tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76622097620165736272012-01-19T10:08:15.562-06:00Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.comBlogger4031100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-56599424741825980952011-12-31T14:28:00.000-06:002011-12-31T14:28:01.504-06:00

Hey!  Long time, no blog.  I'm turning into one of those horrible bloggers, like that Looking For George lady who leaves her admiring readers dangling for months at a time (hint, hint).  I'm sorry, precious readers.  All two of you.  I would promise to do better in the future, but I'd be lying. I hope you had a very merry Christmas.  Ours was nice, but hectic for the person who does all the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-38806972709386018612011-11-08T14:12:00.000-06:002011-11-08T14:12:42.612-06:00

I'm obnoxiously proud of my sweet girlies. We mailed off two beautiful braids today to Locks of Love. This is Olivia's 2nd year to donate and Bri's first. They both look really cute with their new bobs, but I'm willing to admit I'm a wee bit biased.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-52247639172259713452011-10-08T20:14:00.001-05:002011-10-08T20:17:58.959-05:00

When I posted at the end of June, I was in the middle of a whinefest about my health. Wait a sec...  Do you even remember me?  Should I reintroduce myself? This is the fat chick who blogs here.    And this fat chick has more important things to talk about today than herself (write that down- you don't hear that from me often). As you know from my last post, Darrell is related to the I*rwin

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-77407063756257847812011-10-04T11:16:00.000-05:002011-10-04T11:16:50.821-05:00

A cousin on Darrell's side of the family was kidnapped last night in Kansas City (she is Darrell's 1st cousin's grand baby). She is a 10 month old baby girl named Lisa Irwin and was apparently taken from her crib as she slept. You can read about it here: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/44771585/ns/local_news-kansas_city_mo/.  At this time, I have no idea who took her or where she is.  I only

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-77498451682367952742011-06-20T02:15:00.000-05:002011-06-20T02:15:31.598-05:00

I didn't know what to call this post, so I settled for the above title.  ...Meh.  If you have any quippy, funny, smarty-pants ideas for future post titles on the topic of Fibromyalgia, I'd love to hear them, my darling, precious 4 remaining readers. I received a few emails after my post the other day (about the pain I'm in), as well as a comment or two here, and I wanted to clarify a couple

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-60796764179199007352011-06-15T23:38:00.000-05:002011-06-15T23:38:03.249-05:00

This is an honest-to-goodness conversation I had just moments ago with the Samster...  God help me. Me (with eyes closed- trying to look asleep- and jaw clenched): Mommy's getting mad, Sammy.  Go to sleep. Sam: Okay. ... ... Sam:  I patting yuhs arm, Mom?  I pat yuhs arm.  ... That nice, Mom?  I be nice, Mom? Me:  Yes, that's nice.  You are very nice.  Mommy is still getting mad because you're

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-40897382509293988912011-06-12T17:04:00.001-05:002011-06-17T17:50:28.610-05:00

This is going to sound like a Complaint Post, but it's not.  It's simply a recap of the past week.  If it's whiny, I'm oh-so-sorry.  I'll try to say something happy at the end to balance it out. Last week, I started feeling a pain flare coming on which was concentrated mostly in my left shoulder, collar bone and down my arm.  Several days into it, my arm wasn't working well, and I realized I

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-14015704806653565042011-06-05T23:18:00.001-05:002011-06-05T23:24:25.595-05:00

"We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.  ...Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. " 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, 16 If you're my family or friend, you know how close we were to the recent tornado that hit Joplin, MO.  If

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-91533820916399411742011-05-15T13:30:00.000-05:002011-05-15T13:30:58.852-05:00

Sam speaks clearly enough that our family understands most of what he says, even if you wouldn't.  For example, I know that "Foosh a bunion" is "Push a button."  But, sometimes- like when he's trying to pronounce a word we haven't heard him say yet, he's excited and speaking quickly, or when he's rattling off entire one-sided conversations- we have no clue.  Sometimes I have to say, "Honey, I'm

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-9232169874077600322011-05-08T16:37:00.001-05:002011-05-08T16:38:43.229-05:00

The other night, I had the best idea for a book.  It was a murder mystery kind of thing and as I was about to drift off to sleep, I was thinking of plot twists and even character names, for Pete's sake, and getting really excited.  I couldn't wait to write it all down 'tomorrow.' So you know what I'm going to say, right?  'Tomorrow' came, but the book idea did not.  I had forgotten it.  The

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-76288798420055552082011-04-25T12:45:00.000-05:002011-04-25T12:45:28.686-05:00

Okay, I might exaggerate just a bit, but I'm back from the brink of feelin' really, really crappy, and that just doesn't roll off the tongue the way 'brink of death' does.  The only bad thing is...  I'm gearing up to get sick again.  I can feel it coming back.  I'm trying to tell it to go somewhere else, but the crud isn't listening to me. A few weeks ago, I was feeling so icky that I was

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-12548614899905630122011-04-07T23:54:00.000-05:002011-04-07T23:54:27.085-05:00

As you can see, I've moved the poll (about starting another blog) to the sidebar, since the votes are still pouring in. I mean, it just doesn't stop, people. You know, you often hear celebrities talk about how hard it is to be so famous, and I really can see they're right...  I'm just getting pounded by these things (that's what she said).  The count is in the tens, now, so it's quite exciting

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-322046963811538682011-04-06T15:06:00.000-05:002011-04-06T15:06:19.344-05:00

Happy Birthday to one of the sweetest, most beautiful girls God ever made!  You are so precious to me.   Hope today is filled with blessings for you!

