The Weeks Family Blog

Big News!!!

2009-11-09T11:32:00.002-05:00

Eric and I are expecting our 3rd child sometime in August. We are so thrilled by the news of this and can't wait for our new addition to arrive. I really didn't expect it to happen so quick but we know how that goes, you put it out of your mind and the next thing you know it happens. I have mixed reviews from Tay and Jim: Jimmy is very excited, Taylor is not but I am sure she will be happier once it gets closer.

Good-Bye Maw-Maw

2009-07-13T04:59:00.002-04:00

Most of my younger childhood memories involve my Maw-Maw, she always called me her little sidekick. I got the call that I have been dreading this morning, that she was in the hospital and would not make it through the day. I sat at home waiting to hear updates, hoping for that miracle that she could hold on a little while longer. She was ready to go, I know that, but I cannot picture going on in my life without seeing her, physically, she has always been there. I would walk into Poppa and Nani's house and there she would be at the kitchen table doing those crosswords, she knew almost all the answers and would even help me in my EASY crosswords.

When mom called me in the afternoon to let me know of her passing, I had a flash of sitting at her table when I was very young (2 or 3 maybe) and she was sitting next to me singing Our Blue Heaven--Just Joey and me--and momma makes three--we're happy in our blue heaven. She was the one who scolded me when I was 4 and stole the WHO SHOT JR? TV Guide from the grocery store (I loved JR and wanted that TV Guide with his picture so bad). I know I was a handful for her when she would take me shopping or out in public, I liked to wander and I am pretty sure I contributed to a few white hairs on her head.

When I think of Maw-Maw, I think of a very gentle soul. She got her feelings hurt very easily, she was exactly what you picture love to feel like, she always had nice things to say and showered each of us with kindness and unconditional love. She was a beautiful person and that is hard to find, everything about my Maw-Maw was extraordinary.

I feel a complete loss right now, I am emotionally sick and that is new to me, I have never felt that before. I know she lived a long, good life, but I want her here with us! I know she is with Paw-Paw, who she has missed for almost 32 years--they have both been waiting for this day for a long time. Please take care of her Paw-Paw, she is a very special person!

I am glad you are no longer stuck in bed, I know it has been very hard for you and it was hard for everyone to see you there. You are in a place where you can walk again, you don't have to worry if your "ear" is in or your "legs" are on, all your pain has dissipated--you are free to do as you like, when you like and that makes me happy.

Please stand by my side, I still need you. I am glad to know you are watching over me and my family. I am proud of you and always have been, you were the Maw-Maw most could only dream of. You gave me not only you, but a great Nani, and from her, a great mother. You are the link to our family, you started our chain and we will continue to add to it.

The people we love, we think about them living forever, even though, we know that is not possible, our minds do not let us comprehend their passing. When they are gone, it's hard to see a bright future right away, but it will come, I know she wants us all to celebrate her, she didn't like any of us sad. So for the next week, her life will be celebrated, her death will be mourned. I know you have a lot of catching up to do with those who have passed before you, tell everyone hi and wait for me, I will be waiting for the day I can wrap my arms around your neck and kiss your lips and smell the special "Maw-Maw scent", wait for me because I will be looking forward to that day.

Peanuts sitting on a railroad track
Their hearts were all a-flutter
Around the bend came a #10
"TOOT TOOT" Peanut Butter

Maw-Maw would sing that to Taylor and Jimmy. They both loved that! Thank you Maw-Maw, for all you have done for me throughout my life. I love you and miss you!

Anna Jean Moss Underwood
November 1, 1925-July 12, 2009

Uploaded - 6\11\09

2009-06-11T08:49:00.001-04:00

Uploaded - 6\8\09

2009-06-11T08:49:00.000-04:00

Eric and Jimmy posing behind behind a shark jaw at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon.

Just A Test

2009-06-01T10:42:00.000-04:00

Mobile Blogging from here.

I am just playing with my iPhone blogger app. Let's see if this works!

I Need to Vent

2009-05-31T22:32:00.002-04:00

I know most of the people who read my blog are friends and family, this is not aimed at you in any way. Some of you are Christian some are Pagan like myself, but we all love each other and everyone who knows me (really knows me), knows that I am a good person, not evil. I have never threw my religion in any one's face, I am happy to discuss my beliefs or explain how I live but I would never ask you to join me, this is a personal preference and a way I live my life, I do not expect anyone to walk my path of the craft. I am happy in my life but sick of everyone thinking I'm sacrificing and worshiping something that I don't believe even exists. I don't believe in the devil, that is the evil side of Christianity, I am not Christian, therefore the devil (Satan) has no place in my life. I feel like I repeat myself over and over again, I do not live my life like the Hollywood movies, those are make believe. I do not practice "black magick" or voodoo, I live my life in peace and serenity. I am a Witch, a Kitchen Witch at that, most of my magick is performed while I make meals and that's good enough for me. Lisa, I am going to use you as an example because you are the most Christian person I know. We don't agree religion wise but as friends--lets just say family--we respect each other and love each other even though you live your life by Jesus and I live mine by the Goddess, I just wish everyone could do that. I keep getting messages from old friends telling me I am going to hell and I know some of you probably think I am and that is fine, I just don't want to hear it. Today, someone told me if I just went to church I would feel the warmth of love that would surround me unlike the pure evil I live with now. OMG...are you serious? Evil? I asked them to please explain the word evil for me and have yet to hear back.

Everyone that knows me knows that I could give a rats ass about what people think. I am Joey, I do what I want, no one ever tells me what to do or else they would be waiting on whatever it is a very long time--Mom and Eric can validate that one. My husband learned a long time ago that there is no changing me, trust me he tried. There is no one in this life time that will ever have any control over what I do, you either roll with me or roll away and I'll accept or wave goodbye, no hard feeling afterwards on my part. My kids are the only exception to this rule, my children are number 1 and they both have me wrapped around their finger and I am proud of that--they are not spoiled just very loved. I have seen friends come and go, I have close friends that never judge and then I have those that tend to throw hissy fits like five year olds, I don't play those games and sure enough they are no longer in my life and do I ever think about them, sure I do, I wish them the best in life but I am sure glad they are not in mine. I know that sounds bad but I refuse to put up with any ones shit. I am a fighter and I never lose--EVER, I learned that from my Mom and I am glad she gave me that backbone, it has come in handy several time in my life.

I know you are all probably think "What the hell" but like I said I just needed to get this off my chest and just want my followers that this is not directed to any of you. I love you all and am happy that I have you guys in my life. I am just sick of the ignorance that others have.

There's A Snake in My Pool!

2009-05-28T17:26:00.002-04:00

Taylor decided to take a dip this only to come running in the house to tell me there was a snake at the bottom of the pool. I went out to take a look and sure enough it laid at the bottom of the deep end. I know snakes can swim but it probably couldn't get out once it got in. I fished it out and it was dead. Jimmy grabbed it and ran across the street to the neighbor's to show his friend Nicky. Here they stand in front of our house posing with the snake. It is now buried in my landscaping out front.

A Beach Trip

2009-05-28T17:20:00.003-04:00

I took the kids to the beach yesterday morning and we had so much fun. I did some laying out and they played in the water and in the sand. I think we may have to do this more often over the summer, maybe take turns with water parks. They buried each other in the sand and made themselves into mermaids. Eric had a meeting in Clearwater that day so I decided to drop him off at the store there and spend the day in Indian Rock with the kids until he was finished, it worked out great so this may be a new tradition when Eric goes to his ICP meetings. Once we got home both kids jumped in the pool while I sat in the shade, I ended up a bit red from the beach rays.

Eric and Jimmy Working on the Pool

2009-05-28T16:49:00.002-04:00

With the rain adding water to the pool our skimmer was not doing it's job. Eric and Jimmy played with it for awhile yesterday. It ended up we needed less water in the pool for it to do it's job.

I Got Out

2009-05-24T12:07:00.002-04:00

Eric took the kids and I out to diner last night, it was nice to get out of the house other than just running to the store. He surprised us with Red Lobster and I thought we were headed to Cracker Barrel. While eating, our little princess, Taylor, just couldn't stand that the mall was right next to us that she begged her daddy to take her, of course, he said yes. She shopped to her little hearts content, Tokio Hotel t-shirts, Tokio Hotel DVD (this DVD is all in German but she doesn't really care as long as she can see Bill), necklaces, earrings, jeans. I never thought puppy dog eyes would get to my husband but I was so wrong, what Taylor wants, Taylor gets. I tried to shop myself but clothes are so ugly and without a Guess store in Lakeland, I always walk away empty handed. Brandon Mall has a G by Guess but it's more club wear than anything so I am stuck having to drive to Tampa for clothes. Jimmy found some FRED shirts at Hot Topic but they were out of his size so I promised to take him back. His obsession with FRED is pretty cute, he giggles the whole time he watches the videos on YouTube, sometimes he even laugh so hard you can't hell laughing with him.

Eric, wanders around the mall following his daughter from shop to shop, Taylor eating up the fact that Daddy is doing this all for her. Jimmy usually walks around with me, pointing out different clothes he thinks I should buy for me or him. We went into Body Shop yesterday, I love the catalogue but the store never has the same things, he wanted necklaces, rings, a dress and shoes. He doesn't understand these won't fit him or else he just doesn't care.

