Another Blessing

Wow - Colleen delivered a beautiful baby girl - Lylah Caroline - on October 30. She weighed in at 6lbs 6oz and is absolutely gorgeous. Big brother Carson gives her "gentle kisses and gentle hugs"! Mom and baby are doing well - more answered prayers. Lylah is gaining weight and settling in with her new family.

Tami is doing well also - still adjusting her Coumadin dosages but that is to be expected. Baby Jake is growing every day. Love SKYPE - so glad I can see the family on the web cam. Hopefully Cheryl will get a web cam also so I can see her family also.

Can't believe Ryan is 14!! Being in the delivery room when he was born was so special - time goes by sooo fast.

Today I'm going to Tristin-Grace's princess birthday party. She is also getting so big - such a prissy little girl.

Looking at houses again. Saw one that I'm interested in but not getting my hopes up yet.

Till next time.....

Mixed feelings

Again, it's been a long time since I posted. Lots of events have occurred.

Tami gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, Jake Anthony, on September 18. She developed multiple complications following the C-section. I arrived on Saturday and was able to extend my stay for a total of two weeks. She is much better but still experiencing problems. She needs continued prayers for her recovery.

While I was in NY, I received a phone call from TJ telling me that one of the twins had died. It's called the "vanishing twin syndrome" and is more common than we realize. Terra is having a difficult time accepting this loss so she needs prayers also.

Colleen is having her baby on October 30. Praying also for her and the new baby.

I'm suffering from bronchitis at the moment - feel better and then start coughing again. I need prayers also.

Till next time....

Double the Blessing

TJ called me this afternoon with wonderful news. Terra had a sonagram today - they were worried because they had not heard a heartbeat and the baby was measuring smaller than it should have. Now we know the reason - they are having TWINS!!! Wow, I am so excited. There are twins on both my mother and father's sides of the family but none in my parents nor my generation. None of my cousins have natural multiple births so this is the first. Can't wait - just pray for healthy babies. Terra has a tendency to deliver early so hopefully this will not be a problem for the little ones.

Tami is doing well. Jake is scheduled to make his debut on September 18. I will be flying up to be with her for a week. She is not nursing so I will be able to do the nighttime feedings for her so she can get her rest. She is having a repeat section.

Colleen is also doing well. Mike painted the baby's room yesterday.

On a more tragic note - Jenn and family went camping last week. Kasi fell into the camp fire - actually the edge of the fire and sustained second and third degree burns on her forearm. Thank God it wasn't her face. She is a real trouper and Jenn said she has not complained very much at all.

Hope to hear from Cheryl today - they were on a mini vacation. Hope they had a good time.

Till next time......

Another blessing from heaven

I received wonderful news this past Saturday - TJ and Terra are having another baby. Number five for them and number 16 for me (grandchildren that is). I'm so excited! Wonder what "T" name they will name him or her.

Matthew called me yesterday - he is a talker! Ashleigh also spoke on the phone - she said "Hi" and then "Nana". Cheryl said it was the first time she said Nana so I was sooo tickled. Her little voice is just precious.

Tami was in the ER in Delaware last weekend with stomach pain and dehydration. She has had problems with dehydration before and I pray that this will not become a frequent problem. Getting close to her delivery day - can't wait to hold sweet Jake.

Jenn has been having problems with a wisdom tooth. She went to the ER and was given an antibiotic and pain medicine. Hopefully she will be able to have it pulled soon.

Colleen has moved into her new house. It is beautiful and big. Carson loves his playroom downstairs. She is still unpacking. She is doing well with this pregnancy - can't wait to find out what it is.

Well, that catches up my children. I, on the other hand, have begun looking again for a house. There are a few I want to drive by first and then maybe I'll find something I like.

I'm tired tonight - my cat woke me up at midnight last night wanting to play fetch with her toy. How many cats do you know that play fetch like a dog??? I'm hiding the toy tonight!

Till next time...

