The Tanksley Family

To Grandma's House We Go!

2009-08-17T14:39:00.000-07:00

In May, the kids and I went to visit Nanie and SuperDaddy in Midland for about a week! Nanie couldn't do a whole lot because she had just sinus surgery, but SuperDaddy took us to the Children's Museum!

By the end of the week, Nanie did feel well enough to give Ella a pedicure and take a short trip to the pool!

A Freak On The Field!

2009-06-08T12:44:00.000-07:00

I have turned into exactly what I swore I wouldn't! I am a baseball mom! Here lately our lives revolve around baseball: practice, and games, and camp, and tournaments. It is a never ending story! A few weeks ago Chance got a new bat, "The Freak"!! And before you think that we have really lost our minds and named a bat, we didn't do it!!! "The Freak" is the actual name of this bat. And just to prove it to you, here is a picture from the manufacturers website: The first night we had it, Chance was so excited that he slept with it! I don't think he has ever been that excited about anything. We kept wondering if The Freak was worth the investment, but this weekend it proved itself to us! Chance's 7 year old team, the Indians were in the tournament for the League Championships! We have a few players on our team who have been in a slump lately. A few of us moms even said it would be a great game, win or lose, if all the boys got a good hit! Well, leave it to The Freak! ALL the boys hit the ball outstandingly! Even the boys that had rarely had a decent hit, used the Freak and hit doubles and triples! We have been riding high since that game Friday night! Saturday the boys played again and it was a nail biter! We were down 9 to 0 in the second inning, but came back to tie it up by the 6th inning and squeaked out a win by one run! We have had an awesome UNDEFEATED season! Tonight will end it all! Chance plays in the Championship game tonight! I will be sure and let you know how it turns out! I have some great pictures from the tournament that I will post next time, but for now here is a a video Chance and I made of his season! ENJOY! (You might want to mute the music at the bottom of the blog so you can hear the video!)

Vacation?!?!?!

2009-06-02T08:34:00.000-07:00

Most of you know that we are going to the beach in a few weeks! This will be our first ever Family Vacation! We are really excited, but I for one am also feeling extremely guilty! We have NEVER done anything like this, much less for a whole week!

We found a GREAT house, right on the beach, in a small community called Alligator Point, Florida. Here are some of the pictures that were on the owners website:

This is the place we will call home for an entire week!

This is a look at the inside of the house!

And my favorite...a sunset from the porch!

So, everything looks great, right? So you might be wondering why I am so apprehensive! Well, it's the fact that we are spending more than we ever have before to go somewhere we have never been and I am not even sure my kids will appreciate or enjoy it! I know I can be a worrier sometimes and I am trying just to stay excited, but it is hard. Or it was until yesterday!

Again, God is SOOOOO good! He reassures me all the time that if I just trust the Holy Spirit to guide me and rely on the instincts God has given me then all we be fine! And that brings me to the reason for this post! I wanted to share my devotion from yesterday! It was exactly what I needed and with everyone getting ready for vacation, I thought some of you might benefit as well.

"Ephesians 5:15,16
Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men, but as wise, making the most of your time.

It is the wise man who recognizes that vacations can give us time to invest in the relationships that mean the most to us. Vacations can be a time where you build strong family values and make memories.
As Barbara and I look back over more than 20 years of vacations, we'd have to say this is an area where we don't have any regrets. Vacations represent adventure, discovery and shared experiences with our children.

We have made vacations a priority. Both of us work hard, but we've shared a commitment that our children would not remember us as driven workaholics.

Edith Schaeffer calls a family "a museum of memories." If that's so, then our family has racked up enough vacation memories to fill several buildings at the Smithsonian:

We've seen traffic jams created by buffalo crossing a crystal clear stream in Yellowstone and by a herd of taxis at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.
We've soaked in the solitude of Yosemite Valley (in the off-season), and we've sat in Wrigley Field cheering the Cubs with 35,000 other fans.
All eight of us have shivered through the night in a tent camping at 8,500 feet in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and we've sweated on the beaches of northern Florida making sand castles and tossing a Frisbee.
We've driven 4,000 miles to visit Crater Lake, Oregon, and we've vacationed at home when cash was in short supply, walking 400 yards from our back door to fish and picnic on a public lake.
I was recently in a small group of moms and dads who were discussing family vacations. After our time together, it suddenly hit me: Not a single person mentioned a theme park (Disneyland, Sea World, etc.) as one of his or her favorite vacations. Leaky tents and murky swimming holes outdistanced the computerized roller coasters, Mickey and Minnie as the favorite memory makers.

Think about it. Tonight at the dinner table share your favorite vacation memories as a child and as an adult. Then talk about what you really want to do this summer.

Prayer:
Ask God to help you build relationships and make memories this summer with your children.
Discuss: What can you do to emphasize relationships during your next vacation?"

My moms big thing when I was growing up was "We are making memories!" And she was right! I have tons of vacation memories from when I was a little girl. And most of them were not from big fancy travel destinations! My fondest memories are of the journey to get where we were going! So I urge everyone out there to enjoy your kids and your vacations this summer! Even if you can't afford to do anything elaborate, Make some memories with your kids!

Fun OUT of the Sun!!!

2009-05-15T19:49:00.001-07:00

The heat of summer is upon us here in the Deep South! Thank goodness for A/C and the JumpZone!!! We have a gym here in Madison that has a room full of inflatables for the kids to jump on and slide down to their hearts content! It is a great way to spend a hot afternoon!
In the last two days, we have had two birthday parties to attend there! My friend Shea captured some wonderful pictures of the kids and I thought I would share them! I have NO Short Term Memory and Can't remember which ones I uploaded here! So I am not even going to try and write captions! Just have fun looking at the kids having fun! (The sweat is from playing so hard, not because it is hot! Believe me they keep it like a freezer in there!)

Southern Belle All Around

2009-05-14T20:15:00.000-07:00

I just had to share, because:
1. I am SOOO excited!
2. It really is pretty dead on.
3. And this is one of my favorite movies of all time!!!

I took the Which Steel Magnolia Are You Quiz on Facebook and here are my results:

Shelby Eatenton Latcherie (Julia Roberts' character)

You are Shelby. You are a breath of fresh air! You are the girl next door, America's sweetheart, and you love to laugh! You may make impulsive decisions because you would "rather have thirty minutes of wonderful than a lifetime of nothing special." Although you're a southern belle at heart (and your signature color may even be "blush" or "bashful"), you still get caught doing things from time to time that might even "frighten the fish"! You're a risk taker, sometimes at a cost to yourself, so slow down. You may make a decision in haste that you'll someday regret!

Back to childhood and into menopause...all in 24 hours!!!

2009-05-14T09:52:00.000-07:00

Last night I went with friends to go see Star Trek! It was the BEST movie I have seen in a while! I loved it!!! The only thing missing was my brothers! I was in NO way a tomboy growing up, but I was raised with two brothers! This meant that when it was time to go to the movies as a family, my choice rarely won! So over and over I was forced to watch Star Wars, Star Trek, Indiana Jones, and any other "boy" movie you can imagine!Now though...I am eternally grateful! My boys think I am so cool because I know that Hans Solo and Indy are the same man!!!! So, when the opportunity came to go see the new Star Trek, I couldn't pass it up! I wanted to screen it before allowing my kids to watch it (which I will definitely be doing) but I also just really wanted to watch it! If you get the chance to watch this movie...DO IT!!! You will not regret spending 2 hours in the cool air conditioning of the movie theatre and watching a movie that is non-stop action from beginning to end! And to both my brothers...I wish you were here to go see it with me! It's just not the same without the two of you!!

Ok, now for the second part of this post! I have made no secret of the fact that I have not felt well for a while, but it looks like an end is in sight! I had a phone appointment today with a doctor in Arizona! I recently sent in some saliva samples to have all my hormone levels tested and it looks like that is the problem! Without going into details I just want to share that there is a plan in place to get me back to me!!! I can't wait!!! So, once my prescriptions get here, I will keep you all posted on my progress! If nothing else comes from this, I have learned to listen to my body! Thank you to all my wonderful friends and family who have helped, prayed, and listened over the last few months!!! I hope one day I can do the same for all of you!

One last thing before I close this one out! Today is my baby brother's 28th birthday! I hope it's a good one Josh! We Miss You!! Happy Birthday!

What A Mighty God We Serve!!!!

2009-05-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

Some days I think God looks right into my heart, my head,and my life and knows EXACTLY what I need to hear! This morning when I got up to do my devotion I was awestruck at his pinpoint accuracy! One of the things I do every morning is read my daily couples devotion from Crosswalk.com. This is what I read this morning:

A Mother's Influence by Barbara Rainey
Proverbs 1:8
And do not forsake your mother's teaching.

As a mother, I have my days when everything is relatively easy and I wonder why I ever struggle. The children are loving to one another and circumstances seem to flow smoothly.
But there are other days when I wonder if it will ever be fun again. I struggle with guilt and discouragement. Will these children ever grow up to walk with the Lord? Am I ruining my kids for life!?

Because of my humanity, my identity is subject to attack by my emotions, by other people's perceptions and expectations, and by my abilities and failures. Learning the truth about myself and standing on that truth is a lifelong process.

