I want you to know I didn't miss a beat. I said, "Dad, me too--and I am so grateful you are right here to be a part of it!" Lol!
Saturday, November 16, 2013
I'M GRATEFUL FOR MY HERITAGE
I apologize for neglecting the blog for several days. I've gotten caught up in a little bit of family history, so to speak. We have a family group on Facebook for my grandparents on my mom's side and someone asked for some photos last week. It just so happened that I had a satchel full of photos of a generation or two. So, I've been busily loading those into that site.
It's so easy to catch the family history bug once you get started. I'm not very good when it comes to putting it all on a pedigree or chart but I just love hearing the stories and seeing the photos. I love knowing about the real people and their lives. It makes me wish I'd known them. I know I will know them all some day--but hearing their stories now and understanding the heartaches and joys they went through makes me feel closer to them now.
I love seeing my parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles as little kids or teenagers. It really makes me realize even more that life is a never ending cycle. We are born, we live our lives out and then we are born into the eternities.
I'm so grateful for the family I was born into. On both sides of my family, I came from such wonderful heritage--from such good, down to earth and loving people. I love my family so much and am so grateful for them. I especially miss my grandparents--on both sides. I've been thinking this week more about my mom's parents because those are the pictures I've been working with--but I had wonderful grandparents on my mom's and dad's side and I miss them every day.
It's a great time to dig through your old box of photos and run your mind down memory lane. It's that time of year when we spend a lot of time counting our blessings and I know this year I am especially grateful I was able to grow up knowing and loving all of my grandparents.
Here are a few photos I've found this week:
It's so easy to catch the family history bug once you get started. I'm not very good when it comes to putting it all on a pedigree or chart but I just love hearing the stories and seeing the photos. I love knowing about the real people and their lives. It makes me wish I'd known them. I know I will know them all some day--but hearing their stories now and understanding the heartaches and joys they went through makes me feel closer to them now.
I love seeing my parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles as little kids or teenagers. It really makes me realize even more that life is a never ending cycle. We are born, we live our lives out and then we are born into the eternities.
I'm so grateful for the family I was born into. On both sides of my family, I came from such wonderful heritage--from such good, down to earth and loving people. I love my family so much and am so grateful for them. I especially miss my grandparents--on both sides. I've been thinking this week more about my mom's parents because those are the pictures I've been working with--but I had wonderful grandparents on my mom's and dad's side and I miss them every day.
It's a great time to dig through your old box of photos and run your mind down memory lane. It's that time of year when we spend a lot of time counting our blessings and I know this year I am especially grateful I was able to grow up knowing and loving all of my grandparents.
Here are a few photos I've found this week:
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| Glenn Flint and Nellie Shields Bock on a date |
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| L to R: Marcia and Nellie Flint Kaye Flint Carolyn Flint |
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| John Steven Brackney with Eva Carolyn Flint |
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| Miss Carolyn Flint (Carson) |
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| Carolyn Flint in her wedding dress her mother made for her. |
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| Carolyn skating at the falls |
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
THAT'S MY STORY . . . AND I'M STICKING TO IT
We've had a lot going on lately and I get to the end of the day and sometimes don't even realize til the next morning I didn't blog the night before. Both Rob and I (and Grandma and Grandpa I'm sure) are exhausted at the end of the day. Everyone's got their own things they are busy doing but as for me I am usually chasing my kids, having playdates, trying to keep my house in some semblance of order and in the last several weeks trying to keep things working or make them work!
For the last several weeks I've been having trouble with my van. It's been overheating. Each time I've had trouble with it I've had to take it in to have it worked on. The first time we took it to the local garage we normally take it to when something is wrong. Then they sent us to the dealership when it was something more serious. We have now been back to the dealership a total of three times. Now, it's at the "cross your fingers with me" and "knock on wood' hopefully last place we will have to take it before we have to shoot it! Oh my--it has been a real ordeal!
We finally decided after taking it to the dealership, one too many times, that maybe that wasn't the best option after all--even though they were recommended to us. So, we took it away from the dealer and found someone that can now fix it.
Thankfully, mom and dad have been here as a back up for transportation as I have little kids in school this year and we live too close for Carly to ride to school (Kindergarten) on the bus and too far for her to walk! Plus, I am part of the pre-school car-pool. So, it has been a stressful couple of weeks.
As if all that wasn't enough, then we had a refrigerator start to go out and had to get someone in to look at that. We built our home and moved in just over 8 years ago so even though I still think of it as kind of new apparently the appliances don't consider themselves new anymore--and feel they can have an occasional temper tantrum. Darn. And giving them a time out would only make the situation worse, I guess. Huh, maybe that's why it doesn't always work with the kids, either. Go figure. Lol!