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-39756176831576133642011-04-03T13:27:00.001-05:002011-04-03T16:55:46.384-05:00

I've been kicking around the idea for a while, of keeping a separate blog/journal on health and weight stuff, to talk about topics relating to that and to track my progress as I try to lose weight and reclaim my health, but I keep procrastinating- wondering if it would be of interest to anyone but me, or just a waste of time.  Then, a friend suggested I do it, so I'm just wondering...  If I

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-88152539660089367772011-03-29T00:54:00.000-05:002011-03-29T00:54:26.842-05:00

You would have been 80 years old today.  I keep trying to picture what you would be like now, as a little old man.  I imagine you with your grandkids, trying to talk them into clipping your disgusting toenails, or asking them to go catch gophers in your yard- anything to make them laugh.  It may surprise you to know that I think of you all the time.  In the ten years since you've been gone, I

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-55087617469819823252011-03-25T14:43:00.000-05:002011-03-25T14:43:42.592-05:00

Sammy, Part 1 Thanks for the input on Sam's rash.  Several of you suggested I talk to Laurie.  I'm sure she would know- I feel a little weird though, since I really don't know her.  Asking doctors I don't know for their opinions, seems... I dunno.  Tacky, maybe?  Impolite?   Don't they kind of frown upon such things?  I did check her blog for contact information (since, you know, I'm all about

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-88723346100309641162011-03-22T17:25:00.002-05:002011-03-23T09:14:40.757-05:00

HELP!! I know some of you with IA kids have had to deal with some odd skin disorders.  We're going through that with Sam, now, too.  I'm posting some pics below, hoping you've seen this before and can tell me what it is.  Any and all input is appreciated. From the time we brought Sammy home, he'd get these bumps that look exactly like large mosquito bites.  He'd scratch them, they'd scab, then

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-29679129062069545822011-03-18T01:12:00.000-05:002011-03-18T01:12:56.262-05:00

I'm doing a little survey and if you give me just a moment of your time, you could be eligible to win...  Uh...  I didn't think this one through far enough, I guess.  I forgot to think of a prize.  BUT- if you give me just a moment of your time, I can promise that no salesmen will call or visit.  How's that?  I'd like to know what you spend each month on groceries and household supplies (

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-68208167157226565022011-03-15T06:41:00.012-05:002011-06-17T17:50:28.611-05:00

I've been planning to give an update on my stupid health issues for over a month now, but when I stumbled upon this old post, written a little over a year ago, I didn't want to put off writing this any longer.  And it's probably going to be a long one (even longer than my usual), so don't say I didn't warn you.  In fact, I almost split it into two (or three) posts.  If you have no interest in my

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-65723343409887482432011-03-12T14:10:00.001-06:002011-03-12T14:15:12.459-06:00

Okay.  The "boy" I wrote about in the last post?  I had a couple people (including my mom) email me privately to mention how young he looked.  Way to make me feel old, friends and neighbors.  People, please...  That dude is in his 30's.  Like, only 12-13 years younger than me.  Big whoop.  That's not even a Demi/Ashton age difference.  I think my rockstar may even be married and have a kid or two

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-44408122758839238642011-03-07T23:27:00.002-06:002011-03-07T23:32:34.771-06:00

Do any of you guys like The Str*okes (and right now, my mother and both of my blog buddies named Elaine are saying, "What are The Str*okes?")? These are The Str*okes: They're a band (which I'm guessing you could have gathered on your own). I think I like them because they remind me (a little) of some of the music I was listening to in the 80's, when I was young (you know... way back before cell

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-89114169441216980792011-03-04T20:00:00.000-06:002011-03-04T20:00:48.003-06:00

As long as we remain in our current situation, I'm trying to "give thanks in all circumstances," so I have decided to list a few of my reasons to be grateful here: Top Ten Reasons Why It's Awesome to Be Poverty-Stricken 10.  From what I've been able to determine from my own unscientific observations at my local Wal-mart, a lack of personal hygiene and poverty seem to sometimes go together. 

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-75781582470575420762011-03-01T12:10:00.000-06:002011-03-01T12:10:39.736-06:00

Instead of thanking you all in a comment on the last post, I wanted to say it here- in a post of its own- to make sure you would see it.  You have no idea how much your words of support and kindness meant to both of us.  I showed Darrell most of the comments last night, and he had tears in his eyes, just as I did (well, actually, I had tears running down my face).  We were both overwhelmed. 

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-42035871627373752662011-02-27T19:27:00.000-06:002011-02-27T19:27:50.398-06:00

I haven't had much to say lately.  Things have been so stressful here.   But now I really need to vent.  I'm just going to be completely honest, which is probably going to be a real downer- so if you don't want to read it, now is the time to bolt. The financial situation here is going from bad to worse.  I hate talking about this kind of stuff- it's beyond embarrassing- but I can't stand not

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-68564335899074414182011-02-18T13:48:00.000-06:002011-02-18T13:48:01.680-06:00

I'm passing along the following information, as it was posted on the RMI Yahoo group, just in case anyone who is in process with JOH (Journeys of the Heart- the agency we used) is reading this and has not yet been informed (apparently, JOH has yet to personally contact all RMI families with this information).  Please keep in mind that I have no idea what is going on, and cannot answer any

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-49950195905726117802011-02-10T06:45:00.010-06:002011-02-10T06:45:00.830-06:00

