tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104167892012-01-29T19:30:33.048-06:00Tales of Valerie and VeronicaMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.comBlogger10331100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-69526245158877349082012-01-26T19:47:00.000-06:002012-01-26T19:47:14.921-06:00

2006 Honda Civic LX Only 27,700 miles Garage kept, only driven locally. **EXCELLENT** condition. Super clean interior. Smoke free. Small dent in trunk when somebody bumped it in a parking lot. A "like new" car with out the new sticker price. $12,000.00 (Retail value at a dealership is $16,000. Private party value is $14,000)

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-75425344959636822962012-01-22T16:38:00.000-06:002012-01-22T16:45:51.941-06:00

I think most of our GIRL'S WEEKEND is better off left unmentioned!! What happens in New Orleans stays in New Orleans.... We had a much needed fantastic time!! A bit of alcohol, a lot of dancing and bar hopping... plenty of laughs to top it all. Can't wait to do it again. I needed that.

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-68158465717054606632012-01-17T12:14:00.001-06:002012-01-17T12:14:22.885-06:00

I said goodbye to my Dad's truck today. The guy who bought it got a great deal. Where else can you find a 1998 Chevy S-10 in great condition with only 38,000 miles on it?? Only from and old man who bought it just because and never drove it. I remember when Dad drove up in the driveway with it. He had been out and about town, and out of the blue he comes home in a truck. He wanted us to

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-3145503158069520242012-01-15T20:05:00.000-06:002012-01-15T20:05:20.523-06:00

And a big snip it was.

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-45892264171101367992012-01-13T08:38:00.000-06:002012-01-13T13:34:44.184-06:00

Every year we gave my Dad a tin of popcorn for Christmas. Once the popcorn was gone, he saved the containers and used them as storage. So far, we've found four tins stuffed with paperwork. Everything he ever did is in those tins. There's one full of my Mom's final expenses and documents. The others -- tax returns dating back to the 60s. W-2's. Bank statements and interest income statements

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-18355227211326795332012-01-09T17:21:00.002-06:002012-01-09T17:23:51.587-06:00

This was my fourth year participating in Holidailies and by far the worst. The past three years I don't think I skipped more than a day. Whereas I pretty much gave up long ago this time. Ok just checked and I managed 18 posts during the month, so I guess it isn't a total fail. I'm glad there was a Holidailies this year and it was back on the regular portal pages. I just wish I had been a

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-8140244615381318062012-01-01T19:43:00.003-06:002012-01-01T19:48:53.636-06:00

Here we are before our night out on the town: We had a great time at the party! It was nice to have some time to ourselves with out the kids.Here's to the hope that 2012 will be better.

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-38439507480662243042011-12-31T15:04:00.005-06:002011-12-31T16:09:07.849-06:00

For the first time since before the kids were born, we are going out tonight with no kid curfew. We've gone out on NYE a few times, but we always had to be back at a decent time to pick up the kids. Tonight they are sleeping out we can stay out as late as we want!We had our New Year's Eve Eve get together last night since we will not be home tonight. Food, friends, smores by the fire, lots of

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-1089940110805241272011-12-30T09:07:00.002-06:002011-12-30T12:02:00.556-06:00

I've been thinking a lot about changes to make for the New Year. I don't usually make resolutions, but I do try to set a few goals. Decluttering is always one. I think I did pretty good over the past year. The house is a lot neater overall. My whole routine kind of fell apart in the last few months, but I'm working on getting it back. I'd like to make better use of the space we have. I was

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-50707411183223579382011-12-29T14:21:00.000-06:002011-12-29T15:00:30.986-06:00

We're down to the last few days of 2011. Of course you all know the life changing event this year was losing my Dad in October. We also said goodbye to two pets this year. Skooter and very unexpectedly, Perriwinkle. Bella joined our family. There was also the threat of the great spring flood, which had everyone on edge. On a happier note, we paid off the house and were debt free for most of

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-78202314149306120082011-12-28T16:54:00.002-06:002011-12-28T17:44:21.577-06:00

Today we went to Morgan City and took care of some of Dad's legal issues. We knocked out quite a few things on the to do list. It's progress, but still, more to come. Took care of some of the bank business.We did the notary paperwork for me to inherit the car and truck and did the DMV title paperwork. Once the new titles come in, we can sell them.We also picked up his veterans plaque from the

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-55706201508205479232011-12-27T09:20:00.000-06:002011-12-27T10:12:04.504-06:00

Christmas was quiet and it never really felt like Christmas. I realized yesterday I didn't even watch "A Christmas Story" or Rudolph or The Grinch or any holiday movies this year. I do feel a little guilty for not being in full 'holiday mode' for the kids. Christmas Eve we had our party food and opened gifts. Pretty much all the wrapped gifts under the tree were for the kids. Val and Roni

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-22646767095675160262011-12-26T08:23:00.001-06:002011-12-26T16:20:26.289-06:00

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-898055826831023332011-12-25T07:51:00.003-06:002011-12-25T08:02:45.036-06:00

We had a visitor last night!!!Click for Our Elf CamMore to come....

