The Fidler's Three

2011-12-15T13:22:00.000-06:00

Happy 14th Birthday, Grant, Caroline and Isabelle!!!!!!

2011-10-27T08:43:00.004-05:00

Love me some Doodlebugs!!!!!!www.doodlebugspaper.com

Strength

2011-10-05T14:22:00.005-05:00

2011-10-03T14:59:00.000-05:00

This is my dads first birthday in Heaven. We had a 73 balloon release on September 29th. It was a great night! After the balloon release we had a family dinner at Chucks! I miss my dad every day.

2011-10-03T14:55:00.000-05:00

Grant is playing football this year, and Izzy is playing Volleyball. They are both doing really well. I was a little nervous about Grant getting tackeld....he hasn't had is growth spurt yet!!!! I really love when he comes home from practice and tells me about all the broken bones!!!

Here is Izzy waiting for the ball.....she is a ball of fire!!!

The season is almost over........hoping they continue in high school next year......did
I just say that!!!!

Add caption

two grants

2011-08-25T11:08:00.003-05:00

This is my Uncle Grant, I named my son after him. He was one of the funniest people you could ever meet. He died suddenly a few months ago. He was only 59. I miss him a lot. We talked every Monday on his way home from bowling or golfing. Just quick chit chat, talked about his bowling scores, what was going on with his body ache and pains, what he was picking up for dinner for my Aunt Cindy. Monday nights have not been the same since......

first day of 8th grade

2011-08-24T13:59:00.013-05:00

First day of 8th grade. Where does the time go!!!!!

Miss Isabelle

Mr. Grant

Miss Caroline.

Lots of activites planned for this year. Football, Volleyball, Yearbook, behind the scenes for the play, band, orchestra! Gonna be a busy year for the Fidlers!

Mime Show!

2011-05-09T14:17:00.006-05:00

The girls had a Mime Show last weekend. They practiced three times a week for the month of April! Caroline had to be at school at 6:30!!! Thanks goodness Jim took her..........you can tell that the teacher loves what she does. Jim and I chaperoned the show....could not be a teacher for any amount of money. I would end up drop kicking someone! HA!! I made my whole family go!!!!

Izzy and Liv

Caraoline and her pals!

Izzy

They had a great time, and are looking forward to next year!

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

2011-03-08T21:16:00.002-06:00

I have had sleep issues for a long time! I have also been told that I snore......ME? So I finally decided to go and have a sleep study. I wish I could go every night......my own room, bed all to myself.....my own bathroom.......heavenly.....until the nurse woke me up and told me I stopped breathing 15 times! WHAT?!?!? Tonight will be my first night with my cpap machine.......gonna be very attractive!

once a triplet always a triplet

2011-03-03T21:37:00.002-06:00

this is how they all dressed for school today.......it was not planned!!!! HA! I used to coordinate their outfits when they were little........now they are doing it all on their own! HA! I can't believe they didn't all go and change!

They also need some sun.....they are so pale!!!!

Big Day!!

2011-03-03T21:30:00.002-06:00

Izzy got her braces off today! It was a surprise! They had a cancellation! She was so excited!!!

My heads going to fall off.......

2011-02-27T20:56:00.002-06:00

This isn't just any head, it is a head made out of nuts & bolts from our dads salvage yard. It was an art project for an auction fundraiser that my sisters school has. My mom really wanted to win this head.....of course there was an emotional attachment! The fundraiser was last night. My mom had the high bid. The lady that worked on the "art project" visited with my brother and mom the entire night. EVERYONE knew we wanted the head, there was an emotional attachment. At the last second the lady that worked on the "art project" outbid my mom by $25.00. SERIOUSLY........you have got to be kidding me.....the lady became attached to it......FOR REAL......it is a head with nuts and bolts on it......you see, our dad just died four months ago, the nuts and bolts were from our salvage yard.......we had a little bit of an emotional attachment.......some people just don't get it.......

lucky mom!

2011-02-19T22:55:00.003-06:00

Some days these three drive me NUTS! HA!! but...... some days I am so lucky that they are my kids! The girls wanted to go to the mall this weekend, so I told them they could go, but I would go with them. I would sit and drink a soda read a book and let them shop with their friends. So many of their friends told them to lie to me, tell your mom you are going over to my house, and then we will go to the mall......I am so glad they are not ready to "lie" to me!!!!! I have three great kids and I am lucky to be their mom.........and they really do like hanging out with me and their dad! I pray ever day that they continue to be great kids!!!!

actions speak louder then words!!!

2011-01-29T10:49:00.004-06:00

2011-01-29T10:16:00.006-06:00

The girls and I babysat for my cousins Joe, and Tory! They played with Emery, and I got to be a baby hog!!! Bode is so sweet, and such a good baby!

The girls helped Emery make Smores! Yum!!!
Pictures of our creations!

Miss Emery dressed up in her princess outfit.

Izzy as a pig.....oink!

Caroline as a pig.....oink.....oink......

We had so much fun, and we hope they ask us again real soon!!!!!

Happy Birthday!

2010-12-16T08:57:00.003-06:00

Thanksgiving.....2010

2010-11-21T19:48:00.015-06:00

Family.......so much to be thankful for!

Uncle Grant, Jordan, and LULU

Nicky.....too much celebrating!

Grandma Sampson..(Aunt JoAnn) and Ella

Peace!

Cousins having fun!

Princess Raina

Emery Rose

Benjamin

Olivia

Tracy

Mom and Wendi

The WHOLE GANG!!!

the three little pigs.............

2010-11-10T13:36:00.006-06:00

Grant (not really thrilled about this idea)

Sweet Caroline

she wanted to be the shy pig!

Miss Izzy

2010-10-25T22:24:00.002-05:00

My dad passed away last Saturday. It was a miracle that he lived as long as he did with esophegeal cancer. Most patients die within the first year. He felt good most of the time, until about six months ago. He had surgery to remove part of his stomach due to bleeding ulcers. He never felt great after that. His kidneys started to shut down, and they told us there was nothing more they could do. We brought him home to be in his own bed, and to be with his dog Lilly. Me, my two brothers and sister moved with our mom and dad. Most of the time my aunts, uncles, cousins, niece, nephew, our kids, our wives, our husbbands were all there too!Incredible gift that we were given to spend time with our dad. I am very sad, but he would not want to live the way that he had been living. I know he is having a big party in heaven with everyone!!! This picture was taken last summer at the Lake of the Ozarks on the tritoon boat. His favorite place to be!

Happy Birthday!

2010-09-12T16:05:00.010-05:00

The closer I get to "50" birthdays aren't that big of a deal to me......but I still want to celebrate!!!
Here area few of my awesome gifts that I received....

