Christmas 2013

"Blink" and it's over...
The many hours of back breaking wrapping of the perfect gifts for loved ones took only seconds to be ripped apart and admired and set aside for the next one....
It was a nice Christmas.  Our family tradition is to celebrate on Christmas Eve with a late lunch / early dinner followed by gift opening...of course the kids are anxious to open gifts so not much eating is done by them.  Nate, Elsa, Abby & Jack arrived around 2:30 to start our celebration.  I prepared a very easy meal of Italian beef in the crock pot & homemade mac & cheese.  Elsa brought a potato casserole, veggie tray, cheese dip and lots of desserts...The only cookie baking I did was Mike's favorite, butter crisp (snow ball cookies).  If Steph were going to be home I would have made the famous Lemon bars and 6 layer cookies...So...after eating, we all chose the spot we would open gifts at and Abby & Jack passed out the gifts.  Instead of going one by one to open, they like to open all at once.  Of course everything they opened they said "this is just what I wanted". 
Jack was our paper picker upper and did a great job.  Luckily Abby had a big box that her American girl doll van came in we used as our garbage can. 
Then it was time for Nate & Grampa to help open all of the boxes to get the toys out...what a job.  Knives and scissors were needed and lots of patience.
Abby & Jack had lots of time to play with their new things before we all got ready for the Candlelight service at church.  It was a special time at church sitting on the pew with part of my family and Mike by my side.  It was hard to hold back the tears during the singing of "Silent Night" as all the candles were lit and the church was dark....Such a humbling experience to honor the Birthday of our Saviour.
After service we went home to relax. 
Christmas morning I woke up too early as usual.  Elf on the shelf had left me a Kohl's gift card.  Mike and I agreed not to exchange gifts this year because we considered our new car our gift to one another...but he always has to leave something for me from Santa, but this year it was from Aurora, our elf.  And when I thank him for what was left he always replies that he didn't leave it...OK Mike.
So...Mike and I took breakfast stuff over to my moms early on Christmas morning so I could cook us all a nice breakfast and then we Skyped with Steph, Jeff, Noah, Carter, Gray & Ivy and opened our gifts.  It was like being in the same room.  It was emotional for me and my mom having to say good-bye and sign off.  I sure hope it gets easier in time.
Christmas afternoon Mike and I went to our daughter-in-laws parents for lunch.  The highlight for me was holding a fresh new baby boy, Mason.  We stayed a few hours and then home again to rest up so we could go to Nate & Elsa's later in the evening to eat a Lasagna meal and see what Abby & Jack got from Santa.  It was wall to wall toys in their house.  Abby was organizing her new doll house and Jack was shooting bullets from his Ninja turtles tank. 
On our way home it was snowing the most beautiful magical snow I've ever seen on Christmas night.  We drove down a stretch of road that reminded me of the movie "It's a Wonderful Life" where George runs down the street while it snowed.  It was the perfect ending to our Christmas.  When we got home, I Skyped again with Steph and recapped the day.  I think everyone was happy with their gifts.  Another Christmas come and gone....new memories made...maybe next Christmas my whole family will be together...I can dream!

16 days til Christmas

I am guilty of neglecting my Blog...I didn't post anything in November.  Shame on me! 
Is it really December already?  As I am typing, the snow is falling and everything outside looks frozen.  I have never been this organized on December 9th before.  I have 98% of my Christmas shopping done.  I knew I needed to mail gifts to Oregon and that's what made me start so early.  I love ordering on-line and avoiding the crowds at the stores.  Thanks to Steph who gave me their wish list, it made it so easy.  My son also gave me a list of things the grand kids wanted way before Thanksgiving, so I got that out of the way.  He also did shopping for me for my daughter-in-law and himself....which made it very easy.  I just needed to write the check. 
I never thought I would break a tradition, but I put my tree up before Thanksgiving.  I quite liked doing it that way because it freed up my time the weekend after Thanksgiving.  I may do this again next year.  I never get tired of looking at my tree.  I decorated with all my special ornaments and saved the Disney ornaments for the grand kids to hang after Thanksgiving dinner. 
So, I am not feeling overwhelmed, in a rush to finish up and that's a great feeling this time of year. 
I am looking forward to doing fun things before Christmas.  My daughter-in-law invited me to a Christmas Play this Sunday afternoon called Junie B. Jones.  It will be a girls day out.  Her mom, sister, niece, her sisters mother-in-law and my grand-daughter, Abby will all be going.  We will do dinner before.  It will be a special time.  I am also looking forward to an Ugly Sweater Party before Christmas at my cousin's house.  Lots of fun things ahead.  No stress!

