do what?

My trombone player- the future Parkside band member.

Jakob just had his first concert Thursday and he did a great job. He played the trombone all year and was hesitant to rejoin for 7th grade- but since the concert he has decided to continue on.

what's new?

Not a whole lot to report.....

Steve got off to camp on Monday- must have survived last night's storm- no calls.

Jake went back to school- still pretty tired- off to bed everynight waaay before bedtime.

Koda started his bands for braces- they started with just the back bands. Back on the 30th to get the rest? things are so different since when I had braces. (no, they were not made of slate as my kids asked!)

Steve Sr survived his 40th birthday.

Riley OH MY- I think she is going through the terrible twos. If there is something to get into she finds it....a royal stinker!! Tonight she got in my purse when I was in the kitchen and stole a CHECK! one I had voided, thankfully- BUT STILL. She loves the blowdryer...she runs when she hears it turn on and stands nearby on her hind feet- she loves it when you blow dry her belly.....ahhh warm! She has been sneaking out of the gate- so now she has to be a prisoner of a cable tie out! We tried to block every hole we could see and she still gets out- so the cable it is. Howver, now she sneaks out with the cable on and then is STUCK! Ugh, I cannot imagine starting over with kids at my age...she drives me nuts!!

ME I am looking forward to my weekend. A scrapbook day at Beth's- sounds so relaxing and fun. Love hanging out with you girls.....be inspired by all the craftiness.

Off to do some laundry- anxious to catch AI tonight- beth I do think 'your girl' will take it away- but last night I did vote- a couple times.....first time I actually voted...lol have you?

Happy day

Happy Mother's Day- my friends.
Hope everyone was able to enjoy a little R & R or even better- some royal treatment.

Had to share a couple cute shots I took today.

Busy Monday ahead of us .....

Koda get his braces on.
Jake goes back to school after his week off.
Steve heads off to camp in Battle Creek for one week.

Oh what a relaxing shot of Koda. Hammock, sunshine and jammin to his ipod w/ earbuds in.

I ran wild all day today getting everyone ready for the new week. Packing for Steve being away for a week.

Steve's 40th bday was cool. He said thank you to all for the wishes :-)

We spent the day running and shopping. Had pizza here with the kids, then went to the 740pm movie to see Delta Farce. It was ok, funny but not hilarious. We were home by 10 and then had his cake and ice cream. :-)

she has my eyes........

What a beautiful baby girl.















LOL my baby went to the groomer today. She has beautiful bows and a new haircut. Too cute.

Update about Jake- doing much better today. However, we still have low grade fevers. He will get a whole week off school- and we will not be going north for Steve's 40th bday nor Mother's Day! but that's ok and everyone appreciates us keeping our cooties at home. lol

Like Beth, I too kept just the complimentary 8x10 from our glamour shots photoshoot. Have to say, it was fun to do BUT the pics are waaaay tooo rich for my budget. Let me see about getting it on here.

Returned to work today- ICK!!! and I stayed until 530 to try to catch up....and I am going to work Sat 8am - noon. ICK again.

Then it will be Steve's day! Not sure what he has decided to go do yet....

they're back

The darn fevers returned last night! 103.8 and they have gone all the way down to 100.2 this morning. 4th day of fevers. Yep, and day three I am home and we are calling the dr this morning. UGH.
The poor kid was felling so much better yesterday then BAM! the fevers returned and wiped him out!

Our anniversary was nice. 14 yrs. Steve brought me flowers and a sweet card after work. He grilled steaks and helped me lay some of that flower stuff out in front of the porch- it is a butterfly mix. Let's hope it blooms- it says 1-3 weeks.

Raining today- inside projects for the stay at home mom. Unless, we are running all over or the worst fear comes true- an admission.

Big plans for the BIG 4-0 man. Turns 40 on Sat and we are supposed to go north and bet on the ponies. :-) The track up north will close after this year so Steve wants to go give it a try!! Then dinner with Mom on Sunday!!

Keep us in our prayers....we need that fever to go away for good. Have a great Wednesday.

YEAH

Jake's fever broke this morning. 6am it was 103.2 and at 8am it was at 97.9. Let's hope it stays there today!! maybe the meds are finally working. he also mentioned food for the first time - a hunger pain!! that's a great sign.

Hope everyone is having a great Tuesday.

Manic Monday Part Deux

Oh my- here's the update-----

1030am appt with the dr- paid 15.00 copay to hear the dreaded " I really feel this is just a virus, if any more symptoms appear please bring him back." left with him still burning a 101+ temp with Advil and Tylenol in him.

1200 pm- the triage nurse called to check on the fevers - took it while I was on the phone with her- 105.2- she said "Let me call you right back, I am going to consult with the dr." Called back and said "I know you won't like this much but with those fevers he needs to go to the ER and have another dr check him over."