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-73114333058898372742011-12-24T07:41:00.000-06:002011-12-24T13:15:33.021-06:00

Last year, Christmas Eve: Even though you are not here, I bought your usual request - a tin of popcorn. Every year, you asked for this one, simple thing. It's not Christmas unless we have a popcorn tin under the tree for you. Merry Christmas, Daddy. Dad was famous for his mad dash to Wal-mart on Christmas Eve in search of gifts for me and my Mom. Usually he just picked something odd and

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-3771190211274864692011-12-23T20:29:00.003-06:002011-12-23T20:36:39.337-06:00

http://www.icaughtsanta.com/Imagine the look of wonder and surprise when a child receives a photo of Santa caught in the act in his or her very own home. iCaughtSanta.com is a unique website that helps visitors create those memorable keepsake photos. In three simple steps anyone can upload a holiday photo, add Santa Claus and print it as proof… or share it via Facebook and Twitter. Last-minute

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-68053571081575097152011-12-23T11:14:00.001-06:002011-12-23T14:55:19.616-06:00

I've been trying very hard to find my Christmas spirit this year. I did my usual decorating and baking. I took care of the necessary gifts, did the whole elf on a shelf bit, and I listened to Christmas music daily. Christmas is practically here, and any excitement still seems out of reach. Everything revolves around family gatherings, and we don't exactly have that. Never have. It doesn't

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-40368393260496079142011-12-22T10:10:00.000-06:002011-12-22T10:13:42.585-06:00

He wasn't just my Dad. He was my friend. My confidant. My go to person for so many things. My teacher. He was quiet, easy going, simple Jack. He never asked for or needed much. He's been gone two long months today, and oh how I miss him. It still feels surreal that he became so sick and passed so suddenly. Mostly I try not to think about it much, but it's always there. He kept saying, "I

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-3149553199096269712011-12-21T07:19:00.000-06:002011-12-21T08:31:31.667-06:00

Seven years ago we were forever changed!just hours oldChristmas Eve, three days old - and it also snowed on Christmas Day!!It's hard to believe it's been seven years already!! It seems the years have flown by and she seems so grown up. I do miss the times when she was a baby, but I don't miss the 'baby days' all that much. Happy Birthday to my wonderful, smart, funny, and beautiful Valerie!!!

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-45419168310321497182011-12-18T16:18:00.002-06:002011-12-18T16:19:02.767-06:00

THE COLD WITHIN Six humans trapped in happenstance In dark and bitter cold, Each one possessed a stick of wood, Or so the story's told. Their dying fire in need of logs The first woman held hers back, For of the faces around the fire, She noticed one was black. The next man looking across the way Saw not one of his church, And couldn't bring himself to give The fire his stick of birch. The third

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-88090949634289029482011-12-17T07:56:00.007-06:002011-12-17T11:36:56.813-06:00

It's not Christmas with out Mom's cookies. She made these every year, usually Christmas week. She also made fudge, pralines, snowball cookies, and a coconut cake. She always had decorative tins scattered all over the kitchen counter filled with goodies. No wonder I always put on a few pounds! I always did some holiday baking myself, but not quite as much as Mom did. After I got married, I

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-91858535095560537492011-12-13T12:55:00.002-06:002011-12-13T13:00:31.076-06:00

Veronica, only four years old, keeps mentioning how she and Val no longer have a grandma or a grandpa. She keeps asking me if I can get her new ones.Last night she asked if I could get her new ones, and they could live in Morgan City (at my Dad's house) so we could go visit them. Sigh, that makes me feel so sad for her...

