The toy of the year!

You might be wondering what in the world this is so I'll tell you. It's called a Bilibo. Believe it or not, this is Graisi and Alli Claire's most played with item from Christmas. It's just big enough for Graisi's bottom to fit in it and to be used as a chair. When I first showed it to Martin he gave me "the look". He thought I was crazy and to be honest wasn't sure if the girls would like it or understand what it was supposed to be. It was engineered to spark a child's imagination. And boy does it! Graisi uses it for a seat to watch tv and for a turtle shell. We've put AC in it and slid her across the carpet from one to another (she LOVES it). We've all used it as a mask with eye holes to play peek-a-boo. AC sits in it and turns circles in the living room or we spin her in it. In the summer we'll put it in the pool or dig in the dirt/mud. It will be used as a bowl to carry treasures and what-nots. Graisi has also put her babies to bed in it. So... my point is, if you're looking for something different and unusual or just something fun for the kids to play with - this is it. It's made very well and it's very thick plastic. I would highly recommend it!

Uncharted territory and fun with friends

You know the old saying about not saying you won't do something, less you do.... Well today, I'm doing something I said I wouldn't do until Graisi was well into her teenage years.... When you see me next, you'll have to ask. I can't blog about it here. But, if you know me you'll be very surprised or maybe not.... Depends on who you are.

Anyway, we had a wonderful weekend! Graisi has been at Janet and Paul's since Wednesday, so we went Saturday to spend Christmas with them and Bev Newnan, GA. This year was Janet's turn to host our get- together at her house. We try to alternate between our two houses to keep traveling down to a minimum. We had a really great time watching the kids open their plethora of gifts for Aunt Bev! She always spoils them rotten, just like Mamaw Margaret and Papaw Dale would do if they were here. (I don't know what I would do without Janet and Bev! You two are truly a blessing to our girls!!) This year Maggie got an American Girl doll from Santa, like Graisi did last year. Janet gave both Maggie and Graisi a gift certificate from American Girl. What Graisi didn't know is that later that afternoon, we were taking them to the new store north of Atlanta. Anyhoo, when Graisi opened her gift certificate she got really excited until I told her we didn't have a store back home. I said I guessed we would have to shop online maybe. She was a little disappointed, but it was ok. (That makes me terrible, right?) She didn't have a clue, but Maggie already knew we were going AND she kept the secret from Graisi the whole time she was there!! I'll post the picture of Graisi's face when we pulled up here when I download the camera. It was priceless :o) The girls picked out two outfits each and were very pleased with their selections. I think this might have been Graisi's favorite Christmas to date. I mean, heck, it's got to be better than 2005 when she didn't get ANYTHING she wanted..... We're still hearing about that one.

Yesterday, we didn't have Sunday school, so we played hookie from church. I'm really ready to get back to our normal schedule for Sunday mornings. I miss fellowshipping with friends and studying the Word together. Our class makes for some interesting discussions.

I went shopping yesterday afternoon at the local Target where ALL of their Christmas decorations were 75% off!!! Can you say WAHOOO!? I loaded up on 6 boxes of garland lights ($12 each), picked up an 8ft inflatable snowman ($26), 5 boxes of old-fashioned bulbs for the tree next year ($7 each) and 3 boxes of lawn bulbs for the sidewalk ($12 each)! There were a few other things I bought, but for everything I only spent $50!! I am so looking forward to next Christmas!!

Last night we had dinner at Ed and Sallie's. As usual it proved to be a very enjoyable, relaxing, laughter filled night. Kevin, Tonya, Brian and all of the kids were there including "Baby L" who didn't have a choice at this point in time :o) I wasn't successful at making some sort of beverage come out of Kevin's nose, but I was very close.... There's always next time, right? Martin and Sallie made Ed and I take the "I have a shopping problem" oath again. They said we can't go shopping again without supervision anymore. So Ed and I agreed to supervise each other :o) That works right?

We're going over to Andy and Paula's tonight for our annual New Year's Eve party. We'll ring in the new year with the east coast so we can be on the road and home before the drunk folks hit the highway. Cuz we're smart like that! I'm looking forward to seeing some friends that we haven't seen in a while. Happy New Year everyone! I hope 2008 holds wonderful blessings for you and your families!

December 9th in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, TN

Just strolling the streets

Here is Graisi mining for her ruby's and emerald's. She had a blast! Ask her about them the next time you see her. It's not quiet the same as the last time we were there, but it was fun.

What mom could pass up a photo op in the sleigh? I just couldn't resist.

Look how pretty and proper!

Do you see the mischief?

I won't tell her I'm standing here if you don't....

What kid could ever pass up a fountain?

Christmas Pictures

Since our first year together in 1994, Martin and I have made it a tradition to read "The Night Before Christmas" .... even before we had children. This year was no different.

Shelby and Alli Claire at Mamaw Dunkerlin's for our "S" family get-together. Alli Claire just loves Shelby Goose!

Graisi in the kitchen helping Daddy make Christmas candy.

OH NO! We're busted in the princess tent.

See everyone, I already have my castle. Now, all I need is my tiara :o)

Alli Claire decided Sissy and Daddy needed some help...

Santa comes around every year on the front of the fire engine to give

candy to the children around town. Can you say "Merry Christmas"?!

Graisi opening one of many presents Santa brought her. Her favorite was her boy

baby doll she named Andrew Ryan and we're calling him Drew.

I'm a little overwhelmed Mommy....

But I love my tutu and fairy wand :o)

You probably can't tell, but Santa brought me some tub toys. I got lots of

crayons and markers and they taste GOOD! Like mother ...like daughter.... But I'm so cute while I'm eating them. Doesn't that count for something?

To bed without dinner...

Last night we had a fun night at church singing Christmas carols and had another beautiful candle lighting as we sang more songs on the steps of our church. I've always wondered what it sounded like from the highway as people drive by... It really is lovely to see a thousand or so candle lit at once.