My mom...  She's something else.  She's in her early 70's, but could pass for late 50's.  She's a tiny, cute little thing (a size 2 or 4).  She's really pretty.  She's very independent.  Sharp as a tack.  Works hard.  Exercises.  Line dances.  Eats like a horse (more than me, at times, which I will never think is fair)!  She loves to go out with friends and have fun. Anyway, she has a new-ish

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-88771358830517718802011-02-08T13:50:00.000-06:002011-02-08T13:50:00.457-06:00

I don't think I've blogged this yet, but Evan had some medical tests done recently (he's fine now) and the bills had started rolling in. In addition to all the regular office fees for the many doctor's visits that we've already paid, we had the costs from his two procedures: The surgery center cost $704.00. We were anticipating that and put it on a credit card (so it's paid, but not). Then

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-14444028674164747752011-02-04T15:31:00.001-06:002011-03-25T10:19:11.656-05:00

This is a pic of my friend Lanie's car.  I didn't bother to take any pictures myself, but the view from our house is pretty much the same.  We got hammered with snow and ice, as I'm sure many of you did.  I never heard what the total accumulation was, but it was supposed to be somewhere around 18 inches.  It's at least knee-deep. This is the most snow our area has seen since 1912, I think (or

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-42049369993329512132011-02-03T00:24:00.000-06:002011-02-03T00:24:12.630-06:00

This is the year of the rabbit.  If you were born in 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987 or 1999, you were born in the year of the rabbit.  The Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco website says: "People born in the Year of the Rabbit are articulate, talented, and ambitious. They are virtuous, reserved, and have excellent taste. Rabbit people are admired, trusted, and are often financially lucky.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-45202777389822155502011-01-30T14:44:00.000-06:002011-01-30T14:44:36.698-06:00

I encourage Sam to shout, "Afflack," because it sounds like he's screaming, "OH F**K!"  ???  I can't help it.  It's funny.  I need prayer.  Or something. Onto other things... I haven't posted anything in a while and figured I should.  We had a hectic week around here since Darrell was out of town last week, so all the little things that happened (that I thought would make funny posts) went

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-92111883277644725422011-01-19T15:15:00.000-06:002011-01-19T15:15:26.046-06:00

is leaving for Fort Benning in Georgia on April 26. No words.  You already know how I feel about it anyway.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-44729133315179575522011-01-17T12:25:00.000-06:002011-01-17T12:25:20.972-06:00

Sam saw a picture of Martin Luther King on PBS this morning and shouted, "Daddy!"  I'd never noticed a strong resemblance between MLK and Darrell before, but I'll take another look when Darrell gets home tonight from work. Rhetoric is already on my list of Most Overused Words of 2011.  Please, I beg you, don't say it anymore.  I.can't.take.it.  I'll vomit.  I swear, I will. That is all.  Return

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-39485745700670110622011-01-15T23:12:00.001-06:002011-01-16T10:35:04.460-06:00

I know...  Another post.  You're sick of me.  But since I was just telling you about the cat, I wanted to share something funny that Olivia said this morning.  She asked, "Mama, do you think animals like our pets will be in Heaven?"  I thought we were going to get into a big spiritual conversation, but before I had a chance to say anything she followed it up with, "Because if Mama Kitty goes

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-65277323876382395712011-01-15T07:28:00.006-06:002011-01-15T07:28:00.749-06:00

First, I have to say happy birthday to Mike (19) and Savannah (20)!  I hope it's a blessed day for both of you!  I love you both very much!  I guess I should also acknowledge our cat's birthday, since she's 20 this month.  That's almost one hundred in people years.  She has totally lost control of her bladder, though, so my desire to say happy birthday to my deaf, senile, peeing cat is not real

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-11270521497218681982011-01-12T23:34:00.000-06:002011-01-12T23:34:11.012-06:00

He kind of stole borrowed shared a few of my sentiments when he spoke at the memorial service tonight.  Only they sounded much more Presidential when he said them.  I do believe it may have been the first time B.O. and I have been on the same page, or even the same book.  But then again, it would be pretty hard for him to mangle a speech like that.  If it wouldn't trigger my gag reflex, and

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-55414963344225859042011-01-11T23:32:00.000-06:002011-01-11T23:32:03.518-06:00

This has never been a political blog, nor do I feel able to speak intelligently and confidently when it comes to politics, so I am somewhat leery of posting my thoughts tonight.  However, I can't take it anymore.  If I don't say something, I'm going to blow a gasket. The other day- a fairly lazy day here at home- I turned on the TV, not really expecting to find anything good on.  I turned on CNN

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-67333761993646703142011-01-01T22:50:00.000-06:002011-03-25T10:17:34.137-05:00

First, I have no pictures.  If you're here looking for adorable kids in their jammies, opening gifts on Christmas morning, you'll have to wait.  I'll get them up soon.  Actually, we didn't even take many pictures this year- so there may or may not be pictures coming soon.  Second, I have nothing of interest to say.  I suppose, since I'm publishing this post, I should say something...  But I'll

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-26490656625286185102010-12-23T13:05:00.000-06:002010-12-23T13:05:13.783-06:00

Did you read Mrs. Broccoli Guy, yet?  I'm going to say "Ditto" to everything she said.  Good post, Mrs. B! I'm doing my usual last-minute scramble to get ready for Christmas, so this will probably be my only chance to say "Merry Christmas" to you.  I'm trying to get the cookies done today, then wrapping gifts this afternoon and tonight, then I'll start my traditional Christmas morning cinnamon

