Memory Keeper

Back in the saddle---

2011-10-13T08:20:00.004-05:00

Happy Thursday everyone!

I am quite certain I have missed this avenue in my life.

As to how I am going to keep things up to date on here, I have no clue, but it is a passion that I always enjoyed! So, here it goes again!

I am certain Fall has most definitely arrived here in Minnesota. Skies are overcast, leaves are falling, and there is a chill in the air. Tonight will mark the first football game that we have had to really bundle up. Dennis and I are enjoying every bit of the boys' football seasons. Sad to see it come to an end, especially knowing that this is it for Josh.

Speaking of it being "it" for Josh. Can someone please tell me where 18 precious years went? When we spoke about it, it always seemed so far off. That "far off" now, only means 10 months until he embarks on his college days. I am still trying to wrap my arms around this reality.

In the meantime, we are going to continue to enjoy each day with the four of us living under one roof! So, I guess what I am trying to say, is to hug your kids every day, and don't let a day pass without telling them you love them! It is something that I wish I could go back and "fix", but I guess I will just have to make up for it going forward!

a scrappin we will go....

2009-09-20T22:54:00.003-05:00

This weekend was the first weekend in months that we were able to stay close to home. Neither Josh or I felt on top of the world, so it made staying home a little easier!

We rented a couple of movies-one of which I watched with the boys tonight. The Soloist-different, but good. I want to look into the book that was written about this story. Hard to believe their are 90,000 homeless people in the city of Los Angeles. It breaks my heart. Certainly, when I hit my pillow tonight I will say my thanks for the bed to sleep in, and the roof over my head.

I also spent most of yesterday scrapping....for my Design Team work at scrapbooks.com. The 20th is the big upload day for Design Team members there. Here is some of the layouts that I did for this month.....go on over to the site to check out many other wonderful layouts by fellow designers, like Michelle St. Clair, Heather Keller, and Alicia Geiss!!!

I just LOVE LOVE LOVE the bingo style cards by Jenni Bowlin, they are so funky fun! Perfect for use on this layout of Taylor's 13th birthday with friends!

There are four other layouts that I did, but you can check them out when you visit scrapbooks.com! :)

Are you ready for some football?

2009-08-30T21:58:00.003-05:00

Fall....the weather has felt like fall here in MN for weeks now. We never really had summer! I love this time of year....cool nights with the windows open, and the fresh air flowing through the house....and sitting on the bleachers on Friday nights taking in some hometown football. This year Josh is on the JV team, and will have to dress for the Varsity games on Friday nights. We are anxious for the season...first home game is next Friday night, which is also Taylor's 13th Birthday! That means not one, but TWO teenagers in the house officially!

Dennis made some changes at work...same company, different position-less stress!~ I too have been busy working about 25 hours a week in house at Creative Memories, and then putting in a little time from home as well! I am in my heaven....seriously.....I couldn't ask for things to be better right now!

Keep your eyes peeled for some SPOOKtacular CM goodies coming soon! There is a Limited Edition Trick or Treat line, that is to die for! I will post some layouts with this line later in the week...

Hope you have all had a super fantastic summer...

Happy Creating.

Super Hero...

2009-06-25T09:35:00.003-05:00

Many of you know my nephew's story, but for those of you who don't...he suffers from Uveitis, and is taking chemotherapy in hopes of no more flare ups in his eyes. I did this layout a while ago, but wanted to share it with you. Thank the Good Lord that things are stable right now, and he is doing well.

Using some of my favorite Creative Memories goodies, I put this layout together to honor his strength. I am IN LOVE with the ABC/123 line of alphabet stickers Creative Memories has out right now. They are so versatile, and come in white, brown, and black! You will want to get one of each color-FOR SURE!

Other products used: Bazzill Edges, American Crafts Foam Shapes, Tim Holtz clock hands and Crackle Paint, and Fancy Pants.

LIFE.....

2009-06-01T21:20:00.006-05:00

We are all living one right now....but, once in awhile it spins out of control. Like ours has in the past 2 months. I know....blah blah blah. In a NUTSHELL, my gram and I flew to New Mexico for Easter and my Sister's wedding, Josh starting marching band, Taylor is noticing girls, I flew back to New Mexico after my sister's seizure and accident, school has ended for the year, I started working in house at Creative Memories 1-2 days a week, and now Dennis is leaving to AZ on Thursday as his father is not well. So, I will breifly recap with a few photos, and hope that it will not be 2 more months before I post again.

How many pages....

2009-03-21T14:00:00.002-05:00

have I scrapped in the last 17 years? Hard to say, because I have given away so many for gifts! We got into this conversation at KMA, which made me think about what the boys are going to do with all of these albums if I keep scrapping until they are adults! (Which I fully intend to do!)

They might have to have a separate room in their future homes just for all the scrapbooks I have for them! Here is where I currently store my albums-the shelf is from Ikea and works perfectly for my Creative Memories Albums.

I mostly give my mini's away for gifts, but the few that I have that are my own-I place into the basket on the shelf.

How many pages have you scrapped, and how do you store your albums? ...just curious!

More Pics from the big birthday bash!...

2009-03-20T08:09:00.004-05:00

The Crazy Cousins....of my moms.

Gram with the four grandchildren.

Gram and ALL of her great-grandchildren!

The WHOLE family-a rarity.

My Dad and his high school friend Dave.

My mom with her high school friends....Sharon, Donna, Barb, Greg

My Gram and her dear helper Audrey!

My Gram and Cousin Larry.

The week flew by!

2009-03-18T20:42:00.003-05:00

WOW! Hard to believe that they week has past. Our families all planned for it for so long, and it came and went in such a hurry! My dear Gram looked absolutely BEAUTIFUL in her purple (her favorite color) dress she picked out! She wore a tiara that her "helper" brought her.....it made her feel just like a "queen for a day!" She stood at the door and greeted all of her guests for almost 3 hours straight....over 200 people. Family came from all over....California, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota.....etc. Gram was always worried she might not make it to this milestone....but, she did and it was wonderful! So many people commented about how she was ninety, and no cane....no walker.....no wheelchair......if only her mind was as clear as her body is strong! She did SO well!

Here is to more wonderful years....and good times with this beautiful woman....

MY GRANDMOTHER!

I love you Gram! :)

Back into the groove.....a little!

2009-02-22T19:51:00.002-06:00

You know the first thing I have done since getting back on me feet again....????....yep, scrapbook! I have been doing a little here and there! Working on some projects for CM! I can't even begin to tell you how wonderful their product is! I am totally LOVING it! :)

Last week we celebrated Champs birthday! Taylor insisted he invite the neighbor and his dog over for dog treats! Tay was looking at Champs adoption papers last week when it dawned on him that it was his birthday! What a wonderful dog we found....so glad he came to live with us!

As for my back......I just take each day as it comes. Some days I feel like a million bucks but others I don't even want to get out of bed! My goal is to be up and around by the time may family gets here in 2 weeks for my Grams 90th birthday!

Hope everyone is doing well.....God Bless!

All "screwed up"...

2009-02-03T18:10:00.002-06:00

Yep, I was! This was the hardware that they removed from my back last week! No wonder why things were irritated in there! They sterilized them and delivered them to my room shortly after surgery! How thoughtful of them! The little bag was heavy, or so it felt. Dennis weighed them when we got home and they were only 3 ounces!

Okay, back up to my bed now! :)

Hi Nolan!~ Annie loves you:)

IM HOME!

2009-02-03T09:50:00.002-06:00

Because I can only sit for 10-15 min at a time, I am simply going to say that I am home....

Days are long, but again...we will get thru them! My family has been great!

Today when the kids get home they will post the photo of all the hardware that was in my back...Hard to believe!

Until then....

Thanks for your well wishes and prayers! I really do appreciate them!

