The Wilson Family...est. 1998

Happy Birthday to ME!!!

2012-01-25T21:35:00.002-06:00

I have to say that Buddy and the girls out did theirselves this year.
Buddy had flowers delivered! They also got a Dairy Queen ice cream cake (MY FAV), a beautiful cross pendant, & a gorgeous pair of earrings! We finished the day with dinner at Outback. It was the best birthday ever! Thank you Buddy, Mae, & Maddie for an awesome day!!! I love y'all!!!

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Just "trucking along"...

2012-01-25T21:12:00.002-06:00

No breaking news around here lately. Just making it day by day. The girls are getting ready for competition season. They are really excited about it!!! Mae will be competing a solo in addition to their group numbers. She's really excited. M&M will soon start working on a tap duet for the recital. So, we are just "trucking along" here in Charleston.

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Kisses from Katie...

2012-01-04T17:21:00.001-06:00

A friend recommended a book to me to read. I thought, sure, whatever. Little did I know how this book would make me smile, cry, pray, and change a piece of me forever. If you are looking for a good book, story, and inspiration, please take the time to read this one. One young girl is making a difference in our world, and oh the respect, admiration, and love I feel for her~and I have never even met her! Makes you stop....think....and re-evaluate what is really important.

Katie's blog site is:

http://kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com/

Visit Amazima Ministries:

http://amazima.org/

There are links on our page for both of these sites.

First Snow in WV....2012

2012-01-03T13:27:00.000-06:00

Our first snow started falling here in WV yesterday. It's so pretty, and we are all like little kids watching it fall. The schools are out today! The high is only 21, and it has snowed off and on all day. It's been so much fun making memories in our new home. Wish Buddy didn't have to work, and could be here with us. Even the dogs ran around like they were enjoying it. None of us have ever seen this much fluffy snow. This would have shut down the entire state of AL!!!

Our Home

This could end bad....

Sliding down the hill

Here we go again...

Fun in the snow!

Wheeeeee!

Lily Grace & Bella running around the deck

Look!

Lily Grace

Bella

They LOVE it!!!

Happy 2012!!!

2012-01-01T13:07:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year!!! Well, we have been through a few adventures in the last several months. 5 months ago today, we arrived in Charleston, WV ready for the journey of a lifetime. Wow...it's been amazing! We couldn't be more happy here. We are so blessed to have found such a wonderful home, and absolutely incredible friends. Buddy likes his new job...so far, so good! The girls have found a great dance studio, and dance family. RMProductions has welcomed us with open arms. They have helped so much with the transition for the girls. Everything seems to be falling into place! Now that we are more settled, and over this 600 mile move....we can update everyone with all of our adventures! This should be interesting. Hope everyone has a fabulous 2012!!!

Our "moving crew"! Truck unloaded!!! That's when the real fun began...

8/2/2011

A few pics....

2012-01-01T13:03:00.001-06:00

Moving Day!

Last night in Bama...

First day of school...John Adams Middle

Maddie's 11th B'day

Celebrating M&M's bday in WV

Merry Christmas!!!

Our house...

Front door...new wreath and tree!!!

Moving day getting closer!!!

2011-07-17T09:50:00.000-05:00

Well, moving day is getting closer! We visited Charleston, WV this past week. I have to say, I LOVE IT!!! I have fallen in love with this town. Which is good considering we have to go whether I like it or not, LOL. We met the wonderful family we are leasing the townhouse from. They are sent from God! I have no doubt. It would not have been possible to get this far without them. We have our representative from the moving company coming tomorrow to take inventory, and schedule a moving date. Hoping it is the first of next week, but next week none the less. We really love the townhouse. It has more square footage than my home. The girls really like it. And of course the pool is about two driveways down....so, that is one of their favorite parts. The area is beautiful. So many mountains! It's a very charming neighborhood, and close to everything. That will definitely be a change for us. We rode by the school. No one there, but it's really cute. It has many awards and is recognized all over the US for it's academics. A lot of the anxiety has gone away after seeing everything. I have no doubt this is where we are supposed to be. We will miss AL, but will visit often. And with the Internet, it's like everybody is still just down the street. This will be an adventure for sure!!! But, we are ready for it! Now, the craziness begins. Getting this house ready for the market. Crunch time!

Called Home

2011-06-05T09:08:00.001-05:00

It is with a heavy heart that I post today. Garrett Jones has been called home, and reunited with his wife, Jennifer, and his brother Brandon. Such a bittersweet day. Garrett is now healed and whole again! My prayers are for Frank, Janell, Kevin, Marlo, the entire family, & all of the friends grieving for Garrett this morning. The Jones family is such a precious family. I pray God lifts them up, gives them strength, peace, & comfort in the days ahead. We LOVE you Jones family! We will always be praying for you!

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PRAY!!! PRAY!!! PRAY!!!

2011-06-01T14:22:00.001-05:00

Here is the noon update from "Prayers for Garrett Jones". Please keep this family in your prayers! This is a trying time for them.

Stephanie here. According to the doctors, Garrett's oxygen levels are so low, that if they continue this way for a few more hours, he will suffer organ damage, probably heart problems, and most certainly brain damage. The ARDS has now totally involved the left lung, not just the right, and they have nothing more to offer him. Barring a miracle, this condition will result in death within a few hours to a maximum of 2-3 days. Frank is not giving up until Garrett's heart stops. Miracles can still happen.

