September 2010 Update

They say that time heals all wounds. I'm not so sure. Maybe it just hasn't been enough time yet. Life has gone on. That is without question. It has a way of doing that even without you paying attention to it.

My mother passed away on April 12, 2010. My life just hasn't been the same since.

She had been in and out of the hospital a few times since December 2009 for her COPD-Cronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Emphysema. Yes. My mother had been a smoker most of her life. She didn't smoke the last 20 years, but smoked a tremendous amount prior to that. Sometimes as much as 4 packs a day. Her and my father smoked back in a time when you could smoke anywhere. At work, at the store, at school and even at hospitals. You think about that. Four packs a day would total 80 cigarettes/day. You do the math. Assuming they got 8 hours of sleep that leaves 16 hr days. There is 60 minutes in every hour 60 x 16hr = 960 minutes/80 cigs= (1) cigarette every 12 minutes.

I realize because I said my mother was in and out of the hospital since December 2009 that you may think that we were prepared for our mothers death, right? Couldn't be further from the truth. Mom would say to us in the hospital "Now you know I'm on the last leg of my journey, right? You are ready, right?" and we would say "Yes Mom, we are ready." I suppose just saying it to end the question. I don't know. Because I wasn't ready. Can you ever be ready for soemthing like that?

We were all with her at the end. All my brother & sisters, some of the grandchildren and even her sister Kathy came from New Jersey at the last minute before my mother took her last breath. Each of us reaching out to touch her one last time to be witness to her final breath in this lifetime. It was a wonderous sight for sure. Mom's breathing was labored for sure. We were yelling at her to "Hold on!!" because my Aunt Kathy was running down the hallway to be with her sister one last moment. She had just minutes before gotten off the plane and was rushed to the hospital. My Aunt Kathy ran into her room-had a brief private moment with her sister than all of us came in reached out touched Mom's arms, legs, face, heart anywhere we could. Not an inch of Mom didn't have someones loving touch. My mother took her last breath. Finally at rest. My Mother was gone. Forever.

Mom would hem a pair of jeans that were too long for you or make your daughter a dress for a competition or a Halloween costume because you had no money. She would make you a pocketbook out of Capri Suns or a apron for Gardening. She would quickly throw you together a meal out of anything if you were hungry. Coffee was offered the minute you walked through the door. She could screw up a good joke...but have you laughing harder because she was...even without even telling you the punch line. She could make a mean pot of Clam Chowder and put together a Roast Beef dinner in the microwave. Mom was never much of a cook, but she managed to feed all of us and all our children and their children her whole life. I suppose she wasn't so bad a cook after all.

Mom never shined as much as she did at Holidays. She did Christmas like no one you knew. The house would always be decorated. Even as kids and as disfunctional as our family was at times...the greatest memories were at Christmas. Our living room always looked like Santa saved all the gifts just for us. And as adults the family "get togethers" at Christmas would always be at Mom's house too. Near the end of her life things had changed but most our lives this is how things were.

Halloween was a special time for family, too. My brother George use to get a trailer and do it up with hay and decorations. All the kids (and some adults) could ride on it in the neighborhood to do trick or treating. All of us would wind up back at Moms for Hot Chocolate and other goodies she would make. Some Hot Chili....or sandwiches. She always had candy bars too. It was always just right. She made it special all the time.

My mother didn't have much in the way of finances, but she would give you her last dime if you needed it more than she did. You could call her any time of day for comfort and support no matter what it was. Her opinions were usually right on. She was a great listener.

Her hugs were incredible. Her laugh was contagious. Her smile was addictive. Mom had a wit like no one else. She could be sneaky and manipulative, loving and caring all in the same moment. She loved her family. She was the head of it. She held us together like glue. "Do it for Mom" and you'd do it for Mom.

Mom loved us so much that she made us her whole life. Because of that-I can't imagine my life without her in it. It's like having a house without it's foundation. My mother wasn't a perfect women. She wasn't even a perfect Mother or Grandmother but she was just right for us. She was our friend.

She was a incredible women. We didn't notice how much so until she was no longer with us. I'm so sorry Mom for not realizing how much you would be missed. How much I needed you. I'm so sorry for all the things only you know.

I miss her everyday. Every minute. Every second. Every Breath. I can only hope you are in a more peaceful place, one without the struggles you experienced so much of near the end. A place full of love and appreciation for who you are. You will forever live in my heart and in my memories. Thank you for being part of my life. The most important part. I love you so much Mom. Deeper than the Ocean and Higher than the Sky until Infinity.

Whew.....its been a while, hasn't it??

Been busy obviously......or I would have been here writing in my blog a lot sooner. I wrote in that other blog too, about quitting smoking. You know what?? Its been 114 days since Mike and Quit, and we haven't even had (1) cigarette!!! Yeah for us!!

Hope everyone is fine. I've been busy filling out College applications, paying all senior dues, pictures, applications, SAT scores, Military Ball dress costs etc for Jo Beth. Senior year costs can be troublesome, and expensive! Somebody is making money....and its not me!!

Jo Beth will be attending "North Carolina State University at Greensboro" in the fall. I'm excited for her. Hope she follows through.....my fingers are crossed. :)

January 2007

Well Happy New Year everyone!!!

www.readthisbylinda.blogspot.com

That's where all my recent posts have been. I created a new blog based on my "QUIT". That is 'quitting smoking'. I had to have a place where I could just "EXHALE". (smiling...I should have named it that!)

All is well in my world. Work is work. Family is good too. Its been a while since I wrote this blog. I need to update everyone on Jo Beth, and the colleges we have applied to and have been accepted to. Its nearing the end of the year. Soon my last baby will be leaving me. Boo Hoo.

I've actually been really busy with work, which is strange in itself, as it seems to be slow there. But not for me. Work is another story....all by itself. :)

I haven't hardly seen my Mom lately. No real reason why, I suppose you just get caught up in the daily grind of life, and things (even as important as they are) fall to the wayside.

Mike and I have not smoked a cigarette since November 18th of 2006. It has been 74 days today. I'm very proud of us, it was a huge accomplishment!! One I am glad I got to achieve.

Well I have to run, I will write soon!

13 DAYS AND COUNTING

Yup its been 13 Days without a Cigarette. I realize I'm making a big-deal out of this, but it is HUGE for me and Mike. HUGE!!!!!
I'm pretty sure we have made it this long because of the Wellbutrin XL. I'm afraid to get off of it, for fear of relapse. We have cut ourselves down to one pill, 150 MG. Instead of the (2) pills a day we were on. One of the side effects of Wellbutrin is lack of sleep. I think it was because we were taking our second pill at 6 PM. But either way, we are down to one pill.

