Life on the Funny Farm!!

Our first week in Germany!!

2011-11-06T12:47:00.003-06:00

We have been in Germany for a week now. It has been great! The weather has been cool, and foggy but this weekend it has been sunny and beautiful!! Megan started school on Tuesday and absolutely LOVES it! I started work on Wednesday, we found a house on Friday and went to our first Festival in Hoccheim and we drove up the Rhine valley to see the castles. I also had to pay ,50 euro to use the bathroom! LOL!!

This is a beautiful part of the country. I'm so excited to get to explore more of it!!

I'll post pictures soon!

Toodles,

Chelley

What a week!!

2011-10-31T10:47:00.002-05:00

Last Monday, the girls and I were at the mall when we got the call that my step father passed away. This was such a devastating shock to our family. We had a home-going, celebration of his life on Friday then we flew to Germany on Saturday.

We are here! We've been here a full 24 hours. It is different, but we really like it! The trees have beautiful color leaves. We see the leaves falling. It is so cool to actually be somewhere where we actually have seasons!!!!!

Our home away from home is the Wiesbaden Army lodge. It is nice. We have a kitchenette. Tomorrow we will go to the commissary and get some groceries to actually cook a meal. It will be nice to have a home-cooked meal!

This is all for now!

Toodles!

Chelley

An Empty House

2011-10-20T07:44:00.002-05:00

Yesterday two girls came and packed up the house. Everything we own is in a box! Today, they will come with the truck (semi, I think) and haul away our things. It is really weird sleeping in a hotel, getting up, taking Meg to school then driving home!! I think today will be the hard day for me. I'm already getting teary-eyed, thinking about it.

We are just 7 days away from leaving for Germany!!

Toodles,

Chelley

A new me!

2011-10-16T07:27:00.003-05:00

I am officially 103 lbs lighter!!! On September 17, 2010 I had weight loss surgery. I have a Vertical Sleeve. Which means most of my stomach was removed. I have a tiny tummy! This was not a "quick fix" to my weight problem! it is only a tool that has helped me!

I spent 6 months working with a nutritionist to change my eating habits!! How fast I eat, how much I eat, when I drink (no drinking any liquid 30 minutes before, during or 30 minutes after a meal). Yes, the surgery has made is possible to consume less, but it is possible to eat the wrong things and lose, but not be healthy.

Today I am the healthiest I have ever been!! I eat better, I workout and I feel GREAT!!! I wish I had done this years ago!

Toodles,

Chelley

GO RANGERS!!!!

2011-10-16T07:23:00.002-05:00

Last night the Rangers won the ALCS 15-5 over the Detroit Tigers!!!! We're going to the World Series (again)!!!!

GO RANGERS!!!!

Changes in life!

2011-10-16T06:49:00.002-05:00

I'm back!! How life changes! This blog was started in 2007 to keep everyone up-to-date with the Johnsons! Matt was graduating, Lauren was a sophomore and Megan was 9 years old! Well, we are ALL 4-years older and lots of things have changed. First off, we're moving to Germany!!

Matt is now married! He has a baby girl on the way. Miss Macyn will be making her entrance in the world sometime around January 6, 2012. Matt and Caitie are currently living in Fort Worth.

Lauren is 20. She has spent the last year working for Ebby Halliday as their listing coordinator. She will soon be a full-time college student.

Megan is now 13!! My baby is a teenager! She is almost as tall as Lauren. She is still playing soccer and is now playing volleyball, too.

As for Mike and I, we are just older! I have been working for AAFES as a tabloid designer. I have recently accepted a new position that is taking us to Germany to live!!! We are all so excited about this move. I am reviving the blog so those who are not on Facebook can see what we are up to and keep up with us while we are away.

We have known about the move since September 2, the day I was offered the job. We couldn't do anything until I received my "official" orders which came 3 weeks later! We have been working hard to get passports, the house on the market and clean this house out! We have been in our house for 23 years. Needless to say, there is a lot of CRAP accumulated over 23 years! Lots of stuff went into the garage sale and lots of stuff donated and the rest was trashed!

Monday, Oct 17 starts the first phase of our move. The packers come to pack everything going into storage. We have been able to contain about 95% of storage in one room. Tonight we search the house to make sure we have it all identified.

Tuesday, Oct 18 the movers come and crate all of the storage items in their container and haul them off. These are the items that we will not have with us and unreachable until we return to the states. Tuesday is also the day we move out of our house into the hotel. I'm not sure how I feel about this!! We will be leaving the only home our girls have ever known! This means our move is CLOSE!!!

Wed, Oct 19 the packers come and pack up the rest of our household goods. These are all of the items we are having shipped to Germany.

Thursday, Oct 20 the movers will come and crate all of the boxes away and ship them to Wiesbaden Germany, where they should arrive no later than November 25.

Friday, Oct. 21 the packers will come and get the 1000 lbs that we have put aside to arrive first...the rest of our clothes the did not fit in the suit cases, dishes, bedding, a couple of bean-bag type chairs, coats, etc. These items will be air-freighted and should arrive no later than November 15. I've heard that these items sometimes show up after the household goods.

We aren't exactly sure where we will be living. We have an appointment with the housing office once we arrive to get registered and get a liaison to help us search for a house. Usually there is AAFES housing that we would move into, but for the first time in years, it is full! I must say I'm ok with this. I was kind of weirded out about the fact that I would be living with the people I worked with. This way, we get some sort of privacy from my co-workers! AAFES will pay us a very nice stipend for rent and utilities. We should not pay a dime out of pocket for those items.

So, check back often. Not only will we be seeing Europe as a family, I will be traveling with my job as well, so lots of new places to see and explore with the camera!

Toodles,

Chelley

Bon Jovi Concert!

2010-04-12T10:13:00.003-05:00

Megan and I got the chance to go the Bon Jovi concert last night. We had an AMAZING time!! We sang, we danced, we screamed.....so much fun!! It was extra cool for me watching Megan soak it all in.

Bon Jovi - Its My Life!! from Chelley Johnson on Vimeo.

Rock on!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Dalllas Arboretum

2010-03-21T06:48:00.009-05:00

Megan and I got to go to the Dallas Arboretum for their Dallas Blooms. It was absolutely beautiful!!! There were THOUSANDS of flowers!!! We had a blast.

Unfortunately, today, they are probably covered in snow!!! I hope they were able to cover them before it snowed!!

Enjoy the beautiful flowers!!

Toodles,

Chelley

FW ZOO

2010-03-16T19:43:00.004-05:00

Sunday Megan and I with my friend Roberta and her son went to the FW Zoo. It was a beautiful day!!! We had a blast! Here are a few of the animals we saw.

Toodles,

Chelley

I LOVE the Snow!! NOT!!!!!

