Alena Beana is hanging out.......

Here is Alena..allready 7 months can you believe it!!

here is Ella Grace and Ben...they have always been best buddies.....

Three girls...Sk loves it when they are here......

Pappy and his pooch.......

As you all know, my folks are here for a while. Ben is so excited because he loves my dad and you can find him wherever dad may be. This is Ben sleeping next to my dad last weekend while watching a game. This is not crazy...Ben does not know he is a dog!!!

Hanging with the sea creatures....

This past weekend, we went to Cincinnati to the Newport Aquarium and had a great time. This is Buzz and the kids in front of the jellyfish tank. It was really weird because these ones had the legs above them...

This is the kids by the Ohio river. The baseball and football fields were behind them in Ohio. Don't they look like they love one another!!

This was Corey's favorite exhibit. He got to pet the sharks. He could have spent hours here. You had to be careful and make sure their eyes were behind you and no other ones were coming. Buzz almost got bit by one!! Got to be quick!!

The jellyfish were SK's favorite. You could change the colors of the tank so it looked like the fish themselves were changing colors! Very cool!!

It was a great weekend and we enjoyed being together and laughing and checking out all that Newport and Cincy had to offer!!

Happy 4th....

Well friends, another 4th has come and gone. it amazes me that the year is half over and before you know it, we will be looking at holiday lights. We went to target the other day and SK bought her backpack for school. I cannot believe how fast life goes by.

We had a very relaxing 4th. We hung out with the kids all morning..cleaned..I beat Buzz in a game of Rummicube and then Stacie and Nick came over for the evening. Jay stopped by for a litle while and it is always laughs when he is around. The kids did fireworks and we ate a super good BarBQ!

The weather was crappy this year and we took out chairs downtown and watched the fireworks. The kids did their normal DQ run and enjoyed that. it is fun to hang out with friends..enjoy your family..and have downtime on the weekend. Buzz and Corey got up this morning and went golfing. I love it that Corey is into it because he and his dad really share alot these days...and Corey can actually hit the ball well.

I enjoyed this holiday..the next one we will be camping with the Fields!! Who only knows what that will bring!!! good times!!! I am sure......

Which way do I go?????

Well friends, something has been on my heart and I need prayer. As you all know, Relay for Life has become very important to me since my dad became diagnosised over a year ago. The kids and I worked real hard this year to raise funds and I am so proud of my kids for getting out there and getting donations. As a family, we raised over 350.00. Not to bad!

My friend will be the Chair for the event next year and I am so proud of her. Kara is a very organized and rational thinking person and she will do such a great job as the chair. Ske really but everything she had toward the event this year so I can only imagine all that will be done for next year.

Here is where I need prayer. After me making the comment that she is rational, she asked me to co-chair with her. I am usually the type that says "YES", but this time around, I asked her for time to pray about it. It is a huge committment and I am notn sure I can do the job. Kara feels otherwise.

I guess I should trust her cause she also told me that I could tow the camper a few weekends ago and I did. I just need to know that I am supported by the family and a little encouragement goes along way. So pray for me. Pray for Kara. And that this event is blessed beyond all belief.

Happy Father's Dad Pappy........

I am sure by now, you all know that this is my dad. This pic was taken last year during our Relay for Life event. You can find him many times on my blog. He is either with one of the kids or of course, with Ben.

I am very blessed to have him as my dad. Not only does he help my fix things, he helps me fix myself. If I need prayer, I can call and he is on it. If I have a problem, he gives me solution. Not worldly, but biblical. He has raised me in a home that not only are we to love one another, but God first. I am sure that things were not always easy as we were growing up, but he never hung out in bars...never faught with my mom in front of us and NEVER thought of leaving us. I know alot of people can not say those things about their dad.

He is the type of man, that literally would take his shirt off of his back for another....skip a meal if someone needed it more and get that tool box out and help others for nothing. He sits on the porch and shares with others. He takes little ones for ice cream. He sits in the bleachers and cheers for those on the diamond. He holds those that are crying and makes the best spaghetti for those he loves.

Happy Father's Dad Pappy...you truly are the best!! I love you and can not wait for you to get here....the countdown is on......

Crazy Busy Week....

Well friends, it is Relay week. Which means that my life is going to be crazy. It is a good crazy though because it serves a purpose and whenever you do things with a purpose, your soul is rewarded.