The urges I'm getting are more of an annoyance now than anything. I know what it is caused by, and I try to just get through those few minutes. Once I do, I pat myself on the back, and let myself know, "I DID IT". Until the next one.

I'm waiting for these urges to finally stop. I belong to an online group called http://www.quitnet.com and it really is a big help. Lots of people going through the same thing I am. Very supporting......and that's what we need now.
I long for the day that I don't "think" of them anymore. They are on my mind every 2-3 seconds. I hate that part.....
I actually caught myself NOT thinking about them last night during a show on TV last night. It was a great episode of "ONE TREE HILL".
I went and bought another $10 in my oral habits..... (Altoids, Extra Gum, Watermelon and Wintergreen, Ice Breakers and Jolly Ranchers). I try to stick to the sugar-free ones where I can. But I don't imagine Sugar-free Jolly Ranchers are very good, so I have the Sugar ones. :)

Well just wanted to Jot a few notes down...Thanks for keeping up. Until next time......Smile, and breathe!!

The Toughest Thing I've ever had to do Personally!!

Today is the 4th day. My 4th nightmare. My 4th day breathing easier, but still not fitting in. The 4th day to the first day, of the rest of my life!

Its has been 86.5 hours since I had my last cigarette!!! An Amazing Feat! I know!! Very Difficult. Mike is doing it with me too. God Bless him, because if he wasn't I'm pretty sure I wouldn't be making it at all. It would be extremely difficult to quit with someone still smoking in the house, or even just around you.
Its a strange feeling trying to do without something, you have had as the closest thing to you for 34 years. I can only imagine its like doing with an arm, or leg perhaps. You use it all the time. Then its gone. What did you do before it? Cigarettes have always been part of my life. Even when I was in the womb. Mom smoked with all of us. I came into this world addicted to them. I know I did. I'm sure I did. Every single one of us, all 5 of us, and 7 of us with my parents were smokers. Mom and Dad at one point, smoked 4 packs a day each. Back in the day you could smoke at work.

When I was 11, there was this girl at school who always tormented me about them. She would go out of her way to ask me daily if I smoked (always in front of an audience), and I always said no, and she insisted I must have been a baby for not even trying them. It was set. Set in my head that cool was related to smoking. That's just how it was.

My sister Karen and her friend were sitting on the side of the house one day when I came by. Mom and Dad were gone. I asked Karen what they were doing, and Karen turned to her friend and said I didn't smoke, and that most likely I would tell on her to my parents. She called me a "nerd". (Back then it was a cool term. You know the 70's and all) I told them I had smoked before, and told her to let me try it. I sucked it in, and almost died. But from that point on, I practiced it every chance I got.
Then my Dad caught me smoking one day, and he said I could smoke in the garage, only around him. So I spent a lot of time out there. Tons. My father only allowed me to smoke for certain reasons, and maybe one day I can delve into that, but not now.

That was the beginning. Now here is it, 34 years later. I smoke 2 1/4 packs a day of Doral-Light 100's. Before that it was Marlboro Lights. Before that Marlboro Red pack. 2 1/4 packs a day, that's like 50 cigarettes a day. I can't smoke at work, so its only in the morning, breaks, lunch and at home. Go figure.......you can imagine, I never put one down. Every picture of me, there it was like an additional arm or leg stick out from between my fingers. There was 7 of us growing up. I can't remember even once the house filled with smoke. Not once. You would imagine with 2 smokers like my parents the house would have been filled with it. But no, no recall whatsoever.

I can smell it still. Now sitting in my office. I miss it. The calming effect it has on me. The first drag on it in the morning, or after a good sip of coffee. After heavy breathing, like after sex. I loved those moments when smoking was what it was intended for. Relaxation.
However, I don't miss the coughing. The coughing and peeing on myself. The hacking on cold days. The never getting over a cold, and regretting every X-Ray of your chest, as it might be the one that shows the cancer. You hate going to the doctors because the first word out of their mouth is, "are you a smoker?". You say yes, and not matter what your there for, you have it because you are a SMOKER!!!! Laughing now. Its funny. But I can remember just a few months ago getting very angry when I went in with Pneumonia. Which I still have side effects from.

The doctor prescribed a pill called Wellbutrin XL, 150MG http://www.wellbutrin-xl.com/. I was to take 1-pill the first 3 days, and 2-pills the following 4 days. On the eight day I was to quit.
I half expected to wake up Saturday the Eighth day with an overwhelming feeling of wanting to quit. NOT. Nor did I lose all memory of ever smoking. I woke up this past Saturday seeing my cigarettes and ashtray sitting next to my seat. Saying to myself "today is the day Linda", "Today is the day". I took the cigarette pack and put it in my ashtray and moved it out of sight. I would see how I would feel, and see if I can make it to lunch. After lunch was harder.....blood pressure was going up. Overly Anxious feeling. Tense. I took a deep breath and reminded myself of why I wanted to quit in the first place.

Recently they found a lump in my right breast during my very FIRST Mammogram. They did it a biopsy, and found out it was just a cyst. Nothing to worry about, no Breast Cancer. About a month ago, I went to the gynecologist for the first time in 19 years. They did a Pap-Smear. Results came back a week later. I had High-Grade Cancer Cells in my cervix. Had a biopsy done. No Cancer yet....but a sign of Cancer to come. They will be performing a LEEP on me on the 27th of November. This next Monday. They'll remove the lesion on my cervix. Then I get checked every 6 months to see if it came back, or if there is any cancer.

The feelings subsided after lunch, and then again into the evening. I have made it almost a full day. That's how I felt this past Saturday. It was stressful, but I kept reminding myself that "NOT SMOKING" wouldn't kill me. Just Aggravate me. But not Kill me. I would survive, if I didn't kill someone.

I thought at first Mike as having a harder time than me. But now I think I'm having a harder time. He finds work a little easier than me. Habits.....Habits....
Re-training your whole life style. I have often wondered what NON-Smokers did with their time after a meal, after drinking coffee, or even during coffee. How did they manage putting on their makeup without one burning on the sink. What did they do in the car on their way to somewhere? or on their way back from somewhere?? OH MY God, how do they manage without cigarettes????? That is what I've always wondered.