I believe that if I persevere, God will give me a ministry of influence to the next generation. Most ministry activity is by adults to their own generation, but mothers can literally shape the future. President Teddy Roosevelt once said:

When all is said, it is the mother, and the mother only, who is a better citizen than the soldier who fights for his country. The successful mother, the mother who does her part in rearing and training aright the boys and girls, who are to be the men and women of the next generation, is of greater use to the community, and occupies, if she only would realize it, a more honorable as well as more important position than any man in it. The mother is the one supreme asset of the national life. She is more important, by far, than the successful statesman, or businessman, or artist, or scientist.

To have that influence on the future through my children demands that I objectively evaluate my life as a mother in light of that goal.

Isn't God good!!! I'm not real sure why this was in the "couples devotions" But Whatever Works!!!! God got it to me! It is nice to be reminded that I am doing the right thing! That even when I feel like I get nothing accomplished in a day, I am doing the most important job! I am raising my kids to love the Lord and love others! I am encouraged to keep pressing on! To stay on the path he has laid for me! I hope it brings some of you the same encouragement!

Just in Case You Didn't Hear...I am Mom of the Year!!!

2009-05-07T18:06:00.000-07:00

I need to give a huge thanks to my friend Shay for sending this to me!!! You made my day girl! Thanks for all you do to encourage me!!!!

http://news.cnnbcvideo.com/?nid=Vp5wLstp3yPdyK.ZWaNNbjExMjM4Mjc3&referred_by=15565570-n3rtutx&p=moveon

I am working on posting the video on the blog, until I figure it out, you are going to have to copy and pasted the link into the address bar!!! You aren't going to want miss this!!! Check it out!!!

A balanced life?!?!?

2009-04-30T20:56:00.000-07:00

I can't figure out how much activity vs down time is normal! My life is constantly 90mph! And no matter what, I am left feeling a little guilty! If I focus my day on Jewelry, I feel like I have let my kids down and that they are not going to "learn" anything that day. And if I spend the WHOLE day actively involved with my kids, I feel like business is going to suffer. Who knows where to draw the line?
I know that there is a way to balance it all, but I think I am having a hard time executing the balancing act! I am open to suggestions here. Somebody tell me how to do it ALL!
I know part of the problem is that at my core I am a perfectionist! I want to do everything and do everything Well! I know some of you are thinking if I would just choose one thing to focus on at a time, there wouldn't be a problem. BUT the problem is that's NOT going to happen!
I love Premier! And I know that it is where God wants me right now. I also Love homeschooling. It's not easy. And there are days when I think about sending them all to school, but again it's where God wants me! Any time I think about quitting, this wave of encouragement comes over me and I know it is the Lord! So, for the time being, I am going to do it all. I will be wife, mama, teacher, jewelry lady, daughter, sister, and friend! I may not be on my "A" game every minute of the day, but I am constantly strviing to do my best!
So if anybody has any practical advice on how to make my daily life function a little more smoothly, please let me know. If y'all struggle with this too, tell me! I want to know that I am not crazy, or maybe I am. Maybe you all really do have it figured out! For now, I am just going to keep on keeping on! God loves me! I am walking where He wants me! I have peace about what I am doing, I just need figure out more organized way of doing it! Thanks for listening to me ramble! I feel better just getting it out!

Have Jewelry, Will Travel!

2009-04-30T20:40:00.001-07:00

I am so excited! I just got home from training, and like usual, it was Wonderful! I am always so uplifted and inspired from spending time with my fellow jewelry ladies! To have so many godly women on a mission in the same room is awesome! And the best part is, they all want me to do my best, and that's what this post is about!

I have been given a contest. I need to hold 12 shows in the month of May. So I need 12 friends who are willing to open up their homes (or my home, if necessary), invite their friends over, and earn FREE jewelry! I love my job! I love giving away jewelry and serving other women, but I can't do my job without you!

If anyone is interested in FREE jewelry and in helping me win my contest, please let me know as soon as possible! Please let me know how I may serve you!

You Are What You Eat!

2009-04-16T16:14:00.000-07:00

This is a video from an awesome website, foodmatters.com, it will make you think twice. you will have to pause the music at the bottom to watch the video with sound.

Sometimes a FUNK is a God thing!

2009-04-08T21:10:00.000-07:00

As I write this I am enjoying some VERY rare quiet time! Currently, I am sitting at my parents “country” house, trying desperately to keep an internet signal. My children are all (believe it or not) watching a movie TOGETHER! I have not heard a peep from them in almost an hour!
We are patiently (and I use the word loosely) awaiting the arrival of my parents. It is so rare that I have this much time to myself and it has really given me time to think! My life is at such a GREAT time right now! I am in awe of God’s unbelievable timing and workmanship.
I really have no idea who even reads this blog, but I am assuming that most of you talk to me on a regular basis. But, for those rare few who might have NO idea what is going on in my little corner of the world, I want to give a quick recap of the last few weeks so you too can stand in amazement of God’s infinite wisdom.
I really don’t know where to start or what to say, so I am going to take some advice from one of my favorite teachers and “just write”!
Most of you know that I sell Premier Jewelry! I started doing this last fall and I absolutely love it. Not only does it allow me to dress up and be girly, but I truly believe network marketing is the way of the future. And based on this year’s tax refund I will be telling everyone I know that they should work for themselves!
The past few weeks have not been fun at my house. My body has been going through something that I can only describe as a FUNK! I was tired, achy, sleep deprived, unmotivated and living in a fog! I will admit that all of these symptoms had me more than just a little down, but I do not believe that I was in a state of depression. The doctors were at a loss. I was asked everything from “Are you hearing voices?” to “Are you homicidal?” How do you make others realize it is not all in your head! And if I heard it once, I heard 15 times that I was just stressed. I had taken on too much in recent months. Well, that is NOT okay with me! I am 31 years old I should not be exhausted just from living my life! Oh if I had only known then what I know now! God brought me to this breaking point so that a wide array of things could come together at precisely the same time! I have some wonderful, Godly women as friends. And more than one of them sent a prayer up on my behalf. But ONLY one came to me knowing what I was going through.
This is where God’s awesomeness comes into play! Had I not joined Premier, I would have never met this certain friend! Cindy knew what I was going through because she had been there! And even better, she had a solution!
There is an amazing company out there who is harvesting, bottling, and marketing the most amazing plant found on this planet (So Far)! The acai berry is all over the media right now for its unbelievable antioxidants, but THIS company is keeping it as close to its natural state as possible and people are seeing UNBELIEVABLE results.
Normally I am a skeptic, but like I said there is nothing normal about my life in recent days. I was so desperate to feel better that trying the product was an easy decision. The hard part would have been trusting the company was legit, but because I have learned the true nature of network marketing, that too was a non-issue. I really believe if it had not been for my knowledge of how network marketing works I would have never trusted a company that didn’t advertise or sell in stores.
And just because God is SOOOO awesome, He took it one step further. I have another friend who “just happened” to mention a certain book to me, that it would change how I live my life. And oh was she right. I am not even going to mention the name of the book, because you wouldn’t believe me if I did. But if you really want to know, call me and I will share this wealth of knowledge with you!
In the midst of my Funk I told those people closest to me that this was my wake up call! I refuse to live the rest of life dependent on anti-depression medicine and sleeping pills. God did not design me to pump my body full of synthetic, man-made, chemical combinations! Now that I have taken a good look around, it shocks me to know how I have treated my body up to this point! Now don’t think that I am going extremist on you! I don’t think I could live as a vegetarian, although I am contemplating looking into what the Bible says about eating meat. I am not giving up all forms of sugar or any other outrageous idea. But I have decided to pay much closer attention to my body, what it needs AND what it doesn’t.
Now, as for my FUNK, it is gone! I have been steadily taking the acai product I mentioned and I feel GREAT! As a matter of fact today was my third day to go without my crutch of anti-anxiety pills that I have “needed” for 5 years. I now know that I don’t NEED anything but God!
I am sorry if I have rambled or gone off on tangents, but the last week has just been one big train wreck of AMAZING happenings in my life and I had to share. Thank you to all of you who called me, texted me, and prayed for me! I am doing sooooooooo much better! Praise God for knowing what we need and when we need it! Our God truly is an AWESOME God!

It's "Got Me" Day

2009-03-08T20:05:00.000-07:00

March 9, 2006

Tomorrow is Ella's "Gotcha Day" as they say in the adoption world. But in our house it is now known as "Got Me Day" thanks to Ella! It seems like just yesterday that Gary and I were in Guatemala picking up our sweet baby girl from her foster mother.
It has been three years now since she has been with us and we wouldn't trade her for the world. I wanted to share some of my favorite pictures from the final days of our adoption journey.

This is us getting off of the plane. I don't know how well this one will show up on the computer, but it is my absolute FAVORITE! You can see the excitement on my face to have my WHOLE family together for the first time. And Chance in the foreground running to us with the anticipation of meeting his sister. No other picture sums up the excitement, joy, and love, that was waiting for Ella!

This one just reminds me how much of baby Jackson still was when Ella came home! My babies...sigh! Time flies soooo fast.

And the Happy Parents! Do think we could smile any bigger?