Random Thoughts on a cloudy Wednesday

1.  I have been getting up around 4 or 5 am to cook...I am meals on wheels for mom...
2.  It was a good feeling to clean out my closet and give 6 bags of clothes to Goodwill....
3.  Gee, I miss my Oregon family...
4.  I'm making a pot of chili for Halloween..Nate & family will eat after trick or treating...
5.  I can't believe I have quite a bit of Christmas shopping done, just sitting at my computer...
6.  I need to re-stock my closet with some winter clothes....
7.  I was a little cheap this year buying Halloween candy...got stuff I didn't care to eat much of...
8.  My co-worker just handed me a bouquet of fresh flowers...I feel special...
9.  I try to keep fresh flowers in my vase on my desk at work...it makes me happy...
10.I like my new Mary Jane black sketchers I got at Kohl's with my 30% off coupon...
11.I wish I could Skype more often with my Oregon family...we must fix that!
12.My hubby is already putting in his requests for Thanksgiving foods...
13.I might treat myself to a new dishwasher for Christmas...
14.I love Fall...
15.I love pimento cheese from the deli, even though it is expensive...
16.I love Snyder's pretzel niblets dipped in ranch dressing with olives on the side....
17.I like my church...
18.I enjoyed Thanksgiving in Ohio last year...lots of fun memories...
19.Looking forward to seeing a good friend from Florida coming to visit next week....
20.I would like to take the day off and go to the Steve Harvey show in Chicago....

Happy 8th Birthday Grayson!

Happy Birthday to my sweetheart, Grayson Roger Precourt.  I can't believe 8 years have passed so quickly.  I think Gray might have had the best birthday ever, when he was surprised with "2" Gerbils, which he named "Pepper" & "Domino".  Because of his allergies to most animals, he was never allowed to get a dog or cat.  He is such an animal lover and begged and begged for any kind of animal.  We were able to Skype last night on his Birthday and he showed how his Gerbils love their plastic ball.  I loved hearing the laughter from the kids as Domino put on a show on the kitchen floor.  They are not only Grays pets.  Ivy gets to gerbil sit during the day while he is at school.  Steph said she goes and checks on them and they are usually asleep.  It's funny to see how much Joy these little pets have brought to the family. 
Gray will get his box from me and Grampa today for his Birthday.  It was suppose to be delivered on his birthday, but due to a mechanical failure, UPS was delayed 1 day.  I guess that's ok because Gray was entertained with his little friends and will have something to look forward to today after school when the box arrives. 
I was really really missing my little buddy on his Birthday and I'm still trying to get use to my family living so far away.  I am just so thankful for Skype and being able to see and hear the laughter.  This was an extra special Birthday for Gray!  I love this little guy so so so much!

Happy 5th Birthday Ivy LaRue

Ivy LaRue is 5 years old.  Where did the time go?  I can remember 5 years ago like it was yesterday.  I will never forget getting that call from Steph that her water broke and the downpour outside on my way to her house 20 minutes away.  I almost needed a boat to get there.  Some roads were closed due to flooding, but I made my way and got there safely.  When I arrived, Steph was so calm and had all kinds of munchies out on the counter in the kitchen.  There was a Peace in the house.  You would have never known a person was in Labor, about to deliver a baby.  I can remember being so proud of how she handled everything and the calmness she had.  It was one of the most magical nights of my life, watching and assisting with the Birth of my 2nd Grand-daughter...Home Births are Awesome!  What an experience!
Here we are 5 years later and it's still fresh in my mind.  I wasn't able to be with her physically on her Birthday, but was able to Skype and have some fun moments with her.  I imagined being there to watch her blow out her 5 candles.  The gift I mailed will be 1 day late and I know she will be so excited to open up the box. 
I posted some favorite pictures throughout the 5 years.  I hope Ivy realizes how special she is and how much she is loved by Mimi and Grampy.  Happy Birthday Miss Ivy.  You are our Queen and we love you to the moon and back and back again a million times. 

A Perfect Weekend with My Daughter!