Please Pray!!!

2011-06-01T07:54:00.001-05:00

Garrett's condition this morning is not good. His O2 levels are very low. Please pray for his lungs...pray for his family.

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A few pics from '11 Recital....M.A.D.

2011-05-31T19:36:00.000-05:00

before recital...

getting into character

Steciny, Maddie, and Meagan

Memorial Day 2011

2011-05-31T19:25:00.000-05:00

Silly pic

Sweet kids.....

Stephanie's Graduation 2011

2011-05-31T19:21:00.000-05:00

She did it! I love you, Teppy!

The McClendons

Maddie's 5th Grade Graduation

2011-05-31T19:19:00.000-05:00

My Maddie

It's all in the accessories!

In line waiting to get her award

Maddie with her teacher and principal

My graduate....

She has her diploma! So proud!

Maddie and her daddy, she did it!

Easter Pics 2011

2011-05-31T19:07:00.000-05:00

Miss Layne

Meagan, Layne, and Maddie

Layne and Daddy

My sweet Paw Paw

Busy little bee...

Jumping like a pro

M&M

Peek-a-boo

I think this is my favorite...

Precious

Layne started singing, "Go Layne, Go Layne, it's your birthday, Go Layne"

Love it!

The Easter bunny came to see M&M

Happy Easter

Dying eggs....Maddie

Dying eggs....Meagan

Update....Prayers needed!

2011-05-31T15:35:00.000-05:00

So many things are going on right now with our family and friends.

Please add Garrett Jones, his family, his wife's family, his doctors, and nurses to your prayers. He is part of our family. Garrett is in ICU fighting for his life since the tornadoes April 27th. His wife, Jennifer, and their bull dog, did not make it. He has overcome so many hurdles, but has a long way to go. It seems for every baby step forward, we have 2 steps back. I have added "Prayers for Garrett Jones" to my blog list, and invite everyone to read his story, and everything he has been through to this point. He needs all prayer warriors to rally around him, and his entire family right now. Pray God's will, will be done whether Garrett goes to his heavenly home with Jennifer...or his earthly home to heal with his parents.

To add to the emotion of the last month, Buddy has gotten a job promotion! Very well deserved.... No one is more proud of him than the girls and me. There is no one that can take this position, and make such positive change the way he can. His brain was built for this job. The position will relocate us to WV. So, we will have many decisions to make regarding how, when, and where we end up. Prayers for God to lead us in the right direction would be greatly appreciated! The girls are adjusting well, and I know this is the path we are supposed to take. We are just looking for clarity with the details.

Ok, now to brag on my babies. Meagan had her awards day. She was one, of only 38 in the entire school, that made all A's throughout the school year. They were rewarded with a trip to the zoo. She loved it and had a really good time. She also received awards in Art and Creative Expressions classes. My little Maddie graduated from the 5th grade! No more elementary school for us.....they are growing up too fast!!! Maddie received awards for making A's & B's for the year, and an award for "most improved". We could not be more proud of M&M for all of their accomplishments this year. They are such smart and sweet young ladies. They make being a parent easy! It feels like just yesterday that they were starting kindergarten!

Another bragging moment! Steph has graduated nursing school!!!!! We went to MS to see her walk across the stage. I can't lie, I cried. She has been through so much, and has not ever given up. She also took the state boards last week, and found out that SHE PASSED! "Go Teppy!!!!!! We love you so much, and are so thrilled for you. You get to finally start this new chapter in your life." Please also say a prayer for her. As many of you know, Steph has had neck and back pain practically the entire time she has been in school. She saw a specialist in Memphis last week. She has a ruptured disc, and surgery is her only option. She is excited about the procedure, because finally after all of these years, she will hopefully have pain relief. She has an awesome surgeon, and pray that there will be no complications, and Steph will feel new again.

More bragging........our niece, Carsyn, graduated from high school last week. We could not be more proud of her! She has had so many obstacles this past year, and she keeps her head held high and pushes through. We love you Carsyn, and could not be more PROUD! And yes, I cried there too!!!

We had a fun, quiet Memorial Day! Bryan and our precious nephew Kalyn came over. We had a great time just sitting and talking AND EATING!!!! It was so good to spend time with them. I can't believe that Kalyn will be in high school next year! Really, where does the time go?

So, I guess the consensis of this post is to PRAY! There so many things going on with so many special people in our lives... We know God is the only one who will see us through all of it!

Dance Pics!

2011-04-09T10:22:00.000-05:00

My Precious BEAUTIFUL Babies!

Hello!

2011-04-09T10:19:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I'm behind, what's new? We have been so busy the last few months. Hopefully we have a handle on everything now. The girls had another competition last weekend in ATL. They did AWESOME! Congratulations to all the M.A.D. dancers on receiveing High Silver rating, judges "Outstanding Energy" award, and Top Score Junior Musical Theater Group award. GREAT JOB! The last one is coming up, and recital is right around the corner. I can't believe M&M only have about a month and a half left of school. Both of my babies will be in middle school. How does that happen? I can't be more proud of the girls with everything they have accomplished this year with school and dance. They are such sweet and well rounded girls! We love you M&M!!!