Spent a few hours there with an IV, lab draws, eye drops and an xray. Grand finale- PNEMONIA and PINK EYE!

7pm- temp is 103.9 with drugs and taking antibiotics and eye drops.

Hoping for some sleep soon.

Just another Manic Monday

First a weekend update- then the manic Monday-

Happy Birthday to Steve II- 11 yrs old on 5.5.07

We had a great trip up north- the kids had a lot of fun. We watched the West Michigan Whitecaps play Sat night- brr, it was chilly- but they won. The kids got autographs from Chris Cody who was a draft pick (8the round, I think) for the Tigers. Did you know that Brandon Inge played for the Whitecaps before he became a Tiger? YEP! Cool game, loads of fun.

Steve got his DS Lite he had been longing for. This past year he has been really enjoying video games more than ever before....so for the past 4-5 mos that is all we heard about how he would love to have a DS so he could play too. LOL and now he has enough $$ to buy a game or accessory too. My sil, Barb, loves to have fun with the kids- here is a pic of what she spent her time doing the other day....

$$ FOOTBALLS !!

All in all a great weekend.

Manic Monday- actually started with a crazy Sunday night. Jakob started running a wild temp about an hour after we got home. Acting totally crazy- he fell asleep then woke up talking about a GIANT CHEETO and kept asking who is here, and his skin and the whites of his eyes were bright RED !! Took his temp - 104.2. Yep that's my Jake....the high temp kid. When he was younger he used to have the seizures from high fevers. So I started the Tylenol/ Motrin alternating schedule last night and my mommy instincts woke me about every 2 hrs like clockwork and I checked him- ALAS this morning he just broke the fever and is / or was at 98.9. Through the night we ranged from 102.9- 104.9. I believe it is a sinus infection.....Mom is home today with the fevering kid and off for a 1030am appt with the pediatrician. Did you know that Meijer does free antibiotics? hmm, I love free. lol

Sorry Beth, I am really hoping nothing that we could have passed on....the boys are wanting to come back soon....Brad wanted to come here for a couple hours before I took them home, so we promised maybe in 2 weeks they can both come stay overnight.

So besides a sick kid and an appt...I plan to make some huge dents in laundry and housecleaning that is all way overdue. I cleaned out dressers last night until bed time and have been packing up the winter clothes, sorting out what we will not need....sounds like we need to have a yard sale. the boys have really been wanting to have one...maybe we will let them host it and then we can work out a deal for the $$ earned. hmm- sounds like more work...LOL

Hope everyone has a great Monday.

busy busy

Still focused on losing the fluff....have been so busy only made it to the gym 2x this week- for this I am bummed but....start again with next week.

Off for the birtday weekend....taking off tomorrow morning with Brad and Cory coming with us. Love adding these two- they are so darn good and they keep all of mine from fighting and truly are both a lot of fun to have along....and my family just loves them!! Dad could not get over Cory's manners when he came up the first time....and Cory thanked him and gave him a hug before we left alongside my boys. melted Grandpa's heart.
West Michigan Whitecaps game tomorrow at 630 - cookout at 3 at my dad's - Lake Michigan in the morning before we come home. Thinking I would love to walk the beach and take some pics. We are way over due for some fun snapshots!!

My total BIG treat for this week....before the baseball game...lol

2 Dove dark chocolates...... and I love the little quotes inside.

"there's no excuse not to dream" and "Naughty can be nice."

better scoot and get off to work.

RAK slacker

It is April 30th and I must admit - I am a Rak slacker.

Jill- can you ever forgive me? I will give you the choice....I have it - shall I mail it tomorrow or have Beth bring it your way on Sat?
Please do not kick me out of the Rak-ing fun. I promise to do better next time....I pink swear!



I got my RAK today.....will post pics of my two RAKs later. Thank you Beth. and the lasagne was yummy!! Thank you. They loved it even more when I told them in was venison lasagne. lol MEN!

what a weekend

Time flies when you work 12 days in 2 weeks.

Beth and I went and did a Glamour Shots photo shoot Friday night- and it was a lot of FUN! They cake you up with tons of makeup, style your hair and take some very seductive, yet glamorous shots. The gal that 'hoochied' you up- was funny at first then she became very annoying....quite the storyteller. I cannot wait to see the pics when they come back.

Worked Sat, went on a food run, and then for a new hair-do. Quite different I must say....more than one color of highlights and a new shorter cut!! I am a guinea pig for a hairstylist I trust and like....so she mentioned a new idea she had for me and I said 'Have at it!' Believe it or not Steve said he liked it? not the norm, usually when I change or go shorter I get a head nod. LOL

Today- the boys are off with Steve's dad to explore out in the Waterloo area. Steve and I are heading off to get some tomato and pepper plants to add to our garden. Hungry? stop by in a few - we have planted cantaloupe, watermelon, banana peppers, green beans, and adding in green peppers and tomatoes. Seems like I may have missed something? I will have to ask the planter.

