Shelley & Such

An invitation for BLOGGER friends only

2009-05-19T14:56:00.004-04:00

All BLOGGERS are invited to a floating
GIFT CARD & DIAPER SHOWER
for Michele Benson
Sunday May 31st
2-4pm
See the invitation above for more details or leave a comment for questions.
This is your formal invitation. I just had to POST the invite rather than mailing them, LOL!

Happy 6th Birthday Sweet Bentlee

2009-04-19T22:36:00.004-04:00

As you read this on Monday morning you can imagine me in hard, induced, labor of my first born...groggy...tired...excited...petrified...terrified...an emotional time for Wade and I...Wade and my mom by my side...with only a few hours until our lives would be changed forever...and there she was...a beautiful baby GIRL...head full of DARK, thick hair, snub nose, PERFECT in every way...10 tiny fingers and toes...counted them myself!
Bentlee Nichole Mayle, born April 20, 2003 at 3:21pm in Southampton Mem. Hospital...Easter Sunday...7 lbs, 15 ozs, 20 1/2 inches long...and the unbearable indigestion I had battled for months dissapeared at that very moment! LOL
Shortly after I consumed the best hospital food I had ever eaten...a BBQ sandwich and french fries! I had worked up a heck of an appetite during the night!
After she was all cleaned up they brought her back to me...HOW can you fall in love with something that quick? And from that moment on she has needed our every waking moment...and then some...our beautiful, bossy, demanding, sassy, smart, short, sweet, blonde baby girl...Happy 6th Birthday Bentlee!

She had a HUGE birthday weekend...a TEA PARTY on Saturday and a the grandparents for cake on Sunday. I will post those pictures later.

Does the Easter Bunny have big feet mom?

2009-04-13T22:07:00.007-04:00

The weeks of treatening the girls that the Easter Bunny "wouldn't come if they were bad" are over...sad.
Just like Christmas eve, my girls were all hyped up Saturday night and asking lots of questions about the infamous Easter Bunny. Mainly they were scared he would come in their rooms...so Bentlee proceeds to ask the following questions..."Where does the EB live mom?, How will the EB get in our house mom?, Does the EB have big feet mom?, How will he be quiet if he has big feet mom? I mean WHO wonders how darn big the Easter Bunny's feet are? ! Seriously folks! The end answer to most of the questions if "He is magic". And sure enough, he came, he deposited an unbearable amount of SUGAR in our house, and he left..simple...big feet or NOT! Size 8 1/2 wouldn't qualify for big I don't imagine but my answer was yes, LOL!
Easter morning brought a breakfast of at least 3000 cals for each girl and an itty bitty Easter egg hunt. The dang bunny had to leave eggs outside due to an unreleased cartoon episode that I also got questioned about..."Will the EB leave eggs OUTside our house too mom?"
After "breakfast" it was time to start treatening to call the EB to come BACK and get the baskets if they did not cooperate IN their Easter dresses until it was time to leave for church. What will I use to treaten them now? Santa is WAY to far away.

2009-04-08T10:54:00.004-04:00

As long as we have had these blocks here it never dawned on me to color on them. The girls and I had a creative good time and I had a few sore muscles from all that squating! I might still have a few artistic muscles left but boy are they getting old. We had to stop when we ran out of room, I was pretty dissapointed, lol! LMSAO (S- sore).

If that ain't country, I'll kiss your ...

2009-04-08T09:05:00.005-04:00

The way I see it is if you ain't gotten good and muddy playing in a mud puddle after a rain you ain't really lived in the country....so, after all the rain we've had we had plenty of mud. Bentlee loved it but I forgot to take a picture of Rylee tip-toeing around in her boots, that was funny 2! She will join the fun one day maybe.

This one's for you Jessica

2009-03-17T12:52:00.003-04:00

I just think this photo is the funniest thing of Jessica...I ran across it while I was here at moms.

Buzzin' about

2009-03-17T12:37:00.005-04:00

I thought this layout was perfect for me since I have not had time to blog since I am BUZZIN around so much...here and there, never know where I may be today.

And I thought I would take advantage of this great internet while I am at mom's doing some things for her. Since I have been out of work I have tried to come over to mom's and clean her house every other week or when I can. I also iron her scrubs and whatever she needs. As I have told you before my mom is a really great mom and "Mem" to my girls...she keeps them whenever I ask, she buys them anything and everything...clothes, toys, REESE CUPS, and Diet Mt DEW! Soooo....I wanted to try and return some of the favor since I have a day here and there to do this now. She is also a great ER nurse, as I have been told by several folks that I come in contact with and she works long 12 hours days. I love to see her in her scrubs and I am my mothers daughter, yes she likes her scrubs ironed (those of you that know about my OCD ironing will get a kick out of that or actually you probably already know I inherited the ironing gene from my mom, lol!).

So...I'm buzzzzziiinnnn out girls! See ya round...

And thanks to each of you that had anything to do with Friday night, what a fantastic time...can't wait to buzz over that way again.

I like to do these from time to time...

2009-03-13T08:37:00.002-04:00

Friday Questionnaire:

1. You are walking down the road and you look down. There is a bug. Do you step on it?
Yep! Don't know why, just do.

2. What is one fantasy that you want to come true more than any other?
All of my family and friends happy and HEALTHY!

3. Someone knocks on your door. Do you look out the window to see who it is before you open it? Do you open it regardless of who it is?
Oh yea...and it depends on what the person looks like whether I open it or not.

4. Have you ever eaten Play Doh?
Probably

5. What was your favorite Saturday morning cartoon as a child and why?
Tom & Jerry, will NEVER forget that as long as I live!

6. Are you a "people watcher"?
Most DEFINATELY. Its one of my favorite things to do in public, I am very observant. Wade laughs at me for doing...like when we go to a restaurant I am constantly watching and listening to other folks, not really being nosey just curious I guess.

7. I have a bowl of fruit. There are apples, oranges & pears. You help yourself to one - which one do you choose?
An APPLE!

8. What is your biggest pet peeve in the blogging world?
People complaining about strangers reading their blogs, block it if you don;t want to share with the world, this is the INTERNET! Oh, and the use of some grammar, not that I am a english major but good land!

9. What is one religion that you could just never see yourself joining?
Atheist

10. What word do you use far too often?
Crazy...Go...Hurry...You GOT to be kidding me (most said phrase)

11. How long do you spend in the shower?
mostly I am in a HURRY but when its cold I need a good HOT shower to relax my muscles

12. If you were to write a personal ad about yourself, what would it say?
Chunky blonde with a bit of OCD; loves her family, friends, going out and meeting new people and trying new things; loves to travel and never does; works hard, plays harder; networking freak; scrapbooks too little; and I could go on...lol!

13. Your favorite flavor of soup is....?
Clam Chowder

14. You are sitting on a bench in the park and a bug walks in front of your feet.... do you squash him?
Probably or just watch him...and what is the difference in walking by a bug and sitting and having a bug walk by you?

Thanks Judi for the quiz.

A Short Story

2009-03-11T08:14:00.002-04:00

Okay, I know everyone has just probably stopped checking my blog and I completely understand but my life is messy right now. My first problem is this dang dial up internet...it is just NOT worth my valuable time these days to sit here while the stupid page takes so long to pull up. I have enjoyed my blog so much and feel so bad about not posting and updating but all I can say is I am sorry! I bet I am the only one left on dial up in the world! lol

so, life has been twisting and turning for me and I am just not at home sitting in front of the computer much anymore. Plus, I have not turned my camera ON in since Christmas I think (which is SOOOO not me). Back in February I stopped keeping most of my kids and now I am bouncing around from one thing to another, I literally feel like a ping pong ball some days. I am juggling keeping kids two days a week, working at a local restaurant Mondays, some week days, and all weekend...and I am still struggling with my A&P II class this semester (which has been a real pain and more in-depth than A&P I). It seems some times all I do is function like a robot! Get up, Bentlee to school, shower, work, shower, school, eating alot from stress during all this...and maybe staying home with my family, laundry strung from the laundry room to the bedroom...dishwasher always full...its just a mess! So, to sit down and enjoy blogging would not qualify these days. I am looking for a fulltime job again so maybe, just maybe I will join the everyday blogging! I miss it terribly, I miss commenting and posting and reading and all that comes with it...as far as the rest of my life, well, I won;t get into all that. The girls are good, been struggling with colds, Dad is doing good (worried about his job like everyone else), Wade was laid off a few weeks ago, so its hard to find much good to post about anyway.

BUT, I will be there Friday night girls, I had to take off work but thats okay, I need a break anyway. See you there...

oh and I am going to get around to changing my background soon...no promises.

Three Things

2009-01-20T10:31:00.002-05:00

Got this in a email from Kelly Clark...thought I would blog it and see how many of you would do the same.

Three jobs I have had in my life:
Resinall Corp
Ace Hardware
A lifeguard (my favorite job perks...tanned and sun bleached hair!)

Three places I have lived:
Ahoskie
Greenville
Conway

Three places I never want to go back to:
Jamaica or anywhere I have to travel 12 longs hours to get there!
Chucky Cheese!
any hospital

Three places I have been this week:
Hampton
Jett's
Home

Three people who e-mail me regularly:
Junk emails!
Michele
Courtney

My three favorite foods:
Currently...
Meatloaf!
Cheeseburgers
Spaghetti

Three things I am looking forward to:
Finishing Dental Hygeine school
Eating lunch! didn't have breakfast
Getting Rylee potty trained

Three things I am not looking forward to:
Mondays!
The trials of having teenage daughters!!!
Dieting again!

Header picture

2009-01-20T10:16:00.002-05:00

My header picture is of the girls taken nearly 2 years ago! Rylee was not even a year old yet and Bentlee was almost 4. Bentlee hasn't changed one bit, got a bit taller, but Rylee does not look like the same child...she was so sweet (still is) with her fat face, spiked hair, and dimples!

Girls Nite Out

2009-01-20T09:43:00.002-05:00

This past weekend I went out of town with 3 friends for a girls nite out. We left Saturday about 3, made our way to Hampton, checked into our hotel, went out to eat, did a bit of shopping, and went to a country/rock club. It was a nice time away from reality...I actually ate two meals in a restaurant without having to worry about anybody harassing me, LOL! We had loads of girl talk along with spells of laughter that nearly wet my pants...and it felt good! Sherri called me Princess Di the whole time, guess I was feeling out of my "box" or a bit selfish, oh WELL...never could think of a good nickname for her! Maybe on the next trip...
I recommend it to any mother with small kids, I can't say for mothers with older kids yet. It was just a nice time away to realize I am still my own person...without the goldfish smears from little mouths on my pants, or the "whats for supper?" thought or hearing "MOMMMMM" for the 500th time in a row! Don't get me wrong, I love my girls DEARLY, but every good mom needs a reality check!

I took my camera but did not even take it out...next time we may do a documentary for moms, lots of pictures of moms laughing hysterically...LOL!

16 Random Things

2009-01-09T10:17:00.002-05:00

I did this the fair way...no thinking involved, just sat and typed whatever came to mind. Thanks Doneille.