2010-02-13T08:43:00.005-06:00

Yes, the show is beautiful, we've never had a foot of snow in the DFW area, Megan is loving playing in it, but I DO NOT LIKE HAVING NO ELECTRICITY FOR OVER 36 HOURS!!!!! We stuck it out for over 24 in the dark and cold. Last night, Megan and I trecked 4 houses down to the Bracks (where they have electricity) for a shower and a warm bed to sleep in!! We're hoping and praying for electricity sometime today!

Here are a few pictures of the snow.

THURSDAY:

Megan & Maddie

Megan & Maddie running in the snow

Tree Tops in the back

Snow Thursday night

Looking out across from the front porch across the neighbor's bushes

Megan & Maddies Friday morning

Friday Morning

Across the Street

View from the front porch!

Our front steps!

Toodles,

Chelley

quick catch up

2010-01-17T09:36:00.002-06:00

The house is back to normal. Lauren left Thursday to go back to school. She is all registered for her 2nd semester. This Thursday will be her 19th birthday. Unbelievable!!!

I'm all registered for this semester. I will be taking 13 hours. If all goes well, I should have my associates by the end of the fall semester 2010. I'm working hard at work, enjoying almost every minute of it.

Megan is back in school. She just finished her first semester. She is anxiously waiting for soccer to start back up. We should start working out next month.

Matt is working two jobs. He is thinking he wants to go back to school. He has started working on that. Maddie is growing like a weed! She is now able to jump on my bed. So at night, I'll ask her if she is ready for bed and she will run in there and jump on the bed and lay down. It's funny. Matt will come get her when he gets home.

Mike is good. He's busy at work and around the house. Basically, as you can see, we are enjoying and taking advantage of our down time. Soon enough, we will be in full-run mode!

Toodles,

Chelley

A house divided

2010-01-04T20:19:00.003-06:00

Tonight is the Fiesta Bowl. It's TCU vs. BSU. I'm rooting for TCU and Mike is rooting for Bozo State. Megan can't seem to make up her mind. If Bozo State does something good she's rooting for them, but if TCU does something good she's back to the good side!!!

We've heard from Mike's mom and sister in Idaho, LOL!!!

It's only the 2nd quarter, so still lots of football to be played.

GO TCU!!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

More NYC pictures

2010-01-01T08:36:00.003-06:00

We spent a quiet new year's eve at home. I worked on more of my NYC pictures. I did some tone mapping of the night time photos. The pictures from Top of the Rock and Empire State Building was hard with out my tripod. It was VERY windy up there. I was able to get a couple of good shots. Enjoy!!

I'm standing at the top of the pedestal at the Statue of Liberty with the Manhattan skyline behind me!

These are called Ghost Rider memorials. A bike is spray painted white as a memorial for a person who lost their life while riding their bike in this area. These memorials are all over the city, but this is the only one we actually saw.

Lady Liberty in all her glory!!

The Chrysler building as seen from the top of the Empire State Building!

Another view from the ESB!

Happy 2010!!

2010-01-01T08:29:00.002-06:00

Here we are at the beginning of a decade and a new year!! 2009 was not the best year for me, but it was good and I learned a lot of things about myself in that year!! I pray that each of you have a blessed, prosperous 2010.

I will try to be better about posting, too! So, maybe that will be my resolution for the year! Hee-Hee!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Still playing soccer

2009-12-05T16:47:00.005-06:00

Saturday we drove to Garland to represent Duncanville in the Tournament of Champions. To make it to this tournament, you must play in the A Division of your age group and you must win 1st place.

The weather was COLD and windy!!! The girls started off slow. We tied the first team 0-0. The 2nd team forfeited and we won 5-0 the 3rd game. We won our our bracket sending us to the quarter finals. Unfortunately, some of the girls were too cold and tired to perform to their potential.

But if you think about it, the girls did an awesome job!!! There are about 30 U-12 in the SW Dallas area, so add up how many U12 teams are in the whole North Texas Area (including Lubbock), we made it to the top 8 teams!!! Not too bad!!!

I am so proud of Megan. It didn't matter how cold it was, Megan played hard and tough the whole game, every game. She was throwing in the balls like I have never seen her throw before. She was throwing like a man, the ball was going over the group and to our waiting player. It was amazing. I'm so proud of her!!!!

Here are a few pictures from the 1st game.

Toodles,

Chelley

A time to give thanks....

2009-11-23T14:54:00.003-06:00

Now that the Thanksgiving season is upon us, it is time to reflect on all the blessings in my life.... my husband, my kids, my mom & my sisters, my step dad, my brothers-in-law, sisters-in law, nieces, nephews, great-nieces & great-nephew, aunts, uncles, cousins and other extended family. I'm thankful for my health and the ability to see another year. I'm thankful for my job, for the chance to go back to school. I'm thankful for all of my friends and for those special few who have truly touched my life. I'm thankful for my pets. I'm thankful for my home and car and other things that we take for granted! I'm thankful that I have the freedom to write these words!

I hope each of you have a most blessed Thanksgiving and enjoy the time with your family.

Toodles,

Chelley

New York!!

2009-11-23T12:26:00.007-06:00

We had the most AMAZING time in NYC!!! We didn't get to see everything, so I guess that means we're going back!!! We did see a lot and walked A LOT!! My pooooor feet will never be the same! Here are some pictures highlighting our trip. I've got some night pictures that I need to do some work with and I'll post them later. Enjoy!!

ME!!!

The Bethesda Fountain, Central Park

Mike leaning on the Bow bridge in Central Park.

Me on the Bow Bridge in Central Park

Natural Museum of History.....

"QUIET!! My dumdum wants to speak" From the movie A Night in the Museum.

Time Square!

USS Intrepid - a WWII Battleship, now a museum.

Manhattan Skyline!

Statue of Liberty!!

Brooklyn Bridge

New Yankee Stadium & Old Yankee Stadium

New York Stock Exchange

The Trinity Church, at the intersection of Wall Street & Broadway

Ground Zero! A very moving site. We all saw it on TV, but to be there and actually see where two building WERE, was very surreal.

The flat iron building!

The original torch which was removed in the restoration in 1984.

The cast of the left foot!

I just loved the way the State of Liberty's shadow is in the picture with the flag!

Me & Lady Liberty!

Me & the Cake Boss!

Herald Square....Macy's!!!

Window at Macy's

The Guggenheim Museum!

Enjoying my cupcake from the Cake Boss.....Red Velvet w/Cream Cheese icing!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Video on Niagara Falls

2009-11-20T05:08:00.003-06:00

Here's a video from the American side of the falls.

Untitled from Chelley Johnson on Vimeo.

Toodles,

Chelley

Niagara Falls!!!