Just checking in......hope you all enjoyed our warm weekend.

almost the weekend

Rain rain go away!!

We are ready for more sunshine.

The rain makes for gloomy days and attitudes.

I joined the gym...one step closer to getting a little less FLUFFY.

hmmm, ponder it

"It isn't what you have, or who you are, or where you are, or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about. - Dale Carnegie(1888-1955) American Educator

Feeling like Eeyore

My little black rain cloud is chasing me.....hope this weekends' sunny forecast will chase the blues away!

Friday morning---

7am Jake started the van without disabling the alarm-

720am -we went out to load up for school- OOPS! the doors are locked and they tell me AFTER I lock the house door behind me. Is this really Friday?

725am Now what? I am in shock- it is after the time we normally leave and we are locked OUTSIDE! and it is chilly. CELL PHONE! and I remember Jake has a house key in his backpack so we can get back inside.

I call Steve and my knight in the silver truck comes flying home - only for us to learn he has lost his set of keys? WHAT?

Yep, he took off to take the kids to school and head back to work, as he was on the clock.

Me? Van still running in the driveway- and I thank my stars that we have AAA - call Jimmies towing. We will be there ASAP, Mrs. Barton.

And he was- Greg was there before 8am and I was at work by 815am!

BUT my day was not an eventful one. Seemed it was just one startling news break followed by another...

I want to go back to bed and start over....please...tell me this is just a BAD dream not a whole BAD DAY!!

So- happy to report I made it through the day....and I worked 4 hrs today, took Riley in for her check up and shots, and now a little R&R

Happy day

Guilty

Is this a pitiful face or what? She just had a bath last night....and now look.....muddy nose, paws and EWWWW just a dirty little girl !!

She knew when she came in I was going to be disappointed...she came inside, and tried to hide doing the military crawl...eventually she ran back out and was hiding by the shed.....and Jake found her and snapped this. I called her back in....Steve II was in the tub and she tried to join him. LOL

Spent the weekend on the road....drove up Sat morning to my dad's. Left for Allegan to go my nephew's wedding...it was beautiful- the kids looked wonderful and so did my brother and sis in law!

...then up early Sunday with Riley and made a huge breakfast for all...biscuits, gravy, scrambled eggs, bacon, hashbrowns, strawberries and pineapple - and OJ. .......back on the road home before noon...Red Wings playoff game, Tigers game and Nascar race all at 1pm. Unpacked, back in the van to get groceries! lol

I am recovering today! lol

xtra xtra awesome

news....
Dad went to the doctor yesterday....they removed the catheter and decided that they would do a biopsy again in 90 days! HOORAY! His Cancer counts did not go up, his urine retention was very small and his overall exam was great!
Oh my did his attitude change...now he is my spunky, mouthy dad!!
Thanks for all the prayers - this by no means is a clean bill of health but an awesome trail to start on!!

*************************************************************************

Beth and I went to lunch today....always great conversation, a stop at Family Dollar for cleaning products for Beth's fairy and myself. Found the trash can Dad has been searching for....and wee little rubber bands for my baby girls' ...see below....

Yep! her brothers let me do their hair too.....a combination of Sanjaya wanna be's and supporting their sister...you pick....juts plain NUTS I think.

Glad the weekend in nearing- defintely needing the break. Heading north Sat for my nephew's wedding.

Have a great weekend.

artists

Happy Easter from the Barton Crew!!

My Easter egg artists























And one happy little girl.....the Easter bunny brought her a bumble ball....and she loves it. Growls, barks and chases it all over.....too funny!!

The grand finale

for spring break this year? SNOW!



The boys had an awesome week....they saw 2 movies and were spoiled rotten!! Steve and I are heading up this afternoon to free my dad....lol. Brave man had 4 grandkids since Sunday...just him. They have fun together and it keeps him busy and his mind off from the obstacles in his life.
Steve and I did not get much done here- we worked all week and ate lightly. It is amazing at how simple we can eat with just 2 of us. and no eating take out!!
Must finish packing....we are only staying overnight unless Mother Nature holds us captive in Spring lake.

Who says.......

......... dogs don't play baseketball or jump on the trampoline? Riley loves to run, jump and play with her big brothers. Her new favorite spot to be is OUTDOORS. She loves to lay on the bottom of Jake's portable basketball hoop.

Here it is spring break....and the boys have run off. My dad is in dire need of something to keep him busy- so he asked to take the boys. Could I say no? NO way....and my Mom is home (HOORAY and I have talked to her EVERY day since!!) so they will get to go see her too.

Steve and I are taking care of Buck, Emma and McGuire. (beth and kyle's dogs for just a couple days until Koda returns- hated to have him miss the time with his G & G!!)

Been raining here off on for a couple of days....YUCK!

Hope that you are all enjoying the sun- Jill hope you are adjusting well to hvaing 4 instead of 2!