1. I bleach my own hair...good thing you can't see me right now b/c I have a frosting cap on!

2. I am a chronic vacummer...I vacumm everyday..I don;t rest well at night if I have not vacummed!

3. I am a Christian and never read the entire Bible.

4. I smoke a pack of cigarettes a day.

5. I hate folding laundry.

6. I am a terrible interview person.

7. I love to waitress...not just for the money.

8. I love to travel...and never do.

9. I have OCD...vacummer thing!

10. I love driving a car rather than an SUV...I have had 3 and was never satisfied.

11. I love to work hard on a good project.

12. I miss scrapbooking and am craving it lately.

13. I hate I quit my Resinall job but I never would have gone back to school.

14. I love to DRESS UP and look nice.

15. I am not a animal lover...not that I am cruel, I just do not like taking care of pets.

16. My biggest fear in life is losing my mom and dad.

Update on my Dad

2009-01-07T16:01:00.002-05:00

Dad had his check up in Chapel Hill today...the doctor feels it would be to his advantage to start taking chemo for two years. WOW~ this means a round of Rotuxin every three months, not the whole series of chemo he received before. With this type of cancer not having a cure the doctor wants to do everything she can to prolong his life and well being. They discussed this during his last check up but he refused to do it. This time the doctor was more convincing and made him realize what MAY happen if they do not approach the future aggressively. And all I can say is my dad is a fighter and a winner...and we trust this doctor very much. I highly recommend Chapel Hill to anyone seeking oncologist and cancer treatments.
He will have a PET scan and a bone marrow test coming up soon. Please continue to pray for him and our family...we need every good day we can get. There is talk of possible stem cell transplant and other scary things.

Back at cha...

2009-01-07T09:44:00.001-05:00

Okay, Tina and Kelly V have posted about me NOT POSTING before...so, WHAT'S u p with you two! Even I have posted somewhat regular...HHHHHEEEELLLLOOOOO! So, back at cha girls, LOL!

Here I come A&P II

2009-01-07T09:20:00.002-05:00

I think I posted awhile back I was thinking of not taking a course this semester but...
I signed up for Anatomy & Physiology II last night...and I'm feeling a little scared. I got out of A&P I with a B but I'm not sure how...LOL! I started with a A and surely thought I would end with a C...the man upstairs was watching out for me, NO DOUBT! So, here I go again...BUT I figure if I go ahead and get it behind me I can be finished with A&P or until I actually go to Dental Hygeine school anyway (fingers crossed I can financially go in 2010 and that I can GET INTO the program at that time).

Classes start Tuesday...and May will be here before we can say SPRING so...might as well take it now!

I am planning to take an Algebra course in the fall. I do not have the credit but I need to take it for help on the TEES or TEAS test, however its spelled. In case you don't know, you have to score well on the test in order to be accepted into the program (along with other requirements).

I COULDN'T take it ANYmore!

2008-12-30T12:28:00.003-05:00

Bentlee was WAYYYY over due for a haircut...we were trying our best to let it grow out but the child has WAYYYY too much hair for that right now. As most of you know, I kept Bentlee's hair cut as a child for the very same reasons and she has a double crown which makes it even worse...she got a beautiful shade of blonde but the rest is a nightmare to maintain daily unless its short...so...its short again, and sweet on her...or at least I think so! And the back is wedged up pretty hi with the sides still long...too cool for school! LOL (Not the best picture but my camera is "ill")

Our Christmas

2008-12-30T10:58:00.005-05:00

Well, I am finally getting around to fighting this DIAL up internet...so, our Christmas was pretty uneventful...we always spend Christmas Eve with my folks steaming up oysters and shrimp in our shed...YUMMY! Always my favorite part...then we opened our gifts. Well, my gift had to be installed so I got cmas from mom, dad, and Wade early...a CD player for my car! Hooray! I have been driving my old Honda for 6 years now with no CD player! NOT NOW~! And Santa Wade brought me a IPOD Nano to hook into my new radio! And its pink! CUTE!

Anywho- The kids had a large Christmas as usual...they got a plenty! We have never had alot of Santa stuff...but its always enough. Wade and I just made our minds up after Bentlee was born that we did not need to start setting huge standards on Cmas morning...and we have pretty much stuck with that.

The best part of Christmas Eve and morning...my mom and dad spent the night with us again! Their house has been pretty boring since Jessica is "grown" and they like to enjoy Bentlee and Rylee on Christmas morning...and I can't tell you how much I treasure the memory of them being here. Last year I prepared a huge breakfast but I forgot to buy the stuff this year...next year, I will be more prepared.

We spent the evening with Wade's family...and all came to a bitter sweet ending. Without a doubt, it was an even better Christmas than last year...as always, we had so much to be thankful for...especially my dad's health. Last year, we were not sure what 2008 held for us...but He provided another Christmas spent with family and friends and good health...Amen.

Gifts for my kids

2008-12-30T10:39:00.002-05:00

How cute did these turn out!??? I thought they were just perfect gifts for the kids I keep...and I made one for Bentlee and Rylee too! The boy buckets had Lightin McQueen socks, tobogan, and an ornament...the baby bucket had baby forks and spoons and can;t remember what else, LOL...the girl buckets had doodle pads, markers, light up bracelets and an ornament. Cute and right on budget when you have to buy for several. I found the buckets at Michaels the day after Thanksgiving but only in BLUE! This was Michele's idea and she remembered to buy her buckets during the summer so you all might want to keep that in mind if you want to do these next Christmas. All the kids loved them and the parents too.

Something from my "old" friend...

2008-12-17T10:19:00.003-05:00

I am still a somewhat active part of Mary Kay and usually just sell to my friends...when I joined Mary Kay God put me in touch with a wise lady that is a Mary Kay story...her name is Ann Gibbs.

Ann continues to support me and hopes for a future for me in Mary Kay...I doubt it will happen but Ann never gives up encouraging me. And to me she is like an "old wise woman"...with old NOT true but you get where I am coming from.

She sends out a newsletter every so often with interesting stuff about ramping your business and so forth...Monday I received her newsletter and it contained a list of "Ten ways to get unstuck"..which is supposed to apply to my Mary Kay business but I can;t help but think it applies to more to life in general. I wanted to share it with you...

3. Stop worrying about the obstacles. The best antidote for anxiety is action! Stop worrying about how you are going to solve everything, and just take the first step. If you are looking for solutions instead of bemoaning the problem, the solutions will present themselves to you as you go.

Just thought some of you may like this...its simple but good.

A roller coaster ride with no stop

2008-12-17T08:31:00.006-05:00

Well, here I am...once again and no promises to be a regular again...sorry, but my life seems to get more hectic rather than slow down.
As most of you know I usually get my Christmas cards out right after Thanksgiving but this year...I am behind! which seems to be the case in EVERYthing...I have become quit the procrastinator it seems...too much going on and too much on my mind these days. So, I finally got the cards done after several attempts at photos as you will see below. I spared you all the really silly shots, just gave you a preview.
Just a quick update...The Anatomy and Physiology class will come to a sweet end tomorrow night...with hopes of a C! yep, thats right, I have gone from a A to a C in about a month...lots of factors involved. The course information has gotten SOOO boring...we ended with the Central nervous system and if any of you have been through that study you know what a slow deathly grind that info can be...BORING would be putting it mildly!
So, the debate is, do I take A&P II next semester or do I give myself a break and let my life settle down a bit? hhhmmmm...can't decide. Its not that I am regretting going to school but I have alot going on that I would rather not get into.
Lastly, I want to put a prayer request out there for myself...just know I am need you to pray for me and lift me up...thats all you need to know. I am not sick...just an internal battle if you will.
Very lastly, I want all of you to know I have been thinking of you during your times of trial and your times of greatness....Kelli, I have had your dad and your family on my mind and I feel your pain, I pray for good days ahead, God will show you the way...Mandy, I know you and Charlie will be great parents, you just have NO idea how your life will change...Tina, my bestest bud, you have been patient with my blogging and been there for me emotionally and physically, thanks once again for all you do, Michele...I just can;t say how I miss having you in my life everyday and sharing this time with you and vice-versa...and to the others I have left out...just know I am still here...its just hard to get in front of this darn computer when kids call and laundry buzzers go off...and notes are waiting to be studied...and so forth.
Rock on my blogging buddies! Merry Christmas to you and yours...

First attempt at christmas cards...

Wade and I decided we would go visit Santa and see if we can get a card shot then...the sun was just awful on Rylee so she decided some shades were the best option...LOL! She seriously kept them on even as she rode into the mall in her stroller...reminded me of the movie Big Daddy...cause Rylee would want to be "hidden" just like the boy did in the movie...

Not the best...but okay, we'll use this on for the card! It turned out a bit dark on the actual card but these are the best smiles. My header picture has Rylee "cheesing" just a bit too much but its still a funny shot! Oh, and she even sat with Santa! NOT touching him but she was up there NOT screaming! Hooray!

Boy, am I glad its Monday! LOL

2008-12-01T19:18:00.004-05:00

I just planned TOO darn much this long holiday weekend and I am EXHAUSTED!

Our Thanksgiving has never been really crazy simply because my parents/family do not really get together. Wade's family does get together for dinner but thats it...the real madness started at 3:40am Friday morning when I woke for my LONG AWAITED Black Friday shopping trip with Tina. With the exception of a couple of years this has been a tradition for the two of to SHOP TIL WE DROP on the day after Thanksgiving. We do LOVEEEEE it! We are not fighting for anything but we will be hard core shopping on this day "come h--- or high water"! LOL!

On Saturday we did the craft show in Conway as planned. That was a waste of my Saturday and energy. Not sure what the problem is with that craft show but its been going down for a couple of years I hear. Nobody did good business there, not sure if we need to blame the economy or what.

Sunday, I WORKED at the Grapevine...went back to Chesapeake to return unused stuff from the craft show and FINALLY made it home around 8:30 only to fall into bed around 9!

So, I am MOST thankful for my family, my friends, my faith, and our health but heres' to MONDAY also. Never thought I would say that, LOL!

Here are a couple of new boards I did for family birthdays (got to correct Sieanna's name) I forgot and some vases I sold at the craft show.

Spread the word...

2008-11-24T23:00:00.002-05:00

Tina and myself will be at the HO-HO Craft Show in Conway on Saturday. The Conway parade will be first thing and then the craft show.

The hours are 9-4 and I heard its a full house of vendors. The location is in the gym at Conway Middle School and benefits the Conway Volunteer Fire Department.

Come on out and support the community and check us out!

Tina will have her PREMIER Jewelry and I will have my initial signs.

Happy Birthday to me!

2008-11-24T22:50:00.002-05:00

My family and friends have been so sweet to me and its still a few hours until my birthday.

I had a birthday weekend...I had dinner with two of my best friends, Ava and Michele on Friday night at Applebee's..Vicky couldn't be there unfortunately. They gave me a cute pocket book, a new Cricut cartridge, a bath wrap with my initial, and a few cards. It was such a treat to be with them and have girl time...the gifts were just a perk! THANKS to all three of you for such great time and gifts...I love you girls!

I spent the night with Michele and we had more girl time on Saturday. We went to Greenbrier shopping for a dress for her to wear to a wedding in December. We had a great time just hanging out and chit-chatting!

On Sunday my in-laws came over and visited for a short while. They gave me a NEATO picture frame that I will share once I get pictures in it. Its so me...and I can hardly decide on the pictures I want to use. They have had the frame for months, I would never have been able to wait that long...if you know me, I get REAL excited about gifts and end up giving them early or telling what it is...I guess thats why I don;t shop early for anything!

Tonight, Wade and the girls gave me some clothes, a book, and two sweet cards.
Since I will be in class tomorrow night we had to celebrate tonight. My new header picture is a rough picture of me at the end of a long Monday! LOL~

Again, its not what I received thats important...its the thought that was put into it and the time I have spent with each of you. Thats everything a girl can ask for on her birthday..and its not even here yet!

