Mommy of 3

Lila

2010-08-19T12:49:00.001-05:00

Lila loves to dress up and be girly!

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First Day of Kindergarten

2010-08-19T12:36:00.001-05:00

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First day of 2nd Grade

2010-08-19T12:33:00.001-05:00

Updating from my phone is so simple!

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Levi's Kindergarten Classwork

2010-08-19T12:29:00.001-05:00

From the first day of school

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Testing

2010-08-19T12:27:00.001-05:00

It appears as if I might be able to post from my droid so there may be hope that this blog will be resurrected. We shall see. The question is, will anybody read it? And is it worth it when you see everything on facebook anyway?

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Snow Monster

2010-01-15T09:44:00.000-06:00

I know this is a random pic to start back blogging again, but I love this picture of Lila the "snow monster" compliments of brother Levi!! They LOVE playing in the tub together.....

To Blog or Not to Blog in 2010?

2010-01-02T10:54:00.004-06:00

Here's the closest thing I can get to a pic of all three kids! Enjoy!

As a delinquent blogger, I'm contemplating my blogging resolutions....I'm going to do one of two things...close the blog down completely or resolve to actually update the thing! So, I need your help! If you would actually read the thing if I updated it, please leave me a comment!

Pictures From Oklahoma

2009-03-18T22:18:00.002-05:00

Trip to Botanical Gardens

2009-02-12T11:13:00.003-06:00

As you can see, I'm still trying to figure out the new camera, but thought I'd share these anyway! I know the one of Levi is blurry, but that just shows how BUSY he is! And Lila too! Enjoy!

Friday Fun with my new Camera

2009-02-06T16:54:00.002-06:00

My princess

2009-02-04T14:10:00.002-06:00

I have SO much to learn about this new camera, but here's one shot for you to enjoy. This is Addi before school this morning! I would put up pictures of Levi and Lila, but they have been less than cooperative....Lila HATES having her picture made, but she's going to have to get over it! I want to post pictures of her new, stylish haircut! Enjoy this one for now!

Levi could be Edward Cullen

2009-02-03T12:16:00.002-06:00

Okay, for those of you who haven't been "sucked in" to the Twilight series, or you live in a cave, you may not know who Edward Cullen is. Well, if you don't know, he's the main Vampire featured in the Twilight series (I've read the first book and Rachel and I saw the movie Sunday night- I would recommend both!). ANYWAY....Don't think I've lost my mind, but there are several ways that Levi is like Edward...

1. He shows his teeth and growls at me when he's angry.
2. He's VERY sensitive to smell.
3. He's pasty white.
4. He's cold to the touch most of the time.
5. His physical appearance is flawless. He is beautiful.
6. The thought, sight, or smell of blood makes him gag, so I guess that cancels out #s 1-5......

Oh So Excited!!

2009-02-02T20:55:00.002-06:00

Okay, I shouldn't be this excited over something so materialistic, but I am! My brand new Nikon d60 will be arriving at my front door sometime tomorrow! (Barring any unforeseen interference dealing with UPS delivery!) SO....you will definitely be seeing more pictures on this blog!! I'm so excited!! I have never had a really nice camera before. Actually, I think this is the most expensive thing (besides our home and vehicles) that I've purchased for myself. Thank you, Paul!!

Happy Birthday, Paul!

2009-01-30T09:46:00.001-06:00

Happy birthday to the love of my life! Paul turns 34 today...just another year closer to 40....just kidding, Paul! We are going on an overnight date tonight for his birthday. We are staying somewhere here in town and Jasmine is coming to spend the night with the kiddos. Thanks, Jazz!

Time for a Change

2009-01-21T12:11:00.002-06:00

Just trying out a new template...time for a change. Let me know what you think! I'm also adding Twitter to my sidebar...maybe I can handle daily little one-liners better than I do my blog posts!!

Wow- he's four!!

2009-01-20T10:03:00.003-06:00

I can hardly believe that my little man is turning four today!! Four seems like such a big number!! I can remember very vividly sitting in a little holding room, getting ready to go back for my c-section with Levi, watching W. be sworn in for his second term. I looked to Paul and said, "You know the next time we swear in a new president, Levi will be four years old!" In my mind, that seemed so far away...and now here we are!!
Levi is such a blessing to me. He is also a challenge, but the blessings far outweigh the challenges!! He has been so loving the past couple of days. I love how he gets so excited over the smallest little things. He is very smart, but will rarely try anything until he knows he can do it perfectly! He is getting to be quite the little bicycle rider, already learning to ride while standing up! He's also quite the ladies' man, having two or three girlfriends at this point! We're definitely going to have to keep our eyes on him!
He loves his sisters. He gets mad at Paul and I when Addi is in trouble. He's constantly telling me what Lila needs (what ever would I do without Levi to guide my path?). :)
He just adds so much life to our family and our home. I love him so much! I can't imagine life without him!
Happy Birthday, Levi!!!
Oh yeah, I'll try to do a little catchup on everything I've missed lately, but there's just so much I'm not sure where to start. I'm sure Addi's going to give me a hard time because I did miss her birthday...bad mommy. I've just kind of been in a funk and not really in the blogging mood. Maybe this will help me get back with it!

I know, I know!

2009-01-14T12:35:00.000-06:00

I'm working on a new post....it might take a while since it's been SOOOOO long....(this post is for Rachel).

This is why you won't get a Christmas card from us this year......

2008-12-11T18:21:00.004-06:00

Listen to appropriate theme music here for Levi.

Lila's One Year Pics

2008-11-28T16:03:00.005-06:00

I was a little behind in getting Lila's one year pictures made, but they are worth the wait (at least in mommy's opinion!)!!! Enjoy!! Let me know which pose you like the best (especially family so I know which one you want!)!!!

So much to be thankful for

2008-11-26T19:49:00.004-06:00

Well, I'm back! I couldn't let Thanksgiving go without a post. I have so much this year to be thankful for. This always seems like a time to reflect on the past year and be thankful for all the blessings God has given us. I have been blessed beyond measure. This time last year we were just getting to know sweet baby Lila. Now she is such an integral part of our family and such a joy to be around. She has grown so fast!! After Levi was born, I thought our family was complete. After much thought and many prayers, Paul and I decided we wanted another baby. This is one decision we will never regret! Lila is so sweet and so full of life!!!
Addi and Levi have grown so much this year continue to bring such joy to us. I am so thankful for their life, health, and happiness. I don't know what my life would be like without my children, but I know it wouldn't be the same! I'm so thankful for God giving me the opportunity to be a mom.
I am so thankful for such a loving husband. He is such a constant in my life. I don't know what I would do without him. He is such a big help to me. He always has my best interest at heart. I'm thankful for him every day.
I am also thankful for my parents and my in-laws. I am thankful for my brothers and their wives. I am thankful for my sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law on Paul's side. I'm thankful for Hannah. I am thankful for all my nieces and nephews (even the ones I haven't met yet!). I'm thankful for Jasmine, Alex, Billy, and Mary. I am thankful for all of my family. I am thankful for good Christian friends. If you are reading this blog, rest assured, I am thankful for you!
If I listed everything I am thankful for, I would still be here typing next Thanksgiving! I hope you all count your blessings on this day and every day. Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Not in a blogging mood....

2008-11-15T23:30:00.003-06:00

I know I'm behind on my blogging, but I'll be back when I feel like it. Please continue to remember Josh and Katie in your prayers, as well as the rest of us that have been so touched by this little soul's short life.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2008-10-28T14:06:00.003-05:00

Well, today is the day. The day I leave my twenties behind and start a new decade of my life. I really don't feel any older than I did yesterday! Today has been one of those days that has been a roller coaster of good and bad emotions. I was in the car and the song "Blessed" by Martina McBride came on and it almost made me cry (which I never cry at songs). I just got to thinking of how blessed I really am. There's no way I could count my blessings or think to mention them all here. I just want my family and friends to know what blessings they are to me.
Daniel took me to eat lunch at Shanghai (my choice) today. It was good. Levi behaved pretty well (at least until Daniel got him all riled up) so it was enjoyable. Thanks, Daniel!

Rachel called early this morning to let me know that her grandfather had passed very early this morning, a little after 1 a.m. Please remember her and her family in your prayers. Rachel is like the sister I never had and I hurt when she hurts.

Mary made it through her biopsy this morning and we should know something later this afternoon. I am so worried for her that I can hardly imagine any kind of celebration today. I want more than anything in this world for her to be okay. Please, please, please continue to pray for her. I know that whatever her results may be that Mary can and will overcome this. I just want this to be a small hurdle and not another large one for her to have to jump.