For the last several weeks I've been having trouble with my van. It's been overheating. Each time I've had trouble with it I've had to take it in to have it worked on. The first time we took it to the local garage we normally take it to when something is wrong. Then they sent us to the dealership when it was something more serious. We have now been back to the dealership a total of three times. Now, it's at the "cross your fingers with me" and "knock on wood' hopefully last place we will have to take it before we have to shoot it! Oh my--it has been a real ordeal!
We finally decided after taking it to the dealership, one too many times, that maybe that wasn't the best option after all--even though they were recommended to us. So, we took it away from the dealer and found someone that can now fix it.
Thankfully, mom and dad have been here as a back up for transportation as I have little kids in school this year and we live too close for Carly to ride to school (Kindergarten) on the bus and too far for her to walk! Plus, I am part of the pre-school car-pool. So, it has been a stressful couple of weeks.
As if all that wasn't enough, then we had a refrigerator start to go out and had to get someone in to look at that. We built our home and moved in just over 8 years ago so even though I still think of it as kind of new apparently the appliances don't consider themselves new anymore--and feel they can have an occasional temper tantrum. Darn. And giving them a time out would only make the situation worse, I guess. Huh, maybe that's why it doesn't always work with the kids, either. Go figure. Lol!
Friday, November 8, 2013
GRANDPARENTS DAY IN THE KINDERGARTEN CLASS!
Carly was so excited today! It was Grandparent Day in her Kindergarten class and she got to show her Grandma and Grandpa where she goes to school and exactly how she spends her days! More importantly she got to show off her Grandma and Grandpa!
The kids did a cute little performance where they sang some songs for all the Grandmas and Grandpas. After that, the Grandparents got to make some fun things with their Grand kids . . .
Then they got to read with them, play games with them, and have milk and cookies with them. How awesome is that?!
Grandma and Grandpa were really good sports and played right along. Grandpa even told me being there took him back to his Kindergarten days.
Though, I suspect if Grandpa had a favorite part of the morning--it was probably the milk and cookies part! Naw, just teasing--pretty sure it was the part where he saw how excited and happy our sweet Carly was to have her Grandpa and Grandma visiting her in school. She was so proud to have them there with her! I sure love my little girl! And I love my parents, too! It was a fun day!
The kids did a cute little performance where they sang some songs for all the Grandmas and Grandpas. After that, the Grandparents got to make some fun things with their Grand kids . . .
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| Carly and Grandma making a special Carly-faced star magnet! |
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| Carly cutting out Carly! |
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| Fun times with Grandma and Grandpa! |
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| All of us mugging for the camera! |
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| I'm not sure if this is the "Are we done yet?" shot or the "Mom, are you done taking pictures yet?" shot, Lol! |
Grandma and Grandpa were really good sports and played right along. Grandpa even told me being there took him back to his Kindergarten days.
Though, I suspect if Grandpa had a favorite part of the morning--it was probably the milk and cookies part! Naw, just teasing--pretty sure it was the part where he saw how excited and happy our sweet Carly was to have her Grandpa and Grandma visiting her in school. She was so proud to have them there with her! I sure love my little girl! And I love my parents, too! It was a fun day!
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MOM AND DAD!
I'm officially a day late now--as it's after midnight and their actual anniversary is on the 7th but I still want to post something in their honor. Can you believe my parents have been married for 55 years? Me neither. I wonder why they waited so long to have kids. Weird that my sisters and I are all in our late twenties and early thirties--don't ya think?! Lol! Oh YAH, don't believe me?! Well, that's our story and we're sticking to it!! Hahaha!
Here's our other story, only this one is true! We have the best parents ever. They really were (and are) good to us, fair with us (except that I'm the favorite) but then, that's fair--right--cuz if you are the favorite--they should just say so? LOL! Not only that, they should put it in writing--so you can show it off to your siblings. Hahaha! But I digress.
Anyway, I know all three of us are very proud of our parents. They are such good people and always have been. They taught us right from wrong and have always pushed us to be the best we could be. They are good to us and to each other, and are kind and good to those around them. They taught us to be respectful and always modeled the things they taught us.
We love our parents so much and are so grateful to have them in our lives. They are such wonderful examples, not only to us, but to our children as well. We love you so much Mom and Dad! Thanks for everything!
Here's our other story, only this one is true! We have the best parents ever. They really were (and are) good to us, fair with us (except that I'm the favorite) but then, that's fair--right--cuz if you are the favorite--they should just say so? LOL! Not only that, they should put it in writing--so you can show it off to your siblings. Hahaha! But I digress.
Anyway, I know all three of us are very proud of our parents. They are such good people and always have been. They taught us right from wrong and have always pushed us to be the best we could be. They are good to us and to each other, and are kind and good to those around them. They taught us to be respectful and always modeled the things they taught us.
We love our parents so much and are so grateful to have them in our lives. They are such wonderful examples, not only to us, but to our children as well. We love you so much Mom and Dad! Thanks for everything!