Well, the Taurus finally had enough. Maddie and I ran to the store last week, and it did not cooperate. I just knew we would break down in the mile long bank drive thru line. Luckily we made it home. It was a stressful trip. So, we decided to try our chances with trading it...JACKPOT! Finally not upside down! We are now the proud owners of Toyota Camry! I am in LOVE! (and it's only been 2 days, lol). And, thanks to a dear friend, I have upgraded my monogramming machine. It is like a dream. I think it may be smarter than me. I'm so glad I took the plunge! Buddy won't know what to do with not having me complain so much about everything! LOL. Wow! A new "brother" and car in the same week, this is like Christmas~ well, will probably be for the next several years. I am OK with that!

Meagan says this is her key!!! Um, I don't think so... lol

The trunk fit's approximately 4.5 children! Only these four would crawl in the trunk! I love these babies!

Busy Weekend...

2011-02-28T14:17:00.000-06:00

M&M had their 2nd dance competition this weekend. They did so good! We are so proud of all that the M.A.D. Dancers have accomplished already this year. They won Top First Place in their category, Musical Theater, 2nd Overall in their division-small group, Special Judges award called "Clever and Cute", and they were chosen as All Stars-which includes an invitation to a competition/workshop in NY. Proud does not even begin to describe how we feel! Great job M&M! They totally ROCKED it!

Here are a few pics:

Getting ready for competition

Meagan, Steciny, and Maddie after they performed

Eating Dinner after a long day...

Buddy & Maddie at dinner

Meagan & Me at dinner

Lake View Elementary Beauty Walk

2011-02-23T20:37:00.000-06:00

Maddie

Buddy & Maddie

Maddie and Meagan

Maddie and Grandma

Maddie and Me

Maddie

Meagan and Maddie

Maddie

A few pageant pics...2011

2011-02-03T21:07:00.000-06:00

Maddie, Alex, Meagan, and Steciny

Maddie, Paw Paw, and Meagan

(Paw Paw teared up when he posed for this pic)

The Wilsons

Thank you to everyone who came to see Meagan in the pageant. Mom and Dad came in, Paw Paw of course didn't miss it, and Paige, Alex, & Steciny were there to cheer on Miss Priss! Thank you, love to all of you!!!

Happy February!

2011-02-03T20:42:00.001-06:00

Happy February everyone! I hope everyone is having a fabulous new year. Things are crazy around here as usual. We all made it through Christmas... Had such a great time in GA with the family! I have to say, though, I am very glad it's over, lol. Well, I have turned another year older, and so far, not too bad...M&M have started the competition season of dance. They are doing "What You Want" from Legally Blonde the musical. I have to say it's the cutes thing I have ever seen. Meagan, as Elle, is amazing! I know I'm partial, but I am still in shock, and they performed weeks ago. We also have a very proud Daddy! Maddie was nothing less than spectacular too! We are so proud of them, and I know I say it a lot, but we are very fortunate for the wonderful teachers/leaders at M.A.D. It's an honor to be a part of their vision! The M.A.D. Dancers received Gold ratings at their first competition. They were ECSTATIC!!! M&M said it was their favorite so far. Guess it doesn't hurt when there are some famous "So You Think You Can Dance" teachers/judges at the workshops.

Before the 1st Competition

Meagan was in her first middle school pageant. OMG! She was absolutely beautiful. She was definitely the crowd favorite, and one of the judges came up to her after and said she was her favorite.... She did really well, and could not have done a thing any better. It was really strange the two of them being split up this year because of being at different schools. Kudos to ME, this year we tried something different, and I did Meagan's hair and makeup. She was just stunning! Not hard when you are working with such a beautiful young lady! I love you Meagan!!! You did an awesome job!!! You will always be my baby though!

Maddie's pageant is February 18th! She is sooo excited. We went and looked at dresses. The wonderful Mrs. Thrasher where we get our dresses, had just go in a dress just like Meagan's in Maddie's size. Well, she fell in love.... She will be so beautiful! I can't wait!

A lot of exciting things going on with McDiva Designs. Trying to get more organized in the new year. Last year was so hectic, that I had a hard time keeping up. I have tried to update the blog, and I am proud to say that we are working on an Etsy store, and maybe a FB page. I'll let you know when it's up and running. It may take me a bit to get it all together...haha...famous last words!!! We do have a "logo/theme" for McDiva. Not so generic anymore, yay!

Wish me luck with this....we'll see how it goes. I am working on Valentine's designs and spring/Easter right now. I'll post as soon as I get some done!

Christmas Pics!

2010-12-05T23:28:00.001-06:00

Our 2010 Christmas Card

The Wilson Family 2010

Silly Faces...

M&M...just beautiful!

So, this year I tried something different... I wanted all of us in our Christmas card this year. We invested in a "cheap" tripod, and activated the self timer, and VOILA! Family Pic!!! I also wanted a Christmas card that wasn't the same mass produced one that is everywhere. I used the software that I make blog backgrounds with, and made our own "one of a kind" Christmas card. I am very pleased that it all went off without a disaster! LOL

Christmas Decorations 2010

2010-12-01T09:28:00.001-06:00

We cut our first Christmas tree!

2010-12-01T09:02:00.001-06:00

Our Tree!

I think they liked the experience, lol

My GIRLS!

There it goes!!!

All bagged up!!!

