Spring has Sprung

The first day of spring was Friday....and I can see it all around me!! The azelas are blooming everywhere, grasses are being mowed, and babies are being born....(we have 9 in ourselves)...LOL

I have a scrapbook convention this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 9AM to 12Midnight all three days...45 hours of SCRAPPING and SHOPPING!!! I have been looking forward to this for months. Scrapfest occurs twice a year....so I try to take advantage of it...if I can. Scrapfest is held in Mandeville, LA...there are several vendors that come from all around...some hours away to set up 'store' in the Castine Convention center. Its great....I meet new friends everytime I go. Friendships that I have held ever since. Its really neat because I even run into ladies that I have met online through scrapbooking message boards too!!

Kids are good....just ready for school to be out. It is getting harder and harder to get them up in the morning. I hope our trip to Texas after Easter will give them a needed break and they will be ready to return and finish up the year. May Fest in on May 1st. It is a LES school function in which the whole school puts on a program for the community. Kaitlyn and Kase will perform in it. Chelsea was in it when she moved over here in 4th grade....now that seems like ages ago. I will have to get those pics out and take a trip down memory lane!!

Well I am off....gotta go finish packing for this weekend......

Air Guitars

Nothing much going on this week. I worked Monday and Tuesday....and work again on tomorrow through Tuesday!

Kids had a great week this week. No bad marks on their behavior charts for either of them! Yeah!! They had the book fair at school...and I let the kids take $5 to purchase some books. Kase bought a Cars book and 2 bookmarks.....Kaitlyn didnt get a chance to go...so I am going to take her to Wal-Mart to purcahse another Junie B Jones book....<---(her favorite).

Went looking at houses again this week. There is just so many choices...and not enough choices....!! LOL I have for now talked myself out of getting a house....again!! Just too many issues going on in LIFE right now!!

Last night the kids were playing air guitars....while listening to music on the TV! I just had to get out the camera and capture this moment!!

Next weekend is my 3 day scrapbooking convention!! I can't wait....I need this break from work, kids...and just life in general! I am meeting some friends from far away...that I dont get to see that often!! .....plus you add shopping on top of that...and it makes for one AWESOME weekend!!! So I am off to clean and pack for next week........

Very Busy Week

Lots going on this week. Kaitlyn and Kase were sick at the begining of this week. I ended up taking them to the doctor on Wednesday....so that made the week seem to start off VERY slowly....but the rest sure did fly by. Once Kaitlyn and Kase were better....they went back to school on Thursday....which helped me.......since I worked Wed and Thurs...and needed to rest.

We found out this week...that the FHA limits on buying a house went up. (ok long story short...we have been looking at buying a new mobile home...but since we didnt have land to put up...it has raised the down payment....and what we qualify for....since I havent been working 2 full years yet....and we only qualified for 49,900...which really limited what we could buy)....So now the limit has been raised to 69,900..... :) Which is soooo much better because with a family of 6....we really need more room than what is in a singlewide. We had to put down more money before with the old limits....to get a doublewide....and that was fine...but as of Feb 11....there are new state guidelines on the land you put a mobile home on....you have to build a 'pad'....like you do for a house....and that in itself is going to be over $1,000!! So anyway...this news has shed some light on the house situation......!!!

On Saturday...we had 'another' new addition to the family. Princess...our Black,Orange and White Calico cat had kittens.....2 white and 1 black and white....and then today... low and behold....she had another black one. ....I really hope that is all!!

Kaitlyn has a new 'love'.....of books...Junie B. Jones!! We picked up one last night...and ever since she hasnt been able to put it down. She laughs as she is reading.....she says...."Junie....is so funny...listen to what she says...." Her facination has even rubbed off on Kase....he is constantly saying..."read it to me".....!! This is like a step back in time....because Chelsea's favorite books at this age were the same....she LOVED Junie B. Jones!!!

Well there ya have it....one very busy week....and one finished week.....Tomorrow will start another......

Weekend Wrap-up

Here are a few pictures from the this weekend. I was working during daylight savings time.....so I didnt feel the time change....but today I sure have!! Another Monday starts tomorrow......so off to get this together to start the week!!

Lime Green, New Kittens...and the weekend

Well here we are....the end of another week!! I have enjoyed my last 3 days off. I bought a new bedroom set....its black and white...with accents of lime green!! It matches the colors I have my scrapbooking stuff stored in! I havent had a new bedroom makeover since 2001. I always put my wants and needs last on the priority list.....but I seen this....and just went with it!! :)


Well racoon kitty had her babies yesterday. She had 6 but only 5 made it. They all look like her....a grey and black tiger stripe. Coby is too cute....he said "raccon cats babies are eating" ...and Keith said...'eating what' and Coby said..." racoon kitty's tummy"!! I just love how innocent children are!! He keeps telling the cat that he 'wubbs' her babies....all of 'dem'!

Kids are good! They are ready for school to be out. Kase keeps asking when his birthday is....and what month we are in! He told me last night he wants to have a transformers party at the Fun Farm...so I will be planning that soon!

I work tonight and Sunday night....so I better get off and take a nap!!

Its Monday

The begining of another week is upon us! Nothing exciting over the weekend. I took Kaitlyn with me to meet Amy and Annalise in Covington to go shopping and do 'girl' stuff for about 5 hours on Saturday. The boys went with Keith to the auction barn in Kentwood. Of course KEITH bought something..... A GOAT!! Correction.....2 GOATS!! They are about 2 months and are so stinkin cute! They run up to you and wag there tails like little puppies! The kids love 'em. Keith put them in the chicken pen to keep the grass down and so the kids would have something to play with while he is feeding up. I still dont think we need another animal....but the kids are happy and thats what matters...right?