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| Wedding Day November 7, 1958 |
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| Columbus, Indiana Mid 1960's |
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| Easter Sunday Grandpa and Grandma's house Mid 1960's |
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| John and Carolyn November 2009 |
Monday, November 4, 2013
Sunday, November 3, 2013
PILLOW PUPPIES
It was kind of a strange Sunday. Only the kids felt good today. Rob was struggling with cold symptoms and I have had a bad headache most of the day. We didn't make it to church. I don't think either of us even made it outside today. We woke up to a skiff of snow but it soon melted. Although, there is supposed to be more coming tomorrow. The kids can't wait to have enough snow to play in. I'm O.K. either way, I guess.
One of our dogs has started having some aging problems. Sadie is only seven but she has started limping consistently like she has arthritis. I realize seven can be old for a larger dog. I just didn't expect it to happen this quickly. My last dog lived to be almost 15 and didn't begin having problems nearly this early. I started giving Sadie Co-Q 10 today and I am hoping it will help her. Our other dog, Tashie, is a year younger and still acts like she's a puppy. They are both lab mixes and are on the smaller side for labs (though, you really wouldn't call them small--just small for labs.)
Both are really sweet dogs and are so gentle with the kids. They let them climb all over them. They even let them pretty much ride them when they were younger- and didn't complain at all. Carly isn't as rough with them anymore but I still have to tell Jono to get off them once in awhile. He still tries to ride them or sit on them like they are horses and they just let him--so I have to be the protector. Poor puppies. Actually, they love the attention they just might love a little less of it from time to time.
Well, if you are ever looking for a dog to have around kids, I highly recommend labs. They are so gentle and kind--and of course, ever, ever faithful!
One of our dogs has started having some aging problems. Sadie is only seven but she has started limping consistently like she has arthritis. I realize seven can be old for a larger dog. I just didn't expect it to happen this quickly. My last dog lived to be almost 15 and didn't begin having problems nearly this early. I started giving Sadie Co-Q 10 today and I am hoping it will help her. Our other dog, Tashie, is a year younger and still acts like she's a puppy. They are both lab mixes and are on the smaller side for labs (though, you really wouldn't call them small--just small for labs.)
Both are really sweet dogs and are so gentle with the kids. They let them climb all over them. They even let them pretty much ride them when they were younger- and didn't complain at all. Carly isn't as rough with them anymore but I still have to tell Jono to get off them once in awhile. He still tries to ride them or sit on them like they are horses and they just let him--so I have to be the protector. Poor puppies. Actually, they love the attention they just might love a little less of it from time to time.
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| Sadie with Carly (in their younger days) being used as a pillow |
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| Julie with Jono riding Tashie |
Friday, November 1, 2013
STAND BY!
Reason number 1,127 why we want the government running our healthcare for us. They are already doing such a bang up job with so many other things!
Went to renew my driver's license today--did not need to take the test--just a simple renew. Got there at 4:30 p.m., they close at 5:00 p.m. I filled out the paperwork and waited in line. I reached the first clerk at 4:40 p.m; she took my paperwork; looked me in the eye and said "You are on stand by." I said, "I don't know what that means." She said, "I can take your picture and process your paperwork but if they don't call you before 5:00 p.m. to finish your license we will ask you to leave and return another day to pick it up. (This office is in another city 15 minutes away.)
Luckily for me, I was called 3 minutes later, only to be asked for my passport, birth certificate or social security card which I provided four years ago (which they failed to scan in at that time.) So I now have a 6 month temporary until I return with those docs. Keep in mind they have me on file as a licensed driver and I couldn't be one had I not provided those documents. Gah!
Wonder what else we could have the government do for us?! Stand by! LOL!
Went to renew my driver's license today--did not need to take the test--just a simple renew. Got there at 4:30 p.m., they close at 5:00 p.m. I filled out the paperwork and waited in line. I reached the first clerk at 4:40 p.m; she took my paperwork; looked me in the eye and said "You are on stand by." I said, "I don't know what that means." She said, "I can take your picture and process your paperwork but if they don't call you before 5:00 p.m. to finish your license we will ask you to leave and return another day to pick it up. (This office is in another city 15 minutes away.)
Luckily for me, I was called 3 minutes later, only to be asked for my passport, birth certificate or social security card which I provided four years ago (which they failed to scan in at that time.) So I now have a 6 month temporary until I return with those docs. Keep in mind they have me on file as a licensed driver and I couldn't be one had I not provided those documents. Gah!
Wonder what else we could have the government do for us?! Stand by! LOL!
Thursday, October 31, 2013
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
We had a fairly nice day today. Carly went to school in the morning instead of afternoon because it's end of term and they are out tomorrow so the teachers can do grades. They had a Halloween Costume Parade and party so she had fun. Then we went to big sis Megan's work and trick or treated through her building and really got a haul of candy! Later in the evening I took the kids through the neighborhood while Rob handed candy out at the door to scary creatures. Then we watched Monster University with Megan and the kids. We are both beat!