I get it now. They survived. They breathed in the air after they ate, drank or even had sex and could go again without having to recover. You see, they can breathe.
They relaxed just knowing they weren't giving themselves or someone else cancer. I pity Smokers. And I am one, so I can say this. I pity them, me..... Because we truly believe, that it can't get us. It won't touch us. Its our choice because we are adults. That's bull-crap too. These cigarette companies put stuff in them to make us addicted to them. ITS A FACT!! So no. Its not your fault, but it is if you don't try stopping. That's what I'm doing now. I'm trying. I never want to pick another one up. And as far as I see it, I won't. Wish me and Mike luck!!

Jo Beth ~ My last baby!

This is my Jo Beth. My youngest. I call her "Piggy". Its a terrible nick-name but when I gave it to her she was just a baby and eating me out of house and home, it fit well then. It has stuck to her over the years, and I believe I'm the only one that calls her that.
She is a senior this year, and hopes to go on to college to become a Forensic Pathologist. Quote "Dead People don't give you a hard time!" This is Jo Beth's Senior picture. Hot off the presses. Isn't she just a cutie pie?? Braces will be off in December, hopefully in time for her Cap and Gown pictures.
Jo Beth is heavy into JROTC, and wants to go into the military. She is hoping the service will pay for her college, and that she'll love the traveling. She's been in the JROTC for 4 years now, and I don't know exactly what her rank is, but its up there.

Years ago, long before "Blogs", there were webpages. I had created a family webpage. On that webpage I described my life, my family, my dreams and hopes. A lot like this blog. It was there I wrote about Jo Beth, at the time just a little one, about 8 or 9 years old. I remember describing her as "in the making" and "overly-emotional" and in comparison to a "three legged Mule". Just expressing her clumsiness and inability to follow direct orders. I have always loved her differently than the twins. Not more, not less. As a mother my job is to love them all equally! But I can love them differently!
(Picture: Jo Beth with Cheyenne almost 5 years ago)
It's in the jeans I suppose. Jo has always held a special spot in my heart just for being the youngest. I suppose I had more patience than anyone for Jo Beth. Lindalee and Lee Ann are always saying I didn't raise her the same. I didn't discipline her enough, and force her to do chores completely etc. That I let her get away with things I would never have let them get away with. That my whole way of dealing with Jo Beth was different than how I dealt with them. And they are correct. I am different with her. I disciplined her differently, and didn't delve into the importance of picking up a cup left behind, for 10 minutes. I could do it a lot faster if she didn't do it, and with less arguing. I didn't get on her for leaving the bathroom a mess after a shower. I could pick it up twice as fast as I could tell her about it. It wasn't as important to me that her room was clean, or that she had tons of friends, either.

(Picture:Jo Beth 5 years ago when we first moved into our house in Walkertown showing everyone our fireplace. She must get the "posing" from her sister Lee Ann. )

We dance in the kitchen, we sing all over the house! She is smart as a whip, but not so street savvy. We cry and laugh about everything. She talks to me about things that upset her, and about things she thinks about in her future. We are the Gilmore Girls. She's my other side, and I believe I'm hers. She's the last of the last. My very last puppy, and I will miss her incredibly when she goes on to find her way into life.
I know she'll always be there for us, for me. Its just knowing I can't call her down to make me a cup of coffee, or to dance with in the kitchen......(boo hooing).
She's not like Linda who would help me in the yard, or like Lee Ann who would help with the bills or shopping. She's more like my walking emotional side. She feels everything and anything, and I find her feelings are hurt easily. She will make a great doctor or anyone in the medical field, as her heart goes deep and she'll feel their pain. At the very least, she'll have a great bed-side manner, and we could use more medical people like that!!
It will truly be interesting to see how Jo Beth's life pans out. I wonder if she'll reach her goal to be who she wants to be, or if she'll go into the military. Will she meet a great guy while in Germany, and get married and have 4 children? Whatever and whoever she turns out to be, I'll know one thing. She is my "little piggy" and I'm proud of her no matter what life has in store for her. She can't do any wrong in my eyes, now or then. I love her higher than the sky, and deeper than the ocean. I'm with you honey......Till the end of eternity!

What is in a name?

They call her Cali-Bear, and Cali-Monster and Baby-Cali. Ladies and Gentlemen, here before you is the newest addition to our family....."Cali Madison"!! I know I showed you a picture of her before, but she is getting so cute, I just had to pass these on too. That is her little toe in her dress, just so you know. :)

The chubbier, tanner baby in the picture is Jennifer's son Andru. You've heard me talk about him before.....he is 4 weeks behind Cali, and still out weighs her. He was 10 pounds at birth. He is such a little chubby wubby!! And a little doll baby. We are going to fix Cali and Andru up. Its a pre-arranged agreement between parents. Cheyenne is with Ryan, and Ciera is with Tyler, and now Cali with Andru. It all works out perfect!

I was the one that picked out her name you know....."Cali". It means 'the beautiful one' in Greek language. My father comes from Greece, his family supposedly originated from there. God only knows with the secrets in his family if its even true. Thats a whole other blog too.
Cali is a little cutie pie. She has such large lips, you can see she'll give Angelina Jolie a run for her money. We are thinking she'll have blue eyes like her Mom and her Aunt Linda. We can only hope. I have green eyes, so that would be fine with me too.

Well you little sweetie, I can't wait to see the person you grow into, either way, your Grandma loves you forever. Thank you for making this a better world by being born. :)

Tired.....