Today I will be studying a bit while laying out and then I have to prepare for our cookout tomorrow. I am not sure everything I will be making but I am confident I will have a good feast!

Newest Arrivals

2009-05-23T12:35:00.005-04:00

Matt with Lauren, Macie & Cole

Becky with her three children

Andy Ray

Vinney with his new brother

He is so tiny

Still Missing Dooley

2009-05-23T12:05:00.002-04:00

I have had Uncle Mike on my mind a lot for the past week. It doesn't matter what I am doing, he pops up and I have that instant good feeling and then it hits me he is no longer on this Earth. I have had loved ones and friends that have passed on but none had left such an emptiness in me. I can't even describe how I loved to see him, my excitement, he was just that special uncle. I remember walking in to Dooley's on many occasions and he would give that quick smile, say hello, then go back to whatever he was doing at the time. That was fine with me. I remember sitting and talking with him, his long legs crossed and a cigarette in hand, I wish I could see that one more time. I always feel better sitting graveside, I place a lit cigarette on his headstone (whichever letter will hold it up), I light one for myself and I have a smoke with Mike and I talk to him, tell him how my life's going and of course how much he is missed.

For those who loved Mike, I know we are still mourning, maybe not like the first year but we still have the Dooley emptiness. I love him, I didn't tell him that enough but I know he knows. Suicide leaves us with some many questions that will never be answered, it breaks my heart that he was feeling so much pain that he had to walk away. My kids and I dealt with it twice that year just a few months apart, two people that we were very close to.

Mike, I know the Summerlands have welcomed you with open arms and you are figuring out what your life meaning was. Hopefully now you can see all the support and love you had around you, we would have helped anyway we could, you are that special to us. I will see you again, I can't say when that will be but I know you come to me in dreams and they are the best dreams I have, I am always fighting to stay asleep so I can have that extra time with you. I love and miss you, you are remembered forever!

Productive Day

2009-05-22T23:02:00.002-04:00

Taylor, Jimmy and I cracked down and got the house totally clean today. It's never bad but we did the things we usually skip over: windows, baseboards, walls. Eric was pretty impressed when he came home. I am not a house cleaner, he does the majority of the cleaning and I don't ever touch laundry, not my thing. It's not that I don't do anything, I do pick up and wipe down counters and tables but he just gives everything that extra sparkle (okay, that is what Taylor tells him but I am using it in this post). He does laundry, I fold and put it away. I cook, he and Taylor clean afterward, you get the picture. We usually split the floor duty on the weekends, he'll do a room and I'll do another, it works for us.

Eric had some meetings to attend today and a couple sales calls but arrived home early. He was able to get the lawn mowed and drain the pool yet again. It rained a bit when we ran to get gas for the mower but was finished by the time we arrived home. Next weekend we will be mulching the landscape and planting a few more flowers. I have a beautiful hibiscus plant out front and would really like to get another one, out of everything that is my favorite. I may buy a few plants to stick out in the pool area (yes mom, that will be just for you).

Jimmy finally got the opportunity to play outside today but him and Nicky kept going from our house to his, I don't think they played out at all. He spent the evening on YouTube watching Fred. Fred is a huge icon in this house and the kids can't wait for a new video to show up, but they rewatch the old ones over and over. For those who don't know Fred, he is a teenage boy who plays a 6-year-old boy who is often left home alone--pretty funny but his voice (chipmunk-like) gets on your nerves after awhile. You should check him out at least once, you'll get a laugh.

Steph was getting out of the hospital today and planned on taking Andy to visit MawMaw and Nani. They are both doing well. Stephanie, you have two beautiful children.

I really don't have too much going on at the time. Eric's surgery is scheduled for July 21, so we are preparing for that. I still ahven't decided if we will take the kids with us or have them stay home, I'm leaning more towards taking them just in case Eric needs to stay in Tampa, he has to return early the next morning to have a tube removed the day after surgery. Well, that's my post for the evening, goodnight all.

Start of Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-22T10:54:00.003-04:00

I was wanting to take the kids to Disney this weekend but with the rain I don't see it happening. We haven't been to Disney since Easter so we need to get back soon. That had to be the best purchase we could have got fr our family, we will continue to do so in the upcoming years as well. We have talked about switching the parks every year, there is enough of them around to do that.

We are having a cook out Monday and were hoping for a pool party as well but they are calling for more rain so the cookout is on but we may have to stay inside.

I will be spending today and tomorrow working on candles. I am thinking about having a sale again next week to try and get Tucker and his family some money. I thought the Candles by Scorpio site would do better but I still haven't gotten a response so I will try a different tactic.

I hope everyone has a safe Memorial Day! Love you all!

I'm LOST

2009-05-20T22:32:00.004-04:00

Okay, it's Wednesday night and I have been feeling something is missing. I wander around the house not knowing what to do, I cook dinner and I am taking my time-there is no rush tonight, I sit down to eat and have the sudden feeling that there are so many unanswered questions. What is my problem? Oh yeah, it's Wednesday night and LOST isn't on. I will have nothing to talk about with my mom tomorrow morning, maybe not tomorrow morning (because I am sure she will have a lot to talk about with Andy being born), but what about the rest of Thursday mornings until the new season? I need my LOST fix bad. I guess I will resort to pulling out the box sets and watching them until fall or winter, whenever they decide to bring the show back.

Next season will be the last. I have been hooked on the show since it came out and the thought of not having it just crushes me. I figured out by the third season what the show is about, it's not people LOST on an island that cannot be found by radars, it is the viewers that are home that are the ones lost, if you miss one episode you are just screwed (lost), there is no hope for you and I hope you set that DVR because you will not figure it out until you watch the hour catch up, who knows how long you'll have to wait for that. It's a great show, I would say one of the best I have ever watched. I love all the characters, even the ones you hate you love, if that makes any sense.

In the ending we see the island's bomb explode (of course it was in the year 1977) what happens? If the people of the island die in 1977, what will become of them now? Will it end up being like Jake Chambers in Stephen King's Dark Tower series, where he dies in one year but is still living in the future and the flashes of his past make him go crazy in the future? I know, that one is very confusing but if you read the books you understand--if you haven't read the series you need to, it's well worth the seven books and if I were you I would buy the hard cover so they last longer, you will want to read it at least one more time. I don't know if I even understand what I just wrote, I guess it sounded better in my head lol.

Anyway, I guess I need to find something to keep me busy on Wednesday until the show starts back up. One more note for Thursday since Grey's Anatomy had it's season finale, I knew Katherine and T.R. were leaving the show, I could deal with that. Izzy (Katherine's role) found out she had cancer and I think we all knew she would die at the end of the series, but George (T.R.) are you f**king serious? Come on now, you made us sit and watch some John Doe come in on a stretcher, face unrecognizable and all of us too consumed with Izzy didn't really pay any attention to Mr. John Doe. We felt sorry for the poor guy but had no connection. At the very end, Meredith had already voiced that he probably wouldn't make it through surgery, so now we are really disconnected and then BAM!!! 007--OMG, it's George, John Doe is George, seriously, seriously! That was a low blow and I know I am not the only one (Mom and Kyle) to sit in my living room screaming, "NO, NOT GEORGE, NOT GEORGE, NO,NO,NO!!!!!!!!" At least you could of gave us some warning Ms. Chandra. By the time Richard said he sent him home to visit with his mom we didn't even have time to make the connection, it was over at that point. So, in the ending of my rant I will say it one more time--"NOT GEORGE!"

Introducing Andy Ray

2009-05-20T15:33:00.005-04:00

Andyn Ray Maucelli Marshall was born at 1:15 p.m. today. I don't remember all his stats but I know he weighed over 8 lbs. Stephi and baby are doing great, I talk to my sister a few minutes ago and she sounded tired but in good spirits. I know she is happy to finally be able to hold him. Congratulations Stephanie Jo, he is beautiful.

Coleton Eli Weeks

2009-05-19T09:57:00.002-04:00

I want to say congrats to Matt and Becky on the arrival of their new baby boy, Coleton Eli born on April 1, 2009. I know I am a little late on this but you have a beautiful baby and I wish you both the best. Macie and Lauren are now big sisters!

New Arrival Tomorrow

2009-05-19T09:54:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow will be the arrival of my new nephew Andyn Joseph Maucelli Marshall. Vinney will become a big brother but I am not so sure he is going to be thrilled about this, so we will have to wait and see. Steph, I wish you the best tomorrow and I know you are so excited to see your new baby. I am sending all my love to you!

Rainy Day

2009-05-18T23:06:00.002-04:00

Well, the rain has finally found Florida, it's been a long time, seems like a couple years since we have had a really good rain, but the last few days have been nothing but. The grass is green again and sprouting up, it's humid still but with a nice cool breeze. Eric filled the pool up last week (hate the water bill after doing that) only to have to drain water out the other day, it was actually overflowing after a six inch rainfall. The kids and I did some running around this afternoon and I have to add I hate automatic windshield wipers. They seem really cool when the salesman is telling you about them but today they were so off, when it was pouring driving 70 mph on the highway they are at the slowest speed then stop at a light and they are going as fast as they can--go figure.

