Kellee's World

Ian's New Website!

2010-09-20T18:33:00.003-04:00

Hello strangers!

It's been a VERY busy past month for us! I look back and wonder where it went?? Shelbey started a new school, we all started new jobs and in between we are getting on with "life". Hope everyone is doing well!!

If you get a chance, check out Ian's new website at www.ianstewartmusic.com

We worked very hard and VERY long hours on this so I hope you enjoy it!!

Take care!

Summer Fun!

2010-08-24T18:43:00.006-04:00

Hello all you strangers!!

It's been a loooong while since I have kept you up to date on all the happenings around here. I apologize...so as I hold my head in blogging shame, I will fill you in on what's been going on.

Ian and I made a trip back to his home town in Canada back in July. We met up with the kiddies and Ian played a couple of venues over the weekend. Then he took me into the thick of the Rocky Mountains and I must say it was one gorgeous sight!! We stayed in a town called Banff (which was amazing by the way!) and we had a great time. I have never been to the mountains, but would always hear Ian talk about them, so we decided to venture out and I am sooo glad we did. If you ever get the chance to go there...I highly recommend it. You WILL NOT be disappointed!!!!!

Now that Ian is all settled in here in Michigan he is starting to fill up his days with playing at local places and getting to know his way around. He also started a new job working at a fitness gym and LOVES it. As all of you know, Ian likes to work out so this was perfect for him. (Oh...and the free gym membership was a perk too!)

I have also started a new job and have been there for about a month now. After working for the same employer for 8 years, this was quite a change for me. But it is all working out wonderful and we are plugging along. Shelbey also has started a new job working for a local Pizza Parlour. She was excited to find out she "got the job" and this will be a great opportunity for her. And we won't mind a free pizza once in a while. :)

Other than that news, we have just been enjoying the summer and trying to stay cool. It has been a hot and humid one so far. I think Ian is going to melt after being in frigid Canada for so many years! :)

Hope all is well with everyone. Take care XOXO

Vancouver Bound!

2010-06-19T10:40:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone! Long time...no blog. But I have every good reason, Ian is FINALLY here for keeps and he is officially a legal eagle (as we call him)! So, we have been busy getting things in order, moving the rest of his things here, and just trying to adjust to the move. He has been busy getting all the things he needs to function as an American...ha ha! I must say, he is a trooper. We don't make it easy on the people who want to live in here.

Well, Ian and I just got back last Sunday from a weekend trip to Gabriola Island in Vancouver, British Columbia. Ian had some friends who were celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary and they invited us out to celebrate and to have Ian play the music. We had a wonderful time and I absolutely LOVED it!!! The place we were at was gorgeous and I saw my first Bald Eagle...now that was amazing!! Im not a fan of flying (shocker!) and when I found out that we were taking a Float Plane across to the island I was not feelin' it. But...I was amazed at how well I did and how much I enjoyed it. The view from this plane was unbelievable (I saw the Olympic Stadium!! Yeah!) and I would do it all over again. It was only a 10 minute flight from Vancouver to the island, but in a weird way I wished it was longer. NEVER thought I would be saying that!!!

Now we are back home and the work week seemed to be a long one. I have posted some pictures of our trip and we will be going back up to Ian's home town in Canada in July and will post pics after we get back. Hope all is well with everyone! Enjoy your summer. XOXO

This feels so amazing....

2010-05-24T20:16:00.002-04:00

I just have to let all of you know that having my husband here for GOOD feels absolutely amazing!!!!!!!!!!!! No words can describe the feeling...so that's all I have to say about that!! :) XOXOXO

WELCOME HOME HONEY!!!!

2010-04-27T19:41:00.002-04:00

QUOTE OF THE DAY:

"Welcome to the United States of America"!!

That is what my amazing husband heard at 9:00 this morning. For those of you that have been living under a rock, Ian had his Immigration interview today and passed with flying colors! We have been waiting for this day for over a year now and it was all worth it. He is now going to be here for good and we are sooooo happy!!!!

Thanks to all of you that have been patient with me in my meltdowns and moodswings (especially my daughter Shelbey...bless her heart!) and you can all look forward to a great homecoming party this summer!!

As my mom said..."great things come to those who wait"...I guess mom's can be right sometimes. :) XOXOXO

Shelbey's Adventures!

2010-03-28T15:45:00.002-04:00

I am not one to do too much out of my comfort zone, and I thought Shelbey was going to follow in my footsteps...but much to my surprise she is getting a little adventuras side to her. While we were vacationing in Mexico, she surprised me and others by going snorkeling not once, but TWICE and swam with the dolphins. Being that she is 15, she certainly wouldn't tell you that she LOVED it and her facial expressions afterwards would tell a story that it was just another day and it was "no big deal"! However, I am here to tell you that as her secret mind reader (aka her "mom") she really enjoyed it and I am very proud of here for going outside her comfort zone and trying these new experiences. I guess she may not be just like me after all! And that's probably not such a bad thing...Ha Ha! :) Love you Shelbs!

Fun In The Sun

2010-03-07T15:17:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone. Yes, we are back to the fridge now...and actually ever since we have returned the weather has been so nice here. You can all thank me later for bringing back the sun. :)

Our vacation was wonderful and our wedding was amazing!! It was a beautiful sunny day on the beach with family and friends. I really could not have asked for anything more. I got to meet Ian's sister Margaret and her husband Pete for the first time and I have to say that she is one of the funniest people I have ever met. She was so helpful with some of the wedding plans and we are so grateful for them both! XOXO All the kids came down and had a blast. Shelbey got to snorkel for the first time and loved it and also got to swim with the dolphins with my mom. So all in all we had a great time. Our second week was nice to have all by ourselves. Don't get me wrong, we loved having everyone there, but it was nice to see them go! LOL

On the other end of the spectrum....last week we FINALLY got the infamous email from the U.S. Immigration with the date for Ian's interview at the U.S. Embassy in Montreal Canada!!!!!!! I honestly thought I was going to jump right out of my skin when we got the news. His interview is April 27th and if all goes well (and as planned) he should be here for good the first part of May. This was a test of our patience and love and we have come through with flying colors! Can't wait to have my hubby home with me everyday and every night.

I have posted a few pics of our wedding day but will post slide show on a later post. Take care and be happy!! :)

Here Comes The Sun!!

2010-02-08T18:43:00.003-05:00

My nose is cold, my hands feel like ice, and my heating bill is out of control!!! However, 2 out of those problems will be solved in a matter of 7 days. That's right people...Mexico is calling our names. And pretty loudly I must say!

We are so excited that we will be leaving this igloo and finally warming up. I am so over winter and frankly, it's getting on my nerves. But I can't complain because I am VERY lucky to be able to leave all you eskimos behind and enjoy 2 weeks in the tropic sun. LOL

We are all ready for our wedding ceremony too. It has been quite challenging (to put it lightly) to get things organized with Ian being so far away, but somehow we always seem to manage and pull it together. I think we will look back on these days and wonder how the heck we EVER did it!! But it is ALL worth it.