I have so much stirring up in my mind about the past weekend.  Steph came to town for Blogher 2013 and divided up her time between Chicago and my moms house.  We were able to spend Thursday eve., part of Friday, most of Saturday and Sunday morning together.  We tried to cover as much as possible.  We took her to her old house and downtown area.  We drove by where the hospital was, where we had our babies...it was so sad to see it torn down.  Steph wanted to run by her in-laws house to pick up something.  She had my Birthday present shipped to their house, in hopes that it would arrive while she was home.  She brought out this huge box and asked me if I wanted to open it now or later...well..of course I wanted to open it now...It was a big beautiful bright orange box and inside was the most beautiful orange/mint green coach purse.  I started bawling.  She always knows how to surprise me.  She didn't know that just a few weeks ago I had gone to a wedding and admired a ladies orange coach purse and really really wanted to own one some day.  I got my wish.  Steph being home for a few days was gift enough for me.  She insisted that we go pick up my Birthday cupcakes from Designer Desserts.  We got our favorites and a new one to try.  We stopped off at a new burger place in Valpo for lunch and had an amazing Gourmet burger and the best butternut squash soup ever.  She said she makes it and it tastes just like it.  After running around, we went back to my moms house to visit and relax.  I dreaded Sunday morning, having to give her one last hug that would have to last until we were together again.  My heart ached, watching her drive away.  Will it ever get easy saying good-bye.  Until next time...I have great memories of our whirlwind weekend and a very Happy early Birthday with my daughter...Stephanie....who I dearly love...

Perfect Sunday with the Grands

I took Abby & Jack home with me from church on Sunday while their mommy worked at the Porter County Fair where they had a booth set up to promote South Haven Christian School, where the kids go and she teaches.  When we got to my house, Jack was so excited because he learned his Bible verse in Sunday School, which was "Don't be afraid, for I am with you always".  So, I told him to tell Grampa his Bible verse, which he did.  We ate lunch then hopped in the pool until it was time to get ready to go check out the Fair and visit their mommy. We were on our way to the Fair and the excitement was felt.  Jack asked how far is the Fair...I told him about 15 minutes and he will see the tall Ferris wheel and know we are almost there.  When we arrived they clapped and I looked for the perfect, close parking spot.  God gave us favor cause I got one right in front of the entrance, about 10 cars down.  We didn't have to pay for our tickets because we got tickets provided.  That in itself is a blessing, since it's not cheap to just walk in the gates.  We first went into the building my daughter-in-law, Elsa was working, to say hi.  Then we proceeded down the hot black asphalt to check out my great niece, Bentley's animals she entered in the Fair.  If it were 5 degrees hotter, it would have been miserable.  We stay hydrated.  We walked into the cat judging and low and behold, Bentley was with her cat being judged.  She got a ribbon for having a lot of knowledge about her breed of cat.  She also entered a ferret, dog, sheep & goats, which she later won some more ribbons. 
The kids were anxious to check out the rides, so we headed towards the Ferris Wheel, where Grampa said he would ride with them.  Mimi does not do rides!  After getting wrist bands to ride on anything for 2 hours, which was the best for the buck, we were in line waiting to get on.  After they got off the Ferris wheel, Mike said Jack was afraid, so Mike told him to say his Bible verse, which Jack did.  And he said he did fine after that.  Good thinkin' Grampa!  So, it was a race to the next ride, one after another.  If they both didn't agree on a ride, we would split up and I would take one and Grampa would take the other...we never got lost or separated.  We had a system going and it worked.  Some rides they stayed on more than once.  Let me tell you, we got our moneys worth!  I took Jack on an airplane ride, which after riding he was afraid, then he told me he said his Bible verse and got back on it again.  He is a character!  I snapped as many pictures as I could.  It was a race to make as many rides before our wrist band would expire...then at 5 minutes past the time, they wanted to ride just one more...so...I took Jack and Mike took Abby on a last one of their favorites...I have pictures to share but they wouldn't load.  Check out my Facebook for pictures.  It was a Great Sunday at the Fair.

Happy 11th Birthday Carter!

Carter is my Second born Grandson.  He has an amazing personality and such intelligence.  He has taught me so much.  I remember when he was born we couldn't get over his size.  He was so big, he broke his collar bone being born.  He became his Brother Noah's best friend the minute he was born.  Carter has a very tender heart.  He loved and admired his Great "Poppal" and took it very hard when he passed away.  Carter loves sports and gives it his all at everything he does.  He loves to golf with his dad.   I was able to Skype with him and sing Happy Birthday...and that meant so much to me.  He always would request that I make his favorite "Torte" for his birthday cake..and we would put a candle in it.  This year wasn't the same because he lives so far away and I missed not making the famous "Torte".   I will make up for it the next time we visit.  His favorite meal at my house had to include mashed potatoes and gravy...he could really put them away.  I can't believe he turned 11 years old.  I see big things ahead for Carter.  I love this little man so much and I wish him the Happiest of Birthdays.  Happy 11th Birthday Carter Wilson Precourt....