Mary

2008-10-18T09:43:00.003-05:00

Okay, first let me say, I know Mary may kill me for posting this picture, but I'm posting it anyway. I think I could outrun her at this point, considering she just had major surgery and still has 70 staples! :)
I haven't posted much about Mary's transplant and all that has happened since. Partially because I've been so busy and partially because I get so emotional about it. I chose this picture because Mary certainly has been ferocious like a tiger!! She is such an amazing person and I love her so much. She has been a "poster child" for transplant patients. She was off her ventilator within 3 hours of surgery and home less than 6 days later!!! She is still in pain, but her itching is GONE!! I'm so happy for her. The doctors are still playing with her medicine, trying to get the right dose for her. This could take a while, but is all normal. She is not going to rest like she's supposed to. I called Thursday to check on her and she was visiting her neighbor! Come on, Mary!! Take it easy!! I took them supper last night and then she proceeds to try to wash the dishes with me standing right there. Needless to say, I stopped her! I'm not by any means implying that this ordeal has been easy. It certainly has not, but Mary has been a real trooper!!
Mary still needs prayers that she stays free of illness and infection. Don't stop praying for her.
Mary, you are such and amazing woman and I love you!!!

Happy Birthday, My Sweet Lila!!

2008-10-12T20:59:00.004-05:00

I'm pretty worn out and will update more later, but I couldn't let the day pass without blogging a special happy birthday to my Lila! Just because she is the third child, she is just as special as the first and second! She adds so much life to our house and she is the sweetest baby I have ever seen!! I still look at her today and she melts my heart even more than she did one year ago today. I can't believe she is one year old!!!

Transplant Time

2008-10-08T15:35:00.000-05:00

For those that may not know, Mary got her transplant call this afternoon. She has to be at UAB by 4 p.m. for admission for the transplant in the morning. Please pray that all goes well. I'll try to update when I have more info.

Busy bees....

2008-10-06T17:29:00.002-05:00

First of all, let me just say, "I'M GOING TO BE AN AUNT AGAIN!!!" Yippee!!!! Josh and Katie told us yesterday that they will be expecting baby #2 sometime in June. We are super excited!!! Hannah has brought so much happiness and life to our family and I know this baby will too.
We are busy as ever with soccer, fall softball, school, and church. Sometimes it just seems like life is flying by. It's hard to believe our sweet Lila will be one year old on Sunday!!! We are having her birthday party at the church fellowship hall to help with crowd control. She is growing up so fast. Her hair is growing faster than she is! She is also going on three days without a bottle and walking! She is changing so fast!! Anyway, I'll write more about all that on her birthday!
Have a great week everybody!

Levi's Trip to the Emergency Room

2008-09-28T21:30:00.003-05:00

We went to Addi's Fall Ball softball game today. Levi was playing on the playground. I looked behind me to see Levi fall from the jungle gym/monkey bar thingy straight onto his head! My first thought: OH NO! He's going to be paralyzed!! I was fine once I saw him get up and start crying for me. Then I noticed the blood gushing from his head. So off to Children's we went. Two hours and two stitches later, he's fine. He was a real trooper and didn't even get anything to numb the area while they stitched him up! The above picture is out in our yard today before the incident...isn't he cute? The following pictures are from our trip to the ER. I had my camera with me at the ballpark so I took it with me.

All my girls

2008-09-19T20:22:00.001-05:00

All my girls except for Hannah....

Picture from my Phone

2008-09-19T19:12:00.002-05:00

This is definitely experimental. I've uploaded a few pictures from my phone to my facebook and now I'm going to post this one here. I know it won't be the best quality, but might make it easier for me to keep more recent pictures of the kids on here! Here is a picture of Levi and Lila riding in the car buggy in Publix, their favorite place to shop!

Lunch with Levi

2008-09-18T11:09:00.001-05:00

Me: "Levi, what do you want for lunch today? Would you like a hot dog?"
Levi: "No!"
Me: "Would you like some shrimp?"
Levi: "Yes, the orange and white kind." (Meaning cold, peel and eat shrimp)
Me: "Levi, I don't have that kind, but I have some breaded ones I can bake."
Levi: "I don't want that!!!!"
Me: "Well, what do you want Levi?"
Levi: "I want some Cookie DOUGH!!!!!"

Oh my, why did I even ask????

Finally some pictures!

2008-09-16T17:38:00.003-05:00

Here are some pictures of the kids from the last month or so. Paul finally got the computer rebooted and I finally got the printer driver installed correctly so we can upload pictures that way.
In other news, we are doing well. We've had another battle with the evil MRSA bug. Lila had an abscess on her thigh, but luckily it responded quickly to the antibiotics and she is much better. I can't believe she is 11 months old!!! She weighed 22 pounds 9 ounces when she saw the doctor last week. She is getting so big and talking all the time. She called Alex and Hannah by name this week! Anyway, enough for now. Enjoy the pictures!!

Levi wearing Addi's pajama pants

Levi as "Underwear Man"

Lila lovin' Broccoli and Cheese Rice

Lila's Bad Hair Day!

Addi at the Butterbean Festival

Much Needed Update

2008-09-08T09:59:00.002-05:00

Things are going well in the Kelsey household. Addi is enjoying school and still calls it "The greatest place on earth." She was chosen as student of the month for her class this month!! I will get to go in the morning and have a special breakfast with her to celebrate.
Addi sold 26 tubs of cookie dough, enough to get to go in the Hummer Limousine to Pizza Hut for lunch one day! She also had her named pulled in a drawing and will get to spin the money wheel soon!
Levi is enjoying school too. He loves his teacher and is learning some things. He will get to go to Children's Theater starting in October and I think he'll enjoy that. He is doing GREAT going to the potty now. He finally caught on! He doesn't even wear a pull-up at night anymore!
Lila is growing like a weed!! She has TEN teeth now! She has two of her molars already! She has taken a couple of steps here and there and I think will be walking before her first birthday (something not accomplished by her sister or brother). She has also found her voice! Man, oh man, has she found her voice! She used it rather loudly in church yesterday. Her favorite word is "Addi!" and she says it with great enthusiasm about 200 times a day!
Thanks to early Christmas presents from Grammy and PaPa in Oklahoma, Levi is getting a new dresser tomorrow and Addi will be getting a new mattress this week. They are both excited! Never knew a 5 year old would be excited over a mattress, but she complains that hers isn't comfortable all the time!
Paul and I broke down and bought a new dryer. Even after we had ours fixed, it's still ruining about one piece of clothing in every load. The clothing gets stuck in the edge and leaves a brown mark that can't be removed. It will be delivered tomorrow with Levi's dresser. It will be nice to be able to dry clothes without having to put it in a mesh bag.
Paul and I are going to see Dave Ramsey in Atlanta on Saturday. We're looking forward to it. Mom is going to keep the kiddos for us.
We had a GREAT, FANTASTIC, MARVELOUS Ladies' Day this past Saturday at Sylvan Springs. If you are a lady and didn't come, you missed out! Thanks to all the girls who did so much work to get this task accomplished, especially Rachel. And of course, Rachel's mom did an excellent job speaking. Addi got to lead two songs and was as adorable as ever.
Soccer is going well, but Levi won't play. He whines and it's not worth it to make him even go on the field.
Addi is loving Paul being their coach. They played a practice game. Our team only had 4 players and the other team had 7 and we held them 1-0. Not bad!
Addi is also going to be playing fall softball this year. It's more of an instructional league and they'll have practice games on Sunday afternoons.
Addi is also going to be in the school beauty pageant on November 8th. Addi is turning into quite the busy little bee! And enjoying every minute of it!
I better go for now. I'll try to get pictures up soon. Our computer is no longer recognizing our camera so I can't do it at home. It doesn't recognize the printer any more either and apparently now won't recognize the disk to reformat the hard drive.

September 2, 2008

2008-09-02T06:42:00.002-05:00

Hi Everybody! Not a whole lot is going on in the Kelsey household. We went to Parrish yesterday to clean out MaMa and PaPa's house. It is under contract and the closing is supposed to be sometime this month. We worked all day and got the dining room set moved to my house! Thanks, Mom and Dad! Because of Medicaid, etc......Mom and Dad bought it for me for my birthday that's coming up in October. As I mentioned before, I'll be the big 3-0. Ick.
The new dining room suite looks good in my dining room. I still have to get everything squared away and put where it goes, but I think I'm going to be very happy with it. It's not the most beautiful set you've ever seen, but it reminds me of the many family dinners we all had together at my grandparents. It was kind of sad having to go through all the stuff in their house, but it's just a reminder that stuff is JUST stuff! You can't take it with you and you might not even get to keep it while you're alive.

I joined the gym. I met Jazz there this morning at 5 a.m.!!! We both decided we would have to meet each other there at night because this early bird stuff is NOT for us! You'll notice I put a new weight loss ticker on my sidebar. No, I'm not delusional in thinking I only have 30 pounds to lose, but I'm starting with attainable goals and I'll work my way up (or down?)! After working out this morning and all the moving of furniture that took place yesterday, I may not be able to move tomorrow!

Thought for the day: Cherish the moments and forget the stuff.
Have a good one!

Levi's Latest Obsession

2008-08-28T10:14:00.002-05:00

Levi found this bicycle while online shopping with me on Amazon.com (my favorite place to shop online!) and now he wants to look at it EVERY day!! I guess Santa may have to bring it!! They also have a cool Thomas helmet and knee pads! I think both of the kids may get bikes this year for Christmas.
I know Christmas is a good 4 months away, but it is that time of year where I start thinking towards what I'm going to get the kids and others on our Christmas list. I also can't help but think of my own "wish" items! Although I probably won't be getting one, I have had my eye on an iPod Nano...but I'd rather spend the money on the kids!! And my birthday is coming up (too soon to turn the big 3-0.) and I'm getting a gym membership from my hubby and kiddos. I'm looking forward to that! Enough of this random post....
Have a great Labor Day weekend!!!