Hope you are all doing well and keeping warm and bundled. Looks like we are in for quite the snow storm the next couple of days here in Michigan...ahhh...just in time for Ian to shovel the walk since he will be here in 3 days. Perfect!! Ha Ha!

Take care to all and I will post pics when we return. Audios!

One Day So Close...One Day So Far Away

2010-01-21T19:48:00.003-05:00

It has been a while since I have posted on the 'ol blog...so I thought I would update all of you faithful readers.

Well, our wedding in Mexico is fast approaching. Just a few short weeks away and we will be basking in the sun, sifting our feet in the sand and taking in the warmth! It just seems like the other day it was MONTHS away. I'm finding out very quick that it is creeping up fast. Shelbey is excited to see all there is to see and Ian is going to try his hardest to get her out snorkeling. Her response is, "NO WAY!! I'm not going in there with the sharks!" Somehow, as she gets older, she is becoming more and more like her mother. Lord help her!! :)

Now...on the other end of the spectrum...on December 23rd Ian and I got a FANTASTIC email from the National Visa Center that informed us that our case is now complete and we are to wait to hear when his interview at the US Embassy will be. I am thinking at this point it will be in the next couple of months....WRONG!!! I have been visiting a very helpful website for people in our unique situation and come to find out, they are backlogged due to being under staffed. As I read on, it looks as if he may not get his interview date until sometime in April or May!!! SERIOUSLY??? I am just sick about this...I had such high hopes that it would be so soon and just as I start to really envision him being here everyday and night, my hopes get shot down and we hurry up and wait AGAIN!!! Makes me wonder how so many people are here illegally and live their everyday lives. UGH!! Needless to say, I am very frustrated. However, I have an amazing husband that is SOOOO patient and keeps me grounded. He sees the positive in all of this and makes this long journey not seem so long. Love you honey!!! XOXO

Hope everyone is doing well and you are sticking to your New Year's resolutions. I've done good so far!! Take care.

Happy 2010

2010-01-01T22:30:00.004-05:00

Hello all! I really have been lacking my blog lately, but for good reason. Ian has been here visiting for the holidays so we have been spending lots of time together and keeping Miss Shelbey busy.

Christmas was wonderful with all the family, presents and good food. We had Thanksgiving dinner at our house this year and my mom had Christmas at her house. It is alot of fun and a bit chaotic with all the kiddies running around, but we wouldn't have it any other way!!! I think my last count was 12 adults and 9 kidlets....whew! What a clan!!

We spent New Year's eve with a couple of friends in the Southfield (Detroit) area and it was a blast! Both Ian and myself had a bit too much of Grandpa's cough medicine (LOL) but we have recouped and brought in the new year together with great friends. And by the way...I had a first on New Years eve...it was Lamb. Yes...Lamb. Our friends made us dinner and it was lamb kabobs. I was leary because of the whole "mental thing". But it was good and I was surprised.

Anyways...hope you all have a great and prosperous new year!! XOXO

Happy Holidays!!!

2009-12-01T19:52:00.000-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

On The Downslide....

2009-11-09T18:34:00.002-05:00

For those of you that have heard either Ian or myself talk about our "journey" with our Immigration process, or those of you that are totally unaware of our crazy life right now I thought I would update you all.

We started this journey the first part of April (yes...April!), shortly after we got married. And it is just now that we are starting to see the light at the end of this LOOOOOONG tunnel. We have been walking a long time through this tunnel, and our feet hurt and we need new shoes!! LOL :)

As recently as a couple of weeks ago we learned that we only have a few more things to submit to the National Visa Center (as us veterans like to call it "The NVC")and we will shortly find out when Ian gets a date for his interview with the US Embassy. He will be traveling to the Embassy in Montreal Canada to meet his "Master"!! The unknown person who decides our fate of whether he is granted legal entry to the United States permanently. Please pray for us as we are just so stressed about the situation and have long awaited to be together for longer than a few weeks at a time.

I will keep you posted as the news trickles in....literally! Our hopes are that he gets his interview date sometime in January...because we have our wedding ceremony in February down in Mexico and that would be something if he had to leave our vacation to fly to Canada for his interview. I think that's when this "unknown guy" would meet his master...ME!!! Ha! Just kiddin'!!

Take care everyone. XOXO

Our New Wheels!

2009-10-30T18:52:00.002-04:00

Everyone loves it...That "New Car" smell!! And now...Ian and I are enjoying that wonderful scent. Yes, we got a new car! We are very excited and love it! As some of you know, it takes alot of time looking, deciding and then finally choosing the car you are going to invest in. Now just imagine...I'm here and my husband is 35 hours away. There has been numerous phone calls, text messages, and a whole lot of back and forth!! But we managed to get all our ducks in a row (my head is still spinning a bit!!) but we managed to find our new purchase. I got to drive it home today and Ian is anticipating his turn!! XOXOXO

Autumn Fun & A Birthday Dinner!

2009-10-24T19:50:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone!

Yes, it is that time of year again. The air is crisp,the ground is wet and the leaves are EVERYWHERE!!! Ian has been down and I will tell you that between the two of us...I am surprised we still have our arms attached after raking soooo many leaves the past week.

Shelbey's birthday is Monday but we took her out to a birthday lunch today. She enjoyed her lobster tail, but I must say I think she enjoyed her HUGE piece of chocolate cake with ice cream a bit more! As you can tell by the pictures I have attached she was anticipating diving into it.

Hope all is well with everyone and Thanksgiving is fast approaching and we are looking forward to seeing all the family. Take care. XOXOXO

Happy Birthday Mom!!

2009-10-05T19:54:00.002-04:00

Today is my mom's birthday...and myself, Ian, Shelbey, and Tanner too want to wish her a VERY happy birthday!! Enjoy!!

October = Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2009-09-30T18:44:00.002-04:00

I am a FIRM believer that what comes around goes around....and I believe that if we all come together and fight something it will eventually lose. I hope all of you reading this will at least take a moment to remember someone you know or love that may be battling cancer or has lost their life to this terrible disease. October has been marked as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and to all you moms, aunts, sisters, grandmothers, and friends....please be aware!! Educate yourself, do your examinations and fight against what many women around the world are battling today.

As a team, we can conquer this disease!! FIGHT BACK!!!

Peace!

The Clan!

2009-09-22T18:35:00.003-04:00

Here are a few pictures of us and the kids when they were down for their visit. Enjoy!! XOXOXO

Stay Off The Sidewalks!!

2009-09-11T09:03:00.003-04:00

Yes....that's right. The pictures don't lie. Shelbey has taken driver's education and passed her test. So....she now has her learner's permit. I cannot believe it. *sigh*

We are very proud of her for doing such a great job!! She has been driving every chance she can get her little paws on that steering wheel. Although I want her to have all the practice she can get, I think I need to get a stress ball to squeeze on to relieve the white knuckles and maybe a few sedatives to calm my nerves! LOL :) Just pray for me!!

Shelbey turning 16 is just a year away and then she will be flying solo...I will have a sign up sheet coming soon if you would like to join my support group. Ha Ha! Take care all. XOXOXO

I LOVE MY HUSBAND!!!!!