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-28379712277979561442010-12-18T10:36:00.000-06:002010-12-18T11:25:24.395-06:00

You know how you're always sitting around thinking, "I wonder what Michelle thinks is funny..."?  Well, my dear friends, wonder no more.  I think this guy is pretty darn funny.  Maybe not slap yourself hilarious, but funny.  You sorta have to know the songs he's doing, or it won't be amusing- just stupid and confusing.  And, like me, you have to appreciate Words... Many of my blogging friends

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-64924285838257879272010-12-17T09:56:00.141-06:002010-12-17T09:56:00.291-06:00

Since ending the blog about a year ago, the family has gone through lots of changes.  For one, we're all about a year older.  Two of my boys have moved out, which just about killed me at first, but I adjusted pretty quickly.  Translation: If they have to move back in, I may tear my hair out at the roots (Love you, boys!! : D ).  Alex (my oldest- 20 yrs) is living about two hours away and is

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-81536433708206931402010-12-15T16:28:00.000-06:002010-12-18T11:24:41.967-06:00

Apparently, this video has been out there for a couple years now.  I'd like to know why nobody told me about it.  Why am I just now finding out about this?  I thought you people were my friends!  Maybe you kept it from me to protect me?  Because you knew this chick would scare the %$*# out of me?  Is that it?  You knew she would stalk my nightmares?  Okay.  In that case...  Thanks.  But the

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-72179564111359816702010-12-10T06:17:00.049-06:002010-12-10T06:17:00.499-06:00

Okay, so it turns out I didn't need much coaxing.  However, before I begin, we need to have a brief refresher on the rules.  If you've never been here before, these are the things you need to know in order for us to get along.  Rule #1: Absolutely do not, under any circumstances, compare me to, or ask if I'm trying to be like...  Angelina Jolie.  The only similarity there is the large,

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-159791821802632632010-12-09T12:50:00.000-06:002010-12-09T12:50:10.688-06:00

Um, hi...  I'm Michelle.  How ya doin?  I used to blog here.  I'm contemplating my long-awaited, much-anticipated (in my own mind, at least) return to blogging, but wondered if anyone is still out there who would read my long-awaited, much-anticipated posts.  I'm going to need a little encouragement here, people; a little coaxing.  It will probably take somewhere in the neighborhood of, ohhhh...

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-37183102851271652172009-12-26T15:16:00.003-06:002009-12-26T15:54:03.607-06:00

Hope you all had a great Christmas.  I know we did.  Too great.  The amount of gifts under the tree this year made me sick to my stomach- a total obscenity.  And I take all the blame.  The overspending... the gift gluttony... my fault.  All of it.  Darrell would be happy to give everyone a 5 spot and a nice, shiny apple and be done with it.  I, on the other hand, get a little carried away.  I try

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-72846468766703614472009-12-25T02:00:00.000-06:002009-12-25T02:00:17.031-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-46126764645039996952009-12-02T10:52:00.000-06:002009-12-02T10:52:03.011-06:00

Some of my long-time readers (all two of you) may remember this post when we had trouble with a squirrel in our house...  Well, he's back.  He waited a long time until our guards were down, but finally came back to exact his revenge and apparently brought the whole family. Squirrels have chewed a hole in the corner of our roof outside and have gotten into our attic and walls.  They sound as if

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-38447996472334702372009-12-01T05:35:00.002-06:002009-12-01T06:07:27.852-06:00

As we approach the holidays (and for those unmoved by the spirit of the season- the end of another tax year), we often look for ways to give to those in need.  We put our change in red buckets, manned by smiling bell-ringers outside the mall, after spending an obscene chunk on Christmas gifts for our family and friends.  We donate canned goods to local homeless shelters and food banks as we

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-71914929791165391262009-11-16T21:56:00.003-06:002009-11-16T22:02:20.446-06:00

Today is Sammy's first birthday! Sam, we are so thankful for you and we love you with all our hearts!  Happy birthday, my sweet boy! The least messy cake-eater I've ever seen.  I don't think he liked it. He did like gift-opening time... Sammy wasn't the only one who enjoyed his new toys... Who needs college when you have blocks? Kyle came over tonight to see Sam, too, which was

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-90831893456800636082009-11-04T23:12:00.000-06:002011-03-25T10:17:34.138-05:00

One of the things my doctor said I'm supposed to avoid like the plague is gluten...  Okay...  That's what I said in her office- "Okay"- all casual and intelligent-like, with a slight knowing nod of the head, as if I needed no further explanation.  Cuz, you know...  I gotta act like I got the smarts even though I don't.  So, dear friends, my question(s) for you is:  WTH is gluten and what can it

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-20923661210453468522009-11-03T23:17:00.002-06:002011-03-25T10:17:34.140-05:00

It's been a while.  Sorry.  I've just become one of those bloggers, haven't I?  I wanted to update everyone on my health hassles, since several of you have kindly emailed checking on me (thanks!).  I went to get the blood tests that my doctor wanted quite some time ago, BUT- I never got to go back into the office to hear the results until just recently because I got the flu.  No, wait...  I

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-6320112844414238312009-10-19T18:22:00.000-05:002009-10-19T18:22:28.118-05:00

These are mostly of Sammy from our weekend in Branson and the trip to the zoo. I'm sorry for bragging, but I'm convinced he's the cutest baby boy around. I never knew how white I was until I had Sammy.  He looks like he's in the clutches of a cadaver. Evan is such a good big brother. He adores Sam.  I don't know many fifteen year old boys who would cram themselves into the baby rides to make