Happy 2nd Birthday Hannah-boo!!

2008-08-23T10:42:00.000-05:00

Happy 2nd Birthday, Hannah Elizabeth Courington!!!

I can't believe it's been that long!! Hannah is such a precious and beautiful little girl and I love her with all of my heart! She is growing so fast and is so smart! I love the way she runs up to me and gives the best hugs! And I love the way she wants to go with me when I leave. She'll say, "I'm gonna go with you, Kim." I love how she doesn't phrase it as a question, but as a statement of fact. Maybe she's a little too smart sometimes! Maybe I'll post some birthday party pics later. Happy Birthday, Hannah and always remember Aunt Kim loves you!

Addi's Sunday Afternoon Quote

2008-08-17T15:52:00.002-05:00

"The Bible says if you don't spank your kids they'll turn into little brats."
Seeing that I don't use the B word (my most hated word in the English language) I wonder where she heard this? Even though her wording is a little off, she gets the idea. This quote was directed to Levi after he asked, "How come mommys get to spank kids?"

Addi's First Day of Kindergarten!!!

2008-08-13T08:16:00.003-05:00

I just dropped Addi off at school!!!! I went in with her to make sure she got everything put away and settled in. After about 2 minutes she looked at me and said, "Mommy, I'm ready for you to leave now." I guess I was cramping her style!! I was proud for her. She was so excited and neither one of us shed a tear!! I hope she has a great day! I'll update more on that later!

Levi Goes to Preschool

2008-08-11T12:32:00.003-05:00

I'm happy to report Levi had a great first day at Mrs. Leigh's Preschool!!! When I dropped him off he just said "Bye Mommy!" When I came to pick him up he said, "I'm ready to go home now!" But then in the car on the way home he said, "I'm ready to go back to preschool! Can we go now?"
Mrs. Leigh said Levi had a really good day!!

17 days until kindergarten

2008-07-27T16:39:00.004-05:00

Just for fun...here are Paul's and my kindergarten pictures!

As the day that Addi goes to big girl school approaches, I can only help but wonder if my mom and Genie felt so sad when it was time for Paul and I to go to school?
On another note, we have decided to send Levi to K3 3 days a week. We think it will be good for him to be around some other kids his age and to learn some things too! He will be going Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from nine until noon. Life in the Kelsey house will never be the same..

The Beach, Club Libby Lu, and Levi's New Sheets

2008-07-22T12:42:00.006-05:00

I'm finally getting around to posting some pictures!! I know I'm behind, but I promise I'll try to do better now that our internet is fixed. Please comment to let me know you're stopping by! Hope you enjoy!

Lila enjoying the Beach

Addi striking a pose

Levi loved the sand and water!

Addi got to go to Club Libby Lu for a Libby Du Makeover. This was a special treat for going to bed early the last few weeks in her own room and in celebration of going to Kindergarten in a few weeks!

Levi enjoying his new Thomas sheets! Thanks, Granna!

I know this is ridiculous!!!

2008-07-19T10:23:00.002-05:00

I know it's been a WHILE! Here I am in need of bullet blogging again. For some reason, I just haven't been overly motivated to blog. Sometimes I wonder if anyone besides my mom and Paul are even reading this and they already know everything that I'm putting on here! Anyway, here goes:

We had a GREAT week at ICYC!
Followed by a GREAT week in Branson with the Kelsey side of the family. It was nice to spend some time with all of Paul's family. We spent 4 days at theme parks- two at Silver Dollar City and two at Celebration City. Addi is a little daredevil and would ride anything they would let her ride because of her height. She was upset that she couldn't ride one of the roller coasters that turned you completely upside down!! Levi liked all the rides too. We also got to go to the Dixie Stampede which was awesome as usual! Levi was a little ill about having to go (should have left him at home), but it was still fun. Thanks again, Charles and Genie, for the wonderful trip!!
Then we had one week at home. We enjoyed a nice July 4th at my parent's house with family. Leslie was visiting from California so Addi was super excited about that!
We left on July 5th and spent a week on vacation with my family in Ft. Morgan, AL. It was great too! The kids had never been to the beach and they loved it!! We did some school clothes shopping for Addi (Thanks, Granna!) too. We ate at Lambert's, home of the throwed rolls, and it was delicious. Thanks Mom and Dad for everything!
I took Lila to the dr. Monday morning. She was scheduled for her 9 month checkup (I can't believe she's that old!), but she was running a fever so we had to postpone the well baby visit for another time. She had an ear infection (I could have told him that before he even looked at her), sinus infection, and a pussy throat...poor baby. She weighed 20 pounds, 4 ounces and was 27 3/4 inches long. She is getting so big!! I looked into the video monitor yesterday morning and she was standing up holding onto the rails (needless to say, Paul spent half the morning lowering her mattress!). She is also getting quite the personality and is not so happy being left alone any more. She also thinks she is quite the comedian!
Levi is still working on his potty training. He has made major progress but still has some work to do. He seems like he's grown two feet in just a couple of months!
Addi is so excited about Kindergarten! She goes on August 13th for her first day of big girl school. She has tons of new clothes and is certain to be quite the fashionista. She already thinks she has Billy lined up to come early on that first morning to do her hair (like he did mine on my first day of K). I have to admit it makes me a little sad. I always said I wouldn't be "one of those crying moms" on the first day, but now I'm not so sure! I know it's time for her to go onto this next step, but I'm going to miss her being here every day, all day!
I haven't done well on my dieting throughout all these vacations and just summer in general...so I'm back with it as of today...pray for me!
I guess that's all for now. I'll try to get some pictures up of the kids soon!

Much Needed Update

2008-06-12T11:42:00.002-05:00

Where do I start????? I'm so behind that I don't even know what to post first!!!!

First of all, Paul and I had a good anniversary- we went to Addi's last ballgame of the season. I'm kind of sad ball is over, but the next few weeks are going to be so busy we probably won't miss it!
We had a celebration last Sunday for Mom and Dad in honor of their 30 year anniversary at the church at Sylvan Springs (formerly Maytown). I think they were really surprised!!! Especially since I think I got the dates wrong and the date is actually in July (that means dad had to be hired in June, right?). Oh well, I think they enjoyed it just the same. Everyone pitched in and we got them a plaque and a new lamp post for their front yard.
We had a very nice VBS last week and the kids loved it!
Hannah spent the night with us Thursday night and she is a true Courington girl- a night owl! Even though she stayed up 'til almost 1 a.m. we really enjoyed her visit! She is so sweet and I love her so much!!!
Both of our vans went kaput so we broke down and bought a new vehicle! Yippee!!!! We bought a used 2008 Chevrolet Uplander minivan with only 8000 miles on it. Paul did a good job bargaining and I'm proud of him! We've only had it two days, but I LOVE it!
Some of these bullets may be out of order, but I'm so behind I can't keep up!
We went last Friday night to Free Friday Flicks to see Bee Movie and we enjoyed that a lot! Jasmine, Alex, the McCuistons, Joseph, Pam, Xander, and Sarah R. went and it was lovely. Lila slept through it and Levi was pretty well behaved. He sat in Ryan's lap with his new friend Ian for the last part of the movie. We may go again Friday.
Now to our most recent "adventure." I was going back to the after hours clinic yesterday because my throat is still hurting. But when I was about half way there, Paul called me and said I needed to come home. Somehow (sigh), Lila fell off my bed and hit her head on the floor! She didn't lose consciousness but she did have a bump and I felt like we needed to have it checked out. So off to Children's Hospital ER. Long story short, she had some soft tissue swelling (aka a bump) and she is fine. It was scary because I wasn't here when it happened to see that she was okay. She was a real trooper and only cried when we had to hold her perfectly still for the cat scan.
I did finally make it to the doctor myself at about ten o'clock last night and got another shot and some allergy medicine. I went to CVS at Greensprings to get my prescriptions filled so I could go ahead and start them and it was after midnight when I left the pharmacy. (In hindsight, I should have just waited until today).
Lila is growing like a weed!!! She weighs over 18 pounds now and has 5 (almost 6) teeth!!! She is still the sweetest baby I have ever known!
Levi is almost potty-trained!!!! YIPPEE!!! He still has the occasional accident, but for the most part is really doing well!
Addi is- well, she's Addi!! She's really excited about all of our upcoming trips! She is also about to lose one of her top teeth! It's so lose it's hanging lower than the tooth next to it! She may swallow it in her sleep! I guess the tooth fairy better keep some cash on hand!
We leave Sunday to go to Indian Creek Youth Camp for the week! I am excited, but I have a TON of stuff to do and pack for all five of us to go! And it looks like I'm going to be in a cabin for the first time in a while!
The mailing address to send the kids some mail is:
ICYC

c/o Campers Name

7855 Pleasantfield Road

Oakman, AL 35579
We get back from camp next Friday and then on Saturday we head to Branson, Missouri for a family vacation with Paul's family! We are excited about that too! This may be my last post for a while....but keep checking back...hopefully I'll have some pictures from all the latest events later!!!