We hung out at home Sunday...did a little cleaning. We went grocery shopping!! I can not believe how expensive everything is getting!! It cost us $120 for food....and it wont last a week. I even made sure to buy the cheapest, buy store brand...and it is still high!! Two pounds of hamburger meat, a 2lb roast, and some boneless pork chops was $20!! At this rate....I am going to have to get another job so I can feed my kids!! LOL

I work tonight and Tuesday night then I am off for 3 days! I have been enjoying my days off....spending time with the kids, and getting some scrapping done. The kids even come help me...or ask if they can scrap too! Life is GOOD!!

Kailtyn's Pigtails

All is well here....I am off from work for 3 days....but today is almost gone...so really 2 days!!

Anyway...I just wanted to post a pic of KK and her pigtails....every morning we get up....she asks if I have time to fix her hair into pigtails....one on each side she says......LOL You cant tell it but she has both top front teeth missing....and neither is trying to come in yet!! :)

Well Feburary has come and gone....now into March.....which brings spring, longer days, easter and spring break!! I am planning a trip to Texas when the kids are on spring break which is the week after Easter!! I will be taking off a block of time then.....but wont know final details till closer to that time!!! I will keep everyone posted!!

Kids are home from school...so I am off to talk to them about their day!!!

(ETA: the lesion on my leg is being treated...if it turns out to be something else....I will let ya know)

Work Work Work....

I work again tonight. Then I have off for 3 days....so hopefully I can get some things accomplished.

On another note....I found a 'raised' lesion on my leg today. Its not brown in color but it is glossy like the books say....and clearly it isnt normal. I plan on going to the doctor tomorrow when I get the kids off to school. I just noticed it so hopefully it wont be anything serious. I dont want to scare anyone....and I will update as soon as I know something!!

Well gotta run....need to start getting ready!!!

Fat Tuesday

Ok...so nothing really exciting going on here for Mardi Gras....at least not as exciting as whats going on down on Bourbon Street.....:) Just been a lazy day for us! Keith was off today and took the kids to the auction. He is wanting to by a goat to keep the grass down in the chicken pen....but also so the kids can play with it. Yeah....well lets not ask me my opinion about that one.....:)!

Yesterday I took the kids to the park to eat and play. I going to call it MONDAY FUN-DAY....when I scrap the pictures.... :) The kids had another little girl to play with that was 4....so they ran around for over an hour. I think their favorite part was playing on the tennis courts....just running, laughing and falling down. I enjoy watching them be so carefree.....

Why 4-year olds shouldn't dress themselves....LOL

So yesterday...I am putting Kase and Kaitlyn on the school bus and I tell Coby to get ready....and put his shoes on so I can take him to daycare. Well I had the laugh of my life...when I turned around...and seen this........

and a closer look.........(they dont match either)......

he was so proud that he accomplished what I had asked him. I explained that pink flip flops couldnt be worn to school...and he says to me....'I can't find my other crock'.....LOL....

Sometimes it is moments like this that really slow life down....and me smile of all the blessings that GOD has given me!!!

Another Monday

Well I couldnt sleep last night...so here I am on the internet....getting my fix. Not sure if I just wasnt tired....or had alot on my mind with all that is going on. But anyhow....this week should be pretty laid back. Nothing going on with the kids....they have school all week. I work tonight then I dont work again till Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Maybe these few days off...will allow me to get some things accomplished around the house that I have been putting off.

I might even take some time to scrap....if I can get this printer to print my pictures...LOL!!

Gotta go....kids are dragging this morning and we dont need to be late!

Valentine's Day Weekend

Time has passed since I last posted....a week to be exact!! I worked for my birthday...so nothing really big happened here. I did go eat at La Carretas with the kids.

I was at work all week this past week...so not much time to post. I did get some special Valentine's stuff from the kids....and Keith bought me a new Kodak camera....this one is more on a professional level. I can use it for more professional type photos....gotta read up and experiment a little first though...LOL

So all is well as can be. I have talked myself out of getting a new house right now....not sure why...just have lots of doubts with the economy, the deal itself.....my marriage....just lots of things not really adding up right now...and I feel it would make more sense to just wait. Well what do you know....'me' trying to be more responsible.... who would have seen that coming...LOL So anyway....on with another week.......


ETA: Today Derek turns 16! He has become a dedicated,loving, and charming young man. Sometimes when life is difficult we choose to take the less traveled path....but he chose to over come the obsticles. I commend him on his positive attitude and the respect he shows to everyone he meets. I pray that he will succeed in all that he does!!

Some Random Thoughts

Well here I am....the day before I turn 32! WOW.....am I really 32? Where has the time went to? I dont feel 32....not that you are suppose to 'feel' any special way. Its just hard to believe! I am the kind of person who plans for everything.....I always worry about the future...do we have enough money for bills, food...will my kids be ok....but I have never really looked at MY future....past the age that I am living at the moment. I have no expectations of 32....nor have I ever really thought about where I would be at 32........

I can say that I am content with my life at 32...I have 4 great children, a husband who is supportive and makes me laugh, a loving family, a career that I enjoy, and many great friends! I can say that 32 is going to be GREAT ......because I am surrounded by people who love me for who I am......no matter what age....and I couldnt have planned it any better....(even if I had tried)!! I AM BLESSED!!!

Happy 15th Birthday Chelsea

WOW...15 years has flown by. I can still remember Chelsea as a little girl. Playing barbies, baby dolls, and riding her tricycle. She has become a beautiful young lady. I wish her all the best that life has to offer her. I pray that she always remembers her roots, is true to her friends and to never forget that no matter what......she is LOVED! I also hope that she enjoys these last few years of being a teenager....because 18 is only 3 years away....and then the really HARD part about life will start.....theres no changing it....or holding it back....it happens...and ready or not....she will soon have to face it.