Last night we took the kids over for one last run through the amusement park. We only spent about an hour there but it was enough for the kids to feel like they'd been there. It was pretty cold but they do this Halloween gig called Frightmares where the whole place is decorated for Halloween and there are haunted houses (which none us wanted to go through.) Anyway, it was the last night it was open for the season so we wanted to go one last time.
Rob and I got out to vote today also. Mom and Dad are going tomorrow. It is early voting still and it ends tomorrow. The election is next Tuesday. We are electing a mayor and 2 city councilmen. It seems more important than ever to get out and vote these days.
I will leave you with a photo of the kids in costume. Carly was a princess and Jono was a dragon. This is a girl from Megan's work dressed up as Tinkerbelle posing with them.
Last night we took the kids over for one last run through the amusement park. We only spent about an hour there but it was enough for the kids to feel like they'd been there. It was pretty cold but they do this Halloween gig called Frightmares where the whole place is decorated for Halloween and there are haunted houses (which none us wanted to go through.) Anyway, it was the last night it was open for the season so we wanted to go one last time.
Rob and I got out to vote today also. Mom and Dad are going tomorrow. It is early voting still and it ends tomorrow. The election is next Tuesday. We are electing a mayor and 2 city councilmen. It seems more important than ever to get out and vote these days.
I will leave you with a photo of the kids in costume. Carly was a princess and Jono was a dragon. This is a girl from Megan's work dressed up as Tinkerbelle posing with them.
Monday, October 28, 2013
BLOWING IN THE WIND
The weather here is changing. We've had some high winds which of course emptied the trees of all the beautiful fall leaves. It snowed about a foot in the mountains today and we got some cold rain. Snow is in our future for sure. It's truly a spooky time of year!
Nothing much happening around here. Everyone is well for once. Yay! (Knock on wood.) We are thankful for that. Not a whole lot to tell tonight.
I'm starting to feel a little better, so that's something, I guess. Well, I will stop there. More later.
Nothing much happening around here. Everyone is well for once. Yay! (Knock on wood.) We are thankful for that. Not a whole lot to tell tonight.
I'm starting to feel a little better, so that's something, I guess. Well, I will stop there. More later.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
LITTLE MAN STRIKES AGAIN
My cute little boy was so sweet to me in church this morning. He climbed in my lap, snuggled really close and asked, "Mama, when I grow up will you marry me?" He said it with such genuineness that it made my heart melt. I was trying to find the words to tell him it probably wasn't such a good idea, and he sensed that was what was coming so he repeated his question but this time with a great big PUH-LEASE? at the end. Although, I didn't get a chance to really answer him because by this time Daddy had heard the question and little man was treading on Daddy's territory, lol!
Daddy stepped right up and answered him for me. He told him he was too late he had already married me and he'd have to find his own wife! Jono took it okay since he had his Mom to hold him. Lol! He's such a cute little man. I think I suggest he wait at least a few more years before he runs off and gets hitched.
Daddy stepped right up and answered him for me. He told him he was too late he had already married me and he'd have to find his own wife! Jono took it okay since he had his Mom to hold him. Lol! He's such a cute little man. I think I suggest he wait at least a few more years before he runs off and gets hitched.
Thursday, October 24, 2013
NOT TOO FAST!
Well, today I got Crazy Hair day right! Yay for me! Rob and I ended up making a quick run to Provo this evening so we got to see Julie for a bit and say Hi to Susan and Russ.
Grandma and Grandpa got out for a ride today just to run a few errands. It was a gorgeous day here. The leaves have turned here already but it was warm enough that people were out in shirt sleeves. I hope it continues for at least a little bit. It's almost like getting a little extra bit of Spring weather. I love it.
Today after I picked Jono up from pre-school I let his friend Ellie come over for lunch and to play for awhile. I put their lunch on the table and Ellie said a quick prayer. As soon as she finished Jono let her know it was a little to quick to meet standards. Lol. He said, "Not too fast! Jesus doesn't like it too fast!" Oh my word. Only from the mouth of a four year old! Hahaha!
Grandma and Grandpa got out for a ride today just to run a few errands. It was a gorgeous day here. The leaves have turned here already but it was warm enough that people were out in shirt sleeves. I hope it continues for at least a little bit. It's almost like getting a little extra bit of Spring weather. I love it.
Today after I picked Jono up from pre-school I let his friend Ellie come over for lunch and to play for awhile. I put their lunch on the table and Ellie said a quick prayer. As soon as she finished Jono let her know it was a little to quick to meet standards. Lol. He said, "Not too fast! Jesus doesn't like it too fast!" Oh my word. Only from the mouth of a four year old! Hahaha!
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
MAMA GOT A CRAZY HAIR
So, this week at Carly's school is Red Ribbon Week and they are teaching the kids to say "NO" to drugs and alcohol. Everyday they do something different. One day they wore their shirts backwards or inside out, another day they wear red, another day they have crazy hair. You get the idea.
