|
||||||
|
||||||
Thanks for visiting our guestbook!
This is an open guestbook. Please feel free to add an entry to the guestbook for others to read.If you do not see your entry after adding - please click on reload/refresh
- your browser may not have loaded the new page.
AOL Users: The AOL browser seems to have particular problems reloading
after this page is updated. Your Entry is probably already there
- it is just not being displayed. Close your screen completely
and re-enter it.
Click here to sign the guestbook.
Click here to go back to the main page.
Click here to view older guestbook entries.
Happy NEW year everyone!
As I put Thomas "to bed" tonight (while Ashli and Tom are enjoying a night out/free of baby/first time ever )... I thought of many things...most of all, the sweet face with the lashes that cover it looking up at me...and how VERY fortunate we are to be able to "be near" and take care of grandchildren. I think that is what this "new year" will be about...
I am so happy that Allyson had adapted to her "once again" new surroundings and I pray that her new year of challenges will work out for her. I am not "worried" about MOrgan at all....and I am delighted that their POST Christmas "beach trip" has been so enjoyable! I am glad that Grandma and Grandpa Kelso aka "Maria" and "Jose" have had special times with all of their "grands".....
Looking forward to the Texas "wedding festivities" AND ALL THAT GOES WITH THAT......
So to all of you who care...thank you, thank you, thank you, and a VERY happy new year to all...
So, back to "Dick Clark" and "Thomas" AND reflecting on all the blessings of life... you, our daughters, our sons in law, our grandchildren, our sisters and brothers, our nieces and nephews...and one another.
THANKYOU again....we are blessed...
HAPPY 2008 to all!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
And...remember the words of Eleanor Roosevelt....
"Do the thing you think you cannot do."....and THAT is WHAT we DO!! YOU do it , too!! :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Monday, December 31, 2007 9:39 PM CST
Happy Birthday to "Aunt Krispi" from the other 9 Kelsos here in Nags Head! We are having a great family vacation with 4 generations of Kelsos sharing in the joy of all being together again. Great Grandma is here from New Jersey, Glenn and Mer and Spencer are here from Richmond, Mark and Kristin and the girls are here from Virginia and we are the NC contingent. The weather has been really cooperative compared to what the weatherman has been predicting, and a little rain yesterday afternoon gave us an indoor setting for our family Christmas! Ally has been so good, especially today for her mommy's birthday. She played happily all morning, enjoyed her cheeseburger, lettuce and tomato at 5 Guys for lunch, went to the grocery store with Grandma and Grandpa and fell promptly asleep for her nap. She has been talking and singing up a storm, opening presents and racing her cars. What a joy!
Our New Year's wishes to all in Allyland for a happy, healthy and blessed New Year!
Grandma Kelso a.k.a. Lydia <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Nags Head, NC - Monday, December 31, 2007 2:22 PM CST
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KRISTIN!!!!! Hope you have a wonderful day! Sounds like you are having a great time with family and will of course enjoy your birthday on this New Years Eve day. So great to hear that Ally is allowing you a little space and doing well in yet another new surrounding. I'm sure she will love it when she is back home and able to get into a routine. Have a great day and rest of your vacation in NC. I'm so glad that our friendship has continued over the many miles these last couple years. You are a wonderful friend and such a strong, dedicated mother. You have an incredible family and do an amazing job meeting all their needs. It is wonderful that you can now be close to extended family and have that love and support within reach. I'm sure you will enjoy the privileges that come with family close.
I love this website to stay caught up on happenings. It has become an addiction to me - obviously a positive addiction. I check it every time I go to the computer and always get such a sense of the love over thousands of miles for dear precious Ally. But no wonder, once a person meets her how can you do anything but love her! Spending time with your whole family on your trip east was the highlight of our December. Hopefully we'll be able to meet up again this summer in Iowa. We look forward to being able to come to the East Coast "sometime" to visit you (date of travel has definitely not been determined but we will promise sometime within the next 3-5 years).
As I complete this long entry I want to send greetings to all the rest of the Matus family out there. Teetay, Ashli, thanks for always keeping us up to date on Thomas and your day to day lives. He is growing so fast, just like Andrew. Time flies! One of these days we'll have to let the two meet because I'm sure they would be instant friends, just like we were. We miss you all and hope to see you all soon.
Happy New Year to everyone out there! May we all be blessed in 2008!
DeAnn Huxman <cdrthux@mtelco.net>
Moundridge, KS USA - Monday, December 31, 2007 8:55 AM CST
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KRISTIN!!!!!!!
YOU amaze me in all you do and I wish you a wonderful day full of love and hugs...all Texas sized of course!! :-)
Holly & Crowd
Holly Crandell <hmcrand@tx.rr.com>
- Monday, December 31, 2007 8:40 AM CST
Happy Birthday to one of my dearest friends!! Kristin, I hope that your year is filled with hope, love, encouragement, happiness and so much more. The good Lord knows you are so deserving of all the best, as do all of us out here in Ally-land!!! You are a wonderful example to so many and I am so blessed to be able to call you 'FRIEND'!!
I hope 2008 brings us many opportunities to chat and perhaps even find some time to get together now that we both live on the same coast, and by the fall (hopefully the house is sold) we will only live a few hours away from each other once we are in Norfolk!! Yippee!!!!
I hope you have a wonderful day in NC...hopefully there is sunshine and warmth in the forecast : ) We are being blanketed by yet another 6-10 inches of snow today...gotta love it!!
Happy Birthday Kristin!!
Much love,
Dani
P.S. Seahawks vs. Redskins next Saturday, huh?! Go SEAHAWKS!!! Jack wanted me to add that for Mark's enjoyment : )
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
itssnowingagain, NH - Monday, December 31, 2007 8:20 AM CST
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE BEST SISTER, BEST FRIEND and MOMMY IN THE WORLD!! Ok, I might be a bit biased but it's TRUE!! :))) Lots of love and hugs to you on your special day, Kristin -- as always, the whole world is partying in your honor!!
So glad that you all are having a nice time in Nags Head, the temps are up and that Ally is doing so well - what a blessing!!! Hugs to everyone!
Can't wait to party and celebrate your birthday next week! I LOVE YOU!!!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, December 31, 2007 8:10 AM CST
Happy Birthday to my "firstborn child"....Kristin!
I have been honored to be YOUR MOM for 36 years and I have admired you each and every year, but never moreso than I admire you in your role as Morgan and Allyson's mother. You are the BEST mom, wife, daughter, sister, and FRIEND to so many! Thank you for sharing your gifts with all of us, and for being the role model you are. I love you, I admire you, and I respect you. I HONOR your birthday TODAY and I hope this day will be memorable for you. YOU deserve something special everyday, but especially TODAY! Thinking of you with all my love....
YOUR MOM aka Teetay :)
And, to my new "best pal" Nancy in MN, I am wishing you a happy birthday today as well! Our friendship via cyberspace and our shared common bonds have been a blessing to me this past year. Thank you for "coming into our lives"...we are richer for knowing you.
AND, to EVERYONE out there in Ally-land....I am wishing you the happiest new year and that all good things will come into your lives in 2008. We are blessed to know you, and to have your love and support. I cannot say thank you "often enough"...you are always "here" for us and we are grateful.
God bless us all, and happy 2008! May the world become a little kinder and more peaceful during the coming year.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Monday, December 31, 2007 6:57 AM CST
Happy Birthday to my "firstborn child"....Kristin!
I have been honored to be YOUR MOM for 36 years and I have admired you each and every year, but never moreso than I admire you in your role as Morgan and Allyson's mother. You are the BEST mom, wife, daughter, sister, and FRIEND to so many! Thank you for sharing your gifts with all of us, and for being the role model you are. I love you, I admire you, and I respect you. I HONOR your birthday TODAY and I hope this day will be memorable for you. YOU deserve something special everyday, but especially TODAY! Thinking of you with all my love....
YOUR MOM aka Teetay :)
And, to my new "best pal" Nancy in MN, I am wishing you a happy birthday today as well! Our friendship via cyberspace and our shared common bonds has been a blessing to me this past year. Thank you for "coming into our lives"...we are richer for knowing you.
AND, to EVERYONE out there in Ally-land....I am wishing you the happiest new year and that all good things will come into your lives in 2008. We are blessed to know you, and to have your love and support. I cannot say thank you "often enough"...you are always "here" for us and we are grateful.
God bless us all, and happy 2008! May the world become a little kinder and more peaceful during the coming year.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Monday, December 31, 2007 6:56 AM CST
Kristin - Happy Birthday to You and to me as you and I share the same birth day (you're 36 and I'm 56)!! Even though we have never met, I feel that we know each other very well as I follow Allyson's website daily and have met a new penpal friend, your fabulous mom, as a result of that! What a blessing to me. All the best to you Kristin - enjoy today and celebrate you! May you and your family have a blessed New Year filled with many blessings sprinkled thoughout the year.
Nancy Zembal <nezembal@comcast.net>
Brooklyn Center, MN USA - Monday, December 31, 2007 6:28 AM CST
TODAY IS PLUCKY CHICKEN'S BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Happy 36th Birthday to my very best friend! I hope your 36th year brings you love, peace, happiness, and the STRENGTH to face your biggest challenges.
I will SEE you in 46 SHORT days!!!!! Happy New Year!
I LOVE YOU!!!
Aimee <offtowork@bringon2008.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Monday, December 31, 2007 5:36 AM CST
Happy "almost new year's eve" to everyone!
It is GREAT news to hear that Kristin's "accessory" (i.e. Allyson!) is giving her some breathing room! THat is a welcomed relief after the past few days of Allyson's continuous "need to be held by mama"..!! Maybe since she's at the OCEAN she 'thinks' she's back in CALIFORNIA!! The Pacific Ocean is always COLD, so I imagine Mark felt "right at home" in the brisk waters of the Atlantic!
It is a cold and dreary day in Northern Virginia with lots of eager Redskins' fans hoping for a win this afternoon over the Cowboys! I'm sure there will be some "football smack" on this website later on today depending on the outcome! I plan on building a nice fire and just "watching the game" beside the fire's glow!
I hope everyone is having a lovely "post Christmas weekend"....
We are looking forward to celebrating with the Texas folk next week at LeAnne's and Scott's wedding...I'm dusting off my "dancing shoes" and getting ready for the two-step and Cotton Eyed Joe! Texas, here we come!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Sunday, December 30, 2007 11:28 AM CST
Hello everyone!
Yes, I, too, am praying that the new location at Nags Head does not worsen Allyson's "adjustment" to her own personal new surroundings. She was fairly comfortable for a number of hours in her own house yesterday, and played "comfortably" in the playroom with Morgan and me. She's had a lot thrust upon her to "accept" and "figure out" during this move, and I know the BEST thing for her will be to SETTLE into a normal routine in her own home where she can find everything and "know" her surroundings. I'll just keep praying that the next few days will be good for her, and that Kristin can get some much needed "rest" from being the "mommie carrier" of Allyson. The disorientation and the visual issues compound the fact that she is "three" and she has "moved away from all that she knew" in her CA home. Kristin's birthday is New Year's Eve and I hope she will be able to enjoy it! We will celebrate her birthday in "style" after the "trips" ARE OVER. It was "her request" to have a "family birthday celebration" the middle of January when all the "dust settles"...LITERALLY and FIGURATIVELY!! What a "treadmill" they've been on since leaving CA Dec. 4th....so many miles and so much has transpired since their arrival! Christmas...all "good"...but so busy and hectic and with Kristin trying to get the house completely 'set up'......it's been a huge "deal"...hear me???
I will put on my "Furn -ni- tay hat" in the morning and go to their house to receive the new end tables/coffee table that will be delivered in the morning! I think I know the 'way' to their house now! And, when they come home, the tables will be in PLACE...one "less thing" to think about!
So, if you think about it on December 31st send Kristin some happy birthday wishes! Thirty-six years ago she was born at NOON on the 31st in a small Catholic Hospital in Tainan, Taiwan. The doctors and nurses treated us like "royalty"....we were "military" but I chose to have Kristin in a Chinese hospital since the military wanted to "send me away to Taipei" in November to "wait for her birth" in December! I was "busy working" and did not wish to be SENT AWAY. I looked around and "REALIZED" that the Chinese must know how to "deliver babies" since there were a whole bunch of them....!! End of story...a birth of a 10 lb. baby girl in Taiwan many miles away from everyone in my family....God blessed us that day and continues to do so with Kristin's life and the example she is to others.
Happy EARLY birthday, Kristin...you deserve the BEST on your birthday and I hope you receive a day worth remembering! :)
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Friday, December 28, 2007 6:10 PM CST
Safe and happy travels to you all!!! I am thinking about you constantly and hope that you enjoy the beach (even if it is really cold).
I am praying that Ally's eye issues are able to be addressed soon. It takes an enormous amount of strength to constantly address obstacles and I am so proud of you, Kristin, for all that you do! YOU ARE MY HERO!!! And, I can't wait to tell you that IN PERSON in FEBRUARY!
Have a wonderful BIRTHDAY and NEW YEAR, my friend (although I am sure I'll post again on Monday). You are in never far from my heart and I love you like a sister!!!
xoxoxoxoxo
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Friday, December 28, 2007 11:12 AM CST
This is a belated Merry Christmas to everyone and an early best wishes for the best New Year ever! I pray 2008 will bring good things for everyone - we have all earned as much! For those of you who have seen Kristin with Ally, you admire her patience, persistence, and love - the same goes for Morgan who is a fantastic big sister, and Mark - the loving father and hubby. What wonderful parents/grandparents these kids have - truly amazing feats they perform! My greatest admiration and love go to all the Matuses and Kelsos. I myself am enjoying my 7-month old granddaughter and looking forward to my next grandchild due July 7th. What a wonderful life! With so much agony in this world, we are truly blessed to have so much joy. Always count your blessings. Love to all, Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA the BEST - Friday, December 28, 2007 10:44 AM CST
Wishing you all safe travels and an enjoyable time in Nags Head...I know it will be nice to have the whole gang together, and I pray that Ally will do OK in yet more new surroundings -- and if it's bad, hey, you can DRIVE HOME! Easy! It's just a little 5 hr jaunt up 95! :) I hope you have somewhat of a fun and relaxing birthday, Kristin.... depending on whether you are donning your latest fashion accessory all day or not -- that accessory would be the adorable Miss Ally who hangs from your neck :))) I am thinking of you... always.. .of course!
Can't wait to have you back home and staying put for a while so you can all adjust to the new home and weather(!!) and surroundings. Until then, hang in there.... I love you lots!!
HAPPY (early) 36th(!!!!!!!!!) Birthday to my sister!!!!!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, December 28, 2007 8:00 AM CST
Forgive the "double entry"...cyberspace has a mind of its own this morning...
I did forget one "best part".....we held our own Christmas "church" service with each person portraying a character from the Christmas story. We used hand puppets and Morgan was an "angel" who read the Christmas story! She did a magnificent job in her role as "narrator" and only got a bit shy when we began singing Silent Night...we all participated with our hand puppets with some improvisations taking place throughout the story. It was a good experience, and Morgan was very proud of her part. That was just one added "best part"...!! THanks for sharing our lives!
Love to all and I plan on only entering this ONE TIME! Wish me luck!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Wednesday, December 26, 2007 8:03 AM CST
"The morning after...."
Christmas Day was wonderful! Our day began about 7 o'clock with Morgan creeping down the stairs to find Geep and I sleeping in the living room. WE had given Tom and Ashli our bedroom so they could be nearer Thomas during the night. And, Thomas was "especially" active during the night, so that was a good thing. They eventually caved in and brought him into bed with them to "keep him quiet"...!! I guess he was "too excited" over his FIRST SANTA visit! Once we were fully awake with coffee in hand, we will into full blown "stockings"....Morgan was simply "amazed" that Santa even knew which headbands to put in her stocking! Then, we slipped downstairs to the "Kids' tree" to see what Santa left for everyone! Morgan's enthusiasm made up for Allyson's lack of it....Allyson had an especially rough day and she needed/wanted to be held by her mommie primarily most of the day. I think her vision was especially problematic yesterday. Each of us took "turns" holding her, but she wanted her mother the MOST! Thomas seemed in awe of the entire "scene" but he had fun scoping out his new toys! He had several cat naps during the day, but none LONG enough to suit his parents or make up for their "lack of sleep"....And like we all know..."children make the agendas" and the adults follow them, right???
After a few cups of coffee and our traditional Christmas breakfast complete with Jerry's mother's special recipe for "houska" (Christmas Bread in Czech) we enjoyed playing with the new toys and games. Morgan jumped from Hannah Montana to High School Musical to Littlest Pet Shop to American girl....I don't think she knew which thing to focus on she was sooooo excited!
The preparations for our dinner were "Mostly Geep"...but each of us contributed a dish or two....the White House turkey was succulent, and the dressing was quite tasty! After our 4 PM dinner we were all "in slow motion" for the remainder of the day!
Was it a perfect day? Of course not!...Nothing is ever "perfect" but in Morgan's words: It was the BEST CHRISTMAS EVER!" (and we should all take a page from her positive attitude!) I wished that Allyson had been more "into" her Santa toys and had enjoyed her third Christmas with wide-open eyes, but that was not to be....I wish that Kristin could have enjoyed some "down time" on her first Christmas "back in Virginia".....I wish that Ashli and Tom had gotten more sleep.....but when all is said and done, there will always be "complications of life" that get in front of the "main thing"....yet, we know the "main thing" was celebrating the birthday of Jesus and being so very grateful for the love we share as a family. Singing our "blessing" was a fond memory of so many other holidays when we have sung "Oh the Lord is good to me"....and we know HE is good to us!
Please continue to keep Allyson in your prayers as she faces the new visual challenges that have come to her. And, know that you were in our thoughts as we celebrated Christmas yesterday.
We have a family wedding in Texas just after the first of the year, and we are very excited to know that will be another fine reunion. The "Texas family" will meet Thomas for the first time. This is our first visit since Ashli and Tom got married over two years ago. And if you've never been to a "Texas wedding"....well...you just do not know what you are "missing"...and we are looking forward to the event! Special good wishes to LeAnne and Scott as you move forward in your lives! WE love you!
I need to make a "run" to the Kelso home to take the rest of the toys that could not fit into their car last night. I know they will be so happy when they can be completely settled in their home without all the "travels" involved in the coming days. Hopefully, once a routine can be established in their new home Allyson's confidence and independence will return. That is my prayer.
I will look forward to a Friday-with-Thomas-day this week. Maybe we can figure out some of his new "gadgets" on that day!
Best, best wishes to everyone for a very happy new year. May the year 2008 hold only positive things for you. God bless...
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Wednesday, December 26, 2007 7:37 AM CST
Hi! Some Ally party pics... and well, Thomas too :)
http://www.kodakgallery.com/matusgeorge/main/thomas_at_9_months_holiday_cheer_ally_s_3rd_birthd
Enjoy!
Aunt Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, December 24, 2007 9:30 AM CST
" 'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house....."
Yes, the stockings are hung by the chimney...with CARE....and sneaking a peek, no one would DARE....
Ma-Teetay has no kerchief and Geep wears a Cowboys CAP, and they don't settle down for anyone's LONG WINTER NAP...(there would be too much to miss!)....so "this is our story" and we are building it as the day progresses!
EVERYONE will arrive at our house this afternoon with their little overnight bags....we are having our own family worship "program" orchestrated by Morgan (with some help from me) using PUPPETS as each of the characters in the Christmas story. Kristin, for example, is the Baby Jesus and she will use an "elephant" puppet to simulate his birth. I, on the other hand, am "Mary"....and when I asked Morgan why she picked me to be Mary...she responded instantly, "Well, Teetay, you will do the birth right." (I love her confidence in me!) Aunt Ashli and Geep are the shepherds, Uncle Tommie and Allyson and Thomas are the Three Wise Men...and Mark is Joseph. Morgan is the 'angel' and will TELL THE STORY in narrator format as we 'act out our parts.' We have the keyboard 'dusted off' for Kristin to play, and Mark and Tom will bring their guitars to accompany our carol singing! Morgan really, really wanted to "invite" all the neighbors over to be our audience, but I assured her the neighbors would be busy with their families. (whew!) I might even pull out my old trusty guitar and pluck a few note just to see if my fingers still work!
We will have the "Kristin/Mark" TRADTIONAL Christmas Eve dinner of fajitas and trimmings! They started that years ago when they first lived in CA, so we are continuing it for them on their return to VA! The day will be festive, but CALM and comfortable and enjoying the luxury of having FAMILY in every room of our home....this "house" holds many, many STORIES, and this is just one additional beautiful "chapter"....
Thinking of the men and women stationed abroad and not with family this year. Our prayers for your safe return SOON. Thinking also of the many friends and loved ones facing challenges this holiday season. Our prayers are with you. And, remembering each of you with love and gratitude for being part of our lives and for loving us.
Thank you and I wish you a very merry holiday season and all wonderful things in your 2008!
God bless you all.
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
thecountdownisoverandthedayishere.com
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Monday, December 24, 2007 7:35 AM CST
Happy 3rd Birthday Ally! I think of you and your wonderful mommy and family often and am so glad to hear that you are now on the East Coast! I hope you have a wonderful Christmas week!
Alex Hurley <cajhurley@comcast.net>
Montgomery Village, MD - Sunday, December 23, 2007 10:22 PM CST
Happy 3rd Birthday Ally!! I told Alina that today was your birthday and she said: Go to Ally's house. Play. Sing Happy Birthday. Ally come here play?
We hope you had a wonderful birthday party today at Aunt Ashli's house and Alina is hoping you girls can play together in 2008.
Much love to you!!
Rebecca, David and Alina
Rebecca <rebeccalacki@sbcglobal.net>
Oakland, CA - Saturday, December 22, 2007 10:08 PM CST
Greetings to all...
What a day it has been!
Allyson's birthday /playdate with friends at Aunt Ashli's was just super...the Philly "cousins" were present,and many other little friends from Ally's past...Allyson HANDLED it better than we expected! She was a trooper and met a few new people and left her mother's side! Morgan was THICK in the mix and "so into it all" and even opened most of Allyson's presents for her...read the cards, and played with some of them.This is "not" Allyson's "year" to be INTO her gifts....she was quite amicable when Kristin and Mark left with her tonight, even though she was to spend the night. She had been rather "out of sorts" after her THREE HOUR NAP (go figure..but she IS three!) so they took her home. MOrgan remained with us for the night! (she's such a little "lady" and she calls herself "that")
Morgan is now sleeping and I still have a few leftover gifts to wrap before bedtime...
It was a great day! And, Allyson loves her "inside swing" we got her that hangs in the doorjab of the utility room and playroom....she can swing all "day" if she likes! THat is such a "calming activity" for Ally....thank goodness for Leaps and Bounds and their endless supply of quality "kid items"...!!
Morgan beat me at Chutes and Ladders tonight...and I did not "let her'...those "darm chutes" send me packing!
We are having our own version of a Christmas Eve "pageant" here at our house on the 24th....we are "re enacting" the birth of Baby Jesus and Morgan w ill "direct" the event...we will read the story of Jesus' birth, hold hands, sing carols that Kristin will play on my keyboard, and just "be" together....it will be "our version" of a "Christmas EVe service" without going an hour AHEAD to get "seats" with two little ones....a nice "tradition" to start....a FAMILY worship in the home. I think it will work nicely and that we will honor the birth of Jesus with our love.
I am hoping that each of you are safe/sound/and surrounded by loved ones this Saturday evening. It has been a very good day.
With love to all...
Merry, Merry, Merry!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Saturday, December 22, 2007 8:27 PM CST
Can it be three years already? It is hard to believe that you are 3 years old today Ally...HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! We hope that your day was super special and we have no doubt that you were given the royal treatment by all of your friends and family!!! What a special day for all of you : ) Sounds like you are all settling in just fine to your new home and it does not surprise me one bit how quickly your mom has gotten the home in order!!! Received your Christmas picture and letter today (mine just went out in the mail today...way behind this year) and enjoyed reading the recap of the year and all of the progress that you have made. Can't wait to see you now that you are on the same coast. Perhaps this spring we will make a trip down to visit you and see your new home. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!!! And Ally, I hope you had a TERRIFIC 3rd Birthday!!!!
Love,
Dani and Gang
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
buriedunder2feetofsnow, NH - Saturday, December 22, 2007 6:40 PM CST
Happy 3rd, ALLY!!! What a fun little play-date gathering we had today at my house! You were SUCH a trooper (as was your baby cousin ;) with all the hoopla going on, and it was fun to see you play with new and old friends -- and devour some ice cream! Can't wait to have you and Morgy-lu at my house for lits of fun play times. Oh! And Morgan, you let your Hannah Montana CD here in my cd player... Uncle Tommy and I will try not to wear it out ;)
Lots of love and hugs on this wonderful, special Ally-birthday! Three years ago our family was granted a special gift -- and tiny little being who has inspired me and so many others beyond words. Not to mention, her amazing mommy(!!!!!!) and daddy and big sister! Kristin, Mark and Morgan - you ALL rock, and you should be extremely proud of your family. I am so thrilled to be a part of it all, and look forward to many more fun times -- and grown up outings ;) - now that you are in VA!! xoxoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, December 22, 2007 5:57 PM CST
Happy, Happy, Happy Third Birthday Miss Ally! We hope you are having a fantastic day! :)
Lynn, Eric, Grayson, and Oliver Smith <talbottsmith@earthlink.net>
Annapolis, MD USA - Saturday, December 22, 2007 1:25 PM CST
Happy Birthday Ally!! I am so glad I have been able to follow your journey the past three years! Also welcome to Virginia!! Hope everyone has a Very Merry Christmas, and Happy Holidays!!
Elizabeth Hellman <dancer3191@cox.net>
Chantilly, VA Unites States - Saturday, December 22, 2007 1:24 PM CST
Happy 3rd Birthday Ally!!! Have a wonderfully, fun birthday at Uncle Tom's, Aunt Ashli's and cousin Thomas' today. Even though we have never met I read your website each day. I am honored to be a part of your cyberlife and am Teetay's penpal from Minnesota. You are an amazing little girl who has so much love surrounding you.
Nancy Zembal <nezembal@comcast.net>
Brooklyn Center, MN USA - Saturday, December 22, 2007 12:47 AM CST
A BIG 3 HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Ally!!!! We love you so much and hope it is a great day! Hope your party is fun!!! We mailed your packages on the 12th, and apparently they've been at the Chantilly station since the 14th! DHL can't seem to figure out where they went! I hope they will arrive later today or Monday! Yikes! Hugs to you all and hope that the stomach bug is gone. Sounds like you all have already made your house a home. Loved the new pictures!
Aunt Mer, Uncle Glenn, and Cousin Spencer
Chesterfield, VA USA - Saturday, December 22, 2007 9:38 AM CST
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ALLYSON! You are a very special little girl in my heart and I want to wish you all the best in your coming years. You go, Girl...
Love, Geep....
Jerry <jfmatus@msn.com>
- Saturday, December 22, 2007 7:58 AM CST
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ALLY!!!!!!!!!!!!! We hope you have a wonderful day filled with happy moments, lots of goodies, and tons of giggles. We are thinking about you and your family as you celebrate today. As your Teetay said, thank you for being a part of our lives and for teaching us what really means the most - family!
We love you!
Jim, Aimee and Tyler <itsgoingtobeawhitexmas@where'ssanta?.com>
Snowy Eden Prairie, MN - Saturday, December 22, 2007 7:16 AM CST
Happy Birthday Allyson!!
Today is YOUR DAY, big girl, so SHINE! SHINE! SHINE! Three years ago God gave you to "ALL OF US" and we have learned so very much from you. Your spirit, your ability to to 'keep on keeping on' and the courage that is tucked neatly inside your tiny body has brought us more joy than you may ever know. You are admired by everyone who visits your website to keep tabs on your growth and progress, and you are loved by everyone whose life you have touched. I thank God every day for your life and for being part of it. And the "moments" that are the most special are the simplest ones....like when you "dropped over last night" after we saw Santa and you took a BATH at my house....I love watching you and Morgan interact, and I think your "sistership" is a very special bond.
I hope today will be the BEST day EVER, and that you have fun with your friends at your birthday "party" this morning. I am wishing you all positive things in the coming year and I am grateful that I will be close by to watch you grow into a "four year old."
God bless you, Allyson, and HAPPY HAPPY THREE year old birthday today!!!
I love you,
Your Teetay :)
"Who loves ya, baby?"......"TEETAY!!!!"
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Saturday, December 22, 2007 5:55 AM CST
Dear Family and Friends in Cyberspace, We have so many things to be grateful for this Christmastide: safe travel for Kristin, Mark, Morgan and Allyson; for Teetay and Geep for the "heavy lifting" in house-selection and beginning set-up, for Ashli and Tom and Thomas and the warm bonds of sisterhood Ashli and Kristin share, for friends who are willing to come and unpack boxes, and people who make food to help out in times of chaos! Moving is never an easy task, and with little folks, it is all the harder! We rejoice that you are safely in your new home, Kristin, and we know you will make it a beautiful and warm enviornment where friends and family are always welcome! Mark, we pray that your new challenges at the Pentagon will bring you great satisfaction and career enhancement. The greatest gifts we receive in the name of the Christ-child are not bought, not seen, not wrapped -- but are gifts we give from the heart! We hold you all in our thoughts and prayers ... and across the country, all of friends, old and new, who have supported our family, especially Allyson, in her three years of challenges -- we call you blessed ... and we are indeed grateful for your gifts of caring! MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL .... Hugs and Kisses and fingersqueezes to Morgan, Allyson and Thomas! And may
"God bless us everyone!" Love, Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawre, GA USA - Friday, December 21, 2007 2:07 PM CST
Love those faces on the home page being soooo close to me!! :)
A happy belated birthday to one of Ally's special little friends, Alina (Reb's little girl) in Oakland who turned TWO yesterday! Alina was such a fun friend to Ally when she spent a couple weekends at her house this past summer. Happy TWO, Alina!
Lots of love and hugs to you all in Ally land! Kristin and I are soooo looking forward to our sister shopping time tomorrow. Yipppppeeee! And of course the Ally-playdate mini-party on Saturday, thrilled to be hosting the small gig at my home, complete with Little Einsteins decor. :)
Happy Week! Merry Christmas!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, December 20, 2007 7:46 AM CST
Hello all,
Glad to report that the bug has passed its way OUT of the family now....Kristin is the only "bug free" person of us all...guess that figures... "Superwoman"..huh???!! Glad for her!!
The house is looking ship/shape and there are only a few areas that need special attention! Kristin was particulary happy today with her "curtain/drape/scarf" treatments for the living room windows and dining room windows. This house has "HUGE" windows and she not only wants them covered for 'decorator intentions' but to defuse the bright light for Allyson. The family room windows will be the next priority! 'Heard today that the family room new furniture will be delivered Christmas Eve...possibly during the church service we planned on attending,but we will work out those details! The girls' rooms look fabulous...Ally is all "yellow" and she says it "so cute"...and Morgan is the PINKISH girl on the planet...if she got any more PINK we could call her Wilbur, from Charlotte's WEB!! Her Cheetah girl "look" is starting to mirror her personality...such a six year old 'teenager'...!! School has been great for TWO WhOLE DAYS....and "Mrs. Schwalber is the nicest teacher EVER!" (what a great attitude she has!) Allyson is gradually adjusting to her new surroundings, but she is definitely "out of sorts" with where everything "is" and "How to get around"....she's very much an IN-ARMS -GIRL right now. Yesterday, and today, I saw some "breakthroughs" with her playing independently for a bit of time out of arms....hopefully, with more TIME in her new surroundings, she will adjust and function in her new home. It is not only the "light sensitivity" that is bothering her, she actually seems sort of afraid to be away from any one of us ....think positive thoughts and "she'll get there"...HOPEFULLY!!!
The days have been long, and productive, and it is wonderful being part of this move, and the days that are coming...Allsyon's birthday "playdate" at Aunt AShli's on Saturday where Kristin and Mark can 'reunite' with some friends they've met through Tom and Ashli....and Ally and MOrgan can play and Morgan can 'reunite' with some RALLY for ALLY friends...and we can all gather to "welcome" the Kelsos to Virginia "officially"....(I was going to have a "WElcome home party"...but gee, when would I do it??? ha?) Then, there is Santa, Church, C. Eve, wrapping, Santa...fajitas, margaritas...and gee, what have I left out??? (probably SLEEP!)....and then, the big day...Jesus' birthday ...and all the love that surrounds that day!
I think I might need to take additional VITAMINS!! And, oh by the way...I have never mailed my C. CARDS this late...they may go out "Friday" if I'm lucky...all 200 of them...so check your mail boxes LATER this year than usual!!
And, to use a quote from Ashli's card...
From the GRINCH..."Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before; What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from the store? What if Christmas, perhaps, MEANS a LITTLE MORE." ...Dr. Seuss...
Yes, and what if? We know Christmas means MORE.
And MORE>
God bless you all in this season of remembering and caring and loving those around you, and those who are not. Whatever holiday belongs to you, it is my hope that it is meaningful, special, and filled with love and joy.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
BAckinaminute.com
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Wednesday, December 19, 2007 8:06 PM CST
Hi! This is Cat's "new friend". I would love to know about your daughter's surgery on her feet. My son has 2 toes his big toe and his pinky toe. I was told we can wait to do something until his shoes start to bother his feet. But Cat had mentioned you researched it and went ahead with surgery now. I would really appreciate any information you could give me.
My son is having surgery on his hands in March. He was born with 1 finger on each hand (his pinky fingers). They need to remove a bone that is growing sideways. They will then try to make a new finger with that bone. I am praying my hardest that it will work!
Sarah <slangfeldt2000@yahoo.com>
Omaha, NE USA - Tuesday, December 18, 2007 8:59 AM CST
A big "welcome home" to the new VA clan. As a former home for us, I know you all must be happy. So glad that you're all settling in well and near family once again.
Kristin- I forwarded a "new friend" to this website. Gave her your email, but told her that it may not be working due to your move. Anyhow, her son was born with Ectrodacyly (hands and feet affected only), and I wanted her to connect with you as she's going through hand surgery soon (March I believe) and I know she has some questions in regards to her son's feet. I know you could both help and relate to, where as I can't on the feet issues. She's based in Omaha, and are headed to Shriners in the spring.
I hope that you two can make contact, as I know you can give her some welcoming words of advice/support in regards to the hand/foot issues (shoes fitting, balancing, etc.)
Happy holidays to all! May yours be healthy and happy this year!!
Cat <catpotter2001@yahoo.com>
Ft Lewis, WA USA - Monday, December 17, 2007 4:39 PM CST
Greetings to all ....from "my end" of the county!
Yes, the new "house" is coming along and it is taking "all our hands" plus some of our friends to pull it into shape! Yesterday was an especially "productive day" with the playroom area getting organized "for appropriate play" for both Allyson and Morgan. And, Mark and Kristin continued to clear the "garage area" in hopes that a car might fit into it soon, so loads of tubs/boxes of "storage" were placed to the ceiling in the utility room. Thank goodness for the utility room space! Allyson came down with "the bug" Sat. afternoon late, but it seemed short-lived and she was almost back to normal by late yesterday. Morgan was "over the top" with excitement for starting school today with all her supplies tucked away in her hot pink BACKPACK! When I got home last night about 7:30 I "knew" I did not "feel quite right" but just thought it was "the body tireds"....and then there was my dinner that I "moved around on my plate"....just not feeling quite "right" about eating! Just talked to Kristin this morning and Morgan and I both experienced a "night of sickness" after we went to bed! (I'll spare the details!) Morgan's night of sickness last hours, so she is resting quietly in her mom and dad's bed watching cartoons this morning. She will have her first day of school TOMORROW, hopefully! She, of course, was VERY disappointed, but understands one cannot go to school when "sick." I will go over to help K. tackle organizing her bedroom/closet/chests etc. today and we'll all wear masks! Ashli is feeling "icky" but has not succumbed to it yet! Funny....all the years of teaching, I rarely got sick with any "bugs" that floated around! OH, well...guess there is a first time for everything!
Morgan and I walked around her "neighborhood" the other evening looking at all the Christmas lights. I think she was anxious to "see her area" and wear her hat, scarf, gloves, and ski jacket! Their house is well insulated considering it has the high vaulted ceilings and they are "toasty warm" inside!
I think possibly by the end of this week they should be in PERFECT ORDER....Kristin wants to put up the big C. tree...and she already has Morgan and Allyson's little ones UP in their rooms. Morgan decorated her own yesterday and was thrilled to see her "memory ornaments." (she's very dramatic....she put on "memory music" to decorate it)
Hopefully, Verizon will get the K house "fixed" so they are back on email. In the meantime, we'll keep you posted and feel free to contact Ashli or me if you need to get to K and M directly! K.posted the house phone number on one of the final journals, so you could directly call her.
Thinking of you all as the countdown to so many special events continues...seeing Santa Claus, Allyson's birthday, Christmas Eve, and Jesus' birthday and all of us "around the same tree."
Love to all from a "Gingerale drinking Teetay" this morning!
...(Dani..your package arrived!)
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Monday, December 17, 2007 7:25 AM CST
Hi Everyone! Quick note for anyone trying to reach Kristin via email... (Dani, Aimee!!) There are some issues with transferring her Verizon DSL email address from CA to her new Verizon Fios set up in VA. Silly technology! So, I don't think she can access email right now and I just got a message when I tried to send her something that her email has been temporarily disabled. Just an FYI!!! If you need to reach her or want to send her something (and if there's no secret info contained in the email :)) then you can always send it to me and I'll read it to her -- AshliAGMG@yahoo.com
Otherwise, all is well at the new Kelso VA house! Morg starts school tomorrow and I know I can't wait to hear all about it. On Tuesday, she'll take the bus to school for the first time! Wow! Mom/Teetay and Dad/Geepie have been over there busting their butts along with Kristin and Mark (and yours truly for a brief appearance - ugh.. errr.. we've been battleing Thomas' stomach bug for a few days now!) at the house and it's starting to look really great!
Kristin and I are looking forward to some shopping "alone" time this Friday for some parental Christmas items - shhhh! How fun that will be!
Thinking of you all in Ally-land this holiday season and as always, our whole family is grateful for your support and love for Ally and her #1 team - FAMILY!
Merry, merry... and have a great week!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, December 16, 2007 7:00 PM CST
Greetings to everyone!
I've been a bit "occupied" these past few days...Hmmmmm??? Wonder why??? We did take a break today from all the "wonderful chaos" associated with a major move to have "Christmas pictures made" and a lovely lunch and then a trip to see Santa! However, the "location" of the Santa we chose was not the BEST one for today "Santa had a day off"...(how can that be??)...so we are rescheduling Santa for Monday afternoon! Morgan, Allyson, and Thomas looked so very adorable in their matching outfits that Aunt Ashli got for them, and even though Thomas was "fighting a bad bug" that grabbed him yesterday, we did manage to get some pretty good shots! This was just a "girls' outing" plus THOMAS (he doesn't really know the difference yet)and in the nearly two hours we were there we did get a few smiles from everyone at the same time! Allyson was a "little ham" when we would say "Head up!" (she did it even though the photographer's lights were bothering her)Her head would POP up...and then right back down! The "very efficient photographer" did grab a few good shots!
Then, back to the HOME for more unpacking/placing/organizing/moving/stacking/and wondering what to do with it all????? But, tomorrow is only DAY 3 and Geep and I will go over to the house EARLY in the morning to CONTINUE doing "whatever we can" to help get the "VA PEEPS" straight as soon as possible! They do have a fully stocked pantry and freezer and refrigerator so they are in good shape in that "department"...!!!
Morgan and Allyson both have "new rooms" of "stuff" and most of the TOYS are going to the playroom. Morgan is excited about having a whole area for just PLAYING!! Morgan has officially been enrolled in school and will begin Monday....she met her teacher and some of the kids in her class while they were working on a "web" for a Christmas story. (pretty impressive for first graders) Her teacher has children/and grandchildren who are in the military so she is especially sensitive to a little girl's moving in the middle of first grade. Just another "godwink" that Morgan will be with "this particular teacher".....she will begin riding the school bus the SECOND day..Kristin will drive her the first day. Morgan seems very excited over her new school and has shown absolutely no signs of "shyness" about the new school/routine/etc. (hopefully this positive attitude holds on for the FIRST REAL DAY!)
Allyson had a pretty good day today...she was out of "sorts" yesterday with so much going on/people in/out/ of the house...but today was better.
I want to publically thank some very good friends for their help the past two days....your hauling/unpacking/unloading/and just being part of the "moving process" was certainly a huge, HUGE help to Kristin and Mark. Teree, Pammie, Susan, Steven....your help was most appreciated, and remember...Kristin did "promise" us all a "cruise" on Burke Lake in a DINGY, right??? I know your arms/legs/backs were weary last night, but you were certainly a big help and WE all appreciate YOU! You are the BEST!!!! I am thankful for YOUR FRIENDSHIP!!!
Tomorrow should bring us some beautiful "white stuff"...and hopefully it comes in the form of SNOW and not ICE!! I have the girls' SNOW clothes "ready and waiting"....and in the afternoon tomorrow, Santa will visit my neighborhood in a fire engine. IF the weather cooperates Allyson and Morgan will be able to run out into the cul de sac to "greet" Santa and get hugs and pictures!!! Another page in the memory book!!!
The days are busy, but full of joy! Everything in Kristin's and Mark's new home is going to be just perfect once the "dust settles" and the FIVE ZILLION BOXES are unloaded and put away!!! We have TEN days til Christmas! We can do it! Twenty-three years ago Jerry and I moved to Northern VA with Kristin and AShli (ages 13 and 10) on December 1st....by December 12th, the house was "perfect" and decorated/and presents were wrapped under the TREE! Well...I was YOUNGER THEN.... but I promise you "we can do it" by Christmas 23 years later!!
Thinking of you all with love...
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Friday, December 14, 2007 7:37 PM CST
Hi Kristen and Mark,
I have really enjoyed reading your travel diary as you left Ca. and made the long journey across country. We spent many vacations making only half of that journey (to Ks.) but can relate. So glad you made it safely and know everyone in both families are overjoyed at having you close and in the same time zone. God bless you all as you start a new chapter of your lives, and have a Merry Christmas. love, Perk and Tom Snow
Perk and Tom Snow
Chula Vista, Ca. USA - Friday, December 14, 2007 5:08 PM CST
HI VA KELSOS!!!!
I am so glad you all made it to the "right" coast safe and sound and that you also like your new house (although I had no doubt that you would). Enjoy getting settled, arranging new furniture, meeting neighbors, and celebrating the holidays with FAMILY.
Hugs and kisses to you all!
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, December 12, 2007 11:38 AM CST
Need I say "more?"....They are here!! Can you see the sky lighting up above Virginia tonight???
EVeryone is resting tonight as I write this....arrival was early afternoon, and after a trip to the "House" to "see" the new place we finally made it back to our house for dinner! Geep took care of Allyson while the rest of us saw the house, met the neighbors, and took in the sights along the way! On the drive home, Morgan and I picked up the other CAR that was being delivered to the Franklin Farm Shopping Center in the great big car HAULER....home again for more playing of "Cat Kitty Campgound" in front of the big "kid tree"...(Allyson still sleeping at this point)....and finally a great big FEAST of a dinner around the table with the Christmas tree lights sparkling in the other room! Two girls sound asleep before 9PM and all is quiet as I write this tonight!
Tomorrow opens a new door to a new day in Virginia!
We'll keep you updated as events occur!!
Smiling with great love as we "welcome" the Kelsos "home" to Virginia! They seem to be a very happy group of "traveling campers" tonight. (and we are happy with and for them)
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
OH, by the way...yes, they "liked" their house that I found for them....thank goodness....!!! All happy smiles around!)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 9:39 PM CST
WELCOME BACK TO VIRGINIA!!! So glad that you're back on the East Coast. Loved all the pics and the updates along the way. We felt like we were journeying with you! Hugs to all!
Aunt Mer, Uncle Glenn, and Cousin Spencer <piperdown@comcast.net>
Chesterfield, VA USA - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 6:22 PM CST
WELCOME TO VA!!!!!! Yipppeeeee! You're here! And sadly, I am in St. Louis - phooey! I'll see you THIS WEEK :)))
So glad you had a great trip!
I love you 4!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
foggy, dreary, rainy St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 4:49 PM CST
Happy good GOOD morning to everyone!
"Needless to say"....look up into the clouds today and "if I were any higher" I'd be ABOVE "Cloud 9"....!!! Yes, the night was "restless" as I kept waking up just thinking about "tomorrow" and now, TOMORROW is TODAY and in just about five/six hours the "CA peeps" arrive and can officially be renamed "VA peeps"...!!!
Geep and I did some "finishing touches" on Mark and Kristin's new house yesterday....the freezer is stocked, the pantry is filled, the laundry room is set up, and there are scattered "items" throughout the house with big bright RED BOWS on them...hmmmm.....maybe Santa came early this year???? There is a big RED "ribbon" blocking the doorway and if I had a "bus" like on Extreme HomeMakeover I would have parked it in the front...but the RIBBON will have to suffice....it will be the "cutting of the ribbon" that gets them into their new abode! The mailbox is decorated with red ribbon and a big FAT SNOWMAN BALLOON....a live wreath greets them alongwith some beautiful poinsettias....CHRISTMAS has COME to Legendgate Place!!!
Our hearts are full of joy, as you can imagine, and now I just want to SAY: "Welcome home, Kelso family!!!"
Thinking of you all as we enjoy every single minute of this day......our arms are reaching out ready to hug those little faces the minute they plop out of the car! I don't know who will run FASTER???? I think it will be me!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay soon to be "retired Agent Teetay"....!!
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 7:04 AM CST
Sounds like you are all having a great trip and have had wonderful visits across the country with so many of your friends! I think making those friendly stops along the way makes the trip that much easier. I am sure as you 'try' to get some shut eye tonight, there will be many minds racing with sweet thoughts of welcoming you home tomorrow afternoon!!! And probably little minds full of excitement as the anticipation of seeing your family and your new home grows even closer. Am so glad that your travels have been safe and that you have been having so much fun along the way: )
Thinking of you all as you get a good night's rest and sending warm thoughts and big hugs as you arrive 'HOME' tomorrow afternoon!! Big hugs to you all!!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
wishingiwereinvatoo, NH - Monday, December 10, 2007 7:43 PM CST
Hallelujah thine the glory!
And, OH WHERE OH WHERE has that little doggie gone???! So cute! I hope the REST of the trip is "exeperience free" and full of fun and song and love...and know that when you arrive in VA the "standing prime rib" will be waiting and some "tissues and Vitamin C" for your colds!
Loving you all as you travel..
Holly called tonight and wanted to TELL me how very muchmuchmuch they enjoyed having you at their home and how very wonderful they think you are!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :) "on the road again"....
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Sunday, December 9, 2007 10:25 PM CST
Happy Sunday morning everyone!
The VA "snow" has melted and the temps are warming up for the CA peeps arrival Tuesday....just so their bodies won't be too SHOCKED we've "ordered" 60 degrees for them! (it won't last!)
After a wonderful visit with the Huxmann's in Kansas, they arrived in Texas and are also having a grand time with the Crandell Family. "Aunt Charlotte" wrote me that she is so impressed with Allyson's many abilities and her interaction with all the "kids"...Morgan, of course, remembered all of them so well from last summer, so she was all "into them" immediately! How wonderful to rememeber when this friendship began in the 70's with Holly becoming Kristin's and Ashli's "first babysitter ever" and the entire McKay family becoming part of "our family" and vice versa. God surely had His hand in that plan and what special joy we have knowing that we continue to have one another in our lives.
I "heard" that the entire GANG was going to Gaylord, Texas to see the many ICE SCULPTURES on exhibit there. I can hardly wait to hear Allyson's and Morgan's descriptions of what they saw!
The countdown is decreasing until Tuesday when our arms will be full of two little girls and a couple of "road weary parents"....I am sure we will go and see their new house "almost immediately" after they arrive for I know they are anxious to SEE where they will live. We only have a few more "things to do in advance" of their arrival and then we "wait for their furniture to show up"....!!!
The tree lights are sparkling on Turberville Lane upstairs/downstairs/all over the house in anticipation of Santa's visit!
I'm "off" to Ashli's for some Thomas-time later today! I spent the night in his room Friday when I took care of him, and he didn't even SNORE!! Good Thomas boy!
Thinking of you all with love. Please continue to pray for Connie as she recovers from her surgery in CA, and for my friend in VA who is undergoing treatments.
God bless you all.
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Sunday, December 9, 2007 7:19 AM CST
Hello!
Are you guys still in the central time zone??? I hope the drive is going well and that you are almost to NOVA.
Jim is in New Orleans for the weekend partying with Neal. That boy is trouble with a capital T. They went out boozing it up on Burbon Street last night and smoked cigars. Apparently my husband forgot he was not 21 and spent the rest of the night and basically all of today praying to the porcelin god. (I am sure Neal did not have to hold his hair though - KDMK, do you remember those days at Brandon Ave?) Tyler and I had a "date night" and went to see Fred Claus and then went out for dinner. The movie was adorable and Morgan would LOVE it. He is now sound asleep and I got some xmas wrapping done.
Sleep tight everyone!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Saturday, December 8, 2007 9:17 PM CST
ARE WE THERE YET? ARE WE THERE YET? ARE WE THERE YET?
So fun to hear the update and see the beautiful scenery along the way! Can't wait to see all the pics, hear about your journey and the special visit with the Huxman family - fun, fun!! I am sure you all had a great time -- and Mark finally got to meet them!!
I am counting down the days until I see you all in VA!!!! Yipppeeeeeeeeeeeee! And, Thomas can't wait to meet his Uncle Mark finally. Yes, he told me so! :)
Lots of love and safe travels to you!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, December 7, 2007 7:08 AM CST
Greetings from "snowy" Virginia! What a beautiful day! I did not even have to get "excited" over a SNOW day from school since I was not subbing today!
Today was furniture delivery day/carpet cleaning day/and my "oh so fun window cleaning"....(those of you who know me know that I do not do windows....) WELL>..I guess I "do" now!! Ah...the love of children at Christmas, right???
Morgan's bedroom furniture arrived and she is going to be THRILLED with her grownup "look"...Allyson's bedroom furniture is Kristin's "childhood" furniture that was custom made for her in Taiwan where she was born, so it is pretty special, too! Allyson will have twin beds...one for her, and one for a "friend"...might that be Morgan sometime? Or maybe even me???!!
The carpets are gleaming, and I have now completed the "walk through" and the paperwork that needed to be filled in. As "Agent Teetay" I have been "very picky" with each little thing that is "wrong" so that Kristin and Mark will not be held responsible for things they didn't "do"....I managed to "KEEP myself BUSY" for about six hours in their house today in between the "waitings".....and the snow just kept on falling!
Talked to the Traveling Kelsos several times and Morgan and Allyson had both "exclaimed" ...."Oh...look at the snow!" (in the Utah mountains)....Then, I told them there was SNOW in Virginia! They were excited! They will be in Colorado tonight and their hotel has a pool, so they were all LOOKING forward to that relaxation time after a long day in the car. Tomorrow they meet up with some of the friends we met at the last NFED Conference....I am sure that Morgan is practicing the singing of "Red light,green light" so she can SING with the BOYS when they are reunited tomorrow in Kansas!
I can hear the excitment in their voices as each mile clicks away! (or maybe just plain "exhaustion" called "excitement"??) Families can do some wonderful FAMILY BONDING IN A CAR FOR SEVEN DAYS! For those of you who have traveled long distances with children, I am sure you are smiling EAR to EAR right now just "remembering"....!!!
Thinking of you all tonight and wishing safe, happy travels to the "no longer CA peeps"...but soon to be "VA peeps"....just "down the road"...right???!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay aka Agent Teetay-furni-tay!!
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Wednesday, December 5, 2007 6:31 PM CST
Hum along...
"On the road again...dah dah dah dah dah dah dah dah again..."....
Yep! The CA Kelsos are somewhere nearing Utah tonight...first day 488 miles. At mile point 160 Morgan had asked five times..."how much farther is it?" and..the usual.."are we there yet?" When I spoke to Kristin they were all in "good spirits" even though the packers did not finish loading the truck until 2:30 A.M. and Mark had to sleep in a sleeping bag on the floor of the house while Kristin and the girls went to a lovely oceanfront hotel "for the last night"...SUPPOSEDLY a "family" night...well, er uh..it was not to be! But, they are weathering it and I'm only reminded of all the SNAFUS on our many military moves! HOpefully, there will be no more glitches in their travel schedule as they meander their way across the U.S.
I know that MOrgan and Allyson are well equipped with games/toys/DVD's for the car...and while I was speaking with Kristin they were playing: "That 's my blanket!" (at the tops of their lungs!) Mark and Kristin will probably be ready for a BIG FAT BOTTLE of WINE once they arrive here next week!!
Agent Teetay and "Apprentice agent Geep" are busily doing some "odds and ends" around their house to READY it for them including the polishing of the hardwood floors and making sure the GAS furnace WORKEd YESTERDAY! (it would not turn on) But...we called and it was WORKING properly in only a couple of hours! Amazing...the "pilot light" needed to be "lit"...!!!
This weeks temps are pretty chilly, but it is warming up early next week just for their arrival....so Mother Nature will not SHOCK them too much on their first days here!
Thinking of you all..and thinking of four people as they make their way EAST. (who said, "Go West young man?") EAST! EAST! EAST!
Love to all on this very cold Mid Atlantic evening...
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Tuesday, December 4, 2007 5:58 PM CST
PS - that last posting was from Aimee (in case you could not figure it out)
Aims <duh@whereismyheadtoday?.com>
EP, MN - Tuesday, December 4, 2007 4:10 PM CST
Hi All!
You are now on the road and I hope you are traveling safely. Hopefully you won't hit the massive snow storm we are having right now. I am sitting at my desk when I really should be heading home. Why, you ask? Well, I made a serious rookie mistake today! I have a new car with an automatic car starter. I have never had one before and they are SO COOL!!! HOWEVER - I did not realize that after 10 minutes the car shuts off AND locks the door. When I went out to brush off the snow I put my purse in the car and yes, the doors locked after 10 minutes. So, now I am stranded at work IN A SNOWSTORM. Jim works about 30 minutes away on a GOOD DAY. He now has to leave work, go home to get the spare keys, and then drive to my office IN THE SNOW IN RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC.
I FEEL TERRIBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rookie <lessonslearnedthehardway@strandedatwork.com>
EP, MN - Tuesday, December 4, 2007 3:57 PM CST
All very awesome news!
Helen Harris <helenrharris@gmail.com>
Boston, MA - Tuesday, December 4, 2007 12:25 AM CST
Just wanted to stop in to say hello and wish you all a safe journey 'HOME'! I am sure today will be hard for all of you as you say good-bye to many dear friends, but also are anxiously anticipating your arrival in Burke, VA to family and friends that are so excited to wrap their arms around all of you!! I can relate to Morgan's sadness as she says goodbye to her teachers and friends...I remember what it was like for Gage and Mackenzie when we left GA for NH. As sad as they are to leave what they have known for so long, they never cease to amaze me with their resiliency to embrace the new experiences that come with being a child whose life revolves around military moves : ) There is no doubt that you all have much to look forward to with this move and everyone will adjust just fine! I know that Kristin and Mark will do everything to help with the transition as will all of their family and friends that are awaiting their arrival! Virginia will be full of love the next few weeks : )
Not sure which driving route you decided to take across the country, but I am sure it will NOT be the northern one through all of the snow! We are enjoying our first storm of the season as the kids had their first SNOW DAY!! It has been snowing all day and just when you think it is going to let up, it starts coming down even harder. Oh what fun! It is days like these, when I can wake up to the beauty of falling snow and curl up in my chair with a book and some coffee that I love most, and remind myself that this is why we took orders to NH...for the experience!! So it is with that that I am going to say good bye and wish you safe travels across the U.S. to your new home. I will be praying for good weather as you head east. Enjoy the ride!! Look forward to catching up with you soon!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
letitsnowletitsnowletitsnow, NH - Monday, December 3, 2007 2:55 PM CST
Dear everyone!
Today is 'the day'....the last day for CA "sunshine" for awhile! I told Kristin that it was 38 degrees here in VA today with 50mph winds expected later in the day! She could "hear" the winds in the background! She told me that it was "cold" in California and she had on LAYERS, but still wearing her flip flops! SHOES will be a big change for her feet! Morgan told Kristin this morning en route to school that Mrs. Reyes (her teacher) was going to be SO SAD because she really, really likes me and I'm one of her favorite students...."Mommie, I know Mrs. Reyes will be sad." (wonder what she is REALLY saying???!!) Yes, there will be some bittersweet "tears" flowing as the big red car heads EAST! Hopefully, there will be plenty of smiles along the way as they anticipate their new home, friends, community, and family!!! We are waiting with open arms!!! (and lots of HOT chocolate and gloves and hats and scarves!!)
Thinking of you all and the packers load the truck, and you prepare to "Go East" tomorrow!
Safe travels and lots of love to you all,
Terri aka Teetay aka "Agent Teetay" still on duty!
Lookingforwardtofurnituredeliveriesthisweek.com
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va 20171 - Monday, December 3, 2007 11:18 AM CST
Hi People! Happy LAST day in CA! I am hopeful that Morgy-lu has an OK last day at school as I know she has mad many special friends in the past years at Mary Law. Just tell her that I also moved at the start of 1st grade (to VA!!!) and well, I seemed to have survived! ;) I know it will be tough but I also know that in a matter of minutes once she gets to Burke, she'll have a ton of new friends. Can't wait to see you ALL (and hug my favorite girls!) next week in VA/DC - YAY YAY YAY!
Safe travels and enjoy your stops along the way!!! I'll be thinking of you as you pull away from 613 Pacific Cove... Lots of love!!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
?? currently on a train headed to New York!, - Monday, December 3, 2007 7:12 AM CST
Dearest K and gang,
It was wonderful to read your update - thank you for fitting it into your busy schedule. I was THRILLED to read about the 2 year renter you found for your house! What a relief! Now you have an "excuse" to take trips to CA when the weather is bad in VA - it's a tax write off after all since you have to "check" on your property :):):).
I was upset to read about Ally's site. It sounds like you are doing what is needed to make her fit in with the site world as much as possible but that this will be her biggest challenge in the future. I hope and pray that surgery down the road may be the answer to clearer site and that her eye site does not worsen as she gets older. Perhaps this is as bad as it will get and she will still be able to see but just foggy. If there is a way they can at least correct the one eye she should be ok. Jim only has site in one eye and can drive, play baseball, etc.
Good luck with the rest of your packing and hopefully your drive will go by quickly so that you can be welcomed in VA with open arms from FAMILY.
Today we are getting our first winter BLIZZARD. It is about 12 degrees, zero with the windchill and the snow started around 9 am. We are expecting a FOOT of snow today. The snow was not supposed to start until noon so when it started to snow at 9 we quickly left the house to purchase our Christmas tree. The tree must not have been tied to the car very well because about half way home it almost fell off into the road. It was barely hanging on and I was glad we lived pretty close. It is now in the house trying to warm up so we can decorate it later today. We are spending the day in the house - decorating the entire house for Christmas and Chanukkah, decorating the tree, and watching all the holiday shows they got taped this week. As the electric blanket heats up it should be a cozy afternoon.
You are all in my thoughts
Aimee and her boys (Jim and Tyler) <letitsnow@timeforhotchocolate.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Saturday, December 1, 2007 11:40 AM CST
Good morning everyone!
We're baaaacccckkkkkk from our Bermuda adventure with a little "tan glow" on our cheeks! Had an absolutely wonderful time "doing very little" and eating a whole lot! We had exquisite meals with each one "overlooking some part of the Atlantic"...it's hard NOT to overlook the ocean while in Bermuda!! (it is an island, right??)
The "details" are Kristin and Mark's MOVE to VA are getting "nailed down" and we have numerous dates on our calendar for the arrivals of "items" at their new house! 'Talked to Morgan and Allyson and they seem excited although Kristin "reports" that Morgan is beginning to feel the sense of "loss" as she leaves her friends and comfort zone of school/neighborhood/community/all she's ever known since she was 14 months old. I am sure she will adjust "well" once here and "involved" but this is her first real MOVE and she is leaving behind some very special and "old" friends. She's concerned that she's missing her Christmas Program at school this year as well. I tried to assure her that coming cross country and "seeing old friends en route" would be part of her adventure and soon she would have friends COAST TO COAST! That's a hard concept to grasp when you're six! Allyson just talked about her "birthday" on the phone and told me she was "Mommie's girl"...is anyone doubting that???!!! :)!!
Yesterday was the first day HOME and it was a full one, but with a lovely ending to the day! I picked up Thomas at school and the beam across his face washed away the 8 days I had not seen him!! He is crawling six/seven little crawls now before "stopping" and when I entered his room at his school, he began the "CRAWL" movement toward me! Needless to say, it made my day! We cackled and played the rest of the afternoon until he had a short nap. When I was on my way home, Ashli called to let me know he has eaten "part of the meatballs/spaghetti" I had made for them!! Go Thomas! And, another food "alert"...Allyson ate sauerkraut last Saturday night! Go, Ally!!! Your Czech "Nanny" would be so proud of you!!!
Please continue to keep Connie, Allyson's nurse/neighbor/friend/surrogate grandmother, is your prayers. She is recovering nicely from her surgery, but the oncology report was not as positive as they wished. She will need additional treatments/medications to rid her of the cancer. And, please pray for my friend (who remains anonymous) who will begin treatments for cancer this week. It will be a year long regime for her, so just say a prayer for "Terri's friend in Virginia" and I am sure God will know who she is. God bless you all for the power of prayer and the stength of friendship.
We're busily decorating for the SEASON of HO! HO! HO!...and Yes, I think Santa "should" say: "Ho! Ho! Ho!" We are putting lighted reindeer in our yard this year...a first...(just for the children!)...and Morgan told me that I needed to get TWO ANGELS to "look after the reindeer"..and I said, "Why two angels?" Morgan replied.."Because one is for me...and one is for Ally!" (now I wonder if Thomas will need an angel too????) So, I am ANGEL shopping this afternoon so that our "yard look" will be complete!!
I'm hoping that wherever you are, the lights are beginning to sparkle in both the windows and the eyes of little ones charmed by the season. We will be sparkling on Turberville Lane!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Wednesday, November 28, 2007 7:33 AM CST
Happy Tuesday!
Just wanted to pop in and say good luck with the packing and moving. I am not sure when the computer gets packed so if you don't post anything until you arrive in VA, have SAFE travels. Call me from the central time zone if you get bored in the car - hee hee!
Love you ALL,
Aimee <thecoldiscoming@isitspringyet?.com>
EP, MN - Tuesday, November 27, 2007 5:50 AM CST
Good Monday after Thanksgiving morning everyone!!! Or maybe I should say good Cyber Monday...when did this begin? I missed the boat somewhere along the way on all of these 'new' holiday shopping days! Hope this finds everyone well rested and well fed after the Thanksgiving holiday. We had a very nice and quiet Thanksgiving, decorated the Christmas tree and did a little shopping over the weekend. I did NOT join the crazy people out shopping at o' dark thirty on Black Friday. I decided that I would just head out at my leisure and if I couldn't find what I was looking for, well then I will just get it later : ) Hopefully all of you that did head out in the wee early hours of the morning had much success. I have to remind myself too, living in NH where there is no sales tax we have everyone from Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire shopping here...it is CRAZY!!
Loved the pictures of the girls on the home page and then had to chuckle a bit at the fact that Morgan had some shorts on, because before too long it will be a long while before she puts those on again! HOpe you all are looking forward to winter on the East Coast and I hope that the girls won't have to wait to long for some of the fun white, fluffy stuff!!! Not quite sure when you are getting on the road and heading east, but am praying for safe travel as you journey HOME!!! Thinking of you all and missing you!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Monday, November 26, 2007 8:28 AM CST
Good Sunday morning everyone,
Waking up to the news of MORE wildfires in California, specifically in Malibu, makes me very sad. Please pray for those affected right now and those who are still reeling from the fires of last month. This is one of nature's most beautiful landscapes and it is disappearing right before our eyes. Kristin and Mark are about 20 miles NORTH of Malibu.
Have a wonderful Sunday wherever you are and please do add the Malibu-families to your prayer list.
Thank you.
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Sunday, November 25, 2007 7:11 AM CST
Hi, everyone! It's been some time since I was perky enough to read and write on the computer! I have enjoyed catching up with the family events in the Guestbook. I know it was a "different" kind of Thanksgiving for Sister and Jerry - in the pink sand in Bermuda! Ours was pretty traditional, and we had the Hellers here with us. It was mostly "sugar free" in service to Randy's diet needs. However, All dishes requiring sugar were yummy with Splenda! Loren's shoulder is doing great - his physical therapist says he's about 2 months ahead of schedule. Good thing -- he sure wants to play tennis again in the spring! My sinuses seems to be healing OK - just not as quickly as I had hoped for. I am impatient to be well, how! (you know how that evangelist slaps somebody and says "be healed" --as in right now ? :) ) I loved seeing the new photos of Allyson and Morgan, and especially those wonderful caregivers who have much such a difference in Allyson's educational experience thus far! I know that God will have the same kind of angels waiting to enter her life in northern Virginia soon ... and I have given thanks on many occasions for that wonderful helping/healing community that has tended her over these past three years.
Of course, the greatest kudos go to Kristin and Mark and Morgan -- all teachers themselves! I still marvel at the amazing knowledge and competence of my lovely namesake, Kristin Dale, who has shouldered so much responsibility with such grace and love. Uncle Loren and I can't wait to get you back to the "right coast" and will look forward to a 2008 visit to see ya'll. AND THOMAS, of course! Haven't seen that little doll boy yet, either! News of the fam: The Atlanta gang is doing OK -- just very busy this time of the year. Terri and Brian enjoyed having all Brian's family for Thanksgiving. The biggest news is that The Hellers will be joining the Hamilton Mill United Methodist Church on December 23, and Pastor Dave has been in touch with Loren and asked him to be the baptising pastor for Whitney and Zachary. His heart just soared, of course! What joy to be blessed to perform the Sacrament for all his grandchildren! We send you all much love, and pray for a safe and UNeventful move from CA to VA ... won't be long now! Much love to everyone! Hugs, Aunt Dale & Uncle Loren
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA usa - Saturday, November 24, 2007 7:00 PM CST
Greetings from Bermuda!
"Little known facts about Bermuda"....???!!
Did you know that when you walk DOWNHILL to the beach early in the morning it is invigorating?
Did you know when you walk UPHILL back to the hotel after a day in the sun it is exhausting?
Did you know that when you share a taxi with Janet and Tim downtown you end up spending the evening with them?
Did you know that Tim is a duck farmer from Long Island? Hence, "Long Island Duck?"
Did you know the Christmas lights of Hamilton are turned on the DAY AFTER Thanksgiving unlike the "October lightings" in the U.S.?
Did you know that car horns do not HONK in Bermuda and cars and mopeds alike actually give pedestrians the RIGHT OF WAY?
Did you know that Rachel Ray actually ate at the Hog Penney Rest. on her $40 or less-a-day trip?
Did you know that when you leave the hotel premises you begin saving money on food and drink?
Did you know that the FALL storms take away over half the Bermudan beach sand, but the storms KINDLY bring it back in the spring with more storms? Such a nice thing about nature!
Did you know that if you work in Bermuda you must leave after three years and then return again?
Did you know that if you sit in one beach spot long enough you will come away with a tan?
I hope everyone is beginning a lovely Saturday and that your remaining Thanksgiving weekend will be great! We are headed to the historic area called St. George today and the Dockyards....we're told that "adventure" lurks there. It has turned "cool" again, so we will be donning our newly purchased sweatshirts with the ANTICIPATION of "sweating" later today! The temps change quite rapidly this time of year.
Loved seeing the newest pictures on the website, and especially the Allyson-jumping-trick-off-the-clothes-basket one! 'Cannot wait to see those two faces in PERSON in just under 20 days....this has been the "longest stretch" of time that I have not seen Morgan and Allyson in person...so my countdown is escalating!!
Love to all and I hope everyone's Black Friday shopping was successful! (mine was...since my C. shopping items are tucked away in Virginia waiting to be given!!)
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Saturday, November 24, 2007 6:08 AM CST
Greetings from Philly! :) Happy (belated) Thanksgiving and happy "black Friday" to all! LOVE the new pics, love the Ally graduation(!!) with her super special therapists and LOVE you all!
Can't wait to see you in a few weeks!!!!!!!!! xoxoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, November 23, 2007 11:12 AM CST
Happy AFTER T-Day and SHOPPING madness!
I doubt we will see even ONE "blue light special" and I won't miss that at all!
Are the skies bluer? Is the Atlantic clearer? Do the birds chirp louder? Not sure, but waking up to the lapping of the waves onto the pink sands certainly began our Thanksgiving Day in the nicest way! We slept nearly 11 hours the first night here trying to make up for our 3AM wakeup to get here! I think the "relaxation mode" has started to set in!
Thanksgiving Day was spent touring on foot the little town of Hamilton and making sure we entered EVERY shop just "to see what we didn't want to buy"....actually, there are some beautiful items for purchase here if one desires Wedgewood, English linens, and lovely little artifacts that I've long 'gotten-over'...but they are lovely! I might find a "trinket" or two for Santa's stockings! We spent some leisurly time by the pool in the afternoon before preparing for our THanksgiving FEAST at the Lido Restaurant.
The Lido Restaurant reminds me of a place in Del Mar, CA called Jake's which literally HANGS over the Pacific with the waves breaking UNDERNEATH the foundation. The Lido looks exactly the SAME only the breaking waves are in the ATLANTIC and much calmer. Our view of the ocean with the moon reflecting on the shimmering waters was a breathtaking dinner-time sight. The "multi course" meal was more than enough sustenance, and we enjoyed every bite, even leaving a few on the plates. In case you are new to these words:(like I was) the "gratinated herbed scalloped oysters" started our meal...gratinated means covered with crumbs....these were delicious oysters! That, followed by butternut squash soup topped with swirls of CREAM (no diet on this day!) pretty much filled me up. I could have stopped at that point...but, did we? Of course not...!!! Turkey, stuffing.."the works" came next and we literally ate "slowly and surely" for over TWO hours. It is fun to have a "fine dining" experience like that every once in awhile even though I admit I was "exhausted" from all the eating when it was over! (NOT really!!) We then returned to the main hotel and the Veranda Room where two mellow - voiced gentlemen were crooning out some lovely tunes complete with a 20 piece "orchestra synthesizer"....we sang along, clapped, sipped our wine, and finally, Jerry looked at me and said: "Oh, by the way,Happy Thanksgiving!" And a happy Thanksgiving it had been.
We loved talking to Kristin, Morgan, and Ashli (and we heard Thomas in the background and Allyson was still sleeping) yesterday and hearing about their "days"....Morgan was busily filling me on "her latest webkinz pets" and finally I had to "stop her" as the minutes were clicking away as she was "clicking away" on her computer! She is SO INTO her virtual pets!
To top off Jerry's day, Dallas won, a-gin!! He's a happy man!
Today is the sunniest day, by far, and we are headed for the beach....it is supposed to "rain tonight" when we are "downtown" doing our restaurant "hopping"....guess we'll take an umbrella or get wet?!!
Thinking of you all and hoping that your day was as complete as ours. I'm onto Book no. 2 today....I can't believe that SLEEP, FOOD, READING, and SUNSHINE are all part of these days@! Guess that is what a real "vacation" is all about????!!
The waves are calling my name......so....
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Friday, November 23, 2007 6:13 AM CST
Happy Thanksgiving EVE to everyone!
Who would have thought that my "first purchase" in Bermuda would be a SWEATSHIRT??? Didn't bring one...didn't want one...and didn't think there would be a "need"...but after STEPPING in the Atlantic with CHILL BUMPS on me, I succumbed to a SWEAT SHIRT BUY! A storm came into the area today and the North side of the island is 'cooler' than the South side ...so FORTUNATELY, we are on the SOUTH side/Elbow Beach! We have traversed the area looking over every nook and cranny/restaurant/beach bistros/tappas/sushi spots (Mark and Kristin, you would love the SUSHI choices!) bars/nightlife/etc. since arriving at 2PM today. Of course, I was "all ready" for some sun in the fun beside the pool until the CHILL bumps began! So, we "kept ourselves WARM" by walking, walking, and walking some more. The sand is pink. The resort is huge. The folks are friendly, and so far, so good...we are "staying close to hotel-home" tonight since we woke up at 3 AM this morning to begin our journey. Tomorrow, we will go into Hamilton, and save St.George for "Friday's after Thanksgiving day sale" (ha...they don't even have a clue)....WE WILL "FEAST" ( as Morgan likes to say) on a "traditional Thanksgiving dinner" (a la the BRitish...no offense, but were they there?)....and it is at the "well known rest. called Lido" in our resort. We decided to settle on "it" rather than scope out the other places also offering up TURKEY - lurky for the season! The water is blue...the winds are calm...and my sweatshirt is "almost hot" as we head out to a casual dinner....thank goodness we are not in for a FREEZE in Bermuda!
Upon exiting the plane, a combo played music while we went through customs. Now, why can't the U.S. of A. take a page from that book?? How difficult is it to make folks feel "better" not WORSE?? (and that statement comes on the heels of once, again, another DULLES Airport Security "fiasco"...they simply are not prepared!!Period..and it is not about "lip gloss" and "Plastic bags"...they are simply not prepared...we were at the airport by 4 :15 more than two hours AHEAD of time..and the TSA had not even showed up for work! Maybe they did not get the "memo" that TODAY was the BIGGEST TRAVEL DAY of the year????)
Enough of that..but I know that those of you who travel frequently can identify with this on -going experience. Those of you who travel infrequently just expect it to be "bad"...I'm looking for NAMES to put on my complaint letter to the Washington Airport Authority...the worst in the country as far I can determine. So, take that!!
We are looking forward to investigating the town of Hamilton and St. George in the coming days....and seeing if we can recognize anything from our 'memory banks' of the last time we were here in 1982??? Ya think we can!
We are hoping that all good things come your way for your Turkey Day tomorrow.
With love, prayer for everyone, and special ones for Connie, and thankful wishes for a beautiful day...and long weekend!
Love to all,
CountingthedaysuntilthoseCApeepscalltheirhomevirginia!!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Wednesday, November 21, 2007 4:13 PM CST
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!
"All our bags are packed....we're ready to go....etc.etc.etc...!" Leaving on a "jet plane" at 6AM in the morning for five days in Bermuda! While we sit in the sun we will be thinking of each of you and how very much you mean to us. Thank you for your continued support and love for our family throughout this past year. Thank you, especially, for your added support for Allyson and Kristin as they "processed" through the feeding clinic and its ultimate outcomes. Allyson's vocabulary development is so improved just since she began eating orally...a major breakthrough for her to add to her "accomplishments" in 2007! Thank you for your special support for the RALLY for ALLY once again this past summer. And, thank you for the love you've bestowed on our newest family member, Thomas the "3rd"....!! Our hearts are so full of joy as we anticipate the December arrival of Kristin, Mark, Morgan and Allyson...and like we always say in our family, "Now, we are WhOLE, AGAIN!" :) Sharing time, making memories, and enjoying one another's company, laughter, and love will make this holiday season a most memorable one!
Love and blessings to you and your loved ones during this season of remembering and caring for one another! Please keep Connie in your prayers as she recovers from her successful surgery yesterday in California!
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Tuesday, November 20, 2007 7:16 AM CST
We will be on the road tomorrow on probably off-line for the rest of the week (in Arkansas) so I wanted to wish everyone a very happy turkey day! Safe travels to all!
xoxoxoxoxo
Aimee, Jim and Tyler <headedtowalmartcountry@pigsooie.com>
EP, MN - Monday, November 19, 2007 1:00 PM CST
Greetings to everyone and an EARLY Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Yes! The "countdown" has begun now that it is only "days" before the CA peeps arrive in Virginia! This past week Kristin and I put on our "funiture hats" with Kristin finding various pieces on line and I would find the "store" and go check them out in person! I believe by yesterday's END everything has been ordered and the deliveries are PILING UP IN OUR GARAGE with the earlier ordered items! Geep is "anticipating" assembling all the furniture before the "local moving date" of December 7th rolls around! Morgan's new bedroom suite will be delivered Dec. 5th, and Kristin and Mark's new family room furniture will arrive sometime after those dates! ANd, of course, the big CALIFORNIA shipment will be delivered hopefully DOOR TO DOOR and we will be there to GREET their "goods"...! I'm thrilled that some of our friends have offered to help/check things off/make sure it gets in the right rooms/etc. What a day that will be! So, as the old song lyrics remind us: "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!" ....and so much JOY ahead!
There are two very important events on the calendar in addition to MOVING news! Mary Kaye Richter and Malinda Heuring have invited me to attend two special NFED - related events with them. The first is a "gala" at the National Press Club on the 10th for the Friends of Dentists. I will take Ashli with me to that one! The other is an all day conference in Bethesda relating to Muscularskeletal formations and the research that is being done in that area. I am so very HONORED to be invited to attend that day long event with Malinda. I am certain it will be an informative day of learning and listening. So, I am HOPING that the "move in date" will not be Dec. 11th!! HELP??!!!!
Today is Gymboree Play Morning and I am joining Ashli and Thomas and our friends for Thomas' "class"....his last music class for 2007 was Thursday and he played his marracas (sp?) LONGER AND LOUDER THAN EVER! I think he wanted to leave a "lasting impression." His music classes resume in January! Maybe we'll even take Allyson with us??!! (if she's not in pre school by then)
Allyson's third birthday is going to be such a celebration of HER, and her families arrival in Virginia! I think I'll start humming "Carry Me Back to Ole Virginny...." right now in between "Jingle Bells" ...and "Chestnuts Roasting on the Open Fire..."....okay, okay..forgive me! I'm just a little excited!
Thanksgiving blessings to everyone and please pray for Connie as she undergoes surgery to rid her of the cancer next Monday, the 19th....
And, a happy weekend to all!
With love,
Terri aka Teetay aka "Agent Teetay" aka "Agent Furn - ee-tay"...among other names...yesterday I helped Ashli with directions using my computer and she called me "GPS - ah-Tay"....and the list goes on......!!!!
Notmindinghavingsomanydifferentnamesinvirginiawhilewaiting.com
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Saturday, November 17, 2007 7:42 AM CST
Greetings to all from sometimes sunny California where we are enjoying our last CA visit for a long while. Not that we are complaining; now they will all be within a 7 1/4 hour's drive from us and can easily come visit us at the beach, too! What a joy to see them all again, and especially Mark, whom we hadn't seen in 11 months. He looks wonderful! And such changes in Allyson! She talks so much and is so smart - not just a Grandma talking but have also heard that from several therapists and doctors alike. What a thrill to carry on a conversationa and hear her sentences! Morgan has gotten so tall and so mature and just blew us away with her reading skills. Last night she read to us a whole new book of Thanksgiving riddles with help on only 2 words. With a rental tenant in the offing, the move in three weeks is looking good! What a relief for them all as they count down the days! Kristin is swamped with all the last minute details and, as usual, remains her smiley, capable self. What a remarkable mom she is!
Tomorrow we head off the LA Zoo, a place none of us has been before - you know how one always crams in visits to never-before-visited places when you are about to move.
Signing off from CA for the last time in Port Hueneme (at least for several years)
Lydia Kelso a.k.a. Grandma Kelso <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Southport, NC - Saturday, November 17, 2007 0:13 AM CST
Happy Veterans Day to everyone with special thoughts to those who have served our country and who are serving today.
Mark Twain said:
"In the beginning of a change, the patriot is a scarce man, and brave, and hated, and scorned. When his cause succeeds, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a PATRIOT."
With love and gratitude to so many who have proven their patriotism by serving in the U.S. Military.
Berner E. Grant, WWII, US Army (my Dad)
Norbert Tasler, WWII/POW,US Army (Jerry's uncle/still living!)
Loren D. Pugh, Chaplain, Viet Nam, US Army (my brother in law)
Jerry F. Matus, USAF, Viet Nam/F-4 pilot (that's GEEP!)
and so many friends...
Terry Smith, Viet Nam, US Army / purple heart
Gordon Cook, Viet Nam, US Air Force
Pat Siemon, Viet Nam, US Army
John Taylor, Viet Nam, US Army
Jon Peterson, US Coast Guard
Children of our dear friends serving today:
Laura and Dave Lenderman, USAF
Kirk Peterson, USAF
Josh Reyher, US Navy
Leah Lauderback, USAF
Glenn Kelso, US Navy
Mark Kelso, US Navy
And to the many, many others whose names are not mentioned here YOUR service to our country was and is and will CONTINUE TO BE extraordinary! Thank you for the sacrifices you make to ensure that our lives at home will remain peaceful. Thank you to the wives, children, sisters/brothers, parents, grandparents and friends who support the efforts of each person wearing a uniform. A grateful nation thanks you all.
God bless you on this day of remembering and honoring those of you who choose to SERVE this high calling.
THANK YOU!
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Monday, November 12, 2007 8:19 AM CST
Be well my friends.... 24 is not canceled, just postponed until the writers strike is over since they did not have the full season taped yet. So instead of starting the season and having to "stop" mis-season due to lack of episodes, they will delay the start so that they can run the season uninterrupted.
Now THAT is something Ally would want all her Ally-land friends to know :)
Aunt Ashli, on the 24 case! <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, November 10, 2007 6:55 PM CST
I've been reading about Kiefer Sutherland and the cast filming here in DC; in fact the Post Style section reported yesterday that he was at one end of the bar at the Four Seasons and Robert Redford (with Madeleine Albright, no less) was at the other. So, maybe it's the next season that's cancelled? I hope not either way! I need to hear Jack's voice say "We're running out of time!"
I'm looking forward to the Kelsos being practically my neighbors! I drove by the new house today after I shopped at the Burke Giant, and it was only five minutes. Such a pretty house and neighborhood. Our Webkins can play together! It will be so great to see you all; it doesn't seem real. Yippee!
Hey, Mark, I'm using your season tickets tomorrow and I'll be cheering hard for the Skins!
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.comnewneighbor>
Fairfax, VA - Saturday, November 10, 2007 6:49 PM CST
Good morning all!
Can we put a "hopefully not?" on that cancellation of 24? I know many who "set their clocks" by that show, and yes, in perspective it is no big deal! (hmmmmmm....but I'll sure miss my weekly "fix" of Jack saving the world if it doesn't come back this year)
Now that we've gotten that out of the way.....happy weekend to everyone!
And, YES! We, too, have our lights up (but dark for now) outside WAITING for the holiday season to begin! Ours was a mutual agreement of "weather related temps" and "Geep's work schedule" of OFF days, plus the extra "busy-ness" of the coming days! I will wait to place the fresh pineapple above my door until AFTER Thanksgiving when get back from our trip!
Yes! Geep and I are treating ourselves to a Thanksgiving adventure to Bermuda! We decided that a few days of R and R before the fabulous high energy activities of the "season" begin would be a nice diversion. We plan to go without an "agenda" and see if we can actually sit on chaise lounges on the beach/pool area and DO NOTHING but "relax" for a few days! Those of you who know us "well" understand that we have difficulty doing that! However, Elbow Beach Resort seems to offer all of the amenities for doing "NOTHING" IN STYLE! Our big "trips" around the island will be on mopeds......IF we decide to move around at all! Turkey on Thanksgiving? NOT sure...maybe we'll have a crab leg or two!!
I've been doing some "house shopping" for Kristin and Mark's new place..you know, all those "gadgets/functional things" you need when you first move in??? Some furniture has been ordered and I've set up a LOCAL moving date to move some furniture items from MY HOUSE that belong to Kristin. (her childhood bedroom furniture will be used for Allyson in the new house) Once December 1st hits the calendar, we will be OFF and RUNNING! It has been fun gathering up some of the necessities for them. And, Kristin has been ultra busy on her coast doing the same thing "preparing" for the move. I think PARTS of the "garage storage" is disappearing! ("Maria" , "Jose", and "Pilar" will be proud of that, right Lydia and John??)
The anticipation is growing as the days get closer! I talked to Allyson yesterday, and her little voice was so animated on the phone! She was busy riding her "bicycle" barefoot on the pavement...that's a great step ahead for her sensory acceptance! YAY, Ally!! Morgan, of course, was taking her Build a Bear pets on a wagon ride with Sugar Cookies, the unicorn, pulling the WAGON while Morgan pulled her FACE! I could just imagine it!
So many wonderful events are in store for us all...but the "best surprise" yesterday was that we are getting tickets to see the DC performance of Dancing with the Stars! Kristin and I have followed that show, and it is especially "talented" this year, we will see it LIVE in January! And, High School Musical is on the charts for February! And...we have a Texas family wedding in early January which will be very a "reunion" since we haven't seen all of our Texas family since Ashli's wedding! It is wonderful that WEDDINGS bring families together to share in the celebration. Best, best wishes to LeAnne and Scott! We're getting our 'dancing shoes' ready for the two step!
Please continue to offer your prayers for Connie in CA and for my other friend as well....both are facing some medical challenges over the coming days and I am hoping and praying for ALL the BEST for them!
Thinking of you all on this cold, rainy, sort of dreary November Saturday morning....I have an "errand agenda" on my plate today, so I'd best be checking off my list!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :) aka "Agent Teetay"
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Saturday, November 10, 2007 7:38 AM CST
Happy Friday everyone!!!! After the incredibly sad news I received today I am not even sure how I made it through the day................did you all see that the next season of 24 was CANCELLED???????????????? I am sooooooooooo bummed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (I hope you all took that as a joke - it is certainly not horrific news but sad none-the-less)
Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!!! We got some snow flurries today - glad Jim and I hung the holiday lights last weekend!
xoxoxox
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, Mn - Friday, November 9, 2007 4:34 PM CST
Hello hello! I saw these days ago of course but had to chime in on the precious Halloween pics! Wow, Morgan is quite the little HSM gal and Ally is the cutest little Tinker in the world! Can't wait to see you ALL soon!!!! Thomas was an adorable purring ;) lion for Halloween - no candy this year :) Now we're looking forward to a Philly Thanksgiving and TG's 20(!!!!!) year high school reunion, then lots of holiday fun in December - Ally's THIRD birthday (and her Friend Alina's 2nd birthday, too!), Christmas... Kristin's bday... New Years... it will all be here before we know it! The Christmas shopping has begun - wow, where does the time go?!?!
Much love you you all out in Ally-land... and special hugs to you soon-to-be-East-bound 4 in CA! Yippppeeeeeeeeee - can't wait!
xoxo
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, November 8, 2007 6:03 AM CST
Just wanted to step in and wish you all a smooth move in the coming weeks. Hope it all goes off without a hitch and you find renters for the CA house.
Hope everyone's holidays are filled with lots of cheer and family togetherness. :)
-Cat and family
Cat <catpotter2001@yahoo.com>
Tacoma, WA USA - Monday, November 5, 2007 3:29 PM CST
Just wanted to check in quick to see if there was an update or Halloween pics of the girls!! Loved Allyson in her princess costume and wouldn't you know...Mackenzie was Gabriella from HSM too!! At least Morgan had warmer temps to go trick or treating in...Mackenzie unfortunately needed to put layers under her dress and over because of the cool NH evening, and she was not happy about it. She tried to come up with all sorts of different costume ideas before it was time to go out, but nothing jumped out at her so she endured the chill with as few layers as I would allow her : ) They definitely have a mind of their own!!
Can't wait to read the update later. Hope you had a wonderful weekend.
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Monday, November 5, 2007 2:27 PM CST
WOW Teetay...you are the bomb!! Real estate and decorating!! I can't believe all you have accomplished AND Christmas shopping and subbing!!! You are not TOO excited about having the Kelsos back in No.Va. What exciting times for all of you.
Love the pictures of the girls halloweening and Morgan doing gymnastics. Not to mention Thomas!! What fun you all will have when the family is reunited in Va.
Can't wait for cross country travel details.
Carol Williams <ccw92347@cox.net>
Herndon, VA - Sunday, November 4, 2007 8:48 PM CST
Happy November and good Sunday morning everyone!
What adorable new pics! And, I cannot wait for Kristin's journal update...it is going to be HUGE!
It is a beautiful crisp morning here in Virginia with cool temps and bright sunshine! Some of the trees are bare now, but other leaves are hanging on radiantly waiting for the last minute to FALL! Remember the time we went to Skyline Drive some years ago and took Beth with us? WE kept "falling in the leaves" dying laughing because we were FALLING (rolling?) like the LEAVES! Aren't memories funny things when they POP up like that???!!
My "agent" duties have expanded a bit...Kristin has written me an "additional job description" for measuring windows, fireplace, rooms, wall space etc. this coming week. I have enlisted the help of "apprentice Geep" to go with me so the measuring can go faster. He's agree to take the "mission" and we will be armed with electronic tape measures to complete our "work"...
In between these on-going "agent duties" I have completed most of my Christmas shopping! (do not throw rocks at me!) I am a woman - on - a - mission! And, I know how busy the coming days are going to become!! I have a number of sub days 'round the corner, and my Thomas days, so planning the 'in between parts' is important.
Geep and I have a SPECIAL day with Thomas tomorrow. WE are taking care of him all day after I pick him up early in the morning and drive him to our house. I will take him to "my school" to introduce to some friends he needs to meet. We will then enjoy a "day" at our house before returning him to his parents in the afternoon. He naps so well "at home" but he only catnaps at his school/daycare. He must like the "quiet" of his own room!
You've heard Kristin mention the very dear nurse, Connie, who has been caring for Allyson for the past two + years. And, you know how very much we love and value Connie. Please keep her in your prayers during the coming days as she has recently learned that she has breast cancer AGAIN. She "beat it" 16 years ago, but she has a new diagnosis.(not a reoccurrence) Connie has "become family" to us and we are wishing her only the BEST results as she commences her treatments in the coming days. Connie and John are neighbors of Kristin and Mark and have been so very HELPFUL to them, and especially during Mark's recent deployment. John can "jump batteries" and "come to the rescue" for just about anything. Connie has become "like a surrogate grandmother" to both Morgan and Allyson. We are praying that God will hold her close in His hands and keep her safe.
There are "others" who are facing medical challenges in the coming days as well who wish to remain anonymous, but you know who you are, and I am praying for positive results in your journey as well.
And, as DeAnn Huxmann said on her recent posting...we've all "come to know one another" through Ally's website, so I am thanking you in advance for your prayers for Connie and my other friend who are facing a similar "battle." God bless you for that!
Wishing everyone a joyous Sunday filled with many happy moments!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
countingthedaysanditjustcouldbeunder40daysnowbeforethecapeepsarevirginiapeeps.com
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Sunday, November 4, 2007 8:08 AM CST
Congratulations on tons of good news! It is great to hear that a house has been found and that the move will be direct from one house to another. I'm sure that is a HUGE sigh of relief for everyone involved. As the time gets closer, I'm sure you are all very anxious for the actual moving day (that would include all on both coasts). As for those of us in the middle, we have an idea on a route for crossing the country ---- straight through the middle of the US -- KANSAS!!!! I-70 would be a great shot through the middle of the US. There are two boys that each have a scooter they'd love to share with their California friends (soon to be Virginia friends. We'd be glad to put you up for a good nights rest in the middle of the journey. It would be great to see you and actually meet Mark for the first time. We'd love for it to work that way but we'll just wait to hear what path you'll take.
So curious to see the girls in their costumes from Halloween. We had a crazy night as usual. It always seems we are in the car driving more than we are at houses. Oh well, the family all loves it. Ryan wanted to be a mummy so we tore up old sheets and wrapped them around him (with lots of tape). Of course, the tape didn't stay and the sheets kept falling down. We repaired the costume way too much! Tyler was batman and baby Andrew was a little blue octopus (thanks to his cousin Luke who was an octopus last year). It was an adorable costume with the 8 legs being his two legs, his two arms, and then 4 extras around the middle. We decided it took him crawling around to really get the full affect of the costume. He is growing so fast and so mobile. He crawls everywhere, stands up at anything he can get a grip on, and then stretches onto his tiptoes to reach more. He's walking around everything he can hold onto, but thankfully hasn't actually started taking his first steps alone yet. I'm not sure I'm quite ready for that yet.
We are so glad to hear things are still progressing well with Ally and her eating and talking. I would guess attending the last appointments with the doctors there brings "bittersweet" feelings. They've followed Ally's journey all along. The good thing is I'm sure you'll have great physicians in Virginia also. It will be those first few visits that will be the hardest, explaining everything again and hoping they'll be as good as you had before. As always, you'll persevere and come through in shining colors.
Well, it's always great to read the new posts and see how everyone is. I'm starting to feel I know many in your family and your friends just from this website. What an awesome way to communicate across all the states!
Sending lots of love from Kansas!
DeAnn Huxman <cdrthux@mtelco.net>
Moundridge, KS USA - Friday, November 2, 2007 10:13 PM CDT
Way to go agent Teetay and Congratulations to the Kelso family on finding their new home in northern VA!! Sounds like your new home is beautiful and will provide you with a wonderful living space and all its surroundings. I am sure you are breathing a bigger sigh of relief knowing you have a home to move in to. We will continue to pray that the good Lord will bring renters for the home on Pacific Cove Drive very soon!
Hope Allyson and Morgan had a good time trick-or-treating on Halloween and received lots of goodies! Did the whole family dress up? Gage and Mackenzie had a good time and were fortunate to have probably what was our last mild evening in NH until May to do their trick-or-treating. I stayed home and gave out the candy, and had just enough for all the little goblins that stopped by...WHEW!!
We are gearing up for Thanksgiving holiday and before we know it...Christmas will be here! YIKES!!! I am not even ready to start shopping yet : ( The cold weather is settling in, but there are still plenty of leaves to fall.
THinking of you all as the holiday season approaches! And looking forward to the Kelso family nearing the east coast very soon! Have a wonderful first weekend of November!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Friday, November 2, 2007 12:30 AM CDT
Hello everyone,
We are truly a blessed family.
So very happy for ALL the good news!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay:)
terri <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Thursday, November 1, 2007 9:17 PM CDT
HI, California family!
Well your search is over for THE home in northern Virginia !!... and I know all and sundry (that would be Teetay :) -- are thrilled with the outcome. It sounds very nice and it appears to be in a great location for schools, etc. We continue to pray for a renter soon for the Pacific Cove home, and then you can get those plans in motion to move east! I loved all the new photos, of course ... I can't wait to get those girls closer so I can come and love on them! The California fires have certainly left a lot of devastation and sadness ... but thankfully, not as many dreadful injuries and deaths as there might have been. Loren's brother says his daughter and her family are doing fine- and we are so glad, of course. Our grans had a fun time on Halloween -- they're getting so big now. Whitney was a ballerina princess, Zachary was a cowboy, Sarah Grace a black cat, and Matthew some bloody monster. Taylor and Joshua had collected can goods for the local food bank for the needy. I am beginning to feel better from the sinus surgery, today was my best day so far. There is still quite a lot of drainage, but that will abate soon, I believe. Loren's shoulder is rehabbing nicely and his doctor and physical therapist say he is making extremely good progress. I do think he'll get back enough strength and flexibility to be able to play tennis again in late spring. He is certainly motivated! Leslie has completed her physical therapy from her knee surgery and was given the green light to return to work part time next week. It's been a LONG LONG 14 weeks out of work, so she's psyched!
Thanksgiving month is here and we have so much to be thankful for! We send you all our love.
Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, ga usa - Thursday, November 1, 2007 7:52 PM CDT
Yeah TEETAY and YEAH KMM&A!!!! I am sooooooo thrilled that your house hunt in VA is over and that you can now focus on the fun part - decorating! Hopefully you will find a renter for the CA house too!
Teetay, you are right about those lights. We have been talking about hanging them for weeks and now I just heard next week we may get snow! Sunday is supposed to be 57 degrees so it looks like that may be our last WARM day until next MAY.
Trick or treating was a blast yesterday and we are pretty tired today - must be coming off that sugar high! Is it FRIDAY yet??????
Nancy Z. and I met for brunch on Sunday and had a LOVELY time. She is so sweet and friendly and it felt like we were old friends catching up rather than just meeting for the first time. After 3 and a half hours I had to get home but I think we could have certainly talked for HOURS more. I hope we get to "do lunch" again after the hustle and bustle of the holidays are over.
Hugs and kisses to my precious CA family!!!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Thursday, November 1, 2007 6:45 AM CDT
Happy Halloween to all the little goblins out there!
I can FINALLY say:
"Hallelujah" and I mean it this time!!
Yes, the house was found, the application was submitted, we bit our "nails" for a couple of days thinking another family might get "our house"....but today, the words came:
"The house is Kristin's and Mark's and Morgan's and Allyson's".....!!! YAY YAY YAY!! When we got the news I was actually out looking at "others" for BACKUP. (I'm like a "dog with a bone" ...give me a "task" and I CHEW it to pieces until it is DONE!!!) I am happy to say that my work as "agent teetay" has come to an end, but now, Kristin has given me a lateral "promotion" to DECORATOR TEETAY as she begins to purchase new furniture and have it delivered. I will have the "job" of actually going to the Funiture store to SEE what she is buying "on line" so that it is "good quality/and right" for the areas since I have seen the house!! We have quite readily moved to the "decorating part" of the house now! (you know how girls are!) Anyway, the house is GREAT....very large...their biggest house to date...in a great location close to shopping/restaurants/walking distance to the library/park (5 minutes away via trails!)and 1.1 mile from Morgan's elementary school. There are three pre schools close by which might possibly be for Allyson! The house is only 12 years old, but EVERYTHING is updated/brand NEW, shiny, clean, gorgeous hardwoods, white carpet in the family room (there will be NO shoes in that room!), and the GREATEST GREAT ROOM downstairs which will house BIG televisions/furniture/play room/guests/and storage!!! The house is READY to move in right now! It will be GREAT if they can manage a "door to door" move without having their belongings put in storage. AT that time, I will become "Furniture greeter Teetay" to accept the delivery as they travel EAST! (I've done a 'few moves' so I guess I have one more "in me"...!!)
Just wait til they get their "bill" for all these services! It will be in the form of OPEN ARMS AROUND THEIR NECKS!
Tomorrow is "Thursday with Thomas" and I always look forward to seeing that smiling boy-face at 7:15 in the morning! We enjoy our "Thursdays" together! Friday, I sub again, and then, it is the weekend! Not sure where "these days go" but they sure fly by.....between subbing, house looking, Thomas, and "fitting in some house things for myself" the days are very full!
Trick or Treaters are knocking on the door, so I'd best say good evening for now! Just wanted everyone to know the hunt was over!
Whew! And, a great big sigh of relief. Now, perhaps I can stop DREAMING about "houses houses houses"....!!:) And, Kristin and Mark can "settle in with their moving plans"...I know this is a big relief for them as well!
Only SIX weeks left...but who's counting???!!!!
It's time to put up the holiday lights while the weather is still good, right Aimee???
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahool.com>
Herndon, VA us - Wednesday, October 31, 2007 6:07 PM CDT
I am really close to saying:
"Hallelujah!"
But I do not want to UN "say" it..
Suffice to say...STAY tuned>..
It is looking good.,...details later..
Just wait.
:)
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahool.com>
herndon, VA u - Monday, October 29, 2007 9:32 PM CDT
Hello all,
I am not about to be DETERRED by the RECENT developments "house hunting"...I'm back out on the "routes" tomorrow and plan to be SUCCESSFUL before night fall. (I hope, I hope, I hope!)
It's an interesting process and when this is over there will not be ONE part of Northern Virginia that I do not "know"...so I can become a "tour guide" for other prospective movers, right?
Love to all,
Agent Teetay signing out!
terri matus <teetay43@yahool.com>
herndon, VA us - Saturday, October 27, 2007 9:16 PM CDT
Un-hallelujah. May I borrow that term?! I hope something works out SOON!
I can't wait to see the girls all dressed up for Halloween. :)
Lynn Talbott Smith <talbottsmith@earthlink.net>
Annapolis, MD USA - Saturday, October 27, 2007 7:49 PM CDT
UN-hallelujah.
Bummer.
Didn't work out.
Details later.
There are MORE houses to SEE!!:) Whoopeeeeee!!
Love,
Terri/Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahool.com>
herndon, VA us - Saturday, October 27, 2007 7:13 AM CDT
"Hallelujah!"
My WORK as Agent Teetay is done.
Yay!!!
Details later!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
AgentTeetayhasearnedherhousefindingcommissionintwograndchildrenliving12milesaway.com.SMILE!
terri matus <teetay43@yahool.com>
herndon, VA us - Friday, October 26, 2007 5:45 PM CDT
PS - I forgot to add that I am so excited to meet Nancy Z. on Sunday. We are having brunch at a wonderful restaurant and I can't wait to get to know her IN PERSON!
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Friday, October 26, 2007 9:32 AM CDT
So you KNEW that when you started to talk BOOTS that I would chime in, right??????? I have to tell you ASH - I BEAT you by about 2 weeks- HA! Once the leaves started to fall off the MN trees and the temps got below 70 I not only pulled out the BOOTS but I managed to buy 2 more pairs - hee hee!!!!!! I was proud of myself because the new ones are both BROWN and not BLACK. Of course, Jim asked the typical guy question when I got home - "Why did you buy 2 pairs of brown boots?" Well, DUH! One is leather and has a cute buckle on the ankle and the other is suede with an awesome wedge heel and round toe! So we continue with the next guy question - "Don't you already have 2 other pairs of brown boots?" Again - silly question! Answer - yes I do. But - one is an ankle boot and is dark brown and the other is more of a tan color with black accents. Does he just not understand that these are ALL DIFFERENT?????????? :):):):):)
HAPPY BOOT SEASON TO ALL!!!!!!!!
Aimee <iamobsessedwithboots@myfavoriteseason-boots!.com>
EP, MN - Friday, October 26, 2007 9:31 AM CDT
Happy Friday to everyone!
The new pictures are wonderful and the "brown air" is very telling...I know it is hard to fathom the devastation and its affect on so many, many people. We will continue to pray for those who have lost so much, and who are displaced by the fires.