Anyway, when we got home, Graisi was going to fix herself a PB&J sandwich before taking a shower. I quicky ix-nayed that request and asked her to shower first hoping this would be a speedy process since she was hungry. For any of you who may not know, my eldest daughter is as slow as molasses dripping off of a tree in zero degree weather. You get the picture.... she's extremely, painfully slow! Anyway, after waiting for the water to finally turn off after 30 minutes, another 15 minutes went by with no activity. Martin walked upstairs to discover her sitting butt-naked in the middle of the bathroom floor doing NOTHING except sitting there. Finally, after another 20 minutes of drying her hair/wall/rug/towel we finally told her to turn the hair dryer off and get into the bed without supper. Hey y'all... her hair wasn't even dry! 20 MINUTES of drying and it still wasn't dry!

Thoughts

Monday at lunch, I had to go out and get some drinks for Alli Claire's party that afternoon. While I was out, I went by and put up Grant's Christmas tree by myself. This was the first time in 8 years I've had to do it alone. It's also the first time we've waiting this late to get it up. Last weekend just had too much stuff going and kids had to get home for naps that we just didn't have time to do it. It was cold and I tried to be a big girl, but couldn't help but feel sorry for myself as I stood out there alone with my child in the ground with nothing to symbolize his existence other than a metal plate on the ground. I don't do that often but a few tears fell as I hung the garland and ornaments on a tree that he would never see or enjoy.

This year was also very hard to find an ornament for our family tree. We're not sure if he would be playing sports, boyscouts or what his favorite things would be. We finally settled on a Superman ornament, because I mean, what 8 yr old boy doesn't like Superman? And it's not just any Superman, either. It's a phone booth. On one side Clark Kent goes into it and on the other Superman comes out. It's really pretty neat. We've never really had a problem with picking one out until this year.

In the past few years, I've dealt very well with Grant not being with us, but for some reason, this year has been a little more difficult. Not terribly difficult, just a little more than usual. And certainly nothing to be alarmed at. I feel so blessed and thankful for our beautiful little girls, but somewhere in the depths of my soul I feel the hole that my precious baby boy left. I guess I always will until I am with him again.

I'm really not sure where this came from seeing how this is not what I was going to blog about when I first logged on. But since it is and I'm not sure if I'll blog again before next Tuesday, I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas! Hug your children extra tight (you know enough to make them squeal) and tell them you love them one extra time.

Merry Christmas My Little Ones!

A full weekend of activities

Friday night Graisi, Mallory and Kerri (Mal's mom) went to a camp-in a the McWane Science Museum. From all accounts yesterday morning they had a great time. Hot chocolate was involved... need I say more? They watched Polar Express on the IMax Dome Theater. I sent Graisi with an emergency barf bag just in case. My friend Sallie said her family saw it there last year and all of them got a little green, so I thought she should be prepared as she does get car sick on occasion. She said she was fine and it was fun... Oh well, better safe than sorry.

Last night we had our annual Sunday School Christmas party. As usual, we had a great time! I love being with our friends because I never laugh as hard as I do when I'm with them. We are so blessed to have each of them in our lives. Thank you Andrea for the passy clip "ornament" and for Amanda's response to it. I'm not sure who's reaction I enjoyed more... LOL. Andrea, you ALWAYS make things interesting :o) And to all who doubt... I WILL have my tiara/crown one day. You can count on it!

This morning was church for our inter-generational Sunday School class. We've only done it once before and I'm not really sure how I feel about it. I'm glad to be able to devote some precious time to learning about my Savior with other members of the church, but I'm not sure Graisi gets very much from this experience. Only time will tell...

This afternoon was our 3rd annual Winter Workshop at the church. It is always a wonderful time to remember why we celebrate Christmas. The kids get to do a craft, sing Happy Birthday to Jesus and eat cake, watch a dramatization of a Christmas experience and visit a live nativity. It is truly a great family time together. We are blessed!

This year is the first year in a long time that I've been able to really focus on what Christmas means. I enjoy the gift giving and watching my girl's faces light up on Christmas morning, but without my Jesus's birth and death, my life would not be as full, whole and complete. I am so thankful for what has been given for me and my family.

A moment to remember

This week has been very difficult for me. There was a decision I had to make that wasn't a very popular one. I can't go into great detail, but please pray for me and my siblings and their chidren.

On another note, Graisi and I had a wonderful time at home alone last night. It was one of those that I will remember in my old age. Martin was gone to a company Christmas party and I had just put Alli Claire in the bed. Graisi and I went downstairs, turned off all the lights except for the Christmas tree and snuggled in the colorful glow of the lights. It was quiet except for our whispers as we talked about each ornament on the tree. Our tree doesn't have a theme nor will it ever. It warms my heart to look at it and see past memories encapsulated in each ornament. Each one is precious and dear to us. Because Martin and I got married in November, my great-aunt bought us a tin of 12 ornaments as a wedding gift. On each of the ornaments is a page from the book, "Twas the Night Before Christmas". For the past 12 years, we've read each ornament in order as we put it on the tree. When I told Graisi we'd had them that long, she thought it was pretty neat. I do, too. I love making family traditions for our family and becoming a child again thru my own.

Good big sister!

This was taken a few weeks ago when Graisi got Alli Claire to sleep one night.

Doesn't this look comfortable??

Pictures

Hey Sissy! Do ya need any help??

Our little dare devil

"Look out world.... Here I come!"

I am such a funny girl!

"I am such a funny girl"

Can you hear the angels singing? Winter Wonderland is OVER!

Friday night Graisi skated very well. We practiced her lounges before going out and she performed them perfectly! Her Uncle Chris and Aunt Stacy came to watch and Alli Claire ended up falling asleep on Stacy. The whole program was very entertaining and enchanting to watch.

Saturday, Mamaw Dunkerlin', Aunt France and Bev came from Alex City. Janet, Paul, Maggie and Caroline came from Georgia and Daddy and Nancy were even able to be there. Kerri, Mallory, Ed, Sallie, Hunter and Brantley were there too. We had a full house! Hunter said he wasn't going to like it because skating is for girls :o) You could have fooled me... he was mesmerized a few times watching all of the skaters perform, jump and spin :o) :o) Brantley said she wanted to put on some skates and go out there and skate too. I think Maggie even got a skating nibble and thought it would be neat if she could do it, too. I was very surprised at the amount of talent in our area; as was everyone else. It was fun, but I AM SO GLAD it's over!

