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.......

Resolutions.....new and old....

Well, it is hard to believe that 2009 is here. This May will be 20 years since I graduated from good old Bellaire High School. Time has flown by and it is hard to believe how much has changed in my life. One thing that has not changed is my love for my family and my Lord. Without both, I would be lost.

I thought about things I would like to improve on so here it goes:
1. Spend more time reading my bible......
2. Commit to a 4 day work out week (thanks Kara....)
3. Learn to say NO more often.........even if I think no one else will do it......
4. Only eat sweets on Sunday..our day to eat out....
5. Make more time for Buzz and I as a couple......
6. Learn to love stupid people even if they get on your nerves.....

What are your plans for the new year????

Christmas 2008....

Well guys..I almost forgot to post our pictures from Christmas. Above is Sarah Kate with her cousin Lindsay. These two are 1 month apart in age and have so much fun when they get together. Lindsay lives in Maryland so we do not get together as much as we would like, but it is so much fun to see them play together.

We went to WVa the weekend after Christmas to spend some time with Buzz's family. This is the three kids after the mounds of presents they opened at grandmas. Both the girls got American girl stuff as their big items. Corey was so excited about Rock band!! I love to hear them "rockin it out" in the basement!!

This is sister on Christmas morning. She is such a momma and I love to see the excitement in her eyes when she gets a new doll. It is a shame she only got three new dolls this year!! At least the dolls are quiet. Pappy and Grandma got her a keyboard with a microphone..not so quiet! it was a great holiday...

Corey had to sport his new Steelers jacket as soon as it was out of the box. Uncle Todd hooked him so he thought it was very cool because it is just like Mike Tomlins (Steelers head coach). He also got a cell phone, ipod and guitar hero for his DS among a ton of WVU stuff. He has been very occupied.

It has been a busy break. Between going skating...movies..world of bounce..and just having friends over, I can not believe are going back to school tomorrow. How long till Easter break????