This is from my friend Marlayna. She always likes to make a "surprise" visit to my house! She got me this darling magnet board this fabulous paper weight! I won't ever let her in my house....its always a mess!!
The cutest damask bag with my monogram from my cousin Christen. It was an Etsy birthday from her this year!! She is addicted to Etsy, and so am I!! I love anything monogrammed!!!!

When I was in New York City with my friend Vancy she introduced me to Tory Burch! She sent me this wonderful Tory Burch dog tag, and a magazine all about Tory. I want to hang out with Tory!

My dear stitch friends Donna, and Charlene gave me these beautiful mugs. They know how much I love things with "words". Can't wait to have me some hot chocolate this winter!

My sister always takes very good care of me on my birthday. This frame is from Holly Christine on Etsy. I love her things! She also got me a ring that I have been wanting from Silpada, and a bracelet from J.Crew........also...is this chalkboard the cutest! She wanted to keep it for herself, but she gave it to me instead!!!

More gifts from my cousin Christen......note cards, return address labels, the cutest necklace with a bird, and a nest with three eggs, black and white chalkboard tags, some yummy lotion, and these divine coasters with my last name! Everything was from Etsy, except the lotion! My cousin always send the best gifts!

This candle is from my friend Veronica......love all the words....it smells so good. I am saving it for a special occasion!

This gift is from my friend Kacey at Doodlebugs Paper. Magnets from Holly Christen, the cutest chocolate brown necklace with my monogram, and green/black note cards! We have never met, but she always knows how to brighten my day!

My triplet friend Helen took me to Granite City for my birthday. It was a beautiful day, and great conversation. I always get the chicken sandwich with artichoke dip! Yummmm..it is my favorite!

I also got a Bath and Body Works gift card from my Aunt Marilyn.....already spent it!!!

A TRAPP candle from my Aunt JoAnn

Some fuzzy leopard flip=flops from my mommy and daddy.......

Iowa State Fair

2010-08-29T21:05:00.020-05:00

Iowa has the BEST state fair. We love to go as a family. We have so much fun together! Sharing food, drinks, benches etc!!!!! Our favorite thing to do is sit on a bench and watch all the strange people. This year was the BEST year for weirdos!!!

Grant....Caroline......Isabelle

My niece Mallory and her fiance Troy

My sister Wendi having a photo op! She loves to pose!

My brother Steven and his beautiful bride Kelly

Nick and Callie on the roller coaster

The Menninite cousins.......I bought these hair thing-a-ma-jigs for the girls....it looked so easy when the guy was demonstrating.....now we can't figure out how to do it!

Nick just had to have these cowboy boots.....and they are in the wrong feet!

Grant doing chin ups for the Army. He did 6!

Jack hanging out!

Benjamin did 11 chin ups. He is so strong!!!

Liv and Nick riding the roller coaster

Nick driving the firetruck

Grant and Ben on their first ride of the day. Of course Grant got sick....he did the same exact thing last year. He spent the first hour at the fair under a tree with grandma!!!

My brother Steven and his son Nick. I think they went to the fair almost every day!

lake of the Ozarks 2010

2010-08-29T18:35:00.017-05:00

Family vacation at the Lake of the Ozarks......2010. We are so lucky that my parents have a home right on the lake. It is one of our favorite places to be!!!! The kids were in the water the entire time. We went on the jet skiis, pontoon rides, tubing, and of course my favorite
shopping. It was so hot, so next year we have got to go earlier in the summer!!!! The water
temp was 90!!!!

Grant cooling down with a beverage.

My friend from highschool and her husband came from Colorado. They have plans to retire in Missouri........they have begun looking for a home! This is Dan's face after Patti spent all his money!HAHA

James driving the boat.......Mr. sun......he LOVES the sun!

I just got a new camera, a Nikon D90....and I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!

My dads doctor has a home in the Ozarks, so we snuck onto his dock to cool off!

Izzy, Grant and Caroline at Captian Rons beach!!

brotherly, sisterly, sisterly love........

Caroline was Queen of the trampoline!!!

My three 7th graders!!!!!

Great shot of Caroline!

Suprise Lillies remind me so much of my Grandma Beulah. They have so many of them at the lake. Every year I try to take a photo!

diapers again?

2010-07-29T23:01:00.003-05:00

No I am not PG!!!! HA!!!!!

Just when you think those days are behind you........I have found myself back at the store buying diapers for our dog!!!! Poppy has been having accidents for a few months now....it was either find a solution to the problem, or have Jim move out. Since I don't want to go back to work full time, I need to find a solution to the problem quick!!!! I found these at PetCo, and they work really well. You use a Poise pad with them. That is the worst part of the whole thing!!! Just when we thought the problem was solved.....Daisy started having accidents. Dear LORD, are they trying to put me over the edge!!!! Do dogs really do things for attention??

The kids have been going to camp this week to learn how to be a 7th Grader. They have done a ton of fun things, and have loved every minute of it! Tomorrow they get on a bus at 6:45a.m. and head to Kansas City to Worlds of Fun. I am having some anxiety about it. We have great kids so I am not worried about the decisions they will make, I just worry about kooks in the world! They are so excited to ride a bus! HA! Hopefully there won't be a crazy lady in a blue van following the bus!!!!!

It's been a hard week for one of our kids. As you get older you realize what and who are important in your life. It is hard enough being adult and having friendships change, but to watch your 12 your old child go through it breaks your heart. My Grandma Beulah used to say...This Too Shall Pass, and I know it will. Just hard when most of the Fidlers are sensitvie. What I reall want to do is go kick some a@@!!!!!!!

How does your garden grow?

2010-07-20T15:39:00.004-05:00

The Fidler Farmers are at it again.........

Just wish I cooked so I coud use these veggies!!!!!

fun with cousins......

2010-07-19T21:04:00.010-05:00

My two nephews were over a few weekends ago......Ben and Nick. It has been so hot here, so they spent a lot of time in the pool! Last year Nick would not get in the pool, and this year he doesn't want to get out! It is so fun to watch his swimming faces.......

Izzy cooling down.

Caroline helping Nick with his goggles!

Ben and Grant

! Nick! Love this picture of him!!!!

Izzy and Ben.

Who can stay under the longest..........this pool was the best investment we ever made!!!

family & fun on the 4th!!

2010-07-05T15:45:00.011-05:00

We have a parade in our town on the 3rd of July, and then a street dance in Valley Junction. Here is Izzy, and Max waiting for the parade to start. It seems like it takes forever to get to our street!!!!

Jim Caroline, Daisy, and Poppy waiting patiently for the parade.........

Max having is own parade for the people waiting for the real parade!

Wendi and Rob having a romatic evening with family!!!!