Caregiving

I feel like I need to write to unload my mind.  It has been a whirlwind the past few months with my mom.  I decided to let her Dr. know that she needs physical therapy in-home, since she gets no exercise.  Her movements consist of walking from the lazy boy chair to the bathroom, to the kitchen to the bed, in which she is completely out of breath.  I made her a Dr. appt. for last Friday because she was complaining of another bladder infection.  She almost was not able to go because she was so weak and sick.  I told her it was either try to go or I would call for an ambulance.  She finally got ready and we made it over there.  The doctor scolded her for not finishing her last antibiotics from her last months bladder infection.  Then she told us her chest x-ray revealed she had congestive heart failure and that the infections are taking a toll on her heart.  She sent us home with MORE meds and I had to pick up a breathing machine for her 3 times per day treatments.  I spent the rest of the day running errands to get her set up with things she needed.  The Visiting nurse came to hook up a pulse oxygen machine to monitor her pulse oxygen every morning.  Sunday morning I did a pulse oxygen check and it was low.  That afternoon the visiting nurse calls to tell me that her oxygen level was way too low and she needed to be checked out.  So, we head on over to have her checked out and they ran a bunch of tests and the ER Dr. advised that she needed to be admitted to the hospital.  She was transported to the hospital.  She has been put thru lung and heart tests to see why the oxygen is low.  So far we don't have many answers other than when she is released, she will have oxygen in her home to use.  I have spent my week working during the day and running to the hospital after work.  I run to moms house to check on things and get the mail and keep things running around there, besides my own home.  Is it taking a toll on me?  I am too busy to wonder.  I am thankful she is where she needs to be right now and having the best of care.  When I get her home, I pray she will adjust on her own with the oxygen and everything else.  Thankfully we have Tracee, who comes 2 times per week for a few hours to do whatever we need done.  And we have the visiting nurses and therapists who come to check on mom. I am in the process of signing her up for meals on wheels.  I really don't mind cooking extra and taking her meals, but she would probably eat a more balanced diet if she had the meals on wheels.  There are so many decisions to make being a caregiver.  I do feel like I have a guardian angel watching over me and I'm not doing too too bad at this.  I will continue and wear a smile.

Happy Father's Day to my one and only

Celebrating Father's Day has changed for me the past 2 years, since I don't have my dad anymore.  But, it should still be a celebration, in my book.  I don't give my hubby, Mike enough praise this one day out of a year.  He doesn't like to be recognized or noticed, but he deserves to be.  He is a Great Father.  I love watching his relationship with our older children and the grand kids now.  He has a better relationship with our son, Nate, now than when he was growing up.  They have so much in common.  Nate is always calling his dad for advice and even followed in his dad's footsteps with his love of airplane modeling.  They are like two peas in a pod.  And I think that Steph will always be daddy's little girl.  It was such a special year for Mike and Steph, being able to drive cross country together and share in the move to Oregon.  How awesome for a dad to be able to help his daughter and grand kids in this way, even with a newly operated detached retina, without complaining.  These are memories that you can't buy.  Steph played her dad's favorite songs and his favorite groups on the trip and even endured his non tuned singing...I guess she got used to his voice, since he used to rock her to sleep when she was a baby, by singing "Turra lura lura" an Irish lullaby.  He had a singing voice only a daughter could love. 
Mike is also an awesome Grandfather.  I love watching Abby hanging all over him and wanting his full attention.  He taught Jack a song the other day that made him proud....the song from Big Bang Theory, "Soft Kitty"....Each grandchild holds a special place in his heart.  And now on to the dogs.  Mike is a good daddy to Halle & Lilly.  They are his "girls".  I am so glad he finally has lap dogs.  I am also glad that he discovered that these sisters needed to be rescued a few years ago.  They have brought a lot of joy to our empty nest.  So, on this Father's Day, my wish for Mike is to do what makes him happy.  Let me guess....a Sunday newspaper, dogs on his lap while relaxing in the lazy boy chair...and some good ole' Adam 12 and Dragnet episodes playing on the t.v....and must I forget, the heater on by his feet (even if it's 90 degrees outside).  That's Mike...a wonderful Father!

Abby's Kindergarten Graduation

Abby graduated from Kindergarten on May 23 from South Haven Christian School.  It was a delightful night, filled with plays and entertainment from the class.  Abby was a cat in the play "Little Red Hen".  They performed a song to the music "New York, New York".  They each recited their numbers in 2's, 5's and 10's.  My daughter-in-law, Elsa is the teacher and she did an excellent job with presenting a fun night.  I had to hold back the tears when Abby walked down the isle to the graduation march.  I'm thinking, if I'm a mess at just the Kindergarten level, what's it going to be like at the High School level.  They were all precious in their white caps and gowns.  After the ceremony, we all went to the fellowship hall where each child had their own table for their family and friends to gather.  Some were given gifts by their family.  We gave Abby pink roses and a princess necklace.  The decorations were awesome.  A lot of hard work was put into the night.  The classmates posed for pictures with their friends and you could see how they didn't want to part ways.  But I'm sure a lot of them will be back for first grade and pick up with their friendships.  Congrats to Abigail on her special night...and she is now a big First Grader!