This "Got Me" day is special. For those of you who have been with us from the beginning, this is just as much for you as it is for us. We had to complete 4 post placement visits with a Social Worker after Ella came home, and the last one was this past week!!!! YEA!!!! We are done! She is OURS! No more red tape! I don't know who we would be without Ella to brighten our days. She is what every parent could want in a little girl. She loves to shop, wear make-up, dance, and talk non-stop! She is my partner in crime. I love her girly-girl side. However, she has tomboy streak in her that comes out every so often. It must come from having two brothers. Her daddy LOVES the fact that she likes to get dirty, wants to learn to hit a baseball, and has asked for a pink gun! In the words of HER FAVORITE song, she is the "Best Of Both Worlds!"
I think we all get caught up in our day to day lives and forget what little miracles our children are. And their birthdays seem to be all about parties and toys and friends. I think every kid needs a "GOT ME" Day! It's not about presents or cake or any other superficial tradition. It simply for us to celebrate, as a family, the day that we all came together! I guess in our house it is like a family anniversary. I don't know how other women feel, but I knew when my family was complete (and when it wasn't). To have a sense of completion is an amazing feeling. And now it is DONE!
We are a FOREVER family!

We love you Ella Bella, Chikamunk, Sugar Honey, Ella Rosie, Princess Chatterbox!
Welcome to the Family! FOREVER!

All about the J Man!

2009-03-06T10:53:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't know...tomorrow is Jackson's 5th birthday! WOO HOO! We are not having a party! Last year we started just trying to do something special as a family. This is not as inspirational as it might seem. With 3 kids...I am tired of planning parties. And twice as tired of presents we don't need or have the room for.
So this year, for the boys' birthdays we are going to Sea World in San Antonio. Jackson's birthday is in March and Chance's in is August, so we are hoping to make the trip in between somewhere. They are really excited.
We are going to spend the day together tomorrow, probably bowling or a movie! And of course there will be cake...Pokemon if you must know details!
Anyway, I thought since it is his special day I would share some little known facts about Action Jackson!
1. I went into labor during Alias...MY FAVE! and he has not stopped interrupting since!
2. He will jump off of anything and everything if it stands still long enough!
3. He wears his cowboy boots EVERYDAY!
4. He is going to be just like his Uncle Jake when it comes to love: It takes him a while to take the leap, but once he's in...he's ALL in!
5. He is built just like SuperDaddy and Uncle Josh, short and stocky! The doctors guess he will reach a full height of 5'10.
6. We call him our little carnivore. He would be content to meat and nothing else!
7. He his the most competitive of all my children. He plays to win or he doesn't play!
8. He absolutely idolizes his BIG brother, to the point that we have learned to just ask Chance what is going to order to eat, because Jackson wants the same thing!
9. He still sleeps with a "silky" every night!
10. He has the most infectious laugh and I LOVE finding things to crack him up!

I could go on, but I don't want to bore you or embarrass him. Just wanted to let all of you in on the joy that is Jackson!
Happy Birthday Bug!

An Encouraging Word

2009-03-05T18:51:00.000-08:00

So, since we started this homeschooling adventure...we have received a huge range of responses. We have support, we have understanding, we have encouragement, we have confusion, and we have criticism. No matter what each of you thinks, I want to thank you for at least being honest with me. And I want you to know that we are LOVING life right now.
1.I love my kids...and having them with me.
2.Our house is MUCH more relaxed than it was before.
3.The kids ARE learning...tons!
4.and they behave BETTER!!!
Anyway, I could go on and on about how right this decision was for our family. But the real reason I wanted to post tonight was to share something I read today. For those of you that are in this homeschooling boat with us, you will be uplifted. For those of you that are lifting us up in prayer and in support, you will be encouraged. And for those of you that are skeptical, I hope this will help you understand why we do what we do.

"We can sum up very quickly what people need to teach their own children. First of all, they have to like them, enjoy their company, their physical presence, their energy, foolishness, and passion. They have to enjoy all their questions, and enjoy equally trying to answer those questions. They love to think of their children as friends, indeed very close friends, have to feel happier when near and miss them when they are away. They have to trust them as people, respect their fragile dignity, treat them with courtesy, take them seriously. They have to feel in their own hearts some of their children's wonder, curiosity, and excitement about the world. And they have to have enough confidence in themselves, skepticism about experts, and willingness to be different from most people, to take on themselves the responsibility for their children's learning. But that is about all the parents need. Perhaps only a minority of parents has these qualities. Certainly some have more than others. Many will gain more as they know their children better; most of the people who have been teaching their children at home say that it has made them like them more, not less. In any case, these are not qualities that can be taught or learned in school, or measured with a test, or certified with a piece of paper."
-John Holt in Teach Your Own

You Are What You Eat!

2009-02-28T16:29:00.000-08:00

You know how they say one day you look in the mirror and you realize that you have become your mother, well that has happened at our house. However, it is not the mirror where we are seeing the similarities...it is the calendar.
Chance had his last Basketball game Friday night and we are already getting ready for baseball. We bought a new batting helmet yesterday, we have paid our fees, now we are just waiting on the coaches to call.
I remember growing up: that our years were measured by sport seasons and it seems I am headed down that pathway again. I hated baseball growing up. It is such a long a boring game to watch, but somehow, miraculously it is infinitely more interesting when your own child is on the field. I will never understand people like my Daddy who go to watch Little League even when they know no one on the team, but I am slowing coming to grasp the mind of the parents who wear the shirts bragging "My child is #19"
So if you happen to see me cheering like crazy as Jackson is running the bases or Chance is catching a fly ball, please be kind. Don't take the opportunity to rub it in my face that I am turning into everything I swore I wouldn't become. Just know that I am a MAMA and everything changes when you have kids!

Spontaneous Sale-A-Bration

2009-02-21T22:34:00.000-08:00

Join me for my Spontaneous Sale-A-Bration! What is this you say? Let me tell you!

Right now Premier is offering an AWESOME Gift with Purchase Promotion that ends on Friday. I want YOU, my friends to get in on this GREAT deal. So, just because you can’t come to a show doesn’t mean you have to miss out.

This is a relaxed, friendly event with a come-and-go, open house feel. Come see the Spring Line. Take advantage of the Promotion…Oh and don’t for get Prizes!

Since there won’t be a hostess and SOMEONE has to get ALL the FREE Jewelry…That someone might as well be you!

Anyone who places an order during the Sale-A-Bration will be entered into a drawing for the hostess benefits…aka FREE jewelry!!!

You can also earn tickets by bringing a friend that I have not already invited and by booking a show between now and July! Could this get any more fun!
All you have to do is come, shop, eat, and visit and you could get TONS of FREE Bling!!!

I am so excited! I can’t wait to see all of you! Stop by, bring the kids (because you know mine will be here) and check out the jewelry!

Come Shop on Tuesday between 4pm and 8pm or Wednesday between 10am and 3pm!

It's me...AGAIN

2009-02-16T20:48:00.000-08:00

Okay! So I don't post for a week or so and then BOOM...twice in one day! I can't sleep! There is nothing on tv. I really don't feel like reading! And I have had all the facebook I can take for one night. So here I am, babbling on like a sleep deprived lunatic!
I realize it has been a LONG while since I actually just sat down and told it like it is. I always give little bits here and there about our life in Madison "The City" but I never really say much.
I know sometimes I sound a bit blunt and slightly passive, but in reality are life is ROCKIN'! Homeschooling really is going well for all of you skeptics out there. We are using the Abeka curriculum plus a wonderful website, www.time4learning.com. My kids (yes...I have already started teaching Jackson) love the lessons on the computer. They can do all of it by themselves and I can print out a detailed report on their progress. I am so much more aware of what they are learning than I was.
And yes...I will admit it: I LIKE having them home. We truly have a good time together. Not that all the stress is gone, by no means, but we are more relaxed. I have a good schedule planned for once Jackson and Ella are home full time,m but until then we are just winging it.
Jewelry sales are moving along as well. I have another show tomorrow night. Gary and I went to Dallas to a conference and now we are truly in this together. He sees the value in what I am doing and the possibilities for success. I won't bore you with all of the details, but I have set a number of goals for myself and we are steadily working toward those...TOGETHER!
I guess I have rambled enough for now. I may go track down an advil pm or something. If I don't get to sleep soon I won't have anytime to enjoy my bed before the boys take it over...a WHOLE other post! I hope this gets you caught up our little family. We are plowing through life one day at time...but we are doing as a FAMILY!

In Sickness and in Health!

2009-02-16T17:48:00.000-08:00

Sorry it has been a while. Ella had the flu all last week. She is finally feeling better and back to her old self. Tonight at dinner...we had salad...she asked for some "more dress up please" instead of dressing. Oh the things they say.
Gary and I have decided that after Feb. Jackson and Ella will be joining Chance at home full time. The homeschooling is going tremendously well and I really feel led that this is what God wants from me at this time. I appreciate all of your support. Thanks for all you concerns over Ella. So far no one else is showing symptoms and we hope to keep it that way.
Sorry if this is rambling, that's how it is in my head. No wonder I feel like I am running in circle half the time!

All Together Now...AAAAAAWWWWW!

2009-02-06T15:41:00.000-08:00

Can I just say that being an aunt is ALMOST as awesome as being a mom! Tell me she is not one of the cutest babies you have ever seen. For those of you that have not had the pleasure of an introduction...This is MY niece, Ann Coleman Pettit. She will be four months old on the tenth of February.

Must Love Jewelry

2009-01-28T14:04:00.000-08:00

I am so sorry I didn't explain better! I just take for granted that everyone who reads this knows what is going on in my life! So here is the DL for those of you who need an update.

In September I started working with Premier Designs! They are a direct sales jewlery company. Bascially I go into peoples homes and have "Jewelry Shows" I am Loving it! The money is GREAT and I have met some WONDERFUL people. And not to mention I get tons of jewelry WHOLESALE!!!

If you want to know more check out my new blog www.mustlovejewelry.blogspot.com

And as always, if you need to purchase something... LET ME KNOW!