2009-08-23T21:48:00.002-04:00

Just wanted to share a few pics....and let my husband know that he is the best and I just love him BERRY BERRY MUCH!!!! XOXOXO

Fun With The Kiddies!

2009-08-10T20:24:00.002-04:00

Here are some pics I promised to post! We had alot of fun with the kids playing games in the backyard and going to Cedar Point!! Enjoy!

Fun! Fun! Fun!

2009-08-08T21:54:00.004-04:00

We have had so much fun this week! All the kiddies are down from Canada this week and I'm here to say that it has been one busy week!!! We have been shopping at the outlet mall (which by the way....I have lived here for a long time and NEVER knew that even existed!) and it was awesome!! And we have been to Cedar Point Amusement Park and we had our cookout today!! It poured down rain for the entire day so we had to cancel almost everyone coming out, but my family all made it here and they got to meet Ian's kids.

Ian's son Sean and daughter Bryony are leaving tomorrow, but we still have Conor Bug for one more week!! So that will be fun. We plan on giving him the experience of our county fair...and if you are from Jackson or have ever been to the Jackson County Fair....you KNOW what I mean by "experience". LOL :) I will be posting some pics soon of our fun this past week. Hope all is good with everyone....XOXOXO

Ed.....Seriously???

2009-07-28T20:25:00.004-04:00

Ok....once again I ask myself why oh why do I get sucked into watching the Bachelorette?? It NEVER EVER turns out the way I hoped it would.

Jillian ended up picking Ed (the Microsoft Engineer that left the show on his own to go back to his job....and not to mention it is speculated he has a girlfriend in the learch!) who in my opinion is sooooo not for her. And just to name a few reasons why, in my opinion of course, he is the wrong pick:

1.) NERD!!
2.) In the last rose ceremony he dressed like the ice cream man
3.) Does he seriously think the "Larry Bird Green Shorts" are attractive??
4.) He was too nervous and put on the spot to be romantic with her
5.) Once again....he has a girlfriend back home waiting....
6.) Somebody needs to teach that dude about "man scaping"

Ok, maybe those are VERY shallow reasons I think she should have not picked him...but its my opinion and in my "professional bachelorette" opinion, Kiptyn was the one for her. He was awesome!!! But, of course, it was her decision and in the end she will realize that I was right! LOL :)

Well, I hope she is happy with Ed. (did I mention he has a girlfriend back home??) And may all her dreams come true. Maybe I should follow in my sister Jennifer's footsteps and ban the Bachelor and Bachelorette shows out of my TV time. Someday I will learn. Hope all is well with everyone!!! XOXOXO

We Can Hardly Wait!!!

2009-07-25T21:03:00.004-04:00

Hello again! We are soooo excited because Ian's kids are going to be here in a week. We have been talking about them coming to Michigan for quite sometime now, and finally it is fast approaching. We will have the pleaseure of Bryony and Sean for one week and having Conor (or as I call him "Conor Bug") for 2 weeks. We have alot planned and are looking so forward to them being here.

We also busy planning our wedding ceremony in Mexico. Trying to get invites, plans and all the fun stuff organized and ready for the big day. And of course getting ALOT of "us" time now that he is here for a while. Lucky ME!!

Shelbey is doing great...she just got her 10th grade schedule in the mail for her upcoming school year. Yep, that's right....10th GRADE! My goodness, I just cannot believe it. And that's all I have to say about that.

We also had some pics taken a few weeks ago. I have posted just a few to share with all of you. These pictures were taken by a guy that does this for fun and I could not believe how awesome they turned out and not to mention he made us look fabulous after we had such a LOOOONG weekend! Thanks Brad!!! He will also be taking some shots when the kids are all here, so stay tuned for those pics to be posted soon!

Hope all is going great for all of you out there....thats all for now! XOXOXO

Summer Fun

2009-07-05T20:41:00.002-04:00

Hello to you all!! It is officially summer time and Ian is FINALLY here for longer than he has ever been!! YEAH ME!!! And YEAH US!! We are very excited to spend longer than a week together and I think Ian is excited to put his clothes away long enough to collect a little dust. We have already had lots to do and lots to do ahead. It is wonderful having him here and Shelbey kinda likes it too!! :)

I have attached some pics of a few things we have already done....a wedding reception, Ian strumming some tunes at Duffy's and some random shots. Hope all is well with everyone out there and you are enjoying the summer time. I know we are!! Take care...xoxoxo.

Pictures From Mike's Cookout

2009-06-15T19:35:00.002-04:00

HEY HEY HOCKEYTOWN!!!!

2009-06-02T18:28:00.002-04:00

As you all are very well aware of...I am a BIG Red Wings fan and tonight is the 3rd playoff game of the Stanley Cup Final. They are up 2 games to NONE and hoping to make it 3!! Good luck guys!!!!

Happy Birthday To ME!!!!!

2009-05-25T20:02:00.002-04:00

Yes, that's right....happy birthday to me! Sunday May 24th was my 34th birthday and it could not have been better. Shelbey and Ian made me breakfast in bed while dressing me up in balloons and topped it off with a "Happy Birthday" princess crown! I had a very relaxed day and thanks to my 2 favorite people in the world for making it so special...love you both!! XOXOXO

TV News and Reviews

2009-05-15T17:18:00.002-04:00

Ok...here it goes....

* The finale of Dancing With The Stars is next week and good luck to my fav Melissa, you are fabulous!

* I've been keeping up on American Idol a bit more lately...and Adam Lambert, you are MY Idol!!

* Grey's was UNBELIEVEABLE!!!

* The Biggest Loser Helen...you GO GIRL!!!

And just for the record, yes...I do have WAY too much time at night on my hands or maybe it's just that I don't have a life. Ha! And the sad thing is...The Bachelorette starts this Monday. I'm starting to think I need a "TV Internevtion". :)

Oh yeah....the Detroit Red Wings made it to the Western Conference FINALS!!!!!!!! GO WINGS!

Peace....

Fun With The Sisters!

2009-05-05T21:32:00.002-04:00

While my mom and Phil are in Hawaii soaking up all the warmth...we get the pleasure of watching their dog Sophie. Tanner Bug loves having the company of her sister here for the week and they are so happy together playing and jumping all around! Poor Sophie had to have a little surgery on her foot and decided that she liked the taste of her stitches a little too much...so she now has what Ian calls a "satellite" around her neck. I feel bad for her because she seems to hit that thing on every possible thing around her. Poor thing...she will have it off soon enough!

Ian and I have been working in the yard getting everything ready for the summer. I have to say that it was kinda fun mowing the yard...ask me that in about 2 months and I'm sure you will get a different opinion. :)

Hope all is well with everyone. XOXO

Lives cut too short...

2009-04-22T20:19:00.002-04:00

Caylee Marie Anthony...Sandra Cantu...Hayleigh Cummings

If you havn't heard by now, these are just a few children in this country that have either come up missing or have been murdered in the last year. The media publicity has been over whelming for these girls and unfortunately have somewhat shadowed the REAL tradgedy that has happened.

