Him and Me Plus 3

Long Time No Blog

2009-03-14T21:25:00.002-04:00

It's been awhile but I'm back! Not much time right now but I'll have pictures from our recent trip to Disney World very soon.

Can't promise daily post because life is still pretty hectic here but I'll do my bestest=)

Fall is Here!

2008-10-01T10:58:00.002-04:00

The leaves are falling. They are changing colors daily. It's beautiful. I love fall! The colors,smell,weather. Summer is great but as I have said many times before I get bored so easy. Luckily we live in an area where we have beautiful seasons. Another thing I love about fall is the festivals. This weekend we'll be going to the Pumpkin Festival. I start thinking about the Pumpkin Festival during summer=) I love all the crafts,things for the kids & all I have to say is pumpkin ice cream my friends!! It's sooo yummy! So excited Fall is here I thought I'd give my blog a new look. You like?
Ty & Shannon's birthday was last week. (Tyson's is the 25th & Shan's the 26th) It's a crazy week for us. My little boy is now 6 & my baby girl is now 3. I just can't believe it. It goes by too fast! Well, I wanted to post since I haven't forever & a day lol! But I am determined to get back to blogging. I miss it!
Have a wonderful day friends!!

Vacation Here We Come...

2008-08-20T19:19:00.002-04:00

In just 3 days we'll be layin' on the beach. To say I'm excited is an understatement! The first week we'll have family with us & then the second week will be just the 5 of us. So kinda the best of both worlds=) I apologize for the lack of posts. Between planning this trip & everyday mommy stuff I rarely have time & when I do my mind goes blank. When we get back I'll hope to be posting more often. I'm also hoping our internet service works down there & maybe I can post some pics during our vacation. Our condo has internet but every year it never seems to work for one reason or another. No matter what I'll be taking lots of pics to be showin off=)) Well, I have lots of packing & cleaning to do so I gots to get goin'!
Big Big Hugs,
Court♥

New Look

2008-08-08T11:33:00.002-04:00

So after searching & playing around with my blog I finally have the new look I have wanted forever! So what do you think? Be Honest=))
Everyone have a wonderful weekend. Ours will be super busy but I should have some fun pics to show on monday!

Our Photo Shoot

2008-07-31T09:55:00.004-04:00

Surprisingly Shannon was the only one who sit still long enough for more than one picture. Allison & Ty used to love a little photo shoots but now they say it's boring;)

Another Year Older

2008-07-30T08:49:00.002-04:00

I woke up before everyone this morning. Everything in this house was very quiet which is rare. I had time to watch my baby girl sleep,realize Ty with his legs all stretched out looks way to big to be my little boy & notice that my sweet Alli looks so much like her daddy when she sleeps. It is my birthday today & I couldn't feel more blessed. It's not the gifts or cake that make me feel this way. It's all that God has given to me & learning to not just get through another year but to appreciate every single minute I have been given. I awoke this morning now 27 years old. I awoke this morning feeling like the luckiest 27 year old girl in the world.

What To Blog About

2008-07-28T09:10:00.004-04:00

Sorry I haven't been around much. Things are starting to slow down now so I'm hoping to blog more. I miss it! All day I'll think of a hundred things to post but when I actually get a minute to sit down at the computer my mind goes blank.
Let's see. What's been going on around here... Matt's doing much better. We were all pretty tired of being in the house so last week we went & did a lil shopping. We also all went out to eat Friday evening. Matt's parents came to visit us on Saturday. The guys chatted inside while Matt's mom & I took the kids out to play & talk about our upcoming beach trip. She's so excited (well, we all are) she hasn't been to the beach in I think 25 years maybe more. Matt's mom,brother & my parents are all going with us. My parents friends are also going. They are staying in the condo next to us. We're leaving in 26 days & you know me & the beach. I have it counted down to the hour! After Matt's parents left Saturday Matt & I were still talking about plans for the trip when he mentioned next year we'd stay 2 weeks for sure. When I was younger my entire family would go for 2 weeks every year. It was always great. We talked about this for awhile when we finally thought why not this year?! Our parents have to get back after a week but we really don't & they are riding together so why not? So I got online to check & see if the condo was booked the next week & of course it was BUT I found one even cheaper just a block away. Directly on the inlet & right across the street from the beach. We still have some planning to do but fingers crossed we'll stay another week there!
Well wish I could stay longer but the kids are now all up & there's breakfast to be made & cheeks to be kissed. Have a nice week!

Tag...I'm It

2008-07-22T18:08:00.004-04:00

I was tagged by my sweet friend Katy.

The ABC's Of Me:

A. Attached or single? Very Happily Married♥

B. Best friend? Well, Matt of course but also Miss Charla.

C. Cake or pie? Umm...probably have to say choc. pie

D. Day of choice? Honestly I really don't have one right now. I like mondays but that's only because a few of my favorite shows come on LOL!

E. Essential item? My purse & camera

F. Favorite color? Why Pink of course=))

G. Gummy bears or worms? Ewww! neither I hate those things. Not really a candy person

H. Home town? Lil town in West Virginia

I. Favorite indulgence? I'd have to say seafood. Noone here likes it so when we are at the beach I totally pig out. (32 days & counting YAY!!)

J. January or July? July because of my birthday=)

K. Kids? Allison Carlie, Ty Blake & Shannon Riley♥

L. Life isn’t complete without? Matt,Alli,Ty & Shan

M. Marriage date? April 25th

N. Number of brothers and sisters? 1 Sister Amanda & 1 Brother Tyson who's passed away

O. Oranges or Apples? Apples

P. Phobias? Clausterphobia (can't even sit in the backseat of a car)

Quotes? "Someone who's never believed in love at first sight has never gave birth to the love of their life"

R. Reasons to smile? My 4 favorites make me smile daily=))

S. Season of choice? Summer

T. Tag 5 people: You,You,You,You & whoever else wants to!

U. Unknown fact about me? I could probably live on cereal any kind except cheerios

V. Vegetable? Matt's corn on the cob from the grill or My green beans

W. Worst habit? Biting my lip

X. Xray or ultrasound? Ummm ultrasound I guess...I'd rather not have either honestly

Y. Your favorite food? Seafood or chicken

Z. Zodiac sign? Leo...July 30th my friends & don't you forget it! J/K

What A Week

2008-07-20T17:06:00.003-04:00

I have had one stressful week. I made the comment the other day "what's gonna happen next" I shouldn't have! Wednesday Matt had his back surgery. It was a very long stressful day. A surgery that I was told would take a half hour no longer than an hour ending up being almost 5! I was a wreck. Luckily my MIL & her pastor were there to help calm me down. A couple days had past & his pain was not getting any better. I was told he was to be up walking around but there was no way he could. We called the doctor (Thank goodness!!) & found out Matt's nurse hadn't given us all the meds he should have been taking. We got that worked out. Matt's doing much better now. During all this my cousin has been in the hospital. He is a diabetic. I got a call the other day (not sure what day because these days are all running together) that he is now in ICU & not doing good at all. Please pray for him! The friday night my sisters boyfriend was working on her car. His brother & him were both under the car & it somehow fell on Wesley (My sisters boyfriend) They rushed him to the hospital. His leg is pretty messed up but he's going to be fine. We needed some groceries & now that Matt can do a little more on his own. I thought it would be just fine leaving him for an hour or so this morning & taking the kids to the store. That is until Alli woke up throwing up. (Gross I know sorry) So I made a call to my daddy who was kind enough to come over & watch Alli & Ty & Matt lol! Shannon & I headed to the store. On the way there I get a phone call from my mom that my grandma's house caught fire last night. Thank God she's ok. It had started in the house behind her & they couldn't keep it under control. Luckily noone was hurt in the fire. So as you can see I'm really hoping next week is a better one.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-07-09T10:11:00.003-04:00

Have a Great 4th!!

2008-07-03T13:46:00.003-04:00

We'll be leaving early in the mornin' so I wanted to wish all my friends a safe & very happy 4th of July!!
Court

Once again there's 5

2008-06-30T11:13:00.004-04:00

Matt got home on friday. We had planned to pick him up somewhere around 3 & 5. Of course you know the army changes everything so I try to plan nothing! Matt sent me a text around 11am of where he was & it was alot closer than I expected. Then the rush began! The kids & I had planned a big Father's day dinner since he wasn't here for Father's Day. We hadn't even started on it so yea I was kinda flippin out lol!! I gave 3 kids a bath then myself. Rushed to find the cutest outfits for the kids & of course me because thats just what I do. I know I'm silly=) Matt called around 1:00 saying he was at the unit but couldn't leave just yet but would call soon. Well, by 2:00 we had all had enough of this waiting so we left lol! Long story short the kids & I took a long drive around the town,cleaned out the car & sat in the car through a major storm that included hail,terrible winds & horrible lightening but by 5:00 we had Daddy!! Headed home for some spaghetti & meatballs. The weekend was spent shopping a little but mostly just being all together. Oh, and planning a trip next weekend to Cincinnati. We try to go every summer for a weekend. This weekend Kings Island is having a huge 4th of July celebration so that should be fun. Then Sunday we'll be going to the Cincinnati Zoo. I Love going to the zoo. I'm like a kid again & I can't get to the next exhibit fast enough!
So thats what we have been up to the last few days. Happy wife,happy kids & an extremely happy dog! Just goes to show ya the Army may have our soldier every now & then but we Always have his heart♥

Fun Day Ending Not So Good

2008-06-22T15:51:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was a fun day. Ending with your typical small kitchen fire! I have said it before & will say it again... These things never happen until Matt leaves!!