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-56978014061865852372011-12-12T12:50:00.004-06:002011-12-12T12:58:50.257-06:00

There's not a single childhood photo of me with Santa. Something about the idea of sitting with a stranger with a beard in a red suit freaked me out. I do remember wanting to do it. I know we got in line for mall Santa pictures a couple of times, but as it started to inch closer, I changed my mind. Santa was magic and scary, and I just couldn't find the nerve. Not my kids.The second they set

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-3278617368676708402011-12-11T10:54:00.004-06:002011-12-11T12:47:22.981-06:00

It's just a few days into Holidailies 2011 and I'm already behind..... oh well. Yesterday was the best day I have had in ... quite a while.I hosted my first cookie baking party yesterday. It was several days of A LOT of prep work for me. I mixed up many batches of dough (times four) and pre-baked batches of cookies to save some time on the actual cookie day. I didn't want to be tied to the

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-89565285182864764782011-12-08T08:45:00.005-06:002011-12-08T19:10:29.598-06:00

One of the games my Dad and the Girls invented was "Search the Car."Nearly every time my Dad came to visit, he had some $1 junk toy for the kids. Sometimes they were a big hit, sometimes not. Quite often, it was so cheap that the toy broke before my Dad left!! His theory was it was something they could play with for a while and then throw it away, rather than adding to the pile in the toy box.

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-5078264959228079282011-12-07T10:27:00.001-06:002011-12-07T15:15:59.563-06:00

Valerie got this doll for making the A honor roll. It is a favorite around here and the source of a lot of friction between Val and Roni (they both want it all the time.)During Thanksgiving break, Val and I went shopping together and she decided all on her own that she wanted to give Veronica her very own Charm School Barbie for Christmas. (awww right?)Val helped me wrap it and filled out the

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-87267672521678932222011-12-05T11:53:00.001-06:002011-12-05T14:24:33.047-06:00

Well, it seems that after 11 years, there will be no official Holidailies this year. (?) I've emailed the owners of the site and got no response. Such a shame, since I was looking forward to participating. So... it looks as if a few bloggers have decided to do it anyway on their own, so I am going to make an attempt to join in. It's doubtful I will post every day. I don't know how much fun

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-40467395632116896872011-12-03T16:58:00.003-06:002011-12-03T17:34:30.265-06:00

Happy Birthday Party Day to Valerie!! She won't officially be seven until the 21st, but we always have her party the first weekend in December so it's not so close to Christmas. She had a great day with lots of friends!!! We rented a bounce house, girls polished their nails, and we had crafts for everyone to do, too. Happy Birthday Party Day to my sweet Val-Gal!!Mom is not a Bieber fan....

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-62381923569087608292011-11-27T14:33:00.007-06:002011-11-27T17:38:41.397-06:00

Sassy and Perriwinkle Perri's favorite resting spotI could sit on my front porch for an hour and see maybe one car pass down my street. There's no traffic through here. My guess it is someone who lives in my neighborhood that hit my cat, and they didn't even stop. I can only hope that maybe it was so quick they didn't notice. And I hope Perri didn't hurt for long.My heart shattered into a

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-4672010144059194342011-11-24T20:31:00.006-06:002011-11-24T20:57:54.577-06:00

I know I have a lot to be thankful for. I have a good husband. Two wonderful daughters. Our good health. Great friends. A beautiful home that is one hundred percent ours. A happy family.Today, on Thanksgiving, I am thankful for the good life we have.Today was the first Thanksgiving at our house in... years. Many months ago, when the first inkling of holiday plans entered my thoughts, I

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-28320198943098183842011-11-18T14:59:00.000-06:002011-11-18T15:07:34.772-06:00

One thing I have learned is that in a crisis, you definitely find out who your real friends are. I am forever grateful to my friends who stood by me and helped in some way. Even more amazing, people I barely knew showed sincere concern for my family. Others went above and beyond, and I will never forget that. Then on the flip side, sadly, some so called friends did nothing. Said nothing. Like

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-85620033412571649812011-11-17T14:15:00.003-06:002011-11-17T14:23:25.203-06:00

Remember this post? Well, I received a code for 25 Christmas cards for writing about Shutterfly.Guess what?? I already had won another, so I don't really need this one. So, Readers... welcome to my first giveaway!!! You will receive via email a code to use at Shutterfly.com for 25 free photo cards. I believe you will have to pay shipping, which is around $6.00. All you have to do is leave me

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-53247079530257565712011-11-15T15:12:00.003-06:002011-11-16T13:58:12.487-06:00

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-73425089443114520432011-11-14T12:15:00.003-06:002011-11-14T12:59:05.605-06:00

Most of you know I spend a lot of time at the gym. About 90 minutes most mornings. It would be every morning, but lately life has been in the way. I was recently given the opportunity through Mom Bloggers Club to try out a pair of Zaggora HotPants for free. HotPants are sport shorts that contain bio-ceramic technology that will enable reflection of body generated heat back to the tissue and