TO Chelsea: ***remember these words***

~laugh like no one is listening, dance like no one is watching.....and love like you have never been hurt~


****I LOVE YOU CHELSEA****

Bomb Threat at LHS

We got a call today about 1130 from MaryAnn asking us if we heard about the bomb threat at the school. Of course we hadnt...so I called the Elementary school and they told me that the threat was at the high school....and that if we want to pick up our children we could...and it wouldnt count against them...well hello....of course Keith was already on his way. Why werent we called sooner? The threat was earlier in the morning...and alot of us were just finding out about it....to me that isnt right? Just because it was at the high school didnt give the other schools the authority to decide that my child was safe especially since the high school isnt even a football field length away from the elementary school. Anyway....most of all the children were leaving...there were officers there directing traffic and blocking roads and such. Now what do we do...? Are they going to resume school tomorrow? Are they giving updates on who or what exactly happened? probably not! Well at least my children are safe at home!!

On another note....we will be ordering our house this week. I just need to finalize all the colors. I want to see all my options on the counter tops....and I would like darker carpet....but other than that the colors of the demo house are what I am going with. We paid our down payment and it will take about 3 weeks to get it built and shipped to the dealer....so probably 4 weeks before it will be here on the property!! I CANT WAIT!!

Here is last weeks picture of the week.....other than the ones of the house.....LOL

...and Thats My Final ...Choice...LOL

OK here it is my new house...well not actually.....but close enough...this is only the demo. But the rooms....and layout are the same. We go Saturday to pick out colors and make sure we have added everything they way we want it!!

Narrowed the Search

Ok well I think I have picked out my house!! I really could get wrapped up in all the details...and what this one has...or that one...but finally I have chosen one! The house is a 16x80...3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms. I went for practicality and room space.....for the kids. I decided to hold off on the double wide...or modular homes due to the fact that Keith and I do not own this land....and having to move a home like that is so costly....which we plan to do once we purchase some land. We should be ordering our new home on Monday....and the manufacturing time is about 1 week...give or take! These are pictures of the living and kitchen. If I choose this one I will have the red on the kitchen walls....and dark cabinets....with black appliances.

Just another Thursday!

Just sitting here thinking about lots of things....which bills are due, which house I want, the laundry that needs to be done....LOL....but not really dwelling on anyone of those things.....!! Instead I am reading blogs, scrapbooking message boards....ect....trying to relax.

We are heading to Gonzales tomorrow to look at a particular house....really think this is the one...I am SERIOUS this time....LOL!! I am just a visual person...so before I buy it from the dealer in Hammond...I need to see it for myself....KWIM?

Everyone is doing good....Coby has a bilateral ear infection....but he seems to be doing well with it....he went to the doctor and is on antibiotics....so he should be over it soon. All he talks about is his squarrel hunt and how he wants to go back to the woods to get another...LOL

Kase is....well KASE....hard headed and VERY independent....but that makes me love him all the more!! For those who dont know this....I wanted to name Kase...CONWAY after Conway Twitty....but of course Keith wouldnt hear of it. Well I got my Conway anyway....because Kase sings his songs ALL the time....even Coby sings them. I love it.....!!! :) Now if I could just get him to wake up in the mornings without being so GRUMPY!!!

Kaitlyn is good....she brought home straight A's on her report card....I am so proud of her!! She loves to have PRAISE in everything she does.....which is great...because it really is her driving force!! She tries to help out so much....which is wonderful....but still has to be reminded that she isnt the boss of Kase or Coby......(I see that being a BIG prob in the future)!!

Well guess I am going to end....we are without water right now so I need to figure out what to do about getting the kids some clothes to wear for tomorrow!! I will be posting my pic of the week on Saturday....so until then...................

ETA: Emily turned 15 today....its so hard to believe that girls are in high school and are maturing so fast. I wish her well in life....but hope that she realizes you get out of life...what you put into it and the choices we make today will affect our future......that is a promise!!

Coby's First Squarrel Hunt

Well today was a lazy day...Kase and Kaitlyn went to church....and Coby stayed home with Keith and I. Keith decided to take him to squarrel hunt. I was in shock when my little baby came busting through the door holding a squarrel like it was an olympic gold medal. He was so proud. I grabbed the camera to capture this moment.... I laughed so hard because he had the goofiest grin on his face.....oh my baby is growing up!!!

Pic of the Week

OK...so I have given this much thought...and I am going to do Project 365. For those who arent in the scrapbook world....Project 365 is about scrapbooking my life for a full year....either everyday, every week....or on a monthly basis. I usually have something for each month.....but its a holiday or activity...and Project 365 is about my LIFE....so it will be from a different angle. I will be recording this on my scrapbook blog....but decided to post a weekly picture here too!! I am posting pics for the last 2 weeks so we will be up to date!!

(Click here to see my scrapbook blog: http://www.southernmadememories.blogspot.com/ )

Pic of the week for Jan 4th-10th

This is the kids with the Christmas gifts mom sent them. It was like Christmas again...they said...LOL

Pic of the week for Jan 11th-18th

This is the kitchen in one of the houses I looked at this week!! I LOVE THIS KITCHEN!!!

Already the middle of Janurary

The last week in December went by so slow....now someone hit the fast forward button....because the last 15 days have just flown by. Why is it....that as a child, life goes by so slow...the weeks drag on....but as an adult....they just fly by? (Have I already asked that?....I really am getting older) This week was full of looking at houses!! I have looked at so many that I can't even remember them all. Who really cares the difference between 'crown' molding or just flat molding? Plush carpet or low grade? 15ft or 17ft refridgerator??? OMG....I really am begining to HATE this. To me.....molding is molding.....carpet is carpet, and as long as my food stays cold....I really could care less about the size of the refridgerator!! Oh and lets not forget.....tan,toupe,beige or mocha.....ITS ALL BROWN!!! Can you tell....I do not have the patience for this!!

