THE GRANDY FAMILY

A day in the life of a real housewife of St. Johns.

2010-03-02T11:21:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm still here!!!

Ummm, Jarrett started biddy basketball, Mason's in his last week of jv basketball, and Mayla's....... just Mayla. Were ALL going to an 80's themed rollerskating party this Saturday, & I can't wait. I bought some rollerskates 2 years ago, and Dianna got herself a pair, and Mayla a pair for her b-day, but you can't exactly skate on the sidewalks here without falling (at least I can't!), so it will be cool to just skate without the fear of hitting a rock, or crack.

I'm STILL looking for a job..... ANY JOB!! But, in the mean time, I'm watching Dianna's twins. My mom is driving to Arizona in June, and wants to take my kids. Gordon told me I could go too, but I'm not sure if I can save enough money to pay for Ramarios! It will be during Mayla's b-day. She wanted to go up north for her b-day, but I'm sure Arizona will suffice! I hope we still go up north sometime this summer. We sure did have a good time when we went a few years ago.

I'm starting to go nuts because there is so much snow here right now!!!! But, this week the warm-up (35-40 degrees) should melt most of it. I can feel spring coming...... so, I'm trying to fight cabin fever.

We sold my baby (the Durango), and I got a pontiac sunfire. It has a sun roof, spoiler, and is bright red. It's super cute, and now I want summer to get here even faster so I can ride around with the sun roof open. Ethan & Ashton call it Aunt Tahmi's race car.

Since my last blog, forever ago, Mason has turned 16!!! Yippee! And, for roughly $600.00 he got his license (not including the car or insurance!). Drivers training is EXPENSIVE!!! But, now I don't have to haul him around everywhere anymore. He's got a green pontiac boneville -I think. However, he is gone a lot more, so I usually only see him in the evenings, or dinner time.

Well, I need to shower before the kids get out of school. I have a HUGE chore list this week, and NO DESIRE to do any of it, so I gotta get crackin.

Love you blogger friends & family.

I'm going to go postal..........

2009-12-04T13:55:00.000-08:00

This is an announcement (warning) to all the parents who drop their kids off in the morning at Gateway North Elementary School in St. Johns Michigan..................

When you see a red Durango in your rear view mirror..... MOVE!!!! I swear I get behind the slowest children & parents EVERYDAY! And, I haven't had my coffee yet, so one of these days don't be surprised when I hit you! My darling children have known how to un-buckle their seatbelt, and open a door since way before they ever attended the school. Why do your kids have such a problem? Perhaps you should do some training on the weekends! Oh, and to the parents who put their car in park, and walk around to open the door... SERIOUSLY????? You make me want to get out of my car and pimp slap you for being so inconsiderate an wasteful of other peoples time! I mean, have you ever noticed the line you create of other stupid parents who are waiting to do the same thing? You people need to park, in a parking spot, and then get your dumb kids out of the car. THIS IS WHAT THOSE SPOTS ARE FOR!!!

Friggin' Retards!

Sincerely,
Tamra Grandy (mother of 3 very smart children)

A lil up-date

2009-11-23T14:00:00.000-08:00

Not too much going on, just getting ready for Thanksgiving. Mom, Dianna, the twins, and Erica are coming over, so I've been trying to get the extra cleaning done like, mop, dust, bathrooms. You know, the stuff I don't do everyday. I've had a serious headache all weekend, that wasn't getting cured by aspirin. Come to find out today, the medicine had expired 8/08.! Luckily my mom had came over with some Thanksgiving groceries, and gave me some ibuprofen. THANK YOU MOM!! I was doing good till the kids got home from school, but at lease my head isn't throbbing anymore! I also think I'm having gull stone problems, at lease that's what mom said after telling her my symptoms. Oh, well.... moving on....
My parents found a house a few blocks away from here, and are looking into moving in a few days before Christmas. It's an awesome house with an apartment on the back. So, Dianna will live in the "main house", and mom & dad will live in the apartment. And, let me tell you, mom & Dianna need the space. They are BOTH driving each other crazy!!! We're excited to get in the house and get some painting & everything else done. Dad should be here for the paper signing, and I think is staying for a week. Gordon, Mason, Dianna & I are going to try and do all the moving of heavy stuff, so that Mom & Dad can just direct. They don't need to be moving anything anyways! Gordon always has the week between Christmas & New Years off of work (paid), and Dianna is leaving for Arizona the day after Christmas, so the twins wont be in the way, and we should be able to get a bunch of work done before she get's back. That's the goal anyways. I'm so excited for it all to go down! Gordon & I LOVE to be in a home project! We just don't have the money right now to do anything to our crib.
Mason is in basketball now, and has a scrimmage on Saturday. He completed segment 2 of drivers training, and now we need to get his driving test done, and then wait for his Birthday to make it all legal. Mayla had a "fancy" dinner at school last week. They have been teaching them manners, and how to "act like a lady" while at dinner. It's so cute to see her growing up. I swear she's grown a foot in the last week. Jarrett is learning, and more importantly, absorbing as much info that he can. I think he's going to pass up Mayla any day now. He really loves to learn, and is proud to read you a book.
I found 2 friends I worked with at T.G.I.Fridays in Amarillo, and I am so excited to talk to them again on Facebook. It's making my remember a lot of things that I have since forgotten. Man, I use to have so much fun there!!! I MISS IT!!
Gordon's lovely sister Billie took family pictures of us yesterday, and so I'm anxiously awaiting that. Hopefully I'll get them this week, so I can post them. It hasn't snowed here yet (knock on wood), and the weather has been in the 50-60's . It's great.

Twilight, Twilight, Twilight! YIPPEE!!!

2009-11-19T06:37:00.000-08:00

glitter-graphics.com

Well, it's been a crazy week on T.V., with New Moon coming out this week. It's been non-stop footage, and sneak peeks of tomorrow's premiere. So, last night I had a crazy dream, well, not so crazy. It began where I meet Robert Pattinson (YUM!!) at some random place, and we hit it off, so I invite him to my house because he's trying to hide from the paparazzi's. So, he comes over, and my house is a "hot mess"! Mason is playing xbox in the frontroom, Mayla & Jarrett are at school. So he comes in, and I'm trying to clean up as fast as I can. Then were hanging out, and Mayla comes home from school. As soon as she walks in the door and see's him, her mouth drops WIDE open! But she's too shy to even say hi. Then Dianna stops by and act's like a total freak job! So he & I take off and head to a water park and hang out on this ledge over looking the people, and out of sight. Then the next day I head over to his hotel room which he's sharing with "Alice & Rosalie" He's sleeping on the floor, and wakes up when I close the door. He get's a big smile on his face, and I jump, and lay next to him, and we're both just laughing........ Then, my alarm goes off! So, no kissing,(DANGIT!!!) but it was a good dream still the same. Oh, and in my dream he didn't have an accent, which I love!!! Sorry, I know I"m being a nerd about this, and I never expected to be one of those people who get's geeked up about a movie, or saga. I am with Twilight!!! I've disciplined myself not to read New Moon till after I see the movie, and I'm not going to go see it this weekend, because I DON'T want to fight the crowds. But, I will go see it, and then if it's clean enough, I'm taking Mayla to see it, because she's a HUGE fan too! She's got a picture of Robert hanging up in her room, that she occasionally kisses.
I just watched Robert on Regis & Kelly, and I gotta say.... YUMMMM O!!! Now, I do appreciate all the hard work that "Jacob Black" has put into his body. It's looking yummy too, but I am absolutely on................

Gordon's laptop- no pictures. But a blog just the same......

2009-11-05T21:38:00.000-08:00

Mason/ The varsity team finished off the year by making it to the playoffs, but losing to a tremendous team, -varsity fed Lowell high school. However, we are not feeling defeated, because Mason has 2 more years of Varsity football to play (they should be exciting!!!) PLEASE COME if you can!!! But otherwise, his open house will be June 2012 (I'm making a scrapbook). Lord don't that make me feel old!!!! Now off to Basketball......

Mayla's school teacher this year is AWESOME!!!! I LOVE MRS.DEAN!!! She's kickin ass and taking names, and WILL NOT let Mayla be defeated......... medication or not.... I LOVE HER!!!! I'm anxious to see what will happen with Mayls's 3rd grade year! ( & wish it could have happened sooner!!) !!!!! In the mean time, were still doing what we need to do to help her be successful. We're thinking about putting her into an art class, because she doesn't do physical, but she loves art/music. (ps: people- any advise with this would be great!!!) HINT HINT!!

And Jarrett..... Our "widdowest"???? He's excelling at kindergarten. I'm not sure if it's a boy/girl thing... but my boy's are excelling!!! He & Mayla have been ill this week, but I'm not worried about him missing school, because he loves it.... and HATES missing school!!! He starts basketball in a few months, then football next fall.... And he CAN'T WAIT..... He wants to be like is "big brother"

I'm sure that it seems like I throw my kids into activities....

But the driving back... and .... forth.... that's so not me!!!! I'm LAZY!!!!
I don't know what I'm doing......
The kids decide what they want to do....and I roll with the punches!
But, I'm going to support them in whatever they want, or need, to do to help them fulfill the life that they want.
If it's now...... or ........in the future.
I'm down for the success!!!

BTW.....

2009-10-28T22:30:00.000-07:00

Mason has a game Friday against Lowell (hopefully Dad will make it for this!). It's the first playoff game of his sophomore season. It's gonna be raining, but I'm still going!!!! Then Saturday we're having a bbq before trick-or-treating with the kids. Mason's "girlfriend" Erica is coming. LORD!!! I need to clean this house! Details later.......

Some thing's I've realised....

2009-10-28T21:43:00.000-07:00

In the past few weeks.....
Since I lost a few daycare kids, I've figured out some things with my own kids.......
First... Even though Mason has asked me a few times for the money for Segment 2 of drivers training, and I've told him a few times that when I get a job he can take it..... He doesn't realize that money is tight now.......
Second..... When Mayla wants to get a new puppy, stuffed animal, or is making her Christmas list..... she doesn't realize that money is tight right now.....
Third...... When I threaten Jarrett with buying "girl" pull-up's because he wont (for whatever reason beyond our discovery) "poop" in the toilet....... doesn't realize that money is tight right now........
I know that things will be o.k. and back to "normal" before they know it.

But, then I think about when I was a kid. How on earth did my parents do ANY of the amazing things we did as kids????

1-Disneyland 2x including hotel and food.
2-Sports for any & all kids that did them.
3-Back to school clothes????? (Gotta be a bank breaker!!!)
4-Sending someone to France.
5-Eating out at least once a week with the whole family!
6-Road trip's
7-Camping trip's
8-The Navy trip to San Diego -including airfare. (how did that happen?)
9-YEARBOOKS!!!!!
10-Girls/Boys camp
11-Sending someone to modeling school
12-Raising & paying for a grandchild or 2,3,4,5,.....
13- So many other AMAZING things that are escaping my brain right now......

My parents are AWESOME!!! And have all of our "backs" any day!!! I can't wait to be just like them! (someday??) Let alone that they are so in love with each other even to this day that it's sickening, and you have to plug your ears or say "lalalalalalalalalala" sometimes when you hear them on the phone! God it's gross, but SO TOTALLY CUTE!!!! (still don't wanna hear it!).

However, I love you mom & dad.

And even if Mason wants to buy you Caesars Palace in 21 years. & I'm living in a shack....... compared to the magnitude of memories and love we were given as children, it will NEVER COMPARE!!!! And I only hope my children will understand that we did what we had to do when we had to do it, and only remember the memories that we tried to establish when we had what we had.

Thank you!!!!

Nuff said.........

2009-09-19T18:15:00.000-07:00

St. Johns v Sexton Football

ST. JOHNS V SEXTON FB

KEVIN W. FOWLER | for the Lansing State Journal

Mason Sauls (left) of St. Johns runs into the Sexton defense on his way to the endzone during overtime of their game Friday. Sauls' touchdown turned out to be the game winner as Sexton failed to score on their possession.

My heart is full!

2009-09-11T12:01:00.000-07:00

I'm about to burst with excitement! Mason has his 2nd debut of Varsity football tonight. Last year after his regular freshman season ended, he got moved up to Varsity for the playoff's. Unfortunately, against Mt. Pleasant they lost on Halloween night. 3 days ago the Varsity coach asked Mason if he wanted to play some Varsity ball. He said yes (of course) and has been smiling ever since! I can't even begin to tell you how proud I am of him, as a sophomore, being moved up to Varsity. And, he's the only Sophomore to be asked. I know he wont get to play as much as he did freshman year and the 2 games of JV he played (the whole game!), but he will be on the kickoff, punt receive, and special teams. I'm not too sure what position he plays, because I don't know a lot about football, but I'll let you know when he tells me. I do know that he's #43. My mom's going, along with Dianna, & her.... "friend" Ken & his twin brother Jon (Mason's old basketball coach), Nate & Ashley, and Gordon & the kids. It's a warm and beautiful early fall day, and the low tonight is only suppose to be 50. AAAAAHHHHHH! I CAN'T WAIT!!!!

After the game, Gordon & I, and Nate, Ashley, Amber, Mike, Talia, & Kevin are going to Comedy Connections. Which is a comedy club in Lansing. I've never been to one before, and I don't know who's performing, but Amber got the tickets for free from work (SWEET!). Oh yeah, and it's Friday, and my paycheck just came in the mail. My hair turned out, I'm not on my period (for a change), I'm almost off of work, I got my new fridge last weekend, my house is clean, I'M NOT PREGNANT, and dinner is Pizza.

LIFE IS GOOD!!!
GO REDWINGS!!!

Dinner is Served!

2009-09-03T17:10:00.001-07:00

In my family, we always make a spaghetti dinner to announce we are pregnant.

It was started by my oldest and most favorite sister, Beckie. So here it is!

I haven't been able to post blog entries because I've had

morning, noon, and evening sickness.

The good news is that I've lost 10 more pounds

which is GREAT considering I don't want to gain any of the weight I worked so hard to lose.

Gordon is SO excited.

He mentioned that he wanted another baby

and I surprised him by already being pregnant.

Our love is THAT strong!

Jarrett is happy that he will be a big brother.

Mayla can't wait to dress him/her up.

Mason can't wait to show off his pregnant mom at his football games.

It's a family event!

I've got to go rub Coconut Oil on my tiny tummy.

I'll post ultrasound pictures soon!

Just a tiny blog.

2009-08-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

Hi Ashley & Amber!

The today show co-host's this week.