They say if were tired it can be a side effect of a serious condition. Or it can be that your life it too hectic for your body to keep up. I would first describe being tired as drowsy, fatigued, or weak I suppose. Its kind of how I feel today. However I don't remember getting up at all last night to pee, or being disturbed by my barking dogs either. As far as I'm concerned....I went to bed at approximately 10:30...it wasn't quite "Doug-O'clock". The sit-com "King of Queens" comes on The WB at 11:00 PM. That's Doug-O'clock.
Mike drags my butt out of bed at about 6:15 AM. No disturbance's as far as I know last night..so what's my problem? Actually its been going on for days....just exhausted. I'm wondering if its the left over side-effects of Cleaning up the Wake Forest Stadium on Sunday for the JROTC fund raiser. They give the JROTC at Carver High School $1150 for cleaning up the stadium.
Well, at first I wasn't even there. Jo Beth went, but called me in a panic at about 11 AM to let me know she would be moving her bedroom there as they would not finish with the 16 people that they had there to help. She was concerned that they would be there for a week straight without food, unless I brought her some, and brought some additional help. So I quickly made some phone calls, got Lindalee, Mike, Danny (my nephew) and his three younger siblings Derek, Denver and David to help. Of course Cheyenne and Ciera pulling up the rear. I didn't count them, but they were there.
With our help we finished our part at about 6 PM, and the rest of them finished shortly thereafter. IT was the MOST disgusting thing I've ever had to do in my whole life!!! I know its not the largest stadium, but it sure felt like it. I now have a new outlook on cheese Wiz and jalepeno's along with wet pretzels, and I never want to see another peanut as long as I live. The stadium after the Syracuse game was an absolute pig-sty. I walked in things, you should never walk in your whole life. These items were embedded under my fingernails that I prayed I wouldn't accidentally touch my face with them.
Everyone was exhausted, and the heat was unbearable. Bend, Shift, stretch....reach, reach, reach.......You had to come up with a strategy to get the garbage from the ground into your garbage bag. Should you start from the bottom-up, and reach for the garbage, or from the top-down...bend for the garbage. My chosen strategy was to do it from the bottom-up. By the end of the day, I wasn't sure I had chosen the right strategy either. My shoulders have still not healed. I'm not sure my back will heal ever, either.
I'm a short little shit, who pains myself on the fact that I'm closer to the floor than most, but I'm not sure that was a hindrance, or a help. There are parts of my body that ache that shouldn't ache!! And new found parts of my body I didn't know existed to begin with. Did you know that part of your ass, thats not quite part of your leg or ass......well it must have its own set of muscles. Because I've been finding it difficult to sit in one swell swoop!

So am I just tired....to be tired?? Or am tired because I AM tired?? And I experiencing a side effect of life, or a serious condition?? My sister Karen would say "Its your thyroid!!!!" If I didn't live such a hectic life "being tired" would be something I would read about in someone else's blog I'm sure. And I'm sure I'm preaching to the Chior as everyone gets tired from time to time right?? Just be sure..........your not feeling the side effects of a more serious condition like "Lackasleepanightess"!

Its Raining Cats and Dogs!

"ERNESTO GETTING STRONGER...HIS RAIN BANDS MOVING THROUGH THE TRIAD WITH MORE TONIGHT INTO FRIDAY...WATCH OUT FOR FLOOD PROBLEMS AS RAIN TOTALS RISE....HOLIDAY WEEKEND STILL LOOKING MUCH NICER BY SATURDAY." Thats the headlines today in Winston Salem, NC.
http://www.wxii12.com/weather/index.html

Well thats good to know. I would hate to have my 3-day weekend off, which doesn't happen very often, and not be able to enjoy the weather. I'm glad Ernesto never hit New Orleans. That it didn't gain a lot of strength in the Gulf either. They need to keep the weather out down there for awhile. My heart goes out to all still suffering the effects of Katrina. What a nasty storm that was.

We are very much inland here, and I'm not too worried about hurricanes. But I remember them quite well, being from the Jersey Shore all my life. I remember Hurricane Gloria back in 1985, with her 100 mile per hour winds. I remember Hurricane Bob back in August of 1991, that was a strong one. Hurricane Emily in 1993 was a strong one too. And although I wasn't there in NJ for Hurricane Floyd in 1999, I remember it quite well. As kids we always knew it was a big storm, when my father would put all of the outside furniture in the Garage. The pool would get shut down, ladder up and all toys brought in. Otherwise, all that stuff sat out on a daily basis.

I'm hoping Hurricane Ernesto passes us by and everyone else without incident. Hopefully it doesn't get as strong as some are saying its going to. My prayers are with those in the way of the storm.

Remember to prepare just in case. Have a disaster plan. I don't have one, but I'm not on the shore anymore. I am working on my own disaster plan here. Here's a good generic checklist/plan:

• Fill your car with gas. Make sure the battery is in good condition.
• Review county and state roadway maps.
• Check your battery-powered equipment. A radio could be your only link
  with the outside world during and after a hurricane.
• Lower or secure TV and radio antennas (CB or HAM) to prevent
  antennas from coming in contact with electrical wires.
• Remove all items from the yard and open patios.
• Board up windows. Close shutters,
  awnings, windows and drapes. Tape windows from the inside.
• If you plan to stay home, check your supply of emergency food and
  water. Emergency food supplies should include: canned fish, chicken or
  meat, fruits (fresh and dried), soups, juices, milk (fresh or powdered), dry
  cereal, cookies and bread.
• Include any other non-refrigerated food necessary for your family. Small families should purchase single-serving size containers. Obtain and fill clean containers with drinking water.
• Do not store drinking water in used milk containers.
• Pack your valuables in waterproof containers. Valuables include jewelry,
  titles, deeds, insurance papers, licenses, stocks, bonds, inventory list, etc.
• Place valuables in a safety deposit box. If you do not have a safety
  deposit box, keep your valuables with you. Keep important papers with
  you at all times.
• Refill prescription drugs. Obtain an extra supply of special medication.
• Make arrangements for the safety of your house pets. Pets are not
  allowed in designated emergency public shelters.
• Make arrangements for the safety of your boats. If the situation warrants
  a mandatory evacuation, drawbridges will be closed to boat traffic.
• Fill clean plastic containers, cooking pots or clean bathtubs with drinking water.
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting. This preserves food as long as possible in case of a power failure.
• Do not drain your swimming pool. Keep the swimming pool full to approximately 12 inches below the edge, to compensate for expected rainfall.
• Wedge sliding glass doors to prevent them from being lifted from their tracks. Brace your garage door.
• Protect appliances and furniture. Elevate them above floor level and cover them with plastic.
• Stay tuned to local radio and television stations for official weather statements and emergency instructions for your area.
• If county authorities advise or order evacuation of your area, leave immediately.
• If you plan to go to an emergency public shelter, take these items: drinking water in a plastic container, nonperishable food, medicine, blankets, a complete change of clothing, personal hygiene items, flashlight with extra batteries and bulbs, quiet toys or games for children, plastic trash bags, eating and cooking utensils (plastic or paper), manual can and bottle opener and a portable radio with extra batteries.
• Remember, alcoholic beverages, pets and weapons are not allowed in emergency public shelters.
• If you leave your home, shut off gas and electricity at the main power source. Shut off water lines to your home.
• Lock all windows and doors before leaving. Call relatives and friends and let them know what you are doing and where you are going. This will reduce phone system overloading from them trying to get in touch with you.
• If you live inland, away from beaches and low-lying coastal areas, and your home is well-constructed, stay home and make emergency preparations. Do not stay if officials recommend evacuation.
• Be alert for tornado watches and warnings. Hurricanes often spawn tornados. If your area receives a tornado warning, seek inside shelter immediately. Stay away from windows.
• If you stay at home, avoid using electric appliances. Seek refuge in a small, interior area such as a hallway, closet or bathroom.
• If your evacuation route is impassible and you become trapped on low ground, seek refuge in a third or fourth floor hallway of a high rise building.

