Tuesday, December 30, 2008

And the toddler turns 2


My sweet little grandson turns 2 today......amazing how those years have flown by! He is still the "Smartest little boy in the whole wide world" and, of course, "The cutest little boy in the whole wide world!" These two years have been full of wonder.......I can honestly say that he and Kaylee are the joys of my life. They totally make life worth living! God Bless you Little Ones! Grandma Nana loves you..........

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Holidays



Merry Christmas to all. Dad arrived safe and sound. It's been a wonderful time visiting with him. We've had lots of discussions about mom and their early married life. I had no idea mom had moved back into Grandma and Grandpa's while dad went to Europe with the Navy. Now that would be tough! I've learned she was one tough cookie though!

We've done some playing too......we went to Bass Pro and saw Curtis sit very uncomfortably upon Santa's knee. What a trooper! He wanted to see more animals and the choo-choo train. It was a lot of fun. We were able to see Kaylee for about an hour this morning. I'm hoping to see her much longer tomorrow!









Saturday, December 13, 2008

5 more days


But who's counting? I'm so excited. Dad is going to be here and I get two weeks off. Kim's almost done painting the guest room and I'm almost done wrapping. This is the longest break I get all year so it's always exciting. We had a very strange week......it snowed in Houston! I know that you Yankees are looking at this picture and going "What snow?" Well, for Houston this is a big deal. The last snowfall was 4 years ago. The schools all let the kids out of class to go outside and see it. Jillian took Curtis out and he played for the first time in snow. I wish I could have been there. It sure was pretty coming down but it was really windy - thus, the snowman on his side in the front yard. Not too worry...he's been righted! Have a great week. 5 more days til I see my dad!!!!!!

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Thanksgiving in Quincy


Well, Kim, Jill, Jacob, Curtis and I traveled to Quincy, IL for a week to visit Kim's mom, sister and family. It was a wonderful week but we sure wish we could do more for Kim's mom. She lives with Kim's brother and he lives one life and she lives another. They really never talk or do anything together. Sad existence! Jill and I did all her Christmas shopping while Kim and Jacob did little things around the house to make Martha's life a little easier. Sad that Kim's brother doesn't seem to mind the dirty dishes and smell of the dog in the house. Poor Martha is legally blind so she can't see the dirt but we sure could! I'm enclosing some good time pictures while we were there.....we stayed in the Fairfield with an indoor pool so we even got to do some swimming. Curtis was a wonderful little traveler. He was SO GOOD! I got to have him on my lap for the final flight home and he was so inquisitive......FUN!

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Boring Wednesday

Ah....hump day and it's a nice quiet day. Tomorrow will be crazy....Thanksgiving luncheon at work, adoration and then Lady's Quild at church. I'm still spending about 30-45 minutes every day trying to scan mom's old pictures. It's a very therapeutic event. I'm going to miss it when we go to Quincy next week.

Sweet Curt has croup. Poor, Jill! He's on steroids and acting like a crazy man.......hope he gets back to normal quickly for her.......oh, and him, of course! :)

Gonna miss my little Bug when we go next week.......hope we get to baby-sit again on Sunday. That way I'll have my squeezes caught up til we get back.

Hugs to all.....ME

Sunday, November 16, 2008

I'm done!!!


Well, check it out! It's only 4 months late but I finished Kaylee's quilt. This was definitely the hardest quilt I've ever quilted. The piecing was easy but when it came time to do the quilting I wanted to try something new....well, freehand was not a good thing!!!! I think I'll stick to stipple or let someone else do it from now on. I am so glad to be able to start on something new!!! I wouldn't allow myself to start anything until I finished this so I'm REALLY glad to get it done.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

A day at a time

Week by week, day by day, minute by minute we go through life........some days are hard, some days are easier, none are easy. I know that the veil of grief will lift in time but it's a dark curtain right now. I pray daily that He will give me the strength to keep up a strong front in public. I really feel sorry for Kim though. He takes the full force of my pain daily. My friend, Laura, lost her mom just a few months ago. It's amazing how we can e-mail or talk and both feel better. Sharing.......

I normally go to adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on Thursday nights but tonight it was cancelled. I write a journal of blessings each week....kinda like my prayer journal....so...this week my blog gets to see it.

Thankful for the family God has given me in this marriage.
Thankful for the faith to know that He will see me through this.
Thankful for my father....he is SUCH a man of God!
Thankful for the friends that God has placed in my path to help me on this journey.
Thankful for the mom He graced with me.

I am truly blessed!

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

I am truly blessed

This is a picture of the entire Bos family.....aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters and dad......

We are all home again. It was a very long and stressful two weeks. Mom is dancing with our Lord today but we are all still learning to cope with our loss. Dad is amazing. He has been so strong and stands in the faith that they will be reunited one day. He continues to remind us all what a blessing mom was in his life and ours. He is truly a man of God. I was truly blessed to grow up with parents that were such wonderful examples of Christ's love.


Of course, my entire family is not quite so "heavenly". It was difficult watching my sister turn her back on me each time I entered a room. However, hearing dad tell me how proud he was of my behavior let me know that I had his support. I made a conscious decision to forgive her for the pain she has caused me and my family. I will continue to pray that God will lighten her heart and allow his love to work forgiveness through her.


Thank you to everyone for your prayers and support. I have learned that there are many wonderful people in this world. Airport lines, security lines, stewardesses, travel agents, taxi drivers.....they all worked together to help me get through this.


Lastly, I have to say how blessed I was that Dad asked Royal Caribbean if I could cruise with him. I have learned to love and respect my dad even more through those three days. They were filled with tears, laughter and many long nights of talking. I am truly blessed.