Today I got Carly all ready for Crazy Hair Day. She was pretty excited but a little nervous and wanting to look crazy--but still cute. We went through several ideas and finally settled on one pigtail sticking straight up on her hair (aided by a wire in the pigtail) and the other pigtail made into a circle on her head. She was pretty happy with that.
I drove her to the drop off spot and she jumped out and looked around and said, "Mom, I don't see anyone else with crazy hair." I told her there were probably just some party poopers and not to worry about it, that she would be one of the cool ones. So, trusting her Mama, she ran off to join her friends.
I went on home and was cleaning off the dining room table about an hour later when I came across the flyer with instructions for Red Ribbon Week. I just about had a panic attack when I realized I'd sent my sweet little girl to class with crazy hair a day early! Holy Crap!!!! I wanted to go and save her but there was nothing I could do. I felt so awful and I was so worried about how she was going to do being the only one with crazy hair.
When I went to pick her up, I was just waiting for her reaction. I wasn't sure if she would be in tears or if I would get yelled at. I decided to just wait and see what she said before I apologized so I didn't make it a bigger deal. She didn't even mention it. I couldn't believe it. Finally after we'd been home for about ten minutes she just said, in kind of matter of fact tone, "Oh, Mom--Today wasn't Crazy Hair Day! It's tomorrow!"
I said. "Oh yah, Honey, I realized that after you left. I'm so sorry. Did anyone like your hair?" She said, "Yah, they did--but they kept touching it and I didn't like that! Tomorrow, I want you to put both pigtails straight up!" End of conversation.
I think I got off pretty easy. Funny thing. I just saw one of my friends on Facebook (in a different city) post a picture of her daughter, a bit older than Carly, but she painted her daughter's hair blue for Crazy Hair Day and took her to school only to find out it was the wrong day, too! Luckily for them they realized it on the way in to school and were able to take her home and wash her hair. She was just a bit late! Oh well, I guess some of us Mama's just have a crazy hair now and then! Lol!
Today I got Carly all ready for Crazy Hair Day. She was pretty excited but a little nervous and wanting to look crazy--but still cute. We went through several ideas and finally settled on one pigtail sticking straight up on her hair (aided by a wire in the pigtail) and the other pigtail made into a circle on her head. She was pretty happy with that.
I drove her to the drop off spot and she jumped out and looked around and said, "Mom, I don't see anyone else with crazy hair." I told her there were probably just some party poopers and not to worry about it, that she would be one of the cool ones. So, trusting her Mama, she ran off to join her friends.
I went on home and was cleaning off the dining room table about an hour later when I came across the flyer with instructions for Red Ribbon Week. I just about had a panic attack when I realized I'd sent my sweet little girl to class with crazy hair a day early! Holy Crap!!!! I wanted to go and save her but there was nothing I could do. I felt so awful and I was so worried about how she was going to do being the only one with crazy hair.
When I went to pick her up, I was just waiting for her reaction. I wasn't sure if she would be in tears or if I would get yelled at. I decided to just wait and see what she said before I apologized so I didn't make it a bigger deal. She didn't even mention it. I couldn't believe it. Finally after we'd been home for about ten minutes she just said, in kind of matter of fact tone, "Oh, Mom--Today wasn't Crazy Hair Day! It's tomorrow!"
I said. "Oh yah, Honey, I realized that after you left. I'm so sorry. Did anyone like your hair?" She said, "Yah, they did--but they kept touching it and I didn't like that! Tomorrow, I want you to put both pigtails straight up!" End of conversation.
I think I got off pretty easy. Funny thing. I just saw one of my friends on Facebook (in a different city) post a picture of her daughter, a bit older than Carly, but she painted her daughter's hair blue for Crazy Hair Day and took her to school only to find out it was the wrong day, too! Luckily for them they realized it on the way in to school and were able to take her home and wash her hair. She was just a bit late! Oh well, I guess some of us Mama's just have a crazy hair now and then! Lol!
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
WISHING FOR SIMPLER DAYS
Ever have one of those days when even your skin is exhausted? Well, today was one of those days. I think I overdid yesterday and my body did not appreciate it. Yesterday I got back on my treadmill and into my exercise routine after quite a long vacation. I intended to make it a habit but my body was having none of it today. I am not giving up though--just listening to my body for today.
Seriously, after I got Carly to school and did my round of car pool I felt like I just sat and stared at the walls. Maybe that's because I did. I looked around the house at even the small things I could do and they wore me out. Gah!
It's OK though. Things are going to get better. I just need to eat better, get more rest and get more vitamins in my system. Working on it!
Rob came home a very happy camper today! He got to turn in his old vehicle and get his new one. When I say "old" that's a relative term. It was less than 3 years old but they change them out according to mileage and he drives quite a bit in his job.