So, this year we have been talking about getting a real Christmas tree. We have always had artificial. Mom suggested we find a tree farm. There are two in Tuscaloosa county, and this one was closest to our house. We went with no real expectations, but were we in for a surprise. There were so many trees! I realized right away that we all lacked tree knowledge! We walked the fields, and had so much fun. We all walked to this one, and said, "I think this is it". It was the fullest we saw, and by the way, we never all agree on anything! We flagged down the helpers, down it went, and on to be bagged. I wasn't expecting so much fun! We really enjoyed the entire experience, and especially helping out a Tuscaloosa business. Then it was time to get it home, and string the lights...MY LEAST FAVORITE PART! We got it in the stand, and Buddy cut the netting...wow...it really looked a lot bigger in my living room than it did in a field of trees! The story of our life...hahaha. We loved making Christmas memories.

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-01T08:53:00.001-06:00

Maddie wating on the grown ups to get their act together!

Time to eat!

Is there enough food? LOL

Two of my favorite men

My Thanksgiving blessing!!!

Buddy's Birthday...36!

2010-11-29T10:51:00.001-06:00

Well, after the week we had, it was nice to celebrate Buddy's birthday. Cake and ice cream always make everything better! My parents came in for Thanksgiving, and Mom brought a cake she made at home. She came prepared to decorate! She had all the icing made up in bowls, so the girls could decorate the cake for their daddy-while Grandpa took him on an errand ;-). He LOVED it! Happy Birthday Buddy! I love you, and couldn't be more proud of you!!!

Halloween 2010...

2010-11-09T10:02:00.001-06:00

Talent Show @ BMS

2010-11-09T09:47:00.001-06:00

Ok, so we had a little bit of talent show drama...would you expect anything different? Well, I will start off by saying that a couple of weeks ago, Meagan, and her friend, tried out for the talent show (yes I said try out). We had to wait a week, to see if they were going to be "invited" to perform. YES! She came home with the invitation, and was soooo excited! They had practice at school the afternoon before the talent show. She calls and says, "mama, Samantha has the flu, and can't perform"....WHAT? I go into panic mode! The sponsor asked her if she could do any other type of dance, and Meagan says, "yes, I have mad tapping skills", really? So, the sponsor was impressed, and said she could tap in the show. One problem, we have no tap routine prepared for the show! (the next morning). So, she comes home and starts working on it, and decides she is going to tap to "yea Alabama". I thought that was an awesome idea. That's where her brain stopped working! Good thing good ole Mom still has dancing knowledge in her head. That's right! Mom came through with a tap routine! I was almost as shocked as she was! So, I made her a shirt, and Maddie accessorized her up! She did GREAT!!! She was also asked to do a lyrical number with a friend that is older....needless to say, she was overjoyed! She did so good in both numbers, and I am so glad that Buddy and I got to go and see her perform. Great job Meagan!

Prayers needed...

2010-11-09T09:26:00.000-06:00

This week has been dreaded for many reasons, but I know we will all get through it. Mom had a heart cath this morning, and we were worried how that would go. I am happy to report that she is out, and doing good! She has already text me, and said everything was good. She is not happy about laying down for 3 hours, but will probably get to go home early afternoon. I think she's glad she has an iPhone right about now! Kelly, Buddy's sister, has been gone 4 months ago today. I thought things would be so much easier by now, but they seem to get more confusing. I miss her so much. Please keep her precious children in your thoughts and prayers. AND, please add Buddy's business trip and safe return home to those prayers!

Bad BLOGGER!

2010-11-09T09:10:00.000-06:00

OK, so I have been a BAD BLOGGER lately! Things have been crazy around here with M&M in school, Buddy's travel schedule, and playing around with the embroidery machine... Made some shirts for M&M, and posted a pic on FB. Before I knew it, I had orders all over the place. It's nice to share my passion for this stuff with so many friends. So, needless to say I have been really busy! I am working on a blog page for the shirts and vinyl. This is a learning process, so it will be very rough, lol. M&M are growing like weeds. I am so proud to be their Mama. They both made all A's on their first report cards. I'm wondering if the world is fixing to come to an end, because they are never on the same page with school. I don't know what it is, but I'll take it! Meagan has adjusted well to middle school. She loves it! I can't believe how well she has transitioned. She loves her teachers, and has made knew friends. Of course she has the "Wilson" gene, and is one of the smallest 6th graders ever. She loves that everyone kids her about being small. She may hit a growth spurt, and grow to 6 feet...although, I'm not counting on that. Maddie is blooming this year. She is doing so good in school. She loves all of her teachers and friends. She loves going. She has become her own person. I was worried about them being separated, but I think it might be the best thing for them. I have to say, I have the most precious girls! I will try and do better updating everyone on here....famous last words, huh?

Kylie's Smilin'

2010-09-21T08:20:00.001-05:00

I stole this pic from Jordan.....Miss Kylie's first smiling pic! I love it. She is so adorable. That smile can heal the world!!!! Love you Jordan, Sean, and Miss Kylie!!!!

Maddie Clare and Stephanie Kay!

2010-09-13T20:48:00.000-05:00

Ok, so my Mom has been scanning pics, and posting them on FB because of Steph's bday. This one was hard not to pass up! OMG! Maddie looks just like her Aunt Teppy! If I hadn't delivered this child, I would seriously question who her mama was... So, I had to share! Love you Steph! Hope you've had a great 30th Birthday!!!