2009-11-19T19:09:00.002-06:00

Today Mike a I left for my birthday weekend trip to New York. Our first stop....Niagara Falls!!! Of course, we got caught in the FAA computer glitch at the airport. It is kind of funny, we were delayed an hour but arrived at our destination 12 minutes early!!!

We get to Niagara Falls and it is absolutely amazing!!! It is raining and cold, but we don't care!!! We stop on the American side. The first 4 pictures are from the American side. The bridge is the Rainbow Bridge, which we crossed to get to Canada.

There is a story to tell there!! Getting into Canada was not problem, but getting back into the USA is another story!!! They had no beef with me, but Mike's name got a couple of hits, so he had to get out of the car and was escorted by 2 border parole officers to a station. I had to get out and drive the car around. Thankfully, we were only in there for a few minutes and we left laughing.

The falls viewed from the American side

The Rainbow Bridge

A different view of the falls - Horseshoe falls is in the background, but with the fog/mist it was hard to view from this side.

Me & Mikey - soaked!!!

Viewing them from the Canadian side

Look for more to come later.

Toodles,

Chelley

Soccer Tournament!

2009-11-16T21:15:00.003-06:00

Saturday started the Duncanville Tournament. We ended the day with 30 (perfect) ranking points. We were tied for 1st with the Oak Cliff United. Because they scored 2 more goals than us, then went into the semi-finals as 1st and we were 2nd.

Sunday, we played the Grand Prairie Pumas. It was a VERY physical fight of a game. The other team's parents were cursing at our girls when they were on their side of the field. All is well, we won 4-0, sending us to the Championship game against the OC United.

Talk about a FIGHT!!! Our girls have never played a team like this. There was pushing, shoving, tripping and 2 red cards given for bad sportsmanship!!! Unfortunately, we lost 4-1, giving us 2nd place.

We are so proud of the girls. They fought HARD!!!! This game has prepared them to play in the Tournament of Champions where we will see the Oak Cliff United again!!! Payback, baby, payback!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

A Quick update!

2009-11-13T18:11:00.002-06:00

Things are good at the Johnson household. Mike and I are in the midst of planning our trip to NYC next week - we are BOTH so excited!!

We start the Duncanville Soccer tournament tomorrow. Mike and Megan are going to scout a team we're playing tomorrow tonight. We also found out that Megan's team will be going to the Tournament of Champions!!!! You have to be in the A Division and you have to win 1st place!!! We are thrilled. We've been to the TOC with Matt and Lauren before, so it is great that Megan has a chance to experience it, too. It will be happening on December 5&6.

Check back soon to see how Megan does at the TOC and also the following week to see our NYC pics!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Welcome Home the Troops

2009-11-11T20:03:00.002-06:00

Today I had the most wonderful experience. Dee and I went to DFW airport and got to welcome home the troops from Afghanistan and Iraq. It was very touching seeing these guys and gals walking through a crowd of Americans cheering, waving flags, clapping and shaking their hands saying thank you. What a wonderful way to start Veterans Day!!

Thank you to all of the men and women of our Armed Services who have sacrificed their time and lives to give us our freedom!! Thank you!!!

Toodle,

Chelley

My Pink Dog!!

2009-11-11T19:56:00.003-06:00

I don't know why, but Avalanche has decided to use Megan's chalk drawing on the back porch as her scratching post. Because of that, she is Pink and Orange! Poor baby! She's so cute pink!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Insync Exotics

2009-11-08T21:47:00.004-06:00

Today we went to see the big cats at Insync Exotics. It was very sad. There are several cats that were rescued in March, some have sores that are just now healing, they were malnourished and just down right abused. They are loved and are being well taken care of here. If you get a chance, go visit the 44 cats at Insync Exotics. It is not expensive to get in ($10 adults & $7 kids and 2 & under are free) and the money is tax deductible and it all goes to help care for the cats.

It was a beautiful day and even Megan had a camera shooting photos. She ended up at the front with the domesticated cats and dogs, taking their pictures. We did have a difficult time shooting through two chain-link fences.

Khan

Jazz & Shazam. Two white-line brothers. They are guessing they are about 7 & 10 years old. These two were so malnourished that they had lost their mane. They still have visible bed sores, but they are healing and doing much better. These two are HUGE!! They weighed about 540 lbs when they were rescued and stand at least 4' tall. Once they are fully well and healthy, they will be even BIGGER!!! They were AMAZING!!

Jasmine

Khan's eye

Don't remember the name, sorry.

big spider we saw

This tiger was pacing and at one point charged and growled at Karen. It was funny, but she was shaken up and startled.

Shazam

Jazz

Sorry, but there were so many tigers, I don't remember which one this one is.

Toodles,

Chelley

Killer Soccer Game!!!

2009-11-07T16:09:00.003-06:00

Today the Megan's team whooped up on the Cedar Hill Black Widows 8-0!! Megan had a great game!! She scored TWO GOALS!!! The first one was a penalty kick and the second one was from outside the box and left-footed!! She might have been showing off a bit since grandma came to see her play. The defense was KILLER today, our poor goalie did not touch the ball once!!! It really is a good thing, but I feel bad that she didn't get any action. Next weekend, we will be playing in a tournament, so lots of good soccer next weekend!!! Enjoy the pictures of Megan in action.

She was taking the ball down the field.

More of her taking the ball down field

GREAT throw in!!

Free Kick

Her first goal!!! You can see how far out she

was for the penalty kick!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Practice makes perfect

2009-11-07T09:10:00.003-06:00

I was able to borrow one of the newest Nikon cameras for the weekend. I decided to get a bit of practice in before Megan's soccer game and our family outing tomorrow (watch for pictures tomorrow night!!!) So, here are all 4 of our fur-babies!!

Rusty

Avalanche

Maddie

Sassy

Make sure you check back in a day or two to see pictures from our cool outing!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Tyler & Maddie

2009-11-01T19:11:00.004-06:00

Our nephew Tyler and his mom, Lucretia, came to see us today. Tyler is getting so big and is starting to crawl. He LOVED playing with Maddie. Maddie got a bit rough at times, but Tyler didn't cry. I did have to go by a new paci for Tyler because Maddie helped herself to his paci! it was funny!!

Tyler the happy, big boy!

Maddie

Maddie & Tyler

Maddie trying to chew on Tyler's ear!

Toodles,

Chelley

Sassy & Maddie update

2009-10-07T19:48:00.002-05:00

Matt got a new baby tonight. A friend of mine told us about her. She is a pure white lab and about 6 weeks. He named her Maddie. Sassy did so well with her. She did a lot of sniffing, but no hissing or claws. It is so cute.

Maddie

Look at that cute face!!

Sassy just taking it all in!

Sniffing each other.

Matt & Maddie

Toodles,

Chelley

Great Saturday!!