Patiently Waiting

2009-01-31T15:42:00.000-06:00

Well, we are still here in the hospital waiting, with a beautiful 40 degree day outside. Melissa is feeling better but we are still waiting. The hospital has certain things that need to be accomplished before someone can go home and we are still waiting on a couple of those accomplishments, which should happen soon. Thank you for all your prayers and support they are much appreciated.
Melissa's Boys -

2009-01-28T15:01:00.002-06:00

Melissa, had a suggessful surgery today. Surgeon said everything went well and no surprises. She is resting now and in a bit of pain but doing okay. She did loose some weight today with all the hardware that was taken out of her back. If all goes well we will be home sometime tomorrow or Friday.

Ready or Not.....

2009-01-27T15:50:00.002-06:00

I will be arriving at the hospital at 5:30am tomorrow morning with surgery scheduled for 7:30am! I am praying for this to be the answer! I just want to be able to move like I am almost 38 years old! :) Well, really I would love to feel like I was 18 again, but I think that would be pushing it!

I hope to be home within a few days!

The kids will be updating the blog until then, bless their hearts!

Sooooooooooooo............

2009-01-16T15:02:00.003-06:00

Many of you know that I have been in alot of pain for the last 3 years with my back! My first surgery was in June of 06, of which didn't help anything! My second surgery was in Sept of 07. Initially there was a fair amount of relief. However in August I started to have alot of pain shooting down my right leg again! So, we tried injections, Physical Therapy, etc etc etc......none of which made any difference. My quality of life stinks....I don't make a trip to the grocery store without hurting....badly! Last week I had a test that showed my nerves were being "pinched off" and today I saw the surgeon AGAIN! It was decided that they will remove my hardware from the last surgery, and decompress at 2 levels. Thankfully it is not as intense as the last surgery, but non the less another surgery. So, at this point I will go in for surgery on January 28th, with about a 6 week recovery period! My Gram celebrates her 90th birthday, and a big bash is planned for mid March, so I want to get this done to be able to celebrate with her, as well as having my family all here from New Mexico! So, if you can spare a prayer or two I would greatly appreciate it! We will get through this, and I am VERY hopeful that the third time is the CHARM! :)

"today is HIS birthday, na nah nah na"......

2009-01-13T11:19:00.002-06:00

Can you hear me singing? Oh, I certainly hope not, as I want you to come back and visit my blog again! lol

Anyways, today is my dear husband's birthday! Dennis isn't much of a celebrater, but the boys and I insist on something! So, tonight we will have cupcakes (according to my neice, it isn't your birthday til you have had cupcakes!). Josh is going to gift Dennis with the opportunity of going to his school conferences, and Tay will gift him with having basketball practice tonight! So, we will go out for dinner this weekend and celebrate both Dennis and Josh's birthday's (his is next week!)

So, happy HAPPY birthday honey bun!

Routine is a a wonderful thing....

2009-01-08T10:46:00.002-06:00

Oh, I love the holidays, but I also love being back into the everyday routine of things! This week the boys went back to school, the house is put back together, and therefore I found some much overdo time to scrapbook. Scrapbooking for me is my relaxation....it grounds me! So, here are a couple of layouts that I completed yesterday from our past couple of weeks!

I hope that you have found some peace in the new year!

Happy 2009!

2009-01-05T14:17:00.003-06:00

It's a new year.....and with that a new ME! I joined a Biggest Looser Group to try to not only loose a few pounds, but try to get back to eating healthier! Even as a diabetic the holidays tend to be trying! So, between now and April my goal is 20 pounds and some sort of daily exercise!

We spent New Years Eve with my childhood friend Jenny and her family. We had not spent any qulaity time with them in a long time-we were due! It was a night of games and good laughs. Of course we saw the ball drop at midnight-and then finished our Wii bowling tournament!

Here are some pics from our good times with good friends!

We made some Memories....

2008-12-27T21:39:00.003-06:00

My grandma Onie spent Christmas with our family. How lucky we were! I know that after 89 Christmases that she must have some kind of memory as to Christmases as a child. On Christmas morning I crawled into bed with her, and asked what she remembered. She recalls her "Pa" only buying one toy and placing it under the tree for all four children to enjoy-It might have been a wagon, or bicycle according to Gram. It made me realize how simple life used to be. The world we live in has become so complex and materialistic. We went to church on Christmas morning, and during the sermon I looked over to see Gram grab hold of Taylor's hand and hold it....Tay caressed her hand and fingers......it was a sight that made my heart skip a beat. This Christmas wasn't about the gifts we exchanged but the moments that we spent not only as a family, but with my dear Gram.

Somewhere along my journey...in an email or blog post I came across this and wrote it down- This sums this Christmas all up!

"Live simply, Love generously, Care deeply, Speak kindly, and leave the rest to God."

It's beginning to look alot like ....

2008-12-22T10:23:00.003-06:00

CHRISTMAS! Now, this is how I remember it to be here in MN when I was a child! Saturday we recieved several inches of snow, and my "snowblowers" were at work!

We played a little in it as well! I have not had my boots on in 3 years for fear of slipping and falling and putting my back in worse condition than it already is! But, Saturday I put them on and and plopped into a snow bank and took some fun shots of my "boys!"

I have also beeen at work with some fun "Snowy Jo" goodies from Imaginisce! I just love this line!

Hoping that you all have a wonderful Christmas-Be safe!

Happy Birthday Jesus! :)

Wondering?????

2008-12-02T09:29:00.004-06:00

Where I have been? Well, the next season is upon us.....yep, sitting in the bleachers watching my 6 foot one inch freshman play a little basketball! :)

Change....

2008-11-16T20:19:00.004-06:00

is sometimes hard to accept. I know myself that I have had difficulty accepting certain change in my lifetime. But, sometimes change is a good positive thing! I have ALWAYS used Creative Memories albums, but guess what .......they changed them to true 12x12........how AWESOME is that! No more trimming off a certain portion to make my layouts fit just so! They have also come out with the most awesome (is that proper english?) lines of pattern paper....oh, and I can't forget to mention the Swirly and Monogram alphabet stickers! Check out the changes that CM has made or is in the process of making! You WON'T be disappointed, I Promise!

I have LOVED creating for Creative Memories over the past 6 months! The team there is wonderful! I find myself to be truly blessed! It is my passion, and so lucky to be able to do something that I truly LOVE! I LOVE the direction this company is going, and so glad to be going in that direction with them! I was reluctant at first, as I hadn't previously cared for what they were producing, but now I don't only use their albums, but their WHOLE line of goods! I am finding out the designs are perfect, the quality is top notch, and the people are wonderful! Take some time and browse through their website, and tell me what you might like to see, and I will do what I can to show you that product, and how it can be used!

Here is a little card that I recently put together using all CM product, and misc. ribbon from my stash!~

Enjoy!

30 Days of Christmas.....

2008-11-03T13:09:00.004-06:00

I can't believe that I am talking about Christmas already! The Design Team at Creative Memories has been busy busy working on ideas for the Holidays, and starting last Saturday November 1st, began our 30 days of Christmas, where a new idea will be posted DAILY here...
http://projectcenter.creativememories.com/projectcenter/30-days-of-holiday-projec.html

Enjoy! :)

Family Fun....

2008-10-22T15:43:00.004-05:00

was what we had last weekend in northern MN! Life has been kinda hectic in our house........football fever had hit! One got home at 6 from football, and the other started at 6! So, our family time was pretty rare! Thank goodness that they both turned in their football gear this week! Tonight we actually ALL get to sit down to the dinner table together at the same time! I can't even begin to tell you how wonderful it will be!

Dennis and I decided to take advantage of the MEA weekend , and the kids not having school.......so, we took them on a little get away! Of course at 12 and almost 15 it is NOT cool to stop and pose for the camera! So, the boys had to take goofy shots! We missed out on fall colors by about a week, but the park was still beautiful! It felt very cold (about 50)...but the boys insisted on walking across the headwaters of the Mississippi!