Sunday we put up our Christmas tree and Alli Claire's tree. She got a little tiny Barbie cell phone to put on hers. No kidding, it's about an inch long, but she took it off of her tree and put it between her shoulder and ear as if she were listening to it. It was precious! Graisi got her tree up yesterday afternoon but it's a little whopper-sided. She put it up by herself, enough said.

Alli Claire chose her own shoes this morning. I'd picked her little brown mary-janes and she shook her head, "no no" and went and got her pink Crocs. So we went with the Crocs. I didn't realize babies made decisions for themselves this early... I was wrong!

Winter Wonderland H*ll

We had dress rehearsal last night for Graisi's Winter Wonderland performance tonight and tomorrow. This has been a nightmare from the get-go. These are the most uninformative, miscommunicating bunch of people I've ever met. I guess I'm so used to be somewhat organized as are my friends, I'm just not used to utter chaos. Some people seemed to be loving it. I on the other hand, along with many of the other moms, was not. Thankfully, tonight is the beginning of the end. I can't wait until tomorrow afternoon at 3pm when it all comes to a close!
Have I mentioned we've had practice EVERY Saturday (except for two) since September?? I am SO over this....

On a happier note: As I was snuggling with Alli Claire this morning, before we got dressed, she removed her passy from her mouth and gave me a kiss without me asking for it!!! I guess all of her tantrums and fits are worth it :o)

House Cleaning Marathon

I got a call from a realtor yesterday afternoon who wanted to show the house today. Martin and I went on our cleaning marathon last night and I still have a little to do when I get home. But overall, it looks good. Please pray our house will sell soon. I know there is a reason it hasn't sold yet, but I'm really tired of being in limbo. I'm trying to be patient but it's becoming very difficult.

Can I Get a Big WAAAARRR EAGLE??!!

Thursday we had a great meal, visited with family and rested at Mamaw's house. It just doesn't get any better. Suzanne and Michael brought their two four wheelers and the kids stayed outside most of the day. Martin even got me out there on them! There are some trails behind the house, so we ventured out there. It was COLD!

Friday, I got the shopping itch and HAD to do a little to start the season off right. It was fun, but then when I got home I had to start cooking for tailgating Saturday. We rode down to Auburn early Saturday morning and had a really good time with Ed and Sallie's family. I'll post pictures here later. Alli Claire and Graisi had a blast with the big football and the other kids that were there. We got to see some friends we hadn't seen in a few years who were tailgating beside us. It was really good to see them and get to visit for a little while. I found out they read my blog, so, "Hi Ben and Beth Ann!! It was really good to see you :o) "

I bet our football is bigger than yours! We had a blast playing in the field before the game

The kids!

Shelli and Sallie enjoying all the tailgating fun!!

War Eagle fly down the field, ever to conquer never to yield! I just get excited looking at the pictures :o)

SIX in a ROW!

Toomer's Corner! Can I get another WAARRRR EAGLE!

Tiger Walk was fun as well as the pep rally. Graisi loved it and Alli Claire even got into the dancing. Martin and Ed went ahead and went into the stadium and Sallie and I went to the family's lake house to watch the game in warmth and comfort. What a great game!!

They guys didn't get home until around 1am. They had to visit Toomer's corner before heading home. I'll also post pictures when I get them downloaded. From what I saw it was done up right! We got up REALLY early and drove back home to teach our babies at church yesterday morning. Needless to say we spend most of the afternoon sleeping. It was a wonderful lazy day. I had intentions of getting the Christmas tree up and going, but that didn't happen, and that's ok. We needed the rest.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Graisi is out of school today so she's spent the night with Ed and Sallie. Brantley was very excited last night at church to tell me that Graisi was going to get to sleep in HER bed :o) Sallie jokingly told Graisi she would have to sleep downstairs in the basement with Cody the Predator Killer Attack Hamster. Graisi politely declined the offer.

Sallie has backed out of going to the Iron Bowl this weekend which left Martin a ticket to go. He was UP last night when he got the ticket. Sallie, the kids and I are going to Ed's parents home on the lake Saturday night to watch the game and enjoy some downtime. We'll get up early Sunday morning and drive back in time for church. Boy, what was I thinking when I agreed to this??

Alli Claire has started trying to say words. She's got the "cat" and "cup" sounds down pretty well. Amazingly they both sound very much alike :o) She's quiet proud of herself when she says them too. Uh-Oh is still one of her favorites. She is sleeping better for now, but who knows what tonight will hold. We just never know...

Graisi is skating in her yearly performance on Nov 30th and Dec 1st if anyone would like tickets :o) - $5 each. I don't remember if I told you last week, but she moved up another level and is now a Level 8 skater! This is the last level of the basic skating. She'll move up to the Freestyle skating next! Who da thunk it?? We are SO proud of her!!

Martin and I are doing good. We're just keeping on keeping on. This Thanksgiving I am so thankful for having such a wonderful husband and to have been blessed with 3 beautiful children! Each one has taught me so much about being a better mother, wife and person in general. I wouldn't change the way my life has grown or the experiences we've had. My God has a perfect plan for my life and I trust in that. This year has had it's challenges, but we've made it through and we're healthy. What more can I ask for?

Please keep John, Syble, Hannah and Baby Sarah in your prayers. We still haven't heard anything from the PGN, but hope word comes today.

Also, please keep Siran Stacy and his family in your prayers. He was a former Alabama football player who's family van was involved in a vehicle accident in Dothan, Monday night. His wife and four of his children were killed. He is in serious condition at Flowers hospital in Dothan and his 3 yr old daughter, Shelly, was transported to Childrens Hospital here in Birmingham. I cannot begin to comprehend the grieving this man is going through or the pain he will have to endure in the coming days, months and years....