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-27495714179758701202011-11-13T16:43:00.003-06:002011-11-13T21:13:53.321-06:00

It's been quiet around here. Busy, but quiet over all. Clint's back to his "regular" work schedule. The girls are OK. Veronica seems to be coping better now. Val has had some outbursts, which I guess is normal. They are dealing with a lot of new emotions.My Dad's bedroom is now an office again. There's still some things in the dining room, but we'll take care of that next weekend when the

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-79743416417231223782011-11-08T13:41:00.000-06:002011-11-08T14:22:10.984-06:00

Today was grandparent's day at Veronica's school. I know my Dad would have loved to have been there. He got a kick out of things like that. I can picture him walking in wearing his nicest plaid shirt, and smiling as Veronica excitedly told everyone that her Poppi was here! Then, sitting down with Roni to have milk and a doughnut. I went instead since I didn't want Veronica to have no visitor

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-87893093300429762792011-11-07T15:37:00.001-06:002011-11-08T15:46:57.712-06:00

Tiny Prints is awesome for all of your photo needs! Their selection of cards this year is amazing! Literally there are hundreds of choices. I spent a good 20 minutes looking through their site trying to decide which cards I liked the most. I finally decided this is one of my favorites: I really like the tri-fold design. A picture on the front, and a greeting in the middle, and ending with

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-49543401720265615612011-11-06T15:36:00.001-06:002011-11-06T17:18:01.881-06:00

This is what happened to him. Dad had been telling me he was tired for a while. Sleepy all the time. I'm not sure when it started, but he didn't mention it until the end of summer. If you know my Dad, he wasn't one to complain. Ever. I still really didn't think much of it and neither did he. Everybody is tired, right? He still drove here to visit, came with us to New Orleans, and kept up

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-80497538058474646722011-11-05T10:53:00.004-05:002011-11-08T15:35:26.849-06:00

Shutterfly is awesome. They are my usual 'go to' for most photo projects. Last year, I used Shutterfly for Christmas cards and they were amazing. I had such a hard time choosing from the designs offered that I made four different cards.See? They were printed on heavy card stock and were very professional. I love that you can use a single photo or choose from multi photo layouts. So many to

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-62539294008424787722011-11-01T13:36:00.005-05:002011-11-01T14:00:09.805-05:00

The girls had a great Halloween. And oh my, the candy we have around here is ridiculous!!Friday night we met friends at the Halloween parade in town. Both girls caught a big bag of candy.Saturday, we went ToT at Sam's then to Halloween story time at the library. Candy. Monday, they both had Halloween treats given out at school. Big bags of candy.Then it was "real" ToT time. Val and Roni were

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-82178571292700780232011-10-28T15:56:00.000-05:002011-10-28T16:02:42.121-05:00

Today, we said our final goodbye. I think the service would have been just what he wanted. Everyone said the obituary (previous post) down to the photo was so him. The wake was small and there wasn't any fuss over him. He was cremated Thursday, and today his ashes were placed in the mausoleum with my Mom. A quick, simple military send off, no church stuff. He was a man of few words and that

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-34338937557588907452011-10-24T14:40:00.003-05:002011-10-24T17:46:09.293-05:00

R.I.P Dad(click)

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-35785563737605256032011-10-23T18:53:00.003-05:002011-10-23T19:00:54.723-05:00

He was a good man. A great dad and a wonderful Poppi. Jack Ernest Russell. March 14, 1933 - October 22, 2011. I will miss him terribly.

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-3995096038962651472011-10-19T08:44:00.000-05:002011-10-19T09:32:26.142-05:00

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-14851817771657926552011-10-15T07:29:00.000-05:002011-10-15T07:46:10.386-05:00

We are home from the hospital. Dad is home. Hospice came with in an hour and admitted him and brought meds and equipment. All the same stuff I saw three years ago. I can't believe I have to do this again.

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-15888846717022700272011-10-09T14:29:00.001-05:002011-10-09T17:44:36.936-05:00

Day 4 at the hospital.Thursday around 4:45am my Dad woke me up banging on the wall. He was too weak to stand or call for help, and had been awake for hours with a violent 'shaking' episode. He had a 103 fever, and at the advice of home health, we had to get to the emergency room immediately. So, I had to start calling people at 5am to find someone - anyone - to take the girls for me. NOT fun.