Cousin Deanna............smiling, the parade is over and she was ready to celebrate the 4th with her girls, and grandkids, and hubby!

liv and izzy

caroline, jack and callie having some butter cream frosting.....the BEST!

Izzy, and Caroline .....s*p*a*r*k*l*i*n*g

****Callie****

Izzy, Jack & Callie

Grant is in the Ozarks if you were wondering why no pictures of him.......he is with my brother and sister-in-law having a fabulous time!

told ya....

2010-06-23T15:40:00.001-05:00

not to pick her!!!!!

Who's the patient???

2010-06-22T09:16:00.002-05:00

Can you tell who is the visitor and who is the patient????????????????

look-a-like

2010-06-19T16:49:00.003-05:00

Isabelle pretending to be Grant......she looks just like him!!!!!

2010-06-17T17:38:00.002-05:00

Saw this over at Joys Hope blog.......love her blog! The scripture is speaking to me!!!!!

graduation.....

2010-06-16T21:02:00.015-05:00

My babies are growing up! This is the last day of elementary school. I can't believe how fast it went. I remember the first day of kindergarten running out of the school crying!!! It only lasted a few days, and then I loved my two hours of quiet time!!! The kids are anxious to start the next chapter of their lives in Jr. High!

This is Lexi and Caroline, Caroline's best friend

This used to be Isabelle and Olivia, now it is Izzy, and Liv! Best Friends!!

Isabelle receiving her diploma.....

Caroline receiving her diploma....

Grant receiveing his diploma.....he was also the MC of the graduation ceremony.

This is one of my all time favorite people. She was the kids kindergarten teacher, and we have stayed friends all this time. I love her so much!!!!!!!!!

Izzy with Mr. Nichols.....and yes I am old enough to be his mother!!!!!

Grant with Mrs. Hunt. They became best buds. Her class was horrible this year, and Grant is such a good kid, he became the bouncer in her room!

Caroline with her teacher! She is adorbale, and is one of the best teachers at our school. I told her we need more teachers like her!

The kids and I went out for lunch and our friend Lynn came with us......the best part of the day is when they opened their graduation gifts. Jim and I decided to get them cell phones. When they opened them up they all cried! Grant said "I didn't think this day would every come"! It makes me smile that we are raising grateful children!!!!

be...

2010-06-13T17:56:00.001-05:00

Be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead!" 1 Peter 1:6

50 years of wedded bliss!

2010-06-07T22:33:00.015-05:00

My parents are celebrating 50 years of wedded bliss on July 1. They didn't want a party, but we decided they deserved a party!!! What an accomplishment! My parents still enjoy hanging out with each other, they work together every day.........and they are the two most generous people you will ever meet!!!!!!! My two brothers, sister, me and our families are VERY lucky!!!!! We were hoping to surprise our mom and dad, but two "old" people spilled the beans!!! The funny thing is, they both knew about the party, but didn't tell each other!! HA!

This is the board of memories my niece Mallory created. It looked so cute! Our kids took pictures of each guest as they arrived and that became our guest book! It was fabulous!

My cousins Tory, and Emery.....and a new little one on the way arriving in September!

My sisters-in-law Kelly and Tracy.....thanks for your help girls!!!!

My nephew Ben waiting for the party to start!

My nephew Jack.........always smiling!!!

Caroline relaxing.....

Uncle Grant, Uncle Larry, Aunt Cindy, and my brother Steven checking out all the yummy food!

Grant waiting for the next guest to arrive!

cookies my sister-in-law Tracy ordered from a local bakery........they were so yummy!

My brother Steven.

Guests mingling.....

Thank goodness for the tent......a huge storm hit, and everyone had to run into the building. We have a security camera, and I can't wait to watch it! Stuff flew everywhere!!!!!

It was such a fun evening!!!! My sister and I were mad at ourselves, because we were so busy we didn't take very many pictures! At the end my immediate family was there, and some close friends to help clean up......we toasted with some yummy champagne........to a great couple....great friends, great parents.........I love you both very much!!!!!!!

2010-05-25T13:02:00.002-05:00

Love this picture!! My nephew Nick is making the moves on the little girl manican!!!! I am the the lady in the hot pink suit!!!! I have really done well with my weight loss!!!!!

love a give-away!!!

2010-05-08T17:08:00.005-05:00

One of my favorite jewelry designers is having a give-away!!! Go over to

Lisa Leonard

and check it out!

Demo Derby!

2010-05-04T21:18:00.004-05:00

On the last night of the Auto Recyclers Convention they had a demolition derby at the Iowa State Fair grounds. Anyone could enter, and it was open to the public as well as the auto recyclers. I really wanted to drive a car, but I was scared, so I decided to be a spectator! My nephew Sam got a car already. He did a great job and it was so fun to watch.

My sister-in-laws cousin is a professional photographer, and she took some great shots of Sam!

While we were looking for a parking spot at the fairgrounds I couldn't believe how many people were there......Caroline says......."Mom, all that is here is just a bunch of REDNECKS! I said....how do you know what a REDNECK is...I NEVER use that term!!!!! HA!

2010 Liver Cancer Symposium Dallas TX

2010-04-28T16:06:00.004-05:00

About three weeks ago my mom, dad, sister and I took a trip to Dallas TX for a Liver Cancer Symposium. Everyone there was a cancer survivor, caretaker, Doctor, or just along for the ride!! My sister and I were there for moral support, and also a little shopping! We decided to drive since none of us are big flyer's. My dad and I did all of the driving! Things have sure changed since I was a kid. We would take trips, long trips, and my dad NEVER wanted to stop.....well now he likes to stop!!! I was in the zone, ready to drive until we reached Oklahoma City, but the old people in the car thought it would be best to not drive at night...what if the van broke down etc..........

Dales turn to drive...........
This is what Princess likes to do in the car..........

I bought the cutest suitcase at the lake a couple of years ago. Red and white patent leather pokie-dots. I had it as full as I could possibly get it. We stopped in Blackwell, OK. It was freezing there, and extremely windy. I went back down to the van to get my suitcase and started carry it towards the door..........handle breaks....oh DARN IT, try to tie it...I will get it fixed when I get home..........oh no the second handle breaks,,,,I started to laugh....the uncontrollable laugh....and I was all alone.........ok..I grabbed the other handle........OH NO, this one ripped off.......now I am hysterically laughing, crying......still all alone in the parking lot.......I grabbed the only handle that was attached.....OH NO......now I have NO handles and my hands full of other things!!!! Still laughing so hard I can't function. I finally get into the hotel....still laughing........get up to the hallway.....my sister and mom come out to see if I am ok....they think I am crying...I couldn't speak I was laughing so hard........my cute suitcase is ready for the garbage!!! I was so mad I had to go to Walmart and buy a dorky dufflebag!!!!!!