Please keep Holly and her group in your prayers this weekend and they "walk" in honor of Lynn and for the many others who are currently battling breast cancer. (you know who you are...and special prayers for EACH one of you) Say a prayer, too, if you will, for my sister, "Aunt Grammy" who had sinus surgery yesterday to finally rid her of an infection she's had for over six months. Loren called to say she had come through the fairly long surgery just "fine" and he took her home last night. The doctors also repaired a deviated septum (sp?) so her recovery will be a bit more lengthy. Nonetheless, she will return to her normal GOOD HEALTH, soon!!!! YAY! We're pulling for you, Sister!
I know that Kristin will write about Ally's final "CHLA visit" and the meetings with all of her doctors yesterday. I am sure it was bittersweet, and esp. the last meeting with the now "infamous" Dr. Reinisch, who told Kristin that he is leaving Children's to got to Cedars Sinai .....had her appt. been next week, she would have missed seeing him! She said he "made over" Allyson in such a dear way. I guess he is pretty proud of HIS work! I know we are! I'll never forget the day we all sat in his office when he began to lay out the "options" for Allyson surgically/not surgically/and eventually the NAM. Gee...seems like a long time ago, huh? And, that was the same day my mother fell and broke her hip and ultimately died a few days later. I will certainly never forget the gamut of emotions on THAT ONE DAY, as timeframes are certainly defined by the events that occurred during them. God bless Dr. Reinisch for his wisdom.
Yes! Agent Teetay has been pounding the roads hard and long this past week...I did manage to sub ONE day and see Thomas TWO days, and of course, I had my "Teetay Thursdays" with him yesterday! I've also managed to comb areas of Northern Virginia that I never knew existed! And, just when I thought my "search" was over, another house POPPED UP and I will SEE it today! We really think this is "the one" so perhaps by today's end I can write the words: "Hallelujah!" YOU WILL KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS if I do!!! :) Just think...in less than six weeks we will all be sitting around the old "proverbial campfire" singing KUM BAH YAH!
But, for today, I must close and get to the business at hand...errands, lunch, house viewing, and dinner with good friends...it is COOL and rainy, and I guess I've HEARD the ANNOUNCEMENT that BOOTS are the order of the day! (now, what will my flip flops think???)
Happy Weekend to everyone...and wait for the word:" Hallelujah!" God Bless you all, and especially the Holy Hooters as they WALK for a breast cancer cure and for dear Lynn and all of those touched by breast cancer.
I have a private prayer in my heart for someone close to me who is beginning her private journey with cancer and wishes to remain private...know that prayers are coming YOUR WAY!
Love to all and wishes for a great "almost Halloween weekend"...!!!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahool.com>
herndon, VA us - Friday, October 26, 2007 7:57 AM CDT
HI!! What PRECIOUS faces on the home page! I was thinking of you yesterday (and everyday, duh!) as you were at Ally's last craniofacial team appointment with all her amazing doctors who have been with her since day one. I know it must have been a bit sad to leave them as they have made Ally physical beauty into what it is today... God bless them and all they do for many little people at CHLA, and making lives better for many families. Can't wait to hear all about it -- but from the photos, looks like Ally had a GREAT day! Hope traffic didn't stink too badly, either, KDMK ;)
Please keep Holly and her team of 17 "Holy Hooters" in your thoughts and prayers as they embark on their 3-day Breast Cancer walk this weekend. They have raised over $54,000 toward fighting this dreadful disease, and are walking in memory of Lynn Newman, Holly's best friend who passed away last year after a long, courageous battle. I know many of us as close with those who continue the fight each day, and close with those who have beaten cancer time and time again. These super special folks are ALL in my thoughts this weekend, and always!
And more thoughts for today... I am hopeful that my dear friend, Brooke (and Ty and baby on the way) will be able to return to their home in the San Diego area SOON...
And big news for Ally! Her little friend Emily (Sheetz) is going to have a baby sister today! Yup, Maria (& Guy) is at the hospital now and Jenna Elizabeth Sheetz will make her debut sometime today :))
So I sign off with some very exciting news for the very loyal All-land fans who recall the virtual celebration we had around this time last year -------- Today marks the return of BLACK BOOTS!!!!!!!! I am thrilled to say that they have come out of hibernation and I am officially kicking off ;) boot season... my favorite time of year!
Happy Friday to you all and big hugs to you four in CA. Can't wait to see you in 6(??) weeks? I need to check with Morgan on the countdown! :)) I love you!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, October 26, 2007 6:00 AM CDT
I'm at a loss for words. Kristin you have been an incredible example of fortitude, love, and insight in your parenting. But when I see two, otherwise precious, little girls shackeled with apparel that promotes the Dallas (Evil Empire) Cowboys I don't know what to think.
Stephen R. Woodzell <swoodzell@verizon.net>
- Wednesday, October 24, 2007 7:50 AM CDT
Dear all,
The CA fire "news" just gets worse and worse...Ashli's good friend, Brooke and her husband, Ty, had to evacuate their home in the S. Diego area...."they" are pregnant with their first LONG AWAITED CHILD....they are safe, but their home was within five miles of the fires. Please keep them and all the others in your prayers.
I did a lot of LOOKING for homes today for Kristin and Mark...I am their "relative agent" named Teetay! The search is NARROWING and I zero in on a few "hot spots" tomorrow in my search. Kristin and I are quite a "team"...she uses the internet, I look, and I get in my car.
Is there a problem??? HA!
Tomorrow might narrow the SEARCH to a couple of great picks!
Keeping all the CA folk in my prayers.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahool.com>
herndon, VA us - Tuesday, October 23, 2007 10:02 PM CDT
Thinking and praying for all of you and the rest of the CA residents dealing with the effects of the wildfires that are burning. One of my dear friends (whom Mark and Kristin know as well), Shannon Franzen just called yesterday to let me know that her parents were being evacuated out of their home in San Diego and her brother is out on the front lines with the San Diego Fire Department helping to fight the fires. Please keep them in your prayers. Stay safe and we will pray for relief real soon!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Tuesday, October 23, 2007 10:39 AM CDT
Hi, all,
We too watch with amazement the fires in CA, esp. in Lake Arrowhead, where we used to "play" while stationed at George AFB, where we married nearly 36 yrs ago. Just awful!!!
But Terri, it's raining in Georgia tonight! We're at Fort Valley, near Perry, awaiting service on our house on wheels. Rained a lot this morning too, so maybe the time has come for catching up, tho that will take some time.
Anxious to hear how the last open house goes, Kristin & Mark.
A nephew and family are at Disney World right now, and coming to our condo about 3 days after we return. I know little Isaac will be full of stories, as his 4th birthday is Monday, and Morgan, you could probably fill me in on what all is in store for that little guy on his big day. I hear he's having bkft with some characters...Goofy & friends, I think.
Ally, I can't wait to talk with you with all your new words and hear about all the new foods you've tried lately; you've come a long way this summer!! So proud of you and your couragious mother! Looking forward to your being on the other coast; I know Teetay & Geep are beside themselves!
Much love and best wishes for a good, safe cross-country trip.
"Aunt Jan"
On the road RVing since April
Jan Washburn <MorningGlory@mac.com>
Cocoa Beach , FL USA - Monday, October 22, 2007 10:30 PM CDT
Good evening everyone..
Turn your hearts to CALIFORNIA! The fires are just south of Kristin and Mark, and "no, they are probably not affected by fire"...HOWEVER...
Many are.
The MALIBU area is just 20 miles "south" and we have driven those roads MANY times...ALL of us...and we have visited and shopped at those shopping centers. I once "looked at a $375.00 "t shirt" at one of those shops...I PASSED...
The devastation is absolutely the most hiddeous.
San Diego County seems to be the most hard hit.
But....Los Angelas Couunty is adjacent to where Kristin and Mark live...near Point Magu..near Port Hueneme.."google that" and you have historical info.
My prayers are with all of the people displaced... Brooke, Ashli's friend, in in San Diego County...and all the others...
EVEN IF "you are rich"...it doesn't mean that you did not LOSE...
Thanks to all of your for your prayers tonight.THAT is what this "website" is ABOUT...Caring for others...
Thank you, again, and again...
Love to all of you..and prayers, prayers for the drought that is putting Georgia on the MAP. That is where I "came from" and I care so deeply about the folks that may be suffering there as well.
Thanks be to God.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay on a sad night
terri matus <teetay43@yahool.com>
herndon, va us - Monday, October 22, 2007 9:11 PM CDT
Hi, California family!
Our parched Georgia hearts are heavy tonight because of the dreadful fires in California. Loren's niece lives in Santa Clarita area - (Valencia) and while the only thing she is dealing with at present is smoke, etc, she is a severe asthmatic so it is pretty difficult for her right now. We pray for the quarter million folks reported to have fled the area ... and for their lives and property. We also pray the Santa Anna's will quiet down soon so that the firefighters can gain control. I am sure you guys are getting ash and smoke issues where you are as well.
We were thrilled to get the cognitive assessment you report on the webpage regarding Allyson. I also pray that the Jr. Blind folks will have interventions and help for her as well. We loved the new pictures, of course...
very CUTE!!
I know that I 10 drive back is a dull dreadful road ..
but in December it might be the "tranquil" road to take!
Let us know what you decide ... I know that returning will be both sad (for leaving friends and CA home) and happy for you guys -- but I know the VA/DA contingency is bursting with Joy! I am sure the rental will go through and you will find a great place/location once you return to VA. You all continue in our prayers on that front too! Take care of each other and give many hugs and squeezes to those beautiful great-nieces of ours!
Love, Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy & Uncle Loren
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, ga usa - Monday, October 22, 2007 7:00 PM CDT
Yippee!!!! I love the update and especially love the new pictures!!! It is nice to see K and M for a change- you guys look HOT! :):) I have a suggestion for your cross-country excursion..........whatever highway takes you past MINNEPOLIS. I realize this may be SLIGHTLY out of the way, BBBUUUUUUUTTTTTTT it was just a suggestion and one we would welcome with open arms!!!!!!! We could even send Morgan to school to Tyler for a few days - OMG how fun woud that be???? We are keeping our fingers crossed that your open house is successful in locating a buyer but like you said, things happen for a reason. You may not know what those reasons are yet but this may be one of those GODWINKS.
Tyler is in Duluth this weekend with his grandparents celebrating his bday once again so Jim and I have been enjoying some quality time together. Today we are planning a drive to Red Wing to catch the fall colors, some lunch and perhaps a romantic dinner too.
I am attending Tyler's Halloween party and I picked out my costume this week. I am going to be a Geisha Girl, complete with white face makeup, a black wig with chopsticks in the hair, and long kimono. For the first time in FOUR YEARS Tyler is going to be something other than a pirate. He LOVES Joe Mauer from the MN Twins so a baseball player he will be.
Well, time is a wastin' so I need to get my lazy body up and about. With Tyler gone last night Jim and I played the Wii and had a blast. Jim is a bit sore from the boxing game and I was craking UP watching him go crazy with his random punching.
Love you all tons!!!
Aimee and Jim <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Saturday, October 20, 2007 7:55 AM CDT
Good morning everyone!
Happy pumpkin picking to all of you! My little scarecrow family is nesting comfortably in my "front door pumpkin patch" just waiting for the Trick or Treaters to show their faces in a few days! I love this time of year with the crisp air and crunch of fall leaves under one's feet!
The new pictures are GREAT! Love the "swinging girl" in her shades! The news about Allyson's recent assessment is wonderful, and I am so very proud of her hard work with Kristin right beside her alongwith the speech therapist, Debra, and Nancy and JanDee, and the Oxnard staff! Allyson's vocabulary has OBVIOUSLY increased leaps and bounds as she's finding her "own communication gene" in the family! As she continues to articulate more clearly, she will even surpass the accomplishments she already has! She now talks on the phone always starting out with a "soft, breathy elongated.....Hiiiiiiii"....and she progresses to "I love you!" before leaving the phone. When I tell her "I love you" back, she raises her hand up in a "high five" motion like we always do in person. I can just SEE her doing it! What a love she is!!! And, it cannot go without saying how very proud I am of Kristin for her abiding dedication to her family and the particular needs of Allyson. And, to think that all of the "tongue prompting" through the feeding clinic this summer probably HELPED Allyson's ability to form more words "because her tongue works better" now. It just puts into perspective ONE MORE TIME that we tend to take the simple things for granted.
It would be an understatement to say that we're anticipating the coming days with GREAT excitement! So...I won't 'say it'....ha...you bet, I WILL SAY IT from the rooftops! :)!! Since I am "operating" as Kristin's and Mark's "agent" I will be LOOKING IN PERSON at some of the possible rentals in the coming days. There are some good choices in the area they desire, so I will give them a "walk through" just to make sure everything they want is part of the package! If everything works out PERFECTLY, they could possibly have a "door to door" move! Keep your fingers and toes crossed for that to happen!
I love my Thursdays with Thomas taking him to music class and lunch and "out and about"...he is a good baby and easy to "take along"....as they say! I've even mastered putting up and taking down the stroller without falling over!
Thinking of you all on this beautiful Saturday morning. Have a good weekend!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahool.com>
herndon, va us - Saturday, October 20, 2007 7:37 AM CDT
Love, love, love the new pics! Great to see ALL of your smiling faces (and you, esp., hot mama!). As always, reading your words and update Kristin helps to have every little detail of what you and Ally have achieved, and continue to achieve, all in perspective. The words and vocabulary - HOORAY for Ally - and Mommy and her therapists who have also been sooo instrumental in her progress. GO TEAM!
I continue to be so proud of you, and blessed to call you my sister! And nieces! And brother!
Can't wait to see you SOOOOOOOONNNNNN! Hurry up, December! Get here already, will ya!? :)
I love you!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, October 19, 2007 8:05 PM CDT
Hi, everyone! Not much news to report from Atlanta, and I guess everyone knows now how desperate we are here for rain, since our drought has made national news the last 2 nights. Rain is predicted for tomorrow, and we are praying the forecasters have it right! The Burnses had a good time on their NY 4 day weekend trip - got great reports on all the activities they did. Matthew said the Medieval section of the Museum was "fascinating" - getting to see the armor and weaponry, etc. I asked him on a scale of 1-10 how good the trip was, and quick as a flash he replied "20". :) Leslie and I went shopping today for craft things - she's room mom for Zachary's class this year - her first time wearing that hat. We bought lots of craft things, and a bunch of books and stickers for his teacher. She's only been teachng a couple of years, so she doesn't have a large "stash" of acquired items yet. Les is having fun doing that, and her knee is slowly improving from the surgery. She is praying she'll get clearance in a couple of weeks to return to work -- at least part time. Loren's shoulder continues to improve and his PT 3 x a week is helping. Sounds strange to my ears for me to say I am looking forward to my sinus surgery next week ... but I will be so glad to be "fixed" ... the congestion and sinus misery has been ongoing since March of this year, and I am ready to be well again! :) Glad you are liking your new job, Ashli, and that Thomas is getting into his routine so beautifully. Kristin and Mark, you are in my prayers daily, and most especially for a buyer to walk in and want your lovely home right away! But if not, then a good renter! I am sure you're getting anxious to relocate and settle in N.VA. I know the Matus/George clan is excited that you'll all be together for Christmas! Loren and I are planning to come up after the first of the year, as we are especially anxious to see Precious Miss MAK and Precious AllyBeDally and young Thomas! Will sign off now and head for bed! Loren and I send you all our love!
Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Wednesday, October 17, 2007 10:41 PM CDT
Random: I read an article tonight about a little girl who was born without fingers on one hand. They tell the little girl that she is so fantastic and perfect, God just had to hold onto a piece of her. I thought about sweet Miss Allyson...how true is that! Hope you all are doing well.
Lynn Talbott Smith <talbottsmith@earthlink.net>
Annapolis, MD USA - Wednesday, October 17, 2007 10:22 PM CDT
Greetings! I, too, am counting the weeks until Morgan, Ally and their parents :) arrive here on the East coast! And what a wonderful Christmas reunion it will be - yay! Can't wait! Best of luck with maybe a mircle buyer(!) for the house... or at least a great rental, right?!? I am crossing my fingers that it all comes together soon and without much stress ;)
All is well in Office-Mommy world. I like my new job and the people lots -- and Thomas is doing well in school and of course, he is perfect on his "Teetay Thursdays". Thay have so much fun together!
Lots of love and hugs to you 4! See you SOON!!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, October 17, 2007 8:02 PM CDT
Good morning everyone!
I heard some "music to my ears" last night when Morgan exclaimed, "ONLY SEVEN WEEKS UNTIL WE MOVE TO VA!" That's a huge "yahooooooooooooo" from all of us! And, hearing Allyson get on the phone and say, "Hiiiiiiiii....I love you!" just made the DAY PRETTY PERFECT!!! Morgan asks Kristin everyday if it is "still" SEVEN WEEKS...she's pretty excited over the possibilities/opportunities that a 'new place' offers. She cannot even imagine how her excitement is being MATCHED by her family here, and by her extended FAMILY of "Virginia friends" who have followed hers and Allyson's lives since they were born! She has a whole new "group" of EXTENDED family once they live here!
So....I am already thinking about the fun it will be to "really DECK THE HALLS in the grandest style" for the Christmas season!! We have been "away" for the past 12 Christmases, so it will be fun to see Santa Claus coming down our chimney this year! :)!!
The fall temps have finally cooled us off in the Mid Atlantic and the days have been gorgeous...not seeing too much color with our leaves yet...they seem to just be falling off crunchy brown from the drought. I hope you are having some beautiful days as well.
Ashli has "settled into her working routine" and I've pitched in a few times to pick up Thomas on 'later days' and all seems to be going well! I always look forward to Thursdays/music class for Thomas and Nana Dot and Brooke (Thomas' little girlfriend) and Thomas and I have a grand old time in the class! We sing, play instruments (Thomas is partial to the drums right now!) and march around like a choo choo train....all such fun!
Thinking of you all,
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
countingthedaysuntilthecapeepsarerestingwellontheeastcoast.com
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Wednesday, October 17, 2007 8:08 AM CDT
Good chilly morning from NH! Fall and the beautiful colors that it brings is in full swing here in the northeast!! I know it has been a while since I last posted, but I have been keeping up with the journal and guestbook entries on a daily basis. So glad that you all had a wonderful time in Florida!! I love vacationing in Orlando because there is soooo much to do. Was also glad to hear that you were able to stay at Shades of Green! We have never been able to get reservations when we have traveled to Disney, but have heard wonderful things about it. I think it was just newly renovated in the past couple of years too?! I know you said that you would stay there again, so that is good to know...remember too (for all those military families out there) that the Armed Forces Vacation Club website (www.afvclub.com) also has VERY affordable places in the Orlando area, if for some reason you can't get reservations at Shades. I would love to know what Morgan thought about the differences of the two Disney's! Glad to hear too that Allyson's feeding went well on vacation...sounded like she ate lots of yummy food! I know it had to be great having Teetay and Geep along to help and enjoy the memories of such a special family vacation!!
I imagine that you are all trying to enjoy as much of CA as possible before getting ready to move back east. Any luck with the house yet? Sounds like you are gearing up for Halloween. What will the girls' be this year? Can't wait to see them in their costumes! It is hard to believe that before too long it will be Christmas! Mackenzie's dance studio is starting to gear up for their holiday production, so all week I have been listening to various Christmas music!! The joy of the holiday season is in full swing : )
Thinking of you all and hoping that you are enjoying pumpkin patch season!! Have a great weekend!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Saturday, October 13, 2007 6:48 AM CDT
Good Morning to all - first of all the tragedy in Ohio is on all of our minds. Prayers go out to all families - God Bless the teachers and staff who continue to teach our beautiful children in spite of it all. God Bless our children.
No wonder my ears were ringing this early morning - I enjoyed the postings by my dear pen pal friend Teetay and my newest MN pal Aimee. Aimee, I too, am excited to meet you and I'll explain the whole connection as it is very confusing. God Winks as many call it.
And a very happy 7th birthday to Tyler - sounds like a very fun weekend ahead. Aimee, you'll have to give me the "scoop" on what a Wii is. I've heard about them but since our granddaughter is 6 1/2 she hasn't mentioned it, but I'm sure it's on the horizon. She'll be 7 in May, 08.
Kristin - thanks for posting the beautiful pictures of your FL vacation. Loved the Teetay and Geep picture with the girls, Allyson with her daddy, a Morgan with her daddy. Allyson is getting so big and seems to be doing much better with the feeding, how wonderful.
I bet Ashli can hardly wait to get home today and get her arms around her the "men in her life".
Take care to all and God Bless
Nancy
Nancy Zembal <nezembal@comcast.net>
Brooklyn Center, MN USA - Thursday, October 11, 2007 4:17 AM CDT
Please pray for the families in OHIO for their LOSSES and grief.
My heart is full tonight having been a teacher for a VERY LONG TIME...it is the WORST Nightmare EVER...
Thinking about all the "drills' an "lockdowns" and LOVE that went into EACH one...my hearts go OUT bigtime tonight to each and everyone affected by today.
But...we are ALL affected by today, for where there are children....there will be threats.
God bless you all..and OUR children...FOr SURE.
lOVE,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Wednesday, October 10, 2007 9:21 PM CDT
Thanks for clarifying, Teetay. It is clear as mud now :)
xoxoxo
Aims <No.1Girl@All'ssiterocks.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, October 10, 2007 1:10 PM CDT
Hello everyone,
Just to tag onto what Aimee wrote...the "Nancy Z." pen pal friendship is even "more convuloted" that it sounds.... (INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW...) Nancy does not actually "know Holly" (my former student) but began reading the caringbridge website for Holly's DEAR friend who had cancer because she "knows" Lynn's parents, Wayne and Suzanne, from her one month in Arizona each spring. (and Holly is the person who told Ashli how to start up a website for Ally when she was born) Nancy had been reading Lynn's website during her long battle with cancer, and she knew from that about Allyson's website. She read Allyson's website for about a year and a half before writing to me. Once we began writing in January of 07, we've become "fast-connected-friends"....and YOU KNOW WHAT I SAY ABOUT THE POWER OF WORDS??? Nancy Z. and I "connected from the very first hello" and we've shared many stories/experiences/secrets over these past months. I AM SO HAPPY that she and my "adopted daugther, No. 1 girl, Aimee" will be MEETING in person SOON! I, too, know that someday "sooner than later" I, too, will meet Nancy and her husband, Jerry. (keep looking over your shoulder, Nancy!)
I love the connections and the spirit found on this website for all the reasons it supports Allyson in her journey. I also love that people dig the deepest when they care about someone else.
Thank you all for your "digging the deepest"....God bless you all!
Home from a night with Thomas and Tom...ALL IS WELL is his world of being without his "mom" for a few days. He's a good baby, and is confident, happy, and content. Who could ask for anything more??? Glad to be part of his "yesterday" and "morning"...and I'll be BAAAACCCCCKKK for MUSIC CLASS tomorrow morning! And, Ashli returns HOME tomorrow after being "trained"....and here I "thought" she was "trained"...!!!
And, I'm humming "Carry Me Back to Old Virginny" more and more....and farewell to "California, Here We Come..." :)!!
Love to all,
:)
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va us - Wednesday, October 10, 2007 12:05 AM CDT
Oh the power of Ally's website............just wanted to say HELLO and that I get to MEET Nancy Z. on October 28th. We are "doing brunch" and I am so excited! Who knew that a freind of Holly's friend would end up posting on Ally's site, become a pen pal to Teetay, and live less than 30 minutes from me!!!
Minnesota went from a record high of 87 degrees on Saturday to a windy and very chilly 42 degrees today. I guess fall is finally here (which means snow is right around the corner).
I am mentally preparing myself for Tyler's 7th birthday on Friday. It is so hard to believe that (1) I could possibly have kept a child alive for 2,555 days (hee hee)!!! and (2) that my baby is now going to be 7. He is so mature that I think he is 7 going on 15 (KDMK - I know you know what I mean). We will be attending a karate tournament on Friday afternoon and then Saturday will be the party. We are starting off the morning by giving Tyler his BIG gift from us........a Wii!!!! I think Jim is more excited about this gift than anyone. After stalking Target for MONTHS we happened to get the last one in stock. Then we will have a Pump-It-Up party in the afternoon, followed by some Wii games in the evening. Then on Sunday we cap off the bday weekend with dinner at Tyler's favorite restaurant - Benihanas. We are all so excited to share this special weekend with Tyler!
I hope everyone is having a great week! Welcome back to the working world, Ash.
Love you all!
xoxoxox
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Wednesday, October 10, 2007 6:36 AM CDT
How could I forget to say.............
HOW 'BOUT THEM COWBOYS?!?!?! Gee, we handed the game to the Bills and then stole it right back from them in the final second. Goooooooo team!
Ashli <CouwboysAre5and0baby@beatthepatsthisweekend.com>
- Tuesday, October 9, 2007 9:44 PM CDT
Greetings from balmy Houston! Thinking of you all and loving those smiling faces as I "checked in" on them during my busy couple of days of WORK-WORK, now that I am an Office Mommy :) KDMK - will try you from the road when I come up for air. Long days here! Love you four lots! xoxox
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
Houston at the moment... right at The Galleria :), TX - Tuesday, October 9, 2007 9:41 PM CDT
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO KRISTIN AND MARK!
Got bogged down a bit the last coupla days and didn't get my greetings in on time! The wish is warm and sincere nonetheless! Sounds like everyone had quite a blast in the Orlando/Disney/Tampa arena, and Kristin, I am so happy that Teetay and Geep were there to help with the girls so that you and Mark could have some fun times (alone) with Josh and his bride! I love the new pictures -- Morgan is so precious, and Allyson is adorable in her "shades." She will put Ashley and Mary Kate Olsen to shame soon! :)
I am sure you're tired of "getting the house ready to show" routine -- but we keep praying that the right buyer will waltz right in and say "we want it" before you find yourselves headed east!
Uncle Loren's rotator cuff is healing nicely, and he continues in Physical Therapy. His therapist says he is doing quite well, and is pleased with his progress. You may or may not have heard that I will be having sinus surgery on 10/25 -- the infections have continued now since March 10 -- and I am presently with an otolaryngolgist who specializes in recurrent/persistant infections of the sinus system. He is at Emory and has quite a list of creds ... so I feel I am in good hands. He will clear/open/remove polyps and scar tissue which he says will help me tremendously. I may even get part of my sense of smell back! I'd so love to smell cinnamon rolls baking again! :)
We send you all our love, and we wish you a wonderful anniversary month, and a sale of the house, and smooth packing! Hugs and Love Aunt Dale
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawre, GAusa usa - Monday, October 8, 2007 6:26 PM CDT
SMISH/SMASH/SMUSH, Aims...you are still NO. 1 girl regardless of your spelling...
NEVER let a "correct spelling" stop your communication!
SPOKENLIKEATRUEENGLISH.....'TEEEEEE---CHER'....RIGHT???
Love to all,
Terri/aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Monday, October 8, 2007 5:57 PM CDT
UGH! I am so embarrassed at all my spelling errors!!! Caringbridge needs to add a spell checker :):):)
Aims <Ineverclaimedtobeagoodspeller@i'mbetteratmath.com>
Soggy Eden Prairie, MN - Monday, October 8, 2007 7:35 AM CDT
Woo hoo!!! 12 years! I had the priviledge of being there (with front row seats) to witness the union of Kristin and Mark. The wedding, with Redskins colors, was beautiful and the reception was a blast. I also remember the rehearsal dinner where Kristin had to put on a bomber jacket and helmet and the boys spun her around and around (maybe we had a few coctails by that time). Then there was the reception where Kristin got the TOP GUN seranade of "You Lost That Lovin' Feeling." Ah- the memories will be etched in my mind forever.
I hope you both had a wonderful day celebrating, cleaning the garage (you really are married 12 years - HA), and just being together as a family.
Love to you FOUR!
Aimee (and Jim and Tyler) <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Sunday, October 7, 2007 7:45 PM CDT
Happy 12th, K&M!! Glad you had a fun weekend and I love the new pics of girls! K, make Morg take one of YOU!!! :)
Sorry to have been on email and computer hiatus myself... just cherishing the last FULL days at home with little T before I head into the world of "Office Mommy" (we're ALL working moms, right?!?!). K - I'll talk to you again from the road! Love you FOUR and can't wait to see you soon!!
xoxoxoxo
Ash <Ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, October 7, 2007 7:42 PM CDT
Happy 12th Anniversary to Kristin and Mark!
Whew! How the time flies when you're having fun, right??? Good to talk to you and hear that you were "celebrating" by working in your garage! The motivation was to get out all the FALL decorations/pumpkins/black kitty cats for the Halloween festivities on your street~! I am sure Morgan and Allyson will be "much into decorating" as usual!!! It was also good to catch up on some of your weekly happenings since returning from Florida last Tuesday!
We've been thinking about you all day as you celebrate your "LINEN anniversary"...can't wait for your BOX to arrive!! (it's so PRACTICAL that you will love it!!! :)!!) Since you did not know this anniversary is LINEN I thought I would give you a heads up!
It was 90 degrees today as folks in my neighborhood were decorating for "fall" as well....even though it felt like SUMMER! I've actually done some Christmas shopping in the past few days and am getting "ready" for that very special season with YOU GUYS IN VIRGINIA! I'll do a "snow dance" in hopes that you can, at least, SEE a flake or two on your "first Christmas back" in Virginia!! WHahoooooowha!!!!!
Looking forward to the many good times ahead!
Saying big wishes and prayers for Ashli as she travels tomorrow to TEXAS for training in her NEW job...Tom will take care of Thomas and I'm "on call" for a night /day here and there. She will return Thursday, but the "first leaving" is the hardest! I cannot wait to take Thomas to his "music class" Thursday alongwith the other moms/grandmoms/nannys...HE ABSOLUTELY LOVES IT!
Many of you were present at Kristin's and Mark's wedding 12 years ago at that "big party at the Sheraton" and we do remember it so well!! Weddings are the "biggest parties" one ever throws and they are to be cherished and recalled with such happiness! We still bask in the glow of both girls' weddings and all the joy that surrounded them and the "moment"....thank you all for being part of those special times for our family.
Happy Columbus Day weekend to everyone with the day off!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Sunday, October 7, 2007 6:48 PM CDT
This one's for Kristin. I just wanted to update you on D's latest and greatest accomplishment. There is hope and he's come a long way since birth.
D has just tested out of speech therapy. He no longer requires it, although he'll finish out this year of Kinder with speech and maybe have it in a group setting next year as reinforcement.
But, it is such a great thing- speech has done wonders for him and he passed and actually scored well above kids his age without a cleft palate. We are so happy and proud.
Anyways, wanted to share our great news. Our kids are so amazing and resilient. Now I must go read and see the latest and greatest pictures. :) Hope you all are well!
Cat <catpotter2001@yahoo.com>
Tacoma, WA USA - Friday, October 5, 2007 4:11 PM CDT
Welcome back to CA!!!!!!!! Your trip sounds wonderful and so does that hotel. We will have to check it out the next time we visit my parents.
I hope everything went well with the feedings and that you are done with the battles.
Hugs to all!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, October 3, 2007 8:26 AM CDT
Whoever said "there's no place like home" has never spent an entire WEEK with two grandchildren at DisneyWorld!!! We made "each and every stop" our "home away from home" and with each new hotel, Morgan would exclaim, "This is the BEST HOTEL EVER!" Her enthusiasm never faltered with the coming of the next 'event' or 'day' or 'activity'...and little Miss "Copy HER Sister Allyson" would follow suit saying many of the same things! Morgan plays a game with Allyson which starts out, "Ally, are you Morgan's girl?" Ally's reply, "No, Mama's girl...".....it goes on and on.."Are you Teetay's girl?" Ally: "No, Mama's girl!" (WE ALL KNOW THAT, don't we?) By the end of the GAME, Ally is SHOUTING "Mama's girl" so loud that any/everyone can hear her! It's pretty cute!
Both girls were so well behaved at Uncle Josh's wedding that we actually stayed until after 10 PM at the reception! Once I had changed Allyson into her "quack quack" pajamas, she RE-entered the reception area for MORE DANCING! Morgan was the "dancing queen" and Ally joined right into the spirit once she became used to the decibel level of the grand orchestra! The wedding was beautiful in every way, and Kim and Josh were a radiant couple! It was a JOY to celebrate the "beginning of their married life"with them! I have loved Kim "from the very beginning"when Josh brought her to dinner and asked me what I "thought"....and I told him that night to HOLD ONTO HER, and here we are celebrating their marriage!
We left Tampa Sunday to return to Orlando for a couple of days at the Nick Hotel! If you have children...if you are thinking of having children...if you have some KID in your heart...then this is the place to be! We had a lovely "Nick theme" suite with three bedrooms and a complete kitchen! SpongeBob and Patrick decorated the "girls' room" which they LOVED....and the entire resort caters to the needs of KIDS "first class" treatment! We enjoyed the pool, waterslides, entertainment, and topped it off with the CHARACTER BREAKFAST this morning where Dora, S. Bob, Patrick, and Diego JOINED us for some singing and dancing! Morgan had her picture made with each character in between bites of cheerios and fruit! Allyson stayed in the room and ate her scrambled eggs and fruit while Kristin and Mark packed up for the trip home!
We say our farewells at the airport this morning and departed to our respective gate areas....Morgan had to get "two final hugs" even though it won't be long until we see her again....!!! It was pouring RAIN this morning, so "leaving" Florida wasn't quite as hard!
Many new memories....lots of laughter...meeting wonderful people...reuniting with others....and the BEST part for Mark was that Jerry "presented" him with SEASON TICKETS to the REDSKINS' game...."forever"....they're in Jerry's name right now, but Mark will be the legacy of the ticket holdings! Our "number" came up this year....but the COOLEST part is that the "father in law who is a lifelong Dallas fan" would get season REDSKINS' tickets for his son-in-love.....that says a lot about Geep's love for Mark!!! Mark was shocked, flabbergasted, awestruck...and very happy~! There are "several December" games that he might even be able to ATTEND this year! And, of course, the "biggie" is Dallas/Redskins on December 30th...he might not be able to make that one, but what a WOW time that would be!!! (all in good sportsmanship fun!!! YAY!!)
Ashli is "gearing up" to return to work...a new job...and one that will put her FIRST three days in Houston, Texas for training! She and TG are working out the "Thomas schedule" and I'm "backup" Teetay if/when needed during those "out of town days".....and I'm sure it will all work out fine!!! Think POSITIVE!!!
Thinking of you all....and please keep Kim's mom in your prayers and please keep Josh's Dad in your prayers as well...both of them are facing medical difficulties right now and extra "prayers" will be appreciated by both families! Thank you!
Happy October! Happy FALL! And, "happy good to be home again"...!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Tuesday, October 2, 2007 3:57 PM CDT
Happy WEDDING Day to Uncle Josh and Kim!! Yahoooo!! THEIR DAY is finally here!
Kristin and Mark soooooooo enjoyed the Rehearsal Dinner/festivities at the University Club high above the Tampa city streets overlooking the "night lights" and panoramic view! They were a beautiful couple with Mark sporting his newly tailored "Singapore suit" and Kristin is her blue/black sexy dress! And, YES! I took a picture!! Ya think???:!! Even Morgan told her Daddy how "handsome" he looked! :) She doesn't often see him "suited up" that way!
Tampa is quite LOVELY and "reminds us" of San Diego a little bit. Even though we lived here 33 years ago, MUCH has changed! (Is that a big "DUH" or what???) While K and M enjoyed their evening we found the spectacular International Plaza MALL...the "great mother of all malls" I think....and had a deeeeeelishus dinner at the Cheesecake Factory! Allyson ate about four different types of pasta, corn, tomatoes, apples, bananas, and BROWN BREAD! The brown bread was a big hit! She will "try" just about anything even though she may only take a few bites at a time until she really digs it! We savoured our "bites" as we'd had almost four hours at the pool WAITING on our room, so our appetites were huge! Finally, we got into our room in the late afternoon and we have a handicapped room complete with wheel chair access. (do they know something that we don't know?) ONLY problem with the room is that we cannot get "hot water" because it is on some type of sensor so as NOT to burn the handicapped patrons! We are trying to get that fixed this morning!
After our dinner we found an inside playground, also at the mall, and the girls played and ran around and did head rolls on the spongy mat until it was time to "come home" to the hotel! Another good day under our BELTS!
Thinking of you all and hoping your weekend will ROCK!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Saturday, September 29, 2007 7:56 AM CDT
Happy WEDDING Day to Uncle Josh and Kim!! Yahoooo!! THEIR DAY is finally here!
Kristin and Mark soooooooo enjoyed the Rehearsal Dinner/festivities at the University Club high above the Tampa city streets overlooking the "night lights" and panoramic view! They were a beautiful couple with Mark sporting his newly tailored "Singapore suit" and Kristin is her blue/black sexy dress! And, YES! I took a picture!! Ya think???:!! Even Morgan told her Daddy how "handsome" he looked! :) She doesn't often see him "suited up" that way!
Tampa is quite LOVELY and "reminds us" of San Diego a little bit. Even though we lived here 33 years ago, MUCH has changed! (Is that a big "DUH" or what???) While K and M enjoyed their evening we found the spectacular International Plaza MALL...the "great mother of all malls" I think....and had a deeeeeelishus dinner at the Cheesecake Factory! Allyson ate about four different types of pasta, corn, tomatoes, apples, bananas, and BROWN BREAD! The brown bread was a big hit! She will "try" just about anything even though she may only take a few bites at a time until she really digs it! We savoured our "bites" as we'd had almost four hours at the pool WAITING on our room, so our appetites were huge! Finally, we got into our room in the late afternoon and we have a handicapped room complete with wheel chair access. (do they know something that we don't know?) ONLY problem with the room is that we cannot get "hot water" because it is on some type of sensor so as NOT to burn the handicapped patrons! We are trying to get that fixed this morning!
After our dinner we found an inside playground, also at the mall, and the girls played and ran around and did head rolls on the spongy mat until it was time to "come home" to the hotel! Another good day under our
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Saturday, September 29, 2007 7:54 AM CDT
Good morning everyone from sunny Florida!
We are staying at the most amazing resort, Shades of Green, dedicated to members of the military, both active duty and retired...and thanks to our good friend, Liz, for setting us on this journey! We love our surroundings and enjoyed spending the first night (Tuesday) beside the pool and playground sipping and eating dinner under the Florida stars! Allyson LOVED playing "in the dark" at the playground without her sunglasses! Both girls traveled well as did their parents! This was Mark's SECOND family trip with "his girls" so I think they've "taught him the ropes" of KID travel now! It was wonderful reuniting at the airport (we arrived hours earlier and got the rental car, checked in, etc...) and hugging everyone...especially Mark after so MANY MONTHS!!!
Day ONE at the Magic Kingdom was just about perfect! We did get "stuck" on the Haunted House "ride" for TOO MANY MINUTES while they fixed it, but since it wasn't "scary" anyway, we were just annoyed to be STUCK! Allyson wanted OFF the ride...THAT was a problem! Morgan surprised us and rode SPACE mountain (YES, SHE WAS TALL ENOUGH!) and "sort of didn't like it" but she BRAVED it through and was PROUD of herself for the effort! I think we DID everything in the Magic Kingdom, and we even visited our very special "memory place with Gran and Grandaddy" called Country Bear Jamboree where G-Daddy (my Dad) and Jerry learned to SING "Blood on the Saddle" in loud, offkey voices! I think we might have pulled Mark into the "Blood on the Saddle singing" yesterday! Morgan thought it was funny that her MOM and Teetay have "that memory"...she'll "get it one day" when she brings HER children with HER PARENTS to the SAME SPOT! Gee...memories are just GREAT, aren't they???
Today, we're headed for the Animal Kingdom, Epcot, perhaps, or Universal...not sure what the entire day will hold yet! Mark and Kristin will "go out" tonight after we settle in the girls!
We dined "fine dining" on great Italian food last night and Morgan and Allyson sat NICELY FOR 90 MINUTES eating, and chatting, and waiting patiently for the adults to finish! Allyson has eaten WELL since arrival....her eating is much more than the "average two year old" and since she's just getting the hang of this whole "eating deal" I am immensely proud of her! She had a huge plate of Italian mac and cheese last night and about 200 grapes! I'm not kidding! Maybe well....a little bit, but she was gRAPE-girl....MAYBE SHE WILL BE A WINE DRINKER SOMEDAY??
Mickey and Minnie welcomed us back and said they rememebered us from Disneyland in CA!! (Morgan thought that was great!) We had a little chat with "Dale" of "Chip and Dale" and saw many other characters and got their autographs. We are not putting the dates on the autographs since Morgan has so many at different times!!!
If you cannot tell from the excitement in my "voice" we are having a great time, and it is only the beginning of DAY THREE!!!
I miss Thomas, but I know he is doing well going to his "school" and he will have grown a "foot" by the time I get back! (not!) Good luck this week, Ashli, as you transition Thomas into a "working routine"...I KNOW IT WILL WORK OUT FINE!
And HAPPY 49th anniversary today to my sister and bro!!! :)
Thinking of you all with love and looking forward to Uncle Josh's and Kim's wedding this weekend in Tampa!! Whahooo....what fun times!!! :)!!!!
And, I'm not even "missing" BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Thursday, September 27, 2007 6:55 AM CDT
Aw. It's great to hear such wonderful news!! I'm so glad that you sought a second opinion on her eyes. And the feeding- well, you do what you have to do to make it work for the family.
I hope the transition to FL with her feeding is very easy and do-able. I hope that it all goes smoothly the entire time you're there. Enjoy your vacation. You all definitely deserve it. :) Hugs to both of those girls.
Cat <catpotter2001@yahoo.com>
the great northwest, WA USA - Wednesday, September 26, 2007 10:38 AM CDT
Happy Trails to you all! I mean, happy FLIGHTS in the sky! Sure wish we could join you all in Tampa - my "hometown" (ha!). I know Josh & Kim's wedding will be a blast and Disney, even better! Don't forget to sing really loudly on Small World and think of me :)))
I love the new pics posted and the beautiful smiling faces of Ally and Morgan! And Kristin, I know there is a smile on your face these days as the newest feeding regime has been in place and I hope your days (and nights) are less stressful - I know that YOU know what is best for Ally and you are doing everything right for her. I am so proud of her eating and drinking, and you are to applaud for all of Ally's eating achievements! I pray that her weight continues to go up, up, up and that ALL of your spirits remain positive. You know I am your #1 fan and I am sooooooo proud of you ALL.
Hugs and kisses to you 4 - and have a great time with Teetay and Geepie! I love you lots!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, September 24, 2007 9:04 PM CDT
Greetings to all as we are about to DEPART for our early morning flight to Orlando>..(Not as "early" as the CA peeps, however!) ....all our bags are packed and we're all psyched up over our "days" at Disney/Nickelodeon/Uncle Josh's wedding and meeting/greeting Josh's family again, and meeting Kim's family...and SEEING our "old house" where we lived when Kristin was 2 and Ashli was BORN!! Should be a fun filled WEEK with lots of laughs and memories to be made!
I cannot wait to see those "girls" RUN in the Orlando airport...I must have "balloons" for them...I ALWAYS have balloons when they come to "our airport"....so I must keep that little 'baby tradition' going! I am sure that Morgan probably has PLANNED our entire Disney excursion since she's the OLD PRO, but it will be so wonderful to SEE and WATCH Allyson really ENJOY it now that she's a bit older!
Just ZIPPED my last bag and I now plan to "relax" a bit before the WEEK's festivities begin! I spent a wonderful day with Thomas and tried to "explain" to him that he will get to go to Disney "next time" when he's a little bit older. He just "nodded" and "grinned" his little "George smile" and snuggled into my neck. I did "press" the issue...just ENJOYED the MOMENT!!
Little Claire is doing well and will be coming HOME tomorrow from her surgery. God has blessed them with good doctors and care and many, many prayers. THank you for yours.
Love to all...and I may be in "touch" from the road....if not, "next week" will bring lots of updates about our "Disney/Tampa events"....
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Monday, September 24, 2007 7:26 PM CDT
Hi, Kristin and Mark,
I know you are packing and so excited about your forthcoming trip to Orlando/Tampa and the fun of Disney and Josh's wedding. I have prayed so long and hard for
success for you and Allyson and her feeding regimen. In
empathy, I have cried over some of your comments for your frustration and sadness at not getting her to cooperate in the program.
The night you posted the "war scene" was difficult for us, as well as several of our praying friends who had seen that! I am just thrilled that you have chosen to "normalize" things with Kelso dining! I do believe you are RIGHT in that Allyson wants to eat "her way." That would be so typical of a 2 1/2 year old ... plus, there are always ways you can bump up calories in the normal foods she eats and enjoys. So I rejoice in your decision, sweet niece -- and glad that Mark supports you in this as well. I know when you have a child with a medical condition of any type, you want to do what all the experts tell you is in her best interest. But I think there are just times when you have to go with your gut and do what seems right between you and your child!
The opthalmologist you saw recently has certainly been a breath of hope and encouragement! I thanked God for Dr. Song last night, and pray that the drops he has prescribed and the evaluation he made will be just right for Allyson's situation! Of course you know that "eyes and vision" are close in my heart!
So you guys have a marvelous trip! Enjoy some time together for fun and friendships, and know that Uncle Loren and I are always in your corner rootin' you on !
We also are praying that there will be a buyer for 613 PCD
by the time you return!
Hugs and Love and Kisses and fingersqueezes to you all.
Auntie D. / Aunt Grammy
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, g usa - Monday, September 24, 2007 5:28 PM CDT
Dear Kristin and Mark - Congratulations on listening to your own 'internal wisdom' about Ally and her eating habits! I know that must have been really difficult given how much you've invested. I know you wanted to see it through... but, sometimes, the 'experts' just don't know your kid the way you do and it takes guts to listen to yourself (and your child)! Clearly, your decision has been a good one and has restored some peace and tranquility. It also sounds like there is reason for optimism regarding Allyson's vision so I know you're relieved about that as well. Remember all the benefits of humidity during rainy, dreary east coast days this winter! :) Take care - we say prayers for you every night.
Love,
Terri, Brian, Taylor, Matthew, and Sarah
TERRI BURNS <TERRIPBURNS@NA.KO.COM>
LILBURN, GA USA - Monday, September 24, 2007 12:51 AM CDT
WA HOO WA! I was soooooooooooo excited to read your post! What wonderful news about the eyes and what even better news about the feeding breakthrough!!!! I could "hear" the happiness in your voice through your words and I can only imagine how relieved you must feel. I guess Ally's desire for independence was contradicting your feeding routine (which you thought all along) and now that she can feed herself everyone is better off. Your trip to FL will be much better now that you don't have to worry about feeding time. Give Mickey a hug for me and say HI to my folks if you are near Solavita!!!!
I had to chuckle when I read your comment about holiday lights in MN............I am looking at my TO-DO list for this weekend and since it is going to be 79 degrees today HANGING LIGHTS is on the list!!!!!!!!!! Now don't worry - they will NOT be turned on until AFTER Thanksgiving (that is my rule) but it sure is nice to hang them when temps are above normal and you can wear shorts.
This morning Jim, Tyler and I attended a "rally" of sorts for a little boy in Eden Prairie who has MPS (mucolipidoses). We don't know who he or his family is but we wanted to help with the fundraising. It was VERY similar to the Rally for Ally but there was also a 5K run and a kid's sprint. I need to call Ash and give her the details because I think Ally's rally would do really well with this added to the agenda. This was their second year and almost 300 people attended. At $20 per person just for the run you can do the math - cha ching for charity!!!
Since it is so beautiful outside we are hoping to get some flowers planted for next year, some yard work done, perhaps clean and car or two, and maybe even take a walk. MN has never looked so beautiful - the rain has made the grass a very emerald green and the sky is blue with no clouds.
I hope everyone is enjoying their weekend. And again, CONGRATS to my favorite CA family - I am really so happy that things have turned the corner for you all!!!!
Lots of MN hugs and kisses!
Aimee Moore <it'sabeautifuldayintheneighborhood@thelandof10,000lakes.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Saturday, September 22, 2007 12:40 AM CDT
Hello! I've been coming to the website daily for the next update on Allyson, and was delighted to read one now! The beginning gave me such hope and elation for you all in California as you started out with "Good News". Then to read on and hear ALL the good news. It does my heart good to know things seem to be going more "normal" there. You've all been on my mind so much over the last months and to hear that a possible breakthrough has occurred is wonderful. I will continue to pray that the changes will continue to go in the right direction.
As for the eyes, I'm so glad the news was much more positive. It is always discouraging when a doctor is not sensitive and doesn't seem very personable. It is key to find that one that has the personality and care that you need -- it sounds like you found that as well as finding out better news. That is great!
Hope you have wonderful travels next week to Florida. It will be a great family vacation for you all. Tell everyone hello from us here in the "Kansas land". Hope to talk with you soon.
DeAnn, Chris, and the boys <cdrthux@mtelco.net>
Moundridge, KS USA - Friday, September 21, 2007 11:58 PM CDT
Hello everyone!
The "encouraging words" of the new corneal specialist are a "symphony" to my ears! And, when I talked to Kristin about the "new and improved feeding way" I told her I was ELATED that she'd taken that step for the contentment and harmony of everyone! I do think that many goals were accomplished with the feeding clinic - mainly that Allyson has not been tube fed since the last week of June, and that would not have happened without the feeding "regime" that Ben offered during those first weeks. And, the fact that Allyson's "drinking on her own" pretty much WHAT she NEEDS each day is fantastic. She was simply "play sipping" before and making taking in 4 ounces a day! Now, she is consuming liquids/Resource/milk on a regular basis! Even when/if Kristin has to supplement her "liquids" through the TUBE it is not via the "machine" but through a large "syringe" (that looks like a turkey -baster) FOUR ounces at a time and it is "immediate"...not over a period of time! All of these things point to SUCCESS and ACCOMPLISHMENTS for both Allyson and Kristin! The emotional well-being of Allyson is primary as well as the emotional well-being of the entire family! I'm proud of ALL OF YOU for taking the steps you did to get to this "next place"....and thank YOU all for contributing to Kristin's well being and ENCOURAGEMENT during all of these past weeks, but especially the past five/six where the difficulties seemed insurmountable! I cannot wait to see all of the smiling CA "faces" and hug them to "bits" next Tuesday! Moreover, I am delighted that Kristin and Mark will be able to RELAX a bit knowing that "we will eat normally" and enjoy Disney, the wedding, and all the surrouding festivities! (not to mention seeing the HOUSE we lived in when Ashli was born 33 years ago!)
You know I'm quick to find a quote or phrase to fit occasions and one that is my all time favorite comes to mind in regard to Kristin and her challenges this summer...."Do the thing you think you cannot do." Well, Kristin, YOU DID the thing you thought you could not do" for Allyson and that was to ENSURE that she could thrive without the mechanical feeding tube/machine process. I know her "regular eating success" will continue. She is a spirit to "reckon with" as "they say" and I will continue to pray for all good things for her and all of you!
I've just spent the past 24 hours with Thomas and Ashli! They came to our house for a "sleepover" while Tom was traveling! Thomas ate and slept well at our house...and in fact, had fewer "wakeups" than he does at home sometimes! We played and laughed and he did his "shout outs" of "words and garbley gook" and made us just crack up with his constant BABBLE to Nala, the dog! He just squeals when Nala comes around! Today was a very productive day at the OUTLETS! Ashli needs clothes to "return to work in October" so we trekked to the outlets and spent the better part of the day OUTFITTING the "soon to be working mom"...!! No more maternity clothes for awhile..and no more "casual" capris and flip flops! She is entering the world of "Energy and Coal" and will need to dress the part! (No, we are not dressing her like Loretta Lynn, the coalminer's daughter!)
We are gearing up for a FUN Sunday when we attend our first Redskins' game of the season! Our good friend, Teree, who is a passionate "fan" of the SKINS is going with us! She and I will be the "token women" among the "men" but we will hang with them as we enjoy a GREAT tailgate with Jerry's brisket and trimmings! Jerry will wear his Cowboys' jersey with Emmit's name on it...Teree will surely wear REDSKINS' attire...and everyone will "rag" on Jerry giving him a hard time, but we will all enjoy the banter and the food and the fun time! ANd, it is called a football GAME for a reason, right???!!!
Little Claire, 7 months old, and our friends' grandaughter, had her very successful brain surgery this morning. She is doing well, so I thank you again for adding this little one to your prayer list. Please keep Robyn's nieces/family in your continued prayers as well. WE are powerful together when we are "storming heaven" as Jerry's mother used to say! So, let's continue to "storm heaven" for all the folks who need our prayers and blessings!
Summer leaves us early Sunday....and October is just around the corner! Believe it or not, I've already done some Christmas shopping....(and NOT at my own YARD SALE either!)...the leaves will start to cover the very dry grasses remaining in most yards....the winds will blow....the goblins will appear, the turkeys will TROT our way...and ALAS! It will be December and Virginia will have FOUR new residents as Mark, Kristin, Morgan, and Allyson make NOVA their home!!! What a wonderful Christmas gift that will be, and what a special holiday season it will be for everyone!!!
Have a great weekend and enjoy the remaining moments of "summer"....(where did it go???)
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Friday, September 21, 2007 4:13 PM CDT
Ashli...How bout them COWBOYS! Romo! Romo! Romo! Hugs...Anna
Anna Rainwater <anna.banana3@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, September 20, 2007 10:21 PM CDT
Just wanted to shout out a great big hello from the northeast tonight!! Fall is definitely here...I hope...I love the 'chilly' weather!! Love the new pics of the girls at their Hawaiian party. I am sure that you are enjoying every moment of having Mark back home : )
Kristin, I will email you more later! Wanted you to know too that we will be praying for some insight tomorrow at Allyson's appointment about her eyes! Continued prayers for Ally's feeding breakthrough! It WILL happen!!! Thinking of you all and missing you! Looking forward to having you back on the east coast soon!! Hugs and kisses!
Love, Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Wednesday, September 19, 2007 6:52 PM CDT
Hi!!!!!!!!! Love the new pics of the very-Cali (and Hawaii) girls! Too cute! Hugs to you all and talk more tomorrow --- I am thinking of you ALWAYS and missing you tons!
GO COWBOYS!!! (Hi Anna!)
Love you four and can't want to see you soon...........
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, September 17, 2007 10:29 PM CDT
Happy NEW week to everyone!
It is always wonderful to start off the week with some new snaps of the CA peeps going about the busy/hectic/fun/normal routines in their lives! The birthday party shots looked sooooo fun, and I just wonder who the "limbo queen" might have been???? And, that is the cutest "pink blanket lump" on her Daddy's shoulders just chilling out in the CA sunshine! What a little package to treasure! I pray the new corneal specialist that Allyson will see this Thursday will be able to offer some additional help/information/encouraging words for Allyson's visual effectiveness. I never cease to marvel at Kristin's ability to put into layman's terms EXACTLY what is going on with Allyson at each step in the road. My heart swells with pride IN YOU, Kristin, as you continue to be the ROCK and the GLUE that holds is all together! God bless your heart!
It was great hearing Allyson's background "noises" and "chattering" in the car when we spoke the other day! And, always good to hear one of Morgan's latest "stories" about her webkinz pets, her webkinz 'income' and how difficult it is to feed and clothe over 20 "pets"...and even funnier that Mark told her she was "raising a good Catholic family"....(Mark, you're sooooooo funny!!!):)!!
We spent FIVE HOURS Saturday having a BIG FAT YARD SALE!...This was my first YARD SALE in nearly 30 years....I basically do not like having them,and they are generally more trouble that "they're worth".....HOWEVER, having said that, I became a "de cluttering queen" over these past weeks and I got RID OF most of what I had for sale, and I'm donating the rest to a charity as we speak. (the truck just arrived!) The funniest things do happen when people of all ages, backgrounds, sizes, ethnicities step into your yard! Some know EXACTLY what they're looking for...others are merely LOOKING. One "semi elderly" (I have to watch how I say that now that I'm a Senior citizen myself!) lady hugged and kissed me with each purchase. She only "offered" a "quarter" for most items she wanted REGARDLESS of the price on the item....I told her she had "broken me down" and to just TAKE the item and KEEP the QUARTER! She squealed with delight more than once, crossed herself, blessed me, bowed her head, and then gave me big bear hugs and kisses on the cheeks! I don't know if she was really that happy, or if she was just acting it out, but it was fun to see her so THRILLED over "little items" that became hers! I got rid of OVER 50 "souvenir t shirts" from vacations spanning 30 years....they were dirt cheap and I guess now OTHERS are "sporting them"...I hope they can "make up a story" to go with the LOCATIONS!!! (I know I did! ha)
It has turned into "fall" very quickly over the weekend...the temps are delightful!
I'm off to see Big Boy Thomas this afternoon since I'll be working several days this week and I will miss him. He is adapting to his new DAY CARE a few hours each day to get him ready for Ashli's return to work in early October. He doesn't cry, and he seems to enjoy his surroundings! All of that is a good sign and give Ashli a comfortable feeling about leaving him. (as much as any mother can be "comfortable" with that!!)
Geep/Jerry has become a "fish cook" at Wegman's nowadays...no more BEEF! He filets and prepares various fish demonstrating the "Wegman's techniques" and giving samples to the customers. Needless to say, Wegman's FISH sales have gone WAY UP!!
Counting the days until NEXT Tuesday when we all convene in DisneyWorld for a few days before Uncle Josh's wedding in Tampa! Then, BACK to Orlando for a few more days at Nickolodeon! I sure hope I can sleep in the Sponge-Bob "room" in our suite! Morgan "picked the Nick Hotel" after she SAW it on TV and thought it was cool! (and it is!) We are anticipating a WEEK OF FUN IN THE SUN with the CA peeps and reuniting with Mark after his long tour! It will be a great "pre anniversary" get -a-way for them as well! AND...the WEDDING will be the icing on the TRIP!@ We are so very happy for Kim and Josh as they unite in marriage!
Hope everyone is having a good START to the week!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Monday, September 17, 2007 11:35 AM CDT
Hi all!
Just checking in while I eat lunch at my desk and saw the new pictures. TOO CUTE! I hope you had a GOOD week/weekend and that perhaps the feedings have gone better. I pray everyday for a break through!!!!
Love you MUCHO,
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Monday, September 17, 2007 11:32 AM CDT
Hi, California Family!
The Atlanta gang continues to pray for that "break-through" that you need regarding Allyson and the feeding program. Kristin -- you and Mark and Allyson -- continue on our prayer list at church, and among our friends as well. I know this process has been so stressful -- and I just thank God that Mark is back at Port Hueneme to give you assistance with the girls! Uncle Loren and I admire you both for your love and your perseverance -- but we are also sad that you're having to do all this "tough love" training with Precious AllyBeDally. Maybe you could tell her that Aunt Grammy is becoming upset with her behavior and that I might have to come to CA and give her a "Grammy spank" -- (My grandchildren are guffawing, because that is a "two-finger-tap" on the arm/hand/nose!)
:)
We love you all and send you hugs and kisses and fingersqueezes of love! Hugs, Aunt Dale
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, Ga usa - Saturday, September 15, 2007 3:56 PM CDT
Huge Hugs and kisses for all of you from Texas this morning!
Holly & crowd
Holly Crandell <hmcrand@tx.rr.com>
- Friday, September 14, 2007 5:37 AM CDT
Dear All,
I just KNOW that the "love and support" of Allyson's website will CARRY "us" through it all...and most especially Allyson's parents. I thank you each and every one for your continued presence and love and advice and SUPPORT for Allyson, Kristin, Mark, and, of course, Morgan.
THEY are such FAMILY and your kind words of encouragement do HELP. Believe me, I know that.
TONIGHT, I will pray again for an "Ally breakthrough"...and that her WILL and her SPIRIT will shine forward in the EATING direction!
KNOW that we love each of you ..and that we love our CA "peeps"....
And to Kristin...and to Mark..."the little engine that could"...YOU ARE the ENGINES..and YOU WILL PREVAIL. BELIEVE.
And KNOW that we are HERE if/when you "need" us...we are "here"....:)
I love you all dearly,
Your Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Tuesday, September 11, 2007 9:06 PM CDT
Aimee...That story had me in stitches! As a parent and a teacher, I can appreciate the humor in that story! Kristin, as I looked at the picture of Ally in her high chair I just could not even begin to think what you are up against daily. However, with all that you have endured with this sweet little girl, I know that God has equipped you with all of the patience and strength you need each time you have a feeding. I will pray that Ally will learn to tackle these feedings and get it down like a pro. Praying for you in Texas...Anna
Anna Rainwater <anna.banana3@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, September 11, 2007 4:36 PM CDT
Good afternoon everyone!
My heart is so heavy as I read Kristin's words. I hope and pray every day that the feedings will start to click. I also hope the corneal scarring stops progressing and that you can get answers on how to proceed next.
In light of all the bad news posted lately I thought I'd post a funny story. Last night Tyler had homework for the first time. He said he was the only one in the class who got assigned this and that the teacher called him up to her desk to give him the assignment. He had to print off a blank map of the US and label each state with the appropriate abbreviation. He also said the teacher gave him 3 days to complete the assignment.
We worked on this for over an hour last night. It was actually a lot a fun. We talked about each state, where it was located, its shape, the capital, and its abbreviation. We even got into a discussion about time zones and how when it is time for him to go to bed, Morgan is probably eating dinner. After completing the assignment, I put the map in his backpack and sent his teacher an email. I explained that even though he had 3 days to complete this, he was so excited about it that we got it done in 1 day.
Today I got an email from his teacher:
"I had a discussion with Tyler about the Geography assignment he created for himself. I wanted you to know that I did not assign such a thing, but it was very good."
So tonight I now need to have a conversation with Tyer about how making up assignments is actually a BAD thing. I can only HOPE that he likes homework this much as he gets older.
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Tuesday, September 11, 2007 3:16 PM CDT
Kristin and Mark. My heart goes out to you. Although we did experience this (not to the extreme like Ally), we did to the drop cloth and feedings with the therapists, but D overcame his much quicker. I can only imagine what you're going through right now and for this length of time. You have such strength to get through it on a daily basis and to keep plugging away like you do. YOU are amazing.
I will keep hoping that Ally's eyes and corneal scarring will stop their progression. I do know a few moms that went through corneal transplants with their kiddos on the ED group, so you may want to give a shout-out to those parents on that support group. My mom (former nurse/assistant to a reknowned surgeon)knew a specialist on corneal scarring and transplants and I believe he's out at CHOP- Children's Hosp of Phillie. Worth looking into once you get back east.
On that note, I hope the house sells quickly and that you have a very smooth transition with your move and a move to a new medical team for Ally. I know she's in such great hands right now.
Keep your strength Kristin. You are amazing. :)
Cat <catpotter2001@yahoo.com>
the great north, WA USA - Tuesday, September 11, 2007 12:16 AM CDT
God bless America as we reflect on the loss of life six years ago today...God bless the "Bill Butlers" who represented Ladder Co. 6, the "Josephines" who made it out of the towers, and the families and loved ones of those who continue to grieve losses unimaginable before six years ago.....the folks in PA, the ones in the Pentagon and surrounding areas...and the lives that were permanently altered on that day. God bless the men and women in the military, law enforcement, homeland security, and all the agencies/groups that work to protect our magnificent freedoms.
And, always remember "Let's roll...."
FLY your "red/white/blues" today!!!
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Tuesday, September 11, 2007 6:13 AM CDT
Hi there! Wow, although I knew of all the "happenings" before reading them, just to see all those words about Ally's feedings (and the {PHOTO -- arrrghhhh!} and her eyes and vision made my heart so heavy for you all. You know I am thinking of you always and wishing, hoping and praying for that BREAKTHROUGH. Kristin, I know your days are long and hard and I continue to be so proud of all you do and juggle to make your girls' world and special and happy place. Their personalities (even Miss Super Strong Ally personality!! :) and SMILES and happy dispositions are proof that you are doing amazing things for your family. And of course I love the pic of Mark and his girls and all the happy times you are sharing as a family in these past weeks.
It's a heavy week of prayer as I am thinking of Robyn Hoppers in-laws and nieces after receiving such sad news about their little girl this weekend. And, I can't post on September 11th without giving rememberance to the thousands who lost their lives 6 years ago today...
Kristin - on a silly note, Thomas had his first taste of avocado last night and loved it!! He can't wait to sink his 2 TEETH into your famous guac in a couple of months :))
Much love to you all! xoxoxox
Ashli <ashliagng@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, September 11, 2007 5:40 AM CDT
My heart swelled upon seeing the photo of Mark and the girls at the beloved Santa Barbara zoo. I think we have the same photo...different Daddy, different kiddos, same penguins, same happiness. :)
My heart sank at the vision of "the feeding scene". I can only imagine your desperation, my friend. My prayer for a breakthrough is THAT much more fervent.
We are sad to hear that your arrival on the right coast is delayed, but we will take our place in the LONG line of folks who are excited to see you and hold our breath a bit longer.
xoxoxoxo Lynn, Grayson, and Oliver (and Eric from Djibouti)
Lynn Talbott Smith <talbottsmith@earthlink.net>
Annapolis, MD 21401 - Monday, September 10, 2007 8:31 PM CDT
Wow - the impact of that picture of Allyson after a meal is so profound. I'll admit, my eyes welled up realizing that you've been going through this three times a day for weeks. I can't imagine why she would fight so hard other than pain. Yet, she does eat, and did the feedings with Ben. So it has to be the most perplexing and horrendous experience to be dealing with. I hope, hope, hope and pray that there will be a breakthrough soon. It's so heart-wrenching!
On a happier note, I'm so happy that Morgan is loving first grade and is doing so well. Tell her my cocker spaniel Webkinz Kristin (little Krissy) sits above my computer as I play Cash Cow. When I went to buy a yellow lab Webkinz for my great-nephew Kevin, I was talking to the salesgirl and the little boy who was playing behind the counter on a lap-top on the Webkinz site. His parents run the cleaners next to this gift shop, and he was telling me about his Webkinz, and I told him I have one and play the games, etc. He just looked at me and said,"I can't imagine anyone over the age of eight having a Webkinz," in a pitying sort of way. I really had no response, but just said, "Well, they're cute and I have a friend Morgan who has them, and. . ." So I guess I'll have to keep my Webkinz a secret from the general public. I haven't mentioned it to my new seventh graders, but I might take "little Kristin" to school to sit on my desk!
Hang in there "big" Kristin. Hopefully, it helps to know how many hearts and minds are pulling for you in this struggle!
Love,
Theresa (aka Teree,secret Webkinz pet owner)
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Monday, September 10, 2007 7:28 PM CDT
Hello everyone,
My heart "melts" when I see those beautiful CA "girls" holding their Daddy after so many months away! And, my heart "breaks a bit" when I continue to hear of the great difficulties Kristin and Allyson are having with her resistance to eating. I have told a few close-close followers of Allyson that the "eating regime" reminds me of a scene in The Miracle Worker when teacher, Annie Sullivan, has to "break Helen" from throwing tantrums at the table. And, if you've ever watched that film, you know how INTENSE that scene of "broken dishes" and Helen Keller's resistance was toward Ann, her teacher. Finally, Ann Sullivan, the teacher "won" the battle, but the battleground reminds me of Kristin's feeding nook that I see in this picture. I am so glad you posted this picture, Kristin, so that everyone who loves and admires you can get a REAL PICTURE of the "meal process"....it puts understanding this in a whole new perspective. ANd, I know that you will continue to persist as long as you can!! I pray for a "breakthrough miracle" every single day. ANd, I know many who do the same!!!
The information surrounding the corneal scarring is very troubling, and I am anxious and hopeful that the specialist you intend to see at Children's Hospital will be more informative and helpful than the first one. I will pray that Allyson and all of you will not have one more "mountain to climb" in her young life! God bless her little heart and her BIG SPIRIT! (this is when you wish her spirit wasn't so strong? Right?)!!!
I have enjoyed being part of Morgan's "webkinz" life and please do tell her that I check in on her pets just about everyday when I'm not playing "Cash Cow" or "Quizzies" to get her $$ to feed and clothe her pets. I realize with such a LARGE number of "webkinz pets" she does need considerable income to take care of them. She really took on a HUGE responsibility this summer once Aunt Ashli introduced her to "those adoptable pets" and the Crandells and McKays helped her "get more"...and the Woodzells continued the "pet count" and I chimed in on a few(ya think?)...and now...she has 19???? What a large family in such a short time! It's so fun to see her enjoying the PET PLAY with all of these "families"...!!!
We had a delightful "destination wedding weekend" in Delaware at Rehoboth Beach this past weekend....I was amazed at how many folks were still AT THE BEACH! There were lots of "senior citizens" sitting on benches eating ice cream, too! Jerry and I by-passed them en route to a "night spot" that did not serve ICE CREAM!!! It was a fun getaway!
Ashli and Thomas are coming for a "sleepover" tomorrow while Daddy Tom is out of town...Ashli will help me get set up for my BIG FAT YARD SALE this coming Saturday! I'm really "into it" and I've been highly motivated to really get rid of "years of stuff"....my curb has been filled MANY times and I still have the "best stuff" for the SALE! Hope the weather cooperates Saturday!
We are counting the "days" until we see Uncle Josh and Aunt Kim get married the end of the month in Tampa! We will enjoy Disney World and Nickolodeon both before and after the wedding festivities! Mark is the BEST man and the wedding is "black tie" so it will be fun to get all "gussied up" for a fancy event! Morgan and Allyson have the most adorable dresses! And, I will get another "wearing" from my "Ashli mother of the bride dress"...I love it when I can wear something like that more than ONCE!
I hope everyone is enjoying some lovely September days! I always look forward to the FALL, crisp temps, beautiful, bountiful colors of leaves, and the smell of a "fire" in the distance! ANd, this year, we are going to enjoy FALL as we wait for the CA peeps to arrive in December! TWenty three years ago, we moved to Northern Virginia on the first day of December! By December 12th the house was "done" and the tree was decorated...and I believe there were even presents under the tree! Not sure how that all happened so fast, but it can be done! ANd, I'm sure we will "assist" Kristin and Mark any way they need/want us to in getting them ready for the "Ho Ho Ho" DAY on the 25th! Miracles can and DO happen!
Thinking of you all...please say prayers for Robyn Hopper's niece who has just been diagnosed with leukemia. Their family has been hit twice with that dreaded disease. Please pray for all of them.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Monday, September 10, 2007 5:03 PM CDT
Hi devoted Ally fans!
I have seen the power of prayer from this website and am asking for some more from each of you today.......about a year ago my sister's neice, Lauren (age 2 1/2 now) was diagnosed with leukemia. She is still fighting that fight. Well, Saturday, that SAME family got the wind knocked out of their sails AGAIN when they found out their 4 year old daughter, Sydney, also has leukemia. Their family doctor, who has been practicing medicine for 30+ years has NEVER seen 2 cases in the same family. Needless to say, my sister is an emotional wreck and her sister and brother-in-law are trying to hold it together for the sake of their girls. They also have a 3rd little girl, Tessa, who is less than a year old.
Please say a prayer for the Richmond family tonight. Thank you so much!
Aimee Moore <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Sunday, September 9, 2007 5:03 PM CDT
Happy Weekend, Everyone!!! Thomas and I have been on the go-go-go so I haven't chimed in to say hi via the guestbook lately :( Ally (and Kristin!) - sending you good, no GREAT vibes that the eating and feedings progress quickly/better/faster soon... and Morgan, I am so proud to hear you had a great week #1 in 1st grade! I knew you would love it and it sounds like you're working hard already.
Lots of love and hugs to you four! xoxox Talk later! :)
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, September 8, 2007 8:15 AM CDT
Dear Kelso Family...I'm BBBBAAACCCKKKK!!! I have kept up with the website all summer but just don't ever have any time to actually compose something for the guestbook! First of all to Mark...WELCOME HOME and thank you for serving our country. Kristin, you are preachin to the choir when it comes to dental health. I know all too well about cavities, crowns and root canals. I think I spent the entire fall season at the dentist last year. I feel your pain (literally!) I have gone back to work part-time teaching 2nd grade at the homeschool academy where the kids go. After being away from teaching for 10 years, I came home the first day with a fever, sore throat and sore feet! I think that I am beginning to settle into a mommy/teacher groove but it has been a big change for our entire family. Madeline started youth group tonight with Ashlynn Crandell. The two of them came out giggling and squealing which meant they had a blast. It is hard to believe they are pre-teens/tweenies! The boys are in my 2nd grade class at school and have been model students for me. The other day Grant was filling out his lunch form and where it said teacher he said, "Mama, do I put Mrs. Anna or Mrs. Mama?" I had to inform him that the lunch lady would have no idea who Mrs. Mama is so he better write Mrs. Rainwater! Camden finally lost his two top front teeth and is very proud of his Leon Spinx (sp?) look! His dadddy keeps trying to get him to say "Sister Susie sittin on a thistle". I am just glad Buddy Hinton isn't around to tease him like he teased Cindy Brady! All of you Brady Bunch watchers know what I am talking about here!:) Miss Ally and Miss Morgan, I bet that you are so happy to have your daddy home. I bet he is thrilled to be home with his 3 favorite girls. Morgan...I hope first grade is a fun year for you. I used to teach first grade and it is a blast! Just stay away from those boys! Ally, keep working hard on your feeding. You have been blessed with a super mama! Well...I need to get some sleep. Praying for a win from the boys on Sunday! Wear your silver and blue!!! Hugs from Texas....Anna Rainwater
Anna Rainwater <anna.banana3@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, September 5, 2007 11:25 PM CDT
I love all the new photos. What a great welcome home for Mark! Sorry to hear about all the cavities Kristin. Ouch- I feel your pain. I had to last year after having no cavities for years. D goes under on the 18th for some dental work. Thank goodness for VERCED. :) Dave goes TDY in a week's time, and we have our first cranioteam this month. All is well and D's hearing loss is gone! YIPPEE!
School went so well, unfortunately, D didn't like the fact that he couldn't "return" to school. This half-day thing had him spitting nails he was so mad. Oh the things our kids go through. :) Bobs is off to middle school and loving 7th grade. She has transitioned so well.
Here's hoping that your move goes without any hitches! Thinking of you all on here.
Cat <catpotter2001@yahoo.com>
The Great Northwest, WA USA - Wednesday, September 5, 2007 4:16 PM CDT
Pretty pretty princesses and pretty prince! What cuties! Looks like Mark and the girls haven't missed a beat. It surely is good to see everyone together. I loved the pictures of Morgan's first day of first grade. She was so excited and had some really good questions! Can't wait 'til you are all back in this area! Big hugs to everyone. Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA USA - Wednesday, September 5, 2007 10:46 AM CDT
Hi all,
Oh Aimee! Sorry to hear that "you caused a first grader's meltdown".....TRY TO REMEMBER how valued certain items are!! Funny story, and you and Tyler will laugh about it in a few years!! Right??
I loved hearing Morgan's account of "her day" and being in the class with some new/some old friends and "doing work"....she finished her "work" so at the end of the day she was able to just READ A BOOK while she waited for her mom! She was animated in her description of "the first day" but I could also tell that she was "tired"....I recognize the "Morgan tired"....it was fun hearing her voice as she told of her day...and also her LUNCH...and her recess! (I think the girl is "onto something"...) Talking with her made me realize that all her "first grade anxieties" are the same as middle schoolers....I got nostaligic for a "nano second" for a "first day with middle school kids".....
And...then I reflected on "my day with Thomas" who is "pre day care age"....and I forgot all about that FIRST DAY for me stuff. The second YEAR of "retirement" is going to be JUST FINE!
Projects galore on the horizon! Looking foward to the days of fall and leaf-colors, and the eventual arrival of the "CA folks" so that we can say that phrase once again: "Now WE are whole!"
Love to all...and I hope everyone's FIRST DAY was GREAT!!!
PRAYING for a 'feeding breakthrough' every single day...Kristin is still pressing on, and Mark has been "blocking" but it is "back to her solo today" and Allyson is still resistant...PRAY PRAY PRAY!! :)
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Tuesday, September 4, 2007 7:05 PM CDT
Oh the drama of the first day of school!!!!!
We started off GREAT - lots of smiles and anticipation. Tyler brushed his teeth not once, not twice, but three times just to be sure they were bright and shiny. He put on his clothes, all neatly ironed. We spiked his hair with LOTS of my styling cream. We were ready!!!! Or were we????? Who could have possibly known that the OLD backpack, the one that was dirty, ripped, and smelly, and THROWN AWAY last week could have POSSIBLY had sentimental value??? About 15 minutes before we headed to the bus stop my neatly pressed, shiny toothed 1st grader broke down in tears that lasted the entire 15 MINUTES!!!!!!! What a terrible mother I am to have thrown away something that meant so much to him! We finally got the tears to stop and he was content to chat with the kids until the bus arrived. I am not looking forward to seeing the pictures that were taken since his eyes were so puffy he could barely see.
For those of you who had to work today, who had to endure countless boring meetings, deal with office politics, or stubborn children who fight you at feedings, just remember the TERRIBLE day my first grader is having all because of his MOTHER. GOOD GRIEF is all I have to say about that! Bring on the teenage years - I AM READY!
Aimee (the terrible mother) <ILoveYourNEWbackack@OhTheDrama.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Tuesday, September 4, 2007 10:25 AM CDT
Happy "first day of school" to Morgan and all the other "kids" who return to their classrooms today!! I cannot wait to hear Morgan's "animated re telling" of HER BIG DAY!
Not sure who is the cutest one PLAYING "Pretty Princess"....I believe it is MARK winning that prize! The earrings are an especially nice touch! :)!! What fun to see you enjoying the world of your girls!!
Love to new pictures ...Allyson's leg look SO LONG in the swing! And, the "chase me boys" shot is so typical ....I believe Morgan had Adam and Carl "chasing" her down the street when she was "scootering" here in the summer.
Hoping everyone's FIRST full week in September will be a GREAT one...and to all "my former students" I wish you much success as you commence your 10th, 11th, and 12th grade YEARS!! Where does the time go???? (it "flies" when you're having fun, right???) I think of you often, and I am especially grateful that I am in touch with many of you.
Have a great week/month/and school year ahead!
I'm "off" for some "Thomas time" as it is the SIX month old picture day!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
countingthedaysuntilthecaliforniadriver'slicensesaysVIRGINIA.com!!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Tuesday, September 4, 2007 8:14 AM CDT
Happy Labor Day weekend!
It is like Christmas morning at the Moore house today. Jim is sooooooo excited that it is the first day of college football. We are watching the VA Tech game and LOVED the way they encorporated the tribute at the beginning.
I "labored" by cleaning the house - HA! Then I think I will "labor' some more by going shopping while the boys continue to watch football (there is only so much a girly-girl can take after all). Tomorrow we will all go to the MN State Fair and eat everything a person can think of ON A STICK. I can't wait to try the Chocolate Covered Cheesecake on a stick or the spaghetti and meatballs on a stick or the sloppy joes on a stick- you get the point.
Tyler is ready for school and has been organizing his backpack. We met his teachers on Thursday and he is so excited to have his own desk (instead of a table) and a locker in the HALLWAY (instead of in the classroom). I am still in shock that he will be a first grader - where has the time gone??? Tuesday he will take the bus to school as a special treat and then we will resume the normal schedule of Jim taking him to school early in the morning.
I hope the Kelso's are emersed in FAMILY TIME! Have a wonderful weekend.
xoxoxoxo
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Saturday, September 1, 2007 11:35 AM CDT
Happy Labor Day weekend to everyone!
Just one year ago this weekend we were anticipating our "big trip DOWN UNDER" and starting back to school was just a spec in my memory bank! This year it has been fun to hear Morgan's excitement about "starting first grade" and getting her school supplies (so MANY supplies for a first grader!) and her folders all set up for the BIG DAY! She told me that she "thinks" Allyson will miss her a lot when she goes back to school next Tuesday! In "reality" Allyson is probably thinking..."Hmmmmm....I'll have MOMMIE all to myself again!" :)!! It is so cute to hear Morgan's capturing of this past week of spending TIME with her DADDY! They've done many fun things together including the arcade and putt putt golf - TWO TIMES!! I continue to pray each day that there will be a monumental breakthrough on Allyson's feedings and that VERY SOON she will just gobble up her meals with exuberance! In the meantime, Kristin is pressing-on-pilgrim with Mark helping "block" on some of the meals! Anticipation is growing as we look forward to the day they arrive here and become Virginia residents! In fact, there is an entire entourage of folks waiting with open arms! It will be some "Welcome BACK party!" :)!!!
I've been spending quite a bit of time with Big boy Thomas...his personality is shining through those enormous eyes with the lashes that are, at least,1/4th of an inch long!!! He gurgles, coos, talks, grins, shouts out, squeezes, and genuinely shows how happy a baby he is all the time! His favorite food right now "next to milk" is chicken with apples! ANd when he sees his sippy cup, he just squeals!!
I hope whatever "last days of summer plans" you have will be wonderful! We are having a lazy weekend before we crank up next week for a destination wedding....we have two of those in the month of September, so somehow, those "weddings" will have to take the place of "Australia" this year! (er, uh....maybe???!) Wishing you all a happy labor day weekend filled with fun and love!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Friday, August 31, 2007 7:39 AM CDT
What an adorable and happy family you are. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the picture of all of you back together again. That picture is a classic.
Carol Williams <ccw92347@cox.net>
Herndon, VA - Thursday, August 30, 2007 6:43 PM CDT
I just want to add my happy and grateful wishes to all the others. I know it is wonderful to be together again. Thanks Mark, to you and your fellow navy men. You are what makes us so proud, doing your job with dedication and valor. I know you are seeing that at home now, too. Bless you Kristin, Mark, Morgan, and Allyson! Celebrate!
(now can we start the Redskins/Cowboys chatter again?)
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Wednesday, August 29, 2007 8:30 PM CDT
Wow! We just love the family homecoming photo!!! We just returned from NJ and Grandma/Great-Grandma Kelso's 90th birthday celebrations. Sherry had left us a phone message about the photo so we were excited to finally have computer-access again. It was so wonderful to speak to Mark on Sunday and to know that he is once more on American soil and once more you are a family of four together!! I remember so well witnessing your homecoming at Miramar several years ago and the excitement there was. I can only imagine what it was like this year. Welcome home, Mark, and much love to all the California Kelsos. Can't wait to have you back on the East Coast again.
Love to you all, Mom and Dad K <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Southport, NC - Wednesday, August 29, 2007 6:22 PM CDT
Hi all!
Loved talking to you, Mark, and hearing how you are getting along on the first few days! I was "not surprised" to hear you say that 'Morgan seems older than 6' in just SIX months +! Yay...wow...she has grown and matured so much in the past half year! I know you are so happy to be sharing her time, space, and "communication genes"...!!! Love you SO! And, surely , the Ally words are magnificent to your ears and her signing is also!!
And, "how 'bout that Kristin,huh?" :)!
Loving all of you tonight from VA where you will SOON live! We can hardly wait,and I am having fun scoping out Burke "area" homes for you...maybe one of them will be a "winner"...and lots and lots of good vibes going your way on the "sale" of your lovely CA home!
Just know you are in our thoughts all the time...and I am so happy the new "drops" for Allyson's eyes are helping...and so happy that Daddy-Mark has "finally learned to play the Princess game" and WEAR the JEWELERY!! What a hoot ...and I know you've loved every minute!! So many happy days ahead! :)!!
Love you,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Tuesday, August 28, 2007 7:20 PM CDT
Hi, gang! You're a 4 person family again !!! How wonderful, and we loved the photos! Kiss and Hug each other for us! Love, Aunt Grammy/Uncle Poppy
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, g usa - Tuesday, August 28, 2007 5:51 PM CDT
Just wanted to say "Welcome Home Mark!". What an awesome family photo. It's so good to see you all together as a family once again. Enjoy living on the east coast now! :)
Blessings to all of you out there in Ally-land.
Cat <catpotter2001@yahoo.com>
The West Coast, US USA - Tuesday, August 28, 2007 5:33 PM CDT
Now THAT is a picture of answered prayer!!
Welcome Home Mark!!
Have fun Kelso four!!
We love you dearly...that BIG TEXAS SIZED LOVE!!
Holly
Holly Crandell <hmcrand@tx.rr.com>
- Monday, August 27, 2007 6:06 PM CDT
To all the California KELSO'S we share our tears of joy...what a great picture!!! While this is my first "writing" I have read your updates constantly and held you in our prayers! Maybe once we get you all back on the east coast we'll catch up again with the whole clan. Enjoy your time together!! GOD HAS BLESSED THE USA WITH YOU AND YOUR WONDERFUL "SUPPORT TEAM" !!
Sherry Newill <cnewill@aol.com>
Westford, MA USA - Monday, August 27, 2007 3:18 PM CDT
Welcome Home Mark!
Thanks for serving!!
We salute you and your family.
Enjoy all your terrific girls!
Happy Days to All
Becky and Ron Anzelone
Herndon, VA - Monday, August 27, 2007 2:42 PM CDT
Hi everyone! I'm so glad you are all together again. My dad is in the Navy as well...so I know just how exciting those homecomings are after being separated for months. Enjoy your time together, and I continue to keep your family in my prayers every day.
Elizabeth Hellman (Mrs. Matus' former student) <dancer3191@cox.net>
Chantilly, VA United States - Monday, August 27, 2007 11:11 AM CDT
LOVE the homepage picture...together again...what a great feeling! Hope you are all enjoying each other and being whole again...no doubt that you are!! Have a great day!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Monday, August 27, 2007 10:35 AM CDT
LOVE the picture on the home page! It brought tears to my eyes this morning.
xoxoxoxox
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, Mn - Monday, August 27, 2007 7:55 AM CDT
The Register's salute and thank you. Welcom Home and GOD Bless.
Jeff & Crystal, Jared, Cass, and Jeffery <theregister5@yahoo.com>
Southport, NC USA - Sunday, August 26, 2007 9:19 PM CDT
Tears of JOY upon seeing that fabulous family photo on the home page!!! I have been waiting all day for that! :) Yipppeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!
Can't wait to talk with you all tomorrow and hear all the wonderful details of the fly-in! So thrilled you all are "WHOLE" again :)
Much love and big hugs to you FOUR this evening -- have fun, be silly, giggle and laugh and enjoy these first moments HOME together!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, August 26, 2007 7:51 PM CDT
WELCOME HOME, BRO!!!! Just took a peek at the pics of the ship coming back into port. We have been thinking about you and your girls all day!!! Hope it was a wonderful homecoming!!! We just got back tonight from Hawkeye Ball last night and felt like you were there! Everyone kept saying to Glenn, "Grimace or Happy?" It was so funny! Felt like since you two twins have covered both coasts, we "seemed" to know everyone there! So many wished you well and knew that you were coming home today. The E-2 community is so tightly knit. It was the most moving Hawkeye Ball we had ever attended in light of the tragedy 11 days ago, as you all know from previous postings. We knew it would be different, but didn't know what was planned to honor those three men who went down with their plane on August 15. Andrea Betton, the wife of LT Ryan Betton, the VAW-120 instructor pilot, was there to accept the Leadership award Ryan had won. We were overwhelmed by her strength. There was a moment for silence for the three downed aviators and then we all toasted each one individually. Again, the Navy family is strong.
We miss you all and can't wait to have you all back on the East Coast soon!!! Glad all the prayers have been answered and you are back safely to your family, Mark. We will continue to pray daily for Ally's eating times to become easier. Hope that with the extra set of Daddy's hands, things will improve. We love you all. K, it was great catching up with you this past week. You are such a trooper. Keep up the AMAZING work and strength! Big hugs to ALL!!!!
Aunt Mer, Uncle Glenn, and Cousin Spencer <piperdown@comcast.net>
Chesterfield, VA USA - Sunday, August 26, 2007 7:40 PM CDT
Welcome Home Mark!
Steve and I are wishing for lots of happy days ahead for the whole family! Enjoy reuniting, catching up, and just being together. And Kristin, let out the breath you've been holding for 7+ months and lean on your partner for while. You came through with flying colors! You both are my heros!
Love,
Jackie
Jackie Horras <jackie2fish@hotmail.com>
San Antonio, TX - Sunday, August 26, 2007 7:21 PM CDT
WHAHOO! THat's the BEST picture I've SEEN in 7 + months!!! You all look GREAT and HAPPY and "WHOLE" again!!!
Enjoy the homecoming and all the joy it brings you!
We'll talk in a day or two!!!
I love you all!
And, keep on sticking "like glue" to your Daddy, girls!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Sunday, August 26, 2007 6:31 PM CDT
A great big and grateful welcome home Mark! I know Kristin and the girls are ecstatic you are home. I know your family members and friends are thankful you are safely back with your family. Thank you for your service to our country. Hugs to all, Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA USA - Sunday, August 26, 2007 6:27 PM CDT
Welcome Home,Mark! I know there is great excitement on Pacific Cove Drive this day! The Atlanta gang sends you love and greetings! Loren and I attended a funeral the other day for a man who had served in the military, and the hymn we sang was "Eternal Father Strong to Save." I can never get through that wonderful song without tears, but as we sang verse 4:
"Lord, guard and guide the men who fly
Through the great spaces in the sky.
Be with them always in the air
In darkening storms or sunlight fair.
O hear us when we lift our prayer
For those in peril in the air."
I couldn't help but think of you and the flight HOME to see your loved ones. We have held you in our prayers all these many months, as well as Kristin, Morgan and Allyson. We now send prayers of Thanksgiving for your safe return, and for the blessing of freedom that your sacrifices bring for all of us. God Bless!
Love, Aunt Dale & Uncle Loren
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, Ga usa - Sunday, August 26, 2007 1:38 PM CDT
If you would like to see pictures of the USS Stennis as it went to PORT at Pearl Harbor on August 21st, you can google in the words:
USS Stennis returns to port in Pearl Harbor, HI
You will see sailors of all ranks lining the perimeter and planes in the background. There is not a "Mark sighting" but his plane, the E2C, is visible in some photos. Just thought it might help you feel "closer" to the HOMECOMING feeling the Navy experiences after long deployments!
Love and happy CA "days ahead!"
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Sunday, August 26, 2007 11:35 AM CDT
NO MORE DAYS!!!!!!!!!!! WELCOME HOME, MARK!!!!
xoxoxoxoxxo
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Sunday, August 26, 2007 10:30 AM CDT
This poem is a tribute to Mark, and his fellow aviators. This has been a long time "favorite" of Geep's from his hi-flying days and I offer it now as WE WELCOME MARK HOME TODAY, August 25, 2007 at 9:30 A.M. PCT!!!!
This is a poem by John McGee, written on Deptember 3, 1941.
High Flight
"OH! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I've climbed and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds, and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of - - wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hovering there,
I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through the footless halls of air...
Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue
I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace
Where never lark nor even eagle flew -
And, while with silent lifting mind I've trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand, and touched the face of God."
Welcome home, Mark, and God bless you and your fellow men and women who serve our country with dignity, pride, and honor.
I love you, Mark! See you soon!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Sunday, August 26, 2007 10:17 AM CDT
TODAY IS THE DAY!!!!!!!!! WELCOME HOME, MARK!!!!!!!!!!!
I'll be thinking of you ALL at 12:30 ET when you are home, home, home again! So excited for this wonderful reunion!
We love you lots! :)
Ash, TG & Thomas <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, August 26, 2007 9:15 AM CDT
WELCOME HOME, MARK! I salute you and your fellow aviators and support troops for another "Mission Accomplished"! I surely have missed hanging with you and hopefully my planned "surprise" will be as exciting for you as it is for me...could be a really busy time for "Skins" and "'Boys" activities....in the mean time, enjoy your reunion with your "girls"....take care, as always, and know that we love you!....TAS-man, Geep, .....
Jerry Matus <jfmatus@msn.com>
- Sunday, August 26, 2007 7:12 AM CDT
WELCOME HOME MARK and HAPPY HOMECOMING to the KELSO FAMILY and all of the other men, women and children reuniting today! Homecomings bring back such sweet memories and we know that today will be yet another sweet memory for you!! Have a wonderful day as you celebrate being back together again!!
Love to you all!
Love,
Jack,Dani,Gage and Mackenzie
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Sunday, August 26, 2007 7:01 AM CDT
WELCOME HOME Mark!! I have written to you privately...and I've sent cards and flowers WELCOMING you HOME, but I wanted to say it PUBLICALLY on Ally's website...
Just to YOU! WELCOME HOME, Mark...and WELCOME "togetherness" for all of you as a family int he coming days!
We are counting the "days" until you are "neighbors" in the DC area....there are such happy times on the horizon!
lOVE AND HUGS AND HAPPY GRINS TO EACH OF YOU.
Morgan's voice was so animated this afternoon when we spoke of "Daddy's arrival"...it only has to be the BEST time in life! I recall it so very well when Jerry came "home" after 13 months in Korea "back in the 70's".....and here we all are....STill!
Love to all of you in CA...and love to each of you "out there" caring about this marvelous reunion after so many months!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Saturday, August 25, 2007 9:58 PM CDT
Unkle MaRk-
i can not wate to meat you vary, vary soon. i luv you so mush awready.
come to our house for footbal and beers this fall and wenter. daddy says so.
c yoo soon. welkum home!!!!!!!!!
Love yer itty bitty nefuw~ Thomas <toolittleforemail@T3ville.com>
Washington , DC - Saturday, August 25, 2007 9:08 PM CDT
The time is near enough so I can say........ NO MORE DAYS!!!! Can't wait to hear all about Mark's homecoming in the morning and see photos!!! I know there will be such joy on all your faces and in your hearts - Yeeeehaw!!! What a wonderful day tomorrow will be --- I'll be thinking of you every second and can't wait to talk on the phone!
Welcome home, big bro... I am proud of you, Mark and grateful for the service you give our great nation.
And Kristin, Morgan and Ally... I am soooooo, soooo proud of all you have accomplished and achieved in the past months. You ALL are troopers and rock stars!!
I love you FOUR! HAPPY HOMECOMING!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)))))
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, August 25, 2007 9:04 PM CDT
ONE MORE DAY!!!!!!!!!!! WOOHOO! I am so excited for you ALL.
Mark - I am so thankful that you will be home SAFE and SOUND. Take care of those girls and give them lots of hugs!
Have a wonderful day tomorrow!!!!!
Love Always,
Aimee and her boys (Jim and Tyler) <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Saturday, August 25, 2007 7:43 AM CDT
"The key to life is not to have a job, but purpose."
Thank you to the thousands of men and women dedicated to serving OUR country so that we might continue to enjoy the freedoms we experience in life. Thank you for the SACRIFICES made by all the families and loved ones who cherish the men and women in uniform. And, grateful prayers for the safe return of the USS Stennis this Sunday! I am proud of you, Mark, and I am proud of YOUR THREE GIRLS who have enthusiastically and courageously faced many challenges at "home" while you were facing them "abroad." I am proud to be part of the military family which dates back to my Dad and WW2...Jerry's Uncle Nobby, Loren, Glenn, you,Laura and Dave, Josh, and so many, many close military friends.....and I know you remember that "story" that Daddy told you, Mark? "Well....I survived!" :) Such fun we have recalling that one....and I guess you can start using 'that phrase' whenever you wish! Being a survivor is way MORE than a T.V. show!
God bless you all,
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Friday, August 24, 2007 9:26 AM CDT
COUNTING DOWN............. and getting soooooo excited for you all to reunite with Daddy-Mark! Hip hip horray! I know he is very excited too, and coming home to THREE amazing girls! You all have come so far and acheived so much in the months he has been away and I know my bro will be smiling and thrilled to see his "young lady" Morgan, his tube-free-high-calorie eating machine and TALKER, Ally and of course -- his there-are-no-words AMAZING, BEAUTIFUL and FUN wife and best friend!! :)))
Kristin -- Seriously, there are no words to really describe and define how incredibly proud I am of you and all you did in the last 8 months (and 2+ years... and 35 years! well, I guess I can only be "proud" for 33 of them but you get my point). You are my hero and make all my little itsy-bitsy everyday life "frustrations" go away as they are trivial in comparison to all you juggle and accomplish every day. And, you're still SMILING! (well, most days.... :))) I love you!!
Can't wait to see you FOUR in the coming months and of course, call you "neighbor"and see you allllllll theeeeeeeeeee timeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!
xoxoxo
HAPPY HOMECOMING TO ALL OUR BRAVE MILITARY MEN AND WOMEN!!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, August 24, 2007 6:31 AM CDT
Hi everyone!
I can't believe I have just two days and a really early wakeup on the boat! I just wanted to say thanks to all of you who have said a prayer or sent me well wishes or food or anything else during this seven-month odyssey. These last few days seem like they are in slow motion. Packing all your stuff to send home is much easier than packing for the trip. As the maintenance officer, I'm hoping all of our planes get off safely and land safely and I'll be talking to some of you in a few days.
Mark
Mark <mark.kelso@cvw9.navy.mil>
USS John C. Stennis, - Friday, August 24, 2007 1:39 AM CDT
Happy days are just around the corner for the THREE CA girls!! I know they are planning a big homecoming for Mark when he arrives Sunday! Morgan told me she has her fingernails and toenails painted RED just for Daddy's arrival and she's wearing RED/WHITE/BLUE/AND SOME YELLOW...and Allyson is wearing the same! I cannot wait to see the homecoming pictures! I am sure there will be a "few" posted on this website!
Mark, I've had a candlelight in my living room window since you left. When you are SAFELY back on U.S. SOIL I will take it down until your next deployment. I have "lit the candle" every time you've been away. It is my way of honoring your service. And, I love you and I cannot wait to SEE YOU in September in Florida for "Uncle Josh's wedding"..!!! What a wonderful reunion that will be!
Thinking of you all as the days become fewer! And, I know Morgan cannot wait to PULL OFF THE LAST RING FROM THE CHAIN THAT MACKENZIE MADE FOR HER!! ONLY "three" left....
Whahooooooo!!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Thursday, August 23, 2007 4:39 PM CDT
Hi CA girls!! Thinking of you all as the BIG HOMECOMING DAY gets even closer!!! Love those Navy Homecoming's...there is nothing like them!! I know how excited you all must be. Just wanted you to know that we are thinking of you and sending lots of homecoming hugs your way!!! Have a WONDERFUL weekend!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Thursday, August 23, 2007 3:55 PM CDT
Hi! Almost no more days to wait - and I know you are all getting excited about Mark's/Daddy's return. You'll be in our prayers this weekend and next week. Have a great reunion! Much love, Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GAusa usa - Thursday, August 23, 2007 12:06 AM CDT
Hi Girls!!!!!!!!!!!! Soooo excited and counting the days until Mark is home - yipppeeee! Don't count today and don't count Sunday and that's just TWO days to go :p
I am thinking of you all and missing you lots! I kn ow I will see you SOON. I love you!!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, August 23, 2007 9:38 AM CDT
Thinking and praying for all of you always.
AND....sending Texas sized hugs and kisses for everyone ~
Holly Crandell and crowd
Holly Crandell <hmcrand@tx.rr.com>
- Wednesday, August 22, 2007 5:16 PM CDT
Hi girls!!!!
I bet you are now on the final countdown. It is HUMP day today and Mark will be home THIS WEEKEND. I am soooooooo super excited for all of you!
Morgan - are you getting excited for school to start? Tyler starts on September 5th and we are supposed to meet his teacher at an open house next Thursday. We are ready - new backpack, new lunchbox, new school supplies. We tackled the "I am NOT letting you start first grade without knowing how to tie your shoes" issue and Tyler can now tie them without any help. He is so proud of himself!
How are the feedings going this week? Did the extra restraint tactic work? Come on Ally - cooperate with your mommy, please!
K - sorry I missed you last weekend. It's not like you are BUSY or anything, right??? (wink wink) I love you bunches!!! I know things have not been exactly a piece of cake with the whole feeding thing but I have complete faith in YOU!
GIANT hugs and kisses from MN!
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Aimee <RainRainGoAway@NoMoreRainInMn.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Wednesday, August 22, 2007 3:31 PM CDT
Sending you good vibes every day.
Joelle Norwood
Bethesda , MD USA - Wednesday, August 22, 2007 1:17 PM CDT
Dear Kristin,
I can't imagine how difficult it's been trying to establish the new eating routines with Allyson. Sounds incredibly tough and grueling in every way. I know that some day Ally will thank you for being willing to stick out the 'tough love' needed to accomplish this. Words really can't convey how much I admire your strength and unwaivering optimism. I don't know if you ever have 'down days' but, if you do, I hope you understand you're entitled to them! We pray for the entire Kelso family every night and I know God will continue to hold all of you in His hands... even on the crappy days! I'm sure Mark's homecoming will be a tremendous event and we'll be celebrating with you in spirit! Love you everyone.
TERRI BURNS <tburns@na.ko.com>
LILBURN, GA USA - Tuesday, August 21, 2007 10:04 AM CDT
Hello Ally supporters!
There is a little girl in VA who needs the prayers and support of each of you right now. Her name is Claire, and she is the grandaughter of friends of ours. Her aunt, Jennifer, just wrote in the guestbook. Claire will undergo surgery Sept. 21st for a condition that was just RECENTLY determined to be craniosynostosis. If you would like to visit her caringbridge website here is the address:
www.caringbridge.org/visits/oclaire
Please visit her site and learn about her. She is a beautiful, spirited little one who needs all the love and prayers you can send her way. We have known her grandparents for some time and Anne Marie, the mother of Claire, set up the caringbridge website for Claire because they have also followed Allyson's journey. Please do think of this little one when you close your eyes at night.
Thank you AGAIN for caring...and thank you for CARINGBRIDGE for this amazing support place.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA usa - Monday, August 20, 2007 9:21 PM CDT
Hello! I just wanted to stop in and thank all of you for your prayers for my niece, Claire! We really appreciate the support from your family to the Horner/Thompson family!
Ally is precious! What a trooper! It's amazing how HAPPY these kids are considering all that they have been through!
Best of luck to you as you continue with the feeding issues! We'll be thinking about you!