Baby Shower

This past weekend I went to NY for Tami's baby shower. The theme was ducks and it was absolutely wonderful. The weather was great - a little hot in the sun - but otherwise a beautiful day. The children were in the pool most of the day. The adults were served delicious food. One of Tami's friends made the cake in the shape of a tub with a yellow duck on top - STUPENDOUS!!!! She is very talented to say the least. Tami received many gifts and was excited to get the room prepared for baby Jake. Cheryl did a wonderful job with planning the shower and everyone who contributed in any way were greatly appreciated. Colleen made a diaper cake which came out adorable. The swing from her siblings was a perfect gift. She received gift cards and money to complete what she didn't receive as gifts.

I enjoyed being with my daughters and their families although the trip was short. I am glad I went. Won't be a bit surprised if Tami has a big baby - I guessed 9lbs 3ozs and 21 inches long - we'll see.

I am now back to seriously looking for a house to buy. I hope I can find one before the interest rates get too high. Holly e-mails several listings almost everyday so I'm sure something will strike my fancy soon.

Well, I was up till 2am this morning and I'm fading fast so I am signing off.

Till next time....

Has it been that long ???.....

I cannot believe it's been this long since I have written - where has the time gone? So many updates - don't know where to begin.

Tami is having a boy - his name will be Jake. I'm so excited. I have started a blue afgan - everyone of my grandchildren has a crocheted blanket from me. There will be a baby shower in July for her and I intend on being there.

Colleen is getting a cute pregnant belly and is doing well - she does not want to know the sex so her blanket is white. They sold their home and are in the process of purchasing another. It is beautiful and big and I know they will be happy in it. Carson however, does not want to move from his "home". He is so cute.

My big news is that I have a new computer. TJ was able to order a laptop for me - it is really nice and he got a real good price on it. I am amazed at the speed and I can sit on my couch and work on it as it is wireless. Maybe not such a good thing cause it's so easy to stay on it longer cause my back and legs don't hurt from sitting on the computer chair - lol.

I went to church with TJ and family last Sunday and the sermon was most definately directed toward me. He preached from Matthew on forgiveness and what God commands us to do and how to do it. It convicted me to forgive Thom and Elaine for sinning against me. I must do it face to face so I am planning on that but not quite sure how and when to meet them. It is then their responsibility to ask for my forgiveness for sinning against me but that is between them and God. I actually feel as if a burden has been lifted off my shoulders. My walk with Lord has been affected by my lack of forgiveness and I feel closer to my Lord. Now I must find a church to attend as I have missed that tremondously.

Well, I'm sure I have forgotten lots of events of the past months but will try to keep up better now.

Till next time......

It's a Boy!!!!

Tonight Tami called after her sonogram at the doctor's and she is having a boy! She was somewhat upset as they wanted a girl but the most important thing is that he is healthy and so far everything looks good. I will love him as much as each and every other grandchild that I have and look forward to her shower and the birth. Now, I can buy blue yarn to start his baby afgan as I have done for all thirteen other grandbabies. I'm excited!!

This weekend was busy. Saturday I put up my winter clothes and took out my summer clothes and shoes. I need nothing - I have plenty of clothing for the warm weather. Now, just have to lose a few more pounds and I'll be happy.

I spent the rest of Saturday afternoon with Colleen and Carson - outside under the sprinkler for awhile. Meghan and Will came over for alittle while and I finally got to give her the baby afgan I had made for Will. She seemed to really appreciate it. After they left, we went to Walmart and then I ate supper with them.

Sunday afternoon, Colleen came and picked me up and we spent the afternoon at Jenn's. The kids played under the sprinkler - all seemed to have fun. It was hot and I did get some sunburn. I do need to spend more time in the sun to increase my Vitamin D deficiency.

Today, I stayed home from work - did not feel well at all. I didn't sleep well and I think I had a fever. May stay home tomorrow also, depends on how I feel in the morning.

Till next time.....

Surprise, Surprise!!