Today, Sarah Kate and Julia set out to sell candy bars for Sarah Kate's team. They sold over 50 bars today..YEAH!! They went to businesses, fire stations..stopped people on the streets. I was so proud of them. For those of you who know my daughter, this is not such a suprise. She got the gift of speech and she is not afraid to use it!

We all got together tonight to seperate team shirts for those who made their goals. The captains shirts, committee shirts and survivor were also taken care of. Tomorrow night, we all meet for a bank night and pick up those shirts. It is the last night to hand in funds before the event, which is Friday night through Saturday at noon. Sarah Kate even got a donation from the lady who transfered our title on the camper! That girl can work it!! After that, Corey has a game.

On Wednesday, Uncle Don (my brother) comes in for a few days. He will be at OSU most of the time, but does get to hang out with us for a while. I also have a CEU class on wednesday night. Thursday, believe it or not..I am home. But please...do not tell anyone! They might find something for me to do!!

Friday, the madness begins!! Relay does not begin until 6 p.m., but there is alot to do and we will be at the field most of the day. Buzz is our Miss Relay for Mitchell Insurance and I will be happy to post pics after he event!! Wait till you see the get up he has!! It will be worth it!! The event is over Saturday and I am praying we are successful.

So, I guess, what does not kill you, makes you stronger! We will be tired...we will be crazy...our bodies will hurt. But if it helps one person..so be it. This work is for all those Pappy's...Dad's and other loved ones who have fought the good fight and won..and lost. Pray for good weather!!

End of the Year.....

Well, the school year has come and gone and it feels like I ahve been at Oakstone forever. It was a great year and I have met so many wonderful people. I am sure I will see a few over the summer.

First of all, let me say how much fun it has been working with Katie and Jess. These two have become like family and I am greatful to share my days with them. We have shared tears of laughter and tears of joy. I am very blessed to have them in my life.

Maryann and Judy and of course Deb have proven to bring much laughter to our days and if we were not fired this year, we probably will not be. It is nice to work at a place that everyone encourages one another.

The kids have given much love...much pain..and much laughter. I have enjoyed gett ing to love them and am greatful that their parents allowed us to love and care for them. I am now excited to crochet, read and drink wine on my front porch. I hope everyone has a restful summer!!

Blessing Isabella..........

This past weekend we traveled to Pittsburgh for the baptism of our niece Isabella. This is Lindsay, Sarah Kate and Aunt Missy at the church taking a minute to chat before the service.

This is our Bella. She is the sweetest baby and it amazes me how she looks like Lindsay did as an infant! She is such a blessing to our family. Linds and SK were the babies for so long and it is nice to have a little one around again.

Here is Buzz's whole family. It was nice to have everyone together for the day!

Frick and Frack.....you do not see one without the other. I hope they are always as close as they are now! They are as close as either one of them have to having a sister so I pray that keep that closeness!

Here is Pete (Buzz's brother) and Missy and Bella. Bless them all.....

My Mother's Day...

Some mother's get to rest..some mothers get to cook..some mothers get waited on hand and foot. I went a Columbus Clippers game with my family. This is Sarah Kate posing....

Buzz sat along the wall like some happy little old man! He loves baseball so this was as much his gift as mine. Don't worry friends, I did get a gift. A new wind chime that I have been wanting!!

The park just opened this year and Corey and Buzz have been before, but this was my first time. It is a beautiful park and the team we were playing were the minor team for the Boston Red Sox.

We got to sit in the lawn section and it was alot of fun! It was a beautiful day and not too hot! So it was a great day to spend at the ballpark with the family!

Mother's Day Card...Sarah Kate's way....

I know it is alittle hard to read, but this is my card from SK. She makes me laugh because she is the only 7 year old I know that would say how much she will mss me when I die on my mother's day card. And she told me how lucky I am to have her.
She is right......

CORRECTION........I can't count.....