Jennifer Wiemann <wiemannfamily@verizon.net>
Centreville, VA 20120 - Monday, August 20, 2007 4:23 PM CDT
Hi, Kristin, Mark and the girls,
The Atlanta crew sends our love and our condolences for your friends who were lost off the coast of VA/NC recently. We know it is like losing "family" when such a tragedy occurs, and we send our prayers to you all, and also for the families of those brave men. We are grateful to all of you who serve and who protect and whose sacrifices keep us safe day by day. Those of us who have served are especially aware of the challenges and the difficulties you face. Mark, we are so glad you will soon be home with your "harem" ... boy, are those gals gonna MUG you! Kristin, I know you will be so happy to have your best friend and hubby home, as well as the girls' Dad. I am sure that you, Mark, are ready to pitch right in and give Kristin all the High 5's and Love and help you can give ... for I think that my niece and namesake is one of the most loving and remarkable Moms I know. She has done such a wonderful work with Allyson this summer -- and I know how PROUD you must be of her, and that precious sweet AllyBeDally! There's yet a way to go -- but I know with the love and heart of the both of you, success for Allyson is right around the corner! Mark, we are always grateful for you and what you do and what your buds do for all of us. Kristin, we know the sacrifice of the "waiting wives." We rejoice that you soon will be together again with those you love and who love you best. Our pray-er friends, who have prayed for you, Mark, along with Kristin and the girls- since you deployed and flew over the deep blue, also rejoice at your homecoming. All of us "down South" send you our love and our admiration and pray that "re-entry" into your shore-family's life will be smooth and sweet and wonderful!! Hugs, Auntie Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, ga usa - Sunday, August 19, 2007 4:50 PM CDT
Hi all "a -gin"...
Loved these new pics of the girls with HAIR GROWING and Hair being "shortened"...all part of life!
Great news on Kristin's newest 'angels of feeding'....God has certainly planted her in the right place to get 'help'....
Loved hearing the Morgan "stories" this afternoonn of "her day" and what was "to come"...she's quite precocious. I cannot WAIT until the Allyson "phone messages" will rival Morgan's!!!
We have such a BIG SURPRISE for Mark's HOMECOMING....no one knows....not yet...but just think: "Hail to the Redskins!" Mark has been a SKINS' fan for such a long time in his life and when he moves here I think he is going to be PLEASANTLY/TREMENDOUSLY "surprised"....!! All from GEEP, the "Cowboys" fan!! Stay tuned!!!
Thinking of you all tonight...with love, and our hearts and prayers go out to the crew of the E2C crew who did not make it on their training mission off the USS Truman. When a tragedy hits "close to home" it affects everyone involved in the military community. I know there were many times when Geep was flying F-4's (back in their day) and instructing and "going to work at 32,000 feet high"....certainly, these "scares" become a reality. I will keep the family of those fallen to this tragedy in my prayers. I know that you will, too.
So I will close with love to all and a great big gratitude to the men and women in the military who keep our boundaries SAFE and SECURE at great cost to them and their fammilies. I know of "what" I speak and I am especially thankful to Mark, my "son in law" but MY SOUL SON!! YOu rock, Mark...and I am so glad you are "almost home" and will be grilling your big/fat/steak on Aug. 26/in Port Hueneme, CA!!! YAYAAYAYAYAYAYAY!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA usa - Friday, August 17, 2007 9:25 PM CDT
Hi!! LOVE the photos of those beautiful girls! And Morgan, what grown up hair you have!
I know it has been a busy few weeks (ha - to say the least!) since returning from feeding "camp" and many moments have tried your patience to no end, Kristin. We know this is NOT easy and not all sunshine and flowery updates as you try to portray :))) Know that many of us near and far - especially ME - think of you every single day and pray for brighter feeding days ahead and some Kristin-alone time and TLC once Mark gets home!! That is the BEST PART of all and something so wonderful to look forward to -- I sure hope these next 7 days FLY BY! Pun intended :) I can't wait to see my Bro in the coming months and introduce him to his newest little (or not so little!) nephew! Yipppeeeeeee! Hurry, Mark, hurry!
Last but most importantly, my thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, E2-C Hawkeye and military community who lost three of thier own this week on the East Coast. I know this hits very close to home for you and many you know, and it just proves that whether far away or close to home, our service women and men are often in harm's way and doing commendable things to serve and protect our great country. I am thinking of you all in the Hawkeye family....
Thanks for the anniversary wishes! We plan to go out for a night on the town tomorrow with some friends and stay out late :))) - thanks to Teetay and Geep coming to have a slumber party with Thomas! We might make it out past 10 PM this time! Hee hee.
Lots of love and hugs to you three girls--- I miss you mucho!!
Aunt Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, August 17, 2007 6:25 PM CDT
Hello everyone!
It's been a busy time around here even without the California "girl" at my side! I've had some special moments with Thomas and Ashli during these past two weeks while Ashli "interviews" and "looks" for employment close to her home! Thomas' "daycare waiting list" finally came up and he's "eligible" to start in September. I told Ashli it will be harder on her than on him!!! I will still be her "backup" if he is sick and cannot go to daycare, or if I just want to GRAB him some days and give hin a "day off from day care"...! I will be substituting again this year back at my "old school" so that will keep me in the KID LOOP for the time being!
I don't know what was more fun yesterday...."listening to Thomas make his new loud "holloring" sounds"....or "hearing Morgan tell me about her FOUR INCHES cut from her hair and her playdate with Isabella"...or "hearing that some of Kristin's FRIENDS/ANGELS are now helping her with Allyson's feedings helping to SECURE HER in the high chair" so she doesn't FLAIL around so much. This was a "Ben suggestion" and Kristin has enlisted the help of friends for the three feedings a day! I'm saying bigtime prayers that this will help "turn the corner" and that the feedings will become EASIER for EVERYONE...especially Allyson and KRISTIN!!
Days are in countdown mode until Mark is HOME August 26th....the CA "girls" have their red/white/blue patriotic WEAR all ready to greet him when he returns!!! ANd, Kristin "cooking up" a GRAND WELCOME HOME FEAST for Mark and the family! Shhhhhhh.....I cannot tell what it will be but Geep and Kristin have been "discussing it" recently!
NO, GEEP IS NOT flying to CA to fix it either! It will be all Kristin's "doings"..!!! :) Geep is not a flying chef, although he would probably like to be! He'll settle for his Wegman's Cooking Coach demonstrations..and loving it still!
September will be an exciting month...of course, the START of first grade for Morgan...countless appts. for Allyson at Children's Hospital before they move...and we are all going to Tampa/Orlando Florida for "Uncle Josh's wedding" to Kim! We have anticipated this event for some time and are including, OF COURSE, all of DisneyWorld that we can see in a few days and a stop at the Nickolodeon Hotel/Theme Park as well. In between, we will celebrate the festivities that weddings bring! Mark is the BEST man and the wedding is "black tie" so we will be all "gussied up"...!!! (I wonder what color "black tie" I will wear????!!!):)!!And,..somewhere in the midst of all of this, Kristin and Mark need to sell their house and buy one! ("details!!!")!!
It promises to be a beautiful "cool" weekend here with temps only in the low 80's...that probably calls for some late August last minute pool time! I hope each of you will have a glorious weekend as you prepare for new school "starts" with your little ones, or just watching it unfold if you don't! Thank you for being "out there in Ally-world" and "inside our hearts"....ALL THE TIME!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA usa - Friday, August 17, 2007 7:20 AM CDT
Hello to the California Girls and all of you out in Ally's web-land! I have checked in a few times today, but am just now having the opportunity to sit down and write a hello! I hope Ally and you, Kristin are having a good feeding week and I am sure that Morgan's activities are keeping you on the run. When does school start? I bet Morgan is getting very excited for that as well. And of course, the countdown until Mark's/Daddy's arrival HOME!! Thinking of you all and sending you great BIG hugs from the northeast!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Wednesday, August 15, 2007 8:26 PM CDT
Hi Kristin, Ally and the toothless wonder! :)
I am thinking of you tonight and always (duh!) and continuing to wish and pray for smooth sailing in the days ahead for Ally's eating progress - and less resistance! I know this is trying your patience like never before, and I can't even pretent to imagine what goes through your mind and heart with each feeding. Just know that I am thinking of you girls always and hoping, hoping for better days to come. I know it will be much better SOON(!!) as Mark will be home very, very soon - YIPPPEEEEE! :)
Hugs to you all and we'll chat tomorrow! I LOVE YOU!!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, August 15, 2007 8:22 PM CDT
Hi California Ladies (and faithful website fans)!
I just wanted to check in and see how everything was going this week. Kristin, I hope your feedings are getting better as each day goes by!!!! Any bites on the house? How many "official" days until Mark returns?
I think about you EVERY day (seriously, I DO)! I miss you tons!!!
xoxoxoxo
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, August 15, 2007 11:26 AM CDT
Dear faithful Ally supporters and friends,
I have just learned that our friends, the Horners, have a grandaughter who will have brain surgery next week. She has a caringbridge website if you are interested in following her journey as she undergoes a very delicate surgery. Her name is Claire and she is 7 months old. The Horners have followed Allyson's journey the past two years and have been so very supportive to us, so I wanted to give a "shout out" to you to say some prayers for their sweet baby grandaughter, Claire.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/oclaire
Thank you for your continued love and kind words of encouragement for Kristin and Allyson's continued HARD WORK! And, how about that "snaggle tooth girl" on the homepage??!!! I hope the CA toothfairy found her pillow!!!
Have a great weekend!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
I think SCHOOL STARTS soon?? Does it???:)!!!
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA usa - Friday, August 10, 2007 7:27 AM CDT
Hi Morgan and Ally and All...
I SO loved the conversation with you when YOUR tooth CAME out...what a wonderful event!
And, to PLAY WEBKINZ with you "on line" was really really the ROCk! wHAT LOVE WE SHARE...
And, I am so grateful that we shared these moments...
I am so glad you told Grandma and Grandpa Kelso about your TOOTH..I know they were THRILLED to hear your "tooth event"..
What love surroudns you girls!
Love to all,...beleve.
Right?
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA usa - Wednesday, August 8, 2007 9:34 PM CDT
Morgan!!! I LOVE your new look! And I am glad Malia dame out without a fight :) You are SUCH a big girl and I am sure the toothfairy will be very good to you tonight!! And just remember, sometimes the toothfair arrives in "waves" and might make several visits from near and far!:p
I love you lots, big girl! And Ally, you keep it up with less resistence for Mommy. I know you girls can DO IT, as the weight gain proves! K - I knew and know it will get better and better and the ounces and pounds will continue to pile on Miss Al-Pal!!!
Love you all lots!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, August 8, 2007 7:55 PM CDT
WAY TO GO MORGAN!!!! I bet you can't wait for the tooth fairy to visit tonight...I will be anxious to hear all about that!! I remember when Mackenzie lost her first tooth...same one as Morgan, and she did it all by herself too...still does to this day. GAge would rather I pull them out...he just wiggles them until I can give a little tug and out it comes. I think he only has one more to go!!! Then we will probably have to think about braces...UGH!
CHEERS to Allyson to for her weight gain! What a wonderful day for the CA girls. I am sure that you,Kristin are breathing a bit of a sigh of relief and are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel! We will keep encouraging you from NH and sending good thoughts and prayers your way!
Looks like we may have a break from the heat coming this weekend...YEAH!!! The only drawback to living here in the NE is not having central air...the window units just don't cut it on these hot,humid, 90+ degree days. We are headed to Scarborough, Maine this weekend for a soccer tournament with Gage's team. It will be our first time up that way since we've been there! We will be passing by Kinnebunkport on our way...sure glad that it is not the same weekend as the peace march planned for the end of the month up this way!
Hope everyone is doing well out there in Ally-land! Hugs and kisses to Kristin and the girls! Mark, safe travels...I am sure you are as excited as your girls!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Wednesday, August 8, 2007 7:43 PM CDT
100033 hits to the website - can you feel the love!!!Kristin, Morgan and Allyson - just checking in to let you know we are praying and thinking of all of you daily, bless that dear sweet Morgan for her "big girl attitude" she keeps herself busy while you are feeding Allyson, prayers surround Allyson as she has come so far and I know that she will soon "get it", and for Mark as he will soon be home - thanks for what you and all of the troops have done to keep all of us safe and then to you Kristin, one of the strongest women I have even known (ok I really have never met you but I feel that we have met). I am honored to be able to "hear" your words through this website. You and Mark have the love and support of such wonderful family and friends. I hope that you feel the love each and every day. I'm sure this is not easy but you'd never know it, you have such a great attitude and drive. One day at a time, know that you are thought of and loved. Take care
Nancy Zembal <nezembal@comcast.net>
Brooklyn Center, MN USA - Tuesday, August 7, 2007 6:02 AM CDT
Oh Darn it! I saw the number was creeping up to 100K and I figured I had time to check back in. Then I ended up working late last night and now 100K has come and gone. While I was not #100K (although I think I have been MANY numbers - hee hee) this is a true testament to how much you are loved and watched over. It is hard to believe 2+ years have gone by and I am so thankful to be a part of the journey.
Kristin - I KNOW you can do this! No one said life would be easy, believe me!!!! Just hang in there and keep on keeping on. One day Ally will just GET IT and will eat with no fussing or fighting. It WILL happen, I just know it! I BELIEVE IN YOU!!!!!!!
Many many hugs from Minny!
Aimee Moore <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Tuesday, August 7, 2007 5:41 AM CDT
I was #100,000 and was so surprised when I saw the number!!! It was the first time I had access to a computer since we left for our family reunion last Thursday. I was sooo excited that I ran dowstairs to tell John and forgot to write anything. Then when I came back up to the computer Ashli had signed in at 100,001. Many, many, many thanks to Ashli for starting this page right after Allyson was born over 2 1/2 years ago. It has been the most fantastic means of support for Kristin, Mark, Allyson and Morgan, and the whole rest of the Kelso-Matus-George family to know how much you love and care!!!! We know there are many of you out there who are faithful readers but who never write and we love you for your silent support.
Lydia Kelso a.k.a. Grandma Kelso <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Southport, NC - Monday, August 6, 2007 8:40 PM CDT
Just thirty minutes ago there were 8 to "go" to hit 100,000 when I left Ashli's....and now I am home and LOOK at those numbers!! Big WOW everyone! I wonder who 100,000 was???? Guess you probably don't know if you did not check the numbers on the homepage! Well, congratulations to ALL of YOU/and us for our love and dedication to checking in on Allyson, Kristin and FAMILY!
Kristin, I am so very proud of your dedication and I just know there will be a breakthrough "soon"...I pray for that everyday.
Loving you all tonight after a "big day of Thomas caring" and watching that "big boy" smile his biggest grins!!
And ...Mark, we know YOU are counting the DAYS and "hours"....love to you, too!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA usa - Monday, August 6, 2007 8:33 PM CDT
I was #100,000!!! I looked at the number and was so excited since it was the first time I had access to the website since last Thursday when we left for the family reunion. I was so excited that I ran to call a friend and forgot to write!!! So I came back to the sight to write something and alas, Ashli had already checked in at 100,001! Thanks to Ashli for starting this sight over 2 1/2 years ago. What a powerful way to communicate, love and support Mark, Kristin, Morgan and Allyson in their journey with EEC!! And so many thanks to all of you out there who connect and read often to keep up-to-date but do not ever write. We know you are out there, and we love all of you for "being there".
Lydia Kelso a.k.a. Grandma Kelso <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Southport, NC - Monday, August 6, 2007 8:32 PM CDT
AAAHHHH!!!! I am 100,001!!! Who was the luck 100K visitor??! WOW - what amazing love and support for Ally and our whole family. THANK YOU! It has been a wonderful and wild ride these last 2 1/2 years... right, Kristin!?
KDMK - I continue to be so very, very proud of you. Things HAVE to get better with Ally's eating, I just know they will in time!! Hang in there - YOU CAN DO IT. I love you tons!!
Hugs to you 3 girls and to my bro out on the boat...
Love you!!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, August 6, 2007 8:24 PM CDT
Hello to the California Girls! Hope you had a good outing on Sunday, and that the open house was successful. It isn't a very good market here in Hotlanta right now -- but I would think in a mostly military community with the summer changes, your chances for sale are way better than average! Anyway, we continue to hope and pray for a quick sale -- so that you can flip the page to the next chapter of your family's book! I know you're counting the days until Mark/Daddy get back home! I am thinking it will be an occasion which is both joyous and bittersweet --- with you, Kristin, and Morgan on the joyous side ... but I remember when Loren came back from Vietnam and our Leslie was 2 1/2, she wouldn't have ANYTHING to do with him for several months! It is one of the woeful events that military families who have long deployments have on fathers and children. I think your Mom and Geep went through something like this with Ashli, if I remember correctly. (if you're reading this, Mark, be "forwarned" by these auntie gray hairs! :) )
Kristin, I know you're doing wonderfuly well in the preparation of Allyson's food and the regimen she must follow. I feel sure that you and SHE will turn a corner before long, and that this process will become easier.
Loren and I pray every day for you all, and we know how faithful and loving you are in seeing that Allyson gets her needs met. It is so precious that Morgan "gets it" and it so supportive and such a cheerleader. She was so cute talking about the wiggly tooth -- has it come out yet? The Grayson T>F> sent a $ for under the pillow for the first tooth out! We love you guys. Want you to know we're in your corner all the way. Hugs to all, Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GAusa usa - Monday, August 6, 2007 6:25 PM CDT
Hello everyone!
Only 54 more "visits" and SOMEONE will be the 100,000th visitor to Allyson's website! There must be something very LUCKY in that number!! Wow!!!
Thanks for being HERE with us and for loving and supporting Allyson and the whole family the past two and one half "plus" years.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay : )
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herbdon, va us - Monday, August 6, 2007 2:45 PM CDT
Greetings Kristin, Morgan, Ally, and Teetay--
After following this website for an extended period of time, I finally had the privilege of meeting all of you just one week ago today!! What a wonderful visit and such a delight to get to know your family! I'm amazed at the resilience and poise you ALL possess in the midst of the challenges with feeding precious Ally, being away from home, single parenting, and managing day to day life. You really are an awesome family!! :)
Thank you for sharing your Sunday with us, especially after just arriving home from the clinic. I so enjoyed interacting with all of you, and felt an immediate kinship with "Teetay." I now know why Chris and DeAnn were so determined to try to make a contact with you. It is obvious you have a great deal of support from family and friends. Know that you will continue to be in my prayers and in my heart always. . .
Special thanks to Morgan for being such a marvelous hostess for Ryan and Tyler and to Ally for keeping Andrew entertained. Your girls are truly following in the footsteps of their mother and grandmother! I'll be anxious to meet the last member of the family when you come through KS!! Good luck, Mark, as you anticipate reuniting with your family. God Bless.
We enjoyed the drive on PCH. Thanks for all the wonderful directions. Please take good care of yourselves and each other.
Blessings and Love, Grandma Frankie Huxman
Frankie Huxman <fhuxman@cox.net>
Newton, KS USA - Sunday, August 5, 2007 8:25 PM CDT
Greetings everyone!
I hope everybody has enjoyed a lovely weekend wherever you are! It is steamy here in the Mid Atlantic, but that's why the CALENDAR tells us it is SUMMER!!
Loved the new pictures of Allyson and Morgan in their antics at the mall playground! I especially like the one where Morgan is "mid air" in her jumping!
A number of our friends are now "playing the webkinz games" to get "webkinz cash" for Morgan so that she can take care of hers and Allyson's "little animals"...the ONLY way you get $$ is to play the arcade games on the webkinz site, or to "get a job"....I tried to get a job as "Dr. Quack's assistant" but I could not place the bandages on the sick animals fast enough, so "Dr. Quack" told me to come back another day! Morgan is having such fun with her webkinz and the newly discovered "Littlest Pet Shop" site. It's wonderful something really GOOD comes across cyber space!
Ashli and I did a little "house surveying" this afternoon looking at some of the areas that Kristin is interested in when they move to VA. We checked out a few OPEN HOUSES even though they cannot buy until their CA house sells. It was fun seeing what is available and "how it looks"...we found a couple of good ones and a few that did not turn our heads at all!
Geep and I are looking forward to our "Thomas time" tomorrow while Ashli has a long appointment!!
Happy BEGINNING of the week to everyone.
Kristin, know that I am pulling for your SUCCESSES every single day and I know in "week 3" of you feeding Allyson there is going to be a BREAKTHROUGH! Her strong will is going to just "click" and she will become less resistant. Keep up your great work...I KNOW it is WORK and I am so very proud of you - you are the "little engine that could" so just keep on chugging along!!!
Only three weeks til Mark is HOME!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA usa - Sunday, August 5, 2007 4:59 PM CDT
Your hard work WILL pay off, Kristin! You know it. Allyson will soon relax with the process, and you will, too. I think about you guys every day and hope that it will getter better every day. Lots of great things to look forward to - Mark's return and moving here, so hang in there!! Lots of love to you. My little webkinz, Kristin, aka Krissy the cocker spaniel, is doing well. Gotta get better at those games, though! My furnishings are a bit sparse! Love, Teree
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Sunday, August 5, 2007 10:44 AM CDT
That last picture of Morgan on there is so sweet. They really do grow up so fast. :)
D tests for Kinder next week. He is so excited. I can't believe it. Time has flown by so fast.
Cat <catpotter2001@gimail.af.mil>
The North, USA USA - Sunday, August 5, 2007 2:29 AM CDT
Greetings everyone and a HAPPY weekend ahead!
I "made" it through my first day HOME yesterday and had some good time HOLDING THOMAS, feeding him, and watching him wiggle and coo and say his "little words"....he's growing all too rapidly! Ashli and I lunched in Georgetown and then did a bit of GAP shopping for Thomas since he's outgrowing his clothes so fast! I even got him a Onesie that says: "Daddy thinks he's in charge!" :) It was a fun day and a great way to "ease back into Virginia living" after all the adventures of the summer.
Of course, I talked to Kristin and Morgan and Allyson to "hear about their day" and it was good to know that Morgan was able to get a "pedicure" alongside her MOTHER yesterday. When Kristin asked her if she liked "CA pedicures or VA pedicures" the best...she answered without hesitation: "Calfornia pedicures....they don't speak Spanish here!" DUH? What is she thinking?!!! Allyson had a pretty good day of 'eating' and Kristin and both girls were going to her friend's house for dinner AFTER feeding Allyson last night. So, those "girls" had a big first "alone" day planned and that was good, too. It helps us not "miss one another too much"....!!
I heard from Sarah McQuay that John is doing very well at this point. He's been released from the hospital, and he's out of quarantine and go "out and about" like a regular kid! He will begin kindergarten in two weeks and he's looking forward to that. He is a very smart little boy, so I know he will shine in kindergarten. He seems "older" in his actions than a kindergartener, so I'm sure he'll give his eacher "a run for her money" as he asks his very probing questions!!! I am wishing them the BEST....they have had a very difficult summer, and I thank you each one for praying and keeping them in your thoughts. I believe they are all on the road to complete recovery! And...they are looking forward to a December birth of baby boy, Andrew!
Have a great weekend everyone and thanks again for your constant love and friendship!
ONLY 23 more days until Mark is HOME!! YAHOOOOOO!!!!! YAY!!! Safe sailing, Mark!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA usa - Friday, August 3, 2007 8:29 AM CDT
Dear Ones,
What a dreadful event has happened in Minnesota, and along with everyone else, all of the Atlanta family is sad and praying for those dear folks who have experienced such a tragedy.
Loren and I have been busy with things pertaining to Vera's passing, so I've just read all the updates and postings on the website.
Kristin, we pray for you and Allyson every day - Mark and Morgan too. I know this summer has been probably the most intensive and difficult one you've ever experienced. I am so pleased that you decided to take the pressure off to go househunting and visiting relatives --and continue with the feeding program as you have been. As you said, this is the most important event of sweet AllyBeDally's life -- and while I know that her resistance must be heartbreaking for you, I also know that you will overcome this with her. 2 1/2 year olds are NOT known for their cooperative spirit --- I would just remind you of this! Not that you don't get it, sweet niece, but if you were not involved in this intensive behavior modification, she might still be "difficult" about issues at this age! With the six Atlanta grans, I remember all of them being a bit of a difficult pain in the "spizz" (G-Daddy's word) at 2 1/2 at times. I remember Leslie giving G-Daddy a big kick in the gut when she was about that age, because he told her not to do something twice, and he started to move her to the corner to "think about it!" oyvey .... So hang in there -- I know it will eventually get easier. She looks good and healthy, and although I know you don't want her losing weight, I'm betting she'll soon level off at some plateau, and after that, will begin to gain again!
We love you and think about you all the time. Know you miss Teetay and her support, and that she misses you.
Hopefully after August, the routine will be easier for you all.
Love and Hugs from all the Atlanta gang. xx oo
Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GAusa - Thursday, August 2, 2007 5:55 PM CDT
Good morning to everyone!
After watching the horrific news of the bridge collapse last night and this morning, I am so VERY GRATEFUL to know that Aimee and Nancy Z. are FINE! Just talked to Nancy Z. on the phone (our first voice conversation) and although BRIEF I was DELIGHTED to hear her VOICE and know that she and her family are "okay"...as they also travel that bridge frequently. In fact, her husband was ON THAT BRIDGE at 5:30 last night JUST BEFORE the collapse. And, Nancy Z. told me that she and Aimee are going to have lunch in the near future! GODWINKS, folks!! All of these "meetings" are meant to be....the "Celestine Prophecy" is alive and well in the THERE ARE NO COINCIDENCES DEPARTMENT! Still thinking and praying for the safety of the rescue workers and prayers and condolences go to all the families involved in this tragedy.
'Missing my CA peeps this morning...I'm "tripping over" the remnants of Morgan's visit as I get ready to head for DC and have some "Thomas time"....I wonder if he will CRAWL to me???
Have a good day, everyone, wherever you are.
Continued WISHES to Kristin and Allyson as they go about their "day" of "hard work" and "feeding" and "drinking" and playing IN BETWEEN and doing the million other things that take place! Happy 'visiting' your school today, Morgan! I loved chatting about your newest webkinz last night...I think "Sarah" is a beautiful name for a "google" (aka Playtapus!) and her room sounded delightful! It was so very nice of you to call to introduce "Sarah" to me after I got home!
With love to all...and I'm so very glad my friends in MN are SAFE!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Thursday, August 2, 2007 8:52 AM CDT
AIMEE!!!!!!! I went to bed and woke up thinking of you when I didn't hear back last night... and relieved to see your post this morning. I also reached out to another good friend in Minni and they are safe as well. What a horriffic tragedy and I just knew you had to have been on that bridge at some point... My thoughts and prayers are with everyone in your community and the nation as we watch this tragedy unfold.
Thinking of you, Kristin, Ally and Morgan as you forge ahead with the feeding regime, cheffing up the food, clean up(!!!) and of course, back to Morgan's slew of activities -- karate, friends and Webkinz!!!!! Reminds me that I need to go on and get her some more KinzKash! :)
Talk to you later.... much love to you all! And YIPPPPEEEE, the official August countdown begins until Mark gets home! AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
xoxoxo
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, August 2, 2007 5:56 AM CDT
Good morning from Minnesota.
My family is SAFE and we will join the rest of the world as we watch the events unfold that led to the bridge collaps. This is a MAJOR stretch of highway and will certainly create chaos here in Minnesota for quite some time. I have been ON that bridge MANY times! My heart goes out to the families who are still missing loved ones....the latest news report this morning was 7 confirmed deaths and 20 still missing.
Thank you all for the emails, phone calls and text messages to check on me and my family. We are SAFE and BLESSED.
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Thursday, August 2, 2007 5:47 AM CDT
Hello everyone,
I am HOME and I am so very worried about my Minnesota friends as I watch the TV tonight...I am hoping and praying that all is "well" with those I know...and I am praying and thinking of THOSe WHO ARE affected by the MN bridge collapse. My love goes out to Aimee and family, and Nancy and family, and Megan and family...I have contacted you all and I HOPE ALL is well.
Loving you all tonight..."back home" feels good and as Morgan and I "talked" just a few minutes ago, she is "okay" with the separation. She was ONE with her webkinz and their "family" issues.
I miss my CA peeps, but I cannot wait to SEE "crawling Thomas" tomorrow...gee, the boy is not even six months old???
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA usa - Wednesday, August 1, 2007 10:54 PM CDT
Hello Ally and family!
It's been a long while since I've written in the guestbook, but don't worry, I still check the website everyday. I'm really glad Ally got through the feeding clinic well and I hope her resistance to home feeding decreases soon. I can see that the summer has been tons of fun for everyone- the pictures are wonderful! Have fun with all your activities for the rest of the summer, too! Always keeping everyone in our prayers!
*Christina*
Christina Knippler (Mrs. Matus' former student) <acoolkid15@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA - Wednesday, August 1, 2007 8:43 PM CDT
Happy Tuesday evening to everyone!
"All my bags are packed"...(ONE bag, that is) and "I'm ready to go".....and I am "not standing by the door"...but the JET PLANE will fly me back to Virginia tomorrow! IT has been almost two full months that I've been in the company of Kristin, Morgan, and Allyson...and FOR REAL in the "company" of Morgan. WE had a very nice quiet time before bed tonight and as she was "feeling sad" I ASSURED her that once she lives in Virginia these "goodbyes" will be very ordinary on a "regular basis".....she has been quite the TROOPER being away from her Mom and her Dad for over four weeks and handling it all so very well. I attribute so much of her confidence to her mother, and I also attribute it to the fact that she has "faced" so many new situations in her life already. That's what "we do" as we like to say in our military family...."Press on Pilgrim" has become a mantra of sorts and it still works! So, tomorrow morning, about 7 A.M. I will "press on back to Virginia" to greet Geep, Ashli, TG, and Thomas and so many of you! I think it will "feel very odd" not to have a six year old by my side, but I am sure I will and can adapt to my "new routine."
We are so looking forward to seeing Connie, Ally's nurse, and her husband, John, in DC NEXT weekend!! They are coming for their grandson's graduation from Quantico Boot Camp and we are meeting them for dinner at the WATERFRONT in DC while they are here. They are KRistin's neighbors and have been EVER SO GRACIOUS and helpful in looking after the house while she was away.
TODAY was Allyson's BEST day EVER since she got home!! She ate at a better pace, and there was "less" resistence to the process, and I think she did so very well. "Measurement-wise" it wasn't the MOST calories, but it was a pretty good day! ANd, Allyson did some of her "drinking of fluid" on her own. She was especially happy going to Morgan's karate class this afternoon and doing her "own version of karate" in the corner of the mat...while sipping her juice! She seemed so much happier today, and that always makes me happy! After supper she was SWINGING in her swing outside and a neighbor came over...so "we sort of left her swinging" for a bit of time...when Kristin peeked out the window, Allyson was "still swinging and happy" to be IGNORED!!
While Morgan was having her picnic "dinner" on a towel on the floor tonight just before Allyson's REAL dinner, Ally was on ALL FOURS "picking up pieces of Morgan's taco, meat, cheese, and blueberries" while Morgan ate. I took a picture of her...the CAPTION should READ:
"This is what the feeding clinic did for Allyson!"
Allyson is also very much INTO her "play food"....she pulls out the pieces and places them in her mouth...what a funny thing that her PLAY is surrounded around her FOOD??!! It gives us a smile and a good one!
Again, and again...thank you EVERYONE for your love and support and continued prayers and interest in Allyson's progress as she grows, learns, eats, and develops. YOUR continued love and friendships help us in so many ways. Thank you again. As I leave tomorrow, it is with mixed emotions...Kristin has a big load on her as she has had for some time now, and I know she will continue to "do it right"...that is WHAT she DOES! I will miss being "backup" and "pickup" and "laundry up" and whatever "else" I sort of "do" in the background. My heart will still be here in CA as I travel back and the other side of my HEART will be glad to find "home" in VA.
And, just around the corner....it will be "Virginia here we come"....to the tune of "CA here we come"....or is it "Carry me BACK to Old VIRGINNY?" Whatever it is...it sure feels good!
And safe sailing to you, Mark...and YOUR present is waiting..and I cannot wait to give you a great big hug!
Love to all...
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va USA - Tuesday, July 31, 2007 11:36 PM CDT
I have a nephew with EEC syndrome. It is such a help to know how other families are coping. He is now 10 months old and really starting to come into his own personality. He no longer has to have a feeding tube and drinks from a bottle. He has had several surgeries. The palate surgery is coming up in a few weeks, they expect it to take four hours. He already looks like a completely different boy than he did at birth, and he is a joy to be around. He is the happiest child I've ever met. Thanks so much for putting your story out to share with everyone. It is helpful to know that our family is not the only one in the world dealing with EEC and with God's help we can all make it. Continue to care of that beautiful baby girl!
Faith Tucker <faitht1981@hotmail.com>
Thomasville, NC 27360 - Tuesday, July 31, 2007 7:36 PM CDT
Dear Kristin, Morgan, Allyson and Teetay - glad that you are safe and sound back in your CA home. I loved seeing the picture of Ben - he looks just as I imagined him. He has now become a part of the "family" and God Bless him for all he does to help others.
Kristin - you have learned patience and perserverance above and beyond. Even though we have never met I am so proud to know you and somehow to be a part of this journey.
Safe travels to Teetay and we'll "chat" when you get home and settled back into your routine.
Thinking of Mark as he makes his way back to the States.
Prayers and thoughts surround all of you.
xoxoxoxoxo
Nancy Zembal <nezembal@comcast.net>
Brooklyn Center, MN USA - Monday, July 30, 2007 9:56 PM CDT
Greetings everyone!
We are having a very nice "beginning" of the week! IT was wonderful seeing the Huxman Family and "Grandma Frankie" yesterday.....such a nice and easy day. Kristin needed to "decompress" and it was so very pleasant just hanging out and catching up on some conference news and "life happeneings." Andrew was born in January, so he's slightly older than Thomas. I'm sure they will become "fast baby friends" next summer.
We pretty much got settled-back-in Saturday night in anticipation of our guests to arrive Sunday, so there wasn't much to do today. We've unpacked and found that only a "few things" are missing...guess they've found a HOME in Los Altos. Ben called today to check in on Kristin and Allyson's "home progress." He reassured her that everything that has transpired has been normal "re-entry" into the home setting. Kristin works hard at each meal to feed Allyson the "maximum" number of calories she can and to minimize the resistence and the "mess" as she calls it. (and it is a mess!) Everything has to be measured GOING IN and "leftover" on bibs, clothes, cloth, etc...Kristin is using her new calculator to do all the number crunching!
Jan D. came this morning (one of Allyson's therapists) to be with her and she was thrilled and amazed at how many new words Allyson is saying and saying CLEARLY. (almost overnight, many words have appeared!...that TALKING GENE is bound to surface BIGTIME! How could it not?!!) Allyson and Morgan have both seemed so very happy to be BACK HOME discovering OLD TOYS that seem "new"....!!
Morgan did errands with me this morning with a stop for lunch and lots of STOPS to find her Daddy's birthday present that I promised him. However, when I PROMISED I did not know that "California stores" would RUN OUT OF THE ITEM I WANTED! But, alas! After about "a million stops" according to Morgan, we found the ITEM! So, Mark, you will have your GIFT upon your arrival home in LESS than 30 days!!! Whoopeeeee!! And, if you don't like the "color"...BLAME MORGAN!! HA!
We are off to the swimming pool so Morgan can show her mom her newly acquired skills and "moves"....we are hoping that Allyson will like the POOL like she did in Los Altos. That, too, has been a breakthrough...ALLYSON LIKING THE POOL WATER! Keep your fingers crossed!
Looking forward to being "home" Wednesday night and catching up wtih everyone. I know that I will have "serious withdrawal" when I no longer have my six-year-old pal, Morgan, attached at my hip...and Allyson running around saying her little words...and running to me to go UPSIDE DOWN! (before EATING!!) These past weeks have cemented our already close bonds and I, for one, will never forget it. I will miss Kristin, too, once we are apart, but will look forward to the fall when I can call her in the SAME AREA CODE!!! YAHOO!!! The work for KRistin and Allyson is still great, but I have every confidence that together, THEY WILL BE THE SHINING STARS they are right now and the "intensity" of these past and future days will become a slight "blur" down the road. For now, it is a HUGE dedication on the part of KRistin and she is not going to let it NOT WORK!
Love to all of you with hopes of seeing you soon!
And, to Geep and Ashli....I miss you lots and I cannot wait to see you....and I hope Thomas hasn't started crawling yet!! :)
Love,
Terri aka Teetay:)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va USA - Monday, July 30, 2007 5:01 PM CDT
Happy Monday!
Welcome back to Port Hueneme! I am so happy and thrilled that you were able to graduate last weekend and now, as you said, the hard work REALLY starts. But - I have 100% FAITH that you CAN DO IT! I really don't think there is anything in this life that the Matus/Kelso/George clan can't handle, and this is certainly no exception.
Some troops in MN just came home last week after being gone for 16 months. I watched the "reunion" of one family and sat with tears running down my cheeks (and I don't even know them!). It helped me to realize and understand the emotion that Kristin and Mark and the girls have had to go through numerous times over the years. I am counting down the days WITH YOU until your reunion and I'll be crying right there with you when Mark returns.
To piggy back of Ash's post - LOVE the cowboy boots!!!!
It's been HOT here in Minny and our AC BROKE this weekend - good times - NOT! Luckilly we were able to patch it up with a new circuit board but it looks like a new compressor is on the "house-to-do" list for next year..UGH! We got some school shopping done on Saturday and we now have all new supplies, a new bakcpack, a new lunch box and new shoes to start off 1st grade! Tyler's big accomplishment was learning how to actually TIE his own shoes - something we have been trying to master for some time now. He was so proud of himself that he wrote a letter to his kindergarten teacher to share the good news. It was really cute!
Have a wonderful week - safe travels to VA - and good luck with your househunting!
Bunches of hugs and kisses from MN!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Monday, July 30, 2007 9:53 AM CDT
Wow - I am not sure whay I like best about these photos.... Ally's graduation night or the fun Huxman family photo at the beach or Morgan playing with Ryan and riding her scooter in PINK COWGIRL BOOTS!!!!! Yup, I am one for the details! :)
Kristin -- I think your journal entry and update FINALLY explains how regimented, hard, tedious and FOCUSED this whole new Ally-world-order is. SUPER WOW. You can do this and I am hopeful that the progress will continue, albeit hard at times! (All the time?!?) I continue to be amazrd by your perserverence (and Ally's! what a trooper!) and attention to every little (and HUGE)detail to make Ally's life better... and calorie full :) You rock, rock, rock.
I am also counting the days for you and Mark's arrival home. Yes, he is coming back to a couple of really big grown-up girls and many changes over the last 7 1/2 months. What a wonderful reunion it will be -- SOON!!! Safe travels home to you, Mark!! And I can't wait to see you in the coming months! T3 too! ;)
Talk to you all later! Huge hugs and tons of love to my best CA gals and Teetay-Mom!! I miss you ALL! xoxo
Ashli <AshliAGMG@yahoo.com>
- Monday, July 30, 2007 6:42 AM CDT
Welcome Home Girls!!! I am sure you are all enjoying being back in your own place...even if it is just for a few days before your next adventure! Congratulations to Ally and Kristin for a job BEYOND well done at the feeding clinic! Your perseverance and patience will pay off more and more each day and I know how proud you must be to have accomplished all that you did while at the clinic with Ben! Teetay, you are right...none of us have any idea as to what it is like for Kristin and Ally, but what we do know is that they are determined, courageous and persistent in what they are doing and will continue to see great success in Ally's feeding!!!
We stand behind them and continue to give them strength to pull from when they need it!!! It is amazing to know that Ally is off of her g-tube and getting all of her nutrition by mouth : )
I am sure you will be busy keeping things as normal and as routine as possible for Ally the next couple of days as you prepare for your trip East. I bet Morgan is really enjoying the time back with the her friends.
Just wanted to drop a line and say 'hi!'...let you all know that I have been thinking of you. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you as you go through the process of settling into your routine away from the clinic and traveling.
Have a great time at the Kelso family reunion and seeing the rest of your family. Mark, safe travels home on the open water! Much love, hugs and kisses!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Sunday, July 29, 2007 12:12 AM CDT
Ally,
Congratulations on your big trip! And more importantly, Welcome home!
Uncle Josh <jsreyher@yahoo.com>
Washington, dc usa - Sunday, July 29, 2007 4:12 AM CDT
Hi all,
I will give a "quickie" update as I know this in NOT in Kristin's future tonight..
We did make it "home"....after RENTING a car early this morning to FIT everything into it...we arrived home from SAN JOSE in just UNDER 7 hours... a RECORD with THREE stops!
Once home...we put the "Allyson feeding station" into place and Morgan and I played outside where she reunited with Isabella and Hunter and "their parents"...it was a WARM occasion. And, MORgan is looking forward to playing with Isabella tomorrow and learning MORE from HUNTER about the "care of fish"...(Hunter has a BIG TIME aquarium, folks!)
We have UNpacked TWO cars..children are fed, and Kristin even had phone calls from Mark and DeAnn while this was going on..(are you getting the picture?)...and the GIRLS were in their "happy bath" (meaning it really doesn't matter if you are clean..just that you have fun)...
And, Kristin and I continued to UNLOAD stuff from the car and put it into plalce/....after all,
"This house" is FOR SALE people!
Thinking of you all tonight.
Yes, we are "home" but the WORK is still to be done. Yes, Allyson is "off" the g tube, but to keep her nutritioned and HYDRATED is a very big JOB. Kristin will do it. I know she can and I know she will.
Whatever anyone is "thinking " about this process, just DO NOT even "pretend" for one minute that you "understand it"...it is a HUGE UNDERTAKING and I am sure that Kristin will make it happen.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va USA - Sunday, July 29, 2007 1:31 AM CDT
Hi girls,
I just wanted to say WELCOME HOME! I love you and will call in a little bit!
Love, Me
Mark <mark.kelso@cvw9.navy.mil>
Hong Kong, China - Saturday, July 28, 2007 8:34 PM CDT
Welcome home Allyson, Kristin and Morgan!! Glad to know that you should all be back together in Port Hueneme by now. Just checked the website and realized that we are #99,000!! Wow, that number of hits surely shows how much you are loved and supported!! We are so happy that all has gone well at the clinic and know how relieved you must be that Ally is off that g-tube. We are so proud of all of you for all the time, effort and perserverance. Love you all!
Mom and Dad K <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Southport, NC - Saturday, July 28, 2007 8:26 PM CDT
HAPPY GRADUATION, ALLY & KRISTIN!!!!!!!!
I cannot even begin to imagine how diffcult these last several weeks have been... and will continue to be... but I CAN say how very, very proud of you (and Ally!) I am and that I admire you so much. Your determination, persistence and care in working with Ally to make sure she has the best and most proper nutrition is amazing to see ---- and something we all take for granted: EATING! Thank you for sharing your world, Ally, your feelings and SUCCESS with all of us. You truly make me so proud. I can't say it enough.
Let me remind you, Kristin.... for those who didn't hear it back in the 1980s(!)... You gave a speech when you were just a "kid" and said: "I am proud of who I am and what I am doing with my life...." I know there was a lot more to it (and yes, we used our silly 'Butt-wheat' voices - inside joke ;) but that was the opening line and gee, who knew that you would have SO MUCH to be proud of in your life down the road??!?!?!? A wonderful family, amazing daughters and a spirit that exudes confidence and grace. You have MUCH to be proud of and I hope that helps you get through the future bumps in the road and frustrations -- we know there are many and you rarely "share" them, but we/I also know that is part of your grace and style to make things seem as easy as possible. You are a role model to many, in motherhood, sisterhood, daughter-hood, friendship and LIFE. Thanks for letting us all IN and sharing your world and the life, adventures and development of my sweet Ally niece! :)
CONGRATULATIONS on your feeding clinic graduation and experience, and HOORAY FOR A TUBE-FREE AL PAL!!!!!!!!!!!!
I love you lots! Safe driving home and chat later.... AND TG, THOMAS (!!!!) AND I CANNOT WAIT TO SEE YOU ON THURSDAY!!!!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, July 28, 2007 8:29 AM CDT
hi my name is ashley, and i am a first time mother. my daughter was born with ectrodactyly this year on march 9. a woman with a son named darren told me to cantact you since lily has both cleft hands a feet tho not a cleft palate. mail me back i fyou want
Ashley <venus_diane@yahoo.com >
Prattville, Al usa - Friday, July 27, 2007 9:55 PM CDT
Good FRIDAY evening to you!
Kristin just left for the "Last Supper" with Ben and the feeding clinic folks! It has been an "intense" ONE week here watching Kristin and Allyson go through their routine, so I am sure that the past FOUR weeks for KRistin "doing solo" have been even MORE intense. She said it best..."it is the hardest thing she's ever had to do" and just in case you are doing the "inventory" she's done "many hard things" in life...and especially in Allyson's life! I am so very proud of her and Allyson as they approach graduation time tonight!
Morgan picked out a cute "graduation card" today and this is how it had a naked baby wearing a grad-cap on the front with the baby saying: " I'm so excited you're finally graduating...I could just SIT!" (Morgan picked this out but had no clue as to the DOUBLE MEANING of the words!) Kristin and I had a good laugh, and Allyson just clapped for herself!
Allyson is growing in so many ways. This afternoon she went through an entire box of "puzzle words" including RAINBOW and LOLLIPOP and she pronounced each one of them..."yes, in her own way" but the INFLECTION was there and the pronounciations are getting clearer all the time. Then, just to WATER MY EYES, we "sang" YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE together...I've only heard her "sing" with her MOM, but today she afforded me the PLEASURE of hearing her little voice singing...and she is carrying the TUNE correctly!!! IT would be very "strange" is Allyson and Morgan did not have music in their GENES...there's lots of MUSIC in this combined family!!
So, we come to the end of the five weeks...with MOrgan and me being on board HERE for the last part. I packed up the "hotel house" this afternoon while Kristin and Ally were having their LUNCH and Morgan was playing with her webkinz...yes, 11 in all!! Today's latest webkinz is a MONKEY named "MoMo"....HE is adopted and has a banana sofabed and some delicious monkey food. Now that MORGAN has 11 "children" to care for she is realizing how difficult a job it is to be a PARENT. (could this spillover be a good thing???) Morgan is about to call her friend, Ashlynn, in Texas, and discuss the CARE of MANY children for she knows that she, too, has many responsibilities with her webkinz.
We load up the car in the morning after Kristin feeds Allyson in the hotel before traveling. We are hoping for little traffic and no glitches with the feeding tomorrow during the travel day. Since Kristin is about to be traveling a lot, it is her goal to make it work "no matter where she is"....
And, again, on top of Kristin's thanks...I KNOW how much your cards, notes, emails, phone calls, and LOVE and SUPPORT have meant to her ESPECIALLY during this past month +....and I am hopeful that once Mark is "home again" he will be readily "trained" so that Kristin can have an occasional "break" from the intense routine. Never take for granted the ability to 'just eat'....there is a LEARNED SkILL involved and practice does make PERFECT!!!
Morgan is still relishing in her "dream come true" trip to GREAT AMERICA yesterday...a fabulous amusement park and water park all combined. WE pretty much "did it all" in a DAY and were no worse off for "wear" and tear on the bods....Morgan loved the water park, and she flew an American Eagle exclaiming that she was a pilot just like Geep! We hugged on SpongeBob and met many other Nick characters during the day all with outreached arms for Morgan hugs!
Looking forward "getting home" to Kristin's tomorrow and reuniting with the Pacific Cove Drive crowd, and Connie, especially, who has called Kristin two/three times weekly to check on her "baby Allyson"....Connie is the wonderful surrogate grandmother/nurse who cares for Ally in CA and lives down the street! She's become "family" over these past months...!!
Still praying for John Mc, and thinking of you all tonight. Happy Friday from Silicon Valley. (makes me so glad to live in Northern VA! I saw "yahoo" and "google" and I waved HELLO!!)
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, July 27, 2007 9:10 PM CDT
Hi guys,
I'm in port right now in Hong Kong. We are staying at a hotel right above the Hong Kong Expo center that is very nice. We have a club room, which means free internet on the club level. As I type this I am on the 42nd floor overlooking Hong Kong harbor and Victoria Peak. Quite spectacular. I just wanted to say thanks to everyone for all the support you have given uor family while Kristin has tackled the feeding clinic. I fell blessed to have such an awesome wife and kids and to have a support group like everyone reading this. I'm VERY MUCH looking forward to getting home. I've been gone for about 190 days right now and it feels like a few years. Thanks for those of you who sent out birthday cards and presents! I worked all day and flew on my birthday, so it wasn't a day off, but I amde the best of it.
Love you guys!
Mark <mark.kelso@cvw9.navy.mil>
Hong Kong, ?? China SAR - Friday, July 27, 2007 9:08 PM CDT
There will be a "Kristin update" tonight. Honest, there will be.
I'm busily PACKING UP THE HOTEL from FIVE weeks of "living"....hope that TELLS YOU SOMETHING! (foreshadowing???!!)
WHEW!!!
More later,
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, July 27, 2007 6:48 PM CDT
Teetay - thanks for the update! I was wondering if today would be their last day at the clinic......
Kristin and Ally - I am so proud of you both!!!! Happy Graduation! A "celebratory" "love gift" (as Teetay put it) is on the way :):):)
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Friday, July 27, 2007 10:54 AM CDT
Good Morning from Silicon Valley!
Morgan and I are planning to spend the day at the GREAT ADVENTURE PARK/amusement and water park today! It is in Santa Clara about 20 minutes away from Los Altos! We have our backpack "stuffed" with our NEEDS for the day including a few peanut butter/jelly sandwiches "just in case" our tummies need a SNACK! Kristin will drive us after the morning feeding at the clinic since we are using ONE car!
Yesterday was a good day "overall"...Kristin felt pretty good last night at the amount of food/calories Allyson took in yesterday and the "drink" afterwards. After dinner last night she enthusiastically sipped apple juice...her "best drink" to date! So, apple juice it may be for awhile! She's getting plenty of MILK (Resource) in her feedings, so the juice is fine for hydration. Allyson slept well last night!
While Ally and Kristin were at dinner, Morgan and I found a little Mexican Restaurant in Los Altos called "Maragaritaville" (no KIN to Jimmy Buffet) and we had dinner there and I got Kristin a delicious Mexican "take out" meal for her to have back at the hotel! It was a cool, lovely evening and just fun to sit outside and EAT!. (The margarita wasn't "bad" either!!!)
Tomorrow is the final day of the clinic and I am sure Kristin will write a "major update" as Allyson's graduation "date" approaches! IT is going to be a very time-sensitive feeding schedule for Allyson for SOME time to make it CONTINUE TO WORK. There can't be an "chances" for "relapsing" into the old methods, so Kristin will be sculpting out an HOUR + THREE times a day to feed Allyson in solitude without distractions as that is how it has worked the best. There is a certain structure/routine to each feeding, and even Allyson "knows" when it is TIME to "change her shirt" for the next part of her feeding! The timing and the amount of food (which KRistin will be making each day with the appropriate amount of calories in it) is the significant part of the routine and it will continue to be that way until Allyson's tongue, brain, body, and "hunger" all fall into "place" naturally. I am so very proud of Kristin's tenacity as this has been tedious, stressful, difficult even on the GOOD DAYS and VERY, very time consuming. Hopefully, down the road, the "timing" will be quicker, but the important thing is to have Allyson ingest and digest her food and gain weight appropriately while being hydrated also appropriately. Lots of "parts" of the puzzle to fit into place THREE times a day again and again. I so admire Kristin's role in this as SHE will be the ONE to make this continue to happen. No one else can "help" with this process 'yet'....hopefully, "down the road" that may be true. ANd, of course, there are a few other things on Kristin's plate...like "selling a house"...and "buying a house" and another CROSS COUNTRY TRIP to Northern VA in the works to get all of this done! She's juggling lots of balls right now, and we will do all we can to help her "keep them in the air" or "land them in the right spots" without producing more stress.
BIg news from Morgan! She has a permanent tooth visibly pushing on a baby tooth! She is SO excited to think that she might have a new tooth in TIME for first grade /and or/ her Daddy's homecoming! We can SEE the NEW tooth behind the baby one...such excitement!!! If you can recall losing your first tooth, you can identify with this bit of info...if you cannot recall it, just be happy for her anyway!!! :)
Prayers continue for little John McQuay as he continues to recover in Indiana. He's had a tough, tough summer and we wish him all positive news as he approaches entering KINDERGARTEN soon!
Thinking of you all...missing you, and hoping to be in touch in PERSON when I'm "back" into my "normal routine"...(what is normal??? ha???)
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
And, if you are in Wegman's drop by to see GEEP (Jerry) in his new role as "demonstration cooking coach" for Wegman's...he will be demonstrating cooking different dishes each and everyday from now on. The man is "in heaven"...this is his "dream of being Emeril" come true!!! YAY for Geep!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Thursday, July 26, 2007 12:22 AM CDT
Since I just now read the update, (I have the guestbook bookmarked, not the main page), Happy Birthday to Mark. Hope your homecoming's a great one! Great photo of the three of you too and the others of the girls as well. Ally is getting so tall. And that hair. She is adorable as always.
I've been in touch with a gal named Ashley (like I'd mentioned) and I think she'll be visiting your website soon. Met her through an adult with EEC (Heather- a long time friend), and I believe she has some questions regarding surgeries, etc. So I'm sure you'll be able to help her out in this area as well. More to follow on that later.
Hope the house hunting goes well for all of you. I can imagine that you folks are super excited to be moving to such a great area and near family. That is such wonderful news.
We begin the house hunting process this fall.
Cat <catpotter2001@gimail.af.mil>
The Great North!, USA USA - Wednesday, July 25, 2007 7:29 PM CDT
In the midst of a huge mil competition here this week. Busy busy. Anyways, have connected with a new mom of a chidl with EEC from the south somewhere. Sending her to this website. :)
Cat <catpotter2001@gimail.af.mil>
great north, US USA - Wednesday, July 25, 2007 2:46 PM CDT
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Mark!!
(and twin brother, Glenn, too!)
I hope your birthday is the BEST 36th "birthday" you've ever had!!! Safe sailing HOME to you, Mark...and we cannot wait to give you big hugs and birthday wishes in person!!! ENJOY your next "port" and we will continue to think of you and pray for you each day.
We love you,
Teetay and TAZ :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Wednesday, July 25, 2007 10:25 AM CDT
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hurry home, safe and sound. Your girls miss you!!!!!!!!!!!!
Happy mid-week 5 to K&A&T&M. You are in the home stretch!
xoxoxoxoxox
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, July 25, 2007 8:56 AM CDT
Greetings from DAY 2 of WEEK 5!
This morning's breakfast was excellent according to Kristin's report when Morgan and I picked her and Allyson up at the clinic once she was finished. One of the "differences" could have been that Allyson actually woke up at 7 A.M. this morning and had time to run around/play/etc. before going to the clinic. Every other morning, Allyson has been "awakened" and "put in the car" to "go to the clinic" to "eat her breakfast"....SO....her hour "plus" of TIME to play this morning could have helped the breakfast go smoothly! However, she was "also tired" during the feeding, but it still went well. Yesterday, Kristin and Ben decided to "ditch the happy music" that they had been playing while Allyson ATE since she was SO BUSY SINGING that the food, and drink especially, was FALLING OUT OF HER MOUTH! So, "Splish/Splash I'm Taking a BATH" has now been removed and the room is quiet except for the words of Kristin: "Take a bite! Good job!" Sometimes she kids Morgan and will get mixed up and SAY:'' "Good bite! Take a job!" We crack up. Allyson just stares at us. I do not think she finds humor in that at all!
As KRistin said, even though Allyson could not SEE us during her feedings, we did arrive THREE different meals WITH her...and then she had to go into the "eating area" and "leave us in the play area" and it just didn't seem right to her! So, we are NO LONGER going to the clinic, but exploring on our own while Ally and KRistin do their WORK! We are trying to keep things the SAME as much as possible for their routine to continue to go smoothly!
And, as it has been said by so many of you who have written, called, sent literally TONS of cards/wishes to Kristin and Allyson....YES, KRistin ROCKS! She is "tired" and "wants this part to be over" but she also wants "this part" to be AS RIGHT AS IT CAN BE before going home. This has been a LONG haul for her "alone"...and I'm glad that now that we are here we can add a little levity and LOTS MORE LOVE for her and Allyson as they continue. Last night KRistin said she was "glad that I was here to cook her dinner" (on the little two burner stove) and "just hang out at night" even though after BATHS, GAMES, STORIES, and dinner, there isn't much "night" left! I slept with Allyson in the BIG BED last night, and that gave KRistin a "break" from being Allyson's HUMAN PILLOW. She slept on the hideabed with Morgan who is much "calmer" in her sleep. BUT, Allyson did not wake up last night but once, and when she did, I handed her a cup of water, she took sips, and her head was back on the pillow. I do not even think she knew it was me!!! YAY!!! SLEEP IS GOOD! (and is NOT overrated when you need it!)
We did some "touring of downtown Los Altos" this morning...and oddly enough, the "town part" reminded me of Naperville, IL where my good friends live. Lots of restaurants, shops, book stores, and unique little spots. The girls seemed to enjoy the "KID SHOPS" (and we even got Thomas a little gift...shhhhh..don't let him know!) and our lunch! Allyson "nibbled" on crunchy grilled cheese, but that is RECREATIONAL eating only. She has now returned to the clinic for her "real lunch" and Morgan and I are 'resting up' in preparation for the HOT TUB later this afternoon!
I met the "mom" from Herndon, VA this morning...she brought Kristin some of her leftover "food" as they are leaving tomorrow. She, too, has been here for over four weeks. They had plane reservations scheduled, so they are "having to leave" even though they were not quite "finished"....the food she brought was GREAT...and did I see a bottle of wine??? Hmmmmmm>.....??!!!
Again and again, I wnat to thank each of you (you know who you are) for the CARDS and LOVE GIFTS you've sent Kristin to this hotel....the caring and support has helped her more than you will ever know. This is a very solitary journey as "no one can help feed Allyson" until she and Kristin have mastered "their own steps"....and each day improves some aspect of this process. We have to understand that it is a process of modifying behavior on everyone's part. Thank you for "getting it" and for being part of our lives both in person, and through this website.
Thinking of you all with love,
And certainly NOT LAST in my wishes....but a GREAT BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Mark (and Glenn, too) TOMORROW....Mark, yes, you will definitely be proud of all "your girls" but in the biggest sense of the word...YES, Kristin is your hero!!! Hurry home and we cannot wait to SEE you on the other side of the big pond! Your gift will be waiting in your backyard!!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Tuesday, July 24, 2007 4:09 PM CDT
Hi, everyone! A special HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU, MARK AND GLENN! HOPE YOUR DAYS ARE EXTRA SPECIAL, LIKE YOU GUYS!
SO HAPPY HAPPY DAY FROM THE ATLANTA GANG!
Kristin, it was good to read yours and Teetays latest reports today, and I am sure that when you leave the clinic, you and Allyson will have mastered an event that very few of us will ever know the difficulty of! I am so proud of you BOTH, and we continue to pray for success at every turn! Your latest picture was beautiful ... those "grandmother smiles" wowser! :)
We've been plugging along doing what folks do after a death in the family. We are looking forward to a break this weekend when we go to Savannah. Loren's invited back to preach every July at First Presbyterian, and we look forward to renewing old friendships once again. They're a great bunch of folks! We're all doing OK here -- Loren's rotator cuff injury still bothers him a bit, but we hope it is slowly healing. Leslie has hurt her left knee and is on medical leave -- the results of her MRI will be in tomorrow - so we'll see what kind of "fix" she'll have to go through. Taylor Grant had a fantastic time with his People to People Ambassador travels in Europe. He was blessed by the experience in a number of ways -- we've not yet had the "blow by blow" of all he did and all he saw -- next week when we get back is the time! He's still trying to get his sleep rhythm back to EST. We send all of you our love! Hugs, Auntie D/Aunt Grammy
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Tuesday, July 24, 2007 2:30 PM CDT
Greetings from the Outer Banks! While TG, Thomas and I are enjoying our first official family vacation beach trip with my best friends, I am thinking of you and all the hard work at hand at the feeding clinic. BEST of all is that you're in the home stretch and you're surrounded by the love of BOTH of your "big" girls, Kristin, and Teetay too! SO great to see all the happy faces on the web site - love you all SOOOO MUCH!
Can't wait to see you soon - and talk to you later of course :) I am cheering for continued success and progress in these final days. YOU CAN DO IT!!!I love you!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
currently... Nags Head, NC - Tuesday, July 24, 2007 6:18 AM CDT
Kristin - plain and simple - YOU ROCK! I think your Olympic event will be "sprinter." I am hoping and praying that Ben will "release" you by mid-week!!!!!!!
I bet it was wonderful to see your biggest girl this weekend. I am sure she missed you tons!
Keep up the good work this week! I love and miss you!
Aims <it'shotinthemidwest@90+allweek.com>
EP, MN - Monday, July 23, 2007 10:39 AM CDT
Hi from CA-side!
AFter 24 hours in CA and "three" observations of Kristin FEEDING Allyson, she deserves MORE than OLYMPIC GOLD!!! It is a tedious, and sometimes "hard to watch process" but BOTH girls are doing well. There is still resistance on Allyson's part with her mom, and she had gotten over that with "BEN" during the three weeks he fed her. HOWEVER, Kristin said that 'last weekend' when she fed Allyson "solo" that she was not resisting on the second day. I am CONFIDENT that Kristin will be able to continue this regime once we leave the clinic. According to Ben's theory, the timing of the food intake should be fast. While I understand the "mentality" of having Allyson's stomach full within a short period of time, I also know that in the REAL world of Allyson, that to have food GO IN AND STAY IN is so important that a "few minutes of timing" can fall into place. I cannot tell you how proud I am of Kristin as it would just be redundant, but she is, once a-gin....showing her amazing colors of courage and persistence, and GREAT patience with this process.
Morgan and I traveled for over 10 hours "body time" to get to "Do you know the way to San Jose?"....and the reunion with MOM and Ally was FABULOUS!!! She finally got to RUN to her mother in an airport, so that "event" is not any longer reserved for Teetay and Geep!!! She ran FAST and grabbed MOM and Ally so tight. My eyes watered at their "moment" ...and Kristin's did, too.
Yesterday afternoon/night was spent, of course, at the feeding clinic...then eating dinner at our hotel in some form of "shifts"....YOU SEE, when Allyson returns from her day of "Boot Camp Eating" she is COVERED in "whatever the mix of the day has been"....it is NOT backwards...it is "forward" as it has to BE for Allyson to accept the "regime" and the "conditioning" of where her TONGUE is placed and "how" the food goes in. (I'm learned a lot in just three sessions! - and Krisitn has a PHD in "feeding"...)
If anyone is wondering what Morgan and I do while Krisitn is feeding Allyson..this is the story of THAT...we are in a waiting room...nicely appointed with toys and a TV monitor so we can WATCH every minute of the process....and Morgan and I play VOLLEYBALL>..YES! You heard it CORRECTLY! WE PLAY VOLLEYBALL with a purple rubber ball...Morgan now uses "two hands" for her "volley"...and we do it for the entire TIME that Ally is eating. I WATCH the screen...Morgan "interrupts" me to "watch the ball"...and I continue to "hit it to her" WHILE watching the screen. It has only been ONE day, but that is what we do.
Ben told Kristin tonight that he is "almost ready to release her by midweek"....she is not sure she's READY, but I think she is. (mothers know 'stuff')...At any rate, we're hanging "in here" in Larkspur Landing....Allyson is asleep in the KINGSIZED BED in the BEDROOM right now...Morgan is cuddled up with the "World's BEST Mom" blanket...Kristin is eating dinner on the computer desk, and I am WRITING on Ally's website.
ALL SO NORMAL.
If you want "more info" I guess you will have to read Kristin's journal update later today/tomorrow//????
Thinking of you all..and wishing John McQuay 4 a continued GOOD recovery. HE IS HOME now and doing "OKAY" although he is isolated. Let's just hope and pray that Sarah "dodged the bullet" on any harm being done to the baby she is carrying...a BOY, by the way!
Thank you good friends and family for caring about us...that is what keeps this ball rolling...!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Sunday, July 22, 2007 11:10 PM CDT
And to AUNT Ashli...you ROCK as a sister, daughter, friend and super super super SUPPORTER of Allyson and the whole FAMILY. Steven Woodzell said it "best'...
If Allyson had even been bornto a friend of YOURS, you would be doing the same supportive thing...
WE aRE fortunate to have YOU , Ashli, Aunt Ashli in this giving, caring family of friends and family.
Let's all ROCK together.
Love and a happy "nap" goodnight,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Friday, July 20, 2007 10:07 PM CDT
You're going for OLYMPIC GOLD, right Kristin!??!? SOOOOOOOOOO proud of you and love hearing the details (and trials and tribulations!) of this adventure with Ally. It's amazing and outstanding, the progress you have made thus far and I know it will continue. You have incerdible patience and you are my hero!!! You never whine, never complain and you never really tell the whole story of how HARD this all is.... you are a rock star and I am your biggest fan :) Well, you probably have a few others out there - duh ;)
Keep plugging away and know that I am cheering for you and Ally, gold medals and more A+++ marks as you wrap up this week. Then the REAL work begins as you go SOLO in the coming weeks -- we'll stay out of your way as you feed Ally in private and stick to her routine that has worked so well in recent weeks. You can do it!
It has been wonderful and super special to have Morgan so close by these last few weeks. We had a ton of fun and wrapped up this week with our Philly nieces and nephews in town too -- what joy it was to see everyone together again after nearly a year! Morgan is one super-special niece and truly spunky, precious and sweet. And thanks to her and all those Webkinz, I am now addicted to playing the games online to accumulate KinzCash for her!! AARRRGGHHH! What did I start?!? eerrrrr :))
I cannot WAIT to see Kristin and Ally in a couple of weeks and wrap my arms around them and give huge high fives all around -- you girls are quite a team! See you SOON!!!!
Happy travels to Teetay and Morgan as they get on their airplanes tomorrow! Love you all lots!!!!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, July 20, 2007 9:14 PM CDT
Hello everyone on the EVE of "our trek BACK to CA"....
We did WATER PARK ..."serious WATER PARK" today...and Morgan did slides and jumps and her head was under and I think she did the "crashed canoe slide" about 100 times! 'Met a boy named Jonathan (not to be confused with her California-Johnnie) and they played and played on the FROG slide! He was slightly OLDER than Morgan, but she 'became the leader' of the games! Is anyone surprised??? She does not met a stranger usually...every now and then she gets that "shy girl" going-on, but mostly it is the "six year old with the twelve year old personality"....such fun!
Then, AFTER the WATER PARK (and Geep was with us on this "last special day")...we met Aunt Ashli and THOMAS for Cotton Candy ice cream half way between our house and Ashli's....sometimes ya just gotta do the traffic to see one another, right??? WE said our "goodbyes" to Thomas for ten days...and Morgan told him, "I'll see you soon, BIG boy"...that IS WHAT SHE CALLS HIM!
Then, we had a "stop" at a HALLMARK shop to get a couple of gifts...and of course, THEY SELL WEBKINZ...so guess what? YES< another WEBKINZ! Morgan has an entire family now...and this last one is a "tiny little poodle named Mitzi"...I in NO WAY influenced that name! (Honest, I did not) We got a little "webkinz" for Ally (shhhh...don't tell her)...and Morgan is going to SHOW her mommie and Ally "how to adopt" using the computer. What fun this has been all summer since Aunt Ashli gave her the first one..a.nd the Crandells continued the "adoption process" and we are all into it. The Philly cousins all have webkinz and EVERYONE can TALK to one another!! It's a big, big deal folks...IF you do not know what I'm talking about, just click on the website for "webkinz.com"...and YOU, too, will KNOW the "world" of webkinz!
Finally...home again..(we were all packed up this morning...Teetay "planning"...as I knew it would be a GREAT day!)...and Morgan played with Claire "briefly" before having her supper and watching.."drum roll"...the Shrek ONe MOVIE! (even though she's seen it a zillion times..it was on REAL TV and somehow that made it special) ...so we had Friday "movie night" with popcorn and "all the lights out"....and she loved it.
The sleeping princess knows she must be up at O-dark-thirty and before the sun comes up, but she was in BED by 8, so perhaps, it won't be too painful!
So, there's out wrapup....we've had big times and we expect to have more...Morgan is dyingn to "take her mother" to the water park and asked her this afternoon on one of our 'chats' "if California had water parks"....
HAS THIS ChILD BEEN DEPRIVED OF WATER PARKS IN CA??? Of course not!!! :)
WE have filled up TWO albums of "summer pictures" for Mommie and Daddy to see of "what Morgan's been up to" for four weeks...thanks to DANI for the first album...and then I added a second one! Morgan has helped with some of the "captions" and she is hysterical in explaining her "stuff"....one album is "captionless" because TEETAY just plain RAN OUT OF TIME. (who knew??)
We are ready to see Kristin and Allyson tomorrow afternoon and Morgan cannot WAIT to RUN TO HER MOther iN THE AIRPORT>.."that" is usually her routine when she comes to VA and we pick her up, but tomorrow she can RUN to MOMMIE bigtime. I know there will be happy "girl faces"....maybe you will even see one of the pictures of their "reunion faces" on this website.
Geep and I said tonight after Morgan was down to bed that we were so very proud of her..(and a little bit of "us") that Morgan has had a flawless MONTH....there has not been one "cross or irritable word" and she's been loved, and involved, and had friends over to play and she went places and did things and had some amazing new experiences...all in all...I know Kristin was 'never worried' but it has been a GREAT MONTH with her and we are so very happy that we could be part of it. Morgan will probably be "telling her Virginia stories" way into the FALL even before she moves here!!!
I am so very proud of Kristin and Allyson and their hard work at the clinic. And, I can only hope that when we arrive tomorrow in Sunnyvale (San Jose area) and put our arms around one another that Kristin will feel some "comfort" that she is "not by herself" anymore.
And...August first..BACK to Virginia for HOUSE HUNTING trip!! YAHOOOO!! It doesn't get any better than this...right???
Thank you all for your love and support for Allyson and your continued interest in her journey. THAT little girl is going to look back on "all of this" and just SMILE the biggest smile...she is so loved by so many. Thank you for being part of "her" and "us"....we feel your love and we send it right back.
Love to all..and I'll see you from the left coast. :)
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Friday, July 20, 2007 8:05 PM CDT
Hall of Fame girl? Is anyone surprised??? Those of you who have known Kristin for "most of her life" know that she has always been an overachiever....a "trait" that I am certain she also PASSED ALOng TO HER "LITTLE SISTER" - Ashli!! Great to hear the news and to understand the whole "procedure" and "process" involved in the feeding. It is NOT JUST SHOVELING IN FOOD, FOLKS! My pride in you grows with every single day/update/and news of what you and Allyson (and Ben) are accomplishing together!
It was great talking with you en route HOME tonight after one of our BIG Smithsonian Museum outings with the Philly cousins! They are here for ONE more day, so that, too, promises to be a fun day...probably just swimming pool/pizza etc. before they have to return to Philly. It has been fun reuniting with them...that Morgan and Jessica are "two peas in a pod"....and at one point today, Morgan and I both "took a sip" of Geo's "Italian icey"....and he WIPED OFF THE MORGAN GERMS, but mine got to stay. So funny...didn't phase her one bit...she just shrugged it off...and said, "Oh well...!" BOYS!! Right??? Anyway, we've enjoyed our time with the "kids" getting together and today was especially fun seeing/touring all over DC with our VERY TIRED LEGS by the end of the day. When we asked each of them their "favorite" part, they said..."The ice cream and the carousel." (Monuments will come later!)
Morgan also had a special "play afternoon and evening" at the Curiousity Shop with Beth and her family yesterday afternoon and evening. They got home "late" (and Beth even called Kristin to tell her! ) and had a ball learning about the ocean and volcanoes and eating dinner together, getting Cotton Candy ice cream, and chomping on bubblicous gum!!! What a fun time and Morgan, Katherine, and Matthew had talking to Kristin on the phone in CALIFORNIA telling her why they were "so late"....it was great AS ALWAYS to spend time with BETH. And to think....there will be lots more opportunities in the near future when Kristin and Mark and kiddos are BACK in the area!!
Thomas was a trooper today in his stroller withstanding the 90 degrees of DC "heat"...well, it is JULY??? Right???
We have fun things planned for the final two days...and we leave for CA Saturday...we still do not know if we fly into LAX and get another flight to San Jose to "meet up with Allyson and her Mom"....or if we drive HOME and wait for them. If they are to linger at the clinic until mid week, we will surely go there. It will be fun to "see the surroundings" of Kristin's "home away from home" for these past weeks.
I know there will be miles of smiles on everyone's faces when that REUNION occurs!!!
Much, much praise to YOU, Kristin...and "safe sailing home to Mark" (who is in port right now en route)....and Mark, I know you've said this many times, but I want to say it, too..."Kristin in my hero." And, I know you agree!!!
We're sending a few more little movies tonight to both of you! Happy "viewing" of your big girl!!!
Love to all...and please, please put John McQuay's name on your lips tonight when you pray. He is a sick little boy and needs our help in prayer.
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:59 PM CDT
Hi HALL OF FAMER!!! Not shocking, of course! :) You've been #1 in my book for a LONG time, Kristin!
Chat tomorrow... I miss you! Counting the days until we see you in early August.
Busy here with the Philly gang in town but having a blast!!
Keep up the good work and I am praying for speedy progress -- you girls can do it!!
Lots of love and hugs......... xoxoxo
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, July 18, 2007 6:53 PM CDT
Hello to Kristin and Allyson,
I am so happy for the progress you have made and all that you have learned. It is amazing that a process that we take for granted is so complex. You have been fantastic in learning this and doing it without anyone around to support you. All of your outings together and effort to be so active in a strange place are impressive. I know this is a big step in Allyson's life and will allow her to continue to make great strides. She is advancing so much with her cute animal sounds and new words. What a joy to behold! Thanks for sharing it all in such detail and with such love.
It has been equally joyful to be with Morgan and see her enjoy life in Virginia. I think she will adjust very well after moving here. Looking forward to having the whole Kelso family nearby. Remember, I live on the edge of Burke, so if you find a house near here, I'll be ready to babysit!
Take care as you finish the feeding clinic and return home for your move.
Love, Theresa
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Wednesday, July 18, 2007 6:21 PM CDT
Hi Kristin and Allyson, congrats on your excellent progress. You both look GREAT. Ally's such a little doll.
To this day i still have chewing and swallowing issues, my throat kinda closes for a sec. or so'then it's o.k.and the food HAS to be wet or it doesn't go down, and it takes me a long time to get through a meal so the slow eating is part of this syndrome i think.
You're an inspiration to me.God love ya.
Bye for now, Norma
Norma MacDonald <normadirt@eastlink.ca>
Canada - Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:10 AM CDT
Woo Hoo!!! HALL OF FAME STATUS - I love it!
xoxoxoxoxox
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, July 18, 2007 10:26 AM CDT
Hi Kristin and Allyson, I just read and read and got caught up. Kristin, I am so proud of you -- you have got such a great heart and spirit and I know this has been a difficult time for you. We keep praying that it will soon be over, Allyson will be eating a self-sustaining amount of food and on her way to her next challenge. We love you ALL, and pray for you every day! Keep up the good work! And as they said over and over in the Vietnam era "keep the faith, Baby!" Kisses, squeezes & Hugs and Love to you both! Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, g usa - Tuesday, July 17, 2007 7:04 PM CDT
UGH! My thought and prayers are with little John!!! (and of course with Dale and her family too!)
Nice portrait, K!!! Love the new pics of Ally and her jewels too.
xoxoxoxo
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Tuesday, July 17, 2007 3:09 PM CDT
Hello everyone,
Some bad news from Sarah about Little John McQuay...he is back in the hospital and is diagnosed this timem with VIRAL mennigitis. He is a very sick boy and of course he is very contagious. Sarah has been constantly by his side for weeks now, so there is some danger that her unborn baby could be affected by the mennigitis. They need all of your prayers ...so please help us "storm heaven" for John and the entire family.
And, continued thoughts and our sympathy goes to Loren, Dale (Aunt Grammy and Uncle Poppy) in Georgia as they say their final goodbyes to Vera, Loren's mother. All the family has gathered for her send-off to be another of God's angels.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Tuesday, July 17, 2007 11:05 AM CDT
Dear Kristin - it's truly amazing to read all of the progress you and Allyson are making - what a team. Loved the video your mom sent of the Allyson animal sounds - she's a beautiful, smart, happy little girl. You should be so proud of yourself as I'm sure that this has not been easy and if you didn't have patience prior to the Feeding Clinic you now have a new understanding of that and many other things. You make your family proud Kristin, keep up the positive attitude, you are truly amazing. And how about some shout outs for Teetay, Geep, Tom, Ashli and Thomas for the wonderful "Morgan Moments". Moments that they wouldn't trade for anything. Isn't it amazing how these little ones adapt to new things? That's the love and support of family at work for sure. And now on to a big CA reunion, house hunting and Mark's arrival stateside. All good things in time.
All the best Kristin - thinking and praying for all of you daily.
Nancy Zembal
Nancy Zembal <nezembal@comcast.net>
Brooklyn Center, MN USA - Tuesday, July 17, 2007 6:46 AM CDT
Kristin and Ally ---- WAY TO GO!!!! I do believe you sell yourself way short as a parent Kristin! It sounds to me like you did awesome without any training. As I've been keeping up with everything through this website, I am completely amazed at your persistence, determination, focus, and absolute model parenting! As we've experienced the EEC journey ourselves (and are fully aware ours has not had the intensity yours has), we know there are constant obstacles that seem "new". You have handled each of the obstacles like a pro, not often letting on that it may be an obstacle. You are the absolute best Ally could ever ask for, and I'm confident that she knows that. Morgan is pretty lucky to have you too! I'm very proud of you! As people have often told me, "God will never give us more than we can handle." Well, you've proven that. Sometimes I wonder for myself, but you are a true shining star. Keep it up!
As the conference creeps closer and closer, I continually pray that it will work out for us to at least see you, Ally, Morgan, and of course Teetay! We've been looking forward to coming to your territory and seeing your world. I'll continue to pray that some kind of connection will work. As we said last year, "It seems we've known each other forever and it was destiny for our paths to cross." The past year has seemed like a long time to wait to be able to see each other again, so I have to believe that in some way it will happen next week. If not, I guess the next year will pass and we'll have the opportunity again.
As a closing, keep up the amazing progress! Again, I can't even fathom the intensity and the work you are going through every day. Not everyone would be able to withstand it but you are passing with flying colors. All your hard work and dedication will pay off in the end. I'm so happy for you and Ally and the rest of your family. I'll continue to look forward to reading the updates daily and taking it all in.
See (or at least talk) to you in California in a week! Good luck until then. We'll keep praying for continued progress and the end success!
DeAnn, Chris, Ryan & Tyler (the red light/green light boys), and Andrew <cdrthux@mtelco.net>
Moundridge, KS USA - Monday, July 16, 2007 10:14 PM CDT
And just to mention that I love, love, love the Allyson "dancing" video...
She is a real "rock and roll girl"...gee, it must come with the "territory"...or GENES?? Right??
Loving you all tonight...
Putting Morgan "to bed" tonight was very special. She talked a whole lot about "her best friend, Allyson" and how she wants her to be able to EAT right...what a dear statement. She PRAYED for her. And, then, she prayed for "Andrew" ...a boy at her school who needs a whole lot of "help Teetay"...and she told me that she taught him to be "nice andpolite" and say "please and thank you" and that is was HARD HaRD HARD being a "parent"..
I ASSURED her that she was CORRECT CORRECT CORRECT....whew.
I love these "bedtime talks"...and I know I had them with my own children...but , gee. .... I do not recall the "heaviness" of the TALKS. Maybe Kristin does..she remembers EVERYTHING as Ashli is always saying.
OKAY...off to some late night tV and tomorrow is another day...
Lots of fun and play today..and ball, and sccotering, and friends galore....Morgan told her MOTHER that "you are going to like living in VA"...(well, er uh DUH??? HER mother did live in VA!) ha...
Thinking of you all tonight.
Probably "not" going to write a Morgan "update" tonight to Kristin and Mark.."this" is the "it"..
Love you all..and we are ever, ever, SO proud of Kristin and Allyson..and we will SEE YOU SAT. "somewhere" around the SILICON VALLEY!!!
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va u - Monday, July 16, 2007 8:50 PM CDT
I forgot to mention this earlier... I LOVE the Hello Kitty barette, Ally! How stylin' you are, beautiful girl!!!
:)
xoxox
Aunt Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, July 16, 2007 2:56 PM CDT
Hello cyber friends in Ally land!
Kristin, it was WONDERFUL to talk to you on Saturday! I can tell you (as your best friend ++) that you are being WAY TO HARD on your grading!!!!!!! I am pretty sure that since Ally's livlihood depends on her eating and breathing (DUH) that is justification enough to start out with a C being the lowest grade you could possibly get. With that being said, you achieved a BIG A++++++! I am so proud of your efforts, always pushing to do it better! I am in awe of you and your daily "work" and I am even more proud to call you my friend!
It is about time you treated yourself and your dinner sounds yummy! Another "treat" should be arriving in the mail any day now so be on the lookout for it. Just my way of making sure you know I am there for you even if it means being "there" from Minnesota.
Ally - I could just eat you up! Look at how cute and sassy you are! And your hair is getting much fuller too! Pretty soon mommy can help you french braid it like she did for so many Oakton band girls - hee hee!
Good luck in Week 4 - I know you will master your training and your eating and your playing and your sleeping because that is just what you girls do!
GREAT BIG GIANT ENORMOUS HUGS AND KISSES!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Monday, July 16, 2007 11:49 AM CDT
Happy Week no. 4!!
YAY/HOORAY for Kristin "going solo" this weekend with such great success!! I do not think you actually got a "C" on anything, for that is AVERAGE and you are NOT AVERAGE in anyway!!! So, let's just assume that you were being GRADED on a "curve" and your success is even greater! But just think...even with the "additional time" it took to get all those calories into Allyson, they WENT IN and STAYED IN!!! A few weeks ago, Allyson would "eat for 50 minutes" and only consume a few bites/calories! SO, pat yourself on the BACK and know that we are so proud of you both!!! YOU DO ROCK!!! Everyone who reads this website knows that! So many folks have been calling me and exclaiming how very proud they are of your efforts, your focus, and your patience with this process! I call them teh "I get it" friends!!!
I am so glad that you had a little "festival time" with Allyson ...and that photo of her and "Hello Kitty" clip in her hair is precious! Morgan loved the "Ally animal sounds movie" this morning and we watched it over and over...we even watched it BACKWARDS...it's even "cuter" backwards!!! HA!
It was good talking to you at the end of "our day" yesterday....so glad you got Morgan "all excited" just before bedtime! (ha again) She was actually so pooped that she was asleep almost before her prayers were finished.
Sad "fish news"...FLIK has gone to Nemo heaven with his brothers and sisters...we only have Dot left now. Morgan just "sighed" when I told her this morning. WE may replace FLIK, but we may wait until we get back from CA in August to start over on a friend for Dot. Geep knows he will have the responsibility of DOT while we are in CA...Morgan has "trained" him on HOW TO FEED DOT...so you see, "everyone" is getting TRAINING on FEEDING, right??
I hope everyone has a great week and I am sending positive vibes and my best thoughts to Kristin and Allyson as they continue their hard work with Ben. And, Morgan and I are looking forward to seeing you this weekend....either at "home" or in Los Altos....whichever place you decide we should come FIRST!! It will be a GRAND REUNION of hugs and love!!! And, as Morgan says to me numerous times a day: "Teetay, I just need some love....!" (and there's always plenty of that to go around )
Off to our final week of swim lessons ....Morgan has become the UNDERWATER SWIMMING QUEEN....LOVES TOUCHING THE BOTTOM OF THE POOL WITH HER STOMACH!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Monday, July 16, 2007 7:02 AM CDT
Oh Kristin! Always challenging yourself to do better and better... WELL, I GIVE YOU AN A+++ FOR YOUR WEEKEND'S EFFORTS! Way to go, you "un" tranined (ha!) feeding mommy! Sounds like a successful weekend with many yummy calories consumed by all! You deserve the steak treat for sure, and Ally gets her mac n cheese, too! Yay! :)
Your updates, emails and our chats convey that this is not a walk in the park or just a stroll through a wine festival... you are working your butt off and I cannot even imagine the stress of it all and the amazing amount of patience it takes on your part. You ROCK!! I can't say it enough. Hang in there and keep focusing and pushing forward this week #4 -- there is light at the end of the tunnel and I hope and pray that things will continue to go smoothly this week, that you get your formal training in, and that this all continues once you are away from the clinic. I know consistency and routine are key and I am sure you and Ally can DO IT! :)))
And the GREAT news is... you'll see your other little girl VERY SOON - MORGAN!!! And TEETAY! I know it will be womderful to see those faces and put your arms around them next week.
Thinking of you ALLLLL the time and admiring you, being proud and loving you and Ally lots! xoxoxo!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, July 16, 2007 6:42 AM CDT
Hi again everyone,
Just a quickie update on John McQuay....I did hear from his mom and he is home in INdiana and is OUT of the hopsital recuperating at home. She says that he is very tired by 6 PM and falls asleep. He's doing okay. They are very tired from the long "ordeal" but are happy that he's back in his own environment. She has just found out that BABY no. 2 due in early December is a BOY! They are happy with that announcement!!
Also...just an FYI to Kristin...I told Susan and Steve when they dropped over this afternoon that you were very happy and grateful for the STEAK DINNER they provided you last night with their "love gift"....hopefully, you can treat yourself to another one this week! Or even tonight??!! Like so many others, they were thinking of you and hoping to give you a little "mad money" while you are at your "home away from home"....they are among the dearest folks who 'get it'...!!! Thanks CRUMBEES!!!
Morgan has had a good afternoon waiting for her guests to arrive...she has scootered herself up/down the hills of Turberville Lane about a hundred times! Her legs get stronger by the minute. Mark...you are going to believe your little TWO WHEELER scooter-girl when you see her!! Get ready to play some sports with her outside as she is a DRIVEN girl and loves to play 'hard'...!!
Happy New Week everyone! Busy days ahead for us as we COUNTDOWN to our departure from VA back to CA next Saturday morning for our REUNION with Kristin and Allyson! I know there will be MILES of SMIlES to record!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Sunday, July 15, 2007 5:42 PM CDT
WOWS to Kristin and Ally and a huge shout-out to Norma! I remember meeting you from last summer's conference...I believe your brothers were with you??? I am Allyson's grandmother, "TEETAY" on this website. I will surely look forward to seeing you next year, as it doesn't appear that we will make it this year either since Allyson may need additional time at the clinic!
Kristin...it was so good to hear that YOU had a big-fat-steak dinner last night with Ally eating mac and cheese with you "before" her regular meal! I am glad you had a FULL day to celebrate even with its difficulties! YOU TWO GIRLS KEEP ON KEEPING ON!! I am so very proud of you as I learn more and more about what you are accomplishing with Ben and Allyson and "your turn to be trained" next week!!! I am not one bit doubtful that you will EXCEL, Kristin, just as you always have! You have just set the bar HIGHER for the "rest of the moms" in the world!!!
We're having a good day in anticipation of our company later today!!! We spent the better part of the morning at the pool with Morgan swimming UNDER WATER to touch the bottom through my legs about 75 times. (I got tired before she did!) It is a beautiful sunny day here!
Thinking of all of you connected to us via this website...and the N.S. Canadians are just part of the big wide circle of love surrounding Allyson and Kristin and the whole family. Thank you so much for continuing this journey and being part of our lives. THAT is the STRENGTH that keeps us positive alongwith God's great love.
And, my love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Sunday, July 15, 2007 2:28 PM CDT
Go Ally go! I can't believe she's almost as big as Darren is. Holy smokes. Keep pluggin away, you can do it Ally.
And a hi out to Norma in N.S. I have family up that way- in Bass River and fell in love with that place as a youngin'. :)
Love to all.
Cat <catpotter2001@gimail.af.mil>
USA - Sunday, July 15, 2007 1:58 PM CDT
Hi Kristin and Allyson, i've been following your journey of late and i'm in awe of your strength and i say a prayer for you every day.
We will not be making the trip to the NFED conference this year but hopefully we'll meet up again next year.
Take good care out there.
Bye for now, your canadian EEC friend,
Norma
Norma MacDonald <normadirt@eastlink.ca>
Antigonish, N.S. Canada - Sunday, July 15, 2007 1:19 PM CDT
HI!!! Ally, you are one spunky, sweet looking gal from all these new pics - LOVE THEM! And I loved the crazy dancing videos we received of you. Can't wait to get my arms around ytou next month. So much joy to celebrate! You and Mommy are quite the pair and I am sooooo proud of you both, your hard work and all you're accomplishing. Go-go-go! Kristin -- never a doubt in my mind that you wouldn't make this weekend's feedings "solo" WORK. Your persistence and PAITENCE and most grand of all, your LOVE, is inspiring and truly, truly GREAT. Don't think for a second that you are just doing "what moms do"... you have set the bar high, my friend, and I am so proud of you. Hang in there.... weeks 4 & 5(?) will be done and gone before you know it and then the new normal will set in -- without a glitch, we pray!
Lots of love and hugs... I miss you MUCHO!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, July 14, 2007 8:48 PM CDT
Greetings to all,
I want to "paint a picture" of what Morgan just said to me as I put her to bed, IF I CAN....
She loves her "princess songs"...and there is a song that she especially loves that has a person saying: "But how can I refuse?" She asked me the other day exactly what that meant...and she added that "it" had been bothering her (Morgan style) that she did NOT know what "it" meant...so I explained it to her...( I hope I do not have to explain it to you -ha)....so tonight, AFTER prayers and all our 'love' talk and cuddles, I said, "Morgan, tomorrow is a new day of love!"....
AND she said, "I cannot refuse."
OKAY...sappy as it was..I wiped the tear from my cheek and her mom will surely GET It...
What joy there is in "Mudville" if you know "Casey at the Bat"....and what joy in Morgan's day. We left Aunt Ashli's after a GREAT sleepover...went to the toy store to check in on Webinz..."for all our friends" arriving any day now...talked to Beth about the Science Curiosity PLACe tUESDAY... and the Philly kids' arrival "oh so soon"....and WEBKINZ or BUST! ( I busted my wallet!)...laugh everyone!
We visited Geep at his WEGMANS store..Not TO BE CONFUSED WITH webKINZ....(are you laughing yet? WEGKINZ..andWEGMANS??) and we had an awesome "Chinese food lunch"...then the SHREK THREE movie which Morgan had already seen with her mom...(did not matter times 2)....and after the ADOPTION of "SPOT" webkinz no. 6....and making his room perfect via computer...we headed to Aunt PAMMIE'S POOL...
whoo!
aRE YOU TIRED YET?
HOMe FOR tacos..AND "ICE CREAM"..(AND TAKING CARE OF va MOSQUITO BITES) we are alive and well and sipping warm milk and eating a snickerdoodle. (isn't life good?)
WE loved our "time with Thomas"...and this morning he even REACHed OUT FOR mORGAN... much to her suprise...and my "arm shock"...he did not fall over!
Love you all tonight and we praise the progress that Kristin has made today with Allyson in her eating "regime"...believe me when I tell you that this has been a tremendously rigorous schedule that Kristin has been on...DO Not FOR ONE SECOND THINK that this is a walk in the park. Thank YOU all for "getting it"...and again, today...I rec'd checks in the "mail" to help out with Allyson's medical needs. Truly, in God's world, we have the VERY BEST friends / family in the whole wide world who care so much about Allyson because you care so much about Kristin and Ashli and a "bit of us'.....we are blessed, and we feel your love.
Thank you is "never" enough. But, thank you is what is REAL.
Steven W. ...you ROCK bigtime. ANd, you know WHY.
Love to each and every one of you ...tonight...and God bless Kristin and Ally as they continue their "hard work" tomorrow.
All is well in VA.
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va us - Saturday, July 14, 2007 7:52 PM CDT
Dear All~
Thinking of everyone from Texas...have all my babes tucked in for the night and hubby is home from a long week of travel.
Dale and Loren, we are thinking and praying for you and know the loss is great...even with a full life at 96! Ashlynn (our 10 year old) asked me the other day if I had any "regrets" about Papa (my Dad) passing away two years this October. It was a profound question at a tender age but she gets so much more than her years would assume. There were no regrets....no unfinished businesss and all the love was poured out every day.....We had an amazing convesation about life, love and heaven. I love kids and their amazing ways of helping us explain life and even...in some ways define life. May your memories of Loren's Mom remain engraved lovingly on your hearts forever.
Kristin and Ashli~I miss you girls!! You two rock..you did when you were younger and you do now too...I love to see the way you love each other through this website...supporting, loving, laughing, having "only sisters know" lingo, etc. etc. I can still see you (my picture in time) in your small bedrooms (okay, Kristin, yours really was MUCH bigger but don't tell Ashli), tucking you in with your garanimal outfits all picked out for the next day...I loved you then and I love you now!!!!!!!!!!!!!
hugs and kisses (Texas sized of course)
Holly
Holly Crandell <hmcrand@tx.rr.com>
- Friday, July 13, 2007 11:11 PM CDT
Hello everyone,
I wanted this to be a separate entry....Prayers go out tonight to Dale (my sister aka Aunt Grammy) and my bro in law, Loren (aka Uncle Poppy) as they grieve the loss of Loren's mother early this morning. She lived to be 96 years old, loved her children and grandchildren and GREAT grandchildren very much. She lived in Southern Plantation, the same "assisted living residence" that my mom lived in for the remainder of her days. She was loved and nurtured by Dale and Loren as well as the staff at Sou. Plantation. She has certainly joined the realm of God's angels who will watch over us in this earthly life. Vera Pugh was her name. And, I counted her among "my friends and my moms" from the time I was 13 years old. I hope that each of you will say a prayer with her name in it tonight.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terrimatus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, July 13, 2007 8:25 PM CDT
Hello everyone,
I wanted this to be a separate entry....Prayers go out tonight to Dale (my sister aka Aunt Grammy) and my bro in law, Loren (aka Uncle Poppy) as they grieve the loss of Loren's mother early this morning. She lived to be 96 years old, loved her children and grandchildren and GREAT grandchildren very much. She lived in Southern Plantation, the same "assisted living residence" that my mom lived in for the remainder of her days. She was loved and nurtured by Dale and Loren as well as the staff at Sou. Plantation. She has certainly joined the realm of God's angels who will watch over us in this earthly life. Vera Pugh was her name. And, I counted her among "my friends and my moms" from the time I was 13 years old. I hope that each of you will say a prayer with her name in it tonight.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terrimatus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, July 13, 2007 8:24 PM CDT
Ah...yes! The HUMAN BEING is Allyson!! I hope that all of you in Ally/land are 'getting it'...and I am sure that you are. This is strenous...dedicated...concentrated...focused work for Kristin and Allyson. They are doing great. I have no "doubt" that "this weekend" of FEEDING for Ally will go well under Kristin's tutelage and direction. Her FOCUS has been on Ally for the past three weeks knowing that Morgan was a HAPPY CAMPER and that is WHAT counts....Allyson will "graduate" from the FEEDIngclinc PRETTY SOON AND WE WILL ALL BE POSTING GREAT ACCOLADES TO THE TWO OF THEM~
For the DAY to day part....it is exactly what Kristin says...monotonous...and she wanted to be part of it sooner than later...but this weekend, "here we go"...I am anticipating great strides!! So....to all of you who have supported and loved us through this process, thank YOU again....we are eager to hear about continued Allyson progress.
As for Morgan she is in THRILL CIty "SCOOTERING" THE Georgetown "streets" without a hitch. What love surrounds us and the WHOLE FAMILY.
Thank you all again and again for the love and support and the financial contributions you have sent to Kristin which will enable her to continue the Feeding Clinic through the FIFTH week and "then some"..our friends and family totally ROck AND I have thanked you in person, but I want to say it publically...friends and FAMILY..thank you for contributions totalling over many, many $$$$$ signs. YOU just rock. Thank you for caring enough to Help.....i KNOW kRISTIN HAS WRITTEN A zillion THANK YOUS...BUT NOW IS MY TIME TO SAY..."YOU ARE THE BEST FRIENDS/FAMILY in the whole wide world! Allyson's medical fund is very solid. :)!!~!
Love to all...and more tomorrow..
Terri aka Teetay :)
terrimatus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, July 13, 2007 7:48 PM CDT
KDMK and Al-Pal!!! Loved the update and continued progress........... amazing! I can't imagine what goes through your brain (and heart!) on a daily basis. What work (and worry?) and stress of learning and gearing up the big exam. LOVED your analogy -- and thanks for giving us a glimpse into your world. You and Ally are quite and amazing pair! And I know if Mark and Morgan could be a part of it all they would be working hard and focusing-focusing-focusing right along side you. I am soooo thrilled with Ally's progress and wish you the best and an A+++++ as you hit the big "TEST" this weekend and next week. Focusing on Ally and her progress and caloric intake (what minutia that we all take for granted!!) is the best and most important thing going on --so hang in there and know that I am thinking of you every single darn day and wishing for happy moments and yes, some sleeping IN this weekend :)))) Oh, and don't forget to REALLY enjoy that wine!! Festival sounds fun! And, I am so happy to hear you have constant mail and goodies greeting you on a regular basis :) Friends rock, huh?
Love and hugs to you both, and to Mark out on the big boat :)
Oh - a "P.S." from Morgan... "I had a really fun day at the zoo and saw PANDAS!! I love you! Talk tomorrow!" I am super excited to have she AND Teetay here for a slumber party with me and Uncle Tommy, Thomas and Nala (she wouldn't come "alone" -- that's ok, we love having Teetay here too!).
Scooter time - on the SIDEWALK, don't worry!
Kristin - Truly, I don't say it enough but I am soooo proud of you and can't imagine or even pretend for a second to understand what you're doing out there at the feeding clinic I know one this is true again and again, I am blessed to call you my sister and best friend :) TYou are AMAZING and an inspiration!
Lots of love and big hugs!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, July 13, 2007 6:08 PM CDT
I hope and pray that Ally will do well with the continuation of the clinic. Hang in there. You still have time for her. :) I have faith.
As for the news, that is such AWESOME news for everyone on here. Hats off to Mark- maybe not flying or on the boat, but you're so much closer to family and it's what you wanted. YIPPEEE! We are so happy for you all.
Love to all- and update on J-Quad (John McQuay). He is recovering in Indiana. Mom/Dad are tired but happy to be home. :)
Cat <happyhappy@onsolidground.com>
the great north!, USA USA - Friday, July 13, 2007 4:48 AM CDT
Hello Ally world!
I am trying to "keep up with Morgan" but today she has really SURPASSED me!!! She is not scooter-ing on her two wheel scooter DOWN HILLS that DO NOT SCARE HER, but I was slightly apprehensive! However, "Surfin' U.S.A." at the top of her lungs gave her the momentum she needed to "accomplish the big hill." I think "scootering" with her friend/neighborhood little girl, Claire, helps motivate her to do "MORE">>>they are two peas in a pod! We painted ceramics at the Clay Cafe this afternoon and made special presents for Mommie and Allyson. (shhhhh.....don't tell them!!) Then, we got some delicious chicken/tenders for dinner at the Bungalow where Morgan and Claire "feasted" just like the big six year olds they are! And, guess who showed up? Uncle Joe! Morgan has not seen "Uncle Joe" (another family friend/uncle) in quite some time...like, er, uh, YEARS??? And, she ran literally into his arms like a long lost friend/uncle! Then, she proceeded to put her head on his shoulder while he sat next to her in the booth. It was pretty precious to watch and I know Uncle Joe just simply MELTED! She "precociously" told him she remembered playing ball with him at the beach. (she was ONE! ha) Home again, more scootering, and now Morgan is playing her favorite computer activity: "webkinz"....she has "rooms" and "furniture" for all her webkinz and is so "into it" as she told her mother the other day!
It is such fun to watch Morgan playing "outside" in a "neighborhood" running up/down the street with her "friends" and just being a KID!!! She told me the other day, "Teetay, you know what?"
"What, Morgan?"
"I just feel FREE here in Virginia. I don't know why. I just do."
Pretty cute stuff from her mouth, huh???
Tomorrow is our big zoo day and we are spending it with Thomas and Aunt Ashli. We are even going to spend the night with them in DC....I will go, too, as Morgan was a little "nervous" about going alone. I don't mind...I get to see Thomas and spend the night in the CITY!!! Then, in a couple of days the Philly kids/aunts arrive and we are DOING the museusms, and DC activities! Tuesday, Morgan goes with other friends to a Science Curiosity Camp which is totally hands-on. We are trying to work in a horse ride on "GUS" ...my friend's horse, but the week is pretty booked, so we're looking into it!!!
These days are passing all too rapidly, but I'm happy to report there is a happy little girl among us each day. I am so very proud of her, and I can only attest her magnificent confidence and adaptability to the wonderful guidance and direction of her mom....Kristin!!! Kristin, YOU DO ROCK!
And, to Kristin and Allyson....you are doing the HARD work up there in Los Altos, and I am very, very proud of your successes thus far. I know your plate has been very full, Kristin, (no pun intended...get it? PLATE FULL at the FEEDING CLINIC???!!) but you are handling this challenge just like you have handled all the others with confidence, courage, and grace....and "never let 'em see you sweat." YOU ARE MY HERO, too...just like Mark told you in his email today. YES, you are heroes to TWO little girls who adore you! Makes a mom's heart swell with pride!
Cannot wait to see you and Ally in just a "few more days"....first it was WEEKS...now, it is days!!! And, we are so glad that we can fly back with you to VA to do your "house hunting adventure" after the reunion in PA. Many more good times ahead!
Thinking of you all tonight..I do not have new updates on John McQuay. I only pray that he is out of the hospital by now. I will try to find out more.
Hugs and love to all of you,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Thursday, July 12, 2007 7:07 PM CDT
hi. i haven't written to you in a long while. i check in with the website every now & then to hear of any progress & fun times. :) i'm sorry things are taking so long with the feeding thing, but i'm sure things will work out.
that's great news that you're going to be moving closer to the family. i know you guys had the rally for ally the other weekend... i so wanted to go, but just couldn't make it. =( i'm really sorry we didn't get to come & meet everyone. maybe once you've settled in this area we could meet up sometime. no pressure though. ;)
anyways... just wanted to say hi. i think about you guys often.
rebecca
woodbridge, va - Thursday, July 12, 2007 3:42 PM CDT
Teetay - Morgan is right......Cul De Sac's RULE! We love having all the kids play in ours!