One hi-light was that we stopped in our favorite little town.......Nisswa! They have the BEST little candy store around(The Chocolate Ox)!~ Hubby gets sour balls by the pound and the kids get whatever tickles there fancy on that day! I got to *taste* everyone's pick to make sure they made good desicions! lol

Make sure to take time once in while with your family.......make memories and HAVE FUN!

Seeing Purple.....

2008-10-08T07:52:00.003-05:00

No, NOT the MN Vikings......

For the last 6 months I have been involved on the committee for the Memory Walk. So, last Saturday morning was the BIG event here in Central MN! With just under 600 walkers, and a BEAUTIFUL fall day, there were alot of families that came together to walk in memory or in honor of a loved one!

I had the best job of all..........photographer! As much as I would love to, I am not able to post any photos, as they are for the Alzheimer's Organization! When I think back to the day, this adorable little couple comes to mind. A man and woman guessed to be in there early 80's started out the walk by her pushing him in a wheelchair. The confused look on his face spoke volumes about the disease. However, when I went to the end of the walk to take photos, there they both were walking side by side and HAND IN HAND. -that is the only way one can get through this nasty disease........side by side and hand in hand.

Do you know someone who has been affected by Alzheimer's or dementia? If so, I challenge you to reach out to them and their family.......walk beside them........and hold their hands when they need it!!!

Saturday morning I got Josh outta bed and told him he was going to come with me to be my "assistant". He was a great help, but more than anything.......when we got in the van to come home, he said "mom, that was a fun morning". Coming from an almost 15 year old about spending the morning with mostly elderly, that was HUGE!

Homecoming....

2008-09-28T19:18:00.003-05:00

This weekend was Homecoming here! Despite the bronchitis, I pushed myself to go to the game. It was a great football game, with an even better halftime performance by the marching band (of course I am biased).

It was unseasonably warm (85 degrees), so we sat under the stars with only t-shirts! Of course, our home team WON!! Following the game was the Homecoming dance for the high school .....so, Josh had his first BIG dance night! When I was in high school Homecoming was a semi-formal affair, but now-a-days it is not anything like that! They all went wearing their Homecoming t-shirts! Josh had a date, and tells us it was great FUN, but that is all the details he will share with us!

His friend Brittany is a total sweetheart, and spent the day hanging out with our family yesterday! Today we were back to FALL.....with cool temps, and a heavy sky. The trees are really changing.....I love this refreshing time of year!

Accomplished....

2008-09-16T14:47:00.002-05:00

When I get into projects like this one, I feel so much accomplishment when I am done! I don't know what makes me feel that way. I do know, however, that we will have plenty of salsa goodness to enjoy during every college and NFL football game this upcoming winter! My "mater" plants STILL have loads of fruit on them, so I am thinking about putting my Gram to work when she comes to spend some time with us later in the week! I remember when I was a little girl, and I would go with Gram to the basement to pick out a jar of beans, or pickles, or peaches, or pears! I loved her cellar with all of her canning goods in it! Mine will never look like that, but the idea of canning brings me great joy!

Michelle St. Clair found me out....

2008-09-15T20:50:00.002-05:00

so I have to share with you my WONDERFUL "official" news......

I am absolutely THRILLED to be designing for Creative Memories!!! It is not like you remember it to be! Trust me! The product is awesome, and I am having the time of my life with it! I never thought I would be a digi scrapper, but have been dabbling with the Storybook Creator! Check it out ladies!

Where did the summer go?

2008-09-02T14:32:00.004-05:00

It seems almost as though the summer just got here, but then on another note it seems like all the parades and marching band was forever ago! Today was a big day in our house. Taylor started his first day of middle school, and Josh started his first day of high school! (holy cow, I am getting old) Of course my photos had to be quick as they are close to too cool for taking photos on the first day of school!

Last spring Josh took his math placement test for this year, and was reccommended by his 8th grade advanced math teacher for IMP2 placement, but missed the score by ONE point. They agreed at the high school to allow him to retake it today, as we didn't want him to be bored in IMP1, as much of it is a repeat of last year. So, Dennis took him early this morning, and he took the test. We are thrilled that after a summer of no studying, he passed and will be placed into IMP2!!!! He did have a few glitches in his schedule that will be worked out today, but is on his way to a great school year! (I think I forgot to mention that he is entering high school at 6 feet on the nose!)

Tay had the upper hand on entering the middle school! He has been there so many times with his brother that he already knows his way around, and knows alot of the teachers! He got into the same "house" as his friend Spencer, which made him extremely happy! I am sure they will both be exhausted tonight!

As you can see, Champ is being spoiled rotten. We decided over the weekend to see how he would do outside of his kennel at bedtime. We he snuggled right in, and now spends the nights on on of our beds!

Dennis and I did have an opportunity over the weekend to go out on a "date". We went and played miniature golf, and then went for nachos and a beer at the local watering hole! The date came to an abrupt halt when Dennis got a migraine, but we enjoyed some quite time together while we could

Fall is definetely in the air. We had some rain, and will only be in the 70's for the rest of the week! Along with spring, this is one of my favorite times of year!

a 1, 2, 3, 4 vacation....

2008-08-04T13:38:00.003-05:00

1 mini van, 2 kids, 3 states, 4 days.........worth of vacation! We had a blast visiting the streets of Chicago, ate yummy Chicago style pizza, toured museums, went to Navy Pier, took in a Cubs game and visited Lambeau Field in Packerland (Green Bay)! It was so refreshing for all of us!

It's been a LONG time.......

2008-07-25T18:35:00.004-05:00

I could list a ton of excuses, but let me just say I am sorry that I have abandoned my blog, for those of you that have been checking!

Of course summer not only brings with it beautiful weather, but all those activities like soccer, softball, and the like. To sum it up......Dennis made 2 Canada fishing trips. Josh marched in 14 parades, went to Mt. Rushmore for a week with the marching band, then a week in northern MN teaching bible school on an indian reservation. Tay and I made a very last minute trip to Boston to meet my sister, my mom, and my nephew. Nolan was seeing a specialist there for his eye disease! We also enjoyed several days at a friends cabin with Dennis' brother Doug and his family! It was great fun!

The biggest news in our house, is that we added a furry four legged friend to it! "Champ" came to our home on July 2nd...and is totally spoiled! Not ever having had a pet in all my years, I am quite shocked at myself at how much I enjoy having him here. He is part Beagle and part Rat Terrier. Therefore, we don't let him off his leash, as he will never come back! He is a year and a half old, and is spending his spare time burying his bone in the hostas!

We are leaving next week for a few days to Chicago, then onto Green Bay for Packer training camp. My cheesehead is beside himself!!! We are looking forward to some enjoyable family time.

I hope that you are all having a great summer! I will try to update again SOON! (not 2 months)

Mish Mash...

2008-05-24T20:19:00.002-05:00

This month at Scrapbook Doodle I got to play with some Junkitz. I scrapped this layout of my neice when she surprised us last month for Josh's Confirmation. This weekend Libby has a fun Memorial Day weekend challenge posted, so pop on by and check it out!

Last Sunday was Josh's friend Taylor Strand's Benefit dinner. Taylor was badly burned in a fire pit accident 7 weeks ago! She has undergone several surgeries, and will be in the hospital for months, maybe even a year! God bless her and her family! At the fundraiser, was the highlight of my week! Watching the boys Sumo wrestle! It is not the greatest photo, but they had me in stitches! They paid the fee, and got into these outfits! The funniest was when they fell to the ground and couldnt get up without help! The smiles on their faces was worth it all! I am sure there were smiles on Taylor's families faces as well, as the 400+ silent auction items brought in $21,000! This community has certainly come together for a great cause!

My nephew Nolan is preparing for his trip to Boston to see a Uveitis specialist for his eyes! To read more you can go to his blog at www.nolansnetwork.blogspot.com !!! He is nervous, but has high hopes that Dr. Foster can help, in hopes of keeping him from experiencing any blindness.

Have a wonderful and SAFE holiday weekend!

Where have I been?