For some reason, I miss counted on my sisters in law. I guess that is what happens when you get behind on your bloggin and try to fit everything in on one day. Here is just a little bit about all:

Trish. She is married to my brother Don. I have known her since I was 8 years old. Yeah...that means Don is ALOT older than me (haha). At first, I did not like her very much because she took all of my brothers attention away from me. Don and I were close and I did not like that. But what I failed to uderstand at 8, is that she proved to be more than my brothers girlfriend. She was the person who fought for me when my brothers were mean....cry on her shoulder when my heart was broke and kept my kids for me when she was the only other person I trusted. I have been blessed to have her as a sister for more than 25 years....She has given me my Jess and Ryan

Jenn. She is married to my brother in law Chris. Jenn and I are alot alike. Not sure if that is good or not, but we are. We share alot of the same views about life and she has been very supportive when I have needed that person to understand. I would not trade her for anything and feel very blessed that our kids are close and look forward to sharing much more in the future. She has given me my Lindsay.

Kim. She is married to my brother Mark. I have been lucky (or unlucky) to share alot of "life's crap" with her since we have both been through it. It is great to have someone to talk to who understands and I hope that I can always be that person for her. She has given me my Ella Kay.

last is Missy. She is married to my brother in law Pete. I am very excited about Missy because I do not know what blessings hold for us. She and Pete have only been married for a few years and we do not get to see each other much. thanks to facebook, we are able to keep tabs on ech other much easier. She is a very gentle and kind hearted person and I look forward to seeing what God has planned for our relationship. She has given me Bella (who we call izzy).

I hope that everyone is as lucky as I have been to share my life with such great women.....

Happy Mother's Day Mom......

Well, where do I begin. I guess by saying Happy Mother's Day. Seems just simple...not enough. Thank you Mom..seems simple not enough. So what are the right words for the woman who has always been there for you? Maybe saying what she has done:

1. Not only did she give me life, but she held my hand as I gave life.
2. She let me cry in her arms after I made mistakes, but never said "I told you so".
3. She laughed with me when I was so tired, even if it made Dad mad (Fancy Gap).
4. She gave out of her pocket, even if she didn't really have it to give.
5. Loved me despite of your mistakes.
6. Only wanted the best for me and was excited when me got it.
7. Loved me just the way I am.
8. She brought another child into our home and allowed him to become family.
9. She loved because she did, not because she had to.
10. She married my Dad and all of this happened because they fell in love.

Mom has been all of these things to me all of my life. She taught me to love others and myself. To love God and hold his word close to my heart. She gave me the wings to fly, but always let me come back to the nest if I needed. She is my Mom, my friend and one of the biggest blessing God could give me.

I love you Mom and pray that I can give my kids half of what you have given me.
Happy Mother's Day...I love you.....

Bad News Brewers......not Bears....

Well, it was opening day for Corey and his Brewers won today 5-1. It was so exciting to see everyone back together and the boys having such a blast. The team takes a lap around and slides into home after every win. This is the team waiting for a huge slide!!

Corey and Buzz before the game. Buzz is one of the assistant coaches this year..scary thought huh?? He really enjoys it and all the coaches are fathers of players. Tthey have become like family!! Doesn't Corey look great in his new specs!!

This is Tyler getting ready to take his turn to slide. Tyler got two great hits this morning...Way to go Tigger!!

This is Jaxon as he was about to hit the ball for a triple! he is the sweetest kid!! His hair is long dad..wait till you see it..looks good!!

This is Corey pitching! he only got two hits off of him today, walked a base, singled, bare handed a guy and got him out at first. A great day..I am proud of you Corey boy!!!!

Happy Easter...

This is Grandma JuJu holding Baby Izzy on her first Easter. She is the daughter of pete (Buzz's brother and Missy). She is so beautiful and the kids were so excited to share the day with her.

This is Aunt Jenn. She is married to Buzz's brother Chris. I believe she was getting her baby fill. Izzy is easy to love and make you want another one...well most people want one. I can hold her..love her..and have no desire for another one. Does this make me a bad person?? I believe God satisfies your soul and let's you know when you have blessed!

I think she looked at us all day like we were nuts...she better get use to it!!

This is Chris, Pete and Buzz posing while the kids were hunting eggs. Chris lives in MAryland and Pete in Pittsburgh so being all together is a hard thing to do.

These three bucketheads had a great time together. It is always fun to see them together and hear the laughter. It was also great because Jenn an Missy (my sister in laws) all got a chance to catch up. I have been very blessed with three wonderful sisters(in law) and I would not trade them for anything.

Saying Goodbye again.....