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-27344675437969580762011-10-06T16:47:00.001-05:002011-10-06T16:47:46.553-05:00

Here we are once again. :-(

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-12101117404917817272011-10-05T14:36:00.003-05:002011-10-05T15:10:00.658-05:00

We are still here... just taking things day by day.Dad is all moved in. We still have some organizing to do in the new office space, but it's getting better. Dad had a few good days, but it seems most are bad. He's weak and tired, but doesn't sleep much. Doesn't eat much. Tires easily to do much of anything. Even the blood transfusion he had a week ago had little effect on him. Yesterday

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-54339781307671584472011-10-02T13:05:00.005-05:002011-10-02T13:16:06.821-05:00

Welcome to Sunday Citar!Many of you have likely seen this.... can you find the cat? Took me a few minutes, but I found him!! Valerie's teacher even had the kids look for him on the promethean board in her class. Anyway, here's my version.... can you spot the cat in this picture??

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-13212656911125152692011-09-27T12:46:00.003-05:002011-09-27T18:31:40.032-05:00

Stepping away from the chaos around here for a moment...So proud of my Val Gal!! She made Student of the Month! And also got put in Advanced Reading... She makes me so happy.And look who came with us... Poppi felt well enough to go!!!

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-69486214348748182322011-09-25T18:45:00.000-05:002011-09-25T19:44:49.469-05:00

One word can change your life and the life of those around you. One word. Leukemia.Life is so unfair at times. What can you do though, except play the hand dealt to you? I keep hearing myself saying I can't do this again... I can't... but I have to.I know he's an "old man." And many do not see 78 at all. Everyone's life will come to an end. Some go quickly. Some go slowly. Some go young,

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-35082000910912345302011-09-22T15:19:00.001-05:002011-09-22T15:19:34.689-05:00

I'm tired.  I wish I could take a nap or take a break but I can't. I wish there was something I could do. But there isn't.   Just so overwhelmed.   You just never know what life is going to throw your way.  You never know what will happen to you.  One week you can be independent, riding your bicycle, driving, and walking fair distances.  The next you are so weak can barely stand and even turning

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-70768163783524572812011-09-21T16:48:00.000-05:002011-09-21T16:47:39.596-05:00

Truly wordless Wednesday.

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-59839896224938999062011-09-18T19:18:00.001-05:002011-09-18T20:25:51.918-05:00

Today was not a good day.Not at all.I don't know if I can do this again.Prayers please.

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-66846397455609899352011-09-17T11:00:00.001-05:002011-09-17T20:12:45.774-05:00

School is in full swing now and we've been staying busy. Valerie is enjoying first grade and has made all A's on all of her tests so far. I Love, Love her teacher!! Val has a lot of homework but usually finishes it in no time. She enjoys learning and seems to catch on fast. I love how happy Valerie is to see me waiting on the porch every day when she gets off the bus. Veronica has decided

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-68870434214423693672011-09-14T15:22:00.002-05:002011-09-15T15:18:13.597-05:00

My first vlog! The instructions are to say these words: Aunt, Route, Wash, Oil, Theater, Iron, Salmon, Caramel, Fire, Water, Sure, Data, Ruin, Crayon, Toilet, New Orleans, Pecan, Both, Again, Probably, Spitting image, Alabama, Lawyer, Coupon, Mayonnaise, Syrup, Pajamas, CaughtAnd answer these questions:What is it called when you throw toilet paper on a house?What is the bug that when you touch

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-50680625332173462622011-09-13T14:29:00.002-05:002011-09-13T14:33:34.311-05:00

Are you a member of BzzAgent? If not, you should be!! You could get a chance to receive and review things like this for free: This would be so awesome to have in my kitchen! A Cuisinart Smart Stick Hand Blender!! As much as I enjoy cooking and baking, this is one of the appliances I do not have. I had a cheap one when my kids were babies to mix formula, but it did not last long. I would be

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-16301661854338945162011-09-11T14:02:00.004-05:002011-09-11T14:22:17.549-05:00

I was on my way home Friday when my good friend texted me that the thrift store had some nice dresses that day. So I headed straight there! Love the thrift store.... the only reason I don't go more often is because we don't need more stuff! I lucked out and found the PERFECT blue and white checked dress for Veronica. She is asking to be Dorothy for Halloween, and I really didn't want to pay

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-41561594323412684112011-09-07T17:54:00.002-05:002011-09-07T18:33:06.748-05:00

We're just about done with the first month of school, and we're on round one of the fall/winter sickness. Last year I was in the doctor's office all winter with one or the other kid every two weeks. Veronica was sent home from school last Thursday because she woke up from nap time crying with a high fever. Friday morning she had a strep screen done at the doctor's office... negative. I do

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-75183267045640019532011-08-31T16:49:00.005-05:002011-08-31T17:18:34.522-05:00

Unfortunately, I didn't take pictures during the cake making process. Sorry! I usually do for my baking blog, but I just didn't. It was very easy though. A few days early I made a batch of marshmallow fondant and tinted it pink. I made a fondant bow, which I'm not very good at. Then I set it on a wax covered plate to dry. The ladybug is made out of rice krispie treats! I used store

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-47680855285958414872011-08-30T19:54:00.003-05:002011-08-31T14:35:20.092-05:00

Wordless Wednesday ~ birthday pictures!