Caption This

2008-06-03T00:08:00.001-05:00

10 Years and 3 Kids Later.....

2008-05-30T15:50:00.003-05:00

I would do it all over again! Paul and I have been married 10 years today. It's hard to believe it has been that long! Every day of the past ten years has not been easy, but the joys that the past ten years have brought me have been overwhelming in a lot of ways. Paul is my best friend, my protector, and my soulmate. I don't know if I could ever tell him enough how much I love him or how proud of him I am. I am so blessed to be married to the most patient and kind man I have ever known.
Since my blogging has been kind of lacking lately, I also failed to report that Paul was installed as a deacon at church last Sunday. I have never been more proud of him. He already works so hard in the work he does for the church and now he will have even more responsibility.
Paul, I love you!
And one more thing- he scored some major points for the beautiful anniversary ring!

Pictures of My Girls

2008-05-29T14:07:00.002-05:00

Bathroom Remodel

2008-05-24T12:56:00.002-05:00

Here are a few pictures of our recent bathroom remodel. No more pink bathroom!

Early Mother's Day

2008-05-10T11:29:00.002-05:00

Wow...where do I start? I've always bought my mom a gift, or at least a card on Mother's Day since I was a little kid. Even though the day never went without a "Happy Mother's Day" sentiment, I never knew the true meaning of Mother's day until I had my own children. To me, every day is Mother's Day, because that's what I am...every day- a mother. I have been blessed beyond measure with many great examples of godly mothers. My own mother is the epitome of a great mom. Her sacrifice for us through the years could never be measured in dollars and cents. Her love and dedication to her children and grandchildren are priceless. I can only hope that I can be as good of a mom to my children as she has been to me. I love you Mom, and Happy Mother's Day!!
I couldn't let this day go by without acknowledging the other mothers in my life. I have been truly blessed with a mother-in-law that has welcomed me into the family as if I were her daughter. She is one of the most generous people that I know. Most importantly, I am indebted to her for giving birth to and raising the love of my life and my best friend. I love you Genie, and thanks for everything you do for us!!
I was blessed with two of the most loving and giving grandmothers possible. My MaMa Melton has been gone for almost 10 years now and I can't help but think sometimes about how proud she would have been of my children. I know she would have taken just as much pride in them as she did in me. I miss her and think of her often.
And then there's MaMa Courington. Although still with us, she is now quite different from the mama that I knew as a child. She is unable to go and do like she once did. I don't know how many hours I spent at her house as a child, but all of them were filled with love. From cooking, to puppet shows, to taking a drive in the country, it was always fun. And she always wanted to do whatever made us happy. Isn't that what grandmothers are for?
I have been blessed beyond measure by the "mothers" in my life. Happy Mother's Day to all you mothers out there!!

Monday Madness

2008-04-28T15:33:00.003-05:00

Lila enjoying Wednesday night Bible Class

Addi jumping at Fun Factory

Levi at Fun Factory

Hi Everyone! I don't have anything pressing to update about, but a lot has happened since I last seriously blogged! Lila V. has two teeth now!!! They came in within two days of each other with minimal fussing. She is growing up so fast!!! She LOVES eating the little puffs now and even got one in her mouth by herself today! She is becoming much more aware of everything going on around her and is becoming a Mommy's girl!!! :-) She is also babbling...a LOT...I guess she gets that from her Mommy and big sister! She says, "babababababa" and "lalalalalala" and "mamamamama" all day!
We had a nice visit this past weekend with Paul's sister, Lori, and her husband, Luke, and little boy, Andrew. Addi and Levi really enjoyed getting to spend some playtime with cousin Andrew. They went to Fun Factory, the zoo, and even got to swim at the hotel where they stayed!

Levi And His Blanket

2008-04-17T10:43:00.003-05:00

Most of you know this, but Levi LOVES his blanket. We have finally gotten rid of his "baby cup" but his blanket is still his best friend. He was wrapped up in it watching tv yesterday and I couldn't resist snapping this shot. Enjoy!

Two posts in one night....

2008-04-14T23:56:00.003-05:00

I just couldn't get everything I wanted tonight into one post, so here goes another! The Firecrackers pulled out their first win tonight.....and guess who hit in the winning run?....yes, that would be #5- ADDI KELSEY!!! Woo hoo! She went 3 for 3 batting tonight and the coach even gave her the game ball!!!!
We are making up Friday night's game tomorrow night (Tuesday) at 7:30, so if anyone wants to brave the FREEZING weather, come on out!!
Tomorrow Addi registers for Kindergarten (little sniffle from Mommy).

The Big 6....months that is...

2008-04-14T23:44:00.005-05:00

I just can't believe our sweet Lila is six months old!!! I'm a couple of days late on this post- she turned six months old on Saturday! I waited until today because she had her six month checkup this morning. She weighed 15 pounds 12 ounces and is 25 inches long. She is in the 50 percentile for weight and 40-45 for height. Her overall health is great. Dr. Smith says she definitely has some allergies, but he is trying to hold off a few months before putting her on daily medication. As you can see in one of the pictures above, her nose runs A LOT! Bless her heart, but she doesn't fuss about it.
For those of you that are around Lila much, I don't have to tell you what a great baby she is. She has exceeded any expectations or visions I had of what she would be like. She is so laid back and happy. She never fusses unless there's something really wrong, which is not very often. I think any parent would be proud to claim her! I just love her so much!!! At times having three kids can be a little overwhelming, but I just can't imagine life without Lila!
The first picture above is of Lila in her bouncer, which she LOVES!!!!! This is where she spends the majority of her day! She bounces, bounces, bounces, and then bounces some more! Unfortunately, her bouncing is getting so vigorous that her head is nearing the floor, so the bouncing stage is almost over! She also loves her swing and her excersaucer, but not as much as the bouncer. It's her favorite!
Lila is a healthy little eater, loving her vegetables and REALLY loving fruits. Today she started on meats (yuck in baby food form). She had chicken and pears which she seemed to like pretty well. She also loves her bottle and holds it well on her own now. She also loves her paci! Addi and Levi never cared much for theirs, so this is her special thing! She wants it all the time and has mastered getting it back in her mouth on her own now. She still isn't quite sitting on her own, but that will come in her own time.
Well, that's all for now. I'm going to try to print up this post to go in her baby book, so if you like, leave her a comment!

No more suffering....

2008-04-09T09:56:00.004-05:00

Sister Betty Garrison passed away very early this morning. She was loved by many and will be missed by many. I haven't always visited like I should, but Betty, or "grandmother," as most call her, was special to me.

One of my fondest memories of Betty comes from elementary school. On more than one occasion, she dressed like a fortune teller for the fall festival and handed out those little red floppy fish. If you've never seen one, you don't know what I'm talking about. But Betty was dressed with a bandana, tons of gaudy jewelry and her own crystal ball. I knew it was Betty, but I had to get my fortune told anyway (you had to get your fortune told to get the fish)....I don't remember today what she said, but I'm sure she had more insight into my own fortune than many of the kids that were only strangers to her.

Of more recently, I'll never forget what she told me when I took Levi to see her a while back. "Well, you can't expect a little boy to act like a grown man." This was in reference to Levi's behavior at church and some of the comments made by some of her own generation. Because of her illness, she never had the opportunity to sit in church while Levi was screaming, which might have given her a little different take on this, but it still made me feel better!

I'm sure Mrs. Betty is doing one of the things she loves most today-singing in heaven. Please remember her family in the coming days as they say their goodbyes and deal with this loss.

I thought this was funny....

2008-04-08T19:27:00.003-05:00

I don't usually post anything other than stuff going on in the Kelsey household, but I saw this in "Parenting" magazine and it struck me as funny. Enjoy!

"4 ways kids are like Peeps"
1. They're sweet, though almost always a bit sticky.
2. You can give them a little squeeze if they're yours- but not if they're a stranger's.
3. They're a known cause of stubborn belly overhang.
4. (this is my favorite) It can be hard to stop at one, but after two or three, the mere thought of having another may make you queasy.

Addi's Softball Schedule

2008-04-04T11:04:00.002-05:00

I'm posting Addi's schedule so everyone will know when her games are. EVERYONE is invited to come watch as she loves having a large cheering section! Go Firecrackers!!!
Monday, April 7th 6 p.m.
Friday, April 11th 7:30 p.m.
Monday, April 14th 6 p.m.
Friday, April 18th 7:30 p.m.
Monday, April 21st 6 p.m.
Tuesday, April 22nd 6 p.m.
Thursday, May 1st 6 p.m.
Friday, May 2nd 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 8th 7:30 p.m.
Friday, May 9th 6 p.m.
Monday, May 12th 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 15th 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 20th 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 22nd 6 p.m. *may be rescheduled due to graduation??
Thursday, May 29th 6 p.m.
Friday, May 30th 6 p.m.