Happy Thursday to Kristin and Ally - I hope week 3 has been going well. Check your mail soon for more "goodies" from Minnesota!
There are lots of troops arriving onto US soil this week in Minnesota. They have been gone for 16 months and there are lots of "welcome home" songs on the radio this week. I can not even imagine the wealth of emotion one feels after being away from their significant other or loved one for such a long period of time. I cry every time I hear the songs and you can hear the pure JOY in each man and woman's voice. In less than 50 days Mark will be home and those same emotions will be there for Kristin, Mark and the entire Kelso/Matus/George clan. I am so thankful that Mark is safe and will be back home with his family soon!
We love and MISS you all!
Aimee (and Jim and Tyer) <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Thursday, July 12, 2007 8:55 AM CDT
Hi everyone!
Another fun/filled day with Morgan and "friends"....Aunt Ashli and Thomas were with us for lots of the day...Aunt Ashli got to "witness" Morgan's private swimming lesson with Casey, my former student, and she did AMAZINGLY well..the BEST yet with her "big arms" coming out of the water!! Then, later in the afternoon, Claire, our neighbor, and "Morgan's new best friend" came over to play SCOOTERS (Claire has a RAZOR scooter and now Morgan is "eyeing it"...Morgan has a BRATZ TWO wheel scooter now)...and "Build a BEAR" and eat popcicles and just "do what girls do"....so fun. They played, then parted for dinner, and back to play AFTER dinner. Morgan has "decided" that CUL DE SACS are SO COOL....children can play in them without getting hurt...according to her! So, Kristin and Mark...PUT "Cul de Sacs" on your HOUSE hunting WISH LIST! (do you hear ???) ha...
Morgan is looking forward to going to the Clay Cafe tomorrow to "paint a special piece of pottery" for Allyson as a "graduation present" from the Feeding Clinic! That will be such fun!!
So, the beat goes on....and all is well here in Northern VA....I know that Kristin and Allyson are doing their HARD WORK and I know that Kristin misses her "biggest girl" so very much. Morgan is a "hanging in there girl" but she sure misses her MOMMA!! And, only LESS than 50 days until Mark gets home...WHAHOOO!!!
Thinking of you all tonight...and continued prayers and love for Allyson and Kristin in Los Altos tonight.
I am reminded of the Eleanor Roosevelt quote:
"Do the thing you think you cannot do." And, that is just what Allyson and Kristin are doing. I am so anxious to see you SOON on July 21st when we return and DRIVE to YOU in Silicon Valley!
And, to my penpal, Nancy....I got your message from Kristin, and I, too, miss you...I may just send a little "note" to your "work email"...but I'll try to sound "businesslike" ....just in case!! ha..
Love to all..and we are missing the Crandells...and we loved our time with them!!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Wednesday, July 11, 2007 7:39 PM CDT
WOO HOO!!!!!!!!!!!!! That is the BEST news I have heard all week! I am soooooooooo happy and excited for both you and Mark - not only because you are going to be close to your family and can see them so often, but because you can have FREQUENT babysitting and will actually get to spend time together on a DATE! AND - the more selfish part of me is thinking that when I go visit my sister I get to see you!!!!!!! YIPPEE!
My fingers are crossed that your CA house sells quickly so that you can get to VA before school starts and won't have to worry about that piece. It's fun to listen to the places you MIGHT live because I KNOW where they ARE!!!!
HUGS TO ALL OF YOU!
Aim-a-lita <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Wednesday, July 11, 2007 6:42 AM CDT
yay!!!!
HoORAY!!
NOW I can say it...hip hiphooray! I cannot wait until Morgan and Allyson "live in my backyard"....HOORAY for Northern Virgina...there is so much to "see and do" here that I am sure their "time here" will be spectacular "if even"...as Morgan "says"....WOWEE...HOORAY! I am so glad that Kristin POStED IN THE journal SO THAT THE WHOLE WORLD KNOWS....
I have already had the phone ringing off the hook with the "guestbook entries" that "foreshadowed" the move even before Kristin posted...wow..
What a wonderful website of commumication this is...
GO ALLY GO! You rock, girl..and we are proud of your progress..and Kristin, you GO also....you are a remarkable mother and one that I am proud to have "raised" or "raised up"...however you wish to say it..
Love toall and I know everyone is so happy to know that Kristin, Mark, Morgan and Allyson are returning to VA...where you have so many friends and loved ones...
YAHOO everybody!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Tuesday, July 10, 2007 10:50 PM CDT
Hi everyone!
Even though KRistin has not yet posted the BIG news...I will wait for her to do that...all I can say is a GREAT BIG YAHOOOOOOOOOO! And, you guys can figure out the REST!! Yes, good news abounds, but it is KRistin's to share, so I shall wait to give my big shout-outs!!
All is well in Northern VA land and Morgan is THRILLED with what will "be the news"...
And, Holly and FAMILY, we could not love you MORE...what a wonderful, wonderful loving time we had with all of you...and to think that our LOVE spans more than 30 years...GEE...that is HUGE....and we arelooking forward to more and more and maybe a "cross country visit" down the road??? I do not want to give too much away,a right??
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Tuesday, July 10, 2007 8:50 PM CDT
Could we be anymore excited to have Kristin, Mark, Morgan and Ally back in VA?!?!? It will be sooooooooo fun to have them soooooo close! Gee, first time since before college that Kristin and I will have lived in the same zip code (minus that little stint when I was a junior in college and she lived back home for a brief time...0 -- Anyway, I sure hope we can GET ALONG and PLAY NICE! :) hee hee!
Love you all and can't wait to kick it East Coast style with ya :) No more long flights! Thomas time whenever you want! Morg & Al time whenever I want! And plenty of grown-up and family outings - Hooray!
Lots of love! See ya around the 'hood SOON.
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, July 10, 2007 8:45 PM CDT
Whoopee!!!!All the Kelsos will finally be back on the east coast!!!! So glad your dreams of a return to Virginia have been answered!!! What fun it will be to easily have family get-togethers!! Ally, you are making great progress and your Mommy certainly is remarkable in her dedication to you. We love you all.
Grandma K <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Southport, NC - Tuesday, July 10, 2007 8:07 PM CDT
Hello All -
Greetings from rainy and sometimes stormy Frisco, Texas. It has been way too long since I have posted so greetings to all in Ally land.
Kristin, we hope all is going very very well with week three. We have enjoyed keeping up with all the successes and the fun weekend activities. We missed you at the Rally and have you, Mark, Morgan and sweet Ally in our thoughts constantly. We too, are anxious for your next move information and pray you will be making a trek across Texas!!! We have much room available and many hugs waiting!! :-)
The Crandell family had such an awesome time at the Rally for Ally....all we missed was ya'll!!! We are making plans for next year and will have all kinds of fun looking forward to it! I am working on a DVD or slide show of the Rally and hope it will be done soon and we can see it on the website. It will be priceless and fun! :-) I have so many memorable moments...being at the Rally, meeting so many awesome people...especially Teresa and Dani - my heart is full girls! I LOVED meeting you two and feel I have known you forEVER!!! Doesn't God have an interesting way with the tapestry of life? We also enjoyed the good eats, meeting so many focused on the cause, watching the kids play, enjoying the challenge and fun of the silent auction and raffle, loving the smiles and heart fun of watching those that wone the prizes....grimacing when the Crandell family won 9 out of the 15 bags of Wrigley treats (thanks Jameson ~ he dumped ALL his tickets in that raffle bag!, marveling at my little Ashli whose heart and soul are "in" to helping raise awareness and funds for NFED...you are amazing beyond measure Ashli and I am SO proud of you and Kristin...one day I will have to post funny babysitter stories....you girls ROCK!, meeting Thomas George...I want his eyelashes!!!, feeling the love and love and more love and constant support from Teetay and Jer Jer.....you two are amazing and have a way of making EVERYONE feel loved, comfortable and 'a part'.
Thank you God for making our paths cross and making us friends first, family second and eternally beyond forever.
I can't wait for all that is ahead...life has given so much and has so much to be experienced.
The Crandell family has had a very slow re-entry into the regular routine upon returning to Texas. I had to take Catherine to the doctor yesterday due to her horrible eczema and it took me many blank looks to think about all the answers to their questions...I had SO not 'caught up' yet. Today has been a little better...perhaps that had to do with the forced 9 loads of laundry and putting things away! HA
Well, my sweet children are calling me to watch a Disney movie with them so I must be off...the rain is falling and while we have had enough...the pitter patter is wonderful to hear...very soothing!
Know that we love you all dearly.... hugs and kisses to each of you(Texas sized of course) ~
Holly
Holly Crandell <hmcrand@tx.rr.com>
Frisco, TX - Tuesday, July 10, 2007 7:35 PM CDT
Hi, Kristin and Allyson,
It was fun seeing the new photos and "catching up" ...
it's been a busy few days, as Loren's Mom continues to decline on her way to God. But the great news is that our doctor appointments didn't reveal anything too ominous!
Loren's Prostate biopsy was negative for cancer! The rotator cuff, wrist and knee injuries from his tennis court fall are healing, and there doesn't appear to be any permanent damage to his rotator cuff. My hip problem and neck problems are mostly arthritic, but the left hip has bursitis, and some anti-inflammatories will eventually take care of that pain. So all in all, we have had a grateful and happy few days with these good reports.
It has thrilled us to read of Allyson's success in the clinic, and makes me so happy she can go and visit and fit in and play with friends she's only just met! She's one plucky little lady, and I'm proud of her! Kristin, your Mom shared the good news that the "right coast" is in your future! We are so happy, hoping that we will have many occasions to be with ya'll and Morgan and Allyson.
We send you all our love, and Mark, too, of course, as I know you pick these up as well. Congrats on the new assignment, Mark!
FYI .... Taylor Burns is having a glorious time in his "People to People" travels in Europe. He sent the message to Poppy that the Sistine Chapel was the most awesome thing he'd ever seen. He is having a ball, enjoying new friends and new experiences. He has enjoyed Italy, and is now in Austria, with Switzerland, France & Germany to go!
Hugs and Love to everyone! Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA usa - Tuesday, July 10, 2007 7:09 PM CDT
Hi Ally! Just checking in to see what you were up to today. I hope week 3 is going well and that mommy is learning all the right techniques for feeding you.
Sending giant MN hugs all the way to Cali - xoxoxoxoxoxoxox
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Tuesday, July 10, 2007 12:14 AM CDT
Hello Ally's website!
WE LOVED the "monkey card" we rec'd today...Morgan cracked herself UP bigtime!! Thanks for sending it...I know that you have NOW spoken to Morgan as she was about to go in the backyard and "play" even though the temps are still hanging in the low 90's...wowwee hot!
Morgan picked the FIRST tomato off the vine today as well as the "pepper"....SHE does not ThINK she will TRY either one, but it sure was "fun picking"...!! YAY GARDENS!!
Morgan is becoming more and more proficient at BATH TIME...she is about to graduate to "showers"...I'm just sure of it. If she didn't have a "choice" it would probably be SHOWers!!!
Storytime came and Geep was "in charge of stories" (even though I had picked them)....there "they were"...two peas in a pod in the big chair reading about TIME and OPPOSITES! Morgan was 'ready' for bed EARLY tonight and she is snuggled in with her new "Princess Kitty" named MOLLIE wearing ONLY her FUR....lullabies are playing and she is a tired girl at the end of this twice/lesson day for swimming. Her private lesson teacher is Casey, a former student of mine who just graduated from JMU and will be a KINDERGARTEN teacher in the fall. Casey is PERFECT for the "job" and Morgan is progressing so very well in both her GROUP and PRIVATE lessons. She has become quite a little comfort/zone/swimmer this summer. Her mom and dad will be very proud.
OH the laughter! She laughs so loud and talks of her sister so many times....and she is PROUD of Allyson's progress!! I could go on and on, but I will say goodnight for today....it is a pleasure to be part of this growing young child's life. She is truly a remarkable six year old and we are enjoying every minute of her life!!
Thinking of Mark tonight...and praying for Little John McQuay..a.nd HOPING and WISHING that the RESTof the week goes well for Allyson and Kristin! WE have LOVED the videos of Allyson "appearing" in the swinging set every now and then.
Looking forward to the Philly cousins' visit SOONER than later...and more swim lessons...and more friends...and guess what??? Ainsley is coming over this week...and Pammie...and maybe even TEREE!! Wowee..it doesn't get much better than that!!
love to all,
Hugs all around..
missing my Texas 'buds'...
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Monday, July 9, 2007 8:04 PM CDT
Hello Ally's website!
WE LOVED the "monkey card" we rec'd today...Morgan cracked herself UP bigtime!! Thanks for sending it...I know that you have NOW spoken to Morgan as she was about to go in the backyard and "play" even though the temps are still hanging in the low 90's...wowwee hot!
Morgan picked the FIRST tomato off the vine today as well as the "pepper"....SHE does not ThINK she will TRY either one, but it sure was "fun picking"...!! YAY GARDENS!!
Morgan is becoming more and more proficient at BATH TIME...she is about to graduate to "showers"...I'm just sure of it. If she didn't have a "choice" it would probably be SHOWers!!!
Storytime came and Geep was "in charge of stories" (even though I had picked them)....there "they were"...two peas in a pod in the big chair reading about TIME and OPPOSITES! Morgan was 'ready' for bed EARLY tonight and she is snuggled in with her new "Princess Kitty" named MOLLIE wearing ONLY her FUR....lullabies are playing and she is a tired girl at the end of this twice/lesson day for swimming. Her private lesson teacher is Casey, a former student of mine who just graduated from JMU and will be a KINDERGARTEN teacher in the fall. Casey is PERFECT for the "job" and Morgan is progressing so very well in both her GROUP and PRIVATE lessons. She has become quite a little comfort/zone/swimmer this summer. Her mom and dad will be very proud.
OH the laughter! She laughs so loud and talks of her sister so many times....and she is PROUD of Allyson's progress!! I could go on and on, but I will say goodnight for today....it is a pleasure to be part of this growing young child's life. She is truly a remarkable six year old and we are enjoying every minute of her life!!
Thinking of Mark tonight...and praying for Little John McQuay..a.nd HOPING and WISHING that the RESTof the week goes well for Allyson and Kristin! WE have LOVED the videos of Allyson "appearing" in the swinging set every now and then.
Looking forward to the Philly cousins' visit SOONER than later...and more swim lessons...and more friends...and guess what??? Ainsley is coming over this week...and Pammie...and maybe even TEREE!! Wowee..it doesn't get much better than that!!
love to all,
Hugs all around..
missing my Texas 'buds'...
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Monday, July 9, 2007 8:02 PM CDT
Those BFFs, Al-1 and Al-2 are soooo CUTE!! Love them! Can't wait to see Alina and her parents :) at OBX in a couple weeks. And KDMK, I am soooo glad that the new hotel rocks! Yay! And Ally, you are one eating machine - YOU GO GIRL!
Talk later! Lots of love and hugs! HAVE A GREAT WEEK #3!!!
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, July 9, 2007 6:46 AM CDT
Hello Allyson Wegman...
Are you part of the Wegman Food Store family?
What a small world that would be!
:)
If so, email me at the address listed after my name. I am Allyson's grandmother and I live in Virginia.
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Sunday, July 8, 2007 6:03 PM CDT
Hiho, I was surfing around, looking for my own name (Allyson Wegman) and I found your Ally. God bless you all. Me and mine will pray for Ally's continued progress. Have a beautiful summer
Ally Wegman
East Northport, NY USA - Sunday, July 8, 2007 5:20 PM CDT
Happy Sunday everyone!
I think Allyson's progress is amazing, and I do hope she "graduates" wtihout having the "extra" time, but if that is what it takes for her to be totally "accomplished" then THAT IS WHAT IT TAKES!!! I look forward to hearing the updates "daily" and then reading the accomplishments on Ally's website! She is one amazing little girl and I am so proud of YOU, Allyson! And, I'm pretty proud of your mother, too....she would make any sacrific for you, and I know she's so proud that the TWO of YOU can accomplish this together! I believe tomorrow begins the "Mommie involvement week" and I'm anxious to hear all about it!
We enjoyed our "mini vacation" and Morgan enjoyed special time with our "Crandall cousins"....her vim and vigor continue to impress us! Kristin told me she wanted Morgan to "maintain a schedule" and be involved in the same kind of activities she would be invovled in if she was in California, so we are doing our best to KEEP UP with Morgan! (ha!...thank goodness we have little "energizer bunny" re-chargeable batteries!) Tomorrow begin another week filled with swimming lessons, the library programs, friends who want a little piece of Morgan (there's simply not enough time!!!) and, of course, we are anticipating the long-awaited arrival of the "Philly kids"...I think we are celebrating somebody's birthday every single day! So, the beat goes on, and Morgan has adapted and accepted each and every new thing. I told Kristin and Mark in yesterday's "email update" that they should be so very proud that Morgan is a confident, secure, adaptable,and responsible little person. Who could ask for anything more? We haven't heard a "negative peep" out of her, and she's only "slipped" and called me "Mommie" once or twice....now, she calls Geep ...."Geepeeeeeeee" and loved his shirt inscription that said: "Old guys rule!" Now, she laughs and says, "Hey Geep...OLD GUYS RULE!" (little does she know???...but she did get an extra "ice cream cone" out of him last night after dinner!)
I hope everyone is having a great weekend..I'm wishing and thinking all good thoughts for Allyson's third WEEK...happy birthday wishes again to David Lacki...and hoping that all went WELL with Little John McQuay's homecoming via air transport. I haven't heard anything new, so I'm hoping NO NEWS is GOOD NEWS!!!
Wishing everyone a great SECOND week in July with lots of fun things going on in your lives! We are certainly enjoying our "lazy-hazy-crazy-days of summer"....yeah, right?? The lazy part??? SO NOT TRUE!!! :) But, remember what I always say..."If you rest you will rust." TRUE WORDS!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Sunday, July 8, 2007 2:58 PM CDT
Hi K and A!
I hope you had a wonderful weekend! Two weeks down and hopefully not many more to go. I am so proud of your progress!!!!! K - hopefully we can connect via phone soon!
xoxoxoxo
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Sunday, July 8, 2007 10:43 AM CDT
Hi Kristin, Ally and my best friend, Reba! And happy birthday, David Lacki!!! Hope you all are having a GREAT time -- I know you are! Sip, laugh and enjoy one another! Hugs to you all :)
CONGRATS to Ally on another great week! Keep it up, Al-Pal -- you can do it! I so admire your determination and better yet, that of your mother!
I LOVE YOU!!!!
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, July 7, 2007 8:54 PM CDT
Hi again,
Just a quickie update on John McQuay. He has literally "dodged a bullet" as THEY SAY...he does NOT have bacterial mennigitis as first 'assumed' - rather he has clinical mennigitis and "if" you must get it, that is the best kind to 'get'....and....drum roll!!! HE is being medivaced to INDIANA by AIR today. Sarah will drive home, and John/Dad will fly with little John and a nurse to Evansville. Sarah did not say what the determination will be once there, but she did mention "being home" and "hugging her dogs"...so I presume they are all going HOME! She sounded "tired but elated" that John is going to be okay. She did not mention any other difficulties, so maybe now he just heals from the surgery and all will be well. I am so very happy for them! They will have to return to DC in about a month for his follow-up appt. and a new MRI. She still has a key to my house and an open invitation to come anytime she wishes!! Maybe next trip they can even SEE the ZOO!! I know many of you have been asking about Little John, so I'm glad to be able to give you a HAPPY and POSITIVE update!
Love,
Terri/Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Friday, July 6, 2007 7:36 AM CDT
Love the update on Ally!
Love that FACE!
Love you all and we are thinking of you EVERYDAY! The "swimmer" girl is getting better by the "minute"...!!!
And, so many BIG congratulations to Ashli and "crew" for a fABULOUS RALLY....and the "numbers" just keep going UP for NFED!!! That's a BIG "RAY"....!!!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Friday, July 6, 2007 7:02 AM CDT
Thank you to Kristin for the email about Sarah. It was much needed. :)
Ally- You are growing like a weed. I can't believe how big you're getting and that hair is getting so much blonder and longer. So sweet!
Hope you guys are staying cool, and she eats more as the days progress. I'm so happy that you guys are progressing through this clinic. I do have faith that it will work out for Ally too. :)
Take care!
Cat <catpotter2001@gimail.af.mil>
the green green mainland, USA USA - Friday, July 6, 2007 1:18 AM CDT
And just HOW CUTE are the new pictures?!?!? Love that beautiful face, Al-Pal!! And your spirit shines through -- I just adore you!! xoxoxoxoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, July 5, 2007 6:56 PM CDT
Hi All! Ally -- hope you don't mind me doing a little "work" here on your Guestbook :) Many of you probably just received this update from me in your email in-boxes however, since there are many of you interested and supportive of RALLY FOR ALLY whose emails I do not have, here's the official report from TARFA HQ below! And, if you want to be on future Rally emails and notes for next year and I do not have your email, please send it to me :) THANKS EVERYONE!!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Greetings Family & Friends!
It was wonderful to see such a huge crowd gathered this past Saturday at the 3rd Annual Rally for Ally in honor of my niece, Allyson Kelso, to benefit the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias. Thank you to all who attended and donated their time, energy, auction prizes, raffle prizes, food and beverages. I couldn’t do it without you!
Nearly 100 people came out to Nottoway Park for this fun-filled BBQ and fund-raiser. The kids had a blast at the park playground, getting their faces painted by Celia (of FunFit in Rockville , MD ) and participating in the Raffle. And the “big” kids all enjoyed the Silent Auction bidding wars and food donated by Blue Ribbon BBQ in Rockville , MD and The Vienna Inn of Vienna , VA.
Now for the day’s fund-raising total… nearly $7,000! And we’re still counting as many donations were/are sent directly to the NFED. We hope to pass last year's total of $9,000 by the time all the donations are counted. For those of you who weren’t at the Rally to hear Carol Agne, Director of Development, address the crowd of “ralliers”, she said… “Over the past three years, THIS FAMILY and ALL of YOU have raised close the $25,000 for the NFED. That money paid for 10 sets of dentures for 10 kids who were able to start Kindergarten with teeth.”
THAT is AWESOME, folks!
Hooray for us and all we are doing to support those affected and to help the NFED continue on their mission of research, support and education for families who are affected. If you couldn’t make it to Rally and would still like to donate, it’s never too late. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Donations should be made payable to: National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias or NFED (memo: Rally for Ally) Mail directly to: NFED, 410 E. Main St, PO Box 114 , Mascoutah , IL 62258-0114
Thank you for being a part of this important cause that is very near and dear to my heart. The human spirit was alive and well this past weekend as the Rally was filled with old friends, new friends, folks who barely knew a thing about Ally, my family and the Ectodermal Dysplasia syndromes. THANK YOU. It just goes to prove that my Rally motto stands true once again this year: “The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.”
I look forward to seeing you at the 4th Annual Rally for Ally in June 2008!
With gratitude,
Ashli
Ashli Matus-George
Chairperson & Proud Aunt, Rally for Ally
AshliAGMG@yahoo.com
Ph. 202-965-7017
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
Washington, DC - Thursday, July 5, 2007 9:21 AM CDT
HI all...
It has been a very nice day...NO RUSH...and I like that...
And YES! Aunt Ashli did give me a "little break" at the pool while playing with Morgan! It was a nice afternoon, and the POOL felt restful and so GOOD....
Home again...we did "daylight" fireworks and Morgan loved them...we kept Thomas INside. Then, the "rainstorm came"..but we were OKAY.
Morgan was asleep by 8 plus as we have our "car trip" tomorrow....BEACH HERE WE COME!
Loving you all...please continue to pray for Ally's progress in the clinic, and continued Kristin patience and love...and for John 4...who is now in a hospital in WVA with IV antibiotics... pray for them...John IV is a sick boy.
God bless you all and God bless AMERICA...for REAL!
Love to all on a beautiful day......what a "story" we all have.
THANK YOU.
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Wednesday, July 4, 2007 8:00 PM CDT
Happy 4th of July, Everybody! LOVE that adorable face on the home page... what a spirited little firecracker you are, Ally! Pun intended :)
We had a nice afternoon with Thomas's first dip in the baby pool... he didn't HATE it! That's good! And I am sooo impressed with Morgan's big girl swimming and huge improvements. We, as "niece Blueberry" and "Aunt Lucy" (our new nicknames) played washing maching games and some other silly stuff while at the pool. Daddy-TG and Thomas napped :) I think Teetay *might* have gotten about 4 minutes of quiet rest by the pool. I tried to give her a teeny break!
So glad to hear Ally is still doing her "thing" at the clinic and that the LIGHTS OUT method helped. I know every day has its victories -- go K and A, go!
Counting the days til you head off for another fine Lacki weekend?!? I bet you are! HAVE FUN and happy 39th birthday - AGAIN ;) - to Alina's daddy, David!!
Lots of love!
Ashli <Ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, July 4, 2007 5:54 PM CDT
Happy Fourth of July everyone!!
I hope everyone will celebrate a great day with loved ones, balloons, and some sparkly fireworks to end the day! My gratitude goes out to all the men and women serving our country in close/by or faraway places...and for the families who support them while they are away...and most especially, for my son in law,Mark, who is still "out in the middle east somewhere" doing his work! Bless you all and know that I am proud of you and to Mark, I love you very much!!! Your little "oldest girl" is being a TREASURE! She's growing up so very fast!!!
We are spending a quiet day "at home" with some burgers and fireworks later on and a trip to the pool....Thomas will go "swimming" for the VERY first time with us. Morgan is so excited that she can take her "baby cousin" to HER pool! The "ownership" of HER pool is very important!!!
UPDATE on John McQuay....NEW message from Sarah this morning that "John is holding his own" and will be in the hospital in Huntington, WVA for at least 10 more days on IV antibiotics for mennigitis. They are trying to get a transport to take him closer to their HOME in Indiana, but if that doesn't work out, they've found lodging at the Ronald McDonald House. Sarah is contemplating renting a car to drive home as the loss of her job has been "threatened"....I feel so very sad for them and wish I could do something to make it easier for them. But for now, please join me in praying for them and a full recovery for Little John. This is VERY serious and she is hopeful that they caught the "bacteria" in time to make John well. Good news is...he has not lost his sense of smell. The other day someone "lit a cigarette" and he sniffed and said, "What's that awful smell?" She cried! Moms do that!!
Thinking of everyone today...and wishing Allyson a good week no. 2 with her feeding clinic and realizing just how very fortunate we all are. Thank you again and again for being "with us" and for your love.
GOD BLESS YOU and AMERICA!!!
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Wednesday, July 4, 2007 10:26 AM CDT
Terri-
Thank you so much for that update. I haven't heard from Sarah in a few days (our cell service is not working right now), and we just got connected to internet/phone. I haven't been able to reach her in awhile, so I'm so glad that I came to read here briefly.
Must get connected to her ASAP. Thank you so much for that update. Hope you all are doing well and that the Rally was a huge success. I hope that Morgan, Ally and Kristin are doing well too, and that Mark is safe on the boat.
Lots of love to all out there.
-Cat
Cat <onthegreengreenground@mainland.usa.com>
mainland , usa usa - Wednesday, July 4, 2007 3:34 AM CDT
Hi all,
Just a quickie update on John McQuay...he is "stuck" in Huntington, WVA as he traveled "home" to Indiana. He has an infection, and he has now been diagnosed with Mennigitis. Please, please, please pray for this YOUNG family whose "MOM" ...named Sarah, is 5 months pregnant with child no. two...John was released from Children's in DC Friday, but took a turn for the worst as they traveled to their home. I have just heard this info tonight. It disturbs me. What a joyful, articulate, loving boy he is...please say his NAME as you sleep tonight. Thank you.
Love to all..and it 's a big "reach out world" I know!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Tuesday, July 3, 2007 8:51 PM CDT
Good morning everyone...
And....the LOVE that surrounds us on this website never stops giving....here's another example of "love from afar" that brings us all closer together!
Yesterday afternoon, I rec'd a note from someone in MN that I do not "know"...her name is Katy and she has a beautiful little girl named Drew who was born three years ago with Cystic Fibrosis. Katy, the mom, is a friend of Jill, the daughter of my MN pen pal, Nancy..(are you following all of this?)...and I began corresponding over six months ago with Nancy as we "met" due to Holly and her friend, Lynn, who recently died of cancer......bottom line is NONE of these folks have EVER MET YET (we will...I'm sure of it) but we are all bonded due to the love and caring for others and that whole BIG REACH OUT and touch someone!!! A few months ago, Jill, Nancy's daughter, hosted a fundraiser/golf tournament for Cystic Fibrosis in honor of DREW and I was very interested in her fundraising efforts. Yesterday, Katy, Drew's mom, sent a lovely note to me to pass along to Kristin and family and enclosed a check to help out with the feeding clinic, Allyson, or however Kristin chooses to use it. WHAT GREAT LOVE! I hope that "story" wasn't too convoluted for you to follow. It is just another shining example of PLANTING TREES UNDER WHOSE SHADE YOU DO NOT expect to sit! Thank you, Ashli, for giving us that quote to be reminded that God truly does work inside us all. And, thank you to everyone we haven't "met yet"...you are truly part of our heart and soul.
Kristin's posting about the weekend feeding at Rebecca's house and "feeling deflated" certainly gave me a moment to realize, once again, that the difficult road to complete nutrition for Allyson will be taken with baby steps, leaps, slipping/back, and beginning again as Allyson learns new ways of eating. My prayers will continue to be with them during week number two!!
Morgan woke me up this morning with breathless words...."Teetay, this is an emergency!" After 10 days, M & M, our "Mickey mouse fish" has found her way to Nemo-heaven. Now, we just have "Flik" but we are going to the store to get M & M replaced this morning. (14 day "guarantee" on fish life....who knew?) Morgan is handling the LOSS of her fish quite well. After a big sigh, she said, "that is just what fish do." I felt sad for her this morning, however, as M & M was her "favorite" and she's been around the longest.
Please add to your prayer list my brother in law, Loren, and Dale, of course, and Loren's mother, Vera. Vera just celebrated her 95th birthday and is not doing very well. Hospice Care is taking care of her as are Dale and Loren. She's lived a very long life along a very spiritual road. Thank you for thinking of them during the days of letting her go.
Have a great fourth of July and enjoy some fun times with those you love. We plan to spend some time at the pool with Morgan, Ashli, TG, and Thomas...and maybe enjoy a burger or two! Just a low key day before we leave on our vacation.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Tuesday, July 3, 2007 6:50 AM CDT
Greetings from TARFA HQ! :) What a wonderful event Saturday was and I have soooo many people to thank for making it all come together. The weather was perfect, the venue was awesome (despite the yicky park ranger!) and the spirit of kindness, love and generosity was overflowing!! It was wonderful to see Aunt Charlotte and Holly and her precious kiddos - Ashlynn, Jack, Jamieson and Catherine - and of course MORGAN in that "cousin" mix as well! And Dani, Gage and Mackenzie and Uncle Josh and many of my new local friends (and new moms!) who came out to support Rally for Ally and the NFED. We also loved having Carol Agne from the NFED to share her wonderful words about the amazing work WE ALL have been doing to support the NFED since Ally was born. YAY US!
Thank you, thank you, thank you --- for being a part of our lives, support for Ally, emotionally, spiritually and financially - and for the NFED that does many amazing things for so many familes.
I love this quote I found three years ago so here you go..... "The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not intend to sit"
Have a wondeful day!!
With love ~ Aunt Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, July 3, 2007 6:05 AM CDT
WOW!! What an amazing event Ally's Rally was on Saturday!! Ashli, hat's off to you girl! You did a fabulous job and Gage, Mackenzie and myself were so honored to be able to be a part of the day. I know Ashli had a lot of help putting the Rally together and she did a wonderful job of making sure she recognized each and every one that helped to make the day such a HUGE success!!! I thank all of you too : ) It was so wonderful to see the Matus-George clan and to meet so many of Ally's website friends...it was especially wonderful to finally meet Holly and her crew and although we didn't have much time to chat, I hope that as the years pass and events like these occur, our paths continue to cross giving us fun opportunities to chat and get to know each other!!! And of course, it was so sweet to see little Miss Morgan, who was quite the trooper that day! She has grown up so much since I saw her last summer and is an amazing little girl. I know that Gage and Mackenzie had fun with her at the face painting table...my kids were covered in face AND arm paintings!!! I was able to meet up with Armin, Kelly and Jack Heravi at the Rally and also brought with me my dear friend Terri Fritz and her 3 girls...all of whom were amazed at the efforts and success of the day!!! It was fun for everyone!! I have to mention too, that it was great to meet up again with Josh Reyher and meet his fiance Kim...it was at Mackenzie's baptism that we last saw him...6 years ago!!
Kristin and Ally, you were dearly missed, but it was wonderful to be in the presence of so many of your loved ones and supporters. I hope that week 2 at the clinic continues to see great strides for Allyson!! We are thinking of you and cheering you on!!! We are back in PA for the 4th of July week!! Have a wonderful week and we look forward to hearing about Ally's progress! Hugs and kisses to you both!
Love,
Dani and crew
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
iminLititzfortheweek, PA - Monday, July 2, 2007 8:42 AM CDT
Happy WEEK no. 2 Allyson and Kristin!
I hope this week SURPASSES the previous one and on and on and on....YOU GO ALLY GIRL!! Glad you two "girls" had fun in the S.F. area with Little Reb, Alina, and David!! I am sure they 'wined and dined' you in style!!!
Loving you from this side!
Off to the SWIMMING POOL..."my second home" these days!!
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Monday, July 2, 2007 8:02 AM CDT
Go Ally! Wow, she's gotten big. :) Hope the Rally does well! Hope the extended family is doing well too.
Ally and Morgan, you two ROCK!
-Cat
Cat <catandfamily@mainelandusa.net>
Maineland, USA USA - Monday, July 2, 2007 4:55 AM CDT
If God is love, and we know he is, then he certainly enjoyed being with everyone at the Rally.
Stephen R. Woodzell <swoodzell@verizon.net>
- Sunday, July 1, 2007 10:17 AM CDT
And HAPPY SAT. NIGHT OF THE RALLY for ALLy to everyone....what a day it was... I think we had "record crowds" and the new venue was such a great location!
Ashli did a magnificent job in her organization, as usual, and we had so many helpers getting everything to the park "on time"...big, huge thanks to the Smtihs, Woodzells, Eckhardts, Teree, Uncle Josh, and Crandalls/McKays for your "elbow help" and your loving hands!
The children who came had a great time, and played, played, played! All in all, it was a great success, and we are happy, but a bit tired, campers tonight.
The Crandall/Mckay clan leave in the A.M. but we will see them again in the Outer Banks next week for our vacation time. Morgan and the "kids" are like "peas in a pod"....so much fun when they are together. Not a cross word!
We LOVed SEEING Dani and "fam" and Dani and Holly enjoyed meeting one another. They are "sort of the famous" website friends and it was fun seeing them meet one another...
Carol Agne represented NFED and she gave such an eloquent speech about what this rally does to help children affected by ECtodermal Dysplasias. It was a pleasure to meet her and have her help us out. We will look forward to seeing her again in CA for the NFED Conference in late July.
In the meantime, Allyson continues to 'eat' and make us proud. I am sure Ashli will give a more complete update soon, but just remember, "I am the woman of few words"....
Are you laughing???
Love to all..and again....thanks for your love and support and to our special, special folks today who helped so much, thank you is "not" enough, but know that you are the best HEART friends in the whole world.
God has blessed us "real good"...:)
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va us - Saturday, June 30, 2007 9:50 PM CDT
Happy RALLY FOR ALLY DAY! And a special happy weekend to Allyson and Kristin as they travel to the San Fran area to be with Little Reb and family! Congrats on a great week of feeding clinic progress! And, we will surely report to all the well wishers today of Allyson's "gains" in the EATING DEPARTMENT! Such great pictures of "sleeping beauty"...keep 'em coming!
The Crandall/McKay family arrived yesterday and it was non stop "fun" until bedtime for the kids..then the adults managed to have a little "more fun" until 11 last night! Ashli and Thomas joined us for the fun day/evening and Holly and Aunt Charlotte got in some "good loving" on that boy! The "kids" (Morgan calls them cousins!) had a great time together and are up this morning playing alrady! FIVE children in one house is a whole bunch of FRIVOLITY!!!
We are loving every minute of them!
Off to the RALLY in a few minutes to set up for the DAY!
We will report all GOOD NEWS later today,and we will see many of you at the RALLY!
Whahoooo!!! Drum rolls! Hoping to surpass our goal of raising $10,000 for the NFED!!! Stay tuned and thank you for your continued love and support for Allyson and our entire family. We know how blessed we are! And, God bless you all!
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Saturday, June 30, 2007 6:18 AM CDT
Ally and Kriistin, you are always in our thoughts and prayers as the days go by. So happy to read that all is going well! We love you and willbe thinking of allof you at the Rally. Please give our best wishes to all who are there! Love, Grandma and Grandpa K from Aruba, a BEAUTIFUL place to spend our anniversary.
Lydia K aka Grandma K <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Aruba, - Friday, June 29, 2007 8:19 PM CDT
Happy Friday everyone!
Update on John McQuay....his parents THINK he will be released from the hospital today and they will travel to Richmond to be with a cousin and then head "home" to Indiana tomorrow! IF John is not released we've made them a hotel reservation for tonight and tomorrow nights nearby. They may be returning to our house Sunday. Holly and "clan" arrive this afternoon to the Matus "B and B" and we are anticipating a great time with them! Morgan is very excited to be sharing this RALLY FOR ALLY weekend with them!
Go Ally, go! You are making me so very proud as you progress each day! I hope the weekend of "feeding" and "playing with Alina" in the S.F. area will be a special time. I KNOW it will be special for Mommie/Kristin to have some adult companionship and conversation!
Thinking of you all and we'll be sure to update soon about the RALLY and all the "doings" of tomorrow!! See you there!! NOON at Nottoway Park!!! YAY!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
morgantheswimmingprincessisawholelotoffuninherndonvirginia.com
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Friday, June 29, 2007 10:25 AM CDT
Hi, all! Just had a nice phone chat with Teetay and I've been doing better getting on the website for the daily updates! :) Kristin, it is marvelous that Allyson is doing so well, and I know you'll continue her progress this weekend. Being a wonderfully nurturing mom, the "tough love" part of feeding her will be your challenge, I suspect. But you have such a great heart and a great way with her, that I know you BOTH will succeed over the next two days! God bless and keep you safe as you travel to SF, and I know you'll have a good time with Rebecca and her family -- a great change for you both from the hotel, the community laundry, the confinement, and the loneliness! Thank Heaven for good friends! So proud of Allyson - and so proud of you! I know the Rally will be a marvelous event and will benefit NFED greatly! The "Princess of Herndon" a/k/a Allyson's Big Sister, Morgan, will be holding the fort and charming the gang! They are both very precious girls! Love and Hugs to everyone! Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA usa - Friday, June 29, 2007 9:50 AM CDT
AGAIN.... Go Ally go Ally go-go-go!!! So thrilled to hear all is "status quo" and I know Mommy will do a perfect job this weekend keeping you on track and all. Yay! And so happy that my sister and best friend are getting together in CA. The Lacki house is always a good time, and you'll get some quality GROWN UP (and surely some great WINE - thanks David!) time -- enjoy and relax and can't wait to hear about the Al-Pals (Ally and Alina!) playing together. Cute!!
Lots of love and hugs!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, June 29, 2007 8:46 AM CDT
Hi Kristin and Ally,
I'm so excited about the rally! I will be there bright and early to help out. I had fun playing with Morgan on Tuesday. We took the little dolls with the long curly hair to the "mall" (in her room) for new shoes. We had to drive in separate cars, though. One of the Bratz drove. We also did puppets and listened (sort of) to the Arthur story CD. She is QUITE the entertaining hostess. I don't think she recognizes any age difference. I'm just another playmate! Our walk to the pond was a nice little trip, too. She fits in very well in Teetay's neighborhood and seems happy with all that's going on. She will make the rally a very special event, too.
I'm so happy to read and hear about Allyson's rapid progress, and I know you are so glad also. This is such an important turning point for her. Way to go, both of you for taking on this challenge and shining all the way. I look forward to each posting and the progress. Our hearts and thoughts are with you!
Love,
Teree
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Thursday, June 28, 2007 8:48 PM CDT
Hi everyone!
YES, Mark, WE WISH you could be at the RALLY this year,too..."same time next year" you WILL BE, hopefully!!! We will be missing your parents and Glenn and Mer and Spencer as well, but Morgan "plans on holding up the family representation" with her BIG NAME TAG that says: "Ally's BIG SISTER, Morgan"....she helped me make the nametags last night and we have special ones for her and the Crandall kids who have come all the way from TEXAS to be with us! RALLY RALLY RALLY! We are in full-on RALLY MODE today!
I am so very proud of Allyson that I could just POP! She is truly one amazing little girl who has been loved and guided by so many nurturing hands and hearts....I give credit to each and every therapist and caregiver, but the biggest GOLD STAR goes to her Mom....yes, Kristin, you can accept the WORD "incredible" right beside your name always!! I am anxious to hear about DAY 4 for the little "overachiever"....is this a sign of the future??? YOU BET it is!!
Morgan continues to do well in swimming class. She was to have her first "private" lesson yesterday afternoon ...(she takes a group lesson in the mornings) but the THUNDER closed the pool, so we could not have the lesson. However, we came home where she invited Adam and Carl over to have a "pool party" in her "little pool" ...(the rains never came down!)....we had towels, chairs, toys, two boys, one girl, and pretzels for the "pool party"....as Morgan ASSESSED the party-area, she commented, "The only thing we're missing is music." (Gee, should I go out and get an IPOD just for pOOL PaRTIES???? )
Ashli and Thomas spent Tuesday night and all day Wednesday with us. We went to Target to collect more things for the RALLY, and when we came home, Morgan began "wrapping up her own books" for the RAFFLE. She said she wanted to "help" the RALLY for Ally!!
Sarah McQuay came home from the hospital last night for the first time in over 7 days. A mother's love is unmatched!! She was "dead tired" but confident that John was doing well enough for her to leave his bedside. He had finally been moved out of ICU to a regular room, and his Dad was with him. She "thinks" he might come "home" today...and they are hoping to return to Indiana as soon as he is released! Not sure how that will work out....I'll keep you posted. Many cards and packages have arrived at my house for them thanks to many of you!!! Such wonderful reaching out has helped them through this difficult time. Sarah "crept" out of the house this morning before six A.M. to return to the hospital!
Thank you for your continued love and support...and thanks in ADVANCE to our "RALLY CREW" (you know who you are!) of special folks who are lending their hands, cars, trucks, energy, muscles, and TIME to us this Saturday. We needed more "hands" this year since the rally is at a park NOT Ashli's and Tom's "alley"...
We are expecting a great turnout and the weather promises to be COOL in the low 80's....and no humidity....music to our ears!! Know that we will be missing some of you, but we are happy to be greeting new faces to the rally...specifically our Dani and family from N.Hampshire..and Holly and her crew from Texas...and Theresa and Zemery will be with us...and Carol from NFED in Illinois.....and perhaps a few SURPRISE guests that we do not even know about yet! Elizabeth Cooksey?? Where are you???? Thanks to my former student, Elizabeth/Dancer/H. for all your help in creating the visors...and thanks to Nancy for assembling them..and thanks to the SIX COLLEGE gRADUTATES who tried to "figure them out" in my living room last Sunday????...such laughter over these ridiculous visiors that did not seem to go into "visor shape"....I'm glad it was not an I.Q. test. We would all be failures!
Thinking of Ally on Day 4...and all of you who have pulled her family into your hearts. That is the GREATEST gift of all!
Love to all...
Terri aka Teetay :)
lovingeveryminuteofmorganinherndonvirginia.com
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:24 AM CDT
Cheers to Ally and Kristin from Teetay's Pen Pal in Minnesota. I've been reading the posts each morning and evening - great news - prayers are being answered. Keep up the great work Ally and to you Kristin all the best. Your positive attitude and strength is shining through. We are thinking about the "Rally for Ally" folks on the East coast as they work so hard toward another successful Rally. Can't wait to see pictures and the results. And to you Mark, thanks to you and your military family as they continue to keep all of us safe. We will think of you and everyone "serving" especially on July 4th. Thank you!
Nancy Zembal <nezembal@comcast.net>
Brooklyn Center, MN USA - Thursday, June 28, 2007 6:29 AM CDT
Hi everyone,
I wish I could be at the Rally in a few days to meet a lot of you and see all of you. Trust me, a little Virginia summer heat would feel balmy compared to the Persian Gulf right now! We're in a huge sandstorm right now. If you go up on the flight deck, it's pretty nasty and makes the visibility down low pretty bad, like being in a huge fog bank you can't get out of. We have been very busy. In one three day span I flew missions over Afghanistan and then Iraq. You know you're getting old when you fly over Iraq at night and see the lights on in towns near Baghdad that didn't have power the last time you were there. I guess that's progress in the war... anyway....
A LOT of my squadron mates donated to Allyson's medical fund a little while ago. It means even more that they did that while we are all out here missing our families. All you military and government employees out there know that none of us are rich, so the donations are even that much more special. Thanks guys and girls! I've been sending out updates to them on Ally's progress and they have been cheering too! So for those of you that only hear the bad news about the military on the nightly news, consider this the "other side" of the story.
Take care guys and know that I'm with you in spirit!
Mark
Mark <mark.kelso@cvw9.navy.mil>
USS John C. Stennis, - Thursday, June 28, 2007 2:59 AM CDT
Kristin,
You ROCK!!! Allyson's progress is a tribute to your expertise as a Mom!! You had her so well prepared for the feeding clinic that there was no doubt she would be a superstar. I am in awe of what you accomplished before arriving at the feeding clinic. Allyson is a strong little girl and her strength comes from the extensive family that supports her and prepares her for the world ahead. What a tribute you and Mark and your entire family are to great parenting. Enjoy your time with your little superstar. I can still feel her hug when she and Morgan and Teetay visited Franklin in May??? Can't wait to Rally for Ally on Saturday.
Carol Williams
Carol Williams <ccw92347@cox.net>
Herndon, VA - Wednesday, June 27, 2007 9:37 PM CDT
WOW, WOW, and more WOW!!!!!!!! What incredible news! Been just chomping at the bit to get the updates. Love the videos and pictures. We continue to pray for Ally's strength! Love and BIG bear hugs to you all!
Aunt Mer, Uncle Glenn, and Cousin Spencer <soontobebackinvirginia@home.com>
Kennesaw, GA USA - Wednesday, June 27, 2007 8:54 PM CDT
Way to go Ally!!!!! We are so happy and excited as we read of your good news. Keep it up sweet girl! Love Grandma and Grandpa K from Aruba
Lydia K <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Aruba, - Wednesday, June 27, 2007 7:13 PM CDT
Hi!
Gee, that news re Alyson is so wonderful, and I am so proud of her success in the program thus far! She is so precious, and it is wonderful that she is doing so well.
All the Atlanta gang sends love and hugs to you both, and I know Morgan is having a ball being the Princess of Herndon! Love to you all, Aunt Grammy
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Wednesday, June 27, 2007 5:30 PM CDT
WAY TO GO ALLY!! What an amazing spirit she has...I know that everyone out there agrees! Kristin, I am sure your smile grows bigger with each passing feat as Ally continues to conquer each trial that she faces. God has given her an amazing will to triumph!! It is great to hear that she is not using the feeding tube at night. I am sure it makes things that much easier for you too. Sounds like you are having fun checking out the sights and shopping...and catching a few 'winks' between feeding sessions while Ally naps. Good for you!!! I am so happy to hear that things are going well and will keep praying that God continues to be with you while you go through this journey at the clinic. Hugs and kisses to you both! Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH USA - Wednesday, June 27, 2007 1:48 PM CDT
HUGE SHOUT OUTS for Allyson and her MOM!!! WHAHOO WAH!!! Allyson is just showing her big spirit AGAIN!! And, I am so happy that the pictures are showing her EAGERLY eating the "whatever" it is from Dr. Ben!!! So many folks have been pulling for you, Ally, and you are really showing your STUFF!!! You, GO GIRL!!We love you girls VERY MUCH!!! Morgan is being a "good girl" and is happy, and involved, and cooperating throughout each day! She will probably be "six going on 12" by the time you see her!!!
LOVE and HUGS to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
Kristin..."checkie the mail"...you might be receiving items!! :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Wednesday, June 27, 2007 7:28 AM CDT
Per MORGAN... after seeing the new pics and video:
"Awww, my sister looks so cute and happy! Look how CUTE she is! " :)
xoxox
Morgan, the best big sister! <idonothaveemailyet_butIgotanewWebkinzfromAA@spoiledrotten.com>
currently in Herndon, VA - Wednesday, June 27, 2007 7:26 AM CDT
GO ALLY GO ALLY GO - GO - GO!!! This is awesome and amazing news and I am soooo proud of you! And your mommy sounds SO HAPPY on the phone :) YAY - you go, girls!
We're having fun here with Morgan at Teets and Geep's house. Thomas and I had a sleepover (Nala too!) last night. FUN!
We love you lots and miss you tons! Talk later!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, June 27, 2007 7:05 AM CDT
WOO HOO!!!!!!!!!!! Go Ally, go Ally, go Ally!!!! I wonder if she set a new record at the feeding clinic????? 2 days and the tube is gone! I am soooooooooo happy for Ally and for KDMK on this ENORMOUS milestone! You should both be VERY PROUD!
Smiling all the way from MN to CA!
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Wednesday, June 27, 2007 5:42 AM CDT
Hi, Family, I've been reading and I'm caught up on all the latest news now ... and it's terrific that Allyson is making such quick progress. We've prayed a zillion prayers,and have so many friends praying for her and Kristin at this time. I'll be sure to give everyone the update. Also, the eye drops are encouraging ... and I pray they will help her enormously. And John McQuay -- so glad he's gaining ground from his surgery and those setbacks that came upon him. Hope and pray he will be able to come "home" to Teetay's soon and be out of the hospital. Hospitals are so tiring ... Loren and I use to marvel, when Leslie was going through all those eye surgeries, how you could go to the hospital completely fresh and rested, and in 6 hours later, feel exhausted and like you'd plowed a hundred-acre field! So I pray that they'll be at Teetay's soon -- and I know that having sweet Morgan there to comfort and play quietly with him will also be a tonic for healing for this little guy! Tell Morgan to give him a little love-pat on the foot for Aunt Grammy from Atlanta!
The latest pictures of Thomas are--of course-- adorable! Oh, those eyes -- we all predicted "EYES-gorgeous" for that little guy, and he sure has them!
One bit of news is that Uncle Loren fell hard on the tennis court yesterday, and injured his left hand/wrist, banged up a knee, and really hurt his right shoulder. He has inflamed the bursa (sp?) and the rotator cuff, but xrays today showed no cracks/no breaks, and no tear in the rotator cuff. Lots of swelling and inflamation, but nothing worse! Whew! He had a whopping big injection of cortisone, is in an arm sling for a week, and has physical therapy exericises to do in a few days. He is really lucky it wasn't worse. Glad to report no injury to his bionic back!!!! :) The only thing he is "mourning" while he recovers, is that his tennis serve may never be the same again! SUCH a man fer ye! :)
The Atlanta gang sends love and we are so pleased about Allyson's progress ... give her big hugs and kisses for us, and Kristin, we send you much love as well.
Love and Hugs to all,
Auntie D/Aunt Grammy
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA usa - Tuesday, June 26, 2007 2:13 PM CDT
Day number two for Ally and Kristin!
Sounds like everything is going according to the "PLAN"...those pictures are welcome sights and Allyson's eye is so much better. It had started improving just before I left CA, but there is a tremendous difference now! Praises for that!
And, "small world" again....the Oakton "graduate/new friends at the clinic" who live in Herndon!! Who would have thought? And, if you don't believe in those "godwinks" now????
Hope everyone is having a great week! We are anticipating a HOT HOT day filled with swimming lessons, Aunt Ashli, Thomas, and Teree's visit! Morgan is anxious for Day two of swimming to start!
Little John McQuay "may" come "home" today...his mother was not certain. It is DAY FIVE...he's had a few setbacks but is recovering according to schedule. His mom and dad have remained at the hospital with him, so we've only seen John when he's picking up clean clothes. Morgan is anxious to see John and "play quietly" with him and NO JUMPING around him! She is very interested in "how" he will be and she's ready to just hang out with him downstairs! I'll update on him when he comes "home" to my house!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Tuesday, June 26, 2007 7:12 AM CDT
Greetings to all,
What a day!
I heard that Allyson "ate her breakfast" in ten minutes, but came out "covered" in food...Kristin will fill inthe details! I just got the quickie version via phone!!
Morgan managed to learn today to TREAD water and swim across the "8 foot" area by face in, stop, breathe, tread, and face in again...in her swim class this morning. The "Meet the Mummy" story time at the library was not as big a hit...she did like dressing up her friend in toliet paper as MUMMY. The high light was getting to go BACK to the pool with my neighbor and her son, Carl, Morgan's friend...that perked up right up after a "hard day of swimming"...PLAYING in the POOL is fun, too!!
Tomorrow is another swim day, and some trips to the store to gather some needed RALLY items. We are using our friends' - The Smiths' house (near the park where the rally will be held this year) - for our STAGING AREA, so we've been hauling the "RALLY stuff" to their house today. Their garage now looks just about as "BAD" as ours did! Whahooo...I have garage space back!!
We will have M and M, the "molly/mickey mouse fish" and he is alive and well. WE only lost FOUR fish in twenty four hours and we followed every direction perfectly. What is so difficult about fish? (please do not write me about this fish issue ...it was "my idea"...a.nd we are handling the "daily deaths" just fine...this morning, Morgan announced to me that "M and M" was SMART because she figured out how NOT to die! Well...now, I think that is a smart statement!!)
Everything is going well here in VA...the "six year old going on 12" is quite a delight and is doing fine. We checked out a bunch of library books today so we must go and read them now!!
See you all at the RALLY FOR ALLY this Sat. Today, Morgan asked me "exactly WHAT is this rally we do" for??? So..I had the chance to explain "again" to her how much the efforts of so many help children affected by Ectodermal Dysplasia Syndromes. She "nodded" and really "seemed to get it"...as she's learned at the hand of the master-mom, Kristin.
Thinking of Allyson and Kristin tonight in CA...and Mark "in the big blue skies" in the Middle East...and all of you who have hugged us, loved us, and cared for us for such a long time. THANK YOU AGAIN "so big"...to use Holly's expression!!
Love to all,
Rocking toward the RALLY date!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Monday, June 25, 2007 6:13 PM CDT
Thinking of you both and sending lots of love and prayers to you this morning as you begin another "adventure." Kristin and Ally, you are two strong ladies and I'm, as always, in awe!
Love,
Jackie
Jackie Horras <jackie2fish@hotmail.com>
San Antonio, TX - Monday, June 25, 2007 9:47 AM CDT
Not only is that new photo beautiful and precious and priceless, Ally's left eye looks amazing!!!! So great to see her looking right at you and smiling and less squinty -- sure hope those drops keep it up and work their magic. What a wonderful photo.... and many of you will see THIS one plastered around Rally this Saturday!
What a blessing to be surrounded bu such supportive family members (members? are we a club? yes! :) and friends. The outpouring of support from CA to TX to VA to DC to NH to GA and many more places, I know, has been amazing. How wonderful that we could all help to make this happen for Ally -- that's what family and friends are for and this is what matters in this world. So I leave you with my favorite Ally-Rally quote, and send my own personal THANKS to all of you in Ally-land for being so gracious, generous and loving toward my sister and her whole family.
The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit. ~Nelson Henderson
Of course I personally plan to do a LOT of "sitting" in the proverbial "shade" of ALLY... 'cuz SHE ROCKS and she is an amazing, spunky, super-fun, loving and adorable little niece! I adore you, little Al-Pal! ;p
Lots of love! Hugs! Talk to you later, KDMK!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, June 25, 2007 8:21 AM CDT
Just wanted to pop-in and say hello, wishing Kristin and Ally all the best as they begin their journey today at the feeding clinic. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you today and every day! So glad to hear that your travels went well and that Allyson is proving to eat better with each passing day. Loved the picture of her on the hotel bed smiling while eating her hot dog and baked beans!! Yummy!! I am sure your days will be busy and I look forward to catching up with you once you are finished with the clinic, or whenever you may have a 'free' (I use that term loosely) minute : )
We are here in PA and will be heading to the DC area in a day or two to visit with friends and gear up for the Rally. We are so excited to see Morgan and the rest of the family! Good to hear that Morgan is settling in nicely in VA...I am sure she will have a blast this summer! See you soon!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Monday, June 25, 2007 8:10 AM CDT
You know I am NOT a "woman of few words"...but all I want to say right now is:
"GO ALLY! GO ALLY! GO ALLY GO!!!"
We are praying, pulling for you, cheering for you, and loving you and your mommie from Virgina where Morgan is being the "biggest and bestest" big sister in the world! She is so filled with confidence and love and a joy to have around!!!
Love you all....and I cannot wait for the UPDATE!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
Countdown to RALLY and we are ROLLING toward the weekend!!
YAYYAYAYAYAYAYAAY!!!!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va us - Monday, June 25, 2007 7:17 AM CDT
Ugh- I was ALMOST # 95,000!!!!! Today is the BIG day and my thoughts have been with you and Ally all weekend. I just KNOW that Ally has been preparing for this for the last few weeks and is eating better and better. She is prooving once again that she does not need 4 weeks at a clinic - maybe 2 - who knows! Her smile on then homepage is priceless and hope this transition part of her eating is over before you know it.
I love you both so much and wish I could be there to let Kristin SLEEP. But since I can't, please know that not a day goes by without you being thought of and I am sending you GIANT cyber hugs every day!
xoxoxoxoxoxo
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Monday, June 25, 2007 6:38 AM CDT
So today is the big day! Best of luck to all of you these next few weeks. We'll miss you at church. I'll send up a prayer request this morning. Thinking of you...
Rachel <brbrody@cablerocket.com>
Mugu, CA - Sunday, June 24, 2007 10:17 AM CDT
Hi Kristin & Al-Pal!!! Safe travels as you drive north today to Los Altos area to start the big adventure :) I'll be thinking of you, praying and sending positive vibes that all goes well (and quickly!) as you work with Ben in the coming weeks at the feeding clinic. YOU CAN DO IT! GO AL,GO!
Looking forward to talking with you (as much as we can!!) over the days and weeks. I LOVE YOU GIRLS SOOOOO MUCH! xo!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, June 24, 2007 7:24 AM CDT
Good evening to all,
I would love for this to be a personal email to many of you, but I've rec'd so many "requests" of "how Morgan is doing" IN VA..that this is my response.
As you know we 'arrived'...all was well last night.
This morning, we hit the road running with a trip to STARBUCKS for breakfast and our nail/pedicure appts...Morgan had never Put her feet in the WATER , so it was a BIG, BIG DEAL!!
While at the nail spa she met a little girl from CA also (from San Diego) who had ALSO graduated kindergarten and was "visiting grandparents" in VA...wow...what a connection. WE have exchanged phone numbers to set up a play time next week. Morgan and Steppanie are 'two peas in a pod' so to speak.
That was the FIRst EVENT of theday.
The next "big deal" was getting Morgan's FISH family. She has always "wanted a pet" so FISH is "it" while here and I will turn them over to her parents once they move.
We have a "Molly Mickey fish" with "Mickey" ears on his tail...we have a Dandio...striped like a zebra...and THREE "tetras" with the neon blue heads. But folks...get this..AFTERk setting up the aquarium(small , but functional for five fish)....Morgan NAMED all her fish. They are "M and M" (the mickey mouse fish) and Jack, the striped zebra..and The THREE tetras are the "twins" Mary and Mary and Cottontail.
Well...are you ready for this?
WHILE MORGAN WAS TAKING A BATH....: "Dum dee dum dum!"...
Cottontail got "caught" on the filter and is now is "nemo-heaven" in the Pacific Ocean. (Oh what a night...!!) When she wen to bed, she said, "I surely hope no one else dies tonight>" It nearly broke my heart as I had not planned on "death lessons" this soon. (Remember..I have LIFE ALERT) HA..
So, that is today...and right now Morgan is in bed...but just came downstairs as "she is worried about Cottontail" and "wonders where he is " in the GREAT BIG OCEAN.
The girl is too smart.
I will "let you know" how this goes down.
For now...Kristin and Ally leave tomorrow and Ally shopped at KOHl's today ..and picked out clothes and said, "Dis one?" "Dis one"? ANd Kristin bought them all!
What a love she is!
More tomorrow and I hope we do not face FOUR fish "face up" in the morning...
John IV is doing well...parents are staying at the hosp. with HIM...of course!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Saturday, June 23, 2007 8:11 PM CDT
Good morning all,
The "eagle has landed" and we are now BACK in Virginia! Morgan travelled with her usual grace, confidence, and charm...on the people -mover at Dulles last night she engaged two other little girls in a conversation that ranged from "where are you from?" to 'I hope my dog, Coconut, (American Girl dog)did not POOP in my Teetay's bag'....to "I'm going to be at Teetay and Geepie's for FOUR weeks"...."Did you see that I'm dressed just like Alice, my American Girl doll?" And, "did you know that this is my 11th trip across the country?" (not sure that is exactly accurate, but she could be right!)
Morgan IS a veteran traveller....after a big lunch in the LAX airport...after a hugging/laughing/tearful farewell to her mommie, she ANNOUNCED to me in the Security Line that "she was okay now"....I assured her it was "ok" to be sad when you were leaving someone you loved. She got "fine" and had a good trip watching DVD's, playing PET SHOP, reading books, snacking on popcorn and cranberry juice, going to the Bathroom "alone" with me outside the door, and looking our the window at all the LIGHTS in Virginia! (who knew?) She never napped...and each time I closed my eyes, she tapped me to tell me what I was MISSING???? Funny!
We settled in last night and at midnight we snacked on popcicles and snickerdoodles and WARM milk! She was fast asleep by 12:30 (9:30 CA time) hugging Clifford, her "Timmie" and listening to her special music!! Her smile woke me up this morning...so we are off to a great start.
Us girls have a nail/pedicure appt. this morning, so AFTER a trip to STARbucks we will be pampered for a bit. She is dying to get back home to ride her new Scooter with TWO wheels...and her bike with TWO wheels without training wheels...so we'll keep you posted.
My very best thoughts are with Kristin and Allyson as they begin their journey of a "thousand bites" Sunday...I just know that it will go well...Allyson is "so ready" and is eating better and better at home. Go Ally and Dr. Z, and Mommmie Kristin. YOU ROCK!!
John McQuay's surgery went well as Dad John reported to Geep last night. Both parents spent the night at Children's so we have not seen them in person yet....John will be back "home" at my house in about five days. He is a spirited little boy and please continue to keep him and his recovery days in your prayers.
ANd, this is "summer vacation"...right??? I like to call it "high speed vacation"...!!
Have a great weekend...and Mark, out there in the BLUE SKIES, know that we are thinking of you and continuing to count DOwn THE DAYS!!!
Good luck on the Pt. Hueneme 'house sale'.....safe travels for Ally and Kristin....safe sailing for Mark...easy days for John Mc....and "beautiful fingernails and toes" for Morgan and me!!!
Love to all,
Terri / Teetay LIfe alert WOMAN!
terri matus <TEETAY43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Saturday, June 23, 2007 7:41 AM CDT
Good Luck to Kristin and Allyson as they prepare for the clinic. My thoughts and parayers will be with you. I'm sure everything will go well!! I'm counting down the days to the rally....I can't wait to see everyone again! Hope everyone is having a great summer!
Elizabeth Hellman <dancer3191@cox.net>
Chantilly, VA United States - Friday, June 22, 2007 5:49 PM CDT
UPDATE ON LITTLE JOHN IV MCQUAY... for loyal fans and inquiring minds! Teetay talked w/ his mom this morning and he was on the "downhill side" of surgery and things were to be wrapped up, sewn up, etc! within a few hours. Things seemed to have been going well so we'll say our prayers for little John's speedy recovery!
And for the ironic twist... John, the dad, fainted in the waiting room at the hospital and was whisked to the ER for observation. HE IS FINE!!!! But what a dose of irony given the Mark-Ally episode 2 1/2 years ago TODAY. Anyway, the docs say big John will be just fine so no worries!
Speaking of 2 1/2 years ago... it's ALLY'S HALF BDAY! Not that we usually celebrate these but since I noticed... :) Lots of love to you and your amazing Mommy-Kristin as you embark on quite a journey this Sunday. You girls are quite a team so I am sure your time at the feeding clinic will be a huge success. Go Ally go!
Lots of love ~ more updates on John IV when we have one!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, June 22, 2007 2:19 PM CDT
Hello all and "goodbye" to California "for now"....for "this trip"....w
The HOUSE did NOT sell during the night!
We are about to be ON THE ROAD AGAIN for the airport...
Kristin has a MAJOR quarterly evaluation this afternoon with all of Allyson's "team" of therapists and caregivers...
There is not one spec of "disorder" to this house.
Kristin leaves Sunday.
There is an OPEN HOUSE Sunday afternoon.
She will settle into Los Altos in the afternoon with Allyson.
Kristin has made contact with another family attending the Feeding Clinic and they are from ...."guess where?" ....
HERNDON, VA!!!! Is it a SMALL world, or what??? Let's stay tuned to hear about that newly "born" friendship!!
East Coast....here we come! "All our bags are packed...and we're ready to go.....LA LA LA LA LA LA!!"
See you at the RALLY on the 30th of JUNE!!And keep thinking those positive thoughts for Allyson and her progress at the clinic...and keep praying for her as well...and hold little John McQuay in your prayers today as he is undergoing surgery right now....let's hope for ALL GOOD THINGS at the end of this day!!
Love again..
:)
Love to all,
Terri/Teetay :) LIFE ALERT WOMAN!!! :)!!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va USA - Friday, June 22, 2007 11:24 AM CDT
WEll..."that sucker" is ON THE MARKET>...all the legal-eagle papers were signed today and the agent has already has FIVE calls just from the "sign" in the front yard!
Kristin and I really don't want to "sit" or "do anything" to "mess up the house".....but we're being very NEATNICKS!!
Kristin and Morgan are having a "sleepover" tonight in KRistin's big "nose bleed bed" and they are watching a MOVIE. Allyson is in "her bed" and I've just patted her down only ONCE....she took her medicine and is hugging her DUCKIE aka "quack-quack"...she has been a very sweet girl today and has "repeated" every word, syllable, and phrase that was said to her...I LOVE HER PARROT stage!! YAHOOOOOO!!
Morgan will feel some "missing tomorrow" but we are prepared for it...she is excited about Virginia, but "will miss California"...this is her "first place to remember"...and I so RECALL that Austin, Texas was Kristin's and Ashli's FIRST place to remember! IT is a "loss" and a "gain" at the same time. Good friends last. Believe me. I count you among my "friend blessings" each day!!
So...we are pressing-on tomorrow...aka "our style"...and Morgan is grooving right in with it..."all our bags are packed and we're ready to go..." and LEAVING on a JET PLANE is nothing NEW to her!!! I am sure there will be "moments"...but we'll be okay! By the way...Allyson says "OKAY" a lot these days! "Ally, are you okay?" (answers "Yes, I-okay"...I just love it!)
I know the McQuays are spending a night in the hospital with John IV preparing for his surgery in the morning...please, please keep this little lad in your prayers as he undergoes a very delicate, unusual surgery to close the frontal area over his brain. He is a delight and I cannot wait to hug him BIG!!
Love and many, many thoughts tonight as I sit "possibly" for the last time on Kristin's and Mark's patio...and I tell California "goodbye" ...(sort of)....what bittersweet and wonderful memories we have of our times here...and MOST especially, Allyson's birth and the CARE she has rec'd over the past two/one half years!! God planted the Kelsos in JUST THE RIGHT SPOT to take care of Ally. As they prepare to "move" (to DC? right? it's looking GOOD!) to the East Coast I only pray that her caregivers, PT's , OT's, and those who will know her will find her spirit and goodness as feisty and mesmerizing as the CA "folks" have. We are a blessed family.
And, again...thank you all who have contributed to the Feeding Clinic and who will also join us at the third ANNUAL RALLY for ALLY at Nottoway Park June 30th....
Love and hugs all around and great big PRAYERS for John "quad"....LOVE!
And, it goes without saying that our thoughts, prayers, and hearts will be with Kristin and Allyson as they work their best at the Feeding Clinic with Dr. Z to get Ally on track to "nutrition" herself and do it "all the time".....after the past few days of SUCH GOOD EATING I am assured that she will EXCEL at this!! Let's just keep those positive thoughts at the top of the pile! And, great BLESSINGS to my daughter, Kristin, who is a walking MARVEL of a MOM....so dedicated, so cheerful, and so determined that Allyson (and MOrgan) will have the VERY BEST futures!!! I am so very proud of her, and I like saying it PUBLICALLY!! Thank YOU for caring for all of us!
Terri aka Teetay also known as "Life Alert"...:)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va USA - Thursday, June 21, 2007 10:47 PM CDT
Happy trails to Teetay and Morgan who hit the skies tomorrow for VA!! YAY! We can't wait to see you here on the other coast and look forward to weeks worth of fun with Morgy-lu.
Now for Kristin and Ally... I have no "good" words for you as you say "see ya later" to Morgy-lu. I know she is your bestest little friend and adorable sidekick and it will be tough to say bye to her at the airport. YOU CAN DO IT! I am sure you'll chat every day and you know she's in good hands :) We promise not to mess her up too badly ;) I'll be thinking of you and I am betting you'll call me en route home from the airport tomorrow. HUGS!!!!!
Lots of love to you all in these final days leading up to the big feeding clinic adventure. And HOORAY for the last days of house work and getting that sucker put on the market! Way to go!
Love you tons!!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, June 21, 2007 8:58 PM CDT
Hello everyone!
I just have to share TWO little stories...first is the
Allyson story! Two nights ago Kristin was "out with Morgan for a special evening" and I had Allyson to myself. She ate, played, and we eventually got ready for bed. She said she was "ready" and we got pajamas on, face washed, cream-all-over and she sacked out at 7:15 PM. All was quiet....I "hooked up her feeding tube" at 8PM. She was sleeping SOUNDLY!! We don't hook her up until she is sound asleep since she tends to CRAWL out of her bed these days! Thirty minutes later for NO APPARENT REASON I decided to "peek in on her"...but I'd heard NO SOUNDS and I KNEW she was sleeping peacefully. When I opened the DOOR to her room, there SITS Allyson straight UP in BED with the gastric tube UNHOOKED from her extension and the red tip where the milk comes OUT was in her MOUTH! NOT A DROP WAS SPILLED onto the BED! She was smiling at me as if to say, "Isn't this the way I should be drinking milk?" Now, if THAT isn't an ENDORSEMENT for "why" we need to get RID OF THE FEEDING TUBE, I don't know what is!! She'd never done that before! Had I not "checked" when I did, there would have been 12 ounces of milk spilled all over her and the bed if she had "stopped" drinking from the tube!! We had a good chuckle and no harm was done.
Funnier than that....even...a Morgan story....as you know we've really been working/bending/cleaning etc. for ten days now. Morgan has "observed" much of this "frantic" house-makeover-cleaning-stuff! So, today, after coming home from the mall playground where the girls and I went while the carpets were being cleaned, I continued "my work"....I was down on ALL FOURS in Kristin's bedroom, with my HEAD IN HER FIREPLACE cleaning off YEARS of dust/cobwebs(they've never used the fireplace)and I was "sort of grunting and groaning" when a COMMERCIAL came on T.V. Morgan piped up and said LOUDLY, "Teetay, this might be for you." I peered out from my fireplace vantage point, and said, "What, Morgan?" She said, "Life ALERT...if you fall, someone will find you!" Well....I cracked up more than I've laughed in a long time...I must have APPEARED to have FALLEN and "couldn't get up" in her eyes!! She did not know WHY it was so funny! I'll bet you know why!
I'm still laughing in CALIFORNIA!
Ah...the stories...that's the best part!!
More later, if my sides are permanently cracked and I'm not on the "floor" holding my LIFE ALERT!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay aka "Life Alert Woman"...!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, June 20, 2007 5:26 PM CDT
Hi CA gals - -that's you, too, Teetay! :) WE MISS YOU TONS ALREADY... we're home safe and sound and Thomas is officially "perfect" when it comes to flying in business class!! What a great little traveler! Anyway, we LOVED being in CA with you for all the festivities. Talk tomorrow! xoxoxox
Love, Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, June 18, 2007 10:11 PM CDT
Hi everyone,
I was flying last night and managed to get a phone patch through to home on one of our HF radios. It was very surreal to be flying over Afghanistan and be able to tell Morgan "Happy Birthday" and have her tell me "Happy Father's Day" at the same time. It was a good Father's Day present to hear her voice and talk to Kristin briefly too! Thanks to the US Air Force for doing the comm relay for us.
Mark
Mark <mark.kelso@cvw9.navy.mil>
USS John C. Stennis, - Monday, June 18, 2007 3:00 AM CDT
Jeffery never goes outside without a "floppy" hat.
Ask the Kelso's about Jeffery's hats. He has worn hats since he was tiny for his photosensitivy (photophobia) and also ward off sun and scalp burn.
Crystal Register <register5@atmc.net>
Southport, NC USA - Sunday, June 17, 2007 7:42 PM CDT
Hello, everyone! Happy Father's Day to new father, Tom George, to Jerry Matus, to John Kelso, and especially to Mark! HOPE ALL OF YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY! I always miss my wonderful Daddy on this day, of course. He taught me so much and gave me such unconditional love. I am so glad I married a man who followed in those footsteps with our girls! The Burnses are on vacation in Florida, but came by before they left to say HFD to Loren and bring a goodybag ... The Hellers came last night, as Leslie had her 14 hour working day today. She will greet fathers today who are not so happy and who have sick/injured children, poor fellows.
I have prayed this day for all the Fathers who serve our country and who are away from their loved ones. The sacrifices continue ....
I am so sorry John McQuay's grandfather has had the heart attack. The McQuay family is on two church's prayer lists for young John and his family. We are all praying for a wonderful surgical outcome for them... and strength and hope for his family.
Love to all the left coasters and the gathered clan.
Safe travels to you all on your returns. Love, Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy/Sister
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, g usa - Sunday, June 17, 2007 1:26 PM CDT
HAPPY Father's Day to all the DADS out there...the grandfathers and those fortunate enough to have achieved the STATUS of GREAT grandfather!!! Whahooo!!! We are thinking of you all as we celebrate Father's Day in California!
Kristin "allued" to our BUSY-NESS of this past week, but it is not possible to do "justice" to all that we've accomplished in getting her house ready to go on the market next Sunday. (the day Kristin and Ally leave for the Feeding Clinic) TRY TO IMAGINE an "Extreme Makeover" a-la-Matus-Kelso style...and that is us! We are like a thousand little "mice" scurrying about doing our "jobs" and moving on the next one. (and believe me, there were MANY "next ones"....Kristin had prepared an amazing and LONG list of the "to do's" and we checked them off one by one).....we laughed as we added lots of "OTHER" to the list! The house looks perfect and I cannot imagine any buyer not wanting to scoop it up! Many folks come to Port Hueneme from the L.A. area to get NEAR the beach(one mile) so this property could serve as a 'second home' to some lucky person??? Interested???? :)!!!
In between the HOUSE duties I have gone to Allyson's therapy sessions and have marveled in the accomplishments of this spirited, special girl! She never ceases to impress me with her persistence and her glow! Her left eye continues to bother her and she closes it to "protect" it from the light, especially when OUTside...and sometimes INSIDE! Kristin will write MORE about that before she leaves for Los Altos, I'm sure. She did see a specialist last week who had some information for her. However, I'm thinking she will get a "second opinion"...later on!
Morgan's graduation ceremony was very special. I've always sort of "poo-poo-ed" KINDERGARTEN graduation ceremonies, but it is easy to "eat those words" when it is YOUR grandchild! Mary Law Private School is very traditional as was the ceremony. The BEST part was the performance by the Kindergarten classes singing and dancing FRENCH songs...YES, FRENCH!!! And...they did a finale of numbers including HOUND DOG and "Staying Alive"...(NOT IN FRENCH)...Miss Morgan was FRONT AND CENTER (leader-of-the-pack) and she sang and danced her heart out! Smiling all the time!!! They rec'd their diplomas with pride, shook the Principal's hand, took a little bow, and WALKED out to POMP and CIRCUMSTANCE. (not a dry eye among us....call us "sappy"....!!) We celebrate that night with a "feast" picked out by Morgan....her favorite WHITE meal....chicken tenders, white rice, corn, iceberg lettuce with RANCH dressing....and milk~!....The adults had a variation of that same meal with a different COLORED BEVERAGE! (can you spell WINE???) Swimming lessons continued throughout the week with Morgan jumping into the DEEP end on Friday.(that scares her ...but she did it!) The birthday festivities at PUMP IT UP was LOUD, BOISTEROUS, and FABULOUS! I even have a "war wound" from sliding down one of the big slides with five kids attached to me! YAY, Teetay did it! I am NOT a "spectator" so I had to JUMP in! At one point, Allyson, who is FEARLESS, was too tired to climb the rope, so I was boosting her 30 pounds with one arm while climbing up the rope! Kristin and Ashli did the "mountain climbing" part with both girls and again...ALLY showed no fear...she rocked-and-rolled with the BIG kids without a PEEP!!! (and she crashed into bed so EASILY last night..no midnight wails either!)
Thomas has been a perfect boy....travelled so well sleeping all but 20 minutes of the 5 hour flight. Geep gave his business-class-seat to Ashli so she enjoyed the luxury of real glasses, good food, and a hot washcloth at the end of the flight....it spoils one to travel first-class FOREVER! IT WILL NEVER BE THE SAME to "go back"...!!!
Today is our church day, Father's Day celebration and I'm sure this DAY will"end" with a STEAK and SALMON meal tonight!!! Ashli, Thomas and Geep leave tomorrow, and Grandma and Grandpa K leave this afternoon...then it will be back to "quiet house" (ha, you believe that?) for just Kristin, Morgan, Allyson, and me! We have many appointments this week, carpet cleaning, window replacements, swim lessons, Ally therapy sessions...and maybe a few other things thrown into the MIX....!! I'm headed for the DUMPSTER in a few minutes to get rid of MORE stuff that doesn't fit into the trashbin!
All in all, it has been a BUSY and productive week....I don't think I've ever worked this "hard" in my OWN house...and I've made Kristin promise that she will give me a WhOLE DAY in my utility/storage room "one day" soon....paybacks are "you know what" but she did PROMISE!! Needless to say....I think we've "successfully" been on a DIET this past week...NOT that we haven't eaten WELL, but the activity in between has taken away those extra calories!!
And, did I mention "cleaning and shining" (an expression we use??) ....we ARE SQUEAKY CLEAN on Pacific Cove Drive and just waiting for an anxious BUYER to come along!!!
Thinking of my special DAD today...Berner E. Grant...he was a great FATHER, and a loving DAD!!! He taught me many lessons in my life, but most of all, to "give and love and care for those close to you"....and to always "finish what you start"...(I can never finish this posting, however!)....WONDERFUL wishes to Geep, Mark, Tom, Grandpa K, Loren, and to all of you out there in "Ally land" who might be reading this. And, just think "FATHERS"...without us "MOMS" around you could not be the DADS you are! Special wishes to MARK who is surely missing "his girls" today.
Please keep the McQuay family in your prayers as they travel this week to Virginia for Little John's surgery. Sarah's dad just suffered a massive heart attack, but is doing well currently with the help of good meds and good doctors and "fast moving" from her mom who delivered him to the ER. Sarah and family have a lot on their plate right now, and this adds to their stress. Please keep them in your prayers!
Loving you all today and thinking of everyone....I'll write more next week before Morgan and I return to VA and Kristin and Ally leave for Northern CA....thank you for loving us and being part of our lives. YOU give us love, friendship, and much, much support!!!
Love to all..
Terri aka Teetay :)
lovingblueskiesinsouthernca.com
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, ca USA - Sunday, June 17, 2007 10:30 AM CDT
Greetings to the folks on the "left coast". It's always heartwarming to get caught up on journal and guestbook entries. There is so much going on! I will miss the rally cuz I am going to an out-ot-town wedding, but I'll be there in spirit and hope to get a winning raffle ticket! I look forward to having Morgan over to my pool to visit with my granddaughter and show off her swimming abilities! Morgan, don't forget "Auntie Pammie"! Allison, I'll miss seeing you, but you and your mom are doing some very important work, so have at it! Maybe see you in August. Love, Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA USA - Sunday, June 17, 2007 9:12 AM CDT
Happy Birthday Morgan and Congratulations on your kindergarten graduation! You are growing up so quickly! We can't wait to see you in a couple of weeks at the Rally! Hope you are having a fabulous visit with all of your family! Love you!
Jack, Dani, GAge and Mackenzie Van Natta
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Saturday, June 16, 2007 10:11 AM CDT
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DEAR MORGAN. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!!!!! Congratulations on graduating from kindergarten and a VERY happy birthday to you. We hope you are enjoying your visit with the whole housefull of people.
Tons of hugs and kisses!
Tyler (and mommy and Jimmy too) <leavingFLtoday@hadwaytoomuchfun.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Saturday, June 16, 2007 6:37 AM CDT
HI, everyone! Just caught up with the goings-on via the website, and I am exhausted just reading it! I've always known that God was really smart to give kids to young adults... even the most energetic of grandparents would be panting doing all those activities/medical appointments, etc! Loved Kristin and Ashli's picture in the NFED magazine -- pretty nieces they are! I'm sorry Allyson has the eye sensitivity issue to deal with, and my prayers are that it will be easily dealt with with new drops/medications/glasses. As for her "bed gymnastics" and her own ideas about going to sleep -- sounds like our little sweetie has a mind of her own ... and one that's right on target with the "twosles" (pronounced like measles) a word we coined to explain that hallmark age of TWO! It is a stage which we always laughed and said prepares moms and dads for "teensles". Big difference is that measles get cured and go away in a couple of weeks -- not true of twosles and teensles. :) But I rejoice that her "misdeeds" are right on target for the age of two ... a good sign indeed!
Well, as I sign off - I must sing to Precious Miss MAK: "Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you,
happy birthday precious Morgan, happy birthday to you!"
You have a blast with your friends and party. And Teetay and Krisin and Ashli, give her kisses from Aunt Grammy and Uncle Poppy. Love and Hugs to you all,
Aunt Dale
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, g usa - Thursday, June 14, 2007 1:24 PM CDT
No more days for me and little T!! California, here we come! :) Thomas and I are looking forward to our reunion with his girly cousins and Godmother-Aunt Kristin -- what a wonderful few days it will be - yippppeeeee!
Lots of love to those in Ally land... and hugs to you all in CA! Geepie, T3 and I will be there tomorrow night so GET READY! xoxoxo
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, June 12, 2007 3:56 PM CDT
Greetings everyone!
WEll...the countdown has ended and there are officially "no more days" ...I leave EARLY in the morning, so today is the final "crunch" day to get everything done before I return! Morgan and Kristin and I have been coutning-the-days all week...Allyson doesn't "count the days yet" ...but, OH SHE WILL!!!
It is only 10 days until the McQuays arrive with John for his surgery. Jerry will be home to GREET them. Morgan and I return two days later! Please keep them in your prayers as they face this very delicate brain surgery to repair John's skull opening. He's quite the little trooper!
Next time I write it will probably be with some "Ally/Morgan story" from the LEFT coast! Kristin has a gigantic "to do" list to get her house ready for market! She sent it out to ALL the family members arriving in the next week so that we could PICK our jobs from the list! Then, she privately told me that maybe she and I could finish MOST of them before anyone else arrives! Is she CRAZEEEEEEE, that girl???? :)!!! So, I'd best "find my Pilar gloves" to be READY for the house-doings!!!
Thinking of everyone on this beautiful but very HOT Mid Atlantic Friday! Wishing everyone the best weekend ever!
Love to all,
Terri/aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Friday, June 8, 2007 6:57 AM CDT
OMG!!!!!! We just got the 2006 NFED Annual Report and there you 3 CA girls are - page 9! What a great picture!!!!! And then - as you flip the pages.........page 26 has a beautiful picture of Ash and Kristin. Just more proof that you girls ROCK! (not that I really needed any proof because I already knew that)
I hope everyone is having a wonderful week. K - it was so great to talk to you last night!!! I am exhausted today but it was well worth it :):):)
Love you tons!!!
Aims <offtoFLtomorrow@nomorekindergarten.com>
EP, MN - Thursday, June 7, 2007 5:37 AM CDT
Hi Kristin and everyone! I haven't posted in awhile, but I read your updates regularly. What a great update this was. So much is packed into your days that my head spins!
I've loved seeing Teetay so much at school. I think we've had more time to visit at school this year than when she worked here full time! Looking forward to the Rally and Morgan's visit. Best of luck with the feeding clinic and all the upcoming changes, with Mark's return and new orders.
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Tuesday, June 5, 2007 9:50 PM CDT
Greetings and happy FIRST week of June!
I am not "sure" where the month of MAY went???? These are very busy times!
We loved being at the Kent Manor wedding alongside the waterfront with beautiful flowers and scenery! Ashli as a beautiful bridesmaid (she's had lots of practice!) and she walked with grace in her high heels ON THE GRASS, but later complained that her legs were feeling the "tension" from wearing high heels for such a long time! In her "mom" role, flipflops are the order of the day! Thomas was extremely well behaved for his first WEDDING debut, and he gathered the attention of many who could not believe he was only 11 weeks old! He did his "routine" of smiling and cooing almost "on demand"...!!! Geep and I left the reception to get back to our "borrowed house" in Annapolis and to put Thomas to bed! Helen and Dan were a handsome couple and the wedding was just very elegant and tasteful!
The tropical rains followed us home yesterday, so it turned into a GREAT day to get many things accomplished in the house in preparation for the RALLY, my trip to CA this Saturday, and preparation for the MCQUAY family who will arrive while I am still in CA for John's surgery at Children's Hospital. I'm trying to "outfit" them with all the provisions and directions they will need to "get around" and "get along" until I return home! Please keep Little John in your prayers as he undergoes extremely delicate brain surgery on June 22nd. His recovery period will be spent in our home for about ten days. Let's pray and think ALL POSITIVE thoughts for the McQuays from Indiana!
Allyson is a little "rock and roller" herself...climbs out of her bed now...scales down the side of the railing like a little gymnast! Once was there a "time" when the physical therapist wanted her to walk UP a slight "incline" at the center and Allyson worked and worked until she mastered it! Now, she's a climbing girl!
Thomas doesn't want to be left out of the "rock and rolling family" so he flipped himself over last week from back to tummy repeatedly! He startled himself the first time, but then did it again before morning! He is very strong and does look "older" than three months. (Wednesday!)
Morgan had a great time at her "sleepover" but said that her friend, Nicole, had "hard trouble" going to sleep, so Kristin got out the "slippery bed" (an aero bed) and Nicole slept well after getting a "new bed"....I guess she just didn't like Morgan's bed! I find it very comfortable and especially when I wake up and find Morgan 'draped around my neck' like I'm a big stuffed animal! Like I say.."It doesn't get any better than that!"
I'm winding down my subbing this week as it is the close of school ALMOST and because I leave Saturday for the LEFT coast! Even though I have not been actively involved in my own classroom this year, it seems that the year has flown by. "Just a few minutes ago" I was planning my trip to Australia....and now, summer is upon us and it is WINTER in Aussieland! My next "idea" for a "big" trip is to Africa....so we'll see if I can tear myself away from THREE grandchildren long enough to actually do it!
Geep is continuing to love his "Mr. Meaty role" at Wegman's and loves it when he gets to DEMO cook some of the meats using the special marinades and sauces!@ He is in HIS element when he's behind a grill wearing an apron!
I hope many of you are planning to join us for the RALLY FOR ALLY June 30th....Nottoway Park, Vienna, VA. If you would like to contribute a raffle item or a Silent Auction item, please contact Ashli or me. We have many items donated already, but are always OPEN TO MORE!!! There will be many KID items at the RAFFLE this year so the young folks will have more fun BIDDING for something they REALLY want!!!
Thinking of you all as the month begins! Wishing everyone out there in Ally-land a great week!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Monday, June 4, 2007 11:13 AM CDT
Hi, Kristin, Morgan and Allyson,
Loved that picture of Allyson in her flipflops! How cute she is! Morgan, you are doing so well with all your "big girl" stuff -- sleepovers, etc! You are a precious girl, and Aunt Grammy loves you lots! Your pretty art work is on my Fridge, and everyone tells me how beautifully you color and that you do excellent math! I am sure you are getting quite excited about your upcoming birthday. I have some presents that I will be mailing to you TODAY so they'll be there in plenty of time to open at your celebration! Kristin, I know you're getting excited about the feeding disorders program for Allyson -- and it sounds like reducing her supergirl tubefood is the first step in her being successful! Uncle Loren and I are proud of you and have so much admiration for you and the caring, loving and intelligent manner in which you handle so many things! We continue to look after dear Munner who is slipping slowly .... and I'm still fighting a 6 week old sinus infection, which today seems a bit better. What a siege this has been for me-- 4 antibiotics later!
We hold you and Mark and the girls in our prayers. Have safe journeys this summer, and we'll be anxious to hear what the Navy and Mark decide for your future plans!
Love and Hugs and Kisses, Auntie D/Aunt Grammy
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA usa - Monday, June 4, 2007 10:16 AM CDT
Hi, Kristin, Morgan and Allyson,
Loved that picture of Allyson in her flipflops! How cute she is! Morgan, you are doing so well with all your "big girl" stuff -- sleepovers, etc! You are a precious girl, and Aunt Grammy loves you lots! Your pretty art work is on my Fridge, and everyone tells me how beautifully you color and that you do excellent math! I am sure you are getting quite excited about your upcoming birthday. I have some presents that I will be mailing to you TODAY so they'll be there in plenty of time to open at your celebration! Kristin, I know you're getting excited about the feeding disorders program for Allyson -- and it sounds like reducing her supergirl tubefood is the first step in her being successful! Uncle Loren and I are proud of you and have so much admiration for you and the caring, loving and intelligent manner in which you handle so many things! We continue to look after dear Munner who is slipping slowly .... and I'm still fighting a 6 week old sinus infection, which today seems a bit better. What a siege this has been for me-- 4 antibiotics later!
We hold you and Mark and the girls in our prayers. Have safe journeys this summer, and we'll be anxious to hear what the Navy and Mark decide for your future plans!
Love and Hugs and Kisses, Auntie D/Aunt Grammy
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA usa - Monday, June 4, 2007 10:16 AM CDT
Hi and Happy Weekend to everyone! We're off to Kent Island / Annapolis for a wedding I am in this weekend with Teetay & Geepie, too -- fun, fun! It's Thomas's first real formal affair :) And guess who rolled over in his crib last night at 11 weeks?!?! You got it! Tiny T!
Love the new pics and I miss you CA gals and my brother out on the boat. Can't wait to see you all soon, I hope!
We love you! Chat from the road :)
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, June 1, 2007 8:04 AM CDT
Greetings everyone!
Many of you have read guestbook entries for some time now, and you will recognize the name Dani Van Natta....PLEASE reach out in prayer for her Dad this week. He will be having surgery to relieve the pain from disks pressing on his spinal chord. He has JUST RETIRED from 35 years of teaching! Please keep him and the entire Van Natta family in your thoughts this week as they pull together for "their Dad".....I've met Dani's Dad only one time, but I liked him so very much! He's been a trooper and has endured significant pain. Let's WISH HIM WELL!!!!
Love to all...and happy midweek...!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Wednesday, May 30, 2007 7:03 AM CDT
Since this is my home page, I always enjoy the photos, but get so busy (and I am retired - go figure), that I don't write very often. PLUS, it seems an odd coincidence that I am out of town when Ally, Morgan, and Kristin are here! Double darn! I am fairly certain I will be here for the rally, 'tho I previously had travel plans. I am afraid Morgan will forget "Auntie Pammie". I just LOVE the pictures and admire all the journal entries. I am now a grandmother myself (May 23rd), so I can personally enjoy and share the thrill with my dear friend Terri. What a joy! I am just glad we have endless love to give. I plan to see plenty of Morgan at my pool this summer practicing what she is learning at her swimming lessons and getting to know my granddaughter. She can be her surrogate sis while Ally is not with her. What a terrific group of folks here! Mark, I've sent a few inspirational things that show how greatly our troops are honored here in America. I'll do another care package when I get over being a new grandmother. Love to all, Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA The greatest - Monday, May 28, 2007 4:35 PM CDT
Hello, everyone! The Rally for Ally is a few weeks away! While I can't attend this year, I've asked my friends/family to make donations to the cause as my birthday present this year. And, I'll be saying prayers of strength and courage during the time at the Feeding Clinic. Behavior modification takes so much energy, commitment, and dedication.... life teaches us this in many situations.... my heart is with you all as you gear up for it.... (I'm making some assumptions here, so forgive me if they are not accurate...) Happy Memorial Day!
Aimee <AHOLLEB@YAHOO.COM>
Arlington, va - Monday, May 28, 2007 11:26 AM CDT
Happy Memorial Day to everyone!
I heard a wonderful phrase on the Washington DC Memorial Day concert show...it said: "Let's pay tribute to the ordinary men and women in uniform who are doing EXTRAordinary things by putting the freedoms for our country ahead of their own pesonal needs." That is the way it has been since way before "the greatest generation" told us so. I salute and applaud each person in uniform and out of uniform who sacrifices and serves the call of freedom.
Naturally, the older you are the more memories you have to cherish. Still, that doesn't mean the younger generation doesn't have their stash of memories as well tucked away in their hearts. I am hoping everyone remembers what it feels like to be at your mother's side.
Hoping that everyone remembers the days when mothers and fathers and teachers held their hands.
Hoping everyone remembers a defining moment when you "really got it" or something as meaningful as a graduation or rite of passage.
Hoping everyone remembers the liturgies that sustained them.
Hoping everyone remembers the funerals that reminded them.
Hoping everyone remembers what comes into focus while singing the National Anthem or pledging allegiance to the flag.
Hoping everyone remembers the thrill of watching a parade and being part of some "community"...
Hoping everyone remembers to pray for a day when we don't have any more names to mourn...
Hoping everyone remembers that while the GREATEST GENERATION raised the "boomers" that the "boomers" have also raised a generation of young people who are now carrying the torch for each of us. As proud as we can be of our greatest generation, let's tip our hats and applaud the NOW generation that we count on to make their own mark in society. Let's not judge by standards of long ago, but by the challenges that the TODAY faces.
God's speed to each and every man and woman serving in far away places today giving up their Memorial Day "picnics" and "parades" so that we can continue to enjoy such festivities and spirit. My very best thoughts go to Mark, and his fellow shipmates, serving on the USS Stennis. I am proud of you, Mark, and I wish you safe sailing and a happy homecoming soon!
Happy, thoughtful wishes to each of you as you "remember" those who are important to you today.
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Monday, May 28, 2007 7:41 AM CDT
Hello to all of you out there in Ally-land and Happy Memorial Day Weekend to everyone! It has been a while since I have posted on the website, but have been keeping up on a daily basis. Love the pictures of the CA girls on the home page and the addtitional photos on the photo page!! You all look great and it sounds like you are all doing well and keeping very busy. It is hard to believe that Morgan is going to be finishing up her kindergarten year and will be a FIRST GRADER in the fall. Where does the time go? Allyson looks well and seems to be growing! Will sure miss not seeing her at the Rally at the end of June...will miss not seeing you too Kristin, but certainly understand the need to begin the feeding clinic at the end of the month! We will look forward to seeing Morgan and she will have a blast with all that Teetay and Geep have planned!! I was rummaging through some old photographs this week as I am desperately trying to organize and minimize the 'things' in my house (just in case we have to try and sell it come August) and I ran across some pictures of Gage and Mackenzie with Morgan when she was just a little baby! They were very cute: )
Hope you have a wonderful holiday weekend! I look forward to meeting so many of you who visit the website, and finally being able to put faces to names!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH USA - Friday, May 25, 2007 12:59 AM CDT
Hi everyone!
Teetay - I can't even imagine how your new room must look.....will there be pictures soon??? :):):)
It sounds like summer plans are well underway and we will be at the end of the school year before you know it. I can't believe how quickly this last year has gone and now Kristin and I will have FIRST graders. It truly amazes me how much Tyler has learned this year and it is a tribute to teachers everywhere to be a part of the learning and growing that a child goes through. I have now experienced it first hand and I am in awe!
As Jim, Tyler and I prepare for our SECOND wedding anniversary this weekend we will always be reminded of the men and women who defend our country. We are in debt to them forever!!!! To Mark, where ever you are, I am counting down the days until you get to reunite with your girls in August. Stay safe, my friend.
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Wednesday, May 23, 2007 1:33 PM CDT
Greetings everyone!
I've been "busily" redecorating my house complete with all new paint and living room furniture....for the FIRST time in 36 years of marriage we are actually USING our living room!! The big-fat-flat-screen TV is our "new best friend" and we are loving the newly rennovated SPACE! (can I call it "My Space"?????!) Anyway...that may explain WHERE I've BEEN on Allyson's website recently!!! Smile!
I'm baaaaaaaacccccckkkkk!!!!! :)!!
I don't know which is a cuter face....the Allyson on the yellow slidy-thing, or the "attitude" of Karate-girl??!!! Love these newest pictures! And, I am counting the days until I can wrap my arms around those two cutie girls! And, by the way, Kristin, you look GREAT in your "hot apricot" outfit!! I think I've SEEN it before!!!
The days are speeding into weeks as we prepare for all the summer activities and events! I've been doing quite a bit of teaching these past few weeks to help out while STATE testing is being completed! Looking forward to this coming weekend when we travel to Chicago, "that toddling town" ---- to visit with close friends! Then, back home again for a wedding next weekend where we get to "go to the wedding and keep Thomas" at the same time!!! YAY!!! The following weekend I will arrive in CALIFORNIA-HERE-I-COME for Morgan's Kindergarten graduation and birthday! What a lucky girl she is...ALL FOUR GRANDPARENTS will be on hand for her "festivities"....! She has already told her mother that she wants her "kindergarten celebration" to be JUST FAMILY@!! I think we can manage that! We'll probably need to sit at the dining room table and have a "feast"....any meal consumed at the dining room table is always a FEAST to Morgan!
Where have the past SIX years gone? Now, this "first grandchild" will be starting FIRST grade....as my grandmother used to say, "Oh Lordie, oh Lordie, oh Lordie...where does the time go?" (while wringing her hands) I think I UNDERSTAND it better now that I'm a grandmother!
Geep has the DAY of his "life" recently when he got to do demonstration COOKING at Wegman's for a whole day! It was the corporate visitation day and he grilled chicken breasts using a new Rosemary-Balsamic marinade! (this is NOT a commercial for Wegman's products even though it may sound like it!) Geep was in his element as he prepared and gave out "tastings" all day to the very hungry and grateful customers! He just loved it! I hope he is able to do that again, and as he says..."It beats making kabobs all day!" Even on the "kabob days" he's a happy camper! He's found his nitche in the MEAT WORLD of retail grocery competition! He and Ashli and Thomas shared a shopping experience this week. He got to feed and show off Thomas while Ashli shopped! It was a "grocery bonding" moment!
The countdown has begun until summer fun starts....it will be wonderful having Morgan with us for a month. She is enrolled in swimming lessons, and we have many other "side events" planned for the days she is here! We're looking forward to seeing Holly and family at the RAlLY FOR ALLY, and hoping that Aunt Grammy and Uncle Poppy join us for some July days as well!
Continue to keep the McQuay family in your prayers. Little John, aged 5, will have brain surgery on June 22nd at Children's Hosp. in DC. The family will stay with us during those days and the days following the surgery while John is recuperating. Morgan and John will be able to do "quiet" things together, and we are looking forward to having them in our home.
I hope everyone is having a great week...it is Wednesday and right after school today I will be keeping Thomas while Ashli goes to an appointment. I "miss" him so much when FOUR days have passed! Have a happy Memorial Day weekend wherever you are, and please remember to thank the men and women in uniform who are continuing to sacrifice for our country, and to thank the ones who have already GIVEN so much.
Thanks to my Dad, Uncle Nobby, Jerry, Loren, MANY MANY friends...Jon P., Pat S., John T., Gordon C., my son in law, Mark, Glenn, Josh R.....Laura and Dave L., Leah L....and many many more..YOU know who you are. Thank you for your SERVICE to the continuing freedom that we so enjoy. Your sacrifices are REAL and your service is appreciated by me!
Love to all in this "lusty month of May"....wishing you lots of sunshine and smiles!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Wednesday, May 23, 2007 7:05 AM CDT
LOVE the new pics! I miss you gals tons!
Thinking of all our service men and women this Memorial Day weekend.... you make us proud!
More later.... IDOL finale is on! Gotta watch!
PS - Teetay... people are wondering "where" you are... little Reb in particular ... see, people DO read the guestbook and all these newsy entries! hee hee! :)
xoxoxoxoxox
PPS - HI MARK!! WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU! The countdown until the big return home is on!
Aunt Ash & little T3 <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, May 22, 2007 7:22 PM CDT
I love all the news photos- Morgan- congrats on your new camo belt! Great job! And Ally- you are way too cool in those heels. Playing dress up is just too much fun at that age. I can't believe how big she is getting- I can definitely see the difference in the latest photos. Time sure flies.
Well, I've been in contact with the new hospital that D will go to, and come to find out, there are many families with children that have EEC that attend the clinic there. They actually have a peds dentist that is very familiar with Ectodermal Dysplasia, and they are looking forward to working with D in the coming years. I am at peace now. And can't wait to meet other families like ours.
Will be thinking of all of you during the Rally and Kristin/Ally- during the feeding clinic. Mark- hope you're doing well abroad.
Happy belated mother's day to all!
Cat <catpotter2001@gimail.af.mil >
Mainland Bound!, HI USA - Thursday, May 17, 2007 3:42 PM CDT
Look at that beauty on the home page! What a peaceful, sweet look from Miss Spunky "Patience Tester" :) Precious!
