It Is What It Is....

Reflections

2012-01-03T20:06:00.000-06:00

So...this year I made no resolutions but what I called Reflections.

One of these reflections was to reflect on things that are or not in my life and around me, rather they be human or not... and make the change,

Yesterday I was invited to join a on line facebook bible study to read through the bible in a year,

There Reflection One came to light.

You need God in your life more than He is...You need to spend time with Him by being in His Word....

Daily!!!!

So thank you friend for inviting me to join this group where accountability lies so I can stay in His Word....

DAILY!!!

Hopefully I will be able to share more Reflections with you in the coming days and months.

Reflections And A New Year

2012-01-01T20:53:00.004-06:00

Welcome 2012....another year come and gone and another year older and hopefully wiser.

With this new year I make no resolutions but I do have some things I hope to change...that is where reflections come in and not resolutions....time to clean house of sorts....that will be for another post.

Now lets see how good I am at a recap of 2011 since I had no letter with my Christmas card this year.

I just finished a full year in business...it's been a learning experience and still is...I know I could not of done it without Jennifer's (my oldest child) help....hoping that 2012 is a little smoother.

Had a good first year in business and a excellent holiday season.

I'm enjoying the working for the most part but I am tired....I still really don't have a social life but I guess having something to get up to in the mornings is better than not having anything.....but I do miss my times when I could come and go as I pleased, even if they weren't that often

When we started this business we had no idea that Jenn would become pregnant and give birth to my 5th grandchild, Noah Todd Marker.....who is the sweetest, happiest baby and who reminds me so much of Todd...I guess his middle name fits him well.

This year brought happy milestones....Colton, my oldest grandson turned 5, my grand-daughter Hayden turned 4, my grandson Liam and grand-daughter Tayler both turned 2.

Tammy (my middle child) finished school and found a teaching position soon after and is now teaching third grade.

Josh (my son) filed for divorce this past year, it has yet to become final...he sees Hayden all the time so he is not trying to get out of his daddy duties.

I haven't travelled as much as I wanted...I made it to Atlanta and Dallas twice but those were work related and spent at market...no time for sight seeing or fun....I did spend a long weekend in Boston with my friend Fonda and had a wonderful time....as a weekend in Lake Charles...and I really think that's it....see....I need more travels....hoping I can make that happen 2012, even if they are short trips.

Wow...I think that is it for 2011...how boring...most of the year was consumed with work....

Watch out 2012...I have a lot to make up for....Happy New Year!

It Was A Merry Christmas

2011-12-26T20:16:00.000-06:00

This year we celebrated Christmas on Christmas Eve....you know when your family starts a family of their own that eventually your traditions will change to make room for their own.

This year Jenn and family were leaving Christmas morning to head to Ohio to see Paul's family.

So Christmas Eve was our gathering and I am still grateful as my family was still together....for I know the time will come when we all won't be together all at the same.

And such precious gifts are these 4 beautiful grandchildren....and this is I think the best picture of all 4 that has been captured....you know how hard it is to get multiple children together for a picture...

only thing missin'......

NOAH

Noah is such a happy little guy....

Maybe for Easter he'll make it into the cousins picture.

And this is a little of the craziness we all Christmas....but wouldn't change a thing having my family all under one roof....

Hoping your holiday was a Merry one.....

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T23:00:00.002-06:00

From Our Home(s) To Yours

Wishing you a Joyful and Blessed Christmas

And remember when surrounded by family or friends that today we celebrate because of

Him who was born on Christmas Day

Jesus Is The Reason For The Season

Had To Share

2011-12-22T08:06:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Jesus

2011-12-21T09:08:00.000-06:00

A couple weeks ago Liam had a play at his pre-school....so cute to see these little 2, 3 and 4 year olds performing and singing.

Liam is the one in brown to the right of the girl in pink....his age group were the animals in the stable....I don't have pictures of it but during the program which was anywhere between 10-15 minutes, Liam took his hat off....

and then continued to take the hats off of all the children around him with a hat on....not sure what anyone else thought but I thought it was so cute...

and here is a shot of whole cast with Liam bottom right

And Liam after the play was over...he was the cutest manger animal

EVER!!!!!!!

Seriously.... It's Fall????

2011-11-19T13:39:00.002-06:00

I know it's Fall....

I know cause it's November.

I know it's Fall....

I know cause the leaves on my tree(s) are changing colors.

I know it's Fall....

I know cause Halloween has passed

and Thanksgiving is in 5 days.

By these things I know it's Fall....

then I ask...

Why????

Why is it so warm and humid outside!!!!

There...I shared my thought for the day....enjoy your fall day...though here it reminds me of summer...like the month of May or even June.

Disney On Ice

2011-11-16T20:55:00.003-06:00

This past Sunday I took the grand-babies to see Disney On Ice.....something I had planned for the last couple of months.I bought tickets that were front row side center...I figured being that close up they would be occupied and not distracted by anyone around us.

It was a good call.

I knew Colton would be fine and figured Hayden would be as well but was a little unsure with Tayler and Liam but thought they would be fine because of the others.

They were good.

During intermission...Jenn timed it just right....before intermission she went and got pizza for everyone (it was dinner time) so the kids were able to eat while there was a 15 minute break.

The grand-babies were very much catered too and they should be.
They ate, they laughed...they had fun.

These hats came with their cotton candy as they should have since cotton candy was $10 a bag

They all loved Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck

as well as Minnie and Goofy....can't wait for that Disney World trip.

Off to Neverland

Captain Hook....all the kids got swords with Peter Pan on it

Getting close to the end...kids were excited to see all the characters at once and loved the music as they danced.

Above Tayler and Liam and Hayden below....they loved their view

Colton and Liam

And Disney On Ice comes to an end...I left the house with $800 cash and I think I came home with $120...t-shirts...hats...swords (2 kinds)...lemonade in a souvenir cup..bottled water....popcorn...pizza....stuffed animals....
PRICELESS!!!!!

I would do it all again to spend sometime with my kids and grand-babies and see their happy little faces.

A Whirlwind Never Ending

2011-11-14T20:15:00.002-06:00

Wow....Life is crazy busy..I so need to find a balance.

Who would of thought at my age I would not have that down by now.

Weekend before last we did The SugarPlum market where we set up a booth and sold items from our store. It's a lot of work,especially when you have a store and your trying to get ready for the holidays and for your 1 year birthday of being in business....

But some how we pulled it off! and it was a success.

During that weekend my oldest grandson Colton turned 5...it's a belated shout out on this blog but I did call my baby to sing him the birthday song and the day after his birthday I took him out for a birthday lunch with his family. We went to Texas Roadhouse where they put him on a saddle and did a birthday shout out. Colton is shy and doesn't like people looking at him as you can see in this picture but he was a trooper.

Then Colton and I headed out on our own to a trip to Toys R Us so he could pick out his own birthday presents...something I think I might start doing when the kids get to be that age...we had a lot of fun.

Then we headed to Sweet Tooth

where we had ice cream and then he was able to pick out bags of different candies.

Sweet tooth is a ice cream candy shop..kids love it.

We had a wonderful Colton and Muggy Day celebrating his special day.

Happy Birthday Colton,,,,Muggy Loves You!

Happy "Late" Halloween

2011-11-14T20:02:00.000-06:00

Finally found my memory card...so....I'd like to share some Halloween pictures of the Grand-babies

Hayden

as a little kitty cat

Liam

as Blue from Blues Clues

Noah

the little turtle

Tayler and Colton

Miss Kitty Cat and Spiderman

Break Time

2011-11-14T09:22:00.000-06:00

I'm way behind on my blog posting but hoping to catch up today as I have decided to not go to the store since I have SOOOO much to do in my own home.

But I did want to share with you that back October 21st I took off for the weekend and headed to Lake Charles with Stacy, Albert, Fonda and Jim for some well needed R&R.

We got in Friday night...gambled a little and had a late dinner or maybe it was breakfast.

The next day we had lunch and Albert and Jim headed out for golf while us girls hung out at the lazy river with our special cups.

....after what was all day at the lazy river we cleaned up for dinner. After dinner we hit the casino where not long after it was time for me to hit the sack...after all I started my day pretty early with my special cup and I couldn't go anymore.

The next day I got what I wanted...a day in bed resting....lol..it did feel good though....I did manage to get dressed around 4..met up with everyone where we had a few dinks, headed out to dinner and then I went back to the room for someTV time and more relaxing in the bed.

Just what I needed but now I think I need another relaxing moment...that may not be until Grandma's trip in Februay.

Colton and Tayler

2011-10-19T07:34:00.002-05:00

Last night the family came time to spend time with my brother...it was his last night to be in town, he leaves this afternoon.

So since last week I have been wanting to update you on the grand-babies and let you see how they've grown and how much more beautiful they have become.

So, here's my Colton and Tayler.

Such a handsome young man...hard to believe that next month he will be 5...time just goes by too quickly.

And Tayler and Colton together..it looks like such a beautiful day (and it was) but by Tayler's hair you can see how the wind was blowing....it was a little chilly and it was hard to get her to stand still, she was ready to go in...but still...you can see how precious she is....they both are.

My Little Pumpkin

2011-10-18T22:12:00.001-05:00

My brother is in town and Sunday night we went to Jenn's for dinner.

Her in laws are also in town so we weren't sure how our visiting time would be for my brother to see her and the family...so...Sunday night was the night.

I took several pictures but these 2 of Noah I just have to share.

I know!!!!!

Just too darn cute!

Tomorrow I will have more pictures to share of my other grand-babies.

Thanks for lookin'.

Happy Fall Y'all

2011-10-17T21:59:00.000-05:00

Saturday afternoon I sent Fonda a last minute text and said...I know it's last minute but I get off at 2 and was planning to go to Garden Ridge...do you wanna join me and do a late lunch early dinner.

I was sure she would be busy and would have to decline but I was so happy when her text said...

I was just thinking about you and yes I'll join you.

I was wanting to get some scarecrows...I was in the mood to decorate for fall. So I loaded up with scarecrows of all shapes and sizes...Fonda found her some Halloween decorations...then it was time to check out and head to eat and have some girl talk.

Afterwards we went our separate ways but before heading home I stopped at the garden center and picked up some pumpkins....23 large and 9 small....if my grand-babies don't make it to the pumpkin patch this year they can come over here and pick out a pumpkin.

So...yesterday I decorated the front yard which took forever...after each item I put in the ground I would have to walk to the street to see how the view was....I think I re-arranged it all 4 different times.

Here is the end result.

Today I did my back yard as well...it faces the lake so it's open to see...I didn't get pictures but tomorrow I will and will post those as well.

Thanks for the wonderful play time Fonda!

"Happy Fall Y'all"

Another Kodak Moment

2011-10-17T21:43:00.000-05:00

This one is of Hayden...taken before I took her to pre-school....I got her a Tinker Bell outfit and she wore it to school...she loved it...she loves Tinker Bell and all the Princesses.

I think he's a little princess herself.

Kodak Moments

2011-10-12T20:35:00.001-05:00

Sweet Little Boy

Liam and Noah

Look at those BIG beautiful eyes

He thinks his Grams is so funny

I see you

Hope you enjoyed the pictures of Noah (and the one with Liam)...I watched the boys last night for Jenn...I plan on getting pictures of Hayden and then Colton and Tayler by this weekend and will update you on them....I know it's been awhile since Ive shared pictures...I've just been so busy...

Until next time....

A Quick Update.....

2011-09-25T19:06:00.001-05:00

I feel at a loss for words but will give you a little update on what is going on in the world according to Robin.

The kids are good....Jenn is busy adjusting to 2 boys and doing her part with the store....Noah is a doll and Liam is just as sweet as ever. Liam is back in his pre-school program at his church.

Tammy is busy teaching and all is going well though she is busy all the time but I think she is really enjoyng her students.

Colton and Tayler are doing good and enjoying their new pre-school.

Josh has put Hayden in a preschool as well 2 days a week and I am taking her in the mornings before work and he is picking her up. I enjoy seeing her though it is short but I don't like the part where I drop her off and she cries...Grams isn't suppose to be the bad guy.

Not sure I have mentined it before but Josh and Jessy have been seperated for sometime and have filed for divorce.

I am working and staying very busy...preparing for the holidays at the store...peparing at my house may not happen this year.

Yesterday we had a hug successful sidewalk sale at the store...believe it or not we just had way too much inventory and no room for it that we needed to move it out...we were busy all day.

I think our customers really enjoyed shopping, receiving a bargin and some really good merchandise.

Today was a day of rest in my chair....my energy level is maybe at a 10 out of 100...

I'm pooped!

Tomorow the store is closed and that is when the clean up will happen.

In 26 days I head to Lake Charles with some friends for some relaxation and fun before the holiday

mode really kicks in....I'm so looking forward to it that I'm already in count down mode.

Will keep you posted.

I will try over the next week to get some recent pictures of the grand-babies and share with you...they are growing so much and ever so beautiful and handsome.

Enjoy your week.

My Name Is..................

2011-09-04T20:58:00.002-05:00

Kid Rock....

That is how myself and a few friends spent our Saturday night...at The Woodlands to see the one and only Kid Rock. It was a sold out show and we had 4th row...it was awesome!

Kid is a good entertainer....back last March he played the Houston Rodeo...which performers don't put on their full show....it was a good show and I felt like I had been cheated and needed to see more...

so....when tickets went on sale for is Born Free tour, I knew I must get tickets....and he did not disappoint.

Had a wonderful time with my girls...thanks for joining me...and to my sister in law who flew in from Florida to join us.

Exhausted Love

2011-08-08T21:20:00.003-05:00

Wow...it's been a long weekend but a good one....though I'm tired and wore out I do enjoy spending time with my grand-babies, especially when they can get together and play as well...today I still had Liam.... Colton and Tayler joined us while Tammy had a test she needed to take. After breakfast we headed into the play room where coloring was on the top of the to do list. Above my sweet Colton who is just growing up way to fast...hard to believe in just 3 months he will be 5...where has the time gone.? And these 2 cuties sat together and colored, Tayler and Liam. Aren't they just adorable

This evening I went over to Jenn's, she was released this afternoon from the hospital and got to spend some time with Noah...I got to hold him, feed him and just love him...he's such a sweetheart

Nothing like the love of grand-babies.

Liam Meets Noah

2011-08-07T20:32:00.004-05:00

Above Liam walking down the hallway of the hospital in search of his new baby brother...he also brought his Mommy a rose.