My MIL's work was having a family appreciation day. It was really nice & the kids had a blast. There was great food & the weather was just perfect. All was good on our hour drive home. The kids laughed all the way home. Matt called as soon as we walked in the door to make sure we made it home ok & I went on & on about how nice the day was. Should have thought before I spoke because right after that Miss Shan the pancake queen asked for a pancake. She hadn't ate well so I knew she was probably pretty hungry. I put the pancake in the microwave for 50 seconds & went to get her pj's. About then I heard 3 kids screaming. I ran back to see what was going on to find our microwave sparking & smoking! I quickly turn it off & unplugged it then reassured the kids all was ok. Until they screamed even louder & I turn around & saw it up in flames! Not sure if I have ever been so scared in my life. Luckily I got it out quickly but I think this lil 2 wk training the army has my husband do every year just may be the death of this poor wife!

**Just to make you smile after all this madness here's a few pics from yesterday before the flames that is**

Ty's just like daddy=))
So is Shannon=))
Miss Priss herself in a semi...lol
Ty slidin'
Alli slidin'
Allison in the modeling contest
Shannon in the dance contest

Happens Every Time

2008-06-19T10:18:00.002-04:00

All Military wives know something happens every time your husband has to leave for any amount of time. Right?
Well, I woke up this morning to a flooded bathroom! I think I fixed the problem. Oh, did I forget to tell you I became a plumber during Matt's last deployment? I think I'll be washing towels for at least 4 days!
Pray the next 7 days are fast ones...pleeease!

Daddy Sent Another Rainbow

2008-06-16T19:26:00.003-04:00

If you look through my archives you'll find a post about a rainbow. Back when Matt was deployed the kids saw a rainbow & just knew daddy had sent it to them. Today has been such a dreary day. We have been stuck in the house & all 4 of us have been pretty crabby. The kids are really Matt (As am i!) & the lack of sunshine today has not helped. The sun started peaking out a little this evening & I mentioned to the kids that they may be able to see a rainbow if their lucky. They have look for hours & finally found one. The have only seen a rainbow once & as I said it was when matt was deployed. Now Matt's gone again & they were lucky enough to see another. They just know daddy sent it to them...Thank You Daddy!!
We miss you!

Man Of The House

2008-06-13T10:57:00.002-04:00

Not sure Mr. Max is going to do after tomorrow. Matt will be gone for 2 weeks for his annual National Guard training. Max loves all of us but Matt let me tell ya he adores Matt. Funny thing is Matt has never been an animal person. It's always been me who picked out the few pets we have had. Matt never paid much attention to any of them but when we decided after our cat passed away to get a puppy I wanted Matt to pick one out since he wasn't to thrilled with the idea. It obviously worked! Max is still a puppy & he still has his bad days but all in all he's a great lil puppy. Matt comes in the door even after just walking out for 5 minutes & this dog goes nuts. He has to sleep with us every night right at Matt's legs & he won't get up until Matt does. Max certainly is his Daddy's buddy. Guess he'll have to be the brave man of the house for the next 2 weeks.

Yea right this is the same dog who growled from the window at the kitten in the yard but when the kitten came closer to the window he hid under our bed!

Gotta Love Em'

2008-06-12T10:27:00.002-04:00

So this morning I'm in the kitchen cleaning & the kids are back in their bedrooms playing together. I start to hear Shannon crying. Not the "I'm hurt" cry just the "I'm annoyed & really just want a lil attention" cry. So I hug her & say I'm sorry. She's all good & runs off to play. Alli comes in the room to check on her so I ask what had happened. Alli replies with this " She either put her finger in a socket & was electracuted OR maybe I pushed her because she was standing on my coloring book but either way I hate that for her!"
What am I going to do with them...Gotta love em'!
And boy do I ever:-)

Injured Blogger

2008-05-29T18:18:00.002-04:00

I have been wanting to post some pictures of when Gloria was here but have been just sooo busy. Little by little we are starting to feel better & things are getting back to normal. Well, "our normal"! Today my grandma & I were out putting some flowers at the cemetary & somehow someway I managed to shut the door on my thumb. It hurts. It really really hurts!! I promise though some pictures & stories are coming soon.

Family,Fun & A Few Sickies

2008-05-25T10:13:00.003-04:00

The last week has been exhausting for me. The kids have passed a virus around to each other since Tuesday. It started with Alli & changed from from vomitting (sorry!) to fever to now just a cold with Shannon. One thing that hasn't changed is the lack of sleep it's causing Mommy. Every morning I feel as if a train has hit me but somehow I'm makin it through.

Yesterday we had plans to visit with Matt's family. Matt's brother & his family are in. They had a cookout at a local park. Luckily I have learned not to always tell the kids plans until the day of. With this hectic house you never know what may happen next & I really hate disappointing my kids. Ty was feeling better but Shan really isn't. Plus, there's no way I'm gonna be the one that causes an entire park to get this illness! I'm a mom of an 8 going on 16 year old...I get blamed for enough these days. Even though the kids had no idea what they were missing I still felt bad for them. So Matt & I decided to grill out here. Not only grill out but have smores!
By last night I was literally draggin' but it was worth it. It was a beautiful day with just us. Eating like pigs & having a blast. Sure brother & sister had a lil fight or 2 and a 2 year old who sneezed more times than she blinked but that's us.
That's just how we roll=)

Already This Morning...

2008-05-18T11:17:00.004-04:00

I have washed 2 loads of laundry,fixed breakfast for 3 adorable kids,scrubed a bed because of a 2 year olds accident,did a sinkful of dishes,fed the dog and it's only 11am! I wish I could say I did all that & in heels because how cool would that sound but I can say I did it all in these cute new pink flip flops With pink sparkles on the straps. That's pretty cool huh?

Oh & this sweet lil girl of ours is 8 years old today!!!

So I'm off to make the day of this Birthday Princess. Happy Birthday AlliBug♥ Mommy loves you to the moon & back!

Hmmm...

2008-05-02T10:57:00.002-04:00

Can you tell me why everytime you clean under the cushions of the couch you always find cheese curls even if you haven't had them in your house for months! Guess what though?! Yesterday while cleaning under mine I found none. Not one people! I did however find 147 broken crayons. Can't win em' all huh?

Wordless Wednesday (Kinda)

2008-04-23T11:24:00.002-04:00

Washing "Blanky" days are just never fun

Happy Birthday My Love

2008-04-15T09:19:00.002-04:00

My sweet friend Katy had a great challenge. Share with everyone the love of your life. Show them how much they mean to you. Of course, it's no challenge for me. Matt is so much more than I could ever ask for. I read her blog this morning & knew I had to join in. Not only because it was such a great idea but today is my amazing husbands Birthday!!

Matt always puts the kids & I first. He goes out of his way daily to show how much he loves us. He works so hard to make sure we have everything we need or want. I'll never forget the days of his deployment even being not only at war but on the other side of the world he still took care of us. His courage & strength amazes me. He is the only person who can make me laugh when I don't even want to smile. He is not only my husband but also my best friend,my hero,my love. He's my Matt♥
Happy Birthday Honey!
I love you more than words could ever say!

What's been going on here...

2008-04-12T10:50:00.003-04:00

The weather here has been beautiful. We have been spending alot of time outside & I can hardly wait to start planting flowers. I was really hoping the weather would stay warm but looks like it may get cooler this weekend. Matt's birthday is tuesday so the kids & I are making some fun birthday surprises for him. The kids are having a blast keeping things from him. They are lovin teasing him about it. It's so cute! Our new puppy Max is doing so good. He did however chew the charger to our cell phone but other than that (LOL!!) great puppy! Shannon hasn't warmed up to him as fast as everyone else which makes it pretty hard considering Max adores her & loves being around her. She's coming around though. She just doesn't do well with change. The saying around here is "it's Shannon's world & we're just livin' in it". Some of you who read her blog may know but if not... Glo is coming to visit us next month!!! We couldn't be more excited about this. The kids have started a countdown & every morning ask how many more days? In case you don't know. I met Gloria during Matt's deployment to Iraq. Her husband Mike happened to be at the same base as Matt was. We met through a website (Prayers for Anaconda) & have talked daily ever since. We immediately became friends at a time we both needed a great friendship & I couldn't have asked for a better friend. We have since became more like family & have said probably one million times we'd come visit each other & now it's finally going to happen! Well, I need to get back to my spring cleaning. I'm on a roll & if I stop for too long I'll never get back to it. You know how it is...right? Please tell me you know how it is & it's not just me!
Have a great weekend.
Court ♥

MeMe

2008-04-09T12:09:00.004-04:00

I was tagged with this MeMe from Miss Glo...