Friday, October 24, 2008

Found

Jill and Jacob found my luggage! It was vacationing in Grand Caymon. Now....hopefully it will be here so I can have a little toothpaste and deodorant (and, or course, clean undies!!!). Guess the problem will be customs. Dad and I can go to the airport and meet the plane. Hopefully that will speed it through. Of course, I do not want to anger anyone here. I understand Mexican prisons are not the best! Besides....I do not need more clothes that desparately. HAH! Please, let Kim know that I will call him tonight if I can get through on the cabin phone. Love you all. Thanks to all for the thoughts and prayers. Keep em coming!

PS I love the United States!!!!!!!

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Nightmare of a day...week...month

First came Ike......then Tuesday my mom passed away....today I tried to get to the cruise ship to give my dad some company and
1. my flight from Houston to Miami was delayed 2.5 hours
2. this caused me to miss the ONLY flight going to Grand Cayman in time to make the cruise ship before it sailed
3. American Airlines automatically put me on the next flight to Grand Cayman which I declined and booked a flight to Cozumel which is the next stop for the cruise
4. Arrived in Cozumel.....taken to beautiful hotel all set up by the cruise line...however....my luggage is not here.
5. Call our wonderful assistant from Royal who tell me I must go back to the airport and report this.
6. Got ripped off $10 for a cab.....they say they have no record of my luggage ever being checked.
7. Luckily...I have the bag check number....they are going to look for it tomorrow...after all it is 5pm and they close
8. Only one flight into Cozumel tomorrow.....2 thirty.....if luggage is not on that flight I must wait another 2 days......
9. Tried to call from room and left message on Jacob Count cell......needed someone who would answer and he usually does.
10. He did not answer so left a message at 25.00 a minute.
11. Left message on everyone blog.....complete info is on thecountsfamily.blogspot.com
please....if anyone reads this......let my family know I am alright and need some help......I am safe....staying in hotel....not walking streets of Cozumel.......would love to have some English TV!!! Guess I will try to get some much needed rest.

Please pray for my family..........we have many tests this week. I am so blessed by my immediate family. Kim, Dan, Jill, Jacob, Kristy, Curtis and Kaylee (placed in order of Schwartz family membership...no favoritism shown!) I love you all so very, very much. I miss you all. Thanks for helping! Sorry about the goffy blog....typing on a Mexican keyboard....and YES it is different!

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Hugs from God


This has been a very difficult 24 hours. My mom, whilst on a cruise docked in Haiti, passed away yesterday at lunch. My dad is now sailing alone until I can get onboard tomorrow at noon. I had no idea how hard international water laws were to get around, but I'm learning. Royal Caribbean has cut through enough red tape to allow me to enbark at Grand Cayman tomorrow. The ship is in Jamaica today but couldn't be done there. My poor father is sailing alone surrounded by mom's belongings while mom is in the ship's morgue. We have figured out how to transport her from the ship to the coroner and then on to the mortuary where she will be cremated. My dad and I will drive from Cocoa Beach to Destin on Sunday. My brother and sisters, dad and I will meet with the pastor of my parent's church Monday afternoon with services scheduled Thursday at 11:00am. Considering it's only been 24 hours, we've taken care of so much.


This is entitled Hugs from God because I continue to thank him for the blessings he has given me.

1. A wonderful mom for 52 years of life

2. The financial means to see them two weeks ago on a "spur" cheap flight and to join dad in Grand Cayman.

3. That mom passed away doing what she loved the most. Dining with full waitstaff on a cruise line!

4. That the cruiseline has allowed me to board.

5. That the majority of my family has enough strength in God to know that HE is always in control.
6. The list goes on and on........I am surrounded by so many friends and family that I can not help but to continue singing my praises to Him. My mom is now dancing with My Lord and Savior. I truly believe this to be so. I am at Peace in His word.


Sunday, October 12, 2008

Grandkids

As my grandma once said, "Aren't they grand?!" I had a great day yesterday. Jill and Jacob had to teach NFP (Natural Family Planning) at the church and Kim was working so I had 5 hours alone with Curtis. It was WONDERFUL! We biked to the lake and fed the ducks, geese, turtles, and fish. Then we went to the park and played on the swings and slide while watching a soccer match. Then we came home and baked chocolate cookies together. It was so much fun watching him learn. He was amazed at the turtles (or as Curtis says Tu-tle). Then whilst baking, Curtis was covered in flour but loved pouring the ingredients into one container and then the other. He also loved eating the chocolate chips, dough and finished product! Now today, I get to babysit Kaylee! Ahh....I like this new position in life!!!! All in all, a great week-end. I leave for South Padre on Wednesday for work but will bring the laptop along.

Thursday, October 9, 2008

A visit with the parentals....

Had a great visit with mom and dad in Destin. This picture shows a typical exercise at 2:00 every day....dad does the pushing and pulling while mom does the grunting! :) It was a wonderful visit. We had lots of time to just visit. That was the main reason to go. We did a little shopping but not much. We'll save the rest for the Christmas season. My next trip is to South Padre for business. It's a tough place to go but it is business - HAH!


This is mom and dad talking to Aunt Barbara.
Be sure to check mom and dad's blog! Dad's learned how to do it again!!! Here he is practicing......Way to go Dad!!!

Sunday, September 21, 2008

GO CUBS GO!!!

Wrigley Field
Just had to add that to the blog! Sorry all you Astros fans but everyone who knows me knows that I'm still fairly loyal to my Chicago Cub roots. Two years in a row! Hopefully we can kill the goat and make it to the series this year.
PS: Dan....you owe me dinner!

Saturday, September 20, 2008

Patron Saint of Beer


We visited the St. Arnold brewery in downtown Houston with Jill, Jacob and Curtis today. It wasn't much of a tour but sure enjoyed the free beer! (isn't that what brewery tours are all about anyway???) We arrived home at about 3:30 and to our amazement we had cable!!! I've never been so happy to be able to watch ESPN in all my life! We flipped on an NCAA football game and just vegged. It was awesome (and easy with a few beers in us!). So life is back to normal....kinda.....still not sure if I've got to go to work on Monday. Per the district phone recording, 6 schools are still without power and they are all around my office. It won't kill me if we're off another day. I just hope we don't have to make it up. That would really stink!