Below The Marker Family
I think Liam thought it was pretty cool to see a baby

Liam also thought it was funny all the sounds Noah made and his movements

so when Noah wanted his pacifier Liam was the one that wanted to give it to him...even when Noah didn't need it Liam still wanted him to have it....I think Liam will be on pacifier duty

And then the paci wasn't enough .... Liam also wanted to give Noah his juice...all drink to Liam his juice....I think when Jenn gets home she will have lots of help from the Big Brother

Waiting for Liam when he arrived in honor of him becoming a big brother was a congratulations cake, a big brother book and a Cookie Monster stuffed animal. Before heading to bed tonight Liam grabbed his Cookie Monster and is sleeping with him as I write.

After a 2 hour visit it was time for Big Brother to go ...

Love ya Bro!

It's A Boy!

2011-08-05T21:33:00.005-05:00

Today we welcomed the newest member of our family into the world

Noah Todd Marker

who looks just like his older brother Liam

Isn't he precious

And with his first Teddy Bear that his proud Grams bought for him

And Noah with his Grams

I couldn't help but think of Todd today as I know how proud he would of been to of had 2 beautiful princesses and 3 strapping' young boys as his grandsons..I can picture it now...rides on the golf cart, fish in the pond, dozier rides, hnting and fishing lessons, doing something on the land...

He would be proud...I know I am...and so thankful....

Welcome to our family my dear Noah.

And a special note to my beloved friend whom was on my mind and in my heart all day today, I love you and in the mist of sorrow there is joy....just hold on...

New Ride

2011-07-26T20:44:00.003-05:00

Momma's New Ride It looks white but it's called Diamond White...kinds lie a pearl color...it's really pretty.
Anyway, I wet Saturday and finally got it. I have been trying for months to find the time to go and finally the time came. I'm curious to see how many miles I can put on this one...before it was driving kids here, there and everywhere putting miles on and then living in the country driving back and forth to town...now that I live where everything is convenient and I no longer have kids to drive around I wonder how long it will take to put 100,000 on this one.

And I'm still busy with work...Christmas stuff is starting to arrive....Oh Joy!

Best Day Ever

2011-07-18T21:14:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was a well needed family day

I had contacted all the kids about getting together with all grand-babies and going to the pool...they all agreed to meet. At first Hayden was a little leery of the pool and stayed by her daddy but she soon ventured off and loved splashing her cousins with water. The above picture is of Hayden and Tayler.

Tayler who loves the water and didn't wanna keep her bathing suit on...she wanted to be like her Bubba (Colton) and g topless. Liam loved being with Colton and followed him and copied everything he did....Liam just loves hanging out with the big boys...the above picture is Liam

And then above Colton....who loves the water but doesn't like it in his face finally started getting use to it all on his own...Go Colton!

So hard to get a picture of all 4 grand-babies....I got 4 by allowing them to splash....They are so cute and they had a good time.

Hayden...Liam...Colton and Tayler

We all had a good time and I must say....I loved spending tie with just my 3 kids and the grand babies....no spouses attended...nothing against the spouses, it was just nice to have all my kids alone...I don't remember the last time that happened.

After almost 2 hours at the pool we all went back to my house for ice cream....we had vanilla, strawberry and cotton candy..we all had a little bit of all 3 flavors....Cotton Candy is awesome!

Well Well....

2011-07-12T21:47:00.002-05:00

Well....life is still crazy but I'm trying to work on balance...I'll let you know when I find it.

July 4th weekend I FINALLY had some time off and spent a nice relaxing weekend with my cousin who came to visit.

We had gone to market to by for the store the last weekend of June and stuff started coming in...some before they were suppose to. Last week we must of had 130 boxes delivered....60 of them in one day. We worked hard trying to get them taken care of as we have a small back room that can;t hold them all. The 60 we received in one day were not suppose to come until October. Needless to say...not a happy camper! These boxes are now off sight in a storage unit. Yesterday we finally got everything caught up (as much as you can for a retail store)...today only 2 boxes delivered...Yeah!!!!

Sunday I had dinner with some special family members and then off to Ikea.

Monday I had dinner with a good friend.

Today..Jury Duty....I know most people don't wanna do jury duty but ever since I watched the OJ trial I wanted to be on a jury. A couple years ago I received my first jury summons but it was cancelled so never got to show...then I got this one...I showed up along with about 150 other people. Sat for 2 hours, a group of 40 were selected and left to answer questions...sat and waited about 20 minutes and then they picked another group...nope my name wasn't on the list, we got to go home. I was there for 3 hours and all I got to do was be sworn in, sit on a bench that killed my back and then go home. Oh..and about that bench...my tax dollars need to add some cushion to those benches.

Then I went to a meeting and afterwards got to have drinks with a special girlfriend which was a nice surprise.

And then tomorrow starts again.

That's about it on the update of me....Until next time.

Birthday Time

2011-06-28T21:14:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to my son, Joshua...hard to believe that he's 23...my... where has the time gone.

Tammy Gets A Job

2011-06-14T20:48:00.002-05:00

I posted about a month ago that Tammy graduated from college.

Today she was hired as a teacher for the fall.

Whoo-Hoo Tammy...so proud....

to read all about it go to her blog and read her post at

www.tammysheard.blogspot.com

Tayler Turns 2

2011-06-10T22:28:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday Sweet Tayler who turned 2 today Thank you Lord for blessing me with this sweet little girl who is my fourth grandchild
Happy Birthday Sweetheart!

Liam Turns 2

2011-06-07T19:59:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday To Sweet Liam who turned 2 today.

Thank you Lord for my blessing me with this sweet little boy who is my third grandchild.

Happy Birthday!

It's My Life

2011-05-25T13:37:00.005-05:00

It's My Life

It's Now Or Never...I Ain't Gonna Live Forever So last week, May 17th me and some of the girls, Stacy, Kelley and Teri went to the Bon Jovi concert...we had 4th row pit and it was awesome. Only thing missin' was Fonda, she had to go to Africa with her hubby for their 30th anniversary, don;t ya just feel for her....Love ya Fonda!
The show was excellent...I just love me some Bon Jovi...had a blast, was so in need of a good girls night out and that was just what the doctor ordered

Of course the next couple of days afterwards I was reminded of my age and that I shouldn't be jumpin' up and down to most of the songs like I was 18 again....what was I thinkin'...

Anyway...A Blast!

Then on Sunday I though I was gonna have all my grand-babies over for a play date...I had 3 out of 4...Liam ended up sick so he didn't make it. We had a good time but I was ready for a rest when they left...it was nice watching the cousins play and interact....they are all growing so fast and such big personalities for little humans. I'm gonna try and have more play dates.

Then last night I had some friends and family join me for a girls night out. Awhile back I purchased an auction items to have drinks at a club, have the Sugar Land Trolley pick us up and take us to Station 20 in Houston and have firemen cook dinner for us and show us around life at the firehouse.

It was a most excellent night and again a much needed one.

Now I guess it's back to work...that's where I am right now but it has been so slow...since Mother's Day is over with it has been slow and coming up on Memorial weekend I have been told it will only get slower...so today I brought my personal lap top with me to help keep me busy...surprisingly there's not a lot to do in the store at the moment so I need to something to help keep me going...I must say...it has helped.

So besides working that's pretty much all I've been up to since Tammy's graduation.

I guess the next big thing will be Liam and Tayler turning 2 in like 2 weeks....babies are growing fast.

The Graduate

2011-05-16T08:42:00.003-05:00

On Saturday May 14th Tammy graduate from University of Houston Victoria.

We are so very proud of her.

Way To Go Tammy! And here is Colton waiting to see his Mommy after the ceremony to congratuate her and giver her some flowers. He was so cute during the ceremony...he would yell out, mommy and when Tammy would turn he would wave and blow kisses. Him and I even hollered when Tammy walked the stage and he yelled out

"Go Mommy!" And Tayler wanted to congratuated her Mommy as well

Some of my favorite people...I just love this picture...I'm gonna have to blow it up so it can go on the wall.

Tammy with her family...her husband Kyle and the kids, Colton and Tayler

Proud of You...now enjoy the summer!

All My Peeps

2011-04-24T17:38:00.009-05:00

Happy Easter!

Today I had all my peeps over...such a joy to have your family around and having all grand-babies together is such a blessing and joy and not to mention...FUN! It was hard to decide which pictures from the day I would share with you...so after narrowing it down these are the ones....I may post a view more in a facebook album just to share more.

We start with pictures of the oldest...Grandchild #1...Colton...such a handsome young boy and oh so ever sweet.

And here he was with his bucket of eggs...he needed to know what was inside of them...all the babies got 20 eggs each

And then we have Grandchild #2....Miss Hayden....One beautiful little girl with a mind all her own. I know who the boss is in her house.

She was ready to eat when she arrived.

Above finding Easter Eggs and below laughing at the animal she got in her basket...a bunny that sang an Easter song, Here Comes Peter Cotton Tail and the ears move up and down.

And then there is Grandchild #3...Liam...handsome as can be...and a very sweet energetic little one.

Finding Easter Eggs

Liam looks like his mom (Jennifer)when she was his age but today in this picture he looks like his dad (today). So grown up looking.

Last but not least...Grandchild #4...Miss Tayler so sweet, dainty and beautiful, she's gonna be the one you'll need to watch out for...the headband didn't stay in all day so I'm glad I got this picture when I did, when she first got there.

And this little girl loves her eggs

Eggs anyone?

And then there is me trying to get all the grand babies together for a picture...still hard to do...you should of seen it trying to get them all together with the parents to take one of them all together....by then it was the end of the day, babies were hot and tired so most are not looking so we won't post any of those.

But we will post the individual families....

Liam with his mommy and daddy...Jenn and Paul who are expecting my 5th grandchild this August

Hayden with her mommy and daddy...Jessy and Josh

And Tayler and Colton with their mommy Tammy...their daddy Kyle couldn't be with us because he had to work today.

I tried to get a picture with all grand babies but this was all we could get that came out....me and my boys. They were drinking hard cause they were hot from outside....their little faces are all red.

Today was a wonderful day of fun and family but not a day forgotten why we celebrate ...for indeed

He Is Risen!

Thank you Father for Your sacrifice in Your Son and Thank You that 3 days later

He Has Risen !

Fun Day At Muggy's

2011-04-24T14:49:00.003-05:00

Last Sunday Colton and Tayler came over for a visit and we had a fun day of play. I actually tried last week posting pictures and a write up of our day but some how posted it wrong and wasn't able to transfer the post so instead of searching for my words again I'm just gonna share the pictures. You'll have to wait for my Easter post to read me speak.

Colton so handsome and Tayler so beautiful....took me forever to get that one picture of her...as soon as she sat down she would hop back up...she loves outside so much she just couldn't sit still.

I just love this picture of the 2 of them...they both seem to be in their own little world or they are thinking about how much they love their Muggy.

It was a beautiful day spent with special babies.

Where To Begin

2011-03-27T08:50:00.008-05:00

Life has been so different since opening the store that I'm still trying to get use to what my new life is.

Sometimes I want to post on the blog but then I think...what did I do to share that didn't involve work...

after all, I don't want to bore anyone if I don't have too. I have pictures to share of the grand-babies with their goodies from my trip to Boston...

I was waiting to post them until I could get pictures of all the babies.

Above is Colton with his Lobster hat and below with his Paul Revere hat.

Ever since Colton was a baby and I travelled somewhere I always brought him home a hat from where I've been....now every time I go to a new place I look for a hat. Looks like that is being trickled down to the other grand-babies too. Above is Tayler in Colton's Paul Revere hat...she wanted nothing to do with her Lobster hat, she wanted the Revere one....only if I would of known...next time they all get the same regardless boy or girl. but she did like drinking out of her new Lobster straw cup. Now Liam liked the Lobster hat but refused to put on the Paul Revere hat, he would push it away if it got near him and if we did get it on him it was off before the picture could snap and you could get your hand off the hat...go figure...scary Lobster -vs- black hat

he also enjoyed the Lobster cup....no worries...pictures of Hayden to soon follow below.

Last Sunday went to the last performance of the rodeo with my girls...Fonda and Stacy...I did have pictures to share BUT I forgot the memory card so the pictures are on my camera and I have no way at this time to transfer them to my computer....let this be a lesson...when you buy a camera and you get all those gadgets with it... don't throw them away thinking all you need is the camera and a memory card...you may end up with pictures without a memory card....Just sayin'.

Then this past week I had tickets for a Rockets game with a behind the scenes tour.

I won the tickets in an auction and had planned to give them to the sports lover in the family, my son in law Paul but he couldn't go so I decided to try something new and attend a game...had a good time but not sure basketball is my game.

Above is Luis Scola practicing....it's funny he always had his hands in his hair keeping it out of his face...if his hands weren't on the ball they were in his hair.

Stacy and Albert joined me for the game.

And there's a picture of #44 Chuck Hayes...during our tour we were in one of the bars outside of the locker rooms and right off the court...our guide was taking us across the hall to another location when as I was crossing from one end to the other, here came this guy running about a 100 miles an hour ...it all happened so fast you didn't know if you should go forwards, backwards or stand still so I just stood still in hopes I would not be road kill....

you could here the squeak of tennis shoes trying to come to a halt and all of a sudden this big dude had me by my arms and it was" hello"...It was Chuck Hayes and he was able to stop....a little freaky but cool at the same time.

And here is Miss Hayden who showed up yesterday. I haven't seen her in a couple months and it was obvious by her stand off-ish ways...but then again she has never been the affectionate one.

I couldn't get her to put her Lobster hat on but she did like the Lobster cup with just a little soda.

This little girl is really starting to grow and looking more and more like Josh.

So...that wraps up the week except for all the work days....today on my agenda is cleaning out my garage...I want to trade my Yukon in and before I do I need to have my garage cleaned out so I will have a place to park it... the garage since the holidays has become a place of...I'll figure where it goes later and things from the store as well...Tomorrow I will do a little work at the store while we are still closed on Mondays...the following Monday we start to be open on Mondays.

Enjoy your weekend and thanks for letting me share with you...especially pictures of my beautiful grand-babies.

Happy St. Patty's Day

2011-03-17T22:49:00.003-05:00

As we celebrate today

The Irish, green beer and a day to wear green

there is one more thing to celebrate....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BAILEY Today is Bailey's 2nd Birthday...he is 2 but we celebrate it twice....

the actual day he was born (Jan. 8th) and the day I brought him home

March 17, 2009

St Patty's Day

and why he has an Irish name.