2009-10-03T20:53:00.002-05:00

What a great day!! We started the day off with a victorious soccer game!!! We won 6-0. The team and coaches got a great compliment from the other coach and the referee. They both said that we have one of the best coached teams they have ever played against!!

Afterwards, we hurried home, the headed to Commerce. Today was the Alpha Phi's parents day. We didn't make it for the banquet, but we got there, and Lauren showed us around town and campus and the Alpha Phi house. She is doing so well there!! It was great to meet her sisters and some of her new friend's parents. We went to a tail-gating party where we got some good food and fun games and listened to some good music. We also got to meet Devin Wymans, a Defensive Linebacker for the New England Patriots. He had two HUGE super bowl rings on his hand, 1996 & 2004. This man is HUGE!! 6"8" at 335 lbs. He was a GREAT speaker, too. We then headed to the stadium to watch the Texas A&M Commerce Lions football game. It was fun!!! Then the rain came, bummer.

Below are a few pictures from the day.

Megan making a corner kick.

Lauren

Lauren and Chelsea

Megan & Devin Wyman

At the Alpha Phi house

Toodles,

Chelley

2009-09-27T07:58:00.005-05:00

Mike and I went to the Ranger game last night. It was a blast!! It was great seeing Pudge back behind the plate! Millwood started off shaky and the Ranger bats were asleep the first couple of innings then in the 5th they WOKE up!!! They batted the lineup + more and cleared the bases twice!! It was AWESOME!!!! We had a blast!

Pudge on base!

Pudge back home!!

Millwood warming up.

Me and my date!

Toodles,

Chelley

Soccer WIN!!!

2009-09-26T16:42:00.002-05:00

Today we finally got to play a game!! It was a perfect day! We played a team from Desoto that shocked us with a quick score at the beginning. The girls finally woke up and started playing the soccer then knew how to play. We won 9-1. Megan had some great defensive kicks, several assists and some great corner and goal kicks.

Corner Kick

Another corner kick

defensive stop

going for the ball---hope she doesn't bite her tongue one day!

Toodles,

Chelley

2009-09-20T10:46:00.002-05:00

I found a new spot to get a great view of downtown. It wasn't the easiest to get to. We had to climb up a muddy hill then down a muddy hill to the river bottoms. With the rain we had, I was hoping for the river to be full, but it wasn't. :-(

It was a great night. It was cloudy, but it was still beautiful. Here are a few of the shots I got. Then walking up the hill, I slipped in mud and I have jammed my shoulder! LOL!

The sun is starting to set

I really like the black/white

Reunion tower

Lights on. Because of the cloud cover, the sky didn't get as black as we hoped. The clouds were reflecting the downtown lights.

Toodles,

Chelley

A Life Cut Short

2009-09-14T20:19:00.002-05:00

Today we found out that my cousin's son was killed in Iraq. He was on patrol and an IED went off. Sgt. Andrew Harron McConnell, 1 Jan 1985 - 14 Sep 2009. He is survived by his wife, who is pregnant with their first child, his parents, 5 sisters, grandparents, many aunts, uncles & cousins. Please keep his family in your prayers. His body will arrive in Dover De. soon, then Andrew's dad will escort the casket to Ft. lewis Washington for his funeral and burial.

Andrew (green shirt) in 2006 with his cousin Danny (r)

Toodles,

Chelley

Megan

2009-09-13T21:15:00.002-05:00

With all of the rain we had yesterday, we didn't think we would play soccer, but we did and it was GREAT!!! The eagles won 7-0. Our defense was so good, our goalie only touched the ball once in each half!!!

Here are a couple of pictures of Megan & Sassy.

Hammin' it up!

Midfielder!!!

She has gotten so tall!!

Sassy just keeps sleeping through all of the lovin!

Sassy getting some lovin!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Sorry!!!

2009-09-11T05:36:00.002-05:00

Sorry I have not posted in a while. Once I got Lauren to school, Our schools started and I've spent most of my time studying! I'm taking 12 hours again this semester. I have an english class that started August 24 and will finish October 8. So, roughly a full semester completed in 5 weeks! There is tons of writing with the class and deadlines to keep up with.

Megan has had a good start to school. Lauren is thriving at school and having a blast. She will be rushing a sorority starting tomorrow. She is thrilled!!

Soccer should start this weekend, if it is not rained out! I am most grateful and thankful for the rain! Hopefully, it will wash some of this pollen out of the air.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Toodles,

Chelley

Empty Room

2009-08-27T18:38:00.002-05:00

2009-08-04T13:49:00.002-05:00

This is the video of my first dive in!! You will see how close I was to the shark. I did not have the camera on zoom!! I was doing good not to run into the shark!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

1st jump!!! from Chelley Johnson on Vimeo.

AMAZING!!!!!

2009-08-01T18:40:00.003-05:00

Today I did the most AMAZING thing.....snorkeled with whale sharks!!!!!! I took a boat ride an hour out to sea, it took some searching but the guides found them....about 50 sharks feeding!!!! I will admit I was almost panicked before I jumped into the ocean, but after the first jump and swimming a bit to be face to gill with these awesome animals, I was totally calm!!! I was the first diver in and got a chance to make 4 dives!!! Each time was so wonderful!!! Afterwards, we went to Isla Murales to snorkel. That was really fun, too. Saw a starfish and a puffer fish, thankfully not puffed!! It was a GREAT day!!! I'm still floating in the clouds!!!!

Swimming away

HUGE!!!

The best pic I could get of me in the choppy seas

SO-O-O close!!!

Star fish

Pretty Coral

Toodles,

Chelley

Lovin Cancun!!!

2009-07-31T18:19:00.003-05:00

Lauren and I are having a blast!!! Today we swam with the dolphins!!! I have done it before, but it was still AMAZING!!! This was Lauren's first time to do this and she loved it!!! Afterwards, we spent time at the pool & beach. Lauren is napping while I'm blogging. We have reservations for a steak & lobster dinner tonight and then dancing afterwards. Tomorrow I have AMAZING plans....you will have to check back for the pics!!

Lauren & Solomon

Me & Solomon

Solomon is the best kisser EVER!!

SO MUCH FUN!!!

I absolutely love the pure excitement on her face!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

count down!!!

2009-07-28T19:46:00.002-05:00

Lauren and I are a day from our trip to cancun. We are both so excited!!! We have some really fun stuff planned, so stay tuned this week for our Mexican adventure.

Toodles,

Chelley

underwater

2009-07-19T19:53:00.004-05:00

ok, it was brought to my attention that I haven't blogged in a while. I guess since it is summer, there isn't much going on.

Lauren and I are getting ready for a trip to Cancun. I bought a new camcorder for the trip...it shoots video and pictures underwater!!!

Megan was my underwater model!!

megan underwater from Chelley Johnson on Vimeo.

Toodles,

Chelley

Happy 4th of July!!!