Did you know that by the size of the water tower, that is how big the town is?????? EVERY town we came up to....my dad would say.....OH, Susan, this must be a big town.......it has a nice size water tower.............it really through him for a loop when there was two water towers!!!!!

The Liver Symposium friends had a day at the races so my sister and I were able to go in a NASCAR. I had three prayers.....that the suit would fit, that I could fit into the car, and that I could get out of the car. I wasn't even scared about crashing. It was so much fun!!! You can't move your head, and all the spit was gone from my mouth!!!!! This was he car I was in.

The was my driver. He was so kind, and talked about his 14 year old son that has Down Syndrome. He spoke how he loved to hang out with his son, because he only sees good in the world. He doesn't know hate, or cancer, or any of the bad stuff in the world. He was also very cute!

Here is my mom and dad at the track. They decided to watch and not ride in a car.

My friend told me to not get attached to some of the people. She knows how I am!!! This is the first girl we met, and we fell in love with her. Her name is Erica Paul, she was diagnosed with colon cancer at the age of 26. She has no family history. Her cancer has spread to her liver and lungs. She was so inspiring to be around. She has so full of hope! She has a great family, friends, and doctors. She has an adorable husband named Michael, and he takes real good care of her. She just celebrated her 29th birthday last Friday!

This is Suzanne the founder of YES. She is AMAZING!!!!!!! She was diagnosed with colon cancer at the age 0f 31. The Doctor told her to go home and get her life in order. She went home and purchased a coffin. She then started searching for new treatments. That was 12 years ago, and she is still alive and kicking!!!!! She NEVER complains!, she is just thankful to be here, and spread all her good words! She has helped my mom and dad so much with insurance stuff!

This is Jane. She has bile duct cancer. It has a fancier word, but I can't pronounce it or spell it. It is very rare, and she can't find too many people that have it in the United States. She lives in Chicago with her husband. She has no children, aunts, uncles, cousins....just her husband and her mom. Before she left for the symposium her doctor told her that there was nothing they could do. She looked great!!!! We told her that we would come to Chicago and be her moral support.

This young man in the blue is Jonny Immerman. He was one of the most amazing, positive people I have ever met. I asked him if he would move in with us!!!!! He is the type of person you want to be around all the time. He was diagnosed with testicular cancer when he was 24. He stated a foundation, Immerman Angels. He said when he was diagnosed at such a young age he couldn't find other survivors to talk with. That is what his foundation is all about. He will pair you up with an Angel. Someone who has the same cancer as you, around the same age, but further along in their treatment. Wendi has his phone number, so they have been texting each other!!

We had the best time together...we laughed all the way there!!! I am so thankful that my dad has responded to treatment so well. My mom and dad will be celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary in July!! It's gonna be a fabulous celebration!!!!! Our two brothers weren't able to come with us, they had to stay home and run the family business!!!!!!

Doctors can treat, but only GOD can heal!!!

faith sustains us.......

2010-04-19T16:36:00.015-05:00

On our way to Texas a few weeks ago we stopped at the Oklahoma Memorial. It is hard to believe that it has been 15 years! It was so peaceful, and beautiful. On April 19, 1995......168 people were killed 19 of those were children.

The Outdoor Symbolic Memorial is a place of quiet reflection. Designed by Butzer Design Partnership, this Memorial honors the victims, survivors, rescuers, and all who were changed forever on April 19, 1995. It encompasses the now-sacred soil where the Murrah Building once stood, as well as the surrounding area devastated during the attack.

These monumental twin gates frame the moment of destruction – 9:02 a.m. – and mark the formal entrances to the Memorial. The East Gate represents 9:01 a.m. on April 19, and the innocence of the city before the attack. The West Gate represents 9:03 a.m., the moment we were changed forever, and the hope that came from the horror in the moments and days following the bombing.

The pool occupies what was once N.W. Fifth Street. Here, a shallow depth of gently flowing water helps soothe wounds, with calming sounds providing a peaceful setting for quiet thoughts. The placid surface shows the reflection of someone changed forever by their visit to the Memorial.

The 168 chairs represent the lives taken on April 19, 1995. They stand in nine rows to represent each floor of the building, and each chair bears the name of someone killed on that floor. Nineteen smaller chairs stand for the children. The field is located on the footprint of the Murrah Building.

faith sustains us.......

HOPE

2010-04-07T20:45:00.009-05:00

When our dad was diagnosed with cancer three years ago, my sister and I needed to keep busy. We started making signs, mostly for family members, and and friends. My mom and dad asked us to go to the Liver Cancer Symposium in Dallas Texas. We wanted to bring some HOPE to the Symposium......so we began sawing, sanding, painting, decoupaging, ribboning bagging etc......we needed 141 signs........finally we had to call in the troops.....all six of our kids, our Aunt JoAnn, and Aunt Marilyn, our Mom, our nephew to be, my husband.........my hands still hurt from all the activity! We finally got done Tuesday night......what a relief!!!!!! We can't wait to get there tomorrow to spread a little hope!!

Signs waiting to be sprayed so they shine...........

1 Our kids all had departments. Here is Grant waiting for his next assignment!

Here is Callie, she went from department, to department, to department, to department!!!!

I ordered these tags off of Etsy. You can type whatever you want whenever you want and print from home!

We are in OK now staying in a hotel, tomorrow we will arrive in Texas! I have so many funny stories to tell all ready!!!!!

Spring Break!!!

2010-03-14T18:00:00.004-05:00

We were so sad to see our hometown girl get kicked off of American Idol. I think she just picked the wrong song. She has a great voice, and I hope it is not the last we hear from her!!

The kids are on Spring Break....we still have snow on the ground, and a ton of dog poop!!!! I can't believe how many Christmas decorations we see around town! We have had so much snow everything has been buried for months!

The girls and I decided to leave on Thursday and go to the Mall of America. We walked for hours, and the girls went to the indoor amusement park. We had a great time, but we were so glad to get home. Praise the Lord for GPS!! I would never find my way without it. Isabelle has a great sense of direction, believe me she did not get that from me!! What did I do without my GPS!!! It gives me security....even though it directed me to the incorrect hotel!!!! Ours was just two blocks down the street. I am such a home body, and I am teaching my kids the same thing. Not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing! We also went to the IKEA store......that place is overwhelming.....I couldn't even concentrate!!!

Grant and Jim left for Jupiter, Fl. to watch the St. Louis Caridinals spring training. They were both so excited they couldn't sleep all week. Jim would rather drive, so Grant had the whole back seat set up with his bedding, a TV, all his game player systems, and no sisters to bother him. He is in heaven!!!! I just talked to Jim and they were in traffic in Atlanta. They are going to keep driving until they reach to their destination!