Taylor is now at that grand age where she never ventures out of her bedroom except to eat. She sits in that room with her TV, radio, ipod, I guess admiring her hundreds of posters of her favorite boys. She spends most of the evening on the telephone chatting about the boys she is admiring and every once in awhile she'll pop her head out to tell her brother to shut up or ask Eric or myself if she can have Emily spend the night or vice versa. I remember those days so well.

Jimmy, on the other hand, is a terror if it is raining outside and he isn't able to go out. I heard "I am so bored" about a billion times today. He also becomes so clingy and talkative, it's nice for about the first hour or so and then I start feeling the need for a little quiet. He wouldn't even take five minutes of TV before he was back and some of the time he brought his DS down with him and not only was he talking and showing me what he was doing in his game but the darn thing would be blaring. So, on days like this I am taking very deep breathes and telling myself he just needs some companionship so I do what I am suppose to, sit down with him on my lap and watch his video games or listen to everything he has to say. I know the day is soon coming where he will be behind his closed door, so I will enjoy the time he needs me around him.

There is no greater blessing in life than our children.

Candles By Scorpio

2009-05-18T08:23:00.002-04:00

http://www.candlesbyscorpio.blogspot.com

I have decided to help out the Bryant Family through my candle sales. I don't make much profit off them but I know every little bit will count. I have had a good response since I have started making the candles and what better way to help out Tucker and his family. Please check out the site and if you see anything you would like please email me:

candlesbyscorpio@aol.com

A portion of profit will be sent to the Bryant's on a monthly basis.

Jimmy's Day

2009-05-17T20:20:00.002-04:00

Eric and I took Jimmy to Hannah Montana The Movie this afternoon and he loved it. The movie wasn't bad, Eric and I both found ourselves laughing during it but watching Jimmy singing and dancing while watching was even better. Taylor spent the night with Emily last night so we decided today would be a fun day with just Jimmy and it was. After leaving the theater we drove past the pond at the mall and Jimmy got to see the alligator swimming around, he was so excited and couldn't stop asking all the questions he could think of about alligators and sharks. Lately, Jimmy has become very interested in sharks and watches a lot of the Discovery Channel and Animal Planet hoping to see a new show on them. He has also gotten to a stage where he asks "Why?" Since he didn't talk much at three he is now making up for the why stage he missed, he has to know everything and more and I have to say, he absorbs all the info we give him. He is very technical these days and wants just the facts, not the jokes myself and Daddy like to give him about what he asks, he becomes very adjudicated with us if we do not provide what he is wanting to know.

A Few of Myself

2009-05-17T11:53:00.003-04:00

Eric took this pic right before we went out

My newest tat for Jimmy

My bedroom swallows me

Eric took some pictures of me before a party so I am adding them on as well. I had my hair cut a few weeks ago and have played with it until I found a style that I liked and this is it.

2009-05-17T11:44:00.003-04:00

Check out Eric's natural socks LOL

I have no clue what he is doing

Eric finally got the pool to himself yesterday and he converted back to an eight year old. I had a lot of laughs watching him and I have to say I haven't seen him have that much fun in a long time. I took a couple movies that I wish I could show but with Eric down another 30 pounds his trunks kept slipping and all you could see was is white butt, lol, pretty funny but I don't think he would appreciate me showing the world. I just like to see the water blue again. Our pump went out and the water started to turn green, but we have an awesome pool guy that shocked it back in no time and with a new pump and filter we shouldn't have any problems for awhile.

Buddy

2009-05-17T11:31:00.004-04:00

Eric has become quite the photographer with the cat. I will take pics off my camera to only find an endless supply of Buddy. Eric and I have always had a cat or two in the house but I have never seen him take to one like this. He talks about Buddy to whoever will listen, even complete strangers. If Eric is home Buddy is on him either watching T.V. or napping. Buddy hates smoke so the only time he is not around Eric is when we are outside for a smoke break, he'll lay on the other side of the pool. When Eric is working in the yard he is calling Buddy outside like a dog and the damn cat just lays in the bushes and watches him.

We all love Buddy though, not just Eric. He is one of a kind and has brought a lot of joy into our home, he has even started taking to Jimmy which says a lot when it comes to animals.

February Zoo Trip

2009-05-17T11:27:00.001-04:00

Eric goes to Philly every year in Feb. but this time after picking him up from the airport we made a pit stop at Lowery Park Zoo. Note, the picture of Eric by the bird, it pooped on him after the picture was taken.

Chip N Jimbob with Disney Characters

2009-05-17T11:20:00.003-04:00

These pictures were taken back in Feb. when Eric was in Philly. The kids and I visited a different park each day and had a lot of fun. The day Eric got home we all headed to the zoo from the airport.

Random Disney Pics

2009-05-17T11:10:00.004-04:00

Eric and "J" in Tom Sawyer's Fort

I have many pics to upload so please bare with me for the next couple of days. I may throw in a little blogging here and there as well.

Fun in the Sun

2009-05-16T21:38:00.004-04:00

Jimmy & "Mama Sharky"

Taylor & her walrus "Bill"

The kids had a blast last week using their new pool toys. I took many pics and one of them shows Mr. Toothless. Jimmy was so scared when he got his first loose tooth that it took almost a year for it to come out because he wouldn't touch it. Once it finally fell out and he woke up to money he figured out he had a good thing going and a few days later wiggled another tooth until it popped out now he is working on the top two. He is going to become a millionaire from the Tooth Fairy. I have tons of pics that needed to be added and will do so as quickly as possible.

Taylor and Jimmy love the pool and swim as much as they can. Most the houses in our neighborhood have pools but the kids have a few friends that don't and guess where they head daily??? Yep, the kids love coming over and making up new pool games, some of the games they come up with are crazy but they have a lot of fun. I will also be uploading some pictures of my big kid in the pool as well.

I'll Be Okay

2009-04-13T09:15:00.002-04:00

As most of you know I have not been blogging lately, I have hit a very rough patch in my life and have not done much but spend it with my children. I know I will pull through in time but now my heart aches more than it feels good. I have been walking through an endless tunnel, I know there is an end but it is taking some time to find, I am determined to find it. Why am I telling you this? There are several reason, but I know I am not the only one who fights depression, it's an uphill battle and the other reason, I know the people who love me are worried but I am going to be okay. You will start to receive my daily phone calls again, I don't know when but I will get through this and I will be me again. I love all of you and I know you have my interests at heart but I have to do this on my own, I have to fight the darkness to find the light and I promise each and everyone of you, I will do it, I will be back.

Happy 7th Birthday Jimmy

2009-04-12T20:14:00.005-04:00

Outside Nemo Ride

By Epcot's new fountain

Madagascar Cake

The Seven-Year-Old

Jimmy turned 7 today and boy he couldn't wait. He has been counting the days for three weeks now so not only was it his birthday but he also woke up to an Easter basket as well. Yesterday we had an Easter egg hunt for the kids, after the hunt it was time for his birthday surprise, a new BMX bike. He has been asking for one for a couple months now and him and Eric have window shopped so he could find the one he wanted. As Jimmy searched through his eggs Eric rode the bike around back, I have never seen Jimmy so excited before.

Jimmy decided he wanted to spend the day at Epcot so that is what he got. He received a Disney giftcard from Disney to help celebrate his birthday. He loved his special day but was exhausted by the end of the day.

Happy Birthday Jimmy, we love you!

Buddy's New Toy

2008-12-07T21:32:00.002-05:00

Buddy received some new toys today and I caught a short video of some of her playtime.

Clay Art

2008-12-03T12:44:00.003-05:00

Taylor's creations

Jimmy's Santa, present and "J"

More of Jimmy's work

Taylor's Yule Tree and present

I gave the kids some clay yesterday morning and had them make Yule decorations with them. They had a very good time and used every bit of clay I had stashed.

Just A Few Random Pics

2008-12-03T12:32:00.002-05:00

Yule Altar

2008-12-03T12:25:00.002-05:00

I have my Altar set up for Yule, even though I have since changed my altar cloth to red. It looks great next to the front door.

2008-11-30T11:24:00.002-05:00

Buddy is doing much better now. When I first brought him here he was scared to even step foot in the house now he roams around like he's been here all his life. He'll hang on the screened porch when we are out there, other than that, he lays around the house. He takes turns sleeping in each of our beds during the night and as you can see in the pictures above, he loves sleeping with his daddy!

Taylor's Birthday

2008-11-30T00:58:00.004-05:00

I know I am late posting Taylor's birthday pictures but the day of her birthday the cable company made a mistake and shut off our service a couple days too soon. I could have added them but it took three hours just to post the house pictures. After her birthday dinner we took the kids to see Santa, which they really enjoyed.

Happy 11th Birthday Taylor Marie

2008-11-26T08:22:00.005-05:00

I lost a few pictures this morning when Chip started opening her gifts because of the camera batteries dying on me. I had pictures of her opening the cards from Nani, Poppa and Nani Celli but they were not on the camera, sorry guys, I tried.

We all woke Tay up this morning with "Happy Birthday" and then she was off and running to her gifts. Jimmy worked hard last night making his big sister a card, he even hid one with a toy he found in his room (I am sure he will take this one back!) I think she really liked most of her gifts; Eric and I got her a new CD player but I don't think it was the one she wanted so I will take her to exchange it in the coming week.