What I was doing 10 years ago: Let's see I was only 16 so a Jr. in high school & I was probably NOT studying for some test!

Five things on my to do list for today:
1. Clean Alli's carpet in her room
2. Finish my grocery list
3. Laundry
4. Go grocery shopping after Matt get's in from work
5. Rush home in time Idol Gives Back=0)

Things I would do if I were a billionaire:
Give to church & charities,Help our families,Make sure our children were taken care of for life & of course buy a beach house!!

Three of my bad habit:
(Well I always tell Matt I have a really bad habit of being awesome but he doesn't laugh...lol)
1. I bite the sides of my mouth. Like way too much...it's bad
Oh my gosh! My mind is blank. Believe me I'm nowhere near perfect just having a typical blonde moment. Well, ok there's another bad habit... Brain farts!

Five places I have lived:

West Virginia,North Carolina & Kentucky

Five jobs I have had: DayCare worker,Preschool teacher,Walmart & My favorite job of all Mommy!

* I tag whoever wants to play along just let me know so I can come read ok. Have a great day friends!
Court♥

Meet Max

2008-04-03T17:57:00.002-04:00

The new little member of our household.

Reality Check

2008-03-31T23:52:00.005-04:00

I got a huge reality check tonight. We have all probably been there... Our phone isn't working & it's very aggravating right? Well, my cell (which is basically our primary phone) has been cutting out,dropping calls & missing calls for no reason. It has been stressful because our hot water tank went out a few days ago & I had been missing calls from the plumber. We finally got the hot water fixed but our cell is not. I have been missing calls from a number of people & when I do talk to them it's cutting out. I had enough so tonight I had Matt call to complain. On one hand I'm glad he did for the reality check I got but on the other hand I'm ashamed.
After Matt got off the phone he told me that our cell phone company was upgrading there internet service & that was the problem. Well, talking to this operator he found out about the many complaints that had been made. One of which being a man who was on a waiting list for a kidney. This man was worried about his phone because it was life or death for him. I was worried about a phone call to chit chat with my mother or sister in law. Shame on me!!
I have no idea who this man is but he is evidently in my area. Please pray for him!
If nothing else I ask this of you...before you go & "complain" ask yourself if it's worth the "complaining". We all have our bad days but before we go & complain about simple little things please remember all we have. Is it worth a complaint?

Easter Pictures

2008-03-29T11:25:00.004-04:00

Family is asking & I totally forgot...sorry!

Your at the right blog...I promise

2008-03-24T17:00:00.002-04:00

So if you read the title at the top of my blog & are confused...don't be=)
I have been thinking of changing my title for awhile but couldn't think of anything clever until today! I got a phone call this afternoon & as soon as I answered I could have kicked myself. It was someone doing a survey. Ewww right?! I know!! It wasn't too painful actually. I had mentioned my husband & she later said "So it's you & your husband. Plus anymore?" My answer was Yes, him & me plus 3. So there ya have it the new clever blog title I had been looking for=)

*P.S. Easter pictures are soon coming*

Happy Easter

2008-03-22T09:46:00.002-04:00

I wanted to wish everyone a Happy Easter! I have so much to do today. We are going to Matt's parents tomorrow & I have a few things I need to make to take with us. I also need to go shopping today for some last minute Easter basket things. So I need to get busy!
Have a very blessed Easter my friends!!
God Bless,
Courtney

I'm Still Here

2008-03-19T15:38:00.003-04:00

I have recieved a few emails asking about me & thank you for that. I really have no excuse for not blogging except maybe life. Everything in the Cleveland household is good. Just seems as days go by I have more & more things to do. I miss it though & will be back soon. Promise! Hope everyone is well.
Talk to everyone real soon=)

2008-02-25T09:59:00.001-05:00

Doesn't get much cooler than this huh?!?

Our Valentine's Day

2008-02-16T09:42:00.003-05:00

Matt made our Valentine's Day so special. Last weekend Matt & I celebrated alone. His mom came to spend the night & keep the kids. Matt & I went out for dinner & did some shopping. We went to Applebees. We both love Applebees. We brought home some leftovers as we always do & the kids love that. Alli said she'd love Applebees for Valentine's too=) Matt was off on Valentine's day so he went & did the grocery shopping for me. Then, he brought home Applebee's for everyone & we all had a picnic on the living room floor. So simple yet so perfect! I got some real comfy pink pretty pajamas that I may stay in for the rest of my life. All in all the best Valentine's day we have ever had♥

*Just a couple pictures I thought were cute* HeeHee!
Have a good weekend!!

Valentine's Day Lovefest

2008-02-14T08:10:00.015-05:00

Andrea had the cutest idea. A Valentine's Day Lovefest! Go on over,read about it & join in. It's so much fun!

Ok people sit back,relax & listen to the story of how Matt & I met. I will warn you first off! You have to stay with me. It's a very complicated story & I could lose ya in a second.

It's 1999 my senior year of H.S. & just got out of a really bad relationship. I used to babysit for my cousins boys alot. My cousin hated my exboyfriend (as did alot of people!) & doing anything for me not to get back with him, she was going to set me up. Set me up with a guy who worked with her sister (my other cousin). She said he was a really sweet guy & I should at least just talk to him. I finally agreed but I was determined to not fall for anything. I was simply going to talk on the phone with this guy nothing more!
I can still remember the day he called. I was out with my best friend Jill. I remember telling her about this guy who may call but like I said was looking for nothing but a friendship. When I got home my mom told me a guy named Matt called & she said "Court he's so sweet!" I finally got the nerve to call him back later that night. We talked for hours! My first thoughts of this guy was your typical skater guy. Everything was dude this & dude that but there was something more. This guy made me laugh & after talking a few times had me rushing home from wherever to get his phone calls. Then, he said it! When are we going to meet? Oh no,wait! I'm just going to be friends. I just wanted someone to talk to here & there. No more relationships for this girl! So, I just tried to put it off a lil longer. Until...

My friend Jill asked me to ride with her to her boyfriends house. (Her boyfriend lived almost an hour away) About 30 minutes up the road Jill decides to stop by & see this friend of hers Josh. So I really had not a clue where we were. We're in this big parking lot with a bunch of (what I called at the time) "jerks" you know the guys with the fixed up cars & rap music shaking the ground under you. So Jill talks to Josh awhile & I notice Josh's friend looking at me. Looking at me alot! I never thought twice about it because I was not falling for another "jerk" again! We, well actually they decided to go eat at Taco Bell. All I kept thinking was I'm missing Matt's call for THIS!! It's pretty obvious to Jill,Josh & "The Jerk" that I'm not real happy. Later I find out I was called "The Snob". I ended up telling Jill I really wanted to get home. I wanted to talk to this Matt guy & was thinking about telling him I wanted to see him. She was pushing hard for me to talk to "The Jerk" but I wasn't havin' it! As we're leaving "The Jerk" gets in his pimped out car & trying to show off for me blows out a tire! You see now why I thought these type guys were losers??

Anyway, I get home & my fingers couldn't dial fast enough. This guy I was talking to was the one! He was different than all the other guys I knew. He was so sweet & he actually talked about stuff I liked talking about. He never interrupted me! Most of you know how I really, really hate that. I didn't know this guy hardly at all but I wanted to be with him & I was going to tell him right now! Well, he wasn't home. A couple hours went by & no call. I had a million questions going through my head. Where is he? Is he out with someone else? Did I blow it by putting off seeing him all the time? Was he ever going to talk to me again?

The phone rings & I was scared to death. It was him! He apologized for not calling earlier but he was out with a friend,busted a tire & had to get his car towed home. Ya see where this is going yet? I almost dropped the phone! He had no idea yet & said to me "Ok I really want to meet you". I simply said back to him "You already have." I couldn't believe I didn't see it earlier! I mean he had told me his best friend was named Josh. He did live about 30 minutes away from me & even had the same model car although he didn't tell me his car was all "pimped out". Good thing because this snob would have never married that jerk!

Courtney Got Carpet Cleaner

2008-02-10T23:11:00.000-05:00

Courtney is a happy wife!