Love to all.......

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Normalcy?

I have 1/2 a battery worth of juice so will try to add some more information. We are still without Comcast......phone, TV, internet. Guess we learned not to put all our eggs in one basket. The city came by this morning and are finally clearing the roads. Of course, the neighborhood residents had already done this by sawing and moving to the edge of the street. Now they are composting all the leaves, etc. Kim did go up on the roof today and we do have a little roof damage. Just a shingle tab missing and some nails that have come up. We'll call the insurance company to see what they think we should do about it. We'd like a pro look to see if it's something we should worry about.

I have to share a funny time during the morning after. The entire family was sitting in the front room with all the windows and doors open (no elect = no a/c). Kristy said she was going to get a drink. She opened the frig and realized that things were melting. That meant giant ice cream party for all! It was so funny! At 9:30am we had a 1/2 gallon of vanilla, 1/2 gallon of butter pecan, some ww fudge bars and ww ice cream sandwiches. It was hilarious!!! We truly were blessed though because that night we got power so our meat was fine. We put everyone's freezer goods into one freezer and never opened the door so 18 hours later it was all still frozen solid.

We're a little disappointed that the national news has stopped covering the devastation. We sure heard a lot about Katrina! We have a POD set up close to our house (point of distribution for ice, water and RME's) and the line is still very long daily. Almost 80% of the Houston and surrounding area is still without power. Scary since the weather is going to get hotter today. We've been truly blessed with temps in the 80's. Our neighborhood has set up it's own ice distribution. 1/2 the neighborhood has power so the "have's" have been making ice and putting it into coolers in specific yards for the "have nots". Kim was doing some yard work this morning and a woman just walked up to him asking if he had ice. We gave her all we had. It's strange that you can feel so guilty for having power.......

Hope I've notified everyone about our status......I'll continue to update when I can get out. We don't venture far from the house often since gas is still in short supply. I need to get to the grocery store today. We're out of veggies, fruit and dairy products.....as of yesterday they had not restocked any of this yet. We continue to praise God for the blessings we have. We are so much better off than the majority of people here.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Go home IKE!

Well, Ike did hit us. We heard today that the national news is no longer covering it. That upsets me!!! It's not good here. We were blessed. The house is fine. Jill and Jacob had some roof and fence damage but no water got in the house. Dan and Kristy faired the best. They had some trees leaning but they didn't even lose a branch! The even have cable and electricity! We have electric but nothing else. Jill, Jacob, Curtis and Gracie are all staying with us until the power is restored in Pearland. No one has school and have no idea when it'll be up again. I'm typing this outside at a Panera bread that is closed but their wi-fi is working. My battery is dying so I'm ending this. Will try to get to free wi-fi again later. I'm going to try and download some pictures on Picassa. We'll see if the battery makes it.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Hello Ike

Well, it's looking more and more like we may get a storm after all. Right now, which as everyone knows is subject to change at any moment, Ike is poised to hit just south of us. That means we'll be on the "dirty" side of the storm. Jill and Jacob's county has a mandatory evacuation beginning tomorrow so we've got their room all ready to go. It'll be cozy with the 5 of us in one room! HAH! Denny and Jane have been sweet enough to offer their house to us all. We may just take them up on it if we lose electricity! It's one thing to listen to the storm. It's quite another to sit in the heat and listen to it!!!!! I'll post more when I get more info. Shout out to all my yankee family members and friends who have no idea what we're going through!!!

Sunday, September 7, 2008

And Life goes On

Today is a good day. I had a dinner date last night with an angel who happens to be my granddaughter. Dan & Kristy invited me to dinner - I was feeling kinda lonely since Kim had a game (talk about that later) and they called! What a Blessing! We all went to Red Lobster and ate WAY too much while Kaylee slept. Then, how's this for exciting? I got to take Kaylee back to my house alone and give her her evening bath! AWESOME!!! She loves bathtime and I've not had the joy of doing that. Kristy got back from taking Dan to work just in time to feed her before she went back to sleep. What a great night!!!!!

Now, today, I'm going to see my little man, Curtis. Kim is, of course, working again so I'll have some company for awhile. I'd planned on quilting a little today but this will be much more fun. It can get pretty lonely this time of the year.......I'm a truly blessed with my children and families.

As for the football game....well......it was about 45 minutes away...not a big deal....but they were charging $12.00 a piece to get in! Now, I have a free pass but the kids don't. I honestly have no desire to sit in the stands and listen to people put my husband down by myself. I'd rather be home enjoying a movie or bathing my granddaughter ANY DAY!!! Don't get me wrong, I love Kim's chosen profession but it's gotten much different since I don't know the kids and the other wives don't chose to attend the games. I'll be going to some of the ones closer to our home with one of the other wives and/or my family but to drive an hour to sit along....thanks but no thanks.

Shout out to Sabrina.......hope your hubby came home yesterday.......now take yourself a break!

Friday, September 5, 2008

Days turn into a week

It's been 7 days, one week, since we learned of the passing of Jill and Jacob's Gabriel. It's been a hard week but one that we can honestly say had us grow closer to each other. Jillian was told by her specialist that she needed to have the baby removed so she underwent the procedure on Wednesday. The doctors are testing the tissue to see if they can find a reason for their loss. Poor little Curtis just can't understand why mommy can't pick him up.....we've told him that Mommy has a big owwie. He seems to understand that, but, of course, being 20 months old he forgets that on a regular basis and needs reminding. He is such a wonderful little man....he just wants Jill to hold him all the time. I tried my best to fill in when I could.....but Nana is not mommy. I've taken off quite a bit this week but as I told Jillian, there is nothing more important than my children....I know that, as a mom, she understands that. I just wish I could take the pain for her. I've never been through this so can't say I understand her pain....I can only say that I can see her pain and, as a mom, that's one of the hardest thing in the world to go through. We continue to lean upon our Lord for healing, physically, mentally and spiritually. Thanks to everyone for their continued support and prayers.