2009-06-17T13:28:00.000-07:00

So far, Monday had Bethenny from N.Y. (LOVE HER!!), Tuesday had "Danielle" from Jersey, and Today was Nene from Atlanta, wonder what tomorrow holds....... I've heard Tamra from O.C. (LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, HER). Gosh I'm such a junkie for the housewives, but if you watch, you understand. They better have a new one starting when Jersey is over, and not that nyc prep crap!

The new edition to our family.

2009-06-11T10:11:00.000-07:00

Gordon's new baby.

Mason's car in need of a little plastic surgery...

& my gorgeous baby. Ain't she purdy? Have I ever mentioned how much I LOVE my truck?

Was the diet & excersise all worth it?

2009-05-31T14:20:00.000-07:00

I'd say so!!! (if I do say so myself!)

And it only took a second to get the zipper up..... unlike someone else who took 20 minutes. I swear we should have brought some pliers to get her zipper up! But I'm not mentioning any names! Apparently it was the zippers fault though, even though EVERYONE else's went up fine!

More pic.'s to come later. Ashley just stopped by, so I'm gonna visit.
TTYL-Tahmi

Weekend plans

2009-05-29T07:16:00.000-07:00

It all starts today. I'm going to leave in about 2 hours to go help decorate for the reception. Then tonight is the rehearsal, & dinner. Tomorrow the wedding. I am so totally excited that it is finally here. I didn't meet my overall goal for the weight loss, but I fit in the dress, and that is all that matters. 45lbs down, & IDK how many to go seeings as how on Sunday I'm PIGGING OUT!!
BTW- Last weekend was fun at Bremer's wedding to Alison. I was worried when Gordon told me that the tux's were ivory, but he looked DANG HOT in it. (The blue was a little feminine though!) Here is a pic. of him, Bremer, & my girl Ash at the bottom sampling her concoction.

IDK what happened with the right side of my hair.... prolly the stupid haircut I got a few months ago, still trying to grow out, but desperately wanting to get noticed! However, here is a pic. of me & my Hunny......

Maybe I just need one of those "bump it's", cuz, it's looking a little flat! Anyhoo- last Sunday we had dinner with Amber & Mike at their house (this weekend's b&g). They got a patio set for a bridal shower gift, so Gordon took it outside so we could eat there. Well, one thing let to another, and this is what happened.....

An umbrella fit for a giant!

Just being concided!

2009-05-21T10:33:00.000-07:00

So, since I missed the March of dimes walk-a-thon last weekend. I decided to challenge myself to a walk. Dianna decided to take my kids on Tuesday because she was off of work. As I sat on the porch contemplating what I was going to do for a few hours with no kids (HIGHLY UNUSUAL!), I decided to walk. After spending 20 minutes looking for a water bottle, I was finally off! I started west on Gibbs, then went north on Lansing st. Walked all the way up to Walker rd. (haha walker!), then headed west to Dewitt rd. Once I was there, my phone decided to die on me, & therefore my clock was gone! So, I just headed south to Townsend rd. then north on Lansing st, & back to home. My knee started hurting when I was about 10 blocks from home, but I think it was because of the way I lay in the tanner. But, if I didn't lay that way, my feet would stick out of the end, and never get tan. Anyhoo, after 3 pop cans (a.k.a. 30 cents), a dead raccoon, & a dead squirrel, many, many, beer tops, & 1 honk from a weirdo in a van, I made it home.
The next morning, I loaded up Jarrett & Destinee in the car. re-set the trip meter, and headed on the same route. Guess how far I walked............

6.6 MILES!!! In 2 hours! And I wasn't sore the next day! Sorry, just gotta pat myself on the back!

My baby's getting so big! & crazy Ashley!

2009-05-18T11:09:00.000-07:00

So, Jarrett has had a pretty huge week in his life. He graduated from pre-school, and last Saturday, we took his training wheels off of his bike. At first I was holding onto the seat, and he kept saying "Don't let go mom". Then I let go, and held my hand behind him so he would think I was holding on. He kept saying... "Don't let go mom, don't let go". I told him "I'm not holding on Jarrett". He turned back to see that I wasn't holding on, then he was off! Even our wonderful neighbor's to the north were saying "Good job Jarrett". I think he was smiling for hours!

Mayla wanted her picture taken too....

Saturday night Ashley says to me..... "get on my shoulders & I'll pick you up" Yeah right I thought! But this crazy girl did it! Ok, Ashley's like 5'5", or 5'6" I'm not sure, and I'm sure she'll correct me. Here I am 5'11" weighing a lot more than she does, and she picked me up! She has god like strength! So, I'm trying to be B.A., and told her to get on my shoulders. HA!! I couldn't even get out of a squatting position! I am such a wimp. But the moment was funny, and the picture, HILARIOUS!! Here I am on her shoulders, touching the roof.

Ahhhh, good times! I love Ashley!!

Is it possible to have too much fun? I did on Saturday night!

2009-05-11T12:02:00.000-07:00

Gosh, the Bachelorette party was SO MUCH FUN!!! Where do I begin?.....

We started the night at Roadhouse. A fabulous restaurant here in town. It's where we all met up. However, the waitresses don't know how to take a picture, so mine is all blurry. Then we headed to my house for jello shots & strawberry blender drinks... not too sure what they were, I didn't have any. It is where "Mike" joined the party (a giant inflatable penis). We got our card's for the card game, our beaded necklaces, shot glasses, and our bachelorette party check list. My card said to find 5 guys with the same name & I'd get 30 points. It was easy, because once they find out your with a bachelorette party, they all decided to have the same name. I got that one. Anyhoo- we walked downtown to Bruno's first. the bar seats were all empty, which was perfect because once we got there, it filled right up! Then we went to Swany's (which I thought we were going to Alibi next, so someone had to come get me from Alibi, while I was looking for my guys with the same name). We were only @ Swany's for a little bit, because it was DEAD in there. Then we headed to Alibi.... FINALLY!! I think we were on the dance floor ALL NIGHT! My thighs are still soar from dancing. We had an abundance of men swarming us (& "Mike") the whole night. Gordon & Nate showed up for a second, but after not getting any attention, they left, went home & went to sleep. We closed Alibi, and with "Mike" in tow, we headed back to my house. We somehow managed to pick up 3 guys whom were willing to dance for us topless (nobody wanted them totally nude thank god!). One of them is a friend of ours, with an AMAZING BODY!! All 3 of them had nice bodies, and we were pretty "lit up" anyways. We played "tippie cup" with them. Amber ended the night by getting both feet rubbed, and a neck massage by all 3 guys. Lucky girl! Well, not really because she actually ended the night in the E.R. because she couldn't stop puking. Turns out she had a stomach virus. I think I went to bed around 4am, but I'm really not too sure. There is a lot more that happened, but I just cant remember it all.

3 more weeks till the wedding, and I CANT WAIT!!! It is going to be so much fun too! I was thinking, since this year is my 10 year wedding anniversary, maybe I should have a bachelorette party, since I didn't have one 10 years ago. What do you think?

And one more thing.... I love Courtney! She is awesome!! I don't know why she doesn't hang out with us all the time! I should get her number. She fits in so well with our group! Maybe I have a crush on her. lol.

Me, Talia, "Mike", Amber, & Ashley. The group of the bridal party that's over 21.

IT FITS!!!!

2009-05-04T12:19:00.000-07:00

And that's all I have to say about that!

The up-coming weekend.

2009-04-29T07:41:00.000-07:00

So, this weekend is Alison's bachelorette/informal bridal shower party. Alison is Bremer's fiance. The girl we lost him to. She stole him from us, and he hasn't been the same since! Anyhoo- that's on Saturday night. I think Ashley & I are gonna go for a drink or two, but that's probably it because it's in Fowler (the next town over) and we have to drive back. Also this weekend is spring clean up here in town. That means that we can set almost anything out on the curb that we no longer need, and since we gutted out the camper last summer, we have a tun of stuff to put out. Then it gets picked up for free!!! Good deal, however, we usually end up storing things in the garage, waiting for "junk day" every year, and with the addition of the bikes finally being able to come out, I cant even park in there. I love to park in the garage, because then I don't have to lock my car doors, and nobody knows if I'm home or not. But this weekend, we will be able to clear out the garage, and Gordon has promised me a corner, so I can organize & store the sports equipment, and my gardening stuff. Hopefully it wont rain this Saturday so we can get all the things we need to get done to the yard, & garage. I have Dianna's twins this weekend, but they are usually good for me, plus, there's always nap time!!! lol.

Gordon also borrowed a rototiller from Nate's (Ashley's hubby) father, so we can get the garden ready, & a few "low" spots in the backyard. We would have done all of the tilling last weekend, but it rained...... AGAIN!!! It's getting really old fast! Wish us luck on getting our outside chores done this weekend. It's a family thang!

One more thing.... Thank you Beckie for your comments on my last post. I've never heard that song, but I think I'm going to add it to my play list on myspace. I truly appreciate the encouragement from all of you who keep me going. And, I'm glad I don't live in Az. while I'm trying to lose weight. I'm sure some sugar cookies would have been delivered to my house when we were in the biggest loser contest! teehee!

Dis & Dat..

2009-04-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Long time no talk....

I guess in the past few weeks, a few things have been going on. I picked up 2 girls with the daycare. My mom left for a few months to go to Arizona, which means I have the twins a lot more. Mason got his permit finally after I paid $36.50 for a copy of his birth certificate from Az (TOTAL RIP-OFF!!). Katy visited for 5 days with her son Noah. We had tuns of fun, & spent a lot of time together.

We also kicked off the bonfire pit. Amber had her bridal shower, which was fun too. The food was great, and the wine was plentiful. Jarrett turned 5, and we went to Jumping Jax in Lansing. He got a new bike for his b-day, and so we try to go on walk's/bike rides everyday. You know I need it at the least daily! The diet is still going good. My new short term goal is to lose 14lbs by May 14th. That's the day that Jarrett graduates from pre-school. Then, I will have 2 weeks till the wedding, I already fit in the dress, but this weekend I'm gonna put it on again, and zip it up. I'll be sure to post a pic of that if it works out. I'm so happy to have friends like Ashley, & Amber who knew I'd fit into the dress. The encouragement is amazing, and needed! Here is a pic of the bridal party. Talia, Savannah, Brittney, me, Amber, & Ashley...........

Jarrett at Jumping Jax......

Me & Gordon dancing at Alibi. For my loyal readers...., can you see a difference in my body? I can, & I love this picture.

April showers in Michigan... bring May showers!

2009-04-14T11:24:00.001-07:00

So, I'm totally excited for today. My baby sister Katy is coming to visit, along with her son Noah. Dianna & I will leave around 10:30 tonight, to drive to Detroit and pick her up. We probably wont be back here to St. Johns till around 2 or 3am, but who cares? My dad had a delivery here yesterday, so after haulin' butt, he made it here last Saturday, and was here for Easter. Katy doesn't know that he's here, so tomorrow morning she will be surprised to see him. On Easter, Dianna & I were cooking ALL DAY!!! We decided to do chineese food, which involved rolling a crap tun of eggrolls, and crab won ton's. We also made shrimp & egg fried rice, and mom made a peach cobbler, that cooked over in my oven, and made a mess, but I'm gonna forget about that till I have to bake something, and the smell of burnt cake takes over the house. Just like I told the lady at Lowes, that was trying to sell us a self cleaning oven.... I'm never going to clean it anyways, so we'll just take the other oven. Jeez, I'm lazy! lol.
The bridal shower for Amber is this Saturday. I cant wait. I'm really hoping the weather cooperates, so I can wear a sundress, or as the housewives of oc say, "a skanky top, and jeans". Speaking of the housewives... I'm not going to be able to watch the end, so, Beckie & Ashley, if ya'll read this in time, I want text up-dates for the second 1/2 of the show!!! Yeah, I can catch the re-run, and will probably watch it a few times, but I need to know asap, if any drama happens.
It's raining today, but is only suppose to be today. Then till Katy, & mom leave for Utah (Sunday or Monday), they have said it will be in the mid 50's & sunny. Poor Katy probably packed a bunch of shorts, and tank top's. SUCKER!!
Well, I have cleaning to do before Dianna's kids get off the bus, so I'll ttyl.

I'm a junkie!

2009-04-02T08:09:00.000-07:00

After much protest, I was forced to go see Twilight with Ashley, & Amber a few months ago in the theater. It was alright. Dianna & Ashley talk about it all the time!! & we even made fun of them the night they went to go buy the movie, because the wal-mart here in town closes at midnight, so they went at 11:25pm, and waited for midnight. I decided to give it a little time before I borrowed it from Dianna. So, I watched it last night, and now..... I GET IT!! I didn't understand the whole vampire thing, and never go out of my way to watch a movie involving vampires. I don't think I would watch one again...... EXCEPT for the on going saga of Twilight. I want to read the book, and find out what happens next before the next movie comes out.
So, thank you Ashley, for making me go, and to D, am, & ash, thank you for talking about it ALL THE TIME, so that I could overhear the rules of being a vampire, and fall in love with this movie. (I still wanna see Bride Wars though! lol).

And YES!!! Robert is so dang hot!!! YUMMO!!

Pay no attention to the gimp. She did it to herself!

2009-04-01T09:10:00.001-07:00

So, I'm already nursing my weekend foot injury, & yesterday, I decided to "up the anti". I did the step for 20 minutes on full speed yesterday, and added about 6 inches to the height on the Wii fit balance board. This morning my calves are burning! Thank god you can play Wii without shoes, because, I never would have been able to work-out (Thanks Phil!!). Its a good pain though, because CLEARLY the muscles are being worked. So, I'm gonna take it easy today, as far as the legs go, and concentrate on my upper. Yeah, I'm still gimping around, but other than my foot, I'm ok with the pain.
Jarrett's birthday is next Monday, and Diann's twins birthday is this Friday, so we are going to take "the boys" out on Friday, because they don't have school. Which means I have one less day to get my cleaning done. All I have left is carpets, folding Monday's laundry, and dusting. As Mayla would say..... "Easy Peasy". I'm gonna start my spring cleaning this weekend with washing all the curtains, along with the routine bedding cleaning of all the kids and myself. Hopefully it will be nice this weekend, so I can do some outside work too, like, finding my garden underneath a tun of leaves, and sticks that have fallen since last fall. Maybe, I can get the fence all set up for that too. One thing I'm grateful for in Michigan, is being able to have a fire pit in the backyard. Legally speaking, you can't burn leaves in town, but we cover it up with the sticks, and wood. Plus the next 2 neighbors to the north of us, are firefighters, who have fire pits themselves, so we feel pretty safe when it comes to that.
Gordon's family set up a webpage a few weeks ago. I don't know how you feel about it, but when trying to use a new website, I'm so lost at what is suppose to happen. I bearly know how to navigate my facebook, and I've had that one for years now. Guess I'll have to get use to it. I love the Sauls family website, because it is super easy to use, and was easy to pick up. Plus it's only my parents, and their offspring, & grand kids. You know the saying... "because 2 people fell in love". I guess my thinking is different strokes, for different folks.