I spent this evening going through old photographs looking for pictures of my Grandfather on my Mom's side as a baby or young man. I'd forgotten I had so many pictures. Still, I didn't come up with any of him that young. I have him as a young Navy Officer and maybe just a little before that--but nothing as a baby. He was born before 1900 so I guess it's possible his family didn't take any. My Grandma was born just after 1900 and we have some of her so it would be nice to find some of him also. But, thus far, no luck.
It's neat to go through old pictures and letters and see what was happening so long ago. It sure was a simpler time. It kind of makes me wish things were still simpler, you know . . . but with air conditioning and cars. :)
Seriously, after I got Carly to school and did my round of car pool I felt like I just sat and stared at the walls. Maybe that's because I did. I looked around the house at even the small things I could do and they wore me out. Gah!
It's OK though. Things are going to get better. I just need to eat better, get more rest and get more vitamins in my system. Working on it!
Rob came home a very happy camper today! He got to turn in his old vehicle and get his new one. When I say "old" that's a relative term. It was less than 3 years old but they change them out according to mileage and he drives quite a bit in his job.
I spent this evening going through old photographs looking for pictures of my Grandfather on my Mom's side as a baby or young man. I'd forgotten I had so many pictures. Still, I didn't come up with any of him that young. I have him as a young Navy Officer and maybe just a little before that--but nothing as a baby. He was born before 1900 so I guess it's possible his family didn't take any. My Grandma was born just after 1900 and we have some of her so it would be nice to find some of him also. But, thus far, no luck.
It's neat to go through old pictures and letters and see what was happening so long ago. It sure was a simpler time. It kind of makes me wish things were still simpler, you know . . . but with air conditioning and cars. :)
Sunday, October 20, 2013
THE WEEKEND
Jonathon is doing a little better today. I didn't let him go to church today but we did go to a friend's home for dinner tonight and he did just fine. He is still on meds to try and knock this thing but at least they are helping!
It's starting to really cool down here. I wouldn't be surprised if we have a good snowstorm here sometime soon. In other words, the frost is definitely on the pumpkin!
Carly is really enjoying school. She is excited to go every morning. She loves learning to read and has lots of new friends. Jono loves his preschool too. He goes twice a week and is learning all kinds of new things there. He always comes how with a project he's made and something new he's learned.
Well, that's about all that's happening around here. Night everyone!
It's starting to really cool down here. I wouldn't be surprised if we have a good snowstorm here sometime soon. In other words, the frost is definitely on the pumpkin!
Carly is really enjoying school. She is excited to go every morning. She loves learning to read and has lots of new friends. Jono loves his preschool too. He goes twice a week and is learning all kinds of new things there. He always comes how with a project he's made and something new he's learned.
Well, that's about all that's happening around here. Night everyone!
Saturday, October 19, 2013
COUGHS, COLDS AND INFECTIONS . . . OH MY!
Sorry for my absence the past few days. The kids have been sick and I had a migraine that was off the Richter scale yesterday. Of course, last night was also when Jono decided to go down hill on us. He has had a cold and that's never a good thing when it starts to get cool outside. Sure enough he has a secondary infection and his breathing has gotten bad.
I watched him really closely all day yesterday. He and I stayed in bed while I nursed my head and made sure he got his breathing treatments and other medications. Even with all that, he got worse in the evening and we had to take him to the urgent care. Luckily, Rob and one of our neighbors gave him a blessing before we went. That calmed him (and me) down and they were able to get his breathing normalized enough to bring him home last night.
He has done okay today. It will take a few days for all the meds to really kick in and him to sound and feel better but he is doing better than he was. I am so grateful we were able to catch it before it was to the point where he needed to be hospitalized.
Carly had been sick, too but she is feeling much better now. She's hardly coughing at all and her temperature is back to normal. Yay for one success anyway! I am doing my best to keep them away from Grandma and Grandpa so they don't get them sick, too. Though, that is easier said than done.
Well, that's about all for tonight. Hope you are all well and happy!
I watched him really closely all day yesterday. He and I stayed in bed while I nursed my head and made sure he got his breathing treatments and other medications. Even with all that, he got worse in the evening and we had to take him to the urgent care. Luckily, Rob and one of our neighbors gave him a blessing before we went. That calmed him (and me) down and they were able to get his breathing normalized enough to bring him home last night.
He has done okay today. It will take a few days for all the meds to really kick in and him to sound and feel better but he is doing better than he was. I am so grateful we were able to catch it before it was to the point where he needed to be hospitalized.
Carly had been sick, too but she is feeling much better now. She's hardly coughing at all and her temperature is back to normal. Yay for one success anyway! I am doing my best to keep them away from Grandma and Grandpa so they don't get them sick, too. Though, that is easier said than done.
Well, that's about all for tonight. Hope you are all well and happy!
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Monday, October 14, 2013
PHOTO TIME
I found some great shots from a few years ago on an old back up drive. I'm just going to put a few on here tonight but I may share a few more here and there over the next little while. These ones were taken at or near the time my cousin Bill Klebusch died and much of the family got together. I think that was about eight plus years ago.