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Answers.......

This was sent to me by Kimberly, Kristy's sister. She knows the pain that our family is going through and found the perfect answer to my questions in my previous post. Thank you......

Why, my Lord—dare I ask why? It will not hear the whisper of the wind or see the beauty of its parents’ face—it will not see the beauty of Your creation or the flame of a sunrise. Why, my Lord?
“Why, My child—do you ask ‘why’? Well, I will tell you why. You see, the child lives. Instead of the wind he hears the sound of angels singing before My throne. Instead of the beauty that passes he sees everlasting Beauty—he sees My face. He was created and lived a short time so the image of his parents imprinted on his face may stand before Me as their personal intercessor. He knows secrets of heaven unknown to men on earth. He laughs with a special joy that only the innocent possess. My ways are not the ways of man. I create for My Kingdom and each creature fills a place in that Kingdom that could not be filled by another. He was created for My joy and his parents’ merits. He has never seen pain or sin. He has never felt hunger or pain. I breathed a soul into a seed, made it grow and called it forth.”
I am humbled before you, my Lord, for questioning Your wisdom, goodness, and love. I speak as a fool—forgive me. I acknowledge Your sovereign rights over life and death. I thank You for the life that began for so short a time to enjoy so long an Eternity. -- Mother M. Angelica

Questions.....

Why does God give us such wonderful blessings and then take them away? Jillian and Jacob lost their unborn child yesterday. I just don't understand. Why would He give them the answer to their prayers and then pull out the rug from under them? They are such good stewards and are such wonderful parents to Curtis. Why would He do this? I know He has a plan........I honestly can't see it now. We continue to praise Him for the blessings we have.........just are very upset, dissappointed...and yes, even angry right now. What we had thought would be such a beautiful day ended up being so sad. I did enjoy taking Curtis to the Butterfly museum while Jill and Jacob went to the doctor. We did find out that Curtis is afraid of butterflies! I think he thought they would bite him like a mosquitoe. I am so glad we have him.......he is Jillian and Jacob's true gift.

Please pray for us.....this will not be an easy week-end......also, pray for all people in the path of Gustav. This hurricane looks like a big one.

Monday, August 25, 2008

Party Animals!


Well, my birthday week-end was a blast!!! My bestest friend, Lana, took me for adult "beverages" Friday night. Then Saturday, Kim and I went to dinner with the entire Counts family for Mexican food and fish bowl size margaritas. Then Sunday the entire Schwartz family was here to celebrate with me with pizza, salad and fun. It was an incredible day and I am so totally blessed! I must admit though, that having Curtis fall asleep in my arms in mass may have been the highlite of the week-end. I love holding sleeping babies and that sweet smell! Little Miss Kaylee also slept while she was here....of course, she's still sleeping most of the time but when she's awake...OH MY GOODNESS! She has got us all wrapped around those little fingers. I love to see all the little rolls she's developing. What a little heart-breaker!!! Check out the pictures.......

Friday, August 22, 2008

It's my birthday!

I know....I'm not supposed to be excited for my birthday. But I am! Every year! I guess it was something that happened as a little girl. My parents must have made me feel very special this day. I don't know.....all I know is that I love my birthday! :) Today I'm 50+ and I still enjoy it. I've had a blessed life! I woke up this morning and had lost a total of 13 pounds and could get into my old "fat" jeans (which unfortunately are now my skinny jeans!) As I told my beautiful daughter today....I am blessed with so many wonderful friends. I was taken to lunch on Wednesday by an old friend from the kids swim team, then yesterday I was taken to lunch by 3 wonderful women from work. Today my husband took me out for lunch and my bestest friend took me for an adult beverage. Tomorrow, I'm going to dinner with our friends, Jan & Daryl to celebrate both Jan & my birthday and Daryl's new job (go Daryl!). Then Sunday it's family time! WOW! I'm so blessed!!!! I stopped by the chapel at church tonight just to thank HIM for the wonderful life he has given me thus far.

On a very sad note, I had a call from my bestest friend from HS, Laura. Her mom passed away this morning. We still e-mail almost daily and when I didn't hear from her I knew something had happened. Please keep her family in your prayers. Her mom was my second mom all through HS. She is with her Lord feeling no pain and seeing her husband again. She was very loved while here and will be missed greatly.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Granddaughters


What a sweet blessing! We had the pleasure of Miss Kaylee and Mrs. Kristy almost all day yesterday. Kaylee is getting so big and Kristy is getting sooo small! It was a very relaxing day with Kaylee getting to "play" with her toys at Nana & Pops house. She loves the bouncy chair that Kristy gave us for the babies. It was just so nice to have some time to get to know our littlest grandbaby. Here's a picture to tease.....you can see more at our Picassa site.

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Blessings

God is sooo good! After Jillian & Jacob's loss in May, God has blessed them with another pregnancy. They saw the baby's heartbeat last Friday so we can finally rejoice with everyone! We are so excited for them. They are such awesome parents - Curtis is a beautiful little boy in every way. They are quite a pair and supporting each other in everything.

So.....in March I will be a Grandma again. How cool is that??????

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Another week, another wedding

Last night we went to a beautiful wedding. Jillians' close friend from HS, Ashley Turner, became Ashley King. It was a really good time that we enjoyed with Jill, Jacob and Curtis. Ashley was beautiful in her gown. (Of course, she's beautiful in just about anything!) It was strange that we didn't know anyone else there except a few people from church. It was a great party! The band was great and it seems that Curtis has found his calling. He LOVED watching the band play. All the "women" under 6 were fighting to dance with him. He had a blast but wore out about 11:00. This should be the last wedding of the summer for us. Football with kids starts tomorrow for Kim so WW - HERE WE COME!