I can't believe my baby girl is already eleven, time has just flown by with her, it makes me very sad to see her getting older but I know it has to happen. We are taking Taylor to The Cheesecake Factory for her birthday dinner and some mall shopping, she has been waiting for this evening for a few weeks now. Taylor I hope you have a wonderful birthday, we all love you!!

Dad and Mom: CD player, Camp Rock bedspread
Jimmy: 2 homemade cards, $20, a plastic skateboard keychain, 2 Camp Rock throw pillows
Grandpa and Nani: $20
Poppa and Nani Celli: $20

Our Afternoon Out

2008-11-23T21:39:00.002-05:00

After a late start today we spent some time with Auntie G this afternoon. She was having a problem with her cable so Eric came to the rescue on that. We visited with her for about an hour before the kids started complaining of being hungry. Eric took us to a little seafood restaurant in Lake Wales which was okay, not the best but I would go back. After we finished dinner we went to their oyster bar where Eric, Jimmy and I shared 2 dozen oysters. I have to say, Jimmy takes after his mommy, he ate a half dozen by himself. Above are a few pictures we snapped while sitting outside of the restaurant while having a smoke break.

Our Buddy

2008-11-23T12:12:00.002-05:00

Just a couple pictures of Buddy. He is a lot of joy for all of us and I have to say he is a very smart cat. He has started trying to unlock our deadbolt when he wants to venture outside. Last night he actually stayed put until 8 am, he usually has to go outside between 3 and 5 so we were pleased with that. He has made his own set times to eat and I have to say, it seems to be the same times everyday. I'm glad Eric took him in, we all love Buddy very much.

Auntie G and Jimmy

2008-11-23T12:06:00.003-05:00

These pictures were taken the day her cable and telephone were installed. She did not want her picture taken because she wasn't getting her hair done until the next day but I talked her into one with Jimmy. I will post more of her within the coming week.

Cyber-Bullying

2008-11-20T09:47:00.002-05:00

I got on AOL today to check my mail and as I often do, look through some of the news stories of the day. The one that caught my eye was on Lori Drew, the woman who created a fake Myspace and bullied the 13-year-old Megan Meier. Megan took her life after this mother pretended to be a boy who liked Megan and then started saying very cruel things to her. I have to add that Megan is not the first and only, and I have to add, probably not the last, to take their young lives because of bullying of any kind, not just online.

I was looking through these photos of all these young children and of course thinking of my own. We all know we can't stop bullying, it has gone on for as long as time I am sure, but how do we protect our children? I have a few suggestions:

1st off, social networking is not for children (by saying children I also mean teenagers.) We don't know who is behind that profile, is it really who we think it is? The best way to protect our children is telling them no. Tay has begged me for a year for one but I stand my ground and let her know when she is of age (18) she may have one.

2ND, know your child and their friends, who are they and what are they doing? I listen to Taylor talking when she is on the phone, if something is questionable, I confront her on it and as a parent I can tell when she is holding back and I can get it out. I know where she is and what she is doing, she may hate it but I know one day she will understand and that is fine with me.

3rd, make sure it's not your child who is doing the bullying. I nip this in the bud anytime I hear Taylor or Jimmy getting that snotty voice with kids outside. I want them to stick up for themselves but not at anytime are they to talk about a child or speak hateful words to them.

4Th, WE have to be parents to our children. I cannot stress this too much. We brought them in this world to care and love but people tend to let their children run free after they get past that toddler age. STOP...TAKE CARE OF YOUR CHILD!! Get them up in the morning, make sure they eat their breakfast and help them dress (or at least let them know they make good choices on their outfit they picked out), get them off to school and when they get home look over their school work and if they have homework help them. I say help them because all I hear around my neighborhood at "homework time" is parents screaming at their children. OMG, this irks me more than anything else, have they thought that maybe their children are having a hard time and need help from the parent? Know where your children are, if they are playing outside, know the parents of the children they play with, know the children, make sure they are in ear shot so you know what is going on in their social lives. You are not a bad parent for not letting your children roam free.

5Th, let's love them. Show them each and everyday what joy they have brought you, what they are worth. Children are not a burden and I hate to hear parents complain about their children. It's one thing to have a bad day, we all have them, but don't make our children think they are to blame. I notice for myself that my children react to how I am feeling and I get a little more edgy with them than normal when I am agitated. Let them know daily, hug them, kiss them and tell them what special qualities they have that makes them so special to you (very important if you have more than one child.)

I am so saddened that children think that is the only way out of this. We all say "Children are cruel" but we as parents need to make sure our children are not and show our children they are loved and valued. Lets stop this horrible cycle. Say no to computers in bedrooms, if you are not home invest in computer software that shows page by page and keystrokes your children are performing--it may surprise you what your child is looking or talking about. We are responsible for our children's safety and help keep them from predators inside and outside of our home.

2008-11-20T09:19:00.002-05:00

Eric brought home boxes of every size last night for me to begin filling. I was already exhausted from cleaning out closets that I could have done without seeing what lies ahead for the next week. I ended up heading over to see Auntie G last night, the two of us sat in her room watching TV, talking and laughing. She is doing so well these days, it's like a totally different person from last year at this time. She was so happy when she saw me walk in and I have to say that is a great feeling. I have loved Auntie G since I was young, I remember stay with her and JB and I loved it. She had a spare room that she always said was mine so whenever I was at her house I would announce to whoever would listen that it was my room.

I do have to say she complained about the weather yesterday saying, "I thought Florida didn't get cold!" We do have a cold front moving through which has put a damper on everything but it should be warming up in the next couple of days. I do have to say, I am glad she's here and I enjoy the time I get to spend with her.

It's Been A Long Day

2008-11-18T16:21:00.003-05:00

I have never been so glad to be home finally. We were on the move since we woke up this morning and I will be the first to admit I am not a morning person. I had to meet the cable guys over at Auntie G's, so now she has cable for her new TV and we added a phone line to her room. She is doing so well since she has been down here and now is only on 5 medications. When she first arrived here they knew right off the bat what was wrong with her, she was on 15 heart meds 3x a day and 3 blood pressure meds 3x a day not to mention several others for various other things. She has started to walk again which they told me would never happen and is able to dress herself. It's amazing how so much has change in a short period of time. I took her three new outfits today and a chocolate Frosty from Wendy's, she was in heaven.

We were at the facility for 3 hours and then I had to rush to Eric's work to pick up boxes. We thought we would have a few more days before we had to move so I have to really put a rush on things on my end. When they said we would be signing on the house next Wednesday I was amazed it was sooner, I was actually scared we'd be pushed back. Taylor was a little disappointed at first because she thought it would cut into her birthday plans but she cheered up when I told her it would still go as planned.

Since we celebrate our Thanksgiving in September I was not planning anything special for next Thursday but my husband asked if I would make him another turkey to which I agreed. I am not planning a big feast but I will have turkey and cranberries for sure. I actually have bought up several bags of cranberries to freeze because they are not in the stores when I celebrate Mabon, I am not going another year without them.

I also want to add that I have passed another class in my natural healing course. I am now on my fourth which will take about six months so only a year to go until I am complete. I am seriously considering becoming an homeopathic healer once my children are grown, I will just keep this under my belt until then. I have already started it on my family and I think I have mentioned before we are now done with medical doctors and drugs, only natural will be used on us.

I want to also note that Maw Maw has started her treatment from the Guardian machine for her cancer and they can already see a difference. She has many tumors in her stomach at the present time and her legs have swollen so big she can barely walk, her toes have turned purple. They say that is caused from a tumor that is pressing against her kidney. She started the treatment less than a week ago and the swelling has already started going down. I have high hopes for this and know that many people have been totally cured of cancer. Please keep her in your thoughts. Please read more on The Guardian and click on health, it will then take you to pages and pages written on this. It is helpful to everyone (I also plan on purchasing one for my family) because it balances your body. I wish I could explain more but it's very complicated, you need to read more on it, the results are shocking. I will keep you informed on her progress.

Ultrasounds of the New Babies

2008-11-08T10:57:00.006-05:00

Above are the first sonogram pictures of my niece or nephew. Stephi is due May 27th (it's somewhere around that date.) She should be finding the sex of the baby shortly and we are anxious to know for sure. No one in our family has had two boys in a row...will she make Maucelli history???

Matt and Becky just found out they are expecting a baby boy April 8th of next year. They also have twin daughters, Lauren and Macie. Congratulations on your new addition, boys are a lot of fun!

Aunt Carol and Uncle Bob's

2008-09-20T02:35:00.002-04:00

Taylor and Jimmy

Taylor

Jimmy

Taylor

Jimmy

Taylor and Jimmy

Jimmy Swimming

2008-06-06T14:17:00.001-04:00

Jimmy learned to swim under water yesterday so I took a video of my "Little Fish" for all to see. I am so proud of him!!