Thanks again to EACH and EVERY one of you for being a part of my life and touching me each differently. I am THANKFUL for you on this Thanksgiving!

"Hunter Dan" got herself a little six-pointer!

2008-11-12T08:23:00.005-05:00

"Hunter Dan" (Jessica) got herself a small six pointer Monday night but there was no "hunt" involved.

Jessica babysits for Wade and I 2-3 times a week and has been a real help to us with me going to school or Wade going to the hunting club on Tuesday night (LOL!). Anyway~ she leaves here around 10 or so at night and all of us know the deer have been just awful this year. I always worry about her getting hom without hitting a deer. And she has been lucky until this week...

She called me about 10:15 Monday night and I had just closed my eyes...she wasn't SURE where she was, she told me to head the Woodland way to her house...so, I left Wade at home because we all know Wade and Jessica would not make a good crisis team, HAHAH!!! She was out of Hwy 35 South and the car wouldn;t start. The deer had jumped right out without giving her time to brake and tore the entire front off the car! Deer can be SO stupid and SO smart and CREATE so much damage!

I called Dad and told him it was no need to come, we called 911, and the trooper showed up shortly. Jessica and I had attempted to start the car and it wouldn;t. When the trooper got there the car started right up! No doubt~ FYI- the newer cars have a sensor on them that shuts the engine down on impact and will start back after so much time...so, I did learn something new out of this.

The car was running but the hood would not stay shut...so I got my brain in overload and cut up a t-shirt (ever seen Jessica's trunk full of junk? LOL) and tied the hood down so we could get it home...the trooper said that was a "first" for him...he had never seen anyone use a tshirt to tie a hood down, LOL! I told him it was "Girl Scouts 101"! Even though I was never a girl scout everybody knows I am my daddy's "little boy"! LOL~

I hate I did not have my camera to take pics of the deer but you just can't think of everything when responding to an accident, LOL! I am just so glad she was okay and not hurt...accept for her feelings and her car.

A future doorman (or woman rather)~!

2008-11-12T08:05:00.003-05:00

Since Rylee has gotten tall enough to open doors she has been OBCESSED with opening and closing them...she insist on ALWAYS opening the door when we go outside...she spends much of her energy opening and closing her bedroom door, the closet doors, etc and she is FLAT out driving us crazy with it!

On Sunday night I went to visit Michele and Wade called to say Rylee had LOCKED herself in her room and she was asleep already! Now all of us have the "Bedroom" style door knobs that take a bobbypin to unlock. So, when I got home I attempted the bobbypin and a paperclip with no luck. I ended up removing the doorknob and just left it off. I am sure the locks will be her next obcession so why bother with the knob! LOL! I guess the next question is will I just remove all the bedroom knobs, I don't hardly think so!

I know everyone has kids with "obcessions"...but will this mean Rylee will become a doorman-woman in her later life? I sure hope not! Just thought I would share this little story with you..she is such a strange little character for two years old sometimes, LOL.

So if you come in my house within the next few weeks or months try to understand WHY I am missing a DOOR KNOB...hahha!!!

A cute little name sign

2008-11-12T07:45:00.004-05:00

Here is a sign I made for a little boy a keep...I think it turned out pretty cute. These will run around $18 I think because of the amount of vinyl and board.
The ribbon is blue and white gingham but the cool thing is it can be changed as he ages!

OKAY Tina!

2008-11-11T20:55:00.002-05:00

Okay Tina, I have been a BIT busy working TWO jobs, raisin a family, and a husband that hunts more than he eats!...and you know DARN well I have been out-of-sorts sista! BUT, fear not....I will post at least TWICE tomorrow...I did take the time to update my background tonight, thats all I can handle for now...I am SICK again (coughing, snotty, etc)...ill and TIRED...and having internet withdrawal but in MUCH need of SLEEPPPPPPPPPP! Good night, farewell my friends until tomorrow.. I promise better bloggin days' are on the way, LOL! Well...maybe not promise but I have good intentions anyway.

Doneille, what's your excuse? LOL!

I was tagged...

2008-11-03T15:16:00.003-05:00

This is my 4th folder, 4th picture...NO DOUBT, its Bentlee! This is her 4th birthday party..My Little Pony. We had to have this party at the church. It was the only year it rained and we had to relocate. We still had the pony ride outside thanks to a local sweet woman named Pam. The sun came out just long enough to have the pony ride and it rained like the devil afterwards. Thanks for the memories Doneille by "Tagging" me. Unfortunately, I don't have any other friends that have not been tagged so I guess the game ends here.

Halloween ADULT Style!

2008-11-02T20:10:00.010-05:00

So we left the kids with mom at the wedding reception and decided to go to the country club Halloween party...we went home and threw together some costumes...and even Wade decided to dress up with a little encouragement from Jessica and I, LOL!

The country club halloween parties are always fun because of the people that actually dress up! Its amazing to see what everybody comes up with. There were not many people there this year but it was still fun.

Here is "Hunter Dan", "Ellie Mae", and Hunter Dan's "Hoochie"...Hunter Dan won the ladies costume contest

Tina! I love this look on her, LOL!

Adam as a Funkie Chicken! TOO darn funny! He won the men's costume contest

Sheryl's best cat face

All the girls that were dressed up

Bentlee's First Wedding

2008-11-02T19:36:00.005-05:00

My cousin Paula got married yesterday. It was really pretty and different. She asked Bentlee to be her flower girl and we were thrilled!

The wedding was decorated with a fall theme...chocolate brown bridesmaid dresses, pumpkins, leaves, cotton, and grapevine. Paula is a simple kind of country girl and her husband is a country boy so the theme really fit the two of them.

Bentlee's dress is over 12 years old. My sister, Jessica, wore it in another cousins wedding and my mom saved it. My mom saves so much stuff that has been useful for my girls. The leotards I used for their cat outfits were Jessica's too! I had the dress altered a bit...sleeves and lace collar removed and added the brown trim and sash...and it turned out just perfect.

Bentlee did great in the wedding considering how tired she was from the night before (Halloween)...her basket was filled with fall colored leaves and she threw them all out and did a good job. She did not want to hold the ring bearers hand when they came out but thats okay...she doesn't need to be holding hands with boys at her age anyway, LOL!

Between all the hustle bustle I failed to get a picture of Bentlee by herself! SILLY ME! I do have a pic of her here a few days before the wedding. The picture makes her look a little fat and her hair is still wet from her bath but you can see the dress anyway.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T22:20:00.004-04:00

All I can say is Thank the Lord this day is over...its been a WHIRL wind of a holiday I must say. And here I sit...blogging with one eye open...must be "bouncing off the walls" from all the TREATS! OHHHHH yeah, we have at least a 8 pound bowl of candy we compiled between the two girls...or CATS I should say.

And I have to admit...I have owned a few cats in my lifetime but never two this CUTE! BRAGGGGIN, yes, I am...the costumes turned out too cute! I bought the ears, bow tie, and tails in a set...sewed the bow tie and tails on, made arm bands out of fur...black tights, black shoes, a little mascara for whiskers and a nose...and here they are! Homemade and ADORABLE I must say.

Wade, myself, and two cute kitty cats, "Mama Cat and Baby Cat", started off in Murfreesboro at a wedding rehearsal, yes on Halloween, Bentlee is a flower girl in my cousins wedding tomorrow. Then we stopped in to see our FAVORITE daycare/sitter/friend, MACHEL! What a "treat" that was for all of us. We have not been able to see her lately and she loves the girls as much as we do. Then we headed back to Conway for the church fall festival. They both got prizes when their names were drawn from a pot, they played games, got WAY too much candy, and Bentlee won 2nd prize in her age group of costumes. She was thrilled! And Halloween is not complete without actually Trick-or-Treating...so, we hit a few houses after the festival...adding to the heavy treat bags...and finally we are home. Again, THANK the Lord this holiday is over! FUN but CRAZY~CRAZY!

I could HARDLY wait to share the photos...especially this one of my mom with the girls. I cherish these simple moments that my mom is able to share with our girls...it makes the day even more special...even more than a holiday.

My dad

2008-10-23T09:17:00.002-04:00

Just wanted to give you a quick update on my dad. His hair is growing back (LOL!) and all is well, he finally returned to work this week. He was not out of work due to cancer but his back had not completely healed. That was a blessing in discuise if you ask me, it helped him slow down and "smell the roses" a bit. He had his 6 month PET scan with the oncologist in Chapel Hill last week and he got a good report. The doctor assures them there is no cure for cancer but dad claims "VICTORY in the LORD". He says it will not come back...and would not discuss future options with the doctor. Praise GOD. Continue to pray for my Dad...his faith is so strong and has taken him this far. November will be the one year mark of his diagnosis.

More signs...sold my first one Saturday!

2008-10-20T10:05:00.004-04:00

Doneille was my first customer on Saturday...bought my "M" sign right off my wreath...LOL! Thanks for the business...and she placed orders for a few more for Christmas. She and I are considering doing the Ho-Ho Craft Show in Conway??? We'll let you know what we decide...I can ALWAYS use the money for sure and it fills my "creative space" within my body...if that makes sense.
Here are a couple more I did this morning...the B is a white background, distressed, with a black letter and silver ribbon. I was curious how the white background would look and to jazz it up a bit I added the silver ribbon and may brush a little silver paint around the edges??? the picture does not do it justice but its pretty cute, a bit more "plain" than the brown/fall look but very versatile.
The P is one I did for Michele, she needed a birthday present and VOILA...here it is. This board is more narrow but she had a small letter she had ordered from UCL and it worked perfectly. The letter is soft gold and the ribbon looks really pretty with it.
If you want to order keep in mind the boards are tan and white for now... I may branch out to some brighter colors for kids room but not until I see if anyone really wants them.

Happy Anniversary!

2008-10-20T09:41:00.004-04:00

Here is the cutest cake I bought for my mom and dad for their anniversary from Bentlee and Rylee. I knew they would not actually eat the cake since neither prefer it but we had a lunch at church yesterday and I knew the kids would eat it. It was just SO darn cute I could not resist. Doneille can't take the credit for this but I feel sure she could duplicate it, LOL!

I also ended up giving them the ceramic tile I made in the below post. I suggested to mom that she put it on the alter table with the new fall arrangement and I wish I had taken a picture of it because it was beautiful all together. I just hope mom takes it home and doesn't actually leave it at church, lol.

I am always up to something...

2008-10-17T10:14:00.005-04:00

Here is one of my new little projects I have been thinking about...I got some initials from UpperCase with nothing special in mind...just thinking Christmas presents when I ordered them...so, here is one I did for myself first.

I thought I had more ribbon in the closet but I was wrong...it worked out pretty good though. I did have this pretty fall ribbon and it turned out great. the paint color is the same as my doors...a pretty brownish, taupe whatever...the board is about 6 inches.

I have started making them for Bentlee's teachers for christmas and I have one for my sister have to add ribbon and walmart selection was terrible last night)...just a little something to tell my sister I love her, she hardly ever gets little stuff like that. And I plan to make more. I figured if anyone is interested in these I can make some for you. They will be $7.50 each....special orders only. I also bought letters for the kids I keep and I am considering making kiddie one's for their bedroom doors or doorknobs, you could really hang them anywhere.

I had no idea I would hang this in my wreath but how cute it is! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it!