2008-05-04T10:51:00.005-05:00

Last weekend Josh celebrated his Confirmation. It was a wonderful weekend with family and friends here! Josh did excellent with this questioning and testimonial! He has always had such wonderful FAITH, so I knew that he would do wonderful!

The Wednesday before we all had a wonderful surprise! My neice Alix flew with my mom! She is 8, and we all just adore her! Of course it meant a little spoiling on her "Annie's" part! She let's me braid her hair, curl it, we had pedicures, and the best part.......the first thing she said to me when I picked her up from the shuttle...."Annie, can we scrapbook?" (She and her brother call me Annie because when they were younger, they couldn't say Aunty, so it was Annie, and it just stuck!) Even with all that I had to do to get ready for Josh's big day, how could i say NO to scrapbooking? We got several simple layouts done, and she went home with her very own pink bubblgum colored album!

Of course yesterday was a BIG day........NATIONAL SCRAPBOOKING DAY! Of course I celebrated it! I finished 8 layout challenges between Scrapbook Doodle and Scrapbooks.com.

Take a peak at a few!

God's Plan...

2008-04-12T19:53:00.003-05:00

This morning the phone rang at 7:30, and both Dennis and I looked at each other with concern. The phone usually doesn't ring that early on a Saturday morning! It was my dearest friend Jenny, who was with her son Griffin ....in the hospital. Now, let me back up to last weekend. Jenny is my scrapping pal-and we have been friends since elementary school. Last weekend she and I were at a retreat scrapping. That was the first time that we had been together since my diabetes diagnosis! So, she learned all about counting carbs, checking glucose levels, and what I couldn't eat! She asked alot of questions, which made me feel good, as I felt like she truly cared about what I was going through. We try to talk on the phone almost daily, so yesterday during our phone converstaion she was telling me about Griffin being thristy all the time, and going potty alot. She said after hearing me talk about how my diabetes got started, she figured they better get things checked out, and made an appointment for Monday.

Now, let me tell you a little more about Griffin....he loves Kindergarten, and is one of the most intelligent 6 year olds you will meet. He loves his Webkins....too!
Last night little Griffin ended up in the hospital, and guess what the doctor's told him?

He has Type 1 Diabetes!

My heart breaks for Rich and Jenny, but at the same time I feel this overwhelming POWER in all of this. They, too, will get through this like I have. There is alot to learn, but they are wonderful parents, and will conquer this obstacle. Jen told me on the phone this morning "there was a reason I got this!"...to help her understand this disease before this news they recieved today. She said she didn't feel quite so "clueless"!

So, as I reflect on my past 5 months of living with this Disease....I realize how this was all part of God's plan for Griffin and I! I am so glad that I can be there for Jen and her family! We will walk side by side, just like we have in so many other parts of life throughout our friendship!

I know that God chose Griffin and I to be his special Diabetic Warriors! I know this was all HIS PLAN!

Griffin........you are special..........(so is your mom, dad, and Logan)...but, you are really special to be chosen by God to live with Diabetes! We love you! Sending great BIG hugs to all of you!

It's a GIRL thing....

2008-04-10T20:02:00.003-05:00

Last weekend I went with 3 friends on a scrapbooking retreat up north. I have not laughed that hard in a long time! It is always so refreshing to get away. I come home and feel like a much better mommy, wife, friend, but a very tired one, as we don't get much sleep! We have good intentions, but always end up staying up half the night giggling! These are my friends that SPARKED the weekend up a bit!

And boy, we know how to make one heck of a mess!

Springtime Snow....

2008-03-22T16:21:00.002-05:00

It was 50 degrees a couple of days ago, and we were looking at some green grass in the yard, but mother nature decided we hadn't quite had enough of winter, and added a few inches of the "white stuff" over night last night. So, Taylor and his friends decided to make the best of it! They built a little snowman, who is melting very quickly, and built snow walls to hide behind in their snowball fights! They are having a blast! We just hope that these white flakes don't scare Peter Rabbit away!

Yesterday....

2008-03-12T20:40:00.006-05:00

Was my dear Gram's 89th birthday! Just look at her...she doesn't look that old does she? She is still so spry and active! She gets up and exercises there at her apt with all the other ladies 3 mornings a week! She worries about her mind, but gosh, she does so well for 89! Love ya Gram!....Bunches and Bunches! Josh was happy to bake Gram her cake! ....and boy was it sweet!

What have I been scrapping? This layout I did for Janice's monthly challenge at http://www.scrapbookdoodle.com/. Something old (the pics), something new(Dream Street PP) and something blue (chipboard alphas). Well, this cute kid happens to be my husband when he was little! I am having so much fun scrapping his childhood for him. Most of his photos are in the form of slides, so I have been taking them little by little to have them converted! Isn't he just the cutest kid?

The Iditarod Dog Sled Race-Alaska

2008-03-07T11:08:00.002-06:00

Our family has dove into all things Iditarod over the past week! Taylor's teacher has a brother who lives in Alaska, and has raced in this race. So, he educates the kids on this race, the mushers, dogs, etc. Each student had to pick a musher to follow! Taylor chose Lance Mackey! He has taken his 24 hour break and is the first to check in this morning at the Ruby Alaska checkpoint! If you would like to follow with us....http://www.iditarod.com/!! Lance Mackey was last years winner! Things started out kinda iffy for him as his dogs were sick, and had to stop alot to change their booties! We have become obsessed, checking his whereabouts many times a day! What a fun event this has been for Taylor (and the rest of us)!

Playing the game of TAG!

2008-03-06T13:58:00.005-06:00

I was tagged by Aimee ,
who was tagged by the amazing Paula, who was tagged by the amazing Celeste, who was tagged by the amazing Tina, who was tagged by the amazing Angie and that's as far back as I know. ;)Here's what I have to do:* Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.* Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.* Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

1. I will eat ketchup on anything, including eggs! Yum Yum!

2. I am the most organized unorganized person according to my husband (with which I won't argue).

3. I won't leave the house unless my socks match my outfit! (Unless I am wearing sweats, then it is okay to wear plain white ones!)

4. I married my darling husband when I was just a mere 21! And here we are almost 16 years later!

5. I organize my closet by short sleeves, long sleeves, pants, etc, and then by color! Oh, and they all have to be facing the same direction!

6. My 89 year old grandmother is my best friend!

7. I wear socks to bed at night!

and now I will tag:

Janice
Pat
Autumn
Tracey
Jaime
Lucy
Lissie

Leap Day Challenge at the Doodle!

2008-03-04T08:11:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to share my layout that I completed last weekend for the challenge at scrapbookdoodle.com! This is my nephew Nolan last summer at his fundraiser for the Uveitis Foundation!

Interested in LEAPING into some fun?

2008-02-25T13:00:00.004-06:00

The Team at Scrapbook Doodle has some fun planned for this weekend! Check it out...we would LOVE to have you! Click on the title to take you there to check it out!!

Playing Catch Up...

2008-02-20T18:57:00.002-06:00

We are trying to warm the toes here in central MN, with temps well below zero the last couple of nights! Along with that comes the crud! I have not felt well for almost 2 weeks, but managed to feel well enough to make dinner for nearly 120 people at our annual Youth Valentine's Dinner at church! Beef Burgundy, Garlic Mashed potatoes, green beans, dinner salad, punch, and Mousse was served! It was a wonderful night!

I was to see the neurosurgeon today to see where I stand on re-entering the work world, but I didn't get out of bed all day! Josh and I commiserated about all of our aches and pains, as he didn't go to school either. Hopefully I can get that appointment re-scheduled some time in the near future!

Today my sister lost a dear friend of hers to cancer. Hard to see a young mother of 3 taken to such a disease, but Stacy was a woman of faith. Her and her family are at peace with her passing. Thank you to all who graciously served completing page layouts for her and her family. My mom and sister said the layouts were beautiful! To see more about Stacy and her family you can view her http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/stacyhirschman. They are an inspiring family!

This weekend I hope to feel well enough to make a trip to Ikea with some girlfriends! Gotta get me some organizational items!