Forever With Me

2008-05-01T10:25:00.003-04:00

Through the death of a loved one, I have opened my eyes to appreciate all the people in my life today, right now. The hardest struggle I face at this time is the pain that comes from a suicide, the guilt of not knowing the person's pain and struggles, not realizing is so hard to deal with. Watching everyone I love crumble at the news, the sadness that envelopes around us, the shock, the never ending grief; it's almost too much to bare. Several months later, I still feel the pain, shock, hurt and even sometimes anger-not at him, at myself for not letting him know how much he meant to me, how much him being in my life meant. I have told him many times the words, but never why or what made me feel the way I do. I said the words like a robot as I was leaving-I'm sorry for that.

Such a gentle soul, not able to deal with all the pressures of the world. I see two children without a father, a baby without a grandpa and a woman without her rock, her best friend, her soul mate. I see family that has lost a huge chunk from one lovely man and friends who will never laugh the way they did when he was around. I never knew how much you could miss hearing someone's voice and how I try to replay some of the things he has said, but each day that voice seems to fade-please don't let me lose that. I was always excited when I saw him, even as an adult, I always loved being around him.

September 15th will forever be a sad day in my life, I hate to think that it's coming up-I dread it. There is so many questions I have that will go unanswered, so many feelings and emotions that I can't express. I love and miss you so much. I wish I could go back and tell you what was on my mind, the real way I felt-I know it wouldn't have changed what happened but at least you would have known.

I have come to realize that everything happens for a reason, every person has a purpose, when their purpose is complete they leave us, I can handle that. What is so hard to understand is what exactly that purpose was and why sometimes it's over so soon. I know he is in a better place where no one can harm him any longer, no one can break his pride. If you didn't know while you were here-you were loved and very special to many people, you were special to me.

I talk to him everyday, I tell my kids about him, he will never be forgotten. Dooley, that is your fault, you consume our lives and I know you are laughing about that now. I know he's around, I feel him and I know everyone else does as well. I am very sad and hurt that he's gone but I am happy for him, I know he's free now, free from this hateful world.

My mind is filled with movies of your Memories, my heart is filled with songs of love-you will forever be alive within me.

Jimmy's Cooking Show

2008-04-30T10:46:00.005-04:00

Jimmy was grounded from outside from leaving the backyard with a neighbor child, he was so bored he decided to help me cook. What a laugh, he was talking like the cooking shows Taylor watches, so here is another video of JimBob.

Jimmy Dancing Again

2008-04-30T10:43:00.003-04:00

Taylor and I were watching TV yesterday while Jimmy was on the computer on The Disney Channel and he caught our eye dancing to music and I had to take a movie. I hope you all enjoy my little performer.

Update on Jimmy

2008-04-24T10:04:00.002-04:00

After 24-hours of fighting the fever, by last night Jimmy was back to his normal self. He really didn't claim to have any symptoms other than saying his tummy hurt one time, but I know that children often associate something not feeling right to their tummy. His poor little eyes just didn't look well, you can definately tell he is sick by looking at his eyes. Just wanted to let everyone know he is back to normal and can't wait to get outside when he finishes school today.

Now Jimmy's Sick

2008-04-23T08:28:00.003-04:00

Jimmy was totally fine yesterday morning, did school and was bouncing off the walls; being normal Jimmy. I made pizza for the kids at lunch time and when I called him to come eat he said his tummy hurt and wanted me to save it for him. I went to check on him after I ate and he was curled up, asleep on his bed, so I figured he really must not feel good. He woke up about an hour later and climbed on the couch and announce, "You have a sick little boy!" I went over to the couch to hug on him and he was on fire, burning up with a fever so I got him some Motrin and within 30 minutes he thought he was fine, back to playing and jumping around, I tried my hardest to get him to take it easy but that's easier said than done. He wouldn't eat dinner and I went on a milkshake run last night and he didn't want that either. But 9 o'clock his fever was returning so I gave him more Mortin and took him to bed with me. When he woke up this morning it was the same thing so we are going to see how it goes, but I have a feeling we will be taking a trip to the doctor.

All Better

2008-04-21T10:16:00.002-04:00

I woke up this morning with no aching, no pain and all around feeling great! Since last Monday night I have been suffering from a kidney infection and it was horrible, I was down for the count until last Saturday. I was running a very high fever Tuesday, which I have never experienced with a kidney infection before.

Friday was my anniversary and we couldn't even go out. Eric brought me home beautiful roses and a card and cooked steaks out on the grill. He prepared the whole dinner for me and since I was on the couch he brought all the food out and we all (even the kids) ate our steaks and watched Jurassic Park. Jimmy had never seen that movie and he loved it, it was a lot of fun just watching his expressions and reactions to the movie.

Eric and the kids spent Saturday at the pool, I never thought they would come home. I think they were there for about 5 hours. It gave me time to work on my classes and prepare for my test (which I aced with 100%).

The weekend turned out pretty good and we all had a lot of fun together. Last night I had a kid-filled house: Taylor had three friends over and Jimmy had two, but they all stayed in their bedrooms and for the most part were as quiet as could be expected.

Jimmy's Dedication to Uncle Mike

2008-04-18T20:31:00.002-04:00

Jimmy found this song and told me it was for Uncle Mike. It's called I Miss You by Hanna Montana.

2008-04-17T20:05:00.002-04:00

Jimmy, Vinney and Taylor

Jimmy crashes Monday after his fun-filled few days

Vinney's almost as big as Jimmy

Such a cute picture

Finally got a smile

Taylor in mid-jump

Jimmy and Vinney playing with the birthday ball

Happy Belated Birthday Jimmy

2008-04-17T19:26:00.004-04:00

Daddy taking Jimmy's gift out of the box

Cutie Pie

Jimmy's "Beat you up like a chicken" slogan

Nani's decorated gift

Homemade birthday cake

The 6-year-old smiling

From Daddy and Mommy

Gifts from his Nani

Present from Poppa and Nani Celli

I have been meaning to put Jimmy's birthday pictures on but Blogger was giving me problems and then I got sick, but better late than never.

Mom and Vinney got into town last Thursday and just let me say, Vinney is such a big boy and so adorable. The kids were so excited for them to get here and it was pure adrenaline rush when they finally showed up. We all had lunch at Cracker Barrel and then spent the hanging around the house.

Friday, Nani and Daddy took the kids to the pool and the most exciting thing happened - Jimmy started going under water! He had to prove what a big boy he was, six-years-old.

Saturday, the wonderful Birthday of Jimmy the Great. What a wonderful day for him. He woke up to a bunch of wrapped gifts and cards, then off to Birthday Boys requested breakfast of IHOP, where he was treated like a king. When we got home Daddy made a cake for Jimmy while he played with his friends outside and then we all headed to the pool for a few hours - even Vinney got to swim with Auntie Joey and Uncle Eric. We came back for cake and ice cream and ended the evening with a hamburger cookout. He had a great day.

Sunday was Nani and Vinney's last day and was spent outside but it was actually chilly, so Vinney hung out in the house with Uncle Eric a lot. We finished our last night with a movie of Alvin and the Chipmunks. We really enjoyed Nani and Vinney's visit and wish they could have stayed longer. Thank you for making Jimmy's birthday so special.

Happy Birthday, Nick

2008-04-11T09:44:00.003-04:00

Happy 20th Birthday, Nick. I wish
you a happy day and a wonderful
year ahead! Love and miss you!

Jimmy Playing Guitar Hero

2008-04-08T11:34:00.003-04:00

Jimmy has only played Guitar Hero a couple times but is getting better with each try. He plays with only one finger (his thumb) and actually does a pretty good job. Here is a video of him with the guitar.

Pictures from Last Week

2008-04-08T11:21:00.011-04:00

Jimmy was sad in this picture, he wanted to go swimming

Jimmy showing off those beautiful blue eyes

Daddy had Jimmy trapped

He acts like he hates it but the second Eric lets him go he's right back over there so he'll do it again

Eric playing with a cardboard camera

Jimmy was the first to play with it and Daddy just copied him

Taylor and Jimmy lounging

Another lounging picture

Jimmy's Pictures

2008-04-08T10:40:00.013-04:00

Jimmy got a hold of my camera and went on a picture takin' spree. I am posting his photos per his request. Enjoy Jimmy's masterpiece!

2008-04-08T10:21:00.002-04:00

I have to do a little bragging on Jimmy today. As you know, he is now in Kindergarten and is doing excellent. He is catching on to spelling, doing great in addition and telling time, learning about children in different countries during Social Studies, everything he does he whizzes through. He best subject is math and he just catches on very quickly. When he first started learning addition, I set his book in front of him and was ready to explain how the process of addition works, I said the problem out loud and was ready to explain when he blurted out the answer. I though to myself, good guess and decided to say the next problem and he knew the answer. For a child that has never done this, I was shocked at how he knew what to do. He is almost finished with his books and will be ready for first grade, we cannot wait.

Taylor is doing excellent as well, she is and always has been a very smart little girl. Right now she is learning so much in her studies: Math-converting liquid measurement (she is awesome at this); Language-writing different types of letters, postcards, addressing envelopes; History-first colonies and people of the New World. She is basically done with her subjects and only has a few weeks left of the remaining that I just mentioned. Taylor is very excited to move on to the fifth grade.

Mom and Vinney will be here Thursday and the kids have really been counting down the days, they miss both of them, I do as well. We are very excited for your arrival.