My boo-boo.

2009-03-31T06:37:00.001-07:00

Just a cautionary warning.... If you see this guy in the middle....

Stay VERY far away. Or this may happen to your foot..........

Or this may happen to one of your favorite shoes, that you have only worn one other time, and absolutely love........

Even if he is laying on your neighbors sidewalk/driveway at 1:00am, just leave him there, because if you try and help him up, he will just fall right on you, and bust your shoe, and make you gimp around for 3 days (and counting).

No Spanks, I can do it!

2009-03-30T11:45:00.000-07:00

I have been told before to get the spanks, but I feel like I wont be able to eat at the wedding, so, I'm just gonna do it the old fashioned way. Exercise, and "diet". Yesterday Ashley came over, and I put the dress on, she says it will zip, but the zippers on the dresses (all of them, not just mine) might get stuck, or rip. That's cool because I know I am so close to fitting in the dress, and being able to eat AND drink, and stay comfortable. I think in 2 months, I should be able to do it. And now that Ashley said it zips, I'm even more focused, and determined. I already worked out for an hour & 20 minutes today, and that's with a injured foot. Also, Gordon & I are gonna try & stop smoking. So, I'm only doing it on the front porch. Thank goodness the weather is descent. I'm going to look at it like Amber does... and only have one when I REALLY have a craving, not when I'm bored or whatever. I'm doing good so far, but it's only day one. So, I'm gonna get to cleaning, and keeping my mind off of everything else, then make some yummy chicken taco's for dinner. I'M SO HUNGRY!!! TTYL- Tahmi

A busy summer

2009-03-26T08:20:00.000-07:00

So, I only have a few seconds, then I have to work-out before Gordon gets home. He is going to work tomorrow morning, but because he is delivering locally, he can sleep at home. I have the twins tonight, but only till their Grandpa Ray comes into town to visit for the weekend, then I'm off till Monday. Mason is almost done with session 1 of drivers training. He got his permit last Saturday. Mayla & I are going to Tina's (Gordon's sister) baby shower on Saturday. My sister Katy, & her son Noah are going to visit next month. My sister Beckie and 2 of her bunch, Jordan, & Megan are visiting in May, and my sister Melanie & her kids are visiting in July. I am so excited! It's going to be a summer of family, & FUN (& a whole lot of camping)!!! The Bridal shower is set for April 18th, and the Bachelorette party is on May 9th. Ashley & I confirmed the stripper Tuesday. I will take pic.'s, but sorry, he's not getting nude... GROSS!, or at least if he does, I'm not looking.!! flopping, YUCKY!!! lol! I have 2 more months till the wedding. Here is the dress on me about a month ago......

I tried it on again yesterday, and I need to lose about an inch, which I probably will but only in my boobs! And, I wont be wearing a bra..... must have been Valentines day when I took this pic! Plus I'm a lot tanner now than I was at that time. I know I can do it, I just need to stick to the plan, and hang in there! But, on June 1st, I'm eating a tun!!!

Home for sale.

2009-03-16T07:57:00.000-07:00

I'm posting this just for Beckie, because when she visited last year, she went house shopping. This house is about 30 minutes from me, 10 minutes from Lansing. It was in yesterdays paper.

I don't know if you can read it, so this is what it says.....
Beautiful home on 12 acres, just south of Ionia, 4 miles from I96. 4700 square feet, 4 bedroom, 3.5 bathrooms, Granite, and Marble. Master suite. 3 car attached garage, detached 40'x80' custom shop. 495k!!!!

Can you believe the price???!!! This is not a typo! And look at the picture, it looks GORGEOUS!!!! Let me know if you cant read the number! lol.

Just a lil somethin' somethin'...

2009-03-10T12:07:00.000-07:00

Nothin much going on. Mason starts track today, and drivers training tonight. The $310.00 dollars that it cost better be well worth it! Went tanning yesterday, I'm getting pretty dark. I think when I go again I'm going to get a facial too. Dianna bought this face bronzing cream that I think I'm going to try out. Since the "biggest loser" contest ended with the sisters (which I didn't win.... It escapes my memory who did win... oh yeah, some skinny chick!) I have been on a little diet break. I haven't managed to put anymore weight on, but I'm not losing either. So, as of yesterday, I'm back in the game. The wedding is quickly approaching!
The housewives of O.C. ended, and now were back in NY. Hosea won the top chef (he is awesome!) Biggest loser is on tonight.
I'm gonna Wii fit before the kids get home, and take over the game.
TTYL

What a delicious day!

2009-03-06T06:49:00.001-08:00

It's finally Friday!!!

So, I'm totally in a good mood! It's Friday, I have this weekend off, which hasn't happened probably since last summer. Tonight I'm going over to Amber's mom's house to help her, & Ashley make the favors for the wedding. We're going to order pizza, drink some wine, and favor-away. Gordon will have the kids, so it's a girls night out with a purpose. She lives at the end of my road, so I'm just gonna walk BECAUSE........ It's a GORGEOUS day! Right now it's 58 degrees, and it's only 10:00am! The sun is shining, Gordon will be home soon. All I have to do today is sweep, mop, and clean the bathrooms (my fault I have so much work today, I was slacking this week). I'm gonna get to work, at killing some time, with the window's open, and the fresh air pouring in!

HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYBODY!!

It's just another Manic Monday...... (whoa, whoa)....

2009-03-02T12:31:00.000-08:00

Once I get my camera figured out, I'll put a pic on here, and not just babble on about this & that.
Lets see....... March has started. Gordon is starting to get busier, and thanks to Dianna getting a new car, we got the Blazer back, and he drives it to & from his truck, which saves me a headache on Monday mornings. This is Mason's last week of basketball, then next Tuesday he starts drivers training. That will be over April 1st, and he will have his permit then. He will also be in Track at that time. I'm totally excited about him driving. Mayla is still doing basketball, till the end of this month. She's doing awesome at school. Jarrett is student of the week, and when I get his "highlights poster" back from the school, I'll take a pic, & post it. I think it looks so cute (If I do say so myself). We now only have Paris (white puppy) and Lucy (mama doggie). It is WAY easier!

We got Wii fit last weekend, and it is so much fun! I'm clocking in hours, and not even tripping about spending an hour or more working out. I love the step dance, and I want to put the balance board on a higher level, so I can really feel it in my thighs. There's also a Jillian Michaels work-out game that I TOTALLY WANT!!

Because Gordon & I will be married for 10 years this October, we are inviting all our favorite people to go up to the casino with us (Soaring Eagle casino in Mt. Pleasant). I would really hope that any of you reading this would join too. The more the merrier. Details to come on the whole thing later.

What a man!!

2009-02-16T08:31:00.000-08:00

The night before Valentines day (Gordon's birthday), Dianna, Gordon, & I were playing cards when Gordon says "I WAS going to get you flowers for Valentines day" Laughing to myself at the statement itself, I told him that it doesn't have to be Valentines day to get me flowers, It would be more special if he gave me flowers on a regular 'ol day. Then I told him to either get me flowers or don't, just don't tell me that you WERE going to get me flowers!! It's like all the times he tells me "I was going to do the dishes" (as I'm loading the last dish in the dishwasher).
I did get flowers for Valentines day. They were pretty, but I feel that if he didn't have to go to Walmart, then I would have to settle for "I was going to get you flowers for Valentines day" Oh, my husband.... He's such a man sometimes! He was raised by all women, so sometimes I just have to shake my head in disbelief of the things he says. I love you Gordon.

I found out last weekend, that my little brother Phillip, and his family might be coming up here next month. I really hope they make it because we have never met Jaxon, & Brett. The last time we saw them was when Phillip & Laura got married. Mason will be done with Basketball when they come here, but I think he will have a track meet around that time. I really want Phillip to see Mason playing a sport, because when Mason was little he watched Phillip all the time. Sometimes I think Mason is a little Phillip, because of the sports, and the way he is socially. He has no desire to do "bad things" (drink, smoke, whatever) but he has a lot of friends, and has such a happy demeanor. Yeah, he's a teenager, and acts like it sometimes, but for the most part he does what he should, and stays out of trouble. He has only had his phone taken away once, because he didn't shovel the sidewalk. He's only had detention once because he was texting during class. And, sometimes I have to tell him more than once to take the trash out, but he gets good grades, and with sports, he often spends 12 hours at school. IDK how he does it! It excites me to think about what he will be in the future, because he is going to excel at whatever it is. He has a natural sport ability (like Phillip) where we can pick up on the sport, and be really good at it. Sometimes I wonder if we were in a big school, in a bigger city, would he get lost in the shuffle? St.Johns is a 5A school, and they play a lot of Lansing schools, so whats the difference? He's turning 16 next year, and we are already trying to work on getting him a car. We are getting the blazer back from Dianna when she gets a new car in a few weeks, and we are buying a 2 door Cavalier next week, so he can pick between the two, and he & Gordon can spend some quality time working (pimping) on the 2 cars. I'll be glad when he drives, because I wont be picking him up or taking him to practice. I probably wont see him as much, but I don't see him all that much now. Plus Mayla will be doing basketball again next year, and Jarrett will start basketball, and t-ball next year too. So, I will be carting them around.

I have Dianna's twins tonight, but other than that, I have laundry to do, & that's pretty much it. TTYL

Long time no talk eh?

2009-02-13T10:35:00.000-08:00

Hello! Yes, I'm still alive. I can't really say I have been busy.... same 'ol same 'ol. The computer was down for a week, then Gordon fixed it when he came home on the weekend, then that next week it was down again. Gordon had to crash it to get it up and running. HOWEVER, I had not saved all my pic.'s to a disc, so, I ended up losing about 500 pictures from the last few years. All I have left are the pic.'s on here, snapfish, myspace, and facebook.

Today is Gordon's birthday. We are going to Mike, & Alison's house for dinner, after that I'm not sure. Mayla starts basketball tomorrow morning. Mason is about 1/2 way through his season, and Jarrett.... well...... He's just going with the flow (as usual). The puppies are getting big (and more annoying). We only have 2 now, Dianna's; Cacajuete, and our puppy; Paris. We had to split them up because they were beating each other up, so now we have 2 kennels in the kitchen. I cant wait till the weather turns so they can be outside more. I'm sure the neighbors will love that! Speaking of neighbors..... The crazy man is gone!!! Yippee!

The diet is going pretty good. I have lost 25lbs since I started. Not really as much as I had hoped for at this point, but I have 3 more months till the wedding, so I'm being optimistic. As for the biggest loser contest with the sisters, I'm holding my own. That is over in 2 & 1/2 weeks, so I'm really trying to buckle down now so I can win the cash! I went over to Ashley & Nate's house last night. They have Wii fit, and I did a running game that was fun, and I won first place the first time I did it. Unfortunately Ashley is extremely competitive! So, she did it once and smoked my score (You suck Ash!!!) I was thinking that if I could go there a bit, then with her competitive nature, her & I could kick some serious butt!! Then when the wedding comes, I can wear her dress, she can wear Talia's, and Talia can wear mine. (LOL!! That was just for you Ashley!) ok that was mean, but seriously funny!

Anyhoo, nothing else really new. I colored my hair this week, and it's pretty close to my natural color... or what I remember my natural color to be. I'm picking Gordon up in about half an hour & I need to put the puppies back in the kennels, so I'll TTYL Hopefully I wont wait longer than a month this time.

2009-01-08T10:15:00.000-08:00

Which looks better?

This......

Hot dogs, & Macaroni & cheese.

Or this...........

Lettuce, & Egg white salad. (It was all I had for a salad that was healthy).

Another question......
Who do you think is enjoying it more?

Dianna's twins, Ethan & Ashton.

Or me? (excuse the lack of make-up, I know I look horrific, but it was a lazy day! Geez, I look old without make-up on.)

I hate dieting! If it wasn't for the money I'm going to win, and the wedding in May, I wouldn't be doing it. I'm so hungry, that even hot dogs & Mac-n-cheese look delicious!! uuggghhhh!!

HOWEVER,

I love it when.......
1- I'm thinner
2- I have more energy.
3- Its summer & I weighing less.
4- I look in the mirror.
5- My knees don't hurt.
6- People start to notice.
7- I can play basketball with the kids, & not get winded.
8- I wear skirts & dresses.
9- I wear high heel shoes or sandals and my feet don't hurt 5
minutes later.
10- I can breath, and don't use the inhaler so much.

This time I'm actually exercising, so, I will not only be thinner, I will be more fit too. I cant wait till it's May 30th (Mike & Amber's wedding day) when the time is up for the weight loss, and I look Bangin' in my dress. Since I started, I have lost 16lbs. There are 142 days till the wedding, which is a little over 20 weeks. If I lose 2lbs a week (Doesn't seem too hard right?) then I will have lost 40lbs by the wedding day. Can you imagine me... 40lbs lighter? If..... wait..... WHEN!!!!, I do that, it will be a very close second to the smallest I've been since marrying Gordon.

The white elephant "tonsil" video

2009-01-06T08:09:00.000-08:00

White Elephant, The Puppies, & other fun stuff...

2008-12-31T13:59:00.000-08:00

I apologize for not posting sooner... for those who care. I read your blogs yesterday but couldn't think of something to say.... I know, I know, SO unlike me! lol. Anyhoo- Today is New Years Eve. We had planned on going to Gordon's sisters house, as we do every new years, but, after much deliberation, we decided against it. It's not so bad when it's summer, and we can backroad home, but on a holiday???? And when the backroads are a little messy? We got a couple of inches of snow last night. Plus, we couldn't leave around midnight, or 2am, so we decided to stay home, and luckily our besties are coming over too. I just got a call from Dianna asking if we'd pick up her kids & Jarrett (they had just returned from watching the movie Bolt), cuz she was going to the E.R. I guess she is having pains, so I'll let you know what happens with that.
I haven't loaded our pic's from Christmas yet, but your not missing much, because I forgot to use my camera a bunch. Or, as much as I wanted to. Like Jen says, I was trying to live in the moment, and like Mayla says....., you get what you get, and you don't get upset! HOWEVER.... I have an awesome video of Gordon's sister opening up the "white elephant" I brought to the gift exchange. ......