So Happy Birthday my Bailey Bay! And to continue the celebration of St Patty's Day I went with Jenn and Family to Fulsher's St Patty's celebration

Here is Liam enjoying his lollipop

and

some baby goats.

Hope you had a wonderful day and

here's to that pot of gold under the rainbow.

Girls Night Out

2011-03-15T13:06:00.005-05:00

Last night was Girls night...

Destination....Reliant Stadium for The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

and

The American Bad Ass....

Kid Rock

All I can say is.... best rodeo performance I have seen...I left wanting more...

I need to see a full fledged concert and not just a rodeo performance.

I think I feel a road trip coming on.

Farewell To Boston

2011-03-04T22:21:00.003-06:00

All good things must come to an end and so must our trip to Boston. On our last day in Boston and our travel day home we awoke to snow falling from the sky.

Such a beautiful sight but really cold as well.

We got up and got packed and went a head and checked out and thne checked our luggage and headed out to get a few snow pictures.After a little walk we decided to go to The Prudential building and do the Sky Walk and
take a look at the city from a different view. The snow was still falling.
They say on a clear day you can see to Cape Cop. Below is Fenway Park

And here is the river with a blanket of snow a top

The building in the middle is our hotel and right above tha,t there is a yellow line in the street...that is the finish line of the Boston Marathon.

Afterwards we stopped and had lunch

headed back to the hotel and killed time in the business center and then headed towards the airport...

Destination....

Houston and her lovely humidity to welcome us home.

There's No Place Like Home...

God Bless Texas

Greeting From Boston...Day Four

2011-03-04T07:32:00.005-06:00

Today was another cold day but a beautiful one...the sun was in full force though.

Today we hopped back on the trolley to take us to Harvard.

The plan was to walk around and then head back but the trolley ride took forever and a day so we decide to just stay on and take a look from the trolley and head back into Boston. The town was busy...lots of cute shops and the University looked like a bunch of different buildings ...some here and some there...kind of scattered...and not a big deal....really I think we wasted a lot of our day.

Anyway, we got back to the point to take the trolley back into Boston but we decided to cab instead so we could see some of the churches that we wanted to see.
Here is Trinity church...beautiful.

Above is the pulpit where the preacher gives his sermon from.

Then we went across the street to this church...Old South Church

Not as big as the first or as beautiful but still an older church and still beautiful.

Then we were in search of our souvenirs to take home...we headed to Faneuil Hall and The Quincy Market place ...there we found most of what we were looking for...it was really hard finding souvenirs in this city, they aren't just everywhere.

Faneuil Hall was also a meeting place back in the day of our founding fathers.

Then it was time to head back to the hotel and freshen up for dinner.

Tonight was "Legal Seafood"....Yummy!

Greetings From Boston...Day Three

2011-03-02T20:57:00.004-06:00

Today was a very cold day.

You would never know it by the sun that shines but trust me...it was a very cold day.

We headed out...destination Chinatown.

Not so great...mainly restaurants...nothing like the Chinatown of New York or San Francisco, which by the way was my favorite and which I base all Chinatown's on. While walking in the cold and the winds which I swear were as close to hurricane strength without there being a hurricane...there were times we had to brace ourselves to keep from being thrown down by the wind.

So we figured that this day was a good day to hop aboard a trolley and see the town from a different view.

Here we passed by this building where on the third floor was John F Kennedy's voting address when he was elected President. The Charles River frozen with ice.

Fenway Park...the outside needs a make over...very old building

The monument of Bunker Hill but this was not the site of Bunker Hill

The USS Constitution....the oldest commissioned warship.

A view of Boston from the USS Constitution

The oldest Post Office

After a couple hours on our tour we headed back to the hotel to freshen up and head out to dinner.

We ate at America's oldest restaurant...we had lobster and it was divine.Behind us and to the side was a booth labeled "The Kennedy Booth" ...JFK was a regular before becoming president...he ate there so much that they gave him his own booth upstairs. Was very cool to be in such an old place where our founding fathers had ate and a President of our own time.

Greetings From Boston...Day Two

2011-03-02T00:01:00.003-06:00

Today we had planned to do The Freedom Trail walking tour with a guide dressed in clothing as in the time period we were going back into....while waiting to start our walk there in the square was this Christmas tree that had not been takin' down yet, I guess because of all the snow they had received since Christmas.

Still amazes me that a cut down tree is still alive and perky as ever...just doesn't seem fair.

Below is our Freedom Trail Guide
The cemetery where many people in our history books are buried.
Normally you can go inside the grounds but due to snow and all still on the ground it was closed.

This is where Paul Revere is buried...in the very back in the middle of those 2 trees there is a white pillar between two round stones...that is Paul's grave.
And the grave of Samuel Adams

On the balcony of this building is where the Declaration of Independence was first read.

It is so neat to see old buildings standing next to new buildings.

This city is filled with history.

After our tour we headed out on our own to see in more detail things we saw on our tour and some things we didn't....along the the path I ran into this Red Coat outside The Green Dragon Tavern...a place our founding father's liked to hang out at.

And then the main thing I wanted to see...Paul Revere's home.

A statue of Paul Revere with the Old North Church in the back ground.

A beautiful church.

Inside the church

When we were done with our adventures we headed back to our part of Boston....on foot...it is a walking city.

While walking we kept seeing people carrying these boxes that said Mike's Pastry.

We eventually came upon the store and Fonda said it must be a sign...so we went in and got our pastry.

The place was packed and when we left they were lining up right at the door.

We were so tired that Mike's became our dinner ...we had a pastry...we took a nap...we woke up...we watched a movie and ate the other pastry...It was a very good day.

Greetings From Boston....Day One

2011-03-01T16:33:00.003-06:00

February 17, 2011

Annual Grandma's Gone Wild trip found us this year in Boston.

Fonda and I made the trip alone this year as Stacy couldn't join us but she will be back next year or else!!!!

We got into Boston around 12:30 and was able to get a early check in.

We stayed at The Lenox...a very nice hotel and the staff was very accommodating, friendly and helpful.

Below is a picture of our room.

After checking in we decided to walk the streets near and around our hotel.

Two blocks over was the famed Newberry Street. I heard and read lots about it as a must do. I enjoyed walking the streets and loved the way it looked but none of the shops got my attention to draw me in.

Below is a picture...love the buildings.

We stopped and had lunch and then headed out to find Fonda a coat as she left hers behind in Texas.

I think it was 2 hours later we found the mall and a coat.
Malls are not the same there as here and believe it or not we walked around it but never knew it was there and when we walked out onto the street our hotel was 1 block away right next door....

CRAZY!!!!

We had tickets for a show that has been running 30 years....Sheer Madness...we got to the playhouse a little early so we sat at the bar to have a drink to kill some time....there we met the bartender who was from Baytown and had been living in Boston for a couple years.

As it was time to head to the show we took 2 drinks with us as your not suppose to get up during the show.

Not long after it started I turned to Fonda and said....

I think I'm drunk....those drinks were strong but good...so I didn't let them go to waste...after all we were on

Grandma's Gone Wild.

After the show...which was wonderful by the way...we got on a bicycle rickshaw and headed to Cheers.

The outside was the same, the stairs leading down were the same, the Indian by the door was the same but that's about it....so we had a little fun a little food and maybe I had another drink.

Afterwards we decided to walk back to the hotel and walk off some of our night.

It was kinda funny that on our walk at the end of February we would find wreaths hanging on gates and people's doors and they were just as fresh as could be.

How cool to have your real wreath hanging up for more than 4 weeks and with all it's needles .

Oh...and by the way...the walk didn't help wear off those drinks.

Sweet Dreams!

Congrats!

2011-02-23T22:45:00.003-06:00

Say Congrats to me....Why??? I'm gonna be a Grams again....Let's all say "Thanks" to the parents to be...
Jenn and Paul as they will welcome their second child in August...What will little Liam have as his sibling? A sister or a brother? We will have to wait until the baby's arrival into the world as the parents have decided to not fine out.

It Was My Day

2011-01-27T07:15:00.007-06:00

Yesterday two of my very best friends Fonda and Stacy took me out for the day for my birthday. It was all a surprise, I had no idea what was planned but that I was booked until at least 5 and anything after that was gravy.

I was taken to a day spa where we were pampered with a massage that was out of this world and after that a pedi and mani. It was such a relaxing time and the massage was well needed. The massage lady told me legs and feet where knotted pretty good....that's due to being on them a lot more these days.

Afterwards we went to Saltgrass for an early dinner (we had not had lunch) and drinks.

Then we went to the mall where I picked up a watch and Fonda did the unthinkable...she got her ears pierced. All these years she had never done it...they looked so awesome! Stacy opt to have her cartilage done and I call myself the older conservative one of the bunch (lol) and opt to do nothing. I was the picture taker...lol

Then we headed to Silverados. a bar, game room movie theatre. We had a few drinks before our movie started and then we went and watched Country Strong...I enjoyed the movie, but not the end, I left feeling I needed closure.

Then the night was over and it was time for Stacy and I to be taken back to our vehicles and head home. It was a most wonderful day with my girls. It was wonderful to be pampered and to feel so special. Thank you my girls...love you!

This So Called Life

2011-01-24T21:06:00.004-06:00

Wow...trying to gain some sense of schedule and time is not as easy as it sounds.

January is almost over and if this month has gone by this fast .... 2011 will be over before we know it.

So far we have rearranged the store. I went out and bought new (used but new for the store). It was bigger and taller and helped fill in the wall space and create more area to display merchandise. I went out one day to just look and found just about everything I needed. Bought it on the spot and the next day it was delivered. I closed the store the day it was to be delivered thinking it would only take one day....NOT...had to close the following days as well. What a difference the furniture makes.

Then...Jenn and I have been to market to find new items for the store and believe it or not, order our Christmas items for Christmas 2011. Jenn headed to Atlanta a couple days before me, which was right after they had received their snow storm. We headed back to Houston for less than a 24 hour stay and headed to Dallas for 4 days. I actually think Dallas was colder than Atlanta.

And in between all of this I have been trying to find my happy medium...my time for me...my time for house chores...even time to go to the bank which I'm hoping to be able to do tomorrow. I know I've been out of the work loop for 20 years but how is all this gonna come together.'? How did I do it all when I had a family to care for? And now it's just me...you would think I would be a pro...after all I raised a husband and 3 children, this should be a piece of cake...right?

I've been a little absent on the blog but hoping to get a little better at posting more often...it's just when I have the time to be on the computer for any length of tome, I get tired and fall asleep.

So...all is good and the family is good too...hopefully I will have pictures soon.

Until next time.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T00:01:00.002-06:00

A new year...a time for resolutions...a time of reflections...

A time to look back and a time to move forward...

So much has happened this past year.I settled into a new home and I started a new business.

Yesterday I sold my beach house.

I look forward to see what 2011 has in store.

I'm hoping to figure out a schedule...

with going back to work the word

TIME

has a whole different meaning.

Happy New Year!

A Christmas Story

2010-12-31T08:08:00.003-06:00

December 25,2010

Liam along with his mommy and daddy was the first to arrive...the tree did not phase him this year. Jenn said it never messed with it or the ornaments or anything near or around it. That was the case at my house as well.

The first thing he got was his stocking and once he got a hold of teddy grahams all he wanted to do is eat. He did find a chat and count phone by leap frog in his stocking which ended up being his favorite,,,he didn't want to let go f it and wasn't that interested in any other presents. Before Liam and family left Hayden showed up with her mommy and daddy. Hayden was a little earlier than expected cause her mommy got of work early...yeah!!!

At first Hayden was a little reserved, didn't really wanna open presents and do the stocking, sh had to eat some BBQ first.
(above: Hayden and Liam)
Hayden's favorite present was the baby doll...this doll continually talks to the movement.
When I bought these dolls at Toys R Us I drove home with them chatting the whole way home...30 minutes...I was talking with my brother that evening and he got a kick out of it.
I didn't think they had a off button but Josh quickly found it.

With a little break in between this cute little face (Tayler)showed up at my door and leaped right to me.
Just love her pig tail hat her mommy made her.

and we can't forget this cutie...Colton with his stocking. He was ready to open presents but I said if I give you your stocking you need to take a good picture for me...and he did....wonder how long brides will work?

Tayler found her some teddy grahams too.

And this is Colton after no one else left in the house but him, Bailey and myself...this sweet boy wanted to stay and spend the night, didn't care about going home and playing with all his new toys he got from Christmas...just wanted to send the night at his Muggy's...I love it, for I know there will come a day when he's too busy to spend time with his ole' Muggy.

Love My Family!

Out Of The Mouths Of Babes

2010-12-27T19:03:00.005-06:00

I just have to share the cutest story with you....let me set the stage...2 weeks ago I went to my friend Stacy's house for a baby shower for her daughter Tara that Stacy and her daughter Tressa were hosting...Colton, my 4 year old grandson went with me...he doesn't call me Grandma...my Grandma name from him is "Muggy"....

So....Christmas evening Tammy and family came over, Colton wanted to spend the night so spend the night he did...next day we were playing in the game room and out of nowhere he says....Muggy, I don't like it when people call you miss Robin, when we went to Te'a's house (what he calls Stacy) that big girl called you Miss Robin, I just want people to call you Muggy, Te'a didn't call you Miss Robin, she called you Muggy, I just want you to be Muggy not Miss Robin.

Now how sweet was that...it was either Tara or Tressa that called me Miss Robin, they have since they were little just as my kids call Stacy, Miss Stacy and Fonda, Miss Fonda etc....just something you grow up doing and then it sticks...

It's just so funny that 2 weeks later that is what was on his mind...Grand-babies are just the best!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T00:45:00.002-06:00

Wishing You and Yours A Very Merry Christmas!

And as we share our day with presents and loved ones....remember....Jesus Is The Reason For The Season!

Mimosa Rose.....Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

2010-12-09T17:10:00.005-06:00

Yesterday was the official ribbon cutting for my store Mimosa Rose...I was gonna share pictures and stories but my friend Fonda did so, so beautifully on her blog page that if you click here at In Goode Time you'll be able to read all about it and see pictures....Thanks Fonda!!!! I'll have another update soon.