These precious lives have been cut short in the hands of selfish, cold and cruel humans. It is unfortunate that we have people in this society that feel they have the right to take lives from this world for their own benefit. Hearing about these children and the way they spent the last moments of their lives is a hard pill for me to swallow. I have found myself getting angry and making judgments...and now I am realizing that these feelings are not what is important. What is important is these children.

I have so much sympathy for the families affected by these tradgedies, and I can only pray for them and hope they come through all of this with the support of their friends and family.

So, before you put your children to bed, drop them off at school, leave your parents house after dinner, kiss your husband/wife goodbye, or hang up that phone....take a moment to tell them you love them AGAIN! Take care all...and I love you!! XOXO

Fun with Shelbey!

2009-04-13T17:22:00.003-04:00

Shelbey got a new camera for Christmas this past year, and she likes to take ALOT of random pictures. She likes to play with the colors and graphics on her camera...and no, she really doesn't have green hair!! I thought I would share some of these "creative" photos with you...keeping in mind she likes the close ups!! :)

GO TEAM STEWART!!!!!

2009-04-08T20:30:00.002-04:00

Boy do we have news!!!

For those of you that don't know (you are the one's I didn't call or inform of this event...sorry!) Ian and I got married on Friday April 3rd. For those of you that already knew...here are some of the long awaited pictures!

After starting the immigration process for Ian, we came to the realization that being married would not only move the process along much faster, but would save us lots of money and it was WAY easier as far as forms, technicalities and stress!!! We are still going to have our ceremony in Mexico in February 2010 with our friends and families, however, getting married now was the way to go. We like to call it our "Formality Wedding".

We are both extremely happy and can't wait until the day comes when all this "process" is final. Thanks to mom and Phil for being our witnesses and to my brother Matt for taking the great pictures. To those of you that didn't know or maybe heard it second hand...we apologize. It was kinda a last minute decision and we just hope you are as happy for us as we are together!!! :)

We have so much to look forward to as a couple, a team and above all friends. Take care. XOXO

2009-03-27T22:26:00.000-04:00

You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have...

Let's Play Catch Up!

2009-03-21T10:31:00.002-04:00

Happy day to you all!

I was recently looking through my past posts here on the 'ole blog, and realized that I haven't really said much about what else is going on in Kellee's World besides my adventures in Mexico....so I thought I would blog today about random things going on. It may seem a bit boring...but humor me by reading on.

Shelbey recently went to the Snowfest dance at her high school. She looked very pretty in her sparklie pink dress and it brings back all those memories of the all important dances. I know i have said this before, but I can remember (like it was just yesterday) that we were getting her ready for the "Daddy/Daughter Dance". I seriously don't know where the time has gone?? Shelbey has also taken an interest in getting back into gymnastics. That's very exciting!! I love to watch her flip/flop all over the place. She is just 3 months shy of completing her first high school year and it feels like a big burst of wind just whipped by me and then it was gone. Oh my, I'm feeling the empty nest syndrome a bit early....I better move on to the next subject...

Ian is starting the immigration process so we can get his handsome mug here for GOOD! It is a lengthy process and not for the impatient. We are hoping he will be here by the first of next year, but until then we rely on phone calls, text messages and frequent visits. Being the control freak I am, I continuously have to tell myself that it will all be worth it in then end. So, we just hurry up and wait.

We are "re-doing" the bathroom in the house. Ian will be down soon and he is going to tackle that project and hopefully it will be done by the time he leaves. I would love to help him, however, I would rather watch grass grow than paint ANYTHING! So, I get to stand back and be the foreman...I've been told I'm pretty good at giving orders. HA! :)

I guess I need to give updates on my addiction..."Reality Shows"! First of all...The Bachelor. I was in Mexico when that drama went down so I didn't watch it. But the suspense got the best of me so I had to call Shelbey and my mom to get the scoop. I was SHOCKED! And so mad I didn't get to watch it. I only have one comment on that whole escapade....He should have picked Jillian. Now onto Dancing With the Stars...I love this show. It sucks me in with the best of them!! I have my fav's and that would be the gymnast Shawn Johnson and The Bachelor "reject" (as they call her) Melissa Rycroft. Can't wait to see who wins. But I can say that I think the dancer Julianne Hough is awesome! Some girls were just born with glitter in their veins. Now, we just have to get through all the stars that have 2 left feet to get kicked off. So again, we hurry up and wait.

I have not been keeping up on American Idol this season, thank goodness because I would find myself flipping back and forth and that is too much TV stress. But, I do watch a TV show called Intervention. What a great show. I am a VERY Naive person, and it gives me some insight on what REALLY goes on out there. It's not for everyone, but if you haven't seen an episode, maybe you should. It's definitely an eye opener.

My family is doing good. All the nieces and nephews are getting big and blooming into their own personalities. My niece Avery just turned 1 and she is soooo cute! My nephew Collin has been through some recent illness but seems to be trooping through. All in all, things are good.

Well, I will stop babbling on...and I hope everyone is well and gearing up for warmer weather. Take care. XOXO

Mexico Album

2009-03-15T21:20:00.001-04:00

Back To Reality...

2009-03-08T13:20:00.002-04:00

Well...after a 3 hour flight heading north, landing in a much colder climate, and watching my tanned skin quickly shed away I realized it was back to reality for me.

We had a wonderful time in Mexico and I am here to tell you that I have never been on a vacation for 2 weeks, but now that I have....it is the only way to go! We met alot of great people and walked some gorgeous beaches. Ian took me to some neat places I dont think I would have went to if it were not for him. Im kind of a leary person and he opened my eyes to somethings and made me realize how beautiful the world can be. Thanks baby!! XOXOXO!!!

Now that I am back, it is back to work and back to everyday life. But I can say that I was happy to see the grass when we pulled into our driveway!!! Take care.

Fun In The Sun!!

2009-02-26T17:41:00.005-05:00

Hello everyone!

We finally made it to sunny Mexico for 2 weeks and after week one we are starting to feel rested and tanned up! We spent the first 3 days in Cancun and then made our way down to Puerto Adventuras which is very nice. We went to a secluded beach called Xpu-Ha and it was absolutely breath taking. Needless to say, it does not make me miss the snow too much!!

We are traveling down to Playa del Carmen on Friday to stay our second week and I am excited to see what's in store there. The weather has been beautiful here and after toughing through below zero temps and a ton of snow, waiting for this makes it ALL worth it!! Soon we will be back in our same routine, but until then we are enjoying our time and soaking up the sun. Take care....XOXO

Just Thought You Might Wanna Know....

2009-02-11T19:44:00.002-05:00

I havn't forgotten about my countdown....
8 MORE DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
....just thought you might wanna know! :)

Are We There Yet??

2009-02-01T17:20:00.002-05:00

I dont know about any of you...BUT...I am ready for a warm up!!!

I have already started my countdown until the day Ian and I leave for warm air, sandy beaches and hot sun. It is officially 18 days until this long awaited bliss!! All of this snow (and more snow...and more snow), absolutely freezing air and gloomy skies are starting to really affect me. It's funny, because when the sun actually does show it's face, I find myself getting really giddy as if it were a spring day. The t-shirt goes on, I start doing spring cleaning and then I open the door and reality hits me!!! UGH...it's only a mere 10 degrees. Oh well, spring will be here soon enough. In the meantime, my countdown continues.....