O.k., back story. Since Jarrett got his tonsils out last October, I thought it would be funny if I took a little bit of chicken skin, and put it in a... what I call.... a "pee sample cup" and give it away for the "white elephant". This was a huge secret for me because... well.... I can keep a secret!!! I told Gordon, and he shrugged it off. It was all I could do to not tell Shane, or Dre, (daycare kids, & Gordon's nephews) what I was doing. I didn't want them to tell their mom Jodi (Gordon's sister). Anyways, I got the gift together with a book, some clothes, that even in my lighter weight, I wouldn't have worn, and some soap, and bath crystals & stuff. Gordon's sister Billie opened it up, and was wondering what it was, I could bearly get out that it was Jarrett's tonsils, and that I didn't need them anymore, before I busted out laughing, that what happened was WAY funnier that I thought it was going to be! Maybe you had to be there, but it was HILARIOUS to me!!!

The puppies are getting HUGE!!! They have outgrown the initial kennel we made for them, and are now in a left over T.V. box from my mom. They have outgrown that and are in need of a taller kennel now. A couple more weeks, and they are OUT OF HERE!!!! We've gotten 2 spoken for (possibly 3) so..... WHO WANTS A PUPPY????? There's 4 more to get rid of! Any takers??? ( I didn't think so!)

So, Happy New Year to all of you! My tip, don't make any resolutions.... They never get kept, so save yourself the stress. I have to go now, because I am on the computer, while Gordon wants to talk about the mess the kids made. TTYL-Tahmi

Oh, the weather outside is frightfull.......

2008-12-23T12:04:00.000-08:00

Another 3-5 inches expected today, then a couple more tomorrow.... but, good news, no snow predicted on Christmas. I'm glad we don't have to go very far, and that we have 4 wheel drive. I think I will be done with the shopping today. I really don't want to go anywhere tonight, & tomorrow. I've also got to pick up Mayla's EXPENSIVE medicine. I'm lovin a drive through pharmacy! Mason is done with basketball practice till next Monday. We'll just stay cozy & warm here in the house, drinking hot chocolate (laced with Baileys. j/k). I think some people are coming over tonight, but we'll see. As long as we don't have to go anywhere.
TTYL- Tahmi

Baby it's cold outside.......

2008-12-22T10:51:00.000-08:00

Friday we got 8 & 1/2 inches of snow. Gordon & I were outside breaking our backs trying to clear the driveway so we could get the Durango out of the garage. I love our gigantic driveway...... except when I have to shovel, or sweep it, then, it's not so nice! Anyhoo, we were about 1/2 way done when Jason (Gordon's friend, & Katy's X) showed up with his snow plow to finish the job.

Gordon & I decided to chill on the porch & watch him work, while drinking a beer. We deserved it with the hard work we put in shoveling 1/2 of it on our day off!

So, for now... I'm working today, & tomorrow then I'm off till the day after Christmas. I'm going to try really hard to blog everyday this week, But, Gordon is home, and I cant get anything done while he's here. I haven't worked-out since Wednesday, nor have I been on the computer. I have the time, but IDK. I don't want to let him see me work-out because.... well..... NOBODY needs to see me working out, not yet anyways. I did manage to get the wood floors, and the kitchen floor swept, and mopped this morning, while working. Yeah me! I'm starting my second pot of coffee, so that I can get the dishes done, and dust the house. Then by Christmas eve, I'll just have to do touch-up's before I "try" and go to sleep. My Dad got here yesterday, and it was zero degrees, with the wind chill factor. BURRRR! I went to pick him up, because, my Mom's car was buried with snow. Hopefully I'm going to finish my shopping today, because it's going to snow again tonight, & tomorrow. I'd like to be done with that too! I'm ok if we don't have a white Christmas because there is so much friggin snow now to last me the rest of winter! Oh, Michigan, your so mean to a "desert rat" like me!

Santa visit's Kid Zone pre-school.

2008-12-17T07:33:00.000-08:00

Today I went to Jarrett's school because Santa was visiting. We got there around 9:50. Santa was scheduled to arrive at 10:00. However, he came early, and Jarrett had already sat on his lap. Thanks to his wonderful (and extremely patient) teachers, they allowed him to go again, so I could get a pic. I brought Mayla, and Destinee (niece) so they could visit too, but Mayla chickened out, and I only got a pic with Jarrett & Destinee on my phone (so I could pic mail to Destinee's mom). Here is the pic I got of Jarrett.....

Today we're going shopping for the kids gift's for the gift exchange at school. I dont have Dianna's twins tonight, and I am looking forward to a night off! We got about 4 inches of snow last night, so when Destinee leaves, I'm going to be out there shoveling AGAIN!! Tomorrow my mom is going to the hospital to have a procedure done, and I'm going to drive her which means.... Dianna will be getting my kids ready for school and driving them. I'm kinda worried, and am fully expecting to see Mayla after school without her hair done... which drives me nuts! Tomorrow is Mayla & Jarrett's parties at school, and Mayla is wearing her Christmas dress, Dianna better do something cute with her hair! I'm not asking her to curl it or anything, but a simple ponytail would work. Jarrett probably will have his hair in the back of his head sticking up, as it usually is every morning, and I have to wet comb it so it doesn't look like I'm lazy. That's asking a lot from Dianna. I hope my kids don't look scrubby on their party days.

My dad will be here sometime this weekend, or early next week. I'm so excited that he is going to be here for Christmas. Gordon will work Mon. & Tues. next week, and then be off (PAID) till the 5th of January. My Mom & Dad, Dianna & her twins are coming over on Christmas morning to open presents with us. Gordon is stressing about that because he thinks the twins will bitch & moan because they didn't get what they wanted. I don't think that's going to be the case, they are going to be excited about all the toys, and they are 3! It's not like they are teenagers!. Gordon is just bummin because we can't have the Christmas we've always had. I realize this too, but I'm not going to let it get me down. It really irritates me that he is so bummed about Christmas because he vents to me about it, and there is nothing I can do about it. Anyone have any ideas about how I can cheer him up? THINK CLEAN!!

Monday.. Here we go!

2008-12-15T08:40:00.000-08:00

Nothin new. It was a VERY short weekend. I had the twins last weekend. I'm going to try and enjoy this week, because the next few weeks are going to be harder with the kids being out of school. I'm excited for my kids to be out of school, but I wish I didn't have the daycare kids too. Oh, well, gotta work. 10 more days till Christmas, and Gordon & I will be finishing our shopping on Friday, as long as he gets home on time, if not, then I'm finishing the shopping on Friday. Jarrett is fixin' to get off the bus soon, so gotta go. Sorry for such a BORING blog!

Cigarettes & Tampons

2008-12-13T10:07:00.001-08:00

So, I'm reading the sisters blogs, and noticed on the side of Jennifer's blog, some woman jokes one of her peeps had posted. For women, not about women. Really funny stuff. My favorite goes something like this...

Husband sends his wife to the store to buy cigarettes. Wife returns with tobacco, & rolling papers, because it was cheaper that way.
The next day, the wife sends the husband to the store for tampons. Being lost, he was directed to the tampon aisle by a cashier.
He gets to the register and tosses down some cotton balls, and a ball of string. The cashier says I thought you were needing tampons?
Husband says It's cheaper this way, plus, if I have to roll mine, so does she.

Funny huh? I hope that brightens you day. It did mine.

Tagged!

2008-12-09T10:31:00.000-08:00

tagged

Five things that make me happy:

1: Sleeping in.

2: Watching the kids play sports.

3: Pistons!

4: Friday's.

5: Not being broke!

7 facts about me:

1: I'm shy, event though I try not to be.

2: I HAVE to drink coffee first thing in the morning.. or WATCH OUT!!

3: Camping is the best summer family fun ever. (unless we were rich enough to go somewhere exotic... like Az. lol)

4: I'm going to start a garden next spring that's twice as big as last years.

5: Breakfast burritos are the bomb!

6: I love to play Wii, and am hoping for Wii fitness for christmas/birthday.

7: I'm in a biggest loser contest with my sister's, and I AM GOING TO WIN!!

*now i tag all my blogger buddies*

Pictures from the bowling party last Friday.

2008-12-09T10:19:00.000-08:00

The puppies are here!

2008-12-07T15:05:00.000-08:00

So, we stayed up REALLY late last night. Then, at 9:30 this morning, I was woken up by Mayla saying.. "mom, wake up Lucy had 6 puppies". I was hardly awake, and didn't really believe her, but had to check it out. I walked in her room, and this is what I saw....

Apparently some time last night, Lucy had pushed out the puppies, and cleaned the whole mess up herself. THANK YOU!!! And, thank goodness Mayla has plastic on her bed, just for my mentality. I had to wash the sheets anyways, just because... gross! Anyways, mommy is doing good, with 3 boys, and 3 girls. My kids each want one of their own. Yeah, I don't think so. This one is my favorite.....

T.V., and Diet.... What a combo!

2008-12-03T08:36:00.000-08:00

Thank god for the internet! One of my favorite shows premiered last night, and I didn't get to watch it, because basic cable doesn't carry the oxygen channel anymore. I'm not about to shell out any more money to the cable company for an up-grade on cable, because I'd sit on my butt a whole lot more. Did I mention I have a wedding to be in 6 months from now? Sitting on my butt for too long is NOT an option! So, this morning, I had time to kill, and remembered that "The Bad Girls Club" started last night. I'm really excited for the new season, because, there is going to be a whole lot of drama. I love drama, but only on t.v., or only if I'm not involved!
The Diet: Well, I don't really want to talk about it because I seem to jinx myself when I do, so let me just say, It's going pretty good, and I'm starting a "biggest loser" contest next Monday with Ashley, whom is also in the wedding. I think I'm going to start another one in January with my sisters too. I love a good competition, so it should be interesting. I asked Mason if he wants to do the March Of Dimes "Walk-a-thon" next spring. Idk if he's going to do it, but I'm doing it.
TTYL-Tahmi

From the mouthes of babes.......

2008-12-02T07:49:00.000-08:00

Last night, Gordon I were watching t.v. in our room, well, really he was watching t.v., I was cleaning out my closet. Mayla had just finished putting on her winter gear.. ie: snow pants, boots, hat, scarf, gloves, and coat. She had to be outside for no more than 5 minutes, when she came in our room crying, and said... "I cant play outside, I'm getting bite-frosted".
Friday night is the Santa parade downtown, and the weather is predicted to be 28 degrees, so by 6:00pm once the parade starts who knows how cold it's going to be. Good thing the parade is only about 1/2 an hour long. Then I'm dropping Dianna's twins, at home and we are going to the farm's Christmas party at the bowling alley. My kids LOVE to bowl, so it should be fun. Too bad Gordon doesn't get that fat bonus check they pass out at the party anymore. That was always nice, but at least we are invited. Thank you Thelen Dairy. Thanks for buying dinner, bowling, and for having an open bar. lol. Then Saturday, I'm going to put my bridesmaid dress on layaway at David's bridal. Idk why I cant get the link, on here so ya'll can see the pic, but I have the dress on my facebook. Someday, I'll figure out this computer thingey!

Yeah me! I did it. I'm pretty sure this is the color we are getting too, so you know I have to hit the tanner!
TTYL- Tahmi

Soon to be ex-neighbor. Not soon enough!

2008-11-30T10:08:00.000-08:00

Yup! It's the yellow house crazy man, who is moving. He came over here the day before Thanksgiving, and accused one of my kids of hitting the side of his house with a garden hose hook. 2 pieces of his siding are chipped. He said it's not a big deal, offered me some top soil for my flower beds, and told me he was moving soon. Then, 20 minutes later, he knocks on the door, and says his friend can fix the siding for $40.00. I told him I'd talk to Gordon, and get back to him. So, I called Gordon and said... "you want a good laugh?". Then the next day.... THANKSGIVING, he came over around noon, and told Gordon his master plan, of us giving him the money, so his friend could fix the siding. Gordon was like.. "how do you know it was one of our kids?". The neighbor, Dennis, said that the hook was laying in our driveway, which it was, at the edge of our driveway, right next to his house. Gordon told him that he's not dealing with it today, it's Thanksgiving. We haven't seen or heard from him since then. I do hope he stops by again, so I can tell him to take us to court, and good luck trying to prove it was our kid that did it, and also to get off my property! The chipped siding is the pink spots you see under the cardboard covered window.

One time he called the cops on us because the kids were skateboarding on the CITY sidewalk, in front of his house. The cops told us that we should try and stay away from him because he is mentally un-stable. NO PROBLEM! Our kids (including all daycare kids) know not to go near his house. The sidewalk, however is not his property. Did I mention that he is a renter? He doesn't even own the house.
More recently, he call the cops on us because he were "hanging our dog from the trampoline". Once the police saw that our dog was chained up to the trampoline, NOT HANGING FROM IT, we were cleared of all accusations.
He burns his trash in his backyard, which is against the law if you live in town, and, the smoke travels to my house, so I cant have my windows open in the summer, because the funk gets in my house. But do I call the cops? NO! He's came over here before to ask me if i had any marijuana to sell. I'm like "no dude, I don't smoke it, so why would I have it?" let alone to sell it! With all the daycare kids here? Did I call the cops? NO! Should I have? Probably.
Anyhoo, he'll be gone HOPEFULLY soon, but not soon enough.

On to bigger and better things. Thanksgiving was delicious. I tried to get my mom to cook over here, so I could learn how to make the stuffing, rolls, and gravy. Other than those I can cook the rest, but she made it all at home, so I still don't know the secret family recipe. She told me that next year I can do it all, which I'm cool with me because it is the best stuffing you've ever had! And the rolls, aahh, they are the most perfect rolls, because they open without needing to cut them. So, you get them straight out of the oven, open it up, throw a pat of butter in them, and close it back up, then bit down..... mmmmmmmm. Or, the next day, you throw a slice of ham, or turkey in there, and you have one amazing sandwich. I'm only telling you this because Beckie, wanted me to think about her while I was biting into the rolls this year. So, Beckie... I did think about you throughout each and every roll I ate (4 to be exact-I did say that Thanksgiving was a no diet day). Check out Mayla enjoying a delicious roll. This one's for you big sis!

I hope that you, Phil, and Katy got all my picture text's on Thanksgiving. Nobody ever responded, so I'm thinking that you got them and you were jealous. At least, that's what I'm telling myself! lol.

I'm too cool for a coat!