Ribbon Cutting

2010-12-06T20:36:00.000-06:00

Farewll To The Beach

2010-11-30T08:36:00.003-06:00

For some time I have been thinking about selling my beach house. Since I moved from the country to my new home (which I have been in now for a year) I haven't spent much time at the beach. Life seemed to be taking me in a new direction...one being opening the store "Mimosa Rose".

You know, the beach house came along in a point in my life where I needed it. My first nights sleep in the beach house was the first time I was able to sleep through the night since Todd's passing. It as a place where I found peace and didn't have to think of the past or what the future held.

It wasn't until I sold the country home that I realized it was that home I was escaping from to the beach. I wasn't ready when I bought the beach home to let go of the home that Todd and I shared, the place we were going to grow old at and drive around in our golf cart looking at the property. After moving into my new home I have come to realize that the beach home was just a transition.

I finally realized it was time to sell the beach home, it had served it's purpose, it was my place to escape when I wasn't ready to let go of the home Todd and I shared.....but finding the time to deal with it was becoming increasing hard with starting up the business and such....there was just no time.

So one day I got a text from my beach neighbor saying...I know this is a long shot but have you thought about selling your beach house, I have a friend that is looking for a house. So I said yes, etc....long story short...I get a call one morning while getting dressed for work and it's my beach neighbor saying, we would like to buy your house, our friend can't afford it but we want it, this is what we want to pay, cash money, no inspection, as is....my response was "SOLD"...they had offered what I wanted. So before the end of year the beach house will be no longer.

This past Sunday Kelley and Stacy went with me and we took my personal belongings etc...so now the house is ready for it's new owners. I didn't fill sad when time to leave....it was time....there's to be said about timing.

So...we took Kelley home. Kelley was with me in my Yukon and Stacy was following behind in my truck. On the way to the beach we had met up with Kelley so I didn't have to detour to pick her up but I had planned to take her home on the way back. Kelley was my neighbor from the country home.

As I drove past my old home and into Kelley's drive way which was across the street, I got out of my truck and had a wave of emotion come over me that I had not expected. This was the first time I had seen my old home since I moved last October. My eyes swelled with tears ...I guess being reminded of what could of been got to me....something I had not expected....but I am happy where I am and I know the choices that were made where the right ones for me at those moments.

So...that's what is going on here with me...now to prepare for Christmas...Oh my!

November Birthdays

2010-11-26T00:00:00.005-06:00

Happy Birthday Colton!

Colton turned 4 on November 5th...my, where has the time gone? Look at that sweet face....he's just precious!
Colton got to go to Sea World for his 4th Birthday so when he got back home he came over to get his presents from me....he was so cute when he got here...he took my hand and said...Muggy, you got presents for me?
Of course Muggy had presents for him.

Happy Birthday Hayden!
Hayden turned 2 on November 17th

I met Hayden and her family at Gringos to have a birthday dinner with Hayden and to give her, her birthday presents. Look how grown up she looks in her leggings and boots.

You know when you reach 2 sometimes going out to dinner can be a challenge.

It didn't take long for Hayden to become antsy so it was time to open presents.

Hayden loved her baby doll, after opening it she didn't want to open any more....she was happy.

Other November happenings...

Happy 1 year anniversary to Josh and Jessy

Happy Birthday to my Mom

Happy Birthday to my son in law Kyle

And if I forgot anyone...Happy To You Too!

A Day Of Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T09:09:00.005-06:00

Since today is Thanksgiving, I thought my post today would be about Thanksgiving

and not the turkey kind. I am thankful for my beautiful children....blessed is an under statement.
They are my world. A love a Mother has for her Children does not decrease as they grow older it only deepens. I am so proud and thankful. I am thankful for the most beautiful grandchildren in the world. I could not imagine life without them.
There is no other feeling like it.

I am thankful for the friends in my life....but especially for...
Kelley, Fonda, Stacy and Teri.
All very different and each who bring something very special to my life.
My world would be so different without these special people in my life.
Not sure I would be able to survive without them in my world.
I am thankful for friends of my youth that I have reconnected with....sometimes moving backwards is a good thing.
I am thankful for extented family those still here and the times I had with those no longer with us but not forgotten.
I am thankful for my mother whom I wish were closer and for a my brother
whom I always didn't appreciate growing up but now appreciate and love more than I could say.
Though bitter sweet I am thankful for the time I was a wife. It's true what they say....
You don't realize what you got til it's gone.
I'm thankful for a new start in life.

I'm thankful that My God loves me unconditionally.

Happy Thanksgiving!

The Dream Becomes A Reality

2010-11-14T20:27:00.004-06:00

Yesterday was

Grand Opening

day for

Mimosa Rose

Thanks to Paul who took these pictures for us since we were busy with last minute preps before opening the doors....I must say, wasn't sure it was going to come together.

Jenn and I were at the store the night before trying to get ready...we ended up leaving at 4:15 in the morning, just time enough to get a couple hours sleep and get ready for The Grand Opening.

We had some bumps along the way but we were still able to open the doors.
One of our bumps was the counter area. We didn't have counter tops on until 6 days before opening. That's another contractor from hell story for a later time.
Anyway...Paul is finishing the work, painting and staining them for us...we got enough done to get open.

The store looks really nice with all the merchandise out in place but there is tons more that needs to be put out...some in the back room of the store, some at the storage unit and some still here at my house...just wasn't time to get it all out but every day for the next couple weeks the store will have a different looks as more merchandise is brought out to the floor and walls.

Love this section of the store

A section of our baby, tweens and teens section.

And some of our customers shopping and checking us out.

About 20 minutes before we were to open there were already people outside peering in as we were messing with getting the register to work, getting our snacks out and drinks ready, cleaning up champagne that spilled everywhere.

As the 20 minutes started counting away I was reminded of the old Mervyn's commercials where shoppers were outside ready for the store to open....

OPEN....OPEN...OPEN....

Needless to say we had no idea the line went all the way down to the cleansers that was 3 store spaces from us.

Not sure what we expected that morning but that wasn't it but it was a wonderful surprise.

People seemed generally excited to have a store like this in the area and close to home.

Hopefully Mimosa Rose will be a success...so far we're off to a

GREAT

start!

If your in the area stop by and check us out.

Today I could of gone in and done some work but decided to rest instead, rest was something I needed...I've been falling asleep all day today and it has felt

WONDERFUL!

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T21:21:00.004-05:00

Today was I took Colton and Tammy to see Shrek...The Musical at The Hobby Center.

Colton came dressed in costume...after all today is

Halloween.

I will try and not make this a long post with words since I have so many photos to share. Above...Colton dressed as Woody from Toy Story and below with The Shrek sign.

Colton did pretty good during Shrek, there were parts that held his interest and parts that didn't but he made it through the whole thing. Hayden came over but refused to put her costume on...she was suppose to be a witch...as you can see by her face ...she's the boss...so after kicking and screaming and saying no over and over Josh and Jessy gave up.

But it didn't stop her from enjoying her goodies in her Halloween pumpkin I had for her.

Hayden allowed her mommy to put back on her regular clothes... that she would allow but not the costume.

Below is Josh, Hayden and Jessy

Then I went to Jenn's to see Liam before he was heading out to trick or treat and I found Curious George.

Isn't he the cutest little monkey you've ever seen?

Liam with his pumpkin I brought over for him...once he found the cookies he wanted nothing else to do with the pumpkin or it's belongings.

Liam as Curious George and Paul as The Keeper....

They are too cute!

And then my last trick or treater showed up on my door step and what a cute little Princess of Halloween

she is....Little Miss Tayler...Tammy made her tutu....so cute.

Tayler, Tammy and Colton

Colton loved all the goodies in his Halloween pumpkin

as did Tayler ....she loves the lollipop.

I loved being able to see my grand-babies all in the same day ....

It was nice to start the day off with a grandchild and end with a grandchild.

Love those babies.

Hope you had a Happy and Safe Halloween.
Boo!

Moving Day

2010-10-31T09:01:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we started the move into the store. There is SO much to do that I hope we can get it all done in time. I thought we would but now starting to have some doubt. The delay in being able to get into the store has not helped any....and the store is still not completed...almost .... but it was nothing that would keep us from moving in but if they don't finish it will keep us from opening.

So yesterday Jenn and I picked up the U-Haul around 9:30. We started moving stuff from storage just a little after 10. We had filled that U-Haul up with nothing but merchandise . We had to get boxes out of the way before we could get to the furniture, boxes were in the way.

So...we went and unloaded all those boxes at the store and then we went to my house to load some furniture I had in my garage. There was one big piece that is really tall and really very heavy, it wouldn't fit in the pick up so the plan was to at least get that to the store before the U-Haul had to be returned. We got it, it was tough. Paul (my son in law) helped most of the day and his side kicks were me, Jenn (who's limited in what she can do since she is still recovering from knee surgery) and our new part time employee.

So, we loaded up all the furniture we could get and loaded up the pick up with boxes and headed back to the store. After we unloaded we stopped for lunch. Then the girls stayed at the store and did some stuff with the boxes while Paul and I took the U-haul back, then we went to storage and picked up some furniture. By that time Josh had gotten off work and met us at the storage unit to help load the furniture.

Once we got back to the store Jenn and Paul needed to leave to go and pick up Liam and let Howie (their dog) out who had been in all day. So Josh and I went back to my house and got the last of the furniture there and dropped off at the store and then made 2 more runs to storage to get the rest of the furniture there...boxes I can do by myself but furniture I can not...so that was my focus....furniture. After the last run I was tired and we called it a night...it was after all going on 8.

Today would be a good day to work but I have plans with Tammy and Colton today and then wanting to see all my grand-babies later to see them dressed in their Halloween costumes....so today is more family day than work day....tomorrow will be work day ALL DAY!!!!

I think tomorrow I will go and rent the smaller U-Haul and load up all the boxes that are in my garage and in storage and get it over with at once instead of making multiple trips in the pick up.

And then Monday night I need to start loading up what is going to Sugar Plum, we start setting up Tuesday afternoon...as if there isn't enough to do...Oh well...welcome to my world...lol...guess I need to keep that U-Haul through Tuesday.

Check back tonight or tomorrow for an update of my day with the grand-babies....I have a feeling after tonight it might be awhile until I post again but I will try not to let too much time pass.

You can keep up with Mimosa Rose on our facebook page...Grand Opening is scheduled for November 13...Hope to see you there.

And Life Continues...

2010-10-28T20:38:00.004-05:00

It's been a couple weeks since I last posted...sorry...life has just been crazy.

The store is still not open. I've been dealing with the build out phase and fingers crossed it will be over soon. It looks like I may be able to start moving furniture and merchandise into the store on Saturday. Today they were getting ready to do the floors which is one of the big items left.

We are still waiting for the A/C to be finished ....which is a long story that just pisses me off to think about...but fingers crossed it will be finished in a few days. It's nothing to keep us from setting up. If the electrician showed up today then we can have the alarm ready....can't move merchandise in without that.

Tomorrow I will go by the store again and see if Saturday will be moving day....it was suppose to be last weekend and then it was suppose to be Wednesday so we will see if Saturday is the lucky day.

My advise to anyone opening any business that you need to lease space....make sure you know your contractors very well or find a place that is already ready to move in, build out sucks.

I have also decided to sell my beach house. It has served it's purpose. When I bought it I think it's exactly what I needed at the time. Todd had been gone for 6 months, I needed a place that was just mine. While I was there I didn't have a care in the world. It was a place I didn't mind being alone. I actually enjoyed my time alone there sitting on the deck. It was a place where I had no thoughts of the past or the further. It was also the place where I finally had a full nights sleep since he had been gone. Well, I have seen that after moving out of my country home we shared into this home (which has been a year now) it was that country home I needed to be out of. At the time I wasn't ready to let go so that's where the beach house came in....but now in this home it was a new start a place where I wasn't constantly reminded of the loss. Since being in this home I have barely made it to the beach so I figure it's time to say good-bye. If I want to spend time at the beach then it's time to take a vacation.

The grand-babies are all doing well and just as beautiful as ever. I have no pictures to share this post but I will the beginning of the week after I get pictures of the babies in their Halloween costumes....I can't tell you who they will be...it's a surprise and if you already know...SHHHHHHHH....don't spoil it for those who don't.

We had a cool front come in last night and the weather has been wonderful...hopefully it will stick around awhile....especially if Saturday is moving day.

Okay...so you have the scoop...time to go....The Apprentice is about to start and I can't miss The Donald...Until next time....
"It Is What It Is"

Tayler and Liam's Day of Fun

2010-10-09T08:02:00.008-05:00

Yesterday I watched Tayler while Tammy went to a school to do her teaching observations.

My plan was to go by Jenn's and get her so we could go to the bank...as that was the only thing on the agenda.

Instead I got a crazy idea to go shopping for all the babies and figured this was a good time as I also wanted to get shoes and having Tayler with me made that easy.....Ya think?

Here's our story.

Tayler in the truck ready to go and and pick up her cousin Liam.

( I know...she's a doll ) We arrived and got Liam (Jenn joined us)... I know I'm not ready to take 2, 16 months
out on my own.
In their little heads they are saying, come on Grams lets go have some fun. First stop was the bank...they had keys to keep them some what occupied...at first Tayler had mine but it wasn't soon after that Liam wanted mine cause he saw buttons...so he took mine and for a good while you could here my truck outside beeping from the doors being locked and unlocked....finally those had to be taken away.

Then Jenn saw donut holes....so she gave one each to the babies.
Liam gobbled his down all at once while Tayler was nibbling on hers...Liam had to have a second and even a third...he loved donut holes. Tayler never did finish all of hers.
Then it was off to Katy Mills mall.
First stop was food court since neither baby really ate their breakfast
we figured they would be ready for lunch.
I sat with the babies while Jenn went to Burger King to get them chicken nuggets.
She got back and I sat with the babies while she went to get us something thinking the babies would be fine since they had food to occupy them....Ummm...Not the case.

Babies went crazy...throwing food and playing with it and wanting out of their high chairs and wanting to throw whatever they could get their hands on....I was like...where is Jenn, this is getting too much...it seemed like she was gone for 30 minutes....I stood up looking for her and couldn't see her anywhere...Surely she didn't leave me with 2, 16 month olds or did she?

Below is what our table are looked liked when we left...we did clean off the table some...but somehow this picture doesn't give the ground justice...it was worse in person.