What A Night

2008-02-06T09:44:00.000-05:00

I was up late last night watching all the Super Tuesday votes come in. (WAY TO GO MIKE!!!) I finally went to sleep sometime after midnight. Poor Matt has to listen to me talk about every speech & every poll. Honestly he could care less. But, he listens as if it's the first time I'm telling him lol! Anyway, about 3am I get woke up but the door of our big wooden fence hitting our house. (It's right outside our bedroom window) The lights were flickering,the tv was on but the cable was out. I just up & look out our window to see nothing but leaves flying everywhere. I jumped back in bed with Matt,3 kids & a cat! Wake up Matt & beg him to get a flashlight. Why I didn't just go get it I don't know. Well, yea I do know I was scared. No not just scared as I like to say I was scuuured=) (It's a southern thing) Matt gets a flashlight & goes right back to sleep. How do men sleep through everything?!?! Our local news was on covering this storm & they had a webcam showing this awful winds. When all the sudden the camera goes black & all you can hear is the reporter saying to take cover. After a few minutes he comes back on saying we were having 75mph winds! Luckily, it ended soon after but gosh I was terrified. We didn't have any major damage. Just some trees down below our house & our deck is now a mess. Have I mentioned how much I hate storms? Well, I do! This weather is just too crazy. It's february & almost 70 degrees.
Well, I'm off to clean up our deck & make a grocery list. Hope everyone has a great day & remember to keep the people who had tornadoes in our prayers. Lots of lives were lost. So so sad.
Court~

Pretty

2008-02-04T10:01:00.000-05:00

I think women alot of times put themselves last without really ever noticing. Not that others do it to her just that we sometimes try to take care of so much & so many it just ends up that way. I know I do this myself. Years ago I'd never go a day without getting dressed,fixing my hair & perfect makeup. Now...I'm lucky if I get to blow dry my hair & throw it up in a ponytail. I get all 3 kids dressed daily down to matching hairbows even if we never leave the house. You look at me & you'd think I'd just crawled out of a hole lol! Well, maybe not that bad but far from how I used & want to be. I have been taking wallpaper down in our living room the past few days. I had on an old sweatshirt & a pair of pajama shorts. Nothing attractive I know but I walked past some mirrors we have along the wall in our tv room. I saw something I hadn't noticed in a very long time. I sort of like my legs! Wait a minute my hair is a little cute in this ponytail slightly falling down & even though the only makeup I have on is the mascara left over from 2 days ago, I look pretty. For that moment I felt pretty. My gosh it felt good! I never said a word I just went on to the work I needed to do with a smile on my face. I have something I want all of you to do today. Go to your mirror & look at yourself. Really look at yourself! We all have little things about ourselves we can't stand but we all need to have more things we love. Find those things today. Feel pretty! It's a great feeling♥

Asking For Prayers

2008-01-31T12:06:00.000-05:00

I want to ask everyone for your prayers please. I have mentioned my best friend Jill before. We have been best friends since first grade. Well, her & her family need our prayers right now. Her dad found out a few weeks ago he has cancer on his brain,liver & lungs. He is in good spirits & plans on fighting hard to beat this! I believe he can. He has so many who love him & he loves so many. That's not all though. Jill calls me last night from the hospital. Her mom came to visit Jill yesterday & had a stroke. Jill was at the hospital really late last night & came home to rest. When she gets home her baby Gracyn is starting to pull up on things & trying to walk. We all know how scary this can be at times. Long story short poor baby fell & bumped her head on the table. So, Jill at 3am had to take Gracie back the the hospital. She's ok but Jill is literally drained! She is going through so much right now. To beat all that today is Jill's birthday. I ask you to please pray for her & her family.

My Kinda Girl

2008-01-28T09:10:00.000-05:00

Shannon's new thing is to take me (and sometimes Matt) to the hallway,sit me down as she sits in front of me & she proceeds to "drive". She always acts like she's putting my seatbelt on & evens pretends to turn the radio on. We do this at least 12 times a day. I always ask but she never tells me where we are going. She just acts so grown up & really focused on her driving. This morning was like every other. I gave her breakfast,Matt left for work,Shannon & I headed for her car. She was more excited this morning for some reason so I tried to ask. "Shan where are we going?" Her reply & plain as day I might add..."Broadway Mommy!"
I guess all those Shirley Temple commercials she just gleams at are somehow paying off huh?!

Have a great Monday!

Blah...

2008-01-25T09:51:00.000-05:00

Thats a good word for me this morning. I got early & worked out. Not for as long as I had been or wanted to. I just felt yucky. My body is achy & well I just feel blah. Shannon has been cranky the last few days so maybe it's just a bug going around or maybe it's because I'm not getting much sleep. I think I'm going to take tomorrow morning & sleep in a little longer. Anyway, just wanted to wish everyone a wonderful weekend. Have a great one & try to stay warm! It was 5 degrees here when I woke up. Now thats just uncalled for if ya ask me!!
Court♥

Back To The Grind

2008-01-24T07:23:00.000-05:00

As I said in my last post, Matt was off last weekend. Well, he went to work monday but was off again tues. & wed.! We have all enjoyed these days so much. We did a little of this a little of that & a whole lotta nothin! Today it's back to reality.One thing I have been doing though (Starting Monday) is getting up early & working out. I walk on the treadmill for awhile & then do some situps etc.... It's nice not only to get a good workout out of the way then start your day but also I get a little bit of time alone. I can't believe how motivated I still am. Although I will say when that alarm goes off I do want to kick & scream but I don't. I actually look forward to it at night. I can't wait to be more toned. I'm not looking to lose alot of weight. As most of you know after having 3 kids your body is just not the same. Well, I'm gonna have to make this short I thought I had more time but I need to go wake up Matt. Hope everyone has a blessed day.
Court~

The Best Day

2008-01-20T10:24:00.000-05:00

Finally we had some family time this weekend. Matt has been off since friday. He had planned for this time off work because he had some military training out of town but those were changed so we have had him to ourselves all weekend! Friday was spent getting some things taken care of so the rest of the weekend we could spend doing whatever we wanted. Yesterday afternoon Matt's mom & brother visited us. The kids showed her every single thing they got for Christmas then we all went to McDonalds Playplace. The kids of course had a blast but us adults did as well. It's so much fun to see your kids have fun huh?! But, more importantly we were doing something all together. Something we haven't been able to do for awhile. We got them a sundae & were headed to the car. Allison was holding Matt's hand. She looked up at him & said in her sweet raspy voice "Daddy this is the Best Day".

Sooo Excited!!!

2008-01-15T11:41:00.000-05:00

American Idol starts tonight!!!
I know I know...raise your hand if you think Courtney needs a life!!

One Person's Trash Is Another's Treasure

2008-01-14T11:54:00.000-05:00

My sister gave me this table the other day. She was throwing it out & thought she would ask me first because you know how I love "old" stuff=) It's been sitting in the middle of our living room for days. I didn't know what I'd do with it just yet. I decided to put it in our kitchen & add a few touches. I made the little balls awhile back for the kitchen but never really found the right place for them. So what do you think?

It's Those Little Things...

2008-01-11T10:06:00.000-05:00

He does that melt my heart everytime! Matt & I always have at least a few minutes together early in the morning before he leaves for work. This morning I missed him. I haven't slept well lately & Shannon decided to wake up (for reasons unknown) at 3am & sit up to chat for about 2 hours. So when he left today I was still out! I woke up & saw he was gone. It almost broke my heart. He's working so much these days. I feel I never see him. I walked into the quiet kitchen where I normally find him & see this little note. I could have cried. Actually I did=)
It's just a few words,he had to scribble the first heart out to make a better one & it's on the back of a bill we probably can't pay. But, it sure made me fall in love with him all over again.

My Life In A Picture

2008-01-09T11:58:00.000-05:00

So if I could sum up my last few days in one picture...Yep!! This would be the one!

Going On 3 Hours Sleep

2008-01-07T10:30:00.000-05:00

Did the kids keep me up? No.
Was I sick? Nope.
Matt? No again.
Do you want to know why I didn't get to sleep until 4am? None other than Presidential Debates!!
I'm such a geek...

I'm Gettin There

2008-01-06T11:24:00.000-05:00

I got myself a new planner. It's so cute & got it for $1 at the dollar tree lol! Had to throw that in there because I just love that place. I spent the last few mornings writing birthdays,bills etc.. in there. It just makes me so happy to open it up & see whats going on that day. It takes so little for me I know lol!! I also write in there what housework I need to get done that day & that is going great as well. Life's not perfect but it's not really supposed to be right?! But, it sure is much nicer around here. Who knew a one dollar planner could totally change my life!

7 Random Things About Me

2008-01-03T13:20:00.000-05:00

Glo did this & tagged whoever wanted to play along & since I don't have much to talk about I thought I'd play along. So if ya wanna play just consider yourself tagged=)

So here's 7 random things about me that maybe you don't know. Keep in mind it's very cold,snowy& yucky here so my brains a lil the same way LOL! But here ya go....

1. I get bored VERY easily some may even call it ADD lol! I can rarely even sit through a movie. I'm like a kid I get up several times to go to the bathroom etc... I have to be moving all the time!

2. I hate finger nail files LOL! It just kills my teeth to hear that noise. I pretty much run at the sight of one. If you break a nail in this house ya just clip it off because I refuse to even own one.

3. I'm very dramatic. I always wanted to be an actress growing up & probably could have been lol! When I was a kid my entire family called me Betty Davis. Ok, some still do LOL!

4. Although I am very dramatic I am also very funny.(Or so I've been told) I can usually always make people laugh & I have to say I like that about myself. I love to see people happy so that to me is a great quality about myself.