2008-11-26T09:36:00.000-08:00

I just got back from picking Mason up from a 1/2 day at school. I was actually early, so I saw a lot of the high school kids coming out. Now, I haven't bought a coat for Mason in 3 years or so, he just wears a hoodie all winter long. He says it's because he's not outside for very long, like from home, to the bus stop, to the school.... etc. O.k., so, cool, an expense I can save every year. I was parked in the students parking lot, and I noticed that all the drivers only wore hoodies, or "spring jackets" also. ok, so, they aren't outdoors all that much either. Then as I was headed home, I noticed that the walkers were wearing hoodies too! I mean HELLO!!! Is it un-cool to wear a jacket? Is it cool to be sick? Maybe I'm just a wimp! I throw my warm & fuzzy coat on just to walk to the end of the driveway to get the kids off the bus! I've been sick for a few weeks now. I need a vat of Dayquil, & Nyquil daily! Should I switch to the hoodie thing, & chance my luck. Haha, I don't think so!

And on another note...
When Mason was in grade school, I was by far the youngest mom there. Now that he's in high school, I am still one of the young ones. However, when I go to Mayla, or Jarrett's schools I am not. Boo Hoo, woe is me. I'm getting old!

One more thing....
Our crazy neighbor to the south is moving!!! HIP HIP HOORAY!! Now the cops wont be called on us for stupid reasons! I'm so excited. Plus, he's not just moving across town, he's moving to Texas! Oh, Happy Day!

Nothing much going on.

2008-11-24T08:18:00.000-08:00

It's snowing today. Big fluffy flakes. I have Jason's kids till about noon, then Jarrett will be home around 12:30, Then I'll have Dianna's kids at 4 till about 8. I really need to get our family pic's done, but now it's too cold to do them outside, so I've got to think of a good backdrop here in the house, or at someone's house. The party was a blast, and I stayed up till 3:30. Thank god Gordon let me sleep in the next day.
I'm totally excited about the holiday season. Thanksgiving is going to be a diet free day for me. I love all that parties that come along with it. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and of course New Years. Also, we were invited to the farm's Christmas party which is on the 5th. We always have a good time there, and I'm going to bring the kids this year, because they will have a blast too. I'm grateful that even though Gordon hasn't worked at the farm for years now, they invite us to events, and still think of us as part of the family.
Christmas this year is going to be smaller than normal, as I'm sure it is for a lot of people. I get 3 paychecks in Dec., so I'm going to do after Christmas shopping and I hope that the kids will be cool with that, if not then OH WELL!!
I'm gonna get off the computer & sweep. Hardwood floors are nice, but a lot of work!

Saturday.....

2008-11-22T09:52:00.000-08:00

We are hosting a party here at the house for Nate's birthday (Gordon's friend, and Ashley's hubby). So, I've been cleaning all week, and doing touch ups today. However, I have kids today, so when they leave at 6:30, I'm gonna have to do a few last minute things. My plan is to be showered & ready by 6:30, so I can focus on the house, and my AWESOME green olive dip. I also bought a wreath of bread, and am going to slice it, and put a bowl (that Mason made in ceramics class) of spinach dip in the middle. It's tostito's spinach dip, and if you've never tried it I ABSOLUTELY RECCOMEND IT!! It's in the chip aisle. I'm not too sure how many people are coming, but you can be sure, I'll have my camera ready all night. Dianna picked up a 5hr energy drink (which are fab also!), So if I take it around 8-9 I should be good all night.
Mayla started taking Concerta today, and an extremely small dose. I didn't expect a miracle the first day, but she's just been watching Kung Fu Panda, and Wall-E anyways, so.... We're going to break out the WII next, just because it keeps the kids occupied, and it's WAY too cold to go outside! It's 30 degrees today. BURRR!!

TTYT- Tamra J. S-G.

p.s.- Does anyone watch the real housewives of OC, NY, or Atl? I can wait for the reunion next week, and the premiere of the next OC. I'm totally geeked up about it.

I should have read your blog first.

2008-11-20T08:15:00.000-08:00

2 in one day? does that count for a day I have missed this month? I read my OLDER sisters blog, and thought I'd give her some inspiration......

Yeah, it's floor to celing! I LOVE MY TREE!! (did I mention that before?)

Not to mention that fact that we have this going on up here.......

Dianna's Birthday.

2008-11-20T07:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my little sister (who's older than me now!) Dianna. I know it gets stressful raising 2-3 year old's, especially boys, but your doing a fabulous job. You don't need..... whats his name to help, he never was a good help anyways. Stay strong! Your a Sauls girl. REPRESENT! I love you, and I cant wait to hang with you this weekend.

Yeah, it's Lucy.

2008-11-16T12:34:00.000-08:00

So, we are pretty sure that Lucy, the new dog, is pregnant. The kids are totally excited. I'm sure she's gonna deliver during the week, while Gordon is gone. I really hope she wont deliver this Monday or Tuesday, because it's going to be a rough couple of days for me. So I'm sure that's when it's going to happen, and probably in the middle of the night! She's acting like she's going to do it today, which means we can sue Gordon's sister Tina for child support. lol. We've only had her for a few weeks. We went from one dog to 2, then to no dogs, to 1. And now?????? I'll make sure and take pic.'s when she's done, and the puppies are all cleaned up. Where did I put that pack of rubber gloves?
On a lighter note....
I got some good (non blurry) pic's of Mason's relay track record.

OMG!! I think she's pregnant!!!

2008-11-15T21:59:00.000-08:00

Details the next time I blog, which hopefully will be tomorrow. But seriously.... SHE CANT BE PREGNANT!!!

So, I missed a few days.... sue me!

2008-11-13T06:52:00.000-08:00

Went to Mason's awards ceremony for football last night. I thought sitting in the bleachers for an hour or so was tough...... But, sitting on the cafeteria table/benches for 3 hours was WAY WORSE!! My butt was so numb by the time it was over. I've come to realize a few things for next year...
1-The ceremony is more for the Varsity players.
2-The ceremony is mostly for Seniors.
3-The new dog, Lucy, thinks the trash cans are an all you can eat buffet when we leave the house.
It was nice when it was over because.... well... I could stand up, and also it was held at the middle school, & with Mason's record breaking feat in track last year, his name was on the records board, so I tried to get a couple of pic.'s. I couldn't get the right angle, so all the pic.'s I have are blurry. I'll try again Saturday. Mayla has Basketball camp then.
Gordon is sick AGAIN for the second time in a month. I guess he thinks it's my fault that he's sick cuz he's bitchin' at me about other stuff that is so irrelevant to his illness. I understand his frustration, but geez! I didn't do it, it was the weather with it's warm, then cold, then warm, and cold again. oh, well.
I got my Christmas tree up last weekend, and allowed Mayla & Jarrett to decorate it, which means only the bottom half was decorated. Too cute! Tuesday I broke down and fixed it and told Mayla that the twins & Jarrett had knocked it down, so I had to fix it. We did blue & silver this year, because Gordon's little sister Jodi had given me all of her old stuff. It looks so beautiful.
Mason is old enough to start drivers training. He will be 15 in January, but he can start training now. However, He doesn't want to do it because it will interfere with sports. I asked him.... "Do you want to miss ONE season of spring sports, or drive?" I would think he would want to drive, but he wants to play baseball (I think). I suggested that he get his classes done while he's a Freshman, that way he does the jv/varsity sports un-interrupted. I even told him... "You know your getting a car for Christmas &/or your birthday next year." He's looking into a night class, so he can still play a sport, and do Drivers training. I don't know where he gets the energy and drive to want to do so much, but I'm grateful for it. I think it will help him in his career (whatever it may be). In Michigan you have to take drivers training in order to get your license. I think it's a conspiracy, because the dang class costs $400.00.
Ok, I need to get to the grocery store before Jarrett gets out of school, and it ends up costing me more that I want to spend.
TTYL-Tahmi

IDK!

2008-11-05T20:04:00.000-08:00

Had to post something, & since for some reason I have insomnia.... Here we go.

Nothing new. Went Christmas shopping today TOTALLY FUN!! I forgot how much I love to shop for ANYTHING!!! (except groceries!) But seriously, I have a confession...
Because I watch Intervention on A&E, I have caught a few other shows on that channel. (I sound like a couch potato). The show "Dog the bounty hunter" has been a staple in my T.V. line-up. Now, this is a serious confession, because I wouldn't be hanging out with friends raving about it. "Dog", is such a chode... with his mohawk & all, then his wife, with her..... ummmm..... big ones? The brother with his tail, And his buff son with his tail (didn't that go out in the 80's?), and the other son & daughter... Pretty normal looking, but when they bust someone, it's like an adrenaline rush. I found myself yelling at the t.v. for going to commercial!

HOWEVER!!!

The Pistons were on tonight..., and with the new trade (Billups, & McDyess for Iverson) I had to watch. Iverson wont play till Friday... so waiting for that (I know Jen, don't nod off lol! I love ya sis.) They won in Toronto 100-94. Friday should be interesting. But, Gordon told me they gave Iverson the #1!! HELLO!! Are you serious? That's not even cool!

O.K., since I don't wanna lose Jen ;), The kids are doing great. Mason has started basketball season, and Mayla has a basketball camp the next 2 Saturdays, which means I have to wake up early on the weekend (poor, poor pitiful me!). We have a Luau party this Friday and Gordon said I can go because he doesn't want to, and since Mason has taken on a more active social life.... we have lost our free sitter. Luckily, Gordon's more inclined to stay at home. I LOVE MY HUBBY!!

Nothing much tomorrow. The grade school kids have a 1/2 day, then I'm off till Saturday morning. I'm hoping Dianna will hang with me tomorrow night to celebrate, but I doubt it.

Jarrett up-date

2008-11-03T15:19:00.000-08:00

Jarrett's surgery went very well! We were home the same day, around 3:00pm. He was ready to go outside and play that day, and we had to keep him in the room to chill. He just didn't understand why! Other than trying to eat stuff he wasn't allowed to, he was a real trooper, and only cried once because, "it hurts to take medicine". Other than the high pitched voice he's sporting now, along with the funky breath (both normal) he's all good, and will be going back to school tomorrow after a week off. This is a pic of him after surgery, and after an orange popsicle.

Sunday Funday

2008-11-02T15:31:00.000-08:00

What an amazingly fun weekend. I am exhausted today. Last night we were watching the Pistons game, with Nate, & Ashley. Then Amber & Mike called Ashley, and her & I ran out to the Ashley bar with them. Was that a little confusing? There is a town about 20 minutes from here called Ashley Michigan. It is where Gordon's sister Tamie lives, and where we camp.

So because we were in Ashley, I texted Gordon's sister Tamie to meet us there, and she did. We found this random guy, with a silly costume, and he was more than willing to take a pic with us.

Fun was had by all!

NaBloPoMo

2008-11-01T11:50:00.000-07:00

National Blog Posting Month (I think that's what it stands for.)

So, because I got the idea from my lovely sister-in-law Jen, I'm gonna try and do a blog a day for all of November.
Halloween was a blast! We made a fun dinner (as we always do on Halloween)

I made these biscuit things that I need to come up with a name for still. The eyeballs are made out of ground turkey, slices of cheese sticks, and black olives. When I saw these a few weeks ago at a Halloween party, the mouths were made with ketchup. I think the person that made them had a small nozzled ketchup bottle, and I did not because we buy our ketchup in bulk (the kids eat it with EVERYTHING!!). I'm gonna have to come up with another idea for the mouth. They were super easy because I prepared everything the day before, and just had to assemble, and bake the biscuits. Good to go! I also made Deviled eggs, and after watching Rachel Ray yesterday morning, I added tomato paste to the mix, so it would look like blood-shot eyes, and topped them off with a sliced black olive. I also made hot wings, because... well..... We've all kinda been on a hot wing kick, and I just had to George Foreman them so it was super easy. We had "hot dog men", but because of the holiday, we called them "scarecrow" hot dogs. Dianna made "cups of dirt", and we had some chips, salsa, and queso. I also made jello shots, but clearly those were for the ladies.

Here are the kids in their costumes. Mayla is a cheerleader, and Jarrett is the blue Power Ranger. Dianna's boys are the red & white Power Rangers. Mason was at the Varsity game in Mt. Pleasant. It was un-seasonably warm. THANK GOD! I think it was 60 degrees, so no coats were needed, plus the kids were warmly dressed under their costumes. By the time we walked downtown (yes Beckie, we walked! lol) I had to take my long sleeve shirt off, and walk around in a tank, it was that warm! Yippee!

Trick-or-treating in Saint Johns begins at 6, and lasts till 8, and there is a siren that goes off to begin & end it. Gordon, Dianna, & I took the kids around till about 7:15, while my mom passed out candy here. Then we came back home, and chilled for a bit. The kids went to bed around 8:30 (half an hour past bed time) With a sugar buzz, we figured we'd let them stay up a little later. Then our peeps started coming over. We had, Nate, Ashley, Talia, Theresa, Amber, Dianna, & Dianna's new "friend" Brian (& his friend Ryan). Here is a picture of Dianna, & her "friend".

I think Brian has a man crush on Gordon. Most men do.

Here is a pic of me, Ashley, Dianna, & Kevin from last weekend's Halloween party.

Anyhoo, we had a blast last night. Poor Dianna, I don't think she got any sleep, and she's working 12 hours today. I've got all my Halloween decorations taken down, and am contemplating putting up my Christmas tree, & decorations. Don't hate me for it, I do it every year! I LOVE MY TREE, & I LOVE CHRISTMAS. So bite me!
Guess I'll talk to you tomorrow.

We B- "illin".

2008-10-21T08:31:00.000-07:00

I was warned about it on the news, and I knew it would happen. However, it is hitting us hard. 2 weeks ago, Gordon was sick. He's just getting over it. Mason was a little sick too. Jarrett got sick last week, and thankfully he's getting over it now. Luckily, because his surgery is on Friday. Mayla, & I have been coughing, and stuffed up since last weekend. UGHHH! I'm gonna run to the store tonight after I get out of work, to get MORE medicine. Mayla, & I are also going to buy Jarrett a few surprises for Jarrett to have while he's in the hospital.
I got my haircut last night, and so far I love it, except for the fact that the hairstylist thought I should accentuate my "natural curl", and therefore put this stuff in my hair, that encourages my curl, that I try so hard to straighten every time I wash my hair! You know, I really love to get my haircut, but I don't do it very often (or as often as a stylist says I should). No matter what you wash & condition your hair with, they always say it's "so bad" for your hair, because they want you to buy their products. I hate that! Of course I'd love to buy a $25.00 bottle of Shampoo &/or conditioner, but It's not in my budget, I mean really, I had a coupon so I only had to pay $7.00 for the haircut yesterday (total bargain! thanks for the coupon Dianna)..... Does that really make them think that I'm gonna drop $50.00 there? HELLO!!
Well, I guess I better get back to my mopping. I think I'm getting "high" on the pine-sol fumes (but I love the smell!).

I keep it real too!