Happy 30th Birthday Stephanie! I love you!

2010-09-13T10:24:00.000-05:00

Happy 30th Birthday Stephanie! I love you so much, and truly honored to be your sister!

You Are

You are my guiding star

You are my shining light

You are my everything

what helps me through the night.

You are my heart

You are my soul

You are my savoir

what makes me feel whole.

You are more than my sister

You are my best friend

You are the one that will be there

when my heart needs to mend.

I love you sister

more than you will ever know

You are my other half

with you I am whole

Roll Tide Roll....

2010-09-13T10:12:00.000-05:00

Steph and Mike came into town Saturday for the game. They came in early and ate lunch with us. It was sooo nice to visit with them for a little bit. I have a cold, and, well, these are not the best pics...no make-up and feeling like crap...but hey, it's all good! Steph and Mike had a blast at the game, although they got soaked! The things we do for Bama football! Love you sissy bean!

What have I been missing???

2010-09-13T10:03:00.000-05:00

The Kinsey's came over for dinner last night! We had so much fun. It is so funny to think the our children are playing together. I can't believe how we have just picked up where we left off so many years ago. I am so blessed that we have been reunited! Dinner with the family may not seen like a wild night, but I haven't enjoyed myself like that in a while. It was nice to just sit back and talk. Um, as you notice, there are no pics...what? Yep, so involved in visiting that I didn't even think to get the camera out...what? Yes, so uncharacteristic for me. Everyone had so much fun, and we can't wait to do it again soon! Thanks, Sandy (and the entire clan), for coming to visit!

Cheer Shirts!

2010-09-13T09:57:00.000-05:00

Here are the cheer shirts! (and Bailey is adorable too!) I have been talking with Sandy about making cheer shirts for Bailey's squad. We met Friday @ JoAnn's for lunch (no food involved, lol), and picked out some material to do a "test" shirt to show all the parents. I thought they turned out really cute. Bailey wore it to school today. They have a game tonight, and she is super excited about it!

The First Bama Game!

2010-09-13T09:53:00.000-05:00

Buddy surprised Meagan with a ticket to the game last Saturday (Thanks Grandma & Grandpa). She flipped out! They had a daddy/daughter date. They had so much fun, and really enjoyed every minute. Maddie and I had a girls day. We went shopping, spent her bday gift cards, grabbed some lunch, and came home made cheese dip AND WATCHED THE GAME! This was the first game in I can't remember when that Buddy and I were not together to watch. I missed him, but I had so much fun with my one on one time with Maddie. Well, and of course, Buddy and Meagan had a blast!!! RTR!!!

Maddie sporting her Bama Chic shirt!

2010-09-03T07:41:00.000-05:00

Birthday presents from Debbie...

2010-09-03T07:37:00.000-05:00

Debbie came over Sunday night and brought M & M some goodies for their birthdays. It was so much fun getting to visit, and of course they LOVED all the presents!

Aubrey Michelle Bauer.... 8lbs 3ozs, 20in, born @ 1:10pm!!!

2010-08-31T15:31:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Bill, Jenn, and Allie on the birth of Miss Aubrey Michelle Bauer. She weighed 8lbs 3ozs, 20in, and was born @ 1:10pm. Good work Mama, she is BEAUTIFUL!

Birthday Dinner....

2010-08-26T21:46:00.000-05:00

Meagan, Maddie, and Cassie

Buddy and Maddie

Maddie and Mamma

Meagan, Maddie, Mamma, and Cassie

The Birthday Girl!

Maddie wanted to eat dinner @ the Olive Garden and have a Sponge Bob cake for her birthday....so, that's exactly what we did. We had such a great time. Thank you Cassie for coming to dinner with us! We enjoyed you being there so much...of course you're family! (We missed you Braxton!!!). Dinner was excellent, and the cake, well, it's EDGARS CAKE!!! YUM!!!!!

Dinner @ Olive Garden!

2010-08-26T21:36:00.001-05:00

Home from School!!!

2010-08-26T21:36:00.000-05:00

Maddie has some surprises when she got home from school! We got her the design notebooks that she has been wanting. Grandma & Grandpa also sent her cards with "goodies" in them. She LOVED them! And, last but not least, we had her cake ready when she got home. Maddie LOVES Sponge Bob and Edgars....sooooo, it made sense to have Edgars make Sponge Bob. They did an awesome job! She really loved it!!!!!!

Good Morning Birthday Girl!!!

2010-08-26T12:17:00.000-05:00

Maddie's Bday Bucket...

2010-08-26T12:12:00.000-05:00

Maddie's Birthday Sparkly Fingers & Toes!

2010-08-26T12:08:00.000-05:00

Fingers!

Toes!

Happy Birthday to Miss Maddie Clare! 10 Years...

2010-08-25T21:17:00.000-05:00

Happy 10th Birthday Maddie Clare! We can not believe that you are going to be 10 years old. We are so proud of the outstanding young lady you are becoming! You bring such joy and humor to our lives, and each day would not be complete without you in it! We are so proud to be your Mama and Daddy, Love you baby girl.....so very much!