Hope we see the sun this week. We are supposed to have some flooding, so I hope it is not as bad as it was a few years ago!!!

Home Town Idol!l

2010-02-23T22:21:00.004-06:00

How fun to have someone from our town on American Idol. She did a great job tonight. We voted a ton for her! Go Katelyn!!!

cooking lessons......

2010-02-23T13:29:00.009-06:00

every night the kids ask me if they can help cook dinner......the problem is....my mom never taught me how to cook, she only taught me how to shop! I guess what I am saying is I am not the best teacher. I am more of a casserole queen!

Grant and Caroline making pancakes and hash browns.

A perfect one.....

Well......didn't turn out that perfect.....oops......

I could eat this whole pan!!!!

Voila.......they were quite tasty!

a few funny stories......

2010-02-19T09:30:00.002-06:00

Caroline saw Grant in the hallway at school the other day and hugged him............a new girl at school said......"is that your boyfriend? NO, its my brother........HA!

Jim's TV stopped working in his man cave. Lets just say....we don't want the same shows, he goes downstairs, and I stay upstairs. The other night he was sitting on the sofa with me wanting to watch MY tv........my dad pulls up in the driveway, and sees us sitting close to each other......he walks in the door and says "what are you two lovebirds doing?".....guess it is very unusual to see us sitting together!!! HA!

We do impounds for the City of Des Moines. Some customers were coming to get their personal belongings out of their car. They had about 10 speakers in the back....a box.....and a few other things. As they are walking back one of the guys started losing his pants........I couldn't help myself...I started singing.......pants on the ground, pants on the ground....looking like a fool with your pants on the ground.....HA!

why.....why.....why.........

2010-02-08T21:09:00.003-06:00

Ali.....why did you leave.....you were my favorite, and now you're gone!!!!!!

Please come back next week!!!!

new favorite store

2010-01-27T21:58:00.008-06:00

this is from my new favorite store in the East Village....Ephemera.......love this print.....bought some for gifts this Christmas! Isn't it adorable!!!!

Sleep..........

2010-01-25T10:27:00.002-06:00

I can't sleep......my mind never shuts off....I worry, decorate, worry, etc........so I toss and turn, I finally got up last night and did some Etsy browsing.......it is so frustrating when you're yawning, and you're wide awake!!!!! I think it might be time to make an appointment for The Sleep Center........not sure if it will do me any good since I can't sleep!!!! At least I will have someone to chat with!!!!

2010-01-23T21:40:00.003-06:00

Where

are

you

Mr. Sun!!!!!!

give-away!

2010-01-19T10:26:00.004-06:00

Lisa Leonard is having a give-away! I love her jewelry!!!!!!!! Go and enter!!!!

Lisa Leonard Designs

gonna be a wedding!

2010-01-14T10:42:00.002-06:00

My baby niece is getting married....I remember the day she was born, better then when my own kids birth day......Congratulations Mallory!!!!!! I wanted her to get married on 10-10-10~she says it is too cold then! Wedding at The Lake of the Ozarks!

so........

2010-01-10T13:48:00.002-06:00

My husband works from home, but travels around the state of Iowa. His home office is in Connecticut, and his boss live in Kansas. His boss wanted everyone to drive to KC which is about three hours from our house and have dinner. I could tell that Jim didn't really want to go, plus he works for my dad on Saturdays. He tells his co-workers that "we aren't social"...I say....WE AREN'T SOCIAL.....oh now we look like goons!!!!!!!!! Just tell them it is cold, the weather is horrible, and it is not going to work out for us!!!!! Well....his boss calls him and says " I hear your not coming to the Christmas Party this weekend.......Jim, says, "N0", he said.......are things o.k. at home......SO now they think we aren't social, and we are having marital problems!!!!!

how come......

2010-01-06T13:54:00.005-06:00

since I am closer to 50 then 40.....eeewwww.....that sounds old.......I have decided to start eating healthier. (I would like to tie my shoes without losing conciseness).....how come the moment you make this decision your stomach starts to growl!!

Happy New Year!!!!

2009-12-31T23:27:00.004-06:00

What a fun way to start the new year, with a give-away, Head on over to Doodle Bugs!!

better to give then to receive!!!

2009-12-29T16:50:00.007-06:00

I love giving gifts......I love finding the "perfect" gift......

I ordered the ring second from the top. I love having things monogrammed! This ring looks like a million bucks. My sister and aunt have already ordered these for birthday gifts in 2010!

I saw this little purse on Etsy It Up. I love houndstooth, and the tag on this says Gussy. this little treasure went to my mom.....Gussy just happens to be my dads nickname..

I fell in love with this necklace when it first came out. Lisa Leonard is one of my favorite jewelry designers......right after I ordered this for my sister the sermon at churh was about how to get to heaven......by grace alone.........of course I had to order myself one.......

Oh MY GOODNESS....this cake carrier is ADORABLE!!!!!!!! I ordered 10 of them, and I couldn't wait for this package to be opened!!!!!! It is from ny Tiny Tulips. If you need a unique gift, this is the one to order!!!!!!!

I love finding the perfect gift for someone. I will search for something that is just right for them! The season is all about giving then receiving!!! My parents have taught me well!!!

prayers for my dad

2009-12-18T10:02:00.002-06:00

My dad is an esophegial Cancer survivor. He has endured many treatments over the last three years. In May of this year he was in remission......Praise God......well.......one of his blood tests came back elevated, so they decided to do a PET scan this week. The lesion on his liver is back.....the stubborn thing will NOT go away. My dad amazes me with his strength. The doctors are now deciding what our next move. My dad still looks good, feels good, and comes to work every day! Please pray for healing!!!!

12 years ago today........

2009-12-15T18:54:00.004-06:00

12 year ago today I became a mom......they are the light of my life.....well most of the time!!

Grant James

Caroline Gretchen

Isaabelle Rene'

Funny Fidler Story

2009-12-07T13:53:00.002-06:00

Caroline and I were watching Say Yes to the Dress Friday night. One of the brides was trying on a dress that cost $6900.00. Caroline said "Mom how much did your dress cost?", I said, "200.00", she said " Where did you get it at The Goodwill Store"!!!!!!!

My dad asked me if I would look someone up on "Space Book"...........ah dad....it is called "Face Book"!!!!!!

be thankful.......

2009-11-29T22:01:00.015-06:00

I have a large extended family. We all live inthe same town except for my Uncle Grant and Aunt Cindy. We all get together on Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Uncle Grant with his two kids, Gussie, and LuLu. He always names his dogs after people in our family. Gus and LuLu were his grandparents!