What a perfect PERSONALIZED gift for teachers, coworkers, etc. They could go on office doors...hang on a knob, on a dresser...on the wall in a small space somewhere...in the bathroom, the ideas keep coming. I also considered making some larger one's with three initials...have not tackled that yet (got another test next week so my time will be limited).

My creative juices are FLOWING these days....need to scrap some of this energy!

My new UpperCase Living!

2008-10-17T09:24:00.005-04:00

I finally got my new UpperCase Living stuff from my party.

Here's a lookie for you...

This was my freebie...and I LOVE it! Although, I think I am giving this to my parents for their anniversary today (even though I have about $6 in the whole thing, its worth way more than that to me)! 37 years for them today...WOW! Will I be able to make it that long? :>
Its a two part...I bought a ceramic tile and a black wrought iron stand and VOILA! Its super nice looking! I got the background in linen so I should have gotten a bit darker ceramic tile but its still nice, the wheat is not as light as it looks...the wording is the copper color that I think is the BEST color!

Here is the one in my girls bathroom....got the electric pink and its awesome! Hard to photograph, sorry, but cute all the same. Bentlee is thrilled with it and I think she takes it seriously, HOORAH!

And the newly painted back doors received my long awaited vines! I ended up cutting them in 6 peices each, it was a real booger to get like
I wanted it or had visioned it. They are linen colored also and its just enough for the doors. As always, they look better in person. Someone thought I had stenciled them! Wade is not happy with them but when has that ever stopped me, LOL, after all, who has the crafty eye in this house???...LOL!

Handy-Man

2008-10-10T08:31:00.006-04:00

Here are a few projects I have been working on since I have been home, things I have put off for some time...finally getting around to them...the weather finally permitted me to paint my back doors. Wade, Dad, and I put up the fencing last week...we have had the fence up beside the house, a storm took down one side and Wade and I finally took down the other side and VOILA, we have a $$$-free project! And since I bought too much paint for my backdoors I decided to go ahead and paint the shutters since we took them down and pressure washed the house. I am not sure about the shutters...they were navy blue so this looks a bit "blah"...its growing on me. I have painted the side door and front door the same color but have to put a second coat on those next week. So, just in case you thought I was sitting around eating Bon-Bons and screaming at the kids, LOL, I have been using outside time and naptime very wisely...did I mention how tired I am this week after all the handy-man stuff last week? But it sure does feel good to be getting all these little home projects done..and if I had more money I could REALLY get some stuff done, LOL! My neighbors think I need some Ritalin, LOL!
BTW- Wade was a trooper last week...I worked him hard on his days off, and "we sure 'preciate it"!

Can you feel the concentration?

2008-10-08T20:03:00.002-04:00

If you have small kids the picture of concentration has a whole new meaning...I LOVE to watch my oldest daughter Bentlee really concentrate on her work...I can feel the determination she has to please me and herself. It was hard to really capture this moment and I sure do wish I could download the video I took of her counting...if only you can see her little mouth forming the numbers as she writes them and how hard she tries to write them. Can you imagine her saying "firty one, firty two...(thirty one, thirty two)?
Bentlee had some trouble with her small motor skills in PreK. Now that she is in Kindergarten Wade and I can see her overcoming those difficulties more and more each day...she colors better, she forms/writes her words better, and I love to SEE how she is learning by looking at her school work she brings home each day. PreK was a play/learning environment, Kindergarten really takes a learning "curve" of sorts...they are not playing much anymore, they are absorbing SOOO much more. I can only imagine the day I will sit and listen as she reads, which won't be long...we take so much for granted each day...the minutes turn into hours, the days to weeks...PreK to Kindergarten....and tonight I stopped the clock as I sat and watched my daughter with patience and I almost cried as I realized the value of me sitting right there with her...can you really feel her concentration?

Pumpkin Farm

2008-10-04T21:14:00.002-04:00

Friday morning I decided we needed a "field trip", the air was cool, the breeze was blowing and fall was definately tickling our toes (i.e. flip flop days are getting to be few and far between, guess I may buy some toe socks right, lol)...anywho, the three toddlers and I set out for the local pumpkin farm.

The kids really enjoyed this little trip...we even walked the pumpkin patch and had sort of a pumpkin "hunt". The kids kept seeing the pumpkins growing underneath the big green leaves and saw the large yellow blossom. I tried to explain how the pumpkins came from those large yellow flowers...I think I lost them, LOL! I took loads of photos but as you know dial up internet prohibits me from sharing ALL those photos...FROWN!

They each came home with a small pumpkin of their choice and much less energy after all that walking in the patch.

I did manage to upload a new header picture. Sweet Rylee in the pumpkin patch with her long pigtails, did I tell you how much I am enjoying her each day? She is such a joy, such a blessing to be with her each and everyday.

Trash the Dress

2008-10-02T07:38:00.002-04:00

The pictures are online!

Tara's pictures are just awesome, she is new and up to date on photo applications, etc and made us look really good, even with wet hair...not bragging or anything but Michele and I did a pretty good job too, not professional or anything but pretty darn good if I do say so myself!

Visit Tara's website and check us out...www.photobytarastore.com....click on Michele and Shelley in the pulldown column, password is "trashed". Enjoy!

Michele, I know you don't mind me sharing these with everybody....or you shouldn't anyway! WE ROCK!

And I will say this again, I would DO this again in a heartbeat..I have more idea's now...facial expressions I would like to use, etc. The location was perfect, just not my dark, squinting eyes...and mean looks, LOL! If you are consider doing this, GO FOR IT! It is a once in a lifetime experience and like I told the lady at the pond that thought we had lost our minds, "I might not be here tomorrow, live for today, have fun, what are the chances my girls will wear this dress in 20+ years!"...

How'bout a round of applause?

2008-09-27T23:46:00.002-04:00

Made a 95 on my lab test in Anatomy & Physiology! SOOOOO PROUD and YES I am bragging because the average was an 81.....

How about that...patting myself on the back now!

Blackboard has been down all weekend and I have been "chomping at the bit" to get my grade....finally tonight, I got in and got my grade....HOOOORAAYYYY me!

Lipstick Jungle- 5 stars

2008-09-25T09:35:00.002-04:00

So, I am a TV junkie at times...especially when it comes to those upper glamour, high heels, house moms, girlfriend group shows...so, at 12:30 this morning I had insomnia and coughing spells once again...so, I tuned into my DVR and watched Lipstick Jungle....
I must admit I did not need to add ANOTHER show to my list of favs but this one has been added...5 stars...LOVED IT! I do long to have those girlfriend nights of sharing a few drinks and letting your hair down...its good for the soul...guess I need to move to the city, seriously~ (and yep, Gray's Anatomy tonight baby!).

Only got about 2-3 hours of sleep last night...meds, coughing, and my first lab test combined made for a terrible night. Good thing I had Lipstick Jungle as a highlight, will probably be watching the DVR again tonight...have not finished my meds yet. :o(

Biting toddlers

2008-09-24T08:32:00.002-04:00

Got one for any of you that may need some help...

Bentlee was not a "biter" as a child, Rylee IS..or was, rather.
A mother and friend of mine told me about an article she read in a magazine on biting. When I was working full time it was difficult to catch Rylee in the act of "biting"...but now its different. Of course, I had to explain to two mothers that are bring their kids to my house that MY child had bit them! How embarassing...I had tried biting her back and pretty much everything except hot sauce. I was just afraid to do that!
The article she told me about suggested using LEMON juice...which I just so happened to have on hand the last time she bit. So, upon catching her biting...I immediately scolded her, took her to the fridge, gave her a good squirt in the mouth with the lemon juice, and escorted her to the TIME out chair...and by George, she has not put those sharp knockers on another child....
"knock on wood"

SO, in case you have a biter on your hands, try the lemon juice. And I would hope my friends, you will not report me to SS...I am a great mother, but a firm beleiver of ruling my own children with the hand...this time it was the hand that unscrewed the lemon juice, and I am not apologizing. Thanks to the mom that gave me the article advice.

PS This is two days in a row I have blogged, LOL!

Still alive

2008-09-23T13:31:00.002-04:00

I know its been awhile since I blogged, been awhile since I commented on a blog, been awhile since I even signed INTO my blog! Give me a break...yea, I am home but I am STILL working contrary to popular beleif, LOL!

Just wanted to check in a get a blog "fix" and give you some updates and such so here goes...

I got off to a slow start, have been fighting a NASTY head/sinus/chest cold for about two weeks. Beleive it or not I think I got it from someone at my school, not the kids! So, I have been taking advantage of nap time alot by NAPPING myself...but that has come to an end.

I really am enjoying being home, I have settled right in...still holding a daily schedule with a few alterations here and there...I have accomplished alot of little task since I have been here...got right much yard work done, moved a few flowers around, transported some mulch, going to put some new mulch down (just 4 bags or so), got the hedge clippers on anything growing wild in my flower beds, hauled 5 trash cans full of debris to the woods during nap time yesterday...FUN, FUN! I have always loved to work in my yard but the time was never really there...now I can work those things in! I put Wade's grill together that he got for Fathers Day (lol!), cleaned out a few junk drawers...planning to clean out summer clothes soon I guess according to this weather...need to plan a yard sale...probably will do that too...

I am cooking lunch and supper pretty much every day, I did opt for take-out Saturday night because I felt so darn bad!

I am on Prednisone now so look OUT! Its a love/hate relationship with me and that medicine! I can get SOOOO much done but sleep sOOO little! I was up and down all night.

I made a 87 on my first Anatomy & Physiology test....not the "A" I wanted but the average grade was a 82 so I figured I did pretty good. Got my first lab A&P test Thursday night and with the help of Prednisone I am apt to ACE that one...stayed up until 11:15 studying last night and probably will tonight! If my internet was any better I would take pictures of my kitchen...its a HOOT! I have 18 or so pages taped on the walls and cabinet doors of different slides I have to identify on my test...I figured the best way to determine which is which is hang them all up and compare...Wade says "you really get into your work don;t you?"...that was at 11pm last night! I was on a med "HIGH"! LOL~ All jokes aside I want an A and I want it BAD!

I dropped my Psy 150 online course...the teacher was a young idiot rather than professor if you ask me...writing 1-2 page papers every week..this is a PREREC, not a course I am Majoring in and I told her so via email...I plan to take it under another professor later on that is much easier. I know, I am not trying to take the easy route but come on folks, WHO thinks Psycology should be that difficult!? I did not want to flunk a should-be-simple class like that...seriously...

Speaking of seriously~ how about that Grey's Anatomy 2-hour season premiere coming up Thurs night....can I get a WOO-HOOO~!? LOVE that show...I am trying to figure how I will watch all my fav shows, study, keep up on Y&R everyday, and keep kids, LOL? Too funny~ and the answer is....DVR~ not doubt. If you do not have one, get one, you will fall in love and never watch another commercial again! I don't even know what movies are coming out...I just fastforward to the next frame!

Well, thats about it for now...guess it will be another few weeks before I blog again...
Oh, haven't heard from Tara on the professional Trash the Dress pictures...will try to keep you post when they are up for you to see.

Oh, I just took supper out of the oven? jealous? just kidding...I will trade you supper for your high-speed internet.

happy blogging to those of you that can post pictures in a normal time frame....love you too~

REMINDER LADIES!!! UPPER CASE LIVING SHOW....MY HOUSE...FRIDAY NIGHT, 6:30pm....BE THERE GIRLS!