2009-07-05T14:53:00.003-05:00

I hope everyone had a GREAT 4th of July!! We did.

My official 3-day weekend started on Friday with a road trip to Austin. We are having birth certificate issues with the Passport agency, so we had to go to Austin to get them!! As long as it was, the girls and I had a blast!!! We loaded up my iPod and jammed the WHOLE way down and back!! It was fun. Once we got to Austin, there was a 2.5 hour wait to get the birth certificates, so we ventured downtown to the State Capitol. I feel like such a bad mom....my kids have never been to the capitol. They enjoyed it. Megan had lots of questions, I told her to do some research online this summer (instead of watching tv). Hopefully, she will do it.

After we got our birth certificates, we headed to Round Rock to the new OUTLET MALL!!!! OMG! That was such a cool place and we did some serious retail therapy!! After emptying our wallets, we headed back. I was thankful to have a 2nd driver!!! We stopped at this HUGE fireworks store and got some sparklers and small fireworks.

SATURDAY, we got up and went to the Duncanville Parade...stopped and got our usual donuts while we waited (a many-year tradition). Then home to get things ready for the Bracks. The girls and made a quick trip to the mall for a new swimsuit, then to the Bracks for sun and fun!! We had my niece, Alyssa, with us, too. After a great BBQ dinner, the girls decided to watch a chic flick (Mama Mia!) then we cooked S'mores over the grill---YUM!!!

Around 830 we went to our usual spot on main Street to watch the fireworks! They were great, as usual. We came home to finish off the sparklers and fireworks. It was a very busy, fun day!!!

Me and my Sparkler Star

Megan's Sparkler Circle

Alyssa, Lauren, Ashley, Sherre & Megan waiting for the parade to begin

Fireworks!

Fireworks!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Downtown Dallas

2009-06-29T18:06:00.003-05:00

I went downtown yesterday looking for locations for a photoshoot. I had heard about this spot on the top floor of the Jail's parking garage. Not the view I was wanting, but it was nice. These are three of the shots I got.

Downtown Dallas taken with a fish-eye lense.

The old court house

Reunion Tower & the Hyatt Regency Hotel.

Toodles,

Chelley

Catch up

2009-06-21T19:43:00.003-05:00

It's been a while since I posted. Last week, Lauren and I were home alone while Mike & Megan were in Idaho with Mike's family. It took an act of congress to get them there, but they finally got there and had fun. Needless to say, Lauren & I had fun, too!!! I've been able to catch up with a friend from the past and we've had a BLAST!!!

Today is father's day. We spent the afternoon at my sisters. We were celebrating father's day & the June birthdays. Afterwards, we drove by the cemetery to see if dad's marker was placed and IT WAS NOT!!! I guess I'm going to have to call to find out what happened and why there is STILL no marker.

This is my Izzie.....she doesn't say much, but likes playing pat-a-cake & peek-a-boo. She also liked wearing my bracelet. It was fun playing with her today.

Toodles,

Chelley

STORMS

2009-06-11T18:41:00.003-05:00

We had some severe storms come through last night (WED). Lauren and I were at LA Fitness when the storms came through.....we had very hard straight-line winds.....The wind actually tore the front door off of LA Fitness. We lost our electricity around 6:30. We got it back about 5:30 pm Thursday!!! About 12 am the tornado sirens went off. Since we didn't have electricty, we weren't sure what was going on, so we went outside to see what was going on. There was a lot lightening and no rain, so I ran in and got my camera. These are a few of the photos I got.

Toodles,

Chelley

Bell Choir Performance 7 June 09 "Knowing You"

2009-06-07T13:08:00.002-05:00

We performed our last performance of the season today. "Knowing You". We will be off for the summer. Enjoy!

Toodles,

Chelley

Bells 7 June 09 from Chelley Johnson on Vimeo.

2009-06-06T08:14:00.005-05:00

Last night was graduation!!!! It was great!!! She did great! Of course, I started crying when she walked into the arena!! I don't know why, but it is harder with Lauren than with Matt. She made it home, changed clothes and headed to Project Graduation. Lauren will be home this summer working at LA Fitness in the Kid's club and then off to Texas A&M - Commerce where she will pursue her degree in Elementary Education. Below are the activities from last night.

Making her way into the arena

Hugging Mrs. B.---heading to the stage

On her way to the stage!

Lauren Elizabeth Johnson!!!

Got the Diploma!!!!

Taylor & Lauren

Me & my baby!!

dad and his girlfriend!

Uncle Randal & Aunt Paula came up from Fredericksberg for graduation!!!

Grandpa & Lauren

Toodles,

Chelley

Senior Recognition NIght at DHS

2009-06-03T18:08:00.003-05:00

Tonight was the Senior Recognition at the high school. They presented scholarships, and the seniors who chose to participate walked across the stage and they read a list of their accomplishments. Lauren will be receiving a scholarship from the volleyball booster club (about $500)!!! It'll pay for books!!! She was also named a Texas Scholar!!

Lauren walking across the stage

going to her seat

My other daughter, Taylor & Lauren

Graduation is Friday night!!! Hooray Class of '09!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Got to Meet Chuck Wicks!!

2009-06-03T18:01:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, Chuck Wicks (Dancing with the Stars, Country music singer) came to work promoting his new CD. When I found out, I called Lauren and she ran home, got dressed and came to see him. He is such a cutie pie and a really nice person. He autographed Lauren's CD and posed for pictures with us.

Toodles,

Chelley

Senior Recognition Video

2009-06-01T06:04:00.001-05:00

I finally got the video up and working!! It's about 20 minutes.

Senior Recognition at church from Chelley Johnson on Vimeo.

Toodles,

Chelley

Senior recognition

2009-05-31T14:11:00.003-05:00

Today was senior recognition at church. We have 20 high school graduates this year!!! AMAZING!! This was the first time I had seen Lauren in her cap and gown and I'll admit I teared up. She looked so pretty. I still can't believe my little Lizzy-Lou is graduating!!!

Here are a couple of the pictures before and during. I'll be posting the video, but it will probably be tomorrow before you see it. There is a slide show with pictures of the graduates through the years. It was a very nice service.

Zac Hopson & Lauren

Lauren, Laura Beth, Ashley, Hailey

Lauren & Ashley

Tuesday night we have Senior Recognition and Friday is graduation.

Toodles,

Chelley

Updates

2009-05-29T17:24:00.003-05:00

Today was Lauren's last day of high school!!! I cannot believe she will graduating next Friday night!!! (sitting in the dark, rocking back and forth "I'm not getting older, I'm not getting older!)