Back In School

2008-04-02T12:08:00.002-04:00

Besides my already hectic schedule of cooking, cleaning, teaching my children school and keeping them entertained and happy throughout the day, I have decided to add a couple more classes to my schedule as well. As most of you know I started taking a Tarot Reading class which ended last week. That was a six week class and pretty easy, just the basics of everything, now I have enrolled in two more tougher classes. I chose the next step of Tarot, which is a little more tricky and consists of a class every two weeks and an exam, on top of that I have two projects to complete in those two weeks. Sounds easy, not even close! This class will teach me how to feel the cards more than just writing down the meaning, it will teach me to acknowledge my psychic ability. I have a great interest in the Tarot and am very excited to get started on my first project on The Fool and The Magician (cards 0 and I.)

The next class I have decided to take is on Wicca, everything about it. My first course is on the Book of Shadows (BOS) and also has exams and projects. This is actually a three year course when all is said and done. I have a class every week with the exam every seven days, I am really excited about this.

I have such a great interest in everything that has to do with this religion and hope to eventually know all herbs and their healing powers. I also would love to find my psychic abilities, I know they're there I just need to find out how to access them.

I have two meditation assignments every two weeks that go along with the two cards of the week. Today will be my first day of the meditation and I also have to document my experiences in a journal. I never knew there were so many classes available on Wicca, I guess they keep them under-wraps, but you would be amazed how it can make you feel so much better.

I suffer from depression, bad depression, that has taken hold of my life for several years. Through studying Wicca, I have found ways to almost eliminate my depression. I have not felt this good in a long time, I finally have energy and am very happy with who am I, I am proud of my accomplishments. I am now not on any medications, have been able to get back down to my normal weight and keep it there, I feel healthy again and I see the impact that it has made on my family life.

I am not trying to bring anyone to my side, I am just wanting everyone to know the impact it has had on my life. I know the Christian religion, I was brought up Catholic and even as a child in Catholic school, I questioned what I was told, I was always the one asking questions that I am sure pissed off my teachers but what I was told never clicked with me. I went around my teenage and adult life feeling lost because I believed in God, I just didn't really believe what I was told in the Bible. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against the Bible, I think the Bible tells great stories, but that's what they are to me, is stories with morals. I don't have any one telling me how I have to do my religion, I do it my way and anytime I choose, I can have a ritual or spellwork (which is prayer.) I don't ride on a broom, levitate or shoot fire beams from my fingers, I am human and humans don't do those things, that's called Hollywood.

When I am at my altar I feel pure ease and it is so amazing how you can feel the positive energy all around you. It is an actual physical feeling and my kids can feel it as well, they tell me how around my altar feels so much different than anywhere else in my home, they love to lay their hands on it and feel the positive energy. The only thing they are not allowed to do without my okay is touch any of my magickal tools. Taylor and Jimmy have their own magickal tools and they love joining me in daily dedications and they love doing their own bedtime rituals using their own magick.

As everyone knows, I teach my children through Christian school books and yesterday, Taylor and I got a kick out of what they were telling us. Taylor is learning about Pilgrims and Native American Indians. We all know that Native Americans are Pagans, always have been, they believe in the earth and all it's powers, they follow the elements and natural healing, all Pagan, actual they are a branch of Paganism called Shamanism. Anyway, in her book, of course, talks about how the Pilgrims came over and changed them into Christians, which I guess maybe a few, but a lot of Native Americans still practice Paganism to this day. We love to watch their Pow-Wows, right? They dance in a circle around a bonfire, singing, raising their hands to the sky, this is their ritual for whatever they are wanting, They move in a circle creating positive energies for healing or again, whatever they choose is needed in their life at that time. Their ritual is no different from my rituals, we do the same things but we are each a different branch, but believe in the same elements and our many God/dess, we are for the earth and nature. I do take the time during school to point out the differences so my children can choose their own path. I let them join me in my practice, if they choose to do so, but also give them the knowledge that my religion is not the only or the right religion, I believe every religion is wonderful, it's what make you as an individual happy. I just choose not to have someone tell me I am a sinner and will be in hell if I don't do this or that. I don't believe in heaven or hell (or the devil, he has no place in our works, he is a Christian myth to scare and control the followers), I believe we are here on this earth to learn and we will return to this earth at another time to start a new lesson or relearn one we did not quite get when we were here before. I believe in the Summerlands, a place for souls to wait their descent back to earth and to watch over us here.

Hopefully, that will give you all a look into what Wicca is, and who the people involved in Wicca are. When you see teens out for gore and black magick, they are trying to follow the trends they see on T.V., that is not Wicca. We are people that stand in front or behind you in the grocery store and at the mall, our kids play with yours at the park and you can't tell from looking at us that we work with candles, incense and herbs in our home. We dress in the same clothing as you and we live life by "harm none." In that we love all living creatures, we may not want all of them in our home (bugs) but we know that each and every living thing has a purpose and reason for being here, just as we do, and we know it's life is no less valuable than ours. So, with that, I will end this and just say, Blessed Be, to all that walk the path and for those of you who walk through life, we are all one and the same.

Scorpio Moon

Upcoming Events

2008-03-30T20:58:00.002-04:00

If you read Vinney's blog, you will know that we are expecting a visit from my mom and Vinney next month for Jimmy's 6th birthday. Everyone is very excited for their arrival and we have planned some fun events. They will arrive Thursday, April 10th and we will relax the day they get here, as far as planned at this time, Friday we will spend the day at the beach (celebrating Nick's 20th birthday, too bad he won't be here to celebrate with us), and then Saturday we will celebrate Jimmy's birthday at Dinosaur World in Plant City. Eric has taken days off so we will be able to visit as well. We can't wait to see the two of you and are happy that you decided to spend some time in Florida with us.

Stupid Lady

2008-03-26T21:08:00.002-04:00

I was just watching the news and saw a story on a 26-year-old woman that left her twin two-year-olds locked in their bedroom while she went shopping at the Brandon Mall. What is wrong with people? I am so sick of people wanting the status of a parent without the responsibility that comes along with it. We, as adults, know good and well that if we want to go shopping and we have children there are only three options: 1. Take them with us, 2. Get a babysitter, or 3. Stay home.

As a mother, I have had many days where I wanted to get away, run away from chaos, but in reality, I know that could never happen. I became a mother knowing what the job details were and I put my children before anything else, that is my job as a mother. There has been several month in a year that I didn't have a break, it was kids 24/7. I have realized since staying at the Maucelli household that mom's do need a break from their children as much as children need a break from parents. I have started going to the store by myself, tanning (funny since I live in Florida but still have the need for the fake bake), and once a week Eric takes the kids on fun adventures and leaves me home to complete silence. I love my kids but I realized I can love them even when they are not with me, it's great to finally have "ME TIME".

As for this mother who left her children home alone, she claims there are two sides to every story; I don't care what the circumstance, you have no reason to leave your babies home alone so you can shop...ridiculous!

Blond Hair and Tattoos

2008-03-25T02:52:00.004-04:00

Here are some pictures and a movie of Jimmy with his Hannah Montana wig and his Spider-Man tattoos. As almost everyone knows, Jimmy is a huge Hannah Montana fan and tries to wear this wig every where. He loves watching her show and singing her songs and even had me buy him Danimals yogurt so he could try to win a trip to meet her (he was very crushed when I told him it said 'Sorry, try again'.) He thought as soon as he took a drink she would knock on the door, poor baby, he was so disappointed. I do have to say, he looks pretty cute with blond hair and blue eyes.

Random Pictures

2008-03-25T02:49:00.003-04:00

Easter at the Hardin's

2008-03-25T02:41:00.003-04:00

David and Bev put on a wonderful southern Easter dinner and we enjoyed being there very much. After a wonderful dinner Teresa, Cody and I hid Easter Eggs for Taylor, Jimmy and Isaiah. The kids had a blast finding eggs, but seemed to be sick of eating candy by then and ending up playing baseball, football and riding bikes.

Easter

2008-03-25T02:30:00.003-04:00

The kids woke up bright and early Easter morning (5 A.M.) to discover what Easter Bunny brought for them. So much candy I am sure half will be thrown away before they can eat it. They dug through their baskets to find movies (The Bee Movie and 101 Dalmatians), huge chocolate bunnies, gum, jelly beans and many more goodies. They hunted for eggs and had a great breakfast of waffles and hard boiled eggs. They were both very happy with their baskets and couldn't wait to watch their movies.

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter!

Happy Ostara to All!

2008-03-22T19:29:00.002-04:00

We celebrated our first Ostara (oh-star-ah) Thursday and our celebration went very well. I made ham and scalloped potatoes and a strawberry banana dessert for our dinner and it was delicious. The kids got to join in their first Wicca ritual; they cleansed and blessed their tools and called the four elements and Spirit to join our circle, I was very proud of them. Jimmy had a hard time staying still but that was expected, he had a great time though and Taylor loved it as well. The kids colored eggs and I was very happy that they shared and got along great, it was a great evening.

We are spending Easter at David and Bev's again this year and I will make sure to take many pictures and video to share. I hope everyone has a great, safe holiday!