Another 3 day weekend is upon us. The kids are out of school Monday for Martin Luther King day. I am on my 2nd of 5 days off in a roll......dont ask...its just how the schedule fell. Well I guess I am going to get off and be productive....and get some cleaning done!!

One of Life's Lessons

Well....I went to Texas on Friday to pick up Chelsea. Her dad had kicked her out on Tuesday and had not contacted my dad in regards to her since. I withdrew her from school, she seemed OK with the whole situation, and we were headed back to my dad's when Tracey showed up wanting to 'say bye'. I didn't want to let her talk to him....since he had had 3 days to make this right...and I feel the only reason he did finally contact her was because he found out from the school that she was being withdrawn. Its really sad that she is naive to even want to go back to stay with him. But she did!! Both of them acted as though me driving all that way and he having not spoke to her in almost 4 days and telling her to leave .....was nothing....they just picked back up where they left off.

Chelsea has hurt me for the last time. I hope that she doesn't need me or her papa again...... because she burnt bridges this time. Help is no longer there!!

I have always felt that is was a mother's job to stand by her children, and help them become mature young adults. I have made many sacrifices for Chelsea, I have been more of a mother than most woman my age ever thought about being.....and it was all for NOTHING!!

I watched my 14 year look at me as though I was disposable and she had no regard as too how bad it hurt me for her to go back with her father.....whom had kicked her out more than once! It took me several months to understand why she left last year....not because I was a bad mother....but because it was a choice....she wanted to live with her dad. But after a year of nothing but misery.....and being unhappy living with him.....I thought for sure things would be different from her......but the child that I saw Friday was not the little girl I raised!! I don't know who she was....because MY daughter would have cared.

Life is all about lessons.....some aren't as easy as others. I never thought that one of my lessons would be this!! ........ I do learn from my lessons........

New Year's Resolutions

Well I have given these much thought and have decided to put out a few resolutions this year!!

1. To blog at least 3 times a week!!
2. Stay current on all scrapping for this year...so I can work on past years!
3. Have a family night at least 1 night a week!!
4. Go to church more regular
5. Find patience....no matter the situation
6. Walk at least 3 times a week
7. Eat healthier
8. Visit my family in Texas more


Thats all I have so far....those seem easy when in print....just taking the time to make sure they are done is going to be the hard part!! But with this new year its time to proceed forward with change!!!

~Happy New Year~

Ok...so technically I am a little early....but since I will be working when the clock strikes 12....I thought I would wish it now!! Wow....this year is GONE....and now we face 2009!! Who would have thought? I can still remember 1999....a whole 10 years ago.....lets see that was the year I met Cory, Dad had his heart surgery, and the whole world thought that the new millenium was going to crash all the computers in the world....LOL!

Now for this last week of 2008...what are my thoughts, wishes....well first and foremost...I wish the years would slow down!! They go by so fast!! Lets see 10 things I am excited about for this last week of 2008:

1. Starting a new church....becoming closer to GOD and letting him guide my life, my marriage, and my parenting!!!
3. Holiday pay :)
4. Looking forward to the weekend to spend time with Amy
5. Getting organized
6. Decluttering my house
7. My 32nd birthday....wow didnt think I would be EXCITED about that :)
8. My baby turning 15..she was once a duckling and now a beautiful swan
9. Spending time with the kids while school is out
10. ....lol school starting back next week ....because of above :)~

Ok so there is my list.....of course I am sure I could find lots more to be excited about but these are on top.

...see ya next year.....LOL

Merry Christmas

We had a great day. The kids woke up bright and early on Christmas morning...eager to open up what Santa had brought them. Kaitlyn got barbie dolls, barbie clothes, barbie furniture, along with a cabbage patch, doll clothes, and a gameboy with games;Kase got a nerf gun, transformers, power rangers, legos, magnetix, and a gameboy with games;Coby got little people play sets, transformers, monster trucks, hot wheel cars, a mack truck to haul his hot wheels, and a laptop...which I have to take back because he wants a gameboy.....go figure!! LOL Of course they received lots more from the family....!

We all had a great time and were exhausted by the end of the day....:)!!

Winter Wonderland

I wouldnt have believed it....if I hadnt seen it with my own eyes....but we had 8 inches of snow fall on December 10th. What a wonderful experience to see.....even if it was short lived!! All snow was gone by Sunday the 14th because the temperature was in the 60's. It was beautiful to drive down the road and see all the pastures covered in snow.....really breath taking. The kids had a blast throwing snowballs, making snow angels, and a snowman. I actually got out there myself and played....cause you never know when we might see it again!! I think Keith was more into building the snowman at first than the kids. LOL I hope the kids remember this always.....that their first snow day was at home in South Louisiana.

Homemade Christmas

The kids wanted to make a paper chain for the Christmas tree....so I just let them make all the ornaments. They really enjoyed glueing, glittering....and making 'crafts' as they say. We added colored lights and all the homemade decorations to the tree. Everyday we light the tree and enjoy our colorful Christmas!!!!

My Favorite Picture

I took this picture when we were about to leave Texas. Have you ever taken a picture....no prep at all....and just looove the results? Thats exactly what I did here....and I LOVE IT!! I do believe this is my all time favorite picture!!!

Our 7th Anniversary

Keith and I celebrated our 7th anniversary on December 1st. Where has 7 years went to? I remember as a child that the years seemed to drag by so slow....and now......the years go by so fast! Life has changed over the past 7 years. We have 3 more kids...which brings lots of laundry,toys and fighting. We have outgrown our house which was once so empty. We both have careers we enjoy....me a nurse and Keith a welding supervisor. But the best part is we have more love for life, our children, our families, our marriage and most of all GOD.