My first 'monthly kit' came yesterday....I was so excited, could not wait to open the box!! I joined at http://www.creatingpages.biz/ , it is $18 a month and you can opt out for up to 3 mos in a row if you would want to. I liked this one for a starter for me. Kind of cool stuff I can see myself using. Some of the other kits....like some of you advanced scrappers get :-)...those papers blow my mind!! LOL Hoping my new kits will inspire me to get caught up!

Know what's scary? the other day I was mail order crazed...I ordered the kit, Pro Activ for Koda- he has been suggesting he would like to try it since we have been going to the dermatologist and not getting the best results...HEY if it worked for Brittany and Carrie Underwood....we will give it a whirl....and THEN I placed a LTD order too. Help take away my VISA! LOL ok maybe it wasn't the pipe replacement that ate my checking acct up last week....it was my spending!!

Back to behaving with my pennies.....the BIG month of May is approaching fast!

• May 5 - Steve II bday (party $)


• May 8- 14 yrs of wedded bliss


• May 12- Steve Sr turns 40 !!


• May 13- Mother's Day


• May 14- Steve II leaves for camp for one whole week...alone. ($140)

For my friends that are enjoying the spring break with a sunny getaway this year - Have fun, be careful and I will waiting to hear all about the fun and see those pics/ layouts!!

For the others stuck here in MI- let's hope for some balmy days here!! Steve Sr and I both have Good Friday off...so we are trying to plan a little something for fun to do with the boys before their break is over. (Have to take Gram to Eaton Rapids for her girl outing with her old friends from grade school that Sat so we will not go far from home!!) Thinking maybe a Lugnuts or Whitecaps game? I am off to look for tix!! :-)

Updates- Gram seems to be doing much better- Dad has his days, truly I think he needs to move closer to me so I can help him and he can stay busy chasing the grand-boys!! I just need a BIG house with property so I can move them all closer!! Steve's dad is also having some health issues so we have just been busy caring for family....Bob went to have a procedure last week and they stopped mid way due to some issues with his heart and now he has to see the cardiologist and get that fixed before he can go back for the other trouble....wow, can I stay in my 30s??

My Mom is coming home...HOORAY! She is a snowbird from November to April every year- with her trac fone in tote- our lengthy chats are not possible. This year she had her laptop and wi-fi so emailing was fun....and she checks in here. I just cannot wait to see her - my mom is such a strength for me, I've missed her terribly this year.

and before I could close tonight I had to share my "Flying Puppy' shot. She loves the outdoors and she thinks she is a huge, rough, tough dog on HER side of the fenced in yard! and oh does she love to RUN and chase the boys or play with a ball or frisbee. (or find the burrs from the neighbors yard!!) tonight she was a mess again...dirty little girl with burr in her fur!! Jake said she is a tomboy puppy when she is outside and with her brothers and a girlie girl with mom!! Too funny.

She is just like a kid...changing so much already!! She started black and tan and is turning blue and tan (a silver like they call blue) just like her mom and dad!!

Good night

What a day

• Work load was a lighter yesterday
• Beth and I went to lunch we grabbed Subway then parked at Nixon and enjoyed the sunshine and the gabby girl chat and giggles
• Beth made beef n noodles for us for dinner last night.....YUM! it is all gone...the whole pan
• A.I. was on....and I laughed so hard I almost wet myself when I saw Sanjah's hair do.
• Dancing w/ the Stars was on too.....wow, it was a great tv night for me. I was not sad to see the couple go that did.
• It was 79 yesterday!! Jackson made a new record.

today turned out A-OK

The weather is so nice outside...hate to be sitting here in front of the puter, but I owe you all an update

1. Gram's appointment went GREAT! The diagnosis did NOT include the 'c' word....something she will need to treat fro 3 mos with multiple Rxs and go back for a re-check in June.
2. I got a great card in the mail today from a great friend
3. Got dinner to the Hamlin's this morning before they all left for the day
4. The neighbor brought MY DOG back when the boys left her outside and she found her way out into the front yard !! (while I was with Gram. Steve told them all 3 that if she ever gets lost or hurt they better pack quick because they will all need to leave before mom gets home!!) hmmm, got them all thinking huh? what were they thinking letting my 5 lb puppy outside unattended....she is small enough to crawl though anything!!

Steve and the boys are screaming for icecream....off to the Frosty Boy

Monday again??

<<<<>

This was on my van...and an awesome pick me up!! The quotes are great and it is beautiful. Thank you Beth!

















Just a quick shot of my 4 growing kids...yep, all a little shaggy - haircuts not mandatory right now. However, even shaggy I think they are CUTE as can be...










Playing with Photshop- wow, love the hair!!














Love this one....she loves to try to play frisbee with the boys!!

Off to watch Dancing with the Stars!!

Luck O the Irish to you all!

Happy St. Patty's Day to all of you!!