Trip to Oregon

May 11, I boarded a plane to start my journey to Bandon, Oregon.  This was a much anticipated trip.  I said Goodbye to Steph, Noah, Carter, Gray & Ivy on January 27.  I will never forget that snowy day, after having lunch at our favorite Sunday hang out.  Steph's last words to me was we will be together soon and soon meaning Mother's Day.  When they drove away, my heart left with them.  May 12th seemed a lifetime away and I wasn't even sure If I could make the trip or not.  Well, I made the trip and I am so so glad I did.  My mom was suppose to go with, but a few days before we were suppose to leave, she fell in her bathroom and was feeling too sore to go.  So, I was all alone.  I heard and saw pictures of the Beauty of Oregon, but to experience it in person was like a dream.  I was in Awe at the Ocean and Mountains.  I arrived on a Saturday and Ivy's dance recital was the next day, on Mother's Day.  How special it was to see her perform with music from the Beatles.  On Mother's Day morning, Jeff cooked us breakfast and then we all loaded up and drove down to the Ocean.  I just couldn't believe that I was surrounded by so much beauty.  I felt so blessed.  We saw star fish of all colors and other sea creatures that I already forgot the names of.  Walking with my daughter on the beach on Mother's Day meant so much to me.  It was a perfect day!  We had time after we got home to relax and get ready for the recital that afternoon.  On Monday, Steph and I went to the store to get things needed for me to cook.  I had asked the kids what they wanted me to cook.  Noah & Carter said beef & noodles.  Gray and Ivy said chicken roll ups.  So, guess what Mimi made?  I decided to make both.  We ate on leftovers for a few days.  But that was the only cooking I did. 

The rest of the week was filled with so much.  I rode with Steph and kids each morning to start the school drop off.  Noah & Carter were first, then Gray, then we had a little time before dropping Ivy off.  We usually drove around to Old town where there were a lot of shops, or down by the ocean.  I enjoyed going in Ivy's pre-school class and watching as she wrote her name to sign in and go pick out what job she was going to help with each day.  She was so excited that I got to see what she does.  The boys schools are in a row on one block.  It makes it easy to drop off and pick up.  Gray had a school concert while I was there and it was so enjoyable.  Gray and Carter also had ball practice and Carter had a ball game.  Steph was like a shuttle, back and forth all day long.  I enjoyed the day that just Steph and I went down to the ocean to walk.  It was such a relaxing time.  I never once thought about what was going on back home in Indiana.  It was like I was in another world.  I have to truly say that it was a much needed vacation.  I felt revived.  We met Jeff for lunch a few times.  I ate the best fish & chips ever.  I am not a seafood eater, but I would eat the fish there every day if I could.   I also tried Sushi for the first time (no fish though), just the veggie sushi.  Jeff gave me a tour of "The World" where he works and we went out to eat fish and chips again.  Steph let the kids miss school on my last day there.  We went to West Coast Safari Game Park.  Gray had been begging to go there since moving to Bandon.  Let me tell you, I had the best time there.  I am an animal lover and you were able to feed and walk with a lot of the animals.  They were loose.  Just the goats, deer, rams, donkey, peacocks, llamas and a few other breeds.  After the game park we headed to Gold Beach, about 45 minutes up the road, for pizza.  It was the best pizza.  The kids got to play arcade games and we had a relaxing time.  Steph asked me if I wanted to keep driving and end up in California, which was another 45 min. up the road.  I had never been to Cali, so we ended up going.  And I am so glad we did.  We found a beach after entering in California.  We got out and walked and played along the beach.  I gathered a few rocks and small pieces of driftwood to bring back home.  As we were leaving I saw water spouts shooting out of the water and it was Whales swimming around.  We stayed a little longer gasping at what we were seeing.  What a great drive, along Hwy. 101 with the Ocean on one side and the mountains on the other side.  As we entered California, The Beach Boys were singing on the radio "I wish they all could be California girls"...perfect song!  We headed back home and was home in plenty of time to hang out and visit before I had to pack.  Steph made the best pasta dish and specialty breads.  I dreaded having to pack and go to bed on my last night.  I forgot to mention that I went to sleep hearing the sound of the ocean and awoke to the sound of the same ocean.  How heavenly is that?  And the bathroom I used had an outside door in it.  As I would get ready I would open up the door and hear the ocean even louder.  I could go on and on about my trip to Bandon, Oregon.  I just feel so blessed to be able to take this trip and to witness for myself why Steph and family are so happy there.  They have a beautiful home.  I can rest a little easier knowing the happiness is for real.  It doesn't make it any easier though in missing them, but I am so thankful for Skyping and staying connected through technology.  I long for the day that I can return and stay longer. 