******My wish is for the next 7 years to bring us the knowledge we need to strengthen our marriage and family.******

Our Texas Trip

We returned from Texas the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. It is sooo nice to visit friends and family....but even better to sleep in your own bed...LOL! The kids were great on the 7 hour drive....I guess they have finally gotten used to it.

We had Thanksgiving dinner Sunday the 22nd at Dad's house. Being with family is wonderful......I am thankful for being able to spend this time with them.

I took pictures of the kids together for our yearly Christmas card. It took a few shots to get one where everyone was looking....but we finally got it!!






It was sad when we had to leave......the kids didnt want to leave Chelsea....I know they miss her and wish she was close! Maybe someday the distance will shorten...and they will get to see her more!!!

I Love This Time of Year

The holidays are among us......cold weather,hot coco, and lots of food....and lets not forget the Christmas lights. I love everything about this time of year. I have already started buying some christmas decorations to add to my collection. I had wanted to decorate before I left for my trip to Texas.....but time got away from me......so it shall wait till I return.

I am leaving for Texas on Friday with the kids. We are all so excited to get to see everyone....it has almost been a year since we were last there!! We are going to have a Thanksgiving dinner on Sunday with the family.....since we have to return before Thanksgiving day....but nonetheless it will be meaningful because of family and friends!!

I have been a little sick these past few days....so I hope that is gone for this trip.....and I hope the kids dont come down with anything either while we are gone. The weather doesnt know what it wants to do....its cold then hot....

I plan on taking lots and lots of pictures.....and I will post once I return!!

Maxwell...you will be missed

I was at work last night and Keith texted me to tell me that Max was hit by a car. He is gone! He has been part of our family for over 7 years. He will sadly be missed. I am truly a believer in everything happens for a reason....but it doesnt help the heart when it aches.

On another note....everyone is doing great! I got to see my schedule for the upcoming holidays and I get to be off from Thursday the 20th thru Thanksgiving!! I cant wait...because I will be going to Texas to see everyone.....which I havent seen since Janurary. I did see Dad in May...when he came for my graduation....but not anyone else. I will be returning on Thanksgiving....and will be able to attend the crazy sales on the Friday after Thanksgiving! It was easier to get off for Thanksgiving...when the kids were off....then at Christmas since there are two holidays within a week of each other.

Thats all for now....gotta get ready for next week.....kids in school & me with work......

Halloween Night

The kids had a blast trick or treating....and they ended up with waayyy too much candy...as usual!! Its so hard to believe it is November already....the weather is getting cooler....and all the stores are playing Christmas music. I think I might start decorating for Christmas......it IS my favorite time of year!!

Loranger Youth Cheering

Kaitlyn really enjoyed cheering this season. She didnt get to cheer as much as I would have liked because of schedule conflicts and the whole program being really unorganized.....but none the less she had fun. She still goes around the house cheering....LOL She now says she wants to joing dance....oh and the Girl Scouts....oh when will it end.....!!!

Finally Fall

Well we are finally having fall weather.....in the 80's. The kids have enjoyed the weekend......Kaitlyn cheered on Saturday, Church on Sunday...and lots of great weather to play outside in!

The Fair was last week. We took the kids on Sunday...before I had to go to work. They are getting old enough to really enjoy it. We bought arm bands so they could ride as much as possible. We spent over 2 hours there and I think they could have went for another 2....LOL Coby really enjoyed the motorcycles and cars. Kaitlyn and Kase enjoyed the more older rides like the roller coaster and the spinner tea cups. I remember going to the fair as a child....and I hope these memories stay with them for a long time too.

I have enjoyed my 3 days off......but didnt really get alot done....LOL! I need to make a priority list....to tackle one area of the house while I have 3 days off.....then maybe it will all come together!!

So here is my list:

1. Wednesday.........sort thru the piles of bills,school papers and misc....and put away
2. Thursday.........WASH DAY....wash the dishes (no...I dont do them daily)...and wash as many loads of clothes as possible (goal of 6)...including the sheets and blankets from the beds.
3. Friday........Clean bathroom....


I could put lots more on each day.....but maybe by keeping the "to do's" short....I may actually complete them!!!

Tomorrow starts a new week....school for the kids, and work for me.......

Life In The Fast Lane

There is just not enough hours in the day to get everything done....LOL This month was busy for all of us....with me working, birthday parties and homework! The kids are doing well in school. The kids are on a routine...which helps with getting ready in the morning and going to bed at night. I am looking forward to FALL.....turning leaves, cooler weather, the holidays.....I love everything about it!

I went to a scrap convention over the weekend. It was a nice break from all the chaos that I endure on a weekly basis. :) I was able to compete 15 LO's...which was awesome because I am almost caught up for the year......my goal is to be completed and caught up before Halloween.

I met some ladies from Thibodaux (Vera, Megan, and Mandy) while at Scrapfest. We were all sitting at the same table. They were so nice and helpful. I plan to go scrap one Sat with them at Scrapalicious in Thibodaux. Maybe we can even catch up with each other at another convention sometime.


ETA: Its been one year since I lost a friend of mine from nursing school...her name was Brandy Corkern. She was a wife and mother of 2. I still think about her and miss her alot. She would have been a great nurse, if GOD had not called her home. I will never forget her or the kind person she was!! R.I.P Brandy....we will see each other again someday!!!

Recovering from Gustav

We weathered the storm ok. We were without power for 5 days....but was able to manage quite well since some stores were still able to stay up and running with generators. I was able to continue to work as usual so the money didnt stop.....LOL!! Keith was able to return to work on Friday.....so things are getting back to 'normal'.

School started back today for the kids......a little hard to get them going in the AM....but they will get back into routine soon.

Talked to Chelsea over the weekend....she is doing good in school. She says she has 'a' averages in all classes. I am so proud of her!! I told her to enjoy it....because these were her last 4 years..... (so hard to believe) She sounds so happy......I hope she has finally found her true 'belonging'. It makes me happy.....when I know that she is happy!!!