Irish Proverbs

A soft answer turns away anger.

Both your friend and your enemy think that you will never die.

The mouth that speaks is not as sweet to hear.

A friends eye is a good mirror.

The older the fiddle the sweeter the tune.

You'll never plough a field by turning it over In your mind.

It's no use boiling your cabbage twice.

Gods help is nearer than the door.

You cant' take blood from a stone.

If you lie with dogs you'll rise with fleas.

Neither give cherries to pigs nor advice to fools.

The longest road out is the shortest road home.

May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow,

And may trouble avoid you wherever you go.

May the road rise up to meet you,

May the wind be always at your back,

May the sun shine down upon your face,

And the rain fall soft upon your fields,

Until we meet again,

May God hold you in the hollow of his hand.

-Irish Blessing

Yes, I am IRISH- with a maiden name like McKessy and a red head son? LOL

Just a plain old busy Saturday here. Started out as I was very grouchy....I got some ugly news yesterday about my dad's surgery, I worked until 7 last night, then stayed up til midnight working on our computer and laundry, Riley woke me up a 3am to potty and then she was buck wild at 6am. I finally talked Steve into getting up with her and I stayed and slept till 9. I woke up feeling MUCH better. Thank goodness, I almost could NOT stand myself.

My dad's pathology report came back positive for the BIG 'C'. He is on quite an emotional roller coaster....he is mad, he is scared and he is 'ok' with the news all in one converstaion. I am so worried about him.....that is such a huge balst to get and he is alone....I know I would need Steve to hold me up if ever I was blasted with this news. Good news, it is a slow moving kind!!

Tuesday I have to take Gram to the Gyn Oncologist....help!! This is one very trying time for me...my roller coaster of emotions has me just plain wiped out!! I don't dare say "what's next!!??"

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

By the way, Beth and Jill....had a great time on Thursday night....let's do something fun like that again!! (but yes, my belly was little yucky when I settled in too!!)

Luck O the Irish to you all!

Happy St. Patty's Day to all of you!!

Irish Proverbs

A soft answer turns away anger.

Both your friend and your enemy think that you will never die.

The mouth that speaks is not as sweet to hear.

A friends eye is a good mirror.

The older the fiddle the sweeter the tune.

You'll never plough a field by turning it over In your mind.

It's no use boiling your cabbage twice.

Gods help is nearer than the door.

You cant' take blood from a stone.

If you lie with dogs you'll rise with fleas.

Neither give cherries to pigs nor advice to fools.

The longest road out is the shortest road home.

May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow,

And may trouble avoid you wherever you go.

May the road rise up to meet you,

May the wind be always at your back,

May the sun shine down upon your face,

And the rain fall soft upon your fields,

Until we meet again,

May God hold you in the hollow of his hand.

-Irish Blessing

Yes, I am IRISH- with a maiden name like McKessy and a red head son? LOL

Just a plain old busy Saturday here. Started out as I was very grouchy....I got some ugly news yesterday about my dad's surgery, I worked until 7 last night, then stayed up til midnight working on our computer and laundry, Riley woke me up a 3am to potty and then she was buck wild at 6am. I finally talked Steve into getting up with her and I stayed and slept till 9. I woke up feeling MUCH better. Thank goodness, I almost could NOT stand myself.

My dad's pathology report came back positive for the BIG 'C'. He is on quite an emotional roller coaster....he is mad, he is scared and he is 'ok' with the news all in one converstaion. I am so worried about him.....that is such a huge balst to get and he is alone....I know I would need Steve to hold me up if ever I was blasted with this news. Good news, it is a slow moving kind!!

Tuesday I have to take Gram to the Gyn Oncologist....help!! This is one very trying time for me...my roller coaster of emotions has me just plain wiped out!! I don't dare say "what's next!!??"

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

By the way, Beth and Jill....had a great time on Thursday night....let's do something fun like that again!! (but yes, my belly was little yucky when I settled in too!!)

excuse me.........

Is this why we love Michigan?




Tuesday








Thursday





I was shocked at 430am when I opened the door in my pjs to step out and let Riley out to potty.....BRRRR- SNOW??? I was hoping I was dreaming but even a cup of coffee did not make it go away!! Guess I missed the weather outlook last night!!

Today is Thursday which is usually a dreaded day for me....the day before Friday, which is one of my favorite days.....BUT tonight after work we are going on the Restaurant Rally in Jackson from 5pm-9pm. We= Beth, Jill, Paula (Beth and Jill's mom), her friends from work and me.....there is a list of participating restaurants and you go from place to place sampling their finest. There is a bus that will transport you to and from as well.....a few are within walking distance from Beth and I's offices so we are meeting up downtown. :) Hmm, a few drinks to wash down all the cuisine....updates to come from the FUN!
Bummer...work tomorrow. lOL

Update....Dad is doing great, as normal he tried a little too much yesterday and was noticing a little last night....MEN!
Gram goes to the oncologist on Tuesday....I will have to take another 1/2 day to take her to Lansing. Thanks for the well wishes and prayers.