Love you girls!!!
Happy Birthday Uncle Tommy! (shameless plug, I know...)
xo!
Aunt Ash and little T :) <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, May 17, 2007 8:39 AM CDT
Hi, Kristin and gang!
I just read the updated page -- and oh, those cute pictures! Kristin, you are a marvelous and amazing lady, and I am so proud to call you my niece! I am glad you had an opportunity for "down time" at the beach, and the Officer Wives' event sounded terrific as well. Yahoo ... for all those who were loving on those people we call "waiting wives."
I can't wait for the next update to see if Miss MAK made her sleepover and if you got through the night without a car ride! I remember going to pick up Terri and Leslie on their first sleepovers ... maybe you fared better! After the first one, it was OK, however.
I had a nice Mother's Day. Enjoyed about half a day with Vera at Southern Plantation. Her decline is obvious to us, and she'll have her first Hospice visit next week.
She loved her gifts and cards, and many of her church family at North Decatur Methodist sent her pretty cards.
She loves looking at all the flowers and pictures. She doesn't think she is approaching 96 years ... and she always asks "where have you been so long?" --- even if we were there 30 minutes before! God loves her so, and I pray he will take her to the Arms of the Angels quietly in her sleep!
The girls /grans brought gifts to me -- and Loren gave me a loverly bottle of wine and out to dinner. Was a fun day!
I am so sorry we didn't see MARK ... gosh, we saw the piece about the Stennis, but in that sea of humanity, we didn't catch "the one!" :) I am so glad that Morgan did, however!
We send you all much love, and we will keep a close watch if the Navy decides to vouchsafe the orders for the Kelso family anytime soon!
Hugs and Love to Miss MAK and Miss AllyBeDally, and lots of special love to a special lady, our "krisco" niece!
Aunt Dale & Uncle Loren and the Atlanta gang
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Monday, May 14, 2007 5:41 PM CDT
Happy Mother's Day to my BEST FRIEND! I so admire your strength and ALL the things you do -I get exhausted just reading your journal entries!!!
Thinking of you today and EVERY DAY :)
Hugs and kisses!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Sunday, May 13, 2007 6:45 PM CDT
"God could not be everywhere, so he CREATED Mothers!" Happy MOTHER's DAY to all of you-CREATIONS!!! :) I hope this will be a beautiful day for all the moms who are connected to one another through Allyson's website and the friendships that have formed because of her!!!
Special "mom wishes" go to my two amazing daughters....Kristin, you raise the BAR for motherhood every single day...and Ashli, you are a "two month tenured mom" and you are a NATURAL! (where'd you learn that???) Both of you are special moms because you were also special daughters!
Thinking of the grandmothers and great grandmothers out there in "Ally world"....wishing everyone a GREAT DAY!!
And, remembering my own Mother today with smiles, memories, and much love....also, remembering Nanny, Geep's mom, who was "Nanny" to an entire town of young people she taught....and remembering the MOMS who are serving our country in far away places....
And, thinking of the LUCKY, LUCKY children who have all of you as their MOMS!!!
I hope today ROCKS for you!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Sunday, May 13, 2007 9:27 AM CDT
What priceless photos!!! I love the cool shades, the Paitence Tester tee and of course, those HOT high heels!!! Ally, you are too cute and spunky for words!
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to the bestest sister, mom and friend... I love you Kristin and I am so proud of all you do and juggle and even do for yourself (sometimes!) like your little beach escape... I hope the sleepover was successful and I hope today is a GREAT DAY!
Lots of love to you all, and bug hugs to MY mommy as well. Happy TEETAY Day, too!
xoxoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, May 13, 2007 8:48 AM CDT
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY WEEKEND!!! To my favorite moms out there (you know who you are :) and especially to MY Mom and Kristin, have a wonderful Mother's Day! I love you and I am grateful for the amazing love and friendship to share with you.
KDMK - I am so glad you are getting some "alone" time this afternoon... hopefully NOT doing errands!
HAPPY FRIDAY! HAPPY WEEKEND! Big hugs and kisses to my sis, Al-Pal and Morgy lu!
xoxoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, May 11, 2007 7:37 AM CDT
What adorable little HULA girls!!! They look like they were "getting ready for a show"...cannot wait to see those girls in about a month!
Beautiful days here ....lots of sunshine in the forecast and that just makes everything brighter!
Great to see Mark and Kristin's faces on this website ...such a GLOW!
Love to everyone,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Tuesday, May 8, 2007 6:39 AM CDT
Hi, California Family!
Loved all those darling pictures of you on the website. The hula girls are too precious, and I send them hugs and kisses and fingersqueezies! Mark, you looked very good, and although I know you miss your girls LOTS, looks like you're doing pretty well in your home away from home. We pray for you and all our service folks who have chosen to serve in the cause of freedom and security for our nation. And we pray for the brave moms who hold down the fort, care for the kids, make the decisions, pay the bills and a zillion other things while their husbands are away. WHAT A GROUP YOU ARE!!!!
The Atlanta gang is doing well, and all of us send all of the Mothers our very warmest wishes for a Happy Mother's Day. We will be with Vera at Southern Plantation for the Mother's Day Luncheon and activities. She seemed to enjoy the Mother-Daughter Tea they had last Saturday. A darling group of kids from a nearby Methodist Church came and entertained with songs. She "hummed" and clapped right along! Cute! Love and Hugs to everyone, Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Monday, May 7, 2007 9:36 AM CDT
OOOOOOOO-WEEEEEEEEE! Look at that beautiful family!! Loved the new pics and of course the Ally and Morgan hula gals are PRECIOUS!!! I want to squeeze them to pieces! Much love to you all and happy week! Talk later!
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, May 7, 2007 7:45 AM CDT
Good Monday morning!!!!
Even without an official update the pictures are PRICELESS!!!!! I love them ALL!
Have a great week!
Aim-a-lita <summerishere@mnrocksinthesummer.com>
EP, MN - Monday, May 7, 2007 6:35 AM CDT
Happy Weekend everyone!
I had the most magnificent DREAM last night! It was about ALL three of my grandchildren, plus my great nieces and nephews....and my MOTHER! We were all at a "vacation spot" (unknown to me in real life) and my MOTHER WAS THERE! She was "old" but not "too old" and she was sleeping on a pink-fleecy-blanket because it was very cold! All the GREAT GRANDS were there and were the "ages" they REALLY ARE NOW! Everyone was very attentive to "Gee Gee" in the dream, and she interacted with each "grand"....
I woke up under my OWN PINK FLEECY BLANKET and thought to myself..."Hmmmmmmm......what a nice dream that was!" I just wanted to share it with Ally-land!
We are expecting a beautiful weekend ahead and hopefully the weather-forecasters will cooperate! Geep and I are in the process of completely REDECORATING our living room into a ROOM we actually LIVE IN!!! There are many facets to this process, so we each have our "Saturday lists" to complete!
I spoke with Morgan and Allyson (sort of) yesterday and I told Morgan we were redoing the living room...and she said, "For me?" No way!" OF COURSE FOR YOU, MORGAN!!! :)!!! Then, she handed the phone to Allyson and tried to make her say: "Eeee ----aaaaaa" on the phone to me! Allyson generally answers "Eeeeeee ---aaaaa" to the question: "Who loves you, baby?" She tightens up her muscles and clinches her fists when she says it...and out it comes "sort of"....EEEEEEEEE------AAAAAAAAA!!!! It's the closest thing to TEETAY and I'll TAKE IT EVERY TIME!!!
Thomas spent part of the day at our house yesterday and he is doing very well! At over 13 pounds at 8 weeks, he's a "munchie boy" as Ashli calls him! He loves being "out and about" so he's becoming quite the little SHOPPER! (great news to his Dad!) He will have his first "manly man outing" today with his Dad and a friend who are taking him to a PSU/Georgetown Lacrosse game! Ashli will be elsewhere at a bridal shower, so TOM 2 aka Thomas' DAD will be SOLO!!! I am sure Thomas will enjoy the GAME!!! And, I hope his DAD does, too!!!
I heard from Mark this morning. I always love to hear from him. He sent the coolest video of the E2C landing on the carrier at NIGHT. I have the UTMOST respect for anyone who can land "anything" on the "dime" (aka carrier) in DAYlight, much less at NIGHT! Awesome video! Thanks, Mark! And, everyone in Allyson-website-land is thinking of you and wishing you safe sailing!!
I hope you have a great weekend and enjoy time spent with those you love! I'm off to do more "redecorating" now and check off MY LIST!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
And REMINDER to everyone! The RALLY is just around the corner...JUNE 30th...Nottoway Park in Fairfax County! Please contact Ashli or me directly if you have RAFFLE ideas/contributions/thoughts ETC! We take ALL OFFERS of help and support! Thank you for being part of our efforts to enrich the lives of those affected by ED issues by supporting the NFED in Allyson's honor. We love you all!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Saturday, May 5, 2007 8:35 AM CDT
Hello everyone!
Just a quick update on the "mouth position" of Thomas! HE SMILES! YES! FULL BLOWN SMILES! NO, it is NOT GAS...he SMILES! He slightly tilts his head to one side and smiles...not GRINS....just smiles! He smiles at the "sound" of "good morning"...and "singing"....!!! I just wanted everyone in ALLY-land to know!!!
Love holding that BOY! I'm teaching him to crochet! (NOT!!)
Hope everyone is having a glorious spring week!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Tuesday, May 1, 2007 4:24 PM CDT
Wishing everyone well these days. Hope your start of summer goes off smoothly and without a hitch. There is no vacation in sight for us at the moment, but all is well. Infact, things couldn't be more "grand". We're only 52 days and counting now until we move to a new paradise.
We are so grateful to haved lived here as long as we have. On to bigger and better things- including RETIREMENT! YEAH!
Terri- please give Sarah and J-Quad big big hugs for from us here in Hawaii. Bless his heart, he is one sweet little boy. She is a good friend of mine, and someday, sometime, we will meet up. I think little John and Darren were separated at birth, the way they take to trains like they do. :)
Here's wishing everyone well. Kristin- I hope you go through a very smooth transition come August. Will be thinking of you.
Cat <52daysandcountinguntilheavenawaits@themainland.com>
Rainbows, HI USA - Tuesday, May 1, 2007 4:28 AM CDT
Happy Birthday to Aunt Ashli!!!
My "baby" turned 33 today! I must have had her while in HIGH SCHOOL!!@ (so "not"...!!)
We had a special weekend of celebrating the First Communion of Jessica and Jamie, the Philly niece/nephew in the George family and Morgan's and Allyson's "adopted cousins" since she got to know them throughout Ashli and Tom's wedding events! Tom's sisters threw a little "surprise" party for Ashli Friday night to celebrate her 33rd great day! She got "gifts" of beach chairs, clothes, and gift cards to spas! I think she was a happy "mom" on her birthday. The celebrations of the weekend continued reuniting with so many family members we had not seen since Ashli and Tom's wedding. It was great seeing "GREAT GRANMOM" and to see Tom's mom once again. Both of them were thrilled to be meeting THOMAS for the first time! Those Philly folks sure know how to party!!! We had to come home today to get some REST!
Geep and I drove up early Friday to take in some Philly sights including the Italian Market that I've heard so much about. Had a delicious lunch in the I. Market, but I expected it to be bigger. 'Guess I had something different in my head?!! We didn't make it to the Liberty Bell this trip afterall since the weather was not too cooperative Friday! We will save that for another time. I imagine it will still be "cracked" and "Rocky Balboa" will still be running around it! :)!!
Kristin was able to do so many special things with her CA "Navy wife friends" during Grandma K's (aka Consuelo) visit, so I know both of them benefited from the days! Hopefully, Kristin got "refreshed" for the coming months which will bring Mark's long cruise to a close in late August! She only has a few MAJOR things in front of her - most importantly, the Feeding Disorder Clinic with Allyson, selling her house, the NFED Conference, to name a few! We are certainly looking forward to creating a wonderful atmosphere for Morgan while she is here filled with activities that resemble the ones she would be involved in if she was in CA "at home"...!!! I even have a few surprises tucked away that she doesn't even know about yet!
I will keep Loren's mother, Vera, in my prayers and I hope that you will, too. I've known Vera since I was 13 years old and I don't think I've ever seen her without a smile on her face. She's lived a very long and useful life and much of her life was helping and giving to others. I know that God will find her a formidable angel in His pack. Please keep her and Dale and Loren in your prayers. No matter how long one has a mother, it is still the most difficult time when one's "mom" is gone.
Also, in the prayer department...please keep our little five year old friend, John Mc, from Indiana, in your prayers. John will be undergoing a very involved brain surgery in June. His parents will be staying with us while he is in Children's Hospital and then he will come her for his ten days of recovery. John has a very rare disorder that is EXtremely uncommon. Please whisper his name when you shut your eyes tonight. Kristin and I met this family last summer at the About Face Conference in Nevada. Today when I spoke to Sarah she said "Now I know why we met." We call them "godwinks" I told her....NOW WE GET IT!!
Wishing everyone a good week back to work and lots of sunshine in your days! Thinking of you all,and looking forward to SEEING you at the RALLY FOR ALLY, June 30th. Do contact Ashli or me if you have suggestions/ideas/contributions for the raffle or the silent auction. We're working on "rally stuff" tomorrow, so we will be manning RALLY CENTRAL from Ashli's house!
Love to all and happy FIRST WEEK OF MAY...the merry month of MAY!!!
(where did this year go? I am retired and I still feel like it should be September and I should be planning Australia all over again!)
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
wishingashlithebestendofherbirthdayday.com:)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Sunday, April 29, 2007 6:09 PM CDT
Hi, California Family, It was good to read the webpage and get caught up on the week just past! Kristin, I am so happy that you've had a bit of "free" time with events just for you. I know having Lydia there has been a big help, and I am sure Lydia is a happy grandmother to be able to love and support her family. And what a bonus that you all got to videoconference with Mark! I so enjoy the Morgan and Allyson stories, of course -- they're such precious girls! Kisses and Hugs to them both!
We had some sad news this week from our doctor appointments for sweet Vera. "Munner" is approaching her 96 birthday; however, recent tests show that her renal function went from bad to severe in the past 6 months, and she now has less than 25% functioning. We continue to fight swollen legs and infections. This is consistent with renal failure and congestive heart illness. However, She is still sweet and sunny and cooperative, and her caregivers at Southern Plantation adore her. We are considering calling in Deborah Williams with Hospice to monitor her from now on.
Everyone in our family has been extremely saddened by the events at Virginia Tech, and we continue to pray for the students, faculty and families. Even Stephen King and his penchant for horror couldn't fantasize anything more horrific than that. It is devastating.
Today is Ashli's birthday - and it is our pleasure to send a check in honor of that to Allyson's medical fund!
Love and Hugs and kisses to you on this day, Ash.
Love, Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA usa - Sunday, April 29, 2007 5:42 PM CDT
Hello to all out there in Ally-land! Kristin, what a wonderful update you gave us all! I am so glad that you have Lydia there to help you out and give you some relief. I know how crazy things can be when you first return from being away and it is so nice to have someone there to give you a hand and make it a little less overwhelming. How awesome that you were able to have another video teleconference with Mark, and I am sure Lydia will never forget being able to be there for it as well. It is so great that the girls and you have an opportunity to do that. I remember the one and only one I had with Jack after Gage was born, and how awesome it was to have that opportunity...more so for Jack to be able to see his son for the first time! Half-way dinner tonight? Brings back some fond memories despite the absence of our spouses, right?! I know you will have a blast and it will be a very special time for all of the spouses!
Way to go Morgan on your spelling test!!! So glad to hear that all is going well with all of you! Have a wonderful weekend!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Saturday, April 28, 2007 8:13 AM CDT
ATTENTION LOYAL ALLY WEB-LAND FANS!!! SAVE THE DATE!
The 3rd ANNUAL RALLY FOR ALLY will be held on Saturday, June 30th, 2007 at Nottoway Park in Vienna VA. Please contact Ashli if you have not received the Evite -- that means I don't have your email (sorry!)
Email AshliAGMG@yahoo.com
Hope to see you all there!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Aunt Ashli <AshliAGMG@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, April 24, 2007 6:25 AM CDT
I love those baby blues of Morgan- such a wonderful close-up shot of her. Thomas is getting so big already. Time flies, that's for sure. And it's great to see Ally eating at the table with Morgan. She's making progress already.
Yeah!
-Cat
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Rainbows , HI good 'ole US of A - Saturday, April 21, 2007 4:58 PM CDT
It doesn't get any better than this...
What cool pics and what great words, Kristin....I know the coming days will be special ones...and I am so glad that Grandma and Grandpa K can indulge and enjoy those special cA PEEPS!
Loving you all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndo, va usa - Friday, April 20, 2007 6:58 PM CDT
Greetings to everyone!
It's been a busy week of "getting back to normal" after our wonderful-whirlwind ten days +!!! Morgan was so happy to get back to school and HER FRIENDS! She misses school so much when she is absent. Allyson has had a busy week of catching up/making up therapy sessions so she won't "get behind" in her therapy. I spent the entire day yesterday "with Thomas" as I had missed my "one on one" time with him. I was a "good sharer" while everyone was here, but I needed some "Teetay time" with that growing boy! Ashli ran some errands while I did "Thomas duty" and we both enjoyed ourselves!!
It has been a most difficult week as the events of the VA Tech tragedy unfold and knowing that so many people in our immediate area have been affected as well as others around the country. My condolences and prayers go to the families who are grieving for their loved ones during this time.
Grandma and Grandpa Kelso arrive in CA today for a springtime visit, so I know their time will be fun-filled seeing Morgan and Allyson and how much they've 'grown' and 'matured' since Christmas. I told Grandma K on the phone the other day that she should be "prepared" to "meet Morgan, the 5-going -on-12 year old teenager!!!" I know they will enjoy their CA visit!
Hoping everyone is having a good week...it's almost Friday!!!
Thinking of Mark always....safe sailing!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va us - Thursday, April 19, 2007 4:59 PM CDT
Hi All! Welcome back to CA, Kristin and girls, and my best friend Rebecca who returned home today as well. It was such a SPECIAL week with our families and dear friends, celebrating Easter, being together and then Thomas's Baptism this past weekend. It's all about being together and holding one another close!
The tragedy at VA Tech sure does hit close to home as others have chimed in, as we all know people who went there and it greatly affects the No VA community. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families, and those left behind to deal with the immense grief.
Much love to you all in Ally land.... more later, but my little munchkin is summoning me so off I go!! :)
xoxo!
Aunt Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 6:03 PM CDT
I am glad the CA girls had such a great time in VA! Too bad the weather wasn't better for you! As with others, my family is praying for all those at VA Tech. It is deeply horrifying to know that so many kids from my school, Chantilly HS, attend VA Tech, including my friend. Luckily she is ok and not hurt physically. She was in her dorm on the same floor of the shooting, in the east building. The west and east buildings are connected at each floor, so she was scarily close. However, she was a friend of the young man who was shot at the dorm and killed. He was a member of the band with her and a wonderful student. We continue to pray for her, him, and all the families and friends involved.
I hope all is well in CA and you all have a wonderful week!
-Christina Knippler
Christina Knippler (Mrs. Matus' former student) <acoolkid15@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA - Tuesday, April 17, 2007 4:27 PM CDT
Dear everyone,
I know as a "nation" we are all deeply saddened by the horrific events that occurred yesterday on the beautiful campus of Virginia Tech. So many of my friends attended Tech, and so many of my friend's children are there now. So many of my former students are Tech students. I fear reading the list of names when all have been confirmed. Please join with all Virginians and all Americans to pray for those families touched by the senseless killings. We learned today that the shooter was a graduate of a neighboring Fairfax County high school - a school where I was subbing just last week. We also learned that the boy's family lives in nearby Centreville, VA about 10 minutes from where I live. I know that family must be desperately grieving as well. Please remember all of those suffering in your prayers. We will probably never "understand" how these things happen to anyone/anywhere, but when it is "in your backyard" and is a "state sister school" it surely hits the home 'nerve' deeply.
It is a somber day in Virginia.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Tuesday, April 17, 2007 2:03 PM CDT
Hello California girls! I had such fun on my several hour visit with Teetay and her entertaining granddaughters on Friday. I was so impressed with Allyson's signing - she thanked me without prompting when we played and I helped her or gave her toys. It was quite clear that she understands everything very well. Her Teetay has her number, though, and gets her to eat and listen to her without giving in. Morgan is just delightful. Playing with her kitty camp and creating many imaginative scenarios for various toys was just so much fun. She does unwittingly make you laugh, with her "insights" on everything. I'm looking forward to her long visit this summer and getting to know her even better!
On a serious note, as an alumnus of Virginia Tech, my heart is breaking at the tragedy of what happened yesterday at my beautiful school. Having lived on third floor West AJ, it struck me with such shock and fear for all the young people whom I know at Tech. I called friends with children there to learn that they were safe, thank goodness. However, I know that isn't the case for so many others. I hope you all will pray for them and for the safety of everyone's children.
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Tuesday, April 17, 2007 1:10 PM CDT
Morning all!
As I watched the news last night I was in total SHOCK! It is a sad day for our country and especially for those families who lost their children in the VA Tech shootings yesterday. It is a cold, hard fact that no one is really SAFE and it scares me when Tyler comes home and tells me they practiced "duck and cover" drills at school. I hope and pray that none of us are ever faced with a tragedy like this one! My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends who lost a loved-one yesterday. It once again makes me think about how LUCKY we all are to have what we have. We have to LIVE for TODAY because you just never know what may happen TOMORROW!
Make TODAY a great day! Hugs and kisses to everyone!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Tuesday, April 17, 2007 6:58 AM CDT
Happy "day before tax day" everyone!!!
Well.....what can I say??? Where did the past 10 FAST days go?????!!! I am not sure what "else" we could have packed into the days, and it is needless for me to say the DAYS were WONDERFUL, but I'll say it anyway..."The days were wonderful!" :)!!!! From the minute of the CA peeps' arrival throughout the entire week of museums, movies, swinging on the new tree swings, looking for Easter eggs, (teaching Morgan to spell "Easter")playing with neighborhood friends, holding Thomas, playing at the GIGANTIC new park on a cold and windy day, fixing "kid-friendly meals," helping and watching Allyson EAT NEW THINGS (even if we did have breakfast on the steps several mornings...one bite, one step, and finally...ALL GONE!) ....singing silly songs in and OUT of the car, dancing to Disney "mania" - - and seeing Allyson sign "more dancing" and her crazy antics of jumping around and dying laughing....and yes, OH THE DYING LAUGHING PART is always the "best part"...whether it is Morgan cracking-herself-up over absolutely "nothing"....or wrestling and tickling her sister into hysterical laughter...YES, the "LAUGHING PART" is always the BEST PART!!!! And, a highlight of the "week" was a visit to "my old school" (before I was RE-FIRED, remember?!!) where Morgan hugged and loved everyone and did a few "yo yo tricks" for Theresa's class of students....there was NO SHYNESS in her that day! She even hugged people she did not know "thinking" that she DID KNOW THEM!! It was a fun visit and I was so glad she felt so AT HOME! We tried to see just about everyone that day!
Yesterday was nearly perfect even if the WEATHER did not "cooperate".....the rains/winds kept some folks "home" so our crowd was not quite as large as it would have been for Thomas' AFTER BAPTISM RECEPTION at our house! Thomas behaved "beautifully" during church and was officially baptized yesterday at 12:30 P.M. He wore his GREAT GRANDADDY GRANT's 99 year old "handmade dress" that has been in our family and each "Grant grandchild and GREAT grandchild" (except for Morgan) has been baptized in THE DRESS! He wore a special bonnet given to him by Kristin, his godmother (and AUNT extraordinaire!). Father Lochman made the ceremony very personal and special for Ashli and Tom and THOMAS! Allyson was "somewhat content" during the mass, but we did have to take several walks into the sacristy to "see Jesus" when she became "antsy"....!! It was great having Sweet Rebecca fly all the way from San Francisco to be with us on Thomas' special day....and Meredith drove in horrendous rain to get here from Richmond...and Pop Pop (Thomas' grandpa) and Ronnie drove from Philly is the terrible rains as well....Jeff and Kim came in from Philly Saturday, so their travel was a bit easier....it was a special afternoon of good food, good chatter, and good times shared with lots of HOLDING THOMAS TIME for everyone!
I dropped off Kristin and the girls at Reagan National at 6:45 this morning for their 9 o'clock flight. However, many flights are delayed due to the winds, so I'm HOPING that they will depart on time. Morgan had her "sad moment" this morning, but she got "better" when I explained to her that when she comes back in the summer we will continue to have all the "same fun" we did this week. Allyson was so sleepy this morning that she just snuggled and cuddled before getting in the car. She is starting to say "Teetay" but WITHOUT THE "T" - of course...so it comes out "Eee-aaa" (long E and A sound!)....and she clinches her muscles when she says it. It warms my heart! I will be happy to be "Eee-aaa" for as long as she wants me to be!!!
My backyard looks "lonely" on this GRAY Monday morning, and I have a bunch of "straightening" to do after yesterday's party, so I will immerse myself in the "duties" of the day and that will keep me from missing those girls so much!
Mark...we MISSED you this past week, but we sure "talked about you a whole lot"....and are wishing you the VERY BEST in your upcoming assignment news!!! Kristin pointed out the Pentagon to Morgan this morning and told her that "could be" where her Daddy would be working in the future. Morgan was VERY QUIET....I am not sure she can even "imagine a big move" yet....I hope you are feeling better and that all is going well out in the BIG BLUE! Know that you are in our prayers everyday.
Have a wonderful MID April week everyone! I'm back to subbing tomorrow, and then I have to take a day to HOLD THOMAS...I'm "sort of behind" in my HOLDING since I was a "good sharer" this past week giving others "their turns"...!!:)
Love to all....I wish you sunny days ahead!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Monday, April 16, 2007 7:03 AM CDT
Hi Kelso Family! We are leaving for California tomorrow evening. Looking forward to being able to meet you. The Laird's
Sarah Laird <roadtoprague@mail.ru>
Clintonville, WI USA - Sunday, April 15, 2007 5:36 PM CDT
Haha. I love that photo of Ally- that is to die for. And I really love the one of the three of them on the bottom with lil Thomas. SO cute!
Happy Easter/Spring! :)
-Cat and clan
Cat Potter <mainlandbound@tothecontinentalusa.net>
Honolulu, HI USA - Thursday, April 12, 2007 0:33 AM CDT
Hi, Family!
It was fun to read of the antics and activities of Easter Day. Hard to imagine how the "stripper" could have managed that act in the theatre, but I am sure it must have been hysterical!
Sister, I love the "re-fired" from Miss MAK ... those "mis speaks" manage to live on and on in the family lore. I wish I could give her a big ole hug ... precious girl she is! And the Easter photos are darling .. Miss AllyBeDally is so cute with her twinkly eyes and smile! And I love the soft blond hair emerging from her punkin-haid! I am so glad that everyone had such a marvelous Easter.
The Atlanta gang had a nice time .. though we were short Leslie and her family. Leslie had to work 16 hours that day taking care of the sick little people ... so many dreadful viruses and allergies right now with this screwy weather we've had: hot in the 80s, and this past week with freezing temps. The pollen is relentless, and the beautiful blooming flowers and trees of Atlanta are frozen brown/black. Our gorgeous 4'foot azaleas and camelias look worse than Charlie Brown's straggly little Christmas tree. But the Easter lillies just coming up didn't seem to be frozen! Must be God's hand in that!
We had a lovely Easter dinner ... wishing Randy and the kids were with us, but they were driving home from Florida where they had been with his family for the spring break. They got home about 7 pm - and Randy seemed pleased that I had made him a Splenda Fresh strawberry cheesecake for his birthday. Since he is on meds for diabetes, I try hard to find recipes that he can enjoy, "guilt-free."
We, of course, thought of you all -- and especially Mark, who I am sure missed his family and extended family most of all. Love to you, Mark!
Love to all of you,
Hugs and Kisses,
Aunt Dale/Sister/Aunt Grammy
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, g usa - Tuesday, April 10, 2007 4:39 PM CDT
Greetings everyone!
As you can probably just imagine EASTER was a "huge success" around here! The weather "cooperated" somewhat and it was sunny all day even though a bit on the chilly side! We all convened for church at noon Sunday and everyone "behaved"....Thomas seemed to "enjoy" his first church service in his Daddy's arms most of the time. After church we were home for the "big EGG hunt".....Morgan was so proud that she found the MOST eggs (she was the ONLY one looking for them! ha) ....and we did the egg hunt "repeatedly"....!! She swang on her new "bar swing" hanging from a tree limb, and loved her "disk swing" hanging on yet another tree limb in our neighbor's yard. (we just didn't have enough appropriate limbs!) We walked/she scootered to the big pond to feed the geese and met up with "some friends"....in the late afternoon we had OUR FEAST sitting at the dining room table. Allyson napped and was quite happy to "sit and eat with us" during the "feast"...! Everybody ate too much so that was a "mark" of a great Easter meal, I think!
Yesterday "the girls" and Thomas went to see "Meet the Robinsons"....I am not sure what was funnier...the movie? OR? Allyson taking off her diaper, shoes, socks, and pants during the movie and parading up and down the aisle half naked smiling and nodding at everyone! The funniest part was we did not see her disrobing! We were on the aisle without seats in front of us so we had plenty of room for the strollers...and wha-lah! There she was...half dressed!!! It was hysterical. Guess you had to 'be there'...!! Another funny thing was at the mall playground AFTER the movie Morgan met up with a little girl named Carly....she said to Carly: "That's my Teetay...she used to be a TEACHERC, Carly, you know in a SCHOOL with STUDENTS....but now she's RE-FIRED!" I laughed so hard I thought I was going to burst...mulling over that word "re fired" I actually think it might be rather nice to "re fire" oneself AFTER "retirement"...!! She's s hoot, and had no idea why that was so funny! I told her I was "RETIRED" from teaching and she just nodded, "Okay." :)!!!!!
Today is our picture day....hopefully, our clothes will "coordinate" with the matching blue outfits the three cousins will wear...and that everyone will "say cheese" at just the right moment so we can document this beautiful Easter WEEK together!!!
More to come in the week...the Smithsonian, the zoo, and the cherry blossom parade this Saturday all leading up to Thomas's BAPTISM DAY SUNDAY!!! Thinking of you all and I hope you are having warm weather and beautiful flowers....and lots of love in between!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va us - Tuesday, April 10, 2007 6:11 AM CDT
HOPPY EASTER WEEKEND, EVERYBUNNY! :)) I can't wait to get to Teetay and Geep's house to see my CA gals -- and they can't wait to see Thomas, too! Ok, maybe they will be happy to see me, too -- hee hee.
It's a beautiful SNOWY morning and coooold... oh well, if it's gonna be cold, might as well have snow. I know Morgan is psyched to see it!
Lots of love and Easter blessings to all............
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, April 7, 2007 8:03 AM CDT
Those pictures are adorable!!!! Ah, I absolutely LOVE that one on the frontpage. Happy Easter to all of you on here.
Our orders have been cancelled. Yeah! (It's a good yeah!) The AF's Surgeon General got involved with our case. We'll be issued new ones in a matter of days to weeks. We ARE moving. Just a matter of location now.
Happy egg hunting to all!! And we hope that the trip home is more enjoyable than you predict. ;)
-Cat and the clan
The Potters <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Rainbows , HI USA - Saturday, April 7, 2007 3:04 AM CDT
Happy "early" Easter weekend to everyone wherever you are!
I hope the SNOWS and COLD disappear in MN so Tyler can FIND his eggs! Maybe you should dye them "red/and/green" and pretend they are Christmas-eggs???!!
I could simply reach out and SQUEEZE the computer screen pictures....such adorable-NESS on those two Cali-girl faces! Tonight they will be "HOPPING" down the runway and I'll get to SQUEEZE them IN PERSON!! (or will they be running???) I can hardly wait to SEE Allyson pulling her ROLLING suitcase just like her big sister! (or will it be strapped to Kristin's back???)
We are "sitting on READY" with just a few last minute "touches" to attend to today....tomorrow Ashli and Thomas are spending the day with us so that will be Thomas' "SECOND BIG OUTING" this week. He did fine "shopping" so we'll see how he does on an all day HANGINGOUTVISIT!!!
You know there is happiness in our household this weekend,and we are wishing you bountiful joy in yours as well. THINK SUNSHINE for Easter Sunday, and enjoy your "eggs and egg-cite-ment"...!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay aka "Threetay"!!!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Friday, April 6, 2007 8:30 AM CDT
Kristin,
I hope your flight goes smoothly - you are such a pro now that you can probably fly with the girls IN YOUR SLEEP! The pictures are adorable and Morgan - YOU GO GIRL - YEEEHAAA!!!!!
I am really bitter this morning as the wind chill temps are still in the single digits. Apparently, this is the first time MN has had weather like this 4 days in a row since the 1930's! UGH - where is spring????? At this rate we will be hunting for eggs tomorrow in the snow!
I am so jealous that you will be in VA and I won't be able to see you and all your family. Please give everyone hugs and kisses from us, especially the newest addition TJGIII :)
xoxoxoxoxox
Aimee and gang <freezinginmn@iwishiwasonvacation.com>
EP, MN - Friday, April 6, 2007 6:13 AM CDT
Get out!!! Those pics are precious... I am excited for the cousin pics at Clix next week -- HOORAY!
Can't wait to see you three gals -- happy and safe travels... Ilove you!!!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, April 5, 2007 6:03 PM CDT
Hi everyone!
Well...it is TWO DAYS until the CA peeps are here to REUNITE with Thomas....Allyson says his name sort of like:
"Ah....mas"....but we'll take it!! He is the only baby she's ever seen SO TINY, and his "name" has STUCK. She begs Kristin to show her his VIDEO all the time...she is "obsessed" by it, Kristin says!!!
I've had a wonderful TWO days in the "city" with Thomas and his mother...Tom had business dealings in New YOrk so he was away for a couple of days. Ash, Thomas, and I existed very nicely together. Today we "took on the city" and after his checkup this morning, we did the rounds...lunch, Carter's Store, Babies R Us, Whole Foods (sorry, Geep...no Wegman's in DC) and finally HOME!!! We were gone for hours and Thomas "slept" through most of it except when he was eating one time!!! Ashli has "decided" now that we've VENTURED out into the WORLD that he "likes" shopping, lunch, and stores! (he yawned through it all just like a 'regular little man' would!) Today was our first big ADVENTURE out and Ashli managed it all very well...I just stood by "watching" and "answering questions" about "what goes in first/last/stroller/carseat/doors/etc/"....the usual first time outing "inquiries"...!!! Thomas was a jewel the entire day. Let's hope this is the beginning of OUTINGS for the two of them!
Saturday, Ashli and Thomas are coming to our house to SEE the Ca peeps and spend the day. WE may even take in the new movie (yes, all of us!) "Meet the Robinsons"....Morgan is dying to see it.Allyson RARELY sits through a movie, but we can get "walk around seats"...and it is Thomas's first movie adventure. Morgan's FIRST MOVIE was "Pearl Harbor"....and we covered her ears/eyes when it was so loud! Her first REAL movie was Lilo and STitch. She was five months old and I took her and held her in my lap. She was mesmerized. Allyson has never been "tuned in or turned onto movies" in theaters...but we will give her another chance!
Our weather is predicting COLD and "possible snowflakes" Saturday morning. As much as I do NOT want that to come true, Morgan and Allyson just MIGHT see a flake or two on their first day in Virginia!
In the meantime, we are acting like SPRING will turn the corner for good and getting their toys and the deck ready to enjoy. I think we might have to WAIT until next Monday or Tuesday, but WARM weather promises to be here next week. By the time Thomas's baptism day rolls around the following week, it will be BALMY again!
Just wanted to check in and say greetings to everyone.
Remember...I hope you've marked your calendars for the RALLY FOR ALLY this year...JUNE 30th at Nottaway Park in Fairfax, VA. If you are interested in donating a SILENT AUCTION item please contact Ashli or me. We are looking forward to our biggest crowd yet!
And, if you have hotel rooms to "donate" to Kristin and Allyson while they are at the Feeding Clinic in Los Altos, CA during July, please let them know. That would be extremely helpful, and I know sometimes folks have "rewards/points" or something like that to use and that is why I'm mentioning it. We have some "available points" through the Hilton and can do some of their days, and maybe someone else can fill up the month!
In the meantime, enjoy a beautiful Easter and Passover season. Know that our hearts are filled with love and joy because you are in our lives.
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Wednesday, April 4, 2007 7:18 PM CDT
Hi Cali Girls!!!!
So it is SNOWING today - grrrrrrrrrrrrrr! We are in APRIL, aren't we???????
Just wanted to say HELLO and to send hugs and kisses your way :):)
Aims <sickofwinterclothes@whereissummer.com>
EP, MN - Tuesday, April 3, 2007 12:40 AM CDT
Hoping that Julie, mom to Ellis, will make contact with you Kristin, real soon. Just emailed her today. For some reason, she couldn't reach this website previously.
Ellis has EEC- Minnesota area I believe. I want to say that he's 4/5 yrs old. Ellis and Darren have alot in common. Anyways, love that Ally pic on the front. She's getting so tall.
Cat <inlimbolandrightnow@waitingpatiently.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Monday, April 2, 2007 4:56 PM CDT
Speaking of CHUCK E. CHEESE..I "recall" a FRIDAY night at Chuckie's place back in October when I had the "girls solo" for 10 days...I had promised Morgan I would take her AFTER SCHOOL...(without Allyson) ...but the nurse called and said Allyson needed to 'see the doctor' for PROBABLY "pink eye"...so the PLAN changed all around...and there we were THREE girls going to the DOCTOR....'sure enough'...PINK EYE for Allyson..and "oh by the way"....Morgan, Allyson, and I all got our FLU SHOTS while we were there! MOrgan was HYSTERICAL as if the needle had just pierced her soul.....Allyson was laughing...and I PROMISED them both we could still go to CHUCKIE's that night!! So, there we were...in RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC (Yes, there is "rush hour" in Pt. Hueneme on Friday night) driving to C.E. Cheese alongwith the MAJORITY of the POPULATION!! (but Morgan stopped crying right away....)
Chuck's MAGICAL SPOT PREVAILED!!! So, I completely UNDERSTAND Friday night at "Chuck's place"....FUNNY!!!
LOVE the PIZZA shot...and those FACES!!! Simply whets my appetite for throwing my arms around you all next Friday NIGHT!!!
And, "Thomas"..one of the guys....did a MONUMENTAL THING ON MY BIRTHDAY..."drum roll, please....."
THOMAS lost his umbilical cord today!! JUST for me..I think he will wrap it up and give it to me tomorrow when he visits for the first time!!! We have his "Rainforest bouncer chair" just WAITING for his little body!
Such good times this weekend! Birthdays ROCK!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)whoisolderthankristin!!! ha
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Saturday, March 31, 2007 8:38 AM CDT
And did I "mention"....ya gotta love a GIRL in a UNIFORM???
:)
Love,
Teetay
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Friday, March 30, 2007 9:04 AM CDT
Hi everyone!
GREAT to see pictures of the "champ" on Allyson's website! Allyson is "so kind" to share her space with her big sister! And, LOVE the photo shot of Kristin and Connie...yes, dear sweet Connie IS and HAS BEEN a god-send...godwink - godgift! She lives just "down the street" and she and her husband, John, have been helpful to Kristin and the girls many times over the past two years. I do believe Connie will be the ONE they miss the most when they move. SHE IS FAMILY!
And, HOORAY that Mark is in port getting a bit of R and R! Hey..Mark! You'd "better lift some weights" so you can SPAR with Morgan upon your return!! HA! I will continue to keep you and your shipmates and colleagues in my prayers for the work you are doing "out there" in the BLUE. Enjoy your PORT time and tip your glass high! Love you, Mark!
And, to Kristin, busier-than-ever-mom, I hope this weekend will be a fabulous one of raising bucks for the big homecoming in August. As busy as this summer will be for all of you/us/etc. I hope the time continues to FLY BY! We'll have to "work really hard in-between-stuff" to get you READY TO MOVE!
Again...big congrats to Morgan for her karate accomplishments and her perfect spelling paper A-gin...and high fives to Allyson for her successes this week! I love it that she "hits your leg" and then SIGNS "hurt" and LAUGHS at you! She's a little punky-brewster for sure!
Loving you all from sunny, warm spring-flower-Virginia! We are getting the "Teetay and Geep" playground ready in our backyard, and organizing "kid stuff/toys" for your arrival in one week! The "Easter bunny" is lurking in every corner....shhhhhhh.....don't tell the girls! Adam and Carl are excited to know Morgan and Allyson are coming again and will be back in town for HALF of their visit! I plan to let Claire and Jack know the CA girls are coming this week also! So, tell Morgan and Allyson their "Va friends" are WAITING FOR THEM!!! And that doesn't even to begin to include their 'entourage' of "adopted aunts" who are waiting in the wings to see them! It will be a fun time of visiting with Thomas and his mom and dad and DOG! Such excitement energizes the home!!!
Thanks for the birthday wishes, Kristin....every birthday is important!
Love to all, and happy weekend and early APRIL FOOL's DAY!!
Where did March go???
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va us - Friday, March 30, 2007 7:44 AM CDT
YAAAAY Morgie-lu!!! How awesome to recieve TWO trophies last night!! I am so proud of you, and another 100% A+ on your spelling test :)) You rock!
Ally - I cannot wait to hear you say "Thooommmaaaas" in person next week! You are too cute to hear on the phone and I am so happy with your progress of stringing more sounds and words together. You'll be chatting up a storm in no time.... you've got the gene and all ;)
Counting the days til we see you CA gals soon.... can't wait! And Mark, thinking of you and praying every day as I know you are a very busy man these days -- I hear about you on the news :) Lots of love to you ALL.
xoxoxo
Aunt Ash and Thomas :) <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, March 29, 2007 6:32 AM CDT
HUGE congratulations to Morgan who won a TROPHY at her FIRST KARATE TOURNAMENT last night! I was ELATED when the "past ten P.M. phone call" woke me up with her ecstatic little voice screaming, "Teetay, I won first place in two things!" I am so very proud of HER and her karate "accomplishments"....and her VOICE told it all!! What joy there is in this world!!! (and I didn't even mind that I couldn't go back to "sleep" for a long time...it was worth every second!)
Hoping you are all having a GREAT week thus far!
Love to all...
An off to workinthelibrarytoday "sort of sleepy" Terri/aka Teetay :)!!!
WINK! WINK! :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Thursday, March 29, 2007 5:04 AM CDT
Morning!
I had a funny Tyler story that I had to share. Jim's boss had 3 row tickets to the MN WILD hockey game last night and could not go. So, we took Tyler to see his first professional hockey game last night. Besides the fact that he was disappointed that Kevin Garnett did not play for the WILD, here is the best quote of the night......."Why aren't they scroing any points? This game is a waste of my time!" It was priceless!!!!!
Have a great day!
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, March 28, 2007 7:17 AM CDT
I always tear up when I read this web page - go figure! Theresa and I visited with Terri, Geep, T3 and Ashli Friday - what a wonderful home and what an adorable and agreeable baby! Wow! I got some very good practice in for being a grandmother. I am going to be a grandmother in May and got lots of good tips from Terri and Ashli. Mark, our country's citizens are in so much good support of you and your fellow soldiers - I have sent you some stuff that should make you know that. Kristin, you are so strong - and I look forward to having Morgan visit in July - she can hang out at my pool! I will, once, regrettably, again, miss your visit in April. She is going to forget "Auntie Pammie", but I will make up for lost time in July. I love your family and so admire its strength. Love, hugs, kisses to you all! Pam
Pamela Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA The Best - Monday, March 26, 2007 7:14 PM CDT
Wow- I'm so glad that I popped in here when I did. Talk about a page full of STUFF. So good to see Mark posting and know that he's doing well. Aren't those teleconferences awesome??? I bet Morgan was so excited! Kids are GREAT!
I say you can't go wrong with the feeding clinic. Cost wise, yes, it's a trip, but really, in the end, you'll have her eating with you at the "Round Table". And THAT is such an awesome thing to look forward to. I have complete faith in the clinic that it can be done, just from that very long read.
I think it's such a great idea, not only for Ally, but for the entire family and really for MOM and Dad. And over a lifetime, the cost for the clinic, would more than pay for itself many times over. No, I say you can't go wrong with that. I certainly hope that it's do-able for all of you...
I hope everyone is well. Looks like we won't be doing an NFED conference this summer (we were hoping), but maybe a regional one or the one next year. As you know what's been happening with us, I am really feeling the need to attend one right now. All of this cleft-related stuff is so minor in comparison to the issues we are beginning to face with Darren. This stuff is so very different, and much harder to face than the other issues. I am looking forward to the day that I can unite with others in the same position.
So, my hat goes off to you Kristin- You my friend are an amazing mom. Enough said..... Thinking of you all on here.
-Cat
Cat <catandthegang@inlimboland.com >
Honolulu, HI USA - Sunday, March 25, 2007 11:59 PM CDT
Hi Kristen~ Wow what an amazing step for Allyson! I just was checking on you and was almost in tears! Hannah will be 4 on Wednesday, still has her g-tube and is weighing in at a whoppin 25lb 1oz. We are doing 300 cal. juice boxes and also giving her formula that is 100 cal. per ounce. She is starting to notice that others don't have a "button" and has been wanting it out. It is so sad! Could you PLEASE tell me if there are programs like this elsewhere? We are in Colorado and this may be something we should look into. If you have any info on where we can find out about other programs, I would LOVE to hear from you! Thank you so much! I am so ENCOURAGED that I stumbled across this today.
Brandy Stricklett (Hannah's mom from cA) <bstricklett@comcast.net>
Brighton, CO USA - Sunday, March 25, 2007 12:24 AM CDT
Hi, Kristin, Morgan and Allyson, I just read and re-read the webpage concerning the new feeding program. It sounds to me like you have found the right person and the right program to help Allyson move one step further along!
I know it will be intensive, and that you will certainly miss your Precious Miss MAK. But I know that the plan you've worked out will be a good one for Morgan and her VA grandparents, so I am sure everyone will have a good and productive summer.
I am so glad you guys had an opportunity to visit Mark via the marvel of electronics! I think back to when Loren was in Vietnam, and we had those little 3 inch reel to reel players where we recorded a tape together, mailed it, taking 7-8 days turnaround just to hear each other's voices! And we thought THAT was swell, and it beat letter-writing all to heck! But it was great in that HE could tell Terri and Leslie bedtime stories that I could play each night when they'd go to bed. All those tapes were destroyed in a basement flood while we were at West Point ... but we still remember! My love to all of you ... and Mark, of course! Auntie Dale
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Friday, March 23, 2007 2:20 PM CDT
"Yes...it is ALL ABOUT THOSE MOMENTS"......precious, lasting moments!! I am so thrilled that Mark and "his girls" reunited if only for a few minutes! And, yes, Morgan has grown up "drastically"in the past two months - everyone has noticed it! And, Mark, YOU will come home to a READING/writing/math-computing young lady!!! And, to an ALLYSON eating like a CHAMP, we all hope!!! The summer is beginning to look like another wonderful "adventure" filled with those "moments" that are the fabric of precious memories! And, this summer we add THOMAS to the "mix"...!! I'm already lining up activities that will enrich Morgan's days in Northern VA /DC area! There is just SO MUCH to do and see here and I am picking carefully! Kristin, for sure, wants her in swim lessons to keep her momentum going....and then there's Wolftrap...the children's science museums (so many from which to pick)...the Smithsonian....not to mention the entire "cul de sac" of Morgan's Virginia friends she plays with while she's here!!! And, of course, we will certainly pack in a 'side trip' to the beach to spend a bit of time with precious "HOLLY McKAY" and her four precious ones!!! MIND BOGGLING FUN...that's what it will be about!
I had to get in some more "holding time" with Thomas this afternoon, so I braved the rush hour traffic into DC afer working as "Marian the librarian" at the high school A-gin!!! Fun work! I feel so much "smarter" spending THREE days in a library! HIGH SCHOOL is definitely different from MIDDLE school, and I really enjoyed the 'very adult' interaction with the kids. Thomas seemed very "happy" to see me...he slept through the entire visit!! HA!!!
Spring temps hit near 80 today....that's spring fever time! I'm starting to LOOK around for "flowers" this weekend just so I'm "ready" to plant when Morgan and Allyson arrive....we will "play in the dirt" together! Then, we can wATCH those plants GROW all summer!
Hey...everyone!! Start THINKING RALLY FOR ALLY...June 30th...if you would like to contribute a RAFFLE item or Silent Auction "item" please contact Ashli or me. We are beginning to THINK AHEAD and plan accordingly!!
AND...Mark...loved your post! Yes, "we get it"...those LONG deployments/absences from the lives of those we love surely do make a difference...but it also makes you stronger in the bonds that tie you to your loved ones. Glad you are going to get some R and R "soon" and I hope it will be in a GOOD SPOT!! Thinking of you and sending LOVE your way. Your "Easter basket" is on the way!! (not really a BASKET...just the ingredients that could be "construed as a dessert"....!!!) LOVE YOU!
And, Kristin...you explained the Feeding Disorder Clinic so PERFECTLY! I just feel so positive about it and happy that it is fitting into the perfect "slot" of the summer! Again...I do believe another GODWINK!!! :)
Love to all....we are bursting with "it" (love, you know) around here!!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Thursday, March 22, 2007 6:23 PM CDT
Boy, Kristin and Mark, this sounds like a huge step! I hope all of the changes you are making now only make this clinic visit easier in the long run. I am thinking about you...as always. You are such a rock! If Morgan needs to make a visit over to Annapolis this summer...boy, we'd love to have her.
Grayson and Ollie LOVE seeing the girls on the computer. Grayson, though, is SURE she she will see you guys at playgroup soon. I think that is her way of missing you ladies. :(
Little Thomas is precious and I know you are all so pleased to have him "on the outside!" How exciting, a new cousin!
Don't you love those video teleconferences! I think they are magic! I hope it was a huge shot in the arm for all of you! Mark, we're glad to "hear" from you. Hope all continues to go well! Enjoy that pool and a non-shave.
Thinking about you all....have a safe trip to "the right coast" very soon!
xoxo Lynn
Lynn Talbott Smith <talbottsmith@earthlink.net>
Annapolis, MD USA - Thursday, March 22, 2007 1:20 PM CDT
Hi everyone!
First of all, Kristin, you made me tear up when I read about your teleconference with Mark. And then I go to the guestbook and see Mark posted an entry! AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!
The feeding "stuff" sounds complicated but I know you will ALL handle it flawlessly as you do everything else. Ally will be eating Geep's steak in no time!
I can't wait to catch up with you this weekend!
Hugs and kisses to the little Kelso girls and a great big giant bear hug to my best pal!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Thursday, March 22, 2007 10:08 AM CDT
Hi everyone,
Yesterday I got the awesome chance to see all 3 of my girls on a video teleconference. I think you can't really understand how it feels to see and hear your family until you have been gone for a very long time. All the retired military folks (Geep) know what I'm talking about. It was only five minutes long and it felt like a second. Morgan was chatting away, boy has she changed just in the two months I've been gone.
Morgan said one thing that really made me smile. She said "Daddy, I got an American flag patch to put on my karate uniform so I can be just like you." I pointed to my shoulder where mine was and said "Like this one?" I was wearing my desert flight suit, and she said "Yes, but it's not brown." Talk about a moment I will remember for a while.
We're working hard out here. Not much in the news but we're laying some whoop-a*s on the bad guys out here. The missions are demanding and stressful. We are pulling in to port soon and I need some time off, not shave for a couple of days (those of you who see me on the weekends at home know what I'm talking about), get in a pool and decompress.
Love, Mark
LCDR Mark Kelso <mark.kelso@cvw9.navy.mil>
USS John C. Stennis, - Thursday, March 22, 2007 2:21 AM CDT
Hi, Kristin, Mark and Girls!
Just had a long talk with Teetay who has given me a brief overview of the forthcoming feeding intervention program for Allyson this summer! Sounds like a most helpful intervention, and I know she, and her very special and wonderful momma, will have challenges ahead to face and conquer. I am grateful, and offering prayers of thanksgiving, that there are people who know how to help in this area and devote their medical practices to such.
I know our spunky, delightful Miss AllyBeDally will do quite well, and I will await further details from you on the webpage. I know she will soon be smaking down all kinds of yummy stuff just like her big sister!
Mark, you are always in our thoughts and prayers .. as are all our military serving in stressful and dangerous places. We send you much love.
Kristin, Morgan and Allyson - just sent a little Easter "love gift" to the girls. Hope it is a hit .. looks like it should be fun! It so pleases me that Morgan is loving going to chapel and participating in the children's time. I love the stories retold to me by Teetay of her participation! That chaplain better be on hez tozeys ! Hugs and Love to you all, Aunt Grammy
PS: Kristin: Please send me Lydia and John's email address, as I "lost" it when we tranferred to Bellsouth.net. Thanks
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Wednesday, March 21, 2007 5:55 PM CDT
What a beautiful gathering of "hotties"....YOU ALL LOOK GREAT!!! Being "independent women" must agree with you!!
Love seeing all the faces on Allyson's website and I thinks he is such a sweet girl to SHARE her space with her mommie's friends and her new baby cousin! Counting the days until the CA peeps arrive in VA for Easter, play, museums, picnics, THOMAS holding-time, swingset-play, walks to the creek, dog-walking, playing in the park, Easter-egg-hiding and FINDing, and Thomas's baptism! The "Philly cousins" will be here for the baptism day, so I am sure they will all enjoy a fun-reunion!
Congrats to Morgan for ANOTHER 100% on her THIS week's spelling test! She doesn't much like to "go over her words" and "says it is hard" but she's capturing the "list" each week!! KUDOS to Morgan! And, congrats to Allyson for all her accomplishments this week! I am anxious to see her and how well she is eating now. When she was here for Thomas's birth, she multi-tasked while waiting at the hospital...she was eating macaroni and cheese while watching a video of Elmo on the DVD sort of "side saddling" the little sofa! Pretty cute arrangement!
I'm working this week with a librarian friend of mine who needed an extra set of hands/and perhaps another brain to help her out in a high school library. It has been a refreshing two days, thus far, and I've really enjoyed the camaraderie of the high school students. This is my first time to "sub as a librarian" and it's been great! I don't think I've even messed up the Databases!
Friday, I will RETURN to my THOMAS - holding!!!! He's continuing to have pretty good nights with 4 + hour stretches of sleep. What a little gem!
Spring temps are returning to our area this weekend. I hope you are enjoying a lovely mid-week DAY today and that the sun is shining wherever you are!!
Love to all....
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Wednesday, March 21, 2007 2:06 PM CDT
HI, Kristin and other pretty ladies! I am so glad you had a wives-night-out St Patty's event! You are a lovely looking bunch of women, and I am proud of each and every one of you! 8 weeks into a very long deployment is something to celebrate, for sure! And Kristin, I am happy you are feeling better, and that the antibiotics have worked and that the "bugs" are leaving! I loved the photos of Thomas, and finally got those via jpg ... since I cannot, for some strange reason, open the Kodak Gallery photos. Thomas is a cutie pie, and I can't see a familiar face yet in his precious little one! I have just gotten a brief email from Teetay regarding your feeding specialist interview and assessment. I will look forward to reading the update on the webpage when you do that next week. Meantime, hugs and kisses to you and the girls, and Mark! We pray for you ALL all the time!
Hugs and Love, Auntie Dale
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Tuesday, March 20, 2007 6:22 PM CDT
Hello all! Loved the photo of you and your friends, Kristin!! I am glad you get together and have fun with the other "waiting wives".
What a handsome man Thomas is!!! Can't wait to get some Auntie Char time with him in NC.
Our cruise was so much fun! Just returned yesterday late so still unpacking.
Love to all of you!
Charlote
Charlotte McKay <mckay_charlotte@tx.rr.com>
Frisco, TX USA - Monday, March 19, 2007 3:19 PM CDT
Wow! Hot ladies on the home page and my little T on the other photos page --- what a fun way to start the week :)))
Of course I am thrilled that everyone is WELL again and glad you were feeling better to be able to attend the wives gathering... nothing like some good meds and super green margaritas to get you feeling better, Kristin!!!
Lots of love to you all and to Mark out on the boat... I am thinking of you always and you're in our nightly prayers that we say with Thomas (yes, you know the prayer where we list ALL the people!! :))
Happy Monday and have a great week! We might actually hit 70s by Friday -- YAY!! I need to get outside!!! :))
CA gals... counting the days til we see you again SOON!
Aunt Ash & TJG3 <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, March 19, 2007 6:48 AM CDT
Good early evening to all of you out there in Allyland! Hoping the Ca girls are having a fun-filled weekend despite the busy-ness of it all! It sounds like there is a lot of fun in store for each one of you, so I hope that all goes as planned!
We are enjoying yet another snowy day...I believe we got about a foot between yesterday and this morning!!! The kids are enjoying every minute of being able to frolick another day in the snow! This was a heavy snow and with the sleet that fell too, it packed well and was very heavy when shoveling off my stairs and sidewalk this morning! Jack had the easy job with the snowblower, but I didn't mind the workout...I will skip the gym today!
Anyway, hope everyone is having a fun St. Patty's Day and also wishing the George family well as Tom, Ashli, and Thomas settle into their routine now that Teetay has returned to her house. Love to all!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Saturday, March 17, 2007 4:31 PM CDT
Beautiful pictures of beautiful girls!
It sounds as if you are "pressing on" in spite of feeling sickiness and not quite up to your "normal selves"....loved the "sister" pictures of all the girls! I think it is so special that Morgan has friends "outside" of school and neighborhood! What a gigantic birthday party she will have in June with all her 'groupings' of friends! And, Allyson and Annika look adorable in their sideline PLAY!! I hope the St. Patrick's Day "frivolity" will be a fun time for you, Kristin!
We are expecting the COLD weather to return after the two days of 70-80 degree "teasers"....what a pleasure it has been to walk the "baby/dog and ourselves" in this pretty weather! But....snow "mix" is returning so we're told...guess we'd best not put away jackets yet!
Thomas had a DR. appt today and the little "eater boy" has gained 6 ounces in three days! So, I guess that means he's an "overachiever eater" right now! We don't "wish" that on him INdefinitely, but it is good news right now! He "enjoys" watching FOX news and sports with his DADDY, but I do see his head LEANING TO THE LEFT when he's left to his own devices in his swing!!! (smile folks!) Ashli has settled into Thomas's routine pretty well, and he is having predictable days and his "routine" is, for now, fairly regular. Just when she gets SET with it all he might change his routine, but for now, they are clicking along. He has some 3 + hour periods of sleep during the NIght SO THAT IS SURELY GOOD NEWS FOR sleepy parents!
Tonight is my last night to stay...I go "HOME" tomorrow...("where is home, Dorothy?") and reintroduce myself to my kitty, Geep, and my house! I will still be available to help Ash whenever she needs me, but she and Tom are doing fine!!! As Ash said they need to get into their own groove of 'getting everyhing done' without my "backup" stance!! I will miss HIM and THEM, but they are only 20 miles away and that is not A PLANE RIDE!!!
Counting the days til the CA peeps are back....we have lots of fun things planned with "three kids in tow"....Northern VA/DC are beautiful in the spring...ah...the glory of all the blossoms and green grasses!
Thank you for being with us during the past days/weeks as we made a place for Thomas in our family!! I'm loving being a Teetay to a BOY grandchild!!! It's not so different....LOVE IS THE SAME NO MATTER WHAT THE GENDER!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Thursday, March 15, 2007 3:17 PM CDT
Greetings from an unusually warmer northeast, but don't get too excited because it looks like we may need to brace for another winter storm this weekend : ) Never a dull moment! I hope that today finds all of you CA girls doing better and how wonderful that 'Big Sister' Morgan was able to step up to the plate and help her mom! As a mother it is so tough to not be feeling well and still have to take care of your family, but somehow we manage to keep plugging along!! I hope that Allyson's sores are healing quickly with the meds she has been given and before too long you can be back to 'normal'!!
So glad to hear that the George family is settling into their family of '3' routine and how wonderful it is that Teetay and Geep can be there to help lighten the load a bit! Ashli, I hope that your healing continues to progress without complications. Thomas is 'ADORABLE' and I know how much you are all enjoying him. Did I read that Thomas will be baptized on Easter weekend? How wonderful...my nephew will be baptized that weekend too!! Hugs and kisses to all...from the east coast, all across the country to the CA peeps!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <ican'tbelievetheyarecallingforsnow@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Thursday, March 15, 2007 7:02 AM CDT
We hope both you and Ally girl are feeling well soon. Take care, Your Softlines team.
Avril, Gloria, Isabel, Carmen <carmenvaladez@verizon.net>
Oxnard, CA - Wednesday, March 14, 2007 3:34 AM CDT
Hi there! Thanks to all the Ally web site fans for your notes and support during these last few days celebrating the birth of our precious son, Thomas! We are having a blast, loving these tender moments and adroing this sweet little boy. Of course we are SOOOOO GRATEFUL to Teetay and Geep as they have been here daily to take care of everything "behind the scenes" in our house. As many of you can imagine, we are enjoying the best meals EVER and lots of Teetay humming, tunes and loving on her newest grandchild. We are blessed to have such an amazing family!!
Kristin, Al and Morgan -- Hope you ALL are feeling better ASAP. I am thinking of you all the time (of course! and since we talk every day... :)))) and can't wait to see you in a few more weeks for a longer visit.
Mark - Hugs to you our on the boat! You are in our prayers every night as we say them with Thomas, and we can't wait to see you later this summer/fall. We think of you every day!!
Thanks again, everyone... And super big hugs and kisses to K, M & A -- I love you and miss you!
Ash, TG and Thomas!!!!! <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, March 13, 2007 7:08 PM CDT
Greetings to all,
Those spots on Allyson's arm just make me want to cry! I feel so bad for her, and bad for all the K's in Port Hueneme with their various "ouches" right now. I hope that Allyson will be on the mend with her meds and that Morgan will not get the same thing...and that Kristin's voice/sore throat/achiness will subside!! TOUGH TIMES for those girls out there!!! Let' "wish it all away" folks...they're troopers, but there is a "limit"....go 'WAY LITTLE BUGS!!!
Thomas is continuing to do well eating/sleeping/burping and "excelling" AT ALL THOSE BABY THINGS!! Ashli and Tom are doing great in the parent department. Ash is working to get her surgical pain under control. She did see the DR. today and all is 'GOOD'.....IT JUST TAKES TIME TO MEND and her pain is NOT out of the ordinary. (tell THAT to her!) At any rate, she's managing and trying to be a trooper and "press on through it"...as "they" say!!! Thomas is a GREAT "eater"....seems to be a hungry boy, and is doing well FEEDING himself via his MOM!!!
It is a joy to be here sharing in all this fun!!! I am "backup" but I sure enjoy my BACKUP role! I even enjoy WALKING Nala, the dog!! Peeve, the cat, meows at 6 A.M. every morning...guess we don't need a clock when we have PEEVE...he's just like the "crowing rooseter" on he MEOwS! I think he's suffering a bit of lonliness as we haven't had much time for him. We'll get better!!
Geep came over today and spent the day, so we've had some good times "taking turns holding Thomas and burping/diapering/and all that stuff"....!!
Good times ahead! Counting the days til Easter week....and we can celebrate Thomas's baptism together!!
Love to all...and hope the CA girls get WELL soon...
And, did I mention that Morgan made 100 percent on her FIRST SPElling test???? She was thrilled that her paper was ONe OF four ON THE WALL WITH HER PERFECT SCORE! She is so proud of her 'first score' since she is only in Kindergarten!! Spelling tests? Think about when you had your FIRST one? PRobably not IN KINDERGARTEN, RIGHT? Maybe first grade? SEcond? Depends on your age???
Love to all...and thanks again for your emails and love and support of our new grandson...he is GRAND and we love him so much as he lines up with "the girls"....he'll certainly HOLD HIS OWN as he learns just how much love there is to GO AROUND!!!
Bless you all,
Terri aka Teetay aka THREETAY:)
terrimatus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Tuesday, March 13, 2007 6:14 PM CDT
Aww. Hope Al-pal is feeling better and you too Kristin. Hi to Mark in the big blue, and Morgan, you are THE girl to take care of mom.
Darren saw the Dora slide and started saying how he wanted to go sliding on it too. :) Looks like you're quite the trickster if I might say so myself.
Congrats to all on Thomas. He sounds like such a good baby and is so sweet to boot.
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Tuesday, March 13, 2007 1:48 PM CDT
Happy Sunday everyone!
Happy to report that on "day 3" of Thomas arriving HOME last Friday that ALL IS WELL in the Matus-George household!! Thomas has slipped into "somewhat of a routine" (that he's bound to change!) and is eating/sleeping/gurgling/watching pretty much on "cue"...he has adorable "cues" he puts out when he's hungry....sort of a MOUTH position between saying "ooooh and a NEMO face"....now whatever that really visualizes to you, I don't know, but it is very darn cute!
Ashli and Tom are settling into parenthood just like pros...I wouldn't have expected any "less" from them as they've had great role models with their sisters on both sides of the family!! Everything is coming pretty naturally to them, and Thomas is cooperative! When he has a 'need' he pretty much lets it be known and then he's satisfied with some significant naps in between. I think that is the "benefit" of big babies...he just wants to EAT and then snooze happily away in one of his many 'locations' around the house. Nala, their dog-child has taken to lying beside his pac and play to PROTECT him from Peeve the cat! *not really*....Actually, both animals seem rather DISinterested in Thomas!
Kristin, Morgan and Allyson are checking in daily to see how Thomas is progressing, and Morgan cannot wait to get back in April to HOLD HIM MORE! The other night Morgan was "taking care of Allyson" as Kristin was trying to fight off a sore throat and did not feel well...while TAKING CARE of ALLYSON Morgan rubbed her back and Ally fell asleep. Morgan was so proud of herself for doing such a good job of caring!!!
It is almost spring here in the Mid Atlantic today....we are having a lazy day of newspaper and basketball and waiting for THOMAS to "call us into duty" between "sleeps"....it is wonderful to report that all is calm in the Matus-George household!
Thinking of you all today and we are again so very grateful for your "watch" with us during this past week while we waited for "Lester" to become "Thomas"....we felt your love and your ever-present prayers!
And...another huge THANKS for making us the "winning raffle ticket sales family"....wish one of "you" had WON THE $$$ BUT YOUR HELP FOR NFED is enormous and so very needed. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!!
Love to all and a happy day light savings DAY to us all!!!
Terri/Teetay/THREEtay !:)!!!!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Sunday, March 11, 2007 12:51 AM CDT
Hi, everyone! Just loved the pictures of the Matus clan with the geep and teetay, Miss MAK and Miss AllyBeDally! What a cutie he is, and already he knows how much he's loved! I am glad everyone's doing well, especially Thomas. I love the full name, and we will all strive to use his name fully! We have managed to call Matthew, Matthew (not Matt) and Kristin, Kristin (not Kris)-- so it can be done! :)
We have the Madaus family from Winter Haven visiting for a few days, and we're enjoying that.
All the Atlanta gang came for Brunch this morning, and we had a fun time.
Whitney and Zachary are playing spring baseball, and "Whit"--which is the name she put on her shirt-- had a triple at her first game this afternoon. She's only going to be "Whit" in softball, as far as I'm concerned. She's Whitney to me. r u laughing? And Zachary will be Zachary as well! So I'm sure I can do the THOMAS thing too! We all send you our love! Aunt Grammy
Dale G. Pugh <dalegpugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA usa - Saturday, March 10, 2007 3:00 PM CST
Hello all and bon voyage....we're off for a vacation....I know it will be only a week but I bet lots will happen. Know that we are loving you from afar!!
Hugs and kisses,
Holly Crandell
Holly Crandell <hmcrand@tx.rr.com>
- Saturday, March 10, 2007 12:42 AM CST
Oh Ash!!!!! I remember all the details of a c-section like it was yesterday - and no pain meds that worked! This too shall pass and before you know it you will just have a scar to remember the event. Once Thomas gives you a great big grin and says "I wuv you, mama" for the first time it will have ALL been worth it!!!!
I hope your trip home from the hospital is UINEVENTFUL and that you new life as a FAMILY starts out with sleep-filled nights!
hugs and kisses from your "adopted" sister!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Friday, March 9, 2007 6:42 AM CST
Greetings tonight - Thursday, I think!!!
I have just spent the last 32+ hours at the hospital with Ash, Tom, and THOMAS!!! (he does NOT own the English MUFFIN company, 'yet'...??!!!) :)
I spent the night last night so that Tom (he is the DADDY!) could go home and get some real sleep after both he and Ash had a sleepless night and NOT IN SEATTLE Wednesday night! It seems that the pain meds given to Ashli just simply did not WORK...something "about the way her body metabolizes them" and essentially, she was MORE than UNcomfortable for HOURS during the night. THOMAS was fine...but his mom was not doing too great...and his Daddy got really upset that the doctors could not be located to draw up a new med order to HELP HER PAIN MANAGEMENT! So....needless to say, Ash summoned me to the hospital to stay the night so that Tom could rest as well.....
Last night, with new meds, she did SO MUCH BETTER and everyone got a bit of sleep in three hour increments, but that's better than the ZERO sleep of the previous night! Her body needs to heal and get strong to "take on Thomas" when they go HOME tomorrow!!!
Thank you all for your wishes of love and goodness for Thomas and the entire family. I can already SEE what a "doting/tough love Dad" Tom is going to be....(yeah, "tough love" will be out the window!) ....and Ashli is taking to "motherhood" just as naturally as I knew she would...maybe she has "big shoes" to fill from her sister's example, but she is surely following "suit" real well!!! Her pain from the two days of labor/delivery/surgery etc. today is well under control and she showered and "foo-foo-ed" and we knew she was BACK!!! Thomas is doing well as he went through several "appointments" today for 'tests' - shots - and the DREADED "C" moment that boys endure!!!
Tom's sisters are coming this weekend to meet their nephew...Tom's Dad came Tuesday, the night of Thomas's arrival...we've been there daily...and the Ca peeps are back in CA safe and sound...and today, Ashli said, "Has is only been four days that we've been doing this?" WHAT A FOUR DAYS!!! WOW!!!
I will be staying with Ash and Tom and THOMAS for 'as long as I'm needed' but I will be in touch by email....again, thank you for continuing to walk with us on these major, fire-roaring, significant life events! Allyson BROUGHT us together and I hope we're HERE TO STAY!!!
I love THOMAS' name and I do PLAN on calling him THOMAS! Today, however, I overheard his MOTHER call him "Little T"....I hope he not a 'relative' to "Mr. T" with his mohawk and chains around his neck!!! Who knows what nicknames might pop up, but he is THOMAS to me!!!
God's blessings on the continuing growth of our family and our 'extended' famiy....we are blessed and thankful! (and a little bit tired!!! )
Love to all...
Thinking of Mark out in the BIG BLUE tonight and wishing his safe sailing....and thinking of the Matus-George family as they share their last night in the hospital tonight with Baby Thomas!! And, thinking of the CA peeps back on the Pacific where it is very warm!! And, thinking of all of you who wrote to let us know you care! YOU ARE WONDERFUL FRIENDS~!
Terri aka Teetay and THREETAY :)
AndnomorewaitingforLESTER.com
:)!!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Thursday, March 8, 2007 6:22 PM CST
Congratulations Ashli and Tom. I can't wait to meet Thomas at the rally this summer. Enjoy every minute. Just remember when it gets rough that it really does get better -really. They grow up so fast. Love to all
Robyn Hopper <rphop@aol.com>
South Riding, VA - Thursday, March 8, 2007 1:01 PM CST
Ashli, you surely did hang in there - and no matter the cost - and I know what that was after suffereing many hours of labor and more on Pitocyn myself, the beautiful child is worth every minute! I hope you are finally comfortable and able to get some sleep. I'll see you today! Love,
Pam
Pam Thompsonj <pamelatc@cox..net>
Fairfax, VA USA - Thursday, March 8, 2007 9:48 AM CST
Ashli and TG,
Congrats and LOTS of LOVE from your Texas cousins! We are so happy that everything turned out well and that mommy and Thomas are doing fine. He is a precious bundle and we can't wait to meet him! I know Nanny & Papo are smiling down on their newest Lil' Wrangler...have to get Thomas to TX so he can get his first set of boots and cowboy hat!!!
Love and Hugs,
Mary, Mark, Brandon, and Ryan
Mary Kay De Hoyos <marykaydehoyos@nisd.net>
San Antonio, TX - Wednesday, March 7, 2007 11:01 PM CST
Yeah! Thomas is here and he's soooo cute. I'm so happy for you all. Congratulations on the newest arrival into the Matus-George family. And into Ally's extended cyber family! Sending you many many blessings and good wishes.
Alex Hurley <cajhurley@comcast.net>
Montgomery Village, MD - Wednesday, March 7, 2007 8:51 PM CST
TIME FOR THE HAPPY DANCE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THOMAS YOU ARE GORGEOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We were thrilled to get Teetay's call yesterday and love love love seeing the great pics. Kristin, what a thrill you were there for the "first moments". YEA! Do you think Thomas had it planned all along??
Baby Blayne Elena (our newest next door neighbor) is one week old today and she has everyone stomped on hair...what a cutie and what a load of hair!
WE are hoping to see many more pics and much more of Thomas' precious self soon.
Hugs and kisses to all of you (Texas sized!)
Holly & Crew
Holly Crandell <hmcrand@tx.rr.com>
- Wednesday, March 7, 2007 8:37 PM CST
Ashli and Tom....What a little cutie patootie! Glad to hear little Thomas is finally here! Ashli, welcome to the world of mommyhood! I will be praying for you in the coming days as you and your little guy get to know each other. Congratulations! Hugs from Texas...Anna Rainwater
Anna Rainwater <anna.banana3@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, March 7, 2007 8:11 PM CST
Congratulations to mom, dad, all the grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins!!! Thomas is absolutely adorable and I can't wait to see more pictures of him as he grows up! Ashli, I hope you are able to get some much needed rest! How awesome to see photos of such a proud family with their new son, grandson, nephew and cousin! This boy is loved deeply!!
Love to all and many congrats! Hope to meet Thomas this summer...perhaps at the rally?!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Wednesday, March 7, 2007 7:48 PM CST
Congratulations! What a sweet bundle of joy!
We love you and look forward to meeting "little Thomas" at the Rally for Ally!!!
Nora & Tonya <Nora_Blackman@bshsi.com>
Yorktown, VA - Wednesday, March 7, 2007 5:55 PM CST
CONGRATULATIONS to the entire Matus/George family from some of your Chicago friends ! We are so thrilled by the addition of Thomas to your beautiful family.
Love, Kathy, Alan, Elizabeth and JULIA (who hopes to babysit if/when Teetay and Geep leave:)
Kathy Leis <Madameleis@aol.com>
Naperville, Il USA - Wednesday, March 7, 2007 4:32 PM CST
Hello, all! Just checked in to see the photo of our newest family member! What a big round pink adorable little guy he is! I love the name Thomas, and I know Tom Sr/Jr are thrilled that the lovely name has been passed down x III. My heart is full of love for that little one - a precious trust from God! I know everyone is really pooped, and that more photos and fun info will be forthcoming. I am so thrilled that Kristin, Morgan and Allyson could be there for the BIG event --- albeit a bit abbreviated, due to Thomas having a mind of his own about "being borned." :) I have had you girls in my prayers today as you wing your way home. Kristin, Morgan and Allyson, we love you guys and hope to see you the next time you fly east for a period of time! As for Ashli and Tom and Thomas -- soon you will be a 3 person family in your darling home, and life will NEVER be the same again --- just better! :) Love to you all, Aunt Dale
Dale G. Pugh <DaleGPugh@bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Wednesday, March 7, 2007 1:20 PM CST
Beautiful!!!!! So thrilled everything and everyone is well. GOD is so awesome. Blessings to all.
Love and baby kisses, the Register's
Crystal Register <register5@atmc.ent>
Southport, NC USA - Wednesday, March 7, 2007 8:49 AM CST
WOOHOO!!!!!!!!! Thomas is here!!! And BOY is he beautiful!!!! (and TWICE the size Tyler was when he was born - hee hee) I was thrilled to talk to Kristin yesterday and hear the news for myself. Congratulations to the new proud parents - I love you both and can't wait to meet your SON in person someday (rally???). Jim LOVED the name you picked out because he is also a III.
Gigantic hugs to the tiny new addition - you are soooo loved already!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Wednesday, March 7, 2007 7:06 AM CST
Good morning all,
Just an early morning "check in" to say that THOMAS is now 18 hours OLD and I hope he had a restful night in this world!! And, I hope Ashli and Tom were able to get some rest as well, although knowing how hospitals "are" I imagine they were awakened many times to get CHECKED ON!!! Ashli will remain in the hospital until Friday or early Sat. morning, depending on her needs. When she arrives home I will "move in" for however long she and Tom need an extra 'set of hands'....!!
The snow has started to fall in NOVA and it is going to be another 'fast moving' storm, so we aren't expecting a BIG DEAL out of it!
The CA peeps were "up and out the door at 4:45 for the trip back to blue skies and warms temps! We were all a big "groggy" this morning for our few days of "waiting" but nonetheless, very happy! They will be back in less than a month for Easter, so our goodbyes were 'brief' and not too sad! Allyson slept in her clothes, so she was EASY TO DRESS this morning,and Morgan put her warm-up suit over her pajamas and that made the "EARLY rising" much easier!
It was wonderful that they could be HERE for Thomas' entry into the world! What a special time that was for Ashli and Kristin to SHARE since Ashli had shared both of Kristin's birthings!!
Off to the hospital!!! Love to all, and more updates later today!! Thank you for your calls, notes, emails, and postings....I know Ashli and Tom will be so grateful that there are so many folks "out there" loving their little boy already!!!
Love to all and God bless you all!
Terri aka Teetay aka THREETAY!!:)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Wednesday, March 7, 2007 6:50 AM CST
CONGRATS!!!! He's adorable.....I bet there are OODLES and OODLES of very proud family members right now. Enjoy that little fella because they grow up SO fast. :-)
I loved seeing all the photos of him, and look forward to seeing more later on too!
Blessings to all on this wonderful day.
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Wednesday, March 7, 2007 3:02 AM CST
So,finaly Thomas Joseph George III has been born(and I knew that would be his name), is healthy, happy, and landed into a wonderful birth position with a specutacular family. Sorry Ash it was a difficult journey - but more and more worth it. If I can get to the hospital tomorrow amidst the snow with my pitiful miata,I will come see you. I have been thinking about you and praying; in the end, all went well, right? God bless our children and grandchildren! We are blessed. Love, Pam
P:am Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
fairfax, va usa - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 11:58 PM CST
I KNEW (ask Teetay), what his name would be. Ash, you had a rough time - and he was totally worth it, right? So, guess I can't call him "TJ" - Thomas all the way. Thanks for the pictures - adorable - and info. It's great to be in touch. Now, if I could just find out what hospital? Love, Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA USA - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 10:11 PM CST
Hi EVERYONE!
It's THREETAY!! Whahoowah!!!
THOMAS JOSEPH GEORGE "3"..>(wow...movie star name!)
is FINE...in fact, he may be PERFECT!! (all Grandmothers say that..right?)
I was waiting for Kristin to UPDatE THE WEBSITE (before I wrote)...and I am I so happy to announce a BOY CHILD into our WORLD!
"Thanks be to God"....and we are grateful that the TWO DAY "delivery program" ended up in a C Section and a beautiful, healthy BOY child!! (GO PENN STATE...are you listening, DAD???) Ashli, Tom, and THOMAS (that is his name, you people...not TOMMIE, (we have one already) and, and not ANY OTHER NAMES...just THOMAS!!)....
EVERYONE is doing well...Ashli is FEEDING HIM and he certainly knows how to "do it" already!!(IF that is TMI for some of you, stop READING now!!)
We are the happiest grandparents on the planet tonight...GEEP has not EVER had a SON or a GRANNNNNNNNNNNNNNSON...so you know he's KICKING!!
More tomorrow...but KNOW that that there is NO MORE LOVE in the world than the "love we feel tonight"....
Ashli, Tom, and NO LONGER CALLED LESTER...but Thomas..
YOU DID WELL!!
PRAISES!!
Love to all..and more tomorrow AFTER I GET TO SPOIL HIM ROTTEN!!
Thank you , everyone, for caring, and calling and sending messages. WE LOVE YOU ALL!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
NOTWAITINGANYMORE....THOMASISHEREANDHEISREADYTOROCKANDROLL.com!!!!!
HEY, Mark ..YOU ARE AN UNCLE AG-in!!
:)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 9:55 PM CST
Yeahhhh! A beautiful little boy with a REAL name! Congratulations to Ashli and Tom and all those who love them, (me, too). I'm looking forward to meeting the little guy. He looks adorable and adored in all the pictures. See you soon!
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 9:29 PM CST
Thomas is absolutely adorable... congratulations to the whole extended family... we are very happy for you all.
The Lutz Family
- Tuesday, March 6, 2007 9:21 PM CST
Congratulations to the new Mother/Father/Aunt/Uncle/Grandparents/and cousins! Thomas is an adorable little boy and I am glad to hear he finally made his appearance to the world. Too bad the CA girls have to go back, but at least they were able to see him for a little while. Ashli and TG- hope that everything is well with you and hope you enjoy the time ahead of you. Keeping everyone in my thoughts and prayers on this special day!
Elizabeth Hellman (Mrs. Matus' former student) <dancer3191@cox.net>
Chantilly, VA United States - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 8:55 PM CST
Congratulations Ashli and Tom! Thomas is adorable and lucky to have such a great family! Have fun with your new addition to the family. The pictures are great! Your long wait is finally over! Have a great week!
*Christina*
Christina Knippler (Mrs. Matus' former student) <acoolkid15@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 8:47 PM CST
Congrats to all - love the pictures - love the name - he is beautiful - a gift from God.
The best to all of you.
Terri's pen pal from MN
Nancy Zembal <nezembal@comcast.net>
Brooklyn Center, MN USA - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 8:43 PM CST
Thought I would check in quick before sitting down to dinner. Thinking of you all while we are in a deep freeze up here in NH. March sure is coming in like a LION!! Will check back later!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
coulditbeanycolder, NH - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 5:12 PM CST
Still checking almost hourly and waiting......Can't wait to hear about little "Lester's" arrival. Praying for you all. Kristin, can't even begin to imagine how tired you are with being up during the night. Hopefully the adrenaline kicks in! Ashli, you are absolutely glowing in the picture! What a blessed little guy "Lester" will be to be surrounded by such a loving family! BIG HUGE HOTLANTA HUGS!!!
Aunt Mer, Uncle Glenn, and Cousin Spencer <stillwaitingcheckingandprayingforlestersarrival@hotlanta.com>
Kennesaw, GA USA - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 3:40 PM CST
Thinking of all of you today as you await (AGAIN) the arrival of Baby Boy George!!! Ashli, I sure do hope that everything continues to go smoothly and that you have a great birthing experience...it won't be much longer!!! Love to all!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 9:49 AM CST
Hmmmm - looks like baby George has the penthouse suite with really great "womb" service and just doesn't want to leave a good thing! But, come on now..... we're waitin'! Good luck today! Love,Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA USA - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 9:35 AM CST
Today IS going to be baby George's BIRTHDAY.....and all the barnyard animals are going to throw him a party.......
LESTER - TIME TO COME OUT!!!!!!!!!! Be careful and don't hurt mommy too badly!
HUGS AND KISSES to EVERYONE at the hospital today!
xooxoxoxoxoxo
Plucky Chicken <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 5:47 AM CST
Good, good EARLY MORNING everyone!
We are headed for the hospital where we are SURE "Baby Boy George" is going to make an appearance today!!! Hoping that Ashli, Tom, and "Lester" had a good night "resting up" in the hospital for the BIG DAY TODAY! The doctor did tell them that HE would arrive TODAY no matter what!!!
Allyson had a "restless night" ( I think she is upset that Lester did not come yesterday after she waited all day at the hospital) and eventually Kristin took her into her BED (OH NO!!! but OH YES!!!) to help her fall into a DEEP sleep! It didn't happen until after 2 A.M., but she is pressing "on" as usual!!!
Thanks for the good wishes, prayers, and love thoughts....we know you are "out there" and we PROMISE there will be a "drum roll message" when we get home tonight...rather toDAY, we hope!! None of us have cellular signals IN the hospital, but when there is something to REPORT, we'll be making those phone calls!!! In the meantime, thank you for praying for a safe delivery and for each of us!
We feel your love and we thank you for giving us this support!!
And, you're right, Holly...Ashli should not look "so good" in her DELIVERY MODE!!!
Love to all...
Terri aka Teetay :) WAITING to be THREE TAY!!!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Tuesday, March 6, 2007 5:02 AM CST
I read Michaelangelo was born on March 6th - what a great person for Lester to share his birthday with! I have been a little out of the loop lately and thought for sure I'd visit the site today and see pictures of Baby George! So glad I am able to wish Ashli good luck on the BIG day! I'll be thinking of all of you tomorrow.
Alex Hurley <cajhurley@comcast.net>
Montgomery Village, MD - Monday, March 5, 2007 9:47 PM CST
Okay, I know one of Ashli's favorite shows is 24, but she doesn't have to live it! Unless they're naming him Jack Bauer! Get on out of there, boy! We can't wait another day. Take care, lots of loving thoughts are coming your way, Ashli, Tom, and little ???
Love,
Teree
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Monday, March 5, 2007 9:38 PM CST
I keep checking the website for any Lester updates. What an experience! I can't wait to see all the cute pictures of "Baby George" and his real name. I'm glad to see all is healthy from coast to coast- Lester and Ally. I love all the new pictures and can't wait to see some of the three cousins. We are keeping everyone in our prayers- Ally, Ashli, Lester, Mark, and the whole gang. May God's love be upon you all!
*Christina Knippler*
Christina Knippler (Mrs. Matus' former student) <acoolkid15@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA - Monday, March 5, 2007 9:30 PM CST
ALL RIGHT ALL READY!!!!!!!!!!
Ashli...didn't anyone tell you it was SINFUL to look that beautiful on delivery day with hospital gowns, IVs etc????????? Really!!!!
We are waiting for the great news in FRISCO, TEXAS!!!
GIVE BABY LESTER OUR BIGGEST, LARGEST, HUGEST TEXAS SIZED HUGS AND KISSES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
~Holly Crandell and Crew~
Holly Crandell <hmcrand@tx.rr.com>
- Monday, March 5, 2007 7:58 PM CST
We've been checking almost hourly and want you to know, Ashli and TG, that we are truly excited that THE BIG DAY is at hand, either today or tomorrow. We hope it is today for your sake. Our love to all the family.
Lydia Kelso a.k.a . Grandma Kelso <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Southport, NC - Monday, March 5, 2007 7:18 PM CST
Nora & Tonya are anxiously awaiting the arrival of "Baby Lester" :)
Nora <Nora_Blackman@BSHSI.com>
Yorktown, VA - Monday, March 5, 2007 6:13 PM CST
Bummer - my "prediction" didn't come true, but today, as we anxiously await precious "Lester's" arrival, at least we KNOW! Can't wait to hear the wonderful news! Thanks for all the adorable pictures and keeping us all up-to-date. Love, Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA The Best - Monday, March 5, 2007 7:23 AM CST
Been checking every single day on "Lester," Ashli, and Tom! Can't wait to hear the BIG news-so "excited over here!!!!!!!!" We're praying for you all today. Love the pictures of the girls. That snowgirl rockstar is priceless! Love and hugs to you all.
Aunt Mer, Uncle Glenn, and Cousin Spencer
Kennesaw, GA USA - Monday, March 5, 2007 6:43 AM CST
To Ashli and Tom,
May God bless you with a beautiful baby boy today! We love you and can't wait to cyber-meet the newest member of the Matus-George family.
xoxoxoxoxox
Aimee, Jim and Tyler <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Monday, March 5, 2007 6:25 AM CST
Beautiful pictures of Teetay and Geeps favorite girls - all the best to Ashli and Tom. I will be thinking about all of you today as this is such an exciting time for all. I will be rushing home from work today to read the website for the "big news". Thoughts and prayers will be with all of you. xoxoxoxxo from Teetay's favorite pen pal
Nancy Zembal <nezembal@comcast.net>
Brooklyn Center, MN USA - Monday, March 5, 2007 5:24 AM CST
Love those photos! That snowgirl rocks Morgy-Lu. Ally- You're getting so big now. And good luck to Ashli and Tom tomorrow. Lester, Oh Lester- welcome to this world NOW. ;)
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Monday, March 5, 2007 3:02 AM CST
Thinking of and praying for all of you!
Love,
Jackie
Jackie Horras <jackie2fish@hotmail.com>
San Antonio, TX - Monday, March 5, 2007 1:08 AM CST
Just wanted to say good luck with everthing tomorrow!! Hope all goes well and I will keep you all in my prayers as your newest family member is born! Can't wait to see the pictures!
Elizabeth Hellman (former student of Mrs. Matus) <dancer3191@cox.net>
Chantilly, Va United States - Sunday, March 4, 2007 8:58 PM CST
Am so glad to see and read that the CA peeps arrived safely and are in time for Lester's arrival...hopefully, like Kristin said, by dinnertime tomorrow! Love to see the pics of the girls and of the sisters!!! Kristin, I am so glad that you are there to meet your nephew. I will be in heavy prayer tonight and tomorrow for all of you and especially Ashli and TG that everything goes well tomorrow as they greet their son!! Brings back such sweet memories of giving birth to my own kids : )
Ashli, here is a little something I want to share with you as you prepare to meet your son tomorrow...maybe these are Lester's innocent thoughts as he prepares to meet his 'Mommy'!
Once upon a time, there was a child ready to be born.
So, one day it asked God…
They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow,
but how will I live there being so small and helpless?
Among the many angels, I chose one for you. She will
be waiting for you and will take care of you.
But tell me…here in Heaven, all I do is sing and smile.
That’s enough for me to be happy.
Your angel will sing for you and smile for you every
day. You will feel your angel’s love and be happy.
And how am I going to understand when people talk to me
if I don’t know the language they speak?
Your angel will teach you the most beautiful and
sweet words you will ever hear, and with much care
and patience, will teach you to speak.
And what am I to do when I want to talk to you?
Your angel will place your hands together and teach
you how to pray.
I’ve heard that on earth there are bad men. Who will
protect me?
Your angel will defend you even at risking its own life.
But I will be sad because I will not see you anymore.
Your angel will always speak to you about me and will
teach you the way to some day come back to me, even
though I will always be next to you.
At that moment, there was much peace in heaven, but
voices from earth could already be heard, and hurrily
the child softly asked, “Oh God, if I am about to now
leave you; please tell me my angel’s name.”
“Your angel’s name is of no importance…you will
simply call her Mommy”
I look forward to checking in tomorrow and reading all about Lester!! Thinking of you all as you anxiously await the arrival of the newest member of your family! Love to all!!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Sunday, March 4, 2007 7:17 PM CST
LEEEESSSSTTTTTEEEEERRRRR - WHERE ARE YOU??????? Enough is enough! You come out RIGHT NOW!
Waiting impatiently!!!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Sunday, March 4, 2007 12:19 AM CST
Hi all!
The CA peeps are "en route" right now! Morgan called on the way to the airport to tell me they were going to a NEW airport "location" and she did not know if she would have to ride a BUS to get to the terminal!! (they are flying out of Long Beach today) She also told me that she was wearing purple and fuschia and she was going to run SO FAST to me in the airport that she would KNOCK ME DOWN!!! (I can hardly wait for that moment-of-truth!) I hope Allyson is OUT of her stroller running alongside of her! It is one of those "grandparent moments" to CHERISH!
Ashli had a BUSY and ACTIVE day yesterday, so she's doing some "resting" today while WAITING!!! It does appear that Lester will WAIT for his cousins and Aunt Kristin to arrive (do you know how much Kristin will LOVE being called AUNT KRISTIN????)before making he debut! The full moon and lunar eclipse might "stir him downward"....wouldn't that be GREAT??!!
We are doing our "have patience dance" this weekend!!
And, by the way, if anyone is writing me this weekend on my yahoo account, I have rec'd a message that "due to unusual activity on yahoo" I cannot write/or receieve messages for 48 hours. I have no CLUE what that really means as I've had NO UNusual activity on my email according to "me"....so if you wish to contact me, CALL or use my old AOL account that is still active: teetay43@aol.com
I changed servers because I rec'd so much JUNK on AOL, and now "yahoo" has "suspended my acct. for 48 hours" so I am FRUSTRATED!!!
Have a great weekend everyone...and know there will be MILES OF SMILES around our house and they will begin about 6:45 tonight when JET BLUE touches down at Dulles!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :) soon to be THREE TAY!!!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Saturday, March 3, 2007 3:26 PM CST
PS - OK - that's IT! Today, March 3rd is a GREAT birthday for a precious baby boy - so, today is the day - capiche? The CA folks are here - no more swimming around in your nice warm little "womb". Down and out you go! :) More love, Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA The best - Saturday, March 3, 2007 12:27 AM CST
Wishing a safe journey to baby boy George - and easy delivery (is there such a thing?), for Ash. I know everyone is excited - all of the friends, family, and caring bridge folks who are anxiously looking forward to the good news. Best to Mark wherever you are in your journey as part of the men and women protecting our country. My prayers are with you all. Love, Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA Best in the World - Saturday, March 3, 2007 12:18 AM CST
Wishing baby Lester safe travels into the world this Monday OR sooner!! And if I happen to miss his arrival, CONGRATS to all of you. ;)
Looking forward to that great news. And congrats on the ticket sales Kristin and family......
-Cat
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
North Texas Bound!, HI USA - Friday, March 2, 2007 11:55 PM CST
Happy FRIDAY to all!
It "looks" like Lester is going to wait for his CA cousins to arrive to peek his head out into the world! Ashli is scheduled to be induced Monday "unless" Lester SWIMS DOWN before Monday! So, it looks like a Monday birthdate is in the future! The CA peeps arrive here early tomorrow evening, and we will spend the WHOLE DAY SUNDAY with Ashli and Tom and Nala and Peeve (dog and cat)....and will probably take a trip to the BIG PARK and play in the sunshine! We know, of course, that Lester could change our plans, but we're making them anyway!!
It's been a good week - - I managed to get in a couple of days of subbing, and it is always a good time "spent with kids"....that is the PART I miss!
NO MORE DAYS!!! Tomorrow the CA peeps arrive and we wait together for the celebration of another life into our family! God has so richly blessed us!
Have a great weekend and I hope you are somewhere enjoying sunshine as we are today!
Love to all and always love and prayers are going out to Mark "somewhere out there" in the BIG BLUE!
Terri aka Teetay :) almost aka "THREE TAY"...!!!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, March 2, 2007 3:10 PM CST
Woo hoo!!!!! There is nothing better than an unexpected SNOW DAY that falls on a FRIDAY. I think in the 11 years I have lived in MN this is my 2nd snowday - so that should tell you how much snow we have on the ground!!!! We still have our little light up snow man from the holidays in the front yard and the snow is almost up to his top hat as well as to the mail boxes!!!! It is 5am and looking outside at the blanket of white snow is just beautiful!!! The other day we had 7 deer run through our yard - very cool!
Kristin - safe travels to you and the girls....looks like LESTER was waiting for you after all.
xoxoxoxo
Aimee <3dayweekendsrock@timeforscrapbooking.com>
SNOWY Eden Prairie, MN - Friday, March 2, 2007 5:14 AM CST
Yo Lester!!!!!!!!!!
Can you hear me from Texas? That cute baby girl I mentioned earlier has a mind of her own (go figure...you'll learn that later). She couldn't wait for her mom to be induced and has decided to make an appearance today...we are waiting to hear that she is here...any time now...she has a beautiful name and I know she will also be gorgeous.....as you will be too....hurry up! There is so much to do out here and we all can't wait to meet you and play with you - especially your Mommy, Daddy, Geep, Teetay, Aunts, Uncles, cousins, etc. etc.
We love you already,
Holly
Holly Crandell <hmcrand@tx.rr.com>
- Wednesday, February 28, 2007 3:09 PM CST
*** SIGH ***
We're just anxious and ready to get this show on the road (and have new reasons not to get any sleep!)... Thanks for all your cute notes, posts, emails, whacky dreams ;), thoughts and prayers for me and "Lester". He'll be here SOON, one way or another! Thanks for your support -- Ally has the best web site fans ever and I appreciate you, too!
*** SIGH ***
xo!
From the 40+ week waddling Aunt and Mom-to-Be..... <AuntAshli.. can't wait to see the CA gals this weekend! @ waiting...waiting... waiting.com>
Washington DC... it's really not that bad of a place, little son, so come on out and PLAY! (you have a great room and lots of toys, I promise!), - Wednesday, February 28, 2007 11:36 AM CST
Sorry to hear that Lester is starting his life as a stubborn little boy! They do have minds of their own those boys!! Ashli, I hope that you are taking it all in stride and are not too uncomfortable. My hunch is that Lester may just be waiting for his Aunt Kristin and his cousins to arrive; however, with any luck, tonight (my 40 +4 days prediction)may be close. I will pray that the wait for EVERYONE will soon be over!!
Sounds like the CA peeps are keeping quite busy and I am sure they are getting very excited for their upcoming trip to VA!! I know that you are all going to have a blast and once Lester decides to come out and play, well, then the FUN really begins!!!
We are headed out of town for a few days of winter fun during the kids' vacation! Jack and Gage are going to take a snowboarding lesson, while Mackenzie and I will be taking our "first" skiing lesson!! Am I crazy or what?! This may just be the craziest thing I have ever done!!! Anyway, I hope that when we get back I will be able to visit this website and hear all about Lester! Safe travels to the East Coast for Kristin and the girls! Will there still be snow for Morgan and Allyson to play in when they arrive?! I sure hope so!! Love to all!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Wednesday, February 28, 2007 10:24 AM CST
Bummer! It looks like my dream was not exactly correct, huh? LESTER - WHERE ARE YOU???????? We realize life is "good" in there but for goodness sake, come out and play already!
Your MN Aunt,
Aimee <12moreinchesofsnowontheway@whereisspring?.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, February 28, 2007 8:53 AM CST
Hello. My husband and I are missionaries. Our doughter Charlotte was born in Honduras in June of 2005(we were living there at the time). She has EEC. She is a beutiful bundle of joy. Would not trade her for the world. Neat to find someone else who has a little girl with EEC. We are back in the states right now. Charlotte has a hand surgery on March 23rd. She gets all her surgeries done at Shriners hospital in Chicago. Great place. I am expecting another baby in a week(Lord willing sooner). My husband and I plan to head back to the mission field in April or May. We are going to Russia. Can't wait to get back there (my husband and I met in Russia on the mission field) though did love the warm Honduras weather. Any way our web sight is www.csmissions.com check it out if you want. God bless and just thought I would say hello! Sarah
Sarah Laird <roadtoprague@mail.ru>
De Pere, WI 54115 - Tuesday, February 27, 2007 10:11 PM CST
Waiting.
That's about it.
Love,
Terri / aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va us - Tuesday, February 27, 2007 7:34 PM CST
So I had a dream last night that TODAY was going to be LESTER’s birthday! Since I am able to remember very specific things about my dream let me share with you some of them….First, we lived in a small condo in Florida (I wonder if that is just wishful thinking after all the snow we just got). Second, we (Jim, Tyler and I) lived with Ash, TG and Nala. For some bizarre reason, Ash and TG shared a bedroom with us and they were sleeping on the floor. Ash woke up in the middle of the night and was having contractions and wanted to go to the hospital. After selecting the perfect BLACK BOOTS, TG drive Ash to the local hospital. Our internet connection was not working and I was unable to check Ally’s website EVERY 5 MIN for an update from Kristin and I was totally distraught!
Take my dream for what it is worth (hee hee) but perhaps TODAY is the DAY!
Aim-a-lita <crazydreamlady@moresnowcomingtomorrow.com>
Snowy EP, MN - Tuesday, February 27, 2007 6:55 AM CST
No BABY Lester yet...but Ashli does have a DR. appt. this morning to "checkie her out"....stay tuned!!
Love to all from foggy-bottom-snowy-ground Virginia!!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Tuesday, February 27, 2007 6:53 AM CST
Lester - where are you? When are you coming out to play?
There is a cute little girl waiting to be born...our newest next door neighbor....are you waiting to be born on the same day as Baby Blayne Elena Harlan? She is coming on Thursday if not before.....Texas girls are cute cute cute...just a thought!!!
We love you already,
Holly
Holly Crandell <hmcrand@tx.rr.com>
- Tuesday, February 27, 2007 6:37 AM CST
Just checking in to see if Baby Lester decidded to come out yet! Waiting in Texas....Anna
Anna rainwater <anna.banana3@hotmail.com>
- Monday, February 26, 2007 9:43 PM CST
Ally looks like she is having a great time in her dance class! I was suprised to see that she was the second tallest person in her train...she sure is growing! I was worried that "Lester" would need to be delivered right in the middle of the snow storm today, but it looks like he won't be born until after his due date. Today I was registering for sprint triathlons and I began to think that a race to support NFED could be quite successful. It would obviously take a lot of effort to get the word out and to organize, but maybe in a few years down the road it can be done. I hope that "Lester" makes his way into this world sometime..everyone sure is ready!
Allison Maher <alliem894@yahoo.com>
Oakton, VA USA - Sunday, February 25, 2007 6:04 PM CST
Now that's just about the cutest SLIDING GIRL I've ever seen! But, the "choo choo" dance picture is even a better prediction of what's to come!! You see, Allyson is no. 2 in "line" for now....watch out as she moves forward as LINE LEADER pretty soon! Adorable pictures! And,to see the "Ki ya" girl in her THIRD karate belt still wearing PURPLE FLOWER flip flops....well...ya just gotta love a girl wearing flip flops to KARATE!!!
And, tick tock tick tock tick tock....waiting is hard!!!
Mark..always thinking of you out there in the wild blue yonder!!! You do not need to "swim down"....just let LESTER do that trick!!!