Well good luck to all. Hope this helped.

Weekend Gone By....

Well another weekend has past us by. Lee Ann's friend Jennifer, who I consider an adopted daughter had her baby early Saturday morning approximately 3:30 AM. We spent the night at Forsyth Hospital in Winston Salem over night from Friday waiting on 'Andru Brandon' to be born. I left work Friday night, headed over to my bowling League meeting, then headed to Forsyth Hospital with Lee Ann, Lindalee and Mike approximately 7 o'clock PM.

She pushed and pushed for hours, about 8 hours to be exact, with 45 minute naps in between. If you want to call them naps. His head was showing for God-Sake!
She delivered him naturally. 9 lbs, 15.9 ounces. You call it what you want....but in my book, thats a 10 pound baby!!!!! And did you hear me say "Naturally"??

Mom is doing well and Daddy is great too. We went to Jennifer's wedding about 1 1/2 years ago. Here's a picture of Jennifer with her Dad Bob. She is a beautiful girl isn't she? Model's are made of Jennifers.















Baby Andru is huge compared to my new granddaughter 'Cali'. She is so petite compared to him. They are so close in age, we'll have to fix them up as they get older. I'll keep you updated on that.

We have already fixed Cheyenne up with Jennifer's nephew Ryan. Her sister's son. He is approximately 4 1/2 years old, and Cheyenne is too. They were in Lee Ann's wedding together too, very cute. Here's a picture of them at the wedding, this is back in 2003. They were so little here.











And here they are at Jenn's wedding this past year. Cheyenne was the brides doll...or at least thats what I call it. She was actually called the Junior Bride. Ryan was the ring bearer. Aren't they just too cute??

Typical Thursday.....or was it?

Morning all. Yeah its Friday.....!! I'm excited. We start bowling in our Winter League tonight...or at least its the first meeting for it. Mike, Lindalee and I are the team, and we are actually hunting for the fourth bowler. We lost Danny (my nephew) from our last league. He basically doesn't want to commit to something like this for the whole winter. The Bowling league doesn't end until May of 2007, so I suppose I understand. I just love it though.

Yesterday was a typical Thursday. Nothing special....work, work and more work. Jo Beth is excited, she starts school today. She is now officially a senior. I'm worried of course, that means its not too long, and we'll have to be figuring out how to send her to college. God, its not something I'm looking forward to.

Hey Guess what?? My girlfriend Heather came by the house after work, and I was very excited to see her. I always am. We have such busy lives and its difficult to get together sometimes. We do lunch when we can, and email when we can. I just wish we had more time, as I really do enjoy her company, and its always such a treat when she's able to stop by.
We would get more one on one time if I stopped by her place, because at my house its always a zoo of people. Lindalee, Cheyenne, and Ciera were there. Lee Ann and my new granddaughter Cali was there too. Of course Mike and Jo Beth, and yes....poor Heather having to deal with all of us.

I need to take an evening and go over to Heather's house and drink a few glasses of wine and just relax and shoot the breeze. She'll be leaving me soon. She's moving over by Durham-Raleigh to live with her boyfriend Clay. I will definitely miss her. But I wish her the best of luck, and happiness. Here's a picture of her with Clay. Isn't she a cutie??

There's something about Heather.....let me see if I can explain her. She is this very cool mix of precious insecurity, intense passion, emotionalness (is that a word?) and this cute wild side about her. She is an eternal teenager, and I'm very jealous of her!!. She is beautiful, and adorable at the same time. She has this smile that lights up a room, and this awesome laugh to go along with it. Very contagious.
She is a good friend, and you feel it when your with her. She makes you feel your important, always putting her own feelings aside. She is an "Actual" listener. She asks nothing of you...but will give you all she's got!! I love her, I do....and I will sorely miss her when she leaves. I know we'll be friends for a long time though, so I'm not worried.

I met Heather while I was working for the last Engineering firm I was with. I left there over 2 years ago, and so did she. Now we work for different firms, but still remain friends. Heather just lost her dad recently, and I felt so bad for her and her sisters and her mom. She has come through it like a champion. Strong I tell you...even though I know she doesn't think so.

I envy her for her independence, and her strength and her kindness! Oh...I know I'm a survivor, but its nice when you see another women being the same. There's this Woman Kindship....

I just wanted to say "You take care of you sweetie"...and remember Heather, I'm just a phone call away, a drive away and a glass of wine away!!!! Thanks for being you!

Sad News........

My sister Karen was just diagnosed with Graves Disease today. http://www.4woman.gov/faq/graves.htm I'm very sad about it. Its something to do with her thyroid. I know its not as serious as cancer, or anything like that. I just hate that she has to add anything to her "plate" right now. Karen is very strong, handles an enormous amount of responsibility. Works under the blanket of stress daily. Which is probably why she is having to deal with this right now.

I suppose it goes back to the old cliche', "What doesn't kill you, only makes you stronger!" I would have to say that applies with most of us in my family. We have all been through a lot. Not that I would change anyf of it, because I wouldn't. It makes me who I am. Its just that we have survived it all, and now are awaiting the next phase of our lives. Whats next, God forbit an illness, heart ache, a death in the family. I hope not. It could be a promotion, lottery winner, a new baby? And again, such is life. We will wait...patiently.

As for Karen, I know she'll pull through...shes a survivor. She's my sister....she doesn't know any other way to deal with it, but to overcome! My prayers are with you honey. I love you.

The Weekend...

Mom......she is just too much. Her and Jo Beth went Goodwill shopping. Mom likes her weekends where she can take the day, get lunch, grab one of the kids (mostly Sherianne) and go shopping at GoodWill. She gets all kinds of things......she just kills me. "You don't need her back at any specific time do you" she asks of Jo Beth. I told her "of course not Mom", as I was already aware from her prior outings that it could be an all day ordeal.
And then she came and told me all about they're great deals. Jo Beth got these two pocket books, one that kind of green chacky (sp) material. She likes it as she is part of the JROTC Drill team and she says its kind of Armyish. Mom picked up these great dress pants etc. Mom has always been a great yard-saler way back. My childhood memories were of my mother disappearing on the weekends, (sometimes I got to go) or she would find some unwanted item to restore in someone's garbage. I must admit, my mother was always very good at it. The items just about looked brand new by the time she was done.
I have inherited her love of used items, as I attend Auctions quite often. Every chance I get as a matter of fact.