REVIVAL

2009-01-26T16:36:00.000-08:00

Okay...I am back by popular demand...HA HA HA! Sorry it has been so long, but between Jewelry and Home School, life is CRAZY! We just got back from Dallas. Gary and I spent the weekend being motivated and encouraged in our business venture, while the kids had non-stop fun with Nanie and SuperDaddy at Great Wolf Lodge. They got to hang out at the indoor water park, eat all the junk they wanted, and Ella even received her first mani-pedi! AHHHH life is good! Enjoy the pictures and I will post again soon.
No pictures of Chance because he was too busy to stand still for the camera.

We Survived Bible School... And Had A Little Fun Too!

2008-06-27T14:46:00.000-07:00

T-ballers are really just little men!

2008-06-27T13:57:00.000-07:00

Busy Busy Busy

2008-06-25T15:49:00.000-07:00

Baseball, Bible School, Borders, and Bridal Shower!!! We are busy! I promise to post soon with all the details and lots of pictures.

Calling All Rays

2008-06-09T20:50:00.001-07:00

We have started a Ray Family Blog. Click on the link at right to check it out!

Belle of the Ball

2008-06-09T19:18:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Ella and I traveled to Huntsville, Alabama with Mama and Daddy to go to a wedding. Our good friend, Matt Mims, had a very sweet ceremony, followed by a rockin' reception. We all had a blast. Here is a rare picture of all of us sharing a moment together.

In case you need a caption: Ella, Josh, Lawanna, Joel, Leslie, Sarah & Jake

For those of you who don't know Matt, he and Josh graduated high school together and then went on to pledge Pi Kappa Alpha together at Mississippi State University. They weren't alone though. They had a very tight knit group, which included Jake, both in high school and college. These days they don't all get to see each other as much as they used to except at the occasional wedding.

Now...to the real story. Ella was the BELLE OF THE BALL. She stole the show. I will give credit to Matt, his new bride Janelle was definitely the prettiest girl in the room, but my Ella was a close second. She danced her little heart out. She danced with Jake, Josh, Me, Webb, SuperDaddy, Nanie, and by herself. She can shake her hips a little too well for a two year year old. We better watch her closely the older she gets.

These are all the pictures I have right now, but IF Jenny sends me the ones she took, I will post them too!

Girl Friends

2008-06-03T12:08:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to give a quick shout out to my girls...You know who you are. Last night we had our first full fledged girls night out in a while and it was a blast. There is nothing like time away from your family to rejuvenate your soul...not to mention your attitude and energy level.

We went to see "Sex In The City" because there are four of us, and we each fit a different character. Now you are wondering who I am!! Take a guess!

Anyway, it just reminded me how important friends are and how lucky I am to have such wonderful women to share my joys and sorrows with. Most of you know that I am not one to have a lot of friends. I prefer a small close knit group. These are my girls and I love them. Thanks again for a great night out, can't wait until the next one.

I'm going to be an aunt...FINALLY!!!!

2008-06-02T14:33:00.001-07:00

I hope I am not giving away the news, BUT Jake and Sarah just found out they are having a girl...woo hoo!!! Although most of us had an inkling, today the sonogram confirmed it. Anne Coleman Pettit will be joining the family this October and I cannot wait to meet her.

I am ready to go shopping. Thank goodness I will see the parents-to-be this weekend or I really might go overboard buying stuff trying to celebrate on my own. Here is a picture of the glowing mommy and her growing (ever so slowly) belly! Now that we know who the little stranger is it makes things so much more exciting!

Congratulations Jake and Sarah! We are all celebrating with you and praying for a health, happy baby girl! We love you...All 3 of you!!!

Slip 'N' Slide for the 21st Century

2008-06-01T17:45:00.000-07:00

Today we had our Sunday School party. We had 10 families over for pizza and outdoor fun. Gary just happened to luck up on a free GIANT inflatable slide a lot like this one:

All the kids had a blast running through the sprinkler, jumping on the "jump-o-leen" and of course sliding. But the real fun started after the crowd left.

My boys, Gary included, and two friends from the neighborhood decided to put the water hose on the slide. Before long Gary and I were sliding right along with all four boys. It was the MOST fun I have had in a long time. The boys stayed out there for four hours until we finally just had to shut things down. Everyone is a little red from the sun. And mom is a little black and blue...I'm not as young as I use to be. My boys will never again think a regular slip 'n' slide is fun.

Lazy Days of Summer

2008-05-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

School has been out for barely a week now and the kids are already bored and I am near crazy. I don't remember last summer being this hot. The boys try to play outside, but don't last more than 20 min. Ella can't even stay out there for 10. So I am open to any ideas for things to keep us busy...remember we are on a budget.

I am going to get some new craft supplies this week and we are reading TOM SAWYER as a family so we can watch the movie later. We do have Bible school one week, but only in the mornings. For the rest of you looking for ideas, I did find this online today:

I am sure we will make it to one or two of these. For those of you who don't live here, check out your local theatre. You can't beat $2 a person to get out of the heat for a couple of hours.

Outside of the summer crazies life is good. We have 2 borders for the summer. Chase, my cousin, and Jeffrey, Gary's nephew (21 & 20) are here in Jackson working. Keeping "our big boys," as Gary calls them, and our kids both happy is proving to be quite a feat. They compete for the tv and irritate each other. They do keep each other entertained, which is a big help when I am cooking. If only Gary and I could get some free babysitting out of the deal.

Still no camera for those of you wondering. It has to show up sometime. When it does....I will make up for lost time (I promise)!!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-12T14:28:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a happy Mother's Day! I don't think mine could have been any better. I got exactly what I asked for: REST!!! I got to sleep in, Gary cleaned the house, and then all five us spent the afternoon together...riding 4-wheelers.

After the wild week I had last week, I deserved it. On top of all the normal craziness, I attended a birth and a funeral, took food to friends who had a baby, and dealt with a sick child...all while Gary was out of town.

Today I had my interview at Jackson State. For those of you who did not know...I was accepted to graduate school with "Advanced Standing," which means that I would only have to go for a year! YIPPEE (or so I thought)! I got there today to realize they made a mistake. I cannot be an Advanced Standing student because my BA is not in Social Work and I graduated more than 5 years ago. I am still admitted to school, I just have to go 2 or 3 years instead of 1.

I still have not decided what I am going to do. As much as I would love to pursue my degree, it may not be God's will. Gary and I have so many things going on right now and tons of decisions to make. I will keep you all updated.

Both the boys had their first baseball games Saturday. I did not get to watch Jackson because they played simultaneously, but Gary says he did well. Chance had a good game too. You would think this would have been the highlight of their weekend, but it wasn't. Yesterday we all played in the woods. All 3 kids waded in a creek and chased Jeffrey's lab, Deuce, around in the sand. It has been a long time since I have seen all three kids have that much fun together. I told Gary that it truly attested to who our kids are!

I would love to share pictures, but I still have not found my camera, so everyone keep your eyes open. I guess that is about it for now. The kids and I are headed to watch Gary play softball, by way of Chik-Fil-A. Talk to you all soon.

The Speed of Life

2008-04-30T20:07:00.001-07:00

I have lost the camera . . . AGAIN!!! I know, don't harrass me. As soon as I find it I will post some new pictures. All is well here. The kids and I just got back from a long weekend in Midland. We had such a good time hanging out with Nanie and SuperDaddy! The boys got some skates and that is now their new favorite thing to do. They even talked me into buying rollerblades. I haven't had a chance to really get out there yet, but I'm sure it will be quite a sight when I do.

We have our first baseball games Saturday. Both the boys play at 8am (UGH) at different fields (double UGH)! Basically this means Gary and I will have to split up and each watch one. Hopefully the camera will magically show up before the games.

The Snake Man

2008-04-14T16:23:00.000-07:00

Chance Had a "snake man" visit school today. He was so excited. It was the only thing we talked about at dinner. I finally decided I would attempt to record him and post it so everyone could share in his knowledge. That said, it is mostly for my mom who loves to hear Chance talk about what he learned. Please forgive all the background noise...Suppertime at our house is never quiet.

Tagged

2008-04-14T13:30:00.000-07:00

Who do you Love? Gary, Chance, Jackson, Ella, My Fam, Gary's Fam, and my bestest friends.
How long have you been married? 8 years and counting
How long did you date? First or second time??? First time 4 months. Second time 4months, obviously we are not big on dating!
Where did he propose? On my parents front porch
Who is taller? Gary, by about half a foot!
Who is smarter? We are both pretty intelligent. Where one falls short, the other picks up.
Who does the laundry? Usually me, but he helps.
Who pays the bills? I do, part of the agreement of me not working.
Who mows the lawn? I have never even turned on the mower and don't plan on starting any time soon.
Who cooks dinner? Me 75% Corey 25%
Who drives? Gary, I like to ride and sleep. Not to mention I get lost!
I now tag!! LB and Amy

All About Chance

2008-04-13T18:37:00.000-07:00

The end of last week seemed to revolve around Chance. He had is first baseball practice on Thursday night. He really seems to enjoy and he is pretty good, (said his mother)! We think the coach will be a big help this year. So far he is very focused on fundamentals, which is what Chance needs. At the first practice the team worked on: Throwing...

Hitting...

Fielding...

Fly Balls...

And Grounders!!!

Check this one out, do you think we could get a million dollar endorsement from Gatorade?

Friday morning Chance had a Kindergarten program at school. He did wonderfully. They even sang one song in Spanish...my how school has changed since I was little.