Take care.

Pub Playin'

2009-01-28T18:48:00.002-05:00

My mom, Ian and myself recently went down to a local pub called Duffy's for an "open mic" night. Ian thought he could take his guitar and talent and maybe sit in on a few tunes. Well, to everyone's surprise....the first time he got up to play and sing the crowd was in awe of him. He ended up playing more than just a tune, he also played with a harmonica player, electric guitar player and even a keyboardist. It was great and all during the night I had many people come to me and ask me about him and where he is from etc. He really brought something new to that pub, and I think he has some new fans!!!

Needless to say, I think Ian will have NO problem adjusting to his Jackson surroundings when he makes his way here for good!! :)

Oh Canada!

2009-01-23T23:01:00.004-05:00

Who would have ever thought I would leave -15 degree air and go 35 hours north to Calgary, Canada to a 40 degree warm up???!!! Well, that's exactly what happened....and believe me, I'm not complaining.

I went on a long weekend trip to visit Ian and his kids, and it was alot of fun. I got to meet many of his friends and have a nice dinner with his kids (Bryony, Sean and Conor). Ian lives on Sylvan Lake in Canada and he decided he needed to take me out onto the lake....or should I say to "walk" on the lake. Even though I was watching 4-wheelers, motorcycles and even the occasional truck plowing the snow away for a makeshift race track, I was still leary of walking on this iced up lake. But, I did and I got on....and quickly got off!!! Tempting fate is not my thing...even though the ice was 2 ft thick. :)

I was only there for 3 days, so we did not have a whole lot of time to do much, but I was glad to go. Ian is here now and is keeping busy with doing work in the house and keeping me warm.

Not much else is going on....Shelbey has had exams all week, so there has been a little stress in the air, but she is trooping through. This is the first time she has experienced "exam week" so she was not quite sure of what she was in for. Well, let's just say she realizes she needs to do things a little different next time!

I have attached some pictures of my visit to Canada...and I hope everyone is staying warm and not killing yourself shovelling. Take care. XOXO

Sucked In Again!!

2009-01-05T23:29:00.002-05:00

Yep....it's that time again....time for caddy women, super drama moments, ridiculous (and unrealistic) "getaway" dates, waterfall tears for no reason, and who can forget "the rose"!!! If you dont know what Im talking about by now....it is of course The Bachelor!! And yes, Im sucked right back in after only one episode....and loving EVERY minute of it!!! :)

Im excited to see Jason's journey and hoping he finds the love of his life. What a nice, genuine guy he is and he deserves to find the happiness he has been longing for. Gees, listen to me....you would think I know the guy???!!! Ha!!

So, just for the record, dont call me on Monday nights...thats my date night with ABC. :)

Take care.

"Ringing" In The New Year

2009-01-01T15:43:00.004-05:00

Hello everyone....hope your New Year was full of fun and cheer! I know mine was....and MUCH more!!

We went to dinner with my mom and her husband Phil to Knight's Steakhouse. It was really good and I had a couple of their (what I call famous) Raspberry Margaritas!! YUM! Afterwards we went back to mom's house to chat and have a glass of wine. And to my surprise....I had one gorgeous man in front of me on one knee, holding a beautiful diamond ring asking me to marry him!!!!!! That was the easiest answer "YES!!!" I have ever had. Congratulations to us!!

We are VERY excited and cannot wait to tell everyone. We are planning the big day in Mexico sometime in February of 2010. It will be very simple and beautiful I'm sure. To put it lightly....I'm one HAPPY GIRL!!!!

Take care and may all your dreams come true in 2009.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! 2009!!!

2008-12-31T16:59:00.002-05:00

Wishing you all a happy happy New Year!! May all your dreams come true!

Christmas Photos

2008-12-27T20:04:00.002-05:00

A Quote To Share

2008-12-16T18:02:00.001-05:00

"To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and to endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded. "

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Every Girl Likes to Look Pretty...Even Tanner!

2008-12-13T21:31:00.009-05:00

As you can tell from the smile on her face, Tanner Bug is happy to be all "prettied" up! She just recently got a new hair-do and even got it topped off with red bows for Christmas. It's funny, because when she gets washed, cut, and smelling good I think she knows by the way she prances around silently saying, "Look at me!" :)

There has been quite a bit going on since I blogged last. We have had a few problems in the house. We found out that our well system may be on the way out so we have to replace the water softner, clothes washer and dishwasher. UGH! So Ian and I have been non-stop these past couple of weeks trying to get everything in place before Christmas. Or should I say "replaced". By the looks of it, all will be fine and ready to go for the big day.

I hope everyone is enjoying what the season brings including the Christmas lights, falling snow, and the occasional Santa sightings!! Take care.

And the countdown begins...

2008-12-03T21:04:00.004-05:00

Thanksgiving has come and gone....
Now, the countdown to Christmas begins! I cannot believe there are only 3 weeks until Santa makes his yearly debut. So, with that said, reality has hit me....I need to start shopping!! I have done a little, but the anxiety of a time crunch has set in and I need to get on the ball. I think I will just make a list and do it all in one day...wish me luck.

Thanksgiving was wonderful! Ian was in for 5 days and experienced his first (what he calls) "American Thanksgiving". He told my mom that he was traveling a LONG way so the food better be good!! Ha! He was VERY pleased and had a great time with my family. He is really looking forward to our Christmas dinner with my family as well.

Hope everyone is doing well and getting geared up for Christmas and everyone has their New Year's resolutions in place. Take care!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T22:26:00.002-05:00

Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!! Eat and be happy!

Fun Things To Come...

2008-11-18T17:58:00.005-05:00

Hey Everyone!!
Just thought I would blog about some things that are up and coming. First, Ian will be here on Thanksgiving Day and will be here for about 5 days! I wish it was longer but there are many students anticipating their music lessons each week. So, we will eat at mom's house and get started on painting our bathroom and catching up on some much needed "us" time!! :)

Then there is Christmas approaching fast and furious. Shelbey already has her list made out and it's amazing how it grows each day. Alot of people use to tell me "wait until she gets older, Chritmas get more expensive". Boy was that an understatement!!! To all my siblings...be grateful your kids are young...

Ian and I are having Christams at our house this year with my entire family and are very excited about it. We get to cook Christmas dinner for everyone and have all the little munchkins running around opening presents and filling the house with laughter. We hope to catch a Red Wings game while he is here for 2 weeks because he is a huge Wings fan and would be in heaven at Joe Louis Arena for the first time. We can't wait!

Then.....it's off to Mexico in February. Ian and I are leaving the cold for 2 weeks to go and warm our bones. We were originally going to take all the kids for the first week, but the big kabosh got put on those plans. So now, it will just be the 2 of us. It will be alot of fun and Ian is taking me to alot of places that will broaden my horizons....sounds like fun!! We will be sure to take lots of pictures.

Shelbey is still plugging away in highschool and is doing pretty well. She struggled at the beginning in the grades department, but we buckled down and she is doing fabulous now. Im so proud of her for working so hard and accomplishing what she set out to do! Im still trying to wrap my brain around her having friends in the 10th and 11th grade. UGH! Comes with territory I guess. :(

Well, that's all for now. Hope everyone is doing well and staying warm. I'm hoping for a warm up because it's just WAY too cold for November. Take care.