2008-10-17T14:20:00.000-07:00

I was asked to take pictures of the following 10 things. But there was a catch — no prepping, primping, or picking up. The point is to see how these things/items/people exist in real life. Take your camera and just go for it.

Seriously though, I found this one while browsing through my sisters blogs, it looked like fun. Although, I wish I would have spent the day doing a little cleaning, instead of other stuff. I did work out though! (go me! go me!)

Here goes…… :/
1. The fridge:

It's Friday, and this is what our fridge looks like on Friday.

2. A closet

SOMEDAY.... This closet will look like a real closet.... SOMEDAY!!!

3. Kitchen Sink

Once again, it's Friday.

4. Toilet

You get to see the 1/2 bath toilet, because NOBODY is allowed in my bathroom except me & Gordon.

5. My favorite shoes:

These ARE ABSOLUTELY MY FAVORITE!! I just don't wear them too often, or for long periods of time, because they get so uncomfortable!

6. My favorite room:

My bedroom is actually my fav, but because it is one of the last rooms to re-do, I wouldn't dare keep it that real! lol

7.What are my kids doing right now:

Up, until I told them to turn around & smile, they were fighting. Mason is at a friends house.

8. Laundry piles:

I always do laundry on Mondays, but I wanted to get the blankets done today, so, I did have a little bit.

9. Self portrait:

UGHHH! I need to shower & get ready for the night. Gordon took off to backroad with his bff, so I have to wait.

10. Your dream vacation.

This is "The Palace Of Auburn Hills"...... Don't know what that is??? Then YOU SUCK!! It's where the Pistons play. If I could get season passes, that would be my dream vacation!!

I tag: Well, since Beckie already did this, and I only have a few friends on here anyways.... I tag, Jen, Laura, Samantha, and Amy.

My baby

2008-10-11T13:48:00.000-07:00

I took Jarrett to the E.N.T. on Friday for a little sleep apnea testing. After waiting in the waiting room for an hour (my bad, I got my appointment time mixed up), and in the exam room for another 10 minutes, we finally saw Dr. Goebel (hubba hubba!). Basically, because he snores (which I think is in the gene pool), and has a hard time breathing at night (my main concern), and "tosses & turns" while sleeping, he is getting his tonsils & adenoids out on the 24th. YIKES! I'm so nervous. I've never had to take a kid to have surgery. Luckily the surgery is on a Friday, so Gordon can come too, and my mom is coming. I remember when I had mine out, and all the pain of even swallowing the liquid Tylenol. It's gonna be rough, but he's a trooper, so I hope for a quick recovery, and he should be able to go trick-or-treating the following weekend. Please keep him in your prayers, because, although I don't pray, I believe in the power of prayer.

Jenn's questionaire.

2008-10-08T09:04:00.000-07:00

1. How has blogging changed your life?
Well, it lets me release the thoughts in my brain. Plus, I get to let my family know whats going on, and I can see whats new with them. I love to read my families blogs. If I blog on myspace.... well, if you've read it, you know how that turned out! lol.

2. What do you do before bedtime?
watch tv.

3.If you could do it all over, would you get married again?
YUP! I might have waited a little longer, but then I wouldn't be who I am today.

4. What is the city of your dreams and why?
Amarillo, Tx. The people there are so genuine.

5. Are you an introvert or extrovert?
ummm, a little of both.

6. Do you trust easily?
Yeah, I like to give people the benefit of the doubt.

7. Is there anything that has made you unhappy these days?
mornings, before I have coffee. The scale!

8. Is being tagged fun?
yeah, ok.

9. What’s the last song that got stuck in your head?
Well, the kids are watching Barney right now, so... The smores song.

10. What is your best quality?
I would say, letting things go. Not "sweating the small stuff" with everything.

11. "If [you] had a million dollars" -- what would you do?
Pay off my house, and buy another. Pay bills, take a vacation, throw a party.

12. What's better to give or to receive?
Well, of course it's better to give, but I totally enjoy receiving too!

13. What were your parents going to name you if you'd been born the opposite gender?
I have no idea.

14. What kind of person do you think the person who tagged you is?
AWESOME, silly, patient. A great match for my big bro.

15. What’s your favorite household appliance?
The coffee pot! I cant live without it!

16. What websites do you visit daily?
Besides this one... Facebook, myspace, myfamily, & Amber & Mike's wedding website.

17. What are you eating for dinner tomorrow night?
Probably take out, cuz Mason has a football game tomorrow night.

18. Name a book character you’ve crushed on.
All the smart men in the romance novels I've read. NOT FABIO!! (eeewwww!)

19. What do you like for breakfast?
Coffee. If I actually eat breakfast, then an omelet, any type as long as no onions are involved!

20. How many questions did you change? Come on ‘fess up.
none, but I thought about changing #5.

What new in the upper tundra.

2008-10-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

It's been a mix, of getting on a schedule of school, daycare, football, homework, diet, workout.... etc...
My diet is not going so good, no matter how much I eat (or don't eat), so I need to really focus, and read labels. I started working out today, and Richard Simmons kicked my butt! Jordynn (daycare kid) got a huge laugh at me trying to do the moves, but it was my first time doing this video, so soon enough, I'll have it down. I do love the Carmen Electra work out series I bought a few years ago, but Gordon doesn't have the dvd hooked up in the frontroom (the only room big enough to move) So, I'll have to wait on those videos. I need to lose 6lbs this week, & I have faith in myself that I can. I wonder how many lbs I lost today sweeping, and mopping the frontroom, dining, and kitchen. I really had to scrub too. Mayla & Jarrett painted pumpkins on Sunday in the kitchen, and made a little mess on the floor, so it took a few extra swipes of the mop.
The real reason I'm blogging today, is because of a show. It's called Intervention, and it's on A&E. I started watching it about 3 weeks ago. It's about people who have an intervention on a loved one whom is addicted to drugs, or alcohol. I've cried at every episode I've watched. Last night was about this guy named Lawrence, who was SMOKIN HOT, before he started drinking. He was from Vegas, and had opened 7 tanning salons there on his own. Then by the end of the show, he went to a treatment center, did good for a few weeks, then stopped cooperating, and was asked to leave. He ended up re-lapsing, and died. He was only 2 years older than me.
I absolutely recommend this show. If you drink, or don't, you can really get into the story. I think it might be my new favorite show. Try & watch it, Mondays @ 9:00pm on A&E.
I tried to get the link for Lawrence's story, but I couldn't find it, so watch this link about Ed & Bettina. A married couple from Utah, who are alcoholics.

http://link.aetv.com/services/link/bcpid1452232410/bclid1830063997/bctid1832238961
or try www.interventiontv.com

The fruits... er... Vegetables of my labor.

2008-09-27T21:30:00.000-07:00

I picked the last possible survivors, before the first frost. I have a few possible tomato's that might make it, if not, I guess we're eating fried green tomato's! Yummy! BTW- this is the 4th batch of Green Beans I've picked this year. We also planted corn, (didn't work out so well, a lesson learned) cucumber, (delicious) and zucchini, (didn't make it a day!). Here's a tip we found at Petsmart, Put a slice of zucchini, or lemon in your fish tank. They love it!

2008-09-25T08:39:00.000-07:00

'ode to my amazing mother

2008-09-19T16:44:00.001-07:00

So, if you are familiar with my previous blogs, you know I have had trouble with Mayla in school, as far as focusing, and the school wanting her to be on whatever drug you put a kid on for ADHD. Today, I had the first (of many) meetings with Her teacher, her speech therapist, her reading teacher from last year, and 2 school psychologists. I asked my mom to go with me, because I have filled her in last year about what was going on, and what not. She has gone through this before with a sister of mine after the sister was held back. I DO NOT WANT MAYLA TO BE HELD BACK EVER! I think it would not do anything for her, but make her feel stupid. The school is pushing for Mayla to get medication, and if she is not diagnosed with ADHD, then apparently "their hands are tied". My lovely mom, said... "that's b.s."
Thank god she went with me. I don't even know the questions to ask, but mom spoke up for Mayla. like.....
When she goes to reading or speech, what is she missing in class?
well, she is missing directions for whatever math they are doing that day. ok, well they are harping about her math scores being down.... F'n DUH! I'm not gonna make her do homework till bedtime. How is she ever gonna be a kid? We do about an hour and a 1/2 of homework, or practice work a night. I am going crazy trying to figure out what to do to help her. I cant afford a tutor. Mason has always been good with the grades, so this is all new to me.
Thank you amazing mother for being my voice (& memory) when I don't know what to ask, or say. This year should be a good one for Mayla getting the help she needs to have success. FINALLY!
p.s- I could go on forever on how amazing my mother is, but if you know her at all, you already know! This is just the tip of the iceberg!
I LOVE YOU MOM!
TTYL- Tahmi

Just bragging about my superstar.

2008-09-19T16:44:00.000-07:00

Mason had an awesome game yesterday! My dad was here visiting, so he got to watch Mason in action! He is the photographer in all of these pictures, since I didn't realize my battery was dead on my camera till I got there. Saint Johns High school beat Mason high school 27-20. Now, I know what your thinking, and yes there is a Mason high school, in Mason Michigan (about 40 minutes from here). Did I name him after the town? NO! I got the name from a soap star from the old soap opera "Santa Barbara" (now I'm telling my age!). Moving to Michigan was not even a concept in my mind when I was thinking of names for my first born. Back then I had never heard of the name (besides the soap opera), now I hear it all over! COPY CATERS! Next thing you know, there is gonna be a bunch of Mayla's running around! I'm such a trend setter! lol!
Anyhoo, it was difficult for the announcer to decide between Mason Sauls, and Mason high school! I wish I would have counted how many times Mason was said over the loud speaker! Between the lame high school, and the amazing Mason Sauls, with his interceptions, touchdowns, passes, and tackles. Okay I'm bragging, but seriously, this boy is good! Instead of JV, I think he'll shoot right up to Varsity next year (& my daddy thinks so too!). Mark my words, when he graduates college, he'll play pro in whatever sport he decides to focus on. Right now he's into Football, Basketball, Lacrosse, Boxing, Track, and he mentioned taking up Baseball again. 1 down, 2 to go.

Headed to battle.

This was in interception pass that he caught. The pic is taken just b4 he caught it.

This is Mason carrying the ball. He's #20, with the red tips on his shoes.

Fans on, fans off.

2008-09-17T10:39:00.001-07:00

So, like usual the weather is crazy right now. I almost turned the heater on 2 days ago, instead, I closed all the windows, and turned all the fans off. Then dressed the kids, and myself in winter pagama's & socks. Now today, I've got all the fans on, and windows open. Kinda crazy when I do laundry, and I have shorts, & pants in one weeks batch! We've got the last festival of the summer in 2 weekends. Please lord let it be a nice Saturday!

2008-09-16T10:44:00.001-07:00

2008-09-16T10:21:00.000-07:00

First day of school pic.'s

2008-09-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

Mayla on the first day. She was happy, but didn't want her pitcure taken (clearly).

Jarrett on his first day of pre-school. It was just an openhouse, so we only stayed for about an hour. After we left, he told me "I dont want you to come to school with me tomorrow mom". Ahhhh independence!

I was proposed to! (I said yes)

2008-09-09T09:39:00.000-07:00

Amber & Mike ( isn't he hot!?)

So, May 30th 2009 our dear friends Amber & Mike are getting married! Well, last Saturday Amber proposed to me to be one of her bridesmaids. I told her HELL YEAH! I dont care if I'm in the wedding, I just wanted to be invited! The bachelorette party is gonna be the bomb too!

Also, June 19th 2009, Gordon's friend John is getting married in Vermont. He has asked Gordon to be the bestman, and Mayla to be the flower girl (it's the day before Mayla's 8th b-day).

Also, July 11th 2009 my friend Kyra is getting married in Idaho. I've never been to a gay wedding ceremony, so I really want to go. Plus, it's been forever since I've seen Kyra, & her family, & I miss them terribly!

I started a diet (again) yesterday. I've counted the weeks, and as long as I lose 2lbs a week I'll be at a great weight for the weddings. 2lbs is a great goal. I can do that. I've figures out that when you start a diet, you cant look at the overall goal, you need to do it a little at a time. 2lbs seems like cake to me (haha cake-no pun intended). Since at first I lose about 5lbs a week I'll be good, it's when I get near my overall goal that I have problems. Wish me luck. I only hope to be as thin & sexy as my older sister. Also, by the time Amber & Mike get married, it will be spring, and I'll be ready for a kick butt (thinner) summer.
TTYL-Tahmi

It's a quickie.

2008-09-06T12:00:00.001-07:00

So, it's Saturday, nothin really going on, which is probably why I'm blogging. I just got back from Kmart. I hate the parking lot at our Walmart, so I just avoid the whole place all together. I had to get Jarrett's backpack, and a few odd's & ends for school. I walked the place 3 times, and I'm so tired now. Gordon is in the garage cleaning it out. The garage is another place I avoid, especially when it's getting cleaned. I clean the whole house by myself all the time, so I think it's ok for someone else to be in charge of the garage. Needless to say, it is pretty dirty most of the time. The weather is really strange right now. It rained on Thursday, and Friday, so it's been pretty chilly. We had a bonfire last night in the backyard. Dianna (little sister) & Brad (her hubby) got into a fight over the dumbest thing. I think the main reason was, that the attention was not on him, so he had a pitty party. I went to drop some gifts for my mom that we got her while she was in Az/Ut, and Brad stayed in Dianna's room the whole time I was there. What a baby! Oh well. I watch kids all week, I dont wanna have to cater to grown adults that need child like attention on my days off! Gordon & I are going on a triple date tonight with Nate, Ashley, Mike, & Amber. Were going to Ye ol Roadhouse. a.k.a. Roadhouse. It's one of the nicer restraunts in town. I really want to go to some garage sales, but I think the season is over for the year. Gordon is going to go help Bremer move into Alisons house, so mabye I'll take a nap. Mason lost his game on Thursday. I forget how mad he gets when he looses. I didnt go, but when I picked him up, he wouldnt even talk to me. They only lost by 2 points. Here & there since then I have heard a few highlights of the game. He was starting tailback. He's got a home game in 2 weeks, so I'm gonna take the kids to watch him. On a lighter note, varsity won by 2 points. Well, I guess the garage is done, so I'm gonna go check it out, then hit my pillow for a little nappie nap.
TTYL-Tahmi

Venison steaks anyone????