Then we went to get the shopping strollers and a shopping we went...Carter's was our destination and with coupon in hand. We must not of been the only one with the same idea...Carter's was packed and most every adult had a stroller and the isles are small so it was interesting trying to get through...and babies reaching up, grabbing clothes and pulling them off the hangers...lol...Jenn eventually picked Liam up and was carrying him and pushing a cart.
Once it was time to check out Tayler was pulling all the gift bags they had on the shelve around the counter...my thought was...why would you put that there when a child can pull at it.

Anyway, we had fun and what seemed like 2 hours in Carter's it was time to go.
We hit Stride Rite for shows and then we were off...time to go...after all the day was gone and Tammy was gonna be out of school in 15 minutes.

Below are Liam and Tayler in their mall strollers while I went to take most packages to the truck and to pull the truck up to get the other packages and the babies.

Thanks Grams for taking us shopping...we had a fun day...it's almost 3 and we have had no nap yet!
But it didn't take long for this little guy to pass out once we started moving.
Isn't he just sweet...

And Miss Tayler tired and in ready position to fall asleep never did.

Dropped Tayler off at home so she could get some sleep, dropped Jenn and Liam off and then headed back to Tammy's to give her the car seat and all the goodies I got for Colton and Tayler and Tayler was in rare form playing with Colton whom she had not seen all day.

It was a very good and full day. makes me wonder sometimes how my Grandmother use to take me and 3 of my other cousins out to have pictures taken and it was just her.
Bless her heart...but she was a remarkable one of a kind Grandmother.

Love them Grand-babies!

Me against The Wasp(s)

2010-10-07T19:19:00.003-05:00

This afternoon I got ready to ;eave the house and I notice some wasp on the wood of the house above the the garage...I counted like 32.

So on my way home I stopped at Ace Hardware and bought 7 cans of wasp killer.

When I got back home they were no longer there, or that is what they wanted you to think.

So I got out a can a sprayed up in the crack between the brick and the wood.

Nothing...and then a minute later...some fell to the ground and some flew away...then nothing and then repeat, some fell to the ground and some flew away...so I sprayed some more and then again...some fell to the ground and some flew away...this went on for 30 minutes and 5 cans later. I didn't take pictures right away but here on the ground are about 16 of them...there were more but it looks like they moved a little and then really died cause I have about 10 scattered along the drive.
I may need to call in reinforcement...I'm a little nervous at what kind of home may be hiding from public few.

Sugar Plum Market

2010-10-05T18:36:00.002-05:00

It's getting close....don't forget to make plans to come out and see Mimosa Rose at this years Sugar Plum Market....you'll get a small preview of items the store will be selling plus some neat Christmas decorations and gifts.

You can get more information by visiting us at

www.mimosarose.wordpress.com

or by finding Mimosa Rose on facebook...sorry right now I haven't figured out how to link to facebook from this blog.

Make sure you sign up so you can get updates and make sure you become a friend of Mimosa Rose on facebook.

Harris Family Reunion

2010-10-03T21:09:00.004-05:00

Today I attended

The Harris Family Reunion.

Todd (my late husband) was 1 of 6 children...today there is only 1 of those 6 still around...so today we rejoiced being around family but sadden that those we love are no longer with us.

There were tons more Harris' at the reunion but above is just our immediate Harris family, with just a few missing that could not attend and whom we all missed.

Below here I am with 2 of my sweet gran-babies...Liam and Hayden...it's funny how much they look a like in this picture...maybe it's cause they have the same look, I don't know...but sweet little babies.
And here they are again...I may have to blow this one up...it's hard to get 2 babies together looking good and smiling ...not sure Liam has a smile but he's looking pretty darn cute.

Then here's Jenn, Paul and Liam

and Jessy, Hayden and Josh

I know...I'm missing pictures of Tammy and her family, they had something else going on today and could not attend...they were missed...but no worries, I'll be seeing those babies real soon so you'll get a chance to see more pictures.

This about sums up my weekend...tomorrow...work...Uggg!!!!

It's The Weekend

2010-10-02T18:50:00.003-05:00

Friday was Girls Night!

Fonda, Kelley, Stacy and myself were suppose to go to a Clint Black concert.

It was something we had planned for some time....but then earlier this week I got an email saying there had been a conflict in scheduling and the show had been moved to December.

What a bummer!

We had decided to still get together since the date had already been reserved.

So we all met at my house. I think we were all a little tired that we decided to keep it low key.

We headed to Baker Street Pub for dinner and drinks. None of us had been before.

We had a nice time visiting and when getting ready to leave ran into some crazy woman...all I can really say is that it was very interesting and I'm surprised that one of us didn't deck her.

Drama!

Everyone stayed at my house that night.

Saturday morning was set aside to work with inventory in the storage unit. Fonda and Stacy were gonna stay and help while Kelley had a prior commitment out at the fairgrounds.

I had warned the girls they really didn't know what they had said yes too when they said they would help.

Fonda brought along her camera and I will share just a few pictures with you.

Here is the unveiling of....

"The Inventory From Hell" The picture below is of the first storage unit and the one the holds the most items.

This is the second unit and next door. We decided to work in this one first since there was room to move around in.
We needed to tag the items with price tags and also separate what I was taking to The Sugar Plum Market and what was going straight to the store.
Sounds easy enough...right?

NOT!!!!!

5 hours later this is what the unit looked like...tagged and in it's space for either Sugar Plum or the store.

Next step will be to work on the other unit and move tagged items
into this unit to make room to move in the other and make some type of sense out of it if there is such a thing.

So, 5 hours down (really 15 if you account there were 3 people working) maybe if I'm lucky

100 more to go.

Whoo-Hoo!!!! Love Inventory!!!!

Thanks to my girls for all your help, it really meant a lot...would of been very boring work alone.

Love you! Come back again :)

The Lady Pop

2010-09-27T19:45:00.006-05:00

Yesterday I shared with you the family came over for a visit and all grand-babies were here.
When most everyone left, Colton and Tayler stayed until Tammy came back from her bible study.

Tayler and I were on teh couch and Colton came running from the kitchen yelling

Muggy you have Lady Pops you have Lady Pops

I want some Lady Pops.

So...I'm trying to figure out what he's talking about...Colton I don't know what Lady Pops are...

Yes Muggy you do, you have Lady Pops in the pantry.

After going back and forth I think I finally figured it out.

Colton do you mean lollipops?

Yes Muggy... Lady Pops.

I want a Lady Pop.

Okay go get you a lady Pop and bring Tayler one too.

Muggy I got Tayler a red Lady Pop but Mommy doesn't let Tayler eat Lady Pops only I can eat Lady Pops.

Well since I'm the Muggy we'll let Tayler have one Lady Pop.

Okay Muggy. It ended with the kids loving their Lady Pops and Colton saying...

Muggy send me home with some Lady Pops, which I gladly did...2 for him and 1 for Tayler

A Wonderful Sunday

2010-09-26T21:23:00.005-05:00

Today was my day to have all the grand-babies over.

My morning started off with Tayler. She came and stayed over while Tammy and the family went to church.

We had a nice little girl time. After Tayler left I went to pick up BBQ.

The family was coming over to bring the grand-babies over for a visit and so the cousins could get together for some play time.
Hayden (above) was the first to arrive...Liam (below) was the next to trot in followed by Tayler and Colton.
They all pretty much arrived at the same time...talk about timing.

We pretty much sat down to eat right away and once done the kids were ready to play in the playroom.

Colton and Hayden were the first ones in and then these too were so cute running so they could get in there and play as well.

And Colton who doesn't show his smile for the camera as much as he should, I think he gets tired of all the picture taking.

We had a good time, visiting and playing...and when it was time for the day to end this is what the playroom looked like after 4 beautiful children played.

Have I mentioned how much I love the playroom?

I love all those toys and such all in one place and not scattered about.

I loved having all my babies together...and yes I tried to get a picture of them all together.

I took 10 and none came out...

What was I Thinking?

Hope your Sunday was as Wonderful as mine.

A Day In The Life

2010-09-25T18:33:00.003-05:00

Hard to believe it's been almost 2 weeks since I last wrote on the blog....guess life is really busy. I'm still adjusting to being busy and on the go, instead of a woman of leisure coming and going as she pleases...usually less going than coming.

In between the busy time I did manage to spend time with an old friend. My friend Karen and I were best friends in Jr. High school. We reconnected with the help of facebook and after being friends that way for awhile we decided to put a date on the calender to get together. Karen now lives near Austin. So last Saturday Karen made the drive and we spent the whole day just catching up and filling in the gaps between 1977 and 201o. What a blast we had. There was never a lull in conversation, never searching for what to say next, it was just an awesome time. So happy to have her back in my life. Sometimes it's good to go back.

I also found the time this week to have dinner twice with 2 different special girlfriends. I am blessed to have the friends I do. I may not have a lot but those I have are priceless.

Today I went to Tomball. I was in search of furniture and such for the store and had some nice finds. Too bad I didn't have something bigger than a pick up truck otherwise I would of purchased more but I did manage to fill the truck up. I still need more though so it's possible there could be another trip to Tomball in the near future.

So in between all that, my days have been filled with inventory, pricing and making trips to storage...Most days I feel like I'm in inventory hell and surprised I have not had nightmares of the attacking box. The house is a mess, boxes and such all over. Hoping tonight to make some sense of it all.

All in all I am excited for the store and the opening...build out is coming along. Still hoping for the keys mid October...fingers crossed.

Tomorrow I'm expecting grand-babies to be over...all of them...Can't wait...make sure to check back tomorrow night or Monday, hoping to post pictures of them on the blog before the week carries me away.

So until next time...Be happy!

Gathering Thoughts

2010-09-13T14:31:00.003-05:00

Gathering Thoughts

Something that is a little hard to do these days.

I know I have things to share but at this moment it's hard to think.....I've been busy but trying to gather up what I've been doing is hard to do at the moment...Maybe being busy is frying my brain.

Went to Dallas for one day to hit the market and do my last shopping before the store opens...

hope I have enough. It's so hard to tell when some of your inventory is in a spare bedroom, in a storage unit or hasn't even arrived yet.

Seems like everything Mimosa Rose is consuming my time these days...but it's a good thing.

My brain keeps thinking about Grand Opening....I want it to be spectacular! So many thoughts running around in this small little brain of mine.

Today I took Bailey to the vet for a check up. He's been doing so well, though I can't help to worry about him. I went through so much with him. But he's good. He has lost 10 pounds since his last visit the end of April.

Loosing the 10 pounds is a good thing.

When he was sick and on all those meds he can't weight plus he was so weak he had no exercise. Now he does not lack for exercise, he's very energetic.

He looks good. Yeah Bailey!

And then below the loves of my life...who also are doing good. Sweet Liam

My sweet beautiful babies....Tayler, Colton and Liam

And Cutie Patootie Hayden....

I did have a picture of Colton and Tayler but I guess I hit the back button one too many times and it deleted it...too hard to go back and add it when you've already written a post...I'll save that picture for the next post and give you all something to look forward too.

Enjoy your day!

Mimosa Rose.....It's Real

2010-09-08T19:32:00.006-05:00

Yesterday I took a drive by the store just to see if I could see the guys working inside and as I'm driving on FM 1093 I can see the strip ahead and what do I see....

I see.....

Mimosa Rose!

How awesome...it's becoming real...no turning back...exciting! so many emotions going on in this small little mind of mine. Stay tuned for updates.

You can also follow Mimosa Rose on Facebook, if your not a fan yet please become one...you'll get updates and pictures of products we plan to sell...you can also follow Mimosa Rose at our web page as well and get updates....www.mimosarose.wordpress.com

Thanks for your support.

Join The Adventure

2010-08-29T22:53:00.003-05:00

As you know I'm in the process of opening a gifts and accessories boutique.

Now you can follow on that journey by visiting the website.

It's still in beginning phase.

www.mimosarose.wordpress.com

Checking In

2010-08-25T09:04:00.004-05:00

Hello Guys! Just an update to check in and let you know I'm still alive.

Things have been busy still. Went to Seattle for a quick market trip. Left Friday night and planned to do market all day Saturday and Sunday and then catch the red eye home. Market went well. Placed lots of orders and saw everything there was to see and and were finished by 5:30 Saturday which left Sunday as a free day. First we looked to see if we could get an earlier flight home but all was full and spending the day in the airport on stand by was not how I wanted to spend the day.

Spent the day down by the waterfront visiting Pikes Market. I've been there before but was still a nice stroll. Went to the Crab Pot where lunch was had. Did a little walking around downtown and then headed back to the hotel for a little nap. Then out to dinner and then off to the airport.

Seattle was nice. It was nice walking around outside with the sun out, 65 degree weather, wearing jeans, flip flops and a light sweater over a short sleeve shirt....PERFECT. It really has me thinking, why do I stay here where it's humid, hot weather near and over 100 on a regular base? It's nice to walk outside and not drip in sweat as soon as the door opens. Not saying Seattle is the place to go but somewhere where there are seasons and cooler weather. I'm thinking about it.

Now my garage is full again (I just had it cleaned so I can park in there)...looks like a warehouse of boxes I need to go through from things arriving. That will be my task tomorrow and the next day and then haul it off to storage. I think I need another unit.

Things are moving with the store...lease has been signed so the process begins. Won't have the store by October 1 like I had hoped but hopefully by the 15th. Fingers crossed. Just means that as soon as I can get in I will be rushing to get it opened. Hoping to move in and get it set up in 3 days.

So, that's pretty much what has been going on...not a lot but then again...a lot.

Until the next report...be safe and be happy.

It's Storytime

2010-08-15T08:14:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was Muggy and Colton Day.

Remember...Muggy is my grandma name he gave me.

I picked him up the night before so he could spend the night so we could start our day first thing.

Needless to say when we went to bed he wasn't ready...it was after midnight the last time I looked at the clock.

The morning came...we had breakfast...did a puzzle (he loves putting puzzles together and he's really good at doing them). I took my shower and then he took his.

Our destination downtown Houston

Houston Hobby Center

to see Nickelodeon's "Story Time Live"

We had a good time...here is Colton during intermission with his light up toy and his $10 bag of Cotton Candy.He took it all in and had a great time...he said his favorite story was the one the Backyardigan's did on Filty-ham....it was the name of the dirty town cause they could never take a bath order from the mayor or was he the king?

After the show we got the truck and headed towards home. Colton fell asleep along the way and I stopped at Sonic to get lunch to take home. We ate and he wanted to play in the playroom...so we did where I fell asleep on the floor and woke up with toys all around me and on top of me...guess Colton had fun.