On the not so good news front, all of our cats are missing!!! Tink disappeared about 3 months ago. But Itchi & JoJo have been missing since the beginning of the week. They do not wander off, so I'm not sure if they fell victim to coyotes (which have been seen in our alley) or big dogs or mean people!!! It's kind of weird because there are several cats that run around the neighborhood and the are ALL gone!!! So weird. Mike has gone to the animal shelter to see if they were picked up by the city. UGH!! Do you know what Megan will do when she realizes that Itchi & JoJo are gone??? They were her babies--especially Itchi. It's not going to be pretty!!!

Sunday we have senior recognition at church, so I'll be posting on that then. Have a great weekend!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Finally!!!!!

2009-05-22T15:24:00.003-05:00

Thursday was my step-mom's funeral. At the graveside they had dad's marker displayed. He's been gone almost a year and a half and no marker on his grave. Enough said.

Toodles,

Chelley

End of Soccer Season

2009-05-17T19:29:00.003-05:00

Saturday was Megan's last soccer game. It was a victory!!!! This season the team went undefeated!!! The game was played in the rain which means no pictures. The team was determined to play trying to give us a loss---but my child stopped the team from making it across mid field.

Toodles,

Chelley

Sad News

2009-05-12T21:23:00.003-05:00

I got a phone call this evening letting me know that My step-mother, Stevie, had passed away this morning. She found out two weeks ago she had bone cancer and went downhill fast. There will be a grave-side service sometime next week. So, keep her family in your prayers and they say their good byes.

Toodles,

Chelley

Megan's new baby

2009-05-10T12:20:00.003-05:00

Megan asked for a snake for her birthday.......thinking about it, but she has to do some research and prove to me she can handle something like that!! AND, we have to wait until Lauren leaves the house--she's totally freaked out by the thought alone!!

So, to see if Megan can handle it, I got her a lizard (an anol). It is tee-tiny. Megan named her Delilah. She was scared to touch it at first (which blew my mind because she will hold snakes!) Anyway, she and Delilah and bonding and Megan is loving having a lizard.

Toodles,

Chelley

Happy Mother's Day to all!!!

2009-05-10T09:18:00.002-05:00

I want to wish everyone out there a VERY Happy Mother's Day!! We will be at mom's for lunch today. Then home to finish my finals!!! (Oh Joy!!)

Toodles,

Chelley

V-I-C-T-O-R-Y!!!!

2009-04-30T20:49:00.004-05:00

Megan's team won another game tonight...5-1!!! Megan almost scored from the top of the circle, unfortunately it hit the upright and bounced out...it was a perfect kick. The girls sang happy birthday to her and Victoria. Then it was home for cake and a shower!!

the birthday girl!!

Coach Martin trying to keep Megan from running away from the group!

Perfect throw in!!

Goofy Girl!!!

Penalty Kick!

Defense!!!

Cool back kick move!!

Megan and her team in the pre-game cheer!!

Captain Megan meeting with the refs. You won't recognize him from this angle, but the guy with the braids on the left was Lauren's prom date Quinlan.

Toodles,

Chelley

Megan is 11 today!!

2009-04-30T16:53:00.004-05:00

I can hardly believe that my baby is 11 today!!! Poor thing had to take the Science TAKS test today, so I couldn't have lunch with her. But she said the test was easy and thinks she did good! We will have to postpone the celebrations for a couple of days due to a soccer game tonight and a wedding reception tomorrow. This is Megan at 2.5. I don't have any of her baby pictures scanned in, yet!

You've seen her most recent soccer pics, I'll post more from tonight.

Happy Birthday Baby!!!

Toodles

Chelley

Prom

2009-04-26T10:06:00.002-05:00

Last night was prom night. Lauren looked so beautiful!!! I took her to see one of my hair/makeup ladies that I hire for my photo shoots at work. Yvonne has done hollywood star's hair and makeup, so it was a treat for lauren. Yvonne did an AMAZING job with he hair and makeup. Lauren and Quinlan looked so cute.....he's not short, she has on 4" heels. I'm sure she probably shed the shoes after she got there.

My girls

Lauren & mom

Toodles,

Chelley

The soccer stud!!

2009-04-25T13:54:00.002-05:00

We drove south to Midlothian and played a game on a cow pasture! It was a great game!! We beat the Midlothian team AGAIN!!! Megan played the whole game again--she is a great defender!! Here are some pictures of her in action!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Going Nuts!!!

2009-04-23T18:14:00.002-05:00

It is the end of the semester and I have lots of deadlines, projects, papers & tests!!! I also shot a wedding on Saturday and two Seniors on Sunday. I still have Lauren's graduation announcements to finish!! Don't forget....work, Lauren has prom this weekend, my nephew's birthday party on Sunday, Soccer game on Saturday & a high school party on Saturday!! Some where in there I need to sleep! Oh well, that is why we have Starbucks!!!

I should have lots of good pictures this weekend with prom and soccer and reunion going on.

Also, one week from today (30 April) is Megan's 11th birthday!!! My baby is getting big!!!

Check back this weekend for some pictures.

Toodles,

Chelley

Another Victory!!!

2009-04-17T19:18:00.002-05:00

Thursday night, Megan played another soccer game and it was a victory!! Megan is an awesome defensive player (in my humble opinion!!) She is like a gerbil on speed!! Here are some pictures of her in action.

Toodles,

Chelley

2009-04-16T17:58:00.002-05:00

Easter Sunday, I was able to get a quicky photo session with my new nephew Tyler. Here are a couple of the pictures. He was only 4 days old in these pictures. He's such a cutie!!

Caught him sneezing!

Toodles,

Chelley

Easter Sunday

2009-04-12T18:33:00.003-05:00

We made it through a storm-filled night! After church, we headed to mom's for Easter lunch. Matt came in, so the whole family was there!!! After lunch, the little kids hunted eggs, mom made bags full of chocolate for the older kids. We also celebrated Joe, Megan & Bobby's birthdays. Joe's birthday was in March and Megan and Bobby share the 30th of April.

Anthony is like a little gerbil on speed!! He ran around and if he found an egg, he would take it, didn't care who it belonged to.

All of the grandkids........not sure about the look Alyssa is giving Catarina!

Catarina & Izzie playing the piano.

My little girl!!

Ok, so Friday when we went shopping for Easter clothes, I bought Megan size 8's!!! This is two sizes smaller than me and the same size shoe grandma and Aunt Cara wears. Before we did the birthdays, Aunt Cara and Megan disappeared.....then out comes Megan wearing Aunt Cara's heels!!! She thought she was hot stuff!!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter Sunday! He is Risen!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

2009-04-09T20:24:00.002-05:00

Megan had a soccer game tonight. We played on the HUGE field at the front of the park (the one with lights that we didn't need!!) This field is the size for two age groups older. Anyway, it was a tough game, but we won....scoring the only goal in the last two minutes of the game. Megan played hard. Some of the girls were having a hard time breathing because the air was full of smoke from the fires in West Texas.