It feels like I just said goodbye to someone that I cared about, and here we go again. My mom called me this morning at 7:oo am to tell me that my Uncle Delmo died. It is very hard to explain because I was sad, but I was also glad for him that his body finally has peace.

He has been sick for a very long time. He had many health issues and everytime a problem arose, we wondered, is this gonna be the thing that takes him home. We all know that God has perfect timing and He took him home peacefully and without any pain. That has always been my prayer because here on earth, he has endured much pain.

I am asking for prayer for my family as we lay to rest another family member. I ask for travel mercies for my mom as she is flying in tomorrow to be with my aunt. I ask that you keep Sarah Kate in your thoughts as she was close to my uncle and loved him very much. this will be the first funeral for my children and I hope they can feel the arms of Christ around them at this time.

When I told Corey, he brought it all into prospective. He said," Mom, Uncle Delmo has been sick all of my life. I am happy that he is no longer sick, no longer in pain and gets to see Jesus". That is why I love my boy so much.....

Our Student of the Month.....

Sarah Kate was choosen as Student of the Month for her school. Each month, a student from each class is choosen who has shown "The J. C Way". They must be kind, responsible, respectful, safe, strive for growth. I am so proud to say that SK love school and was so excited to be choosen. This is her with Miss Hubbard, her teacher.

What a girl!! I know that I might be biased, but she is such a good girl. She tries to be a good friend, daughter and child of God. She brings tears to my eyes every mornng when we pray together before we all head out in our own directions. Good job Sissy...I love you.....

Happy Birthday Ella Kay

Well, I know it is late, but I wanted to share my pictures of niece Ella's 2nd birthday. She is the youngest and most spoiled of all my nieces and nephews on my side of the family. She is quite independent and has no problem sharing her concerns!!

This is Ella blowing out her candles on her cake. Of course, it was a Dora party and she was the center of attention!

This is Ella with my sister Kim and brother Mark. Mark was not real happy about wearing his crown, but did it for Ella!! that is what Daddy's do.....

What would be a blog without seeing Corey and Sarah Kate with their Nutter Butter (as we like to call her)

Happy Birthday Princess...we love to the moon and back.......

I am a slacker.......

Well friends...this is a small update since my brother Don emailed me to tell me what a slacker I have been. Life has been extremely busy and I have a hard time sitting down to keep posting once I get home.

So here it is......
Corey has started baseball. He has practice every Thursday and Saturday am. He also has his paper route on Thursday. He is on spring break this week so he is enjoying his freedom and some extra time to hang out with friends. He is a true 11 year old boy!

SarahKate has been busy as well. She came to work with me on Monday and then went home with my friend Heather for an evening of being spoiled. Then, returned to school with me for the day. She as well has been free to do what she wants. She is being spoiled by Becky today with McDonalds and a movie.

Buzz has been back to work more. What a blessing! He has been busy with baseball as well since he is an assitant coach. So he runs from work to the ball field. I really do think the "older boys" (coaches) enjoy it more!!

I have been busy as well. Work consumes most of my day. The commute is long, but it is the only peace I have by myself so I guess it is not bad. I have also been busy knitting and now have learned to crochet. Add in all of everyones activites, church, working out and trying to spend time with friends. My time is not my own. I hear it gets easier the older they get, but I guess I just need to be happy with the season I am in.

Well friends, I do have pics to post so when I am on spring break next week, I will play catch up. There Don...is that enough for now?!?!?!?

Springing forward.......

I can not believe it has been a few weeks since my last blog. Sorry guys...life has just been a little crazy. My calendar is not big enough for all we have going on. Let's see where do I start????

Buzz...life has been a little crazy for him. UPS has been very slow so work is up/down. He has been getting a taste of what it is like tostay home and do all the house cleaning. He like UPS much better, but is doing a pretty good job here at the house.

Corey....baseball is right around the corner. We got him new shoes cause his olds did not fit...he went from a mens 71/2 to a mens 9 this year. I almost had a heart attack!! He is almost as tall as me. It kind of breaks my heart cause he is such a man now..too cool for his mom (except at home) What happened to my baby???

Sarah Kate...she was choosen for student of the month in Februay and we had to attend her special recogntion breakfast. She was very excited and thoguht she was all that.