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Wedding

Well, we spent a very relaxing week-end at Toledo Bend this week-end for one of Dan's best friends weddings. I've posted some picture on our picassa. Congrats to Villis and Tina!!!

My life is exhausting right now! The grandbabies are wonderful but work is about to kick my butt! We're going through audits and the boss has decided to take another vacation right in the middle of board documents time....I can handle it but it sure is a lot of stress!!!!

Wish I could write more......leaving for dinner.

Friday, July 25, 2008

Wonderful Friday

I love Fridays off! I'm working on putting things where they belong.....I know....what a concept! I've found our camera charger but still can't find my blue tooth. I'm afraid we left it on the cruise ship because it's been missing since we got home. We've babysitting Jill & Jacob's dog Gracie this week-end while they go visit Kelly and Jacob. I'll be praying that Curtis can handle a 5 hour car trip to Baton Rouge!

I've been praying constantly for Dale and Paulette. They live in the Harlingen area and Hurricane Dolly has visited them this week. We lost touch with them two days ago but at that time the eye was pretty much past them and they were fine. They did lose the three trees in their yard. Dan & Ryan (their other son-in-law) are plannng to drive down there tonight to help them get things cleaned up. Woods family....our prayers are with you!

Saturday, July 19, 2008

The beach


Destin beaches are so beautiful (or should I say "Awesome!"). Mom stayed in the pavilion while Dad, Kim and I swam for awhile. Then I sat with mom in the shade. Wonderful weather, fabulous companions.......AWESOME morning! (that one was for you Bob!)

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Destin

Visiting the parentals for a few days. It's been an amazing stay! Mom and Dad are both doing really well. The house is in great shape....dad's planning to paint the mudroom and kitchen. He's had the same wallpaper since they built the place. On our way out the door shopping...Bass Pro...can't even escape it here. Will try to post some pictures later....love to all.

Sunday, July 13, 2008

New patio


I learned something about my husband this week. Well, OK, I already knew it but he took it to a new EXTREME. He has got to be obsessive compulsive. The man has worked outside in this 95+ degree heat everyday for the last week - ALL DAY. He got started on the new patio and has worked like a crazed man to get it done. Don't get me wrong....this is one of the things I love about this man. He NEVER (and I mean NEVER) starts something that he doesn't finish. But REALLY! An entire patio of bricks in a week????? Unfortunately, when he got it done, the bricks weren't the same shade so he's going to have to take some out and exchange them for the right color. Thus the pictures...YES my friends, he not only finishes his projects - he makes sure they are as close to perfect as a layman can make them! So I have another few days of watching him sweat profusely whilst he works outside. He will be ready for the heat when football season arrives though!

As for the family......they are awesome! I'm excited to see how much weight Kaylee has gained at her doctor's appointment tomorrow. She is an absolutely beautiful baby girl. I realize I may be a little prejudice but she really is! Perfect little nose and ears......adorable!

As for the other little love of my life, Kurt-Burt has been around quite a bit the last few days. I'M LOVING IT! He's so much fun now. At 18 months, he picks up some interesting phrases and even loves my guitar playing and singing! What more could a grandma want? I couldn't believe it when he handed me a guitar and then asked for more after I tried singing and playing! The poor child must be tone deaf! HAH! I have always loved this age of 18 months to 2.5....they are just so loving and playful. Check out my picassa site for some hilarious pictures of him. We got tired of changing diapers Friday so we just let him swim and run naked in our yard. He LOVED it.

Kim and I plan to go see my parents this week. Long drive but I'm really excited to get back to Destin and some good conversations with them. The phone only works for a while. It's time to see them and give some real hugs!


I'll continue to try and post new pictures.

Sunday, July 6, 2008

Happy Belated 4th!

Well, life is getting back to "normal". Kim's begun the patio project and I'm trying desparately to get my "secret" project back on schedule. I was experiencing a little stomach upset yesterday so we didn't go visit Kaylee. I certainly don't want her to get sick! I'm feeling much better today so plan on making a stop to visit with Kim this afternoon before mass. Enjoy the additional pictures. Hope everyone had a wonderful 4th!

Thursday, July 3, 2008

The Schwartz family is home

Dan, Kristy and Kaylee are all home today. I can't believe that a short 48 hours after having major surgery Kristy is ready. What a trooper! Paulette & Jillian cleaned, Kim mowed and I stayed home waiting on the bricks for our backyard. YUCK! Kaylee was introduced to her room but not the dogs yet. It looks like Molly has some kind of infection on her eye so at the moment Jill & Jacob are watching her. Kim and I may take her back tomorrow but our yard is definitely not good for dogs right now since it's totally torn up. We'll work it out though! Better for the dog to be here than around either of our grandkids! I've posted more pictures of everyone. Enjoy!

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Anniversaries and babies

Today is a wonderful day in the Schwartz family. It's Jill & Jacob's third anniversary. They are a wonderful example of married love. Curtis is one lucky little man!

As for Kristy & Dan's baby, Kaylee, she's doing really well. Her blood work is finally normal. We're suspecting a little jaundice may be setting in but we'll see from the doctors report. Dan and Kristy seem to have fallen right into the parenthood world. They are working on the breast feeding and changing like a true team. Dan has even changed a "tar" diaper! This is the man who has never changed a diaper before. He always said that he'd learn when it was his kid! Well, guess it's time to learn!

Happy 4th to all. Hopefully I'll get a chance to post a few more blogs.

Happy Birthday to our Godchild Megan! Once again we are late with our card! Sorry!!!

And of course, Happy Anniversary to Jacob & Jillian! Hard to believe it's been only 3 years. Our lives have all changed in that much time.