Be careful in the fluffy stuff today and updates on tonight's fun coming soon...

SPRING and a beautiful day off

Voila- a spring day in March!! Loving the fact that it was in the 70s today and I decided to stay home.

Spent the morning cleaning house, and sorting out old clothes....then took Gram to the dr in the afternoon.....but oh have we all enjoyed the sunshine this afternoon/ evening.

Steve is grilling burgers and I have beans and potato salad to go along with them.....oh doesn't that just help with the spring feeling.

The boys have been having a ball with Riley in the backyard. She may seem like a ladies dog and be a prissy breed (my boys talking) but she is as wild as Mandy (our lab mix) was when she was a pup. Riley and Steve II were playing tag and it was so darn cute....then she played hide n seek and I swear she speaks English and knows how.....it was so stinkin cute.

Dad is still improving nicely, he called me today to share a little issue he was having- nothing major just a little set back or so he feels. He was doing so well so quickly and then I think today he was doing more since he sent the nurse home (me)and I think his body is adjusting.

Had to take Gram back again to the dr....not so good. Looks like I will need another day off soon...they are sending her to Lansing to a Gynecology Oncologist, Dr. Pugmire. Keep your fingers crossed and prayers coming....I have already lost one Grandma to female cancer, so this is a struggle for me. Much more involved in seeing the drs and such with the Gram though, as my mom was with her mom. My dad just having surgery and his sister is in S.Carolina makes my cousin Kim and I the main caregivers now....so...we will see.....

Just a few snapshots from outside today.......sure hope tomorrow brings a repeat!!

I am back

I came back home yesterday evening around 5ish. Dad is doing super as long as he stays home and relaxes, follows the rules, I think he is moving towards a very speedy recovery!!

Riley is happy to be home- like a new adventure to her....getting in trouble all over for the things she is re-chewing that was a NO! before we left. Today is a schedule bath.....#2. She did so well with the last one....hope this one goes as well. *she stinks'

The boys all did well with no girls home for a few days but they were all very happy to have us home. Even happier when they found out I was staying home today with them - they do not have school so I thought it would be fun.

I will go back to work tomorrow- a day earlier than expected. Save a day for a sunny one that I can take off later!!

So, today I plan to do some morning cleaning- and relax a little. THEN I have to take Gram back to the dr as she seems to be having some trouble...gee, glad I came home early. :-)

Happy Tuesday

GOING GREAT

Hello all. Been busy here and wanting to post but just seems time slips away.

I made it....Riley was a blast to travel with....NOT! She was not sure about riding in the carrier, so I let her out and attemped to let her ride in the seat up front....nope she wanted on my lap. That was cool until she wanted to start kissing all over my face and barking....she quickly moved back to the seat next to me before we crashed ( yep, a little toss got her there quickly.....ugh, I thought we were surely going to crash!!). Then she rode nicely for the rest of the trip.

Great news...my dad is doing wonderful. He is healing quickly and really making improvements. Infact, I am thinking about heading home a day or two early- and Dad is encouraging me. ( I asked if I was cramping his style? LOL)

Riley is having a ball playing with her cousin, Dori....and being spoiled rotten by her Grandpa and uncles. She has been an angel.

Missing Steve and my boys but I know this is good for all of us. :-) Thanks for all that have been wishing dad well and praying for him :-)

Talk or see you soon.

a happy post

this weekend has totally rejuvenated my happy- ness - I so needed it.

Things that made me happy this weekend-

1. a trip to Walmart to get photos developed alone Friday night- all alone....relaxing!!
2. a SUPER DUPER large pop for my crop party
3. Croppin with the girls all day on Saturday
4. Creating a 6x6 album of my Riley girl
5. Taking the boys to the movies
6. Laughing my tail off at the movie, Wild Hogs
7. Taking all 3 boys with me to get groceries and they all got along- dad got to relax a little.
8. Hanging out, watching the Breakfast Club on a Sunday afternoon ( I remember dressing, talking and being like them!! LOL)
9. Getting a call from my Gram asking us to come for dinner (bring pizzas) and RILEY!
10. my boys just talking about life, old memories and funny times

Oh I feel like I could go on and on today......yeah!! The sun is shining too!!

The week ahead-
Work M-F
Heading north to take care of my dad for a week
Orthodontist appt for Koda (the tin grin will soon be in!!)
Make a family pic appt!
Making dinner for the Hamlins

bak to blogger

I am going to move back over here now....will post a little later. Wordpress and my pc are just no longer friends??

Had a great Saturday!! Cropped, laughed and snacked all day long.....then went home long enough to grab the 4 guys and we went to the movies to see Wild Hogs......what a funny movie!! There were a fun innuendos and scenes but no more than regualr tv nodays....a movie we want on dvd!! LOL

Update coming soon!

moving my blog

http://bartonbabbles.wordpress.com/
i am moving here....

what a weekend

ready to hear me whine? if not please check back again later...as it is needed.