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-58723818348537841582011-08-30T10:20:00.001-05:002011-08-30T10:20:00.286-05:00

39! Yikes, where have the years gone? How can I be 39! I certainly don't feel 39. (Okay, sometimes I do.) Clint surprised me with a date night Saturday. He arranged for my friend to watch the kids so we could go out to dinner alone. I chose Copelands and totally blew all of my hard work at the gym for about a week. Oh well. It was worth it though! Today Clint is working in Houston and the

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-6987644401940098282011-08-24T14:22:00.003-05:002011-08-24T14:29:36.973-05:00

I have a lot to say, but I just don't feel like saying it. Or maybe it's too hot. In the mean time, welcome to Wordless Wednesday! Here we are way back in 2007.

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-7354074311506890912011-08-14T17:58:00.003-05:002011-08-14T18:36:54.590-05:00

In 2003 Clint bought his first new car - a red Honda CR-V. In May of 2004, it was totaled in a 5 car pile up in Houston, TX. He replaced it with a green 2004 Honda CR-V. It has served us well. Two babies, multiple sickness mishaps, lots of spills and crumbs, a canvas for the girls' artwork, couple of fender benders, vacations, minor repairs, and it carried us 145,000 miles in 7 years. The

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-24921918835051462712011-08-14T08:27:00.004-05:002011-08-14T08:39:28.633-05:00

Veronica vs. WatermelonI'd say she won!

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-18140404140095875482011-08-12T09:03:00.002-05:002011-08-12T09:06:07.084-05:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. See Soulemama to play along. She served us well.... but it was time to say farewell. Stay tuned...

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-92049621114018055722011-08-08T10:36:00.003-05:002011-08-08T11:05:06.325-05:00

First day of pre-k for Veronica!

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-7984290910408815602011-08-07T11:56:00.000-05:002011-08-07T11:56:00.872-05:00

For nearly seven years, I have been a stay at home mom, with at least one daughter at home. Tomorrow, Monday, that door closes and it all comes to an end. Valerie is already off to first grade and Veronica is starting pre-kindergarten five days a week. Both of them are growing up so fast. How can my baby be old enough for school already? I know, she's been going part time for a year now so

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-21718266125338359932011-08-05T10:17:00.002-05:002011-08-05T10:23:04.648-05:00

My Val Gal is off to first Grade today. The first of many changes to come. More later....

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-47596496215475912282011-08-02T23:50:00.005-05:002011-08-02T23:50:00.380-05:00

It's hard to believe how fast three years have passed. Has it really been that long since I have seen her face or heard her voice? It still feels like yesterday, but yet yesterday was an eternity ago. It still hurts the same, and maybe I will never get over all that happened. At times I almost forget and it seems unthinkable that she's gone. I sure do miss her and there have been many times

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-61805720044369988522011-07-27T09:39:00.004-05:002011-07-27T10:50:25.686-05:00

New kitty's fav resting spot:(sorry for the poor quality pic... it was taken with my iPod touch's camera!)

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-43059104161182360532011-07-23T10:10:00.001-05:002011-07-23T10:25:58.125-05:00

Veronica, being the second child, is cursed with the forever hand-me-downs. Not that there's anything wrong with that. I have no issues thrift store shopping and accepting bags of clothes from friends! Of course it's not that Veronica never gets anything brand new. And still, most of the things passed on to her are still in great condition and are 'new' to her. Roni is actually happy when

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-67158900088171319232011-07-22T14:07:00.002-05:002011-07-22T14:13:46.971-05:00

{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. See Soulemama to play along.(certain somebodies decided to put on make up. with markers.)

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-2210691481431934642011-07-20T12:20:00.003-05:002011-07-20T12:29:39.664-05:00

(My name of Snickers/Snickie was out voted. Periwinkle it is.)