Me....work has kept me busy. Relay is getting closer so be prepared for me to hit you all up for donations. I am trying to fit work outs into my schedule as much as possible and trying to spend some time with friends..which is not always easy to do....

How about you guys????

I am getting bad at this.....

Hey friends......I have been so busy with "life" that I have not been a good blogger. It seems like life just gets me spinning and when it is time to stop spinning, I have my butt in a chair and some sort of crafting needles in my hands and and am too lazy to share.

So, let's start with SK. She has had a crazy week. She is having issues with a little boy in her class. I am trying to pray for him cause if I don't, I might want to kick him in the butt. Ya know what I am talking about...Momma bear wants to protect her cub. Please pray next week is better. She is happy at the moment. She got a new kitten tonight names Izzy. I wish I could tell you how sweet she is, but we took her out of her cage and I have hardly seen her.

Then there is Corey. Is it written somewhere that when you turn 11, your hearing is lost and you sort of lose your mind??? I know it is pre-teen, but I am not sure he will make it to 13. He is a great kid, but there are times.......

Buzz, let's see..he has worked one day in the last 10. Volume is really down @UPS so please pray that he gets work and lots of it...

Me.....between all of my hobbies, I just need a day of rest. I am hoping that will be this weekend. So enough about me....how are you guys?????

Welcome to the world Alena.....

Well, here she is...Alena Chillog. I would share her middle name, but that has yet to be determined. I am voting for Marie since it is Anita's middle name and several family members so it is special. Let me know what you think too. She will be going home tomorrow morning so they had better figure it out soon.

Here is Steven and Ella Grace loving their new sister. I was really worried about Ella being jealous, but I am so proud of her. She makes everyone wash their hands and she herself cannot keep her hands off of her.

I cannot figure out who she looks like, Buzz said Greg (Anita's husband). All I know is that this baby is very blessed because she has more people who love her in her short time with us than most have in their entire life.

This is the family together. Anita is doing great and cannot wait to be discharged tomorrow and get some rest at home. The kids are going back to Barton with Anita's mom so she and Greg will have a few days to be with Alena before everyone gets back. Then, it is to my home Ella Grace comes. The fun will begin!!

You know, Alena was not planned AT ALL, but she is such a blessing and just one more Chillog kid for me to love!! Yes Pappy, I will share her with you when you get here!!

Since I'v been gone......

Hey guys, I know it has been a while since I have posted. Life has been so busy and I think about posting once I have logged off and then it is one of those "I'll do it later". That time never seems to happen.

So what is new???? I am now addicted to this loom called the knifty knitter. It is this loom and that you can knit hats on. I am so engrossed with it that I find myself picking it every free minute I get. I made one for Kara for her birthday. One for Sarah Kate and one for Anita's new baby. Which, by the way, we are waiting to hear about because Anita's water broke this morning. Which means, next week, Ella Grace will be spending some time here with us!! YEAH!! Anywho, I made a scarlet and gray one last night..TOO CUTE!! Sk wants some for her American girl dolls! I am sure Ella Grace will have one too!!

Buzz is doing well. UPS has picked back up and he is working pretty well. Which is a praise. Thanks to all of you who are praying! He and Corey are getting geared up for baseball. Buzz is going to be an assitant coach and most of the team from last year is back together so it should be a great season. Hard to believe it is that time all ready!

SK was choosen to be student of the month and has her special breakfast this coming Wednesday. This has completely made her month because she has wanted to be part of this for two years now. They are choosen for character building, respectful, honesty..etc... I am so proud of her!

Tonight is date night for Buzz and I. We are not sure of all the plans, but ya know, life has been so crazy, all we care about is spending some time by ourselves. Sometimes, quiet,peaceful evening are the best!!

Hope all of you are spending today with someone you love..Happy Valentines Day....

Super Sunday.....

Meet my friend Gabrielle. Her parents are mistreating her and have brain washed her into becoming a Jets fan. We all hung out at Kara and Daniels for Super Bowl Sunday and I tried very hard to make her do Colts cheers instead. Did not work out so well for me. She is such a good girl and so much fun t o be around. That is her nutty momma Arica with her.

This is Matt and Michelle. He had everyone else get his plate of food and rinks for him all day because he had the prime seat for the game. Kara has a HUGE tv with surround sound so it was very exciting to watch. I am hitting her up for a NASCAR race this season. I would love to see Jimmie Jo win one on that tv!!