He is too cool!! I think he was the only one who walked in with his hands in his pockets.

If you can't pick him out, he is in the second row from the bottom, second one from the end. We have had a relatively restful weekend and pray that it has been the same for all of you.

WOO HOO GO LESLIE!!

2008-04-10T18:41:00.000-07:00

The kids wanted to know why all the other blogs had music and ours didn't. So, supermom that I am, I figured the darn thing out and got some music going on our blog. We hope you all enjoy it. Each of my kids has their own "baby song" that I used to sing to them when they were babies. They all three still like to hear them. So, I chose those three songs to play here so they can hear them every time we log on. "You Are My Sunshine" is for Chance. "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" is Jackson's. And last, but certainly not least, "Baby Mine" is Ella's. I also used a few more that talk about loving your home, the one in this world and the one we will live in eternally. I hope you enjoy the music as much as we do. Talk to you all soon.

Long Time No Post

2008-04-09T13:49:00.000-07:00

I'm baaaack! I know you have all missed us so much..ha ha ha! We lost the cord to the camera and haven't been able to upload pictures ...until now. So here is a brief synopsis of life at the Tanksley house and some pictures of the past couple of months.

Jackson's party was great! All the kids had a blast! We received tons of compliments from the parents. The boys are signed up for baseball and practice starts this week. They are all doing well in school. Being around other kids has really helped Ella blossom. She has no problem making her presence known these days. Currently her favorite thing to do is to be put up in a cheerleader stunt and yell "Go Dawgs" I know what you are thinking, but it is completely normal in MS to brainwash our children from an early age to support the college of our choice! Go State!!

I have turned in my application to JSU for their Masters in Social Work program. I am checking the mail every day waiting to hear if I got in! Gary's job is going great. He loves everyone he works with and he is enjoying his new responsibilities. Overall life is busy, but not all that exciting. We are all getting ready for a busy summer. We are planning for Bible school, which I help teach every year. We are preparing for Jenny and Webb's wedding in July. All three of the kids and I are in the wedding so there is a lot to do. I am also attempting to give Jenny a shower. For those of you that no me well, you know that I tend to overdo when I throw a party, so the planning has already started (at least in my head)!

Enough of me blabbering. We have taken a good number of pictures, but here are some of my favorites.

Ella's first time ever to "Lick the Spoon." It took

a little coaxing, but she eventually loved it.

This is me with my friends Kim and Fraiser.

We went to a Disco fundraiser.

Jackson, with Chance and some of his friends,

opening presents at his "RockStar Party"

Ella last Sunday, in her "Fancy" dress

This was the scene Monday afternoon, as all

three of the kids were waiting for Gary to get

home from work.

I hope this satisfies your longing to know what is going on in our little world. I will try to keep up the blog better from now on. Thanks for checking in on us and we will talk to you all soon.

Sick Kids, Birthdays, and Back to School

2008-02-17T18:31:00.000-08:00

Okay, for all you loyal readers out there, here is an update thanks to a little prodding from my sister-in-law. Kids have been sick, then well, then sick again. It seems like it has been non-stop since Christmas. This past week Jackson had the flu and Chance had bronchitis. Actually, Chance is still coughing and runnig a low grade fever. Ella seems to be immune to it all (knock on wood).

Gary's birthday is on the 26th and I am trying to decide what we are going to do to celebrate. I am thinking we might have friends over and just cook and hang out. Then Jackson's 4th birthday is just a week later on March 7th. We are planning his party now. He decided to have a rock star party. This is great because it is really turning out to be a pretty cheap party, which is saying a lot in the world of Madison. However, it also requires a lot of creativity because there is not a whole lot out there in terms of a rock star party for a 4 year old boy. Leave to Jackson to want to be different.

Now, for the big news. I am going back to school! My job SUCKED! and I got fired (mainly because I did not incorporate myself quick enough). Anyway, I have been wanting to get my Masters for a while now and the timing is finally right. I am taking my GRE on Friday and then I have to get my application and financial aid application in ASAP!

Jackson State has a Masters in Social Work Program that I can do part time and finish in 3 years, which is just when Ella will be starting Kindergarten. I know some of you will think this is out of the blue, but this is what I have always wanted. I was actually applying to grad schools when Gary and I got back together...8 years ago. Everybody just say a prayer that if this is in God's plan for me, I will pass the GRE, get accepted, and get some MAJOR financial aid.

New Job...Need Prayer!!

2008-01-29T10:43:00.000-08:00

Okay, I got my first two projects for my job. It's been a while since I finished the training, so I have to refresh my memory. The house is still a little chaotic. My instincts are to work on the house and not sit at the computer all day, but I will have to shift my focus, Lock myself in the office or something. Anyway. I just wanted to let you all know that I am starting to work and I am asking ro all your prayers. I am little nervous about not being able to do what is asked of me. I guess that happens when you haven't worked in 6 years. I'll keep you all posted on how it is going.

Still Sick

2008-01-25T12:44:00.000-08:00

We have been through ear infections, pink eye, and the flu. Just when we thought everyone was getting better...BAM...mom gets the flu. And we all know that when mom is sick the whole house is in disarray. Gary has been great, but I am still sick. We did get our new furniture, which is a huge plus. I will post pictures as soon as I am feeling better.

Settling In

2008-01-17T14:09:00.000-08:00

Well, Gary made it home Saturday. We unloaded the truck on Sunday. And we have been unpacking ever since. We are both starting to get a little tired of boxes. You never realize how much stuff you have until you have to find somewhere to put it all.

Gary and Jackson have gone to KO to hunt today, but should be back tonight. We are hoping to finish unpacking tomorow and then paint the living room this weekend. Gary starts his new job on Monday and I am going to get back working too.

For those of you who don't know, I got new furniture for my birthday and we are still waiting for it to be delivered. Honestly, we don't have anywhere to put it at the moment.

Madison is just as we left it...with a little less road construction. It has been great seeing all of our friends. We have not made it to church yet, but are hoping to start back this Sunday.

I want to say a big THANK YOU to everyone who has helped us in this move. Jeffrey for flying to Denver to help, Mamaw for the food, all the guys who helped unload, Amy and Rob for taking on Chance for the whole weekend, and everyone who has just called to check in. We are truly grateful to be home.

There's No Place Like Home

2008-01-10T21:47:00.000-08:00

I guess Glenda the Good Witch really knew what she was talking about. There really is no place like home. I had to call Gary the other night to tell him that even the rain is better in Mississippi. The kids and I were having a picnic on the living room floor and had the front door propped open (in JANUARY) to watch the storm.

I want to say thanks to everyone who has called to check in on the kids and I. For those of you who haven't, I know you have thought about us. We are surviving. Truthfully, it hasn't been that bad. The worst part is that we miss Gary.

All 3 kids started school this week, in spite of many trips to the doctor. Jackson has an ear infection, Ella had to get immunized, and Chance had pink eye and now the flu! We are doing our best to take it all in stride. Back to school, Ella was meant to be around people! She loves school and her teachers love her, SURPRISE SURPRISE! Jackson still doesn't want to see me leave, but he does fine once I'm gone. He has a wonderful teacher who makes him feel very important! And then there is Chanceroo! He is so big! He only got to go to school two days this week, but he thoroughy enjoyed it.

I have been painting up a storm. I have finished both the kids bedrooms and plan on painting my office (formerly Chance's room) tomorrow. Jeffrey flew out to Denver today to help Gary load the UHAUL and drive back. They should be here late Saturday night. He will have all next week off to help me unpack and get things in order around here. And then hopefully we will both be starting new jobs at the same time. I am still planning on doing my research job from home just as soon as we get settled in.

We are so excited to be back home. it's true what they say, You never know what you had until it's gone. . . (I'm just glad we were able to get it back!)

Home Again Home Again Jiggety Jig!

2008-01-02T06:49:00.000-08:00

Well, for those of you who have not heard yet, we are moving home! Gary received a job offer over the Christmas holidays and since our house has not sold, we decided to come on back to Mississippi! Gary is already back in Colorado packing up the apartment. He is handing in his two weeks notice today and should be home next weekend. The kids and I are staying put! There was no point in driving all the way back to CO just to turn around and come back! So, we will start school in Madison on Monday the 7th. Chance will be at Madison Crossing and Jackson and Ella both have spots secured at FBC! We can't wait to see all of you again!

I'll Be Home For Christmas!!!!

2007-12-19T16:39:00.000-08:00

Well, this is it...the last blog entry before I will see most of you! I was hoping to get the kids Santa Picture posted, but that doesn't look like it is going to happen. We are running around like busy little bees. You know how it is before you go out town. Gary has been working late to get all his hours in so he won't have to go in on Friday! The kids are counting down and driving us crazy! I am just trying to get in all done. The good thing is I will have 18 hours to catch up on sleep in the car.

For those of you who like to keep up with travel plans, we are planning on leaving here between 6 and 7 Friday morning (which is 7 or 8 MS time). Right now we think we will try to drive straight through and hopefully be in KO by 2am. However, since we are traveling with 3 kids and 2 dogs, we are flexible. We might end up stopping and spending the night along the way. Either way, we will be in town in time for Christmas at Mamaw Bobbye's. Everyone keep us in your prayers for both safety and sanity.

That's it for now...as I type Ella is crying, the boys are fighting, the dogs are barking, and supper is boiling...needless to say, I better go. We will see you all soon.

All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth!