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Kaylee Renee!



We have another grandbaby! Dan and Kristy have a daughter! Kaylee Renee made her grand entrance this morning at 6:53. Weighing in at 7lbs 11 oz and 19.5 inches long. She put us through a rough night though. Emergency c-section due to her elevated heart rate. She's fine now. Cute as a button. Here's a few pictures.

Monday, June 30, 2008

Home again, home again, jiggidy jigg

Yeah...we're home..... The trip was amazing!!! Of course, we were glad to see the family but once we did that we could have gone back in a second! We will never forget the views from our balcony . Mountains, snow, waterfalls and whales everywhere. Someday we hope to go back and spend even more time.
The best day was in Juneau where we took the helicopter ride to Mendall Glacier. A close second was our trip to Mt. Ranier just outside Seattle. We stood on 16 feet of snow on June 26! Unreal!!!
The worst day was our hike in Skagway. It poured down rain and was about 50 degrees outside. We both made it the complete 8 miles (Kim went a little further) but we were freezing and miserable by the time we got back down.


2nd place for worst day was our fishing excursion. We didn't get a thing but did see some humpback whales up-close. It drizzled that morning too. Overall, that wasn't a bad day though.


I'm having a hard time catching up with housework and bill paying so this blog is short but I hope to get more written in a little while. In the meantime, enjoy the pictures!

Friday, June 13, 2008

Seattle


Well, we got here at 2:00 our time....noon Seattle time. We had a very smooth flight to Albequerque and then on to Seattle. The taxi from the airport to our hotel was a rather steep $40 but we got checked it really early and started exploring. Seattle is not the cute little modern town we thought it would be. It's really rather old, under lots of construction and MANY very strangely dressed people. It's like an old San Fran. We're a little disappointed in it but we can say we've been here! HAH! It's a humid 59 degrees. We wore a light jacket but there are lots of hills and steps to climb. We worked up a sweat but loved it. I've posted a few pictures on our Picassa. Check 'em out......


PS: Already missing the family!!!! Love to all! A shout out to Nancy and the Griffings. Thanks for the bon voyage call! Also a thanks to Jacob for getting up so early to take us to the airport.

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Family Fun


We've had the best time the last few days. Martha (Kim's mom), Sherry (Kim's sister), and Greg (Kim's brother) all visited us from Quincy, IL. We got to see our youngest niece graduate from HS (way to go Jenna!) and we were able to see our Nephew who was back for a week from Du'Bai. It was a great time. Now we're exhausted but it's a good feeling. Check out the pictures on our picassa site....here's a tease.

Saturday, May 31, 2008

Marriage is a give and take

Like the title? Well, Kim and Dan are talking at this very moment about buying a boat. I'm not going to stand in their way but I sure don't have to be overjoyed about it. I promised that I will not be angry....but why is it that when I want something, even if it's free, I get told we don't need it....or it's too old? Or that it's *&(*&(^*&!

On to happier things......I got to see my sweet little Curt-Burt last night but he sure wasn't the sweet little angel I'm used to! What did Mike do to him? HAH? He's running a temperature of 103 and didn't know what he wanted. Poor little dude! Poor Jill!!!! Guess God is just showing her what her mom went through with all those ear infections she had.....YUCK! That was NOT FUN!

Tonight we're all heading to the Heights to see Brent & Adriennes new house. 4 fireplaces! WOW! Amazing! They go back to DuBai next Thursday so we're trying to get our fill of them quick. Their little Hunter is a sweatheart!

Pictures to come later.

Monday, May 26, 2008

Dinner and fishing


Well, the fishing trip was a total bust! Wind was blowing and the current was flowing.......poor guys...they'd looked forward to this for so long and then nothing! It was a nice time getting everyone together though. 20 people here for traditional Memorial Day fair. Pizza and subs! HAH! Check out the pictures on our picasa. The kids had a blast.
Tomorrow Jill, Jacob and Curtis come home! I'm so excited to see them!!!! Yeah!! Hope we can get together in the next day or two to catch-up.

Sunday, May 25, 2008

Missing my little Curt-Burt

Well, it's Sunday and we don't have Jill, Jacob & Curtis to enjoy. We spent most Sundays as a family so we're really missing them today. I'm ready for them to come home. I know they've had fun in Minnesota but its just not the same here without them. Kim and I watched a little of the ball game, went to mass, and took a nap. Then he worked on the deck while I picked up some comfy sweats to wear on the cruise next month. No quilting today. Kim and the rest of the Schwartz men (sans Jacob) are all going on the annual Memorial Day fishing trip tomorrow. I haven't seen Kim this excited about something in a long time. After they catch their limit, they'll come back here for showers and pizza before everyone breaks for their respective homes. Should be lots of fun. I'll post some pictures of the fisherman when they return.

Saturday, May 24, 2008

No more deck!


Memorial Day week-end.....ahhh....I've finished a book and done some quilting. Very relaxing for ME! Kim worked outside until I forced him to come in. It's freakin' hot!!!! Check out how much he did today on our deck.

Monday, May 19, 2008

Big City meets Small Town Texas


Kim and I went to a fabulous wedding this week-end in the booming metropolis of Goliad, TX (REMEMBER GOLIAD!!! - that's for all you Texas history buffs). Our dear friends, Todd & Jill's son, Jeff was married to a fellow Aggie. Kayla is from a little town outside Goliad but sure knows how to through a wedding reception. 6 1/2 hours into the party, we all just a little tipsy but getting along quite well with all the Wrangler wearin', boot kickin', belt buckled ranchers. It was lots of fun with floral arrangements on the table to go with the country fried steak for dinner! I've put lots of pictures on our picasa site.


I'm going to go through Kurt-Burt withdrawal for a week. Jill, Jacob & Curtis are going to see their best friends in Minnesota for a week. I'm really excited for them! They need a break! Nana will sure miss them all.