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-34849566137937998152009-10-16T14:15:00.006-05:002009-10-16T14:48:56.006-05:00

The thing that gets me most about the following story is the quote, "I have piles and piles of black friends. They come to my home, I marry them, they use my bathroom. I treat them just like everyone else." Hmmm. I don't know whether I want to laugh or cry. I never knew that letting black people use your bathroom is proof that one is not a racist. Read on...Interracial couple denied marriage

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-74642281175158404572009-10-09T10:28:00.003-05:002011-03-25T10:17:34.141-05:00

No such luck. I'm still here.Hey, guys. Long time, no blog. We've been crazy-busy. First, I have to confess I'm lame because I received the Honest Scrap award from the lovely Lina weeks ago and I never got around to posting about it. Thank you, Lina! And sorry. Here's what I was supposed to do:1. Choose 7 blogs that you find brilliant in content or design.2. Show the 7 winners’ names and links

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-37487908187193199632009-09-17T18:44:00.006-05:002009-09-17T19:11:37.898-05:00

No more fat girls jumpin' on the bed!Not really. I did get chewed out a little bit for being fat, but I'm still allowed to jump on the bed all I want- as far as I know. Actually, the Dr. said she thinks my problem is probably thyroid related. The word diabetes was tossed around a little bit (as well as the words "high blood presssure")- but I stuck my fingers in my ears and sang a song during

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-17152384818107946062009-09-16T08:52:00.009-05:002009-09-16T09:04:24.780-05:00

Here's the latest on the Pet Drama:Darrell said that if I would call the puppy lady and try to get out of the deal, he would let the girls get a kitten instead, thinking they'd be just as happy and excited about any new pet- it didn't necessarily have to be that particular puppy. He's not as opposed to cats since they aren't hard to house train and don't have the typical problems that come with

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-26678244335607258742009-09-15T18:49:00.006-05:002009-09-15T19:06:13.824-05:00

I just thought I'd let you know, so that you can begin making calls to inquire if H*ll has just frozen over, that I wholeheartedly agree with B.O.... Kanye West is a J*ck*ss.I think, since he never seems to agree with the selection of award winners, Kanye should have his own awards ceremony. The trophies can be awarded to the biggest piece of crap each year. The award would be a dog turd on a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-90033786635684103312009-09-12T22:27:00.000-05:002009-09-12T22:29:51.918-05:00

Okay- so today Olivia, Bri and I had a Girls' Day Out- a full afternoon of shopping and hanging out together. We were having so much fun and the girls really needed some time with mom. We bought shoes. We ate Thai food. Good times.Anyway, we had to go to W*lmart on the way home and the first thing we see as we pull into the parking lot is a van with puppies in the back. The girls ask if we can go

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-59789938052127052862009-09-11T12:01:00.008-05:002011-03-25T10:17:34.142-05:00

Gee, does anyone think I should see a doctor- lol? That was the overwhelming consensus to last Saturday's post. I heard you. I made an appointment. I go next Monday. I'll keep you posted.Onto more interesting things... How about an update on Sammy Davis Jr.? He just had his nine month check-up (at almost 10 months. See? I told you I'm behind in everything). He currently weighs in at 15 lbs., 13

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-71445627405898444862009-09-05T23:36:00.000-05:002011-03-25T10:17:34.144-05:00

Remember those whiny, self-pitying posts a few weeks back when I told you how tired I've been? Yeah. The whining continues (as evidenced by this all new, if not improved, whiny post), the self pity comes and goes, and the sleep deprivation is worse than ever. I am so far beyond over-tired, I'm not even sure what to call it. It's really screwing with my head. I honestly feel like I could

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-42703752179795933732009-09-05T12:33:00.000-05:002009-09-05T12:47:44.184-05:00

Speaking of politics (at least, I was speaking of politics... You guys aren't speaking to me, apparently- lol)...Who's the joker who put me on a mailing list for ACLU supporters? Ha. Haha. Ha. That was a good one. You got me.I'm getting emails thanking me for my support, asking me to become a "Guardian of Liberty," and detailing the next plan to stick it to the evil conservatives.You silly

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-41096930365902360052009-09-04T00:13:00.000-05:002009-09-04T00:32:45.450-05:00

Sorry to those of you who don't like to read anything political on a non-political blog, but I'm just wanting to hear opinions here- I'm NOT trying to start arguments or open a big can of worms, although I know some of you will disagree with me. I think I have a pretty good balance of right and left in my readership (3 of you are conservatives and the other 3 are nutty... :P), so I'm just

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-55375474119680002772009-09-03T14:23:00.003-05:002009-09-03T14:40:41.517-05:00

In response to my diaper inquiry, I received this response via email. I would never embarrass the writer by revealing her identity to the world, but this may or may not have been sent by my smarty-pants birth mother. I thought it was pretty funny.Dear Mrs. *****,I applaud your desire to find the perfect no leak diaper. I too have searched and my quest has led me to Depends....very few leaks,

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-81519662318952594372009-08-31T17:02:00.000-05:002009-08-31T17:08:02.206-05:00

Darrell and I are constantly astonished and bamfoozled by the changes in baby products during the last 7 years (since we last had a baby in our house). Maybe it's not the changes, so much as it's the increase in products. The choices these days! It makes us feel old (and sound old, too- using phrases like "these days"). We're out-of-it. Not up with the newfangled ways of the youngsters. There are

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-5743058419939337732009-08-24T19:06:00.000-05:002009-08-24T19:06:00.132-05:00