2007-12-10T12:18:00.000-08:00

What a weekend we had. First and Foremost...Chance lost his front tooth! He is officially a snaggletooth. He looks so funny, but so BIG!

And then there is Miss Ella Bella who has figured out how to make people laugh. This is one of her new favorites. Her Daddy calls her a little "pot" head!

We had our first big snow this weekend...about 6 inches between Friday night and Saturday. The kids are loving it. The boys got out and played in it a little bit on Saturday morning, but we didn't make it up to the mountains yet. Friday night Gary & I had his company Christmas Party. We had a great time and found that there are actually people here we could be friends with.

For those of you who don't know already, we turned our house over to a property manager who will hopefully find someone to lease it in the next few weeks. We are hoping to start seriously looking for a house here in Denver after Christmas.

Gary left this morning for North Dakota. . . HA HA HA . . . it's even colder there. He will be gone until Thursday and then we are at a week and counting until we come home. Can't wait to see you all. Love you!

Elf Babies!

2007-12-06T13:33:00.000-08:00

Jackson & I played on the computer this afternoon and made some elf babies! You have got to see how funny they are! If you need a good laugh, check out the link below!

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1201433834

What Do We Look Like???Garbage???

2007-12-06T13:04:00.000-08:00

Okay so the title of this blog is a little strange! Let me explain...It is Jackson's new favorite thing to say and it seemed appropriate since Gary and feel like we are living in pig sty most of the time. We just have too much stuff for this tiny apartment. I have to give a shout out to my mom though, she helped me find a good way to deal with it. I had gotten to a point that my mantra was I hate this ******* apartment. (I refuse to even type that word because it is not one I ever say.) So the fact that it would go through my head at least twice a day tells you how bad it had gotten around here. My mom made a suggestion that I wake up every morning singing "This is the day that the Lord has made." Well, I'm not really one for singing first thing in the morning, but I have replaced my daily motto with this song. Now, every time I hate this apt. I just burst out singing. The kids think I have gone crazy, but it works for me and I am not quite as miserable.
We have turned the house in Madison over to a property management company. They will find someone to lease it and keep it up for us. This takes a huge pressure off of us. So, as soon as we have a lease on it, we can find something else here! HALLELUJAH!!!
Kids are doing well. Chance asks every day if it is Christmas yet and when are we going to Kosciusko. They are very excited about seeing everyone. We went to the mall last night to see Santa...and he wasn't there. What kind of mall doesn't have a Santa. So, we are going to find one this weekend and I will post a picture as soon as we have one. I hope everyone is full of the Christmas Spirit! We will see you all soon!

It's the Final Countdown!

2007-11-25T21:50:00.000-08:00

26 days & counting until we head HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS!!

Thanksgiving wasn't quite the same not being with the family. We had a few sad moments, but I have to say that the Martins are a pretty good substitute. They were all so welcoming to us and made us feel like we were part of the family. Gary was even assigned the job of carving the turkey (which is always his job at home)!
The kids had soooo much fun with Brenda's kids. Chance and Malik are both 6 and the two quickly became best buds! Jackson and Rhys were like two peas in a pod! They liked each other and enjoyed the company, but sometimes they were a little too alike to appreciate the other one. We had to break up a lot of arguments. (Of course the fact that they were exhausted had nothing to do with it! HA HA HA). Then there are the little ladies! Ella Bella automatically took on the role of big sister to Miss Jorie! When she wasn't looking out for her, she was bossing her around, just like a big sis should.
Brenda and I picked up right where we left off. You couldn't tell we hadn't seen each other in 4 years. You can always tell the makings of best friend! We didn't skip a beat! It was like we had been together every day for the last 15 years. I am really excited that we are going to see so much more of each other.
Corey and Gary survived it all. They really were good sports to put up with all the running around Brenda Jean and I did. They missed quite a few games on TV, including the BYU vs. Utah game that was just as important as State/Ole Miss. We got to listen to the first half thanks to XM radio, but missed all the good stuff while we ate lunch. However, I have to give a big shout to Kim for keeping us posted. The girl sent me a text anytime something happened. We got a play by play via text messaging. It wasn't quite like being there, but it was the next best thing.
We love and miss you all and can't wait to see everyone in less than 4 weeks. Please keep praying for us and our house. We have yet to sell the one Madison, but are still hopeful. Maybe the Christmas season will be good luck for us. See y'all soon!

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-20T21:41:00.001-08:00

Well, it's here! Our first holiday away from home! I have been really down about it. I want to be there for the food, the family, the egg bowl, and of course the Friday morning shopping! Going to see Brenda is helping though. The kids are really excited. They are so much like Gary and I...everything is an adventure.

We have packed and prepared everything ...Just In Case! It is supposed to snow here tonight. The high tomorrow is only 28! We will be driving through snow most of the drive. Won't that be fun? We will get lots of pics over the weekend and will have tons to post when we get back.

We hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Think of us because we will be thinking of all of you.

Alive And Ticking

2007-11-13T19:36:00.000-08:00

Sorry it has been so long! We have been busy little bees here in CO! Gary just got back from Montana. (Or as Chance says "Hannah Montana"! He just can't understand why we didn't see daddy on tv while he was gone.) The trip was to Glacier National Park. He got some great pictures and I will put them up as soon as I can.

You all will be happy to know that we will not be alone on Thanksgiving. We are going to Vernal, UT to spend time with Brenda and her family. For those of you who don't know, Brenda is my best friend from highschool when I lived in UT. She has 3 kids right around the same ages of Chance, Jackson and Ella. We are looking forward to a great, long, relaxing weekend.

I have started my job training and things are going well. There is a lot of information to learn and practice. I think I am really going to enjoy the work though. It is a lot of problem solving which is right up my alley.

Chance is doing great in school. He is in the top math group and next to top reading group. His vocabulary is unbelievable. He is definately growing up....TOO FAST!

Jackson is.....Jackson. Actually he is doing great. He is starting to listen a little more. He is helping out more...especially cooking! He loves to help me cook. He is also showing more empathy for others! All in all he is growing too and not just physically!

Then there is my Ella Bella! She is talking up a storm! Right now she is really into copying everything we say! And talk about attitude! She is quite the little diva! We can't wait until Christmas to see her little face!

I guess that is all the updates for now! I promise to try and post more often! We love and miss you all!

Happy Halloween

2007-11-01T12:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!! I hope you all had a great night with your families. We had fun! It was cold! The kids enjoyed getting all the candy! I have to say though, I missed Halloween in Harvey Crossing: Kim & Corbin, Kids in Wagons, Trailers pulling families, and wine in plastic glasses. I think last night was the first time I was really homesick. AHHH the good old days. Either way though, my kids had a blast and that is all that matters.I think Chance had just as much fun handing out candy as he did getting his own.

That was short lived though because he woke up vomitting last night so he has been home all day. He's fine now. Only got sick once.

Ella is another story! I don't know what we are going to do with her. I think she has toddler insomnia...is that even a real thing. We put her bed about 8 and my best guess is that she fights sleep for an hour or two. Then she is up anywhere between midnight and 2 and stays up for a couple of hours. The worst part is: if we don't hear her door open or the tv turn on, we don't know she's up. She just roams the apartment or sits on the couch. It is scary! There are so many things she could get into. I don't know what to do. If you have any suggestions, let us know. We are exhausted and frustrated.

Here Goes Nothing!

2007-10-30T12:09:00.000-07:00

Well, it is official...I have a job! I had my first training walk through today. I am working with a research company (From Home)! I have a month of training and probation before the real work starts, but hey you gotta start somewhere.
Keep me in your prayers and I will be sure to keep you posted.

Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

2007-10-28T17:50:00.000-07:00

Well we haven't had any snow in Denver yet, so we
set out to find some on our own. Saturday, we grabbed
our hats, gloves, and boots; and we headed to the
mountains. It took a while, but we finally found a
good patch of snow for the kids to play in. Okay, so
Gary and I played a little bit too. There is nothing like
snow to bring out the kid in you. We should have
brought the snow bibs and coats because we were all
soaked when we got back in the car, but as Nanie would
say, "We made a memory" I don't think Gary and I will
ever forget the pure joy on our kids faces when they
finally got to play in snow for the first time! For all
you skeptics out there, this is why we did this! I hope
the pictures bring a smile to your face and that you have
as much fun looking at them as we did taking them.

Are You Talking To Me? Boys Will Be Boys

MY SNOW BUNNIES!!!

Home Again Home Again Jiggety Jig

2007-10-24T15:11:00.000-07:00

Okay we are back home safe and sound for all of you who were worried. We had a wonderful time with Nanie and SuperDaddy. The drive was a little long, but nothing we couldn't handle. The kids did great both ways.

We did a bunch of relaxing. And of course we made the mandatory trips to Toys 'R' US and Mr. Gatties. The kids can't go to Midland without visiting each of these at least once.

We also got to go to a pumpkin patch, well, the boys did. Ella fell asleep in the car and missed it. The boys picked her a pumpkin though. The best part was watching them all decorate their individual pumpkins (we painted them so they could make the trip home).

Jenny was in town visiting Webb, so we got to see her too. All in all it was a great trip.

Updates

2007-10-16T10:45:00.001-07:00

First, let me say sorry that it has been a while since I posted. Gary left Sunday going to Toronto, Canada for a class. He will be home tonight...THANK GOODNESS. Then, the kids and I leave early Thursday going to Midland. We are really excited about going to see Nanie and SuperDaddy. Chance has been marking off the days on the calendar since October 1st.