Prayer for an adoption

This is the email we received from our friends John and Syble:

As many of you know, we have been in the process of adopting Sarah Grace for the last 9 months. She is in Guatemala, and we had a great visit with her in September. Four weeks ago we were told that the PGN (Guatemalan court consisting of 3 attorneys) was ready to approve our adoption of Sarah if Sarah’s birth mom would sign a waiver stating that she was willingly giving up Sarah for adoption. Our attorney obtained the signed document and turned it in the following day. We expected the PGN’s final approval to occur within days of the document being turned into them. Four weeks have passed, and we have heard nothing fro m the PGN. If PGN does not approve our adoption this week, it will be very difficult for us to get Sarah home before Christmas. If it goes that long, we then face an even longer delay because the Guatemalan government shuts down for the holidays for 4-6 weeks. This means we would be looking at late January or early February. We really, really want Sarah to spend Christmas with us.
We are seeking prayer support from everyone and invite you to join us in praying specifically for PGN’s final approval to be granted this week. Monday evening from 7:00-8:00 PM Syble, Hannah, and I will be praying for PGN to approve our adoption this week. Where ever you might be during that hour, we would appreciate you pausing for a moment and praying that PGN will release our case so that we can proceed and get Sarah home for Christmas.
We appreciate all the prayers offered on our behalf thus far in this process and look forward to our prayer time tomorrow night knowing that from many locations in this state and across the country we have Christian brothers and sisters praying with us.
I ask that you would join us in prayer Monday night, from 7-8pm, that this case would be wrapped up before Christmas.

Please join us as we lift Sarah and the Guatemalan court system up in our prayers tonight. I am very excited to see what our God will do! Thank you Father for this family and for the family that is loving Sarah in John and Syble's absence.

A Weekend Report

Friday morning I got up to come to work but never made it. Last Wednesday, Alli Claire got a diaper rash. I paid extra special attention to it Wednesday night and Thursday. Friday morning it looked a little better, but when I finished changing her diaper she started screaming. By the time I figured out what was wrong, her bottom was red, swollen and hurting. She spent all day laying on me tummy-to-tummy. She wouldn't walk or even move for that matter because she was in so much pain. I felt horrible!! FINALLY, Friday afternoon at 5pm I got a nurse to call in a prescription for a diaper cream compound. I had called the left a message that morning at 9AM! I was not happy.... Alli Claire had been in cloth diapers or naked all day. It was not fun. But by Saturday morning, she was feeling much better. I'm not sure what is in that stuff, but it's the most wonderful, miraculous stuff I've ever used. This morning, you couldn't even tell it had been there.

Saturday was filled with Graisi and I running errands while Martin and AC stayed at home recuperating. Graisi had a slumber party that night and had a blast. She didn't go to sleep until after midnight and was VERY tired when she got home yesterday.

Yesterday afternoon, Mallory was at the house as soon as we walked in from church. She and Graisi played the Wii for a couple of hours (I broke my rule of 1hr. After the 2nd hour I made them go outside). I spent several hours over the course of the weekend getting Graisi's costume ready for her Sacagawea book report today. I'll post a picture as soon as I can. She looked really cute as she walked out the door. I was even able to incorporate Martin's indian vest from when he was a little boy. Graisi was proud of it too. I've learned much more about Sacagawea than I previously knew. The fact that I can spell her name is a feat in itself! Secondly, she was only about 15 when she lead Lewis and Clark to the Pacific Ocean.... with a baby on her back! Talk about a real woman. Clark's journal mentioned that she didn't complain, but that childbirth was horrible for her. I can't even imagine! She has become my hero!! You go girl.....

A Great Anniversary!

To start off, we had a fantastic social over at Ed and Sallie's. The kids had fun after all of the adults went inside. We walked back out to find a fire approx. 20 feet tall! The kids had piled wood on top of the dwindling fire which caused an enormous one! Graisi and Blake broke up after 5 years! It seems, Blake didn't want to get married so Graisi cut him loose. It was bitter-sweet, but probably for the best. But both seems to be dealing with the break-up pretty well. Blake got drunk on hot chocolate. I think the final count was 6 cups. He was hysterically "high" on caffeine! Poor Jaime and Chad... I wonder what time they finally got him in bed? Thank you Ed and Sallie for always opening your home for everyone to gather!

Saturday afternoon, I also picked up our bootleg Wii from the back of Winn-Dixie parking lot from a guy named Poochie. It's really not as bad as it sounds... "Poochie" is my friend LaDonna's brother. His name is really Delbert, but he goes by Poochie. For the life of me I could not call him Poochie! However, while waiting, Graisi called out the window, "Yo Pooch!" REAL loud!

Sunday we went to church and back home to clean for Uncle Chris and Aunt Stacey's arrival. They volunteered for babysitting duty while we celebrated our anniversary. It's really nice to have a good meal by yourself not having to feed or tend to a little one. Surprisingly, we talked the whole time. Martin and I still have a lot to talk about and I pray it always stays that way.
After dinner, we drove by two movie theaters, but there wasn't anything worth spending $25 to watch. So, we ventured to the local Books-A-Millon and checked out the latest children's books. Now isn't that romantic?! We were back home by 8:30pm to play the new Wii with Graisi, Chris and Stacey. We had a really good day!

Monday morning we got up and drove to Anniston to the Anniston Museum of Natural History. I've been really wanting to see the "Sue" T-Rex exhibit. It was even better than I had hoped. For those of you in the Birmingham area, I would seriously recommend the museum as a whole. It was very nice. Then back home for an evening for outside play and talking to the neighbors.

What more could you ask for?

Happy 12th Anniversary, Honey!

Sunday, November 11th, will be our 12th wedding anniversary. Wow! Where has it gone?? I can't imagine spending the past 12 years married to anyone else but you! Thank you for always making me feel safe and loved. You've kept a smile on my face and a laugh in my heart. We've always been able to laugh together during the hard times as well as the good ones. There have been plenty of both and we've always known the other was there for support and company. My prayer is that laughter is always in our lives that nothing is ever taken too seriously. Thank you for the best twelve years of my life. I love you beyond belief and cherish you every morning that you kiss me before going out the door. I love you.

Shelli/Martin story:

Some of you have already heard most of our stories, but for those of you who have not, enjoy...