Hope you are all having a great week!
God's Blessings to you!

The Face of FOURTEEN!

2008-01-31T15:14:00.000-06:00

Hard to believe that it was fourteen years ago that you came into our lives! Hard to believe that learning to ride your bike, your first day of kindergarten, and playing chalk in the driveway is a thing of the past for you! I miss those days! BUT, I welcome the days ahead! You are such a bright, gifted young man. You are so strong in your faith! I can't wait to see how God is going to continue to use you in his kingdom! I know I am posting this a few days late on my blog, but HAPPY BIRTHDAY SON! Mom loves you!............to the moon and back!

Reflections, and being accountable!

2008-01-23T11:13:00.000-06:00

It has been almost 2 months since my Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis! And, as I sit here and reflect on what has all taken place, I am in shock, awe, disbelief and blessed all at the same time! It wasn't until I was talking to my Gram on the phone yesterday that the blessed part really struck me! I could be in denial, but why? I could be angry, but why? I could be sad, but why? I could have a pity party, but why? I told Gram yesterday that I see this as a TOTAL blessing! Our family is not the best with our eating habits! I see this as God telling me to 'get it together' if I want to see my grandchildren grow up! Better yet....do I want to see my children graduate from high school?

So, over the last 2 months my days have been filled with medical appointments-learning how to eat, what to eat, how many times a day, how to give myself insulin, how to count carbs, what to eat when we go out to eat, etc. I found that I was NOT eating healthy at all. We always had chips in the house (that was my total downfall!), we rarely had more than a couple of apples, or carrot sticks, and we ALWAYS had ice cream treats(thanks to the bi-weekly Schwans man!)! So, I vowed to eat more veggies, fruit, and cut the junk! Well, that isn't specific enough!

I need to be accountable! I need to set realistic goals! and I need to set time frames! I figure that if I tell you all this.......I am accountable to not only myself, but YOU! After reading through the Diabetes website this morning I learned these keys!

How long will you try this goal? Keep it short.
Is it easy to do in your regular daily life? Keep it realistic.
Is it limited in scope? Be specific.
How often will you do this?

So, here goes!

Eating: I will eat no less than 2 pieces of fruit daily starting today, for the next month. One piece with breakfast, and one other.

Eating: For the next 5 times that I eat out, I will order salads instead of fries and a hamburger.

Physical Exercise: For the next month, I will walk 4 times each week for 15 minutes after breakfast. I will complete my Physical Therapy exercises daily before lunch. (I started Therapy for my back this week!)

The girls at scrapbooks.com have started a weekly thread about our eating healthy. It is different for each of us! But, you are welcome to check in, and share your venture!

On a lighter note.......we had our friends children for the weekend! Dan and Sherri enjoyed a weekend away! I was in heaven as I got my fix of having a little girl for a breif while! Tay lor and Mitch spent the weekend playing Legos-imagine that! So, I leave you with a picture of one of their prized creations!

Thanks for following my personal goals, and let me know if you have any of your own...I would love to cheer you on!

God's Blessings on your week!

My first month at Scrapbook Doodle.....

2008-01-21T14:56:00.000-06:00

and I got to play with this wonderful Bo Bunny Kit! Here is what I created!

Hard to Believe...

2008-01-14T09:05:00.000-06:00

....that the weekend that Dennis and I had waited so long for has now come and gone! We had a wonderfully relaxing weekend, but it was too fast and too short! Shortly after my last back surgery in September we decided to book a little weekend getaway, as something positive to look forward to. I did take my brace with and hid it in the corner! At the end of the weekend we loaded it back into the van unworn!!!! We laid by the fire watching lots of movies, took a horse drawn ride around the resort and through the woods...ate wonderful food, and enjoyed each other's company! We cam back home yesterday afternoon, so the boys would be able to celebrate some of Dennis's birthday with him! We all went to see 'The Bucket List' at the theatre, and came home and played wii together! The weekend was awesome, and I am ready to do it all over again!

Miracles DO happen....

2008-01-11T09:07:00.000-06:00

So, you ask, where are the photos for this layout? Well, let me share! Last week my sister's friend Stacy (37 years old) returned home from a visit with family in Wisconsin for the Holidays! She hadn't been feeling well. Upon arriving back in Albuquerque, she went to the ER. After undergoing tests, she found out that she has cancer of the pancreas. This past Tuesday the news came that she would only have months left on this worldly planet! I don't personally know Stacy, but I went to high school with her husband Tom. They have 3 beautiful girls ages 15, 11, and 9. The oldest Kylie babysits for my neice and nephew!

So, I ask that you pray for Stacy and her family, that God perform miracles!

Secondly, I ask for your help in creating generic 12x12 layouts in the theme of family to send to her. What a beautiful gift for her to leave her children of all the memorable family times they shared in the event that the good LORD decides to call her home. Where you ask, will she put all these layouts that are being created? Well, thanks to my mom, she willingly offered to purchase the album! (thanks mom!)

Last night as I created this layout I was able to remember not only the wonderful times my family has shared together, but also how thankful I am for each day with them! The quote "live each day as if it is your last"....has really made me reflect!

So, if you are willing to create for this wonderful family you can email me at dmjtu@charter.net for the information as to where to send your layouts when you are finished! Stacy does not know about this! (her sister does!) Let's show her the love of the scrapbooking world, and the importance of why we create!

Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and consideration!

The Cat is Out of the Bag....

2008-01-03T20:20:00.001-06:00

You all know me, and how hard it is for me to keep secrets! Well, I had to keep a GREAT BIG one! In the earlier part of December I recieved an email from the new owner of Keeping Memories Alive ( http://www.scrapbooks.com/ ) asking me to be a part of their Design Team for 2008!

I feel so honored! Today it was announced on their website, and I couldn't be happier! If you care to check out any of my work ...you can find it under Mellsbells!

Thanks for sharing in my excitement!
Happy Scrapping!

Do you need to purge your scraps for the New Year???

2008-01-02T10:44:00.000-06:00

Then I have the perfect answer for you!

Come on over to www.scrapbookdoodle.com this weekend for a New Years crop that will help you trim down your scrap stash! There will be prizes, games, a chat with Rusty Pickle Chefs, and SO MUCH MORE! Hope to see you there!

Wii Celebrated...

2008-01-01T18:49:00.000-06:00

Happy 2008! We spent last night with friends bringing in the New Year! We had a blast playing with our new Nintendo Wii! Our family was anxious to see 2007 come to a close, and ready to start a new year with a fresh start! I hope that 2008 brings less back pain, and more opportunity! This is a BIG year for us! Josh will be confirmed in the spring, and he will start high school in the fall. Tay will start middle school in the fall! Dennis looks forward to continuing his work with the youth group at church, and we together look forward to another year together making memories!

Here's wishing you a BRIGHT 2008 as well! God's blessings to you and your family!

WE WISH YOU A....

2007-12-23T18:58:00.000-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!.....I hope this finds you healthy, happy, and ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus! I had been feeling kinda blah about his whole holiday thing until today. When I walked into church this morning, the spirit hit me! It wasn't about the shopping and the wrapping, and the baking, but about the birth of our Savior! Church was covered with beautiful red poinsettias! I wanted to take a picture while the candles were lit, but out of respect, I waited until services were done! It was truly beautiful! I can't wait to get back there tomorrow for the big celebration~! I felt the peace!

I hope that you are all feeling it too!

Merry Christmas!

from the Ullmann family to yours!

I'm so EXCITED.....

2007-12-17T14:38:00.001-06:00

I just can't hide it!.....(Oh dear, now I have that song in my head!) Last week I was FINALLY given some AWESOME news! I saw the Neurosurgeon and found out that things are going well with my back, and that I should be able to start to wean out of my brace NEXT week. What a wonderful Christmas gift! It will still take another 6-8 months to fully recover!

The same day I found out that I made the Creative Team at Scrapbook Doodle! I have met alot of wonderful, talented ladies at this scrappy site, and can't wait to contribute to their team! Congrats as well to my scrappy friends Janice and Jodi for also making the team!!