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-26736949528069260482011-07-19T20:27:00.000-05:002011-07-19T20:27:00.822-05:00

I thought about writing something meaningful today. I couldn't really come up with anything though. I did make it to the cemetery to bring flowers. Valerie gave each daisy a big kiss so that MeMe would get a lot of her love. My heart hurts.Here's a somewhat happy post from a few years back. She would have been 77 today.Happy Birthday, Mom.

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-42666215394634638142011-07-13T14:00:00.013-05:002011-07-19T20:34:29.665-05:00

So, I lied.And I admit, I'm a sucker. A sucker for a cute face and clear blue eyes. And the horror that it was going to be drowned for no other reason than just being. Meet Snickie**. Or at least I THINK that was what we are going to call him. Snickers** maybe? Hm.I know, I know. I said NO MORE CATS and I meant NO MORE CATS!!! But then I saw this part Siamese 8 week old kitten. My friend

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-46666150760034409432011-07-08T18:26:00.003-05:002011-07-08T18:37:15.909-05:00

Today was Cow Appreciation Day at Chick-Fil-A! If you wore a cow costume, you got a free meal. I printed out cow masks and we glued cow spots on white garbage bags. It was a practically free and very easy costume! We each received a free meal and we won free desserts, too. I love Chick Fil A! They always have such fun, inexpensive, family oriented events.How do we look?

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-6651392408485815702011-07-06T10:52:00.004-05:002011-07-06T11:13:27.578-05:00

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-55777011351768350532011-07-05T00:09:00.007-05:002011-07-05T16:04:34.791-05:00

Once again we hosted another successful 4th of July party!! For those who don't know, we have had a 4th of July party almost every year since we moved in our house. It's sort of our annual mid year party for the kids, and us too. Yesterday was lots of food, new friends, old friends, adult beverages, laughs, and fireworks in the driveway after dark... a good time was had by all. Thanks to all

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-39202202991648976942011-07-03T06:41:00.000-05:002011-07-03T06:41:00.127-05:00

Way back on July 3, 2000, Clint and I met face to face for the first time. I guess you could say it was our first "date," but not really a date. Our paths had first crossed online a year earlier. We both had webpages at the time and signed each other's guestbooks. It didn't go farther than a few "Hi, nice to meet you. I see you know so-and-so, me too" emails.At the end of May 2000, our paths

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-38300244105271803672011-07-02T11:57:00.006-05:002011-07-02T12:05:20.587-05:00

My Dad has started a blog!! I can only imagine what he will write about. He may not post very often, who knows... maybe a few readers and comments to keep him motivated! If you care to read some stuff by a funny old man here it is:I Am Not A Dog

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-5054403129509453642011-06-29T09:55:00.004-05:002011-06-29T10:02:45.540-05:00

A ladybug on the kumquat tree in our back yard...

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-33165166183679834072011-06-26T16:55:00.008-05:002011-06-26T18:40:39.899-05:00

Hm... it's been a while. I'm still around.... We've been staying pretty busy with summer activities. It's hot. Summer camp is in full swing and after a rocky start, I'm happy to say both girls are now having a great time. Valerie is even asking if she can do it again next summer! I'm glad the girls enjoy it because there is only so much Mommy can give them. Both crave interaction with

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-56543447358926400962011-06-19T18:13:00.003-05:002011-06-19T18:21:35.564-05:00

Happy Father's Day to all the Dads!!We had a nice day with my Dad. We spent the day at his house, and I cooked Sunday dinner ~ roasted chicken, stuffing, mac n cheese, garlic bread, and cake for dessert. The only thing missing was my husband! Hopefully he will be home soon....My Dad and IValerie came up with the idea for this pose by herself!Val was our photographer hereAnd Val insisted I do

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-6608599659910899922011-06-15T09:43:00.004-05:002011-06-15T10:22:46.196-05:00

I spent a lot of time at the skating rink in my younger days. It seems we went almost every weekend as a teen. One of my friends' parents would drive us, and my Dad would pick us up about 11:30 - midnight, unless we were staying for a lock-in. We always went with the hope of meeting a cute boy. Sometimes we did, but usually we didn't. Fun times and great memories!!A few weeks ago we attended

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-2813659850476817332011-06-08T14:21:00.001-05:002011-06-08T14:26:35.042-05:00

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-27202974141997610682011-06-05T10:57:00.003-05:002011-06-05T11:02:15.572-05:00

We got fancied up for a wedding yesterday...