Maddie has decided that she wants to go eat @ the Olive Garden for dinner on her bday. She LOVES Sponge bob, soooo.....Buddy snuck to Edgars today and ordered her a Sponge bob cake. That's her favorite place! She LOVED her bday shirt we made, and can't wait to wear it to school tomorrow. The outfit is complete with freshly painted nails (and of course alternate colored painted toes of pink an purple!) It should be a fun day!

Maddie's Birthday Shirt!

2010-08-25T16:26:00.000-05:00

Maddie's Bday shirt for school tomorrow!

Doctor with PawPaw!

2010-08-25T10:10:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was PawPaw's Dr appt. Debbie and I took him to his appt. It was an adventure as always! He got a good report. They want him to use the bone stimulator for another 6 months, and TOOK HIM OUT OF THE COLLAR!!! He was so excited! I know it's a lot cooler. We had such a great time. We cut up the whole time. He is so precious, and I love him so much!

PawPaw w/out his collar...

So, after the Dr, we went to lunch. Of course we had to choose somewhere he had never been, Habeneros! He looked like we took him to a strip club or something. He had fun, don't think he cared too much for the food, but he will have an adventure to tell his friends about!

PawPaw and Chely

Happy 35th Anniversary!

2010-08-22T10:56:00.000-05:00

Happy 35th Anniversary to my Mom and Dad! We hope you have a fabulous day, and many, many more years of wedded bliss! We Love You!!!

Happy 1 Month Birthday to Miss Kylie Jo Allen!

2010-08-22T10:52:00.000-05:00

Happy 1 month bday to Miss Kylie! I can't believe that it's been a month since we were blessed with this precious angel. She has brought so much happiness and healing to everyone around her. Jordan, you and Sean are doing an awesome job. We love you!

Being a little creative!

2010-08-19T21:40:00.000-05:00

A Visit with Kylie and Jordan (& Carsyn-surprise! Love it)

2010-08-19T21:34:00.000-05:00

Jordan and Kylie came into town for the weekend. We got to go visit with them today. It was so much fun getting to see them, and we loved visiting. Every minute with them is so precious. Jordan looks great, and Kylie is so sweet. She slept the whole time we were there just about. Babies love to make story tellers out of their Mammas! We got an extra treat! Carsyn came over after school, so we got a few minutes with her too. We had a really great day! M & M had another great day @ school. After tomorrow, they will have made it another week. They are still doing so well. We are so proud of them. FAMILY is so important! Thank you Jordan, Carsyn, and Kylie for visiting with us today! We love you!

Baby Kylie...

2010-08-16T14:59:00.003-05:00

Miss Kylie is so precious! I stole these pics from Jordan's FB page... She has changed so much in just a few weeks. I talk to Jordan frequently, and she is doing such an amazing job. She is really exhausted. Kylie isn't sleeping a whole lot. She is at the Dr today. She has a little virus, and is very fussy. Please say a little prayer for the "princess in training", and her new parents as they deal with this. We are going to make a trip this week to go visit, and give Jordan a chance to rest. We love you Jordan, Sean, and Kylie!

Friday!!! Woohoo! TGIF!!!

2010-08-13T17:55:00.005-05:00

We made it!!! M&M made it through the first week of school! We are all pooped, but we feel like we have accomplished something this week, lol. I am so proud of both of our girls. Meagan is handling the middle school like a pro already, and Maddie is ruling the elementary school. I was worried about them being apart, but they are doing so good....not missing a beat! Go M&M! Now you can sleep half the day tomorrow....LOL

Thursday...3rd day of school!

2010-08-13T17:49:00.004-05:00

3rd day of school! Woohoo! I am so proud of M&M. They are doing so good so far. I know that it's only the 3rd day, but usually I am already seeing signs of burn out. After the summer we've had, it's nice to see some kind of "normal" routine.

2nd Day of School!

2010-08-11T19:50:00.004-05:00

Well, they made through their 2nd day of school! Meagan did so much better with her locker. She only needed help once. I also talked to her bus driver, and she is now being picked up and dropped off in our driveway...woohoo! She loves it still! She loves PE and advanced math...is this my child? Maddie is loving her teacher! She helped with morning announcements this morning because she is the student council secretary. That made her feel so good! She had been so organized, and yes I know it's only day 2, but if you know Maddie-you know that is really BIG! I am so proud of both of them!!!

They got HITCHED!!! Mike and Steph June 30, 2010

2010-08-10T19:05:00.001-05:00

Steph, Mike, and Allison

Mike and Allison

Mike and Steph (CAKE)

(Soooo...I posted this before and it disappeared...here's attempt #2)

They did it! Steph and Mike "tied the knot". They live together in Tupelo, MS, where Mike is from. They have been together for a while. They got engaged last year, and have not looked back. Mike has seemed like part of the family since day one. Steph always said, "we will just get up one day and decide to get married, and that will be the day", and they did! Steph called the day before to tell us that she and Mike would be getting married the next morning. We sooo hate we couldn't be there! It was a 2 1/2 drive, and I didn't want to push the ole Taurus any more than we already do (and Buddy was out of town). She sent pics, and Mikes dad, step mom, and daughter got to be there with them. She is so happy, and no one deserves this more than she does. She had a rough few years, and it's so nice to see her settled and HAPPY! So, on June 30th we gained a brother and a niece and extended family! We love you Mike and Steph! We wish you many many years of happiness!!!