I am SO thankful that for once in a very long time things seem to be looking UP!

Dad, can you taste them? Get your coffee ready!...

2007-12-09T15:29:00.000-06:00

TODAY was the day! We made 12 dozen doughnuts! Oh, I am sorry, that was a mistake....only 2 dozen (then I don't have to send so many to NM!) Since we have lived in MN for the last 9 years we have always gotten together with my Gram for this project! Last year we got in a flour fight, and Gram got really upset because she thought we were wasting flour! So, today we were trying to be good, and Tay just tested the water a little bit, and flicked some at her! I said "oh no, you are wasting flour!" Gram chimed in saying "Oh well, it is just flour!". Amazing how things change from year to year! The boys felt well enough to pitch in! So we doubled the recipe and away we went! Once we were finished I of course HAD to have one! So I got my insulin needle all pumped up, so I could! The hardest part was not being able to eat any of the dough while mixing it together! That is sometimes better than the finished product! We rolled, cut, and sang along with the Christmas music on the radio! It is a time of year that I will ALWAYS cherish, as will my family!

Today was supposed to be Tay's Christmas program at church, but when he woke up with a temp of 103, we decided that a solo in the program was not on his agenda for the day! Sad to miss it, as he is growing up, and only has one more year left in the Children's program!

Gram and I also enjoyed staying warm indoors yesterday by putting together a FUN Rudolph puzzle!

Blessings ....

The Good Ole Days....

2007-12-07T18:18:00.000-06:00

Yesterday Gram Onie arrived to spend some time with my family, and to take part in our annual doughnut making! We might even get a little holiday baking done! I know...I can't enjoy the goodies, BUT...it is not about the doughnuts, but more about the time spent with Gram. At 89, she is still so spry, but the day will soon come when she will not be here to do these things with! The whole family jumps in...one gets the dough ready, the others cutting them out, and Dennis at the stove deep frying them! I will definetely share some of the goodness via the blog tomorrow! Today, before we went out shopping for my cousin Scott's twin girls who live in Arkansas, we took a couple of simple pics of Gram by the tree. We are going to print them and put them in with the girls' gifts, so they know who Gramma Onie is! They are currently 3 1/2 and Gram has not seen them since they were only a year old!

Taylor's classroom is in a competition with another classroom for a movie day at school-depending on who brings in the most goods for the food shelf! Tay's class is currently trailing, but he insists on doing what he can to get there! We gave him $20 at Target the other night and told him to shop! He did so awesome! He had several bags of goods, which will be beneficial to a family out there! He had everything from pancake mix, to veggies, to baby cereal. He compared name brand to generic to see what the better buy was. We were so proud of his thought that went into it! He has also emptied our cupboards of everything I cannot eat anymore! He has until the end of next week to get their numbers above the other class!

My diabetes...has definetely been a challenge. I am trying to do the best I can in accepting it. Now with insulin, I have experienced a couple of episodes of "bottoming out"! It is somewhat of a balancing act, but have high hopes of it leveling off at some point! I have one of the best doctors, who also happens to be a friend. We appreciate all that he has done for us over the years we have been to MN! I do have to take my blood sugars a minimum of 7 times daily, and have to inject insulin atleast 4 times daily. I can't wait until I can get the insulin pens!

I hope that you all have a wonderful weekend-stay warm, and dry!

December Challenge

2007-12-04T16:25:00.000-06:00

Okay, so my scrappy friend Janice put out a challenge to take a photo a day for the month of December! Well, I am getting off to a little bit of a late start, but hope to make it up in no time!

What a 10 day stretch it has been! Unfortunately, my pancreas has other things in mind, and is not producing any insulin, so my Diabetes diagnosis has gone from a Type 2 to a Type 1! Which means I am not only counting carbs, but needing insulin as well. I am getting used to the 7 blood sugar checks daily, and the 4 shots of insulin. Taylor even gave me an injection! It is important that the kids know what to do if need be! I don't know why God decided we needed more on our plate, but we will accept it, and move on. Or like our friend and Doctor said...we must be doing something right that the devil is really trying to get in our way! I did meet with the dietician this afternoon, and she gave me the go ahead to make homemade doughnuts with my dear Gram this weekend! I can have ONE at a time, but will have to take insulin for it!

Beyond the Diabetes.....

Last Thursday Josh had a basketball game against Sartell........their biggest rival! Well, he fell just right on it, and the piece on the top of your shin-just right below the knee came away from the bone. So, he is hobbling around here on crutches, waiting for the swelling to go down. He sees a Orthopedic Surgeon on Thursday morning!

I actually think we might have a REAL winter this year! The last several years have not produced very much snow, but we are on our second snow storm of the season so far! Tay has been a TROOPER.....shoveling the drive and sidewalk. He loves it outside!

So, with all that said....Here are my four pics for the first four days of this month!

Handed Down Heaven....

2007-11-26T20:28:00.000-06:00

My Grandma H used to make Tea Ring each year during the Holidays! It was the best tasting sweet bread that one would ever eat! I cherish the recipe that was handed down by her. Dennis graciously steps up to the plate to make this goodness each year! Yesterday our family had signed up for fellowship hour at church...and Dennis decided we should share this wonderful tasting bread with our church family! He and Taylor woke up early on Saturday am, and spent the whole day making 6 "tea rings" from scratch! Our friends Doug and Joy have a double oven, so when it was time to bake, off to their house we all went!

The bread turned out fabulous, and tasty as I was told! Unfortunately, I was not able to eat any as Friday afternoon I was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, with my blood sugars in the 400's! Just as I thought my back was progressing, and life would be less complicated, we were hit with this. I just have to pray that Our Maker will get me through this, as He has done so many other times in our life!

So, needless to say, our family will be undergoing a major lifestyle change. The worst temptation is all the "goodies" during this time of year! We will all learn to eat more healthy, which is a good thing! Today my afternoon snack was carrot sticks, which was not typically me, but will do!

We did get our tree up this weekend as well, and are trying to get into the Holiday spirit in our house! The boys want the impossible: a Nintendo Wii.........hopefully, we will be able to get our hands on one!

Someone pinch me...

2007-11-19T09:38:00.000-06:00

WOW WOW WOW! I got this wonderful email from Dawn at KMA/scrapbooks.com telling me that I had been chosen to be their Guest Designer Girl for the month of November. When it rains it pours! I feel so honored, and can't wait to submit some layouts for them this month!

Here are some recent layouts that I have completed....

Colorful Times!

2007-11-06T08:21:00.000-06:00

Dennis and Taylor were troopers this weekend, and made our white walls colorful! When we bought this house a little over a year ago, the previous owners had painted every room in this house very nicely. They forgot ONE room though.......the living room! The room you walk into when you walk through the front door! All you saw was WHITE walls. I have decided over the years that WHITE walls are not a favorite of mine. So, we took a little spin to Home Depot, and came home with 2 gallons of Sequoia Grove. Obviosly, painting was not on my list of things to do with my back, so my trooper of children (Taylor) jumped right in to help his Dad! Josh and I made a short trip to Barnes and Noble for yet another book, and returned to this on my wall in the living room! They were working hard at having fun with a mundane task! I love the new color on my walls now! I feel more cozy.......and hope to make guests feel more welcome!

Filled with Excitement!

2007-11-01T14:54:00.000-05:00

There is this wonderul scrapbook site that I frequent many times daily, where have have met many wonderful girls who all love to scrapbook as much as I do! Well, during the month of October I submitted a layout using Cosmo Cricket products to enter into the running to be a Guest Creative Team member for the month of November! I was thrilled to find out that I was chosen for this! Here is my LO that I submitted! It is from our NM visit in August. When you have time, go by and check out scrapbookdoodle.com!

Doctor's Report!