It's been a while since my last post - no excuses - just haven't had the time. However, this past week was a busy one. Cheryl and Tami made a surprise visit to SC. They arrived last Monday and to say I was shocked is an understatement. Unfortunately I had to work except for Friday but I enjoyed their visit none the less. Tami stayed at my house for three nights and it was so much fun to wake up in the morning and have her and the boys down stairs - all asleep on the living room furniture. The boys sure are growing. Cheryl stayed at Colleen's house and poor Matthew had an allergic reaction to the cats or the pollen or both. Wednesday night, Cheryl stayed at the Marriott and then Gregg joined her for the next two nights. Tami and Marc stayed the remainder at Colleen's house. The cousins all got along so well. Carson and Matthew played together so well. We met TJ and family on Thursday night at Fatz in Gaffney. I picked up Carson from day care as Colleen had a meeting. Friday we spent a few hours at Hollywild, even though most of the time it rained, we still had fun. Cheryl had to leave on Saturday night and Tami on Sunday night. I miss them all so much!!!

Easter was a blessing even though Cheryl had to leave and TJ was unable to make it. We celebrated at Colleen's house. I did the meal preparation and desert - the girls took care of the snacks. Everything tasted so good. The weather was perfect and the grandchildren had fun looking for eggs outside. Then they hid the eggs and the adults had to find them. Good time had by all.

Back to work yesterday. Tired as usual tonight.

Till next time...

Sleep like a baby

Well, I had a wonderful night's sleep last night. I went to bed about 9:30 and woke up at 9am this morning to my cat meowing in my ear. I accomplished much even though my back was hurting. Getting old is no picnic! I managed to clean a good bit and caught up on some scrapbooking. I started on the year 2007 - only another year and a few months and I'll be caught up.

I also went on line to research websites on scrapbooking stickers - there are a lot of websites. Prices vary so it will take me awhile to find the best one.

My friend from up north wrote me yesterday - he is very involved in politics and had written a letter to the editor of a local newspaper up there. I actually went on line and found the article which was very interesting. I so enjoy hearing from him and I think I may try to see him on my next visit up north. Even though there has been a little flirting - I think we could be great friends and that's what I really want although it does make me feel good about myself when he flirts!

Back to work tomorrow - another very busy day. I have to make an appointment with my attorney to sign some papers on my house giving up all rights to it. I hope this means that Eddie has either sold it or can refinance so I can get looking again.

Till next time.....

Rain, Rain Go Away

Another rainy day - makes me very lazy. Of course, I had another sleepless night. I went to Walgreen's to transfer another prescription from CVS and they gave me a $25 gift certificate to be used on anything in the store. I believe I will buy some goodies for the grandchildren for Easter. I just hope I can sleep better tonight now that I have all my medicine. The pain in my legs is what wakes me up and then I cannot get back to sleep, even after taking Lortab. For some reason, I always forget to fill this one particular medicine that really controls the pain at night.

At least I managed to get my laundry done today. They are painting the townhouse next door to me and the men climbing up and down the stairs sound like a herd of elephants. I never heard the people who lived there make any noise at all. I hope I get quiet neighbors.

I was looking through the real estate web site and I saw the house that I had wanted is still on the market - $11,000 cheaper than my original offer and with some repairs being done. I'm considering making another offer - not sure yet. Obviously, the seller now knows that it needs repairs before a bank will grant a mortgage. May work to my advantage!

Well, I am rather tired and I think I will read for a little while and hopefully rest well tonight.

Till next time....

Happy Birthday Mattie

Today is Matthew's birthday. I called to wish him a happy one and he answered the phone. He is sooo cute. He said "did you call to say happy birthday?" and then he said "thank you for calling me for my birthday". Gregg said they were just getting ready to eat his cake. He wanted a rabbit so they got an Easter bunny cake. How sweet.

Another rainy day in Spartanburg - I did not sleep well last night - tummy troubles - so I did not go to work today. I actually slept a good part of the day which I will probably regret tonight when I try to sleep. Oh well..... it was a good day to snuggle in the bed with Miss Kitty. Since I returned from up north last Saturday, she is still following me everywhere!

Tomorrow I hope to clean, do laundry and bills. Hopefully, church on Sunday. I think I'll ask Kasi if she wants to go with me, Ryan also if he wants to. If the funds look good, maybe bowling in the afternoon. Colleen called today and wants to talk about Easter dinner - it will be here soon so I better get planning. She also went to the doctor and everything good so far. She continues to feel nauseaus so she was prescribed some medicine. Hope it helps.

Till next time.....