Snow is done. Next comes the ice. Good ole Mid Atlantic weather forecasting at its best!! Everyone stay warm and safe and enjoy a pleasant Sunday evening...while we WAIT WAIT WAIT WAIT WAIT WAIT WAIT WAIT.....!!!!!!!! Come out and PLAY, Lester!!!!!!!
I talked to Holly today...and she made my day with her news that she and her family will be joining us in June for the RALLY FOR ALLY!!! What joy that brings to my heart!!! Thanks, Holly!
Love to all...
Terri aka Teetay :)
waitingwaitingwaitingwaitingpatientlypatientlyNOT.com
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Sunday, February 25, 2007 4:31 PM CST
What fun new pics!!! Morgan, your hair is looking quite long in these pics - a growth spurt?? And Al, your adorable spunk in these pics sure does shine through -- what happy, precious nieces :))) I can't WAIT to see you in a few days and introduce you to your newest cousin!! BELIEVE ME, I CAN'T WAIT.
Yes, yes, here "we" are, checking in on our peeps as we WAIT and WAIT and WAIT for the little stubborn man to make his debut. For those keeping track, he has 10 more hours to be punctual (which he would get from his father) and arrive ON his due date. Or perhaps he's awaiting Aunt Grammy-Dale's birthday tomorrow... or perhaps his very own birthday since Aunt Dale's bday tomorrow is the last Feb. bday he'd have to share (well, of people we know ;) or gosh darn, maybe he wants to be a part of the March Madness and IS awaiting Aunt Kristin's (and cousins!) arrival on Saturday. Clearly, he is telling us who is going to be in charge already! Right, Moms?!??!
So, as the beautiful heavy snow falls outside and hangs on the trees, TG and I put together (ok, I merely supervised) the pack n play and swing, thinking maybe "Lester" wanted every last darn thing assembled and done before he comes home. Now we're officially done and honestly, for the last weekend ever :P I have nothing to do! It's a nice feeling but those who know these last weeks of pregnancy know that we are very anxious and soooo ready to get this show on the road. Besides, I never actually thought I'd be pregnant for 40+ weeks, given all the "practice" pain I have had and how very low this kiddo is. STAY TUNED... I appreciate the thoughts for little ol me that have been posted on the web site --- Thanks, Ally-fans and friends and especially your post, Mark! :)
KDMK - I hope you are seriously feeling some lingering effects from last evening to prove it was a "successful" girls night out - hee hee! Talk to you later!
Stay warm peeps... and stay safe on the snowy roads!
Lots of love and hugs to the CA gals and Mark out there in "blanket" land. You are in our thoughts and prayers everyday, along with all service men and women out there.
xoxox
Aunt Ash... still with the Lester belly!!! <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
snowy, beautiful Washington DC, - Sunday, February 25, 2007 1:20 PM CST
Hi VA and CA peeps! We just got back inside after plowing out our driveway - boy is that hard work! Jim read in the paper that ever since MN started keeping records back in the 1800s this is the largest single fall of snow in FEB EVER!!!! We really did not get much in comparison to 1996 when I mved here (91 inches that year) but we did get about 15 inches and are expecting more today. I am just soooooo glad this happened on the weekend because the commute from work would have been just terrible.
We are anxiously awaiting Lester's arrival.......he is one stubborn little boy already! I am sure Ash and TG are watching Ash like a timebomb just waiting to go off! Come on, Lester - you can do it!!!!! Maybe he is just waiting for his favorite Aunt and COusins from CA to arrive before he makes his debut.
Once we defrost today we are heading to the pool (yes, we still TRY to have fun despite the weather). Tyler will be in his first SWIM MEET today - how exciting!
Stay warm, everyone!!!! HUGS and GIANT KISSES to Ash's belly - Come out and play, LESTER!!!!!
xoxoxoxxooxxo
Aimee and gang (Jim and Tyler) <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Sunday, February 25, 2007 10:54 AM CST
LESTER's NAME is NOT "Lester"....just the inutero-name!
Stay tuned for the REAL NAME to appear in this space!!
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Sunday, February 25, 2007 10:02 AM CST
Greetings, Kristen, Mark, Ally, Morgan, Ashli, Tom, Terri and Gerri, I've just looked at the beautiful pictures on today's site. And I read some of the letters, amazed at all that's going on in your lives. Mark, you and your mission are much in my prayer. We want you and all your comrades home soon! Kristin, you are handling your life so beautifully, as you always did! Ashli, is his name really Lester? Whatever it is, he will be a magnificent number one grandson. I can't wait to see his photo with his Mom! Love, Mary fran
Mary Fran Serafino <mfser@flash.net>
Fort Worth, TX USA - Sunday, February 25, 2007 9:27 AM CST
Happy "wintry mix" Sunday to everyone!
The Minnesotans would probably think our "mix" is "silly" compared to their "near blizzard" of the past couple of days! I hope everyone is staying warm and cozy on this, the "real due date" for LESTER!!
It was great to "hear Mark's voice" on the guestbook and to know where he's HANGING OUT these days! STAY HIGH IN THE SKY, Mark!! YOU CAN DO IT!!! :)!!!
And, a great big WOW on the raffle ticket totals!!! And, I just rec'd another request for 100 more yesterday from dear friends in the MIDDLE of the U.S.! Thanks to all of you for your continuing support and love. Like I've said many times before....YOU ROCK IN THE FRIENDS' DEPARTMENT!!!! Thanks for caring about the NFED cause!
We are counting the "days" until Lester arrives....no last minute "touches" there....just WAITING! And, we're counting the days til the CA-peeps arrive next Saturday! A few "last minute touches" there....like getting out the various toy bins and placing them "around the house" for little ones to play! And, of course, I MUST place the little white table/chairs in JUST the right place for Morgan complete with the vase of "plastic flowers"...once, on the phone recently, she REMINDED me of THOSE flowers! I "panicKed" for a second thinking I'd thrown them out! She is such a creature of habit and "expects" things to BE the same when she comes here. The first thing she wants to do AFTER SEEING LESTER, of course, is to FEED my cat, Timmie! That is such a big deal to her for some reason! (and to Timmie!) Allyson just wants to RUN IN CIRCLES AFTER HIM! (and he "loves" being chased!)
Have a wonderful Sunday day and evening! And, in case anyone is following the OSCAR hype, my "picks" are Forest Whitaker and Helen Mirren!! And, stay tuned for BIG NEWS this week....I hope....hope....hope!!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Sunday, February 25, 2007 7:30 AM CST
Ally, Morgan and Kristin...I have not been on the guestbook in awhile, but I am here now! I have been checking in to see all the cute photos and to see if Baby Lester has arrived....appparently he is still cooking and not ready to make his debut. I am sure that your baby cousin will be smothered with kisses upon his arrival! Things here are busy! Camden and Grant have their first soccer game for the spring season this afternoon. They love having their daddy as their coach! In fact, they want to play basketball next fall but "only if daddy is the coach!" Miss Madeline recently moved up from the pre-team gymnastics to team and will be doing her very first competition next weekend. She can't wait to wear her team leotard which has many sparkles on it! She also received her team warm-up suit yesterday and did not want to take it off! I am still keeping busy with homeschooling, tutoring and being a taxi driver for my kids! The past two weeks our household has been fighting off that awful, yucky stomach bug! I think we are finally rid of it. We loved the photo of Ally running in the yard that you had on the homepage a few weeks ago. She has really grown! Kristin, it sounds like you are just plugging along with everyday life while Mark is away. We will continue to pray for his safety. Oh, and Morgan, the photo of your mommy and Ally was awesome! You are going to be quite the little photographer very soon! Hugs to all of you from Texas....Anna Rainwater
Anna Rainwater <anna.banana3@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, February 24, 2007 9:27 AM CST
Hi everyone,
The North Arabian Sea is very calm compared to crossing the Pacific through the middle of a major storm. I would love to have seen the surf on the North Shore of Hawaii, must have been monster. I flew our squadron's first combat mission over Afghanistan last night. Compared to Iraq, there are hardly any lights to be seen anywhere. Much different than flying over the USA. The weird thing for us is that we are flying our unarmed aircraft over some places where there is a lot of fighting going on. We all know that Afghanistan never makes the news any more, but there is still a lot of fighting going on. I think you'll be hearing more about it in a few weeks. Just a hunch.
Say a prayer tonight for all the guys on the ground over here, they have it a lot worse off than I do. the only thing that's different for me is that now when I fly I'm packing a pistol, ammo, blood chit and evasion chart. You DO NOT want to get captured by the bad guys over here.
Ash, I'm not going to put in a bet on the due date, but I've been saying a prayer for you and Tom that everything goes smoothly. Love ya!
Take care.
Mark <mark.kelso@cvw9.navy.mil>
USS John C. Stennis, USA - Friday, February 23, 2007 11:57 PM CST
Love all the recent pictures! Have been gone. We are in official 'move mode'-Dave got his RIP this morning for orders. Couldn't ask for a better medical team, as Darren will be seen by the Craniofacial Center at Medical City, Dallas, Texas. YEAH!
Darren was due to have hand surgery last week, but we've put it off for several reasons. We are now looking at having it done in Texas, with a world reknowned hand surgeon. So all is well. Still have dental surgery coming up though. All is well on our homefront here. We move the last day of school and are already scouting out the realty scene. It is a buyer's market right now. :)
Ashli- wishing you luck on your delivery. Bob's birthday is 24 Feb and Darren's is 27 Feb. We wish you the best and hope it's a very safe delivery and that Lil' Lester is healthy. :-)
Hope Mark is well on the big boat too.
-Cat
Cat Potter <WichitaFallsHereWeCome@NorthTexas.Net>
Honolulu, HI USA - Friday, February 23, 2007 7:29 PM CST
My pick for "baby boy" is March 11. I know this will not be something Ashley wants to hear...but most 1st babes are late. I know I thought I was going to be pregnant FOREVER as the due date came and went.
Also, the date I picked is my birthday, 41 and kicking.
Wishing ALL a great weekend and God bless you all, especially Mark.
Crystal
Crystal Register <register5@atmc.ent>
Southport, NC USA - Friday, February 23, 2007 6:18 AM CST
Good evening everyone!!
We are still "waiting"...now BOY GEORGE has "missed" George W's REAL birthday! (unless he hurries up!) STAY TUNED TO THIS CHANNEL FOR ALL THE DETAILS PENDING NOTIFICATION OF A GEORGE DELIVERY!!!
Another huge SHOUT OUT to each of you who are supporting NFED with raffle tickets!!! My former students, their parents, email friends we've met on this website and others, people who are connected to our friends, and our amazing friends, associates, family members .....THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for reaching out with your big helping hands and deep pockets!! I believe at the current "ticket count" today, we are going OVER 4,000 tickets!!! We have made our goal...and surpassed it!!! What a wonderful way to celebrate NFED National AWARENESS MONTH and to be "overachievers" for NFED!!! Do check out their website listed on the HOMEpage and learn more about ED issues that affect so many children and families. Allyson is only "one" of the children and most of you KNOW her spirit, but she part of a BIG NFED "family" of folks who share the same concerns and challenges.
THANK YOU BIG HEARTED FRIENDS!!
And a HUGE thank you to my "pen pal friend" -Nancy - from Minnesota who I've "met" because of ALLYSON's website - for SENDING "Baby Lester" a HANDMADE gift today!!! We've been communicating for about a month now and we find that we have MUCH in common including husbands named JERRY who COOK!!! She's been following Allyson's website for about 18 months and she wrote to me about her. We've been corresponding ever since. Now, that is either "six degrees of separation"...or "the celestine prophecy" (there are no coincidences)...and just plain ole "godwinks" - but what is really is CALLED WONDERFUL because of the close connections that Allyson's website has brought to so many of us! So, THANK YOU, Nancy, my pen pal friend for your thoughtfulness from MN!!!
Thinking of each of you tonight!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
waitingforbabygeorgetocomeoutandplay.com
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Thursday, February 22, 2007 6:05 PM CST
Greetings to everyone on FAT TUESDAY!!
I am simply THRILLED that Kristin is getting 1500 MORE raffle tickets! We have simply been OVERWHELMED and so very PLEASED with the enormous support for this cause sponsored by NFED! I, personally, received more requests yesterday! THANK YOU TO EVERYONE for your generosity and CARE! In the "Friendship Department" OUR FRIENDS TOTALLY ROCK!!!
My "pick" of a "due date" for Lester was today..it's my second "change of date" however....real due date is Feb. 25th for "inquiring minds" who want to know. There are lots of friend and family birthdays lurking around the corner in February, so Lester just might SHARE a birth date with someone in the family. As we all KNOW...babies do come out when THEY are READY "not according to our desires" always! The excitement is building!
Again, thank you ALL again and again for your loving response to our RAFFLE TICKET efforts!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, CA usa - Tuesday, February 20, 2007 7:18 AM CST
What cute pictures of all the CA girls on the homepage! We are still trying to thaw out here in New England from all the snow and ice, but if the truth be told...we are loving every minute of it!! If it is going to be cold, there may as well be snow and ice on the ground to go along with the temps! I know we are crazy, but we want to enjoy the winters as long as we can!
Sounds like the peeps are keeping very busy...like I am really surprised : ) Kristin, I loved your journal update and hearing all about you and girls and all that you are doing together. How awesome for Miss Morgan...earning her next karate belt...she is going to be one tough girl! Allyson looks likes she is having so much fun running around and truly enjoying the spirit of being a kid!
So, no Lester yet...I can't rememember when Ashli's actual due date is, for some reason the 25th of Feb. comes to mind, but I could be off. Since everyone seems to be wagering when the little guy is going to grace us all with his presence...especially his mom and dad...I am going to guess that it will be 4 days AFTER Ashli's due date!! How dare I, right?! Well, both of my kids were 4 days late, so as much as I am sure Ashli is ready to go...sometimes, those little buggers want a few more days in utero! All in good time. Whenever, Lester decides to make his appearance I wish you all of the best!
Well, must run! I have one home sick today with the stomach bug so seems like I will be hanging low for the day! Love to all the CA girls!! Keep smiling! And to Mark, know that our thoughts and prayers are with you out on the high seas!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Tuesday, February 20, 2007 6:57 AM CST
I love all the new pictures. Ally and Morgan are looking so grown up! I keep checking the site for baby news. If Lester waits until March 1st then he will be my birthday twin!! Hehe I love that date for my birthday becuase it's so "fresh and new." Hope everyone has a great day off and maybe Virginia will see some warmer temps??
Elizabeth Hellman (former student of Mrs. Matus) <dancer3191@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA United States - Monday, February 19, 2007 10:46 AM CST
Good Morning everyone and especially the THREE beautiful faces on this website!!!
LOVE the patriotic DRESSES! Hard to believe that Morgan is wearing a sleeveless dress as we are still in multiple LAYERS in No. Virginia! The THAW is coming later this week "we are promised" by the weather-people with a 1% "chance" of being accurate!
I'm COUNTING the days WAITING for "Lester" still...I've PICKED TOMORROW as "the date" just because I've scheduled a couple of appointments that I HOPE he messes up!!! And, I'm counting the days until March 3rd when the CA peeps arrive to MEET "Lester" ....
Morgan told me that she and Allyson would both be RUNNING to me at the airport, but they will try to NOT KNOCK ME OVER with their jumps!!! I'll have to remember to have a pink and yellow balloon for them! Morgan "remembers" everything and certainly "likes her entrance into VA" to remain the SAME!! I'll be happy to oblige.
FAT TUESDAY is tomorrow....just watch LESTER come out just in time for Ash Wednesday...wonder what "Lester" will give up? Ashli will "give up" Lester...sort of...IF he comes before WEDNESDAY! I spent some COUCH time with Ashli yesterday and she is SURE READY!
Stay warm wherever you are and stay tuned....
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Monday, February 19, 2007 10:24 AM CST
Wow! You girls ALL look great and I am so glad Morgan is perfecting her photography skills so we can see pics of Mommy over the coming months, too! You three gals and the way you "hang" together and have fun and work hard and KEEP SMILING just makes me so happy and proud!
Morg and Al - ALLLLL of those activities sure sound fun and exciting!! Your update wore me out because well, as Kristin stated in the journal, I have been "rusting" a lot lately (for the last time in my life while I can!!) and Teetay even came over yesterday and we both napped on the couch for a bit! Shhhhhh :))) I think we were saving up energy in case Lester decided to come in the night or on Aimee's birthday --- that's not looking to be the case! So, WE WAIT. I am betting on a Fat Tuesday or Ash Wednesday baby.... or all the way til March 1st so Lester will be BRAND SPANKIN' NEW when Aunt Kristin arrives! We'll see!
CONGRATS to Morgan!!! I am thrilled with the news that you have passed your most recent test and have a new belt - HOORAY FOR YOU! I knew you could do it ... you're a karate rock star!
Have a great weekend and Happy Birthday to Aimee!
It's going to be 50s here at the end of the week so perhaps we can also do some car washing in our bathing suits here?!? :)
Love you all! xoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, February 19, 2007 7:15 AM CST
Wow, Ally is looking fabulous! I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw her running on the homepage picture. I can't belive how big she has gotten since the last time I saw her. I've been waiting for "Lester" news all week and now I'm thinking there is a chance he will be born on my birthday (the 21st). Anytime this coming week is a good day to be born because when your birthday falls on a Monday you have no school for President's Day :)...Just a little advice for "Lester." I hope that everyone is having a great time during the super long weekend in Fairfax County!
-Allison Maher (former student of Mrs. Matus aka T-MAT)
Allison Maher <alliem894@yahoo.com>
Oakton, VA USA - Friday, February 16, 2007 8:59 PM CST
Yes, let's start taking "baby bets" on WHAT day "Lester" is actually going to join our wonderful world!!! I'm "betting" on the 20th....not sure why...it's just a CLEAN SORT OF NUMBER!!!
Jodi Reinhardt, Public Relations Director, for NFED emailed me today and her exact words were: "You guys are raffle-selling-crazy, and WE LOVE IT!" I wrote her back and told her it was ALL about TEAMWORK of so many and the support of our friends and family and extended families!!! We are RICH in human love, and that is what shows in our ticket sales! But, there are two weeks left and we would love to EXCEED the 3,000 "goal" we set!!! So, get in touch with Kristin or me. Let's leave Ashli "alone" to WAIT for Lester!
I came acros a quote this morning and I think it is worth sharing..."Life is a coin. You can spend it any way you wish. But, you can only spend it once." I don't know who said this, but I like it enough to SHARE! Makes a lot of sense, doesn't it???
I love the ALLYSON-running through the grass PHOTO! She already knows that life is not a SPRINT, but a MARATHON and I just know one day she probably will RUN a marathon with Aunt Ashli!
Have a great Friday evening!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, February 16, 2007 3:48 PM CST
RUN, ALLY, RUN!!! I told you that I would run your first marathon with you and you're already in training it looks like! Diggin' the "Jemima" headband look you're sporting as well... CUTIE PIE! :) And Morg, HOW OLD ARE YOU?!?!? Yes, I can't believe how much you seem to be maturing in recent months and I love the "real" conversations and chatter (and sometimes silly songs and screaming!!) we have over the phone. You go, big girl!
Hooray on the raffle ticket sales and efforts by all of us! I received another check yesterday.... from someone I hardly know in my "first time pregnant mamis" group and SHE solicited her friends... and in came the check! People are GOOD -- like I have always said, amazing things can happen when you just ASK. If hearing a "no" is the worst thing that can happen, well, I can handle that!!! YAY TEAM and HOORAY for the ticket sales!
HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY TO AIMEE!!! Just in case I am "very busy" later this weekend as you predict :) And enjoy the time with your special family! Gee, someone should have thought of an Ally-land web site baby pool and all proceeds (i.e. BETS!) go to Ally's medical fund! Hmmm... is it too late to turn this web site into a gambling game? Ally won't mind, I am sure... she's a cool, hip, gambling kind of gal, I can tell :) And, Lester would love it since his first days of "life" were in the womb in VEGAS (baby!). Ok, I know, random whacky thoughts from the big lady here on her last day in the office for work (another hooray!). Now next week, I can work from home in my comfy yoga pants (heck no, I don't actually do yoga but the pants rock) and just WAIT, WAIT, WAIT.
All right, back to you Al... and K and Morg too... enjoy your weekend and hopefully it will be sunny and warm for all your activities! We'll be hitting mid-30s on the East coast so it will be quite balmy :))) Next week, 40s! I might have to lay out on the deck and catch some rays...
So HAPPY BIRTHDAY weekend to several special folks - Aimee, cousin Leslie and little Sarah Grace in GA. ENJOY!
Bro -- Thinking of you always and hoping all is well out on the BOAT! xoxox!
Lots of love!
Aunt Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, February 16, 2007 9:38 AM CST
Happy "almost weekend" to everyone!!
The new pictures of Allyson and Morgan just warm my heart! The "silver headband" is precious on Allyson's head - she sort of reminds me of a "model held captive"....saying..."TAKE THIS THING OFF! NOW!!!" And, the "telephone pose" from Morgan is adorable. I believe I was talking to her at that moment and she was filling the airwaves with "Teetay, guess what?" And...then her STORIES go on and on and on....MARK will be even more PROUD of her COMMUNICATION GENES when he talks to her on the PHONE!!!
THINKING of you all..as we WAIT for LESTER to arrive!! We are still "pretty frozen" but the main roads are cleared now...so "Lester has permission" to come out and play anytime! Ashli's doctor told her "boys were stubborn" and "stayed in as long as they could...." How about that, BOYS????
Have a great day and stay tuned.....those 'baby rattles' will appear on this website EVENTUALLY!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, February 16, 2007 6:54 AM CST
Happy "almost weekend" to everyone!!
The new pictures of Allyson and Morgan just warm my heart! The "silver headband" is precious on Allyson's head - she sort of reminds me of a "model held captive"....saying..."TAKE THIS THING OFF! NOW!!!" And, the "telephone pose" from Morgan is adorable. I believe I was talking to her at that moment and she was filling the airwaves with "Teetay, guess what?" And...then her STORIES go on and on and on....MARK will be even more PROUD of her COMMUNICATION GENES when he talks to her on the PHONE!!!
THINKING of you all..as we WAIT for LESTER to arrive!! We are still "pretty frozen" but the main roads are cleared now...so "Lester has permission" to come out and play anytime! Ashli's doctor told her "boys were stubborn" and "stayed in as long as they could...." How about that, BOYS????
Have a great day and stay tuned.....those 'baby rattles' will appear on this website EVENTUALLY!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, February 16, 2007 6:53 AM CST
Oh my gosh! What adorable pictures!!!!! I am waiting on pins and needles to see if my prediction of Feb 19th will be the day LESTER makes his way into the world :):)
My mom arrived last night and the Hopper clan arrives tonight....it should be a great bday weekend!
Hugs to all the CA girls.........KDMK - maybe we can "catch up" next weekend??????
xoxoxoxo
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Friday, February 16, 2007 6:32 AM CST
Happy Valentine's Day to everyone in Ally-Land!
I hope your day has been filled with love and sweetness...especially the anniversary couple! I spent the day witnessing hundreds of exchanges of roses and teddy bears between teenagers! I was even the "life size question mark" in the "Will you go to Prom with me?" lunch surprise. Oh the joys of being a high school principal! It won't be long before Morgan and Ally and the Texas cousins are doing the same! Maybe they can go with each other and stay away from those boys and girls we know won't be good enough for them!
I keep checking in morning and night thinking I'll see the homepage motif change to booties and rattles...I can't wait to meet the newest cousin!
Hug and kisses,
Jackie
Jackie Horras <jackie2fish@hotmail.com>
San Antonio, TX - Wednesday, February 14, 2007 7:17 PM CST
Happy Valentine's Day to the CA peeps and everyone out there in cyber-land!
From the frozen tundra of the Mid Atlantic I'm wishing everyone HEARTS filled with LOVE on this special day! Yes, it is our 36th anniversary and Geep is outside DIGGING out his car that is STUCK at the end of the driveway! He got "that far" before giving up this morning at 6 A.M. when he was headed out to work! (I don't think many people will be at Wegman's buying MEAT today in this ice-mess!) I realize 3-4 inches of snow topped off with 1-2 inches of ICE is not a big deal to those of you in the REAL parts of SNOW country...but it virtually shuts us down! And, we live on a Cul de Sac so we are LAST on the food-chain-of-road-clearings!! :) But, here on HEARTS DAY we are warm and cozy with a fire glowing and hot tea close by. It should be a VERY NICE DAY AFTER ALL!!!
RAFFLE ticket sales are still underway for anyone who is interested in participating in this fundraiser for NFED. I have exhausted my supply of tickets, but Kristin still has some left...I think we are NEARING our family goal of 3,000!!! Our "East Coast" supporters have contributed to over 2,000 of those sales!!! HOPEFULLY, Kristin will NEED to get ADDITIONAL tickets! Contact any one of us...Ashli, Kristin, or me and we will steer you toward TICKETS!!! And, thanks so much for what you've already contributed!!! We are truly surrounded by amazing friends, family, and supporters!
Happy Valentine's Day to Mark "somewhere out there" on the BIG BLUE WATER!! I hope you will know that you are loved from those of us AT HOME!!!
And...just another thought about this day...36 years ago Jerry and I married in Northern Japan - Misawa Air Force Base - and on that day there was a HUGE SNOWSTORM!! (sort of like today here in Northern Virginia!) When everyone threw "rice" at us the RICE STUCK to JERRY's "USAF mess dress uniform" and he had little WHITE PELLETS on him throughout the entire reception! It was funny then, but somehow in memory, even funnier now!
Have a great day everyone and tell someone you love them today!!!
WE are on FULL BLOWN BABY WATCH....I hope "Lester" stays INSIDE and "plays nicely" until our roads thaw out!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Wednesday, February 14, 2007 10:37 AM CST
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY, little nieces! I hope you smother your mommy with tons of sweet kisses and hugs today, and be extra special and good for her :)) xoxox!
Happy 36th Anniversary to Teetay and Geep today!! Happy snow/sleet/ice day to many of us on the East coast!! Hope you gals in CA are enjoying much nicer and warmer weather than us over here... I know you are! :)
Lots of love and hugs...
Aunt Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, February 14, 2007 8:36 AM CST
hey there, everybody!
wow, i havn't been on this page for quite some time now! being a sophomore at tilly, i used to come onto this site everyday when i was in 8th grade and had the wonderful and lovely Mrs. Matus(T-MAT:) ) and leave comments and see how ally was progressing! she has gotten SO big now! she looks so beautiful and amazing. anybody who saw her after she was born and has seen her now has to be so proud of her! she's truely wonderful. :)
chali <chalitemple@hotmail.com>
fairfax, VA USA - Monday, February 12, 2007 6:26 PM CST
Hee hee - I heard on the radio this morning that a woman gave birth in her car this weekend. Now - for those of you who don't LIVE here, here is a summary of the weather this weekend - Freak'in COLD!!!!!!!!!!! This was her 4th baby and she had 1 contraction at the house. They started driving and 5 minutes later the baby was born in the car!
Of course, I immediately thought of ASH and had to check the website to see if we had any baby news!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Monday, February 12, 2007 11:46 AM CST
Okay everybody...I'm NOT predicting any more "due dates" for Lester! HE can come OUT when HE is ready...maybe he wants to choose a DATE in February that is not so CROWDED!!! :)
Still on "baby watch"....
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Monday, February 12, 2007 10:44 AM CST
HI to everyone! It is great to read all the accomplishments and achivements of Allyson and Morgan! And the latest photos are so cute! It THRILLS me that Allyson is doing better with eating solid foods now, and I know that will continue to get better and better! Hello food, and goodbye TUBE! That will make ALL of us do the "happy dance" won't it? Happy Valentine's Day to everyone, and I, too have a new address: DaleGPugh@Bellsouth.net. If you are interested, please note. The Atlanta family sends love and hugs and kisses to all of you for Valentine's Day. xx oo Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale G. Pugh <DaleGPugh@Bellsouth.net>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Monday, February 12, 2007 8:35 AM CST
Hi all!
Just checking in to see if there was any baby news yet.........my prediction is still the 19th because then Lester and I could be birthday twins :):)
Waiting with anxious anticipation.......
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Sunday, February 11, 2007 11:57 AM CST
Happy WEEKend everyone!
Always good to read "the words" of Kristin that GO WITH THE DAYS!! The "normal" activities of two children are "enough" to keep anyone busy, but Kristin and the girls PACK more into a "24 hour day" than almost anyone I know! My friend, Pam, has always told me that "I do the same thing" so PERHAPS the old proverbial APPLE does not fall far from the "tree"....MIGHTY AS AN OAK! (inside joke!)
I am THRILLED to report once again that RAFFLE ticket sales are continuing to BOOM! I am OUT of my "personal tickets" so I am not forwarding all requests to Kristin to facilitate! I believe if "my count" is correct I am somewhere around 1800 tickets now from our "East coast friends, family, and supporters of Ally and NFED"....THANKS EVERYONE WHO IS HELPING NFED!!! Personally, I've thanked individually, but I want to COLLECTIVELY THANK YOU AGAIN!!! I have a "package" of 300 more ticket requests to send Kristin Monday!!! Whahoo-wah-big-time-shout-outs!!! Yay!!!
Now....."about Lester".....I had/and still have a "feeling" that he is going to come OUT this weekend! Not sure why I sense that, but I do! However, whatever LESTER DECIDES TO DO I certainly hope he will "make it down the tunnel" BETWEEN our TWO snow EVENTS that are scheduled in the coming 9 days...first Monday/Tuesday and then AGAIN on the 19th. I want LESTER to know that I do not want any headlines in the Washington TIMES/POST reading: "BABY BORN IN SUV DURING SNOWSTORM WHILE DOG WATCHES ON!" My USUALLY CALM NERVES could not take that!!! "So....HEED the weather forecast, Lester, and get it RIGHT!" :)!!!
I am so proud of Allyson's NEW eating...maybe cleaning her ears out gave her a bigger appetite???? YA think??? Whatever the REASON, it is good news! Cannot wait to hear Morgan tell me about her "karate belt test" - we spoke this morning when she was en route to karate (it's a one minute commute to karate class) and she was very excited about it and wondering what kind of NEW belt she might get!!
Thinking of all of you, and always saying prayers for Mark "on his big boat"...I hope if you do "catch anything" it is WORTH CATCHING!!! :)
Have a wonderful PRE Valentine's weekend! We will be celebrating Geep's birthday tomorrow with Ashli and Tom over an OLD GLORY BARBECUE LUNCH! Geep is "treating himself" to a HOME grilled steak tonight! ONE simply cannot COOK for a man who COOKS BETTER!! (and loves it)
Love to all and stay warm "east coasters"....
Terri aka Teetay :)
PLEASE NOTE MY NEW E MAIL ADDRESS!!! Thanks!
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Saturday, February 10, 2007 4:21 PM CST
Happy FRIDAY everyone!!! Hope you gals are doing well in CA and Bro, that you hanging in there out on the 'ol boat. Catch anything yet?? ;) hee hee.
We're keeping warm here in DC and looking forward to a weekend of birthdays... GEEP's is tomorrow, and TG's dad's ("Pop Pop") is on Sunday! We'll be celebrating w/ Geep on Sunday over BBQ at his favorite local joint (well, local as in DC!). Yum! Wouldn't it be great if their little grandson-to-be made his big debut THIS WEEKEND?? Do your Lester-baby dance for me, Morgy-lu! It's TIME :)
Love and hugs.... Talk later, KDMK!
xoxo
Ash and the big baby in me belly that needs to make his entrance soon...... <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, February 9, 2007 2:20 PM CST
Yeah! Awesome post-op news. I am also going to be asking about the ear-wax thing, well, as you know, we're kind of in the same boat right now.
Eat Ally eat. How awesome that her appetite is beginning to pick up. :) You wore me out just reading of your latest update. Hope you're all well. Aloha to Mark out in the big blue....
I also referred yet another mom (Julie, mom to Ellis, EEC) that got in touch with me- to this website as well. Making many new contacts and it is nice to know that we're not "alone" in all of this. I am so ready to go to an NFED conference now. :)
Thinking of you all.
-Cat
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com >
Out in the big blue....., HI USA - Wednesday, February 7, 2007 2:46 PM CST
i AM SO HAPPY THE OPERATION WENT VERY WELL, IT'S BEEN A WHILE SINCE WE TALKED.
STILL THINKING OF YOU AND YOUR FAMILY :)
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/antonioherrera
http://www.myspace.com/4absdogs
FAITH <SUMMERFUNGIRLS@AOL.COM>
ORLANDO, FL USA - Wednesday, February 7, 2007 11:30 AM CST
Dear everyone,
Please make note my new email address:
teetay43@yahoo.com
Be in touch!
Love,
Terri/Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@yahoo.com>
herndon, va usa - Wednesday, February 7, 2007 9:42 AM CST
Greetings to all!
YAY!!! Another successful surgery for Allyson, the bountiful spirit!
Just spent the better part of the LA to Port Hueneme "drive" on the phone with Kristin! Yay!! Allyson was sleeping peacefully in her car seat and there were no major traffic issues, so Kristin and I had a full blown CHAT! As reported by Ashli in her journal entry, ALL WENT WELL!! The ENT told Kristin that he wants to keep a closer "check" on Allyson's buildup of wax and "clean her out" (probably under local anesthesia) more often to keep her ears OPEN. Part of ED is that she does not produce the oils necessary to make this happen. Since TWO tubes went into TWO EARS and 'larger' tubes than before there was no mention of any eardrum problems. It will be intersting to "see" if Allyson's speech progresses at a faster rate now that she will be hearing MORE clearly! Let's HOPE for that good news in the near future!
There are so many special people in Kristin's life who are willing to help her out at a moment's notice...and several of them are right on her street! Connie is the god-loving respite nurse who adores both Allyson and Morgan! Nicole is across the street and has Isabella and Hunter who play with Morgan and Allyson! Adrienne is down the street with Parker, Morgan's "old" boyfriend, and Ian who is slightly older than Allyson! ALL of these folks have reached out to Kristin and there is great comfort in knowing they are close by, especially in Mark's absence.
I want to update my raffle ticket totals to date....DRUM ROLL BIGGER THAN THE LAST ONE!!!!! I've HIT 1400 tickets and they're still coming in!! Thank you...thank you...thank you to the many participants! It has been pleasurable "work" writing phone numbers and names on the stubs and organizing my NUMBERS in order to send to NFED!!! I'm not "finished" yet and even today several folks told me "their check is in the mail"...so please continue to let us know if you want RAFFLE tickets! We are not at our "family goal" of 3000 yet, but we're moving rapidly toward it!
I, too, was EXHAUSTED reading Kristin's flurry of events last week even though I had talked to her most every day while she was in the MIDST of her "goings and comings"....and the best part is that she continues to have a smile on her face throughout it all. Morgan is becoming a "cell phone advocate" and readily carries on a full blown conversation these days chatting away about every little thing in her life...prefacing most of her comments with the phrase: "Teetay, guess what?"
"What Morgan?"
And then she proceeds with a long story of 'her day' and what's going on! What joy to my ears to hear her voice on the other end of the airwaves. Yesterday, she asked Allyson if she wanted to talk to me. Allyson didn't respond so Morgan told Allyson she could TALK NEXT TIME! Now, that will be a "day maker" when Allyson speaks to me on the phone!
Wishing safe sailing for Mark and I know that he was thinking of Allyson today as she had "no. 7"....and thinking and admiring Kristin with all that she juggles so beautifully!
The frigid temps are lingering in Virginia and SNOW is expected tonight. I've been doing a good many days of substitute teaching at my old school....today, someone said "they thought I retired, but they see me everyday"....that will change soon when "Lester" arrives and my head turns in a different direction!
Counting the days til Spring Break and the CA peeps are here for Lester's baptism and a whopping ten days of FUN FUN FUN!!! Shhhhhh....don't tell Morgan and Allyson, but I might get them a little BUNNY! (to live here, not to go back to CA) Remember..it's a secret!!!
Thinking of you all and again, my heartfelt thanks for supporting us, and for participating in the NFED Awareness month by purchasing raffle tickets so enthusiastically!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Tuesday, February 6, 2007 5:10 PM CST
We're all praying here in not so Hotlanta for little Ally as she stays strong for surgery #7. We love you all and miss you. Thank you for the updates. Sounds like you are staying SUPER busy! We love you! Love the newest pictures!
Aunt Mer, Uncle Glenn, and Cousin Spencer
kennesaw, ga usa - Tuesday, February 6, 2007 1:41 PM CST
Al-Pal!!! Surgery #7, today, huh?!?! "7" is a good number so I am sure all will go well... I am thinking of you ALWAYS and proudly wearing my "Rally for Ally" bracelet in your honor. I will await Mommy's call later and post an update as soon as I can.
HUGS to you three... and Mark out on the boat... as I know your arms are wrapped around each other today in spirit!
Kristin -- although I knew everything on the updated journal page, it was exhausting to read :) It makes me wonder how you and I still manage to talk 1-2 times a day (ok, yes, sometimes 3 as TG would claim...). You are the master of multi-tasking!
Love you all! xoxox
PS - Happy EARLY birthday to the Philly cousins tomorrow... Jessica & Jamie will turn 8 (so grown up!) and Geo will turn 6. I hope you all have a super fun day - we love you!!
Aunt Ashli
- Tuesday, February 6, 2007 8:22 AM CST
Hello ladies! It was so nice to read your update, Kristin, but GOOD GRIEF! You are one busy momma!!!!! No wonder we can't seem to connect!!!!!!!!!!!!
Good luck to Ally today - I know you are a strong little girl and this surgery should be a piece of cake compared to some of the previous ones!!! We are thinking HAPPY thoughts for you today (and always).
Today it looks like Minny will have a HEAT wave of sorts - when I woke up this morning is was ONLY -2 versus the -19 from yesterday. It is surprising that a temp rise of 17 degrees when it is STILL below ZERO can make that big of a difference. We were watching the news last night and some parts of MN had -39 ACTUAL temps. It has been very windy here too so when you factor in the wind chill is PRETTY DARN COLD! I am so glad Jim bought me an electric blanket for Christmas because every night we have been cuddling under it just to stay warm.
Keep us posted on the surgery and hope you are all able to make it home at a decent time today.
HUGS AND KISSES!
Aimee (and Jim and Tyler) <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Tuesday, February 6, 2007 7:02 AM CST
Hi everyone,
I got to watch the Super Bowl from out in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. I just wanted to say hi to everyone and give my little girl a big hug and kiss as you go in to the Or yet again. I love you babe!
Mark <mark.kelso@cvw9.navy.mil>
The boat, - Sunday, February 4, 2007 11:14 PM CST
Greetings to everyone on this FIRST February weekend!
I want to give a HUGE "Shout out" to everyone who has purchased RAFFLE tickets to help NFED!! I am grateful and humbled by the outpouring of love and support you've shown for this cause.
DRUM ROLL, please!!!
I am up to 1,138 tickets SOLD thus far, so I have exceeded by goal! But, the requests for MORE tickets are still coming in, so let's keep this "train chugging along"...I certainly do not mind EXCEEDING my goal and I am sure the folks at NFED will be very, very happy to pass along your generosity to children affected by ED.
So, if you still WANT/NEED tickets, please let Kristin, Ashli, or me know as soon as possible! "Lester's arrival" might slow down my "raffle work" so JUMP ON THIS BANDWAGON and let us provide you with raffle tickets!
From my heart, I thank each and every one of you for caring about Allyson, our family, and NFED needs!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va us - Saturday, February 3, 2007 6:02 PM CST
Hi all,
This is a real "quick" FYI...if you are interested in tonight's episode of ABC PRIMETIME at 10 PM EST, they will feature a segment on Ectrodactyl as part of the "medical mysteries" series. ABC interviewed Kristin awhile back, and this is the topic they decided to highlight on tonight's show, not the EEC syndrome itself, just the ECTRODACTYL part of it. However, it could be intersting, and if it raises AWARENESS of ED issues across the globe, then it is worth it! Just thought I'd mention it on Allyson's website for "inquiring minds want to know"...
Have a great evening! We are 'waiting' for our SNOW tomorrow!!
The "best part of today" was a spontaneous phone call from Morgan with all HER news of the day! Allyson was with the nurse, Connie, (an angel on earth!) and Morgan and Mom-Kristin were en route to ballet. As MOrgan continued her conversation with me at the playground "right beside the ballet class" she was sliding down the slide TALKING ON THE CELL PHONE!!! (only in California, right??) Among other topics, she reminded me that "Bozo the clown" (at my house) was "sick" and "had I made him well yet?" Gee...I'd better get right on that before she returns to 'her room' and BOZO!!! (I think this calls for NEW batteries???)
That's all for tonight....RAFFLE ticket sales are BOOMING!! Thanks to all of you!!! And, I still have MORE!!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Wednesday, January 31, 2007 7:07 PM CST
HAH! I love the photo of Morgan with the nan-chucks. Looks so serious and sly. Al-pal- Here's to the saying "Eat your heart out lil girl." GO ALLY. I love all the photos. Thankfully, Road Runner has been good to us the past few weeks and we're able to view photos for a change.
Hope she continues eating you out of the house, as that is a good sign for better things to come with the tube feeds.
Bonnie- so glad you made it to her website.
-Cat
Cat <5monthsand counting@leavingonajetplane.com>
Rainbows USA, HI USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2007 3:24 PM CST
Hi,My daughter Hope and I were also born with EEC,and we have lead very normal lives.Cat Potter sent me this link to your site,and I am glad to have found it.Thanks for sharing your story with others,and not hiding and being embarrassed.I also have an 11 year old son with Down Syndrome..
Bonnie Phillips <blp1954@aol.com>
Eunice, NM USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:50 PM CST
Greetings to everyone!
I want to begin by THANKING so many of you who have already purchased RAFFLE TICKETS!!! My "personal" goal is to sell 1,000 tickets as part of our FAMILY GOAL of 3,000!! I'm about half-way there, and I thank each of you for helping me reach my goal to help NFED to continue their work in helping children and families affected by ED. I still NEED your help, and I have plenty of RAFFLE tickets left, so please contact me by phone, mail, or email, and I will get your tickets to you!
FEBRUARY IS ECTODERMAL DYSPLASIA AWARENESS MONTH - -- as you know from Kristin's journal entry! ED syndromes are considered RARE with an estimated 1 to 7 in 10,000 births resulting in a child being affected, according to the Birth Defects Encyclopedia. ED affects development or functin of the teeth, hair, nails, and glands. The effects of the syndromes can range from mild to severe. Typical symptoms may include multiple missing teeth, abnormal or small growing nails, sparse hair, and the inability to perspire. Depending on the syndrome, ED can also cause cleft lip/palate, missing fingers or toes, respiratory infections, irregular skin pigmentation, hearing or vision impairment. Each of the 150 ED syndromes usually involves a different combination of symptoms.
Dental challenges are the most common cymptom for affected individuals, according to Mary Kaye Richter, Founder of NFED. It is common for children who develop few teeth to begin wearing dentures at age three or four. Such proper dental treatment can improve speech, nutrition, facial appearance, and self-esteem.
The NFED, which is located in Mascoutah, IL serves more than 4,600 families affected by ED in 65 countries. They are the world's leading source of information and support. The Foundation funds research which seeks improved treatment methods and a cure; provides financial assistance to families to help pay for medical and dental care, and sponsors services that focus on the physical and emotional healthy of affected individuals.
To learn more about ED syndromes please visit the NFED's website at http://www.nfed.org
As you know our family has become very involved in helping NFED. The THIRD ANNUAL RALLY FOR ALLY will be hosted and sponsored again this year by Ashli and Tom George, and the date is set for JUNE 30, 2007. The location will be Nottaway Park in Vienna, Virginia. (we've "outgrown" the alley!)
Thank you for your love and support for Allyson the past two years, and thank you in advance for your continued support of NFED and their work in helping so many children affected by ED. We met many families last summer at the NFED Annual Conference who have benefited from support and help.
Thank you for being part of us.
And, remember.....RAFFLE TICKETS!!! Contact Kristin, Ashli, or me!
With love to all ...and the "countdown to Lester" is ON!!! Less than a month to go???!!!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va us - Tuesday, January 30, 2007 11:15 AM CST
I check in on you guys daily...just to keep up and get my daily fix (hahaha). Wow!!! The girls are growing up toooo fast. Love and uplifting thoughts and prayers for the four of you. The Registers
Crystal Register <register5@atmc.net>
Southport, NC USA - Tuesday, January 30, 2007 6:28 AM CST
All I can say tonight is:
GOD BLESS THE CHILDREN...
ALL of them...the "big and the little" and the "one on the way"..
God bless you all..
You are always in our thoughts.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Sunday, January 28, 2007 9:19 PM CST
Great, great pics... man, Morgy-lu and the excellent EATING Al-Pal, you gals are somethin'! I am soooo proud of you both and all that you're up to!
Kristin -- of course you're keeping busier than ever and I love knowing all you're up to and so proud of your strength and juggling of so many activities, including a teeny bit of time for yourself -- SOME days :)))
Lots of love and hugs to you girls, and can't wait to see you soon! And Mark, if you're checking in, our thoughts and prayers are with you EVERY day!
xoxoxo
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, January 28, 2007 8:02 PM CST
Happy Saturday everyone!
I could just REACH out and GRAB those CA girls' faces on these new pictures!! Someone asked me recently if Allyson was an "imp" as they continuously see these little "impish" grins of hers! I assured them that she could HOLD HER OWN in the "imp" department! What is an IMP anyway???!!! :)
And, Morgan is a contradiction of "terms" with her "girly-girl" pink/ballet/ribbons/prissiness to her "rough and tumble/karate/jumpiingjack/soccerballkicking/gymnastics-side" of her!!!
Love these pictures! I hope there will be great REVELATIONS after the Feeding Clinic visit tomorrow!!!
It is a beautiful, sunny day in Virginia, but we're "told" not to get used to it since tonight snow and sleet are expected and more VICIOUSLY cold temps are on the way! But, for today, the sun is shining and it is too warm for even a coat - and yesterday morning it was 14 degrees!!! What changes!!!
The raffle ticket "orders" are coming in each day! I'm very excited thinking we will surpass our goal of 3,000!! I even had a lady write for tickets who does not even know us, but knows mutual friends and she told me she's been following Allyson's website and progress for the past 18 months and that she prays for her everyday. This new angel in our life is named Nancy. Thank you so much for contacting me, Nancy! We are now "pen pals"..!!!
And thank you all IN ADVANCE for those RAFFLE ticket orders!!!
Thinking of you all and saying prayers for Mark and his colleagues as they travel farther out to sea. God bless the USS Stennis and her entire crew!
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Saturday, January 27, 2007 3:18 PM CST
YAY! Allyson's website friends!!! I have already rec'd numerous 'requests' for tickets just since this afternoon, so thank you - thank you - thank you for stepping up and wanting to help NFED help the CHILDREN!!! Keep those requests for RAFFLE tickets coming!!
Cold and snowy in Virginia....
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Thursday, January 25, 2007 5:18 PM CST
I know it has been a while since I have posted. What can I say...life happens and time seems to be getting the best of me these days! I do have somewhat of a good excuse as our family has grown by one...my brother married my now sister in-law on January 13th!! It was a beautiful wedding and very busy weekend, and we are so excited for the two of them.
Anyway, I am so glad that Teetay posted the reminder about the raffle tickets...I forgot!! I will be sure to let one of you know how many tickets the Van Natta Family will need this year.
We have been thinking of Mark, Kristin and the girls as they begin this 7-month journey of deployment. Kristin, I enjoyed reading about your adventure carrying Allyson all over the ship. I remember those days all too well. I want you to know that you and your family are in our prayers and my Friday morning women's Bible study group will be praying faithfully for Mark's safe and timely return home to his girls!
There will be quite a bit of excitement to keep all of your minds occupied in the coming weeks as Baby Boy George prepares to make his grand entrance into this world and into a WONDERFUL family! I am sure you can all hardly wait.
All those on the East coast...stay warm!! Winter is finally here! We are not expected to see temperatures on the positive side this weekend, so I have my fireplace and blankets ready to curl up with a good book!! Now if there would only be snow to go with that cold...I think I could weather the storm a lot better. Hugs and kisses to the CA girls! Thinking of you and love you!
Love, Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Thursday, January 25, 2007 3:39 PM CST
Great reminder, Teets! And a huge advanced THANKS to the loyal Ally fans who have already contacted me -- I have sold over 500 tickets already so I am SURE we can beat that 3000 mark! I am so very grateful and humbled by the generous support of dear friends. Go, Ally-web-land friends, Go! :))
Yup it's cold out there and we're staying warm -- of course a little extra insulation for yours truly always helps!
Miss you gals lots in CA and thinking of you, Mark, everyday, too!! Hope you are doing well -- know that you are very loved and missed!
xoxoxoxox
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, January 25, 2007 1:33 PM CST
Hello to everyone!
February is RAFFLE TICKET time for NFED! Kristin mentioned it a few journals 'ago' before Mark left. Kristin, Ashli, and I are going to try to beat our last year's total of 2,280 tickets with the $2,280 donations going to NFED to help children affected by Ectodermal Dysplasias. If you are a "regular visitor" to this website and we have not yet contacted you, please do get in touch with one of us. Our goal is to sell 3,000 RAFFLE tickets this year, but I'm optimistic that we may surpass that number. Having met so many of the families whose children are affected by ED last summer at the Annual Conference I'm even more motivated to "do more" for NFED as they contribute so richly to the lives of the children. And...the best part is that YOU might even win one of the prizes for your $1.00 raffle donation!! First place prize is $1,000!!
If you wish to get raffle tickets please contact Kristin, Ashli, or me via email or phone call, whichever is easier for you to manage!
Thinking of everyone "out there" on this very COLD day in Virginia! Wishing Mark safe sailing...and wishing Ashli and Tom an "uneventful countdown" to the birth of BOY George! :) And, as always, MISSING the CA peeps very much!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Thursday, January 25, 2007 12:29 AM CST
BIG hugs and kisses to my favorite CA girls! Just wanted you to know I am thinking about 'ya!
xoxoxoxoxo
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, January 24, 2007 12:34 AM CST
Love all the recent photos. Hope all four of you are doing well after seeing Mark to the ship.
-Cat
Cat <we'refinallymovingtothemainland@usa.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Tuesday, January 23, 2007 7:36 PM CST
Hi All!
I've been thinking of your family so much these last few days. I'm glad you were able to have a fun-filled and memorable weekend together before Mark's departure. Mark, your Texas family is thinking of you and saying lots of prayers. Hurry back and Steve will treat you to all the tall beers on the Riverwalk you'd like! Kristin, I know the coming weeks and months will be challenging for you and the girls, but you've already shown your amazing strength, so I know it will continue.
Girls, be extra good for Mommy! Kristin, be strong...I wish I were there to play with the girls and give you some alone time! Mark, be safe!
Love,
Jackie
PS The pictures of Morgan amaze me...there are times when I glance at pictures and I see the Kristin of our childhood. Then other times, like the pictures currently posted, it's all Mark! I think it's definitely fitting for these special Daddy pictures!
Jackie Horras <jackie2fish@hotmail.com>
San Antonio, TX - Monday, January 22, 2007 6:31 PM CST
Hi everyone! Glad to hear you were able to spend some fun family time together before Mark's deployment. My dad is in the Navy too so I know how hard those good byes can be! With all that you have going on...I'm sure the time will go by quickly! Stay strong and I will be keeping you all in my prayers as the months go by!
Elizabeth Hellman <dancer3191@cox.net>
Chantilly, VA United States - Monday, January 22, 2007 1:39 PM CST
Loved seeing YOUR FACES!!!
Wishing a very fast "7 months" - hopefully, it will FLY BY!!! (no "pun" intended on the "fly" word!! :)!! The two days before Mark left sound wonderful and you sure packed a lot of fun-family-time into them despite the COLDS and Allyson's waking up "antics"...! I am wishing Mark smooth sailing and a safe tour. I am very proud of Mark and the many other men and women serving in the military as well as the families who sacrifice time with loved ones for the good of our country. I will keep you all in my prayers.
KEEP those SMILING FACES bright!God bless you each day!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Monday, January 22, 2007 9:09 AM CST
GREAT pics!! Thinking of you all and keeping everyone, especially Mark and everyone serving our country, in our thoughts and prayers.
Lots of love and hugs -- and feel better!!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, January 22, 2007 6:05 AM CST
A favorite quote of my mom's is lingering in my head this morning, and I wanted to share it on Allyson's webiste especially for MARK, KRISTIN, MORGAN, and ALLYSON during these coming days of 'change' and 'adaptation' to being apart for many months...
And, on another level, I think "Gran/GeeGee" would be smiling to know her favorite Irish saying might give her family comfort....
"May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind always be at your back,
May the sunshine warm upon your face,
And rains fall softly upon the fields,
And until we meet again
May God hold YOU in the palm of His hand."
...Old Irish Blessing...
And may you all have a very good day today, tomorrow, and all the other tomorrows....
Love to all,
Terri/Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Thursday, January 18, 2007 8:32 AM CST
Hi everyone,
We're leaving in a little while for San Diego. Hopefully it won't rain (what's that?) at Sea World. I just wanted to say thanks for all your love and support. Keep Kristin and Morgan and Allyson in your prayers, they have a lot harder job than I do. Ash and Tom, I'll be there in spirit in a few weeks and hope you both have smooth sailing! I actually CAN access the internet from the ship, it's just real slow and sometimes we're out of the satellite footprint (the Pacific is a big ocean, ya know!) so it won't work at all. I'll try to check in every now and then when the workload isn't too big! Drop me a line to the e-mail address Krisitn listed on the front page, and care packages are always welcome. All my squadron mates appreciate what I can't eat or use as well! Love you all! FLY NAVY!
Mark <mark.kelso@cvw9.navy.mil>
Port Hueneme, CA - Thursday, January 18, 2007 6:51 AM CST
We wish you safe and smooth sailing Mark- all the best to you while you're gone. Darren says "shaka" to the "man at the Hale Koa" as he refers to you. Looks like he remembers you well and took a liking to you. Too cute.
Anyways, Well wishes to all four of you- Morgan- Have fun aboard that ship. Sounds like it'll be a great time for you with your dad.
Great photos- Kristin- We'll be in touch later on regarding some of the medical issues. Looks like we're kind of in the same boat right now.
Thinking of everyone on here as always-
Cat and the gang
Cat <lovingthisawesomecoolweatherinparadise@honolulu.net>
Rainbow Central, HI USA - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 11:09 PM CST
Dear all,
I'm thinking of you tonight as you have your "last special dinner" at HOME together for awhile! Tomorrow you will travel to S. Diego to enjoy a couple of "fun days" before Mark sets sail. Know that my thoughts and CONTINUOUS prayers will be with each of you as this "new tour of duty" begins for all of you. Mark, know that we are wishing you SAFE SAILING as you journey. I have my "candle in the window" burning brightly until you are home again.
God bless you all as you enter this new chapter of challenges and required courage. I know that you will wrap your arms around one another TIGHT and know that "this, too, shall pass."
With love to all of you.
Teetay/Mom :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 5:01 PM CST
Big hugs, love, thoughts and prayers to my Bro, and the whole family, as Mark heads out very soon..... Enjoy your time in SD together and I will be thinking of you!! And Mark, you will be in my daily prayers.... AND, you will be in baby nephew Lester's nightly prayers when they start in a few weeks!!!! I can't wait to "tell" you all about him and I know we will keep you posted on all the news and with PLENTY of photos :))
Kristin, Morg & Al -- Tons of love to you girls as you stick together and help one another and hold each other close (and be REALLY GOOD FOR MOMMY!!!) in these coming months. I can't wait to see you all SOON.
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo!!!
Ash & "Lester".... soon to have a REAL name :) <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, January 17, 2007 8:15 AM CST
Well, I posted yesterday but it does not look like it showed up in the guestbook :(
Jim wanted me to post something in response to your "cold 50 degree weather" - puuuulllllleezee.................we have finally hit winter and woke up to -14 degree temps yesterday! And, we got to use our new snowblower on Sunday. I guess after 10 years we are now officially Minnesotans.
We hope you had a wonderful weekend as a family and we are keeping Mark in our thoughts as he depolys very soon. Stay safe, my friend!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 6:37 AM CST
How CUTE is that Cowgirl face?!??!?! Love the smiles galore and catching up on all your antics! Thinking of you 4 this week as mark pack's up and then you had to SD for a few days together for some fun before he heads off. Wrap your arms around each other, hug lots and HAVE FUN!!!! Lots of love :)
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, January 15, 2007 12:44 AM CST
Love the COWGIRL!!! (not just because I "picked it out" though!!!)
I figured you were FREEZING when I read that the temps in Pt.Hueneme were 35 degrees this morning!! Brrrr....you ARE COLD!!! And, yes, it is good to see a smiling Allyson this morning! Loved talking to you and Morgan the other day...and especially to hear Morgan "relate" what she was writing in her DIARY!! And, to think that she CLOSED the door to her roomm so her "baby sister" wouldn't hear what she was saying!!! Ah....the "teenager" to be!!! :)
We had a wonderful visit in Atlanta with everyone! Our great nieces/nephews have grown UP so much in the past two years! We had a lovely time at Dale and Loren's and as always, the FOOD was fabulous!! I took my ROCKS to Mother's gravesite and laid them to rest with her and daddy. Doing that was harder than I'm anticipated....but the ROCKS are there!
We're on the "five week countdown" to Baby "Lester's arrival"....I guess you could call that HIGH ALERT!
:)
Please keep Mark in your prayers as he deploys next weekend for the Middle East. Let's pray that his service to the U.S. will help make a positive outcome in that area of the world and that all the men and women will soon be HOME in the U.S. Later in 2007 Mark and Kristin will have a new "assignment" and a "new location"....pray for a GOOD ONE! (East coast is good! :)!!)
Thinking of you all on this dreay Saturday!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Saturday, January 13, 2007 12:56 AM CST
Love all the new photos, even the unhappy one. ;) She's just like any other kid, has her unhappy moments too along with the others out there.
Glad to hear all is well with her these days.
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Rainbows USA, HI - Friday, January 12, 2007 4:33 PM CST
Look at that HAIR thickening up, Miss Al-Pal! Yes, I can see it coming in... woo hoo! Love the new pics... well, except for the sour-puss face in the middle of the photos page... Must you?!?! ;) I guess it's good evidence for those who haven't SEEN the tears and fits in person that Ally is just, well, your very normal and occasionally cranky 2-year-old with a heck of a diaper rash and having a fit!! Glad the ice made her happy -- as usual, ICE does the trick! Hooray for that smile :)
Hope everyone is having a great week... I am already counting down til the weekend :))))))) Can you tell I have "checked out" of work already? 6 1/2 weeks to go -- HOORAY!
WELCOME HOME, Teets and Geep!! Glad you had a nice and fun visit with the Atlanta family and Lynda, and I'll see you SOON :)
Lots of love to the whooooole family--
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
Washington , DC - Wednesday, January 10, 2007 3:42 PM CST
Greetings to little Ally and all the Kelso Family! :) I'm a friend of the Lovely Ashli's (way out in Virginia). She shared some of your story with me and I was so touched by her amazing love for her little nieces and your most meaningful journey. Your family is strong and beautiful and you have my admiration AND my prayers. I love your website! Thank you for sharing your lives with us all. You're an inspiration and a blessing. And Ally, you're AN ANGEL BABY. Happy Birthday Big Girl!! And get ready to hug and kiss your new little cousin! :)
All my best...
Cynthia Tinajero-Brothers <cynthia@mamistad.com>
Falls Church, VA 22041 - Tuesday, January 9, 2007 8:56 PM CST
Greetings! Hope you're having a great weekend and it's sunny and warm (like it was here, literally!) for you this weekend. Yup, too bad about 'dem Cowboys... It wasn't so much painful that they lost, it was HOW they lost. Now I am furiously cheering for Tiki and the GIANTS!! Anything to knock those silly BIRDS outta the playoff series :) (I know, mmeeeaaaannn wife ;)
Lots of love and thoughts of rememberance go out to Mom and our whole Atlanta family today -- I am thinking of you and our dear Gran!! (who passed away 2 years ago today) Mom and Dad are enjoying a visit with our Atlanta family these next few days and so glad they are all together to catch up and be with one another. HUGS!!
Love you!!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, January 7, 2007 4:59 PM CST
Dear Kelsos... I am so sorry that it has been awhile since I visited Ally's guestbook. I check on her weekly, but it seems that when I come to the guestbook, I hit a wall and can't put anything together! I will be praying for Mark as he prepares to be deployed. I will also be praying for you Kristin as you press on with your daily routine with the girls. I remember when my dad was deployed to Desert Storm many years ago. He was gone for 6 months. I think the thing that made the time seem to fly was surrounding ourselves with family and lots of extra hugs and I love you's! Mark, we will be praying that all will go smooothly and you will be back home safe and sound ASAP! Things here have been somewhat melancholy after the loss of my sweet friend Lynn Newman. I had the honor of attending her memorial service this week. She was loved and admired by so many people. It brings joy to my heart to know that she is cancer-free and her pain is gone. She will forever hold a special place in my heart. I loved seeing all the cute pics of the zoo Kristin. You really know how to capture the moment...that giraffe's tongue was pretty gross! Ashli...I am praying for you as well as you prepare for the birth of "BABY BOY GEORGE!" That sweet baby will be smothered in love....and have 5 mommies to look after him...You, Kristin, Teetay, Morgan and Ally! What a lucky little guy! Well, I must go and check on my beloved Cowboys. Greg has gotten so abnoxious when he watches them that I just can't stand to be in the room with him! I can tell what is going on by the type of yelling he's doing. Hopefully, they will do there thing tonight! We shall see! Hugs to all of you....Anna Rainwater
Anna Rainwater <anna.banana3@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, January 6, 2007 8:54 PM CST
hi... just found your site & recognized allyson's picture from the NFED. would like to introduce myself, i'm rebecca & i have a daughter with Goltz Syndrome (her hands look similar to allyson's). we have a website to keep our family & friends up-to-date on miss emma's journeys: www.xanga.com/EmmaJune please feel free to stop by to see us. we're actually getting ready to have a second hand & first foot surgery this coming tuesday(jan 9). emma was born june 2005 so she's just a little younger than your daughter.
i see you guys live in CA - we're in VA. have you gone to any of the NFED conferences? i'm hoping to get to one of them some day soon. think it might be good for emma to know she's not alone.
i have tons of things to say & ask, but don't want to over-extend my welcome. =) am so glad to have "met" someone else who knows what we go through. hope you all feel better soon & have a wonderful new year!!
Rebecca <rcmiller1023@hotmail.com>
woodbridge, va - Friday, January 5, 2007 1:01 PM CST
Hi all from a rainy Friday in Virginia!
Glad to hear yesterday that Morgan was "temperature free" and able to go to school in the AFTERNOON for SHARING TIME..."the best part of her week" said she! She was taking a SODA POP doll from Aunt Ashli!! I hope the rest of the family remains "germ free" and healthy in this first WEEK of the new year! Morgan told her mom, "I've been trying so hard to get well. I think I've been sick a whole year!" (well...as Kristin explained...YOU HAVE BEEN SICK THE WHOLE YEAR OF 2007!!)
We are headed for Atlanta tomorrow to see the family and take our "Austalia rocks" to my mother's gravesite. Long ago, she made me PROMISE that IF/WHEN I ever made it to Australia to "just bring her a rock" to prove I had been there! So, I will dress her up with multiples rocks representing the Great Ocean Road along the Tasman Sea, the Uluru in the Outback, the sandy cays of the Great Barrier Reef, the ROCKS section of Sydney, and finally, a ROCK from the top of Mount Cook on the Tasman Glacier! Ashli has given me rocks from Botswanna, South Africa, so mother will be "rocked" from around the world!! It will be wonderful seeing the whole family and especially our great nieces and nephews that we have not seen in two years! Taylor has become a full-fledged teenage in the past two years, and Joshua is racing along beside them! The "little people" are all ELEMENTARY school and into various activities! It will be fun REuniting with them over the coming days! We will also spend some time with one of my OLDEST living FRIENDS dating back to 8th grade....that makes us FRIENDS for 50 years!!! Pretty cool...and we still "communicate" AS IF no time has passed each time we are together! Spending time with my sister, Dale, and Loren, in their newly "decorated" home will be the topping on the visit!!! (now if we can just make these pesky RAINS go away so our travel will be easier tomorrow????!)
Wishing you all a lovely January weekend enjoying the WARM temps that are lurking in most parts of the country!
Continue to pray for the Newman family as they resolve their loss of their wife/mom/sister/friend. Holly writes that the kids and their Dad have gone on a little "vacation" to see if they can find some "fun" in the coming days. It has been a very long goodbye for all of them.
Wishing everyone a continued HAPPY NEW YEAR! We are "counting the days" until "Lester" appears and our arms embrace a grandSON!!! Whahooooo!!! Ashli is feeling well, and looks like a model for "Motherhood wear"....sleep does not come easily for her with the "point kicker" inside her, but other than that, she's doing well!!
Please think of Mark this month as he prepares for a long deployment - - -he is leaving later this month and will be away until late August. Safe sailing, Mark, and may the wind always be at your back. We will hold you close in prayer and I will leave the "candle in my window" like I have on EACH of your cruises until you are "home safe and sound" once again! We love you, Mark!!!
And, happy thoughts to and for each of you!
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, January 5, 2007 10:31 AM CST
So I've been offline for quite some time. Seems I've missed alot. Very happy belated birthday to Al-Pal, happy birthday to Kristin, and hope everyone's holidays were wonderful! Hope 2007 brings lots of wonderful things, plus great health and happiness. And, maybe even a visit from one or all of my family at the third ARFA. Only time will tell now. :)
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Rainbows, HI USA - Friday, January 5, 2007 2:15 AM CST
Hi all,
Loving my "girls" in CA and hoping that Morgie Lu Lu is feeling better from her "whatever" sickies.....it was great talking to Morgan this afternoon from her "sick bed" and her voice was priceless. I sent many hugs and special "butterfly kisses" to make her better!! Hopefully, tomorrow, she will go back to school as she misses her friends "so much"...!! Glad to hear that Allyson is "germ free" for the moment.
Love you all..I've framed all my new Christmas pictures...but I'm running out of wall space! How did the WAlton's do it???
Thinking of the Crandells and Newman and Berg families tonight. God bless you all.
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
i'mofftoworktomorrowsubbingsoihavetogotobednow.com :)!!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Wednesday, January 3, 2007 8:38 PM CST
HAPPY 2007 EVERYONE!!!! Love the new pics of you all -- fun times at the zoo and over your b'day weekend, for sure!
Lots of love! :) xoxo
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, January 3, 2007 5:59 AM CST
DEAR ALLYSON,
HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY! POTTY TIME! PARTY TIME! GUESS IT'S ALL THE SAME FOR YOU AND THE FAMILY! SENDING LOVE AND BLESSINGS,
"TEETAY'S" AIMEE IN VIRGINIA
AIMEE HOLLEB
ARLINGTON, VA - Tuesday, January 2, 2007 7:42 PM CST
Hi, Kristin, and Happy Birthday! I'm just a tad late with my birthday greeting, but it still is a wish for your happiness every day. Now you are 35! That's amazing! You still look like the college girl I first met, but with the wisdom and maturity far beyond that. I hope you celebrated both your birthday and the New Year in fine style!
Looking forward to more exciting days as Allyson keeps changing and progressing, and Morgan keeps adding to her many talents. Happy New Year to everyone!
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Monday, January 1, 2007 6:37 PM CST
Happy New Year!!! I hope this year is great for everyone. Sorry I'm a little late but- HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALLY AND KRISTIN! I've been checking the website everyday and look forward to seeing all the adorable pictures of Ally and Morgan. I love reading about all your antics! I hope all is well for everyone!
-Christina Knippler
Christina Knippler (Mrs. Matus' former student) <acoolkid15@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA - Monday, January 1, 2007 2:21 PM CST
Wanted to stop by and check on the CA peeps and also wish Kristin a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! Another year gone by and you are definitely a year wiser! You never cease to amaze me with all that you manage to do and take care of, and always with a smile on your face! I have to agree when your mom says that you rock because in every way and everything that you do, you do just that...YOU ROCK!! I hope that your day was filled with lots of love and special moments (though I doubt that it was anything but), and that the next year with all its challenges and celebrations is even better than the last! I am so thankful to know you and blessed to call you FRIEND!!! I love you and miss you!! Happy Birthday my dear friend!
Love,
Dani
P.S. And to everyone out there in Ally-land...Happy New Year!! May 2007 be a blessed year for each and every one of you!
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Sunday, December 31, 2006 9:30 PM CST
Happy Birthday Kristin! Hope you have a great day and Happy New Year to everyone!
Elizabeth Hellman <dancer3191@cox.net>
Chantilly, VA United States - Sunday, December 31, 2006 10:13 AM CST
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to KRISTIN!!!!
Thirty-five years old in a small Catholic hospital in Southern Taiwan, Dr. Zang and Dr. Lee delivered a healthy ten pound baby to us....HER NAME IS KRISTIN!! She came out healthy, smiling (of course, she was!!! )and ready to take on the world! And, did she ever???? The 7 days she was in the hospital I don't think she was ever put in a crib...the nurses wanted to hold this amazing "Big girl" (she looked like a three month old baby by Chinese standards)so they just shifted her around from arm to arm. During the stay I was "treated like royalty" since military officer's wives did not normally deliver in Chinese hospitals ---they could not do 'enough' for me during that week! Kristin thrived as did I! The first 8 months of Kristin's life were spent in that little town called Tainan. We returned to the U.S. and "met the respective grandparents" when Kristin was 8 months old...I had NO IDEA how that must have felt to them until I became a grandparent 5 1/2 years ago. They were ecstatic! They couldn't STOP HOLDING her! Their grins broke across their faces! NOW, I TOTALLY GET IT....!!!! The cycle of life that promises us the future rests in the crinkles of a new baby's eyes....THANK YOU KRISTIN for 35 years of "crinkles" and LOVE and GOODNESS! YOU are a wonderful daughter, sister, wife, and MOM!!!! YOU ROCK on so many levels! Thank you for being part of our PRIDE. God bless your birthday and wishes for the BEST year ahead with continuing challenges resting on your doorstep. I am confident that you will continue to make us all marvel at your efficiency and your caring ways!!!
I am wishing all the Allyson-website friends a joyous new year with positive things for each of you in 2007. Best wishes to Jeffery Register as he is evaluated....prayers will be going your way. Continued prayers and thoughts for the Newman family, Holly, Jenny, and all who have come to love and care for Lynn Newman. It was Holly who told Ashli about CARINGBRIDGE when Allyson was born, and we have gained comfort and strength from you throughout the past two years. Lynn Newman also had a caringbridge site for years and we have come to "know her" through her journey and cancer battle by reading her amazing words. She is at peace now, and our prayers remain with her family and friends.
WOW!!! Where did 2006 go??? God bless you all and know that your friendship and support are so deeply appreciated.
With love to all...and have a safe and joyful new year's DAY and NIGHT!!! CHEERS and Shalom!!!:)
Terri aka Teetay :)
missingthecapeepsandwishingthemabeautifulkristinbirthday.com:)!!!!!!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Sunday, December 31, 2006 8:46 AM CST
Today is Plucky Chicken's BIRTHDAY........and all the barnyard animals came to give her a party!
Happy Birthday, Plucky! I hope your day is filled with laughter and giggles. Welcome to the "Oh my god..I am now that much closer to 40" club.
Big rainy kisses from a 42 degree MN (VERY WEIRD)!
xoxoxoxoxox
Aim-a-lita <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Sunday, December 31, 2006 7:11 AM CST
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAY TO YOU, SISTA! I am wishing you great things on your birthday and hope it's a fun day with your family, and a fun New Year's celebration with your neighbors and friends tonight. I wish I could be with you!!
Talk to you later, for sure -- and HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone in Ally-land!!
Special thoughts for this week/weekend.....
Thinking of Jeffrey Register as he heads for his evaluations... And to Holly, as she celebrates the life of her dear friend, Lynn Newman, at her funeral. I am hopeful that 2007 will bring much progress for all those in need, and joys and good things for everyone!
Have a fun and safe night!
Lots of love to you 4 in CA :)))
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, December 31, 2006 7:04 AM CST
please keep us in your prayers as we travel to Chapel Hill for Jeffery's evalutions. We will be meeting with the Cranio-facial team on Tuesday 1/2/07 and planning the next step for Jeffery and hopefully his new life with teeth.
In His grip, Jeff & Crystal Register
Cry <register5@atmc.net>
Southport, nc USA - Saturday, December 30, 2006 10:38 PM CST
Dear Allyson's "website" friends!
Another ANGEL has arrived in God's kingdom today. Lynn Newman has joined the ranks of "no. 1 angels" alongwith others that we know. Lynn passed into Heaven at 6 P.M. tonight with her husband, Dave, and her Dad beside her.
Lynn's caringbridge website can be accessed, or if you wish to write directly to the family the email is below.
I know many of you have followed Lynn's journey over the past months of her battle with cancer.
dlnewman@comcast.net
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers for this lovely young woman and her beautiful family.
God bless the Newman family tonight and in the coming days ahead.
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Friday, December 29, 2006 7:52 PM CST
Hi all!
Just finished looking at over 200 pics from your family-fest! Ash, you look WONDERFUL with that cute belly - hee hee. Unfortunately, in a house with 2 boys and only 1 girl, it is the YEAR OF THE BOY all the time!!!! Lucky for you that you like sports!
KDMK- what is on the agenda for the big 35??? I hope Mark is taking you out for a night on the town and some major YOU time before he departs.
Hugs and kisses to EVERYONE!
xoxoxoxo
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Thursday, December 28, 2006 9:19 AM CST
Hi there! What a bummer to be back East so soon, but we had a great time just being with FAMILY this Christmas, and of course celebrating spunky-punky Al-Pal's 2nd birthday. Seeing those precious nieces was definitely a highlight! We are grateful for all the goodies (thanks Teetay for all your thoughtfulness!) and treats and yummy meals (thanks Kristin and Geep for "slaving away" in the kitchen!) but as Teets said, the BEST PART was just being all together.
Wishing you unevenful travels home today, Mom and Dad... and thinking of the CA peeps as you spend some family "alone" time together in these days/weeks leading up to Mark's departure.
Last but not least, the countdown is on to the big 3-5 KRISTIN!!!! :) And a HAPPY, HAPPY NEW YEAR, too! Or as we call it.... the YEAR OF THE BOY :p
Lots of love!
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, December 28, 2006 9:09 AM CST
I must have "double clicked" as my posting appears twice!
Oooops!!!
Love,
T:)
goingbacktocoldandwinteryvirginiatomorrow.com
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va usa - Wednesday, December 27, 2006 2:54 PM CST
Merry AFTER HOLIDAYS!!
The "dust" has begun to settle as we've tried to find PLACES to "put all the Santa loot"...!! There is nothing better than seeing Christmas morning through the eyes of a WIDE AWAKE 5 year old and her "sleepy eyed little sister"....Morgan and Allyson certainly must have been very GOOD girls this past year because Santa was very generous to them! It didn't "hurt" to be surrounded by BOTH grand-parentals on Christmas morning!!! :)
We celebrated Jesus' birthday with a beautiful Christmas SINGING service filled with children's voices on Christmas Eve at the Point Magu Chapel. A couple of Morgan's friends were singing in the program and it peaked her interest in wanting to do that "next year"....so stay tuned for her vocal musical interests! Allyson behaved herself quite well during the "children's program" by standing in the aisle and jumping around while doing the motions of the songs being sung! I think, she, too, might find a 'vocation' in singing and dancing!
Christmas Day was filled with much food, frivolity, a little minor thing called FOOTBALL, (seems a sacriledge to have football on Christmas Day??!!!)and lots and lots of PLAYING OUTSIDE since the temps were in the 70's!! It was an UNusually WARM CALIFORNIA DAY!
Yesterday Grandma and Grandpa K left to fly home to North Carolina and Aunt Ashli and Uncle Tommy flew home to Washington - the house became very "still and quiet" for awhile! We busied ourselves with re-organizing/finding space and playing with some of the NEWLY discovered games that Santa brought to the home! A new type of "Go Fishing" game has really been fun! And, Morgan's newest favorite OUTside activity is hitting a BASEBALL! While playing baseball in the backyard, Morgan commented that she really wished she could hit one over the FENCE when she is "bigger"....on the next hit, the ball FLEW over the fence into the neighbor's yard! It was hysterical! I was so proud of her 'hit' but she thought she was in "trouble" since the ball disappeared! We retrieved the BALL and continued our HITTING!
Last night Kristin and Mark went on a "date" so Geep and I enjoyed playing quiet games with the girls! Geep had been so BUSY in the KITCHEN preparing food that he had missed out on some of his "girl time" so last night was especially good for him! Of course, Morgan asked Geep to "monitor" her bath and he gladly submitted to that activity! However, Geep left the bathroom once and I was there when Morgan began asking me the "DIFFERENCE" in girls and boys! Apparently, her curiosity had been peaked when she shared a bath with Spencer and Allyson while in Georgia. She proceeded (I'll censor the ACTUAL words, but you can probably figure it out!) to ask why boys' BODY PARTS were DIFFERENT from HER BODY PARTS???!! So, we had our little "sex ed" lesson/conversation and I think the issue is now 'settled'.....!!! Being a grandparent is SO FUN sharing these "little moments" in time!!! And, Geep was PROBABLY GLAD that he'd left the room...maybe he would have gotten the QUESTION???!!
The joy of this season will linger with us for some time to come...being with family is always of utmost importance to us...and having Ashli and Tom with us at Christmas even though Ashli's "baby boy" is growing-growing-growing she was still able to fly to California! It was a very FAST four days having EVERYONE here, and also very BUSY days! Time does "fly" when you're having fun, right???!!
Geep and I leave tomorrow - homeward bound! Back for some special time with our close friends bringing in the new year and then a trip to Atlanta the first week of January to visit family and take my "Australia and New Zealand rocks" to my mother's grave...it was a PROMISE and I always keep PROMISES!! :)
Please as you reflect on the joy and blessings in your lives, continue to remember Lynn Newman and her family in Texas. Lynn is resting comfortably and sleeping quite a bit now. She is at home and Hospice is attending to her needs to keep her comfortable. Her daughter, Taylor, just turned 9, and there was a big birthday celebration for her. All the Newmans and close friends and family celebrated Christmas together. God blessed them with that gift. The Newman family will continue to need your prayers for some time even though you do not know them. They are facing one of life's biggest challenges.
Wishing you continued good days ahead as you prepare for 2007 and all that it will bring to you and yours. And...you can only KNOW how much we are anticipating the birth of a grandSON in late February!!! I cannot wait to put my arms around HIM!!! :)
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va usa - Wednesday, December 27, 2006 1:04 PM CST
Merry AFTER HOLIDAYS!!
The "dust" has begun to settle as we've tried to find PLACES to "put all the Santa loot"...!! There is nothing better than seeing Christmas morning through the eyes of a WIDE AWAKE 5 year old and her "sleepy eyed little sister"....Morgan and Allyson certainly must have been very GOOD girls this past year because Santa was very generous to them! It didn't "hurt" to be surrounded by BOTH grand-parentals on Christmas morning!!! :)
We celebrated Jesus' birthday with a beautiful Christmas SINGING service filled with children's voices on Christmas Eve at the Point Magu Chapel. A couple of Morgan's friends were singing in the program and it peaked her interest in wanting to do that "next year"....so stay tuned for her vocal musical interests! Allyson behaved herself quite well during the "children's program" by standing in the aisle and jumping around while doing the motions of the songs being sung! I think, she, too, might find a 'vocation' in singing and dancing!
Christmas Day was filled with much food, frivolity, a little minor thing called FOOTBALL, (seems a sacriledge to have football on Christmas Day??!!!)and lots and lots of PLAYING OUTSIDE since the temps were in the 70's!! It was an UNusually WARM CALIFORNIA DAY!
Yesterday Grandma and Grandpa K left to fly home to North Carolina and Aunt Ashli and Uncle Tommy flew home to Washington - the house became very "still and quiet" for awhile! We busied ourselves with re-organizing/finding space and playing with some of the NEWLY discovered games that Santa brought to the home! A new type of "Go Fishing" game has really been fun! And, Morgan's newest favorite OUTside activity is hitting a BASEBALL! While playing baseball in the backyard, Morgan commented that she really wished she could hit one over the FENCE when she is "bigger"....on the next hit, the ball FLEW over the fence into the neighbor's yard! It was hysterical! I was so proud of her 'hit' but she thought she was in "trouble" since the ball disappeared! We retrieved the BALL and continued our HITTING!
Last night Kristin and Mark went on a "date" so Geep and I enjoyed playing quiet games with the girls! Geep had been so BUSY in the KITCHEN preparing food that he had missed out on some of his "girl time" so last night was especially good for him! Of course, Morgan asked Geep to "monitor" her bath and he gladly submitted to that activity! However, Geep left the bathroom once and I was there when Morgan began asking me the "DIFFERENCE" in girls and boys! Apparently, her curiosity had been peaked when she shared a bath with Spencer and Allyson while in Georgia. She proceeded (I'll censor the ACTUAL words, but you can probably figure it out!) to ask why boys' BODY PARTS were DIFFERENT from HER BODY PARTS???!! So, we had our little "sex ed" lesson/conversation and I think the issue is now 'settled'.....!!! Being a grandparent is SO FUN sharing these "little moments" in time!!! And, Geep was PROBABLY GLAD that he'd left the room...maybe he would have gotten the QUESTION???!!
The joy of this season will linger with us for some time to come...being with family is always of utmost importance to us...and having Ashli and Tom with us at Christmas even though Ashli's "baby boy" is growing-growing-growing she was still able to fly to California! It was a very FAST four days having EVERYONE here, and also very BUSY days! Time does "fly" when you're having fun, right???!!
Geep and I leave tomorrow - homeward bound! Back for some special time with our close friends bringing in the new year and then a trip to Atlanta the first week of January to visit family and take my "Australia and New Zealand rocks" to my mother's grave...it was a PROMISE and I always keep PROMISES!! :)
Please as you reflect on the joy and blessings in your lives, continue to remember Lynn Newman and her family in Texas. Lynn is resting comfortably and sleeping quite a bit now. She is at home and Hospice is attending to her needs to keep her comfortable. Her daughter, Taylor, just turned 9, and there was a big birthday celebration for her. All the Newmans and close friends and family celebrated Christmas together. God blessed them with that gift. The Newman family will continue to need your prayers for some time even though you do not know them. They are facing one of life's biggest challenges.
Wishing you continued good days ahead as you prepare for 2007 and all that it will bring to you and yours. And...you can only KNOW how much we are anticipating the birth of a grandSON in late February!!! I cannot wait to put my arms around HIM!!! :)
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va usa - Wednesday, December 27, 2006 1:04 PM CST
Merry CHRISTmas Matus-Kelso's. Happy belated birthday Ms. THANG!!!!!
May your hearts be filled with joy and your days overflow with blessings this day and in the new year to come.
The Register's
Crystal Register <register5@atmc.net>
Southport, NC USA - Monday, December 25, 2006 7:17 AM CST
Happy Birthday Ally! We are sure you are heavy into your BIG BIRTHDAY BASH with the family and we can only imagine all of the fun you are having!! The next few days are going to be wonderful memories for all of you and how wonderful that both grandparents; as well as, Ashli and Tom can be there too. Sounds like you have an eventful Christmas holiday planned and we are sure you will cherish every moment of having all of your family there! WE hope you have had a wonderful birthday Ally and we want to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas! May God's blessings be upon all of you this holiday season. Hugs and kisses!!!
Love,
Jack, Dani, Gage and Mackenzie
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Friday, December 22, 2006 8:33 PM CST
Happy Birthday Ally!!!!! We are thinking of you today! We hope you are having a great time with Teetay and Grandpa, Tom & Ashli, and of course your family. Hello to all of you from your friends in Kansas.
Chris & DeAnn and the "red light, green light" boys <cdrthux@mtelco.net>
Moundridge, KS USA - Friday, December 22, 2006 11:42 AM CST
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ALLY!!!!!!!!!!!! WE LOVE YOU!
xoxoxoxoxoxo
Aimee, Jim and Tyler <itsawhitexmasafterall@timetobuyasnowblower.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Friday, December 22, 2006 10:38 AM CST
Hey! I just wanted to say Happy Birthday to Ally this morning. I can't beleive how quickly two years has past. I feel like it was yesterday that I was sitting in Mrs. Matus' class and saw your pictures. Sounds like you all have been super busy and have fun with Birthday celebrations. Merry Christmas/ Happy Holidays to everyone!
Elizabeth Hellman <dancer3191@cox.net>
Chantilly, VA United States - Friday, December 22, 2006 6:16 AM CST
Hooray!!!
The "count' is down to one day before Geep, Aunt Ash, TG, Grandma and Grandpa arrive tomorrow!!! We are leaping from one activity to the next in preparation for the coming FOUR days!!! Allyson's birthday is tomorrow and we will have a "family party" in the afternoon once everyone arrives!!! Ally will "STAR" in her own BIRTHDAY SHOW!!! Morgan's Karate night party was yesterday and all the children gave demonstrations before having their PIZZA dinner...it was a POTLUCK DINNER and we took a pot of chili! "Coach" was SUPPOSED TO BRING BOWLS and SPOONS, but he "failed" ....so no one could eat our CHILI! It suited us just fine for we brought it HOME and ATE it OURSELVES!!! :)!! So much for "potluck" suppers...the entire table was filled with CHIPS and COOKIES....and PIZZA. Californians maybe don't get the "concept" of POTLUCK????!! :)
Morgan and Allyson opened ONE EARLY GIFT this morning - the old "retro" toy called BILL-DINGS! I played with those as a child and loved their balancing act! (If you're over 40+ maybe you have heard of them???) Allyson's idea of PLAYING with them is the HURL them across the room....and Morgan attempts to BALANCE them however successfully she can HIGH IN THE SKY!!!
The skies are blue..the temps are warming up....should be in the 70's by the weekend. (sorry No. 1 girl...I know the snows are coming your way!) I hope no one is STUCK in the Denver airport right now!!!
Love and joyous wishes for a beautiful holiday CONTINUED season...wherever you are/however you are celebrating. Know that you are never far away in our thoughts and prayers.
Love to all and God bless us everyone!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Thursday, December 21, 2006 1:07 PM CST
NO MORE DAYS!!!! :)
Holy update, Batman... I knew all this was going on but to read it in print, well, you gals are BUSY BUSY BUSY! Can't wait to get there tomorrow and join in the fun and wish Al-Pal a happy, big NUMBER TWO(!!!) in person - hooray! And of course give hugs and love to Morgy-lu and alllll the grown-ups, too!
The new pics are precious and filled with holiday cheer and smiles galore... Now, I just want to know what Kristin asked Santa for Christmas??!?! A clone of YOU?? :)
Safe travels to everyone who may me traveling this holiday season in Ally-land... and wishing you ALL a blessed Christmas and HAPPY 2007 NEW YEAR! (or as we call it at the M-G estate, "YOL".... the YEAR OF LESTER!! hee hee)
Love you! Hasta Manana!
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, December 21, 2006 8:03 AM CST
Happy ALMOST birthday, Ally!!!!! I gave you a big birthday hug when I saw you a few weeks ago and now I have to send a cyber hug too. Keep up the great work eating, playing, and being silly and enjoy your time with ALL your family!!! I can't wait to hear what you have been up to lately (Mommy is slacking and did not update the website. It's not like she is busy or anything - hee hee)
I am not sure when Teetay, Jeep and Aunt Ash are leaving but I sent Mommy a special birthday surprise that I hope they get to see. It won't get to your house until Tuesday so be on the lookout for it for me, ok?
Great big MN hugs to EVERYONE at the Kelso house
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox
Aimee <thesnowiscoming@buyingasnowblowerthisweek.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Wednesday, December 20, 2006 2:58 PM CST
Hi all...
Even though Kristin's update was "small" TODAY ..the PICTURES SAY it all.
We've had a very busy time..and it has all been PART of the DAY according to Kristin....it is HER DAY par usual!!
FUN! Times! and LOTS OF interaction with both girls...!!
More to "report" as the days go forward, I'm sure...I will wait and know that Kristin will report it!!
LOVED your message, jackie.../.and I hope your corn casserole does YOU (me?) justice...I am SURE that it will be OKAY!! Do not worry about it "being YOUR recipe or not"....I have no bragging rights! :)
Thinking about all my Texas and Georgia and Virgnia FOLKS!!!
Love you all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, December 20, 2006 1:06 AM CST
Hello to family from East to West!
I check every day, but with not much to say, don't post often.
Until today! I thought that the picture of Ally coming down the slide was priceless...capturing the true Ally spirit! UNTIL I saw Ally the elf! OH MY GOSH! TOO CUTE! I laughed and laughed and watched it over and over. While Ally's no elf for sure, the "life" shown by the dancing elf is soooo Ally!
We wrap up our last day of school tomorrow, and I just finished making "Aunt Terri's" Corn Casserole (known by another name by some Texas relatives) for our staff holiday lunch tomorrow. And yes, Aunt Terri, I did stir together the cream mixture and the corn before baking. It smells so good; I hope I don't dig in early.
I'll bet there will be some corn casserole and lots of other goodies had by all at some point during the next week or so out in CA! I'm sure Uncle Jerome will have lots of his specialities simmering for you all, much like he did for us at Thankgiving. What a lovely time it was, being together then. I only wish we could be ALL together more often!
Hugs and love to all of you.
Jackie
PS Watch out Ally! If when Aunt Ash gets there she tries to put a pointed green hat on your head, RUN, RUN FAST! (Even if she says it's to make cousin Lester happy!)
Jackie Horras <jackie2fish@hotmail.com>
San Antonio, TX US - Wednesday, December 20, 2006 0:11 AM CST
Hi all!
You will simply "crack up" when you SEE Ally, the ELF, as Aunt Ashli just posted! Morgan and I have watched ALLY being the ELF repeatedly ....but we KNOW the "real Ally elf" really DOES DANCE with her "happy feet dance" all around the house! One of her favorite activities right now is DANCING around the house/marching around the house/playing BAND instruments (the apple does not fall far from the tree!)....but she has a special AFFECTION for the tambourine and the DRUM STICKS!!! So, the Ally ELF "sighting" is perfect TYPE CASTING!!! ENJOY her "elf dance"...it's the real deal!
We are continuing to prepare for the end of the week when EVERYBODY arrives from the EAST COAST! Morgan is getting in the "groove" of being on "vacation from school" but I must admit she announced she MISSES SCHOOL and HER FRIENDS!! (imagine that???!)
Kristin is grabbing a few moments here and there to "finish up her last minute" items this week....today is karate for Morgan, and Ally already had her 90 minute therapy session with Nancy where she proceeded across an obstacle course following Morgan's lead...crawled "wheelbarrow" style using her UPPER body strength...and eating some Macaroni and cheese NON - pureed!!! We are trying lots of NEW foods this week...and mac and cheese was a "hit" last night...and "mediocre" this A.M. Just when we think there's been a "find" Allyson TEACHES us that is not the case!!! She has been a willing participant in most of the "new tries" getting closer and closer to her eating more "table food" than baby food! :)!!
Thinking of you all and hope that you are having a wonderful PRE Christmas WEEK of joy and anticipation.
Please continue to keep Lynn Newman in your prayers now and during the holiday season.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Tuesday, December 19, 2006 3:31 PM CST
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALLY THE ELF: (copy & paste into your browser)
http://www.elfyourself.com/?userid=3bf7d231e9e1a4914f99aa7G06121912
THANKS FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT AND LOVE THESE PAST TWO YEARS!!!!!! Hey, wow - I'm almost 2! :)
Ally the little adorabble Elf <AllyRocks@weloveAl-Pal.com>
Pt. Hueneme, CA - Tuesday, December 19, 2006 2:24 PM CST
Howdy Caring Bridge Folks! I've been traveling - CA and FL - then recuperating and dealing with family visits. I just finished looking at all 180 pictures of Christmas and school-related events with the Kelsos. Wow! Those girls are so adorable! Morgan, light blue is your color!!! Your dance moves look pretty excellent also! Ally, you seem so happy and involved with everything and everyone. You both have beautiful spirits!! I hope Ally can see and enjoy the cute Jacquie Larson card that will arrive via the internet on her birthday. All of you have a wonderful visit over the holidays - the whole fam damily will be there! :) I'll be thinking of you as I visit with our extended families here. Love, Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA - Monday, December 18, 2006 3:22 PM CST
Happy Christmas WEEK! Happy Ally 2nd Birthday WEEK! And, Happy 5 1/2 year old birthday WEEK to Morgan! Happy 1st birthday to Alina Lacki on 12/19! Wow, what else is going?!?! Ok, happy "30 weeks" to baby Lester! My how time flies... And Happy Travels to me, TG and Geep-y, and Grandma & Grandpa K as we head to CA this FRIDAY -- yaaaay!!!
Can't wait to be with everyone to hug and play and be silly and enjoy this extra-special time of year. Lots of love and hugs! xoxo
Aunt Ashli & the little man doing backflips and practicing slapshots inside me... <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, December 17, 2006 9:56 AM CST
Happy Weekend to everyone!
As Morgan exclaimed this morning, "It's my 5 1/2 year old birthday!" (no....there is NO party for this event!!) I arrived midday Tuesday and we have been constantly "busy" and "on the go" ever since with Allyson's therapy sessions, doctor visits, and Morgan's TWO programs! The School Christmas Program (and, yes, it is called a "Christmas program"...!) was delightful. She did not get one-bit-shy in her ANNOUNCEMENT of the French Christmas Song! Her voice was loud and clear and very PRECISE! I guess the "communication gene" is working! The same afternoon she danced in the Nutcracker - NINE dances! "Teacher Pam" really did challenge the class with their movements, steps, and props! The children made all of their "accessories" and "props" for the NINE dances and each dance was different! I was quite impressed with the choreography having seen NUMBEROUS dance recitals/shows in Kristin's and Ashli's lives as "dancer girls." Connie, the nurse, kept Allyson so that she would not upstage her sister's performance. (Allyson doesn't "sit and spectator" very well....) We had a lovely dinner OUT after the show. Everyone was so very proud of Morgan that day.
In the earlier part of the day while we were at Morgan's school Allyson roamed from "room to room" in a most comfortable manner playing with the 3 and 4 year olds and having "snacks" on the floor with them. It would be GREAT if Allyson's first pre school experience could be at Mary Law Private School as the teachers have known Ally since her birth and they would take extra special care of her! However, with a projected "move" in store for Kristin and Mark and all next fall, that probably will not happen for her! I am sure Allyson will STEAL the hearts of her teachers wherever she lands next fall!
Today is our trip to The professional viewing of the NUTCRACKER in Thousand Oaks. Morgan is taking her friend, Isabella, and it will be just "us girls" traveling down the road to see Clara, The Nutcracker, and all the mice cavorting on the stage. Morgan is quite excited to be seeing the "REAL" Nutcracker...but I have a feeling we already saw the REAL one just a couple of days ago! :)!!
FABULOUS news this morning! "Uncle Josh" is engaged to Kim...they will marry next August when Mark is HOME from cruise so all the California-Kelsos can be present to witness his big day! We are very happy for Josh and Kim! Now, Morgan is saying she will have another "aunt" called KIM!!
The halls are decked and we are anticipating the arrival of Geep, Aunt Ashli, Uncle Tommie, Grandma and Grandpa in just about SIX days!!! They all arrive on Allyson's SECOND birthday, December 22nd. What a great day that will be!
Allyson is "trying" many new foods - some she likes...some she doesn't, but we are attempting more table foods and letting her FEED herself some of the time. (PRACTICE! PRACTICE!) She had a successful "egg eating experience" the other night, but she LITERALLY ate "dinner" for 90 minutes! (that, of course, is pretty ridiculous timing, but I persevered....!!!) Yogurt is still one of her STAPLES, and when all else fails, YOGURT is the meal! We are going to try REFRIED BEANS today (don't laugh!!) for they are filled with calories and protein....also, we got Wheat Germ to ADD to her foods for higher caloric intake!
Stay tuned for Ally-eating-updates! It will be a wonderful day when that G-tube can GO AWAY!!!
Please continue to keep Lynn Newman and her family in your prayers during this season of remembering and reaching out to others.
You are always close in my thoughts!
With love to all and wishes for a great weekend.
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Saturday, December 16, 2006 11:38 AM CST
The holiday pics are great! What's that face all about Ally? Too funny. Happy Holidays to all!
-Cat
http://darrenmichael.bravehost.com
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Thursday, December 14, 2006 4:49 PM CST
The new holiday pics are too stinkin' cute! Love all FOUR of those faces :))))
See you in 10 days!!!!!!!!!!!!! xoxo
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, December 11, 2006 7:48 PM CST
Hello everyone and especially Nikki Mc from the great Down Under...hi Nikki...I was just in your fabulous country for most of September! Wish I had "known you were there"....glad to hear from you via Allyson's guestbook. (I am Allyson's "Teetay"...aka grandmother name!)
These new holiday party pictures just warm my heart! I cannot wait til mid day tomorrow to SEE those smiling faces and watch Allyson "run to me in the airport" (Morgan will be at school!) - you see she's been in "training" to do the "Morgan airport run" for some time now! I certainly hope she has mastered it by tomorrow!!!
So many exciting things are going on this week once I arrive....it will be NONstop festivities I am sure...Kristin has already told me I need to "click into the schedule" of karate tomorrow afternoon with Morgan and Allyson "in tow" while she has a hair appointment! "Us girls" gotta have our highlights for Christmas!!! :)
"All my bags are packed...I'm ready to go..." as the old LEAVING ON A JET PLANE song states....but after subbing today, appointments this afternoon, I did go on a WILD CHASE to find a "Baby Alive" (shhhhh.....don't tell Morgan!) as they are DIFFICULT to find in CA....Kristin was on "her mission" to find one today...and I set out in rush hour traffic (it is always RUSH hour here, however!) to find the "few remaining ones" that Target SUPPOSEDLY showed on the COMPUTER! DO NOT TRUST THE COMPUTERS! When I got to one store (practically running down the aisles!) I was told : "NO BABY ALIVES." Onto the next store the "computer said" had them...."SAME MESSAGE!" In the meantime, Kristin called me and we decided to give it up for today...we will SCOPE out stores between L.A. and Port Hueneme tomorrow on the way home!! There MUST BE A BABY ALIVE OUT THERE SOMEWHERE!!!! :) It was a funny ending to the day!!!
Yesterday was SUPER FUN with Ashli in "Lester's room" lining his drawers, folding his clothes, and making the ca-zillion outfits fit into the space! But, we did it! Whalah! There's even ROOM TO SPARE, so we felt very proud of ourselves! It was "fun" hanging out in the LESTER QUARTERS before he arrives...I am sure I will spend some time in those quarters in late February!!
I hope everyone is enjoying a lovely beginning to the week....I will be posting from the OTHER COAST!! (time permitting!)
Love to all....and continued prayers for Lynn Newman in Frisco, TX...she is gravely ill, but fighting to hold onto the life she has known. Hoping that her Christmas with her two children, Taylor and Jacob, will be one of the BEST EVER. Please hold her close in your thoughts...it has been a long road for Lynn in her cancer-fight, and she is still fighting.
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Monday, December 11, 2006 6:32 PM CST
Hello from Nikki and Alex(has EEC and is now 9 months)from Australia we wish you all a merry christmas and all the best for the new year.Thankyou for this wonderful web site it has given me some insight about some of the challanges alex and my family are about to face in the near future.(Alex is having his cleft repaired in february and will have his feet operated on some time next year, and many other docter appointments and trips to sydney)any way thanks again our thoughts are with you all. Nikki&alex
Nikki Mcleod <mooshudog@hotmail.com>
orange, NSW Australia - Sunday, December 10, 2006 10:57 PM CST
Those photos are just priceless. Ally looks so much devious with that christmas ornament. I got such a laugh (sorry) out of her antics from that afternoon. Oh my, you and Darren would get into so much trouble. And, Morgan, that is D's fave ride at C.E.Cheese too.
These photos are wonderful!
-Cat
http://darrenmichael.bravehost.com <Potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Saturday, December 9, 2006 3:14 PM CST
Adorable pics!! Love all those smiles... Morgy-lu, can't believe you are STILL riding that silly chair of a ride, girlfriend! Something tells me you know how "cheesey" it is -- I have seen you on the REAL stuff at Disneyland!!
Al-Pal, you're a little bulldozer, as we know, and you're antics and craziness crack me up! Precious niece, you're a hoot and I have the feeling you'll be entertaining us for years and years to come. Can't wait to see what you have up your sleeve next.... you ALWAYS make us smile!!
KDMK- you exhaust me. Period. That book, "I Don't Know how She Does It" needs to be totally re-written with you as the main character. We talk nearly everyday and you have a smile in your voice and just go-go-go and do it all and make it all seem to work --- I am sooooo proud of you and gosh darn, I admire the heck out of you, "big" sis :)
Can't wait to see you ALL on the 22nd for Al-Pal bday hugs and cheer, and Morgan dance routines (maybe an encore performance of the Nutcracker for us late-comers??) and of couse, just being ALL together for the holidays!
Lots of love and hugs! I am off to wash batch #1 of the Lester teeny-tiny duds... yes, washing them NOW and getting them put away in their place (with Teetay's help tomorrow... only she will know how to fit 100 outfits into 3 drawers :) . Those of you who think this is "too early" to be doing wash clearly don't know about my not-so-secret OCD a la Monica (from Friends) personality.... I am devoting Jan & Feb to being a total, lazy slug for the last few weeks before my little guy arrives so let's get stuff done NOW!! :P
HAPPY HOLIDAYS to all and enjoy these festive weeks ahead!
xoxox
Aunt Ashli & the little man doing backflips and practicing slapshots inside me... <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, December 9, 2006 8:57 AM CST
Glorious days!
Gotta love a girl with her finger in the ORNAMENT! And LOVE to the No. l GIRL and "her girls"...Aimes...you will be AROUND for a VERY LONG TIME, so get "used to" those girl hugs!!
Just loving seeing the pics and knowing what is transpiring in the Kelso household!! I totally "get it"...