Oh my goodness, what do we have here? Could it be? I said I would post more video today, and I did. Two days in a row!This first one is Sam with his birth mother ("G") on our last day in Majuro. It was only about an hour before we had to leave. There's not much to this in the way of audio- G. is humming softly, but you can't really hear her- so this may be boring to some of you. But not to me.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-74022999525622308132009-08-23T13:45:00.007-05:002009-08-23T21:25:22.207-05:00

A few videos I've been meaning to get up... Must keep the grandmas happy, you know.The first shows why Sam is going to be the most spoiled baby on earth (and I don't care). This was taken several weeks ago, when he was just beginning to pull himself up to stand. Listen to the reaction he gets from the entire family. This kid is going to expect drumrolls and confetti for every little thing he does

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-13303657900436135882009-08-20T00:50:00.006-05:002009-08-20T01:09:12.661-05:00

The quality of this photo is horrible- sorry (Mike took it with his phone while on vacation in CA)- but if you look closely you can see Elmo and Cookie Monster (with their heads off) talking to two police officers. For those of you who read my blog solely for the Helpful Housewife Hints on how NOT to attract the attention of the police while engaging in criminal activity (and let's be honest,

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-48157452996727776102009-08-17T13:13:00.016-05:002009-08-17T15:12:42.838-05:00

Here's something I never imagined myself saying in my own bedroom: "Darrell, you are growling like a wild animal. It's scaring the baby. Can't you PUHLEEEEZE stop?" To me, the statement is pretty much self-explanatory, but just in case your mind is on a different track... Darrell snores. The baby often either starts out or winds up in our bed, sleeping between us. Make sense?Here is a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-80389794955672314152009-08-15T04:04:00.003-05:002009-08-15T04:26:37.986-05:00

My little water baby. He loves it!Braden stayed last weekend with us and lost his first tooth while here. Can you see it? He was so proud. Thankfully, the tooth fairy knew where to find him. Two days later, Bri lost a tooth and the tooth fairy (a volunteer newbie) accidentally left her 5 bucks. That's setting the bar a little high, TF. Two days after that, Olivia lost a tooth, and the crazy TF

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-36229531454544669892009-08-09T00:48:00.005-05:002011-03-25T10:17:34.145-05:00

That's going to become the title of my blog, I think. And I shall sign all my posts "Heifer." I'm fat, is what I'm indicating there. You're shocked, I know. Of course, I'm always fat, so this is not new news to any of us, and I'm really no fatter now than any other day, but some days the magnitude of the fatness seems... well... bigger. It hits me harder. I've been feeling crappier about

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-27474263467898903052009-07-31T03:56:00.004-05:002009-07-31T04:46:38.718-05:00

So, remember back when I used to come here and pose as a semi-professional writer and thrill you with adventurous tales of my exciting life? And there would be actual words written right here in this very space for you to read? And those words would be read by literally tens and ones of people on a daily basis? And remember how I would read your blogs and keep up with your lives and make

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-80486657403815892452009-06-18T23:08:00.001-05:002009-06-18T23:09:57.080-05:00

I just wanted to show off my future daughter-in-law. Isn't she precious? This is my friend Kate's daughter, Esme. Sam and Esme met in Majuro and hung out almost daily, being hauled around town together by their moms. A relationship quickly blossomed and they became engaged in the lobby of our hotel. See how they're holding hands in the pic below? We didn't make them do that. Esme reached down

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-42143780640610814782009-06-17T01:46:00.001-05:002009-06-17T02:00:08.335-05:00

*(If you haven't read or responded to yesterday's post yet, please do so. I would appreciate your input and help with my Blogger issues. Apparently, there weren't any problems commenting yesterday, but I'd still like to hear about it in the future. Thanks!)Okay, so I've been meaning to get so many different drafts published (or written), and tons of pictures uploaded, but stupid things- like life

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-13233069165917582062009-06-16T16:45:00.004-05:002009-06-16T16:56:40.260-05:00

I've heard from several regular readers who say they've had problems trying to leave comments on my blog. I'm also hearing from a few who have had trouble accessing the blog altogether. I've been trying to resolve these issues through Blogger, but haven't had much success getting to the bottom of the problem.If you are able to see this post- whether you normally comment or not, will you please do

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-8589517147372022222009-06-04T01:00:00.014-05:002011-03-25T10:18:40.086-05:00

I've been home only a week and The Question has already been asked several times. I knew it was coming, I just wasn't expecting an onslaught.Um... I was just wondering...what do you call him?We call him Sam.No, I mean, like... Is Sam Asian... or what?No, Sam is not Asian. You could call him a Pacific Islander, I guess, but he's not from an Asian country, so it wouldn't make sense to call him

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-16256240228386569512009-05-28T21:10:00.002-05:002009-05-28T21:15:08.592-05:00

Home. Safe. Exhausted. Half. Stupid. Must. Sleep. Trip- good. Baby- good. Family- good. Home- good. God- Great.Thanks for your prayers.More soon- when I can form full sentences.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-18360537459335828672009-05-26T18:02:00.004-05:002009-05-26T18:11:00.964-05:00

It's Wednesday morning here. We picked up Sam's paperwork yesterday, and we're flying out tonight at 8:00 pm. That's 3:00 am Wednesday CST for those in the U.S., so pray for us before you go to bed and when you wake up, if you happen to think of us, please! Pray both for traveling safety and for Mr. Sam's attitude on the flights. He doesn't like to be stuck sitting still for long. We know