Infections, Infections, Everywhere!!!!

2008-03-30T22:56:00.002-05:00

AHHHHHHH!!!!! The Kelsey household has had it's fair share of sicknesses and dr.'s visits this past week!!!! As previously blogged, I have a staph infection in my leg which required one initial and two follow up visits. It does seem better, but I basically still have a hole in my leg. I still have several days of antibiotics, so hopefully it will heal quickly!
Friday at ball practice, Addi said she didn't feel well. It went downhill from there with complaints of a headache, her eyes hurting, throat hurting, etc., etc. I took her to the After Hours Clinic last night and she has a sinus infection. She got started on her antibiotics last night and already seems much better.
Now on to Lila. Lila has had a snotty nose and cough for a couple of days. Today it seemed worse and she had no voice at all. When she would cry, no sound was coming out...SO, ANOTHER trip to the handy After Hours Clinic. She has an upper respiratory infection. In case anyone's interested (Tina), she weighed 15 pounds 1.5 ounces today! Big girl!! Started antibiotics today as well.....Thanks Publix, for the FREE Amoxicillin!! Yea Publix!
Wow, what a week.

Lads Pictures!

2008-03-29T11:48:00.005-05:00

Blogging by Bullets...Again!!

2008-03-28T11:06:00.003-05:00

Well, a LOT has happened since my last post- probably so much I won't remember to tell all of it! But here goes! I will try to get some pictures up sometime this weekend of everything that's been going on!
After Addi had the flu, Levi was blessed with the curse as well. He was just as pitiful, but we made it through.
We had a great gospel meeting with Clark Sims, but Paul and I missed a lot if it, having to stay home with sick kids.
Luckily, Paul, Lila, and myself were spared.
Addi is having a BLAST playing softball for the "Firecrackers!" We haven't started games yet, but I'll post a game schedule when I get one.
I took Levi to Playhouse Disney Live and he had a great time!!!
Lila has learned to "talk" and babbles about 75% of the time now! She also has become an expert and putting her pacifier back in her mouth (the right way) which is a great help! However, she has also decided she likes to eat at 3 a.m. and 7 a.m. again! Whew...I thought we were through with restless nights, but I guess not!
We took a group of 57 to the Lads to Leaders Convention in Nashville and had a hugely successful weekend!! I got a little stressed when all but one of our rooms had only one King size bed in them, but most everyone just laughed it off and made it work! Thanks!
Well, now to the past few days---- I have an abscess on my leg that appears to be another staph infection. I haven't heard the final lab report yet. It has been very painful. I've had to go to the dr. every day for the past 3 days. Thanks to Rachel for taking me the past two nights. And to Jazz who came and watched the kids yesterday morning so I could sleep. And to mom and dad for keeping Lila last night! And to all of you for your prayers!!! (This list could go on and on). I am feeling some better today and hopeful about this.
I guess that about sums it up....I'll try to post pics of Lads and Playhouse Disney later. Have a great weekend!!!

Flu

2008-03-09T19:51:00.001-05:00

I don't have time for a long post- just wanted to let everyone know Addi has the flu. She has been pitiful, but seems to be doing some better. Pray for us that we don't pass this to everyone in and outside our family, especially Lila!

Introducing....

2008-02-26T23:35:00.000-06:00

Addi Tells All!!!!

The Sweetest Words I've Ever Heard

2008-02-26T22:57:00.002-06:00

Tonight, as I was putting Levi's shoes on to take him to McDonalds, he says, out of nowhere, "Mommy, I wuv you." He's said this many times before, but mostly always after I say, "I love you, Levi." For some reason, tonight it just hit me as the sweetest thing I've ever heard. Levi can be the sweetest little guy to be such a stinker!!

Cartoon

2008-02-25T23:56:00.001-06:00

I'm posting this cartoon for someone.....and they know who they are....

Weight Loss Sponsors???

2008-02-21T15:59:00.002-06:00

I've been considering the idea of either starting a weight loss blog (or just using this blog) to get people to sponsor my weight loss to give me some motivation. I gained 3 pounds at last weeks WW weigh in and I'm not sure tonight will be much better. I wonder if I just put it out there on the WWW if I would be a little more motivated to get MOVIN'! There was a lady on Rachael Ray that had people sponsor her, five pounds at a time...they offered her incentives, but more importantly they were her cheering section, motivator, for that five pounds. She had lost over 150 pounds! What do all my blog readers think??? Could I get enough people to sponsor me? Do I have the guts to post my weight on here (like you don't know I'm fat)???? If it's not in print, it's not true, right???
Please let me know what you all think????

Under Construction...

2008-02-19T11:14:00.003-06:00

As you can see, the blog is currently under a little construction- Thanks to Paul winning a contest at See my Designs by Shauna! Thanks so much, Shauna, for the new look! I still have to get my links and blinkies and everything loaded back up! Let me know what you think about the new look!

My heart has been extremely heavy the past couple of days. I finally got to go up to the hospital to see MaMa on Sunday. I have never seen anyone more pitiful in my entire life. I went back to see her yesterday and she was worse, if that is even possible. The feeling of helplessness that I feel when I'm there is so overwhelming. I want to do something for her, as I know the rest of my family does as well, but there's nothing that can be done. The doctors are working to try to find out what is going on physically as she has some kind of infection. As a family, all we can do is cry on each other's shoulders and pray, pray that this suffering doesn't continue. Please continue to remember us all in your prayers.

In happier news, Josh finished laying the tile in my kitchen yesterday. It looks great so far! He will come back some time in the next few days to finish it by filling in the grout. I can't thank him enough for volunteering his talent and hard work to do this for us! It's nice to have a handy brother!

What would we do without family in times like these???

Kiddo updates

2008-02-15T11:33:00.002-06:00

Lila went to the dr. Wednesday for her four month checkup. She weighs 13 pounds, 7 ounces and is 22 1/2 inches long. She is healthy as can be!

Yesterday, I was trying to get Addi to pick up in the living room (a mess she made on her own). After telling her SEVERAL times very nicely to pick up I was starting to get aggravated. I finally said, "No more tv until this room is picked up!" To which Addi replied, "Why are you trying to be like Mrs. Hannigan?!?" UGH!!!

This morning, Levi was picking his nose....he puts it in his mouth! I say, "Levi! Don't do that! That is yucky!!!!!!" To which he replies, "That's not lucky (his word for yucky), it's DELICIOUS!!!"

Quick Update

2008-02-12T21:48:00.002-06:00

Lila is 4 months old today!!!! I can't believe it! Where has the time gone? I'll update more tomorrow on her stats, etc. She goes to the pediatrician in the morning.
I'm going to be an aunt again!!! Congratulations Luke and Lori! And big brother Andrew too of course!
Paul's cousin's husband was on Deal or No Deal last night and the rest of his episode will be on tomorrow night. Who thinks he won the million???
My MaMa Courington is not doing well. Please keep her in your prayers.
Also please continue to pray for Mary as she waits for her liver transplant.
In good news, Josh is going to work on our kitchen floor soon to repair the water damage done by the stupid dishwasher. And I'm getting a new dishwasher. Yea!
Addi is really excited about Valentine's Day....but I have no idea why!

Happy Birthday, Jazz!!!

2008-02-07T10:12:00.001-06:00

Where has the time gone? It seems like only yesterday I was in the 5th grade and so excited to get to go see my first first cousin on my dad's side. I had just gotten over the chicken pox and life was grand. Little did I know how much love I would grow in my heart for that precious little cousin, Jasmine Marie Courington! I hope she knows how much she means to me! She has matured into such a wonderful and pleasant young lady. In 1990, how could I ever imagined that I would trust that little girl to watch my own three children 18 years later?? Addi ADORES her cousin Jazz and thinks she can do no wrong. Levi loves her too! They get that from me! I love you Jazz and Happy 18th Birthday!!!

Update on Lila's Hips

2008-02-05T18:46:00.000-06:00

I FINALLY heard back from Lila's doctor today. Her hips are not perfectly "normal" but they are not bad enough to need any correction. He said he feels like they are fine, but will keep a close eye on them as she grows. She won't have to have any more ultrasounds unless he notices an abnormality while examining her. In Dr. Smith's words, "We're through with this!" Yea!! Thanks for all your prayers!

So much to say....here go the bullets again!