My new baby cousin Jenna Sue.

Cousins hanging out. Nick, Ben, Caroline, and Jack.

My cousin David with is Granddaughter Leila. She is the apple of his eye!!!

My cousin Raina and Mike

Three sisters with their baby brother. Aunt JoAnn, Aunt Patti, Uncle Grant, and Gretchen (my mom).

Lisa, and Tory my cousins, and Wendi my sissy!

One of my favorite people in the world. Uncle Grant, he is my moms baby brother. When she left for nurses training, he started kindergarten. Grant is named after him! He is one of the funniest people I know.

Izzy, and Callie......cousins

Nicky hanging out.

My cousin Jordan being silly!

Ben relaxing.....

My cousin Emery Rose.....

Cousin Tory, and my sissy Wendi.

We had a nice time together. We will all be together for Christmas too!. My Grandma Beulah loved it when we all got together. She died ten years ago. I think about her every day, and I know that she is watching us from up above with a big smile on her face!!!

Fundraiser....

2009-11-22T22:04:00.005-06:00

My dad was diagnosed with esophageal cancer two and a half years ago. He would hear stories about people that couldn't afford pain medication, gas to drive to treatments, have enough money for every day necessities. We started a "fund" in honor of my dad to help families affected with cancer. They don't know who we are, and we don't know who they are. My dads radiologist/oncologist and his staff are our eyes, and ears. If they see or hear of someone that needs financial assistance, they help them out. This year my dads Dr., and his wife offered to host the party for us! It was so much fun, and we all hated to leave their home!!!!.

The party was a huge success, and we hope to help a few families this holiday season!!!!! We are also celebrating my dads remission!!

Report Cards

2009-11-21T00:04:00.002-06:00

We are so proud of our kids!!!!! Grant, Caroline and Isabelle all got straight A's!!!! They sure take after their mom!!!! HA!!! My mom and dad have some friend that give their grandchildren $100.00 for each A they get on their report card! As soon as we got home from conferences I called my mom and dad and asked how much they were going to give for each A? I told her she could just write us a check for $1500.00! I am still waiting.............

Blessings......

2009-11-17T22:50:00.002-06:00

Eight years ago the adoption of my nephew Ben was finalized, and three years ago the adoption of my nephew Nicholas was finalized. What a blessing they are to our family!!!!!!! We love you!!!

Stop pooping in my house!!!

2009-11-17T21:51:00.004-06:00

Poppy........Poppy........Poppy.........would you please stop pooping in our house!!!!!!!!!!!! Do you want to put the cone back on......why can't you be more like your sister............

Words I am trying to live by......

2009-11-16T23:12:00.004-06:00

Mercy Me!

2009-11-08T23:14:00.003-06:00

Jim and I and the kids went to see Mercy Me at church Friday night. It was a great evening, the kids loved it! Also a surprise visit from Bart at Saturday night evening church service. Awesome!!

Misc....

2009-11-02T12:49:00.012-06:00

Some exciting news in the Fidler Family. Grant has his first arm pit hair! We get excited about the little things in life........

Grant, Isabelle, and Liv

Grant ready to cheer on the Valley Tigers!!!

Isabelle, Liv, Caroline and Lexi

Is, and Liv in their Valley attire!!!!

Priceless......

2009-10-26T22:31:00.003-05:00

I went to the foot Dr. today, one that my older brother of 18 months recommended......the DR. asked me how I had heard about her.....she looked in my chart, and said...."oh, you know Mike", is he your dad!!!!!!! PRICELESS!!!!!!!!!!!! Made my day, week, year!!!!!!!!!!!!

follow......

2009-10-26T17:32:00.009-05:00

Become a follower of Doodle Bugs, and win some Christmas stickers!!!!!!!!http://www.doodlebugspaper.blogspot.com

prayers please

2009-10-13T15:05:00.002-05:00

Please say a few prayers for our neighbor and friend Dawn. She is having heart bypass surgery on Friday. She just had an emergency appendectomy last month., and began having shortness of breath. She is nervous and scared, but we are sure this surgery will take care of her problems!

my life.....

2009-10-07T21:23:00.004-05:00

Sunday Night

"Amazing Race"

Monday Night

"Rachel Zoe"

Tuesday Night

"Flipping Out"

Thursday Night
Housewives.....any county!!!

Oops......forgot about Project Runway, and Say Yes to the Dress!!!

Go Hawkeyes!!

2009-10-07T16:21:00.004-05:00

My brother has season tickets to the Iowa football games. He is kind enough to take Grant and Jim! Grant loves to go, he says it is one of the best days of his life!!!

Sam, Grant and Jim......go Hawks!!!

Beaverdale Parade.

2009-09-29T09:48:00.005-05:00

This is my Jr. High School teacher Sophie, and her husband Tom. He is a city councilman for Des Moines. He is running for another term, so they asked our kids, and my sisters kids to participate in the parade. They have the best time! Sophie and Tom don't have any children of their own, they have adopted ours!!!!

this is where I have been all week!

2009-09-20T20:05:00.002-05:00

Caroline and Isabelle both had lice.....I almost had a nervous breakdown.....thank the LORD for my family...........I pray I never have to go through this again..........why couldn't it have been Grant, we could have just shaved his hair off........I know we are still not out of the woods.....if one more person asks me if we have gotten all the nits...I am going to drop kick them!!!!!!!

I wonder if they will pay for my hospital stay...and therapy!!!!!!!

The Sassy Princess

2009-09-11T08:07:00.008-05:00

My sister got her cast on yesterday! She still can't put any weight on her foot.....but at least she is stylin! My Aunt JoAnn got this cast cover for her online! Too Cute, and just perfect for the princess!

at the lake in the rain.......

2009-09-05T19:21:00.007-05:00

Things to do at the Lake of the Ozarks when it is raining outside............

Crush Cans

Act like you like each other!Decorate cookies...

Watch the raindrops...

Watch a new movie...

Decorate an egg? Hard boiled of course!

Labor Day weekend was supposed to be an annual event. Brothers, sisters, mom, dad and their families together. My older brother had a wedding, my sister broke her leg...so it is just my younger brother and his family, me and my family, mom and dad........it rained all the way down here!!!! My sister-in-law and I left early yesterday to shop. We stopped at Nell Hills.....oh goodness I could spend days in that store......With a French Accent in Liberty, Mo., last stop was Anthropology in Country Club. What a fun day! A great way to celebrate my 47th birthday!!!!

We are hoping the weather changes or we will be outta here tomorrow!!! I could be home catching up on my Lifetime movies!

What the heck!!!!

2009-09-01T12:08:00.000-05:00

How do they afford all the shoes????

they say it comes in threes

2009-08-30T22:26:00.005-05:00

WHAT A WEEK!!!