Let's Play Poppit

2008-03-04T12:36:00.001-05:00

Let's Play Word Whomp

2008-03-04T12:35:00.001-05:00

Go to Pogo to play 100s of Fun Games!

Pics For Mom

2008-03-03T16:36:00.001-05:00

Jimmy's Boo-Boo's

2008-03-03T12:03:00.003-05:00

The first day we moved in Jimmy had quite a fall on his scooter. The handle bar caught him in his throat, he scraped his elbow and fattened his lip. Being Jimmy, he got right up and was back to playing. Last week he had another mishap on the scooter, he hurt his other elbow and busted his lip. The last one for some reason he didn't want me to find out about until Taylor ran in to tell me his mouth was bleeding. I got him cleaned up and he was out playing again. I have some pictures of his boo-boo's and a cute video of Eric asking him about them.

Cinnamon the Kitten

2008-03-03T11:59:00.003-05:00

After his bath

Taylor loves her baby

The day we started moving, Eric found a kitten and brought it home to the kids. Taylor named him Cinnamon and he is a very sweet cat.

Finally Moved!

2008-03-03T11:51:00.003-05:00

The move is finally over, it took us over two weeks to get everything moved but we did it and over the weekend got most of our boxes unpacked. I do have pictures finally as well that I am posting for all to see. :) We love the new place, the kids have made many new friends (there are a lot of girls Taylor's age so she is very happy) and the neighbors are all very nice. We are now in Winter Haven, Florida, just down the street from Cypress Gardens Theme Park, which the kids love that. I hope all is well with everyone, we love and miss you all.

Moving This Weekend

2008-02-13T12:21:00.003-05:00

We are moving this Friday and I only have a few boxes packed. It seems like so much has been going on and now I am not feeling my best and just haven't got much done so today I have to kick butt. I figured Taylor could help me get a lot of it done. Eric leaves for Philly Sunday so we have to be all moved in by Saturday.

A Couple Pics of Tay

2008-02-13T11:59:00.003-05:00

Here are a couple pics of Tay that I snapped last night while she was talking to Nani. The top picture is a really good one, my beautiful princess.

Florida State Fair

2008-02-13T11:48:00.002-05:00

We had a full weekend that started Saturday morning, going to lunch and off to the Tampa Mall where Jimmy got some new outfits from The Children's Place (my favorite children's store) and he was a great sport going into the dressing room to try them on. After the mall we decided to take the kids to the Florida State Fair, where once inside we got some dinner--pizza and hamburgers. The kids each got their tickets and it was off to the rides where Jimmy rode his first roller coaster, which he loved. The kids played games and won stuffed animals, we got caramel and candy apples, cotton candy, funnel cakes and lots of candy of the Largest Traveling Candy Store. The kids had a blast and Eric and I loved watching them have so much fun. Eric and I were a little sick when we left and realized how much money we spent there but it was worth it to see how happy the kids were.

Taylor Talking to Nani

2008-02-13T11:45:00.002-05:00

Mom has been on me to get video of the kids but I have been so busy it seems I hardly pick up the camera anymore, that will change once we move hopefully. I got Taylor talking to Nani on the phone in her room, she is not one that lets me just snap pictures or take video, she has to look perfect before she is caught on camera...pre-teens LOL.

Jimmy Singing

2008-02-13T11:29:00.003-05:00

Sunday, we all spent the day shopping and one of our stops was Best Buy where Taylor asked for the High School Musical Sing It game. She was so excited to get it home but once she played she realized it wasn't what she thought it would be. Jimmy, on the other hand, loves it and will sit in front of the TV with the microphone all day if you let him. I captured this video of him singing along with the High School Musical cast, so cute.

Hello Strangers

2008-01-30T11:55:00.000-05:00

I know it's been awhile but I have had so much going the past month that I haven't had time for anything. We are all getting over some type of bug at the moment, Jimmy and Eric have a head cold and Tay and I have had slight sore throats and our voices are sometimes here and sometimes not.

We went yesterday to look at another house, time is ticking and we still have decided. The one we looked at yesterday was gorgeous, it's a 3 bedroom 2 bath, very open floor plan in a gated community. We liked it a lot but still are waiting from the news of when Eric is being transfered to Daytona. We are actually thinking about Kissimmee (Orlando) area because it is a half way point. Eric thinks it will be another 6 months before the transfer actually happens. There is a gorgeous house in Kissimmee that we both love and I think we are leaning more towards that, it's a 5 bedroom 4 bath (for visitors to stay), it's a 3275 sq. ft. home and only 2 years old. We'll see what happens, all I know is come March 1st we have to be out of here, I cannot stay in this ghetto infested place anymore.

I am adding a very cute video to Jimmy's site that you have to check out of him singing to his High School Musical DVD in the car, he had no idea the camera was on him because he was so consumed in the song.

Taylor is doing great but I haven't got any pics of her lately but will try this week some time to update. We (Eric, Taylor and I) have spent most of our time on the couch fighting over Guitar Hero LOL, we are so addicted to that game. Eric leaves for Philly next month and has already said he is taking the PS with him so he can play. I am buying Rock Band this weekend so we can start a new obsession but at least we can all play at the same time. There is nothing liking finding an activity that brings us all together LOL.

Vinney's New Site

2008-01-01T11:02:00.000-05:00

Just letting everyone know that my nephew Vinney's blog has changed. Due to inactivity on my sister's part of updating (no offense Steph) my mom has decided to make her own and she will update often. I have already changed my links so you will go directly to the new one.

Just an update on Vinney, he is now 3 months and weighs 20 lbs and is now in a size 12 months. He is a big boy and has started cooing and laughing a lot. I miss you little guy!

www.vinneymike.blogspot.com

Happy 2008

2008-01-01T10:58:00.000-05:00

2007-12-28T19:22:00.001-05:00

2007-12-28T19:19:00.001-05:00

A Day With the Fish

2007-12-28T19:10:00.000-05:00

American Alligator

Big Turtle

Otter cleaning itself

Owl

Stingray

The cute duck

Eric and I took the kids to The Florida Aquarium today and we all had a lot of fun. The size of some of the fish was unbelievable and we even watched divers in a shark tank, the kids really loved that. After we were finished with the aquarium we took the kids outside to play in their big water park and that was a perfect finish, both kids are now so worn out and will get to bed early I am sure. I hope you all enjoy the pictures, some will be on this site and others will be on theirs.

Blessed Yule!

2007-12-22T18:45:00.000-05:00

Our first celebration of Yule went off without a hitch. The kids awoke to a visit from the Italian witch La Bafana, who flies around on her broom and delivers goodies to the children. They were not expecting her so they were very surprised. I made a ham dinner with loaded mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, rolls, and an apple pie. After our lunch the kids were able to open their gifts for Yule. Please check out their sites to see what they received. The 25th of December will be Santa Day but we did our celebration today and really have no plans for actual Christmas. I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!

Roy Allan Jenkins

2007-12-18T16:41:00.001-05:00

I found this picture of Allan and it made me smile, this is how I will always remember him, goofing off. He loved to watch poker on TV and doing something silly while watching was just his way. A lot of times he would sit there until someone finally noticed him or else he would bring on the attention. I remember this night very well, we got take-out Red Lobster (which was all of our favorites) and sat around watching TV. The girls had left the comb sitting there and sure enough, Allan picked it up and started combing his beard and the next thing we knew, there he was sitting with it like it was nothing out of the ordinary. I will miss those days, I always laughed when he was around. Most of the time he was lippy and you'd find yourself pretty pissed at some of the things that he would say but the next thing you knew you were practically crying from laughing so hard. You couldn't stay mad at him for too long. Rest in peace Allan, I hope you are finally free!

Another Jack Princess

2007-12-17T11:07:00.000-05:00

Two beautiful girls

Welcome to the world!

Sorry It has taken so long for me to post this announcement! My cousins, Greg and Alisha Jack, received a new little angel, Emily Rose on November 29, 2007 at 7:57 a.m. Emily weighed 7 lbs. 2 oz. and was 18 3/4 inches long. Izabel ha been great with the baby and enjoys being a big sister. Congratulations to all of you, what a great gift this year!

Remembering Allan Jenkins

2007-12-14T12:22:00.000-05:00

Myspace Graphics at WishAFriend.com

I lost a good friend of mine last week, Allan Jenkins who was married to my friend Renee. He passed away at the age of 36 and will be terribly missed by myself and the kids. Taylor says Allan and Renee were her second parents. I have a lot of good memories with Allan and so do the kids. I am sorry it had to end this way. Allan, you were a good man and would have eventually saw the light at the end of your tunnel. You had a huge heart and you cared for many people, I just don't think you realized how much people cared for you. I am sorry I wasn't there for your service but I was thinking of you and my thoughts and prayers are with Renee, Jordan and Delaney. I hope you find your path and know that a lot of people here will always remember you.

Some Memories I Would Like To Share:

1. The first time I met you was at Jay's and you came to pick Jordan up. We stood there and talked and you told me you loved Jordan and were ready for another child. From then on we talked every time you came in.

2. Something that sticks out of my mind more than ever is you with Jimmy. You were the first one that he stuck his whole head under your shirt just to play with your belly button. I have a picture of that, I will have to locate it.

3. You always told me how much you cared for Taylor and love her coming to visit. You always made us all feel right at home.