A couple of the pictures were taken a little bit longer ago. I don't know why I chose them so randomly. It was just fun to look back. Sometimes it is. I love all of these people so much. The world changes and people come and go in our lives--and that is never easy. Little ones also grow up. Caitlin, who is in the last photo is now a sophomore in college. It's so hard to believe! Time sure flies!
Well, enjoy your day--you will never get THIS day back again!
A couple of the pictures were taken a little bit longer ago. I don't know why I chose them so randomly. It was just fun to look back. Sometimes it is. I love all of these people so much. The world changes and people come and go in our lives--and that is never easy. Little ones also grow up. Caitlin, who is in the last photo is now a sophomore in college. It's so hard to believe! Time sure flies!
Well, enjoy your day--you will never get THIS day back again!
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| The Brackney kids with their Mom, Louise |
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| Me with my closest cousin, Ned |
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| My cousins Jonnan and Ned at our family waterfall |
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| My mom and me |
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| My niece Caitlin, my Dad and my Mom--about 10 -11 yrs ago |
OUR WEEKEND
We had a good weekend even if it wasn't a very productive one. I think we are all just plain worn out. Grandpa is recovering nicely. He only has one or two more home nurse visits left since he is doing so well. Thanks for all your prayers. We know those have helped a ton and we are so grateful for them.
We had a rainy Sunday here. That was just fine. We made it through our outdoor recital yesterday without any rain so we were fine with the moisture today--and we can always use the extra water here. It is getting a bit chillier day by day. You can definitely tell it is fall now.
I taught Sunday School today. We were out of church last week due to our Church having it's semi-annual General Conference. They have a world-wide broadcast of our church leaders speaking to us twice a year so we can listen from our homes or attend in our meeting houses to watch on satellite. Anyway, the kids were happy to go back to their Sunday School classes today.
Well, not much else to tell. Hope you had a nice weekend. :)
We had a rainy Sunday here. That was just fine. We made it through our outdoor recital yesterday without any rain so we were fine with the moisture today--and we can always use the extra water here. It is getting a bit chillier day by day. You can definitely tell it is fall now.
I taught Sunday School today. We were out of church last week due to our Church having it's semi-annual General Conference. They have a world-wide broadcast of our church leaders speaking to us twice a year so we can listen from our homes or attend in our meeting houses to watch on satellite. Anyway, the kids were happy to go back to their Sunday School classes today.
Well, not much else to tell. Hope you had a nice weekend. :)
Saturday, October 12, 2013
WHO YOU GONNA CALL?
The little ones were in their first recital tonight. They've been in dance for about six weeks now and have really enjoyed it. Although, I think they want to do gymnastics more than they want to do dance. You see we promised them they could do gymnastics after they took dance and when the recital was over tonight they both asked if dance was done now so they could start gymnastics! This has been a Creative Dance class where they learned Tumbling, Hip Hop and other styles--so they really have had some fun.
Anyway, they did one number tonight and it was cute--but they really may be done and ready for Gymnastics!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejqMX9O32TY
Anyway, they did one number tonight and it was cute--but they really may be done and ready for Gymnastics!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejqMX9O32TY
Friday, October 11, 2013
AND SO HE DID!
A conversation overheard in our home this morning:
Jono: Look at my teeth Grandma--they are squeaky clean!!
Grandma: Oh, they do look nice. Did you just brush them?
Jono: Yep, with your toothbrush!
Hahaha! And sure enough--Grandma's toothbrush was all wet! Nothing like a four year old to gross you out first thing in the morning!
Jono: Look at my teeth Grandma--they are squeaky clean!!
Grandma: Oh, they do look nice. Did you just brush them?
Jono: Yep, with your toothbrush!
Hahaha! And sure enough--Grandma's toothbrush was all wet! Nothing like a four year old to gross you out first thing in the morning!
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
HERE'S TO ULCERS
Grandpa's scope went really well. He was even able to have some donuts afterward and he needs them, too because he's gotten pretty skinny the last couple of weeks. Anyway, they found several ulcers in his tummy and sent him home with some prescriptions for those that he will need to take for the rest of his life. I'd say all in all, we are pretty grateful it turned out to just be ulcers! And as it turns out--his mother had the same problem so it runs in the family.
Well, that's all I know for now. Have a great day!
Well, that's all I know for now. Have a great day!
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
GRANDPA'S GALL!
Grandpa is having a scope of his gallbladder in the morning. He's had a few vomiting episodes that have happened out of the blue lately and so they want to check out his gallbladder. Of course, they always think they are doing him a big favor by making him the first patient on the doctor's list, so he and Grandma have to leave the house around 5:30 in the morning. I will keep you updated on what we find out. Please keep him in your prayers. Thanks so much!