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-81389716455421298672011-06-03T10:59:00.001-05:002011-06-03T11:11:26.446-05:00

Summer is definitely here with temps close to 100 degrees already!! Earlier in the week Val and I took a bike ride to the back of our subdivision, so I could show her the big pond that was dug back there. It isn't very far but it was so hot!! Her little face was so red from the heat. It didn't help that her training wheels broke so we had to walk our bikes back. I felt so bad for bringing

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-26627347542166452342011-05-24T17:15:00.004-05:002011-05-24T18:53:26.720-05:00

Today was a very special day... Kindergarten Graduation!!! I can't believe my baby girl is going to first grade already. She is so excited! The best part is Clint was able to come home for her ceremony. He flew in last night, went to graduation, and left again this afternoon. What a great Dad! On our way to the cafeteria we ran into a very special Cat in the Hat girl... surprise!! She was

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-55199070232918362132011-05-22T08:33:00.002-05:002011-05-22T08:38:57.316-05:00

As told by Val:"Momma.... I had a nightmare!! I dreamed we went walking around the block and the Photo Monster was chasing us. We walked alllll around the block and he was following us trying to get our picture. He was blue. And had big horns like a bull. I think it was a blue bull. We walked really fast and he just kept trying to get our picture. So we hurried up and came home. Shut the

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-31062196168992020502011-05-17T09:30:00.000-05:002011-05-17T09:30:14.824-05:00

Check out my center stage girl on the box!

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-569380974458675732011-05-16T21:45:00.001-05:002011-05-16T21:46:36.447-05:00

Not the best quality in order to YouTube it.... but here's my star - Veronica!!

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-27659951530787967242011-05-16T10:28:00.008-05:002011-05-16T10:48:36.087-05:00

We spent part of the weekend moving some of my Dad's things to higher ground at our house. We are hoping all goes as planned and all the preparations for floodwaters are successful. Better safe than sorry though since some things are irreplaceable!! I brought over tons of old photos and a box of my Mom's things. If I get around to scanning them, I may share some for kicks. The rest of the

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-50611903380020092952011-05-14T19:44:00.001-05:002011-05-14T21:23:39.264-05:00

It's open.The Morganza Spillway has been opened. Most of you probably have no clue what I'm talking about or the significance. Water. Lots and LOTS of water is flooding the Mississippi River. So the Morganza was opened today to relieve some of the pressure. The water still has to go somewhere, so many places will be flooded. Much of the water is heading towards the Atchafalaya River, which

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-54396806574280008482011-05-08T14:39:00.004-05:002011-05-08T18:30:24.929-05:00

I miss her today as I do every day... but especially today. Mother's Day is not quite the same without your Mom. Be sure to hug your Mom today because you never know when she will be gone.I am not sad though. I am happy that I have two awesome little girls who call me Mom. Happy Mother's Day to all the Mommies out there!!Breakfast by Valerie!! A heart shaped PB&J sandwich with "invisible"

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-33754558107844200842011-05-05T21:37:00.003-05:002011-05-06T06:26:50.443-05:00

Here they are in their dance costumes.... can't wait for the recital!!

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-34584122952581493372011-05-04T12:26:00.004-05:002011-05-04T12:51:29.715-05:00

It's 1982!! I'm ten in the fifth grade at Sacred Heart School. My teacher is Mrs. Pennison. We wore blue and white checkered jumpers with a white shirt under them. White socks and boys' Nike shoes. Fifth and sixth graders ruled the school!! Friendship pins and unicorn purses were all the rage. I collected stickers in a huge sticker book. And kept count of how many I had. We loved

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-14606478491490512582011-05-01T16:02:00.004-05:002011-05-01T16:05:05.609-05:00

One of our many photopass pictures from our Disney vacation!

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-82995847510642733952011-05-01T12:26:00.007-05:002011-05-01T15:21:28.531-05:00

Summer has officially arrived in the Galliano household! The water is still a bit too cold for me, but I will get in with the girls from time to time. A big thanks to Daddy for spending the hour and a half setting up the pool!! How easy are these pools to set up? I had an above ground pool when I was nine, and I swear it took my Dad a week to set the darn thing up. Of course he went through

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10416789.post-16010436820864235832011-04-24T17:48:00.006-05:002011-04-24T19:01:14.416-05:00

Happy Easter my friends!! The kids have been out of school since Friday so we've been busy around the house. Dying eggs, baking, Easter egg hunts, and trying to keep the kids from driving me crazy with boredom! Today was a quiet day at home. The girls were up very early to scope our their goods from the bunny. (MAJOR candy overload here!!!) Clint barbecued and my Dad and some friends came

Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13326877964335163431noreply@blogger.com1