5. I know most people know this but I LOVE the beach! Everything about it. The smell,the sand,the wind,the seafood,the heat & the list goes on & on! I just love it!

6. I'm a thinker. I think ummm probably too much! Matt makes fun of me because we can't go anywhere without me watching other people & figuring out "their story". I have always done that. I also think into things & analyze them way too much.

7. I'm horrible at math. I mean it's pathetic! I'll be the first to tell ya the only reason I passed it in High School was I could suck up=) My teacher kept telling me that it just had to click & soon it would. Well, Mrs. Connelly I'm 26 years old & still no clicking!

So there ya have it. Sorry it wasn't to exciting but I'd love to see yours so if you play along let me know.
Court♥

Happy New Year!!!!

2008-01-01T01:59:00.000-05:00

HAPPY 2008!!!!!

Goodbye 2007

2007-12-30T13:11:00.000-05:00

So a new year is soon to begin. A new chance to get it right huh=) I never really make resolutions because who ever really keeps them? I never did. I do however try to think of things I can do differently that would make my life easier or even better. I said this last year & here I am one year later saying it again lol!! In 2008 I vow to be more organized. (So Katy I may need some pointers lol!!) Since Matt got home things have really been out of hand & he has been home a little over a year now so it's time to stop using that as an excuse! I'm going to pick up a new planner. I had one when Matt was deployed & it was my life. I was so organized then & I honestly miss it. I'm not going to forget any birthdays & no cards will be sent out late. I did that alot this year. No more! Goodbye slacker Courtney! 2008 welcomes a new organized Courtney!!! We'll see I guess=) I hope 2008 brings many blessings to you & your family. Let's make it a great year. Ya with me?
HAPPY NEW YEAR MY SWEET FRIENDS!!!!!

A new addition

2007-12-28T11:03:00.000-05:00

I just got the news that baby Elizabeth Noel is here!!! Mommy & baby are doing great & I hear she's perfect. I'm so happy for my SIL. Thank you for your prayers=)

2007-12-27T15:31:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a great Christmas! I may be able to blog again if I can ever get my house looking like my house again. Who knows??? I can't believe all these toys!! Anyway, just wanted to leave a quick post asking for everyone's prayers. My sister in law in Oklahoma will be having her baby tomorrow morning. She is so excited as is the entire family. We all can't wait to see her. So if you can say a little prayer that everything will go smoothly we would all appreciate it. Hope to be back to blogging soon=)
Court

A Quote I Had To Share

2007-12-23T10:26:00.000-05:00

"If I could have one wish it would be to have every Daddy home from Iraq on Christmas morning"~My daughter Allison

If only my sweet little girl...if only

A Good Kind Of Busy

2007-12-21T10:27:00.000-05:00

This time of year we are all so busy but for me & probably alot of others. It's the good kind of busy. You have so much to do,things to bake,gifts to buy,gifts to wrap & my favorite part...family to visit! I have all my shopping finished. Nothing wrapped yet but Matt & I do that on Christmas Eve night. We stay up have the night laughing & wrapping. It takes forever,we're so tired but we have fun. I love seeing all the gifts under the tree when er are all done. I always take pictures of it because I know bright & early the kids will be up & in just seconds those gifts are everywhere!!!! Nothing like seeing your childrens faces on Christmas morning huh?!?! Not to mention the real meaning of Christmas. The celebration of the birth of our wonderful God. I mean could there be a better day of the year? I need to thank God for all he has given me. He has blessed me beyond belief. I try every Christmas to explain the true meaning of this day to the kids. I think this year I'm going to start a new tradition. We won't have any time on Christmas day but Christmas Eve I think I'm going to make a birthday cake for Jesus. Have the kids blow out the candles,wish him a happy birthday & thank him for all they have. I'm really excited about doing this & I hope it helps them understand more about this special day=)
Well, like I said I'm busy busy! The kids & I are getting ready to go to my Grandma's to open their gift. We'll be going there Christmas day but she gets them an outfit every year that she wants them to wear Christmas day. We are celebrating at Matt's moms on Sunday because thats when everyone will be in. Matt's mom is so excited to have 4 of her 5 kids home for Christmas this year. His sister from Oklahoma can't be here. She's almost ready to have her baby girl in just weeks!! Christmas Eve my parents are coming over for us to exchange gifts. Then Christmas day we are going to both my grandma's. Shewww!!! I'm tired just typing about it. I hope everyone has a very very Merry Christmas!!! May God bless you all this New Year & know that as I count my many blessings I count each & every one of you♥

My Shopping Trip

2007-12-17T12:28:00.000-05:00

Well, I finished my Christmas shopping saturday!! Ok, I have 2 more gifts but those are small & don't really count LOL!! It was a trip though let me tell ya, I told you about the weather being crazy right?!?! Well, days before I went shopping it was in the 70's & sunny. Well wouldn't you know the day I have to get out it's snowing & in the 20's. That's not all though. Matt's mom came to keep the kids for me & when she got here I started the car to let it warm up. I came in said my goodbyes (which takes forever with Shannon I basically have to sneak out which I hate! But anyway LOL) grabbed my stuff & off I went. The car was freezing & stayed that way the entire day. I would have just came home but I knew this was my only chance to finish everything up because at the time Matt might have had to work overtime all week. You know when your out in the cold & you just can't wait to get in your car & warm up. That wasn't me!! I could actually see my breath as I was driving. The heat wasn't just "not" working it was blowing out COLD air even when turned off. Yea, it was kinda miserable but it's over & done with. The little cold I had is a thousand times worse because of it but hey Santa's gotta come no matter what right=)

Rain Rain Please Go Away!

2007-12-12T09:27:00.000-05:00

I swear it has rained for what seems like forever! Yesterday it finally cleared up & was beautiful outside. It got up to 75 degrees! Of course we couldn't enjoy it that much because the kids all have colds. Shannon caught it first & last night ran a little fever. She was still up & playing but just cranky. She has no fever this morning & seems to be feeling better but still has a cold. Alli & Ty are in rare form this morning though so it should be a fun fun day:) I'm hoping it doesn't last long. My cousin is getting married saturday evening & I'm hoping Matt & I can go. We also have lots more shopping to do as well. When will this all end???? With Matt's schedule it's so hard for me to get anything done. I have done a little online shopping but that's mainly for other family not our kids but at least it's something done. With every gift bought I breath a little sigh of relief! So how is everyone else doing on shopping? Matt is finally off today & tomorrow so I'm getting ready to grocery shop & hopefully I can find a few things for the kids & check a few more things off Santa's list!

The 1257th Christmas Party

2007-12-09T17:42:00.000-05:00

Matt's (Army) unit had their Christmas party yesterday. It was like every year...very long but still fun. Of course the kids (With the exception of Shannon) favorite part was Santa!

In this picture Santa told Ty he needed to go to bed when Mommy & Daddy said so. Ty thought that was so funny & Santa really hit the nail on the head with that one!!

In this one Santa ask Allison if she was a good girl...she said yep!

But in this one he asked if she had been good ALL year...she panicked LOL!!!

2007-12-06T08:02:00.000-05:00

We had our first (real) snow of the year yesterday. I loved it!! Here's a few pictures. Sorry so short but I'm off to do some shopping but before I go let's make sure to keep those killed or injured in Omaha in our thoughts & prayers. How so very horrible!!

2007-11-30T10:37:00.000-05:00

Have a blessed weekend everyone♥

Christmas Tree Issues

2007-11-29T09:22:00.000-05:00

Does anyone have Christmas tree issues like we do? Every year it's always something! The year Matt was in Iraq I had a white tree. It really was beautiful but for some reason not all the branches were there. It was so hectic around here I just put that part towards the back & went on LOL!!! The next year Matt & I bought a new one. Prelit tree & we were so excited. We thought how easy will this be. Just put it up,plug it in & done. Well, it ended up being alot smaller than we expected. Now, this year Matt's mom gave us her old one. It too already has the lights. White lights,beautiful & so easy to put up. As we were putting it up I was thinking ok this is way too easy. We never have an easy tree & guess what the tradition did not fail us again this year=) Put it all up testing each light. Bottom part up & lights work...YES! Middle part up & lights work...Yay! Top part up & lights did NOT work...Ughhh!!!! So poor Matt spent forever trying to find which light needed replaced. After replacing the 10th light he called it a night. So I guess we'll just buy a strand to put on the top. Oh well, wouldn't be a true Cleveland Christmas without our famous Tree Issues!!