4. When Eric and I were going to Vegas and we hard some times come up that left us broke before our trip, you were the one to give us money to play on, I will never forget that!

5. When I was at the daycare having horrible pain from the ectopic pregnancy, it was you that got me help and I thank you for that.

6. You and Renee gave Eric and I a memorable send off to Florida. I tried my first Escargot with you guys (and will probably never eat one again) and then you took us for a night of gambling, we had a lot of fun that night.

I have several memories but those stick out the most. You will be missed. I am sorry I didn't meet up with you and the girls like you wanted, now I wish I would have. I did want to talk to you Allan and let you know that this way was not the way to go. I wanted to let you know how it hurts the people you leave behind. I hope you have finally found peace!

The Kids and Vinney

2007-12-14T11:56:00.000-05:00

What A Great Birthday!

2007-11-08T12:38:00.000-05:00

Eric flew me out to Lakeland for my 30th birthday Friday and it was one of the best trips I have ever had. He spoiled and pampered me for a straight four days, it was a wonderful change. Eric picked me up from the airport around 10 AM and took me to lunch at Red Lobster. After Red Lobster it was off to the mall where we shopped like crazy, if I looked at it he was ready to buy it--that doesn't happen very often with him. He took me home so I could change and get ready for dinner and then it was back to Tampa for a couple drink and dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. What a wonderful evening, it was absolutely perfect!

Sunday we stayed home all day because my back was hurting again after all the walking we did Saturday, but I enjoyed the day of total relaxation. He left that morning to get donuts and he picked so food up at the store so we could make dinner. We had a nice shrimp boil and it was great to spend a whole day with Eric.

Monday morning I woke up to omelets (Eric makes the best veggie omelet I have ever had anywhere) and off we went shopping again. We spent most the day going here and there and then he took me to a very nice dinner Saltwater Grill.

Tuesday morning I woke up very depressed, I just didn't want to leave him, knowing that this was my last day with him until Christmas Eve just bummed me out. I moped around most the morning until finally he had enough and decided to do something to get my mind off of it and boy did it, I ended up in Wild Cats Tattoo where Eric bought me a tat. I got my lower back done by a great artist there, Greg, who had the gentlest hand I have ever had while getting ink, it was very smooth and not painful at all. Eric took pictures that I will post as soon as I remove them from my camera. Of course, I got some Wiccan art done and I love it, it's all black tribal with a pentagram in the middle and a crescent moon on top, and I have so many more ideas to add on to it.

So, all in all, I had a fabulous trip thanks to my wonderful husband and I needed a get away badly. I can't wait to see you next month, I just wish you could've made it here for Chip's birthday. I love you and miss you bunches and I think about you all the time. Sooner than later you'll be back here living with us and I can't wait, I know you can't either!

Down For the Count

2007-10-29T23:51:00.000-04:00

Since last Wednesday I have been down with very bad back pains. I have no clue what I have done to my back but it has been horrible, I walk like I'm about 90-years-old. I go to the doctor tomorrow to try and get this taken care of before Saturday. For those who do not know, I am heading to Florida for a few days to spend my 30th birthday with my husband. Wouldn't you know that something like this would happen a week before I leave! I have spent a lot of time in bed with the laptop or in a hot tub soaking...I have been very bored!

I was able to do school with the kids today, which went very well. I have a kindergartner now. I can't believe my baby is now in school, they grow so fast. He is doing great and seems to enjoy school. Taylor has done amazing this year as well, but what's new with that, she has always been a very intelligent child. I am very proud of my two kids and I am glad to be apart of their education as well.

I can't believe we are so close to the end of this year, it has flown by. Eric has let his district manager in FL know that he is moving back and of course they are sad to see him leave but are happy that he is staying within the company. They have not decided exactly which store he will be in and there has been some talk of him becoming the outside salesmen, I think he would really enjoy that.

More sad news as well...our cat Gabby past away Thursday. Eric and Taylor took it pretty hard, Tay really loved her cat. Gabby was only 3-years-old and we will all miss her very much.

On the 31st of October we will be celebrating Samhain (Halloween) and will remember our loved ones that have pasted this year and all the years before. In the Pagan community, Samhain is the time where the realms of our world and the "other side" are the thinnest, making it easier to cross over. It is best to make an offering to your ancestors on this night (where trick or treat came from) usually of breads or cakes, many even set a place at the dinner table for those loved ones who have past. Jimmy is going to dress up as the black Spider-Man and Taylor will be a witch. I am just hoping that my back will get better by then, the kids will be mad if I can't take them out. I teased Taylor and told her that she would have to push me in Maw-Maw's wheelchair...she didn't think that sounded too fun.

I hope to have pictures soon but my camera has finally crapped out on me so now I have to get a new one.

I hope everyone has a Safe and Happy Halloween!

Underground Accoustic Show

2007-10-09T19:05:00.000-04:00

The kids and I headed to Kyle's Tap Room for an Underground Accoustic show and it was great. The kids have been begging me to take them to a show but they are all played at bars and I wasn't sure if that would be a good idea, but I was talked into it. It was great and the kids had a blast. I can't wait to see another one soon.

2007-09-30T10:46:00.000-04:00

2007-09-30T00:33:00.000-04:00

Daddy and his boy

A mother's love
Proud Uncle Nick

Happy Baby
Cousins Kam and Vinney

Mommy and Vinney

Vincent Mikel Pictures Galore

2007-09-30T00:23:00.000-04:00

Sydney and Vinney

Looks like Grandpa here
Shhh...Sleeping Baby
Rare look at his open eyes
PUT ME BACK IN!!!!!

I can't take my eyes off of him

Taylor Jimmy and I spent some time at the hospital today. Steph and Vinney are doing great. Stephi was up walking around and recovering nicely. Vinney slept the whole time I was there, I didn't see one peek of those eyes. Tay and Jim are so proud of their cousin and fight over who get to hold him.

2007-09-28T19:39:00.000-04:00

Welcome Vinney Mike

2007-09-28T17:23:00.000-04:00

Vinney's First Diaper
Proud Nani

Mommy & Daddy

Vincent Mikel Maucelli Marshall arrived this morning at 10:10 A.M., weighing in at 8 pounds 7.9 ounces and measuring 21-1/2 inches. Stephanie is doing great after her scheduled c-section, she is feeling very tired. I am so proud of my beautiful nephew. Taylor and Jimmy hung in the whole morning waiting to see their new cousin. Stephanie and Vinney will remain in the hospital for four days. Mom accompanied Steph during the c-section and Dad, Dylan, Nick, Sydney, Rachel, Kam, Taylor, Jimmy, Shelia, and myself were in the waiting room awaiting his arrival.

Stephanie Jo, you are a mommy now, that is too cool! Congrats to you and Dylan, I wish you both the very best, you have a gorgeous son!

Friday, September 28, 2007

2007-09-25T17:30:00.000-04:00

Vinney Mike will make his descent into the world at 9:00 A.M. We are all so excited! Stephanie will be moving into her new home this week. Steph wants me to stay with her that first maybe even second week and help her, which of course, I am more than happy to do. We can't wait to meet you Vinney!

Moving On...

2007-09-24T18:21:00.000-04:00

I don't think that our family will ever be the same without Dooley with us but we will try our hardest to move on with him in our memories. We all have expressed the emptiness now within us and like I have said before, there will never be another who can replace the void in my heart that I am now left with.

On a better note, Vincent Mikel Maucelli Marshall will be brought in this world before the end of this week and I am so excited to see him. I want to add that I misspelled Vinney, this is how she will spell it. He will now be Vinney Mike!

I have started searching for homeschooling supplies since the time has come to start school once again. I found a great site today that really made me happy and I cannot wait to use it. I have choosen a new path for myself and will take my children along for the ride. At first I was not going to mention it but I am proud of who I am and everyone who knows me know that I am a good person. I have figured out that I am Pagan and I have chose to take the path of Wiccan which has been a very interesting subject for me. Since I have stumbled upon this a couple months ago I have felt so much better inside, at peace. I have learned a lot about moon phases and natural healing, it has been a great experience.

For so long I thought pagan's were devil worshippers but looking into it I found they do not even believe in the devil, they are for nature and nature's way and I think that is great. Never knowing where I belonged in a religion has been a struggle for me for several years and now I am so happy to find something that is what I have believed all along, I just didn't know it had a name. The Wiccan Law is very simple to remember: "Do as ye will but do no harm!" I was able to celebrate my first holiday Saturday, which is Mabon: Autumnal Equinox, it was great and you can celebrate with everyone even if they do not believe the way you do.

I will continue to homeschool the children through Abeka, which is a Christian school but I will also teach them about the "Old Ways" as well and let them choose the path that is best for them. Eric was a little scared when he first found out that I have decided to do this but has calmed down once he figured out what it was about. He was here to celebrate Thanksgiving with me over the weekend and everyone who joined in had a great time, even Uncle Mike had a place at the table. Even though this is not the way my family believes, they did stand behind me and had a great time, thanks to all that came to celebrate with me.

Uncle Mike: Through darkness, there is light; through bane, there is happiness; through death, there is birth! We will always love you and will miss you the rest of our days! Blessed it be in the Goddess Light!