Sunday, May 11, 2008

Mothers Day!

First off I want to wish a Happy Mother's Day to our incredible moms. Jerri Bos and Martha Schwartz you two are such a blessing to us. I may be in the over 50 crowd but when I was sick last week I sure wish I could have called my mommy and just hear her say "It's OK sweetie. You'll be better soon." Nothing makes you feel better than that! Thanks to you both for all the sacrifices you've made through the years.


Next I have to wish a Happy Mother's Day to our incredible children. Kristy - this is your first and the last mother's day that the baby is quiet for a LONG, LONG time. Enjoy! So glad you got to spend it with your mom. Jillian - what can I say? You are an amazing mother, daughter, wife and friend. I am so sorry that this is not the wonderful Mother's Day you were expecting but God has shown his love for you in such abundant ways. Please know that your mommy is crying with you and knows that "It's OK sweetie. God has a wonderful plan for you."


On to fun posts!!!! We had a really fun shower for our little "Kaylee Bear" (my newest nickname for the soon to be born sweet little object of my spoilin'). It was a miserable hot day outside so we cranked the A/C and stayed under the vents as much as possible. About 50 close friends and family of Dan & Kristy showered them with love and gifts. It was a lot of fun! I'm putting all the pictures on the blog - most will love the men "chugging". Kristy is an absolutely beautiful pregnant woman. The old adage of "glowing" is the perfect adjective for her. Thanks to all who helped make the shower a huge success. (PS - Paulette & Dale - you two have GOT to move up here! We'd have so much fun together!!!)

Love to all the moms out there.

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Sick and sad

It's been a long sad week. Monday, Jillian and Jacob went back to the doctor and found out that the baby has been lost. We pray that nature takes its course this week and she can be spared a D&C. We can only continue to pray for their sweet Catherine. Their amazing faith has gotten them through this. I am forever telling people what an amazing woman my daughter is, this is just further proof. I have to also add that they have such an amazing marriage. This would tear some couples apart. They have bonded even stronger through their faith. Jacob is an amazing husband and father.

Then on Tuesday, Kim and I went to Pearland to babysit Curtis so Jillian and Jacob could have some "couple" time. It was a blast and I'll post some pictures. On the way home I started to feel a little ill. By the time we got home I was all-out sick. We thought it was food poisoning but I ran a temperature of 101. I haven't been that sick in a long, long time. Lost 6 pounds in one night! Not exactly the best way to do that though. YUCK! I'm still home from work today but my fever broke last night. I'm just sore but figure I'll be fine for the mom's day celebration tomorrow. I just hope that crawfish isn't too much! I'll post some pictures of that soon.

Saturday, May 3, 2008

Prayers and Blessings

I have enjoyed having some special time with my sweet little "Curt-Burt". Unfortunately, it comes at the expense of the possibility of losing another grandchild. Please keep Jillian & Jacob in your prayers. Their unborn child has not formed in the womb. It looks as though God has placed an egg sac but no baby inside it. We pray that His will is done. Monday we see if He put a child inside the sac or not. This is a very anxious week-end for Jillian & Jacob.....we continue to thank God for the blessings he has bestowed upon us. Please pray for peace in Jillian's heart.

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

3 under 2


I am the most blessed woman! Jillian and Jacob are blessing us with another grandchild! I am so excited. They are such wonderful parents to Curtis and know that they will love and raise this child with the same God loving enthusiasm. Such a blessing! Check out how they told us!
So........Curtis was born 12/30/06......Kaylee is due 7/22/08......and Baby Counts is due 12/24/08. I am so BLESSED!!!!

Monday, March 31, 2008

Age and illness

Well, my baby is 25. Now that's hard to believe! Happy Quarter Century Jillian! I hope I tell you enough how wonderful I think you are. Not many moms can brag that neither of their children even gave them a difficult time. You and Dan are true gifts from God...I hope I never that those wonderful gifts for granted.

Now.....since my "baby" is 25, that must mean I'm getting old. The Good Lord just had to prove it to me with a slight case of pneumonia. Not full blown but enough to totally wear me out and put me on all sorts of medications. Guess I needed a break! So, I'm off work at least through tomorrow and sleeping more than I thought I could. Can't even call my mommy to whine....moo and doo are on another Caribbean Cruise. Hope they're having the time of their lives! Another blessing....my parents are financially, medically and emotionally able to enjoy their lives together. What a beautiful example of married life I had!

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Spring Break

AHHH! That's the sound of rested people. Naps are such a good thing! Of course, we're getting some projects done that we've been putting off forever. I finally finished Greg's curtains and put them in the mail. Now if he'd just finish his end of the bargain and e-mail me! Kim is hard at work putting a new top on our patio/deck. He's also been going for some routine medical stuff....spots on his face and eye exam. It's sure not fun getting old and our young dermatologist doesn't make it any easier. "Let's see Mr. Schwartz....that's just an age spot....there's nothing I can do about that.....oh yes, Mr. Schwartz, that funny skin coloring is just the effect of the sun...nothing to worry about." Young whipper-snapper!

Dan came over for some fresh fish that he'd caught with Kim on Sunday. Nothing like a fresh red! YUM! We're still trying to have some corned beef and cabbage with Jillian for St. Patricks Day but we seem to be having a hard time meeting up. Curtis needs to stay on his schedule so life isn't too hard for them but I'd love to spend each waking moment with that little pumpkin seed!

Missing Kristy. She's in the valley soaking up some spoiling from mom and dad. She deserves it in her 6th month! Well, gonna end with some pictures of the desk roof going on.






Thursday, March 13, 2008

My strong little man



How cute is this? Curtis showed us his muscles yesterday. The hands are clenched and shaking and his face is so mean! I love it!!! Of course, he knows he's performing when he does this so he hams it up! I love it!