I'm home...

2008-09-14T12:12:00.009-04:00

Well, my first few days at home went smoothly...nothing special to report really. I am getting a few things done in between the kids...I cleaned out a few flower beds while we had outside time...I changed my living room around during nap time Friday...I am keeping my laundry caught up most days (with the exception of putting them away, lol!)...the dishes are staying out of the sink...and I am getting out of the house twice a week for class.
I caught a cold already...have been struggling with that since Thursday night...worse this weekend. I did leave the house last night to pickup food since I did not feel like cooking. I did not go to church today for fear of spreading the germs further....and I need to rest! I have my first Anatomy & Physiology test Tuesday night. I have been studying here and there...and PRAY I can make at least a B on this test.
Here are a few pics of Thursday morning outside time and one of a couple of afterschoolers playing dress-up! Too cute! I had many more I could have downloaded but I am feeling Mandy's pain on this DIAL service...I won't tell you EXACTLY HOW I feel about it!

Drum roll please....

2008-09-09T09:37:00.020-04:00

Presenting TRASH THE DRESS!

Well, my first day of unemployment was spent with Michele finally taking pics in our wedding dresses. You won't beleive some of these photos...

We started off at Michele's house doing hair and makeup as if we were getting "married" again...heavy makeup, lots of hairspray....

Then we set off to Michele's mom's house...put on our dresses...and off we went...

TO THE JUNK YARD! yep- and pictures to prove it. Now, you did not think this would be an ordinary photo shoot did you? seriously...trash the dress...rusty old equipment, crickets in my dress, dirt between my toes, swarming wasp, huge spider webs, rolling sweat, my first time in a crane bucket, goose poop, and fishy smelling dresses just to name a few perks of the day...BUT BOY WAS IT FUN!

Yep, thats me! I stood up, arms out to the sides, and fell right back! I made them promise to save me if I did not come up...that dress was HEAVY in that water!

Poor "PRINCESS"...look at that dress! lol~

I would do it again in a heart beat if I could...it was loads of fun...and the best part was I got to do it with one of my very best friends...
Be sure and visit her blog for more pics....click on her name under "Friends" to the right of my blog page.

Not sure why some of my photos are small...I just can HARDLY wait to see the professional pictures and to see what Tara does with them...black and white shots, etc...I will let you know when she posts them.

Bittersweet goodbye

2008-09-07T20:52:00.002-04:00

Friday was my last official day at Resinall...I will work Tuesday for Ava but things have already changed....no more "Shelley's office, Shelley's phone, Shelley's computer....blah-blah-blah....
It was a bittersweet day for me...I had my moments...I had a crying spell that morning...a happy spell when they brought in lunch and a cute cake (Steve even came to say goodbye), and a breath taking spell the moment I actually stepped out of the door into that parking lot...as I drove out I looked at everything a bit different. The tears came heavier as I thought what have I done!...and then lighter as I thought of WHERE I am going...WHAT I am doing...but there is still a bit of fear in me...its sort of like snatching the rug from under my own feet...and holding my breath...and waiting to hit rock bottom. BUT that rock bottom part will not happen with God's help and my determination.
All weekend I have felt a sense of "loss"..a weird sense of loss, a bit of depression...and as the weekend ends, I still feel that. This is way scarier than I thought it would be...I am going to make it, I think I am just experiencing a bit of "stage fright"...but as the week sets in and I realize I am going to be alright, and life will slow down some for me, I will appreciate what I have done. I have been juggling too much lately...job, kids at home already, my kids, Wade, school, end of summer, vacation, school bus stuff, etc. Now, I can slow it down a bit and concentrate on today...and look forward to my tomorrow...my future.
Thanks for everyone's support, continue to pray for me and my success. Even though you will not hear from me as often, I still need my friends and I will be checking in on you all too.
Thanks to my work friends for making my departure as easy as possible, I think some of you may really miss me...HAHAHAHAAA...and thanks for the goodbye gifts...and all that you have said to make me feel special. A chapter is finished in my life...but that means a new one begins. And I sure do love happy endings...

Does this mean I am a "stay at home mom"...seriously, SHELLEY MAYLE??? LOL! But not forever folks...LOL!

Here is a picture of the cake Doneille made for me from the folks at work.

Back from the BEACH...

2008-09-02T10:12:00.016-04:00

We made it in around 8ish last night...and what a great trip it turned out to be. You know there are always reservations each of us have when you take a trip with 18 family members....tight quarters, lots of small kids, sandy bottoms, etc....LOL!

Well, this was not the case with our family trip this Labor Day weekend. The family got along great...the kids did super-well, the food was YUMMY, the cottage was perfect and perfectly located for us, and the weather and water were just the best we have had in years.

The bad part....we had to come home, do laundry, and come back to work/school! I almost took pictures of my piles of laundry last night and decided I was too tired to drag out the camera, hahahaa.

Uncle Joel and the kids...

Bentlee, Rylee, Tyler, Sieanna

Haley

Ethan

Wade and the girls

Me and Wade

Chris and Sherri

Joel and Sheryl

Elliott and Alycia

Jett and Jerry

All the girls

Think its time to go home...

Off to the....

2008-08-29T10:07:00.002-04:00

BEACCCCCCH!
Today, we leave for our final OBX beach trip. We are going with Wade's family...his mom and dad, his 3 brothers, wives/girlfriends, and ALL the kiddo's! Its going to be a WILD trip...and I am READY to GO! We have not been as a family in over three years.
Lots of pics to come...
Enjoy your trips and time over the Labor Day weekend...the summer will soon be gone again.

Steve

2008-08-26T12:33:00.005-04:00

Its been awhile since I posted about Steve....he is doing SO well....he is going to therapy a couple a times a week....still FUNNY as ever....and just a blessing and a joy to be around. He visits here at work sometimes and we look forward to seeing him.

As you can see from the pictures, Steve is a MIRACLE...GOD is good and has most definately had a hand in this recovery.
The first two pictures were taken about mid June, the first one is with his daughter. The last picture of he and Vicky was taken just a few minutes ago.

Bus #173 ready for boarding...

2008-08-26T08:41:00.004-04:00

Bentlee and two other girls waiting for the bus at our house

Gotta go mom!

After all was said and done yesterday, the bus came today! And I didn't CRY!

The FIRST day of school!

2008-08-25T10:16:00.008-04:00

Well, the morning started off GREAT! Bentlee woke up EXCITED about school...her dad got her dressed and I got her hair done...we were ready for the BUS! We went out on the porch around 7am....waited, waited, and waited....NO bus! There were several OTHER buses but not one to stop at our house.

Long story short and now that my blood pressure is down a bit and I have made myself known ONCE again at school after a breif visit to the school office (LOL for you folks that remember my PTA speech last year!)....the bus WILL stop at our house in the morning...and I guess I will have to post pictures of her first bus ride tomorrow...no thanks to the ignorant secretary that lines up buses at our elementary school. Yes, I am going to keep my comments to myself for fear of cursing and just plain ruining my blog...but when my daughter is DISSAPOINTED, I am DISSAPOINTED, lol~ I am trying to smile about this and I should try and remember it is the first (hectic) day of school. But I stood waiting for the bus, camera in hand, only to have to DRIVE her to school (all the while, rehearsing what I would choose to tell that secretary...lol!).

HOORAH! Bentlee is in Kindergarten....LOL! She was SO cute this morning and RARING to go...with her BRATZ bookbag that is bigger than she is...and her Hannah Montana lunchbox...and her glittery folders and fresh crayons...and still carrying that sweet innocent look of my baby...

Nope, I did not cry this morning, I was too mad to cry....tomorrow, WHEN the bus stops at our house...I will CRY!

Until tomorrow....

Kindergarten!

2008-08-18T13:51:00.010-04:00

Last year...the first day of PreK

It's that time again...the school buses will soon be out and about making you late for work...the school supplies have been purchased and the new book bags are waiting for the "ride"...can you hardly beleive it? Bentlee will start KINDERGARTEN this year. Above is the photo of her first day of PreK...I was not blogging then. She was SO eager to start school...and she is this year too. Wonder what grade they start that "attitude" thing about NOT wanting to go back to school? Can't wait for that...right~
And this year, I go "back" to school too! Life is SOOO strange how it changes from one year to the next...one day to the next. I would have never predicted my life would take this turn a year ago as I posed on that sidewalk with her...never thought she would be riding the bus and actually getting off at our house, not someone else's house until I could get off work to pick her up. She is really EXcited about all that too. I can see her now...running off the bus, falling in the rocks in the driveway as she can hardly wait to tell me WHAT she did that day...LOL! Everybody knows my poor Bentlee can trip on an even surface ;o)

A day at the pool...

2008-08-18T13:37:00.006-04:00

Bentlee, Karley, Bowen, & Rylee

Tina and I decided a day at the pool would be in order for this past weekend...I wish we had started this earlier in the summer.The kids played well together considering we breezed right through nap time and stayed at the pool until 4pm. The kids had a great time and the mommy's got some SUN!

Puddin' at the pool...

We had a great day and plan to do it a couple more times before the weather turns too cool...maybe this Saturday? Probably not, Tina has her Premier Jewelry Party Saturday and I think my kids will be with my mom and dad.

And the next weekend is Labor Day weekend....and we will be at the beach, HOOray! I can HARDLY wait. I am in need of some SUN & SAND!

Calling all married bloggers...

2008-08-15T16:25:00.002-04:00

or married readers....CHECK your CALENDERS and dust off your wedding dress...

Let's meet & greet...a Saturday in September, 13th or 20th...location unknown...wedding dress in tow...photos first, lunch afterwards for fear of POPPING already bulging zippers...

Idea's, lunch...Pace House in Franklin?...Tea room?...needs to be somewhere that has a nice yard or outside area...or near a nice outside area....face it, we are all country girls, lets take them outside...and some inside maybe....

Tell me WHAT you are thinking girls...I say September 13th...or we could do a Friday afternoon/evening...then have dinner...or Sunday afternoon?

Photographers...I have a cousin that may be interested?...Tara? Ava's Randi would be a cool person to ask?!!!

Suggestions, suggestions, suggestions...

Manic, crazy, or FUN?

2008-08-14T08:27:00.015-04:00

Mom says I am "manic", Wade says I am "crazy, and I think I am "FUN"!
With the persuasion of Michele (see her post tomorrow b/c she was the first to do this), I pulled my wedding dress out! Michele has not preserved hers so this was a bigger deal for me...but, I pulled my dress out of the preservation box and held my breath...stepped into the dress...sucked in my gut (after having two kids!)...and guess what...

IT FITS! HOORAY!

It was almost like Christmas time...so fun to actually see and feel my dress again. I wanted a "Cinderella" dress with a BIG poofy bottom...and thats what I got! When I got married I actually wore 2 crinlins (not sure about that spelling) under my dress and it was VERY big.
So, anyway...what really inspired this was Michele's decision to "Trash the dress"...and I just think that is a WAY cool thing to do. Brides are getting in their wedding dresses again and taking some "odd" photos at different locations...at the beach, water fountains, farms, etc. After some thought, I figured, "why shouldn't I do the same?" What are the ODDS I will ever wear the dress again...ZERO....so, its out of the box and I am planning to "copy" Michele and "Trash the dress"...now, I am NOT going to roll around in the mud with my dress on but Michele says you have to be willing to at least get it wet....no problem. Lets do it! And have some FUN!
Our plans are to do this in September...we'll be sure to post pics or let you know where you can see the pics.
To get an idea of what we are about to do visit www.photobytara.com or visit her blog www.photobytara.blogspot.com. Its all the RAGE for married women with a wedding dress that will never be worn again. And yes, I do plan to preserve my dress again in case my girls want it. What are those odds...15 years from now Bentlee will wear my dress...not hardly...but it will there if my girls want it.
Excuse the hair and makeup in these photos...these were taken at 10pm last night, LOL! And the photos are compliments of WADE, LOL!