Great Deals & Sore Legs

2007-11-24T09:37:00.000-05:00

I got some great deals yesterday but my poor legs are sure feelin it today! I got alot of shopping for the kids done not completely (thats for sure) but all the "big" gifts. I started out at KB Toys at 5am yep 5am!!! You actually had to shop in a line. Single file in & out of each aisle. That was crazy but a good idea considering that store was jammed packed. I was there until 6:30am! Then went to Toys R Us where you did just about the same. Shopped in a line. I was there until about 9:00am! Then to Walmart,ran a few errands & then finally home:) Where I crashed on the couch for most of the day. I was pooped!!! But, so happy about the great sales. I paid full price for NOTHING! Most everything I got was half off. Oh, & got a $10 KB Toy Store gift card for spending over $50. So that is also cool. Now, if I could just find a way to make Christmas shopping my new career my life would be complete=)

Thanksgiving

2007-11-21T10:05:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving!
I hope everyone has a wonderful day with lots of food,family& love.
Thought I'd share a few things I am so very thankful for.
*God! For he never lets me down & continues to bless me daily.
*I'm thankful that my husband is home for the holidays this year. Many...Too many Military families are without each other during the holidays. As we have been many of times. It's no fun!!!
*My husband! He goes out of his way daily to make sure the kids & I know we are so loved by him.
*Allison, I'm thankful I have such a beautiful,loving & helpful daughter.
*Ty,I'm thankful to have such a handsome,crazy at times but amazing little boy.
*Shannon,I'm thankful I have an adorable baby girl who never stops amazing me daily.
*I'm also thankful for the wonderful friends I have. Both near & far! For my friends are the family God forgot to give me but still blessed me by meeting them.
*I'm also thankful to just be here. To see the kids light up as their daddy gets home daily. To see another sunrise even if I hadn't slept from being up all night with sick babies. To hear Alli sing another song. Watch Ty defeat another "bad guy". Hear Shannon say I love you Mommy.
For all these reasons & many more I am Thankful.

To My Daddy...

2007-11-20T12:26:00.000-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Dad!!!
We Love You!!!

Sooo....

2007-11-18T11:20:00.000-05:00

Anyone going shopping friday? I'll be headed out bright & early. I'll be studying the ads on Thanksgiving but anyone heard of any good sales (mainly for the kiddos) for friday yet?
Believe me...this year I'll need good sales LOL!!

For Her "Gamma Go"!!!!

2007-11-15T16:24:00.000-05:00

Since I met Glo (When our husbands were in Iraq) we have been very close. So close my kids call her Gamma Go & actually think she's another Grandma. Although never meeting we are so very close. Talk almost daily & she's family♥ Shannon loves talking to her too & today after talking with Glo she got very upset that she didn't get to! So I handed her the phone so she could pretend. She started singing her I'm so sorry song. (I'm so I'm so sorry! I'm so I'm so sorry!! LOL!) I had to run get the camera & tape this for "Gamma Go"!!! Hope this brightens your day Glo. We Love Ya!!!!!

We Are...Marshall!!!

2007-11-13T19:26:00.001-05:00

On this day back in 1970 our community would forever change. Today marks the anniversary of the Marshall plane crash. A crash that killed 37 players, 12 coaches and university staff members, 5 flight crew members and 21 townspeople. Those deaths left 70 minor children; 18 of those children lost both parents.

*The Memorial Fountain*

The Memorial Student Center Fountain was dedicated to the memory of the plane crash victims on November 12, 1972, by President John G. Barker. Each year on the anniversary of that fateful day - November 14 – a memorial service is held, which includes the traditional laying of the wreath. Then the water is turned off until next spring.
More than 13 feet high and weighing 6,500 pounds, the fountain was created by sculptor Harry Bertoia. It was his hope that the fountain would "commemorate the living - rather than death - on the waters of life, rising, receding, surging so as to express upward growth, immortality and eternality."
The bronze plaque bears this simple, eloquent inscription:
"They shall live on in the hearts of their families and friends forever, and this memorial records their loss to the university and to the community."

Some thought after the crash Marshall football would be no more but our community pulled together & From The Ashes We Rose!!!

Something I'm very thankful for. Alot of great memories for me as a child is at MU Football games. Also something I share with my own children now. I mean when your daughters (Shannon) first sentence is We Are Marshall...you may be more than just a fan! If only for today whether you love,like,hate or know not a thing about Marshall University. May you read this today & know this is more than just a college to us. It's more than just football. It's more than I can explain but the best way to describe us well...

WE ARE...MARSHALL!!
Turn up your speakers,watch the video & take a glimpse at our Thundering Herd Pride!

I take it back!

2007-11-13T09:51:00.000-05:00

In a previous post I said I was hating the Army (which of course I was joking...just upset Matt had to go when I really needed him here!!) I sooo take that back! All 3 kids have croup. They are fine during the day barely coughing at all but come night it's awful! I have not slept in days & that is no JOKE!!!! Last night was my breaking point. I had them all 3 in the living room with the vaporizer on. One would wake up & start coughing. I'd get that one back down then 5 minutes later the next & so on & so on. I called Matt crying...no screaming & begged him to come home. He knew in my voice I'd had it. He talked it over with his Sgt. & is on his way home today. Should be home this afternoon. I was a little shocked because of past situations but they under new command & luckily things have changed. Thank goodness!! The 3 of them are even better today then yesterday (knock on wood!!!) so with any hope I'll finally get some rest. I am so blessed to have a husband who will rush home when he's needed. I love you Matt!

Veteran's Day

2007-11-11T19:00:00.000-05:00

GOD BLESS YOU♥

Miss Him Already!

2007-11-11T10:56:00.000-05:00

Matt left early this morning but I miss him already:(

It's only a week & believe I have dealt with alot longer but gosh I'm hatin' the Army right now!

2007-11-10T09:42:00.000-05:00

I'm sure coming by my blog lately has been nothing short of depressing & I'm sorry for that! The last few weeks have really taken a toll on me. The saying has rang true here....when it rains it rours. Except lately here when it rains it floods!!! The girls were sick with a virus that was going around like crazy & finally felt somewhat better. Alli never really felt as good as Shannon but it was getting better. Well, then Tuesday night Ty woke up at midnight with it. Sooo I was up all night with him. He did alot better with it (Thank goodness) By thursday he was pretty much over it. Well, that evening both girls started sneezing. That night it turned into coughing! Well, I was hoping it was just a cold BUT Matt will be leaving sunday for a week of training with the Army (nothing major just typical stuff) so I figured I'd better get this taken care of before I was left all week alone with sick kids because I don't really know how much more I can handle. Good thing I did because the girls have Croup. Sooo here we go again!!!!! The Dr. gave them some meds for the cough but of course the virus part would just have to run it's course.

So just wanted explain why I have been so down lately & thank you all for still stopping by to check in on us.

On a good note...Alli is finally eating better. She wasn't really eating at all for days. So that great news around here!

Shannon is ok one minute & screaming the next but I know her little throat hurts.

I keep telling myself it will get better,it will get better,it WILL get better.

Just hoping it's soon!!!!

Update & Thank You!

2007-11-09T10:32:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to update everyone on baby Gracie. Great News!!!!
Yesterday afternoon they made Jill go home for some much needed rest (Best thing for her!) Well, when she returned to the hospital the baby seemed much much better! Things just got better after that. Long story short...surgery was not needed & she'll be going home today!!!!! Thank you all for your thoughts & prayers!
On another note....my kids are all sick yet again!! (Now coughs,sore throats but no fevers thank goodness) I'm tired! Mentally & physical. I NEED things back to "normal" so very bad! Better go get back to my babies.

Please Pray For My Friend!

2007-11-08T12:36:00.000-05:00

I have a prayer request for my best friend Jill's baby girl Gracyn. She has a serious infection & in the hospital with 4 different bags of IV's. Poor baby is only 6 months old. On top of that she's had an ear infection all week. I just talked to Jill & she actually just cut her first tooth! Jill hasn't slept in days!! Baby Gracie will be having surgery tomorrow morning so please keep her in your prayers!!!

When Is This Gonna End???

2007-11-05T09:04:00.000-05:00

For the last...I'd say month I have been stressed to the max! Running my behind off everyday. Seems like one thing is over then immediately it's something else to take care of or worry about. Matt had his surgery days later I got sick. I was still very sick trick or treat night but put on a happy act & went on like most mommies would do! Now, the kids are sick. Not sure if Ty is sick. He isn't complaining of anything he's just very very cranky! Nothing is making him happy. As for the girls, I was up all night with them running a fever,vomiting & sore throats. On top of that Matt is working extra overtime at work (12hours) which we need but it sure would help to have him here. He feels awful & hated leaving me this morning but we gotta do what we gotta do right?!?! He himself is sick as well. So for today the kids each have beds made up on the couch watching movie after movie. While mommy gives them medicine,juice & extra hugs! I'll also be disinfecting everything in sight! I'm just so drained. I'd say pray for me but I'd rather your prayers go out for my sick babies & wonderful husband who's working so hard for our family.
Love & Prayers,
Court

Whooops!!!

2007-11-04T09:08:00.000-05:00

In case you forgot which I'm sure I'm the ONLY one ! Set your clocks back!!!! I was going to before bed last night & totally forgot. Still had no idea until Matt called from work & said he'd be sitting in the car for an hour because it was only 8:30 & he had to be there at 9:30. Sad thing is he's working overtime today & that means he's gonna be there over 13 hours today. Poor guy!
I'm sorry honey=)

Blah!