Work is great.....I really enojoy being able to make a difference in someones life. There has been so many times that I wondered if I chose the right career......and it has became apparently clear that I was meant to be a NURSE!!

Coby's 4th Birthday Party

Coby had his bday party at The Fun Farm. He has asked me all week if it was time for his birthday party? He chose Mickey as the theme.....he was cute wearing his mickey ears!! Oh how they grow up fast.

Well thats all the parties for the year!! Keith's bday is Wednesday but I have to work so we will do something this weekend!!

Next up is CHRISTMAS...........:)

Coby Turns 4

Coby turned 4 yesterday...its really a sad time...my baby is growing up. I have seen so many changes in him these last few months....he is transferring into a little man before my very eyes. We had cake at Ma's for his birthday...and he will be having a party for him at The Fun Farm on Saturday the 30th. He keeps asking...."Is it my party yet??"

This will be the second time for his bday that a hurricane has hit. He turned 1 right before hurricane Katrina...and now we have another one next week.....:( ! He doesnt remember Katrina...as Kaitlyn nd Kase dont either...because they were babies.....but someday I will have to show him all that happened.

To my baby boy......

WOW....4 years old....I dont know if you know this but you were an unexpected blessing that was giving to me. We all were shocked...but the moment you came into this world.....I could see it was meant to be. You were meant to be my #4 child, my second son, and I was meant to be a mom again. These last four years have been a great adventure.....you have taught me so much about myself....I am so happy and blessed to have shared them with YOU!! I hope this day and the many birthdays to come are as wonderful and exciting as they can be for you...... I LOVE YOU!!!

Love, Mommy

Hurricane Gustav

Well it looks like we have a hurricane headed our way. Hurricane Gustav could hit the gulf coast anywhere from Monday to Wednesday...its still too soon to tell! We are as prepared as could be....got some water,food,gas....ect. We will start to clean up everything out of the yard tomorrow.....and I will be putting everything into boxes to keep water off of it!! I hope this storm doesnt come like it is predicted...but we will have to wait and see.......

Can the time go by any faster???

Boy where is the time going?? We are at the end of August ....already!!! Kase has finally started going to school full time this week. Kaitlyn has been in for 2 weeks now....(hard to believe isnt it?)!!

I guess since I have been working....I havent been keeping up with the time.....! I hope to start Coby in his pre-K program either next week or the week after Labor Day!!!

Well I better get....try to get some scrapping done while the kids are in bed!!

School Started Today

Kase and Kaitlyn started school today!!

Kase started Kindergarten....he looked like such a big boy today when we went to meet his teacher. He has Ms. Perrin. He has to test before he starts so his prospected date to start is on the 18th. He knew a little boy named Ethan in his class.....he went to ABC Academy with him.

Kaitlyn started 1st grade. Her teacher is Ms. Brown. Jenna and Kaitlyn Peters are in her class this year....so she was happy to see some familiar faces!! I got a call though...she went to the office complaining of a stomach ache....but all was well after lunch....I figured it was just 1st day jitters!!!

Coby on the other hand started crying when we went into the rooms....he thought he was going to have to stay....LOL So that tells me I have my work cut out for me....when I want to put him into daycare!!!

I oriented for 4 days this week with N.O. I have 2 days next week...and then I work with a preceptor on Wednesday.....so we will see how that goes!!

Having a GOOD week!!

Well today was Day 2 of N.O. orientation. Its been great having Meg there with me. I miss those days in class when we talked and hung out at break and ate lunch together!! We will be ending tomorrow at lunch time. I cant wait to get my schedule. I have to go meet with the scheduler on Thursday to go over policies and such.

More later......

2 Weeks & Counting.....

Well school officially starts in less than 2 weeks. I went over the weekend and picked up a majority of the school uniforms for the kids. I have been buying school supplies a little here and there....so I pretty much have that taken care of.

Pre-K registration is this week at Midway. I really want Coby to start pre-K but not sure if they will let Kase go to school there too. Kaitlyn is already on the roll....so she will be in 1st grade. I have to go talk to the principle on Friday to see if I can get them all three there. If not...then Coby will be there for pre-K and Kase & Kaitlyn will be in Loranger. Oh I wish things worked here like they did back home. Here in our district they only have room for 20 pre-K kids out of over 100.

Well anyway....I have been cleaning....really need to do alot more...but a little is better than none. :) I start orientation on Monday for North Oaks...so I am trying to get things in order this week.

TTFN

Playing Catch-Up

Things have been kinda crazy here....lets see. I have the job with NO's but I dont start orientation until August 4-6....so that is that. I have been working PRN with Heritage for the last few weeks. I trained for 2 days and then I have been on my own since. I really like it there. I am a night person, but the evening shift works better for us as a family.

Enough about work....I go next week to put Coby in Pre-K...so hopefully I can get all three in school at Midway. My only prob is figuring out what to do about getting then to and from. I should be able to take them...but I may have to put them in aftercare so that it will give Keith, JP or Mary Ann or me time to pick them up. The only prob with that....is the MONEY. It will prob be around 65-75 per child per week.....kinda sucks...but if we have to do it that way...then we have too.....

School starts here on the 8th. I am so ready....I have enjoyed being with the kids this summer...but they are ready to be with there friends. I am ready to have some ME time.....!!

Chelsea passed her TEST to advance to the 9th grade....I am so proud of her. She is now a FRESHMAN!!! Boy where did the time go!! I hope she keeps up the desire to learn and can make these last 4 years enjoyable. She tells me of plans of college and what she is wanting to be....I wish her the best!!!

Well I think that is about it for now....

What to do???