I did want to say thank you to everyone who sent Ella a birthday card. It means a lot that you remembered. We had a small family party and then we all went to the circus. The kids had a blast. I do have a few pictures that I will post when I get the chance.

I also wanted to say Thanks for all the prayers on the house situation. We still don't have any nes for you, but we have faith that it is coming. God is good and so is His Plan. I think he is just waiting for all the pieces to fall into place and then BOOM...the puzzle will be complete. I am convinced that this is the right house for us...I don't think it is going anywhere.

For those of you that don't know...I have applied for a job and should be hearing any day now. Don't freak out...I will work from home. It is for a research company. I will be doing research on my computer. I only have to work 30 hours a week and only 10 of those have to be during regular business hours. So basically I can set my own schedule, which is ideal. It looks promising and I will let you know as soon as I hear something.

We miss you all. Talk to you soon.

Keep Your Fingers Crossed

2007-10-12T11:09:00.001-07:00

Just got off the phone with a potential buyer. Word has gotten around that we just want out of the payments and that we are willing to work with buyers. This man is really interested, but he needed to speak to his wife. Everybody PRAY! We are so ready to move on. I will keep you all posted.

House Update

2007-10-09T14:23:00.000-07:00

The prayers must be working. We got an e-mail from our realtor saying that the owners are definitely willing to work with us on the price. We also got two more calls this weekend about leasing the house. Keep your fingers crossed and keep sending up those prayers.

Prayer Request

2007-10-06T18:51:00.000-07:00

Well, this is it! We found a house. We have actually been looking at it online for a couple of weeks, but went to see it in person for the first time today. We both feel like this is the house that we are meant to be in and that God has led us to it.
It is perfect for us! It is the most Southern looking house we have seen up here. It has a wrap around porch and 5 acres for the boys to romp and roam. It is zoned as horse property, which is not a big deal right now, but if Jackson keeps showing interest in horses, we may have one down the road. Zoning for horse property is also important for resale. We don't plan on leaving it any time soon. This would be a house that we could stay in as long as we were in CO.

Now, for you pessimists out there...THE DOWN SIDE...it needs some work. Nothing structural, mostly just updating. The house was built in 1969 so things are a little outdated. Most of the work we can do ourselves, which will gain us lots of sweat equity. You know us though and we already have big plans...including an add on one day. For now though, the house is livable and MUCH BIGGER than this apartment. It is 27oo square feet, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 2 living areas.

OKAY, I know you are wondering about the title of this blog. We need lots of prayers to be sent up out there. We have to get rid of the MS house one way or another (Sell or Lease) before we can buy this one. We need the financing to work out in our favor. And we need the price on the house to drop (It has already dropped by $20,000 since we started looking at it).

We could be wrong and this may not be the house God wants us to have and we are ready to accept that if things don't work out. However, that being said, we really feel led to this house. We have great realtor, once again who we were led to. He feels like we can get a great deal on this house and agrees that it is a good investment. All we are asking you, our friends and family, is to stop what you are doing right now and say a little prayer for us that God's plan will be revealed to us and that if this is the home He wants us to buy to He will work things in our favor.

We love and miss you all. One reason for wanting this house is so we have plenty of room when all of you come to visit.

If you want to see more of the house check out this link:

http://www.cohomefinder.com/p/80465/477579.htm#

A Clean House is the Sign of a Wasted Life

2007-10-03T16:26:00.001-07:00

Today we went to the Children's Museum with our moms playgroup. The kids had a blast, as you can see from these pictures:

This is another outfit that I made for Ella! Isn't she the cutest thing EVER???

This was Jackson's Favorite Part! He was actually pretty good!

He also liked the Grocery Store! My little shopper. I think he has spent way too much time with me!

MY LITTLE SUPERMODEL!

GOT MILK?

2007-10-03T16:14:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share this quick snapshot from yesterday.

I can't decide if she looks cute or scary! Maybe a little like Don King???

Welcome To Colorado!

2007-10-01T13:27:00.000-07:00

This is what we did yesterday!
Wish you were here!

We looked at houses this weekend...Can't wait to buy one! Gary and I are a little at odds about what we want. We know we want to be in the mountains and we agree on a general price range, however Gary wants a fixer upper and I want one that just needs minor updates and personalization. The good news is we have found a realtor that we trust...unlike the first guy. So, we shouldn't be long before we find something that we both can be happy with.

My New Theme Song

2007-09-28T17:32:00.000-07:00

Not much going on! We are going to look at a house tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes. Now take a minute to watch this video...becuase this is my life now and for the next 20 years. This is my new theme song. HA HA HA !!!

Never a Dull Moment!

2007-09-24T15:05:00.000-07:00

Today has been a roller coaster. I took Jackson and Ella to go meet some new friends at the Book Store. We had coffee, looked at some books, and played with the train table. It would have been fun, except Jackson didn't want to be nice to anyone. So, as punishment for acting so ugly, he had to take a nap when we got home.

He wasn't in his room five minutes when I heard a blood curdling scream. I thought one of the dogs had bitten him. He cam running out, clutching his silky in one hand and holding the back of his head with the other. I felt his head and there was already a knot on it. I tried to get him to tell me what happened. All he managed to whimper was that he hit it on the window. I felt his head again and the knot was bigger. I tried to calm him down, but I was freaking out myself. The knot was getting bigger by the minute.

I frantically called Gary...like he could do anything at work. Then I loaded the kids in the car and set out to find an Urgent Care Clinic. Thank goodness there is one only about 10 minutes from our house. The Doctor checked out Jackson's head and said that he should be fine. We have to watch for all the typical stuff like nausea, slurred speech, etc. We also have to wake him up every two hours tonight. He should be fine though. The Doctor did say we should watch for strange behavior. What do you think...is this strange:

TGIF

2007-09-21T20:27:00.001-07:00

Well what a Friday it has been! Chance had an early release day, so he was done with school before lunch. Gary also gets off around lunch on Fridays. So this afternoon, we split up. The boys went to the park and the girls went...where else? SHOPPING!

We had a nice surprise tonight. Our neighborhood was having its last gathering of the summer. The had a huge screen set up on the lawn of the park and played "Cars". I took the boys. They had so much fun. We sat on a blanket, ate some popcorn, and visited with neighbors. Gary stayed home to put Ella to bed and watch ESPN!

Tomorrow, I think we may go try to get some hiking in, but we're not sure yet. The news this week showed that Breckenridge got their first snow, which means we can't be that far behind. We figure we better go enjoy the mountains before it is too cold to get out. We'll let you know how our adventure goes!

A Day at the Zoo

2007-09-19T15:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Jackson, Ella, and I went to the zoo. We were supposed to meet some other stay-at-home moms, but only one showed up. We ended up splitting up from her. My kids were just a tad more lively than her daughter, so we moved a little faster. We had a great time though. Both kids were well behaved (A Miracle!) It was nice for us to get out of the apartment.

We have been to a ton of zoos over the years and this was one of the most interactive ones we've been too.They had lots of things out for the kids to touch. When we first arrived Jackson got to pet a snake and an alligator. We took a picture with the alligator, but I just couldn't bring myself to photograph the snake. I did touch it though, believe it or not. The things we do for our kids.

The kids other favorite thing

was a life size picture of a

polar bear. They look so tiny

standing next to it.

Monday night, I finished making one of Ella's outfits I was working on. Of course she had to wear it to the zoo, but not without giving a little fashion show and photo shoot first. What do you think? Do we have a future model in the family?

All in all we had a great day! Of course the kids were exhausted. But for some reason, they weren't the ones who crashed last night...But look who did:
I am working on getting all of our pictures put in an online album so y'all can see them all. As soon as I do, I'll let everybody know where to find them.

New Cars for a New Life!

2007-09-16T21:03:00.000-07:00

Well, I am no longer one of "those people" as Jake says! We got rid of the van and Gary's "Pimp My Ride Monster Truck!"

We used the equity in Gary's truck to help lower what we owed on the van. We decreased our monthly payments and lowered our overall debt by almost $11,000.

Gary is now driving a red, 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee! (Chance loves it b/c it is red). I have a silver, 2004 Saturn Vue. Both are all wheel drive (Good for the mountains and snow). We gave up some of the space we had in the van, but in all honesty, it was just more space to junk up.

The house is still for sale! Everyone keep praying! God has a plan, we know that! We just wish he would let us in on it! HA! Too bad it doesn't work that way! We are considering the possibility that we might have to lease it for a year. Tammy, our realtor, suggested waiting until the end of October and if it hasn't sold, putting it up for lease. We are thinking about it and praying about it! There are a lot of risks, but also a lot of benefits.

This week should be much of the same: homework, laundry...life! We love hearing from all of you! Talk to you soon!

Another Day, Another Dollar!

2007-09-13T15:53:00.000-07:00

Not too much going on here! I am being a little lazy with the pictures. We really haven't taken any more good ones! The kids are good! Ella is talking up a storm. We just wish she would say something besides "Mama" & "Daddy" Who would have thought you could hate that word so much?

Chance is doing great in school! We should have Parent/Teacher conferences next month. He is making friends with the kids in his class, but nobody special! Right now everybody is his friend!

Then there is my Jackson! What can I say...He's just Jackson! Wild as ever! He is getting better at listening though.

I have found a stay at home mom group that gets together with the kids and does different kinds of things around Denver! So, next week are going to our first outing at the Zoo!