2008-02-03T22:26:00.000-06:00

We had family over Thursday night for Paul's birthday and had a great time. We got barbecue from Uncle Sam's and enjoyed having just family around.
MaMa is still in the hospital and not doing well at all. We certainly covet your prayers on her behalf.
Bobby Norris, family friend, passed away Thursday night unexpectedly. He was a truly enjoyable person to be around and a preacher of the Gospel for many years. He will be truly missed and his family certainly needs your prayers.
We watched the new episode of Lost Thursday night with Alex after everyone left and it was Great!
Alex has the flu and strep throat. We hope the rest of us (and especially Mary) will be spared.
Thursday, Addi and Levi had their 5 and 3 year checkups. Both are healthy as can be! Addi got 4 shots but was a good girl because she knew was getting her paper (blue form) to start kindergarten in the fall. Dr. Smith was very pleased with everything.
We still haven't heard back from Lila's ultrasound (which we were supposed to hear about on Thursday). I will be calling the pediatricians office every thirty minutes tomorrow until I know something!
Paul and I went to Atlanta Friday night and Saturday and had a WONDERFUL trip! The aquarium there is awesome and we will be going back soon with the kiddos.
The kids were all good while we were gone! Another thanks to Josh & Katie and Jared & Emily for taking good care of them!
We took the kids to Hannah Presley's birthday party at Fun Factory on Saturday night and they had a blast!
We had Shanghai for lunch today and it was good.
I took Addi to see the Hannah Montana/Miley Cirus Best of Both Worlds Concert in 3D at the movies today. It cost us $36 to get in and I almost had a stroke! However, we were already at the ticket booth and I knew Addi would be heartbroken if I said no.
Addi and I went to Josh and Katie's tonight to watch the Super Bowl, but we visited in the kitchen with the ladies and didn't watch a second of the game!
Lila has discovered her voice and is really talking a LOT! Must mean she is going to be like Addi!
I have a dentist appointment in the morning and Jazz is coming to watch the kiddos for me.
I'm going to sign Addi up for softball on Saturday. We're all excited about that!
I'm sure I forgot something, but that's all for now!!!!

Happy Birthday, Paul!!!

2008-01-30T11:05:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday today to the best husband in the world!!! That's right- Paul turns 33 today. He already knows this, but his birthday present from me is the gift of some time alone!!! Yippee!! We are going to Atlanta Friday night to stay at the Sheraton and then to the Georgia Aquarium on Saturday. I don't know if the gift is for him or partly for myself, but either way, we are looking forward to it! A special thanks to Josh and Katie and Jared and Emily for so graciously volunteering to take the kids for the night! And say a special prayer for them, especially J & E because they will have Levi!
Another side note- This month Levi is 3, Paul is 33, and Lila is 3 months!! It's a month for threes!!
Happy Birthday to my best friend!!!

I've been tagged...

2008-01-21T18:46:00.000-06:00

I was tagged by Tera:
The Rules: Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog.
Share 5 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog.
-OR-
Share the 5 top places on your “want to see or want to see again” list.
-OR-
Share 5 things you never pictured being in your future when your were 25 years old.

Tag a minimum of 5, maximum of 10 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.
The tagees have a choice of which they want to do.

My Top Five Places I want to See or See Again:
1. London
2. The Grand Canyon
3. Hollywood, CA
4. Paris (Paul and I went here in 2000 and I would love to go back!)
5. NYC (We went there in 2000 as well and I didn't get to see all I wanted to!)

NOW- I TAG Mom, Dad, Katie C, Katie M., and Mandi!

Happy 3rd Birthday Levi!!!!

2008-01-20T07:00:00.000-06:00

I can't believe Levi turns three today!! You can see below how much he has grown!!! I can't put into words how much Levi means to me and all of our family. He brings life to our household like noone else! I can't say he's outgrown the terrible two's yet, but I have hope for this year!!! He is so vibrant and loving. I can see how much he's grown in the past three years and can only imagine what the next three will bring!! We are having a birthday party at our house Sunday night for him and I'll try to post pictures of that later! Happy Birthday and I love you, Little Man!!!!!

January 20, 2005

Summer 2005 (A little chunky, you think? Now he wears a slim!!!)

His smile melts my heart!!! December 2007

The White Stuff!!

2008-01-19T12:34:00.000-06:00

Well, it's no "winter wonderland" but we did get a little snow this morning, enough for the kids to make snowballs and a small snowman! We had to cancel our church retreat, but hope to reschedule for next weekend! The kids have had a blast playing! Alex spent the night last night which only added to the excitement! The roads here are clear, but may refreeze overnight. I guess we'll see! I'll try to update again tomorrow because tomorrow is Levi's birthday! He'll be THREE!!!!

Three Months Old!!

2008-01-12T23:16:00.000-06:00

I can't believe our sweet baby Lila is three months old today!!! This picture really shows her true character- smiley! She is the most laid-back, sweet little baby I have ever seen! She rarely ever fusses and when she does it's because there's something wrong. She has only been part of our family for three short months, but it already seems like she has been here forever! She has been such a blessing to us already. Sometimes she just takes my breath away. I love her so much!!! Happy Three Months Day, Lila Victoria Kelsey!!!

2008, Here we are!!!

2008-01-03T19:39:00.000-06:00

Well, 2008 is here and I haven't blogged in a while!!! We are doing well. We had a great Christmas, even though part of the holidays were plagued by a stomach virus for Levi, Addi, Paul and myself! Luckily, Lila has been spared so far!
The kids got so much stuff for Christmas it is ridiculous!! They are loving the ride-on toys from Gramps and Granna and all their other goodies!
I took Levi to the dr. yesterday and he has bronchitis. He doesn't feel well, but seems some better today.
I started back to Weight Watchers last week...I lost 7.6 pounds this week! Woo hoo! I guess I'll try to update my weight loss here on the blog as a means of accountability!
Today, Addi and I went to see Annie in the Broadway Across America series. It was awesome!! We had a great time!! This was my Christmas present from Paul and the kids and I couldn't have picked out anything better myself!
Paul goes back to work tomorrow *sigh*. I have enjoyed having him home as he is a GREAT help to me!
What will 2008 bring for us? Who knows! There are a few things I am already looking forward to this year. First of all, Paul and I will, Lord willing, celebrate our 10th anniversary in May of 2008. Also, the whole Kelsey family is taking a vacation to Branson, Missouri in June. We are already looking forward to that! In August, our baby will start kindergarten *another sigh*. I will miss having Addi at home with me every day, but I know it's time for her to get out there in the world and get the education she needs to be the successful woman I know she will be! I already have feelings of excitement for her!
We pray that this year will bring a liver transplant for my Aunt Mary. And we pray for good health for all our friends and family! Happy New Year everyone!!

Christmas Pictures

2007-12-27T22:59:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday Dad!!! Happy Birthday Katie!!!

2007-12-19T10:38:00.001-06:00

Well, I'm a day late, but "HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!!!" I can't really begin to tell you all what a special dad I have (but most of you that read my blog already know!). I'm tearing up just thinking about what I could say about him. He's had so much going on the past few years and especially the past couple of months taking care of my grandparents. My mom always said that everyone needs to have a daughter to take care of them, but my dad seems to have spoiled that theory. He is so patient and so kind and I hope one day I can take as much time and patience to care for him as he has done for his parents. I hope he knows how much I love him and how much respect I have for him. He has always been the best Christian example for all of us and I love him dearly!!!
And today is my sister-in-law, Katie's (Josh's Katie for those who know I have two sisters-in-law named Katie!) birthday! I'll tell you I am so thankful that Katie is a part of our family!! She has been such a help to me in the past year, always willing to keep the kids for my dr.'s appointments or just to go Christmas shopping! And she has also given me my precious neice, Hannah!! Katie is a rare jewel and I hope she knows how much I appreciate and love her!!! Happy Birthday, Katie!!!

"God Is So Good"

2007-12-17T23:55:00.000-06:00

That's the song that Levi "led" at singing night last night. I couldn't help but to sit and think that the song really rings true. I am so blessed and God has been so good to me. I couldn't help but feel a little guilty for the "Saturday Night Anxiety" that I've diagnosed myself with. It seems like every Saturday night I cannot go to sleep. It's been past 2 a.m. getting to sleep every Saturday night for several months now, but I go straight to sleep every other night of the week. I've decided it must have to do with the anxiety of taking Levi to church on Sundays. I seem to lay there thinking of everything that could go wrong the next day, along with what everyone is going to wear and how we're going to get everyone dressed and ready! When Levi got up to lead his song with that mischievous little smile on his face, I couldn't help but think that my anxieties are ridiculous. I have been blessed with such a vibrant, healthy, smart, and loving little boy. It's easy sometimes to focus on how challenging he can be, what everyone else thinks about him (and our raising of him), and to miss all the good qualities that he has! He is such a joy to me and I really can't imagine life without him. My aim is to focus on the blessings God has given me as we head into 2008. I have been so blessed in so many ways, too many to count.
On the subject of Levi, he's sleeping in his big boy bed tonight for the first time!!! He's had a twin bed in his room for a while now, but I haven't even thought of putting him there because he has done so well in his crib. Tonight, as we were getting him ready for bed he was laying on the twin bed. I asked him if he wanted to sleep there and he got this HUGE grin on his face and said "YES- Just give me my blanket!!!" He went straight to sleep and has been in there for about 3 hours! I don't know what he'll do when he gets up in the morning, but I guess we'll see! Good night everyone!

Pictures with Santa!

2007-12-17T11:46:00.000-06:00

We took the kids to see Santa on Saturday at the Sumiton Wal-mart on the Coca-Cola Christmas Caravan! Thanks to cousin Lisa for letting us know where and when it would be in our area! Addi and Levi LOVE Santa...Levi never wants to leave! Addi asked for a Nintendo DS and a Singing, Dancing Pinkie Pie Pony (both of which she is getting!) and Levi just asked for TOYS!! At least he has an easy list! Try to ignore the fact that the lady forgot to tell me I was in the frame when she took Addi's picture!!