ONE

On Tuesday my older brother had to go the ER. He was having horrible pain in his big toe. They gave him some pain medication, and finally discovered that he has gout!!

TWO

Last night my brother-in-law called me and said I need to come over to their house ASAP. My sister fell down the stairs and he thinks she broke her leg! I jumped into the van in my jammies...no shoes and drove as fast as I could. When I arrived at their house the ambulance was there, firetrucks, firemen, EMT...I guess not much to do on a Saturday night! I took her kids to my house, put some clothes and shoes on, and drove to the hospital. She had surgery this afternoon. She broke her fibula bone, and tore all the ligaments in her ankle. She also will be sporting some new hardware in her leg. We are hoping she gets out tomorrow. Thankfully my brother-in-law is on vacation all next week!

THREE

My neighbor called and asked me to take her to the ER...different hospital this time......she is having stomach pains, can't eat, and is throwing up!! We sat in the waiting room for 2 hours........at first they thought she had an ovarian cyst. They decided to do a CT scan, and that is where the found out her appendix burst....so now she is having emergency surgery.........

6th Graders!

2009-08-20T23:13:00.004-05:00

First day of school for the Fidler kids! They had a great day, and they also love their teachers!

....my babies are growing up....next year Jr. High!

Our state fair is the best state fair.....

2009-08-19T22:18:00.008-05:00

We love going to the Iowa State Fair. This year Jim was out of town, so the kids and I went with my brother and his family, my sister, and her family, and my mom and dad! The kids ride the rides, while I eat and watch people.

This is one of the first rides the kids went on......soon after the ride was over........

Grant felt sick! He had to lay down...I got him something to drink....took the girls down the midway while my mom and dad sat with him....as we are walking I turned around to check on him, and he was throwing up in the garbage can...poor kid....he felt a ton better, and after a few hours was ready to go on the rides again!

The have a room filled with over 5000 butterflies. The kids loved it, this is Caroline with her new friend.

Isabelle with her new friend.

This is my older brother Michael with my nephew Nicholas going down the slide......

Here is some of the gang people watching!!!!

Tatoo!

2009-08-19T19:50:00.002-05:00

I have always wanted a tatoo, but I could never decide what I wanted! While we were at the lake, I went to the same tatoo parlor that my niece goes too! I love fluer-de-lis, and did you know they also means The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit?? It is on the top of my foot, so I can show it if I want too, or cover it up!

Flowers....

2009-08-13T23:21:00.002-05:00

More pictures I took at the lake......of the Surprise Lillies...

Lake of the Ozarks...2009

2009-08-10T16:19:00.025-05:00

We are so lucky as a family to have a forever vacation spot. My parents bought a house on The Lake of the Ozarks 11 years ago. For many years they owned a houseboat, but when more grandchildren starting arriving they knew they needed to be on land! It is a magical place...

Nicky tubing all by himself for the first time!

My mom and dad surprised the grand kids with a trampoline! They had so much fun!!!!

Isabelle bouncing around the lake!

Caroline, Nicky, and Issy waiting for their turn to knee board!

We ran out of gas!! Of course my mom and dad did not have their cell phones, and couldn't remember numbers......these boaters were so kind to tow us in to the gas dock!

They view while we are boating.

Grandma telling Nicky a funny story!

Kelly, Steven, Ben, and Nick. We vacationed with my brother and his family.

Steven and Nicky taking a nap. My nephew is three, and he is very busy!!!!!!!!

These are one of my favorite flowers.....Surprise Lilly's. They remind me of my Grandma Beulah...I think this is an award winning photo!!!

My Aunt JoAnn, and her family own the house next door to my parents. They were on vacation also!

My cousin Emery Rose.......don't you love those blue eyes!

My cousins Lisa and Joe......

Raina ready to jump back in the lake.

Jim and Issy hanging out.

Miss Caroline

Nicky getting ready to scuba!

More jumping and taking turns on the jet ski!

a miracle

2009-08-04T17:07:00.003-05:00

In May of 2007 my dad was diagnosed with Stage 4 Esophageal cancer. He had the hiccups, and they wouldn't go away. We also found out that his cancer had spread to his liver We knew it was serious, but none of the Dr's led us to believe how serious it was. They told us it is not cureable, but it is treatable. My dad endured, radiation, chemo, cyber-knife, mouth sores, lost his hair etc. He went to work every day, and complained very little. There was one spot on his liver that was very stubborn, so he went to the University of Iowa to have a Sphere procedure. We found out last Thursday, that the tumor is gone, and he is in remission! Praise the Lord!!!

Online Doodle Bugs Show!!!!

2009-07-19T10:12:00.005-05:00

Poor Poppy....

2009-07-17T13:44:00.002-05:00

Poppy had her surgery so she can't have babies....the girls love the word......F-a-l-l-o-p-i-a-n tubes! Her cone is now off, and stitches are out!!!

I Love a Give-Away!!!

2009-07-11T20:58:00.004-05:00

2009-07-10T18:30:00.001-05:00

2009-07-10T18:30:00.000-05:00

swim with kim

2009-07-09T14:54:00.009-05:00

My kids and my sisters kids take swimming lessons together. The instructor told us today that our kids are "a breath of fresh air".....they listen, they don't complain.....makes you smile as a parent! The lessons are at a private home, Kim is the main instructor, and her two daughters are also in the pool. I am not a strong swimmer, but I want my kids to be.

Callie......tied for the best diver!
Oliva.....said she is a natural.....you either have it or your don't Swim Team her she comes!!!
Grant....tied for best diver

Isabelle.......great front crawl......

Jack....great back stroke!

Caroline.....could hold her breath the longest!

rain..rain...go away......

2009-07-09T14:49:00.005-05:00

This is how we spent our 4th of July.....in the garage......because of the rain.....but you will see the kids had a ball!
Baby Perry Catherine
Cameron
Nicholas and Cameron......

Fathers Day in KC

2009-06-22T12:49:00.005-05:00

Jim and Grant drove down friday to KC for the weekend. The girls and I decided to leave on Saturday after we dropped the dogs off at the dog sitters! We stopped at a few of my favorite stores in Liberty, and my friend Debbie met us there! Then we were off to Country Club Plaza to have lunch and check out Anthropology!! My new best friend Stacy (GPS) helped us get there! The girls named her, and I have no idea where it came from. It started to rain, so we asked Stacy to show us where Nell Hills was.....OH MY GOODNESS.....I have been to the old Nell Hills, but the new store is FABULOUS!!!! I can't wait to go back. The game was rain-delayed, so we knew that Jim and Grant would be late. The girls wanted to go and swim at the hotel, so Debbie, her husband Nick, and two boys came to the hotel to hang out with us! On Sunday the five of us went to the game. I could tell we were messing with Jim and Grants mojo......they really didn't want us to be there! We had to get to the game 3 hours early, so we could watch the players warm up, and get some autographs! Did I mention that it was 110 degrees with the heat index. I was sweating in places that I didn't even know were supposed to sweat!!!! The girls, and I stayed for 1 inning, and then we got the heck out of there, I know... we are pitiful!!!! Jim and Grant did see Albert hit two grand slam home runs! We did have a wonderful time, but next year I think we need to go to a Chiefs game instead!!! HAHAHAHA! It said in the KC paper.....nothing is better then spending fathers day with your son at the ball field.....it didn't mention daughters and wives!