We had a wonderful time...can't wait for the other grandchildren to get to the age where I can take them all out on a day with Grams.

Me -vs- The Chicken

2010-08-12T07:43:00.004-05:00

Just thought I would share...Yesterday I decided to cook. Those that know me very well know that I have rarely cooked over the last 4 years. Cooking is not one of my favorite thing. I cooked 30 years so why continue...plus it's just me.

Anyway, the night before I had decided that I was gonna cook chicken. I already had the cooking bags and seasoning and the chickens that were purchased through the Houston livestock show. Chickens I have plenty of...a funny thing since I don't cook.

The chicken were whole chickens, which were not a problem, I've cut up a whole chicken plenty of times...and then came the time to cut it....I asked myself...how long had it been since I cut one of these things up? So after looking at it and turning it over several times I was ready for the task that laid ahead.

I starting cutting ...had my pieces and then was like, something is missing...where is the thigh? Oh now I know...I learned to cut the thigh with the leg and then if I wanted it a separate piece I would do it that way.

Needles to say...the second chicken ( I cooked 2 and sent one over to Tammy and her family) was cut so much better than the first one and now I remember how to cut a chicken....like riding a bicycle....ha-ha!

Front Yard Make Over

2010-08-11T08:17:00.003-05:00

On Monday and Tuesday I had work done to the front yard.

You know when you buy a new house you would think that they would make the front yard all nice and pretty but that's not the case.

It looks fine and enough to get by or add to it but then you have a someone who does landscaping as a living and you get a whole different look....even the way they cut out the grass to make your flower bedding lines.

I have added pictures for you to see....before and after...below is a after and the pictures don't do it justice. Front yard...kind of plain.

Also when they did the yard...see how they connected all the trees together with a mulch design.

I never liked that. I don't have much front yard (which I like) but felt as though it took away from the front yard.
And here is the front with the tress separated and not as plain looking.

And a side view...see how the cut is just a cut where the bed is cut out.

Also...sorry for the haze but it was so humid outside my lens kept fogging up.

the new side view.

And again...how the trees were before

And how they look now
the trees are my favorite part of the make over

Another side view before

And after....I love the look and the color...

maybe I'll make yard of the Month...how cool would that be.

A Day At The Beach

2010-08-09T14:08:00.005-05:00

A couple days before I went to Florida to see my mom

Tammy, the kids and myself went to the beach for the day. We had a wonderful day visiting and watching the kids play.
I hope you enjoying seeing just a few pictures from our day

While Tayler loved the water

Colton loved making sand castles

We were at the beach for an hour before heading to the house and visiting and playing there.

On the way back home we had stopped just a couple miles up the road to drop the trash off.

Tammy had Colton all set with his books and colors and I had him set with ear phones to watch a DVD.

After he was wide awake at the dumpster just a mile up the road we turned around and this is what we saw.

Colton passed out....marker in hand.

Tayler of course had no problems passing out either.

It was a fun day...sorry it took so long to post but welcome to my now busy, unorganized, I forgot, what happened, oh my, what's next...crazy life!

Little Miss Hayden

2010-08-09T13:50:00.002-05:00

And here are a few catch up pictures of Hayden...

and that's Bailey in the first picture.
What a cutie!

I still have more to post...stay tuned.

Catching Up In Pictures

2010-08-09T13:33:00.004-05:00

Sorry I am so behind in posting on the blog and sharing pictures.

I have lots to share so here is the first of it.

Liam waiting to play with his cousins....

below Tayler, Liam and Colton
And Tayler practicing her domestic side

After a our play date Colton stayed and spent the night...we made pizza for dinner...Colton made his own. When my kids were small we would have pizza parties and they would make their own ...we would use muffins as our crust, put sauce on it, sprinkle cheese and put our topping on...put in oven until cheese melted and there you have your own personal pizza.

As you can see Colton was very proud of his pizza.

I bought a truck tent for the playroom...Colton like filling it up with as many toys and books as he could.

At first Tayler wasn't sure what to think about this tent but she soon warmed up and went inside.

More pictures to come....

My So Called Life

2010-08-07T12:31:00.003-05:00

The words that come to mind this afternoon are...."My So Called Life, Do I Really Wanna Be On This Ride"?

With that being said...where do I begin? Maybe to some I have not been busy or doing anything of importance but for someone who has pretty much been able to come and go as she please, choose to do something or not...I have been busy doing a little of this and a little of that, that makes it seem like a whole lota something.

I now go to bed exhausted... rather it's physical or mental.

So...what has made me so busy you ask? Trying to combine my everyday life into learning how to become a business woman and store owner. In case you are not aware I plan to open a gifts and accessories boutique. If things go according to plan the store will open mid June in the Katy, Richmond, Fulsher area. At first the plan was to rent space in the actual town of Fulsher and then things weren't panning out which gave me more time to research and check into other locations which brought me to where I'm hoping I will be. There is so much to do...once 3 things are crossed off the list 10 more are added.

The past 2 days Jenn and I went back to Dallas for more shopping for the store. The goal is to get the items in now instead of waiting for after the store opens. Hopefully we can get things priced so once I'm able to move into the place the merchandise just needs to find it's home. Then in 2 weeks I will be heading to Seattle to visit their market. When shopping I'm also looking to find things that are not in a store close to my area or not at all...I want to be different and not have everything that everybody else has. Also looking to have a variety so if you have to make that last minute shopping trip for that last minute gift for whoever you may have on your list, I will have it.

In case your curious, the name will be "'Mimosa Rose.....the tag line is "where gifts and accessories bloom"...I thought of the name and Jenn the tag line.

I'm looking for furniture for the store to display my items...not wanting the boring typical store fixtures...I have some pieces at a resale shop in Rosenberg that I need to pick up today...Paul is going to help me....not sure we will be able to get it all but will try. Josh is working so I have my fingers crossed he will get off before I have to get them picked up. Kyle is out of commission, he had knee surgery this past week and has to be on crutches for like 8 weeks. Getting this furniture made me realize, I need some guy friends. (lol)

Everyday has been a day with something...... research on the computer, meetings, checking inventory of merchandise that has arrived at my house for the store and then whatever else it is I do.

And speaking of merchandise arriving at my house...I have had to go a rent a storage unit just to have a place to take these boxes until the store opens cause I'm running out of room. Hoping I can get Josh to help me tomorrow load some stuff up and take over there if not I'll be taking as much as I can alone. The storage places has long dollies so that it is good...the only caring is in the truck, out of teh truck and off the dolly. It will be nice to have my garage back and the closets in the other rooms as well.

So...there you have it...one reason I haven't blogged that much lately. Busy and Tired.

I have lots of pictures and stories of grand-babies I wanted to share with all of you but have been to busy and tired to sit and write so I'm hoping before the weekend is over I will be able to post some pictures without a story just so you can see how much precious they all are and how much they have grown.

So until the next time be safe and be good.

Florida and Family....Part Three and The End

2010-07-21T13:44:00.003-05:00

Today is Saturday...it started out a nice beautiful day. My brother joined us for breakfast as Jenn cooked for all of us. We sat around and visited.

My brother and I decided to take a little stroll along the beach...it was nice. While out on the beach I took this picture of our hotel from the water.

As you can see there's a left side a middle and a right side....on the right side the first 3 windows starting to the left of the right side on the top floor is where we were staying. All three windows had a balcony with chairs and table. A nice place to hang and chill.
After the walk was over we came back up to the room and visited a little more.
Then my brother gets up from the couch and says, hey, there's a dude getting arrested out on the beach...so of course we all watch not knowing what he did to get arrested in the first place. He had no one following behind him. I would guess he was alone.
I at the time didn't have my glasses and couldn't;t see that far for details starting taking pictures so I could sit back down and see what was going on....thus I get to share with you all.

Things seemed pretty calm until he got closer to where concrete was and I guess he thought he could get away. He made one move and then....he went down fast.

This is what he looked like when he got up...damn dude...bummer...now you gotta go to jail all gritty from the sand.

Afterwards I joined Jenn, Paul and Liam at the pool...my brother came to tell me my cousin and aunt were on the way over and about that time I looked up and there they were...so I got out and joined them back at the room for a little visit before getting ready for dinner.

At 5:30 there were 20 of us meeting up for dinner.

We ate at a Spanish Restaurant called Columbia and it was on the water.

The food was excellent and though I didn't get to visit with some family as much as others it was still nice to be together and visit. Some of us haven't seen each other in 20 years. Not just me being in Texas...some of the family in Florida haven't seen each other in years.

And I couldn't keep this young nice looking waiter off me.

What's a girl gonna do.

After we ate and visited....some of the cousins went to place on the beach called Shepherds where we danced, talked and some even had cocktails but that's about all I can say....some had too many cocktails and some even became really good friends with a guy named Jack...

I guess it's true for Florida too....

What happens in Florida stays in Florida!

The next day I stayed in...a little tired...yea...tired is a good word for it...then that evening me and this little guy spend the evening together while his mommy and daddy went into Tampa for a little gambling at the Hard Rock Casino and for dinner.

What better way to end the last night in Clearwater than to be with one of my favorite boys and this beautiful sunset.

Thank you to all my family that drove and came out to spend a little time with me.

I love you all

Florida and Family.... Part Two

2010-07-20T10:25:00.004-05:00

Today's post is our day on Friday.

After a little morning balcony time and getting dressed...Jenn, Paul. Liam and I headed down the street to Pier 60....we wanted to check it out...of course everything you read said it's a must see.

Going early also gave us the opportunity to see how wheelchair friendly it is since mom doesn't get around very good these days.

It's a pretty neat place if you have kids....here is Liam enjoy a swing ride....the also have all types of HUGE blow up bouncy things, water slides, bungee bounce and more...lots for kids to do. Liam loves to swing.

There were lots of volley ball and soccer games going on at the beach right at the pier.

Once we were done we went back to the hotel where Liam enjoyed another dip in the pool.

My brother came in around 4 from Jacksonville....so after visiting for awhile we all headed out to get a bite to eat and head back to the Pier. They had advertised that 2 hours before and after dusk they have vendors on the pier selling their homemade goods.

I forget the name of the restaurant ...it was nothing fancy but the food was good...well at least the Alaskan King Crab Jenn and I had...Yummy!

Here we were trying to keep Liam occupied before our came came...he tried a lemon....

sour face after biting into the lemon....

PRECIOUS!

Had to make another stop for Liam to get his swing in.

Along the pier....the sights were beautiful. My brother said this is an original Clearwater
hotel and is in all the postcards and such....it did make for a pretty picture.

Vendors and the crowd along the pier...sorry...they had nothing good to buy...bummer.

Then we headed back to the hotel to enjoy a beautiful sun set and visit

Well that is it for Thursday...wish I had more to report but so far it has been a very relaxing trip...I will post again later to sum up the rest of our trip.

Florida and Family....Part One

2010-07-19T22:10:00.006-05:00

Wednesday I took off for Florida with Jennifer and Liam.

The reason for the trip was to visit with my mom. I thought we'd make it a mini vacation and I rented a room at The Sandpearl resort on Clearwater Beach and brought my mom from Tampa to stay with us so she could have a little vacation as well. It was a beautiful 2 bedroom suite.

Liam had his own seat. I paid for Direct TV so he could watch some cartoons in hopes that would keep him occupied. In the picture below it looks like the cartoons are working. That's what they call....pictures are deceiving. Ha! Lots went on trying to keep him happy and keeping him from bothering the people in front of us in between the screams.

Finally he flew asleep....30 minutes before landing...it was a 2 hour flight nit counting the time we sat on the plane while people were boarding. He did fall asleep on Jenn but I ended up taking him.

I know...sweet baby!

Once off the plane we got the rental car and headed to the hotel to check in and grab some lunch.
Below is the view from one of 3 balconies we had.

And a view of the pool from the balcony.

We then headed to the grocery store...once back we got the groceries put up and we made the 40 minute drive to Tampa to get my mom. We got her and then stopped at the store so Jenn could get some toys for Liam.
Mom and I stayed in the car while Jenn went in.
When she came out I told her I thought the baby went potty. She got Liam out and layed him in the front seat. Next thing I knew she was gagging and saying mommy please...needless to say I had to get out and clean a messy mess...it was not pretty...and it was dark outside to boot.

Once we got Liam fixed we headed back to Clearwater but not before the GPS man took us on a little 15 minute detour of wanting us to turn right and there was no right. Finally got on the interstate and back to the hotel.

Next morning...this was the place to be...on the balcony enjoying some quite time...one of my favorite things to do.

Today was spent relaxing. We walked down the street and hot a couple of shops and came back cause it was so hot and I didn't want mom out in the heat for too long..
My cousin came and visited. We had lunch and talked for a few hours
Later we took Liam to the pool...he just loves water.

Late that evening Paul's flight got in....Jenn went and picked him up while I stayed behind to listen out for Liam.

So far the trip has been very relaxing...something I think I really needed.

More updates tomorrow.

On The Road Again

2010-07-13T12:56:00.002-05:00

Crazy...that is what my life seems to be at the moment...One Big Crazy!

I'm trying to get my house cleaned and get myself packed. Tomorrow I head for Florida to see my mom. Also planning a dinner so I can see other family members as well while I'm there. I will be staying on Clearwater Beach...I have to make this a mini vacation and stuck in Tampa (where my mom lives)....I'm bring her to the beach.

This trip I do not plan on bringing my lap top as I think I may be too busy to post and such....so once I'm back I will update you.

Still starting up a business....more on that as well.

To my lovely friend Fonda...regarding your blog challenge...all I can say is...I will try. And as far as the question...what does summer mean...at this very moment it means...Crazy and Hot!!!!

Enjoy your week.

Mourning A Sister In Law

2010-07-07T14:54:00.002-05:00

It is with great sadness that I write this today.

My sister in law Helen passed away last night.

She leaves behind her husband of 45 years, 3 wonderful children and 5 beautiful grandchildren.

My sister in law was a character as I'm sure we all are to those that love us...and loved she was. I am thankful to of been with her recently, laughing, talking and catching up...she will be missed.

You are loved my sister my friend.

Making A Comment

2010-07-01T07:44:00.002-05:00

I love comments so please feel free to make them whenever BUT if you haven't signed up for an account and leave a post as "anonymous" ...PLEASE write your name after the comment so I can see who you are regardless if I know you or not...It's nice ti know who is keeping up with your blog....Thanks and have a wonderful holiday weekend....we are wet here....still trying to decide if I'm gonna head to the beach house or not.