I remember a story very vividly during our early years of dating. As most of you know, I don't cook. Don't like to cook. Don't know how to cook. But for our very first Valentine's Day together, I decided to prepare Martin a "Valentine's Day" pizza. You have to remember, y'all, we were poor... I mean real poor and I didn't know how to cook. Have I mentioned that lately?
Well, anyhow, I mixed up the crust (boxed of course) and let it rise like I was supposed to, then began putting the sauce, cheese and pepperoni on it (in a heart shape I might add). Little did I know, I was supposed to COOK the crust FIRST before applying the toppings. Bless his heart, he choked down a few bites of the doughy mess and told me how good it was. I'm sure later that night he raided the kitchen of cereal, Romin Noodles or something similar.

I, now, have a few specialty items Martin likes me to make for him, but the majority of meals are prepared by him :o) I think it's for his safety as well as the rest of the family :o) :o)

Martin, Thank you for growing with me!

Ice Princess

Lately, our world has been very quiet. I like it that way. It gives me a chance to stand back and watch our babies grow. This is also my most favorite time of year. I wish it could stay this way year round. But then I guess I wouldn't enjoy it as much. I got to put a coat on Alli Claire this morning and she reminded me of the little boy in 'Christmas Story'. You know the one where his mom keeps putting clothes on him to keep him warm but then he can't move. Yeah, that was Alli Claire this morning. She walked into school with both arms sticking straight out to the side and she wouldn't move her head. It was precious! Graisi wore her first sweater of the season and complained that it was too big. She hasn't quiet figured out the concept of rolling the sleeves up... or maybe she just wanted me to do it. I didn't wear a jacket at all this morning, even though it was 41 degrees when we walked out of the house. Eventually, I will, but for now, I like the crispness in the air and the feeling I get when I come in from the cold... that warm, snuggly feeling that encompasses your whole body. I LOVE Fall!

Anyway, here are some pics of Graisi skating last night at practice. She learned how to do another jump but I can't remember the name of it.

Halloween and various other pictures

I got all of my pictures downloaded last night and proud of myself I am! So off we go...

Baby Holly Hobby

Part of the gaggle of giddy kids. (R-L: Hunter, Brantley, Graisi, Alli Claire, Natalie and Kristen) There were lots more, but these were the only ones available at the time.

My Holly Hobby and Princess Graisi

Can you tell the kids had had way tooo much sugar during the day?? Don't cha just love the cheese curl encrusted teeth? This was AC at her class Halloween Party.

Holly Hobby was not liking the Halloween parade.

She made Mrs. Margie carry her basket....

Alli Claire eating Rice Crispies all by herself! WHAT WAS I THINKING??

But she had a blast!

I know...I know!

It's been a while since my last post. I still haven't gotten the Halloween pictures, up but promise to in the next couple of days. I'm hoping this new time change will kick start my giddy up! This morning I felt more rested than I have in months. It was amazing! But then again, it could have something to do with Alli Claire sleeping all night, FINALLY... AGAIN!

We've all been busy playing outside when we get home every afternoon. Alli Claire has discovered "going outside" and wagon rides. Needless to say, I don't do anything in the afternoons other than be outside and play with the girlies. Graisi is enjoying being the big sister because she can take AC outside by herself now. It has been such a blessing for the few minutes that she does, because I can get dinner started or a few things cleaned up before I'm summoned outdoors. Alli Claire is a ball of energy and HATES coming inside when the day of done. She comes completely apart when we try to bring her inside and literally have to drag her in.

Saturday morning, Graisi and I got up and went to Christmas Village all by ourselves. It was a little rocky getting out the door (someone {GRAISI} didn't want to get it in gear), but we finally got started. We had a really good time together. Afterwards, we ate at Edgar's Bakery and enjoyed a little conversation. I discovered she is having a really hard time deciding on what she wants to be when she grows up. She either wants to be a veterinarian or a movie star. But she has a back-up plan. If she can't be a veterinarian, she's going to be a movie star who plays a veterinarian. How 'bout that??

Yesterday, we played outside most of the afternoon and visiting with out neighbors, Josh and LaShea. Have I mentioned how much I love all of my neighbors?? Kerri and I sat outside in the cul-de-sac until about 8pm Friday night eating homemade potato soup (I made it!). That's right. I said it. I MADE IT! Then, the girls and I played a round of Flashlight Hide and Seek (thanks for the idea Sallie!) It was a very nice weekend at home. What more could you ask for?

Weekend Activities

Graisi and Mallory lawnmower riding in the cul-de-sac.

You would have thought they were in an Indy car!

Doesn't it look fun??

Friday night was Alli Claire's first piggy tails :o) Soo cute!

Saturday at the Grand Ol' Pumpkin Patch. I'll have more photos of Graisi climbing to the TOP of the rock climbing wall. She actually pushed the buzzer at the top!! We couldn't believe it!!!

Hangin' out like little possums

I'm sitting in the living room listening to Graisi discuss cats mating. That's right. Mating. She doesn't know the in's and out's (no pun intended) but she knows a baby kitty HAS to have a mommy and a daddy. It seems, Toby, the neighborhood cat has been "harassing" a little black cat here lately. We actually saw Toby pin the poor thing down in Mallory's driveway two afternoons ago. They weren't doing the deed, but it looked like the mating ritual had begun.

Anyway, Graisi said we are "hangin out like little possums" tonight. Nothing is going on. No where to go, nobody is on the phone, I'm in my sweats and life is great!! Martin is doing his usual folding of the laundry, Heidi's licking herself; to no doubt hack up a grey fur ball later tonight while were in our slumber. Alli Claire is playing in a big box in the middle of the floor and Graisi is trying to make her like her. Except for the fact that she keeps aggravating the snot out of her.

We had a fun afternoon of playing outside in the cool temps. Wow, does it chilly when the sun starts going down! When I finally wrangled Alli Claire indoors, her little digits were red and frigid but she didn't seem to mind one bit....

I finally got to Target when I picked Graisi up from the bus stop. Mallory was at home too, so I left Graisi here and only took Alli Claire. Going to Wal-Mart or Target is such a treat these days. I'm only able to get by there about every 2-3 weeks now. I used to take Graisi EVERYWHERE when she was a baby/little. Now with her always wanting something and Alli Claire wanting to stand up in the buggy, my trips tend to be very quick and usually frustrating. But with one to deal with, it was nice.