VICTORY!!!

2008-11-05T21:13:00.002-05:00

Barack Obama....the first African-American President of the United States.....UNBELIEVABLE!!! Novemebr 4, 2008 I was part of history and I could not be more proud. I am humbled by his words, engaged by his presence and comforted by his outlook. I am looking forward to a positive change and a better good for everyone. There has not been alot of "good" news for Americans lately and to be quite frank it has been down right depressing....BUT (and that's a big "but")....I believe that change is on the way, so as I take a deep breath and exhale all the past, I can see clearly now. Peace...

Yummy In The Tummy

2008-10-28T17:54:00.003-04:00

Hello! Ian was just down for another visit and he decided to take me out for a nice dinner to a restaurant he read about in Ann Arbor. The place we went to was Weber's and it was scrumptious!! I had never been there before and I can say that my favorite part was dessert! As you can tell by my photos, the before and after shots of the dessert kinda gives you an indication that none of that went to waste. Thanks for dinner Ian!! XOXO

Happy Birthday To You.....

2008-10-26T19:53:00.004-04:00

Today is Shelbey's birthday and she is now 14 years old. We had a little family get together at the house with good food, ice cream cake and lots of laughter. Here are a few pics from the party. Happy Birthday Shelbs!!!

New Pics!!

2008-10-13T19:45:00.002-04:00

Vote! Vote! Vote!

2008-10-08T19:23:00.003-04:00

Ok....we have now seen 2 Presidential debates and 1 Vice-Presidential debate. I personaly think this country is doomed either way the results turn out, however, I have made my choice. So, on November 4th, get out there and vote!!! This is by far the most important election year the United States has seen in a long time!!! Peace!

October Is Breat Cancer Awareness Month

2008-09-30T20:44:00.002-04:00

I am a FIRM believer that what comes around goes around....and I believe that if we all come together and fight something it will eventually lose. I hope all of you reading this will at least take a moment to remember someone you know or love that may be battling cancer or has lost their life to this terrible disease. October has been marked as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and to all you moms, aunts, sisters, grandmothers, and friends....please be aware!! Educate yourself, do your examinations and fight against what many women around the world are battling today.

As a team, we can conquer this disease!! FIGHT BACK!!!

Peace!

Say Cheese!!

2008-09-29T16:35:00.002-04:00

Here is a look at Shelbey's first High School picture...Enjoy!

Get over it Meredith!!!

2008-09-27T18:04:00.002-04:00

Disappointed, irritated, bummed out....these are just a few choice words I have for the season premier of Grey's Anatomy. I was looking SO forward to watching it and anticipated it BIG TIME that I got everything done and out of the way just so I could relax in my bed and keep my ears and eyes glued!! However....

I was so bummed. It was "ok", I just thought it would have been better. And to be honest, I think Meredith's character needs to take a break from all the freakin' drama in her head. It is going a bit overboard and it's starting to become slightly irritating. But we will see....I guess I am just hoping she gives in to her mental demons and finally marries Derek!!! The whining all the time is turning me off. Peace...

Why the long face??

2008-09-23T20:25:00.002-04:00

Hello all. Well, I just wanted to put into words how I was feeling today, so I decided to blog it. They say this is "healthy"?? We'll see...

As you all know by now, I have a 13 year old that has been trying my patience lately (or what feels like FOREVER!!) and I cannot seem to get a grip on what the heck is going on here. I was watching a video the other day of her when she was about 5 or 6. And oh my goodness.....there stood before me on a TV screen this sweet, loveable, pudgy cheeked little girl. And now when she walks in from school with a scowl on her face and the attitude flaring I wonder when this took such a drastic turn? I am having some "difficulties" dealing with the trouble she is getting into and how to parent her without putting in the "Kellee needs to be in control everything" mode full force. And yes, unfortunately I have to be in control of everything...my sister Jennifer knows EXACTLY what Im talking about!!!

I have some people in my life that have tried there advice on me, such as it is a phase (which by the way....this is going on a 2 year phase!), or she is just trying to see how far she can push you or even that it may be her hormones. Well, whatever it is I am so over it!! I remember the day I gave birth to my little mamma, I said to everyone that was listening that I would NEVER do that again (mind you, I was a very young 19 years old and gained 100 pounds....enough said!) and I am actually thanking myself because I think if I had to go through this again I would be in the crazy house!! Or not have any natural color hair left by the time I turned 35. So maybe sub-conciously I knew I was in for it.

None the less, I am trooping through but not without the anxiety of what's next or how am I going to handle the dramatics of a highschooler. UGH...sometimes I think I need Super Nanny!! Ha Ha!! I know I made mistakes and poor choices as a teenager but I guess I did not realize how much it affects your parents. Im sorry mom...gees, am I ever sorry! I guess my mom got her wish when she said, "If you have a girl, I hope she worries you and does the things you did to me!" Well mom.......you wish has been granted!! :) Any advice out there??? Dr. Phil where are you????

Just thought you should know....

2008-09-17T19:09:00.002-04:00

This is to my wonderful boyfriend Ian:

Just thought you should know how appreciative I am for having you in my life. You have shown me a way to live and think that has changed me for the better. It has been a long time since I have felt the kind of love you have shown me and a long time since someone has loved me as much as you do...unconditionally. The love I feel and have for you goes beyond any horizon and I feel like you have healed my heart. We may have some distance between us, but that distance will never compromise the love I have for you. Thank you for loving me and thank you for all you have done for me. You are truly an amazing person, boyfriend and above all....my best friend.

I love you.....just thought you should know.

Another Slide Show....

2008-09-10T18:37:00.001-04:00

Welcome Baby Collin

2008-09-07T19:05:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to say a quick Congrats to my sister Katie's family (Adam, Hailey and MaKayla) with their new addition... Collin Michael LeDuc. He is just as precious as they come. He was born September 2nd and was a whopping 9 lbs. 2 oz.!!! This makes #7 for Aunt Kellee and only the 2nd nephew. Katie is doing good and Adam is VERY happy he now has a boy to teach all those horrible boy habits to. Ha Ha! Congratulations guys.....

She Survived!

2008-09-04T20:03:00.003-04:00

Just thought I would let you all know (just in case you were wondering) that Miss Shelbey survived her first week of highschool...without being thrown in a dumpster as she put it. :)

She is excited to see her friends (SHOCKER!) and really likes her teachers...so far. I am happy, because a happy teenager makes a happy home. Hope everyone's first week of school was a success and we all have a "pleasant" year!! Peace.

It's that time again

2008-08-29T22:50:00.002-04:00

Well, well, well...it is the time again folks. The days are already getting shorter, the back to school ads are flooding the papers and school orientations are in full swing. I must tell you now that I have a VERY 13 year old, the school shopping experience is what you would call....extremely stressful. I look back on when I went school shopping with my mom and I cant remember whining about not getting a certain brand or not getting enough....I was just thankful and excited to get 3 outfits!! Seriously. I took Shelbey school shopping and I didn't know who was going to lose their hair first, by either me pulling my own out or intentionally pulling her's out!! Ha ha! I am here to tell you that shopping with a teenage girl is NO FUN AT ALL!!! But we made it through (alive thankfully) and she starts her first day of highschool on Sept. 2nd. Ooooo yes, and the fun begins.