Thank you, Kristin, for always UPdating the journal just in the nick of time.
I'll be there SOON!! And I know I will be so happy to jUMPRIGHT IN!!
Love to you all,
Terri aka Teetay:) and PLEASE pray for Lynn Newman. THese days are long and very, very difficult. Thank you.
ONLYTHREEMOREDAYSTILTHECASUNSHINESETSONMYHEAD.com butiamnotcomplaining.com.:)!!!!!!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Friday, December 8, 2006 7:51 PM CST
Good evening everyone!
TODAY is Pearl Harbor Day as we all know...on Dec. 7, 1941, at 7:55 A.M. - Pearl Harbor- Hawaii - "Heroes died and men were born." It is a day to remember forever. Certainly, it was part of my generation's parents, and certainly we are all touched by that if you are over the age of 50. IF you are "not" over that age, REMEMBER it anyway, for it was a time that AMAZING GENERATION gave their all for their country. Please keep the remaining World War II veterans in your thoughts. Recently, we visited Geep's oldest living uncle who is a WW2 Veteran and was confined during the war in Italy. He has "scars" both inside and out, but his cheerful spirit at age 95 is one of "we did what we had to do." God bless him and the others who IN PERSON were still able to be in Pearl Harbor today and salute the flag. God bless those who took part in ceremonies elsewhere in the U.S. And, God bless those who are no longer with us. Their presence made the world a better place, and for that, I am grateful.
Mother Teresa said:"Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls." What a beautiful philosophy to follow....
Wishing you all JOY of this holiday season tonight as we reflect on those who have helped make it possible. And, God bless those who are continuing their service in war-torn countries afar. I pray that they will see their "homes" in the VERY NEAR FUTURE.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Thursday, December 7, 2006 6:13 PM CST
Hi everyone!
It is good to be home but I sure do miss the CA peeps already! We had a wonderful visit........shopping and lunch in Santa Barbara, internet shopping in the comfort of the living room, the pimp-my-ride parade, walking around ventura harbour, and lots of giggling and bouncing on the air bed with the girls. I even got to see Morgan's school. One of the little boys came over and called me Teetay. I said "Actually, I am a friend of Morgan's mommy but I am honored that you called me Teetay!"
I overslept today and am having a bit of trouble adjusting to the time change (although I don't know why because that has never been an issue for me before). We are back to work and regular life and are now looking forward to the holidays which are right around the corner! Where has this year gone??????????????
I hope everyone has a great week!
xoxoxoxo
Aimee <itscoldoutside@nosnowyet.com>
EP, MN - Tuesday, December 5, 2006 2:30 PM CST
Hello everyone!
BIG Kudos and congrats to the "student of the month girl"...Morgan!!! I loved your phone "message" that told me you were student of the month and that you wanted me to "be proud of you"...YOU BET I AM...you bet, WE ARE!!! And, Ally, you are "student of the month" everyday as well!! I am so very proud of the accomplishments of both of you! I cannot WAIT to see the Nutcrakcer dances and "props" you are making, Morgan...and I cannot wait to SEE what new antics you have learned, Allyson!!!
We have just feasted on a delicious dinner with "Uncle Josh" and "Kim" -his very significant "other"....Josh is like a son to us, and I guess it is because he is LIKE a brother to Kristin and Mark...a wonderful young man who entered our "extended family" over 11 years ago. Ashli and "Lester" joined us (Tom was working) and it was a good time at the "olde town center" - the Christmas trees are all decked out and music was playing..."made the season merry"...!! For sure!
Yes, the temps are falling...and I am hoping all the folks we know in the "snowbound areas" are managing to keep warm and press on without too many delays en route! We are going to have a taste of WINTER this weekend, and I'm delighted that my first WOOD DELIVERY is arriving in the early morning! My "nighttime fires" do keep me warm and content!!!
Ashli and I have a "crib pickup field trip" in the morning..."Lester's bed is in" and we are going to get it to set up for HIM!!!
I hope your weekend will be special and filled with anticipation of the coming holiday~!!
Please keep Lynn N. in your prayers. Her road is long and she's fighting so hard to beat her cancer.
And, God bless us "one and all"..
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus < teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Friday, December 1, 2006 10:08 PM CST
Morgy-Lu, Morgy-Lu!!! CONGRATS, kiddo! You are a superstar and I am soooo proud of your student of the month honors (and hey looky, now Mommy & Daddy be be "thosse parents" with the bumpersticker on their car ;) -- and your karate (loved the recent pics - you are TOUGH and disciplined!) and dance achievements are super-duper as well. Go Morg go! Can't wait to see you in 21 days!!!! And sorry that Lester won't be here YET - I heard you were asking if he was coming -- but you can give him plenty of belly kisses... he loves them! :p
Speaking of super-stars... ALLY, it's no shock that the therapist think you're doing GREAT! We have seen you in action and you are just a go-go-go over-achieving kid -- soooo proud of you and so thankful for your mommy's dedication to keep you on track and schedule with all the therapy appointments, doc check ups, etc! You are her world, ya know?!?! And those therapists -- what blessings, they are! Keep it up Al -- and can't wait to see you on your BIG #2(!!!!) in 21 days -- yaaaaaaayyyy!!!
KDMK and Aimee... Enjoy your grown-up girls day out in SB and live it up! K, hope you can bask in some sunshine (and glass of wine -- glasses!) today and this weekend and just have a blast with Aims!
Have a great weekend, everyone in Ally-land... and I am thinking of our friends in Kansas City (the Huxmans!) and ALLLLL our TX peeps from Dallas to Moulton to San Antonio and hope you're keeping WARM and safe in this crazy, snowy, icy, cold, weird weather you're having! No worries, it's coming our way this weekend so we can say goodbye to this last 70-degree EAST coast day :( Oh, and Chicago! Kristi, hope you're hanging in there but you Chicago-peeps are tough and this is just winter-as-usual, right?!?! (ha ha!)
Lots of love and hugs to you 4! xoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, December 1, 2006 8:18 AM CST
I absolutely LOVE the family photos. Morgan and Spencer could pass for brother and sister! Ally in that first photo looks like she's sporting a sly devilish grin. SO cute!
Jealous of the fall leaves too. =) 7 months and 'a counting!
-Cat
Cat <readyforthefourseasons@mainlandusa.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Thursday, November 30, 2006 1:56 PM CST
My suitcase is packed (is it ok that I have 8 outfits for a 4 day trip?? and about 8 pairs of shoes???)!!!! CA here I come! We are at a balmy high of 20 degress outside but so far no sign of snow (in my next life I want to be a meteorologist who actually can predict the weather). It will be so nice to experience 60's and 70's again! I am looking forward to seeing Mark at the airport tomorrow night - I have not seen him since my wedding in May 2005 (I did get to see Glenn this year but it they are still different no matter how much they look alike). We will have plenty of time to chat on the ride home before I get attacked in the morning by 2 awesome little girls. It will be so much fun to play with all the girl-toys too! I hope Morgan gives me a sneak preview of her big Nutcracker dance and Ally will have to fill me in on how she gets more adorable by the second!
xoxoxoxoxo
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Wednesday, November 29, 2006 11:41 AM CST
Greetings to everyone!
It was wonderful hearing Kristin's, Morgan's and Grandma K's "re cap" of the Thanksgiving weekend! Morgan told me on the phone that "she played nicely with the children"...(I guess that means Spencer and Allyson!) and that she "helped her Daddy" on the long airplane ride home! (Mark's first time traveling with the girls EVER!) Kristin was still "reeling" from TWO cross country trips in the SAME MONTH! You ROCK, Kristin! Allyson's appointments yesterday were keeping her busy-busy, and today Morgan has a TWO hour ballet class in preparation for the NUTcracker performance. Her class will make their own costumes! Looking forward to seeing her "perform"...
It is a dreary end-of-November-day in Virginia - temperatures are WAY above the norm, but we are 'warned' that the COLD is coming!! This fall has been UNusually warm and beautiful, so I guess we can adjust to a bit of winter when it comes.
I hope everyone is having a good "week after turkey" and enjoying spending time getting prepared for the next BIG holiday just around the corner! HO! HO! HO!
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, November 29, 2006 7:38 AM CST
What a blessing this Thanksgiving was for all the Kelso clan celebrating together in Kennesaw, GA.! Glenn and Mer and Spencer were the perfect hosts for this dream-come-true holiday with both boys and their families there to enjoy it. Having 2 Naval aviators on opposite coasts makes it difficult to plan ahead because the boys are so unsure of their schedules so the fact that this togetherness finally happened for more than just a few brief hours was fantastic!! The food was abundant and delicious, plenty of beds and bathrooms for all, and a host of fun activities to keep us busy: a nature hike at Cheatham Hill in Kennesaw Mountain Battlefield Park, a night time hayride to see all the Christmas lights at a special farm, feeding the camels (yes, camels!) goats, moose and zebra, Thanksgiving crafts, watching and playing football, leaf throwing, swing rides, visiting downtown Kennesaw to see the trains, watching favorite Christmas movies, reading stories and singing songs, shopping, family photo ops, and that special sharing of Thanksgiving blessings as the whole family gathered in a great big circle including Mer's parents, aunt, uncle and cousins. What a blessing to us! God is GOOD!!!! The 3 cousins played and loved being together. Ally dazzled with us with her walking, running and jumping. We are thrilled to hear her words and also to see her signing so much. We couldn't have asked for a better holiday. So good to see Aunt Dale, too!
PS I wish we had a photo of our trip to the airport on Monday to drop off the CA Kelsos as we headed home to NC! We were like the Beverly Hillbillies. Everyone except John, the driver, had their feet resting on a suitcase and arms loaded down. Thank goodness, Terri, as we unloaded all the stuff no police were there to hassle us!
Lydia Kelso a.k.a . Grandma Kelso <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Southport, NC - Tuesday, November 28, 2006 6:17 PM CST
What cute, cute pics of everyone!! Love all those smiles :)))
Lots of love! Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, November 28, 2006 2:13 PM CST
Welcome home, Kristin, Mark, Morg and Al! I know it was a good trip to GA, visiting with the Kelso gang and a special visit added in with Aunt Grammy - yay! Hope the trip home was uneventful and that squirmy Al-Pal sat still for at least a couple of minutes on the plane :))) Chat with you later -- I've missed you!
I know you're looking forward to seeing Aimee later this week, too!!! Happy travels to CA, Aims!
xoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, November 28, 2006 7:55 AM CST
2 more days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't wait to see you guys :):):):) I am having such a hard time packing for this trip..........it is going to snow here tomorrow yet I am flying in to 65 degree weather! Do I pack a light sweater or will I need capris???? Kristin - HHHHHEEEEELLLLLPPPPPP!!!!!!!!!! Call me tonight!
xoxoxoxoxox
Aim-a-lita <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Tuesday, November 28, 2006 6:35 AM CST
Awww. That pic on the front page is SOOOO sweet. She's getting so big! And Morgan, you look too cute. Love the matching dresses. Where do you all find them? Hope everyone is doing well.
Been busy here w/ little time spent online lately.
Cat <Potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Monday, November 27, 2006 3:08 PM CST
Happy CONTINUING Thanksgiving weekend to all!
We're baaaacccckkkkk from our "Texas Thanksgiving" after a 13 HOUR travel day! We returned home via Denver, but "actually" did some GREAT SHOPPING in the mile-high airport!!! It was an UNeventful trip home except for the length of the day/layovers etc!!!
We had a wonderful time "feasting" on the traditional Texas/German/Czech delicacies of the season. Katie has certainly "mastered" all of Nanny's recipes and "Yes, I did have chicken noodle soup" (more than once!) that was a delicious beginning to our holiday "feast"....! It was so good to see everyone (I think there were 25 of us on T-Day) - some folks we haven't seen in YEARS, and the "reunion feeling" felt good! Uncle Nobby, at 95 years old, was with us and he is as sharp as ever though he's "slowed down" in his travels these days! He gave us laughter recalling some of his "Chicken House" stories about GEEP when he was a boy! Uncle Nobby is Geep's oldest living uncle and his FAVORITE - - - !! It was great seeing the "great nephews" (ages 5-8) play together and "teach me" about WHAT LITTLE BOYS ARE MADE OF....! I got in the "mix" a few times until "Momo" (Aunt Katie) had to call us down for RUNNING in the house! ("Ooops...Teetay got busted!" :)!!!) Fun times throughout the week and PLENTY of good foods - sausages, tamales, turkey, ham and "sides-sides-sides"....about 20 of them, I think!!! Needless to say, no one was on a "diet" this past week!!! It was a good sharing time. :) I did miss those of you who were not present with us...but I did think of you. :)
Geep and I spent some "Memory Lane Time" visiting Nanny's house and sorting through the 35 years of cards/pictures/letters that she had SAVED over all this time! To see the STACKS of letters I had written from Japan and Taiwan and the U.S. all in "order" on AIRMAIL STATIONARY really made me think of it as an "oral history" of our TIME BACK THEN! We bundled up those boxes and mailed them home. Someday I will READ through them all and see what I was "doing" in 1970 + years!!! Katie and ken are bringing Geep's ORIGINAL accordian to us when they come next summer. He used to play in the "local saloons" for QUARTERS (maybe dimes?) as a ten year old and his name was even in the NEWSPAPER once "introducting" him in the community as an up/rising/accordian player! (Move over, Lawrence Welk!!)
I talked to Kristin, Ashli, and Dale on Thanksgiving and all were enjoying a special day with Georgia and Philly families. "Gram" is better and will come home this weekend! Everyone was enjoying lots of good food, but better, TIME with loved ones!
As I reflected on the weekend during the long flight home, I concluded that I am just so very THANKFUL that we COLLECTIVELY have so very much for which to BE THANKFUL! We are blessed with good health, energy, and TIME to be with those we love! I just found myself wishing for a GREAT BIG POND where EVERYONE could be at once!!! As impractical as that is, I still "wished for it"...!!
Upon arrival HOME last night we had the great pleasure of going to Nancy E.'s house and meeting her lovely mom from Syracuse. Nancy's mom has followed Allyson's progress since the very beginning and she said to me last night that all her retired "nurse friends" come by and always say: "How's OUR baby?" With moist eyes, I thought about how TRUE that is...Allyson has become "everyone's baby" as she continues her journey, and I truly believe that is part of the reason she is thriving and doing well...she has people from near and far loving and supporting her every step, every action, every bite, and certainly every "GRIN"...!! She has become "OUR BABY" to so very many, and again, I THANK YOU for loving her and caring about her. Morgan frequently refers to Ally as "my brave baby sister"....what a wonderful description that is!!! :)
We are beginning to decorate for Christmas today so we can enjoy the "glow" of the season for the next couple of weeks before departing for CA again! Looking forward to seeing Morgan's Nutcracker Ballet and her school Christmas "show" where she will be an "introducer" of her class' song using a microphone (does she NEED one??) to make her introduction! We'll "see" if she shys away on the REAL day???!
Pulling out the decorations always give me moments to PAUSE and recall each/every ornament and its significance....so many memories are stored in Christmas boxes....many, many ornaments trace back to my children, the Christmas tree I climbed UP and BROKE, the reindeer with the broken antler (he did survive the FALL minus an antler!).....the "oil well ornament" given us by the McKays 30 years ago...the hand-hooked-holiday rug made by my mom....I cannot look in any corner of my house without a warm memory or a "story"...and life is 'about the stories'...THANKFUL to have "the stories"...!!!
Thinking of you all with love and gratitude that you are PART of "our story"....may the beginning of this season of celebration warm your hearts as you continue "your family stories"....KNOW that you are never far away from us in our thoughts.
Have a great rest of the weekend!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
backinvirginiabutnotforlong.com :)!!!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Saturday, November 25, 2006 11:14 AM CST
It was so good to see the Kelso girls at Ashli's shower, and the new pictures show just exactly how cute and adorable they are. Allyson is really something else! What strength and spunk.
I wish you all safe travels and a delightful, blessed Thanksgiving day with your loved ones in so many places in our great country.
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Wednesday, November 22, 2006 7:33 AM CST
What cutie-patootie little stinkers!!!! (that's a compliment :) I loooove Ally's devilish and happy swinging grin, and her stylin' and serious Christmas pose on the home page. And Morgan, the ever-sophisticated poser in her portrait and ballet pose -- reminds me of her Mommy and numerous childhood photos! And yes, Ally just looks like a wonderful, happy little BULLDOZER... which I of course fully support, being the spunky, punky, goofy, rough and tumble "2nd child" that she is :))))
Thanks for the preview of the holiday pics!!
Special prayers going out to Grandmom, TG's grandmother in Philly, this week as she recovers in the hospital from Pneumonia. She is mending, and we hope to have her out in time to be at our Thanksgiving table this Thursday!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! Love to you 4 in CA and happy travels to Atlanta!!
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
l - Tuesday, November 21, 2006 9:08 AM CST
Happy, beautiful faces!
So good to check in this morning from Texas and see "the girls" with their CHRISTMAS attire and GRINS!! JOY!!
There's certainly much "talk" in this Texas town of how well Allyson is doing, and her Texas "fans" love that special grin of hers! Morgan, your ballet pictures are beautiful and I cannot wait to see you in the Nutcracker in December when I arrive on YOUR side of the country!
Special, happy wishes for safe travels for everyone as they travel to their various destinations! Love and warm wishes for much shared love and turkey for Ashli and Tom in Philly with the Philly folks, Kristin,Mark,Morgan, and Allyson in Georgia with Meredith, Glenn, Spencer, Grandma and Grandpa K, and hopefully a visit with Aunt Grammy and Uncle Poppy will be in store....and much love to Dale and Loren and Terri, Les, and all six "great neps/nieces"....I wish there was a BIG POND we could all gather around for Thanksgiving! Suffice to say while we're joining hands and hearts in Texas you will be in our thoughts....love and joy to our "Virginia extended family" and "everyone else everywhere else" (you know who you are!)....WE ARE THANKFUL THAT WE HAVE FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO LOVE AND SHARE SO MANY MEMORIES WITH THIS SEASON.
Thank you for being an ever-present part of our lives!
And, a very big "I love you" to everyone I can't see this Thursday!
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
enjoyingagoodtimeinTXwithlovedones.com
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Tuesday, November 21, 2006 8:39 AM CST
What a beautiful picture!!!!!!!! Ally, you are getting so grown up and I can't wait to hug and squeeze you NEXT WEEK!
Save travels to GA.....we (my folks are in town) are off to see Flushed Away today.
xoxoxoxox
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Tuesday, November 21, 2006 7:32 AM CST
"Thanksgiving, after all, is a word of action." ~W.J. Cameron
I love this quote and I am thankful and blessed for my family, dear friends and all the Ally-fans out there who are a part of her world and this website as her journey continues! As we are now in Thanksgiving week and kicking off the holiday season, I wish the whole Kelso gang safe and uneventful travels to Atlanta this Wednesday, big hugs to Teetay and Geep who already arrived in Moulton yesterday to be with our family there, and love to our Atlanta family as we all gather in our own little parts of the country to feast on delicious food and be with loved ones. TG and I will be in Philly, with "Lester" and Nala, of course, spending time with our family there!
Lots of love for a wonderful TURKEY DAY!! Gobble, gobble... And dare I mention it.... GOOOOOOO COWBOYS!!!!!! Silly Peyton Manning has got nothing on you, Romo! (ok, ok, yes Peyton, you are still really good but yesterday was AWESOME!!!)
xoxo!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, November 20, 2006 8:59 AM CST
The countdown is on!!!!!! Only 10 more days until I get to spend time with the CA peeps!! I am soooooooooooo excited. It is a good thing the holidays are HERE because it will make the next 10 days go by much faster!
Happy Thanksgiving where ever you are! May your week be filled with good food and lots of FAMILY time!
xoxoxoxoxo
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Monday, November 20, 2006 6:34 AM CST
Hey everyone! I haven't signed the guestbook in a while but I do check in on the site multiple times a day. Just wanted to say an early Happy Thanksgiving to all. Hope you enjoy the time off and get to relax and eat lots and lots of food!! Ally is looking so big (just like a 2 year old). Glad the shower weekend went well and hope everyone is doing great. Continued prayers your way for this holiday week.
Elizabeth Hellman (Mrs. Matus' former student) <dancer3191@cox.net>
Chantilly, VA United States - Sunday, November 19, 2006 8:33 PM CST
Happy weekend before Thanksgiving to everyone..and an early HAPPY THANKSGIVING to all!
As we travel to Texas this Sunday to celebrate this season of thanksgiving with our Texas family, I wanted to extend my sincere wishes to everyone for a safe and happy holiday wherever you might be!
I came across these words and wanted to share them with you.
"Count your blessings instead of your crosses.
Count your gains instead of your losses.
Count your joys instead of your woes.
Count your friends instead of your foes.
Count your smiles instead of your tears.
Count your courage instead of your fears.
Count your full years instead of your lean.
Count your kind deeds instead of your mean.
Count your healthy insted of your wealth.
Count on God instead of yourself."
We are so very thankful for your continued love and support as 2006 approaches the new year. Thank you for the thousands of wishes and prayers extended to our family over the past "almost two years" of meeting on this website. Thank you for loving us and caring about us. Thank you for always including Allyson and "her family" in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you for cards, letters, phone calls, emails, and your constant friendship!
Thank you for extending your love to "extended family and friends" in times of need and despair. Please continue to hold Lynn Newman's family in your hearts.
Thinking of you all during this holiday season.
We haven't had a "Texas Thanksgiving" in a very long time, and I can "almost smell Nanny's chicken noodle soup" as the time draws closer. I am sure that Katie has mastered the "art" of all Nanny's recipes!
Wishing everyone safe holiday travels!
God bless,
With love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Friday, November 17, 2006 9:55 AM CST
Heeeyyy..... looky who made the home page -- LESTER'S first public appearance! :) Cousins unite!
Ok, I was actually just hopping on to say... GO EMMITT! EMMITT for President! Uh, er... Emmitt for Dancing w/ the Stars CHAMP! Don't forget to vote!
Love and hugs!
Aunt Ash <EMMITTROCKS@dallascowboysrocktoo.com>
- Tuesday, November 14, 2006 7:41 PM CST
MY SISTER IS THE GREATEST PERSON AND FRIEND EVER!!!
A million thank you's to Kristin (and Morgan and Ally!) for flying East to host a fabulous baby shower for me this weekend! Not surprisingly, everything was perfect (including her 70-degree Cali weather she brought with her) and all the details were covered, food was great, and it was a special, special time I will never forget (well, until I am sleep deprived next spring ;) KDMK, I am grateful and blessed with all you do for me!! And oh by the way, for those who haven't seen her in a while, my sister is looking really HOT these days! She does it ALL and has some amazing sense of balance between herself and the girls and doing for others. You rock, K!! :)) (and don't roll your eyes at being cheesy - it's TRUE!)
For Mom and Dad -- Huge THANKS to you for all you did behind the scenes to make the shower weekend special and for granting Kristin the perfect "venue" - your home! It's always the best to be "whole" and have us all together, and I loved every minute of the weekend.
It was also special to have Reb and Kristi fly in for the soiree -- what special, amazing friends and it means so much to me that they made the trek.
Of course Lester was the big winner this weekend, getting lots of loot and pats and love from family and friends. His favorite part was the 100 kisses he seemed to receive via my tummy by big cousin Morgan :)) Precious!
I hope all is well with you all in Ally-land... Speaking of - Ally, you're a riot!!! Such a BIG girl and quite the "kid" these days. I adore you 100x over and loved hearing your words and seeing your signs and just being a part of your very active world!
Happy pre-Thanksgiving week to all, and K- I'll chat with you later and hope the flight home was uneventful and filled with sleeping girls on the PLANE :))
xoxoxoxo! Love you!
Aunt Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, November 14, 2006 9:24 AM CST
Hi everyone and "Mark especially" since he's out on his big boat "incommunicado" with us all right now!
The whirlwind weekend began Thursday night and only slightly SLOWED down a little yesterday when "just us girls" hung out most of the day together in our p.j.'s looking over all of Lester "new loot" and "sorting it all out" for Ashli to take to her home. Lester made out "big time" and has just about everything a little boy could ever need or want. I think Tom was OVERJOYED and HUMBLED by the eternity of gifts for his soon to be son!!! Lester will be all docked out come February and people were so SMART to "gift" a variety of SIZES!! GREAT MINDS!! Dani's book assortment ..."T is for Touchdown" and "A is for Armed Forces"....WOW>>>such cleverly written books - all new to our eyes!!! The shower was terrific...the temperatures were in the 70's so fresh air was everywhere!! We had about 35 ladies "sipping and snacking and chatting.."...and OH BY THE WAY, there's a pregnant girl on the couch opening gifts???!! It was a very jovial group and a sort-of-reunion as many of these folks had not seen one another since Ashli and Tom's wedding!!! Big time was had by all!!!
Allyson and Baby Gina "entertained" everyone with their nearly 2 year old "antics" and were so very compatible! Morgan and Jessica were the BIG HELPERS and played every game/toy in the house! Their "Sat. night sleepover" was WONDERFUL! Wonderful! Wonderful! (Morgan's words!!)
Yesterday turned cold and rainy so Morgan's "highlight" of the day was to SIT IN FRONT OF THE WARM, CRACKING FIRE! I think I heard her "say" she wanted to move to Virgini and have a fireplace and a downstairs-part to her house!!! (that would not upset me in the least, right?) We reminded her she has a fireplace in CA but they don't use it as it is seldom cool enough to mandate a fire! Besides, I think the puppet theater resides on the hearth and the puppets would be too HOT if they had a fire!!! (I like the moving-to-Virginia-part the best!) :)!!!!
Today is even cooler and "rainy" so they left with CHILL BUMPS a few minutes ago when I took them to the airport! I had a MINOR "curb parking experience" with one of the airport rent-a-cops who proceeded to LECTURE me about the VALUE OF SKYCAPS HELPING MOMS AND CHILDREN NOT GRANDMOTHERS....and "she" continued with a second LECTURE on the fact that I WAS BLOCKING THE ENTIRE AISLE (there was not another car withint 50 feet of me!!) ....and that there was a DANGER OF EXPOSIVES IN THE AREA all the time POINTING HER FINGER AT MY NOSE.....!!!!( I exercised tremendous control because those of you who know me well can probably imagine the "words" I wanted to give back to her....) ....and then she GESTURED toward me to do "something" and I didn't UNDERSTAND her, so I said, "Pardon me"....to which she responded, "Get out of here! Leave!" I'll just bet she "sleeps well" at night...and her family must be proud to call her "mom"...or maybe they call her DRILL SGT.!!! Oh well...all part of a day in her life, I guess...and we all know how well EVERYONE responds to UNKINDNESS and TOUGH TALK!!! :) (smile everyone!)
While driving to the airport Allyson fell asleep and Morgan had her "sad face on"....so I told her NOT TO BE SAD SHE WAS LEAVING, but to be GLAD SHE CAME! (Kristin said I should take my own words to heart! HA) By the time we arrived at the airport, Morgan was "okay" to leave....after all, it's only a MONTH until we are together again!!! ANd, in between, she'll have a wonderful Thanksgiving trip to see Grandma and Grandpa!!!
There's so much ahead in celebration of the coming holiday season!!!
I am hoping that this day finds everyone enjoying better weather than we are in Northern Virginia...it appears very wintery today!
Love to all...and yes, I'm missing my CA peeps already, but there are enough "remnants" of them around the house to keep me busy for a few hours while I "work it out"...!!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Monday, November 13, 2006 12:54 AM CST
Hi everyone,
Another groundhog day out here on the boat. Only a few more days til I'm home again, but I've been so busy I think I'll need a big nap when I get home. We've been working hard on our last at sea period doing training prior to deployment. I wish I could be there with all of you at the shower. Talk to you all soon! Drop me a line if you want, I haven't heard from my girls for about three days now!
Love, Mark
LCDR Mark Kelso <mark.kelso@cvw9.navy.mil>
USS John C. Stennis, - Sunday, November 12, 2006 4:41 PM CST
Happy Friday afternoon to all!
The CA peeps arrived last night about 9 PM and we were "home" by 11 from Baltimore!! With the difference in time change the little girls didn't hit the bed til around midnight, but they WOKE UP ON EAST COAST TIME today so NAPS have been welcomed!! Allyson had to be roused this morning, but Morgan was in our bed at 6:45 EST...that's about 3:45 for HER BODY CLOCK!! We have had a glorious day with lots of playing outside in the seventy degree temps....playing in the FALL leaves....Morgan: "Gee, where did you get so many, Teetay?" Allyson has romped all over the house REdiscovering toys from the summer and the favoriet BALL HOUSE...and Morgan and I saw "Flushed Away" and munched on popcorn!!! Aunt Ashli and "Lester" visited (she doesn't go anywhere without HIM!! :)
!!)
Kristin decorated little cakes for the shower and we got things "more ready" today...FINAL touches tomorrow morning! Kristin has a "night out with Ashli and the girls" tonight and Geep and I will take care of the girls...a "tough job but somebody has to do it"....Geep is enjoying his bonding-time since his summer visits with them both.
Allyson's "talking babble" is so much greater...very impressive to Geep to hear her "words" and know what she is saying!!!
Well, tomorrow is a big day for Ashli and I am sure she will be having a wonderful time surrounded by so many friends who have come to SHOWER LESTER!!! My dining room is already filled with gifts that folks have SENT! We'll be bursting at the seams tomorrow!!
Happy WEEKEND to everyone and safe travels to those who are hitting the roads toward Virginia to be with us!!! We are grateful for your PRESENCE!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Friday, November 10, 2006 3:54 PM CST
NO MORE DAYS!!! The CA peeps are beginning their "day of travel" shortly and will sleep in WARM Virginia tonight!!! We have "California temps" waiting for them. Whahooooo!!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Thursday, November 9, 2006 7:20 AM CST
"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So...throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." Mark Twain
I hope everyone is enjoying a beautiful "Wednesday"...hump day for the working folks!!
My countdown is nearly COMPLETE....tomorrow is the day the Ca peeps arrive!!! So...NO MORE DAYS!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, November 8, 2006 8:52 AM CST
Hi gang!
I've been checking in daily but have not had much to say lately. Work has been really busy! I just wanted to say have safe travels to NOVA and enjoy spending time with the family. Can't wait to see the pics of Ashli's growing belly!
PS- I know there were TONS of postings about this last year so I thought I'd start things off by saying "WE GOT THE LIGHTS HUNG THIS PAST WEEKEND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" (they are not "on" but they are hung) The temps in MN were in the upper 50's and it made hanging xmas lights so much more pleasant!!!!!!!!
xoxoxoxo
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Wednesday, November 8, 2006 6:35 AM CST
Cat! I agree.... Ally is saying, "I am darn good, people!" If percussion is her thing, it will be no surprise to many that I (and Teetay) are ALL FOR IT! :) Of course Uncle Tommy would love to intervene and turn her on to the guitar but hey, for now, I saw go Al go and we'll let you continue to pave the way for whatever kind of little super star you want to be! Just remember that I am asking for FRONT ROW concert tickets now!!! hee hee :)
Have a great week, everyone!!!
Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, November 6, 2006 2:41 PM CST
What better family than to be chosen. That's wonderful Kristin! I know someone will be contacting me later about this, but that's such great news that you made contact with them already. Yippee!
I have to say that I just love that photo of Ally in the middle- "You KNOW I'm good, so don't even think twice about taking these out of my hands." She's stylin' in that lil' denim skirt, and way to go Morgan on the ballet.
D gets the molding done for his spiderman brace tomorrow. Let's hope that this brace works, at least temporarily. We're having some issues with hand writing right now in school.
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Under the palm trees, HI USA - Monday, November 6, 2006 2:31 PM CST
Happy MONDAY morning of the "best week ever"....!!! Just FOUR DAYS until I can squeeze the CA peeps AGAIN!!! Wow!!
We are "busily" preparing for the long weekend visit/shower/and just being together!!! Everyone I know gets so excited when the CALIFORNIANS come to "town"...!!!
LOVE the new pictures of "Miss Blue Jean Skirt" looking very precocious with that "little look" we've come to cherish. And, of course, I know that Allyson is "leaning" toward percussion instruments...did I HELP that along while I was there???? YOU BET I DID!! (sorry, Mark...she's a natural-born drummer!!) Love the Morgan ballet POSE....yes, she takes "her work" very SERIOUSLY when there is a performance involved!
Ashli and I spent some time together this weekend "looking and buying" some Lester-supplies for his room! I think it is going to be the BEST BOY ROOM ever, and I'm really getting into this BOY stuff!!! FUN!!! Ashli looks great and seems to feel great and Lester is certainly GROWING!
It's fun doing some "behind the scenes" prep for this weekend's activities! It will be great having Little Reb, Christie, the Philly sisters, plus Jessica and Gina at my house Saturday night for the "after shower party"....call it a BIG FAT SLUMBER PARTY!!! :)
This 'retirement gig' is working out pretty well...I hardly see how I would have time to WORK anyway!!!
Happy NOVEMBER to everyone!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Monday, November 6, 2006 7:21 AM CST
Al-Pal!! Love the new home page pic... you are such a big girl! And so sassy in that denim skirt -- you'll be turning heads when you head East later this week with your cute little grins and adorable-ness! I CANNOT WAIT TO SEE YOU IN FOUR DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sooooo excited for this weekend, and so blessed to have a sister/best friend heading this way... just for moi?!? Aw, shucks! Ok, ok, it's for her little nephew-to-be, too, I presume! :P
Hugs and kisses! I love you!
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, November 5, 2006 7:00 PM CST
Hi everyone!
I'm "baaaaaaccccckkkkkk" on the RIGHT coast today! 'Had an UNeventful flight home - that's how we like flights to be...UNeventful!! It wasn't too sad saying 'bye' to the little peeps since I'll be seeing them again in 8 days when they come to Virginia for Aunt Ashli's shower!! Morgan is excited to be flying AGAIN and especially knowing that she will be reunited with her "Philly cousin" - Jessica! The "best part" is that they will get to have a SLEEPOVER in Morgan's "room at my house" Saturday night!!! That is BIG STUFF to a five year old! Allyson doesn't know much about SLEEPOVERS yet since she will be sleeping in her own crib that she will have to "share" with "Lester" in a few months!!! IF they are ever sleeping at my house at the same time, we'll 'banish' Lester to the Pac N Play!!
Looking forward to NEXT week making more Virginia 'memories' and having Morgan's "favorite VA brocilli"....and I hope Allyson will "remember how to eat her scrambled eggs"...!!!
Please continue to pray for Lynn Newman.
It was wonderful to see the multiple colors of the falling leaves today as the crispness in the air settles in! I think tonight will be a good time for a warming fire!!!(in the fireplace!)
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Thursday, November 2, 2006 4:53 PM CST
Gosh you girls are knock-outs in those costumes. Ally, no one could have played a better Red Riding Hood. That outfit is too cute! Morgan, I think D would have run up and tried to grab your scooby snacks from you, being the little devil that he is.
It was great meeting you two, and so glad you made it up to the Poly.CC. Forgot about that place, as it's been awhile. I do think that their luau is THE best on the island *via the word of mouth*.
Glad your foot is on the mend too Al-pal. I don't think anything will stop you in your tracks.
Our D-Meister was a vampire chicken-Yes you read that right. Only our kid! I have to say, that folks thought that he was one of the coolest kids around in that costume! Happy Holidays to all!
-Cat and clan
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Wednesday, November 1, 2006 3:34 PM CST
Hey everyone! I'm so glad to hear that the girls had a good Halloween. The costumes look great- ALL of them!!! I dressed up as Peter Pan yesterday, so I guess I chose the right theme. You Tinkerbells are so adorable! I'm glad Mrs. Matus had a great time with her grandkids. Now it's back to VA. I'm also glad that Mark and Kristin had a wonderful time in Hawaii. I am SO jealous! We pray for Ally to continue to heal and are so amazed at all her accomplishments. Way to go, Ally!
-Christina Knippler
Christina Knippler (Mrs. Matus' former student) <acoolkid15@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA - Wednesday, November 1, 2006 2:01 PM CST
C-U-T-E!!!! I loooove the Halloween pics and what a fun day it was, I know! Ally, you are a precious little Tinkerbell and Little Red Riding Hood, and I am sure were a star out in the 'hood (pun intended ;) I am thrilled that your "new two feet" are up and RUNNING, there was never a doubt that anything would hold you back like a silly cast or scab! YOU ROCK, AL-PAL! Now, uh... whatcha gonna do with all your candy loot? Send it to a pregnant Aunt?!?! hee hee.
Morg - It was great to talk with you last evening and hear all about your fun day at school, the costumes and yes, evening what Justis was wearing, too! Your Daphnie costume rocks -- thought about becoming a red (orange) head permanently? it's lovely on you... And, the REAL Nala was so happy, tongue wagging and all, to see that the stuff Nala got to make the evening rounds with you. How fun! You were so Scooby-Doo legit, big Lu!
Safe travels to Teetay as she heads back East today... I know K & M were thrilled to have you with them and HELPING so much these past few weeks. "Lester" and I can't wait to do some shopping with you this weekend!
And K and Lus, I'll see you VERY VERY SOON - can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!! Love you 4!
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, November 1, 2006 8:39 AM CST
K- I would love to see you guys when you are in town, even if it is only for a few minutes. Please give me a call when you get in. The pictures of the girls are great! The weather hear was perfect last night and the boys had a great time. Hope to catch up with you soon
Robyn <rphop@aol.com>
South Riding, va - Wednesday, November 1, 2006 6:52 AM CST
Hello all,
I'm "heading home" tomorrow... SO MUCH FUN TONIGHT AT THE TRICK OR TREATING 'EVENT'...What wonderful moments we have shared..
My heart is full as I leave tomorrow..but I know it will only be a short time UNtil I see the CA peeps again.
Love to all..and I will post again from the EAST COAST...or it is the riGHT COAST??
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, November 1, 2006 0:33 AM CST
Happy Halloween everyone! Hope all the trick or treaters get more treats than tricks! I am manning the front door while Jack is out with the Cowgirl and Darth Vader!! There haven't been many visitors this year and I am glad that I did not go overboard on the candy because the good Lord knows I don't need any extra of that hanging around the house : )
Glad to hear that the removal of Ally's cast went smoothly and can't wait to see pictures of her other new foot!
Safe travels to Teetay as she heads back to the east coast!
Have a great evening!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Tuesday, October 31, 2006 5:50 PM CST
Hi everyone!
Allyson is CAST-FREE!! Whahooooo!!! This cast was a "wrapped cast" so it was easier to get off than the first one! Other than Ally's leg being pretty dry and scaley she is "up and running" with a shoe on the foot matching the other one! She will experience her first BATHTUB BATH tonight and she will surely love it after three weeks of "sponging off"...!!!
We spent the weekend doing Halloween preparations and "around the house" stuff combined with some playtimes with friends for Morgan and Allyson! Tomorrow starts off with a parade at Morgan's school with the whole school in COSTUMES!!! Later in the day Allyson has a parade at her Therapy Center also in COSTUME! Morgan will be Daphne for Trick or Treating, and Ally will be Tinkerbell. They will Trick or Treat with some of their neighborhood friends, so there will be QUITE a PARADE roaming down Pacific Cove! There should be many "photo ops" tomorrow night!
My "time here" ends Wednesday when I fly home to Virginia! It has been a WONDERful time to share with the girls and to know that I was helpful gives me great pleasure. To know that even Mark said the other night how much "more" Allyson is "talking/babbling" in the past three weeks...and then he said, "I knew you could do it, Teetay!" :) (er, uh...you know the ole' communication GENE!!!) Allyson ate cheesy-mashed potatoes for lunch yesterday....and "liked them"...such fun "introducing NEW foods" to her and having her LIKE and ACCEPT them....even if her "acceptance" is not consistent! She is trying new things as has Morgan....we call it "taking a thank you bite"....just to TRY something NEW!!! To be able to "see the world from Kristin's SHOES" certainly keeps me in humble awe of her abilities, her patience, and her dedication to her girls and her family. EVERY SINGLE therapist I've worked with over these past weeks has complimented Kristin to the "maximum"....and they always conclude their accolales with "and Kristin always has a smile on her face." Like I said earlier...I guess I did "teach her to be a mom"...and now she has "taught me"...I am so very proud of Kristin and NOT just because she's my daughter, but because she is a GIFT to her family. Her days are FILLED...they are "long"...and there is very little "Kristin time" in any of them but she presses on with pride and joy!!! (all of this will embarass Kristin, so I'd best STOP!) I am just so very glad I could give both Kristin and Mark the 'peace of mind' to take their big trip and enjoy their time away without worrying! Kristin was lamenting that while on vacation she was "afraid" she might have gained a few pounds....I think they are the "pounds I lost" but I'm NOT complaining!!!
I'm thinking of you all and wishing everyone a happy "UNeventful" Halloween and a beautiful November month ahead!! We have so very much to be thankful for all year long, but it doesn't hurt to express it EXTRA SPECIALLY during the season of THANKSgiving.
With love to all...special thoughts and prayers for Lynn and Danielle will continue.
Terri aka Teetay :)
lovingeveryminuteofmycaliforniatime.com.andgoinghometocoldtempsandwarmfires.com!!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Monday, October 30, 2006 6:57 PM CST
Ally!!! I am thinking of you today with the big REVEAL of your two "new" feet! I am sure you'll be running around in no time, right?!? I hope today's cast removal and trip to CHLA was uneventful for you and Mommy and Teetay. And, just in time for your first "official" Halloween tomorrow night - hooray!
I love the new pics of you gals and of Mommy & Daddy in Hawaii -- I know they had soooooo much fun! I can't wait to see more pics, especially of your various outfits and costumes from the weekend through tomorrow night. TOO CUTE!
Love and hugs and lots of fun spooky stuff to you all in CA! Miss you... but I will see you in 9 little days - YAY!!!!!!! xoxo
Aunt Ash & baby cousin "Lester" <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, October 30, 2006 3:16 PM CST
Greetings to everyone!
My first word here is: "WHEW!!!!"
And a "quick word" to No.1 girl.....you and JIM will continue to be "rock star" parents with any path you choose...believe that! I love you two/three/four/all!!! :)
I was waiting for Kristin to update the journal before I wrote again, but she's been busy RE-entering the world of Morgan and Allyson and "home stuff"....(and then, there's laundry, of course!!) The Hawaii travelers arrived home "in the night" Thursday night. Morgan woke up a half hour 'earlier' Friday morning, tapped my face, and said: "Teetay, let's go SEE if mommie and daddy are home!" So...we slipped quietly into their room to see them! Ah....the JOYS of a "group homecoming hug"...!!!
The "day" began early and was filled with activities ....Kristin continued to tell me it was my "day off"....and I even went to the grocery store AlONE!!! :)
Our weekend is full of karate/gymnastics (and head stands by Morgan for the first time!)....playing "outside" with Ally...(she loves her patio play!)...and this afternoon we are going to a Halloween event at Point Magu. Ally will be Little Red Riding Hood and Morgan is dressing as a "ballerina princess"....(from Karate-tough-girl to ballerina-princess all in one day!)...!!
The temps are near the 80's and the sky is blue. Hope you are experiencing a great weekend with those you love!!
Mark will be pumpkin-carving this weekend!! Can't wait to SEE that!!! Our "Halloween lights" go on every night at DARK...and Morgan and Allyson love seeing them SHINE!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Saturday, October 28, 2006 3:44 PM CDT
Kristin,
How quickly we forget about Holland. Thanks for the reminder!
I love you!
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Saturday, October 28, 2006 11:30 AM CDT
Hello Kristin and Mark. I have found your website through Gracie Ogle's website. From reading the journal entries, I see that you are blessed with very positive attitudes and an amazing little girl. I truly believe that God will heal our babies. I am continually amazed at finding more and more military families that go through challenges with our babies. Your names sound so familiar (my husband is on a plane right now or I would ask him!) that I am sure you know my husband, Jeff. Our oldest son, Tanner, was born with a genetic condition, NF1, and we have used Caringbridge for some time. We will be adding Allyson to our prayer list. Good luck to you. I hope that Tanner and Allyson can meet someday.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/tannerb
Shanda Bearden <skbearden@gmail.com>
Atlanta, GA USA - Friday, October 27, 2006 8:47 AM CDT
Congratulatins Teetay and Welcome Home Kristin and Mark!
I have so enjoyed reading Teetay's updates over the past 10 days and how she has handled all of her duties while Kristin and Mark were gone with such pride, joy, fun, and most importantly LOVE!!! Morgan and Allyson are so fortunate to have you Teetay and I am sure that the past 10 days will be one of their fondest memories. I am sure too that Kristin and Mark feel just as fortunate to have been able to go on vacation knowing that their girls were in the best of care!! YOU ROCK TEETAY and thank you for keeping all of us informed for the past 10 days.
Allyson is making wonderful progress with her eating and that is so EGGsiting to hear! I can just imagine her with her little spoon in her hand! And what wonderful news about Morgan and her reading. You know, Mackenzie seemed to go through a bit of the same thing about reading. She had a remarkable site vocabulary, but seemed hesitant to try and sit down and read a book. I must say though, once she did it once she just soared and now it is amazing to listen to her with the utmost confidence. I love it as I am sure you do as well.
I wanted to share with you Kristin and Mark about another little girl, Gracie Ogle. You may remember Nate and Julie Ogle from Va Beach...Nate was at 120 as an instructor the same time as Mark. Anyway, their daughter Gracie recently had surgery on a tumor in her brain...she just turned 2. She had surgery on Tuesday and seems to be recovering nicely, but there are still many questions to be answered. Nate and Julie have set up a CaringBridge website and I thought I would pass it along to you, as I have also passed Allyson's website along to them. Here is Gracie's website: www.caringbridge.org\visit\Gracie1
I look forward to hearing about the morning celebration in the Kelso house as the girls wake up to Mommy and Daddy being back home!
Love to all,
Dani
Danielle Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Friday, October 27, 2006 8:25 AM CDT
Kristin and Mark-
WELCOME HOME!!!!!!! I can't wait to hear all about your trip and maybe even see pictures when we visit in November....it is just around the corner now!!!!!!!!
Teetay-
Congrats on ALL of your accomplishments in the last 10 days. You should be proud of yourself. Quality time with the grandkids is just ONE of the perks of retirement!!!!
Ally and Morgy-lou-
I am so proud of your both each and every day! I can't wait to give you in-person-MN-hugs. I won't tell Tyler about the "boy of the week." Actually, he probably won't care because girls are YUCKY anyway.
xoxoxoxo
Aimee <snowtomorrow@whereisthesun.com>
EP, MN - Thursday, October 26, 2006 7:05 PM CDT
Kristin and Mark called.
They are "on de' plane"...
I am smiling.
:)
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
andiamnotreadyforahome.yet.com :)!!!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Thursday, October 26, 2006 5:52 PM CDT
I just have to say congr-egg-ulations to Ally with her egg-eating eggstravaganza. A mouthful that's for sure! PUN intended. Way to go Ally. Any kind of eating is a great thing to celebrate. D went through a severe oral aversion so we know all about the eating celebrations. You celebrate the big AND little things to come.
Safe arrivals to Mark and Kristin. Hope their vacation was what they'd hoped for.
-Cat and the gang
Cat, Dave, Bobbi and Lil D <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com >
Honolulu, HI USA - Thursday, October 26, 2006 4:26 PM CDT
WELCOME HOME KRISTIN & MARK!!! Someday you'll get through all your emails and guest book updates and see this ;)
I am so thrilled that you were able to get away - finally! - and have some r & r for yourself. And that Teetay retired just in time for full-on grandmother duties!! And just think, this is only the beginning - again! Yay Teets, for a successful week and lots of fun with the little gals.... I know it was special and I know it was a ton of WORK. Wow, 10 days in Kristin's shoes... I'd probably be in a "home" by the end of it all ;)
Sorry this morning's eating w/ Al was not as spEGGtacular (har har) as the other days, but Al, you are making so much progress EVERY day and Mommy & Daddy will be proud! And I know Morgan is the best big sis ever (oops, second best ;) and her patience, humor, wit, "adult" words and spirit are a gift. I can't wait to hear how Justis likes her bear and costume and ballet steps -- that will be an update for next week, for sure!
KDMK - looking forward to hearing allllll about Hawaii and meeting Cat and well, just hearing your darn voice! Don't leave me ever again!! I missed you!
Love and hugs to you all and WELCOME BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Aunt Ash and a very active Lester... I think he's building something in there... or digging out? Noooo... not yet, little dude! <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, October 26, 2006 3:53 PM CDT
DAY NUMBER 10!!! (but who is "counting"????!!)
I must say that I have loved "almost" every minute of each day!!! Not to say there haven't been a few "glitches" along the way, but none that were insurmountable!!! I think Allyson, Morgan, and I all LEARNED a whole bunch over these past 10 days!!! I know I've learned to "multi-task" so rapidly that I bump into myself!! :) Morgan has learned that "patience" is a virtue and it gets you 'good stuff' in the "end"....and, Allyson...!!!...well, what can I say?? She is learning-a-mile-a-minute as my grandmother used to say! Every experience teaches her "something"...and believe it or not, I think she may be "learning the WORD .....NO!" She doesn't LIKE that word...and she doesn't pay much attention to who is SAYING or SIGNING the word "NO"...but she is hearing it! Allyson is certainly "turning two" and some of her antics demonstrate it beautifully!!! For example...I have gotten very WEARY of replacing all the DVD's into their cases from the shelf that is VERY accessible to Allyson (I would probably place the DVD's on the CEILING at some point!)so instead of ALLOWING this to be her "fun activity" I have told her 'NO' and then re-directed her to something else. She doesn't like "being re-directed" (who does? Especially when you are in the middle of something SO FUN??) and she lets you know it! Sometimes it works better than other times, but she is learning and hearing the word "NO" from me! (I just didn't want anyone to think she is a PERFECT child!!! But, she is...PERFECTLY NORMAL!!! :)!!!)
This morning's breakfast EGG-EGGPERIENCE was not as successful as yesterday's but she did EAT some eggs independently. Nancy, the therapist, was here with us, and I honestly believe that was somewhat of a distraction. Allyson tends to want to "show/do" when Nancy is here as it should be, so her attention to EGGS was not as great! She finally did 'settle' into eating without distraction - the entire "event" took over an hour. The therapists all suggest that we leave out the food for Allyson to come back to ....and some days that will work fine, but when you don't have the HOUR, it won't. This, too, will be a WORK IN PROGRESS and PROGRESS is what we look for each day! And, Ally never lets us down in that category!
Morgan took a stuffed bear and a pink blanket for her SHARING DAY item! She reported that her boyfriend, Justis, (the boy-of-the-week) will just LOVE to HOLD HER BEAR!! She is anxious for the Halloween parade to come next Tuesday when all the classmates wear their costumes to school and PARADE around for the parents!!! TOO CUTE! Can't wait to see them all!!! Morgan plans to wear her "princess ballerina outfit" that MORNING and save her Daphne outfit for Trick or Treating. Besides, she said: " Justis will want to DANCE with me if I am a ballerina and I can do my ballet steps for him." (Hmmmmmmmm.....I wonder if JUSTIS knows what he's in for!!!????)
Speech therapy later today and karate class in the afternoon.....and a NINE P.M. tonight Kristin and Mark arrive in L.A. I expect I will be snoozing by the time they reach HOME! But, we've made "Welcome Home" signs and have a whole plate of DECORATED sugar cookies with their INITIALS on them as a welcome-home-surprise!!! Morgan put everyone's initials on the cookies...but there were several with a "W" on them. I asked her why she put a "W" since there was no one here with that initial? She explained that "W" was for WOMAN and I could have the "W" cookies since I am a WOMAN!!! (glad she noticed!!!)
The WINDS are blowing in some very WARM air today....high winds...no fires near us....and the temps should rise into the 80's over the coming days! That's a good thing for Kristin's and Mark's RE ENTRY to CA from HI!!!
Love to all...
Terri aka Teetay :)
MadeitthroughalltendayswiththegirlsinCA.com!!!!!! :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Thursday, October 26, 2006 1:46 PM CDT
DAY NUMBER 10!!! (but who is "counting"????!!)
I must say that I have loved "almost" every minute of each day!!! Not to say there haven't been a few "glitches" along the way, but none that were insurmountable!!! I think Allyson, Morgan, and I all LEARNED a whole bunch over these past 10 days!!! I know I've learned to "multi-task" so rapidly that I bump into myself!! :) Morgan has learned that "patience" is a virtue and it gets you 'good stuff' in the "end"....and, Allyson...!!!...well, what can I say?? She is learning-a-mile-a-minute as my grandmother used to say! Every experience teaches her "something"...and believe it or not, I think she may be "learning the WORD .....NO!" She doesn't LIKE that word...and she doesn't pay much attention to who is SAYING or SIGNING the word "NO"...but she is hearing it! Allyson is certainly "turning two" and some of her antics demonstrate it beautifully!!! For example...I have gotten very WEARY of replacing all the DVD's into their cases from the shelf that is VERY accessible to Allyson (I would probably place the DVD's on the CEILING at some point!)so instead of ALLOWING this to be her "fun activity" I have told her 'NO' and then re-directed her to something else. She doesn't like "being re-directed" (who does? Especially when you are in the middle of something SO FUN??) and she lets you know it! Sometimes it works better than other times, but she is learning and hearing the word "NO" from me! (I just didn't want anyone to think she is a PERFECT child!!! But, she is...PERFECTLY NORMAL!!! :)!!!)
This morning's breakfast EGG-EGGPERIENCE was not as successful as yesterday's but she did EAT some eggs independently. Nancy, the therapist, was here with us, and I honestly believe that was somewhat of a distraction. Allyson tends to want to "show/do" when Nancy is here as it should be, so her attention to EGGS was not as great! She finally did 'settle' into eating without distraction - the entire "event" took over an hour. The therapists all suggest that we leave out the food for Allyson to come back to ....and some days that will work fine, but when you don't have the HOUR, it won't. This, too, will be a WORK IN PROGRESS and PROGRESS is what we look for each day! And, Ally never lets us down in that category!
Morgan took a stuffed bear and a pink blanket for her SHARING DAY item! She reported that her boyfriend, Justis, (the boy-of-the-week) will just LOVE to HOLD HER BEAR!! She is anxious for the Halloween parade to come next Tuesday when all the classmates wear their costumes to school and PARADE around for the parents!!! TOO CUTE! Can't wait to see them all!!! Morgan plans to wear her "princess ballerina outfit" that MORNING and save her Daphne outfit for Trick or Treating. Besides, she said: " Justis will want to DANCE with me if I am a ballerina and I can do my ballet steps for him." (Hmmmmmmmm.....I wonder if JUSTIS knows what he's in for!!!????)
Speech therapy later today and karate class in the afternoon.....and a NINE P.M. tonight Kristin and Mark arrive in L.A. I expect I will be snoozing by the time they reach HOME! But, we've made "Welcome Home" signs and have a whole plate of DECORATED sugar cookies with their INITIALS on them as a welcome-home-surprise!!! Morgan put everyone's initials on the cookies...but there were several with a "W" on them. I asked her why she put a "W" since there was no one here with that initial? She explained that "W" was for WOMAN and I could have the "W" cookies since I am a WOMAN!!! (glad she noticed!!!)
The WINDS are blowing in some very WARM air today....high winds...no fires near us....and the temps should rise into the 80's over the coming days! That's a good thing for Kristin's and Mark's RE ENTRY to CA from HI!!!
Love to all...
Terri aka Teetay :)
MadeitthroughalltendayswiththegirlsinCA.com!!!!!! :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Thursday, October 26, 2006 1:44 PM CDT
Good evening everyone!
Well..."perhaps" there was ONE more MONUMENTAL thing that happened today! When Morgan got home from school today I "suggested" that she begin READING her "easy reader books" and when she successfully completed one of them she could place a STICKER on the inside cover! She has never read a "whole book" on her own even though her schoolwork reflects quite an extensive SIGHT vocabulary as also noted in her "flash card work"...!! She grasped the "idea" of READING with OPEN ARMS (eyes and brain, too!) and began reading...she's now successfully COMPLETED THREE BOOKS (there are two sets amounting to nearly 40 books!) and has THREE STICKERS! She read them OVER and OVER to me...and her only "confusion" came with the words "is" and "has" (normal confusion!)...and the word "lost" stumped her momentarily! But, she was "all over FOG, SOB, DOG, RAP, NAP, TAN, FAST" ...and etc!! Etc!!! ETC!!! :) :) :)!!
We had to take a break from reading to make more sugar cookies to DECORATE for Kristin and Mark who return HOME tomorrow night!!! Since we have "time" this afternoon (ballet is OFF this week) this is our ACTIVITY!! Morgan will begin the decorations on the cookies momentarily and then get back to READING!!!
So.....even though it is a normal transition to BEGIN READING when you have a sight word vocabulary, I'm terribly proud of her this afternoon!!! Drum roll for Morgan!!
Allyson continued to do well with her 'eating' at lunch.....she did not eat an ENTIRE meal "all by herself" but she continues to HOLD the spoon and aim for her mouth losing only bits and pieces as the spoon travels to her mouth! Jan Dee and Nancy, (therapist and interventionist ) were here to WITNESS Ally's eating pleasure! AND...I have PICTURES of the 'egg eating Allyson' from this morning!! (just in case KRistin and Mark doubt me!!)
:)
The days of "my solo Teetay duties" are winding down - and Friday we will ALL be here together!! I think I will take a long stroll along the beach! The Santa Ana winds will be blowing in very WARM temps in the coming days!
Hope all is well in your part of the world!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, October 25, 2006 7:11 PM CDT
WOO HOO! Go Al go! See, most people take eating eggs for granted but as you have taught us, there will be many victories in your everyday life and I am thrilled with your progress! Keep it up so you can show off your stuff to Mommy and Daddy (and way to go, Teets!) when they get home this week.
YAAAAAAAYYYYY for Ally! You make us appreciate all the wonderful gifts and small and large accomplishments in life - THANK YOU! Now, keep it up little Pal so we can get you off that gosh-darn feeding tube someday! :))
I LOVE YOU!
a very proud Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, October 25, 2006 1:29 PM CDT
Hallelujah! Praises! WHAHOOOOOOO!! "Drum roll, please...."
IF nothing else happens that is MONUMENTAL today I want to MENTION that Allyson has just completed a BOWL of SCRAMBLED EGGS sitting a the little table and eating with a spoon ALL BY HERSELF! (yes, some on her..some on the floor, but she continuously ATE for over 20 minutes....)
The eggs slowly disappeared!! This is her FIRST "steady" eating alone! Don't know if it is the BEGINNING of something GREAT or not, but it is a START!!! She took "breaks" and walked around clutching her sppon...she is currently coloring with a crayon in ONE hand and her SPOON is still in the other!!!
APPLAUSE for Ally on this great day! I did take PICTURES "just in case" nobody believes me!!! :)
Love to all...pressing on with this beautiful Wednesday!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, October 25, 2006 11:35 AM CDT
Hmmm.... Aren't Ally & Teetay quite the little Lester shoppers this past week!?!? He loves it! :) Thanks in advance -- of course you're already doing TOO much, Teetay!! Or is it Ally who is coaxing you into all these clothes and items? I think she must be excited to have a little cousin to boss around so she's not the "little one" anymore. Oh boy!
Glad to hear K&M are having a FABULOUS time - can't wait to see pics and hear alllll about it! I have missed talking to mi hermana everyday - so weird! Come back! :)
Lots of love and hugs to rock-star Grand-Teetay and those super sweet nieces -- sounds like you gals are having a blast!
Al-Pal - as always, so proud to hear of all your accomplishments and moves and FOODS and how great you are progressing - hooray!
xoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, October 25, 2006 9:41 AM CDT
Hi all,
Thanks so much for your CONSTANT emails relative to the "10 DAYS" of Kristin and Mark being IN HAWAII!!
Today was another "wonderful"....I "was the parent volunteer chaperone" for the PUMPKIN PATCH field trip for MOrgan's school!! We were on an early ROLL this morning and Allyson cooperated BEAUTIFULLY!! Sometimes Ally does not LIKE putting on her diaper, but today she was GOLDEN!!
The PUMPKIN PATCH was VERY educational....all sorts of pumpkins were shown to the five year old KINDERGARTENERS and they listened very "attentively" most of the time. Morgan asked the MOST questions...like, well, er, uh..."Why is the BARN there?" When the guide said to her, "That is WHERE they built it." Morgan replied, "Well...it should be CLOSER to the horses!" (I guess she was THINKING!)
Allyson had therapy this morning with Nancy at 8 A.M. and she did so many things...crawling through her TUNNEL as well as using small motor skills! Nancy is a delight! I brought her a STARbucks coffee and she was soooo happy....she has such "sweet sounds " in her voice that ALLY loves her! I told Nancy that she "sounded" like "us"...KRistin, Aunt Ashli, Teetay and Grandma K!! We all have "that sound" in our voices!!
The PUMPKIN PATCH..."again"....EVERY child brought HOME a little pumpkin!! Morgan was very particular in her "pickings"....it was fun to watch her and "the boys" interact on the trip/bus etc.....she is certainly a very "popular" girl and I will being my "Teetay lessons" on BEING PRETTY INSIDE and OUT !!!
After the field trip, I had about TWO hours before picking up Morgan for karate..so I "treated" myself to an IN AND OUT BURGER (Californians "so" know this place..if you do not,NO WORRIES, as you do not KNOW what you are missing!)...then some shopping for "Lester"..and finally a grocery-store "run" for SPECIAL items!! (I AM 'loving' BOY clothes!! )
All in all..a VERY FUN DAY!!
Talked to KRistin and Mark...they are so glad the "girls" are BEING GOOD for me! Somehow, I'm not surprised....they've put this "kid train" into motion! Thank YOU Kristin and Mark!!
Love to all of you,
Terri aka Teetay:)
LOVINGTHEGIRLSINCA.com :)!!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, October 25, 2006 1:14 AM CDT
Greetings to all!
A pretty typical "Monday"....school drop off...STARbucks...and Allyson and I hit the "mall playground" early this morning so that the cleaning ladies could do their "magic"....ALLY LOVED HAVING THE PLAYGROUND all to herself!
First...we had "breakfast"...she had vegetables while I ate a pumpkin muffin and topped it off with my frappucino!! Allyson LOVED climbing on the "inside toys".....!! When she appeared to be tired, we "strolled" the mall and did a bit of "Lester shopping"...!!
Once home...the cleaning ladies were 'about done' ("Maria...you would have been proud of them!! I was!! They ROCK!! They "clean and shine" and REarrange a LOT...but that's okay...they CLEAN AND SHINE WELL!).....and Allyson was down for her morning nap! That did not last long! UP, UP, and AWAY! We were OUTSIDE on the patio playing for a VERY long time!!
Morgan was able to play at Isabella's house this afternoon...she was THRILLED!! Six o'clock was the TIME to be "home"....so Ally and I went to pick her up. In between I talked with Kristin who was on the BEACH so I got to "hear the air".....(what a wonderful thing cell phones really are....she's on the beach..I am NOT..and we are chatting "like next door"...WOW!)
Allyson and I picked up Morgan 'across the street' and we stayed outside playing for awhile...dinner was a "bit" late, but both girls were hungry!
I want to ANNOUNCE that "Miss Allyson" now GRABS the spoon out of the feeder's hand (that would be me!) and begins to FEED herself JUBILANTLY for about 10 -12 "bites"....yes...it is messy, but the food is going "in" and SHE IS SO PROUD!!! Hopefully, this is the BEGINNING OF HER REALLY FEEDING HERSELF .....FOR REAL!!!
Night duties were 'usual'...and everyone is SLEEPING now!
Tomorrow is the PUMPKIN PATCH field trip...Connie, the nurse, will take care of Allyson...we have therapy at 8:30 AM....then I go BACK to MOrgan's school for the field trip to the PUMPKIN PATCH....Morgan is soooo excited!! Allyson will be fine with Connie, the nurse, who loves her very much. Hopefully, she doesn't "call me mid-pumpkin" to come HOME like last Friday! (I am SO TRYING TO HAVE A FREE DAY! HA).....
In the afternoon, there is karate....Allyson and I will take Sister Morgan to class and "hang around" while she "kias" and "kicks" and "rolls" and "shouts"....SHE absolutely LOVES karate. I can SEE it!
No new "words" today...just lots of "spoon holding" from Ally and PLACING it right in her mouth.."messy"...but ACCURATE!!
Thinking of you all....I "sleep well" at NIGHT...and the DAYS are LONG...but I wouldn't trade them for the entire universe! What treasures these little girls are to me!!
Please continue to think of Danielle and Lynn N......they are working hard to find/regain/good health.....
Love to all..
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Monday, October 23, 2006 11:43 PM CDT
Teetay-
Yes, I WAS laughing when you commented on Ally speaking. What really made me laugh was thinking that no matter when or how her vocabulary develops, she WILL WRITE like a MATUS :):)
It sounds like you are having a great time with the girls and taking things "as they come" to you. I can't wait to hang out with all of them (especially my best bud) in about a month now!!
Hugs to all!!!
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Monday, October 23, 2006 6:46 AM CDT
Cat...wish I had been a "fly on the wall"....
I KNOW our paths will cross someday..and IF/when you might be at Dover AFB, you are "just up the road" from us!
WE WILL MEET!
Love,
Terri/Teetay :)
Thanks for posting..I know it was a "good meet"....
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Sunday, October 22, 2006 11:31 PM CDT
We made contact and met up with Kristin and Mark. I'm sure they'll tell you what they thought of Darren. Not sure, but I think Bobbi was quite the entertainer too. =)
We chatted poolside and swam and enjoyed their company for about 1.5 hours before they headed out for dinner. Sounds like they're really enjoying their vacation time here. Gave them some pointers on the locale sights to see (i.e.: north shore, and luau's).
Teetay, I think you already know how blessed they are to have you there watching the girls. I can honestly say that I know that they are grateful just from our short visit with them.
Sorry I posted this this evening, as I everytime I've tried getting on here, I get interrupted from kids, husband and/or neighbors. Headed off to a bbq now, but wanted to share. It was great meeting them, and hopefully we'll meet the girls and the "rest" of the family at one of the Ally Rally's in the future. You can count on that if we end up in Delaware next year! (Dover AFB).
Thanks to Kristin and Mark for meeting up during their trip. It's great to know that we're not "alone" in all of this. =)
-Cat and the gang
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Sunday, October 22, 2006 11:08 PM CDT
DAY SIX!! A glorious day!!! The 'best part' was that it started out with an ELONGATED time in our pajamas this morning!! Leisurely breakfast....playtime...and "plans" for the day! I asked Morgan what she wanted to 'do'...and her immediate reply was: "I haven't been to the Santa Barbara ZOO in a long time!" (actually, I think it has been over a year, but she has been there many times with her parents and both sets of grandparents!) So...I "took the challenge"...!! And, we went! The morning at home was lovely and I got caught up on "house things"...if there is ONE MORE PIECE of laundry lurking in the shadows that is NOT washed I'll let you know!
Allyson cooperated by taking a LONG morning nap, and Morgan and I had our private playtime while she slept! Once on the road about 2 PM the drive up the coastal highway was one for the scrapbooks! Blue water....beautiful surf....mountains on one side...ocean on the other..it IS truly a beautiful drive from Port Hueneme to Santa Barbara! (30 miles)
Once there, Morgan led the way...REMEMBERING every turn to 'see' just the right animals! I think she was disappointed that the otters have been REPLACED or "displaced" by the Chilean penguins....but the LION exhitbit fascinated her as she STOOD right beside the GLASS NEXT to the LION's FACE!! She really could look into his eyes and couldn't believe that Aunt Ashli had actually been CLOSE to a LION without a GLASS!! She thinks Aunt Ashli is very brave!
The afternoon went off without a hitch...Allyson was being fed during part of the afternoon zoo time, so she was content to be IN HER STROLLER...and I'm becoming fairly adept at "hitching her up to the feeding machine/give meds/and etc." OUT IN THE OPEN!!!
This morning...precious words from Morgan to Allyson..
Allyson was "licking" a table decoration of little angels...and Morgan reprimanded her by saying: "Allyson, don't lick the angels....they are praying to God for us." (I nearly died laughing...but I didn't let her know.)
Later...tonight..Allyson was EATING (fabulously, I might add!) and she was SIPPING on her WATER CUP while eating and we were also watching her SIGNING DVD's...the word "WATER" came up...I responded and showed her "water"....and then Allyson responded..and said..."Wah wah".....it was a true Helen Keller 'moment'...!!! :) Kristin had referred to "Helen" a few days ago, so that reference made it even "more so Helen".....Allyson does have a signing vocabulary and her sounds do mimic what is said to her....she does not "clearly" say phrases like: "I love you"...but she does the syllables and the signs....she does "repeat" many sounds in her own way...she's working toward authentic speech and I'm so happy to be part of it.
Can anyone imagine a "girl" with Matus genes NOT speaking????!!!!!(start laughing now!)
After a quickie trip to the grocery store we arrived home by 6 and dinner was pleasant...both Morgan and Allyson are trying "new things"....red beans and rice and raspberries for Morgan...and "chicken sticks" are new for Allyson. What a fun time of life to be sharing these moments...!!!
Like I've said many times..."it doesn't get any better than this."
I'm still wishing "Maria" (aka Grandma Kelso) was here to help me "clean and organize the nooks and crannies" that are filled with "life art" (another word for TOO MUCH STUFF????) but I still have four days to go! Kristin and Mark may never find anything when they get back!!!
NO ACTIVITIES tomorrow...except Allyson and I need to leave the house by 8 so the cleaning ladies can come and do their magic!!'Guess we'll go to the inside playground at the mall and PLAY for a few hours!!!
Thinking of you all....and wishing everyone a GREAT week!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
LovingthesedaysinCA.com!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Sunday, October 22, 2006 10:32 PM CDT
Hi everyone!
Talked to Kristin and Mark from Pineappleland and they are having a ball! They had a surfing lesson and Kristin got "up"...I think that means she was in the "Hang Ten" position! Mark was so proud of her because when she did go down, she came up SMILING! What a great additive to their adventure!!! Whahooooooo!!! This afternoon they were meeting up with Cat and family at the pool!!! I know that "meeting" will be wonderful for all of them after a two year long "email" friendship!
Day 5 has been a bit calmer than day 4! Conjunctivitis-cast-girl is doing well....nothing really stops Allyson!!! We were "up and out" by 8:30 this morning for gymnastics! It was fun to watch Morgan do her flips and cartwheels! Allyson and I hung out at the park while the lesson was going on!! Once home, it was preparation for a birthday party in a park at 11....so we got ready for that event and the girls both enjoyed the activities! Morgan loved the "moon bounce" and Allyson wanted to JOIN her, but there were too many big kids for her to try it....however, Allyson was right in the THICK of the 'baby activities'....an inflatable "ball house"...a tunnel...plenty of balls...and places to RUN!! And, RUN she did!! She completely wore herself out by 2 PM (there had been no nap today) and came to me saying her "night-night" words!!! Her afternoon nap lasted THREE hours! Morgan "relaxed" watching OVER THE HEDGE while I actually sat out on the patio in the SUNSHINE for an hour! ("downtime" felt good!) :)!!!!
Spent the remainder of the afternoon playing outside, talking on the phone to Kristin as did Morgan...Morgan was "swinging and talking" at the same time. Somehow, I fast forwarded "10 years" and saw her as a teenager talking on her "cell phone" - or whatever variety of "cell phones" are present in 10 years!!!
Kristin loved hearing about my "day" yesterday...my "free day"...she was laughing so hard by the time I finished "the day"....!! She "felt my pain" and had "no sympathy" for me!!~
Thinking of you all...and I hope you will continue to keep Lynn Newman and our friend, Danielle, in your prayers. Both are fighting "good fights" to get healthy and your prayers will help them!!!
Love to all....
Tomorrow is day 6....and there are NO PLANNED ACTIVITIES. (am I smiling???) But...Morgan is already saying.."What shall we do tomorrow, Teetay? We have the WhOLE DAY!" I imagine the Farmer's Market may be part of our day...such a lovely place to relax!
Hope you are having a beautiful fall weekend wherever you are...and I'm so glad Kristin and Mark are "hanging ten" in Pineappleland!!!
And...my mosquito bite is but a mere memory....and our "flu shots" have not even been noticed. Morgan said today that "she should have believed me" when I told her it was just a little 'stick' in the arm. Ahhhhhh....such drama from that little one, but yesterday it was REAL FEAR!! Glad it is over...the Snoopy bandaids are gone...and our ARMS are JUST FINE!!!
Love,
Terri aka Teetay aka THREEtay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Saturday, October 21, 2006 10:29 PM CDT
Hi everyone!
Day 3 was "just fine"...it is just that DAY 4 "took over" and NOW I cannot remember all the tiny details!! Allyson did have her speech therapist come yesterday afternoon, and she cooperated beautifully!! We'd been working on "buh" sounds...and she did well during her session!
Today was "to be" my "free six hours" since Connie, the respite nurse, was to be here. The day started off normally, and I was proud that in 75 minutes...yes, 75 minutes, I was up/showered/two children up/dressed/breakfast/drove to school/stopped at Starbucks (my best friends - I get FREE coffee out here !) and to Allyson's local therapy center by 9 A.M. Allyson LOVED all the activites Simone and Rebecca did with her, but they admittedly are perplexed as to 'what to do next' as she is doing so very well with mobility, climbing, etc...their goal several months ago was to have her CLIMB STAIRS on FOOT.Well, she does that with a CAST on! Rebecca thought the "crushed ice idea" while Allyson is eating orally was a great one....moisture, water, mobility, pausing to 'drink' while eating...etc.!!! I was happy to hear that!
So, "home we go"...and I know that at 11 A.M. CONNIE is COMING! And "the plan" was for me to do some errands, mail packages (Yes, Aimee, the Tyler package is coming...guess what the address was?? Bren Mar? The girl must have dosed off while addressing!)...and pick up Morgan early to take her to Chuck E. Cheese. (you know what a fan she is and her mother hates the place, so "I'm it"...!!) THAT WAS THE PLAN!!!
When I arrived home, I had a message that "Michael" would be coming by for me to sign some papers to continue the RESPITE care ...etc.etc.etc.!! (I have power of attorney to SIGN THINGS!) So, Michael appeared at the door at 10:55 A.M. with a BUNCH of PAPERS and he announced that "it would take hours" for me to sign them all. I assured Michael that I really wanted to sign them, and that I could write REALLY fast...and that "by the way" ...I have an appt. at 11:30!(girls have to do nails, you know!)...Michael didn't budge, but settled into his 'work' at the dining room table and I started signing papers. Connie arrived..brief "hello"...ER, uh, Connie, would you please put Allyson down for her nap? I have to sign these papers! Certainly, Connie says...
I continue signing...Michael said to me.."Go to your appt...I will be here for a couple of hours!" (sigh)
So, I left for my appt. only to have the nurse/babysitter call and 'remind' me to bring the carseat back home so she could take Allyson "somewhere in the car" in the afternoon....so I returned HOME to learn that "Michael" had, in fact, been there for TWO hours! 'Not sure if he was waiting for me to return or not....
So, CARSEAT transferred to Connie and I was "on my way again".....went to KMart to buy "Over the HEdge".. but the computers were DOWN so no one could buy anything..."ahhhh.....another wasted 20 minutes"....(are you starting to see how FREE my day was???)
Driving to MOrgan's school to get her for the big Chuckie outing...my cell phone rings...it is Connie...REPORTING that Allyson is awake and her left eye is 'reddish'....(she's been fighting a bit of a cold)....and that I should probably get her a doctor's appt. TODAY!!! (this is when I say to myself: "Kristin , THIS IS YOUR LIFE!")
So, I called Dr. Huang's office...got an appt. RIGHT AWAY...picked up MOrgan and "had to explain the change in Chuckie plans" (she was admirable, I might add!)....drove HOME, picked up Allyson, hooked her up to her afternoon feeding while en route...checked out her eye....observed that it was conjunctivitis...(I am not a doctor, but I've been a mom a long time and a teacher for longer...)
And, YES, it was conjunctivitis! Upon arrival at Dr. H's office, we were whISKED right into an examining room so that Allyson would not have to be around sick children. Dr. H. has always made this available to KRistin! What an angel he is!
Dr.H. confirmed conjunctivitis...and SUGGESTED 'while we were there' we should get Allyson's and MOrgan's and MY flu shot! He also went onto say that Morgan's and mine would be FREE....and Allyson's is 'covered'...(the man is such a giver...the Hippocratic OATH should have HIS name all over it!)....so, I said "Sure, flu shots a go!"
NOT SO SUDDENLY, Morgan was glued to my body screaming and screaming MORE as if I had just determined she should walk the gangplank or put her head in a guillotine.....I've never seen her so hysterical. I WENT FIRST. I said, "Ouch..." She screamed so loud, Dr. Huang gave her FIVE BALLOONS BEFORE her shot began!!! She was "next"...the nurse asked me AGAIN if she should proceed...."Of course, I said...." I had explained the reason for the shot to MOrgan during her rampage.....
And, WHALAH! Once the "dreaded" needle went into her arm, she started laughing and saying "It didn't hurt...why didn't you tell me?" (Ah.....to be "five" again!) The hysterics were REAL -not "drama"....
Allyson had her shot and slightly "whined" for about a nano second!!!
(and this is the fREE day!) :)!!!
After shot-time, we trekked to Chuckie Cheese's place anyway!! Had fun..Had pizza....HAD ENOUGH!! :)
HOME again....Allyson was "all happy"....Snoopy bandaid and all....we baked sugar cookies and decorated them....watching OVER THE HEDGE....'waiting' for bedtime!
Tomorrow is another day..'says Scarlett'...
And, by the way, I have a mosquito bite on my ankle.
Love to all,
:)
Terri aka Teetay :)
I can hardly wait for DAY 5!!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Friday, October 20, 2006 11:05 PM CDT
Day 3 is a blur...and DAY 4 is "on the way"...still in progress...and boy, is it a humdinger??
More later...baking sugar cookies right now that need to be decorated in a few minutes. (who knew I could cook??)
Love to all...
Terri aka Teetay :)
Andyesicandoboyswhenthefebruaryboychildentersourworld.com :)!!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Friday, October 20, 2006 9:46 PM CDT
Funny that you brought that up Ashli. =) I was just going to post on here briefly.
I haven't made "contact" with her yet, but she called yesterday while I was outside with the kiddies having some outdoor fun with neighbors. They were out for the evening so I didn't get to call back until this morning. Left voicemail.
We'll be down at the Hale Koa tomorrow to swim for the afternoon/early evening, as Dave says he wants to "hit up" the pool there. We usually go once a month and we haven't been for October yet. So perchance a meetup tomorrow. Hope to chat w/ her sometime today.
Sounds like Teetay is keeping busy with the girls. I just hope that D is on good behavior and not the wild child that he CAN be. Yikes! ;)
-Cat
Cat and clan <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Friday, October 20, 2006 3:56 PM CDT
Hi gang! So Al, how's the week thus far with Teetay? I know it's spectacular!!! You're in pretty good hands, huh? Think she can take on a BOY someday? I know you and Morgy-lu are breaking her in real good over the last 5+ years as Grant Teetay.... not to mention nearly 35 years of raising her own two girls ;) Ok, that's quite an impressive resume she has (and Geep too) so I think Lester will be just fine with them --- they've passed the test. But gee, what the heck will we do with a BOY?!?? :) Cousin "Lester" (NO - NOT HIS REAL NAME, PEOPLE!) is soooo anxious to meet you and throwing punches left and right everyday, just eager to get strong and get out in the world to play, love and be silly with you. I can't WAIT for that day!!!
Love you little gals and Teetay out in CA... and thinking of your mommy & daddy every day as they enjoy their super special getaway in Pineapple Land. Gee, I wonder if they got to meet Cat and Darren (Bobbi and Dave, too) yet?!?!
Back to work... keep being good and smart and funny for Teetay. She rocks, doesn't she?? LOVE & HUGS!! xoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, October 20, 2006 12:30 AM CDT
Hi gang! So Al, how's the week thus far with Teetay? I know it's spectacular!!! You're in pretty good hands, huh? Think she can take on a BOY someday? I know you and Morgy-lu are breaking her in real good over the last 5+ years as Grant Teetay.... not to mention nearly 35 years of raising her own two girls ;) Ok, that's quite an impressive resume she has (and Geep too) so I think Lester will be just fine with them --- they've passed the test. But gee, what the heck will we do with a BOY?!?? :) Cousin "Lester" (NO - NOT HIS REAL NAME, PEOPLE!) is soooo anxious to meet you and throwing punches left and right everyday, just eager to get strong and get out in the world to play, love and be silly with you. I can't WAIT for that day!!!
Love you little gals and Teetay out in CA... and thinking of your mommy & daddy every day as they enjoy their super special getaway in Pineapple Land. Gee, I wonder if they got to meet Cat and Darren (Bobbi and Dave, too) yet?!?!
Back to work... keep being good and smart and funny for Teetay. She rocks, doesn't she?? LOVE & HUGS!! xoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, October 20, 2006 12:30 AM CDT
Day two "solo" is going well!!
Allyson has eaten THREE HUGE meals today. A milestone of sorts! She has also eaten a "toddler type vienna sausage" (chicken stick) and loved it!! I am so proud of her!
Allyson played on her "patio playground" today and was not afraid of the "slide"...the other day she was "hesitant" to go DOWN...today...NO PROBLEM!! (cast and all!) She had a 7:15 bedtime tonight..last night it was 7 PM...I may be changing the whole schedule for Kristin and Mark...they cannot help but be HAPPY about it as it gives them more "night time" for themselves!!!
Morgan had ballet...and "drum roll"...she will be performing in the PARK on November 4th...!! Whahoo!! And, the Nutcracker performance is in December...I cannot wait. She will not be "Clara" but hopes to be a FLOWER! When she is "older" ...(says she) then, she might be CLARA!!! MOST OF ALL..and I quote: " Teetay, I really want to be a circus girl and hang upside down on a trapeze!"
Well...everyone has GOALS!! Right??
Allyson was a delight today...we played outside on the patio...we looked at flashcards....she ate so BIG....we "jumped rope"...we watered the flowers ...(NO, the cast is not wet!)....she was swinging in her swing...(and it hurts to detach her from the plastic grips!)....we played blocks over and over and over...and we "signed" many, many words! What an amazing little girl she is! (I am not prejudiced!)...
Morgan read the Velveteen Rabbit tonight before bed with her CD....she cuddled her "rabbit" while reading it!!! She is a 'tired girl' at night with all her activities!!! (me too!)
Thinking of you all and hoping that you are remembering Lynn Newman and our friend, Danielle, as they continue to walk the UPHILL walk !! Thanks for caring about them!
Love to all on DAY 2...tomorrow is a BIGGIE...I have to almost set my watch to keep up with ThURSdAY!! ( including garbage) No wonder Kristin finds it hard to schedule a 'bathroom time'....I TOTALLY understand it...and I admire her even more than EVER!!! Such dedication!!
Thinking of you all,
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, October 18, 2006 11:51 PM CDT
Day "ONE" solo-Teetay is surviving well! :)!!!
Only one "exploded feeding bag" this A.M. (where did that come from???)....but it was "fixed" in seconds....SOLUTION: NEW feeding bag!!! Then, upon opening a high cabinet door to get out a "juice" box for Morgan down came an AVANLANCHE of "plastic forks/knives/spoons" upon my head! Then....walking to the CAR the KEYRING fell apart! "No worries"...>NO KEYS WERE LOST!! These FUNNY things have kept me smiling all day long!!
While eating her lunch of green beans and banana pudding today, Allyson said as CLEARLY as I've ever heard...."bottle"....it sort of came out like "bot-ba" but it was CLEARLY the BOTTLE she was naming as she "fed her baby" while I fed her!!! I think this is a brand new WORD and we've surely been working on "b and buh" sounds lately!!! Allyson had a great session with her interventionst, Nancy, this morning, and Nancy takes so much pride in Ally's accomplishments. She plays with large brick-blocks building houses and knocking them down (the fun part!) and she maintained attention with her PEGS placing them one on top of the other for over SIX minutes - - - a VERY long attention span for that activity!
Morgan's karate class is in a few minutes and she has already completed her pages of HOMEWORK - both written letters and numbers! Her work is excellent and she's into the "groove" on HOMEWORK..."no T.V. - no music - - just homework"...! She's cooperating beautifully!!
Hope everyone is having a great day! Kristin and Mark should be sipping their second "mai tai" by this time and soaking up some Pineapple Land sunshine! I'm so very happy they have this opportunity to enjoy this trip!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Tuesday, October 17, 2006 6:09 PM CDT
Hey Ally!
Glad to hear everything is going well! Keep up the great recovery!
Have fun in Hawaii, Kristin and Mark!!!!
You are always in our prayers.
I found this quote and thought it was a good one to share:
"Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
-Muriel Strode
Have a great week!
*Lizzy Knippler* (Christina's little sis) <lizzywiz18@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA USA - Tuesday, October 17, 2006 4:55 PM CDT
Power is restored finally. Yeah! Safe flying to the two of you. Hope to meet you both while you're here taking in some sunny rays. =)
-Cat
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Tuesday, October 17, 2006 3:46 PM CDT
YAY!!! RAAAAAYYY! :) So thrilled that a silly little E-quake (ha!) isn't getting in the way of your trip, K&M! I wish you safe travels, many cocktails, lots of sleep and sun by the pool, lots of sleep in general ;) happy surfing and just a much-deserved week of R & R! I love you and I'll be thinking of you! HAVE A BLAST!!!!!!!!!!
xoxo
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, October 16, 2006 4:30 PM CDT
YES! Kristin and Mark are GOING TO HAWAII! 'Called the hotel this A.M. and "all is fine".....power is "on"....and right now LAX flights are leaving on time!!!
:)!!! Nothing like a "little quake" will stop this trip!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Monday, October 16, 2006 1:38 PM CDT
Greetings to all! And, HAPPY Sunday!!
I can "identify" with Anna-bo-banna's story of two little boys waking her up! I only had ONE FIVE YEAR OLD MORGAN 'waking me up' this morning....with cheerful words of "Open your eyes, Teetay!" ...(pause and stepping over me to look out the window)..."Oooohhhh....it looks like a cloudy day!"....(more pause....less stepping!) "What should we do today? We can have fun even in the clouds!" What a GREAT attitude! So, "cloudy day or not" we are about to go strolling at the Channel Islands Farmer's Market...it is sort of a "Sunday morning ritual" for all the Kelso houseguests! The vendors bring exquisite fruits and vegetables --- music plays....various ethnic foods are served via kiosks ....and the view of the Channel Islands harbour and all the magnificent boats make is a lovely place to 'be'...!!!
Allyson has continued to do very well this week....a bit of a sniffly nose for a couple of days, but it hasn't grown into anything significant thus far. We travel to L.A. tomorrow for her post-op appt. with Dr. K to see how her foot is progressing! From all observations, she is a "baby with a cast on her foot" and that's about IT!!! It hasn't slowed her down one bit! She is pretty much back on schedule as we are "upping" her dosage of Resource (milk) each day until she gets back to full volume. By mid week NEXT week, she should be "back" on track! Her oral feedings are sometimes in the GOOD catgory - sometimes, just average, but she does show "interest" in EATING orally most of the time. Kristin pureed some sweet peas the other night and she accepted them "sort of" but stil spit out the "tiny shells that were left" in the process! Was it the "shells" or the "peas"???? WHO KNOWS?!! Allyson LOVES ICE so wherever there is an ICECUBE around we crush it up for her. She did participate in eating some scrambled eggs this morning along with the rest of us!! MMMMMMMMMmmmmmmmmmm.......GOOD!!
There are too many things to mention that she is learning NEW each day...yesterday, for starters....Allyson was putting her shapes into her puzzle box...after doing the circles, squares, hexagons, and triangles SUCCESSFULLY several times, she grinned at me...took the TOP of the PUZZLE BOX off, and DUMPED them all in at once...as if to say: "Now, that's much EASIER, Teetay!" (guess she's outgrown that puzzle???)
Kristin has left me with a BIBLE of NOTES and information for EACH day...thank goodness I know how to READ!!! :) I've asked her every possible "what if" question in the book! She's left me many phone numbers of friends and neighbors and therapists and doctors...I told her this morning that I was going to throw a BIG PARTY and call all my 'new friends' while she was away!!! (yeah...I'll do that on my FREE day, right????!! That's next Sunday in case anyone wants to the calendar!...FREE DAY? You want to know what that means??? NO ACTIVITES on that one DAY!!! WHAHOOOOOO!!)
Ashli and "Lester" went shopping this weekend. Tommie was out of town at a Penn State game and "while the cat's away"....the Ashli went BABY BOY SHOPPING!!! She's decided on some very snazzy color schemes for Lester's room!!! And, she was excited to get our box of "BABY BOY BLUE" (Little Boy Blue??) stuff that Kristin and I ran out and bought the VERY MINUTE WE FOUND OUT THAT LESTER WAS LESTER!!! :) There are exciting times ahead!!
Please say a special prayer for our good friend, Danielle...she's going through some very challenging times right now, and she's making excellent progress, but I am sure EXTRA SPECIAL prayers will help her move forward!!
Thinking of you all on this FALL day in California! Yes, there is FALL in California....red/golden leaves are everywhere!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Sunday, October 15, 2006 1:33 PM CDT
Good Sunday morning to all! I was peacefully sleeping this morning and then to little boys came and woke me up at 5 a.m. to tell me that they couldn't sleep anymore.....neither can mama I guess! See what you have to look forward to Ashli! What a great way to wake up though...staring at little innocent eyes! Greg is on an overnight fishing/camping trip and will be back home later this afternoon. None of us can sleep well when daddy is gone! Well, almost...sleeping beauty (Miss Madeline) seems to do just fine sleeping! A train could go right through her room and she would sleep right through it!I was so glad to read that Ally's surgery went well. What a little trooper she is! We will continue to pray for healing on those sweet little feet. Fall has finally arrived in spurts here in Texas. We took the kids to the state fair on Thursday and we were in sweaters and jackets...great fair weather! Then yesterday we were back in shorts by mid- morning! Today we are supposed to get lots of rain! I will say this, I am just relieved that the really hot temps are gone and that our electric bill no longer resembles a very high car payment! Hooray for opening windows! Kristin, thanks for keeping us all posted on Ally's progress. She certainly has come a very long way in 2years. I am sure that you and Mark are so very proud of her. You are a great mommy, too! Halloween hugs to Miss Ally and the Cali crew.....Anna
Anna Rainwater <anna.banana3@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, October 15, 2006 7:13 AM CDT
I just HAD to post again today because I am visitor number 71,000!!!!!!!!!!!!! That is totally amazing (especially is such a relatively short time)! Love the new pictures of the kissing kiddos with their daddy.
I hope you are all having a wonderful weekend. We did the usual Saturday stuff so far - house cleaning, laundry, etc. Tonight Tyler gets to go to his favorite restaurant for his birthday dinner - Benihanans Japanese Steakhouse. Yum Yum! Tomorrow afternoon it will be swimming lessons and then his bowling party.
Have a great day where ever you are!
xoxoxoxox
Aimee, Jim and Tyler <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Saturday, October 14, 2006 1:01 PM CDT
Well, another "Boy George" is going to be joining the world (I bet you could have waited forever to be reminded of THAT boy George). I loved Ashli's recreation of "Look Who's Talking" in the guestbook as well. You've just got to appreciate her imagination!
Ally looks none the worse for all of her medical procedures. What a brave,delightful little girl. I think she will be ready to take on her new boy cousin next year! Love to all in California, DC, VA, and in utero!
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Friday, October 13, 2006 6:03 PM CDT
Yippee!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I just booked my flight to come see plucky chicken and her peeps. 48 days and counting!
xoxoxoxoxxoxoxoxoxxoxoxoxoxo
Aims <CAsunhereIcome@booMNwinters.com>
EP, Mn - Friday, October 13, 2006 1:21 PM CDT
Greetings from the chilly Northeast! Yes, I believe the cold weather is going to settle in early this year...but I don't mind...I only have a year and a half left to enjoy it!! We are so happy that Ally's surgery went so marvelously. She is an amazing spirit! I can't wait to see her foot when her cast is removed in a few weeks. Sounds like the change in pain meds served her well and I am so glad to hear that both Ally and mom were able to get a decent night's sleep, despite the little interruptions! So glad to know that Teetay is with her CA peeps and there to help with the busy activities of the week. I know how much it means to Kristin to have you there Teetay!! I am sure you are looking forward to the 'FUN' that lies ahead for you next week once you have the girls all to yourself!! Kristin, I am sure you are looking forward to Mark's return and your romantic getaway to HI...a much deserved vacation! Enjoy, relax and have fun!!!
And of course...CONGRATULATIONS to Ashli and Tom on your little boy in the oven!!! How exciting for you Matus girls to have a little boy to add to your family! I can only imagine how excited Geep must be as well. Boys are wonderful...different than our little girls, but still wonderful!!! Can't wait until February to find out 'Lester's' "real" name!!!
Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend...I can't believe it is the middle of October already!! Love to all!!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Thursday, October 12, 2006 7:36 PM CDT
Kristin, and all.....soooooooooooo glad the surgery went well. You are all doing an awesome job with that precious angel. AND excited about Lester!!!! Tuesday is my move to be near my sweet ones. Lots of love to all of you!
"Auntee Char"
Charlotte McKay <crmckay2@aol.com>
Austin, TX USA - Thursday, October 12, 2006 1:15 PM CDT
Greetings from The yost Family in Virginia! Our son Alex was one of Teetay's (Mrs. Matus to us!)students last school year. We will continue to keep Allyson and her family in our thoughts and prayers! We rejoice with you in Allyson's great progress. Love from Chip, Mary Ann and Alex
The Yost Family <maypay@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA usa - Thursday, October 12, 2006 12:58 AM CDT
Greetings to all,
I have to say that it has been a BUSY few days! Allyson is "home" and in FULL SWING with her therapists and classes and activities! She's bearing full weight on the casted-foot and hasn't seemed to skip a beat! Her days have been busy with Nancy, JanDee, and others "learning and doing" new things every single day! I've been pleased with her eating "post surgery" and it is apparent that the meds given her for pain management this time were much kinder to her body! She had a bit of a restless night last night with a few "shout outs" without being fully awake! The "mornings" come early when that occurs! It brings such JOY to watch Allyson learning and interacting in so many different ways over these past few days! Miracles happen every hour or so with another "learned thing" or "observation"...!!! There will be many, many more of these moments over the coming weeks! (did I say WEEKS???!!!)
Morgan has been immersed in "her stuff" this week and I was so proud to watch her "spar" and pass her test in "sparing" this week! She "punched" and "blocked" perfectly and Sensi Jackie was very pleased!! She has her BIG TEST this Saturday where she has to complete many aspects of karate! She was the first to raise her hand with a SAFETY TIP she'd learned this past week as part of her "homework"...it was: "Always let your mother and daddy go through the door first." Ballet was equally exciting as I watched Morgan alongwith 12 other little girls TWIRL across the floor in preparation for their BIG TEST next week! She has THREE pages of HOMEWORK for ballet, too! (wow, this "homework" gig is huge!) Morgan readily "accepts" and "likes" her homework except by her own admission ...."unless I have hard trouble doing it!" Morgan has been a pretty good sleeping partner and I'm starting to get used to her feet in my face by morning's glow!! :)!!!
And.....DRUM ROLL!!!!! WHAT EXCITING NEWS from Ashli and Tom this WEEK!!! LESTER REALLY IS A LESTER! (not 'real name'...!) We are thrilled that the sonogram showed all healthy baby parts and that we are going to experience the WORLD OF BABY BOYS come February!!! HOW much better can it get??? I don't know!!! :)
Kristin continues to be a "marvel mom" and does about a ZILLION things a day! I will certainly have to 'work to keep up her pace' next week once she and Mark are in Big H!!! I'm looking forward to it and hope I don't "mess up"...!!! I have PAGES of notes to keep me straight!
Thinking of you all...and hoping everyone's days are filled with sunshine and happiness. The skies are clear in Southern CA and the warmth is abundant!!!
Love to all....and BIG hugs across the pond to "Lester" and HIS parents!
And, by the way...do you think Kristin and I have already been shopping for Lester??? YOU BET!!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Thursday, October 12, 2006 12:16 AM CDT
Holy cow. Even though I KNEW she was having surgery Monday, in my mind, she was supposedly having it next week. Then it hit me. DOH! You guys would be here, so obviously that was a no brainer... I can't believe I nearly forgot. I LOVE LOVE all the photos, especially of the two playing together.
So glad to hear all is well post-op, and can't wait to see post-op pics of her foot looking brand-spanking new. =)
Re: the doc's initials. That's just too funny. D's two hand surgeons both had a "contest" to see whom could create the most exotic animal on each of D's casts, using leftover plaster. It was hysterical. The end result: a bird and a shark/ray, looking like they were 3-D, and coming off each cast. Aren't these folks awesome?
Congrats on baby Lester!
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Wednesday, October 11, 2006 11:27 PM CDT
What do you mean "ALMOST time for black boots?" I have been wearing my black boots for a week now and about 5 minutes ago we got a mini SNOW storm!!!!!!
Aims <snowforTyler'sbday@unbelievable.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, October 11, 2006 8:02 PM CDT
Aimee! Don't you know... I will pass all the "savings" due to lame boy clothing on to ME :) Yup, always thinkin' or a way for MORE BLACK BOOTS! Ah, and it's almost time for 'em!
xoxo
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, October 11, 2006 4:22 PM CDT
YIPPEE, It's a BOY!!!!!!!!!!!! Jeep must be soooooooo excited! I was emailing Ashli today and telling her about all the fun that boys can bring. The clothes are difinately NOT as cute once they hit about 5 years old but oh the things a girl without brothers can learn............
The trick comes when they turn 5 and 364 days old. Then they start to ask serious questions and if you give an answer that does not sound "real" they continue to question you. The latest from Tyler......."Mommy, what is that pink box under your sink for?" (IE - the Tampon box) It is a good thing my explanation passed the test and it was actually factual on a VERY high level :):):)
Congrats again to Ashli, TG, and LESTER and as always, Ally, we are so proud of you!
xoxoxoxoxo
Aimee <itis34degreestoday@forecastforsnowtomorrow.com>
EP , MN - Wednesday, October 11, 2006 4:11 PM CDT
Hi Ally - I cannot wait to torment you and put your dolls in the dirt and run after you on the beach and well, just be your best friend. I know I will like girls a lot and you and Morgan will be so fun to be a "pain" to and giggle with. I bet Morgan will try to mother us around since she is so proper. I hope she will like all my blue stuff. I think you both will because you're pretty cool cousins (so I hear) -- well, for a bunch of GIRLS. Oh, and I can't wait to eat Geep's bbq because Mommy never did it justice... what up with that ketchup stuff she has ruined it with for years? Mommy needs help. See, this is why Mommy had to go and eat real food like fatty, carb stuff and those hot dogs when she got pregnant. Us BOYS like to eat. Daddy says carb-loading before marathons and hockey games and lacrosse games is good for you. I hope they don't make me run a marathon until after my 3rd birthday. You want to go with me?
You're going to teach me so much about being cool and strong so I am really eager to see you. I hear you're pretty much a cheese-ball too (although I don't know what that means yet) so I bet you'll make me laugh lots. Just try not to put your thumb in my eyes like you like to do until I can defend myself or it might hurt me. I bet my Aunt Kristin will say "no Allyson.. no". Well, I need to get back to sleep and grow some more since I am still pretty little. They say I have 4 more months so until February, I'll just stay put and cook a while longer. I am getting bored though and it's dark in here. Plus, Christmas is coming and I hear that Teetay lady and the butcher Grandpa-Geep really know how to do it up Santa style. Darnit that I will have to wait 10 months for freakin' Christmas next year. Sigh. Gurgle. Oh, and don't tell any one I said "darnit". Or "freakin". Yikes, I am a potty mouth like Daddy already. He and I will learn together, I promise.
Ok, back to sleep.... there's really nothing else to do in here. *Sigh*
I love you.
Cousin Lester, all dressed in BLUE <Iamtoolittletoknowwhatanemailis@boysrock.com>
the womb, Ashli G. Matus-George, Washington DC, - Wednesday, October 11, 2006 4:08 PM CDT
We should all have photos on "happy juice"!! That is the cutest pic ever!!!!!! Loved the new pics and glad Dr. Kay got the RIGHT foot (pun intended)... too funny! And Al, your mommy got it right - YOU TOTALLY ROCK!
Just home from class.. more tomrorow but I had to check in on my PAL :) Love you gals in CA and bro out on the boat! xoxo
Aunt Ash & cousin "Lester"... boy or girl?!?! tomorrow we know!! YAY :) <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, October 10, 2006 9:07 PM CDT
How wonderful it was to get Terri's 'phone call from CA yesterday amidst many friends here to find out that Ally's surgery went so well. She is SUCH a trooper! Happy anniversary to Mark and Kristin - doesn't seem like 11 years, but so much has occurred! Have a wonderful trip - with no worries as the most capable "Teetay" takes care of those beautiful girls. Love, Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA - Tuesday, October 10, 2006 12:02 AM CDT
Greetings to everyone!
Thank YOU "again" so very much for caring about us today.
Our day began about 4 A.M. (actually "earlier" as Allyson decided to do some "shout outs" around 2 A.M. so neither Kristin nor I REALLY went back to sleep "afraid" that we would OVERsleep for our big surgery date!) We traveled to LA to Children's Hospital (surgery no. 6 if anyone is keeping 'count'...Kristin has been there for them all and "all" the in between!)....we arrived before time and the surgery actuallly took place just after 9 A.M. Before entering the surgical suite Allyson pleasured herself with other hospital 'friends' and was the belle of the BALL with her crazy-girl antics SO EARLY in the MORNING! A few times she attempted to EXIT the door...but we did not let her "escape"...!!
Surgery went well as you've read and her arrival in her room was fine...she was a "sleepy girl" but hopefully on this surgical event the meds used to help the pain will be "kinder and gentler" than the heavy-duty morhphine used in August. HOPEFULLY, both she and Kristin will get a decent night's sleep tonight!