Nothing fancy this weekend. Checked out "Pulse" the horror flick this weekend. In my opinion, don't waste your time or money. It was just terrible. Story line was awful, ending was empty. Just not worth my 1 hour and 45 minutes to sit there. The movie theatre was nice. Its the new "Grand" in Winston Salem. Reclining chairs....very comfortable. Disappointing movie though.

George, Mom and all my girls, the grand babies and Mike were all at the house yesterday. Just sitting out on my side porch enjoying the sun go down, and drinking coffee. It made for a nice afternoon/evening. Here's a couple pics of Lee Ann and Jeff with Cali in the hospital.













They came out sort of dark, but I think you get the idea.















All in all a good weekend. I'll check back later......

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY...

Hey everyone, just finished reading my Aunt Kathy's emails, and they sooooo make me laugh, and cry. She told me a sad story about a worker of hers that was murdered a while back.

My Aunt Kathy and her story reminded me of how much our life can be affected by others, situations, feelings etc.
Affected by the ones that love us. The ones that dis-like us. The ones we try to love, and don't get in return. Affected by death and all destruction around us, and the birth of a newborn baby.
By war, and peace. And how just a simple word, either good or bad from someone can change our destiny for the day...or even life. And will most likely affect how you treat the next person.

We are a like a tapestry, intertwined in each others lives, and sometimes we don't even know it. We sit next to someone in a restaurant, on a bus, next to you in line at grocery store, and you over hear their conversation or you witness an act they may be doing. And now you are affected by them. They on the other hand disappear into life and are never seen again, but they somehow changed you, reminded you, taught you.

You touch me, I touch you.....we are affected. Ah, but such is a life without being affected...an empty box I suppose. Never leave your house, don't turn on the TV, don't watch a child play, or an elderly couple smile and hold hands. Don't listen to the news about Israel. or Iraq or Iran, or Korea or China. Don't watch how that man down the street from you didn't register as a child molester, or how a 17 year old in the next town over just killed his grandparents because they wouldn't give him money for crack.

Whoever says we go through life with rose-colored glasses on, must live on the moon. Because if you are a citizen of mankind, then you've been affected in some sort of way. Your mood changed for a minute by a fellow employee, himself or herself having a bad day, and chose the wrong words to talk to you.....used a different tone in their voice. Your affected. It can be anything.

My Aunt Kathy's story affected me. It was very sad.....sad for her, and the child left behind, motherless. He sang at his mother's funeral. Can you imagine. This little boy approximately 8-10 years old singing at his young mother's funeral. I envy his strength. His courage.










And his story has probably affected 200 other people, and more people in the future.
And the story continues....just that one story. How have you been affected today?

THIRSTY THURSDAY!

People that frequent bars call today "Thirsty Thursday". However I am not one of them. Some days I suppose I wish I was, but I am such a poor drinker. Three beers and I'm three sheets to the wind.

Jo Beth says she is "So Excited...I'm going to College this next year..YEAH!". She's a senior in High School this year. School starts on August 25th here. I remember when I lived in NJ my whole life, school always started the day after labor day. Here they start so early. Actually its later this year, usually its the beginning of August.
She's thinking college and all I'm thinking is how the hell am I suppose to afford this?? She wants to attend Elon University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, or High Point University. She wants to go Pre-Med. I think we need to do some more research. That's what I think. Tuition and housing fees are through the roof!

Jo Beth has been geared towards college since as far back as I can remember. The twins always thought they would go, but I just don't think they knew what they wanted to do. Lee Ann actually got "to" college for Landscape Architecture, but wound up hating it, and leaving. Then she got married to Jeff, and bought a house. Jeff and Lee Ann were just 19 years old when they bought their house. I was never so proud of them then at that moment. Good for them.

Lindalee couldn't decide what she wanted to do, and before you knew it, she was married to Shaun and having 2 little ones (Cheyenne & Ciera). This is Linda and Shaun a couple of weeks ago. Lindalee has got to the be the greatest help to everyone in the family. Shaun drives OTR for a living, and thats "Over the Road" for those of you that don't know. They are actually a really cute couple. He's really good for Linda, and I'm very proud of them too. :)Now Lee Ann has her first child (Cali). Its funny how life throws curve balls at you.

But Jo Beth has got to go. The child has thought of nothing but going to college ever since she was little. She jumped around a bit about her choice of majors, but settled on wanting to be a "Forensic Pathologist" about 4 years ago. She's talked about nothing but that for some time now. I would hate it if she couldn't go. Her grades are awesome at school, she's got a GPA of about 3.9, but her SAT scores are not very good. I've had her take them twice already and will be signing her up again before September. But to honest, she is just terrible at taking these tests. Even though she is on the National Honor Society, on the Honor Roll etc.

Its going to be quite a trial to get her into college, mostly I'm worried financially, and secondly on whether she'll get accepted to where she wants to go. But we'll see what happens.

As a single Mom for so many years, my greatest fear was not being able to give them, what I never had. All three of my girls got braces out of my own pocket. Not insurance for Orthodontal. Thankfully there was dental insurance, but you know how that goes. I was proud of being able to do that.

I am dissappointed that college is becoming such a burdon for me. Just the thought of it. Maybe as time pans out, and scholarships are filled out, and loans are acquired, and she gets accepted, it won't be making me feel so inadequate. Until that time though I worry. Can't help it.

I'll check back in later all.....see ya.

Approaching "Happy Hump Day"....

Its been a basically uneventful Tuesday here at work, and I'm looking forward to Happy Hump Day Wednesday. Once you hit Wednesday, you know its down hill to the weekend. Sorry for all the readers that have to work on the weekends. Not me, I'm not sure there's enough money out there to make me work on a weekend either.
Nice that no one is looking to get things submitted today. I've been in Civil Engineering 26 years this year I believe. Its been a very long career. I started back in 1980. I actually started my career in Mechanical Drafting for a company called Lenape Equipment Company. They built industrial Washers and dryers. I drew them up. I hated it. I've been in Civil Engineering ever since. It pays the bills, and alloted me the opportunity to be a single Mom and survive with my three daughters financially, and some days I really enjoy it.