The sun with all the stuff in the air!

Megan being tough

She ran through this girl!

Penalty kick

Free kick!!

Toodles,

Chelley

A New Nephew!!!

2009-04-08T21:00:00.004-05:00

Today my sister Lucretia had a baby boy, named Tyler. He is now the reigning "Hefty" baby! Matt held that record for an impressive 20 years!! Tyler weighed 8 lb 13 oz. (Mat was 8, 10). He's a cutie!! Got to hear him scream a bit and then he laughed and he sucks his thumb. It is so-o-o-o cute. He and Lucretia will go home on Friday. We're going to mom's for Easter, I'm going to do some newborn portraits. Should be fun and great!!!

Tyler Clifton Smith

Tyler and his mom!

Cousin Lauren

Cousin Megan

Toodles,

Chelley

Bell Performance

2009-04-06T17:40:00.004-05:00

Below is the bell choir performance from Palm Sunday. Crown HIm with Many Crowns and In Christ Alone. Mike didn't get the memo to film the whole choir...he kept the camera near me....sorry. Also, during In Christ Alone, Mike felt uncomfortable standing at the video camera while they passed out the Lord's Supper, so he started it and let it run.

Untitled from Chelley Johnson on Vimeo.

Toodles,
Chelley

Soccer = VICTORY!!!

2009-04-04T13:40:00.004-05:00

Today Megan's team played the Duncanville Pumas. We won 5-1. Megan did not score any goals today, but she had a few assists and blocked the ball in our goal when our goalie fell down. Megan is a middle-field player. She is the first line of defense and she feeds the ball to our forwards. She is also the best player to throw the ball in and take penalty kicks. As you can see below, she is go getter!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

April Fools!!!

2009-04-02T17:43:00.002-05:00

Ok, so I went to work not planning on any practical jokes, but I just couldn't help myself! My boss and a group of people were in a conference call, the person on the call said something and Kelly made a comment about that would save her tons of money in pantyhose. My boss, Robert, said "Me too" under his breath--jokingly. Well Kelly said "I didn't know you were a pantyhose kind of guy" Everyone heard her say that, so we were laughing. So, the call ends and Robert and group of guys go downstairs. I run to the store, get some pantyhose and we put them on his monitor. He came back and totally freaked out that they were on his monitor. They ended up in my recycle bend.

Today, Kelly and I were talking and laughing about this. Robert was not in his office, so we put the pantyhose on his chair. He walked in, sat down, got up and did some things--not noticing the pantyhose. Got up and as he went to sit back down, saw them. He squealed like a girl! It was so funny.....I ran around the corner so he wouldn't see me laughing. The pantyhose ended up in MY recycle bend again.

Kelly and I were laughing about it after Robert went to lunch. So, we (me) put the pantyhose in his backpack and he'll find them after he gets home.

We tried to get ahold of his wife, but she is out of town. Can't wait to see if they are in my recycle bend tomorrow!!!

HEE-HEE-HEE-HEEEEEEE!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Senior Pictures

2009-03-29T12:21:00.003-05:00

It's getting close to that time......GRADUATION!!!! We started shooting Lauren's senior pictures. We will be skipping work and school soon to go to the Arboretum for more. Here is a sampling of some that I shot. Where has the time gone???!!!

You can click on my photo hosting site link to the right to see the rest. I'll update when we get the rest shot.

Toodles,

Chelley

My soccer chic!

2009-03-21T20:28:00.004-05:00

Today was Megan's first soccer game of the season. We started the season with a WIN!!! The score was 7-0. Megan had one goal and three assists.

It was great to see her back on the field!!

Stealing the ball

Team Captain

dragging the toe!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

The Dress

2009-03-18T19:21:00.004-05:00

Here is the dress Lauren found. She is now on the hunt for gold shoes.

Toodles,

Chelley

What a Weekend!!!

2009-03-15T19:52:00.004-05:00

I have used a whole tank of gas!!! Saturday, Lauren and I headed to Fort Worth to look for a prom dress. We found a couple of cute dresses, but they were not cut properly for lauren. But I did find something...............an Orange Julius!!!!!! OMG!!! I have not had one of those in YEARS. I was so-o-o-o-o excited!!

Saturday evening, the girls and I went to North Garland for Lucretia (my step sister's) baby shower. She's having a little boy, Tyler. His eta is about 3 weeks away. We had a great time.

This morning, we all got up and headed to Grapevine. Mike and Megan dropped Lauren and I off at Grapevine Mills, and they headed to the Bass Pro Shop. We found the MEGA formal store, where Lauren tried on about 10+ dresses. We made a complete circle around the mall and finally ended up back at the MEGA store for dresses. She did FINALLY find a dress!!!! Mike and Megan made their way around the mall, Megan got to ice skate and then Mike took her to the Candy store. She was so excited to be spoiled by her daddy today. I looked outside and saw him teaching her to shoot the bow and arrow.

So, the weekend is over and we're trying to get ready for another week. The girls are on spring break and Mike and I are working!!

Have a great week!

Toodles,

Chelley

Weird, Weird Weather

2009-03-11T13:25:00.004-05:00

You know the saying, I you don't like the weather in Texas, just wait a minute, it'll change. UGH!!! The last few days we have had sunshine and wonderful warm weather. Last night a cold front came through and brought much needed rain, but also COLD temps!!! We were in the 80's, now we're in the 40's. The good thing about this rainy weather is I didn't have to go to work today---took the day to finish up my History class. I'm two tests away from finishing. Anyway, I got to sleep in and listen to the rain fall!!! HA!! No alarm, no snoozing, just laying!!!

I'm in the craft room working on the PC (because the program my professor is using doesn't work on my MAC). Let me say this as nicely as possible-----THE PC SUCKS!!!! There are so many more things I can do on the MAC that I can't do on a PC! While I'm working, I have the 80's Hairband Sattellite Radio Station going in the background-----LOVE this station!!!!

Ok, I've had my break----back to work for me!!!
Have a Wonderful Wednesday!!

Toodles,
Chelley

2009-03-08T16:54:00.003-05:00

The bell choir performed this morning. It was an interesting song with lots of table techniques. The title is I'm a Poor Wayfaring Stranger. Megan was the videographer. I think she did a pretty good job for her first time!

Bells 8 Mar 2009 from Chelley Johnson on Vimeo.

Toodles,

Chelley

Miss Megan

2009-03-07T16:44:00.003-06:00

Megan's team won first place last season. The team finally got their trophies---it's HUGE!!!

Megan has been gone to a choir camp this weekend. There were about 6-7 churches there and this afternoon, they gave a performance and it was wonderful!! She did a good job and had a blast at camp.

Toodles,

Chelley

What's going on!!

2009-03-07T08:21:00.003-06:00

We actually had a pretty mild week. Our household suffered one stomach virus---thankfully, only one person was affected!