2007-11-02T23:31:00.000-04:00

Feeling kinda blah last few days not really sure why. No real reason for it. Just in one of those funks ya know. I'm gonna try to find something for me & the kids to get into tomorrow. Maybe it will help to get out a little.
Hopefully!!!!!

Trick Or Treat Pictures!

2007-10-31T11:22:00.001-04:00

Halloween Traditions

2007-10-29T18:21:00.000-04:00

I think I did a post on this last year about The Pumpkin House. Which you can read about it Here!

The pumpkin house was on the Today Show this morning & on Ellen last year. Ric Griffith (The now Mayor of my home town) has done this since I was little. This year I believe he's having 3,000 pumpkins!! It's always been a tradition since I was little to go trick or treating then go see the pumpkin house. Ric's youngest daughter & I went all through school together. In grade school the entire school would walk over & each carve our own pumpkin to display. He always has lots & lots of volunteers. It's such a big thing around here & growing more & more every year! Now the traditions are a little different. Matt's mom loves to see the kids dress up. Also loves showing them off to her neighbors (LOL!!) Although it's a little drive for us we always take the kids up there for trick or treating. It's a pretty hectic day for us. We first stop by my moms house,then my grandma's & head up to My MIL's. We usually go to the Pumpkin House the day after trick or treating here. Which is usually a little less packed. People come all over to see it every year! Matt has been gone (Iraq) the last 2 years at this time so this year is special. I think we'll pack up & see the pumpkins on his night off this week. I'm really looking forward to that. A tradition I did as a child that now my kids are doing. My how time flies!!!

**Here are some pics of the pumpkin house last year**

2007-10-29T09:21:00.000-04:00

Sorry I haven't been around much!
Matt went back to work saturday & by the time he got in from work I was feeling terrible. He ended up staying home yesterday to help take care of me because I got sick. So the last few days we have both played nurse for each other LOL! I'm feeling better today but not 100%. I'm trying to rest up today so I'll feel good enough to take the kids trick or treating tomorrow night. I'll go either way but I just pray I feel better:( Hope everyone has a wonderful week!!!

Thank You!

2007-10-26T18:59:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to leave a quick note saying thank you for your concern & prayers. I should have explained in the other post but the last few days have been very crazy here! Matt just had some minor surgery & is doing very well. So thank you everyone for taking the time to pray for him. It means so much to me to have wonderful friends like you!

Another Prayer Request

2007-10-24T16:55:00.000-04:00

I need another favor please.
Matt had surgery today & I ask if you could please remember him in your prayers today. Not sure if I'll be on here much for a few days so just letting you all know why. Thank you All for your love & prayers!!! They are appreciated so much!
Court♥

Prayers

2007-10-23T10:52:00.000-04:00

Let's remember to keep everyone involved in the California Wild Fires in our prayers. This is just horrible! Also if you could keep some friends of ours in your prayers. They are dealing with some health issues & could use a good prayer from some wonderful ladies like yourself. Thank you so much♥

Remember When...

2007-10-22T13:08:00.000-04:00

Close your eyes... And go back...Before the Internet or the AIM
Before playstation2 or X-bOX
Before when We got Our Hearts Broke
I'm talkin' bout hide and go seek at dusk
Red light, Green light.
Playing kickball & dodgeball until your porch light came on.
Mother May I?
Red Rover
Four square
Hula Hoops
Running through the sprinkler
Happy Meals
Getting the privelage to sit in the front seat of the car
Watchin' Saturday Morning cartoons
Christmas morning
Bedtime Prayers and Goodnight Kisses
Climbing trees
Getting an ice cream off the ice cream truck
A million mosquito bites and sticky fingers
Jumpin' down the steps
Jumpin' on the bed
Pillow fights
Runnin' till you were out of breath
Laughing so hard that your stomach hurt and you almost peed your pants
Being tired from playin' all day
Your first crush
Rainy days at school meant playing "Heads up 7-Up" in the classroomRemember that?
I'm not finished yet...Kool-Aid was the drink of the summer
Giving your friends a ride on your handlebars or spokes
Wearing your new shoes on the first day of school
Class Field TripsWhen nearly everyone's mom was at home when the kids got there
When getting high was swinging on the swingset
When $5 seemed like a million, and another dollar a Miracle
When your parents took you to McDonalds and you were so cool
When Toys r Us overuled the "mall"
How about when...Decisions were made by going "eeny-meeny-miney-moe"
Mistakes were corrected by simply exclaiming, "do over!"
Race issue meant arguing about who ran the fastest.
Money issues were handled by whoever was the banker in "monopoly"
Catching fireflies could happily occupy an entire evening
It wasn't odd to have two or three "best" friends
Being old, referred to anyone over 20
The worst thing you could catch from the opposite sex was cooties
Nobody was prettier than Mom
Nobody was cooler than Dad
Scrapes and bruises were kissed and made better
It was a big deal to finally be tall enough to ride the "big people" rides at the amusement park
Getting an inch of snow was a dream come true
Abilities were discovered because of a "double-dog-dare"
Spinning around, getting dizzy and falling down was cause for giggles
If you can remember most or all of these, then in MY opinion you have LIVED!!!

WVU (But For ONLY One Night!)

2007-10-21T17:38:00.001-04:00

Of course the kids would take a great picture while wearing our favorite teams rival colors! Only our luck=) The kids decorated a picture frame & I put this picture in it for their uncle Mike. They wanted to give him a gift too! The party was great. There were over 30 people there. He was so surprised & everything went perfectly. Although I was never more ready to come home & put on my Marshall sweats! For one night we were all Mountaineers but only for Mike. As for today Marshall's playin sooo....We Are Marshall!!!!!!!

Wishing Everyone A Great Weekend

2007-10-19T11:51:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to wish everyone a great weekend! I have lots to do today. Tomorrow is my brother in laws Birthday party. The kids wanted to make him cards. So later today we are getting out the construction paper,markers,glue & stickers. I'm such a kid. I think I get more excited about it then they do! But first I must clean & cook...Yay!! Have a blessed weekend♥

Decorating Pictures!!!

2007-10-17T15:05:00.001-04:00

**Ok I changed my background I had a few comments & a couple emails that they couldn't read my blog because of the background. Sorry about that & thank you for letting me know! I worked on it for awhile & finally have it the way I want it**

This is our living room. I rearranged the furniture yesterday. (but forgot before pics lol)This room is my next project. I hate I mean really hate this wallpaper. As I said before I'm a primitive addict. I'm going to take this wallpaper down real soon & paint. This room & the hallway will soon be crows & sheep. I can't wait! Until then I just "deal" with the flowers! In the first pic you can see my antique cream can (on the right) That was my great grandpa's. I sooo love it! Matt doesn't really understand why but he just doesn't appreciate the old primitive decorating as I do LOL!!

(Click To Enlarge)

This is our TV room. Now this I have pretty much finished. Well, I'm still always finding something new to put in here. I also love anything Americana as you can see!

There you have it. My latest projects & there will always be more...Believe me & oh if anyone has any ideas or tips feel free to fill me in. I'm always up for suggestions=)

I Feel Like It's Friday

2007-10-16T09:23:00.000-04:00

And no I haven't gone crazy. It's just Matt is off Wed & Thurs. so I guess because of that I feel it's friday. Strange but true. I am so excited for him to finally be home for 2 days! I told you before about his back & all the Dr Appts & Physical Therapy. Well, they are pretty much finished but last week he worked his entire schedule around 1 appointment that at the very last minute they called & canceled. I was so mad but hey it made for lots of overtime:) Then this weekend he was at drill. Anywho, after today he's off for 2 days. I feel like it's Christmas lol!! I'm gonna go grocery shopping tomorrow morning & after that not a thing. Just enjoy some time all together. I think I'll pick up some pumpkins for us to carve or paint tomorrow evening. What is everyone else doing? Carving or painting. I haven't decided yet. Well, that's about it for today. I'm off to do some laundry,cleaning & cooking. Mommy's work is never done=)

***Update*** I'm in a cleaning & rearranging mood! So come back later for a peek for pics. I know I know I have promised pictures of the decorating I have done but today I mean it LOL!!!