Praise His Name

I talked with Tami last evening and she said she received the results of the blood work done last Monday at the doctor's office following the sonogram. Everything was normal so far. What a blessing and I will continue to pray for a healthy baby. Can't wait for Colleen's sonogram although she has said that she is not going to find out the sex of the baby. I remember way back when..... we never knew the sex our babies and it was wonderful to hear the doctor say "it's a ____!" at the moment of birth. Anywasy, I already started her baby blanket in white but will wait for Tami to let me know what color she wants - pink or blue.

I read that Ben was able to come home on Sunday and that was truly another blessing from the Lord. Hope he is doing well and the family is adjusting to twins. I can't imagine how difficult that can be.

Tonight is Kasi's concert and as usual I forgot - Jenn did not call to remind me until it was too late for me to go. Hopefully Kasi will forgive me. Everyone knows how forgetful I am!!!

I have been reading my Bible - I joined Crossroads, a Christian book club and received a new Bible for joining. I also ordered a daily devotional book and some other study guides. Forgiveness is something that has been difficult for me as anyone who knows the circumstances of my children's father's remarriage will know. Adultery is not easy to forgive, especially if the marriage is destroyed as a result and having to see them at family gatherings brings up old wounds. Well, I thought I would take the bull by the horn and make an effort to be nice so I requested her to be a friend on Facebook. Why did I ever think that would be accepted? Of course, she has not responded and I know she has been on Facebook because she posted a birthday message to Colleen. I guess I will just give up that gesture for the time being.

On a lighter note, it was a beautiful day today. I was busy with work and am ready to relax.

Till next time.....

Happy Birthdays

Today I went to Jenn's to celebrate the March birthdays and finally celebrate Terra's birthday - better late than never! Colleen was there with Carson - Mike still away on his golfing trip and due to arrive home this evening. We had a brunch - the food was great. I made a red velvet cake and white cupcakes with chocolate frosting. The grandchildren had a great time - the weather was beautiful and they were able to play outside. Teagan was just a angel - smiles when you talk to her. A very enjoyable day.

I came home to my cat who is still recovering from her traumatic week without me. She is beside me wherever I am. If she falls asleep and I move to a different room, she wakes up and follows me a few seconds later. Poor thing is afraid I'll leave her again. Thanks to Jenn and family for taking care of her.

Good to hear that Crystal and John's babies are doing well. Hopefully Ben will be able to come home from the NICU soon.

Well, I am headed off to my bed to watch a little TV and then hopefully a good nights rest. I am still somewhat tired from my trip. As enjoyable as it was, I am not use to the hustle and bustle of children 24/7 - God bless their parents.

Till next time.....

No place like home....

I returned home today from my week long trip to NY/NJ to visit with Cheryl and Tami and the grandchildren. Got to see the son-in-laws before they left for their golfing trip. My mom also was up from Florida so it was a great visit altogether.

We celebrated Matthew's and Ashleigh Sue's birthdays on Sunday. Cheryl had arranged for a firetruck to come - he parked right in their driveway - siren on and all. He did a great job talking about fire safety and he let the children try on all the equipment. Mattie did not want to sit in the driver's seat at first but finally did with Michael. They all got to spray with a small fire hose. Lots of fun for all. The party was a great success, even Ashleigh seemed to enjoy it. I will try to post pictures in the next few days.

I stayed with Cheryl on Saturday and Sunday and then we met Tami for lunch in Hicksville so I could be with her for her sonogram. It was great to see Dr. Sommers again - he did my surgery 16 years ago and still remembers me. The sonogram was so interesting - we could see the baby's nose and tongue sticking out of its mouth. Don't know the sex yet but everything looked good so far. Keep praying!!

Tuesday we met my mom and sister for lunch and then Cheryl drove to Tami's on Wednesday and stayed until today when she took me to the airport in Newark. We had a wonderful time - the week flew by so quickly. I went to Kevin's hockey game - got to see him score too!!
The boys are growing so fast.

My cat is driving me crazy - she missed me soooo much.

Till next time...

Ouch!!