Buzz was no better than Matt. He did not vacate from this spot too often either. Just because there was about 25 people there, he needed to make sure he watched his beloved Steelers win a 6th ring in the best spot in the house!! That is also my friend Kara. She and Daniel are great host. Everyone had a great time!!

What is a blog without the picture of the dog??? Ben was named Big Ben when we adopted him from the shelter so he had to wear black and gold on this of all days. Doesn't he look excited!?!?!

thanks guys for a great evening spent with great friends!!

Saying Goodbye......

This has been a tough week. I have spent alot of time, reading my bible, praying and hoping that life's ride does not have too many more turns. I know that life would be boring if it were always the same, but this has ben a bit much.

My BFF Rose (Stacie) started the week with a call saying that her grandfather's house had burnt down and he was in it. He is doing well, despite the fact the doctors did not believe he would make it. Of course he has a long road ahead. He is a stubborn man and because of it, still alive.

We all know that the economy is bad and UPS has slowed down. Buzz has only worked one day this week. I am very greatful for my job so that I can be a helpmate at this time and provide for my family.

On Thursday, my friend Lori called to tell me that a dear friend from high school passed away. Despite the fact that I had not seen her in years, she was a person that touched my life and brought much joy and happiness to the time we had together. Renee was a great person, a great mother and a great friend. No matter how much time could ever pass, you would give you a huge smile and of course make fun of me and say "what's ump???" Long story... that is another blog for another time.

I am asking all of you to pray for her family, her husband and her 7 yr old son. Please, if there is someone you want to reconnect with it....do it. There are no promises for a tomorrow.

Winning makes for a happy home.....

Well, I do not know about your house, but my home is a happy one today. With a Steeler win last night, it makes for laughter and happiness. I felt so bad for Corey last night. I was afraid I was going to have to drug him. He was so worked up over this game. I am greatful that it turned out good for all "his peeps" as he calls all Steeler fans.

I am excited to spend Super Bowl Sunday at Karas...I am sure it will be a great game with great friends.....

Go Steelers..(associated by marriage...Colts fan at heart)

My favorite Goober!!

This is my niece Ella. She and my sister Kim came over today for a visit and filled my house with laughter. Don't ya just love the kool aid stained mouth!! She has turned into quite the little bossy lady!!

Sarah Kate put her new hat and play glasses on Ella and had her running around the living room saying "peace out"! Of course she thought she was all that because we could not help but laugh at her! The center of all our attention!!

Uncle Buzz was eating cinnamon rolls and she was not about to let anyone get away with not sharing with her. She really took to Buzz today and was giving him all kinds of attitude!! That's my girl!! It was so funny because she kept telling Buzz, "get out of Pappy's chair". The funny thing is, that is Pappy's chair when he is here! What a smartie!! She must get that from me!!

SK has not figured out that Ella is not a baby anymore and it very capable of getting around herself. Sis wants to pick her up all the time. Today was bitter sweet. I was so glad to have them over, but sad too. Kim and Ella are moving back home next weekend. My brother Mark has been back there for a long time working and Kim has finally gotten a job in Pittsburgh so they will be able to live as a family again. I am happy for them, but sad for us. Our schedules did not allow for alot of time together, but they will be missed. Hopefully, we will be able to get together when we go back to the valley.

Benjamin was Ella's buddy today. She shared her popcorn with him and lots of kisses. Watch out Pappy, Ben may have a new love!! Aunt Sis loves you Ella Kay!!

Happy Birthday Pappy Don!!!

For those of you who know me well, this is my Dad. He has a birthday tomorrow so I wanted to give him a shout out!!Happy Birthday Pappy!!!

Not only is Dad missed by us, but really by Ben. It is very sad when we talk to dad on the phone and all the dog can do is sit and look sad. They say dogs can tell when they are around those with big hearts, I guess Ben knows how much Pappy means to each and everyone of us so that is why he loves my dad so much.

This was dad with "his boy" this past summer. Dad calls him every morning to check on him and discuss the days activities. He will never know how it much to me that he invests his time in our lives, not because he has to, but because he wants to. Dad has always been the leader of our family. He taught us well, loved us great and will forver be cherished as our father.

Happy Birthday Dad...I love you.......