A Trip To The Mall

2007-10-14T19:42:00.001-04:00

Yes you read correct I braved the mall with 3 kids! I never do this unless completely necessary. It usually ends with kicking,screaming,crying & since I'm the one doing that people often stare. Sooo I try to go alone. Anyway, it had to be done. My mother in law is having Matt's brother (Mike) a surprise party this coming Saturday. He is turning 30! Well, it's a WV Mountaineers party. Everyone is to wear something WVU & get WVU gifts. He is the biggest WVU fan I know. But, if you know anything about Matt & I you'll know we are the biggest Marshall fans you'll know. With Marshall & WVU being rivals we don't allow anything Moutaineers in our home! We are going to wear something WV but only for Mike. We'd do this for noone else LOL! I had to run to Walmart about 20 minutes away to get the kids some outfits. Let me explain how our area works....You have Ky right where we live it's all UK. With a couple Marshall fans (Me & Matt lol) then you cross the bridge literally 5 minutes away it's all Marshall fans. You go down the road a little & cross another bridge you have your Buckeye fans but you go about 20/30 minutes up the road it's nothing but WVU people. Crazy I know but I guess that's what we get since we are the "Tri State Area". In just one trip to the grocery store I will go to 3 states in about 15 minutes. Oh sorry back to my story. I called this Walmart & of course they only had ONE outfit left in Shannon's size & they told me they could hold it for a couple hours. So I had to go. Right beside Walmart is the Mall so I thought I might as well get Mike his gift. Since we never get up that way & like I said before it's hard finding "other" teams not in their designated area lol! Matt was at Drill (National Guard) so it was just me & the kids. Now, I'm going to tell you something & you must be seated! Are you seated?? I hope! The kids were excellent!!! Yes you read right & I'm sure you fainted & that's ok because I thought I would too. They stayed right beside me. Shannon sat in her stroller the entire time & noone asked for anything! I did get myself a few tarts from Yankee Candle (The scent was Harvest) & oh my house smells so yummy! Since the kids were so well behaved well picked up chocolate shakes on the way home. They loved that of course. We had a happy mommy who completed her tasks. Happy kids who got rewarded with some sugar. All in all a nice mall trip. Well, all except when Shannon got tired of holding her shake & decided to dump it all over the backseat.

Hey! I said my kids were good. I never said they were perfect!

Fall Fun

2007-10-14T09:19:00.000-04:00

The kids & I had a blast yesterday. Matt had guard this weekend so the kids & I ran around together,made a bunch of crafts & played in the leaves! We went out to rake leaves & fill up our pumpkin bags to put in front of the house but you can't rake leaves. You gotta pile them up & jump in them too Right?!

Fall Has Fell

2007-10-12T09:24:00.000-04:00

Fall has finally fell here! I just wish it didn't fall so hard lol! It went from 90's to 50's literally overnight. Oh well, I asked for it. I was so ready for cool weather & I guess I got it. Anyway, I have a million things to do today so gotta get but have a wonderful weekend! I was hoping for a relaxing weekend...Don't think I'm gonna get it. Next weekend not looking like it either. Maybe next month huh?!?!

2007-10-11T08:17:00.000-04:00

Yesterday evening (after Matt got home from work) I had to do my weekly grocery shopping. Something I both dread & look forward to every week. I mean who really looks forward to grocery shopping? Walmart always seems to be packed & never enough cashiers. You wait in line forever, they always seem to be out of at least one thing I desperately need & don't even get me started on putting all that food away once I get home. At the same time it's "my" time. Yesterday was a very hectic day to say the least. So by the time I got in that car I was ready to roll down the windows,turn up that radio & just drive! As I was driving it seemed every song I loved was coming on over & over. As if the D.J. knew this mommy was out & about. I felt as if I were just flying out that country road rockin out all along the way. In reality I was going 45 in a 50 because daydreaming aside I'm a chicken! But, for a few minutes I was 17 again without a care in the world but what was coming on the radio next. I get in the store it's back to mommy. Looking for every good deal & every new healthy thing I can attempt to try to get my kids to eat! I call while I'm there to check up on them & smile when I hear them giggling in the background. I then rush to finish because I know Ty is out of apple slices & mommy promised he could have them as soon as I walked in the door. The daydream is no more & I realize that's just fine. I like what I am & where I'm at in my life. Until next week when I head to the store again. So next wednesday if your windows start shaking,you hear the bass coming,you look outside to see blonde hair fly by just give me a wave...This mommy's headed to the store!

Wordless Wednesday

2007-10-10T09:44:00.001-04:00

For more go

HERE!

Pumpkin Festival

2007-10-08T18:48:00.001-04:00

Here's some taken from the Pumpkin Festival on friday. We had so much fun!
The kids made crafts,My mother in law & I shopped & ate lots of good food. I bought some pumpkin fudge & of course apple butter. Oh my goodness home made apple butter is...well there's nothing better in my book lol! Oh & we also had pumpkin ice cream. Never had it before but oh it was yummy as well. It was really hot but other than that a great day.

Alli & Ty playing on the pumpkins

Me & My Babies
Shannon loves driving:)
My little Rascals

They were amazed at this HUGE pumpkin

It was over 1000 pounds
Making sand art with NaNa
Posing with NaNa
Shannon & one of her many many hats

My favorite thing I bought:)

A little late but...

2007-10-07T20:34:00.000-04:00

Here's some pictures from Ty & Shannon's Birthday Party last week.

Shannon loved the hats!
Miss Alli♥
Ty relaxing in his Spiderman Chair
Shannon driving with my dad:)

My Birthday Boy

My Birthday girl

2007-10-04T22:31:00.000-04:00

Just something cute I thought I'd share=) Yes that's a Strawberry Shortcake floatie on her head LOL!! Shannon isn't ready to admit she's 2 yet but what lady ever admits her real age anyway...Right??? If you listen close she's counting to 9 & then throws in some dancing to one of her favorite shows.

The kids & I are meeting Matt's mom tomorrow & going to the Pumpkin Festival. Can't wait. I love it. Have a wonderful weekend!

Good Mornin' Mommy!

2007-10-04T08:28:00.000-04:00

Ever wake up & just KNOW it's gonna be one of those days?
Well that's not exactly how my morning started but quickly ended up that way.
Matt had to be to work early this morning. He woke me up getting ready (not purposely but ya know) so I decided to go ahead get my coffee & spend some time alone. I get up fix a big cup & thought I'd sit on our deck for a minute. It's been in the 90's here so it's kind of been hard to enjoy Fall just yet. This morning though it was perfect out. A breeze that was just right. Sun coming up. You could just smell that Autumn air. Oh how quickly it all ends! LOL!
Well before heading out to my 5 minute mommy vacation. I hear Shannon's little feet coming down the hall. No big deal though. I fixed her some pancakes & milk then sat her at her little table by the back door so I could still have a few minutes of peacefulness. I go out & I'm enjoying my coffee looking back at her every couple seconds. She'd wave & laugh. I'd make some goofy face back. She'd laugh. Everything cool right? Wrong! I kept hearing baby birds chirping in a tree in our backyard. It was sweet until... (pause for dramatic effect!) one of those not so sweet anymore bratty baby birds flies by & poops in my coffee!! I was shocked. I laughed but deep down wanted to cry. The nerve of that little creature to come by & literally poo on my good morning!
I ran in poured it out & just tossed the cup. Shannon follows me & asked "Mommyyy! Wrooong?" (Which means mommy what's wrong for anyone not speaking baby talk) Knowing she wouldn't understand but also knowing if you don't respond to her quickly it gets ugly! I said, that bird messed in mommy's cup. Her response...Ok,Mornin Mommy!

2007-10-03T09:04:00.000-04:00

I'm just a big old mess this morning.
Let me first start this little story by saying Roe (Our Cat) is my baby. He thinks he has to be wherever I am at all times. I literally take a bath with him sitting on the edge of the tub. If I sit anywhere he's on my lap. He sleeps right at my head at night in bed. I honestly believe he thinks he's one of the kids & I'm his mommy lol! Soooo anyway, last night when the kids went to bed I was playing on the computer waiting for Matt to get in. Of course there was Roe on my lap asleep. I heard a noise coming from the bedrooms so I moved Roe over & went to see what it was. I usually carry him with me but I was in a hurry to see ya know. Ohhh bad idea! He awoke quickly to find himself alone & freaked! As I got to the hallway all the sudden out of the corner I saw something just fly by me (not sure how he did it!) & he hit my knee. He was fine. Just purring away! I (on the other hand) fell to the floor in pain! LOL! Well, I say LOL now but it wasn't to laughable at the time!! So I limp to see what the noise was & saw nothing. Of course!!!!
So in bed it's still hurting me pretty bad. I'm trying to find a position I can get in without much pain. Not easy since Shannon was also sleeping with Matt & I. Oh, & don't forget Roe too! Long story short I got no rest! On top of that I wake up with my arm & shoulder numb from the way I slept. Now my knee AND shoulder is killing me. It should be a lovely day:)

Wiped Out!

2007-09-29T23:05:00.000-04:00

The kids Birthday party was a big hit! Never seen so many toys in my life. I'll have pics soon but for now this momma is wiped out!

*Oh, by the way We Are Marshall is out on DVD. Have tissues ready though!!! If you'd like to see a true story about my hometown go rent it. You will not be let down!

Today's Complaint

2007-09-28T11:15:00.000-04:00

I need a carpet cleaner...BAD!
Just thought I'd share LOL!
Have a nice weekend everyone!!!

My Birthday Girl

2007-09-26T08:35:00.001-04:00

Today brings us to yet another Birthday.(The date on Tyson's post is wrong. I had started it monday night but his birthday was yesterday the 25th & Shannon's today the 26th...Yes it's very hectic for me lol) My baby girl is 2 years old today. It's amazing to me how fast time goes by.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHANNON RILEY!!!!!

We love you to the moon & back

♥