Well, yesterday afternoon I gathered my junk out of my car as I was going to Mike's to get my car washed. Without watching where I was going, I missed the ever so small step onto the sidewalk and lost my balance - I fell onto the cement on my knee, hit my arm on a brick that surrounds the flower patch and landed in the mulch. The first thing I thought of was "I hope nobody saw me!" I couldn't get up right away because my arm and knee hurt so bad. Once I got up, I saw blood dripping down my leg and managed to get back into my apartment. I went upstairs and cleaned up the scrapes, bandaged and hurting, went back downstairs to ice my arm. Needless to say, I did not go back out to get my car washed. This morning, when I got ready to leave for work, I noticed that I had never locked my door from yesterday. Anyone could have just walked in and robbed me or murdered me or worse.

I did get to Mike's car wash today and you would not believe how clean my car is. It's been such a long time since I've had it washed that when I came out of Walmart, I thought my windows were open - they were sparkling clean!!!

I am looking forward to my trip to NY/NJ. Jenn is going to feed my cat while I'm gone. She does get very lonely and I know she misses me -- not Jenn, the cat.

Well, time to get ready for bed and redress my wounded knee...

Mamma Mia!

Friday night when Cheryl called to check on the time of my flight, I realized that I should have flown to Newark on February 14 - thanks to a typo error when the flight was booked. Oh well, the wonderful airline not only would not give us any credit for the error but because I was not on the flight, they automatically canceled my return flight which was the correct date. Somehow, that does not seem legal but there's nothing that can be done. So, Tami found another flight and booked me for the correct dates. However, I lost the cost of the first booking completely and thankfully we were able to book another for less than the first. Today, I finally got around to figuring my budget for this month and miraculously, the money was there to pay for this new flight without having to rearrange anything. I still cannot figure out how that happened except for a blessing from the Lord. Who else could come up with $144 from nowhere?

Saturday, I watched Carson for a few hours and we had so much fun. We spent most of the day outside enjoying the beautiful weather. We drew different shapes on the driveway with chalk and I would ask him to jump in a specific shape - he knew every shape - even an octagon! He is so smart.

Today, I tried to catch up on household chores and laundry. Colleen called and asked me to go to the park with her and Jenn and the kids but I had too much to do. I understand they had a great time, enjoying yet another day of beautiful weather. Can't wait for spring to be officially here.

God is Soooo Good

This week my dear friend at work was told that her granddaughter, who is three and a half years old, was having problems with her stomach. She would complain of pain in her "tummy" on and off for a few days. My friend's daughter took her to the doctor and he thought it was constipation which they attempted to treat. There was no difference so they tested further and at first thought it was a dermoid cyst in her colon (a growth that is congenital and can be removed). This usually occurs near the ovary and is not usually discovered until a woman is in her 20's or above. They took her to a surgeon and yesterday he told the mom that it was a teratoma (growth) on her ovary and they would have to do surgery. He also prepared them that he thought it was malignant. My friend was so upset - we prayed and asked God to guide the surgeon's hands and let it be benign. She called me alittle while ago and told me everything looked good. It does not appear to be malignant (of course they sent off a sample to pathology to make sure) and that Rachel is doing okay. Another prayer answered by our dear Lord and Saviour. How can anyone deny such an Almighty power - God answers prayers!!!!

Tomorrow afternoon I will be babysitting for Carson - can't wait. We went to Boston Pizzeria last night and met Margaret and Alex. Had a great time. Carson wanted to go to Nana's afterwards so he could go upstairs and see where Miss Kitty sleeps. He loves going up and down my stairs. I'll be watching him at his house this time or he'll wear me out!

Hoping to go bowling maybe this Sunday afternoon with the Wylie kids and hope to hear from TJ. too.

That's it for now...

Number Fifteen

Well, Colleen just called a few minutes ago and informed me that number 15 is on its way - she is pregnant and due the beginning of November. This is just wonderful - my oldest and my youngest are pregnant at the same time. There will be about 5 weeks between births. I'm so excited. First and foremost, I pray for healthy babies and then that they will be girls. Of course, it doesn't really matter to me what the sex is as long as they are healthy. God is good.

Today, the snow has melted some - the roads were fine but our office did not open until ten this morning. I hope the governor is generous and pays us for yesterday and the hour and a half for today. Even if the office is closed, sometimes we have to take annual leave if the governor does not grant us the pay.