That's it for now! BYE

Quick Hello

2007-09-10T18:07:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you all know we are well! I've had a few complaints about not writing enough, so here I am again. Not much going on here. School, homework, laundry. Same old Same Old! I have bought the cutest material to make Ella a X-mas dress. As soon as we get it made, I will post a picture.

This weekend we went to a harvest festival. The kids had so much fun riding the ponies, petting the animals, and doing a reverse bungee jump. I will try and post some of those pictures later this week.
I will talk to all of you soon.

Great Labor Day!

2007-09-06T18:07:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a marvelous Labor Day! We had so much fun with my parents here. The kids were so excited to see family and I think it set mama and daddy's minds at ease that we really are okay!

Saturday morning we all met in Colorado Springs for the day! We took the kids to "The North Pole" which is an amusement park geared directly at small kids. They had so much fun!

Even Ella got to experience some of the rides! We learned that she is going to be a little dare devil! She wanted to go on every ride we saw. The good thing is we didn't have to say "no" too much.

After the amusement park we went to Pikes Peak! You can't go to Colorado Springs without seeing Pikes Peak. The kids loved the train ride up.

They were exhausted by the time we headed back down.

Sunday brought a whole lot more to do. We decided to split up the boys and the girls. The guys went to Estes Park to hike. However, if you ask the boys, their favorite part was feeding the chipmunks. Mama and I took Ella shopping. She was in Heaven (So were mama and I for that matter)!

Sunday night we all met back up at Trail Dust. For those of you who don't know, it is a steak house that has a 2 story slide for the kids.

And if that wasn't enough, there was also a band. So, needless to say the Tanksley kids danced the night away!

Monday morning Joel and Lawanna left early. We decided to spend the day riding around Evergreen, which is in the mountains right outside of Denver. This is where we have decided to look for a house (as soon as the other one sells!) We didn't find a house, but look what we did find:

These are just a few of the 11 elk we saw that day. I don't know who was more excited, the kids or Gary! It was a great way to end the weekend. It reminded us why we opted for this move. And it convinced us even more that Evergreen is where we want to live!

I guess that's it for now! Thanks for keeping up with this blog and for keeping us in your prayers. If y'all ever want any of these pictures, just let me know! I can e-mail them in a heartbeat! We miss you all! Talk to you soon!

Happy Birthday Chance!

2007-08-27T20:22:00.000-07:00

Not much to say tonight! Just wanted to say thanks to everyone who called and sent cards to Chance! He was convinced that we were having a party tonight and all of you were coming. We did have a family dinner (the first we've had in a while), cupcakes, and he got to play MouseTrap. Which was the only thing he asked for. Talk to you Soon!

The Adventure Begins

2007-08-26T21:07:00.000-07:00

Well, we've told everyone that this move was our attempt at an adventure! We certainly got what we asked for! Let me see if I can update everyone since I last posted. Last Saturday, August 18, we started loading the moving van! We have wonderful friends and family that came to help me since Gary wasn't able to be there. The moving company had estimated that we would use 17ft in the truck. They obviously had never seen my house. We used 24ft of a 26 foot trailer. The guys were wonderful though and had it all loaded by lunch! Hats off to all of you who helped!

You all know me and when I get an idea in my head no one can talk me out of it! Well, Saturday afternoon I was wired and ready to get on the road. So, the kids and I loaded up with dogs and left Madison at 3pm. I had the best of intentions to stop in Arkansas...and I did about 10:30. The kids however, had other ideas. They would not settle down. After fighting them for 2 hours, I got back on the road at 12:30 am and drove straight through to Denver! Safe??? Probably not! But we did all get here in one piece late Sunday afternoon!

We had no furniture for the next 5 days, but we found ways to keep busy.
Chance started school, which he loves. His teacher's name is Mr. Stuart! His school is only 2 blocks from the house, so we all walk either to or from school everyday. The kids get a big kick out of going to the BIG School!

Friday, our furniture got here and Gary and I started unloading the trailer! We were missing all of our friends and family then! It was the first time in our marriage that we didn't have anyone to call to ask for help. We were on a good roll, when once again, I got an idea in my head and didn't want to wait for help. I dropped a box spring on my foot and our moving efforts were cut short by a trip to the emergency room. Thank goodness nothing was broken. I think it looked a whole lot worse than it was.

Since I wasn't going to be much help, Gary recruited the apartment maintenance man to help with the remainder of the big stuff! It's now all in the apartment...Barely! And we are starting to unpack, organize, and settle in! We are still finding lots of time to go out as a family...after all that is why we chose Denver! Lots to do...for all of us!
That's about it for now! Chance turns 6 tomorrow and Joel and Lawanna will be here on Friday! Talk to y'all soon!

Almost There

2007-08-17T06:31:00.000-07:00

We are almost finished on this end of the move! Everything is just about packed up. The trailer is being delivered today! I have plenty of help coming to help load up tomorrow. Our prayer is that we can get everything loaded in one day so the kids and I can leave Sunday morning.

Yes, I am going alone...I will be fine! I think we are going to stop in Tulsa, which is about halfway! Just pray for a safe trip and calm spirits!

We did get an apartment. It is a 3 bedroom 2bath on the first floor. The only downfall is that Chance's school started on Aug. 7th, which means he will be a couple of weeks behind. He's a smart kid though, he should pick it all right up.

I have our new address and will e-mail it to anyone who wants it, just let me know. Keep us in your prayers. Here goes nothing!

Oh What A Difference A Day Makes

2007-08-13T11:25:00.000-07:00

Well, a lot has developed over the weekend. We have decided to stop fighting with the mortgage company and realtor and just give up the house. It wasn't our "dream home" anyway. Gary is, as we speak, checking out apartments. We have found a couple that offer six month leases. They are big enough for us to survive until we find the house we love. Both apartments are in good schools and good areas. You do what you have to. Our priority is being together. Anyway, I'm still planning on leaving Monday. The packing is slowly moving along. We will keep you updated. STAY TUNED!

Keep On Moving On

2007-08-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

Okay...Things are progressing, slowly, but they are progressing. Gary has successfully finished his first week of work. He even got invited to play golf this afternoon. I hope he doesn't embarrass himself (HA HA!!) He has been dealing with the mortgage broker in CO, who seems to be totally incompetent. We just pray that it all works out before closing. The walk through on the house is scheduled for next Tuesday.

I am still busying packing. I haven't done too much today. They showed the house around lunch, and Kate had to go to the Vet, and we needed groceries, so the whole day has been shot. Tonight I have my last ladies night out with all my friends. Chance may have his first sleepover. We'll let y'all know how that goes. It should be okay as long as Tripp lets Chance "Snuggle" his ears.

Tomorrow we are going to KOSY for Mason's birthday party. We will also be saying our good-byes, since this will probably be the last time we head that way before leaving on the 20th. I am still planning on driving alone, unless things change. Keep us in your prayers as next week promises to be even crazier!

And More Packing

2007-08-07T14:58:00.000-07:00

Are you beginning to see a theme in my life? Tomorrow we are going swimming with Chance's preschool class...a welcomed break from all this (you guessed it) PACKING! Today I started the kitchen! It was the room that was looming over me, so I decided I would break it up before the pressure of time really gets to me.
All in all we've had a good day. For those of you who might be trying to call me though, I have no phone! Somehow we lost the cordless and can't find it anywhere. Yes we tried paging it... and still no luck. My cell phone is dead and I only have a car charger (which only works when the car is on)! So I am out of luck. I am trying to get a land line phone to use for the time being and will let you all know when I do! Talk to you soon!

More Packing

2007-08-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

Today has been more of the same. Packing, UGH! Chance and I are going bowling tonight with Melanie and Brooks since he probably won't get much of a birthday party this year. I spoke to Gary after lunch and he says things are going well at the new job, but there will be "some adjustments". I think he would rather just dive right into the work than have to be worried with all the orientation stuff. All in all it's going good!
He did drive by the new house this weekend and said things have really progressed since we were out there. We should be closing between the 15th and 18th. If you want to see our floor plan you can go to http://www.drhorton.com/corp/GetFloorPlan.do?dv=Y5&pr=41835&pl=1138687
PS: I know the picture from yesterday was sideways... I told you I was still learning how to do all this.

Packing

2007-08-05T13:06:00.000-07:00

The packing is well underway. I'm already looking forward to it being over. Gary has made it to Denver safely and has setteled into his "home" for the next 2 weeks. He is at an extended stay hotel not far from his office. His first official day of work is tomorrow, so keep him in your prayers. For those of you I haven't talked to, our plan is to load the moving van on the 18th and 19th (Yes we are doing it ourselves, make that I am doing it). I have some help lined up...but could always use more! We will be heading out on the 20th or 21st. So far the plan is for me to drive alone, although I think Mr. Freddie may decide to ride with me. Either way it will be an interesting ride with three kids and 2 dogs. Oh yeah...Some of you don't know about Kate! Call us crazy. We are probably the only people who would adopt a new dog within a month of a cross country move. She is so cute, we couldn't resist. Gary has always wanted a bird dog...and we couldn't pass up one that was free. She is a 3 month old Llewellyn Setter and has already become quite comfortable in her new surroundings. I guess that's it for now I will keep you posted on the move details. Hope to hear from you all soon.

Getting Started

2007-07-26T16:15:00.000-07:00

Just getting started with all this blogging stuff. Figure it's a good way to keep in touch with everyone throughout all this moving stuff and once we're in Denver. Okay, so I'm going to play around with this stuff and maybe figure it out!