Father's Day Weekend

2009-06-19T12:56:00.003-05:00

This is where we will be celebrating Fathers Day! Jim and Grant are HUGE Cardinal fans, they will be going to three games, the girls and I will be going to one game. Isabelle's best friend is watching the babies....please pray Poppy doesn't pee and poop in their house! I thought it was best to drive two cars. It is supposed to be really hot in KC.....so if you here any wheels squealing in the parking lot....it is me.........

Fun day with Aunt JoAnn!

2009-06-11T22:40:00.003-05:00

Isabelle and Caroline having fun with Aunt JoAnn........

6th Graders!!!!

2009-06-05T11:17:00.002-05:00

Our babies are officially 6th graders....where has the time gone. One more year of elementary school, then off to Jr. High! We are so lucky that we have good kids, and we pray it stays that way! They have an award ceremony at the end of the year and of course having three children the same age, and who love to sign up for everything..........

Grant - perfect attendance for third trimester
orchestra
working at Kids Bank
participating in Kids Bank

Caroline - perfect attendance for third trimester
band
working at Kids Bank
participating at Kids Bank

Isabelle - perfect attendance for third trimester
band
working at Kids Bank
participating at Kids Bank

Three parents came up to me the last day and said "OH MY, do you need me to help carry all your kids awards! I am sure some people get sick of hearing our name!

Also...they saw their Human and Growth Development movie....I call it the "sex" movie.........here were some of their questions when they got in the van

Caroline : Do you know that sperm dies?
What are pantie liners?

Isabelle : All we learned was about boys stiffness!!
Grant : Yea, sometimes it does get hard?

The Girls : Our friends mom started her period when she was in 7th grade, and she had white pants on....and she had red all over her pants.

Grant: well....I guess you should wear red pants!!!

one of my favorite people

2009-05-31T15:48:00.003-05:00

My Aunt Caryl (in the middle) was here from Georgia last week. She is one of my favorite people to be around! I wish we could see each other more often!!

can you see me????

2009-05-31T15:43:00.004-05:00

My brother and his wife we went to Las Vegas for a wedding. I watched their two boys for a few days. Ben is 8 and Nicholas is 3. Nicholas wanted to wear a helmet while he is riding his bike! He could see where he was going through the holes!!!

goodbye swing set

2009-05-31T15:30:00.012-05:00

It was time to say goodbye to the swing set. It was orignally my niece's, and my brother gave it to us a few years ago. It is over 20 years old! It is still in pretty good shape....it does have few bumps and bruises. We moved it across the street to our neighbors. We are so glad it has found a happy home with two little girls!

It sure is nice to have a flat bed truck in the family!

New home.......the kids kept running around........

MVP

2009-05-19T11:49:00.004-05:00

Our MVP.....Grant loves playing baseball.........his dream it to become a pro, and play for the Saint Louis Cardinals.....we just keep letting him dream... he needs to gain a little weight before that happens!

The game last night was nail biting.......we were ahead, and then behind, and then ahead again......then we lost 14-13!!

How does your garden grow?

2009-05-17T22:28:00.005-05:00

It's that time of year to plant our garden! This year we hope to have plenty of lettuce, onions, peppers, and carrots........it took Jim a couple of hours to get everything leveled....then my 3 year old nephew Nicholas kept running through the dirt!

Nicholas.........ready to do some serious gardening!

He worked up a sweat....time for a beverage!

New York City!!!!

2009-05-16T22:34:00.010-05:00

My trip to New York City was the BEST! It was exactly how I imagined it. The people, horns honking, tall buldings, food vendors! I could go back ever month....if I was rich......wanted to look for an apartment....oops....I have a husband and kids at home! We took the subways, walked for miles, and miles...still have the blisters to proove it!

Here is my friend Vancy and me on our way to the big city! My first train ride.

New York City night life....the city that never sleeps. My kinds of town!

Here is a view from our hotel.

Our carriage ride in Central Park.....our driver was SO CUTE!

My friend Vancy is a Tory Burch junkie......she wanted some flip flops and every store was sold out. We finally found the Tory Burch store in So-Ho. I am happy to report she got her flip flops!

These are some of our packages. I had the best time of my life......I was sad to leave, but would love to visit again....next time we are hiring a driver! My feet hurt so bad it has taken me a week to recuperate!!!

I returned home on Mothers Day. It was nice to see my husband and kids....get back into our routine....and back into the real world!

Goals?????

2009-04-29T23:06:00.002-05:00

As I am laying on the sofa watching Property Virgin, Jim asks me out of the blue......What are your goals?.......excuse me, we have been married 19 years, and we have never discussed our goals!! Of course I say......to make it through the day.....he says "NO, what are your long term goals for the house......hehe.....I say..."Well.....the kitchen and the bathroom".......we live in an old house, and it is small for five people, but we are too old to move....so we stay in our little house in a neighborhood that we love.....sometimes loves........he wants to add 5 feet to the back of our house.......let me tell you, I love my husband and he is very handy, but he has troubles completing projects...I would rather not have a blue tarp on the back of our home for the next ten years. He says "the kitchen is the hub of the home".....I say....."not our home".....I don't like to cook, or bake. We eat dinner and get out of the kitchen as fast as we can!!!!

THEN the real story comes out....he just found out that the company he works for has put his department on the selling block.......oh GREAT.....just what I needed to hear......he tells me not to worry......ME WORRY........it's what I do best........so now we wait........business as usual...........guess we need to come up with some new goals..........

Start spreading the news.........

2009-04-28T12:22:00.002-05:00

I have always wanted to go to New York.....look for movie stars, have a hot dog from a street vendor.......check out So Ho, Tribeca, Madison Ave.....I have my ticket, the hotel has been booked....and then look what happens!!!! Seriously, this mask will not look good with any of my cute new outfits!!!! I am visiting a dear friend of mine in New Jersey, a train ride into the City......(love how that sounds)..........I just pray we don't spend our whole trip in the bathroom!!!!