On a different note, I am all moved in to my new home and the decorating and re-adjusting is consuming my free time. Ian is down and will be here for almost 3 weeks!!! I am very excited about this because he is very good company. And as we all know it is nice to be "in good company"!! He has been working endlessly night and day to get things fixed, painted and just comfortable for me. Bless his heart...I really dont know what I would do without him.

Another thing I wanted to touch on is that I just found out that my dad has had surgery because his doctors found a cancerous lesion on his lung. He is in full recovery as we speak but a few prayers for him wouldn't hurt....so please say one for him today.

I have attached a few pics of some random shots throughout the last few weeks....so enjoy and I wish all you parents good luck on the first day of school (especially my sister Jennifer...as I hope she does not have too bad of a separation anxiety attack!!) as I know I will be nervous for my "little mammas" to step her first foot in the world of highschool. Take care everyone!!!!!

updates to come.....

2008-08-12T19:44:00.002-04:00

Hello!! There has been ALOT going on in the last couple of months and I have not had a whole lot of time to keep my blog updated. Soooo....today is no exception! I will post soon and update all of you of what's going on and I have a move in the works!! I also have some absolutely FABULOUS news....Im just keeping you on the edge of your seat arn't I?? Ha Ha!! I'll be back soon....Take care!

Summer News

2008-07-25T18:50:00.008-04:00

Hello everyone! I have not posted in a while and for good reason....well maybe?? I, of course, have been busy working, trying to keep Shelbey busy and spending as much time with Ian as I can get!! Shelbey has been busy babysitting for her cousins Hailey and MaKayla and helping her MaMaw Sheila out cleaning her house. Shelbey doesn't mind because she is now appreciating the money (or moolah as she calls it) that she is getting. All of a sudden she has money to buy the things she wants...hmmm...amazing how that works isnt it?? :)

As some of you may know, Ian was down just recently for a visit and is returning again soon. He has been busy working as well and playing in summer event concerts in Canada. We are having fun chatting on the phone and finding ways to make the distance seem not so far away. It is challenging, but well worth it...because at the end of the day, Im HAPPY!!!!! Yeah me!!

Shelbey and I have been enjoying the warm summer weather and so thankful the weekends have been for the most part sunny and warm. I just got back from a weekend trip to Kentucky with my sister and my niece Riley. My grandma just passed away recently and we went to my Aunt's house for a celebration of her life. It was nice to see all my family and meet the ones I once knew...but don't remember.

Well that wraps up a few things going on and I attached a few pictures of me and Tanner (or as we like to call her "Bug"), Ian and myself when he was here on a visit, and Ian playing at a summer concert event in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. I hope all is well with everyone and you are enjoying your summer fun! Peace!!!

Boy...was I WAY off!!

2008-07-08T17:51:00.004-04:00

Well....all I can say is "Jesse who??" I know your probably tired of hearing me rant on about The Bachelorette and my despair over Graham and now my heartache for Jason, but who would have EVER thought Jesse??? The snowboarder (professional one if there is such a thing) and pink shoelaces. Yes, Deanna said "who would have thought I would have picked the guy with pink shoelaces?"....well certainly not me.

Now, I have no room to judge...however, I do have an opinion which everyone is entitled to and I feel the need to exercise that right. WHAT IS SHE THINKING????!!!! Obviously not about her future. Maybe she finds 60 year old men riding around on snowboards enticing and secure. ok, ok, ok....I'll stop. I hope she is happy and has a long, bright future with this guy. She really does deserve happiness after the stunt Brad pulled on The Bachelor.

Now, I have a TV break for a couple of weeks until Big Brother 10!!! Oh my, what has happened to me?? Take care all!!

New Fun Slideshow

2008-07-05T18:24:00.003-04:00

Introducing.....

2008-06-25T21:44:00.003-04:00

Hello all....well, I have some news. Really good, positive and exciting news...that I am extremely happy about. I have decided to share this with my blog readers because this is something that has come into my life and has TRULY made me happy. The kind of happy that I did not know I could feel. I always thought the people and things in my life had made me truly happy and I have come to realize now, that they havn't. Don't get me wrong.....I know that the things in my life and the moments that have shaped me as a person are what makes me "ME", but I have met someone recently that has a true appreciation for who "I AM" and that is something I am learning to accept in someone. I am not use to this much, even though I have had MANY people in my life that love me and care for me, however this is different. And when I say different, I mean it is the kind of feeling that makes you feel like you can breath....REALLY breath.

Maybe some of you have had that feeling, maybe not. But what I can say is that it feels amazing. So what is this new, positive thing Im talking about??? His name is Ian and he has recently become my new best friend. I met him not long ago and I am absolutely taken back by his positive outlooks, his caring nature, and the way he makes me feel about myself from the inside out. I can honestly say that I have never in my 33 years of life met someone so special and unique as Ian. I have attached a few pictures for you to see and I hope you are all as happy for me as I feel inside. And I am here to tell you....this kind of certainty only happens once in a lifetime. Take care.

Bye Bye Graham...

2008-06-23T23:59:00.002-04:00

Oh...my...goodness. It is a sad day in reality TV world for Kellee. Graham is gone from the Bachelorette...*sniff*sniff*. BUT.....I have faith in another...yes, that's right...I have a feeling that my second choice is going to prevail now. That would be Jason. Now that Graham screwed it up, I must have faith that Jason will pull through on my "Plan B". We will have to wait and see....what a way to spend my Monday night huh?? Oh well, I am in good company for the next 10 days!!! Yeah me!! Take care all, and have a great week!

It's Official

2008-06-12T19:36:00.002-04:00

Well....it is official. Shelbey is now a FRESHMAN in highschool. Oh my goodness! I cannot believe she is now going to face spirit weeks, football games, prom, highschool drama, keeping track of credits, homecoming, and eventually graduation. I know from experience that these years go by so fast, and from what I hear they will go by even faster now. I thought I was ready for this, but the more I think about it, the more I find myself sad about the whole thing. I am a "nesting" mom by nature, so I pity the person who ends up with me when she leaves home. Everyone pray for me through these next 4 years, I have a feeling I will need it! Take care and enjoy your summer...I know we will.

Let's Go Red Wings!!!!!!

2008-06-06T18:00:00.002-04:00

Yes....that's right folks, Stanley has come back home! For those of you who do not know already, I am a HUGE Red Wings fan and a lover of the game. I am so proud of my team, even though I'm not sure if I am recovering from a heart attack or stroke after game 5. But the end result is so rewarding. I can now relax and enjoy rubbing it in to all my friends that are loyal fans of those "other" teams. GO WINGS!!!!!

My Vote!!!

