OMG

Can it really be almost a year since my last post? So much has happened. New grandbaby - Taryn Eileen born to TJ and Terra. Eighteen in all - I do not deserve to be so blessed!

Jenn got her drivers license and a job, yeah Jenn!

I joined a dating website in August. Had one date that was okay. Talked to and messaged several other men and then I met Robert! We met at Barnes & Noble for coffee - went across the street to Jason's deli to eat. I had plans with my children for the weekend so did not talk with him again for a few days but we really liked each other from the start. Had a wonderful Christmas and fantastic New Year's Eve at the Embassy Suites in Greenville. He had met the children that live down here and they really like him and he likes them. He is by far the sweetest man I have ever met. Looking forward to a long term relationship!

Belated Happy New Year

I'm just 2 months late but happy new year anyway.

I have a new grandson, Charles Austin Negrini, born on 12/30/10. Was able to visit for a week in January. He is so precious and his siblings are just loving him! He has problems with reflux which makes it difficult for Cheryl. He spits up all the time but is gaining weight and hopefully will outgrow this soon.

Tami and the boys visited for a week in February. I flew up there and then drove back down with all of them. Marc flew down midweek and drove them home. We had a great time. The boys are getting so big! and Jake is just adorable.

All the good times and good news sure did change in the blink of an eye. My daughter, Jennifer, is now seperated from her husband of almost 16 years. It was sudden and totally unexpected. She is doing so well and I'm proud of her. The children are coping, some better than others. I know they will all be fine, it just takes time.

Sadly, this has brought back so many unpleasant memories for me. I had always hoped that none of my children would ever have to go through a divorce but at least I have learned from my past experiences and hopefully I can offer Jenn words of encouragement as I have been through all the emotions that a separation can bring. I know I am stronger and better and Jenn will be too. She actually is progressing much faster than I ever did with getting her life on track. Proud of you Jenn!

Till next time.....

It's been a long, long time....

I really need to make more frequent entries to this blog but I have to admit - time just gets away from me. It's been so long that I had trouble remembering my password! Well, Christmas is just around the corner. Shopping this year was primarily done via the internet. It sure makes shopping easy - I wish I had started earlier as now it is too late to finish and I will have to hit the stores.

I recently made a trip to NY for Tami's 40th birthday - wow! Her party was so much fun. Loved visiting with my baby sister and catching up with family news. Got to see Cheryl and Gregg at the party and then on Sunday was Jake's baptism so got to see Matthew and Ashleigh. Did some Christmas shopping for the northern grandchildren and some on-line shopping also. Hope everything gets delivered before Christmas. It was freezing up there but no warmer when I returned to the south.

To catch up, we had an awesome summer, enjoyed the pool every possible minute that we could. Ryan, Kasi and Brandi all learned to swim. Carson did real well, lost all fear of the water. Lylah also enjoyed her time in the pool. Family time was abundant - lots of dinners cooked and served around the pool.

Jr. and Ryan worked real hard on my kitchen renovation. Basically it is done, just a few minor finishing touches. It came out great - very "country" looking which is what I wanted. Spent much more money than I had originally anticipated but well worth it.

Hopefully I will update at least monthly from now on. Got to get Jenn to add more pictures of the newest grandchildren - may wait until Cheryl delivers the next one before she does.

Till next time.....

Wow - what a family!!!

I recently celebrated my 60th birthday - (can that be????). Jenn and Colleen picked me up on Thursday evening (along with Brandi and Lylah) and off we headed to who knows where. Had some thoughts, maybe Savannah or Myrtle Beach - when we headed north I thought maybe we were meeting Tami and Cheryl half way to NY. We turned off onto I-40 in Asheville and it's then I figured GATLINBURG!!! - I was correct but little did I know all the surprises that were in store for me. We got off the interstate in unfamiliar territory - drove through back country roads that wound around and around. We pulled into the driveway of a beautiful, huge, two story house with pink shutters and a porch. When we entered, Tami, Cheryl, Jake, Matthew and Ashleigh were sitting in the den. What a surprise! And then, my younger sister, Cindi, came out of another room. I still can't believe they all were there for me! My daughters had been planning this since January and kept it a secret all that time. Friday we went to Dollywood, Saturday we went to Gatlinburg and also the scrapbooking outlet (my most favorite place!). We all had a ball. I even talked them into getting our pictures done at one of the old timey photography places. What fun!!! Sadly, Sunday came wayyy too fast. The northerners arose very early to leave. We left later in the morning and went to Cade's Cove which I love also. We did not see many deer which totally surpised me but we did get to see a bear. We even stopped along the highway and saw another bear foraging in the berries! Many more surprises during the getaway, lots of wonderful gifts. I am sooo blessed. This memory will always be one of my favorites. Love my family sooo much!

Just Another Monday...

What a sleepy kind of day. Yesterday we celebrated Jenn's birthday at my house. Colleen and family and Jenn's friend Missy and her family joined us for baked ziti dinner and yummy homemade crumb cake. The recipe was given to me years ago by someone that Jenn's dad knew from the post office. I wasn't sure I still had the recipe but I did. I think her name was Mary. It turned out great! The crumbs have a whole pound of melted butter in them! Sorry that TJ and family could not join us. They have been sick for a while now - just can't seem to shake the respiratory infections. Poor little Teagan now has pneumonia.

Tami and the boys will be making a visit next week. I am flying up there and then driving down with her. Should be a fun filled week. Wish Cheryl were able to make the trip also but with Matt's allergies, she can't stay with any of us and a hotel for a week gets expensive. Maybe this summer when we are not cooped up in the home with the cat they will be able to visit.

Not much else new except that I am enjoying my new home so much. Love decorating and painting and everything else. Just need to be a millionaire to do all the things I want!

Till next time.....

So Much Has Happened...

Why can't I seem to update this blog more frequently. I just cannot bring myself to write on a daily basis as if I were writing in my diary. Who cares about every little detail of my life anyway? What time I got up - if I did laundry, took a walk, exercised?!?!?! Get a diary and keep it to yourself. I can see writing about events that would have some meaning to your friends and family or if you are writing to earn money - otherwise, give me a break!

That said - I have an event that may be of interest to others. I finally bought a house. I love it! It has an inground pool and is in a very nice area - 1.1 miles from Colleen. If I were ambitious, I could walk it. Closer to Jenn also but now she is moving so hopefully she will not move too far from me. I am enjoying fixing the house - painting, new lighting fixtures, etc. Major renovations will be done in time.

My grandchildren are all growing in leaps and bounds. Saw Jake on SKYPE last night - so cute. Lylah is also getting so big and just so much fun to be around. I wish I could retire and babysit for her while Colleen works. She is blessed though that she has found an excellent day care and I'm sure Lylah will love it also as Carson does.

Looking forward to Taylor's birth. Hopefully, we can get together more often than in the past few years. Now that Sunday is family day, I pray that the Carney's will be able to join us frequently. The cousins all enjoy being together.

Miss the Santullis and Negrinis so much. There is some talk about a visit in February. YEAH!

Jr. is a real big help in my home repairs right now. I try to do as much as I can but some things you just need a man to do.

Well, until next time....

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...