Friday was the busiest day at work- EVER! I had to stay for an hour after just to get us caught up enough to make it through (or attempt to) the weekend.

*on a good note- for my lunch hour we went on another walk through - a house we like. It is a repo, so it needs a little TLC (paint, carpet, etc)

Saturday- Happy Birthday, Jakob!!

woke early, ran to Walmart to pick up the rest of the bday party accessories, and some groceries. (and a pink and brown tshirt with paisley brint and polka dots on it for RILEY!!) Came home and decided to get Riley checked by the vet (she had been having trouble- vomiting her kibble in the evenings).....NOT GOOD! The vet said they needed to keep her for the weekend....xrays, barrium swallow, more xrays, and a 2 night stay at Gaide Animal Hospital....it broke my heart to leave my baby there. I had to hand her off to the tech and about lost it. Koda went with me, and when I turned to see my teenager's eyes welling with tears, being tough enough to hold them back....I lost it. :-(

The day must go on.....we gathered a group of boys and over headed to Country Inn and Suites for the night. The boys swam, set up video games frenzy...we had a suite which meant 2 tvs....so they hooked up PS2 on one and Xbox on the other!! We had pizza, pop and icecream cake....YUM! Dakoda, Steve and I left around 9pm and allowed Jake and his pals with dad to hang out!! My night was rough....I am so used to taking Riley out multiple times between 9pm and 6am...

Sunday- the vet called this afternoon. Riley is feeling better, the suspicious area on the xrays seemed to be ok today....the barrium moved through as it should and she is taking antibiotics. :-) I begged to get her today but they said tomorrow after 10am!

Monday- planning to go get my baby....took the day off...personal day! Placing a bid on the house.....let's all hope for a better week!!

Love this one

are you tired of seeing Riley yet? LOL This is my fav pic so far...had to share!! She has really made herself to home....quite the spunky little girl. One downfall...she thinks at 2 am she needs her Momma....so far she has been waking up around 2am and NOT going back to sleep!! Ugh.....so yep, the goofball I am....she comes to bed with Momma!!

Trying to break this before it goes to be THE routine!!

Little Miss Riley Attitude Barton

Riley

adorable winking cheese!!

More pictures of my new baby!! Riley- she adjusting very well- a fiesty lil stinker!!

Shhh, the baby is sleeping!!

OH WAIT- wake her up- she'll be up all night long!!

The newest Barton ...her name is Riley Alexandra Barton.

She is an AKC Yorkie. She is 7 weeks old, weighs 3.2 lbs!!

Alas, a weekend

I am so happy this work week is over. It seemed like a rather long week....it may have seemed longer since I was fighting a nasty winter cold. YUCK. I did not get much sleep as I was coughing my head off and then the coughing makes for a throbbing headache! (whine- sorry)

Other work week updates.....MEDICAL, DENTAL.....a big list of copays!!
Koda is going to get the tin grin....starting orthodontics again....ye$, again. He had the appliances and spacers minus the tin grin in the 4th grade....however as he grew things did not line up......he we go again!! LOL
Steve Sr had his allergy testing and ENT appt.....no surgery needed afterall...YEAH!
Dad is having another surgery mid- Feb so I may be taking some time away to go help him out.
Experienced a whole new adventure this week....took my GRAM to a dr appt....she is having some troubles and needed to see a gyn dr. Things are on a roll now for getting her some help. Back again in a week. Sure was different being on the other side....the grand daughter taking my 85 yr old Gram to the dr.

Big plans for the weekend....nope. Just a little list of to-do's. Hoping to shake off this lingering cold. Need to get my pics and stuff together for next Sat!! Oh I wish it were today!!

barton blogger update

Hmm, where to start....

Blogger has totally fallen on the 'to do list' and it keeps getting pushed lower on the priority list.

I have not been making time for the computer lately.....working 8 hours a day then 3 days a week I was cleaning too. I have not done that for over a week now....as I got sick with a cold.

Went to the dr last week for my physical and they decided to try to do something with my flucuating blood pressure....nope they did not give me a month of R & R on a white sand beach some where warm and toasty....they made me start a RX! YUCK, I hate pills. and on top of that....they made me feel OLD....but my friend Beth did offer to alter a pill box for me....LOL

I am pledging today to try to get back on track with my bloggin....