2008-09-02T11:41:00.001-07:00

I guess I've had a little too much time on my hands today, now that the kids are in school. This is my 3rd post today, however, I'm kinda getting the hang of it....... for the most part! Plus, I've cleaned the house, and other than a batch of towels, my laundry is done (the chore I hate the most). So, we went camping for labor day, and have some left-over Venison steaks that were not cooked, but are totally thawed out. I hate Venison. Not the taste, but the fact that it is deer meat. I have eaten it before, but when I do, I get this pit in my stomache, and my brain starts thinking about this sweet little deer, eating some grass, minding his own business when BAM! I dont even want to touch the meat to begin to cook it, or even flip it over with some tongs. So, what do I do with it? Yeah, I know where hamburger, chicken, turkey, seafood, and ham (and the ever so delicious bacon) come from. I am a meatatarian. But, the whole deer thing grosses me out. Gordon cooks it for himself, and the kids, and I usually have a sandwhich or something, but he wont be home till Friday, and it will be bad by then. I HATE to waste food, but I think it might be going out with the trash tonight.
TTYL-Tahmi

Some of the wedding pic.'s

2008-09-02T10:08:00.000-07:00

Everyone but Mason. Gordon, & Brian.... Talk about your best man! lol

Mayla dancing her little heart out.

Jarrett waiting to eat.

It's been a while....

2008-09-02T07:22:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a minute since I have blogged, but it has been one busy month! School started today........ YIPPEE!!! Jarrett starts pre-school in 2 weeks, so I'll only have the 2 little girls in daycare once he starts. I'm going to start every other weekend with Jodi's kids (Gordons sister's 3), for extra cash.

So... Whats been going on.....

The wedding was SO MUCH FUN!! It was a really long day, but fun was had by all. When we got to the wedding site, Mayla & Jarrett were clean, but wearing white..... You should know how that turned out! I didn't feed them breakfast, they dont usually eat it anyways. We had 2 hours to kill before the ceremony actually started, and they went into the reception hall & found some m-n-m's YIKES! I had to keep yelling at them to "stop eating!". The poor guys! Once the ceremony was over they had pitcures, so while they were doing that I made them both a plate so they could eat as soon as pitcures were done. Between the wedding & reception, there was about a 3 hour break, so where did the bride & groom wanna go? To the bar. F.Y.I. you can take a kid into the bar in Michigan, as long as they are gone by 9pm. So, the bartender turned on the music, layed a board on the pool table, and we danced for hours. Once Mayla got up on the table, we couldn't get her down! She's a dancing fool!

Gordon- has been working short weeks, because of the wedding, & Labor day, and busting his butt 2 get home early. It is fixin to get busy again, to stock up the store for the winter. He told me yesterday, that we should try & take the kids 2 a hotel with a pool once a month this winter to try & eliminate the "cabin fever" we get every year (snow sucks!). I hope we actually do it because it's about the only time we can get Mason to go on vacation with us. We got the camper all set up, and it now resides at Busch Gardens. Next year it will be so much easier to camp. Gordon did an awesome job building the bunkbeds, and our bed too. He's so dang handy!

Mason- started football last wednesday. SJHS beat Lansing catholic central high 34-18. I know I've said this before, but watching him play sports is so exciting. Especially football!! I love hearing.. "Mason Sauls" over the loud speaker! He always knows where the play is, and is almost always involved. He plays a couple of positions... Quarterback, safety, runningback, and others that I dont know the name of. I wish I knew a lot more about football, so I can understand, but I'm trying. He feels like he plays "second fiddle" to a kid who's dad is a chiropractor (sp?) in town (small town life). I keep telling him, it doesn't matter what your last name is, if your good, you'll get recognized! And he is awesome! A couple of weeks ago he told me to go to every game because he expects a lot out himself this year. Isn't that so cool? I know some of the fathers of other players expect their kids to do awesome too, but the kid just cant deliver. I think Mason just has the natural ability (I know I'm braggin, but really he is good). When he was little I didnt have a name, I was just Mason's mom. To this day it is still the same. I think in some cases people are wondering if I am black, or white. Then when Gordon goes to a game, they are really confused! lol! He's got a new girlfriend. Her name is Sam, and she's a junior. Yes, I said a junior! (Mason is a freshman). I saw a pitcure of her last night. She's really cute, and short! but, I wish he'd just stay single. This weekend while he was home alone, his dudes duck taped his whole body. Then covered him in silly string. I guess at 14 thats fun, but it was retarded in my book! Whatever, they had fun. He also built a Mt.Dew pyramid in the kitchen.

Mayla- finally started 2nd grade. It has been a long summer for her. She was ready to go back about 2 weeks after school ended! Man, is she a great little helper with the daycare kids. She wanted to take over the diaper changing, and dressing of the 2 little girls, & other than "number 2" I let her. She's O.C.D. about her room. Nobody is allowed in there when she's not home, because they mess it all up. She had a great camping season this summer. Yesterday before we came home, we stopped at Uncle Larry, & Aunt Tamie's house so she could go on a ride on the dirt bike. She kept saying, "go faster daddy!". She is so tomboy!

Jarrett- is about 95% potty trained. FREAKIN' FINALLY!! Since his pre-school doesn't start till the 15th, I told him he cant go till he puts all his poo-poo in the toilet. That has been the key, because he really wants to go to school, and ride the bus. His speech has been getting better everyday. More & more people can understand him. About a month ago, he had left his bike in the driveway, and I ran over one of his training wheels. So, since then he has been riding with one. I think we can almost take the good tire off. He has become a safari kid, using a stick as a machetti, and chopping down Mayla's sunflowers, and my tomato plants. Now we only have one sunflower that got a chance to bloom, and just a few tomato's. He also has been picking the green tomato's and throwing them in the backyard like baseballs. Huh! Boys!

Buddy, & Pepper- Went on their first camping trip last weekend with us. Of course Buddy was great. He's lazy! But, surprisingly enough Pepper didnt take off when released from the chain! I think we've come to the conclusion that she's about 3 months old. Mayla is doing a great job taking care of her, and only twice has decided to give her to Mason. But, she's still Mayla's dog. Mayla's Dr. Pepper.

Other than that- Things are back to normal (as normal as we get). Looking forward to Halloween, Thanksgiving, & Christmas. NOT looking forward to the snow, & freezing rain! I should be able to blogg more, now that the kids are in school.
TTYL- Tahmi

This & That...

2008-08-07T09:38:00.000-07:00

Howdy! Things are kinda crazy right now. My mom is in Arizona/Utah still, so I have been watching Dianna's (little sis) kids this week. She's working everyday from last Monday to this Sunday 2-10pm. Plus I have Jason's kids m-f 8-5pm, and Jodi's (sis-in-law) kids mon, tues, and friday 5:30am-3:00pm. It's messing up my Mint Festival plans! Saturday we are gonna go to the parade that starts at 10:00am, then yard sales (Mint Festival is the biggest yard sale weekend of the year), the actual Mint Festival, and the bar at night (another biggie!). During all of that Mason is in the 3 on 3 basketball tournament, which in previous years has gone on Saturday, & Sunday. I really hope it isn't too hot. Last year we were sweating bullets watching Mason play, but that could have been the hangovers we traditionally have the Saturday & Sunday of the festival. That's why we're only going to the bar on Saturday night.

The adults only camping trip was AWESOME!! It went by so fast! We learned a new game called "tippie cup" where you chug your beer/drink then have to flip your cup over so it's standing up on the table. It's a team game, and we played boys vs girls. When your done getting your cup to stand up, it goes on to the next player. Out of all the games, the boys only won one time, which once again prooves that WOMEN ARE SUPERIOR! haha! Nobody got naked (thank god!) although Bremer lost his pants & boxers and was 1/2 nude, but that always happens! Last year we had went to a friends house and it happened to him again, but I stole his boxers, and the next time we went camping, I hung them from a tree. (they are american flag boxers). This trip I noticed them in the front seat of his truck, so I stole them again, and when he went to bed I threw them high on the tree so he wouldn't be able to get them down. The poor sport, took them down with a long stick before he left. I've told him he needs to donate them to the campsite. One of these days they will be out there forever. I think I might have to buy him a new pair, so he can give up this pair! Ahhh good times!

Gordon has been home since Tuesday morning because the place he delivers to is doing inventory. He delivered in Dewitt on Tuesday morning, so I took Mayla out to him so she could ride on a trip with him. She loved it, and believe it or not, she didn't get carsick, regardless of all the sugar Gordon let her have!

Mason is in his last week of training camp, and next Monday starts his official football season. I had to go to a parent meeting last night (boring!). He starts 2-a-days Monday so he's gonna be tired, and my grocery bill is going to skyrocket. I cannot wait till he plays varsity. It's going to be exciting. It's freshman ball this year. Freshman! I have a kid that is a FRESHMAN! Geez I'm old!

Mayla lost a tooth this week. Since the invention of the debit card, I never have cash on me (which I think might be best for me!). So, I need to go to the bank, take out $20.00, just so I can give her a few bucks for the tiniest little "chicken tooth". I should just give her the whole $20.00, because I'll just blow the rest of it! That could end up being really expensive in the long run! She actually pulled this one out by herself, which was easy, concidering it's been hainging by a string for a week now.

Jarrett got hit by a golf club last week. It looked like he got grazed by it, but the darn thing swelled up so big, I was getting nervous. He couldn't turn his head at all, and I could NOT touch it. So, I took him to the doctor. It was nothing but a bruise, and he's fine now, but I talked to the doctor about his possible sleep apnea (sp?), so, we're headed to a ear, nose, & throat specialist soon.

Other than that, same ol-same ol! I'll try & post some pic.'s today too. Last week we went to the 4H fair with the kids so, I have some cute pic.'s of that too.
TTYL-Tahmi

My 3..

2008-07-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

How to play this game. Post these rules on your blog; List 3 joys, 3 fears, 3 goals, 3 current obsessions/collections, 3 random surprising facts about yourself. Tag 5 people at the end of your post by leaving their names....

3 Joys
1. My family
2. Weekends.
3. Chillin with friends.

3 Fears
1. Dogs.
2. Car wrecks.
3. Drowning.

3 Goals
1. Re-model the master bedroom & bath.
2. Get my yard (front & back) in order.
3. Get my tubes tied.

3 Current obsessions/collections
1. Wine/the kitchen
2. The garden.
3. Reality t.v.

3 Random surprising facts about myself
1. I won the science fair in 8th grade.
2. I have a TUN of grey hair, so I religiously dye it.
3. I think I might have a green thumb! lol

The up-comming week....

2008-07-28T12:31:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note....

This week Gordon should be home Thursday afternoon. I'm going to take the daycare kids to the 4-H fair this week. This weekend is the "adults only" camping trip. YIPPEE!! I cant wait, it has been forever since we've had an adults only trip. We're camping at Busch Gardens. So far the people that are going are... Dianna, Nate, Ashley, Mike S., Amber, Bremer, Alison, Gordon, me, and hopefully Jason, & Marissa. I'm trying to think of other people to invite, but these are the usual peeps that we hang with. So, for those of you reading this... You wanna go?
TTYL- Tahmi

Our trip to the U.P.

2008-07-22T11:06:00.000-07:00

So, finally we went on a family trip. The last trip we made as a family was to Arizona when my little brother Phillip got married. Yeah, we camp a lot, but Mason doesn't usually go, cuz he hates camping. What is wrong with him!

Thursday night- I drove to Birch Run to meet up with Gordon, & ride with him for a delivery Friday morning. I hate getting into his truck because I feel like the other truckers are thinking that I'm a "lot lizard"- &/or Gordon is picking up a "lot lizard". Anyhoo, Gordon got a wild hair and decided we should go on a little vacation...

Saturday morning- Our usual sleep in day, we were up and running by 8:00am. We made it up to the Mackinaw bridge by noon, and had 3 hours to kill before we could check into our hotel. So, we went to some shops, and climbed a lighthouse that had 10 flights of stairs. I didn't know that when we decided to climb the stairs, and about half way up there, I was winded! I almost didn't make it! (what a whimp!) But we got up there, and took some pitcures. It was really neat. Then we went minature golfing, which the kids LOVED!! Mason beat Gordon 53-92. haha! We checked into our room, and immediately put our swimsuits on & headed to the pool & hot tub in the hotel. From our room we had a full view of the bridge. It was amazing! We also had a balcony off of our room, so we were out there most of the time feeding the seagulls (which is a big no no!). After swimming, we went to dinner at a place called "Driftwood" It was the best fish I have ever had! After dinner, we went back to the hotel, and Gordon & Mason passed out, so I took Mayla & Jarrett, (& a couple of beers) back to the pool.

Sunday morning- our checkout time was 11:00am, so after we loaded up, we went to Lake Michigan after breakfast. Thank god I took pictures as soon as we got there, cuz everyone was ready to go after about an hour. Who would have thought that an hour at the lake would provide SO MUCH SAND!! From there we went back across the bridge to Mackinaw City. We walked up and down a street lined with shops. Mostly t-shirt, popcorn, and fudge shops. I guess Mackinaw is knows for having good fudge. I'd have to agree! We bought a few things, and then headed home. We stopped at Ponderosa for dinner, and made it safetly home by 7:00pm.

Everyone had a great time, and it was great to see the kids interacting with each other, weither they were playing, or getting harassed by Mason. I'm also glad that it was just us. It made decisions a lot easier, although I wish we brought someone to take pitcures, cuz we still dont have any pitcures of all of us together. oh well.

In the next couple of weeks- Nothin really this weekend, but the weekend after is the adults only camping trip. That should be a really good time! Then the weekend after that is Mint Festival weekend, and the following weekend is Brian & Tammy's wedding where Gordon is best man, Mayla is the flower girl, and Jarrett is the ring rearer.
TTYL, Tahmi

The Fourth of July weekend......

2008-07-07T08:30:00.000-07:00

FIRST of all..... let me just say, you give someone your password, and look what happens... (you totally owe me a Margarita! just medium size though) Mabye we could turn this into a competition! If any of my other sisters (& in-laws) are interested, e-mail me & I'll give you my password. I know that all of my siblings have some sort of blackmail pic.'s or stories. Feel free, there's no shame in my game! I enjoy a good laugh in the morning.