In need:

2008-08-12T15:35:00.003-04:00

Of one kiddie/toddler table...if any of you know someone that has one for sale or if someone wants to get rid of one, I need one...and chairs too if possible.

Its time to tell it...

2008-08-12T13:24:00.003-04:00

I know some of you are still in suspense from my blog post a few weeks back...well, here it is...
I OFFICIALLY turned my resignation in at my job...a place I have worked at for over 8 years now...a place of advancement for me, fulfillment, laughter, stress, and a place I have built many dear friendships.
A few months back I started thinking...oh yeah, I know what you are thinking...but seriously thinking about my life...soul searching, asking myself questions, and it kept coming back to "but"...and I prayed about it and asked others to pray for me, I started making phone calls, "researching" the thoughts of my friends that have made huge career moves, listing pros and cons, endlessly talking to my husband (that orginally thought I had lost my mind)...and it all came together...
I want better for my family and my children than what we have now...I want SOOO many things, I want to send my children to private school, I want my husband and I to enjoy ourselves sometimes rather than worry about living paycheck to paycheck, I need to know ONE day we MAY be able to take family vacations for a week, I want to TITHE to God...BUT what would it take to make those needs and wants happen? alot of sacrifice and more schooling was the answer.
And yes, most of these are WANTS rather than NEEDS, BUT I am doing it for BOTH...WANTS AND NEEDS...
So folks, I am here to tell you today after MUCH consideration, many tears, many talks, and the support of my husband...I submitted my resignation yesterday with a
PLAN!
I have registered for school...I have plans to take 1-2 courses each semester at Halifax for the next two years...while keeping some children in my home...and in two years (when Rylee goes to school, a few bills are paid off, and Wade has a better job, fingers crossed!!!), I will GOD willingly enter the Dental Hygeine program!
Its a 2 year program. And a very hard program to get accepted in to...so when I said, GOD WILLING, I meant it!
Girls (and guys), I have been out of school for 14 years~! I am SCARED silly!
Last week I took my placement test, only had to take the math section because my english transferred from ECU, I nearly CAVED! I ate about 1/4 of a chocolate cake that afternoon due to nerves and nearly lost that before I got there, LOL!
So..there you have it. I am finished TOILING over WHAT to do...now, it's sink or swim...do or die! No more "BUTS"...I am going out on FAITH and giving God the glory for every day He gives me (and every test I pass! lol).
I will miss my job, my comfort zone...this has been a place of "refuge" for me as a mom with lots of adult converstation, lots of laughter, some HORRIBLE days...but mostly, a place I have enjoyed and a place I made three BEST friends...I will miss you three girls...and you too Mrs. Elaine! and the high speed internet, LOL!

The ENTIRE Mayle family

2008-08-08T08:44:00.003-04:00

My new title photo was taken back in February...its Wade's FAMILY! YEP~ we country folk come from large families, LOL! I decided to share it with you this morning...since I had nothing else to blog about...and wouldn't want to anyone to think I am SCARED to blog these days, LOL!

I would name all the family for you but most of you wouldn't know them so I figure, what's the point?

Credits of the photo should go to www.sandfootphotography.com (I beleive thats the right address).

HOT!

2008-08-06T08:41:00.002-04:00

Let me tell you, I am HOT! Not temperature HOT but MAD HOT!

For those of you reading this while you are WORKING....GUESS WHAT? You are just as guilty as me BLOGGING at work, you are taking your WORK TIME JUST AS I TAKE SMALL BITS OF MY WORK TIME TO BLOG! GUILTY< GUILTY...GUILTY!!!...so, if it upsets you that I blog at work, TOO BAD! You won't have to worry about it much longer...and for the record, its NOT EFFECTING MY JOB PERFORMANCE...leave it ALONE...

For those of my blogger FRIENDS...disregard this posting, its not meant for you...

Thats all I have to say today

Happy BELATED Birthday My Friend!

2008-08-05T08:34:00.005-04:00

As you know from our blogs, Tina and I have been friends a VERY LONG TIME! On and off friends, tight friends, distant friends...but never NOT friends...
As I thought of her birthday last week I thought back to some of the pictures we have taken over the years...mainly the pictures we took in our WILDER years...the years when I first started dating Wade...the heavy party years...no fears, no bedtimes, no responsibilities, no KIDS, no nothing... just FREEDOM!
I met Wade (now my husband and the father of my children) when Tina was dating his brother some 12 years ago...we drank too much, smoked too many cigarettes...took off on trips to the beach at a minutes notice...only to get kicked out of a hotel room and drove home in the middle of the night...but it was about 10 of us with two single beds, LOL! Those were the days...
Now, we share in our "faith" and we share our families...we party less, have way too many responsibilities...way too many fears...and not nearly enough time for each other...but we are still friends...no strings attached...you call me when you can, you email me when you can...I will see you when I see you...
I could go on but all of you know I am long winded...and sentimental at times...so,

Tina, Happy Birthday my friend!

Just wanted to share some photos taken some 12 years ago....LOL! You are gonna kill me when you see these but here is my birthday present to you! As usual, I am a few days late but thats me!

Rylee's birthday party

2008-08-04T13:22:00.009-04:00

Wade and I finally had Rylee's birthday party yesterday...everyone brought their bathing suits and we set up the slip-n-slides...and had a WET N' Wild TIME!~
Then, it was time for cake and ice cream...and presents too.

Rylee's Dora birthday cake...and everybody helping blow out the candles!

She's peeking in the bag...

Its a DORA baby and POCKETBOOK! And clothes...and more clothes! Hooray!

Slip-n-slide fun...

Bentlee making a splash...

Tyler got the hang of it pretty quickly...

While Rylee played ball by herself! LOL...

Watermelon Princess Contest

2008-08-04T12:52:00.010-04:00

Bentlee did not win the princess contest but all those girls were winners in my mind...it was HOTTTTT! They got on the parade float at 9:30am...the parade ended around 11:20...then waited and waited...finally did the stage walk, then the interview....then waited some more...and it was 2:00pm before the winners were announced! It was a real contest...a contest of patience of 5 year olds! But, they all had a good time and all got goodie bags full of watermelon candy, soap, etc. And Bentlee got to play some games with her dad as he had promised if she did her best in the contest($20 worth of games in 10 minutes).
Bentlee was a good sport most of the day...along with Wade, Rylee, Wade's parents, and my mom! It was just a long drawn out process. Wade was definately a trooper...he never complained and waited very patiently! Most of the time Wade is working and does not get to attend these types of events with the girls and I, so I guess he felt blessed to actually be off of work and with his girls regardless of the temperature.
And the little girl that won was deserving of the win...she is a very animated, never-met-a-stranger sort of child. Congratulations to her and the two runner ups.

The Princess Contestants float Bentlee and the other girls rode on...

Rylee watching the parade...

Passing the time using her new coloring book & crayons from the Murfreesboro Fire Dept...

Waiting...and waiting some more to get on stage...

All the girls finally on the stage!

Bentlee and her cousin Hayley...Hayley won the Princess contest when she was 5 years old.

And you know who I would have chosen to win this year....LOL!

Watermelon Festival 2008

2008-07-31T09:05:00.010-04:00

We went and supported our local Watermelon Festival to the tune of $60 last night...but it was FUN, FUN...for myself and BOTH girls and Jessica. Jessica decided she would go so we could take both girls...this was Rylee's first official year of riding the RIDES! At first, she did not want to ride but you can see she quickly adjusted and was ready to RIDE!
Bentlee, without a doubt, had a BLAST! And we met Alycia and Tyler.
Oh, and my apologies to my friends...no time for socializing last night, it was all about the girls having fun, sorry ;o)

Me and my girls on the carousel...

View from the Ferris Wheel..

Rylee CHEESING!

Jessica and Bentlee on the Ferris Wheel..

Karley, Tyler, and Bentlee on the alligator roller coaster...

Bentlee on the kiddie ride...

Rylee and Bentlee on the carousel...

Me and my faithful helper..."Jezzie"

Church

2008-07-30T10:21:00.002-04:00

This is an email I got today...I run into folks often that say things like..." I don't think you have to go to church to go to heaven"....and this made me think about those people...it doesn't really answer the question of whether you have to go to church to go to heaven...it just made me think about folks that question church...BTW, if you are what you say you are, a Christian at heart, you WILL want to associate with other Christians in church and elsewhere...you will WANT to learn more about GOD and you will be "hungry for the Lord", you will be drawn to WORSHIP...and if you are a Christian, you will understand where I am coming from...Now, I am not one to push "religion" and God down your throat and I SIN with the rest of the Christians of the world...and NO, I am not going to preach today, LOL!...

Why Go To Church?

A Church goer wrote a letter to the editor of a newspaper and complained
That it made no sense to go to church every Sunday.(or Saturday) 'I've gone
For 30 years now,' he wrote, 'and in that time I have heard something like
3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, I can't remember a single one of
Them. So, I think I'm wasting my time and the pastors are wasting theirs by
Giving sermons at all.'

This started a real controversy in the 'Letters to the Editor'
Column, much to the delight of the editor. It went on for weeks until
Someone wrote this clincher.

'I've been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked some
32,000 meals. But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for
A single one of those meals. But I do know this.. They all nourished me and
Gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me
These meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone
To church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!' When you are
DOWN to nothing.... God is UP to something! Faith sees the invisible,
Believes the incredible and receives the impossible! Thank God for our
Physical AND our spiritual nourishment!

Rylee's 2nd birthday

2008-07-29T08:40:00.008-04:00

Because I had to work yesterday I was not able to do anything special for Rylee so Jessica stepped up to the plate. She took Rylee and Bentlee to McDonalds for lunch and then to the grocery store to pick up cake supplies. Rylee picked out DORA candies and crayon candles...SURPRISE, SURPRISE!
After their "road trip" it was nap time for the girls and baking time for Jessica (and you know I told you Jessica is "domestically retarded", LOL!). The cupcakes and Dora cake turned out SOOO cute! I was so proud of Jessica for making Rylee's birthday so special...after Wade got home and saw the baked goods, Rylee had ANOTHER cupcake with candles and we sang Happy Birthday to her! She was a bit scared of blowing out the candles so Jessica helped with that too. Not only were the cupcakes and cake cute, they were YUMMY!
Thanks "Jezzie" for making Rylee's day so special!

There will be more DORA to come for her actual birthday party on Sunday ;o) Funny thing...Bentlee's second birthday party was Dora also! Girls, girls, girls!

Happy 2nd Birthday Rylee-Poo!

2008-07-28T08:52:00.006-04:00

Two years ago at this very moment I was in HARD labor...had been since the night before...she wasn't a big baby but a hard delivery (she was face up instead of face down in the birth canal)...at 7 lbs. 1 oz, 20 inches long...a head full of dark hair...blues eyes...Rylee Wade Mayle was finally born at 1:42 pm July 28, 2006.