OVERHEARD IN GRANDMA'S VAN
Our car needs some work on it and so it has been in the shop for a few days. I was driving to pick Carly up from school in Grandma's van today with Jono when he started quizzing me. It went like this:
Jono: Mommy what's wrong with our car?
Me: Um, well - it's broken.
Jono: IN HALF?
Hahahaha! My little boy cracks me up. I was laughing too hard after that to explain much else. That definitely has to go into "The Darndest Things" File! Lol!
Jono: Mommy what's wrong with our car?
Me: Um, well - it's broken.
Jono: IN HALF?
Hahahaha! My little boy cracks me up. I was laughing too hard after that to explain much else. That definitely has to go into "The Darndest Things" File! Lol!
Sunday, October 6, 2013
PRETTY DARN SCARY
This is from Alex Jones' Info Wars. I can't vouch for it, but the story is scary.
Bank Accounts?
Man who attempted to sign up claims he was threatened with drivers license being revoked, federal tax lien on home.
Paul Joseph Watson
Infowars.com
October 2, 2013
Obamacare Fines to be Seized From Bank Accounts?
Bank Accounts?
Man who attempted to sign up claims he was threatened with drivers license being revoked, federal tax lien on home.
Paul Joseph Watson
Infowars.com
October 2, 2013
A man who attempted to sign up for Obamacare online was told that a fine of over $4,000 dollars a year for refusing to take out mandatory health insurance could be taken directly from his bank account, and that his drivers license would be suspended and a federal tax lien placed against his home, according to an entry on the HealthCare.gov Facebook page.
If true, the implementation of Obamacare is going to be a whole lot more draconian than Americans have been led to believe.
Will Sheehan claims that when he tried to sign up for Obamacare and then register to opt out, he received an ominous warning. Sheehan’s full Facebook post reads;
“I actually made it through this morning at 8:00 A.M. I have a preexisting condition (Type 1 Diabetes) and my income base was 45K-55K annually I chose tier 2 “Silver Plan” and my monthly premiums came out to $597.00 with $13,988 yearly deductible!!! There is NO POSSIBLE way that I can afford this so I “opt-out” and chose to continue along with no insurance.
I received an email tonight at 5:00 P.M. informing me that my fine would be $4,037 and could be attached to my yearly income tax return. Then you make it to the “REPERCUSSIONS PORTION” for “non-payment” of yearly fine. First, your drivers license will be suspended until paid, and if you go 24 consecutive months with “Non-Payment” and you happen to be a home owner, you will have a federal tax lien placed on your home. You can agree to give your bank information so that they can easy “Automatically withdraw” your “penalties” weekly, bi-weekly or monthly! This by no means is “Free” or even “Affordable.”
Sheehan went on to point out that the site makes you input all your personal information before giving you an indication of the costs, meaning a database of the “uninsured” is being built. He added that he could not afford to pay the premium so would have to break the law and pay the fine, leaving him with no health care coverage.
The federal government has consistently denied that any fines pertaining to Obamacare non-compliance could be seized from bank accounts, despite reports last year that the IRS had hired 16,500 new agents to harass citizens who attempt to evade the new law.
“There’s no criminal sanctions for not paying this, and there’s no ability to levy a bank account or do seizures,” then-IRS commissioner Douglas Shulman said in April 2010.
In addition, Americans who refuse to pay for mandatory health insurance “shall not be subject to any criminal prosecution,” according to the law itself.
Section 1501(g)(2) of the Affordable Care Act also states that the IRS cannot “file notice of lien with respect to any property of a taxpayer by reason of any failure to pay the penalty imposed by this section.”
Either Sheehan’s claim that he received this notice is a lie, or the feds have been dishonest with the American people all along, and the revolt against Obamacare is about to take “don’t tread on me” to a whole new level.
Friday, October 4, 2013
LET'S GET THIS STRAIGHT!
This morning I got up early and took Carly to have her hair done before time for her afternoon Kindergarten class started. I decided to go ahead and try straightening her hair with a mild kiddie perm. I was going to wait until she was a little older but her hair has gotten so long it really has become difficult to come through without damaging it. I usually keep it in micro braids but even that damages it. So, anyway--we started a new adventure today and I have one very happy little girl.
Once her curly hair was straightened, it was even longer than it seemed. The biggest thing for her though is being able to brush her hair herself. She has never been able to do that before. She has never even owned her own brush--other than a set I had for her as a baby. Her favorite thing out of this whole day is being able to brush her own hair.
Below are a couple of photos of her after she was done at the stylist's. Isn't she gorgeous?!
Once her curly hair was straightened, it was even longer than it seemed. The biggest thing for her though is being able to brush her hair herself. She has never been able to do that before. She has never even owned her own brush--other than a set I had for her as a baby. Her favorite thing out of this whole day is being able to brush her own hair.
Below are a couple of photos of her after she was done at the stylist's. Isn't she gorgeous?!
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| This is her right after the stylist finished |
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Carly, tonight before bed, combing her hair with her new brush!
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