We're supposed to be going to the Grand Ol' Pumpkin Patch tomorrow. This would be our 6th annual trip with my Dad and Nancy. But it's just going to be us this year. Nancy is over at my brother's house in Georgia rehab-ing. We will miss them dearly! Maybe next year will be back to normal and afterwards we can visit FanTails for our yearly seafood feast. It just won't be the same without them.

Hope everyone has a safe and fun weekend. Good night John boy....

Case of the missing Croc: SOLVED

Last night as I got from the living room chair and something told me to pick the ottoman up and see if the little, hot pink Croc was under there. It was like a little voice, not audible, but it urged me to look. I've experienced it before while looking for other items and can't explain it, but I'm sure it has something to do with the prayers I sent up about the little pink foot covers. Needless to say, under the ottoman is exactly where I found it. It was very happy to be reunited with it's twin as was I :o) It's amazing how little finds can make you so excited! Especially, when I was about to have to fork out another twenty bucks for another pair...

The case of the missing hot pink Croc

We have turned our house upside down and cannot find the match to Alli Claire's hot pink Crocs. She wore them to school Monday and I haven't seen it since we got home. Martin even went thru the trash thinking she might have thrown it away. We've looked EVERYWHERE except that one place she's crammed it in. Any ideas anyone?? I'm to the point of just going any buying another pair. Who would have thought this would be so difficult to find. I'm mean, it's hot pink after all, right??

Night at the Museum

Let me just start with... WE HAD A BLAST!!

We had a great time at Loachapoka Saturday. The Graisi and Mallory had a fun eating homemade ice-cream and caramel apples. We had to leave early for skate practice but made it back just in time to get the car re-packed for our camp-in at the McWane Center. We were giddy with excitement waiting for our itinerary and to get checked in. We started with a spaghetti supper and then the activities ensued. Night at the Museum played on the IMax screen and was a little nauseating.... Our screen is very different from the one in Chattanooga. ours is curved like a half sphere and goes back over the top of your head. At one time, I told the girls that if they wanted to leave, just to let me know. I'm not sure if I told them this for their benefit or mine :o) I was afraid one of the three of us was going to be sick, but we made it ok. After that we had mummy races, made casts of fossil teeth, made masks, got tattoos, made fire extinguishers and had car races. Then there was 2 hours of free time before lights out. (The new Sea Monster exhibit is pretty cool if you ever get a chance to go.) I tried and tried to get them to go to the early bedtime floor, but they MADE me stay up 'til 1am! Just so ya know..... sleeping on the floor is not all it's cracked up to be!! I was worried all night that they were uncovered and cold, so I spent most of the night pulling covers back over them and touching them to make sure they were warm. Then we got up, got dressed and headed to church. No shower, but our teeth were brushed and we had on clean clothes. That has to say something for us. Breakfast was provided, but I bypassed it and we had breakfast at McDonald's. Which was kinda nice to get away from the other 280 campers and enjoy the meal by ourselves. All in all I would definitely do it again!

After church, I took a 4hr 15min nap :o) Graisi slept for about 2 hours because she told me she wasn't tired :o) :o) Yea right! And then we were back to bed at our normal times. Alli Claire survived being at home with her Daddy but her clothes yesterday for church didn't make much sense... thermal shirt, denim jumper. No tights.... But hey, he's a man right?! I would be afraid if he was able to create a perfect outfit. He did good considering the circumstances and I didn't have to worry a bit while I was gone. I know what a blessing that is to be able to say that :o)

I'm not even going to comment on Auburn this week. I still deeply love them, but I would appreciate Alabama losing at least the next two weeks straight to shut their stinkin fans up!! I'm giving thanks for small favors in advance :o) Amen.

Fun Filled Weekend

This morning as I was in my normal hurry to get out of the house, I locked Alli Claire and myself out of the house :o) AGAIN! I called Martin (who was already to Valleydale Rd) and asked him to come back home to let me in. I'd already tried to break in with the credit card to no avail. As I tried one last time, I was successful! I called Martin back to let him know and he asked that I wave at him as he drove by the house. I felt horrible! I had to make him rice crispy candy last night to make up for leaving my keys in the diaper bag Wednesday night. Any ideas what I'll have to do to make up for this one?

Graisi came home yesterday afternoon and all we talked about until 8:30pm was STITCHES!! She had to go over EVERY conversation and response she had had. I pulled the steri-strips off of them before she got into the shower so she could see them and she was very amused with herself. She was very curious about the strings coming out of her leg. Who knew stitches could be so interesting??!

This weekend we have A LOT planned. Tonight is off to my Mamaw's to spend the night. Mallory will be with us too :o) We will get up in the morning to go to the annual Loachapoka Syrup Soppin. Then back to the Ham for skating practice and to a camp-in at the McWane Center. We're (Me, Graisi and Mallory) will get to watch Night at the Museum on the IMAX screen and then a night filled with activities. Lights out at 1am. Breakfast at 8am and then off to church!! WHAT WAS I THINKING!!??? But we are really excited! I'll let you know how it goes Monday.

Everyone have a safe weekend.

Graisi's' first stitches

Yesterday afternoon I picked Graisi up and we had several errands to run. We got Grant some new flowers, dropped a prescription off at the drug store and then to the ice rink. I got Graisi's skates laced up on onto the ice she went. She was out there no less than 2 minutes when she went down. When she came back up I knew something was wrong. She just had the look. You know the one that all mom's recognize when their babies are hurt. But then I had a dilemma... I had to leave Alli Claire in the lobby of the rink so that I could go get Graisi from the inside and carry her off the ice. When I got back to the lobby, AC was standing there very confused. I asked the girl at the ticket counter to hold AC while I carried Graisi to the bathroom to see what had happened. As soon as I saw the inside of her left thigh, I knew stitches were needed. I called Martin and asked him to meet us at Childrens South and called the pediatrician's office. We got settled into the procedure room and Martin took Alli Claire back home. Graisi was so brave. She didn't cry once, but her face got buried in my arm a few times and her teeth started chattering :o) They put some numbing gel on the injury and never had to give her a shot. When it was all cleaned out she required 5 stitches. She will be the queen of the classroom today.