Well the weekend went by fast!! The kids popped fireworks Friday....and I went to a party at Amy's on Saturday. We all just hung out at home on Sunday....really was a lazy day.

I got a call this AM....they chose me for the job at North Oaks...now I dont know what to do.....LOL!! I like the idea of working only 3 days.....I mean who doesnt?? But I maybe still train at Heritage and be a PRN back up...I am sure I can always pick up a few hours here and there!! Well they said they have to check my references....and then I would get a call....so we shall see!!

Well better go....need to start laundry!!

~July 1st~

Well the summer is just passing by.....the kids and I are enjoying the time we get to spend together. We are doing crafts, swimming, reading books....but mostly just being lazy! :) I talked to Chelsea over the weekend...she seems happy.....and that makes me happy. I hope she passes her test...so she can continue to the 9th grade.

Well I went to my interview yesterday at North Oaks....it went well. The supervisor told me that there were several people who interviewed for the 1 position....so I decided to go and put in some applications elsewhere. I applied at Heritage Manor in Hammond....a small nursing home...and they hired me right then! I am so excited....I go Thursday to fill out paperwork and watch new hire videos....! I met all the staff and they were very pleasant. I will be working 11-7...4 days on and 2 off.....unless I need more time off.....!

....going to go clean ....the house isnt going to clean itself! :):):):):)

...............later

Hanging Out at HOME!

Well things are pretty laid back for right now. I have been hanging out with the kids, cleaning the house, and scrapping!

I took the kids to the library on Friday to watch a puppet show! It was so cute...they really enjoyed it! We checked out more books to read....

I got a call today from North Oaks to come interview Monday @ 10.....so we will see what comes of that!!

Well going to go scrap.......bye for now!!

Kaitlyn Turns 6!

Well my baby is growing up!! Kaitlyn had her 6th birthday on Thursday. Her party was today at The Fun Farm....but since Ma and Pa wouldnt be able to join us...we had cake and ice cream on her actual bday at their house so they could be a part of it too!! All went well...she got alot of Hanna Montana stuff...tooo much actually!! She got a HM wig...so for some of her pics opening gifts...and for the rest of the time playing...she was wearing her wig....as she was telling everyone she looked like Hannah Montana....LOL!! Hunter, Jenna, and Annalise all were there to celebrate with her!! She had a wonderful time!!!

To My Daughter Kaitlyn:

Today you turned 6 years old. I can hardly believe it. You are becoming a little lady where you once were a baby. You are very independent. You want to be the BIG girl on so many things, like brushing your hair, bathing yourself, and brushing your own teeth. You are learning to read and LOVE to read....we have been going to the library to get books for you to expand your reading.....and you love it! Playing dress up and pretend are your favorite games these days. You even dress Coby up....so you will have a 'lil sister' to play with. Oh my sweet little baby....you are growing up so fast....just dont forget to enjoy being child, because all too soon it will be over!!! Love, Mommy

Just being Lazy....

Well another week has come and gone!!

Kase and Coby went to the dentist....NO CAVITIES!!! YEAH!!

We have been staying at home swimming all week!! I was planning on going to Texas the later part of this week...but with Kaitlyn bday coming up on the 19th and her party this weekend...I thought it would be better to wait!!

The kids and I have been reading books each night. I enrolled all 3 of them in the summer reading program at the library. They only have to read 10 book (or have 10 read to them) and they will complete the program....but we will be reading alot more than that! For every 5 books they get to put a star on their rocket at the library.

As for me....I am just chilling and doing some spring cleaning that is WAYYY over due. I got the kids room done...so now its time to go through all the clothes and get rid of everything winter and too small!! So thats on the adgenda this week....along with some scrapping!!

Thats all for now.....Later....................

I Passed my State Boards

I received my results on Saturday! Its official I am a nurse!! The letter they sent me was with my actual license!!! I dont really feel that different...because I still have to get a job! Maybe once I do that....I will feel a sense of accomplishment!!!

Kase graduated Pre-K

Well Kase graduated Pre-K on Friday!! He was so cute!! He looked so grown up!! The ceremony was at party place called Jump 4 Fun so after the program...they all got to play aftwards! The kids were worn out when it was time to go.

Kaitlyn graduated Kindergarten.....Summer is HERE!!!

I havent written in a while...so much going on. Kaitlyn graduated from Kindergarten...she was so cute in her program. She received an award from her teacher for best performer....since she always gets her grove thing on when they perform...LOL!!

Kase will walk and graduate pre-K on Friday. He has transformed into such a little man....I cant believe how much he has grown this last year!

The kids will be staying with me this summer....we are going to have so much fun!!

I took my state boards yesterady. I am so scared that I didnt pass....I dont know why...I guess because it wasnt really point blank answers....you really had to read between the lines....and I dont do well with those! Well I guess I will know next week!!

Kaitlyn went to the dentist today....no changes....doctor says she is doing good keeping her teeth clean!! YEAH

I hope to go to Texas soon....but will know more later!!!

My School Graduation

Well it is officially over!! I received my diploma yesterday!! I brought the yearbook for everyone to see what I had done so far! Everyone liked it!! We all walked in and had a wonderful ceremony. When the ceremony ended....we all popped poppers as a WE DID IT!!! LOL We took pictures afterwards....and Mrs. Connelley said I looked pretty with my honors cord...and hugged me. I will miss her!! Mrs. Zeringue wished me well and told me to keep in touch!! I will miss her too! I didnt get to see Mrs. Kelly since she was not there, but I plan on visiting soon.

Some of us went out to eat afterward to celebrate. It was nice being with friends and eating good food!! We went to La Carreta's in Hammond. Brandy Williams came with her mom,brother, sister and family friend. Angelique and Sharon came with some family. Desiree brought her daughter Haley. Shelli was with her fiance. Beth and her husband Michael were there too! Then it was Mun Young, Eliza, Gaylin, Megan, Me, Jodi, and Amber were also there.