I have to admit...Rylee was an "oops" and I know most parents wouldn't actually admit that, but the best "oops" that ever happened to me. She is TWO years old today...my baby girl...Rylee did not stay a BABY very long...she has grown so much faster than her sister did...started walking at 9 months old...gave her bottle up at 20 months old...
Could you possibly tell she would be a BIG girl from this photo, LOL???

I know....YUCK! But it is hard to beleive my belly was THAT big!~ And today is the day I am reflecting back on the last time I was pregnant..the last time I ever will feel life growing inside me...only to produce another one of God's miracles...

My dad is getting his LAST chemo treatment today!

2008-07-24T10:24:00.002-04:00

Treatment #6 is today...and the LAST ever we hope! As I told you at his last visit, the doc told him he is in REMISSION. Although there is no cure for Lymphoma, this is the closest we can get to it...God has been so good to our family in answering our prayers.
He is recovering VERY well from his back surgery. He is wearing a brace but it does not appear to bother him much. I think it helps remind him what he can't do...which is good for his busy self!
He was all SMILES at church last night. He does have a few more things going on...soft bones, clogged arteries, etc...small things that can be treated with meds..nothing we can't handle. I told him he is "just getting old"! LOL!
Keep them in yours prayers as they travel to Chapel Hill and back today. Two of their church friends are taking them.

I'm a country girl but come oooonnnn....

2008-07-22T11:02:00.006-04:00

Wade loves field peas and he came home with a grocery bag FULL last night! Other than corn, thats about the only veggie he eats...I am not crazy about them but I will cook them for him! So...I call his mom to get the "scoop"...she says..."lay them out flat instead of refridgerating them because they will be easier to shell...shell them, soak and wash them, and cook them with seasoning meat, bacon will do"...holy POOP! I am a typicall microwave cooker...some stove cooking, Wade does the grill cooking...yayayaa...so, tonight (or tomorrow night!) I will be SLAVING over field peas! They are pretty unshelled but geezzzz....looks like I got a bunch of snakes living on my kitchen floor...Bentlee and Rylee will probably freak out when they see them this morning, LOL!

Steve is coming home today

2008-07-17T15:30:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to let you all know Steve will finally be coming home today...9 weeks ago today he was in that awful accident.

Bad to worse to good?

2008-07-17T15:16:00.002-04:00

You all know about the incident with my dad hurting his back...well, things went from bad to worse...he started with uncontrollable pain last week on Thursday. Mom insisted he go to the ER again...from there he stayed in the hospital until Tuesday...his back was worse than they originally thought, they wanted to perform surgery (inserting "cement"?)...his white count (from Chemo) was VERY low...could not do the surgery...they finally got his white count up and he had his surgery this morning in Greenville...will stay tonight and come home tomorrow. The surgery went well...God is Good...AGAIN! We will know more about the future of his back tomorrow or Monday. Keep he and mom in your prayers...more doctors, more traveling....more pain...more prayers...more gifts from God.

PS I needed to blog....I have been SOOO verYYYYY busy this week, my brain is tired!

Bentlee lost her first TEETH!

2008-07-14T14:34:00.004-04:00

While I was at work Friday I got a call from Jessica..she says Bentlee is getting ready to lose her first tooth! I was SOOOOO surprised, and a bit concerned...she is 5 years old! She is not supposed to be losing teeth yet! So...I checked the internet and I guess its okay...I did not know this but if children get their teeth early, they will lose them early, and they will also lose them in the same order they got them. The thing is, Bentlee did not get her teeth early...around 6 months old is when she got the first bottom two. Who knows!

She did lose her first tooth on Friday, Jessica pulled it right out! And she got $10 from the tooth ferry! I only remember getting maybe $1 each time..if that! LOL!

THEN, she lost another one yesterday...I had to pull that one out myself! I have to admit I was scared! I just didn't want to hurt her but I told her to let me try ONE time...and I grabbed it and pulled it right out! The tooth fairy is broke needless to say!

Isn't she cute? My batteries were dead in my camera last night but she made sure to remind me this morning before we left for bible school..."Don't forget to take pictures of my missing teeth for your Blog Mom"...she is FIVE! Go figure my 5 year old would know about a BLOG! LOL!

Its almost time...

2008-07-11T15:17:00.002-04:00

For the Watermelon Festival in Murfreesboro. Bentlee gets SO excited each year...she and I usually go Weds or Thurs night (just the two of us) and we ride most of the big rides. The kiddie rides do not thrill her much...she needs more adventure than they have to offer! LOL! Maybe in a couple of years Rylee will join us.
This header picture is from last year when she was on one of the big rides...you can see the THRILL and FEAR in her face...and you can almost feel the excitement yourself!
The Watermelon Festival is July 30th through August 2nd this year.
Bentlee has also been accepted into the Watermelon Princess Contest this year and she is very excited about it (another one of my ploys to rid her of possible stage fright).

My UpperCase Living

2008-07-11T08:41:00.003-04:00

I already have a couple of decals on my walls so it was hard for me to pick what I wanted to order from Michele's UpperCase Living party...plus there are SOOO many choices in the catalog. It is very reasonably priced like Michele said in her blog, I think I paid around $15 for this one.

I have "Live, Laugh, Love" over my back double doors and I have another over my breakfast nook window. I got those from TLC (scrapbooking company). Guess I will need to take pics of those later and post.

I think this turned out pretty great...I had a little trouble applying it but overall it turned out nice...and it fits in with my other kitchen decor that you can't see in the pic.

Congratulations Jessica!

2008-07-10T14:23:00.004-04:00

Remember when you were young and not sure what to do and where to go in life...Jessica has sort of been that way since she graduated...thinking and questioning and thinking some more...thought she knew what to do, changed her mind....yayayaaaa....she has been taking nursing prereq courses but was not sure if she would get in...

Well, CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER FOR JESSICA...she was accepted into nursing school last week! WOOOO HOOOO

Daycare

2008-07-10T12:50:00.005-04:00

Long story short...and most of you know this already but...until about a week ago I have been driving to Union everyday to take Rylee to daycare, coming back up to Pendleton to drop Bentlee at school, then on to work...about an hour trip each morning. Wade and I strongly beleive in a good, structured daycare whether it be a center or a home daycare. I have been doing this for about a year. Once Bentlee got out of school our daycare fees doubled....WOW! So, its about $600/month plus gas, etc.
We decided to try something different...Jessica (my neice/sister) is 19 and has worked at two daycares. So we took the girls out of daycare and Jessica is keeping them at home now...or at least until September when she starts school again. I was reluctant to do this for many reasons...Wade works shift work so its been a real change having them home for him, I am still a bit serious about keeping my house in order (other than the extreme dust, LOL!), and the main reason is I was afraid the girls would get out of routine and have no stimulation.
SO, I devised a plan! I always have a "plan" as Wade says...LOL! I made a schedule similiar to their school/daycare schedule to include breakfast, playtime, arts & crafts, lunch, nap, and some deviations include an afternoon at the pool or a trip to the library.
I have to say I have been pretty impressed, actually extremely impressed, with Jessica...she is not the most domestic person I know but she is great with my girls. She knows how to give them a balanced meal at lunch..or as close as possible for my picky eaters. I tell her all the time she should be going to school for teaching, not nursing. Here are a few of her craft ideas the girls have made this week. Plus, she reads them books, they have outside time, free-play, and some "time-outs" :o).
Its been a real blessing for me especially...my mornings are SO less hectic, my ride to work is peaceful...and the girls are happy. I prayed about this for some time and was just not sure if this was the right thing to do...but now I know it is.
A big yellow cat!

Beautiful butterflies!

The holiday weekend

2008-07-07T12:08:00.011-04:00

We had a fun-filled busy weekend...Elliott & Alycia's on Friday with Wade's family for pool, pizza, and Tball...

Rylee (almost 2) and Tyler (age 4 1/2) on the 4-wheeler (header picture)

Bentlee, Tyler, and Grandaddy Jerry

Bentlee and Wade

Ga-Ga and Bentlee

Terissa and Alycia

On Saturday, we spent the day at the river with Mem & Poppy and ended with fireworks...and a RAINY drive home!

Yesterday we went to church and came home for a 2-hour NAP! Then the laundry and cleaning, yuck~ All good times must come to an end I guess.

REMISSION!

2008-07-07T09:07:00.003-04:00

In case I don't have your cell phone number and did not text you Friday....MY DAD'S CANCER HAS GONE INTO REMISSION! We could not be MORE pleased and BLESSED!

He will have one more treatment...doctor visits every three months for a year and every 6 months after that.

It almost feels unreal...mom says its been a long journey but the time has really flown by I think....but I am not there everyday to see Dad's struggle.

Now if he can get his back in shape....all will be well.

Thanks again for the prayers...and emails...and EVERYTHING!

GOD IS GOOD! Have faith folks...thats what it takes...my dad is a prime example of that.

The Bachelorette

2008-07-02T15:10:00.002-04:00

Is anybody watching the Bachelorette? I know I spelled that wrong but who cares. If you are watching, who will she choose...the dumb and ugly, but sweet professional snowboarder or the premade family? I vote the premade family because I really wanted her with the "OCD" LAWYER guy! Did you see his perfect house and his AWESOME eyes?! I am not normally one to "drool" over men on TV but this time I did. Who would have guessed me to choose the OCD guy, LOL, me...OCD...need I say more!? Oh, and thank goodness for DVR or I wouldn't be watching anything at the moment.

Mandy's blog about WipeOut inspired this post. Sorry Mandy, I'm not watching that.

Treatment #5

2008-07-02T11:13:00.003-04:00

Dad will have treatment #5 tomorrow instead of Friday (due to the holiday of course). The last treatment really took alot out of him and it took him a few more days to bounce back. That is typical from what we were told, each treatment would be worse. Last week he finally came around a bit and then...

He and mom kept the girls the weekend. They went down to the river, mom stayed on the pier with Rylee because she is afraid of the water, and dad swam with Bentlee. When it was time to go mom took Rylee's life jacket off and was attempting to get Bentlee out of the water...Dad was putting his shoes on...AND they heard a SPLASH! Rylee had fallen in the WATER! The water down there is only thigh deep to me but river water is dark...both of them panicked! Mom jumped in, dad jumped over mom and into the water...and hurt his BACK! Everyone else had gone back to their campers so mom couldn't call for help....mom got Rylee of course and finally got dad out!

He would not go to the hospital of course, laid around all weekend...finally got in so much pain he ended up at the ER yesterday morning. He has a compound fracture in his T8 (lower part of his spine).

AS IF MOM and DAD did not have enough going on! And I felt SOOOOO guilty and I know I shouldn't but if only I had not asked them to keep both girls! But, I guess it could have happened in another way...I just feel bad for them both. You know I said in Friday's post that I was not asking them to keep the girls much and then this happens. Mom cried and cried about it because she had taken Rylee's life jacket off. I told her she still would have panicked regardless. Rylee is fine, dad is not. He will be but its going to take MORE rest and no lifting.

So, keep them in your prayers as I know most of you do. THANKS for all the kind comments and support you continue to show.

I spilled the beans!

2008-07-01T14:29:00.005-04:00

Check out my new FRIEND on my list over to the left....ooohhhhhhhhhhhhhh.......I spilled the beans! She has been working on it for over a week, couldn't get pics to download at home..."trying" too hard to blog!
www.bluigirl.blogspot.com
Its a "welcome home" gift for you Tina if you EVER decide to take your toes out of the Florida sand and come home! LOL!