Two Months Old!

2007-12-12T17:10:00.000-06:00

I find it terribly hard to believe that Christmas is almost here and our little angel is two whole months old!!!! I should do like all good moms do and post pictures, but I'll do that later!
Lila went to the dr. today for her two month checkup. Poor baby got 4 shots and one vaccine by mouth! She was pitiful for about 3 seconds and then turned back into her calm little self. I should be knocking on wood as I type this, but Lila is the closest thing to perfect I've ever seen. For a whole week now, she has slept all night!!! She hardly ever cries, and when she does it's because she's hungry or dirty. She never cries for no reason!
She weighed 10 pounds, 13 ounces today! She is still 22 inches long (I think they may have mismeasured her last time). She is in the 50% for height, weight, and head circumference. I'm sure that's the one and only time that will ever happen! The only concern I had today was the little mark on her cheek, which I was pretty sure was a birthmark and Dr. Smith said it definitely was. They will repeat her hip ultrasound in January, but Dr. Smith said her hips look great. He said she was perfect! She got to start eating applesauce today and it was definitely a big hit!
Christmas update: I'm done with all of my shopping (except for the two names we have for the young adult class, but our party isn't until New Year's Eve, so I'll buy them after Christmas!)! I'm pretty pleased with how all my gifts turned out and I hope the recipients will be just as happy!!!

Pictures, Pictures, Pictures!!!

2007-12-07T21:18:00.001-06:00

"All I want for Christmas is....."

"Hey! I can't see!!"

"If you won't give me my paci, I know what to do!"

"I don't think I like this rice cereal!"

"Well, Maybe I do!!"

Share the Love!

Jammie Kiddos!!!

Birthday Pictures

2007-11-30T23:34:00.001-06:00

Long time...no blog post

2007-11-29T21:59:00.001-06:00

I'm sorry it has taken me so long (again) to update! A lot has been going on with Thanksgiving, etc...

We had a lovely Thanksgiving with Paul's parents here in Alabama. The kids really enjoyed having them here. It's amazing that as little as we get to see the Kelseys, the kids, even Levi, seem to pick right up where they left off. I have to admit I got a little teary-eyed when Levi didn't want them to leave!
My grandmother is in the hospital in Jasper. She's had several health issues lately, including the shingles and walking pneumonia. Please pray that she'll be able to come back from whatever is causing her current problems. This was my first Thanksgiving with no grandparents around.
Lila is GROWING!! I don't know what she weighs, but I know it's more! She is taking 6 ounces per feeding now! She is certainly more alert and is starting to realize when she's left alone. :-( She turned over yesterday for the first time- back to front. She has also learned to pull her pacifier out of her mouth, but of course hasn't figured out how to put it back in. This, along with the fact that she's eating two times a night again, means that I'm up and down more than I was. She will start on rice cereal after her next dr.'s visit (on December 12th), so maybe she'll sleep at night again then!! At least I'm hoping so!
Addi will be turning 5 on Saturday. :-( I can't believe how big she is getting!!! We are having her birthday party here tomorrow night and I'll try to update with pictures afterwards.
Jasmine is coming in the morning to watch the kids so I can go buy Addi's birthday present and pick up her cake. I don't know what I'd do without Jazz around!
I still haven't found a Wii, which is basically Addi's only wish for Santa....All you shoppers out there give me a call if you run across one!!! In Christmas shopping news, I'm desperately behind!!! I'm going to the JCPenney outlet on Monday and hopefully will find some good deals! After that, it's online shopping for me to finish up...I don't want to be out and about at the last minute!

I guess that pretty much sums up this update.....I hope you all have a great weekend!!!

Thanksgiving

2007-11-20T09:37:00.002-06:00

With Thanksgiving just a mere 2 days away, it brings to mind a song that we've sung thousands of times- Count Your Blessings. Although I can't name all my blessings "one by one" because there are too many, I would like to mention a few things that I am especially thankful for this year.

I am truly thankful for my family. I have a loving husband and three healthy children. I am especially thankful this year for our dear Lila. She is the sweetest baby a mother could ever hope for. Just looking at her reminds me of how blessed my life is. Also, I'm thankful for my parents. They have always been there for me with love and encouraging words. I'm also thankful for my in-laws. They have always welcomed me as if I have always been a part of their family. For that, I am truly thankful. I am especially thankful on that note because they are spending Thanksgiving with us this year! They haven't been to Alabama since Levi was born, so this is truly a special Thanksgiving!
I'm also thankful for my brothers and their wives. (I know this is still included in family, but my bullet was getting too long!). Although Josh and Daniel were quite annoying at times growing up, I now know what a true blessing they are. I'm also thankful that they both have Christian wives who love them. And I'm thankful for Hannah.
I'm thankful for my friends. I don't know how people go through life without true friends. I am especially thankful for the other 4 members of the "fabulous five" as I have named us (Rachel, Katie, Pam, and Emily)....I love you guys!!
This list is already getting overwhelming....I've started this list which could go on forever and I know I'm going to leave someone out!
I'm also thankful for all my extended family....you know who you are!
I'm also thankful for my material blessings. My warm bed and a home that I love.
I'm thankful for the memories of Thanksgivings past. Even though I still physically have two of my grandparents, the grandparents of my childhood no longer exist. MaMa and PaPa Courington need your prayers. But I'm still thankful for all the happy memories I have of them.

I hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving surrounded by friends and family. Remember to count your blessings........we are all so blessed.

Christmas Pictures

2007-11-17T22:44:00.001-06:00

Random Ramblings

2007-11-17T10:57:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to update everyone on yesterday's events....I had my dr.'s appointment yesterday morning and was given a clean bill of health! Yea!
Addi had her ultrasound and kidney tests run yesterday and she was such a big girl!! I'm so proud of her! We won't know anything about the results until sometime next week.
I have a Levi story to tell today. First of all, Addi is always watching commercials and informing me, "I want that!!" Well, Levi has picked up on it. If there's a commercial for cars, trains, trucks, or anything that resembles a toy boys might like, Levi says, "I WANT THAT!" Well, yesterday Levi and I were watching tv and a commercial for the Bounce and Spin Zebra came on. He proceeds to yell, "I want that!!!!!" I said, "Okay, come here." I take him to his room and show him the zebra which he got for Christmas last year! He says, "OH!!!" and gets on the zebra and jumps up and down! He doesn't even know what's in his own room!!!
We all went out to eat at the Fish Market last night for Mom's birthday. It was yummy! Levi was very well behaved at supper and we all go to enjoy our meal. It was nice. Even though he still has many moments of complete chaos, I can definitely see some improvement in his behavior. He is getting to where you can reason with him somewhat and that helps. Plus, Granna gave him a fake bug which kept him completely occupied all the way through dinner.
Mom and Dad are going to buy a new HD tv. Everyone is excited about getting to watch the Iron Bowl on it next week! But I'm more excited because we are getting their hand-me-down entertainment center which is a thousand times nicer than the one we have (which is on its last leg).
Today is picture day. We are taking Addi, Levi, Hannah, and Lila to Portrait Innovations to get Christmas pictures! It should be interesting! Hopefully I'll have time tonight to post some of the pics. I am definitely already in the Christmas spirit. I don't think I mentioned it on here, but I already have my tree up! I usually like to wait until the day after T'giving, but I didn't think I would have time to do it that day, so I'm rushing the season just a bit!
Not much else going on....I desperately need to be cleaning and starting to get ready for next week. Paul's mom and dad will be coming in on Thursday and we are super excited! Addi informed me yesterday, "You know it's only 6 nights I have to sleep until Grammy and PaPa come. You know what that means? Tomorrow, it's only 5!!!"

Happy Birthday, Mom!!!

2007-11-16T10:43:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Mom!!!!

Eating Bon Bons....

2007-11-15T18:12:00.000-06:00

Do you work? I always love it when someone asks me this question. My reply is usually, "Not outside the home." Because being a SAHM is work!! Anyone who has ever done it will attest to it! There's always something to do, even when there seems like there's nothing to do! So this post is in honor of all those SAHMs that read my blog!

Just an average Day In the Life of this Stay-at-home Mom:
Feed Lila
Change Lila
Fix Breakfast
Change Levi (he pees in potty! :-)
Load Dishwasher
Clean up Levi (poops in his big boy underwear)
Clean up broken Christmas ornament that Levi broke in 500 pieces!
Feed Lila
Change Lila
Make Tea
Put up Laundry
Make Lunch
More Laundry
Put Levi down for nap
Cut coupons
Feed Lila
Change Lila
Get paints out and let Addi use water colors
More Laundry
Levi gets up from nap and has to have bath because he pooped and took his diaper off!
Clean the toilet
Clean up Levi (AGAIN) because he discovers the paints still on dining room table and helps himself!
Clean dining room table!
Try to figure out Lila's new stroller so I can take it to the dr. tomorrow
Fix supper (Thank goodness Paul went to store for me) while feeding Lila and allowing Addi to "help" me fix baby pizzas.
Write this blog!!!!
And it's just supper time!!!
Is staying home worth it???? You bet!!