Brandi is still sick with a fever this morning but Jenn said she is feeling better and should be able to go to school tomorrow. I hope this bug gets gone soon.

Tami said they had about fourteen inches of snow in NY. I am going there in two weeks and have a history of bringing snowstorms with me so hopefully that will not happen this time. March certainly came in like a lion!!!

Till next time....

Snowy day!

It has been a few days again since I've written anything. Sometimes, I just don't feel like writing. Jenn and Brandi are sick and I hope they feel better soon.

It is snowing and just beautiful outside. I heard a truck go by my apartment and looked out the window - they had stopped in front of my driveway and had gotten out of their truck. A huge branch had fallen and was blocking half the street. They tried to move it but were unable. Thank goodness it was on the opposite side of the power lines but I'm sure a power outage will occur sometime during the night. The snow is very heavy which makes the branches heavy and causes breakage. I just hope it does not get real cold inside - I don't want to leave my cat here by herself in the cold if I go to my daughter's house.

Colleen, Carson and myself went to the mall this morning to walk for exercise. We ate lunch at Garfields and had an enjoyable time together. Carson was good as usual and seemed to enjoy the outing.

My friend is still writing and I'm still enjoying his correspondence. He is revealing more and more of himself on a personal note and I find that very touching. There has been a little flirting and that's okay too. I am wanting to see him but not just yet. When the time is right, I will know it.

Here he is!!!

Well, here he is - my wonderful

friend from NY. I'm actually very

proud of myself that I was even able to do this even if the pictures are off center. He is much the same as I remember him. He has inspired me in many ways - I'm even reading a book that he recommended and enjoying it - not one that I would have picked myself but interesting none the less.

Today was quite uneventful although I'm very tired. I did not sleep well last night due to the pain in my legs. I went to CVS to pick up one of my medicines and they were out. I had called it in this morning so I was quite mad that they never notified me that they did not have any. After I expressed my anger, they suddenly had some for tonight and I should call back tomorrow to see if it is in. Needless to say, I am switching to Walgreens tomorrow.

My daughter, Cheryl, posted some new pictures of her children on facebook and they are adorable. I can't wait to see them. I wish Tami would post pictures of the boys, too, as I miss them all very much.

I am now friends with Amy Wood from WSPA news channel 7 and she does post many good links. She appears to be a fine Christian woman. I want so much to get back to going to church regularly - I really miss Pastor Parker and all the people from my church in Roebuck. Hopefully, we will make it this Sunday.

Till next time.....

Disappointment

Last night I went out to eat with Jenn and her family and Colleen and Carson. We had a good meal and then Jenn and I went to Michaels Craft store where I as usual spent more money than I should have. We were standing in line with our buggies, and a clerk came over and told Jenn he would take her at another register. So, I followed her and she said something like "he told me to follow him, not you" and I responded with "let's just see who gets there first". Some people near by thought we were serious and started pointing to us as if we were going to have a fist fight. It was quite funny. Anyway, I bought a cake pan that will make a house that can be decorated in several different ways . I can't wait to use it.

Kasi stayed at my house last night and we were going to go to church this morning, then the library and then bowling. Well, I did not sleep well so we did not make church. We met Colleen and Jenn at the library but unfortunately, my back was hurting so bad I could not go bowling. We postponed it until next weekend. I have been sitting on my couch with ice on my back since returning home - it has helped a little. I did take out some books, one which my friend from NY recommended so at least I can relax and read.

I am looking forward to my visit to NY in a couple of weekd to see my family. We will be celebrating my sister's 50th birthday so that should be fun.

Till next time....

Wow!!

This morning I received an e-mail from my friend in NY - he gave me a link to see photos of himself. He has changed very little since high school - still sooo handsome. I was even late for work. I saved the pictures but cannot figure out how to send them to Jenn as she asked me to. It is such fun corresponding with him and maybe someday I will agree to meet with him. I'm still alittle distrusting in men.

I am concerned about Teagan and Tristin-Grace. I pray that they will be able to be helped with their problems. I continue to pray for Tami and her baby and of course for all my other children and grandchildren.