Playing Catch Up...Again!

2010-08-10T15:33:00.002-05:00

Here are some pics of things we did in the last few weeks. I have not been very good keeping photos uploaded lately. I have to get better at this since school has started, lol. If you couldn't tell...our niece Jordan, had her baby girl, Kylie Jo. She is so precious. We took her a few goodies to the hospital. They are living in Auburn, so we haven't got to visit a lot, but we keep checking in with them. Being a new mom can be overwhelming, but Jordan is doing a great job!

We also went to Bubba's bday party @ Chick-fil-a and to a Baron's game. He had a ball!!! The girls liked it too...it was just really HOT! I can't believe how big he is getting. We love you Bubba!

Well, last but not least, my Paw Paw turned 90!!!! We were not sure we would see this day come. He has had a rough month and a half. He is doing so good. He is up and around. NOTHING keeps this man down. He gets around better than me some days, lol. We got him an ice cream cake, and headed to Minor to celebrate with him. It was nice getting to spend some time with him. I think he liked the cake too!

First Day of School 2010-2011

2010-08-10T14:16:00.003-05:00

They made off to their first day of school! I can't believe that Meagan started middle school today, and Maddie is in the 5th grade. Time flies by so fast! They were so excited, and were really looking forward to it. We'll see how it went when they get home!

Such a blessing...

2010-08-09T22:07:00.004-05:00

Kylie Jo Allen

Well, this is Miss Kylie Jo. She is so precious. It's been a hard month to say the least. I think with everyday things get a little easier, then, there's those days that seem so tough to get through. This little angel has brought so much joy to so many lives. I am so thankful for the growing relationship with her and her precious Mamma Jordan. I see so much Wilson in this little one. I hope she gets to know how much we love her, and especially her Uncle Buddy. Buddy, the girls, and I are loving getting to know all of them better. Buddy is very protective over these kids. He's always asking if I have talked to them, and how are they doing. I have to say, I don't think there's anything I wouldn't do for them. We are sooo proud of Jordan. She is doing such a good job!!! She's a natural at being a mamma! Jordan, I hope you know how much we love you, and are only a phone call away for anything you need. We love you so much!

AND...the summer is over! M & M start back to school in the morning! They are so excited. This is the first time that they have been apart, so we will see how it goes. Meagan got the part of "Elle Woods" in the competition dance routine. They are doing a song from Legally Blonde the musical. It's so cute, and they are SUPER EXCITED! Buddy is out of town, and will miss their first day :-(. Just keep everyone in your prayers this week. A lot going on. A few extra sure won't hurt!

Kylie Jo Allen...July 22, 2010...6lbs, 18in... Happy Birthday!

2010-07-23T10:50:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to our niece, Jordan, on the birth of her precious baby girl! Kylie Jo Allen, July 22, 2010, 6lbs, 18in. She is so beautiful! We are planning on going to see her today or tomorrow. Jordan is going to be such a great Mama!!! We love you Jordan, and are so very proud of you!

Happy Birthday Meagan!!! 11 years... July 21, 1999

2010-07-20T17:22:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday Meagan! I can not believe that you are turning 11 years old! Your Dad and I could not be more proud of the young lady you are becoming. You are so sweet and kind, and always think of others first. I hope you have one of the best birthdays ever! We LOVE you so very much!

Granny and Kelly...

2010-07-14T14:10:00.001-05:00

It's been a while...

2010-07-14T14:08:00.001-05:00

Things have been a little hectic around here. June 13, my precious Paw Paw fell and broke his neck. It scared all of us to death. We didn't know how to handle this. Because of his age, and he is on blood thinner, surgery was not a logical solution. They have put him in a collar (neck brace) for 3 months to see if the bones will fuse together on their own. Buddy and I took him to the dr. yesterday. The xrays look the same, but there has been no shifting, so that is really good. The dr. is starting to suspect that these may be old fractures, "chronic fractures". We will go again in 6 weeks, and if they xrays are the same again, they will try him out of the collar, and see how it goes. If he does well, then that's the end of it...IF NOT, then we will have to revisit surgery for plates and screw or a fusion.

Saturday morning, we got the saddest call. Buddy's sister, Kelly, passed away on Friday July 9, 2010. This has been really hard on everybody. She had three wonderful children: Jordan (20), Carsyn (17), and Kalyn (13), and a grandbaby on the way: Kylie Jo. Please keep these children lifted up in prayer. They are going to need alot of support to get through this.

We have had a lot on our plate the last month or so. Yesterday was the anniversary of "Granny" being received into Heaven. M&M are so strong, and do everything they can to make us laugh. I don't know what we would do without them. They always make everything better. Please keep them in your prayers. They are dealing with all of this with such a wonderful attitude.

Buddy and his sister, Kelly!

2010-06-01T14:39:00.001-05:00

Memorial Day 2010

2010-06-01T14:37:00.003-05:00

Memorial Day 2010

2010-06-01T14:32:00.003-05:00

Water Balloon FIGHT!

2010-06-01T14:28:00.003-05:00

Meagan 5th Grade Graduation

2010-06-01T14:23:00.000-05:00

Maddie Awards Day 2010

2010-06-01T14:11:00.001-05:00

Student Council Secretary 2010-2011

2010-06-01T14:05:00.002-05:00

CONGRATULATIONS MADDIE! Maddie ran for Student Council Secretary, and they voted the Friday before school was out, and.....SHE WON! She was sooo excited! It's hard to believe that she is going to be in the 5th grade next year!