I forgot to tell you how she did it... When she fell, her right skate came up the inside of her left leg and sliced and punctured it. All I can say is "thank goodness she was wearing jeans!!". It could have been sooo much worse.

OK...so remember me saying that Martin took Alli Claire home. Well, what I didn't say was that my car keys were in the diaper bag that Martin took home too. In the drama of me getting Graisi out of the truck, I dropped the keys in the diaper bag instead of my purse.

What in the world would we do without kids to make our lives more interesting??? I LOVE IT! Really.

My Membrey Manager

Funny Graisi conversation:

Saturday as we were leaving skate practice, I asked Graisi to help me remember to get gas on the way home. Here is our conversations...

Shelli: Graisi, help me remember to get gas when we get closer to home. It's cheaper down there.
Graisi: I guess I'm just your 'membrey' manager.
Shelli: HUH?? Do what?
Graisi: You know.... you tell me to help you remember stuff and I manage it. I'm your membrey manager.

Happy Birthday? Yeah, WHATEVER!

Let me just start by saying that my birthday yesterday was GREAT until about 3:30. I took the girls to have a flu shot at the local health dept because they were $5 which is better than $35 at the doctors office and that's when it started going down hill. Let's just say I called Martin and told him to be praying for the women at the health dept because I was on my way back up there and it wasn't going to be pretty. They were about to get a good dose of the Shellster! I calmed myself down before I got there, so many of you who know me, know that this is a good thing.... After I spoke with Alexis, the immunization administrator, and informed her that I was getting no where with her, I asked asked for her supervisor, who just happens to be in Montgomery. However, within minutes of speaking to the district supervisor, she assured me that I would have a 3:30 appointment 30 days from yesterday. I do like it when a plan comes together.

When Martin got home he and Graisi gave me my birthday cards which G had signed her name to the outside and put NOTHING on the inside. It was really funny once I opened it, but I guess you have to be there. Then we ventured to one of my favorite restaurants, Olive Garden to partake in the birthday celebration. As Martin was finishing his meal, Alli Claire threw up all over the side of my leg and the floor beside the table. OH JOY!! Happy Birthday to Me! On the way out we were able to visit with Lawrence's and Knights who were in line to be seated for B's birthday celebration. But advised them not to let them be seated in our general area :o) Now wasn't that nice of us!? Happy birthday B!

As we reached the Tahoe, I politely removed my vomit soaked pants from the waist to the ankles for which Martin quickly commented, "Is it your birthday or mine :o)"... He ain't right y'all. But then began to chuckle and said it looked like I was sitting on the toilet. I really didn't care what I looked like as long as I didn't have to wear wet pants.

As I'm writing this, I'm sitting on my front porch after cleaning up vomit from supper... I called the doctor this morning but they have no idea why AC's throwing up so randomly. I'm open for suggestions if anyone has any. I'm wondering if it's not reflux.... Please keep her in your prayers and pray that whatever this is, she will be healed without having to undergo invasive testing.

Anyway, I hope everyone has a good weekend and enjoy this beautiful weather we're having. Talk to you Monday unless something else happens that's blog worthy. Good night!

Happy Birthday To Me....

32 years ago today, my mom gave birth to her third child and second baby girl, weighing in at a mere 7 lbs something ounces. I am so glad that today is my birthday. I know I share it with millions of other people, but today it's mine! I am healthy. I have a wonderful husband and have had 3 beautiful children. Today the high temp is supposed to be 72 degrees. So, yes, there IS a chill in the air for me today. God gave me a beautiful sky and sunrise to wake up to this morning. I praised Him all the way into work. When I got here, I found two balloons attached to my chair, a card, a Sprite and a king size Reese's cup candy. Thank you LaDonna!!

Today, I praise the Lord for giving me one more day to be with my family and friends. I thank Him for giving me the wonderful gifts in nature that others take for granted each day. I thank Him for loving me enough to send his Son so that I can be His forever!! You just can't ask for anymore on your birthday!

I also want to thank Martin and Graisi for wishing me a happy birthday today to get my day started with a smile!! I love you!

Yesterday really stunk it up!

Yesterday started off like a normal day, but that's where it ended. I had great plans to pick Graisi up from the bus stop, hit Wal-Mart for some bottled water for Girl Scouts, make ice-skating practice and then on to the Girl Scout meeting afterwards. Well, lets just say all of that happened, but not quiet in that order!

As I stopped at the bus stop and put the truck in park, Alli Claire started gagging in the back seat. Then the vomiting commenced AGAIN!!! This time it was some sort of pizza stuff and peaches.... YUM! I was trying to clean her up with baby wipes as Graisi got off the bus. She immediately informed me that she would be riding in the front seat on the way home. Gee, I wonder why?? So we got home and gave AC another bath at which time she screamed the whole time. I got her out of the bath and shut the door with her in there while I talked to Martin on the phone. Does this tell you anything??

After her bath, she was F.I.N.E. No other vomitous attacks after that. Needless to say, the carseat was out of commission until I could get it out of the car, washed and dried. There in lies the problem. I couldn't figure out how to get the straps off of the seat to get the cover off... Or how to get the thing unclipped from the metal structure of the car. Martin was coming to the rescue! He came home early because you remember I still have to go to WM to get water for GS, ice-skating practice and the GS meeting. I left he house in the Maxima and I left the Tahoe/carseat with Martin to deal with. Graisi and I went to WM, ran through the store and back in the in no time flat. As I started to pull out of my parking space, I noticed a car coming so I waited for her to park. I then backed out of my parking space only to be jolted sideways by this woman who decided to back BACK out and straighten up. The only problem was that she didn't look behind her before she did. OH THIS WAS JUST GREAT!!! I called the police and the first thing he said to me was, "So she backed into you?" I thought, "Gee how could you tell????" Genius! She put a very large dent in the side of the trunk but it didn't damage the wheel well, so I was able to drive it without problems. My car is 11 years old and I've had it for 9 of those years. Not once has it been involved in an accident until yesterday. I think this is pretty remarkable, don't you?