2007-10-29T15:32:00.000-05:00

This morning I saw the doctor, and found out that everything is stable with my back. They did an x-ray, which showed that the screws and rods are all aligned properly. I misunderstood, and thought that they would be able to tell me if there is re-growth or not. The doc says it is too early to be able to tell that. I do have some pain and inflammation in my SI Joint, and will consider a cortisone injection into that joint if the pain doesnt subside in the next couple of weeks. That is normal for someone who has had this kind of surgery on the lower vertebrae. It can cause the pelvic bone to shift some, thus the irritation. He sent me home with more "happy" pills and said he would see me again in 6 weeks. At that time we would also consider doing some Physical Therapy. In between now and then I should just walk as much as I can for exercise. It is too early for anything else! Thank you again for your thoughts and prayers....They are much appreciated!

Dennis' siblings were here over the weekend, in which we all had a wonderful visit! I wished that I wasn't down and out, but that is the way it is. I was able to laugh with them....and they are one crazy bunch! The boys really enjoyed visiting their uncles and aunt, and Dennis was able to reconnect with his siblings-We both hope that it is not another 10 years before we see them again!

Have a wonderful week-enjoy the fall activities!

Happy Weekend!

2007-10-26T13:00:00.000-05:00

Wow....hard to believe it is Friday already! I just wanted to ask for some additional prayers before my first return to the doctor on Monday! We will find out if the bone has started to regrow or not! My days are dependent on my activity! More activity=more pain, less activity=less pain. So, I do the best to try and lay low.

This weekend will be an exciting one at our house! Dennis' siblings are all coming to town! He has not seen them in 10 years-2 brothers, and 1 sister! He is hopeful that they will be able to start fresh, as their relationship has been somewhat strained! I am so excited for Dennis, and proud of him for stepping out of his box, and making the effort to invite them all here!

Tonight Josh has another school dance! It is so fun to see the excitement that goes into a night out for these teens! This time around it has not been so much about the girls as it was last month! My mom chaperoned last month when she was here with us, and had to make sure that there was the right amount of space between each couple while they were dancing! Grandma won't be there to keep her eye on things this time, but mom and dad are trusting his judgement, and the judgement of the other parents chaperoning this dance!

Tay and his friend Spencer are going with Dennis and I to Alexandria for a suprise 25th anniversary party for my aunt Janell and uncle Gary this evening!! (hopefully she doesnt look at my blog in the next 4 hours!) This will be my first travel, and am just thankful that I am able to go and make my breif appearance!

Wishing you all a wonderful fall filled weekend!...I will update Monday afternoon on my doctors visit! Thank you all for your concern and prayers!

So much to tell!!!

2007-10-16T13:23:00.000-05:00

Does that surprise you?? Me....have something to say??? Each day is getting better for me. I am still taking pain meds, but make progress each day! I have had the boys put the walker in the crawl space (woohoo!), as I don't need that to get around anymore! Other than my back there is so much afloat here at our house!

Josh is taking part in a Haunted House with our friend Doug. Josh agrees with Doug now that it is much more fun to scare someone than to be scared. He wears a mask, and said the best part is scaring people that he knows, but they don't know it is him!

Tonight is conferences at school for both of the boys! I anticipate that they are both doing well. The hard part is to keep them both focused. Seems that Josh is involved in so much, I don't know how he stays on task most days. Dennis and I have begged him to slow down, but he says he wants to do it all.....basketball, WEB leader, Student council, band, jazz band, volunteer at local nursing home, etc.

Last weekend the boys and Dennis planted shrubs and a couple of trees in our bare naked yard! They say Fall is the best time to plant, and what a wonderful gift from my MIL! Now, to just wait a couple of years for them to fill out, and it will look wonderful!

I have been happily playing with my scrap goods, and will share some of my recent layouts with you....

Hope that you all have a wonderful week!

Give Thanks, With a Grateful Heart!!!

2007-10-05T15:14:00.000-05:00

Hello Dear Friends and Family! I am sorry for the break in between posts, but we are trying to keep up around here with out Grandmas!!!

First of all I need to say THANK YOU to SOOOOO many of you for the beautiful cards, phone calls, emails, flowers, meals, jammies, and SO much more! I got a couple in the mail today, and each day they humble me! Just thinking about how much love and concern that I am surrounded by is overwhelming. I have gotten cards from friends of friends, friends of my parents, friends of my grandmother.....some who don't even know me! The prayers and kindness of those is SO much appreciated right now!

I would like to shout out to the following people:

All the girls at Scrapbook Doodle who have sent wonderful pieces of art!

To my KMA friend Lizette for a beautiful bouquet of flowers!!

Dr. Bell and staff(my mom's office) for the beautiful flowers!

Apperts Foodservice (Dennis' employer) for the beautiful flowers!

Friends Doug and Joy-for graciously keeping the boys overnight while I was in the hospital, a beautiful bouquet of flowers, and a wonderful hotdish!

My Aunt Janell and Uncle Gary for the Beautiful flowers!

Friends Julie and Grace from church-for the beautiful flowers!

Friend Linda- for taking me out to eat a couple of nights before my surgery and bringing me a fuzzy friend and balloon at the hospital!

Friends Dan, Sherrie, Mitch, and Ashley-who kept the boys overnight while I was in the hospital, and bringing me the cutest "cow jumped over the moon" jammies! Gosh, and I can't forget the yummy apple pie!

Diana and Dawn-from the local Christian radio station who sent a Yada Yada Prayer Group book!

My friend Denise for a wonderful meal!

Friends Joe and Sue who brought yummy fried chicken for dinner one night, and also a gorgeous mum for outdoors!

For friend Rachel (our pastor's wife)- who spent a morning with me doing laundry and keeping me company in between our mom's!

To my previous co-workers at Comfort Keepers who brought a lovely sloppy joe meal on Monday!

To our pastors-Pastor Jon, Pastor Nelson and Pastor Dare-for the hospital visits phone calls, and many prayers! Oh-and Pastor Jon-you make a wonderful Enchilada casserole!!

To our wonderful friends Jen and Rich-for spending time at Let's Dish making wonderful meals for us! Also the extra meals that you made-meatballs and meatloaf! To Jen for picking my mom up at the airport and bringing her to the hospital! And for bringing all those scrumptious goodies to the hospital! Andes Mints and Cheese Puffcorn-my favorites!

and of course to my mom and my mother in law- for flying in for a week each, and keeping our household afloat! Their jobs weren't always fun ones!

To my 88 year old Gram who also came to spend the week here when my mom was here-who brought me breakfast in bad each morning, and kept me company throughout the day, made wonderful banana bread and ridded my house of the dust bunnies before she left! She is one of my bestest friends!

and to EVERYONE who has thought about us in the last month-I thank God for you each day!

How am I doing? well.....aside from during the night, I am able to get around the house without my walker. Today I managed a shower on my own (with Dennis standing right there just in case!) I have been playing a little with my scrap goods (smiling profusely)! I don't see the doc until the 29th-in which I will have an x-ray that day to determine if the bone has started to regrow! Until then I will just follow his orders and lay low!

The boys.....are still being boys! They have helped out SO much around here! But, we have made sure that they continue being kids!

My limit of 15 minutes of "sit" time has passed, and therefore I should find myself back on the couch!

Thank you all for your continued thoughts, prayers, and support!

2007-09-24T18:53:00.000-05:00

Hello,
One grandma just left Sunday and my other grandma is coming Tuseday night. My mom is still walking with her walker and wearing her back brace, and will be for a while. She is reading the Yada Yada prayer group books from the girls at SPRIT 92.9, and can't wait to scrapbook. My brother and I both made student concil at our schools.
Grandama was a really big help to us this week she was here, she cleaned, cooked, washed clothes, and took us shopping. We will miss all of her help!!