Maddie Running for Student Council!

2010-05-14T15:09:00.001-05:00

Maddie is running for Student Council Secretary. She gives her speech on Wednesday, and elections are Friday! Wish her good luck! Miss Meagan (Miss Vice President) is helping her.... So proud of you Maddie!!!

MORE Dance Recital!

2010-05-13T19:07:00.001-05:00

Dance Recital!

2010-05-13T16:39:00.003-05:00

Dance Recital!

2010-05-13T16:06:00.001-05:00

Recital Pics!

2010-05-13T15:48:00.001-05:00

Getting Ready for Recital!

2010-05-13T15:41:00.001-05:00

New Swimsuits!

2010-05-13T15:37:00.001-05:00

Honor Flight...Tuscaloosa Regional Airport

2010-05-02T19:03:00.001-05:00

Buddy's New Truck!

2010-05-02T17:30:00.001-05:00

On the way home...

2010-05-02T17:25:00.002-05:00

The Bahamas Trip 2010!

2010-05-02T17:20:00.002-05:00

The Bahamas Trip 2010!

2010-05-02T17:03:00.002-05:00

The Bahamas Trip 2010!

2010-05-02T17:00:00.002-05:00

The Bahamas Trip 2010

2010-05-02T16:53:00.001-05:00

The Bahamas Trip 2010

2010-05-02T13:26:00.001-05:00

The Bahamas Trip 2010

2010-05-02T13:00:00.002-05:00

Buddy was asked to go look at some conveyors in a rock quarry in The Bahamas....SO, I got to tag along. Somebody has to relax and soak up the sun while he works, might as well be me! I have never flown before, or ever been our of the country, so this was a big trip for me. We had a great time together. It was nice getting to spend time with each other. My Mom and Dad, came in from GA, and stayed with the girls while we were gone. So I guess you could say that everyone had a vacation... except Grandma and Grandpa..LOL. We were on Grand Bahama Island @ Port Lucaya. We stayed at Pelican Bay Resort, and it was so pretty. We were on the bay with beautiful views. There were several beaches we could access. There was one accross the street, and the hotel also had a water taxi that took us to Taino Beach, right around the corner. Loved it!

Atlanta Dance Competition! JUMP!

2010-05-02T12:38:00.001-05:00

Spring Fun...

2010-04-17T20:44:00.001-05:00

Billy and Laurel Update!

2010-04-15T12:35:00.000-05:00

Billy and Laurel Update: from Laurel: So here's the deal. Billy will NOT have to have a permanent shunt put in! We are now back in the stroke unit (AKA our second home:). Please pray that this will definitely be Billy's last setback, and that we will be on our way back to Spain soon. Sorry, for the lack of updates, but things can change so fast, I'm really hesitant to put anything on here until I have confirmation. Thanks!

We are so happy that Billy is finally making progress again. We ask for prayers that he will continue to improve. He has been down such a long road, and has had many complications. We are all hopeful that the healing can begin now for both of them. We love you Billy and Laurel!

Applause Dance Competition

2010-04-11T23:24:00.001-05:00

Samantha receiving our trophy

The girls had a competition this weekend at the Alabama Theater. They did SOOOO good! We are so proud of them. They received a high gold rating for their performance. This competition didn't do the different divisions. They just have one overall winner. So, we don't know where we fell in the order. There were so many teams there, it was hard to keep up. Stephanie, Mike, and Allison made the trip from Mississippi to see the girls perform. M & M were so excited to see them. Cassie and Braxton came and watched them perform too. Needless to say, we were a very LOUD cheering section for M.A.D. We had lunch with Steph, Mike, and Allison at The Mill on southside. It was so much fun getting to spend time with them. We then headed back to the theater to watch the rest of the groups, and wait on awards. Awards didn't start til 9, so Steph, Mike, and Allison headed back around 6. Turned out they ran a little early and started them around 8. The girls LOVED every minute. They had improved so much from the competition in TN. Scroll down to see their video of their performance. We snuck in the Flip Video.....shhhhhh! I can't say how proud we are of our girls. All of the girls did an outstanding job. 2 more weeks, and then the last one in ATL...then RECITAL! (May 8th @ BJCC)

Applause Dance Competition

2010-04-11T23:14:00.001-05:00

Steph, Meagan, Mike, Maddie, and Allison

Meagan, Allison, and Maddie

Steph and Mike

Applause Dance Competition

2010-04-11T23:10:00.001-05:00

Cassie, Meagan, Maddie, and Braxton

Maddie, Alyce, and Meagan

Meagan, Mike, and Maddie

Applause Dance Competition

2010-04-11T23:07:00.001-05:00

Had to share this pic!

2010-04-11T23:00:00.000-05:00

I know this isn't the best quality, but I took a pic of the group on stage, and we spotted Meagan turning it up! So, I had to crop her out and share. It just tickles me to look at her giving it her all. So proud of my babies.

Applause Dance Competition

2010-04-11T21:42:00.002-05:00

My Cute Babies!

2010-04-06T16:31:00.002-05:00

Spring Fun on the trampoline!

2010-04-06T16:23:00.002-05:00