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-20216733276848922922009-05-22T07:31:00.002-05:002009-05-22T07:36:39.757-05:00

I'm running out of Wi-Fi minutes again, but I just wanted to quickly share our good news. It looks like we may be able to come home next Wednesday. Our paperwork is on the way back and will hopefully make it here by Monday. If so, we'll pick it up on Tuesday and be able to make our originally scheduled flight on Wednesday, which will put us back at home on Thursday, May 28th!! Keep us in your

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-43088017000381478512009-05-20T03:22:00.018-05:002009-05-20T04:57:01.839-05:00

Sam's cousin, Jeremiah (the boy on the right, in the red shirt), came by tonight for a visit. He brought a friend and his ukulele, so we asked for a Marshallese song. We were blessed with two! These videos may be a little hard to hear- the boys were shy, but so sweet. Hope you enjoy them! That's Evan's smarty-pants voice you'll hear telling the boys to repeat the whole thing in English. He

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-38648997177944625572009-05-19T01:08:00.006-05:002009-05-19T01:29:11.354-05:00

Just a couple pictures today- I’m trying to save on Wi-Fi minutes and get all my photos uploaded to Flickr, instead of uploading them there, here, and attaching them to emails. I’ll put a slideshow up on the blog, then they’ll all be in one place.Obviously, I have to show one of my handsome little man, who can sit up so big and strong all by himself… until his big ole’ head tips to one side and

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-19509483695765274692009-05-10T04:38:00.000-05:002009-05-10T06:23:37.371-05:00

First, Happy Mother’s Day to all of you, especially to my mom, birth mother, and mother-in-law. As we all know, I’m no Martha Stewart, so I didn’t buy Mother’s Day cards before we left to send out to any of you. In other words, Moms, this is the only Mother’s Day acknowledgement you’re getting from us this year. No flowers. No candy. Don't sit all day staring forlornly out the window, waiting for

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-9071494513049170032009-04-30T00:00:00.005-05:002009-04-30T00:21:56.059-05:00

Sorry, I haven’t been great about posting. We keep using up our internet minutes to check email and call home on Skype. This is going to be a long, long post- since I’m going to type it in Word to save time and paste it all into one post- basically smooshing about 3-4 posts into one. I’m soooo sorry for that, but it’s the easiest way to do this. I’ll try to make them shorter from here on out. If

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-66622162435886330282009-04-25T15:30:00.011-05:002009-04-25T16:16:14.617-05:00

First views of the Marshalls, getting ready to land: Coming into the airport in Majuro: *Me with one of our traveling companions:* Me and Evan right outside the airport:Our room: The view from our balcony: View of the lagoon: First glimpse of Sam, with his foster parents: Meeting Sam: My beautiful boy: *Please note: The temperatures here are 8.5 degrees hotter than Hell. My hair is going to

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-66047820399368945642009-04-24T23:45:00.003-05:002009-04-24T23:52:49.983-05:00

We made it safe and sound. The trip was long, and a little bumpy here and there (bumpy enough to make sure you're right with the Lord, know what I'm sayin'?) We've already seen our baby- we got to visit with him for a few hours and he's just the coolest, most laid-back little dude! I'm so in love, I can hardly stand it. We didn't meet the birth mother today, but did get to meet the foster

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-47495555691701082862009-04-20T16:45:00.002-05:002009-04-20T17:32:00.132-05:00

I heard from a mom in Majuro today and she told me Sam is doing great! The foster mother is awesome and taking very good care of him. What a HUGE answer to prayer! Since the time I heard he was being fostered, I've been praying he would be in a loving home where he's happy and well-taken care of and it sounds like he is! We have to be at the airport around 5:00 am Thursday morning and I'm just

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-18848578977606821432009-04-17T17:35:00.017-05:002009-04-17T21:07:54.383-05:00

I could have titled this "We got our travel dates! Plus: An Award and a Haircut Disaster," but that's a dopey title. I didn't know how to merge three topics into one title.I received an award, for which I feel thankful and blessed, and I passed it onto my blog buds at the end of this post.Yesterday I got my hair cut short (er). It seems to be longer on one side than the other. Not a lot-

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-26421220435096205112009-04-15T23:05:00.004-05:002009-04-15T23:14:07.489-05:00

I just got an email from the agency, saying we have our court date- Monday, April 27th!! YEAH! This means we'll leave no later than next Wednesday, and possibly as early as next Monday, depending on flight availability. I can't believe the time has finally come, you guys! Is this really happening? There's an awful lot to do before next Wednesday... Crap! (in a good way)The judge has

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-60429601629900012572009-04-14T10:37:00.004-05:002009-04-14T10:57:16.298-05:00

Apparently, there is one... A schwinkle, I mean. So, Sam is a boy. Or so we're told. I still have doubts now, and I guess I'll believe it when I see it. I saw the medical report with my own two eyes and it repeatedly said *girl,* but our agency lady emailed this morning and said she verified that he is a boy. Alrighty, then... I'm taking all the boy clothes I bought, so even if he is a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-52333564828478841872009-04-12T18:18:00.004-05:002009-04-12T18:39:31.104-05:00

I am now Grandma to four! Kindra had her baby girl Friday afternoon. She weighed 7.9 and is such a little cutie! I could have sat and held her all day long, but she had quite an audience of admirers all waiting for their turns. I've never seen a hospital room so packed full of people. I really hope I can squeeze in another visit before we leave. She'll be completely different by the time we get