I divorced thier dad Joseph back in 1993. Thats another blog. :) Here he is with Lee Ann the day she got married.

All in all, as a man, he's a good guy. He served two tours Desert Shield, then Desert Storm Gulf War I, and now again in Gulf War II. For that, I'm very proud of him. As a Dad, even after 24 years, he still needs some major work. :) He's in NJ with his new wife, and her children (all grown now). The girls don't get to see him often. Jo Beth at least wishes she saw him more. He has made it down a few times, so that is good. I get along pretty good with his parents. His father Joe (Pops) is such a sweetie, and I have loved Mary (his Mom) forever. She's actually not doing very well right now, and I worry about her. Pops is a veteran of the Korean war, and an absolute saint. He served with the US Marines. And of course we all are very proud of him. Always. Him and Mary remind of me of Archie Bunker and Edith. Very funny together, but don't let that fool you, he'll follow her to the end of time.

His brother, Uncle Sal is on the top of our "love" list too. He has continued to be the nicest man on the planet. Sal is one of a kind. And we are always glad to see him. We always tease about our "Uncle Salvatore" in the Mob in New York which is where he lives. Heres pictures below of Mary and Joe (Pops) and Uncle Sal and his wife from Lee Ann's wedding.

Lee Ann and Lindalee brought Cali to my office yesterday. I'm so proud. She is such a little cutie. Grow little one...eat up. I can't wait until she's like 3 months. All she does now is sleep, poop and eat. But everyone once in awhile, if your willing to hang in there for the long run, she'll give you the cutest smile. Gas you say??? Well that may very well be, but I'd like to think she knows who I am, and she is saying (in her own way) that she loves me, and soon she'll be able to tell me that!

A Relaxing Sunday!

Hi Everyone. Well its the end of a quiet Sunday, and I thought I would drop a few thoughts down for you. I cooked most of the day, really at the request of my brother George. A few weekends ago, I made some Eggplant Parmesan, and he loved it, and made me promise I would make him some again the following weekend. That was last weekend, and I didn't keep my promise. It was just a hectic weekend, like most. I just couldn't find the time. And if any of you know anything about Eggplant Parmesan, its an all day ordeal. First the Sauce, from scratch mind you, and then the breaded fried Eggplant. The cheeses and the baking. All day...believe me.
So I decided to make it this weekend for him. Got up early, started the sauce. Etc. Etc. Made him his own pan of it. Where was George when it was ready you ask? Down somewhere south of us near Lake Norman, that's where. Helping a buddy of his with his heating and air at a house he thinking about buying.
I had Jo Beth bring it to his house, with some made special for Colleen, since she is such an angel. I'll tell you about her another day. She is Georges wife. I also sent some over to my neighbors. They are an elderly couple, living next to each other. Both I think in their nineties. They farm part of my land, and they are always giving us fresh vegetables. That's where the Eggplant and tomatoes come from. Along with fresh Okra and cabbage. Very yummy. I'm very thankful. My Mike is always helping them out, doing this and that. I feel like sometimes, that we can't do enough for them. Michael does for them, so much more than I can ever do. Here he is...Isn't he a cutie?
I love him to death. We are working on our 14th year this year. Thats off and on. :) That I promise you, is another blog.
I baked a cake today too, however honestly, it was just a box cake, but it was still good. I will usually take short cuts on desserts, but not the meals. Usually that is. I'd like to think of myself as a decent cook. And when it comes to Italian food, I think I'm pretty good at it.
I cut some of my flowers outside and re-rooted them. Cleaned house some. And that's about all I really did. I painted some watercolors butterflies, and I'll put some on here for you at a later date I think. Unless you see them here now. :)
Now I did forget to tell you, that while I was doing all of that, I was always watching my 3 and 4 year old granddaughters. I usually watch them on Sunday's as Lindalee works. I really don't mind, I just know to put that one day aside for them.
They just kill me. Basically they were pretty good today, surprise...surprise. They like to help me cut up vegetables, and had a very interesting time today with onions. They cried and cried.....but nothing a nice cold wet paper towels on their eyes couldn't cure. They tried some cantaloupe and I think they liked it too.
I got a call from my Aunt Kathy today. I never remember whether she spells her name with a "K" or a "C". So if you see me running back and forth with them, forgive me.
She just called to fill me on things for my Mom. It was really good to hear from her. I miss her. Isn't it funny, how you can spend a great deal of time without someone in your life, but the minute they step back into it, it reminds you of what you've been missing all along? I really missed her. I saw her, and like my sister Karen says, she reminds me of my past, our past. The good things....not the bad. She is such a sweetie. Here's a picture of my Aunt and I taken while she was down here a couple of weekends ago. I look so tan compared to her. I really don't lay out or anything, its just what I pick up throughout the summer driving and swimming. I guess its my Greek/Welsh skin.

Isn't she beautiful?? I see a lot of my grandfather in her. Her smile......Her sense of humor. Both her and my Mom share that. They have the most awesome sense of humor. Grandma Edna from time to time showed some, but Grandpa Tom couldn't help but show us his....Every time we saw him. They are obviously my Mom's parents. His face would light up a room. I remember his smile so much, and those twinkling eyes too. I miss him too, and Grandma. I think about them often.

Heres a picture I have of them that I keep on my desktop. Look at my grandfather's smiling face.

From left to right. My Great-Uncle Jimmy, my grandmother Edna, my Great-grandfather and my great-grandmother next to him, my Great-Aunt Irene, and of course my Grandfather Tom.

They are the deep roots in this family, and I'm glad to still be here, it must be because of the good roots we have! Solid Roots. This is their gift to us. Strength.

I sent some Eggplant Parm. to my Mom too. I know she likes it. Here's a picture of Mom from Karen's pool party for Aunt Kathy. This was taken the same time as the one of Aunt Kathy and I above.

Mom is doing well since her pacemaker was put in a couple of weeks ago. Actually we were all surprised to see how well. She gave us quite the scare. I thought we might have lost her through that whole ordeal. As you already know, I'm very glad we didn't.