2007-09-23T08:59:00.000-05:00

Today is a sad day for me, I (Missy's Mom) will be returning to Albuquerque. It has been a full week of getting Missy organized, making her comfortable, doing household chores, and help keep a good mind set. Missy has come along way since returning home on Tuesday. However, she still has a long road ahead of her. It has been my pleasure to have helped her and her family out during this very difficult adjustment. You don't know how important the calls, cards , flowers and visits have meant to Missy. She still needs your continued support in the days to come too.
As her mother I wish I could do more, but living so far away makes it very difficult. That is why I felt good now being able to spend these last eight days with her and her family. Now, Dennis' Mom will come and take over which is still needed for Missys care and well being. I Love you very much, Missy, and hopefully when we see each other again you will be more pain-free. You have a lovely family too, you all have a good mind set, just keep it up!......................I will miss our daily chats and laughs, but mostly miss taking care of you and making you happy and comfortable! Love you bunches.................MOMOM

So BLESSED!

2007-09-22T15:59:00.001-05:00

This has to be the fastest entry ever....but, it really is me! I just gave my mom the eyes to find a way to my basement, and the puter. I just want to say that things are going well....each day gets easier! But, I am so moved by ALL the cards I have recieved in the mail...and many from people who only know my through the puter! What an awesome feeling it is to have to much love coming from all over! Today there was a knock at the door with BEAUTFIL Gerber Daisies! Only Dennis knows they are one of my favorite flowers! Upon opening the card...they came from a computer scrappin friend Lizzette! Boy, she made my day!!!! I SO miss my scrappin, and chattin online! Gotta go....shouldnt be sitting! Miss you all!

She's Home!

2007-09-18T19:31:00.000-05:00

Just to let you know that Missy (Melissa) is home.....finally today. Her bowels FINALLY woke up!!! LOL Dennis and I (her mother) brought her home mid-morning. Just trying to get settled in and making Melissa comfortable. Missy's pain is much more managed and she seems to be doing better. These last three days were very miserable for Missy. She is now adjusting to her back brace which is a huge adjustment. Tomorrow she will attempt a shower. Missy and Dennis live in a 4 story house, therefore, we were all taught by her physical therapist to help Missy up and down the steps with her walker( from the side) tricky, but it works. When Missy's
grmarma came yesterday for a visit, grma "Onie" made Missy smile-laugh for the frist time, a great sight. Bye for now..............

Update: Not Home Yet

2007-09-16T20:20:00.000-05:00

Mom is okay today, but is still in the hospital. :( She's had an on and off fever, and the nurses have almost tried every trick in the book to get her bowls to move. Hopefully she can come home tomorrow. Our Grandma from New Mexico arrived Saturday to help with Mom's recovery. Thanks for your prayers for our family through this time.

2007-09-14T10:39:00.001-05:00

Friday the 14th. Last night was a long night. A lot of pain and discomfort, topped off with Nurses that do not communicate very well with each other or the patient!
Doing a bit better today, we got her up and walked again, and may work on steps this afternoon. Doctor has been great, reminds us that this is NOT a race and we need to take our time and be patient.
More Later.......

2007-09-12T12:53:00.000-05:00

My mom has finally got out of surgry and is sleeping in her hospital bed. The doctor said everything went well and no problems. In a few days she will back at home in a few days and we will keep you posted if anything changes.

Vacation, Birthday, School, and Sadness...

2007-09-07T09:13:00.000-05:00

I am not sure even where to start with this post! So much has transpired since my last post! The boys and I had a wonderful vacation visiting my family in New Mexico last week. Coming home meant the boys had to head back to school, and I have to prepare for upcoming surgery! We were able to do a few touristy things, bu mostly just spent time around the pool in my parents back yard. We had our favorite eateries that we couldnt miss out on while we were there...Quarters BBQ, Dions Pizza, Cherry Limes from Sonic, Baskin Robbins Ice Cream, and of course authentic mexican food!! My father turned 61 while we were there, so in celebration he and my cousin Larry took the boys (Josh, Tay, and my nephew Nolan) golfing! I think my Dad had the numbers mixed up...thinking he was 16 instead....as he was doing cannonballs off the diving board that afternoon! All the way around it was a wonderful trip! Of course the boys and I were happy to get home to Dennis! I missed him!

On Tuesday not only did the boys start school, but Taylor also celebrated his 11th birthday! They are getting so big before my very eyes! Tay started 5th grade and Josh started 8th! Josh loves school, so he was happy to be back, but, Tay was sad to see summer end!

While we were on vacation my dearest of friends, Jenny, called to say that her FIL had been hit by a truck while walking. He was airlifted to our area hospital. My heart breaks knowing what her and Rich and their family has been through in the last week! He was called to his eternal home last Sunday! Please pray for peace for their family during this difficult time! During this time have I been able to reflect on the friendship that Jenny and I share....We have known each other since elementary school...and she is the dearest soul! She is more like family to me! We are seperated by about 100 miles, but manage to talk on the phone daily. When our families get together we ALL enjoy every minute together. Jen, you make my heart smile!

Challenge!

2007-08-20T09:38:00.000-05:00

Awhile back my scrappin friend Lucy put out a challenge on her blog about summer calmness! Hard to believe we are winding our summer down! This pic is my sister and my neice enjoying the calmness of the lake when they were visiting MN in June! The other pic is of my son enjoying the calmness of the lake as well...very deep in thought!

Just a little FUN!

2007-08-12T20:43:00.000-05:00

Our family shared a fabulous weekend with friends and FUN!...lots of it! Friday night both of the boys had friends spend the night. Those nights we usually do not expect to get much rest! I was quite shocked when four boys were awake by 9:30 the next morning! Tay and his friend have been spending alot of time playing "cowboys"! His friend gave him his old cowboys boots, and he has been wearing the denim vest that his Papa sent him!

Sat. evening we went out to celebrate our friend Dan's 36th birthday! We started off by miniature golfing with our families, and then out to a favorite bar and grille for dinner. Josh kindly babysat all the kids to allow the adults to go "out on the town". (that meaning changes as we get older!) We enjoyed some great laughs! But, getting home at 2am was rough on this body, especially when we remembered that we had to have flowers on the church alter by 7:30 for our anniversary! Thank goodness we have a local grocery store that stays open 24 hours, and has a floral department! So, after church naps were definetely in our plan!

Winding the week down...

2007-07-26T14:07:00.000-05:00

On one hand I am so glad that it is Thursday, on another it makes me sad. My dear hubby will be leaving at 4 am tomorrow am with 13 youth from our church, Pastor, and another youth leader to Orlando Fl for 7 days for the Youth Gathering. I am so proud of him and the work that he does, but from a selfish perspective, I sure will miss him! This week will end many of our summer activities. Dennis has played Men's church League Softball, and Tay has been playing soccer. These activities are a wonderful way of spending our summer, but can't hardly believe they are winding down, and soon we will be looking at school supplies. Here is a LO that I completed this week and posted at scrapbookdoodle.com...

Family Fun Night....

2007-07-22T17:02:00.000-05:00

Last Friday night our family rerteated from the every day hustle and bustle to a favorite flower garden/park. We pulled together a few sandwiches, drinks, etc..a blanket, a book for each of us, and relaxed under a ginormous(this word was just recently added to the dictionary!) shade tree. The park is situated on the banks of the Mississippi, which always provides MANY photo opportunities for me! Tay even tried his hand at some floral shots, while Dennis and Josh read quietly while sprawled out on the blanket! Tay and I eventually found ourselves on a swing along the path, while Tay read a few pages of the 4th Harry Potter book to me! I have never read the books, but my whole family has, and insisted on joining the other 1,996 individuals at Barnes and Noble at midnight for the release of the final Harry book. I pleaded with them to save a couple of bucks and we would get up and 8am and get it from my favorite.....Target. They kept telling me that wasn't the point. So, I surrendered, and joined them to get this last final book. We arrived at 11pm, and had the book in our hands at 1:15am. Josh thought he would pull and all nighter and read, but the counting sheep took over soon after. He has started and is at roughly page 300 out of 700 some pages. He has been threatened to not ruin it for the others! I couldnt resist having the camera in hand....

I challenge you to be spontaneous, and do something both comfortable, and uncharacteristic with your family! It is truly worth all the shared smiles!