On another note, Kim's baseball is undefeated in district. Amazing! Curtis loves to go to the games so I've been to more already this year than all of last year combined.

Thursday, March 6, 2008

My boy and a girl

Well, Dan & Kristy got the best of news today. Kristy is carrying a healthy baby GIRL!!!!! Yee-Haw!!! I'm sooo excited and can barely wait to go shopping! Dan says I'm going to be called Grandma by his kids. This'll be tough for me when they're all around but, hey, I'm thrilled to be called theirs!!!! So....my daughter gave me my first Grandson and my son gave me my first granddaughter! How cool is that! I am so blesed!!!!!

I'm still in Austin at the TASBO conference. Awesome speaker today - even purchased his work. Sometimes these meetings aren't as productive as you want but today was well worth it. I'm ready to go home though. It gets lonely after awhile.

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

A mixed bag kinda day


Well,what a day! I worked for about 3 hours and then found out that Bill Clinton was going to be at one of our district's elementary schools. So....being the good Republican I am, I jumped in my car to see him. I figured, when would I get the chance to see a former Democratic President again??? Believe it or not, I got to shake his hand and talk to him for a minute. Now, I have no pictures of him and me together but........ Should add that I did wash my hands before I ate (was that mean????? Sorry!). Tomorrow, I'll try to put a picture of Ted Danson and his wife. They showed up too!!! Pretty darn cool....just me, Ted, Bill and about 50 other people!


Then I left for Austin for the annual TASBO conference (Texas Association of School Business Officials). I'm staying in at the Radisson BY MYSELF. I feel like I've finally come into adulthood. This is the first time I've ever checked into a hotel by myself! Now at 52, that's pretty sad! The drive was very uneventful but I hit a car in the parking garage.....no damage to the other car but I put a pretty good dent in my car. What a duffus!!!! Oh well, guess that's what you pay insurance for.....


On a final note for today, please keep Jillian in your prayers. She's been suffering BIG TIME with mastitis. The doctor is going to try and get her in for an ultra-sound. Let's pray it's healing with the antibiotics.

Sunday, February 24, 2008

Personal Day


I had one of my best days ever on Friday. I took a personal day from work and played with Jillian and Curtis. We went to the Children's Museum in Houston and then the zoo. My little pumpkin is so smart! He knew the signs for so many animals and can already make their sounds. At the museum he had a blast crawling through and climbing over. What a great place! They have an area just made for people his size. He plays so well with the other little people. I'm not in the least bit proud of him! HAH! I promised Jillian that I'm going to do that more often. Life is much to short to not enjoy every day! I've posted some pictures from my day at picassa. Check them out!


On another note, we find out 3/6 if Dan & Kristy will have a boy or girl. I'm sooo excited!!! Two wonderful reasons to take days off! :)

Thursday, February 14, 2008

Happy Valentines Day

I just had to say Happy Valentines day! My sweet husband had flowers delivered to work. I was the only one to get some making it even better! I love being the envy of all the women! Of course, with a husband like mine, I'm always the envy of all the women!!! :) Having a romantic night of a movie and champagne in front of the TV (No Reservations). Love to all our fellow bloggers. Be sure to check out Jill's blog. I love that pictures of my little Curt-Burt!

Sunday, February 3, 2008

Luke Anthony

Just the name of the post sounds Holy - doesn't it? Well, my neice had her baby boy baptised yesterday. He is now officially a Christian......and his name? Luke Anthony! He is a very blessed child to have been given a Christian family to raise him. He has a wonderful brother, Drew, who calls him "Baby Luke". Kelly and Jacob....God has given you such a wonderful gift! You can see pictures on our blog.

Of course, Nana and Pops got to enjoy Curtis at the baptism. He's learning to make the sign of the cross and can even sign Jesus. He behaved really well and enjoyed the piano and the man singing behind us. Of course, he saw the baptism pool and figured it would be a great place to take a little swim. Good thing we were able to persuade him otherwise!

Love to all.....ME!

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Visit to Grandmas



Kim and I had the pleasure of visiting family in St. Louis and Quincy for the week-end with Jillian and Curtis. It was so awesome to introduce Curtis to so many people and he rose to the occasion! He was so well behaved and obedient we were so proud of him and Jillian's mommy skills! Of course, he hates cold weather and we had to go on the coldest week-end of the year thus far. Jillian doesn't remember that degree of cold and needed a little help with handling a baby in that windchill (the temp -not wind chill - was a high of 12 the entire week-end). The blankets and coats sure were a pain in the neck!!! The flight was wonderful and the 2.5 hour drive to Quincy from St. Louis was a breeze with Curtis behaving the entire time. Check out the pictures.

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Yeah!

What an exciting time! Dan and Kristy got to go back to the doctor and have another ultra-sound. It's so much fun to hear your son talk about how cool it is to see his baby growing. I can't wait to see him as a daddy. I think it will open his eyes to so many things!

Then Curtis said Nana today! Jill brought him to our house (he was being a little toot in a SL store) and he walked around saying "Nana". He was looking for me! I get to babysit tomorrow night while Jill & Jacob go on a date. I can't wait!!!!!

I am soooooo blessed!

Thursday, January 3, 2008

Curiousity

OK - gotta ask.....is this a waste of time or does anyone check this site anymore???? I haven't had a comment in a LONG time so kinda wondering if I should just shut this puppy down.

Just in case......today I had to go back to work. SUCH A BUMMER! The same people that were Bit*** before the break were Bitc**** after. So sad! How can some people walk into an office and not even say Good Morning? All she ever does is give dirty looks (except to the boss of course!)......something must be really horrible in her life to give her that attitude all the time. I'm still praying for her daily but it gets harder and harder!

My little dumplin' had his 1 year check-up today. He's 75% for height and only 50% for weight. Must be taking after his Nana - YEAH RIGHT!