So, the weekend.... It was awesome! I wish we could have stayed last night too, but I have to work today. I tried to take a bunch of pictures, although I didn't want to carry my camera around everyday. I had no pockets. So, as Mayla would say, "you get what you get and you dont get upset!" There is a pic of "our oldest son" Bremer playing "chubby bunny", and for those who went to MARYVALE HIGH SCHOOL -represent! You've heard of the game. Bremer got 10 large marshmellows in there b4 he puked them all back up. It was hilarous! Jarrett got sick on Saturday morning. Lets just say that eggs, fruit snacks, & a whole can of rootbeer, DO NOT make a good breakfast! Mayla went "snipe" hunting for the first time. -you know that was funny!- Gordon didn't jump over the fire, which is a good accomplishment for him. We got a lot of brush cleaned up, and a few more trips this year it's gonna be looking good. Gordon & I decided we are going to "gut out" the camper, & set it up like a one room cabin. A queen bed for him & I, and a set of bunk beds for the kids. Then eventually we'll build a porch, and awning so we can keep a table out there. We are gonna leave it out there forever (or until the Stevens decide to sell their house) so, we can store chairs, dishes, bedding t.p., and all that other stuff that can stay out all summer. Then when we decide to go out there, all we need to bring is clothes, & coolers. I'm gonna plant some flowers out there around the camper too. Also, if my mom, or Gordon's mom go out there, we'll pack our tent & take it, & they can sleep in the camper. By the end of this summer we are gonna be mostly all set up. It's gonna be great! Tamie (Gordon's sister), decided to name the campground "Busch Gardens" since, most of the people that go out there drink "Busch" beer. She had her husband, Larry take his tractor out there because their was a huge rock that he moved to the tree entrance, and she's gonna paint "Busch Gradens" on it as a sort of welcoming. I'll take lots of pitcures when we get it together. And if any of you visit during the summer here, you will get a chance to see it live. As for now, Gordon just brought home pizza & breadsticks from Main Street Pizza. Yummy. I love you.

TTYL-Tahmi

My FAVORITE sister!!

2008-07-02T15:00:00.000-07:00

My favorite sister is having her 29th bday on July 4th.
Why is she the best sister in the whole world?She played dolls with me when I was little.She told me that my make-up was a little too extreme.She taught me all about Aqua Net!She protected me from BATS!!She gave me her hammock at girls camp. It doesn't matter that it wasn't hers.She taught me to put toys or small children in front of your stomach to hid the fat when taking a picture.

She's got the BEST blog ever! (http://www.blue-kangaroo.blogspot.com/)

Yep! That's why she's my FAVORITE sister!

My sister totally ROCKS!!!!!!

Happy Birthday America!

2008-07-02T11:56:00.000-07:00

This weekend we are going camping again. YIPPEE! We are leaving tomorrow about 1:30pm. I have so much to do, and I really shouldn't be on the computer, but I have 2 kids I'm watching right now, So, it will wait till tonight. We're going to Gordon's sisters house again, It's our favorite spot! The weather today, is chance of rain (looking out the window now, looks like a heck of a chance) tonight, then clear & in the lower 80's for the weekend. Rain on Monday. Were gonna come home on Sunday because Ice Road Truckers is on at 9:00pm. Priorities man! Dianna & the twins are coming out on Saturday. Hopefully my mom will go too.

Last weekend my mom went into the hospital. She has an infection in a bone of her foot. Today she's getting a "boot" that she'll have to wear for a long time. They gave her a strong antiobotic in the hospital. Jarrett, Mayla, & I visited her on Friday, Saturday, & Sunday. On Friday when we walked into her room, Jarrett was all shy. I know he was thinking " why is grandma in the hospital?" But, as we went back each day, he became more comfortable. Hopefully she'll still be able to get to Arizona in the next couple of weeks, She just doesn't want to ride through the airport in a wheelchair. But dim-sum & Fajitas are calling her. (oh yeah, & I guess she misses her kids & grandkids that live there! lol)

What else is new....... Mason completed football camp last week. They have a "dead week" this week (ie. no practice or weight traning). He's paintballing today. He bought rock band on Monday, so it has consumed his life since then. Jarrett got into the garage on Monday night, got black spray paint out, & with the help of the neighbor kid, sprayed the Durango. Then on Tuesday, Mayla decided it sounded like fun to spray paint. She got a can of bright green, and sprayed the hood & a tire on the riding lawnmower, the back of the ping-pong table, & my mom's bike. Needless to say, they are grounded, and the Garage is locked! The only way you can get in there, is if you have a key, or the remote to the door opener. My cute adorable, twin nephews decided to hop the fence to the garden, & pull out most of my corn plants. Other than that, all of my other veggies are alive & growing really fast! Especially when I remember to water them. lol. I have about 20 cherry tomatoe's that are still green, but very soon........... uh..... we'll be able to make a salad. haha! My elephant ears are blooming too. Last year when I planted the bulb, Buddy decided to trample it, and I never got a sprout from it. So, this year I put it in a different place, and things are working out nicely.

My mom took me, Mayla, & Jarrett to Cancun last night. Jeez I love that place. I seriously could eat there every night! Gordon will be home tonight around 9. The house is pretty clean, I kinda went crazy yesterday & even after the daycare kids today it's still cool. I want to try & keep it that way, so when we get back from camping I'll only have the camping stuff to clean up after. I guess thats all for now, It looks like we're fixin to have a tornado warning. The clouds are pretty low!

TTYL, Tahmi

Thanks to my peeps!

2008-06-25T11:15:00.000-07:00

HA HA! I really dont know how to use this website yet, i'm trying to get it. I just noticed that some of you have left comments. Thank you!
Beckie- You know I'd love the scrabble background. Whenever you have time, I'll text you my password, so you can hook it up, or, when you come up for the Mint Festival we can work on it then. (hint hint)
Jennifer- Thank you for the advise, I'm trying to watch her diet, as of now, and her sleeping habit (at least as well as I can while she's out of school). I really appreciate the advise from someone who's dealt with it before.

So, whats new..... The camping trip was fun & although Gordon didn't really want to go, I think he had a great time! We are going to go camping again on Fourth of July weekend. I feel like we're not doing justice for the "camping gods" cuz this will only be our 2nd trip this summer. The weather up here has not cooperated AT ALL! It also seems like everyone we know is either, graduating, getting married, or moving & therefore throwing a party. Gordon's friend Brian is getting married in August. Gordon is the best man, Mayla is the flower girl, and Jarrett is the ring bearer. I cant wait to see Gordon in a tux again, and Jarrett is gonna be SO DANG CUTE in his tux. Mayla's dress is georgous, and she is really excited to toss the flowers out of her basket.

This weekend is a "taste of town" thingey a.k.a-there's gonna be a beer & wine tent, arts & crafts, food vendors, bbq contest, pretty much everything they'd have for the mint festival, minus the parade. I'm really excited to go. I didn't go last year, & I dont remember why, but it's just downtown, so we can walk. (dont even say it Beckie!) We also have a wedding, 2 openhouses, a Bridal Shower , & Gordon & Jarrett have to get fitted for their tuxes this weekend. Phew!

Mason has been going to football camp all this week, then next week he will be back to weight training. The daycare kids have been fairly good. I have to keep Dre inside & hopefully next week when I let him out, he will appreciate getting to go outside, and not gang up with the neighbor kid & be mean to the other daycare kids.

Mayla turned 7 last weekend, and our surprise for her, was a horse riding trip. She smiled from the time we got out of the car till we got back in! We topped it off with lunch at McDonalds, which included ice cream. She now wants a horse. Grandpa called and asked her if she was a cowgirl, and she replied... "no, grandpa we didn't ride cows, we rode horses" (too cute) Jarrett was leary of the horse, but after a $1.00 bribe from Gordon, he got on & went around a couple of times. I think he enjoyed getting on a real quad more though.

Well, I was told by my dad, that sometimes our posts are too much for him to read at once, so I'll cut it here (although in his down time, I know he enjoys reading these!)

TTYL- Tahmi

Camping

2008-06-12T17:53:00.000-07:00

FINALLY!!

We are finally going camping tomorrow, for the weekend. Were going out to Gordon's sisters house, she has a lot of land, and has set the tree-e area up as a campsite. We went there a lot last year, so we're familiar with the territory. You know im taking my camera, wait for pic.'s on Monday (or whenever I get around to it) . Mason isn't going (like usual) so I'll have to get Grandma, and Aunt Dianna to check in on him, and make sure there are no parties going on. Other than that, same 'ol, same 'ol. I got a strange friend request on my myspace, & there is no way I'm going to accept! NO WAY!! Forget about it dude! WE ARE NOT FRIENDS! NOR HAVE WE EVER BEEN FRIENDS! (I think u know this). This week with the kids being out of school wasn't all that bad. The humidity was a bitch though! I got my garden 90% weeded. HOORAY! I can see the veggies growing. Well, gotta go, my little sister is calling. c-ya

Tahmi

Just another day in the life....

2008-06-03T10:00:00.000-07:00

Tuesday June 2nd 2008

So, another school year is ending in one week. Christ! This year went so fast! So, many things have changed in this school year. I started watching Dianna's kids (the twins), then thankfully my mom took them over. So, I took on Jason's kids (Jordyn, & Olivia) It's nice to get more females in this house. Mayla and I were getting so out numbered! I'm down to only doing it on the weekdays, which free's up my time on the weekend to be with Gordon and the kids alone! And every other week I get a 3 day weekend, because Jodi is off that Friday, and I never have Jason's kids on Fridays. It has been so long since I have had the weekends off! I couldn't be more happy with that. If I dont go camping in the next few weeks, I'm gonna start to get grouchy!

The Diet is not working out! I've heard that the older you get the harder it is to lose weight, well I dont think I'm all that old! So, what's the problem? Let me just vent for a minute.... nothing fits right, I have no summer clothes to wear, I dont even want to go shopping for any because then I'll just look like a fat white cow in cute clothes! lol. I love pasta (it calls me in my sleep), I use the inhaler more when I'm overweight, I just got a REALLY CRAPPY haircut, that I cant figure out how to style! Mabye I still have a touch of cabin fever, since it just started getting warmer weather here. I guess the saying " I never said it would be easy, I only said it would be worth it" applies to so much of my life. Oh, and one more thing, I think I need to go to the doctor, last Saturday I though I was going to die because I was in so much pain! It felt like the last time I had a cyst on my ovarie. The pain didn't begin to cease till yesterday afternoon, but I'm trying to take it easy for now. I wish I could go into detail, but I dont want to gross out any guys that might read this! ah, I feel better now!

Money's tight, but what else is new? I remember when we'd say "we should be caught up by February" HA! Now, we're thinking that by the first week of July (when our "stimulate the economy" check comes) that we should be good, and hopefully good enough to take the kids to Michigan adventures for the weekend, and mabye get away ourselves! We'll see! It seems to me like, when we made less, we had more, and now that we are making more, we cant afford anything! ahhh, middle class life!

Gordon is super busy at work, but I think he's getting the swing of things, or at least the way that his company works, and finding out which of the drivers are his friends, and which ones aren't. It's his busy time of year now, so he's up to about 7-8 loads a week, which means 3 days a week he does a "double". Because he is outside all week, it is hard to get him to hang out with the kids in the backyard on the weekends, but last Saturday he took Jarrett for a ride in the truck, a little quality father-son time. He is "getting tired of doing what his friends want to do on the weekends". He wants to do what HE wants to do. I dont know what that is yet, but hopefully sometime soon, he can figure it out, so he can start having the kind of fun that I guess he wants to have. I think he's going to have to break down and get a fishing liscense for the year.... AND USE IT!

Mason just finished track. He did really good, especially since this is the first year he's ever ran track. He did a relay, the high jump, and I think the 70 meter dash. He also qualified to compete with kids all around mid-michigan in the "honor roll track meet" for his high jump, and his relay team. It's so easy to be proud of him. Football practice will be starting soon, and in the mean time, he weight trains for it on Tuesday, and Thursday mornings at 6:30am. He is SO BUFF! but, he wont let me take a pitcure of him to show off his muscles, I guess thats good. He's an expert text-er. I think he's up to 500-750 a week. Thank God for unlimited text's! lol He wants to join a Lacross team that compete's in Lansing, but it cost's $100.00 to sign him up, not to mention all the pads, shoes... etc, that he will need to play. I dont even want to talk to Gordon about that one, it's a fight waiting to happen. I just wish the two of them could find some way to be friends. Teenagers!

Mayla will be finishing first grade, with a lot of help from a speech, and reading teacher. I think I'm gonna have to get her a tutor for the summer, so she can be even with all the other second graders next year. This school year has been like a second job for me with her. The meetings, the homework, and trying to keep her focused. The school counselor wants her to go get checked out by a doctor for possible ADD-ADHD. But I DO NOT WANT HER TO GET ON MEDICATION!!, So, I've been delaying it. I mean, what other options do I have for that? She played her first team organized sport this year. Basketball (what else did you expect?) I think her favorite part was getting a powerade at the gas station before she played. Soccer sign-up's came around, so I asked her if she wanted to do that. To my surprise she said yes. Then I told her that it would be a lot of running. She though about it, then quietly said "no, I dont want to play soccer" She wants to go horseback riding for her birthday this year, and bowling, and Chuck-e-cheese, and to the beach, and camping......... She's got 17 days to figure it out!

Jarrett is still the loveable momma's boy he's always been! He got a Power Wheels Quad for his birthday, and rides it everyday (as long as I remember to plug the battery in) with a huge smile on his face. It has 2 settings. low, and high, and after he gets it out of the garage, he says "can I go faster mom". Last Saturday when he went on a delivery with daddy, he was smiling that whole time too. Then we went to a birthday party, and he was super happy. I guess last weekend was a good time in Jarrett's world. Usually, he likes having another 4 year old in the house, now that I've taken on Olivia. But, he likes to be "king of the castle" so he is in time-out a lot more these days. Same thing applies when the twins are here too. Those three boys together are terror! We just try to keep them trapped in the backyard. Potty training has been a chore with him too! I think he knows that he's the last kid, so he's gonna drag it out as long as possible! Trust me, we've tried everything. He pee's just fine, but I cant get his to "go number 2" at all! He loves to play video games, go to grandma's house, and he absolutly idolizes Mason.

Buddy, the dumbest dog in the world. I feel just like a mom, when I have to take him outside, give him food or water, or all the other stupid things he requires, because, when we got him, EVERYONE was going to take care of him, and guess who's left doing it? So typical! p.s.-I keep forgetting to feed the fish too! poor guys! The mice are getting fatter though, sigh!

The house, well what do I say about that house? It's still 1/2 done! Two weekends ago we moved the temporary steps the the front of the house, and it seems like it works for everyone. I cant wait till we can re-do the whole front porch, and make it look "less ghetto". Someday! Talk about a money pit! This house is sucking us dry! However, there is an up-side. When Gordon is into a project, he is in such a good mood, no matter how hard he's working or sweating. And I make a damn good assistant (if I do say so myself). I've become quite good at sanding drywall, and holding/lifting heavy things, grabbing beers, and being the tool wench. And, then you know I get to do all the painting, and decorating, and such too, which I believe is my calling.

Well, I guess that's all for this rainy overcast day in Michigan.

TTYL- Tahmi

*THE GRANDY FAMILY*