What A Week...Or 2

2010-06-29T14:02:00.005-05:00

*****UPDATE***** added at the bottom since original post was made*****

Crazy would be an under statement!

Besides my usual time with grandchildren....I have decided to start a business. It's time I try to do something and at my age and this time in my life hitting the pavement to try and find a job isn't that realistic. So...with the help of Jenn (finally getting some use out of that marketing degree we paid for) I have decided to open a gift, decor and more boutique.

At first we decided to go the route of home business based....do some big shows and home parties and test the waters but after going to market my thought was....maybe I need a store. Today we went and looked at a home that is used for commercial...thinking I may just lease it out and give it a shot. It would be easier than loading things up and tearing down for shows. Plus I like the idea of a home instead of a shopping strip. Plus the cost is lower. It's in the right place so i think it will do good....at least I hope it does.

I've always wanted to own my own little store....I guess that time is now.

This past week Jenn and I went to market in Dallas and had no idea what to expect. It was scary, fun and tiring. We hit it hard for 3 days and still needed more time. Now that we are getting ready to open a store we need to hit another market. We not only need more items but more items that will work in a store that wouldn't of worked in a show.

As the time gets closer I will share with you the name, the location and the types of items I'll be carrying...hoping you all will come and check it out.

This is a scary and exciting time in my life...wish me luck and keep me in your prayers.

I have a feeling this may cut into my travels some. May have to plan around market dates.

The the grand-babies and their parents are doing good....growing by leaps and bounds. Josh turned 22 yesterday...hard to believe. Time just keeps marching on.

Thinking about heading towards the beach this weekend. After this weekend it's gonna be full steam ahead. Want to have the store open in about 2 months if possible.... As I stated earlier......CRAZY!!!!!!

******UPDATE******

Looking into another place so may not be moving quite as quick....it's okay to take time...I wanna get this done right if I can....planning more market dates right now....I will keep you posted.

Blog Make-Over

2010-06-22T07:44:00.003-05:00

Last night I found a new background for the blog that matched the header and thought...let's do a blog make over....What a nightmare...Blogger has changed the way it use to be done and if anyone knows me...I don't like change! Nothing fit on the page right, things went in different order, couldn't get colors right...finally I was tired and needed to get to bed and just said....I'll worry about it later....so don't worry...when I get back in town I'll play around with it some more and maybe it won't be such an eye sore. I'm heading to Dallas, will share more about that later.
Enjoy your week.

Tayler Turns One

2010-06-10T19:04:00.004-05:00

Happy First Birthday Tayler

Born June 10, 2009 Miss Tayler in her birthday tutu..

I think she liked the strawberry birthday cake her mommy made...

she was so cute rubbing it all around her face...it doesn't look like it but she did eat some as well.

And trying to make sure no crumbs are left behind.

Happy Birthday my sweet grand-daughter

it's hard to believe a year has done by
I Love You!

All My Grand-Babies

2010-06-08T07:34:00.004-05:00

Beautiful... Beautiful... Beautiful

Here are ALL my grand-babies.

Liam who turned 1 the day after this picture was taken, Tayler who will be 1 in 2 days, Colton who is 3 1/2 and Hayden who is 1 1/2. The above picture we got while playing peek a boo...Tammy had the blanket and who raise and lower it and do peek a boo...they loved it though not everyone is looking this is by far the best picture we have been able to get of all 4 together...especially when they don't want to sit in place.

My 2 beautiful grand-daughters playing and

My 2 handsome grandsons playing in the pool.

All four loved playing in the pool together and did very well...no body got hurt, no body cried and not sure any body wanted out when it was time.
Grand-babies are just the
BEST!

Liam Turns One

2010-06-07T14:31:00.003-05:00

Happy 1st Birthday Liam! I went to Jenn's this morning to see Liam on his actual birthday

to sing him the birthday song and

to take him his birthday presents.

I think he likes the turtle sand box that will eventually find it's way outside.

this toy his daddy was putting together when I left.
Such a sweet little boy...hard to believe a year has gone by.
Love you Liam!

Happy Birthday Liam

2010-06-07T08:17:00.003-05:00

Happy 1st Birthday Liam

Born June 7, 2009 Wasn't crazy about his hat...he had a party yesterday....more pictures to come later.
Happy birthday special little boy...my how a year has flown by.

My Favorite Boys

2010-06-03T07:49:00.003-05:00

Last week I had Liam for 2 nights while Jenn and Paul went to Lake Charles to celebrate her birthday and their 5 year anniversary....Seems odd that my child had been married 5 years but what is really odd is that she's 27...what happened?

On the last day of Liam's stay Tammy dropped by for something and I met her outside so she didn't have to leave the kids in the truck or take them out.

Colton had already called during Liam's stay to come over and play but things were busy with Liam and Bailey (the dog) and having guys working on the yard....but when I opened his side of the door to give my baby a kiss he said....

Muggy (again, that's my grandma name he calls me) I want to stay at your house...I was like Muggy has things to do I don't know if I can take you home later.... again I hear, Muggy I just wanna stay at your house I don't like my house, I like your house... anyway, after a couple minutes I of course gave in, he knows at such a young age how to pull those heart strings. Saying no is very hard for me to do. So...we spent a lot of time in the playroom...did I tell you I love having a playroom in the house....best thing I did in the house was to make a playroom.
Above Colton coloring...something he loves to do...I wonder if he'll be an artist?

And above Cousins showing the love...it was cute...Colton would go to give Liam a kiss and Liam would take both hands to Colton's face and open his mouth wide as babies do for a big kiss but my camera would never flash quick enough to capture it....then Liam went from wanting to kiss to grabbing Colton's head and pulling hair...that was when affectionate time was over.

Then we played peek a boo and both boys were loving it...putting covers over the face and pulling down for peek a boo.

Love those boys!

Being a Grams (aka Muggy) is the BEST!!!!

Just wanted to update you on the babies...next I'll have some pictures of the girls.

Backyard Makeover

2010-06-01T10:04:00.006-05:00

Last week I had a backyard makeover ...when I bought the house the backyard was very plain. It had 2 small pine trees, about 5 shrubs in front of the living room (which I had Josh dig up and plant at his house since he had some bare areas in the front that needed a little something).

And then the patio. Which you can see by the picture below is somewhat closed in. My plan was to open it up so you could sit in a covered area and out in the open and be able to see from all directions instead of just straight. Here you get a better feel of how the original porch looked....and what is going to be added.
Concrete has been poured for the porch and flower beds dug out. Also had to have my sprinkler system
re- done a little to accommodate the new areas that need water.
Another look at the porch area

In this picture you can see the 2 pine trees I had...not very big and no shade at all...need a little shade when you sit outside.

It's starting to take some shape now...you can see the porch has color....I had the stamped concrete done...flower beds are starting to take shape though there are no flowers yet.

The pine trees have been replaced with Red Oaks...I love them so much...so pretty and full...I had 4 put in the back yard.

Another view

This is the side of the yard where if you came from the front gate to the back.

I had this area gated off as you can see from the right side.

My plan was to put Bailey here if I needed to go out and leave him out as I can't leave him a lone in the landscaped areas.

My other plan is to also maybe put a few outdoor play things in this area for the grand-babies. If I put them down by the gate area I would be able to watch from the porch.

I already have a kids size picnic table and slide, now I may get a sand box and playhouse.

This is a view of the other side of the house. Here I had the pine trees moved. I'm also thinking of putting another tree, but a shade tree....this is also another area that I can put Bailey in while gone.

The yard from the back side...there is a little bit of a flower bed area behind me.

Outside my bedroom window

Another side view ...I am still standing on my property...probably where I will put the outdoor play area for grand-babies...along with another tree for shade.

Standing on the new porch looking out to the side.

On the porch looking off to the other side.

Don't you like how that stamped concrete looks?

I love it....has such a clean look.

I also had a water fountain put in. Wasn't sure if I was gonna like it or not...but I'm so glad I went with it. If I had kids living at home not sure I would have so hopefully I can get grand-babies out of it.

When Colton saw it the first time he wanted the rocks around it.

Here is the water fountain lit up at night...still doesn't show how pretty it really looks.

If you see the extension cord...it's temporary...the electrician has to come out and run the power to the house where no wires show. He is suppose to be here tomorrow.

I also have lights in some of the trees and landscaping...looks pretty. Please come over and sit awhile....your welcome anytime.

Today the gutter man is coming out. The house only has gutters on the front so this is something I need done to keep my flower beds looking nice, no marks on the concrete and to keep the ground from getting nasty.

The yard is pretty much done except for some grass in areas they need to bring out and that should be tomorrow as well....now I just need to get my patio furniture moved from the garage back to the back and see if there is anything else I need.

Thanks for letting me share.

Sweet Little Girl

2010-05-18T07:08:00.004-05:00

Sunday I was going to watch Colton and Tayler for a few hours but Tammy's plans changed so it looked as though it was just gonna be a relaxing Sunday on the couch...then the phone rings and it's Josh with the question...are you busy today? A question that sometimes scares me.

My reply was .... Why?

Response: Jessy is at work and I wanna get some yard work done...I've done some but it's too hard keeping a eye on Hayden too. I then replied, bring her over.

Hayden is the one I see the least so I was excited to have a few hours with her.

Needless to say I got lots of love.
And we played lots in the playroom.
I have a 4 bedroom house and turning one of those rooms in to a playroom was a smart move.
It's a easy place to keep up with the grand-babies....especially the 2 that are crawling and starting to walk.

Jenn stopped by on her way home from church so she and Liam could see Hayden as well.
I just LOVE this picture of the 2 of them.
We were playing peek-a-boo and they were loving it...saw that this could be a good photo opt...so I did the blanket and peek-a-boo while Jenn snapped the picture.
Too Cute!

Love those grand-babies!

A Day Spent With A Friend

2010-05-17T07:43:00.004-05:00

Saturday Fonda and I headed out to Spring. We were both looking for items for the home. Not really sure we would find anything as the last time either one of us had gone we pretty much left empty handed. It started out a raining day but we were game to head out regardless.

I left my house around 8:30 and made it to Fonda's around 9:30 and off we were.

Another hour later we made it to Spring. It was raining but not too bad but enough to break out the umbrellas.

Our first stop...

I found lots of treasures in the store...so much so that after getting home I came to realize I think I need to go back for more.

We walked around a little more looking at all the different shops and not finding much in the way of purchase.

We then started feeling a little hungry and stopped for lunch at Ellen's Cafe and had a nice lunch and were back on the streets in no time.

After lunch it seemed as though we started finding treasures. not sure if the rain ending at that time had anything to do with or not...but Fonda found a table for her sitting room along with some other things and I found a few more things as well. I think Fonda discovered she wanted to go back for a few more things as well.

Before we knew it was 4:30 and we both thought...where did the time go...we had been out here all day.

So we headed to the vehicle so we could go back to the stores we had bought things from and pick them up. We came to find out that most stores close at 5 not at dark.

I have a Yukon and we barely got all our goods in...having the double stroller in the back that I took to the zoo a couple days earlier and forgot to take out didn't help the space issue any....but we managed.

Home we headed for. I got to see Fonda's table in her sitting room and I must say it looks good and I really like that table as well. So after about a 30 minute visit with her, Jim and Bri it was time for me to make my way home.

I made it home about the same time I left except it was PM and not AM.

I was wore out but a good day it was spent with my wonderful friend.

A Day At The Zoo

2010-05-16T10:45:00.006-05:00

Last Wednesday night I got a message from Jenn asking if I wanted to join her and Liam for a day at the zoo...I was watching Colton and Tayler the next day so we all went.

Here are the 3 loaded up and ready to walk to the zoo entrance. Colton and Jenn wanted to go and see the giraffes first. They both say they are their favorites.

Couldn't get Colton to turn around for a picture but still had to capture him with his favorite animal.

Liam with the elephants. Liam is into clapping these days so he was clapping his hands at the animals.
And Miss Tayler who is just the sweetest busy bee there ever was.

And Tayler again...enjoying the ride ...you had to keep moving or she wanted out...and she loved eating the little puff snacks too.

Liam...always a ham in front of the camera...something he gets from his mommy.

Colton loved looking at the birds...the one in cages and the ones that were just around the zoo...he would chase them when they would land to eat crumbs from the ground...so when we saw this bird he was willing to have his picture taken from the front side and not the back side.

All the kids seemed to like the flamingos, I think we stayed and watched them the longest.

It was a warm day at the zoo...the actual temperature wasn't so bad but the humidity was awful, like a sauna...guess I know how the summer is gonna be.

Once we were done with the zoo we headed to the vehicles to put strollers up and walk over to the train and take a train ride around Hermann Park. Colton can make the cutest train sound.

The kids loved the ride but Miss Tayler couldn't sit still for anything.

Below is Liam and Tayler

Then we got the kids in the cars and left...Tayler past out right away though she only slept for 20 minutes...waking up before we ever made it home.

Colton was tired but wanted to watch a movie so what Colton wants Colton gets...he was a happy camper.

Before heading home we went to pick up Bailey...he had been at Day Camp all day...after all he needed a fun day too.

Once home I finished watching the kids until Tammy was done with school...needless to say this Grams was tired. So, Tammy came and got Tayler and Colton stayed to spend the night.

After getting our showers done and eating dinner we were both tired.

I wanted to watch The Housewives of New York City so Colton and I laid in my bed...I watched my show and he watched a DVD on my computer with head phones.

He thought that was the coolest thing.

After our shows we called it a night but Bailey passed out first. Apparently he had too much play at Day Camp.

Day 6.... The End of My Canadian Adventure

2010-05-14T15:09:00.007-05:00

We woke up early to the alarm...about 6:30 am...cleaned up and finished last minute packing...called to the front desk to do a quick check out...called for the car...loaded the car and headed back to the states.

Destination... Randolph, New York about an hour and a half outside of Buffalo.

Why Randolph, New York?

THE AMISH I have never seen them except for actors on TV playing the role and was just so curious to see them and how they live. Let me say this was just

AWESOME

And being so close, I just had to go. The above picture is of the first Amish we saw. Now mind you we had been driving for awhile in what appeared to be back country roads, though they were paved. Not having a clue where we were and relying on the GPS lady to get us to where we needed to be.