No house hunting for awhile although I find myself going on the internet and searching for homes anyway. I hope I don't find one I really like and then cannot make an offer for a few more months. Hopefully my ex will refinance our house in a timely fashion and get that debt off my credit report. That is the only thing holding me back right now.

Will try to keep posting....

My daughter Jennifer told me I needed to write in my blog - I guess it has been awhile. We had a great time at Colleen's yesterday. Unfortunately, the birthday celebration for Terra did not work out as Thomas was sick. I made a special cake and will do another when we finally get together - hopefully before she's 31!

I am off today due to President's Day and it is a state holiday - one good thing about working for the state, we get alot of holidays off. I've been working on my scrapbooking - haven't done that in awhile either.

An old friend from grammar school found me on Facebook about a month ago and we have been e-mailing each other since. It has been so much fun - he is a very special person. He is very intelligent, has a great sense of humor. We are trying to catch up on 50 years and I hate to admit it but he remembers far more than I do. We first met in 2nd grade and had a "crush" on each other in 6th grade. During high school, we drifted apart. He has led a very interesting life.
Hopefully, we can meet up during one of my visits to NY.

Well, the home inspection went much the way I thought - several pages of things that were wrong. Unfortunately, some things were way more than I wanted to get involved with repairing. I know I have wonderful son-in-laws and son who would help me but I think the repairs would have been extensive and expensive! At least I can get my earnest money back from the real estate agent - the home inspection fee was not refundable but worth every penny. He did a very thorough inspection. So, I am staying where I am for a while longer - save some more money and look for something even better. God is good and He will provide. I know I was losing faith when I was in the valley and those are the times when our faith should be the strongest. I'm working my way back up the mountain and know that God is with me every step.

Jenn's birthday celebration yesterday was fun. I'm glad she liked my elephant cake - I enjoyed decorating it and can't wait for the next birthday. I already have an idea for Terra's cake - hopefully we can get together this weekend.

I am babysitting for Carson on Saturday - Colleen is bringing him over early - about 6am. I bought a Dora/Diego DVD today at Walmart and hope this will help him be more content when his mother leaves.

Well, another exiting day at my house. I have an appointment tomorrow with the home inspector. I expect alot of things to be wrong with the house as it is very old. Hopefully nothing will be so bad that we cannot fix it within my budget and nothing that will need to be done right away. The prospect of moving is making me very happy.

I worked from home today and was very lazy. I need to start packing but want to make sure the move is inevitable first.

Read that my son and two grandchildren are sick - I hope this does not interfere with their visit this Sunday so we can celebrate Terra's and Jenn's birthdays. Can't wait to bake tomorrow - I'm very competitive - my cake WILL be the best!!!

What a Week!

This has been a crazy week - one minute I qualify for a mortgage and the next minute I don't. I have excellent credit but because my name still remains on the mortgage of the house I shared with Eddie, it shows up as a debt on my credit report and the bank will not approve a mortgage. I've been round and round and the bottom line is..........Marc and Tami are going to take a home equity loan on their house and pay cash for the house that I have been trying to buy. What a family I have - I am so blessed. How many women have son-in-laws who would put their home on the line to fulfill their mother-in-law's dream? Now, we just have to pass the home inspection as the house is 100years old with some new additions. I know there is work to be done but I am looking forward to the challenge. I am soooo excited.

Jenn called me this morning and told me about the fire near her house this morning - it could have been a very bad disaster and thank God it did not affect her home or any of her possessions.

I'm looking forward to us all getting together this weekend to celebrate Jenn's and Terra's birthdays. Hopefully, the March birthdays can be celebrated in my new house.

This is my first attempt at "blogging" and somehow I feel like I am writing in my diary. Some things are just meant to be private so I'm not sure how comfortable I will be at doing this. I'm also not sure who has access to this and who will be reading this so I will begin by being general in my comments. As my title implies, my family is my world. I do have a career but that is not as important to me as my family. I am fortunate to have five wonderful children, four son-in-laws and one daughter-in-law and thirteen (soon to be fourteen) grandchildren. They are all mine - not step children.
I am trying to purchase a house and am coming against obstacle after obstacle. Perhaps this is not the time for me to purchase a home so I will grin and bear whatever the outcome.
Well, I hope this actually makes it to my site - if it does then I may continue to write.