A new Addi story:
This morning when Addi woke up she excitedly says, "Mommy, I had a dream last night!! It was a great dream!!! I got a cell phone!! When am I getting a cell phone?"
ARE YOU KIDDING ME???

One more thing: Even though Levi had a couple of "poop mishaps" today he has been to the potty three times!! And he told me- I didn't ask him. That is major progress! Go Levi!

Tomorrow

2007-11-15T15:43:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow I go back to the dr. Hopefully we'll find out that everything has healed properly and the infection is cleared up.
Addi goes to Children's hospital tomorrow for a renal ultrasound and another test (can't remember the long name) on her kidneys. These tests are fairly routine and nothing to worry about. I'm more worried about how she will handle the actual tests than the outcome of the tests! Just keep us in mind tomorrow!

One Month Stats

2007-11-13T13:13:00.000-06:00

Lila went to the doctor today and he said she looked great! She weighs 9 pounds, 2 ounces and is 22 inches long!!! That puts her approximately in the 50th percentile for weight and 80th percentile for height! Her head circumference was 37 1/2 cm. She got her second hepatitis B vaccine today. She cried for a couple of seconds and then was okay. She doesn't go back until she is two months! They'll schedule her second hip ultrasound sometime in the next couple of weeks.

One Month Old!!!

2007-11-12T16:54:00.000-06:00

It's hard to believe that our sweet Lila is one month old today!!! She has been such a blessing to us already. She is such a content little baby. I finally figured out how to get the swing put back together and she swung for the first time today. She goes to the dr. tomorrow for her one month checkup and I'll update with her stats, etc. then! Happy Veteran's Day to you all!

Friday Update

2007-11-09T11:01:00.000-06:00

Thank goodness it's FRIDAY!!! No, I don't go outside my home to work every day, but I still very much look forward to the weekend! Primarily because Paul is home and he helps me out so much. Plus I enjoy his company.
I guess most of you know from Paul's blog, but he didn't pass his boards this year. As Addi said, "Even though Daddy didn't win, he's still a winner to us!" I'm so proud of all the hard work that he did working toward this goal. He was only 14 points (out of 400 points) short of passing. We're confident he will pass on the next try! I'm not just proud of his work on this, I'm just proud of him in general. He works so hard so I can stay home with the kiddos. I'm grateful.
The kids are great. Addi had one last soccer game last night and THEY WON!!! Woo hoo! Levi is into everything as usual. He is such a BOY!! He comes up to me with Addi's shin guard last night and says, "Mommy, smell this!! It smells!!" He was right. It smelled.
Lila is being such a content and peaceful baby and for that I am truly thankful! She is eating 4 ounces at a time now and hardly ever spits anything back up. She only wakes up once during the night to eat which is great for a newborn. She goes back to the doctor Tuesday for her one month checkup! I can't believe she'll be a month old already!!!!!
I'll try to get some new pictures up this weekend. Have a good one!

Sad Day

2007-11-07T14:59:00.000-06:00

It's been a sad day in the Kelsey household. Paul went out to feed the dogs before school this morning and found our little beagle Abby (or "Baby" as Addi used to say) dead in her house. It looked as though she just went to sleep and didn't wake up. We're not sure what happened. Abby was only 6 years old and appeared fine yesterday. She was our little baby before we had any real babies. We will miss her greatly.

Halloween Fun

2007-11-01T10:58:00.001-05:00

Halloween 2007!!!!

Lila is so close to a smile!!

Getting ready to Trick-or-Treat in our neighborhood!

All the kids with Daddy!

Waiting on the neighbor to open the door

Our Sweet Hannah at Trick-or-Trunk

Gramps gets his candy ready!

Groovy Uncle Billy with Levi!

Look what I got!!!

Lila spends time with Rachel and Stephen

Bubba Addi

My not so good news....

2007-10-27T15:58:00.000-05:00

Well, most of you probably already know (word travels fast in the Sylvan Springs circle), I have a MRSA staph infection. They called from Dr. Woods office yesterday to tell me. I feel like I have the modern day plague, although several family and friends came by yesterday to see me, so that made me feel better. It probably reassured them that they could smell Lysol from outside! The doctor's office reassured us that chance of spreading this is minimal as long as there is no skin to skin contact. And since it's not in an area that's exposed we should be pretty safe. We've been super careful about handwashing even before we found out about this. Now we're washing with soap and water and using hand sanitizer. My hands are already dried out from all the alcohol!
It's a bit discouraging when things don't go quite as planned. I figured I would be doing my normal routine and feeling well by now.
We hope that this infection will be quickly treated with an antibiotic that I started yesterday. The bad news is that I can no longer nurse my baby girl. I'm sure she won't be bothered by that, as Enfamil Lipil seems to agree well with her!
Just keep us in your prayers over the next few days/weeks that this will clear up easily.
In much BETTER news, I've gotten several GREAT birthday presents already! My in-laws sent me money, my parents gave me money too, to buy a new pair of shoes (which hopefully I'll feel like shopping for next week sometime), my hubby's grandparents sent me a giftcard to Starbucks (at least I can drink the caffeine now! I wish there was a Starbucks on this side of town), and Rachel and Ben bought me a new outfit! Yippee!
Have a great weekend everyone!

Two Week Checkup!

2007-10-26T12:24:00.000-05:00

Lila had her 2 week checkup today!! She weighed a whopping 8 pounds, 7 ounces!!!!! I couldn't believe it! I had to look at the scales myself before I believed it! She is 20 inches long now. She got her heel pricked and was not too happy about that, but got over it pretty quick. Overall, she was a happy little camper at the dr.'s office. Dr. Smith said she was perfect! They'll repeat her hip ultrasound at 6 weeks old, but Dr. Smith said today that he thinks they are perfectly fine. She goes back in 2 weeks for her 1 month checkup!
Update on Addi- her culture wasn't finished "growing" yet, but Dr. Smith said he thought she probably just has a urinary tract infection and NOT a kidney infection. That's good news! We'll know for sure on Monday.

Almost 29.....

2007-10-25T13:03:00.000-05:00

Yep, that's right. I'll be 29 years old on Sunday. Wow. My dad thought I was turning 30, so I guess it could be worse! I can't believe I'm that old.

Things are going okay around here. Addi has a kidney infection and is not feeling very well at all. Paul goes back to work tomorrow, which I'm really not looking forward to. He has been a GREAT help to me since he's been home the past couple of weeks.

Lila is doing well. She easily eats like a 10 pounder! Too bad mommy doesn't quite have enough milk to keep up! As long as she is full, she is one happy little camper. She doesn't cry much, but when she does Levi wants me to fix it immediately! One day this week Lila was crying because I was getting her fed fast enough and Levi came running into the room yelling, "Feed her! Feed her! She's crying!!!!" Surprisingly, he has been very gentle and motherly with her. Who would have thought?

Lila goes to the pediatrician tomorrow morning for her 2 week checkup. I'll try to update tomorrow with her latest weight stats, etc.

And how am I? Well, I'm alright. I'm still having some issues with my incision, but it might be a little better. For those of you that don't know, I had to go back to the dr. on Monday because my incision didn't close in one place. Anyway, I'm sure you all don't want to hear about that gross stuff!!!

Eleven Days Old!

2007-10-23T14:42:00.000-05:00

Back to Blogging!

2007-10-16T21:56:00.000-05:00

First of all, Thanks to Paul for posting pictures before now! We are all doing well. Lila is such a sweet, laid-back little girl. The c-section and everything surrounding her birth went well and I'm feeling great, considering! Lila and I have incompatible blood, making her more likely to be jaundice, so she spent a couple of days in the hospital under the biliruben (sp?) lights. She went back to the dr. today and her biliruben was normal so we're out of the woods on that. They did a hip ultrasound on Lila before we left the hospital because she was breech, checking her for dysplasia. The dr. said her hip is not dislocated, but a little loose so they will do another ultrasound in about 4 weeks. Dr. Smith didn't seem too concerned about it. Lila weighed 6 pounds 14 ounces today. She lost a good bit of weight that first couple of days, but is eating like a horse now!
I was feeling so well that Lila and I both made it to Addi's soccer game tonight!! They didn't win, but Addi had a GREAT game, really getting in on the action!
Here are some pictures from the past couple of days:

Proud Big Sister

Proud Big Brother!

Lila Visits Dr. Smith for the first time!

Lila Pictures

2007-10-14T22:18:00.001-05:00

She's Here!

2007-10-12T13:01:00.000-05:00

This post is from Paul. Lila Victoria Kelsey made her entrance today at 7:24 a.m. She weighs 7 pounds 5 ounces and has red hair! (Addi and Levi were bald). She's been a very content little girl and has a big appetite. Mom is doing well. Addi is a proud sister and has only asked if she can hold her a couple dozen times. When Levi was here, he said "Look at that baby!"

We are a happy family of five now. Thanks for your kind words, thoughts, and prayers.

Check my blog later for more pictures and videos.