All of a sudden we saw a Amish man working in his yard and he had the cutest little girl standing in the yard watching him...she had on her blue dress and her straw bonnet, she looked to be about 4.

So we turned around to try and take her picture.

Now mind you the Amish frown upon pictures, having something to do with their faith. So trying to be respectful while still breaking the rules we just took pictures while driving by.

So the first picture I got was the dad working and on the second drive by...nothing...it was my cue that it wasn't meant to be. It's hard taking pictures in a moving vehicle and focusing in on a target.
Above this young man was in the road...here you share the road with The Amish...he waved us to pass him and turned to be friendly and even when he saw the camera he still was friendly...that usually is not the case...maybe him being young had something to do with it.

Amish laundry in the front yard.

Then this couple .... we passed them on the country road. At first I thought maybe they tried to turn their heads from the camera but I actually think they were already turned before I put camera up cause the wind was so strong and it was so cold out.

I think this picture will be blown up and will find it's place in my office among all my other travel mementos.

When we made it into the small town where there are modern convinces we saw so many buggy's...at the hardware store, grocery store and even the gas station. This couple pulled up to the gas tanks but they were not here for gasoline...they were here for kerosene...not that I would need oil for lamp but how cool is that.
Here is where we stopped to go into a so called store of an Amish...this is on their property and they make homemade goods and sell them on Friday and Saturday.
There was a woman and her 2 daughters working inside and it was cold.
Here I bought a cook book and we bought some homemade candy...it was good and not real sweet tasting...wish I would of bought more.,,but I wanted to see them up close and talk to them as well.

And below is the home of where we stopped to by goods.

We decided to go out a different direction from where he had come from when we planned to stop at the Amish house for goods. So glad we did...we saw more country side that was beautiful and found many working fields...here we saw a man and his son working the land. They were friendly and waved. I had the camera hidden and from the distance I don't think he saw it.
They say that the Amish are very friendly but if they see a camera they won't talk to you.

Just so cool to be driving down the open road and up in front coming towards you is a horse and buggy.

It's a whole different world.

Just a random picture of an Amish home.

You could tell who's homes were Amish and those that weren't by weather they had horse and buggy in the yard or barn or if they had a car in the yard or garage and those who had electricity and those who didn't.
There are regular folks living among the Amish...they must love the country too but with modern conveniences.
I have more pictures but already had to condense it down for the blog.

This ends our trip. After we were done driving the road from one end and back (about 20 miles each way) we headed towards the Buffalo airport...checked bags in and then returned rental car. Went through security, then stopped and had lunch...Buffalo hot wings...after all, we were in Buffalo.

Then it was time for my cousin to get on her flight and then I had about an hour until mine.

I must say...it was a wonderful trip...had a blast...saw and did lots of cool things ...but mostly enjoyed spending time with my cousin whom I don't see that often and having some good girl time as we did when we were younger.

So looking forward to our next trip.

Thanks for a wonderful time my dear cousin.

And the Amish rock!

Day 5....(More to the story)

2010-05-14T13:03:00.005-05:00

How could I forget?????

After going up the CN Tower we went through the gift shop.

I was in search for a hat...

a Royal Canadian Mounty Police hat.

Since day one arriving in Canada, every gift shop I passed I went in looking for that hat...of course no hate was to be found.

For those of you that know every detail of my travels...since Colton was a baby I have gotten him a hat from just about every place I've been that has represented that country, state or city...so I figured Canada would be a piece of cake....

NOT!!!

So I went through the gift shop and no hat...so I decided to look one more time and I came across an area that had napkins and cards that had pictures of the Canadian Police and such on them and thought....how can they have this and no hat...about that time I turned around and there they were...5 hats in a cube like thing close to floor as though they were hiding...but I found it and was so happy.

So between finding the hat and the food in China Town it made the trip to Toronto worth it. How could of forgotten the story about the hat?

That's all I could talk about ALL day!

Day 5 of My Canadian Adventure

2010-05-14T11:25:00.005-05:00

Today our travels were going to take us to Toronto. It was about an hour and a half drive away.

This was the first time on our trip we had set the alarm.

We weren't sure what laid ahead so we wanted to make sure we had plenty of time.

While getting ready we opened our balcony door as we did every morning getting ready so we could let the day in and hear the sounds of the falls in the background.

It wasn't long after we heard the sounds of music...wait...I know that sound...

Is That Elvis? Yes...it was Elvis... or more like 7 of them (only 6 in the picture) representing a different era. Some sounded good and some not so much...still not as good as the real thing but it was a nice way to start the day.
Then we headed to Toronto...as we pulled into the city...downtown was our destination ...we saw this huge needle looking thing along with lots of building....downtown is huge.

Once parking our destination was the CN Tower....read lots of reviews that it is a must have and shows wonderful views of the city. I thought it was from up top a building...no, it was the needle looking structure.
It is taller than The Empire State Building in NYC by a couple hundred feet. We went to the first observation floor which is the big round thing and then up a little further to the smaller round thing you see in the picture. It was high but the picture below was the most freaky thing.
It is what they call the glass floor and you can stand on it and look below...it is on the first observation deck.
I couldn't believe all the people standing on it and looking down...my thoughts were...what if it broke from all these people everyday standing on it...so I'm standing off the glass and sticking arm out to take the picture.
I know over a thousand feet in the sky and I'm afraid to stand on the looking glass.
And a view looking out to the river

Once we were done with the CN Tower we headed by foot to China Town.

It should of been a beautiful walk but when we came out of the tower it had started to rain and a cold front was moving in....something we were not prepared for as we were in light capris and flip flops.

We also stopped and bought umbrellas which helped with our walk...our clothes were dry but our feet were wet and cold.

We made it to China Town and it was different. I've been to 2 China Towns...New York City and San Francisco and by far San Francisco wins hands down. I just really wasn't that impressed with Toronto's and was a little let down cause everyone we talked to while in Canada said to go. I'm hoping it was just the rain that made it that way but I'm thinking not.

After walking around and seeing the sights we stopped at a small Chinese restaurant to have lunch...it was a nice little place...at the back table there was a lady that was peeling vegetables and such right in the open...different but also kind of cool. The food was good, some of the best Chinese food I've had and it was the best meal we had on our trip. The food was worth the trip to Toronto.

We decided to head back towards the car but this time we got a ride instead of walking back cause it was even colder...temps were steadily dropping and winds getting even stronger.

It was a little after 4 and traffic had already set in so we decided to have a couple drinks at this place

right outside our parking garage and visit and wait for traffic to die down some.

We left a little before 6 and on and off encountered traffic with people coming in and out of the city for the weekend.

Once we made it back to the Niagara region we went to our room and relaxed, talked and then packed as our trip was nearing the end...we both had flights leaving late afternoon and early evening from Buffalo the following day,

Plus it was freezing outside...it was cold and the winds were like 30 miles an hour so outside was not the place to be.

It was then time for bed as we needed to wake up by an alarm again and get an early start...we were in search for something before we had to head to the airport to make our trip complete.

Stay tuned for Day 6.

Day 4 of My Canadian Adventure

2010-05-12T16:50:00.005-05:00

Just let me warn you...this day was a busy day so there were lots of pictures to choose from.

I picked, re-picked, scratched off and re-scratched off the list of what pictures to post and this was the best I could do...sorry...but I know you'll enjoy looking at them. Today we headed out with Lonnie's (my cousin) family and did The Maid of The Mist.

This is where the boat takes you to get up close and personal with The Horseshoe Falls.

They give you pretty blue rain coats to help keep you dry.

As you can see, blue is our color.

Below is entering the falls area with all the mist and water coming from the falls....it actually feels like you are standing in the middle of a rain storm. Only one word can really describe it....

AWESOME!!!

After the" MOTM" we headed down to do The Journey Behind The Falls...it really wasn't that much...I would recommend The Cave of The Winds and Maid of The Mist...skip the Journey...but the walk over was wonderful...getting more pictures of the falls and scenery.

Below is what I call a Christmas Tree...I just love seeing trees like this grow ...to me this is not normal ...but oh so beautiful. I would love to have Christmas trees in my yard year round.

While walking along the falls, looking down this is the boat that takes you into the falls...so this is what we did earlier, just a different view and...I'm not on the boat.

again....AWESOME!!!!

Once you get out of this frame it is nice and sunny.

And another picture of Horseshoe Falls....Beautiful.

The trees and flowers were in bloom and it was just gorgeous...and yes Fonda I thought about you again when seeing all this beauty and taking pictures of it.

After we were done at the falls we headed by car about 10 minutes up the lake to do a Aero Ride...what is a Aero Ride? Well, see below...you get in this metal basket and it takes you across the river and back on a gable wire. Yes...a little freaky...what's up with this trip...usually I have stairs galore to deal with...this time everything dealt with heights. Not a big fan of heights.

So after we get there with our pre-paid tickets we are informed that the wind is too strong and we have to wait for it to die down....Ummm...not a good sign.

So we waited about 30 minutes and then it was time to get on.

Yes, it was a freaky ride but fun but with the wind it was freezing.

Here is Lonnie and myself going across the river about 175 feet in the air.

Then we all loaded back up in our vehicles and headed towards a town called Niagara On The Lake to have lunch. Along the way we stopped to take a picture of the floral clock. It's a working clock and filled in with flowers. It was cool to see but not if you made the drive just to see that....good thing we had other things to see.

Then we stopped to take a picture of the littlest church. This was really cool. You would think you couldn't get in it but you can...there is a alter area and benches on the side....I think you could put 10 smaller people inside for a service. It was built in 1969.

Homes along our drive....with Christmas trees in the yard....this was a nice area.

Did I mention I love Christmas trees in the yard.

Then we made it to the town of Niagara On The Lake...It's a historic town....beautiful.

We had lunch first and then we went into shops and did wine tasting.

They have something called Ice Wine and it is wonderful and I'm not a wine drinker.

If you don't know about Ice Wine I will share with you once I open the bottle and have a glass...in other words, I will blog about it later.

And more beautiful flowers...I love these colors.

After we were done Lonnie and I headed to Buffalo, New York to take her girls and their dad to the airport to catch their flight back to Tampa.

Once we got back into Canada we headed to a HUGE gift shop that we had past heading back towards the border and our hotel. I was in search of something I had not been able to find so far and thought surely this place has got to have it...It's HUGE...

But NO they did not have it...but it was still a cool place.

Outside in different areas they had things that were huge that resembled souvenirs...a plate, spoons, animals and this photo frame.

That's me standing inside a replica of a souvenir frame...now how cool is that. At least I thought it was cool, even though I did not find the souvenir I was in search of.

After that we headed back to the hotel...relaxed a little and then headed out and ended the night bowling.

It was a very good day in Canada.

Day 3 of My Canadian Adventure

2010-05-11T15:54:00.005-05:00

On my third day in Niagara Falls I attended a wedding.

I think of myself as the wedding crasher.

My cousins daughter Christina got married and that was her reason for making the trip to Canada.

I then saw she was going and wanted to go and so arrangements were made for my cousin to extend her time in Canada where we could make a fun vacation out of it.

And a fun time we did have.

Below is my cousin Lonnie with her eldest daughter Christina. It was a small ceremony in her room with her mom,2 sisters, her father and myself in attendance.

After the ceremony we all went outside to the courtyard park like setting for them to take their pictures.

Below is a picture looking out.

It was so awesome to just look out in lots of directions and see The Falls. Here is my cousin and myself....Falls in the background.

And Tulips were everywhere....they were beautiful and every time I saw them and took pictures of them I thought of my friend Fonda....I knew she would of just loved all the beautiful flowers and trees I saw on this trip.

And another picture in a area of this park like setting courtyard.

After the ceremony and pictures...we all went upstairs to change and get comfortable for dinner. We soon found out that dining room in the hotel did not open until 5...it was 3...so some relaxed in their rooms (us being one) and some walked around...we met up at 5 for dinner.

Had a lot of fun and laughs.

It was raining a little and we had talked about going walking.

I think I remember saying I wasn't going walking in the rain.

Well, not soon after we headed out, it rained...that should of been my first clue....so I stayed with everyone...we even bought rain ponchos with Canadian leaves on them.

The more we walked the more it rain and then the lightning started.

If you know me I'm not a big fan of the lightning.

We finally found our way into the casino and then to find our way out to the mail street to try and head back to the hotel.

We took the scenic route for some reason.

After rain, being wet, screaming from lightning and getting splashed by passing cars and being cold we finally made it back to the hotel were we all departed into our own rooms.

It was still a fun night...sorry there are no pictures to document the night but with the rain I didn't want my camera getting wet and of course the water camera was back at the hotel seeing that I wasn't going to go walking in the rain.

Day Two of My Canadian Adventure

2010-05-10T15:23:00.005-05:00

Tuesday was spent visiting The Falls.

We got up and walked across the border to the American side to do a tour called

Cave of the Winds.

The walk looked further than it was and we had lots of opportunity for great photos.

Here I am with my cousin Lonnie as we walked across

The Rainbow Bridge

to get to the American side. This is the border line between the United States and Canada
This is a look out point looking down and to the sides of the Falls.
Pictures just don't capture it's beauty nor the sound of the rushing water.

If you look closely you can see a rainbow down below in the mist of the falls, if you click on the picture and make the picture bigger you can see the rainbow better.

In the back ground across the lake you can see The Sheraton where we stayed...as you can tell the view is much better from the Canadian side.

And here I am doing our walk of the Cave of The winds.

I must say this was

AWESOME!!!!

You walk up different levels of stairs that were built along the edge of the falls...

you get to climb up and feel the rushing water, the winds get stronger and stronger, the water is freezing.

It was one of the best things I have ever done.

The picture below is pretty much the calm before the storm.

They give you these yellow rain coats which aren't flattering but help keep you dry cause you do get wet and some rubber sandals...which I kept to take to the beach house.

After our tour we went and had lunch at The Hard Rock and then headed back across the border.

We relaxed a little and then went and had dinner at The Rainbow Room next door.

It wasn't bad but for the price and type of place it was, it could of been better but I don't think they really care about the food.

As you can tell we had the most excellent view.

After dinner we headed to the room and this was our view....the falls lit up in color. We talked and then hit the hay.

It was a wonderful beautiful day.

I would love to share ALL my pictures with you as there are many but just not enough room in this blog. I already had to go back twice and cut some out as to not make the post too long.

Tune in tomorrow for Day 3.