2008-05-28T19:09:00.004-04:00

Ok all you "The Bachelorette" fans.....here is my "final rose" vote!! Graham from Raleigh, NC. As soon as he creeped out of his limo the first night, he had my vote. Yes, I am addicted to these reality shows and unfortunately it is the highlight of most my nights. Exciting huh???

Well, we will see in the weeks to come if he prevails and makes me proud!! Good luck Graham!!!!

Life's Trials....And Tribulations

2008-05-17T21:49:00.003-04:00

Hello all. I just wanted to write a quick post today because I just recently have had some new "mom" trials thrown my way and have not had the easiest time trooping through them. And I had a short quote sent to me some time ago and I thought I would share it with you. It was sent to me by someone dear to my heart, and it definately went down as one of my fav's.

"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us" -Ralph Waldo Emerson

And for the person who sent this to me (you know who you are) I send you my thanks.

That's all for now. Have a Happy Memorial Day (LONG WEEKEND!! YEAH!!) to you all.

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-06T19:42:00.007-04:00

Mother, Mom, Ma, Mommy, or as Shelbey calls me "Madre"...whatever all you mom's are called....I hope your day is filled with lots of hugs & kisses, maybe a macaroni necklace or even a thoughtful card. However all you mom's celebrate, I hope it is a great day for you!!! Just remember, no matter how many different job descriptions we acquire through the years ...a nurse, taxi driver, maid, cook, psychologist, pro-dishwasher, insomniac, nutritionist, lifeguard...just remember the most important thing is that you are a MOM to someone who loves you!!!!! So enjoy your day! :)

These are a few pictures of my favorite moms!!

Their Getting Geared Up!!!

2008-04-28T22:09:00.003-04:00

Hello!! It is getting to be that time of year again....time for The Relay For Life Walk. This is an event that most cities have to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. Jackson is holding their event August 1st - 2nd...6pm-6pm at Cascades Falls Park. It is a great event and actually alot of fun!! I am attaching a link if you would like to read up on it, and you can even make online donations in memory of a loved one!

CELEBRATE....REMEMBER....FIGHT BACK!

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RelayForLifeGreatLakesDivision?pg=entry&fr_id=4786

New Slideshow!!

2008-04-23T19:45:00.002-04:00

Congrats Shelbey!!

2008-04-21T18:54:00.004-04:00

Hello everyone....as promised I am posting some pictures of Shelbey's Honor Awards Ceremony that was held this past Sunday. I am very proud of her and hope to have MANY more of these to attend in the future.

Keep in mind....she is 13, so she is not big on the whole "smiling" in pictures thing. She has to make sure everyone knows she is miserable! Ha Ha! Man, do I miss the younger years.....it goes by so fast. Take care all....and enjoy this gorgeous weather!!!

Spring Has Sprung!

2008-04-08T18:51:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone. It has been a while since my last post, I have been slacking a bit but here I am.....still alive! Not too much has been going on lately.....I do have a 13 year old that has been keeping on my toes, thats for sure! Between school, friends and the occasional attitude we have been keeping ourselves busy. Shelbey just recently got grounded and now is free again, and let me tell you, it is harder and more inconvienent, I think sometimes, on the parent than it is on the child who is grounded!! So, I think I was more excited when her punishment was up than she was!! :) But we won't tell her that.....

Shelbey just recently got a letter from her school inviting her to the honor roll cermony for her 8th grade class. I am VERY proud of her and this will be her 3rd year she has been to this ceremony. Now, next year she starts highschool....so keep your fingers crossed for me that she stays focused! I will post some pictures of the festivities when she goes. Hope all is well with everyone and take care.....spring is here!!!

Introducing...Miss Avery Michelle

2008-03-16T20:26:00.002-04:00

Here she is, neice #5....Avery Michelle!! She was born on Monday March 10th and is as beautiful as they come. This is my sister Jennifer's 3rd child and we are very excited that she is here. Shelbey made the comment that she has alot of cousins now....and they seem to keep coming!!! I wish my sister and her family of 5 now the best of luck and the happiest of times. Congratulations!!!!!

A Little Info On Miss Shelbey

2008-03-05T19:25:00.010-05:00

Hello to you all. I was wanting to write something interesting that has been going on lately, and I could not think of a thing! So, I decided to tell you something about my little Miss Shelbey that maybe some of you dont know. Ever since I can remember, Shelbey has been fixated on the weather. Yes, the weather. It may sound strange, but she loves to watch the Weather Channel for hours after school, is very knowledgable on weather patterns, and even calls me when I am on vacation to tell me what my weather is going to be day to day.

Now with that said, she had a project at school to job shadow. She went through the schools choices and was not intersted in what they had to offer. So I decided to e-mail our local weather forcaster, Andy Provenzano, and asked him if Shelbey could job shadow him. He happily agreed and we set the date up. My mom , me and Shelbey went to Lansing and it was an awesome experience for her. She learned so much and even got to sit at the desk next to the main news anchor! I think my mom and I were more excited than she was!

All in all, Shelbey had a great experience and learned alot. She got to help Andy prepare the 6:00 weather forecast and learned that he really doesn't stand in front of a weather map.....she still is trying to figure out how he only points out things on a blue backround. I hope Shelbey follows this passion for weather, because I think she would miss her calling if she didn't. Enjoy the pictures and hope you all are well.

Snow, Snow Go Away......

2008-02-29T14:07:00.005-05:00

Ok, I dont know about you but I'm pretty much over all this snow. It seems like just when it starts to warm up, the snow starts to slowly melt away, and the grass starts to peek it's weary head it snows another 4 inches!!! UGH! I think we were spoiled by the past 3 years of calm winters. I guess this is my sign that I need to seriously re-consider my geographical location.

As you can see in my picture, the house is covered and the driveway is "unshoveled". It's ALOT of work shoveling this driveway, it's days like this I wish that little boy that goes to everyone's house looking to make a quick buck (you know you have had them ringing your doorbells!) would come knocking on my door with shovel in hand. But they say we are in for a warm up by the end of the weekend, so I think I'll just wait for mother nature to shovel the driveway. :)

Hope everyone is staying warm and having fun....take care!

New Blogger On The Block!

2008-02-25T18:37:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone! Since this is my first actual entry, I was unsure what to write about. So I decided to tell you about my recent trip to Cancun, Mexico. I recently got back from a week long trip in paradise. Where the water was crystal blue, the sand was snowy white, and the air was as warm a July summer day.

John and I had a ton of fun layng by the pool, shopping, and deep sea fishing. I can tell you that the fishing trip was one to remember. We went 30-40 minutes out into the ocean and it was ROUGH! We found ourselves in 30 ft. swells and mind you, this was only a 6 person boat. I didn't last long before I found myself getting a little sea sick. (along with many of the others!) But I have attached a picture of my "prize" fish I caught. Needless to say, our excursion was cut short.

Shelbey is now in 8th grade and had an orientation for highschool. Yes...HIGHSCHOOL! I cannot believe my baby is growing up. It seems like just yesterday I was walking her into kindergarten....I know all parents say that but it is so true! It use to be all about Barney, barbies, and crayons.....now it's boys, friends, and phones. Wish me luck with all of that!!

Hope everyone is doing well and surviving this cold winter. Stay warm and take care!!