After we finished eating I took the pink roses that represented Brandy's presence at the ceremony to her at the cemetary. I know that she is looking down on us and wishing us well!!!

When everyone was getting up to leave a sense of sadness came over me....and I began to cry. THIS WAS THE END!! It was over!! This adventure that took 16 months of my life and gave me wonderful friendships (one of whom is with me from above) is no longer!! I pray that we keep in touch and stay friends forever!!!

I will miss them!!

Kase's 5th Birthday

This past weekend we had Kase's bday party at The Fun Farm. Caitlyn from ABC Academy and Annalise came to celebrate with us. We had fun....the kids really didnt want to play putt putt golf....but Johnathan, Keith, Darren and Amy...sure got a kick out of it!!LOL....(wait till I scrap those pictures) Kase was pretty worn out when the day was over!!

To Kase:

Happy Birthday son,....I cant believe its been 5 years since I held you in my arms...my first born son!! I remember how we used to play hide and seek with the blanket...I would put it over your head and then pull it off real fast...and you would giggle the cutest little laugh!! Remember "be patient in all that you do....for good things come to those who wait"....believe me....Kase this is true!!! May this year hold many blessings for you!! I LOVE YOU......Love, Mommy

I feel.... HAPPY

Last night I received my nursing pin! I have a since of accomplishment about me today... It has been a long and hard road these last 16 months. But I finally did it.....I have become a NURSE!!!! YEAH

My dad came down from Texas to watch my pinning....and that was wonderful too!! I loved him being a part of my celebration!!

The kids are great!! I hated Chelsea not being here to see me graduate...but she was in my thoughts!!

May Already???

Well it seems the days are going by faster than ever. The kids are growing up so fast. Katilyn will graduate Kindergarten and Kase will graduate Pre-K this month. And lets not forget....I graduate on May 12th from Nursing School!!

This is an exciting month for all of us. Kase will also turn 5 on May 5th...so I plan to make that special for him at school.

Coby has been doing so well with potty training....I think we can officially say he is 'trained'!! YEAHHHHHH

Chelsea seems to be doing well...she hasnt said that she wants to come home....but thats ok....as long as she gets through these lasts few years of school.....I am ok with her not being with me. I guess we have to let them grow up at some point in time....right???

This week the kids have all suffered from a nasty virus....but all seem to be on the mend....

Dear Brandy,

Today makes 6 months that you were taken from us! I still miss you today as I did the morning after your accident. I still look for your car at school and at clinic when I arrive in the morning. I still dont understand WHY??? Why you? Why was I the one talking to you on the phone? Why didnt I do more with you? Why did you have to die in such a minor accident? WHY? WHY? WHY? I have so many questions....and NO answers.

I feel so selfish at times hurting and missing you....because I know that my feelings are nothing in comparison to what Emmaleigh and Cody are feeling or have felt these past 6 months. They now have to grow up without a mom. Duke is now left without his spouse, his soul-mate, the woman that he depended on so much. I can't fathom what they must feel and how much hurt that consumes them.

We are now approaching the end of school....and I feel as excited as I know I should be...because you were suppose to be beside me....me, you and meg...thats the way it was going to be. We were going to work together...and be friends for a lifetime.

We are having a moment of silence for you in the pinning ceremony....but it will never replace having you there. I miss your calls, seeing you at school, but I mostly miss just being your friend and knowing you were there if I ever needed you.

I know you are in a better place, and I know we will meet again someday.......but I still cant help but miss you and wonder why you..........

Middle of April....Already??

I cant believe how fast this year is going! The last few weeks have been good. I was on spring break the week after Easter....and was sick the whole time.....so thats why I havent posted. I was suppose to make up clinic but my instructor sent me home...so I have to make up 2 days in May before I graduate!! :)

Tidbits from this week:

Kaitlyn lost her first tooth on 4-9. She was so excited...she has had this loose tooth on the bottom for almost 3 weeks now. I went to pick her up at daycare and there she was smiling with a whole in her mouth.....she was proud. She put the tooth under her pillow and the tooth fairy left her $3 for it.....must have been a pretty good tooth....LOL!~

Kase has had a pretty good week....he wasnt too happy that Kaitlyn got money and he didnt...so he went arond trying to get his teeth to come out. I and his teacher tried to explain that biting somone or hitting yourself wont make your teeth come out....so we will see if this fazes out...!! He told me last night that the tooth fairy was going to bring him money anyway....even though he didnt loose a tooth....oh what to do...its so hard being a child...:) Maybe I can turn his focus to his bday coming up....he wants a John Deere Camo party so he says.....:)

Coby did #2 in the potty for the first time on Wednesday (4-9). He has being peeing in it...he would just put on a pull-up to poo. I think he might have been a little scared...and the potty was too big. So after several attempts and me refusing to buy more pull-ups.....he used the little insert seat and did it. We gave him a book....and whala....ever since then....he says gotta go poo...and goes and puts the insert on...and gets up there like a big boy. YEAH....what an accomplishment!! I have realized we need to work on peeing sitting down....because he doesnt point it down.....YUCK? :( OH well....I dont mind cleaning up.....I am just glad the day has come to NO MORE DIAPERS!!!!!! : ): ) : ) : ) : ) : ) : )

I called Chelsea and she doesnt seem interested in coming this summer to visit us....all she really talks about is her little boyfriend, Brian....I knew this time would come...it just seems like its still too soon for me. I told her I loved her and that it was ok..... (I've been there....one day she will realize...family should come first)

I finished clinic on Wednesday at NOMC (funny alot happened on Wed....LOL) We start the Nursing Home tomorrow for 6 days and then thats it. We finished Geriatrics on Friday.....so we only have 2 classes left....YEAH......there is a light.......-------->