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-21431930457959715662009-04-08T16:17:00.012-05:002009-04-08T17:01:07.827-05:00

Apparently, there has been a tiny flub with the paperwork in the Marshall Islands. And, you understand, when I say *tiny,* I mean pretty darn big. Are you ready for this?It seems, at this point, no one can be certain if I am the mother of a boy or girl!Some of the initial paperwork from the medical report says female, and the later paperwork says male. Our agency lady says it looks like we may

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-39491383305990719902009-04-08T08:24:00.005-05:002009-04-08T08:45:19.980-05:00

That's all I have time for...There's been a problem with getting all of the BM's and baby's paperwork together (apparently they are still waiting on one or two pieces of paper), so we still do not have a court date. The attorney is pushing for April though, so we should still be leaving very soon. I have a feeling once we get our date, it's all going to happen really, really fast.I feel like I'm

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-42942208416661147232009-04-04T00:09:00.008-05:002009-04-04T23:57:14.641-05:00

I'm feeling much better since my last post. I was due for a meltdown, so I had one- and now I'm back on track. Our agency is trying to set our court date for the week of April 20th, so we could be leaving VERY SOON, as in less than 2 weeks. I've been dying to get this baby for two years, but I'm nowhere near prepared to leave VERY SOON. I think I've mentioned once or twice or twenty times that I

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-24359016778918721822009-04-02T22:11:00.019-05:002009-04-02T23:33:00.752-05:00

I ordered a gift for Sam's birthmom. It's personalized, which makes it non-returnable- obviously- and I'm already questioning my choice. It's a necklace with a sterling silver heart that looks like this except that it won't have that baby's face on it. I don't know that kid. That is a sample baby. It will have Sam's face (from his referral photo) laser engraved on one side and a message from

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-76539592836071297322009-04-01T15:28:00.006-05:002009-04-01T16:59:58.328-05:00

And he's beautiful. Huge brown eyes... big ears... lol! He's so precious. I am definitely head over heels in love. I keep going back to sneak another look at him throughout the day. I decided against posting his picture here, for now. I want to wait until he's really mine before I put his photos on this blog, but I've posted a few over on Wordpress that are password-protected. So if you have any

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-74725590839329417342009-03-31T20:56:00.007-05:002009-03-31T22:17:26.401-05:00

After 23 months, 4 weeks, and 2 days since beginning our adoption, almost two full years of blogging in 310 posts, one failed adoption attempt, and 6 months, 3 weeks and 6 days in the RMI program, I finally, FINALLY get to write the post I've been waiting all this time to write!The call came about an hour ago, and... WE HAVE A SON! I told you it would be a boy, didn't I? I knew it! He was born

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-53049139444065255862009-03-26T14:03:00.004-05:002009-03-26T14:24:04.711-05:00

we hav bcm a fmly of txtrs, much 2 my dsgust. r u 1, 2? my kids txt me all the time. i h8 2 txt! y, u ask? idk. i jst do. 4 1 thng, i h8 2 typ on a small kypd. & im 2 slow. + its obnxs. its easr just 2 talk & get it ovrwth. i h8 2 txt almst as much as i h8 FB (facebook). i sur hpe all ths txtng dosnt affct my spllng skilz or grmmr.I can't take it anymore... There. Real words. That's

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-82601376449519163882009-03-21T10:46:00.005-05:002011-03-25T10:17:34.147-05:00

This is my first year to participate in the UBP! For any first-time visitors out there, I'm Michelle and this is my blog (stating the obvious is just one of the many services I provide at And Sam Makes Seven).First, a little about myself and my family: I'm a married, Christian, stay-at-home, homeschooling mom, with six children, from almost 8 to almost 19, three grown step-children, and 3.8

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-33797315212526086472009-03-20T10:39:00.004-05:002009-03-20T11:24:11.080-05:00

Darrell broke a tooth a few weeks ago and it's been causing him a lot of pain. He went to our dentist here in town and was told he'd need a root canal (which we figured). They said they wanted to refer him to another dentist to do it. Okay, fine. They sent Darrell home with a prescription for antibiotics and painkillers, and an appointment with the new dentist that was two weeks away.

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-37848115212788918112009-03-16T13:17:00.004-05:002011-03-25T10:17:34.148-05:00

I've been eating a lot of omelets lately. I mean a lot. I ate one for breakfast this morning, and I'm craving one already again for lunch. We went out for breakfast two weeks ago, and instead of ordering french toast, or something like that, I ordered an omelet. I paid someone to make me eggs. That is mind-boggling to me. I guess I should mention that I don't like eggs. That is probably a

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-67091072262868659972009-03-13T08:16:00.000-05:002009-03-13T12:59:26.915-05:00

This is going to make my liberal friends foam at the mouth, but... that's my idea of a good time.This was also posted over on "All the News That Fits," a conservative political blog where I am one of the contributors... EXCEPT that I've never contributed anything. Not once. I'm too intimidated by the individual and collective talents and intelligence of the group of women who do contribute over

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7662209762016573627.post-33155027721859728512009-03-12T07:18:00.004-05:002009-03-12T07:42:31.520-05:00

Christina has written a post over at VVAI, titled "Not in My Adoption" ...What Price Ignorance? that I hope you will all take time to read. I can hear a few excuses starting right now. You don't have time... It only takes a minute. You didn't adopt from Vietnam... So?I don't care if you didn't adopt from Vietnam, or if your adoption is completed or any other reason you can come up with to decide

Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13035530836201765683noreply@blogger.com2