HAPPY 4TH BIRTHDAY JACKSON KENT WILSON

Today we celebrate Jack Jack's 4th Birthday.  What can I say about our Jack.  He is the sweetest little guy.  He loves to cuddle and read books.  He takes ALL the books out of the book holder, not just one.  Jack will eat non stop if you let him.  His favorite snack when he comes to my house is goldfish crackers. 

We will celebrate his Birthday tonight at his other grandparents house.  He is starting to love to build Legos (just like his daddy did), so we got him some fun Lego sets.  Jack loves to walk around the house in just his underwear.  For some reason, he hates to wear clothes....so, now when he comes to my house, he asks if he can take off his clothes...He is such a funny little guy.  I pray God's protection over Jack and this next year is filled with fun things for him to enjoy.  He has truly blessed our lives. 

Random thoughts on a wet thursday

It seems like life is moving as fast as the storm clouds in the sky. 

1.  23 days until my mom and I are Oregon bound.
2.  I check daily to see if flight prices have gone down.
3.  My suitcase is opened up in the spare bedroom.
4.  Steph says to pack a raincoat.
5.  I can't wait to see my daughter's new life in Bandon.
6.  The grand kids have places lined up to take me to see.
7.  I can't wait to see the amazing ocean in Steph's backyard.
8.  I am packing as light as possible....No dress up clothes..
9.  I would love to have a big yard sale before my trip.
10.My hair use to be straight...and now it's curly..what's up with that?
11.Mike had his 2nd eye surgery.  I pray he can see soon.
12.I am so thankful we rescued Halle & Lilly...they bring us happiness.
13.I need new make-up...
14.I started back to church...and it's a good feeling..
15.My mom said she heard my dad say "good morning" today...
16.My colon has been feeling better since drinking POM juice..
17.I started eating salads and pizza again and feeling ok..
18.I'm glad the bag of jelly beans are gone from my office desk..
19.It's a great feeling to sing praises to the Lord with your grand-daughter beside you in church.
20.We love our new Texas Roadhouse down the street..
21.My boss's wife gave me a new Joyce Meyer daily devotional book..love it!
22.I have a new hairstylist and love her...
23.I need a pedicure before my trip...
24.I love going to the playground with Abby & Jack...
25.Longhorn steakhouse has the best Key Lime Pie...
26.I love Neutrogena facial soap..
27.I love ice water with lemon..
28.Have you ever tried an Eggo waffle/bacon sandwich with little syrup? Yum!
29.Big Bang Theory is the most awesome show on t.v. Mike got me hooked.
30.Love all the girls remaining on American Idol...especially Kree...

Happy Birthday Nate & Diane

Today is a very special day.  It's my son, Nate & sister, Diane's Birthday.  My wish for them is to have a Great day celebrating.  We will celebrate Nate's Birthday by ordering Chinese food and bringing to my house.  I ordered him his favorite cake from Baskin Robbins.  He has been working a lot of doubles and wants a relaxing evening.  My sister will celebrate with a craw fish boil.  Her son-in-law, Rob is heading it up.  That's how they celebrate down in the South. 
I raise my glass to both of them today....They are important people in my life and I love them both.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY NATE & DIANE....

Easter 2013

It was a different Easter this year.  The first Easter without Steph, Jeff, Noah, Carter, Gray and Ivy.  I went to Church and was greeted by my very happy Abby, who sat very close to me and melted my heart.  I love singing praises with her.  Jack is partial to his other Grandma (Breen), and sat on her lap.  He says he's going to marry her.  What a character he is.  On the church pew sat my daughter-in-law's twin sisters, in-laws, my daughter-in-laws parents and her niece and nephew.  In the picture is Jack, Lilah and Abby.  Cousins Lilah and Abby are joined at the hip.  They are super close cousins.  After seeing the movie "OZ", I call Lilah the China doll, because she looks just like her. 
Mike's Birthday was also on Easter.  So we had 2 celebrations.  After church, Mike and I went to pick up my mom for lunch, but she wasn't feeling good, so we went ahead to get a light lunch, since Mike was still full from the "6" eggs he ate for breakfast.  And it was all my fault for making him 2 egg McMuffins after he ate 4 boiled eggs...I tend to overfeed...
We were able to Skype with Steph and family before
I started cooking around 4:00 for our 6:00 dinner with Nate, Elsa, Abby and Jack.  It was an easy Ham dinner, Mike's favorite...Elsa brought Mike his favorite, fruit pie from Marilyn's bakery.  Abby and Jack opened their large eggs filled with candy and money after dinner.  It was a nice Easter. 