"Whats s'up Rylee?"

2008-07-01T10:55:00.003-04:00

Had to share this video...Jessica taught her this and most of you never get to hear shy Rylee talk...funny!

An email forward I received today...

2008-06-30T12:06:00.000-04:00

He Teaches the Way

Today's Scripture

'I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you' (Psalm 32:8).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Do you need direction in your life today? Maybe you are facing an important decision in your job, at home, or in your relationships. Know this: God, Himself, will teach you what you should do. He promises to show you the path you should take. He's watching over you and giving you advice every step of the way. See, God's not just concerned with the goal, or end result. It's not just about getting you from point 'A' to point 'B.' He is with you every step of the way during the entire process. He wants to see your character develop and mature. Most times, our growth in life happens when circumstances seem to be the most uncertain. Those uncertain times cause us to rely more on God. No matter how uncertain things may seem, God still has His eye on you. He's making sure you make the right choices. He's working with you to shape your character and attitude. Remember, He's promised to never leave you or forsake you. You may not always know the answer right away, but He's instructing you and teaching you and leading you into blessing all the days of your life.

A Prayer for Today

Father in heaven, thank You for teaching and guiding me and giving me direction in my life. I receive Your counsel today. Help me to be more like You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Just Wade and I

2008-06-27T16:38:00.005-04:00

Bentlee and Rylee are off to Mem & Poppy's in the morning for a sleepover and it will be just Wade and I....HOOOOO-RAY! I have really not been asking mom and dad to keep the girls much since dad has been sick. He has been more tired with each treatment and both girls are too much for just mom (she would say not but it wears her out).
We have a wedding to attend tomorrow, talked about not even doing that and spending the day at home....possibly going to Jimmie's and seeing one of our favorite bands tomorrow night, Deuce's Wild...I will let you know where we end up on our kid-free night come Monday...have a great weekend everybody!

PS I have been waiting to use this picture even though its not so good. Mom buys the girls matching things from time to time and she got them matching nightgowns awhile back. It took Rylee awhile to understand pajamas do not have to have pants, LOL!

This one's for you Judi

2008-06-26T16:52:00.003-04:00

Since you are always posting your pictures of nature...flowers, veggies, etc. I myself do not have a green thumb but I do have a Calla-Lily that blooms every year...my soil is not so great and thats what I am blaming my lack of landscape on. I try to plant a few things in the spring but by June it all looks like crap, LOL!

I know, I know

2008-06-26T15:28:00.002-04:00

I know I haven't posted in two days...give me a break, I am "dealing" with some things...nothing serious to concern anyone...maybe just a change in my life...no, its not my marriage for heaven's sake and I am not sick...so, thats why I am sort of in a "funk".

You know when you are younger you are not sure what your life will hold, where the roads will take you...and then you realize you are 32...thought you had it all figured out, got married, had kids, settled in a job....and "something", maybe God, is possibly detouring your life...thats my problem, I am waiting on an "answer" to my "thing" that I am "dealing" with...I'm scared. Pray for me...pray I will choose the right thing.

Are you all confused? Wish I did not blog today? Are you "battling" with something the same way in your life? Its making me very tired...and the problem is I am not waiting on anyone else, I have to make the decision myself.

Updates on Ken & Steve

2008-06-25T08:59:00.003-04:00

Steve moved back to Greenville yesterday and will possibly be there for 3 weeks or so...depending on how his therapy progresses and then home. Steve and Vicky still need to be lifted up...PRAY for them as you did at first. Even though he has come a long way in his recovery there will still be many more bridges to cross. Wade and I did take the girls to visit him last week and we were impressed with his memory and he still has his witty sense of humor! Please keep them in your thoughts...

Ken will be coming home on Saturday. He will be going to live with his dad for a couple of weeks and he is not happy about that. But think about going back to live with a parent at age 32..not an easy move regardless of the situation. He is doing well and will continue to receive PT at home but still will not be able to walk alot. He still has alot of healing to do.

Going home for either of these guys will not be as easy as it sounds...keep their families in prayer as well.

Neat little Party favor!

2008-06-24T08:37:00.003-04:00

My family gave a fish fry this weekend for my cousin Paula. She is getting married in November and Bentlee is going to be the flower girl! Paula and Jason are real laid back country people and the fish fry was very appropriate...decorated with hydrangeas & sunflowers in Mason jars...really cool~ So, I thought I would share the party favors with you all.
These were packs of seedlings, sunflowers, etc., with a card about the size of a business card...tied with Rafia. You could use this idea for lots of things...housewarmings, baby showers, and just change the phrases on the card....I know you "creative" girls will really appreciate this...cheap but CUTE! You might need the idea for future parties since most of us are country folk'!

Help in Ahoskie

2008-06-20T15:22:00.002-04:00

Girls, I need some help with the plate sale. I am trying to contact business' in Ahoskie and surrounding areas...know anybody that may be a good contact? If so, can you provide an email address? I would like to contact them and send them a flyer and some tickets to sell, if they agree that is.
I have contacted Carol at Berry Plastics....and Anita Burch at Nucor. I have a business list but no other actual contacts.

Finally, a HAIRCUT!

2008-06-20T08:30:00.004-04:00

In case you can't tell from my blog pictures in the past, Bentlee is a bit short (and stocky I might!). She has been all about growing her hair long and it just does not suit her little short self...so FINALLY I was able to convince her to cut it. Since she has been getting in the pool alot it creates more knots in her hair and I told her if we cut it her hair would be less knotty! GUESS WHAT!? She agreed and was excited about it! I cut Wade's first, then hers, then Rylee's bangs.

If you knew Bentlee when she was a little tot I always kept her hair cut short for the same reasons. And she has a THICK head of hair which makes the long hair even worse on her. Some may think I may have kept it cut too short but it was cute on her and it suited her little self, just look at that top picture of her with her "pie-pie" (BTW, she had two pacifiers until she was nearly 4 years old, she would suck on one and smell the other, I had nearly forgotten about those things!).

Beware Northampton County...

2008-06-19T13:00:00.005-04:00

UPDATE: I thought my coworker got his ticket before me and he did but he got his yesterday morning also around 7:10am in Milwaukee and I got mine in Potecasi about 7:47am!
Sooo....got myself a little pink slip this morning in Potecasi! Yep~ guilty as charged and I speed through there every morning...and get this, I dropped my cigarette out the window after he approached the car so I could find my registration...and the jerk wrote me a WARNING for LITTERING! I won;t tell you HOW mad I was about that, he did not even tell me that, he gave me all my papers back, i.e. license, registration, ticket, etc., asked me if I had any questions and I said "no"...and he walks away. I had NO IDEA he had stuck the little littering warning in with everything else!

I once asked a trooper about throwing cigarettes out and he said the cop would have to be a REAL jerk to write you up for that. I realize trash is trash...not arguing, but COME ON!

And of course Bentlee had to throw in her two cents worth..."YOU BETTER SLOW IT DOWN MOOOMMM!". No comment~

The same trooper gave a coworker of mine a ticket in Milwaukee not long ago...has been spotted in Old Tavern, on the high school road, and in Creeksville. Apparently Mr. Trooper Dooper Kelly is out to make a name for himself around here....so beware my fellow Northampton Co heavy footers! Or smokers!

Ken Update

2008-06-18T12:44:00.002-04:00

I know its been awhile since I updated you all on Ken but there really hasn't been much to report. I talked to Julie yesterday and she said Ken was better yesterday than he has been YET! They finally got his bladder issue resolved and thats been the biggest issue and biggest pain problem, his pelvis is about half way healed, and he did have a shoulder replacement on Friday of last week. She said he was really moving around in the bed which was a good sign and they had removed all of his tubes or they had been shut off. So, HOORAY, Ken will be back soon. He will need physical therapy and they are waiting on insurance approval, which is always a problem these days, but the doctors have released him to go. He is still in Norfolk and they hope to keep him in Norfolk for PT. Thank you for the many prayers for Ken and continue to keep him in your thoughts. He is "out of the woods" but not home...and if you have ever had an extensive hospital stay you know it can be depressing. I have no doubts that Ken will fully recover, nothing has ever held him down.

I have not been back to see him due to my crazy schedule and hectic home life. I know I will be in Norfolk next week so maybe I will finally get to see him then.

Wade and I are taking the girls to see Steve tonight so I will update you all on Steve tomorrow.

My space

2008-06-18T09:04:00.004-04:00

It seems everybody has posted their "space"...this is where I blog, my office, my "space"...it does look a little messy but I was once told by a coworker if your office looks clean and organized it looks like you are not busy...so, I have just let things go since...I will straighten up around here every so often but I don't want anybody to think I am NOT BUSY! I am busy...(it just may not be job related, LOL!).

Happy 29th Birthday Alycia!

2008-06-18T09:01:00.003-04:00

I thought Alycia turned 30 but she is only 29...I have a hard time thinking there are almost 4 years difference in our age.
And no Judi, she is my sister-in-law. But thanks for the compliment. She is married to Wade's twin brother, Elliott.

NEW blogger alert! www.kellyallenclark.blogspot.com

2008-06-18T08:36:00.004-04:00

We have a new blogger....Kelly Clark! Hurrahhhh! I always love to add new blogger friends...she is just getting starting and will work through all the ends and outs like the rest of us but she's here!

Wendy, here is someone else "to watch in the airport"! LOL! I do love the "watching" myself and when you create a blog you take a chance on folks "watching" but who cares! Its not like we are posting nude photos...gross! LOL! I am constantly trying to get others to blog, I LOVE IT! As you can see, I post 2-3 times a day sometimes and nothing on other days (rare, I know!).

Give Kelly a shout!

Church Fundraiser

2008-06-17T13:50:00.003-04:00

Tina and I are on a mission! We are raising money for our playground at Open Arms Church.

Tshirts- can be purchased without the OAC logo, "Got God?" on the front, "I do!" in the fish sign on the back. We have youth and adult sizes, regular tshirts, pocket T's, long sleeve tshirts, and sweatshirts. The regular tshirt in an adult size is only $12!~ Email Tina or myself for a order form, snbmayle@hotmail.com or biggiesgurl@hotmail.com. They are very nice quality tshirts, I washed mine and it is a nice weight, I am pleased! The first tshirt order will be submitted July 7th.
I am wearing the one shown here and needless to say, it did not photograph well. I meant to take them this morning after I ironed it...oh well~ you get the "picture", LOL!

Magnets- the magnet shown is the "OAC" magnet BUT we have "CD" magnets with Christ Driven at the bottom! These are $5 each and can be placed on vehicles, refrigerators, etc.

Please help support our church by making a purchase or by letting someone know we have these items available. I will be glad to mail your purchase to you via "snail mail".

My header picture

2008-06-17T09:51:00.002-04:00

In case you did not know or have not been reading my blog very long, Wade (my husband) and Elliott are twins...there is a "poundage" difference with Wade being the bigger guy but I you can hardly tell it in this photo. Funny thing, I have been told Wade was the smaller of the two at birth. Tyler (Elliott's son) is standing with Elliott and Wade is on the right.

My fish

2008-06-17T09:26:00.003-04:00

I had NO idea Bentlee would submerge her head under water, hold her breath, and get water in her ears. I was not sure she would ever swim for fear of getting water in her ears...one of her many "phobias"! She ISSSS a OCD DRAMA QUEEN! Seriously~

Summa,summa,summaatime...

2008-06-16T12:51:00.003-04:00