sums up my week

A - Available or single: nope
B - Best Friend: My Mom
C - Cake or Pie: not a big fan of either...BROWNIES
D - Drink of choice: COKE
E - Essential item you use everyday: my van
F - Favorite color: green
G - Gummy Bears or worms: bears
H - Hometown: Stony Lake, MI
I - Indulgence: scrap stuff and janet Evanovich books
J - January or February: February, my bday, Valentine's Day
K - Kids & Names: Dakoda, Jakob and Steve II
L - Life is Incomplete Without? Three Fs - family, friends, faith
M- Marriage Date: May 8, 2003
N - Number of Siblings: 2 older brothers
O - Oranges or Apples: apples, cold from the fridge
P - Phobias or Fears: enclosed spaces with no windows or escape routes
Q - Favorite Quote: I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish that He didn't trust me so much. Mother Teresa (this quote has carried me through the toughest days of my life....it was a daily chant for me for a while!!- and as you see- I made it!!)
R - Reason to Smile: watching my boys grow into young men....everyday is a new adventure:-)
S - Season: FALL!
T - Tag 3 or 4 people: I am out of people to tag- LOL
U - Unknown Fact about Me: I am a licensed cosmetologist- since 1991
V - Vegetable You Don't Like: wax beans
W - Worst Habit: biting my cuticles/nails- YUCK
X - Xrays: oh my- broken clavicle, finger -yep the middle one....basketball injury
Y - Your Fave Food: pizza or mexican
Z - Zodiac Sign: Pisces

all ok

Just a quick note to tell all...my dad is well, the surgery went very well and he is feeling great. Koda and I are(or maybe WERE) heading up for the weekend to help him with the things he should not be doing.

The catch....wanna guess? MY VAN the piece of *^%$%&**. Steve says it is the lifter? Whatever it was making an awful noise on my way to work. He is taking it to Extreme Dodge right now to have a diagnosis and I am hoping ......antibiotic will make it feel all better. Thinking it needs to be pushed off a very high cliff...sent to the recycling center for lemon vans. UGH. Since the new truck, now Steve says he is going to buy a new FORD van!

Jakob has a terrible ear infection....it was a very yucky one...and ouchy! With some antibiotics and drops he seems to be feeling better.

My highlight of the week.....CKU is coming to Detroit. I never dreamed they would come to MI....oh how I would LOVE to go....a true scrapbookers dream getaway....(yes, my opinion). The Downfall....$345 for Th, F, Sa then lodging is $117 per night. Hmm...maybe if I take all my bday $$ and add them together and then talk sweetly to Steve I can go
www.creatingkeepsakes.com click CKU on the left....check it out. Registration starts Jan 17th!

Hopefully, I am off for the weekend. ENJOY.

Back to the CHAOS

Today was a wild n crazy one.....surprised? NOPE not at all. After a long weekend we always have lots of people that were discharged and need a visit ASAP! I have been doing lots of extra time lately....I worked my first Saturday since I transferred to this department this past weekend. Love the OT $ but wow was I whooped. (I am aslo cleaning a large pediatrician office with a friend, Dina and that has been a great way to start paying off my Christmas debt!)
Christmas debt....hmm, well speaking of that...I have a credit card (VISA) that when you spend you earn scrapbook supplies.....YESSSS! lol I used this card only for Christmas and I claimed a few 'prizes'- now just wait for the loot to arrive. I ordered a 6 month subscription to Scrapbook Monthly , the new AMM Tote-ally cool brown and pink tote full of goodies, the MM stamp and paint kit, Heidi Swapp deluxe kit, wow and maybe more...lol. They cost me ZERO as I have already gone in debt and they feel sorry for me...LOL- it takes 4-6 weeks for delivery for the items so it will be Happy Birthday to ME! LOL
The boys are going stir crazy being home all day while we work.....we have 3 little Guitar Heroes....darn good. Now we need a garage for my Barton Boys garage band! LOL
That is part of my New Years resolution....we will move in 2007! Well, I am with or without the other 4...LOL
Tomorrow Dad has his gallbladder surgery....keep him in your prayers....he is very nervous and is worried they will find something else while they have him open. This stems from problems friends have had and tell him about right after they retire....horror stories. He is the healthiest now as he has been in YEARS! He has lost over 100 lbs in the past year! Walks 2-6 miles a day now.....yes, I need to learn from him! Trying!!
Heading off to watch a movie with Steve....Gnight all.

Happy New Year

The New Year

Author Unknown

The New Year lies before you

Like a spotless tract of snow

Be careful how you tread on it

For every mark will show.

Happy New Year- 2007 already! I just cannot believe the time flies to quickly when we are grown ups! As a kid I remember thinking time went soooooo slow...but nowdays everything is much faster!!

Our New Year's Eve was a lot of fun. We went bowling from 630- 9pm. It was a nice party- complete with party favors, pizza, pop and FUN! Afterwards we watched a movie - followed by the famous ball drop- and then CRASHED :-)
New Years Day at the Barton's- low key- laundry by the baskets full- and a little R & R.

Have not set any personal resolutions in stone, but of course the normal ones as always....LOSE weight, love more, yell less and enjoy the years we have left raising 3 boys molding them into the awesome young men they will soon be- how about you?