Happy 6th Birthday Princess Abigail

3-13-13...Special Numbers, Special 6 year old.  Today is Abby's Birthday.  She is a very special Grand-daughter.  She has such a tender heart and loves Jesus.  She points out when we are watching a certain t.v. show if it is not appropriate for her or her brother to watch.  She is a leader and I see her being a Teacher one day, just like her Mom.  She loves to tease her little brother and tells on herself whenher parents comes to pick them up when I babysit.  We will celebrate her Birthday on Saturday, by going to see the movie "OZ".  Her favorite movie is The Wizzard of Oz.  We will have a Birthday dinner at her other Grandma's house after the movie.  I asked Abby what she wanted for her Birthday and she told me, with excitement that she wanted a Sleeping Beauty Dress.  So, I found the dress, matching shoes and headpiece at the Disney Store...She will be so excited.  Her favorite thing to do is dress up as a princess or beautiful character.  It will be a fun party.  I just wish her cousins from Oregon could join in on the fun.  Happy 6th Birthday Beautiful Abby....Mimi & Grampa love you to the moon and back!!

Snowstorm of March 5, 2013

The weather forecast called for 8 to 10 inches of snow.  Some schools were closed even before the first snowflake fell, as they were anticipating the major snowstorm hitting and thinking of the safety of the children and how the buses would get around.  I went to work as usual and it started snowing around 9am but it wasn't sticking to the ground.  By Noon it was coming down pretty hard and steady and my boss decided to leave for home.  He told me and everyone to leave early if they think they should.  You didn't have to tell me twice to leave.  I did stick around til a little after 1:00 to finish up my work.  It was starting to get messy as I was on my way home.  Within about an hour of getting home it was like the sky opened up and poured buckets of snow on Portage.  It was almost a white out.  I made the right decision leaving when I did.  It was a very pretty snow, I have to say.  It was heavy and made the tree branches look so fresh and happy.  I let Halle & Lilly out in the backyard and tried to shovel a path for them to do their job.  They were romping and playing like little kids.  When Mike came home from work, he snowplowed a maze in the backyard for them to walk further.  They were so happy....I, myself, love snow.  I live in the right place, I guess.  I wanted to build a snowman but had no one to play with me, so I just watched it from the window.  So, after all was said and done, we got about 10 inches.  It might be our last big snow of the season.  I can say that I will miss it when it all melts away.

Happy 12th Birthday Noah!

The Birthday Boy is holding an exciting sign....it's the new State they moved to. 
What can I say about my handsome 12 year old Grandson, Noah Jeffrey Precourt.  He is the most sweet spirited 12 year old.  I can remember the day he was born...my first grand-child...how special.  I can remember holding up the hospital walls, waiting for the news that he was born.  Sharing this excitement with his other grandparents and his great grandparents.
He is a wonderful Big brother to Carter, Gray & Ivy.  I see the leadership in him when they are all together.  He is very responsible and very caring.  He has a permanent smile on his face.  This is the first year we are not able to be together for his Birthday, but thank God for Skype, we were able to see his sweet face on his 12th Birthday and sing to him and watch him open presents.  He was so excited to be able to go to Red Robin to celebrate with his favorite meal "Mac & Cheese"....and a free Birthday Burger...And to go shopping for an X-Box from his parents...and a new iPhone.  I would say it was a very special Birthday for Noah...and he is so deserving of it!  Noah is my heart...just like my other 5 grand kids...Happy Birthday Noah!  Mimi loves you to the moon and back...

2 years ago...