Mom is truly my Angel here on earth. And I wish I could do so much more for her. My Mom has been through so much. She was married early to my dad, just when she was 16. She had my sister Karen when she was 17, and me when she was 18. My brother George came when she was 21, and the twins, Jason and Cathy when she was just 28. It was an abusive marriage in every aspect, and she survived 25 long years of it. And through all of it, she kept her dignity, beauty, and her everlasting sense of humor. Ask me how? God only knows...Doesn't he? I love you Mom, but you already know that don't you? :)

Well its time to head off to bed. I'm actually quite tired. Just had me a piece of that yummy Chocolate cake with Vanilla icing. And it seems to be sitting nicely with the Eggplant Parm. (laughing)
Jo Beth (below) is watching the girls tomorrow. She went and saw Cali at Lee Ann's house tonight too. I figured for a couple days, I'll let them get adjusted to the new way of life with their new baby Cali. I've been over there a lot lately, and don't want her to feel bombarded.
I was glad to hear that Lee Ann made it out of house today. That's good, she is feeling better after her C-section. It is going to take her some time to feel 100%. I remember after all of mine.
I can't wait until Cali puts some meat on her, she is so fragile right now. I will put pictures of her on here, as soon as I get them developed.
Well good night all. Sleep well......

The Day Finally Arrived.....

Sorry I've been gone! My New Granddaughter (Cali Madison) was born on July 31st at 10:29 PM. It was a very LONGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG day. Started at 6 AM Monday morning. Lee Ann was doing so good all day, contractions perfectly apart. But Cali got stuck in the birth canel and they had to give Lee Ann a C-Section. I was really hoping she wasn't going to need one. But such is life. She is finally here, YEAH!!!!!!

Mommy is doing quite well, and should be getting out of the hospital this evening or maybe tomorrow morning. Cali will be going home to see her puppies, the Chow (Sequoia) and the Great Dane (Tonka). We discussed him earlier. All I know is Lee Ann is about to have her hands full!!

I was sorry to hear this week that Jeff's (Lee Ann's Husband) Uncle Randy was in the hospital with a stroke. I'm now told he is totally brain dead, and they have removed him from Life support. His body is holding its own for now, but I'm sure it won't be for long. Sad...very sad.

They say for every life that leaves, another one takes its place. Randy may be leaving us, but Cali is coming in. Sad for one, Joyous for the other. Such I suppose, is the Circle of Life.

God Bless Randy, Rest in Peace.

My daughter and her husband are very upset, of course. Its been a bitter-sweet week for them. Jeff lived with Randy for sometime, and with his own parents (not very good ones at that) living at different locations, and not getting along with anyone ....I know he loved his Uncle Randy very much. I feel really bad for him.

Ok...enough Sad stuff. CALI is here....and I'm so excited. She weighed in at 7 lbs, 9 ounces. She was 20 inches long, and a full head of brown hair. Which most likely will turn blonde and then go brunette again. Like the rest of our family. She is absolutly beautiful, a picture of perfection. She has full lips, and wide eyes, and very much is a good mix between her parents. Welcome to the world Cali.....we so were expecting you!!!!!!

Still Working, Still waiting.....

OH No.....God Forbid. :) No Baby yet. We keep waiting and waiting and waiting. Someone comes here into my office every once in a while and asks...."She have the baby yet??" "No..not yet" I say pretty consistently lately. :) She'll be here, when she gets here. My little Cali, I can't wait.

Well Aunt Cathy is off to NJ, flew out of PTI (Piedmont International Airport in Greensboro, NC) this morning. I miss her already. Karen said it was a tearful departure. Of course I couldn't be there....too much work to do here at the office. She knows I'll miss her. I really enjoyed her visit. Maybe my girls and I can visit her in NJ sometime soon. I'd really like that.....this way I can see Sarah Kate, and Robert too. And of course Uncle Isaac, also.

She got to see my house yesterday. Mom drove her by while I was at work. She said she loved it. I will have to put pictures of it on here at sometime. I bought it approximately 5 years ago. Mike and I have been renovating it, and adding tons of landscaping. There wasn't a stitch of landscaping at all. Although it did come with a stump garden. That what I called it, because it was nothing but a bunch of stumps from trees they had removed. Pretty sad actually. But you should see it now, even just 5 years later. What a difference. We planted River Birches, and Plum Trees, and Bradford Pears (which I'm sure I'll regret) and a bunch of holly's and Azaleas etc.

My house is approximately 78 years old. I believe it was built back in 1928. It was the Parsonage for the Church on my road. The family I bought the house from were the only owners since the Church. And they were rough on it. Like I said earlier we have been renovating it for 5 years. One room at a time. Its tough but well worth it.

My daughter Jo Beth is home sick today, watching our Great Dane puppy. I was talking to her earlier and told her she has to work on getting better, so if Lee Ann has the baby, she's not stuck home sick. She took some Sudefed. I'm sure she'll be feeling better before she knows it.

Lee Ann and I had lunch together today, as we do most days. Carvel today though...Ice cream cones as we were not that hungry. Besides its like 100 degrees out today. Thats about all we could handle.

Well I gotta run, I'll blog soon. :)

Waiting, and Waiting.......

I feel like its time, don't you?? NO, the baby isn't here yet. I don't think I would be so anxious if she didn't get me going with the whole "plug" thing. Now, I want Cali here. Unbelievable she hasn't had her yet. She's still at work....can you believe it?? We went this afternoon and got her dresser for the babies room. And it is a beautiful set. Cherry. Very Pretty. Her and Jeff (Lee Ann's husband) picked up the crib last week.

We had dinner at Karen's (my older sister) house last night, a bit of a barbecue/pool party for my Aunt Cathy. She'll be flying back into NJ on Friday, and I'll be sad to see her leave. I can tell Mom really likes having her around. And she has been such a blast to have here. I wish she lived closer. I really do.

Its nice to have your family around, sometimes I think their the only ones who understand us. We are a bit dysfunctional...but we put the word "fun" in dyfunctional believe me! Besides I believe the "new" normal is a "dysfunctional" family. Who decides what is normal anyway? My family is no different than most I think. My immediate family, my girls, granddaughters and Mike are the most normal in my family. But if you ask all of them, they'll tell you the same thing.

Cheyenne and Ciera (you met them below) were there swimming at Karen's too. As a matter of fact it was pretty much a full house. All the family I mean. George's (my brother) boys, all four of them and their Mom Colleen, and of course Karen's family. Her two sons, TJ and Dakota (who is quite a handful) her daughter Sherianne, and her husband Randy. My brother Jason and his family which includes a daughter and son and his wife Denise . It turned out to be a nice time. It was just a bit muggy, but the food was good, the company was good too.
A few were missing, but that's another days blog. :)