My history class finishes up this coming week!! I love the period of time I'm studying, but I'm having to move so fast because there is so-o-o-o much reading!! I get spring break off and then my 2nd history class starts up on the 23rd.

Megan is at Mt. Lebanon this weekend for a choir camp. We are going to see her perform at 330. And tomorrow the bell choir is performing---I have to be at church early, plus we spring forward!!! I see a nap in my future tomorrow!!!

I have found Facebook!!! It is amazing!! I've been able to reconnect with friends from high school and youth groups!!! It's kind of cool!!! I also have found Pandora.com. This is a free internet radio that I choose my music!! It's really cool---you should check it out!!!

Ok, I've got to get dressed and start reading!!! Have a good weekend!!

Toodles,

Chelley

What does it take to be a full time student???

2009-02-25T18:07:00.003-06:00

READING, READING & MORE READING!!!!!

Because I take three classes online, there is no lecture, it is all READING!!! Now, the back stack is all school books, but the front stack is library books I have to go through for my Photoshop class. So, needless to say, I need to get off the computer and start reading!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Beautiful Sunset

2009-02-22T12:32:00.004-06:00

Last Friday when Mike and I were at Carswell getting our refrigerator, we saw the most beautiful sky. The colors were AMAZING and the lines in the clouds were unusual. The pictures don't do it justice. I think it was a cold front blowing in.

Toodles,

Chelley

WEEKEND!!!

2009-02-21T13:03:00.003-06:00

Even though this was a short week for me, it seemed awfully long!!!! The weekend is here and I'm in the house, taking care of a few computer-related things, then I have proofs to process and homework to do!!! I have to create a "Monty Python" type photo.....I have an idea in my head, so we'll see if I can pull it off. I'm getting a bit spoiled---at work I work on a 29" screen. When I come home, I'm working on a 15" laptop.....I'm trying to figure out a way to talk Mike into letting me get a big screen!!! It would be so much easier!!!! Oh well, I'll work on my laptop and be happy about it---at least it is working and I'm thankful I have one!!

Last night started some of the senior activities for Lauren---the all-night bowling party. Lauren and her friend Ashley drove to SMU Moody Auditorium with half of her class to watch the basketball team lose to Cedar Hill, then they all drove to Alley Cats in Arlington for their party. Lauren said she had fun. I heard her come in around 5:45 this morning. She just got up. I told her she needed to start thinking about Senior portraits (YIKES!!!) It'll be here before we know it!!!

This morning I took engagement pictures of the daughter of some good friends. Kara used to babysit Lauren and Megan. Kara and her fiance Keith are a cute couple. I get to shoot her bridal portraits and her wedding in April. I'm excited about that!

I guess I've updated everything that needs to be updated. So......BACK TO WORK!!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Happy Monday!!

2009-02-16T07:48:00.002-06:00

It is 7:49 on my day off and I'm already up!! It's kind of hard to sleep with everyone's alarm clocks going off! I'm up, so I might as well get ready and start some of classwork I need to do.

I'm going to have lunch with Meg today and she is thrilled. She's been begging me to do this. I guess with me being home, means I get to cook dinner, too......oh joy!!!

Have a great day! I plan to!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Happy Valentine's Day!!

2009-02-14T17:45:00.002-06:00

I hope everyone has had a love-filled day!! Mike and I were able to escape for lunch. We had a GREAT steak and now I'm stuffed and probably won't eat dinner. Unfortunately, my mom duties had to be completed, too......the dreaded GROCERY store!!! Oh well, I finished and survived. Now I'm watching Lifetime movies. We did buy each other one of the most expensive valentine's gifts EVER (for us)!!! We got a new refrigerator last night! Aren't we so-o-o-o romantic??!!!! My friend asked if he got it at Jared's.

On another note.....I'm excited....I get a three-day weekend--thanks to the President's Day Government Holiday.

Have a GREAT VALENTINE'S DAY!!

Toodles,

Chelley

What's up???

2009-02-08T13:24:00.002-06:00

We are all doing good......thankfully, no one has gotten sick. Megan does have a sty in her eye, but that it is. I'm thankful for no sickness!! With our weather going from extreme cold to 70's, it is amazing that we are all well. Work for me has been busy!!! I have a photoshoot on Tuesday and hopefully I have the photos by Wednesday....with my layout due on Friday!!! I have my first test in Art History this coming week. I think I'm ready.......I probably should go re-read my notes. I found out I get a holiday on February 16th!!! Whoo-hoo!!! The kids are in school, so it is a Chelley day!!! I told eEgan I would come have lunch with her. I think I'm going to have to bring in lunch, don't know if I can eat cafeteria food again!!!

I have been sucked into a force called Facebook!!! This is a totally cool networking site!! I have found family members, people I went to school with, friends across the country, etc. It has really been cool reconnecting with people. Check it out. Request me to be your friend and I'll approve you.

I hope everyone has a great week!!

Toodles,

Chelley

Life on the Funny Farm!!

Our first week in Germany!!

What a week!!

An Empty House

A new me!

GO RANGERS!!!!

Changes in life!

Bon Jovi Concert!

Dalllas Arboretum

FW ZOO

I LOVE the Snow!! NOT!!!!!

quick catch up

A house divided

More NYC pictures

Happy 2010!!

Still playing soccer

A time to give thanks....

New York!!

Video on Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls!!!

Soccer Tournament!

A Quick update!

Welcome Home the Troops

My Pink Dog!!

Insync Exotics

Killer Soccer Game!!!

Practice makes perfect

Tyler & Maddie

Sassy & Maddie update

Birthday trip!!!

Field Trip

Soccer win!!!

Another new baby.

Great Saturday!!

Soccer WIN!!!

A Life Cut Short

Megan

Sorry!!!

Empty Room

First Day of School!!!!

Burgers Lake!!

Prayers, please!

Mom's 65th Birthday

Cancun

A new baby

More whale shark videos!

more whale shark videos

First dive in the water!!!

AMAZING!!!!!

Lovin Cancun!!!

count down!!!

underwater

Happy 4th of July!!!

Downtown Dallas

Catch up

STORMS

Bell Choir Performance 7 June 09 "Knowing You"

Senior Recognition NIght at DHS

Got to Meet Chuck Wicks!!

Senior Recognition Video

Senior recognition

Updates

Finally!!!!!

End of Soccer Season

Sad News

Megan's new baby

Happy Mother's Day to all!!!

V-I-C-T-O-R-Y!!!!

Megan is 11 today!!

Prom

The soccer stud!!

Going Nuts!!!

Another Victory!!!

Easter Sunday

A New Nephew!!!

Bell Performance

Soccer = VICTORY!!!

April Fools!!!

Senior Pictures

My soccer chic!