Dear Dad,
It seems like yesterday that I was standing by your bedside at the Hospice center, making sure your lips were moist with a swab, dipped in water, combing your hair, putting lotion on your tattoo covered arms and wondering if this would be your last day on earth.  Your breathing was changing and nurses said, it won't be long.  Oh how I wished that you would have opened your eyes and be back to your normal self.  I wanted to see your smile one last time.  I wanted one last hug from my daddy. 
God needed you more.  It was your time to go.  I was amazed at how you waited until your loved ones were surrounding you before you gave the Angels permission to carry you up to meet your Heavenly Father.  What a Glorious Day it was for you.  We all were rejoicing for you, and at the same time, we felt such loss. 
When I look at the sky, I see you in the clouds.  When I see a penny, heads up laying on the ground, I know you sent it. 
I long to dream about you because I feel you near.  So, on this 2nd Anniversary of saying goodbye, I have hopes of seeing you again and saying hello...What a beautiful day that will be.
Love,
Your Baby Doll

Erin (E) where are you?

I am reaching out to find out one of my #1 blog supporters email address...Erin (E) I don't know how I can reach you.  I am unable to pull up your blog anymore.  Do you still blog?  You can send me your email address to: nathans_mom_99@yahoo.com.  I miss you and want to know how you and your adorable daughters are...and Jack of course....Hope to hear back from you...
Love, Mimi

1 Day 11 hours

Steph, Jeff, Noah, Carter, Grayson & Ivy are now 1 Day and 11 hours away, which equals 35 hours.  No more hopping in the car and seeing them in 20 minutes.  Reality has finally set in. 
Steph, her dad and grand kids left on their journey Sunday, January 27th after breakfast at our favorite spot.  Watching Steph's Kia Serento pull away with such precious cargo was one of the hardest things I ever had to face. 
I was so thankful that Mike was able to travel with them and help drive.  Even though he had just had eye surgery, he was still able to keep his plans.  The fog and night driving was hard for him, so Steph did most of that.  The weather wasn't so friendly for them.  The first hour of the trip they drove right into the ice storm that we were hoping they would bypass...but God had his hand on them.  They drove thru 4 hours of fog in Nebraska.  On the second day of the trip they stopped at Mike's sister, Susie's house in Colorado for 2 nights.  It was actually like a vacation for them, going into Estes Park and seeing the beautiful mountains.  They arrived on Thursday eve. to their new home in Bandon, Oregon.  Mike said the kids were good travelers.  It was fun along the way watching and waiting for Steph to post a picture on face book of where they would stop next.  It was like playing Where's Waldo?  Mike was able to go with to enroll the boys in school and check out the schools and stay and explore their new town until he flew back home on Sunday.  They all were able to say at a hotel down the street from their new house, since the moving truck wasn't due until Tuesday(today).  Mike said the ocean was so close, you could hear it and it sounded like a train.  I know that Steph is living her dream and loving being able to live near the ocean. So, it's hard to believe that in such a short time span they are already moved and starting to settle in their new home.  We all skyped last night and the boys seemed happy about their first day at school.  I was happy to see the smiles on their faces.  Ivy even started her new pre-school yesterday and she didn't want her mommy picking her up so early....she wanted to stay, which is a great sign. 
So....We are looking forward to May, around Mother's Day.  I am planning to fly out for a week with my mom.  We can't wait!  96 more days til Mother's Day....
Did I already say, I can't wait?

Happy 36th Birthday Steph!

I realized 22 days later that this post was set as a draft and I forgot to undo it. 

What can I say about my only daughter, Stephanie Ruth Wilson Precourt....I am in awe of her Spirit, her Determination, her Zeal, her Patience, her Love for mankind, her Giving of herself, her Motherhood, her non-judgemental personality, her Talents, the list goes on and on.  This is her first Birthday being away from home.  We skyped while she ate her special Birthday Cupcake.  I sang Happy Birthday over the air waves.  It was special.  This IS Steph's year.  She will be making so many changes and I have no doubt that they are for the good.  She is embracing this new change.  She is a master of changes in the past year.  I admire her strength for packing up 2 houses in 5 months time and still have her sanity.  My wish for my beautiful daughter is to continue living life to the fullest and keep following those dreams because they are certainly coming true. 

Happy 36th Birthday Steph

love, mom

Christmas Memories of 2012

Christmas 2012 was different than any other.  Steph and family were in Ohio and didn't come home.  It was the first Christmas without our daughter.  We still had a great time celebrating with Nate, Elsa, Abby & Jack on Christmas Eve., then we all went to Church for the candle light service.  We all came back to my house for Birthday Ice Cream Cake and sang "Happy Birthday" to Jesus. 
Christmas Day we woke up and opened our presents with Steph, Jeff, Noah, Carter, Gray & Ivy via Skype.  We went one by one and it was fun.  It was almost like being there in person.  At noon, Mike and I went over Elsa's parents house for lunch.  We had a nice time.  We came home after that and relaxed.  We were excited to learn that we would be spending New Year's with Steph and family.  There is always something to look forward to.  It was a very Merry Christmas!