So we made it to skate practice and the Girl Scout meeting, but my evening was still shaken from my recent calamities. Graisi was so good through the whole thing. Wow, yesterday stunk it up!!

Happy Homecoming!

After 3 weeks and 1 day, Nancy came home yesterday!!!!!!! We are all very excited to have Mamaw back home. Thank you for your prayers as she continues with physical therapy.

Graisi and I went to Mallory's ballgame yesterday afternoon. Mallory cheers for the local youth football league so we went to cheer her on. Graisi even got to sit inside the fence with one of the coaches, who just happened to be her teacher's aid last year. She was thrilled when Mrs Phillips invited her inside. Then I guess Graisi got a little comfortable because before I knew it the game was over and Graisi was sitting in the middle of all the cheerleaders having a snack as they were handing out spirit awards. Go figure!

When we got home, I fed Alli Claire before bed and she proceeded to vomit all over me! Chicken Pot Pie and blue berry yogurt! I have NEVER gagged when either of the girls have done this, but last night was a first!! AC was gagging, I was gagging, Martin was trying to clean us up and Graisi was sitting at the table eating cereal pointing out the regurgitated food on the carpet as I tried to clean it up. Afterwards, AC was fine. Not one more incident the whole night. Even the smallest blessings are welcomed!

Lazy Sundays

Alli Claire and I just got up from out Sunday afternoon nap... I realize it's 4:30pm, but what is time when you really need to sleep? I know I'll pay for it tonight, but we'll deal with that when it comes. Today was the first Sunday we've been able to do this in MONTHS! And it was nice regardless.



Yesterday we spent most of the day cleaning the house off and on. When there's football on tv how can you deny having to sit down a bit in while the season lasts? We went to see Nancy and she is doing MUCH better! Thank you all for your prayers and continued support. She is eating now and the feeding tube has been removed. YEA!! She was sitting up and talking pretty well, but her throat is still very sore. She said the drs may let her go home one day this week. Who would have thought this 3 weeks ago? I was sure she would not survive without some Divine help. I guess we see what happened, huh? Our God is so awesome!! Thank you Father for answering our prayers!



Mallory went with us yesterday and spent the night, went to church with us and ate lunch. Graisi is now with her at a pep rally of some sort now. You just can't separate them with a butter knife! I pray they keep this friendship for life!! They love each other like sisters and fight like them too....



Alli Claire just pooped so I guess I need to get off here and change her diaper. My life as a mommy just doesn't stop. I wouldn't have it any other way :o)

I'm sorry I haven't blogged much this week, but it's been a little hectic on the home front.
Please continue to keep my Dad and Nancy in your prayers. Nancy's insurance will not pay for inpatient rehabilitation and they're not sure how to get her to and from physical therapy with Daddy having to work. Also please pray for their financial situation. I can't go into detail, but much prayer is needed in this area of their lives. With that said, Nancy is doing much better. She is getting up a couple of times a day and walking (assisted) to the nurses desk and it able to sit up in the chairs for several hours now. What a blessing!!

Alli Claire has graduated from her night night outfit consisting of short sleeved Onesies to full fledged long pajamas. She won't stay under the covers and it's getting a little cool at night now. She looks so cute in her striped pj's and her Elmo slippers! She has also taken to eating crayons at school. Like mother like daughter :o) I told her teacher this morning to teach her only to eat the white ones because that way no one can tell you've been eating crayons! Aren't I smart? This was my philosophy in kindergarten and first grade. No one ever wanted their white crayons because they wouldn't show up on white paper. So they gave them to me. To eat.... Maybe this explains a little. I have issues people. I have issues.

Graisi has been up to her usual funny self. She performs for me some afternoons complete with costume and high heels. Wednesday she was a famous artists and had to show up for a video and photo shoot. I wish you could have seen the poses she was giving me. I'm a little embarrassed to describe some of them... But that's Graisi and you just got to love her.

Martin is still enjoying his job. His co-worker, Jennifer, only has 4 wks before she delivers her third child and she will not be coming back. She and I are SO much alike. It's really kinda scary! For the first month Martin was there he would come home every afternoon telling me something else we have in common. The only things we don't have in common are that she cooks and enjoys doing it and she's a Saban idol. I'll have to look over the last difference and act like it doesn't exist. But we have the exact same sense of humor too. I can actually talk to her and not worry about hurting her feelings nor she mine! Believe it or not people, I usually have a filter on when I talk to most people. Very scary isn't it??

I am just living life and enjoying my family and God's beautiful seasons. I mean, how much better does it get?? There is a slight crisp in the air. OK. So there's not, but there should be. It's October and my birthday is next week. I am so thankful I was able to spend one more year with my family. Most people dread getting older.... not me. After Grant and Dustin died, I realized how precious life is and how we should just enjoy being with our loved ones no matter what our age is. I even like my grey hair. Martin and Graisi trying to pull them out, but I insist on leaving them in there. Heck, I earned them!! Might as well be proud of them, right?

Happy Friday everyone! Hope you have a great weekend :o)

A Busy Saturday

I was so excited about Sunday that I forgot to blog about Saturday :o) So here we go...

This year Graisi wanted to run the Mercedes Kids Marathon so we signed her up. She didn't realize she was actually going to have to run. Have you met Graisi?? We went to the Kick-off at Samford University and had a great time jump roping, hula hooping, etc. But she wasn't real keen on the running part. I guess she gets that from her parents :o) However she and Martin ran the first mile together and Alli Claire and myself walked a 1/4 mile. AC walked the whole track by herself but her legs were a bit wobbly at the end. Martin's boss at work is trying to recruit him for a 3K leg of the adult marathon. Oh boy!!

Anywho, we went and bought Graisi's first pair of running sneakers Saturday after the Kick-off. She was very excited. Then we attended Samford's women's volleyball game for a little while before having to leave to go to Winter Wonderland skate practice. As you can see we had a very busy day not to mention watching football all afternoon when we got home. Alabama L.O.S.T!!!! And my Auburn Tigers pulled it off in the last 3 seconds. Martin, Sallie and Ed... no comments necessary! All that matters is we won, right?