I brought Morgan "home" late this afternoon and we literally sailed UP the "101" to Port Hueneme!!! Morgan was asleep in the car before I had exited Sunset Blvd.!! (she was up at 4:45 this morning!) She is sleeping soundly "now" and getting ready to resume school tomorrow, karate, and her regular routine! I will drive to L.A. in the morning to pick up Kristin and Allyson since we are a "one car group" right now...ODDLY enough at 5 A.M. this morning, the "other car" did not START!!! So, "we girls" revamped pretty quickly and traveled together...NOT A PROBLEM...or "no worries as they say DOWN UNDER"....we will "worry about the car-start-problem tomorrow" ..."says Scarlett"....!! :)!!
It was wonderful to speak to Mark today when he called from the SHIP 'somewhere' in the Pacific...but not too far away since he will be HOME this week!!! I know he wanted to be THERE today, but I hope we were able to provide him with the BEST information we had at the time!!! Soooooo good to hear his voice from the big "boat"..!!
It is sleepy-time-big-time tonight...what is JET LAG anyway???!!! Hoping that Kristin and Allyson have an EASY NIGHT and I'm planning on one myself if Morgan doesn't decide to SLEEP SIDEWAYS again tonight!! (she may be flushed to the floor!!! :)
I am certain that Kristin will be updating the site soon, and hopefully you will SEE Allyson's NEW cast with NEW writing all over it! The BEST writing on the cast came from her mother...
"Ally, You are my hero. You rock!"
And, we all know that is the truest statement in the world. This God-loving-child just continues to amaze us with her spirit and her calm....we are grateful for her progress and I am, personally, thankful, to be part of her journey. Her growth as a human being has just begun, but OH what an IMPACT she's made on so very many....
Thank you again for being there for us.
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Monday, October 9, 2006 11:04 PM CDT
Ally,
I just heard the good news, no - make that GREAT news! Rest well tonight, sweet one!
xoxoxoxoxo
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Monday, October 9, 2006 12:57 AM CDT
ALLY!!! I am thinking of you right this second as you have now checked in at CHLA and are awaiting surgery time... huge prayers and thoughts to you today, my little Al-Pal! And hang in there on this looong day (and night), Kristin -- I'll talk with you later!
HUGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love you!
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, October 9, 2006 10:07 AM CDT
Just a quick happy anniversary to you both! Hope your trip is everything and more when you two get here.
Love all the new photos. The girls are too cute!
Cat <potterd-002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, hi usa - Monday, October 9, 2006 4:35 AM CDT
HAPPY ANIVERSARY Kristin and Mark!!!!!!! It is hard to believe that 11 years ago today we were at your rehearsal dinner and the groomsmen made Kristin wear a flight helmet while she was all dreassed up. Yes, I was there!!!!! And, I was a very proud bridesmaid the very next day. I was blessed to be a part of your special day way back then and am even more blessed to have been a part of your lives for such a looooooooooong time (20+ years but who is counting!). I hope Hawaii is everything you hoped for and that you have a wonderful anniversary together!
We just got back from Tyler's karate tournament (the 3rd largest in the country) and I am proud to report that he won 3rd place in the two events he competed in!!!!! He got a bit confused between left and right at one point and we are convinced that if he had not done that he would have taken 1st or 2nd. But - IT'S ALL GOOD! He has 2 new trophies and a medal and he is sound asleep in his bed. Talk about a tired little guy! He looked awesome in his new uniform and Jim and I were so nervous before it was his turn to perform. He had to spar with a girl and after she kicked his butt he replied "I got beat by a girl who is wearing pink sparring gear!" Everyone got a good laugh!
Have a good night whereever you are. Don't let the bed bugs bite!
xoxoxoxo
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Friday, October 6, 2006 9:11 PM CDT
Happy Happy Anniversary Kristin and Mark!
Tomorrow is your 11th...where did those "quick" years go??? I am very PROUD of you both and the way you live and have lived your lives working as a "team" and supporting one another and your beautiful family. You are the "children" that parents WISH for and we are grateful that you are "ours"....I know Grandma and Grandpa K. feel the same way!!! We are so very proud to be part of your lives. Thank you for giving us precious gifts...yourselves, Morgan, and Allyson! We love you very much.
We are wishing you a wonderful "reunion" next week when Mark arrives home...and a FABULOUS get-a-way 'versary trip to Pineapple Land!
We are wishing Allyson the very best "day" Monday when she has surgery no.6. I am so very glad I will be there to do whatever I can - - -and just being with all of you will be a gift! Can't wait to see Allyson's newest antics and hearing her 'words' ...and seeing MOrgan do gymastics, ballet, and karate!!! (and jump her rope...thanks to Grandma K, the jumprope teacher!)
Thinking of you tomorrow on "your day" as we attend Michelle and Dirk's wedding on "your anniversary"....11 years ago the sun was shining brightly, but I'm afraid VA is full of chills and raindrops right now...however, knowing the Beaudrys like we do I am SURE there will be sunshine plentiful throughout the day even if they have to import it!! Congratulations and best wishes to Michelle and Dirk!
And, please continue to pray and have positive thoughts for Lynn N. in Texas.
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
havingmyfirstfireinthefireplacetonightandlovingthechillintheair.com :)!!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Friday, October 6, 2006 5:31 PM CDT
Hi All! Happy Friday and have a great weekend! HAPPY (one day early) ANNIVERSARY TO KRISTIN & MARK!!! I'll be thinking of you on land and sea as I recall 10/7 just a "few" (ELEVEN!!!) years ago :) You both make me so proud to call you my family, and I admire your love, friendship and marriage. You guys truly rock :) I can't wait til you're back together and get to really celebrate (and relax!!) in HAWAII next week. YAY!
As we mark the K&M anniversary, I am off to celebrate all Michelle and Dirk's wedding hoopla this weekend and be a proud bridesmaid - yay! Congrats to them and we'll have a blast despite this yicky, rainy, windy (argh!) chilly weather!!
Hope appts, gymnastics, etc, etc and all the other stuff I am sure you have on your plate this weekend will be good... perhaps a romantic anniversary dinner with Morg and Al? hee hee.
Safe travels to Teets as she heads out to see you this Sunday... And Ally, I am already thinking good thoughts and saying prayers for another smoooooth surgery this Monday.
Lots of love and hugs - we'll chat SUNDAY! GOOOO Cowboys! Big day in my house as they travel to Philly - eeeek! :p
xoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@aol.com>
- Friday, October 6, 2006 6:48 AM CDT
Darren was sitting here checking out the "cute girlfriend w/ the cowgirl hat". Morgan you are too cute! Ally, just love that blonde hair of yours. It's getting long now....Great photos and thanks for the support this week. It really is all good. :)
-Cat
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
paradise, hi good 'ole us of a - Friday, October 6, 2006 1:48 AM CDT
Hi, California Family! What a treat to see those cute little gals in the Punkin Patch! Sounds like you all had a marvelous day. I am encouraged that there is another specialist for Allyson to work with regarding the feeding/cleft/talking issues. I know she'll be fine in time, but I also know how anxious you are for her to be self-feeding solids so you can remove the tube. Sounds like the new plan might work better for her! Just know we are continuing to pray for her and all of you as she goes through the foot surgery on Monday. We'll be anxious to pick up our messages Monday night to know how everything went. Then on the 11th, we'll pick up messages to learn of Ashli and Tom's NEWS! It will be an exciting week for the Matus/Kelso/George families. Loren and I will be in the "wilds" of the Virginia coastline and the Atlantic Migratory Flyway. Can't wait to see Chincoteague and Assateague and the wildlife preserves in that area! It's a place we've never even roamed close to! And the birding should be excellent as the migration is taking place and there is an opportunity to see up to 100 different species.((This trip is run by William and Mary.) We're going with
friends, and looking forward to this educational experience.
Kristin and Mark, I know you'll have a wonderful time on your anniversary trip, and I'm sure Teetay will have fun with the girls! Be safe and enjoy every moment together ... you deserve it! Hugs and Love,
Aunt Dale & Uncle Loren (aka/Aunt Grammy and Uncle Poppy)
Dale G. Pugh <DaleGPugh@aol.com>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Thursday, October 5, 2006 1:19 PM CDT
No "troubles" from any of the "siblings" of former students today...geez....there were SO MANY of the "little bros and sis folks".....but the CROWNING blow was when a young girl (7th grade) INFORMED ME that I had taught her mother! I inquired as to the "age" her mother was when she had her...she replied, "21"...well, I felt better! (sort of!)
Hope everyone is having a great Mid-week day! Fall is definitely in the air and I'm anxiously awaiting my travel to CA this Sunday to the PUMPKINS through the little peeps eyeballs!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, October 4, 2006 3:34 PM CDT
I love the new pics. They show fall is her...its definitely my favorite season! I used to love when I was Ally and Morgan's age going to the pumpkin patch. You both look like you were having as much fun as i used to! Hope everyone is enjoying their week...only two more days and then a three day weekend!! Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers as always!
p.s.- Mrs. Matus I was sooooo excited to here you were a sub for my brother today! Hope he didn't give you any trouble! hehe
Elizabeth Hellman <dancer3191@cox.net>
Chantilly, VA United States - Wednesday, October 4, 2006 2:27 PM CDT
Hi Everyone!
My, "little" Ally is not little anymore! Even though I check every day, until seeing Ally cruise across the pumpkin patch, I had no idea how tall she's gotten. You're a big girl sweetie!
And Morgan in that pink cowboy hat...she's crying out for a visit to her Texas cousins. I see a future Texas State (former Southwest Texas State U.) Strutter. The famous dance team members wear their red hats off to the side and their blond locks flowing, just like Morgan!
All is fine here. We're seven weeks into school and busy like crazy. No Indian Summer here...it's been 92 to 95 all week after we had a taste of the 80s a few weeks ago.
It's always good to read the news of the girls and family in CA and all those on the East Coast. I'd love to hug each of you, pour over awesome travel pictures, and rub Ashli's baby bump (although I can't imagine one, skinny-minny!) but for now I'll have to settle for my web fix!
Love you all lots,
Jackie
Jackie Horras <jackie2fish@hotmail.com>
San Antonio, TX - Tuesday, October 3, 2006 9:19 PM CDT
I can see Ally's hair blowing in the wind!! Yahoooo!! She really looks "ready" to romp in that first picture! And, too cute are those "name shirts"...!! Go pumpkin-girls! And, I love Morgan's PINK cowboy/girl hat...makes me want to bring my "Down Under Hat" that I purchased in the Sydney airport with my "leftover money"...!! It won't fit in the suitcase, so I might just have to WEAR it!! I am getting more excited by the "minute" to know that in just four days + a few minutes I will be squeezing my three girls in CA!!!
Good to see a posting from Mark this morning...wishing you a "fast ten days" until you are HOME again and ready to "hang ten" in Hawaii with Kristin for your "big anniversary trip"...!!! Yaaaaaaaay!!!
I'm doing some subbing this week, continuing to clean out some closets, label and sort my trip-photos, and prepare for a wedding weekend out in the country Saturday! Wishing Michelle and Dirk the very best as they tie their marriage "knot" this coming weekend! Got a glimpse of Ashli today and she and "Lester" were looking good! She dropped in to a restaurant where I was having lunch with good friends, Kathy and Nancy! They wanted to "see her with her growing Lester" so she dropped by for a sec.
Fall is coming to NO. Virginia this weekend...plans are for some much cooler temps!!!
I wonder how many more pumpkins we will get before Halloween rolls around???!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Tuesday, October 3, 2006 5:02 PM CDT
Sorry Morgs... Didn't mean to "diss" you (Mommy will explain :) -- I love the piccs of you too, and on a PONY!??! You crazy gal! Looks like a fun time in the 'ol "patch" for you as well. Hugs to you, Morgy-Lu! xoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, October 3, 2006 3:42 PM CDT
A "little" (ha!) pumpkin in the pumpkin patch!!!!! TOOOOOOO CUTE! Ally - did you find a pumpkin just your size or did you pick out a super-sized one? Do tell! You look precious and like you're having lots of fun romping around the "patch"... ca't wait to see more fun Fall photos of you gals :)
Uncle Tommy and I stopped at a pumpkin patch (aka CART) on the way back from State College last weekend and got a couple for the front steps (big ones!) and 3 little baby pumpkins - one for me, him and.... Nala? or Lester? decisions, decisions... ;)
Lots of love, big Al-Pal!
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, October 3, 2006 1:57 PM CDT
Hi everyone from the lovely USS John C. Stennis,
Sorry I haven't been posting much lately. A few months ago I became the Operations Officer of my squadron and it's been busy to say the least. I've been out at sea for about 12 days now and won't be home for another 10.
The flying has been intense and non-stopout here. The exercise we're on right now is about the closest to war we'll get without actually being there. After making a war cruise, actually being in combat was, seriously, easier than a lot of the training detachments that we do.
The past few months have been tough. In May I was in Fallon for three weeks. Then I spent the last half of July and first week of July on the ship. I went back to Fallon the last week of July and was there until Allyson's surgery in August when my CO let me come home early. Finally, I came back out to the ship on Sep21st and will be home in about ten days. The coming and going constantly is the hardest part. We'll be going out to sea again in November and deploying in January.
Anyway, just wanted to say a quick hi to everyone. internet connection on a ship is sketchy at best, but I manage to look at Ally's site every few days. If anyone wants to drop me a line, you can write to "mark.kelso@cvw9.navy.mil".
Take care!
Mark
Mark <mark.kelso@cvw9.navy.mil>
USS John C. Stennis, USA - Monday, October 2, 2006 5:13 PM CDT
Greetings! What cuties - bump and all! I LOVE the new home page pic, and the others, but Ally in overalls!??! Adorable! Glad you had a good weekend, albeit BUSY, and that the appts went well. I'll cross my fingers that the new feeding regime kicks into high gear and Ally's tummy agrees with it all :)
Thinking of you all - and Mark too out on the boat - and looking forward to seeing you gals in 41 days (but who's counting??) xoxox
Lots of love and hugs!
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, October 2, 2006 3:12 PM CDT
Ally..you are still a little cutie with or without that bump! Thankfully, your bump did not come from an overpaid football player who likes to step on other players when their helmet has flown off! OUCH! Shame on those Titans!!!! Victory for the Cowboys once again!!! Loved the laundry picture too! Funny, when my kids see a pile of laundry that needs to be folded...THEY SCATTER!!! Ally...we want you to know that you are prayed for alot here in Texas sweet girl! Hugs...Anna
Anna Rainwater <anna.banana3@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, October 1, 2006 5:48 PM CDT
What an adorable smile on the homepage....and the other photos, too..."bump" and all!!! Allyson's spunk sure shows in the sparkle in her eyes as if she is just waiting "to do something"...(and she is!) Loved hearing the update in writing as well on the phone....when I see it in writing I can "pronouce the words" better!!!
So glad to hear Morgan squeal over her "joey" (baby kangaroo, folks!) finally arriving at her house!! That was worth the POSTAGE from Australia to Virginia and BACK to CALIFORNIA!!! I hope Allyson's koala-joey will get a ride on the "scooter"...so precious she is....and what's up with those GROWN UP PAJAMAS????!!! She's looking all "too two" these days!! (and acting it? as well??)
I'll be thinking of you as you travel EARLY this morning to the Dr. See appt. I hope the news is ALL GOOD!
I "worked" by first day subbing yesterday ....back in my "old school"....it was wonderful to SEE friends and familiar faces and the day went well. And, just for the record I did not have any "pull" that was wishing me BACK full time! Subbing will "do" just fine for the time being!
I head for CA next Sunday in time for Allyson's Monday surgery - - - and the following week of "post op" just before Kristin and Mark travel to Hawaii for their 11th anniversary trip the next week. I will return home the first of November! 'Gotta stay through Halloween and Trick or Treating just to SEE the little "gremlins/princesses/whatevers" Ally and Morgan decide to 'be'....Kristin tells me that Morgan has changed her mind several times, but usually returns to being SLEEPING BEAUTY since she has the whole outfit plus WIG to wear! So, we'll see what "looks" those CA girls sport for Halloween night! I'm SURE there will be PICTURES!!
We're babysitting our 'grand dog' this weekend while Ashli and Tom are cheering for Penn State! I think Ashli is "allowing us to practice" on the DOG to check out our "baby sitting skills" before February birthing comes around! I sure hope we do "okay" and pass "muster"...!!!
It's a chilly, fall-ISH day in Virginia and our first weekend since arriving HOME Tuesday night. The days/nights have turned around pretty well -we have just found that we want to stay up LATER at night and sleep LATER in the morning ...but what's wrong with that???!! We haven't had any adverse effects of the long haul home! I'm still sorting through kangaroo memorabilia, and plan to start my album(S) this weekend.....we sorted our photos (2500 in all!) and got them down to a manageable number of 588! Ritz Camera is "crazy about us"....!!! Bring on the Matuses!!
Hope that you are having a lovely weekend wherever you are...and please do continue to remember Lynn Newman in your prayers - she's continuing to fight a very courageous battle against cancer in Texas.
And, again, thank you for your good wishes during our incredible journey. We held your thoughts close as we traveled.
AND...HAPPY EARLY ANNIVERSARY to Kristin and Mark on October 7th!!! Whahooooooooo!!!!! We're proud of you both and love you very much!!! God bless!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Saturday, September 30, 2006 9:19 AM CDT
Hello, family! It is your awesome cousin from Texas! Being of the "OT" mind and loving cousin, I am so proud of Ally. She is doing well. I am so proud of her and of course, all the hard work that you guys and she are going through to get to that point. I am currently working with babies and toddlers her age in the PICU at Methodist Children's Hospital in San Antonio. I love every minute of it but wish things were different for them. I saw a little girl that reminded me of Ally and couldn't help but let you know that I am very proud of Ally and all that she has been through. I hope to see you all soon. I guess it might take myself or Shelley getting married, right? Well, we just might have to think of something a little different from that and just try making a visit to Cali. I sure could use the break from all the intense OT stuff! Take care and Ally, keep up the good work! Lots of hugs and kisses from Texas.....
Love ya,
LeAnne Chaloupka <wild_lmc@yahoo.com>
San Antonio, TX USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 10:13 AM CDT
HOME, REAL HOME!
After 33 hours we are actually in our house trying to figure out whether or not to cuddle the cat, open the mail, or look at the flowers and tomatoes that have grown profusely in our absence!!
GOOD TO BE HOME...always!
Thank you for traveling with us..and I know the Mickey "SHOW" in Thousand Oaks (are there really a thousand oaks there?) will be great for Morgan, Kristin, and "friends"...and I know that Allyson will enjoy her 'night' with Connie, the nurse, while the "big girls" do the theatre scene!!
Looking forward to my own "slab" tonight (as they say!) and sleeping until "whatever the heck time I wake up tomorrow".....and after 33 hours of TRAVELING to get "home" I hope it will be a LONG sleep!
We so loved the politeness and gentleness of traveling overseas.....arriving in San Francisco, we were "back in the USA".....and to think that in Sydney, "they hand checked bags" and TOOK my mascara (but who cares?)....and Geep's antibacterial soap (size 1 oz.)....and when we arrived in San Fran, the TSA guy was "barking" at us that you could have 3 oz. of "anything" that was a makeup/cleanser/gel/toothpaste etc!!! I guess we were just a bit too much "ahead" of the clock for the "rules" to be communicated! Actually, LEAVING Sydney to return to the U.S. was the BIGGEST security we've encountered....and one mascara "bit the dust"....the Security man actually "asked me" IF IT WAS EXPENSIVE...I assured him "NO"...I am smart like that!!! (the good stuff was checked in my bag!)
Home to good homemade food by Ashli and our neighbor, Debbie...dinner/snacks/breakfast foods....we may be up all night just deciding what to EAT!!!
Love to all of you and thanks for traveling with us!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Tuesday, September 26, 2006 10:09 PM CDT
Welcome HOME, Teets and Geep! Well, you're almost there! For anyone keeping up, they are in San Francisco and will be really home at 9 PM tonight. Hooray - we have missed you here "in person"!
Hope everyone is off to a great week, and KDMK girls -- enjoy the Mickey/Minnie(?) musical this evening. Sounds fun! We're off to the Phillies-Nats game and it's a beautiful early Fall day here in DC. Sunshine and 70s! Hope it's sunny and smiley in your part of the world :)
Lots of love from me and the bump! xoxox
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, September 26, 2006 2:20 PM CDT
Greentings from our 'wait' in Sydney!
This will be short as I have some "retail therapy" to do while getting rid of my "loose change"...ha!
We have SIX hours here, so I could do some real damage!
This morning in Christchurch Airport I found a BIC LIGHTER "concealed" in a sofa. I turned it in. I probably SAVED the whole airline from going up in SMOKE! Then, when we arrived in Sydney I was "randomly" selected to be part of an "explosives screening" (a first for me!)....somewhere in the deep recesses of my sense of merriment, I found this most amusing. (but I did not laugh outloud!)
Not sure what the next six hours will hold, but I will attempt to "fight evil" as I see it lurking in the crevices of the airport!
"No. 1 girl"...I do hope you will get to Australia/NewZealand somewhere in your future. It truly has been an amazing experience leaving us with "more to want" and "more to see" and "more to do" ...but I honestly know that we made a great big DENT in the "whattodoandseeareas" in both countries....and the people, sights, sounds, experiences have certainly carved a place in our hearts.
Thinking of you all as we return HOME - that is always the BEST PART!! :)
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Monday, September 25, 2006 6:46 PM CDT
Terri and Geep-
WELCOME BACK!!! Thank you so much for sharing your stories with us. I felt like I was right there with you and someday I WILL get to those places. It has always been a dream of mine, ever since I was 8 and had a pen pal in Christchurch, NZ. The Kate story hit home as Tyler and I read a book last night about when to call 911, strangers, and learning your phone number and address. It "sounded" like the message sunk in but one can only HOPE that if a situation arose he will remember.
This weekend was a nice and relaxing one and Jim and I even got a "date night" on Saturday. We went to a wonderful Italian restaurant that we had never tried before. The service and food were YUMMY and we will go back again sometime!
The next 2 weeks will be busy as Tyler prepares for his karate tournament. It is the largest one in the state and he will compete in 2 events - individual form and group sparring. We bought him an "official" uniform complete with his name on the back and the school logo and I HOPE it arrives before the tournament. If not, so be it, but he would LOVE to look like the BIG kids! For the last year he has been wearing the introductory uniform that has been too big until now so it was time to suck it up and buy the "real" one.
I hope everyone has a wonderful week!!! Hugs from Minnesota!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, MN - Monday, September 25, 2006 6:50 AM CDT
Greetings to everyone on the real "last day" in New Zealand!
TRUE "last day story"....
We were strolling through the Botanical Gardens/Hagley Park this afternoon and we'd taken a bit of a wrong turn to get to another garden area, Mona Vale. As we "strolled" a beautiful little blue eyed/blonde girl wearing a helmet came cycling toward us VERY FAST with tears rushing down her cheeks! Her breathless exclamation was :" Have you seen my friend driving by real fast? He left me at the toliets!" The tears continued...."I asked her what he looked like, what color his bike was etc..." ...and we began to LOOK around! She continued, " He is 8, and I am 7, and he saw me go to the toliets and he sped off very fast!"
Me: "Are you alone here at the park?" (it is a HUGE park area...second largest inner city park in the world...second only to Central Park in NYC! Thus, HUGE!)
She replied, still crying, "No, his mum is with us, but she wandered off to see the park."
Me: "Do you know where she went?"
Little girl: (more crying) "No, I don't......! (sob sob)
I assured her that we would start walking BACK in the direction she "thought" her friend was cycling and that we would find her, or we would get "help" from the Park Service.....
"What is your name?"
She replied, "Kate."
"How old are you?"
"Eight."
"My name is Terri. You are going to be fine. I'll find someone to help you."
About that time, the park police/security drove by and I flagged them down. In a few moments, Kate had used the policeman's cell phone and called home...told her "mum" that she had been "left" by her "friends" but "nice lady" took her for help....(sob sob.....) ...and she said AGAIN, "No, mum, the lady was nice." (smile!)
Her mum told the policeman she would come right away and he gave her a designated meeting spot. I gave Kate two tissues...one for her eyes, and one for her "pocket"....I told her my name again, and that I thought she had been very brave. She smiled through the leftover tears....I smiled....and as I walked away I broke into tears myself.
Why were we walking the "wrong way"? (I thought) It was a nice "last day" story and I am glad we were around to help "Kate"....even in charming ChristChurch there could lurk "evil spirits"...!!
"All's well that ends well..."
And, our day is coming to a close....we still have a couple of spots to "hit" before dinner and then DINNEr at The Viaduct, on the Oxford Terrace STRIP of restaurants!!
We have a 3:30 A.M. wakeup call....and about 31 hours (real time) of travel ahead of us before we see our home, Timmie, and the creature comforts we left behind!
What a glorious day this has been, and Kate was possibly the "best part"....I could not stop "seeing" Morgan's face in a similar situation....funny how that never leaves one's mind!!
God has been good to us the past three weeks and for that we are grateful! We didn't need/or take one single bit of the "medicine" we brought and we've felt terrific all of the time!! Looking forward to reuniting with many of you back in Virginia and seeing the CA peeps very soon...and checking out "Lester/Junebug" and how "much" he/she has grown these past three weeks!!!
Love to all, and thanks for "traveling with us" in spirit!!!
Terri aka Teetay :) aka "Threetay" :)
And, may the "Kates" of the world be safe tonight! :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Monday, September 25, 2006 0:42 AM CDT
It looks like courage is a family trait! Allyson's new conquests on a healing foot rival Teetay's and Geep's climb of the Sydney Harbor Bridge! WOW to all of you for the way that you take those steps into unknown territory and come up smiling. I had not read the guestbook for a few days, and you sure do miss a lot when you don't keep up. Looking forward to the return of Terri and Jerry, but I'll let them sleep in a day before I call. Love to you all, in California, Australia, and right here !
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Sunday, September 24, 2006 10:45 AM CDT
Greetings to everyone on the 'eve' of our last day in the way DOWN UNDER!
Today, we did it! WE drove via coach to Mount Cook and we took our amazing helicopter ride to the "almost top"...we landed beautifully at 7700 FEET and walked on the TOP...the real TOP is 12, 316 feet and you are not allowed to LAND on the peak! (wonder why??? it is only six inches wide at the top...we are way too big!)....The helicopter ride was fabulous...no "jerkiness"...I was in the co-pilot's seat so I "sorta helped"....(YEAH< RIGHT???) The WINDS were not too high to prohibit a beautiful ride over the top and over the glacier...to LAND on the ICE at 7700 feet is quite awesome...the glacier is below where we landed and no one was landing on it today...it is between crevices and too "low"....we liked the HIGH PART! (So, "what is the best part of today?")
I told the helo-pilot that the BEST part was the ride and the landing and walking through/across the snow/ice to the EDGE to SEE just what was below...the Tasman Glacier..."among other motifs".....IT WAS SPECTACULAR and if I use that "word" one more time, I'm going to PUNCH myself in the nose!!! What we saw/experienced today was truly a "once in a lifetime" experience...I don't plan on doing that again....EVER!
Lake Pukaki is just about as turquoise as a lake gets and it is REAL TIME COLOR!! The Good Shepherd Church faces the lake and the altar is in front of an open window facing Mount Cook and Lake Pukaki...(google that)....I think God must be looking in "that window" all the time...what an absolutely breathtaking sight. I was talking on the phone to Ashli when we first arrived...and I spoke to Kristin three hours later when we were leaving...so I feel like I shared that moment with them "somewhat"....WOW! WOW! WOW!
Tomorrow, we are to wrap up loose ends in ChristChurch....what a pity we must leave when we have "miles to go" before we sleep...but all good things must come to an end so we can PRESS ON to other "good things"...LIKE CALIFORNIA and Ally's next surgery...and Halloween costumes, and gymnastics and ballet for Morgan...and....gee, how could I possibly WORK??? Retirement is "doing well" in my perspective!!!
Loving you all...and I'll transmit from the OTHER SIDE next time...
God has been very good to us during our trip, and I know our travels home will be safe and sound...all 31 hours of the "home trip".....
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
Hmmmmm...I told the helicopter
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Sunday, September 24, 2006 4:43 AM CDT
Hooray for Ally! I can only imagine how excited you must be Kristin at this new feat! I got to say...could any kid be any happier than Ally?! I can always count on this page to bring joy to my day and a smile to my face!! Am so glad that Ally is cruising around and enjoying every moment of each day! So happy to hear that Morgan is doing well in kindergarten and that her extracurricular activities are having a positive effect on her! She is one busy little girl, but I know she must enjoy it all. I am sure Ally enjoys watching her big sister too! Hope everyone is having a great weekend. I had a garage sale today...you know how it is when you move every 2-3 years and you continue to collect "things", and each time there seems to be a few boxes that move again and again but never get unpacked? Yeah, well, that was me and I was determined to get rid of it all whether it was in a garage sale or taking it to Good Will. Well, it is all gone and I couldn't be happier. So, my weekend is off to a pretty good start with the exception of the rain...YUCK!!!
Take care everyone! Teetay and Geep, have a safe trip home.
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Saturday, September 23, 2006 4:45 PM CDT
Hip Hip Hooray for Allyson and her straw-sipping-cheese-eating-self!!! Whahoooo!!! We just love and applaud these milestones! Maybe while I'm keeping Allyson and Morgan in October Al-Pal will GRAB a hamburger out of my hand and devour it like MOrgan did to her Daddy when she was about the same age!! We laughed so hard that day!!! Go, ALLYSON!! There is ABsolutely nothing standing in your way!!!
Wheeeee!!!
And....so glad to hear of "Miss Attention Span" girl as she progresses back into ballet and gymnastics!! I am sure with her "fun activities" and "lessons" she is going to "land on something" that will become her passion/direction to pursue! I cannot wait to sit on the sidelines and watch her "progress" in these areas!! You, go, Morgie-lu!!!
Loved the newest picture of that precious Allyson-face!!! Gosh, I miss her so much and seeing her picture from WAY OVER HERE in NZ just makes my day start better!
We're off to Akaroa Harbour, a jet cat ride, lunch as Billy Hayes (everyone knows him, right???!) Rest. (we understand it is quite reknown here!)....and another beautiful sunny day of seeing sights unknown to us before! Cannot say enough about the beauty. Clear skies help "see" that beauty!!!
Love to all and always thinking of you as we travel!!
Love to you, Kristin, as you have a good weekend with your "grownup" activities!! And, best to Mark as he does his work in preparation for his up coming cruise!!
Kristin....start writing down all those "post op" directions for me...ha...I'll be READY to be "Teetay on duty" come mid October!!!
Ashli...take care of Lester/JuneBug...and YOURSELF...and hugs to you and Tommie...
Love everyone,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, September 22, 2006 3:52 PM CDT
GGreetings and Happy Friday to all! Love that new cooky, crazy, grinny, cheese-eatin' (literally!) smile of Ally's on the home page. That's one happy kiddo but, uh, duh! What's not to be happy about when you're a rock star like Ally with a super sister, Mom, Dad and family like hers?!?! Al-Pal, you are blessed, for sure!
Looking forward to hearing how gymnastics go tomorrow, and glad motor-mouth-Morgy-lu is quite the attentive ballerina in class this round. GO kara-tay GO! :)
KDMK - Enjoy the block party tomorrow, have some cold suds and I hope the weekend is good all around.
Lots of love and looking forward to Mom & Dad's arrival back in the US on Tuesday night -- yaya! Finally! They have been gone a loooong time, huh?!?
xoxoxoxo
Aunt Ash <Dallasisoffthisweeksonobanterfromthisend@DALLASSTILLROCKS.com>
- Friday, September 22, 2006 1:55 PM CDT
Greetings from the "almost" South Pole...!!
I cried when we departed Australia yesterday.
I smiled when we arrived in New Zealand.
I don't make this stuff up. :)
Mt. Cook greeted us via air with beautiful snowcapped mountains and glaciers...we are anticipating our visit to Mt. Cook (named after Capt. J. Cook, you know!) sUNDAY and we are HOPEFUL that our plane can fly us to the glacier directly (straight-away!) and land in the snow/ice etc....the winds are very high right now though it is spring...so we'll see! At any rate, we are traveling to the mountains for the day and with any luck at all, we'll FLY onto the glacier!!!
ChristChurch is just about as charming as any place I've ever been...you name it "charming" Christ Church "has it"...!! Fabulous friendly folks....great hospitality...just like "the books say"...and the most beautiful scenery around!
We traveled to Lyllton Harbour this afternoon....via gondola!! The sunset could not have been more radiant...I wonder if we are noticing sunsets "more" because we are "away" or because the pollution is "less"...much less!
Our morning was spent at the International Antartica Center...complete with penguins, seals, and a "storm"....we had an informative tour, thanks to Jerry Marty, of the National Foundation of Science all about the duties/scientific innovations at the South Pole! I am humbled by the work done there and the conditions under which it is done...and all for the environment and the clearing of the air for us and future generations. I also have a fleece with the word ANTARTICA on it now! (important things!)
Tomorrow we visit a small harbour/French village called Akaroa....we will get there by coach, then ferry/jet cat, and we will dine on French cuisine for lunch before heading back to C. C. (maybe a few snapshots in between!!)
Yes, we are continuing to love each day...not sure what the "best part" of NZ is yet....probably all of it...meeting wonderful people and we can understand the "Kiwis" better than the Aussies...a much clearer accent, even though we 'know' we are the ones with the 'accent'...!!
Thinking of Allyson's foot as she continues to heal...Morgan's on going kindergarten days and her "work"...and Lester/Junebug growing in Ashli's tummy!!! Thinking of Mark as he goes away for more training prior to deployment...thinking of Kristin as she continues to do her BEST work in raising two special little girls....and all the "etc" that goes with being "Captain in charge"....not first mate!! And, thinking of Ashli and Tom as they anticipate the early October date of the "is it pink or blue" time???
And...thinking of all of you who have written and cared...
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
Andourfeetalmostdonothurtanymore.com :)!!
terri matus <teetahy43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, September 22, 2006 5:22 AM CDT
Been awhile since I visited. Ally- You're foot looks great! Aren't before and after pictures amazing???? They really help to put a perspective on things. Was "attempting" to keep up and read back in your journal. D had nasal reflux as well, and though we didn't to the obdurator, it was something that we had considered for nearly 1-2 years.
D has an appmt next week to see his hand surgeon to see if we have surgery in our future. Don't like the "s word", but if it means better function, so be it. :)
Hope everyone is well. Blessings to all!
-Cat
Carepage: DarrenMichael
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com >
rainy paradise, HI USA - Thursday, September 21, 2006 5:10 PM CDT
G'day mates!
Leaving Aussieland for N.ZEALAND this morning....and we were "worried" that we'd have too much time in the Sydney International Airport...."Oh MY GOSH!" I feel like I'm sitting in the midst of Tyson's Corner/Pentgon City with all the "shopping" around so that you do not leave Australia with ANY MONEY A' tall!! :) There are shops galore..."Oh that duty free" expression!!! The NewZealandAirlinesRedCArpetLounge is exquisite with a full breakfast offered, FREE internet (first FREE thing we've seen in Down Under!) offered....and "even mixed drinks" are FREE if you wish to partake of them at 9 A.M. - so early! However, in our six hour layover here in five days we just might return to THIS SPOT!!
I found Mark the PERFECT Didigeroo....I hope he will learn to play it on his next cruise....if not, it will look "lovely" sitting on the mantle! HA! "Sorry, Mark...I did not get you the $1600 variety...!" LIke I said...we are spending the remainder of our "Aussie change"....!!! :)
Dined along the Darling Harbour last night...and we both decided it was our BEST meal of two weeks...not that there's been a bad one??!! But, last night's dinner was especially perfect....SALMON for me...FILET for the Texan...and I do think I'm becoming a salmon-snob....New Zealand-salmon.....a different/fresher??-shall-I-say-taste??? Not sure how to describe it, except to say..."there won't be a morsel left when you choose it!" :)!!
Thinking of you all as we fly today....there's a time change between the STATES - additional two hours for both coasts....we'll figure it out and "give you a ringie-ring"....or a "ring up".....Australian-speak!
Love to everyone,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Wednesday, September 20, 2006 5:57 PM CDT
What a fantastic web site . So glad to hear that all went well for Ally. God Bless .
Norma MacDonald
Antigonish, N.S. Canada - Wednesday, September 20, 2006 3:14 PM CDT
Ally, I'm so glad you got that cast off. There's no stopping you now! Morgan, I guess you'll have to color something else now that the cast is gone. Mrs. Matus, I'm so jealous of you and your big excursions! It sounds like you had a great time. Now back to boring 'ol VA. I hope everyone has a good rest of the week. Praying for you, Ally, as you visit all your doctors!
<3 Christina
Christina Knippler <acoolkid15@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA - Wednesday, September 20, 2006 1:54 PM CDT
Greetings to all from our last night in Australia!!
Early morning wakeup inCairns - 4:30 AM....arrived inSydney and made our way to the Harbour BridgeClimb.....many feet above the Sydney Harbor....in metres 134 metres tall...1149 metres long....etc. etc....we walked over a MILE going UP to the ARCH ...and the "worst" part after all our "instructions" was GETTING to the bridge to start the climb....walking over catwalks that opened to the road/harbour below....and were shakey....we were tethered to a cable...had walkie talkies...and were dressed in grey coveralls with lots of equipment hanging from us!! It was AWESOME....over 100 LADDERSTEPS to get "up" to the part to beginthe climb....we saw every corner of the Sydney Harbour....this experience is not easy to describe because it is "physically challenging"...and "emotionally satisfying" at the same time!!! We had our pictures made at the TOP...felt very "relaxed" coming down....and , of course, bought -tshirts that say: "I CLIMBED IT!" Not bad for a couple of "senior citizens"....we hung in nicely with the "youngsters"in our group of FIVE!! Rich, our guide, was filled with information about Sydney, so the experience continued our education of this area. I would not trade today for anything!
Can't wait to see Allyson's UNcasted foot and hear news of her orthoped. visit today!! Can't wait to hear how much Morgan loved having her school picture made!
Leaving in the A.M. EARLY for New Zealand....ChristChurch....we will "speak" from there. Now, we must go and say farewell to the DARLING HARBOUR (and it is darling!) and eat someAustralian seafood!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va usa - Wednesday, September 20, 2006 4:39 AM CDT
Your foot looks AWESOME Ally! And, of course, we're not surprised by the fact that none of this foot 'stuff' has slowed you down! Glad to hear you and big sis could enjoy some quality fun in the bath...nothing quite like bathtime for little girls!
Lots of love,
Reb, David and Alina
Rebecca Lacki <rebeccalacki@sbcglobal.net>
Oakland, CA - Tuesday, September 19, 2006 9:23 PM CDT
Isn't modern medicine wonderful?! Ally's foot looks fantastic! I can't wait to show the pictures to Gage and Mackenzie when they get home from school. We are so glad to hear that Allyson only had a few wobbles after her cast removal and we are sure she is 'tearing it up' around the house! It is good to hear that Morgan is doing well in kindergarten and has transitioned so smoothly. We have been very busy here in NH and are enjoying the colors of fall as they begin to appear more and more each day. Before we know it...the snow will be falling!!! Have a great week! We miss you and love you!
Love,
Dani
P.S. I keep forgetting to CONGRATULATE Aunt Ashli on her 'bun in the oven'!! What fun you have to look forward too, but I know you will enjoy every minute of it! Remember to rest when you can and ALWAYS kick-up those feet!
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Tuesday, September 19, 2006 11:38 AM CDT
That's one fabulous little footie! Can't wait to see those piggies in person and try out some "creep a mouses" on the new and improved foot and leg! :)
Love you Al-Pal -- YOU ROCK and are such a trooper!!! xoxo
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, September 19, 2006 9:13 AM CDT
Oh my gosh! Ally, your foot looks incredible. You have one AMAZING set of doctors in your life - so very talented!
Hugs and tons of kisses from a 45 degree Minneapolis (I have a bad feeling snow is just around the corner - boo).
xoxoxoxoxoxo
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Tuesday, September 19, 2006 6:44 AM CDT
WOW!!! Ally's foot looks amazing. I can't believe the difference. Hope all is well in CA.
Just want to fill everyone in on some great family news. My brother-in-law (Eric Michael Hopper) won a contest on the CBS Early Show. He is a singer/song writer of country-pop music. Anyway, he will be singing live on the Early Show tomorrow morning (9/20/06). This could be his big break.
Hugs to all from the east
Robyn Hopper (Aimee's sister) <rphop@aol.com>
South Riding , VA - Tuesday, September 19, 2006 6:38 AM CDT
Loved hearing the 'cast news' from SKY HIGH Kuranda atop the Barron FAlls Gorge...it was GORGEOUS!! :) Loved hearing that Allyson began tripping the light fantastic after just a few "clunky steps"....and to think that I was talking to Kristin from WAY UP HIGH without a glitch...cell phone connections in the "states" should be so clear! We haven't skipped a "telephone beat" since arriving here! There must be cell towers everywhere...even in the OUTBACK! It was wonderful to hear Morgan's voice SQUEAL when I told her that I really held 'Sienna' a lovely little koala today and "she" hugged onto my arms just like a "regular pet"...(which I know she is not!)....Morgan exclaimed...."I want to hold her with you, Teetay! (next trip, Morgan!)..." And, then, Morgan exclaimed in her own exasperated voice, "Allyson was crying and I was trying to concentrate on my letters!" (I guess she was doing her homework???!) ANd, finally, Morgan exclaimed that she was to have her school picture made tomorrow!!!
I cannot wait to see more pictures of Allyson WALKING on her own..and news of the next foot surgery....there's lots of travel on the agenda for Kristin and "fam" so that surgery date will hopefully "fit in" somewhere! Looking forward to my days of "taking care of" little peeps while K and M have a wonderful excursion to Pineapple Land...and hopefully, getting to meet Cat and DArren and "family"...!!!
Our day was magical....scenic train ride up the mountains into the rain forest, past it...on up and up and up...and a gondola ride "down" and I do mean DOWN! The winds are gusty here and the gondola ride was a real adventure! Holding a koala and feeding the wallabees and kangaroos was another taste of the country....I can't get enough of that part!!
Tonight we will see a cultural demonstration of song and dance by the Aborigines at the Cultural Center that has become the premiere experience for tourism in the country. Dinner is part of the evening and other interactive activities!
We leave tomorrow for Sydney before our trip will conclude in New Zealand for the next five days....in Sydney we are planning to WALK THE HARBOUR BRIDGE (rains permitting!)...the days appear to be sunny on the calendar, and we are hopeful that a couple of "post baby boomers" can do the trek!!!
Loving the news of Allyson, Morgan, and Lester's movements....and thinking of you all...missing everyone!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Monday, September 18, 2006 11:05 PM CDT
Love them Cowboys...and I love that Cowboy fans are EVERYWHERE!!! You can't get rid of us!!! Morgan and Ally...Blue is your signature color girls!!! Can't wait to see Ally's foot with the cast off! We had a beautiful day in Dallas today...it is so cool outside right now! Love it! Love it! Hugs to you from a happy Cowboy fan....Anna Rainwater
Anna Rainwater <anna.banana3@hotmail.com>
- Monday, September 18, 2006 8:24 PM CDT
It's awfully quite out there "the morning after"... hmmm... interesting... YAY COWBOYS! Yeeeehaw! Now, on to more important things...
ALLY!!!! You got your cast off today and I hear your foot looks fabulous! I thought it was just fine before so I can't wait to see the new and improved footsie, smaller, flatter and even cuter than before I bet! I am so happy that your foot has healed nicely and you're free again to run and play without that clunky "leg" on :) YOU GO AL!
It was so fun to have Morgy surprise me (and Mommy!) qwhen she answered the cell phone earlier today -- I think it surprised Morgan too that it was Aunt Ashli on the other end! We had a nice chat, didn't we??
And to Bro -- thinking of you as you hit the road, uh er, ocean later this week! Love an dhugs and hurry home for HAWAII TRIP! :)))
Love you guy and gals lots! And did I mention, YAY COWBOYS!!!
Aunt Ashli & still-fluttering Lester <ashliagmg@aol.com>
- Monday, September 18, 2006 8:07 PM CDT
It's a very late night for me and Lester, but we LOVE the new pics and LOVE the score as 4th Q winds down... 24-10 and let's just hope they can hang on (and that I can stay awake!!) Oh --- a Brunell sandwich AGAIN -- so things are looking good.
It was fun to arrive home from Philly tonight just in time for the game, and to have Dad & Mom calling me! I told Dad that he was just "too much" calling in for the Big D score already :)) Kidding, of course -- and they're trip sounds amazing and the pics show that they are having the time of their lives. Yay! Best news was I got to tell them "first" that Lester MOVED for the first time today! The funny story is that he/she moved while daddy-to-be was have a mild rant and rage at the TV, watching the Eagles sit through the last part of their big home game. TG swears that this proves the "Eagles" are in his/her blood and it was kicking and screaming along with him. (I say he/she was telling him to shut up as he/she was getting pumped for the Dallas game!!). OK, WAY TOO MUCH INSIGHT TO THIS FOOTBALL CRAP... but the big news is, the kiddo moved and it was way cool! Al-pal, it's your web site sooo... whatcha think of all that?!?!
Seeing the Philly nephews in all their sports this weekend and visiting with the family was fun! Hope you and yours had a good one --- and K, can't wait to see some ALLY Cowgirl pics soon!
Chat tomorrow -- lots of love to you four! xoxo
Aunt Ash and a "fluttering" little Lester <PSUandPhillieswonsoTGsWeekendisnotallLost@gooooDALLAS.com>
Washington.. but heart is at TX STADIUM at the moment!, - Sunday, September 17, 2006 9:59 PM CDT
KRISTIN and MORGAN, how COULD you? Blue is just NOT your color, ya know? :) But, you're forgiven 'cuz you look so cute! And, Terri, you ate a clown fish???? Seriously, I am SO ready to plan a trip to Australia - what an exciting adventure you are having. Hey, everyone, read Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress. It takes place during Chairman Mao's re-education phase - amazing story! In the meantime, just keep reading Terri's daily journal about their amazing trip and Kristin's wonderfully done journal entries about the Amazing Ally with her super amazing mom and precious sister and masterful dad, along with the rest of this incredible family and friends. Cheers to you all! Love, Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA The Best - Sunday, September 17, 2006 7:53 PM CDT
So,how 'bout them Cowboys???
Looking good in BLUE girls!!!
We were just checking the website and WAlah! There your two smiling NEW faces were....getting ready for the big game!!! We'll try to track your night!!
So, here we are in Cairns...rather Kewarra BEach Resort...Kewarra means "rainbow over the water" in Aborigines...I MIStakenly told Morgan it was named afer a "bird"....that 'may be'...but I think someone was "joking us" when they said that...I'll find out!!
Yesterday we went on our cruise to Micaelmas Reef....and OH WHAT A DAY IT WAS!!!
In the morning, we swam with NEMO....
At lunch we ate him. :) (please don't tell MOrgan!)
In the afternoon, we saw Nemo AGAIN via a submersible...a boat that is partly under water where we sat and looked out the sides into the giant Coral REEFS that we had swam among that morning....
Yes! WE did snorkeling for the first time...that's probably not a big deal to some, but to us/me it was...it was a "reach" for me to be in the water, looking into my mask as the wonders of sea life swam around me, and BREATHING at the same time! (may I mention while wearing a wet suit and fins??) We had a "snorkeling" lesson and then our guide, GRANT, (great name, don't you think?) lead us around the reefs pointing out the names of what we were witnessing. I only drank "some of the Coral Sea" (as salty as any other body of water!0...and I only "inhlaled" some of it as well....there is a technique to getting all the snorkeling part RIGHT in its rhythm....but the experience was phenomenal -- to say the least.
Aboard ship, we have festivities, slide shows of barrier life, entertainment, refreshments, and food galore - all FRESH from the SEA prepared by the two chefs aboard the ship....we were surrounded by many other fun seekers and the "gray haired" guitarist soothed our spirits as we headed back home VERY SLOWLY as we'd lost some engine -gusto and our ship had a steerage-problem. (hello, Titantic!!?? ) We were rocking-rolling most of the way there and BACK, and I experienced the TASTE of a GINGER PILL to soothe my HEAD...funny thing about "wobbly seas"...it makes your head LIGHTER and LIGHTER!! Sitting and singing with the guitarist did SOOTHE the soul!! Upon arrival BACK on LAND, we boarded our big-luxury-bus for the 30 minute ride back to our isolated, rainforest/beachfront resort....and lo and behold....about 10 miles OUT, our "bus broke"....by this time, the entire bus was laughing...
First...a "broken boat"....second...a "bus"....!! Ya gotta laugh!!! Geep was busily dialing-up the resort shuttle to come and get us (everyone was being dropped different places)...and two OTHER vehicles appeared out of NOwhere to assist!! So, we made it back safe and sound and only a bit "weary" from the antics of the day...
Sunning on Michaelmas Reef was lovely, but very, very windy...it is inhabited by thousands of birds....very squawky birds, so the sound, at times, was deafening...it only interrrupted my nap "slightly"...:)!!!
Last night with our "weariness" from the "aerobic" day, we dined on our verandah facing the beach under the stars!!! Lamb never tasted so good - ...I think...KNOWING my BED was only fifty feet away!!! WE turned in by 9 PM last night...a FIRST on this trip and we slept nearly 11 hours...also, a "first" on this trip. I guess the SEA AIR and the SWIMMING with NEMO must have zapped some of our energy!!! Today, we are up and ready to roll again...
We plan to walk the beach to Palm Cove, about 4-5 miles away via BEACH....and take in some sunshine during the day!
This afternoon we will venture into the city of Cairns (reminds us of any other beach city....and we are so glad we are AWAY at our REsort-village!) and go to the Night Market and checkout some local entertainment! There is a casino in the middle of town, but so far, that has not been a draw for us!! There's too much else to do and see!
Tomorrow night we will enjoy a Tjapukai Aboriginal dinner and demonstration of culture under the sky - we are BIG into this "Under the SKY" stuff!!! :)
I wish I could say for Morgan "which is the best part"...it is ALL the "best part" and we are savoring it bite by bite ....
I cannot wait to see you all soon and share my ONE MILLION PICTURES with you...NOT!! I realize no one wants to see anyone's vacation pictures except the people who were really there..so I'll scale them down to a modest "few" for viewing eyes to see!!
The temps are about 78 degrees today and the sun is shining brightly, so I'd best get myself onto a lounge chair so as not to miss any of it....
Thinking of you all...in fact, last night I dreamed of so many of you...lots of Franklin faces....Morgan was in the dream, too...Allyson appeared for a moment with her "big fat smelley cast" which comes off TOMORROW..yipeee.....and it was a grand dream. I guess since I slept so long last night I had to FILL UP THE TIME with thoughts of you in dreamland!!! Honest.
We're eatint kiwis here...by the boatloads!!! Native to this part??? Also....roads are lined with sugar cane that goes to Europe...
I hear the SUN DRUMS calling my name. I must go.
Love to all of you...and GO COWBOYS!!! :)
Somebody send the score!!
Terri aka Teetay aka THREEtay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Sunday, September 17, 2006 7:27 PM CDT
Good morning/evening to all!
The SOUNDS of SILENCE dinner was absolutely the most unique experience of the entire trip to date...it doesn't "match the rock" and the "culture" at all...but just imagine "five star /white table cloth/white glove service" smack-dab-inthe middle of the OUTBACK!!! Ten thousand wows!!! The WOWS got bigger as we 'met up with' our Blue Mountain friends from Boston and Tampa!! Small world "still ringing in my ears".....
NEVER EVER have I seen so many stars..and YES, the Milky Way for you naysayers!!! ANd, YES! Jupiter!!! Who knew he was lurking up there for me to see???!! Who knew? A bathroom with RUNNING water out in the OUTBACK....with framed mirrors...no porta jons...a REAL bathroom....and who knew? Champagne and wine alongwith canapes....emu, crocdile, barramundi (fish, folks!) and kangaroo.....and delicious, gooey, sloppy cream-ladened chocolate puddings/bread puddings....etcc. etc...sorry to go "off" on the food...(*usually the Geep's job!)....but you have to see the CLEAR picture ...this is DINING outside under the stars MILES away from even the "miles away" civilization...what a BUSINESS MODEL this is!!!
Headed off for Cairns today and our Coral Sea Resort...Kewarra Beach Resort for you, googlers!!! Our front yard is the Coral Sea complete with hammock and genuine sandy beaches! WE are thinking of just "sitting the heck out of our verandah" upon arrival today!!! Geep has been saving the gracious bottle of wine given to us by our hotel in Melbourne just for a PERFECT sipping occasion, so today might be it!
I was thrilled to see the newest pictures of Ally-Pooooooo and Morgie - luuuuuuuuuuu!!! So glad the cards have started to arrive so that Morgan can "begin her report"...and hopefully, her mother will help her on the "vocabulary lists" and the "geographic locations" so that she will be WELL informed about this part of the world. Today I have sent a card telling of our Aborigines guide, Wangin, yesterday and some of the history he shared. He does not know his age...not unusual in Aborginal culture...when a child is born someone just "selects" a date "around the time"....the boys are taken from their "mums" early on and are "taught" by the males in the village...the girls stay with the females to "learn" how to care for the men, eventually...!!! The lifestyle is still very much that way today...but the "younger generation" has shown signs of rebellion as they are now exposed to modern TV, CD's, MTV..and "the world outside"...HARD TO KEEP THEM ON THE FARM, so to speak!!! Interesting culture...and it's been that way for 60,000 years.
Back to the stars....you can actually SEE them for miles and miles and miles...our astronomer had a booming "baritone voice" which exuded enthusiasm for the galaxy along with his vast knowledge. WE were also entertain by a didgeroo player...more on that later. I was hoping to get one for Mark so he can learn to play it on the ship, but the REAL ones cost $1600....so Mark, you may have to get a "pretend one"...it is harder to play than the GRAND piano...more note/sound configurations.....
Sorry to be "amazed out" here, but it is just all so vast and we are consuming knowledge and information at breakneck speed. I don't know if my brain can handle anymore. I am not sure what to "sift out" to make room either!.
I had passion fruit for breakfast again. :)
Loving the news from the website and your emails...thinking of you all...loving those little peeps from afar..and thinking about Lester/Lesterette and the Oct. 11th timeframe for finding out PINK or BLUE!!! In the meantime, I'm buying YELLOW!!! :) (sorry, Tommie!)
When my head hits the pillow at night I thank God for the world we live in and all of you who are close and far....what a magnificent gift we have...this earth and one another!
Love to all....off to the GREAT BARRIER REEF today!! Pictures to follow!!!
Terri aka Teetay /Threetay :)
terri <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Friday, September 15, 2006 7:59 PM CDT
NOW THAT'S THE WAY TO DO IT, KDMK! The colors are soooo much better than last week's although those pics were quite adorable. Can't wait to see the girls in their more proper attire this Sundays (uh... err... does anything fit or does A-A need to place an order??) I love the new ones of Ally and her poses -- such the little model these days, huh?? And, I *think* I am seeing a thicker head of hair, no??? TOO CUTE in the yellow, on the "bike" and "eating" the patty :) Glad you gals had a great week and can't wait to hear more about Al's new friend aka therapist.
Yes, we are loving Teets and Geepy's email updates (and phone calls! :) from waaaay down under (and "high" on a rock). I loved the last little entry about "I had passion fruit for breakfast". I hear Teetay saying it and I know exactly what she was thinking -- too funny. We had passion fruit some morning's for b'fast in Zambia for similar reasons -- and it's not a first choice ;) I am just glad they were able to find some LIMES -- ever if it is $2 for ONE! Ah, the joys of seeing the world... I can't wait to see all the pics and hear the details of their travels. How exciting and amazing it all sounds!
We're off to Philly this weekend for a jam-packed schedule of football games, soccer and cheering by little Geo, Jamie and Jessica. First game, 8 AM tomorrow! I'll also be fitting in some much-needed shopping for yours truly :) Of course somewhere in all this, we'll need to fit in the PSU-Y'town State game tomorrow, the Eagles at 1 on Sunday then speed home when that ends (NOT REALLY, MOM!!!) in time for THE GAME in Big D at 8:15! Just so darn busy with all this "important" stuff! :)
Have a great weekend everyone... Hugs and safe "sailing" to Mark as he departs again... and K, I'll chat with you from the road!
Lots of love!
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, September 15, 2006 10:48 AM CDT
Ayers Rock...really known as the Uluru was an amazing morning...hike/meeting our Aborigines guide who did not mind if we took his picture as long as we email it to him! Who knew? THAT is NOT the case with most Aborniginal people as they believe if there are "pictures" of them "around" once they die, they are not really dead and that bothers them...so we were quite excited when told we could photograph our guide. Not sure you'll see those pictures on this site...it just doesn't seem right to publically display it even "with permission"...
So, there we were at the BASE of Ayers Rock...LOOKING up at 80 degree angle.....pretty straight up...and the "Mingas" (small ants in Aborigines) were climbing up...some on foot, some on knees, some were coming down from a brief spot high up called Chicken Rock (get the drift?) on their buttocks. The height alone was intimidating enough and the winds were high...there was NO WAY I had the physical stamina or the guts to do it. I'll be better off climbing the Harbor Bridge in Sydney when we roll back there in about 7 days....so we are pictured SOMEWHERE on the ROCK, but believe me...it is not all that high up. See, I could have "lied" to you...as it LOOKS like we are WAY UP THERE!!!
The caves and etchings inside tell the story of the early Aborigines and their customs are not a lot different today...yes, there have been modern conveniences to creep into their lives, but culturally, their values are the same. Many are Christians but still adhere to their old beliefs as well..."covering all bases" I guess!! More on that later...the Uluru National Park is a sacred ground and the touring company we selected is owned/managed/operated by Aborigines who hire the "whites" from Aussie to "man the tours"....it is very interesting to hear how it all comes into play...VERY interesting!!! The Aborigines "sign the checks"...
Thinking of you all..I'm about timed out..
Love,
T:)
terri <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va us - Friday, September 15, 2006 2:50 AM CDT
Good morning from the RED CENTRE of the Northern Territory in the Down Under...it is almost too many words even for me!!
Wow....we are really in the middle of the no-where-land! Literally, our plane dropped out of the sky and there is nothing...may I say again, NOTHING for literally MILES and miles around!!! The Ayers Rock Resort is IT! (google that in to see)....we did find our "Lost Camel" Hotel which is part of the entire resort...the entire resort can be walked in 10 minutes...but there is a shuttle bus for the less hearty!!
I ate passion fruit for breakfast this morning.
:)
We are headed out on an Aborigines' guided tour of the Uluru - otherwise known as Ayers Rock....it is a small tour guided - walking/hiking - takes about 4 hours - stay tuned for details later.
The "good part" of this location is that it is a WONDER of the world...maybe not of the "7" but surely a "wonder"....the "not so good part" is that "they have you out here" and therefore charge IMMENSELY for everything...dinner entrees beginning at $50 bucks....we did find a "little outside spot" to eat for slightly less than that! THAT is the amazing part...people peel off $50 bills like they are $10!!!
I ate passion fruit for breakfast this morning. :)
The temps are 80's daytime...40's night....no airconditioning..NOT necessary. WE did take a LONG walk into the desert last night....it was LONG because we took at wrong turn. Do you have any idea what a "wrong turn" is in the OUTBACK???? ("No worries"...!)
We snapped pics of the sunset...awesome....and yes, spectacular!!! It is not a "Texas sky" ....as "they say"...it is an OUTBACK sky!! Clear and blue and you can see forever..!!!
I am on a pay-for-interent minutes'' computer....cannot use ours out here!!
Tonight is the Sounds of Silence Dinner...I hope I do not have to be QUIET the whole time! (smile!)
Thinking of you all and wish ing you a very "g-day" wherever you are!!!
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay
:)
FromtheDownunderwayfarawayinaussieland.com
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
herndon, va usa - Thursday, September 14, 2006 6:09 PM CDT
I just LOVE those Redskins' fans!! Talk about unconditional love! Hmmm, must be something in the water about those Dallas fans! Love the new pictures, of course. And, Kristin, you do a super job on the journal writing. You are creating history. And, Terri, my woman-of-many-wonderful-words friend - your accounts of the Australia trip should be in a brochure. Guess we ALL want to go now. Think I'm heading to Melbourne! Morgan, I'll bet you LOVE kindergarten and the folks there love you. Ash and Tom, I'm so happy for you! And Ally continues to amaze us all. OK - caio for now! Love to all, Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA THE BEST - Wednesday, September 13, 2006 2:54 PM CDT
You nailed it, Ter-ree! Yes, there were burgandy bridesmaids dresses at a wedding nearly 11 years ago (what was I THINKING???!!!!)... however, those were FALL-themed dresses and flowers, NOT in support of a particular football team that plays in our nation's capitol... What a great memory you have...
NEW outfits for the girls THIS Sunday night for sure!
And, of course, you should've known that Emmitt has moves!!! You don't get the title of "all time leading rusher in the NFL" without 'em. He sure looked good and seemed to have a great time! Emmitt for President! I mean, Dancing with the Stars Champion!
Kristin <thecowboyswillprevailsundaynight@america'steam.org>
U know where, CA USA - Wednesday, September 13, 2006 8:50 AM CDT
Teresa - I think Kristin (and Ash) will tell you that we wore EGGPLANT (not burgundy) - hee hee!!!!
I had a funny Tyler story to share.......last night I took him to DQ Grill & Chill for dinner since Jim was at a work function. We ordered our food and Tyler did not want the milk that came with his meal. He wanted Hi-C. I told him that I already paid for the milk and he would have to drink it. He looked over at the fountain drinks and said "You don't have to pay for Hi-C. You just get it from over there." So, I had to explain about ordering food and that, again, I would have to PAY for the extra drink. Tyler INSISTED AGAIN that because the fountain drink machine was not near the cash register it was FREE. He then ended the conversation with "Mommy, haven't you ever heard that the best things in life are free?" How do you argue with that logic?????????
Have a great day!!!
Aimee <itisonly48degreesoutside@canwinterbeherealready?.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, September 13, 2006 8:44 AM CDT
Are you kidding? Too busy to chime in, mama-to-be? Did you see Emmitt on Dancing with the Stars? He's one talented Cowboy! And don't I remember a few lovely young ladies wearing burgundy, carrying bouquets of gold flowers in Kristin and Mark's wedding? So WHO doesn't look good in burgundy and gold? HAH! Love the little girls' pictures and hope they will stay all smiles in those outfits, especially this Sunday night! Lookin'good!
Wishing all of you in California well, and safe travels for Teetay and Geep. Loving the trip stories, too!
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Wednesday, September 13, 2006 7:50 AM CDT
Dear ALL....
So...here we are "exclaiming" the beauty of the EARTH and the 12 Apostles and we are faced with "football smack" from across the world!! Just kidding...ONE transatlantic call took care of "it"...!! Again...kidding.....I think the SKINS photo is adorable and Mark looks so happy with "his girls" in burgundy and gold!!! He knows once he's back at Fallon Kristin will bring out the blue/gray/white STARS!! As you all know, I do not CARE..."it's a game!".....:) :) :) !!!! However, over here in the Down Under they are about as passionate over their teams as America is over favorites!!
Onto to bigger and better 'things'......we visited St.Patrick's Cathedral today and lit candles for Gran/Grandaddy/Nanny/Papo....it was a very nice moment. One lights the candles and places them in a large "sand urn" where they remain for as long as possible...they were LONG candles, so I'm hoping for 48 hours anyway. St. Patrick's is , of course, very OLD, and very European....'met a lovely 80+ year old man who chatted much about recently seeing St. Patrick's in NYC....he could not believe it had once been the tallest building in New YOrk.
Onto our 80+ blocks of walkingthe city...the entire business district, the Yarra River, the docks....just about all there was to see/touch/do/think about. Our trek up the Rialto Building...the TALLEST in the Southern Hemisphere and in Melbourne gave us many, many bird's eye views of places we'd seen on the ground.
We had Greek food for lunch (Melbourne has the largest Greek population in the world outside of Athens....met the owner who was from Chicago....'no worries'....he knew exactly what he was doing-foodwise!)
Tonight we are going to Little Italy...our last night in Melbourne..it was gone way too fast, but the sunshine has been refreshing...our 'tinted' cheeks are proof of it...!!Melbourne is much more laid back than Sister Sydney....and we like that...it is easy to get around...and everything doesn't cost a "fortune".....people are anxious to speak to you, ask questions, and "learn"....that is what "small world talk" is all about!!
I absolutely did love the "best part" of today...it was a conversation with Ashli/Lester/Kristin/Morgan/and Allyson...Allyson tried to pull the phone away fromMorgan, so I know she wanted to "speak" to me!!! Morgan is so excited that I amsending her "things" for her "kindergarten report" on our trip......and ironically, we did actually mail a BOX today so we could lighten our suitcase load!!! I love the fact that Allyson now gives open-mouth kisses before bed and latches onto your lips...cannot wait to experience her sloppy kisses!!! Loved hearing Morgan squeal when I told her a "kangaroo and a joey" were on the way to her house!!!! (I mean...the girl needs ONE more stuffed animal, right??!!) So, even though we are "way over here" the sound of those little peeps is still the BEST PaRT!!! I am anxious to hear Lester/Junebug "speak" in a few short months!!! Doesn't time fly when you're having fun!!!???
Tomorrow we leave for Uluru (Ayers Rock) and I do believe I will climb it...I had "thought" it was more/less against the Aborigines customs for religious reasons, but the Aussies have convinced me that it is the A's who are taking the MONEY for the climbing, so to forget the spirituality-part and to press on.....so, I'm reconsidering that and will hopefully find myself at the top of the ROCK in the Red Centre....We know it will be 80 degrees there tomorrow, but 30's at night - and we are looking forward to our days at the LOST CAMEL...what a cool name for a resort??!!
The words "no worries" have taken on a whole new meaning....the Aussies really mean it...there is no rushing here...no horn honking...no grimacing...and I haven't seen/heard a fussy baby or child on the streets anywhere we've been...I wonder what they know that we don't know????
WE checked out Harbour properties today....one can live on the Tasman Sea overlooking the Dockyards for as low as $300,000 U.S. and as high as $2mil U.S......but it is prime real estate on the waterfront! Pretty cool, huh???? (we did not buy!!! ;)
We will check in again fromthe Northern Territory....flying to Alice Springs tomorrow...transferring to a flight to Ayers Rock....and our Sounds of Silence Dinner under the stars with the astrologist explaining the stars/constellations/Milky Way to us after we dine....I cannot think of anything more fascinating than that..."they say" the wildlife is very present at night...so who knows what we might see???
Thinking of you all....with love...
And, for the other BEST part...I had a dream about my mother last night...it was very real. She always had the "dream" that I would one day get to Australia...so it was wonderful to experience that dreamwhile I'm actually here!!! "No worries, Mum"...!!!
:)
Take good care everyone..with love,
Terri / Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va usa - Wednesday, September 13, 2006 3:57 AM CDT
Hmmmm.....Errrrr.... As much as I don't LIKE the outfits and those hideous colors on the homepage (I mean really, who actually looks good in burgundy & gold?? Not my nieces!! And, they served no purpose last night as you well know...), I must say... and it pains me to say so (given the attire and all)... THAT IS THE CUTEST FREAKIN' "DADDY & HIS GIRLS" PIC EVER!!! LOVE IT!!
How adorable is that pic?! It is definitely a keeper and frame-worthy (only on Mark's desk at work ;) I might actually need you to send me that pic, photoshop it a bit, get the colors cleaned up and frame it for myself! SO ADORABLE! And clearly in the end, Al-Pal has got it right in the final photo with the "phooey" tongue and her stinky, rotted cast in her not-so-cute colors pointing right at the camera letting us know how she really feels about her attire. Way to catch on, Al! I always knew you were really, really smart. Us youngin's always are ;) (*grin*) and you'll have to educate Morgan on the real team to cheer for in the coming weeks... GOOOO BIG D! (Good thing Theresa seems to be too busy back at school to chime in here -- hee hee! ;) We'll see this Sunday who prevails and actually gets a win on the board this season. Well, I mean other than pre-season which people say never counts but D has some checks in the win column already. Ok, I am done. Teetay would not approve of this football "it's just a game" banter so good thing she is far, far away and can't yell at me right now. JUST KIDDING, TEETS! I know you are "checking in" on us but if your other daughter would dress her kids properly then we wouldn't have this problem. Who bought those monkey suits anyway, KDMK? Please tell me they were a gift from someone we like a lot or that it was Mark's doing!!! :)
Now I am really done.
Sounds like a good, BUSY week for everyone and glad to hear Morgy-lu is dealing with all her DISASTERS (ah, the stressful life of a kindergartner!) and I will be counting the days with you until stinky-leg-Pal gets that clunkly cast off and can really walk and run around FREELY! YAY!!
Lots of love and chat later! xoxo
Aunt Ashli & "Lester" (already a Dallas fan... I eat a lot of blueberries so he/she gets the colors right from the very start! :) <ashliagmg@waytoomuchstupidrantingaboutfootballinthispost-sorry.com>
Washington, DC (but my football heart is in Dallas) - Tuesday, September 12, 2006 11:07 AM CDT
Hi all,
Just a quickie....today was our "GREAT OCEAN ROAD" trip....over 400 miles in a mini-van tour vehicle with our lovely guide "Kilea"....means "boomerang"...she always comes back! We were with ONE other couple for the entire day...a couple fromS.Francisco....and who knew??? A Navy retiree and an Air Force retiree....each of us have TWO children...and they have THREE grandchildren...all living in the San Fran area....OUR DAY was wonderful with so many things "in common"....the Navy and the AForce mixed it up real well!!
We saw too many beautiful sights to even absorb in one day....driving the Ocean Road is "compared" to the Pacific Coast Highway...NOT EVEN CLOSE...it is the "unspoiled" California...or the "unspoiled" New England coast..or the "unspoiled" anywhere there is water and it is au-natural!! So much beauty....breathtaking is the word that comes to mind, but I don't want to be dramatic...but there is no other way to describe what we've seen today. The Twleve Apostles monoliths that rise up from the Tasman Sea truly take your breath away...'did ours.....and the pictures will probably not even do it justice. If anyone can see some of these beauties of the earth as we have all have seen and not believe in God is just UNimaginable to me....such beauty-beauty-beauty!!
The day was LONG, but one of our best ones thus far...I wonder if I will continue to say that as the trip progresses??? Getting away from the city-ness feels really good as we learn more and more about the Australian culture/people/habits/ and the out reach they have for the world at large. I know we have great beauty in the U.S. - but I truly think that today I have seen some of the most incredible God-sights EVER!
I had shark for lunch....yum...yum...yum!!! We dined at "Buff's" at Apollo Bay...overlooking the Tasman Sea....dessert was the largest slice of Tiramasu I have EVER witnessed...and you know how I love my "terri-ma-sue"...!!! Bouncing around in the "transport" for the continuing voyage was only MILDLY UNcomfortable....I think it is okay to "burP" in Aussie land!!! :)
Rocket is the name of a local lettuce...you just have to be careful for the 'stems' that are somehow still attached and hang in your palate....(more on that later!!..there's a story!) :)
Arrived back in Melbourne at 7 tonight...we're not sure if we have the ENERGY to go back OUT and do/see/more of Melbourne...but you know us...we'll get our second wind!!! We're working on it right now...it is called a Vodka Tonic and a Bourbon and SODA!! Since LIMES cost $2.00 per LIME we just asked the BARTENDER to "give us" a couple of slices to take to our room! Whalah!!! We have a whole LIME to savor!!! ("Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus!")
And, the temps today were 72 degrees...our warmest temps yet....so tonight I do not have to ONCE AGAIN don my black turtle neck sweater...!! "RAAAAAAYYYYY!"
The Hotel Lindrum is just about the neatest little boutique hotel we've ever seen!!! They are "coddling" our every need....and that includes LIMES!!
Thinking of you all...missing you ....and wishing that we were all here together in a BIG FAT GROUP enjoying this together! Since we're not...you'll have to 'endure' my epistles !!!
G'day Mates!
Teetay/Terri
Posted by Kristin from Teetay's e-mail <soundslikethey'rehavingthetimeof theirlives@aussie.net>
Melbourne, I think, ?? Austrailia - Tuesday, September 12, 2006 9:03 AM CDT
Hi Allyson,
I see the owie on your foot. I want to see you and I want to play with you. I miss you.
Your friend,
Catherine
Catherine Crandell <hmcrand@comcast.net>
- Tuesday, September 12, 2006 7:37 AM CDT
Happy Monday to everyone as we are remembering those who suffered so much on this day 5 years ago... a day none of us will ever forget, especially the phone call Kristin made to me to "go watch" as soon as the first plane hit. She was still on maternity leave with Morgan. My how time flies! It's a rainy day in DC however it's not dampering the spirits of the events to honor those who died at the Pentagon on 9/11. As you can imagine, flags are out EVERYWHERE, from houses to office buildings to blanketing the huge Oracle campus (where Todd Beamer worked) right next to my office in Reston. I am sure they are waving proudly wherever you are today, as well and I wish everyone in Ally-land a peaceful day of remembering.........
On a lighter note, it is so exciting to hear Mom & Dad's updates about their trip and I know they are having an incredible time! Or as she would say... SPECTACULAR! It's great to hear their voices every few days --- you know Mom and Dad!! :)
I hope Morgy-lu is off to a great week #2 of kindergarten and Al-Pal continues to thrive and walk on that clunky leg and just go-go-go! KDMK, I'll talk to you later!
Sure wish that mine and TG's favorite "blue and white" teams did a little better this weekend but hey, it's still just the beginning of the season, right?!?! Bro, I'd wish you and your beloved Skins luck tonight but frankly, you know I'd be lying ;) But I will say, enjoy the happy hour game time and have some cold suds for me, will ya?? ;)
Lots of love!
Aunt Ashli <AshliAGMG@yahoo.com>
- Monday, September 11, 2006 10:13 AM CDT
Greetings from Melbourne!
Okay already...we're here!!! Enough about that..
I want to talk about PILLOWS.....NEVER have I had the OPPORTUNITY to "select" the "type" of PILLOW I wanted to rest my head upon....but here at the Hotel Lindrum that is an option! It was a HUGE decision...but finally, I have selected the "Natural support and feel of pure new Australian wool, combined with polyester for that softer feel".....
Geep, however, selected the "provides contoured head and neck support with a soft foam core".....but the hotel was OUT of those pillows so he must be content with "tri pillow ensuring correct comfort andsupport for reading and watching television"....
WHO KNEW??? I have never had the PILLOW option! GO MELBOURNE!!!
Melbourne is everything Sydney is NOT...(no offense, Sydney!).....much "smaller town feel" even though Mel-B is 3million "plus"..and Sister Sydney is 4 MIL plus....there is still a "warmer" feeling to this city. The City Cirlce TRAM (old time streetcar) is FREE and one can jump on and off without paying a cent...!! We like that! The hotel staff treats us as if "Princess Di and her entourage" is here...."way better" than SisterSydney!! The Yarra River is brown, but was lovely tonight as we dined nearby...amazing what low lighting can do??? My Tasmanian Sea SALMON was some of the best ever...but I PROMISE "not" to become a "salmon snob"...I've met a few and it isn't pretty! Salmon is salmon..and I guess it just tasted better because I'm here??? Right???!!
Our flight today was near perfect...first off...the MELBOURNE Airport is near perfect...we were in/checked in/through security/ with time to spare!! The local coffee bean spot did not do a very good job on my Frappucino, but I forgave them! We ran into a "new friend" fromour Blue Mtns. tour...Morissa...a lovely young lady from NYC - and buyer for Tiffany's....(she promised to get me stuff!)...she was enroute to Cairns...we are following her on our travels.
Our cab driver tonight spent the entire 15minutes telling us how much he respected the U.S. ...and that had he not been dyslexic as a child (and no one knew) he would have helped during the Viet Nam War....he asked many questions and we had jovial 'chat' and we were sorry when the ride ended...that is the way it is!!
We've heard much of 9/11 today and on one cab ride the driver put the volume up HIGH so we could hear it...actually, I could have done without the verbatim dialogue of that day, but I think he thought it was important for us to 'hear'....although we did not thank him for that, I 'get it'.....people are trying hard to be part of something bigger than we may ever understand.
Tomorrow takes us on the GREAT OCean Road to the Otway Lighthouse, the Twelve Apostles, and the great shipwrecks along the Tasman Sea....the temps have promised to hit 71 degrees so we may be the WARMEST of the trip thus far! Having dined at the CROWN PLAZA tonight along the riverbanks, tomorrow night we will hit the dockyards....all along water...lights shimmering, music playing..and great, great food!!! I guess I should say it doesn't get any better than this...
But...in truth I miss many things...mostly so many of YOU!!! And, needless to say, I miss the CA peeps who I will see mid October...and I miss seeing "Ashli's Lester/Junebug as he/she grows"......I'm not thinking PINK or BLUE...just hoping for healthy and I know....LOVED, loved, loved!!
Our thoughts will continue to be with the families and loved ones of all who were personally affected by Sept. 11 as the anniversary moments arrive in just a fewminutes....let it be known there is a whole community of folks from this side of the world who are with you as well....and who CARE.
Thinking of...and loving you all...
Be in touch ...
Terri aka Teetay :) aka THREEtay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va usa - Monday, September 11, 2006 7:35 AM CDT
Teetay - so gald you are having the time of your life in the land down under! The world is definitely small and I have a story to share to proove that. I was talking to my mom this morning and as she was standing in line for something in her neighborhood she overheard a couple complaining about the builder. My mom pipes in with her 2 cents worth and they start to talk. Long story short, after they got past the "I used to live in the town next to you" and "Where did you go to high school?" the man says "My best friend used to go to that high school. It is a sad story because he went off to the University of Michigan and was killed a year later in Vietnam." My mom said she turn white as a ghost. The man said "His name was Wayne...." and then my mom finished his sentence. She used to DATE the guy that this man was talking about.
TALK ABOUT A SMALL WORLD!!!
I hope everyone had a great weekend. We had karate and swimming lessons and then got to relax the rest of the weekend. Now it is 54 degrees outside and feels like a fall day!!!!! Week 2 of Kindegarten starts tomorrow....Morgan I hope your first week was as awesome as Tyler's.
Hugs and kissed from MN!!!
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Sunday, September 10, 2006 3:58 PM CDT
Hello everyone..
This is TOO SMALL WORLD...but tonight we met not ONE, but THREE people from Northern VA all in the SAME place sitting side by side...(oooh...aah...ooooohhh!) It was a funny story actually...bottom line is:....ONE woman asked where we were "from" and she had an Aussie accent....so my 25 cent answer was: VIRGINIA-just-outside-Washington,DC.....(that usually seems to do it!) ....and she replied rather LOUDLY....WHERE in VIRGINIA? Assuming she "knew" something about the Commonwealth, I answered...."Northern VA"....to which she replied that she, too, was from Northern VA......"
"Oh, where? " I asked.
She smiled, "Hmmmmm.....Winchester!"
(Us "NOVA" folks KNOW that Winchester is NOT Northern VA!)
To progress.....I didn't slam her answer....I just said..."I don't think NOVA recognizes Winchester as NOVA."
She said..."I've never heard of FAIRFAX area...is it large?"
(I continued to smile)
She retreated and went on her merry way....
A moment later a lovely woman came over to our table and acknowledged that she'd "heard" us say "NOVA" to the woman and she, too, thought it was hysterical that she considered WINCHESTER No. Virgina!!
Come to find out...(this is when you begin to hum "It's a Small World After All")...she lives in McClean...a native, but proudly ADMITTED that she'd marry an "Air Force Guy" and they'd lived "all over"....gee, including Langley AFB....and er,uh, her husband was the exec. for Gen.Creech, and Geep used to brief Gen.Creech while at Langley and always had to go "through the exec".....!!! SMALL WORLD stuff! And, we are all sitting in the 360 DEGREE revolving Lounge/Restaurant watching the sun set while wearing our tennis shoes!!! The lovely woman went onto to say that she was here with her daughter, a research geneticist from George Washington Univ. in St. Louis, who was giving speeches in Sydney!! "MORE SMALLWORLD singing"....!!! I did not go into "conference talk" with her, but I am sure she would be familiar with NFED...it was just too big a story to share over a sunset!!!
But...that was just a tiny part of our day and it was a "part" that I just loved.....the "connections"....we are not even separated by the old proverbial 6 degrees! Eh???? (that's Aussie for HUH?)
Thinking of you all....we blew our way across three beaches today...via ferry, bus, and on foot....Manley Beach, Bondi Beach, (Volleyball in the 2000 Olympics played there) and Coogie beach....Bondi is the Aborigines word for "breaking waves".....and Coogie is the Aboriginies word for "rotting seaweed"....
So ...there's your trivia lesson for today!
Love to all....Missing everyone, but savoring every minute!
Off to Melbourne tomorrow...EARLY rising!:)
Terri aka Teetay :)
So, look to your right...and then to your left...and YOu will find someone who knows someone you know....SMALL world stuff is the bEST!!! :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va usa - Sunday, September 10, 2006 6:41 AM CDT
Hello all,
I just wrote a big fat email tomany of you and "lost it"...so this is just a quickie to say hello....big day yesterday in the BlueMountains...diningwith the kangaroos, petting kangaroos and koalas...with the crowning event last night...wesaw a perfromance inthe Grand Sydney Opera House....AMAZING!!! Topped off our night with a vist to "Five Below" an "ARTIC BAR" which is 5 belowzero TEMPS....everything in the place is made fromICE !'Pretty COOL' doesn't do it justice...you have to puton ARTIC CLOTHING to enter and you are only ALLOWED to stay for 30 minutes....a very unique experience. YOu can probaly imagine that we were the OLDESTpeoplethere!! OH well!!! :)
Off today to the Harbour Bridge andtheROCKS....later tonight our paddle boat dinner/show cruise in the Sydney Harbor....tomorrow Bondi Beach and SEE-FOOD...SEAfood!!!
Thinking of you all with love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va usa - Friday, September 8, 2006 5:39 PM CDT
Wow. I've been somewhat disconnected from online happenings, except for a few things here and there. Morgan, congrats on your first day of school. Hope it went well. I love all the pictures of you, and Ally, you look like you're so full of spunk there in that picture.
Hope Teetay and Jeep's trip got off to a good start, and congrats to Ashli and TG for such awesome news. Hope it goes well for you! :)
Must get online more often.
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com >
Honolulu, HI USA - Thursday, September 7, 2006 9:40 PM CDT
Hello from the DOWN UNDER!!
We're hhhhheeeeerrrrrrreeeee! Arrived early this morning, Sept. 7th, at 6:00A.M. Australia time!!! The skys put on a beautiful "light show" for about two hours before landing...I truly believe that LIGHTNING is BEAUTIFUL from a plane window! Odd, you say??? It was quite spectacular and not at all scary! We did land in TREMENDOUS RAIN, but the natives tell us "they need it"...(it IS the DRY season! DUH??)so we did not complain too much. By mid afternoon I had WILLED the sun to shine, although it is a bit chillier than expected. I may wear out my ONE sweater!!
After a "rush hour drive" to the Grace Hotel and meeting a few other folks on our "hotel shuttle"...one from New Jersey on their honeymoon...another couple from Atlanta "just traveling"....there was much "chatter" in the bus as you can imagine!!! Kindred spirits! We settled into our hotel...oh, so lovely - historically nestled in The ROCKS area where the first Australians settled long ago! We set out on our trek to the DARLING HARBOUR!! And, it is "darling"....tons of restaurants and shops galore all along the harbour - -- by 11 o'clock we were HUNGRY for LUNCH....but alas! Restaurants do not begin SERVING LUNCH until NOON! It is engraved in STONE!! We managed to find St. Patrick's PUB for lunch and the New Zealand calamari was spectacular!!! It reminded me of that calamari Kristin and I tasted at Jake's in Del Mar a few years back!! We walked around the DARLING HARBOUR for about 4 hours before returning to our room for a "practice nap" of ONE HOUR! Gotta get these body clocks ready for our trek to the BLUE Mountains tomorrow!!! We actually feel pretty "normal" after about 4 hours of REAL sleep on the plane....there was plenty of food...nice refreshments, lovely United staff, and lots of room!! We can't complain about out flight one bit!!
We did tour the famous Opera House this afternoon, and it is an amazing structure...saw the sun set over the harbour, and watched people doing the BRIDGE CRAWL/CLIMB....it takes over 3 hours and is very expensive...those are TWO good reasons NOT to do it, plus the fact that you are DANGLING over the water - while tethered....however, YOU ARE UP THERE! I think while watching the "climbers" today I have MADE my decision to walk the bridge on the REGULAR ROAD, not the ARCH!!!
It was good to talk to Kristin and Ashli this morning upon arrival....I miss them already!!
What a wonderful experience this is...and for those of you who "get this"...I did SING "Glory,glory to Australia" when we landed...and I told my mother I was HERE "for her"....:)
With love to all...and I'll chime in more later...!
Terri aka Teetay aka THREETAY :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va usa - Thursday, September 7, 2006 6:32 AM CDT
Greetings! Ok, I had to chime in since I fear we'll have a shortage of postings in the coming weeks with Teets out of pocket and the busy days of everyone getting back into the swing of school routines, work, fall sports, etc.
I am pleased to say - *I THINK* - that Mom and Dad are FINALLY off their airplane! Thank goodness for business class for all those hours :) By now they should have landed in Sydney (6:25 AM local time on 9/7 - tomorrow!) and be at their hotel, getting ready for their day. I am thrilled they are having this trip of a lifetime experience!
Other than that, I hope all the kiddos are having a great day #2 at school and Ally, that you had a good session with Pablo. I'll talk with you gals later!
And to Aimee's comment, yes, we actually kept our mouths shut for once! And trust me, it was tough becasue you guessed it, the last time I saw you (and a ton of others) at Rally for Ally, I knew we were expecting :)) Pretty good, huh??
Hugs to all!
Aunt Ash <ashliagmg@aol.com>
- Wednesday, September 6, 2006 4:10 PM CDT
Hello one last time from "this side" of the world...!!
It was such JOY talking to Morgan this morning as she was riding to her school - - she breathlessly told me all about her backpack, lunchbox with her name on it..(hmmmm??? wonder where she got that??!!)...her pencil box, tablets, crayons...and "stuff"...she was ALL SET FOR Big K-learning!!! I recall sending Kristin and Ashli off on "their first day" of kindergarten....some things one never forgets!!! And, there wasn't a hair out of place on their heads either!!!
It was good to hear that Tyler had a good send off, too...and I am sure Geo will experience the same!!
We leave for the airport in less than 30 minutes....my heart is all fluttery with excitement! This morning when I woke up it finally HIT ME!! I'm REALLY GOING TO AUSTRALIA today!!!! (and tomorrow...and the next day.....!!)
Unfortunately, I will not get to meet ALLYSON KELSO from Victoria on this trip. She wrote that she wasn't able to arrange it as it is a six hour drive from her home to see us in Melbourne....maybe next trip????!! (Hmmmmm....did I say that???) I already KNOW that I will WANT MORE of Australia - I can sense it!
Love to all...happy September week!
Terri aka Teetay aka "Threetay"?!!! :)
thefirstdayofschoolistodayandiamnotcrying.com
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Tuesday, September 5, 2006 12:05 AM CDT
Holly BABIES batman!!!!!! Ash - you little secret keeper! You must have just found out when we saw you at the rally. I am soooooooooooo excited for you and even though you have experienced babies from being around your nieces and nephews, there is nothing like YOUR OWN. I just can't believe that I used to drive you around and now you are going to be a mommie. I better tell my mom so she can start her crocheting :):):) Should I tell her to make a black and white blanket?? - hee hee
I am pleased to report that not a single tissue was used this morning and Tyler proudly walked into his classroom, placed his lunch box in the appropriate bin, hung up his backpack, gave us all hugs, and then went to sit on the mat with his hands neatly folded in his lap. He was so excited to get dressed in new clothes and shoes and was hoping to learn MATH today!!! That's MY kid - I'll make an accountant out of him yet!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Aimee <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Tuesday, September 5, 2006 11:25 AM CDT
Looky at BIG kindergartener Morgy-lu!!!! What a cutie-patootie you are! I am so proud of you (and Mommy ;) for making it off to school with pure joy and excitement for all that you will learn and do this year. That's right, no tears! It's a happy day! (Although I still don't where the last FIVE years went... or Ally's last 20 months or my last 16 weeks!! ;)
I can't wait to hear all about first day -- and what the heck is in that humongo backpack (perhaps a laptop? cell phone? ;) of hers!
Love ya!
Aunt Ash... and LESTER! :-P <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
rainiy, soggy, chilly Washington DC, - Tuesday, September 5, 2006 11:05 AM CDT
Whahooooo!!! Now I can be excited over my new name Ashli has "given" me upon telling us that she and Tom are having a BABY!!! She has "renamed me"....THREETAY! (as in "three" grandchildren to love!) Don't know if that name will "stick" but the loving of soon to be NEWEST grandchild WILL!!!
God is good!!!
Love to all...
Terri aka Teetay aka "THREEtay"...!!!:)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Tuesday, September 5, 2006 7:27 AM CDT
WOW! What an update and a huge day for soooo many... I wish Morgan, Geo and Tyler the BEST day of kindergarten ever and I can't wait to hear all about it, and of course see Morgy-lu in her uniform! I was thrilled to chat with her yesterday when she kept "joking me" that she was a little bit nervous. It sounded like you all had the perfect back-to-school eve and a super weekend!
And yes, another HUGE day as Teets and Geep head off DOWN UNDER for their trip of a lifetime -- I know how much they have been "dreaming" of this for years and I am thrilled for their adventure. SAVOR EVERY MINUTE, SAFE & UNEVENTFUL TRAVELS and most of all HAVE FUN!!! Eat, drink, be merry and I can't wait to relive it all through your many photos. We'll be thinking of you everyday!
And the other big news of this day and posting, I found out I am expecting!!! Wow, what news! Ok, all kidding aside since I kinda knew for a while ;), all is well here and we'll happy for Kristin to spill the beans and share with many special friends out there in Ally-land. "We" are doing great!!
Happy back to school and work to EVERYONE! And Al, I love your yogurt(I think!) mush mouth!!! YOU ARE PRECIOUS!!
Love and hugs to everyone!! xoxoxo
Aunt Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
Washington, DC - Tuesday, September 5, 2006 6:01 AM CDT
Hi everyone! We are back from Arkansas/Kansas City and before I literally CRASH into bed I had to catch up on the journal and entries. The drive was long but the trip was GREAT! We went to a cave and saw bats, played in the pool, had fun at putt putt, explored the campus of the University of Arkansas before they got their a** kicked at the first home game of the season, went to the planatarium and science museum in Kansas City and ATE, and ATE, and ATE. It sure is good to be home though and I am looking forward to sleeping in my own bed tonight.
To Terri and Jerry - have a FABULOUS time!!!! I will be thinking about you each day and can't wait to live vicariously though you as you share your journey with us.
To Morgan - good luck on your first day of Kindergarten. Tyler is really excited and a bit nervous....he asked "What if I don't make any friends?" Since Tyler has no problem befriending ANYONE, I have no doubt he will make friends immediately! His clothes are all picked out along with new socks and shoes and I am hopeful I will be able to "hold it together" as I send my baby off to school. Kristin, do you think I will be able to use only 1 tissue????
Well, I am off to bed! Sweet dreams everyone!
Love,
Aimee <mybabygoestokindergarten@allgrownup.com>
EP, MN - Monday, September 4, 2006 8:23 PM CDT
Allyson's devilish grin and pose make me laugh. She's quite a little character! Best wishes to Morgan for a wonderful first day of kindergarten and wearing a uniform. She will wear it with the most style of any kindergartner, I'm sure!
And now for Teetay and Geep: have a glorious adventure and enjoy every sight, sound, taste, and smell of your trip. Your itinerary captures some truly fantastic places and things to see and do. I know that I have come back from every trip to another country really changed and enlightened. As much as we love the good ol' USA, it's good to be reminded that the people of other countries find their country just as wonderful as we do ours, and it's important to appreciate all of those cultural differences. The variety of geography, food, animals, and beauty that is so different from what we know here will be revelations and awe-inspiring, I'm sure. I'm very excited for you!
I will think of you every day, wondering what you are seeing and doing, and will be an avid audience for your pictures and stories when you return! Bon Voyage and lots of love to Terri and Jerry.
Theresa
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, VA - Monday, September 4, 2006 9:39 AM CDT
MMMMMMM! That popsicle looks yummy on the last days of summer! Ally and Morgan you both look adorable and I'm glad to hear Ally is not letting the cast keep her from getting around. Morgan...hope you have a great first day of kindergarten! I remember my mom walking me in to school the first day and now I'm going to be a softmore! It goes by so fast. Also, Mrs. MAtus I hope you have a GREAT trip to Australia. It sounds like you will have so much to do, but will have so much fun. Happy Labor day to everyone!
Elizabeth Hellman <dancer3191@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA United States - Monday, September 4, 2006 9:00 AM CDT
Happy LABOR DAY to everyone!
I hope you are not having to LABOR on this first Monday of September!!
"All our bags are packed....we're ready to go..." as the old LEAVING ON A JET PLANE SONG says!!! Just a couple of tiny 'last minute' things to do today before we see some friends tonight for a "mini-bon-voyage" gathering!!
We spent a lovely day in Charlottesville Saturday saying goodbye to Pat Siemon. The "Ernesto" winds and rain subsided, the sun shone brightly all day, and it was wonderful being in the company of Pat's family. Pat's brother, Frank, had been his bone marrow donor more than once during his cancer-battle, and it was a joy to meet this loving, giving man. Each grandchild placed a rose beside "Grampi" and two of the boys even gave him an "alan wrench" and a "pencil"...DEAR CHILDREN!!! God has certainly gained a perfect angel.
Our Australia itinerary is taking us to Sydney, Melbourne, Ayers Rock, The Great Barrier Reef, and finally, to Christ Church and the Tasman Glacier. I'm hoping to "walk" the harbour bridge skywalk (that means on TOP OF IT!), and we will have breakfast with the kangaroos in the Blue Mountains our second day in country. Melbourne will take us along the Great Ocean Road to the sights of shipwrecks, lighthouses, and penguins resting along the shore. The sun will set on Ayers Rock as we feast on a "Sounds of Silence" dinner sipping champagne and canapes while listening to the astrologer explain exactly what is blinking in the sky above us - that should be pretty awesome! The Great Barrier Reef will give us an opportunity to snorkel, scuba, or just look out the glass bottom boat to see the life in the Coral Sea....but the 'best part' will be our hotel - each room is a little bungalow called a pico moud (small bungalow) with a living area, bedroom, and VERANDAH ("Ah....Scarlett...where is Rhett???") FACING the Coral Sea...with our "frontyard" being the sandy beach and the SEA!!! (we may never want to leave!) In New Zealand, specifically ChristChurch, we are renting a car that will take us to Mt. Cook and a walk on the Tasman Glacier. A highlight of ChristChurch is a visit to the National Science Foundation to tour and see the staging for the experiments that take place in the South Pole. Thanks to our friend, Jerry Marty, who works at the South Pole three months a year - Jerry has hooked us up with his colleagues and has also told us the BEST LOCAL PUBS in the area that are worth frequenting! We have left TIME open to explore other areas as we pass through....you know the old saying: "I shall pass this way but once....." We are looking forward to meeting Australian natives and getting to know them!!
Wishing everyone a lovely September week ahead....and we'll chime in every now and then from "Down Under"...and I'll let you know if the toliets flush backwards!!!
Wishing Allyson a great week ahead and she continues to maneuver his cast and climb on things that are too high for her....wishing Morgan a fabulous FIRST DAY of kindergarten in her "big girl uniforms" and backpack....wishing Mark safe travel to San Diego tomorrow...and wishing Kristin a delightful day with "five minutes to herself"...!!!
Happy SCHOOL to all my "formers" and to everyone else already involved in the glory of school! Tomorrow begins different journies for us all!!
G'day 'mates'....!!! I wonder what "Tie me kangaroo down" really means????!!
With love to all and continued prayers for the Siemon family and dear Lynn Newman in Texas....LOOKING RIGHT, Lynn!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Monday, September 4, 2006 7:47 AM CDT
Ally, you look better than ever! That cast is not stopping you from doing anything! Although, it will still be nice to get it off in a couple weeks. The pictures are adorable! That poscicle looks pretty yummy! I'm glad everyone had a fun and eventful summer. But I agree, where did it go? As Morgan starts kindergarten, I'll start 10th grade. It seems like forever since I've been in Mrs. Matus' class! I'm glad everyone is doing well and hope everyone has a great (if not rainy) Labor Day. I'm glad Mark is home to make it an extra special Labor Day for those Kelso girls!
-Christina Knippler
Christina Knippler (Mrs. Matus' former student) <acoolkid15@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA - Sunday, September 3, 2006 9:39 AM CDT
Ah, yes! Where has the SUMMER GONE!!! (says Kristin!!) I can attest to some of the wonderful details/festivities/activities and travels of this summer!
That "bare leg" photo of Allyson is just about the cutest one yet!!! She looks as if she is in "model pose" as if she's thinking..."Am I just EVER SO CUTE?" And, she is!!!
The "celebrity" mode of CHLA and the "NAM Princess" must have made the other parents just beginning the process feel so good. I think that Kristin and Allyson have a "job" to instruct and model what can "be" for children with cleft lips/palates. The "process" for the new device does sound challenging, but very interesting, and it is good that once again, a medical professional wants to tackle it. That is GOOD....someone else 'working for the best for Allyson' - we cannot hope for more than that!!
And, then to the JUMPROPE girl on the patio....what a cutie you are on the last day of preschool!!! And, Tuesday morning you will be sporting your uniforms, backpack, and special 'Morgan' pink/purple lunch boxes!!! I will call you from the San Francisco Airport en route to Australia to check in on your FIRST DAY of KINDERGARTEN!!! I know you will be full of "Morgan stories"...!!
And, Happy LABOR DAY TO ALL!!! I am glad that Kristin, Mark, Morgan, and Allyson will have some "time" to reinvent the beach/ocean/picnic and just be together as a family before Mark has to leave again!!!
I'm looking forward to my time with the "girls" in October when Kristin and Mark celebrate Anniversary no. 11 and have a trip to HAWAII ALONE!!!! :) Kristin has already told me about the "schedule" of "events" and"activities" for both Morgan and Allyson - the doctor appts. - therapy -karate for Morgan - ballet for Morgan - and probably HOMEWORK!!! Right???!! I will "rest up" from Australia for two weeks to prepare for that great October "trip"!!!
In the meantime, I'm READY to go DOWNUNDER!!!
And, happy SCHOOL to everyone who started this week or next...my thoughts and my heart are with you.
We travel to Charlottesville tomorrow to say our final farewell to Patrick Siemon...a beloved husband, father, grandfather, United States Army Retired Officer who served in Viet Nam, and FRIEND for many years. Pat fought a valiant battle against cancer for over 11 years trying each and every protocol that was offered to him. His wife, Lynn, and children Wendy and Brad, plus SIX grandchildren will miss the man they called "Dad, Grandpa, Honey..and BEST friend." I have been honored to know this good man. God bless their family this weekend and in the days to come.
With love to all for a lovely holiday weekend! We aren't "under water" yet in Northern VA...just winds and rain...and I'm watching my basement for "flooding"...I got NEW CARPET and TILE out of the July STORM so I don't want anything to happen to my "new stuff" in this one!!!
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
And to my former students....THIS IS IT! Did you do your summer reading????:!!!!!
:)
notmissingthefirstdayofschoolatall.com :)!!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Friday, September 1, 2006 7:43 PM CDT
CUTE CUTE CUTE end-of-summer pics and as always, a great, newsy update!
Love ya!!
Ash <ashliagm@yahoo.com>
- Friday, September 1, 2006 3:58 PM CDT
Greetings from a soggy, icky Washington DC! We're headed to Penn State for the big kick-off weekend and to "enjoy" some more rain :) It will be soggy but fun nonetheless... we hope! After yesterday's early morning excitement in the ER with TG and determining he has kidney stones, we;re hoping they pass ASAP... at least before game time?!?! He has percocet in hand (in lieu of cold suds) so hopefully that will help when the d-day time comes.
Safe travels to Mom & Dad as they head to C'vill tomorrow, then to AUSTRALIA on Tuesday --- woo hoo, the official countdown to their trip of a lifetime begins!
Lots of love to the CA gang and hope you all have a great, sunny weekend and wind-down before Morgy-lu officially starts kindergarten on Tuesday - egads, where does the time go?!?!?!?! You and cousin Geo, also starting K on Tues, will have many "school" notes to compare the next time you get together ;)
Big hugs and kisses to the bulldozer casted Al-Pal gal -- I hope you are finding ways to cruise around and bonk mommy on her head with your leg -- hee hee! xoxo
Aunt Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Friday, September 1, 2006 11:30 AM CDT
Love the pics on the homepage and the extra photos! Mark and Kristin--you look GREAT!!! I am sure you had a blast at the Hawkeye Ball...boy, do I miss spending those evenings with you Kristin...such fond memories!!
Sounds like Ally is holding true to her character and not letting anything get in her way! Morgan's artwork on her sister's cast is very colorful. I am sure she had a blast decorating it : )
We have been very busy this week. The kids started school yesterday!! YIPEE!! I didn't know what to do with all of my time...NOT!! There is always much to do as most mom's will attest too, but I am hoping once we are back into the swing of the school routine I will also have time for the much needed catch-up time on my scrapbooks and catching up with friends!! The kids have GREAT teachers and I am sure they will have a very successful year.
Just thought I would say hello to everyone out there! We have been thinking of you and are glad to hear that all is well in CA. We hope Geep and Teetay have a FANTASTIC trip to Australia and that there plans to meet the "other" Allyson Kelso work out. I am headed to see my nephew for the first time this weekend--ALL BY MYSELF!!! (he is just 3 weeks old!!!!) Kristin, hopefully we can catch up sometime next week on the phone! I hope everyone has a fabulous Labor Day weekend!!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Thursday, August 31, 2006 3:36 PM CDT
Allyson, Morgan, Mark and Kristin, it sure is hard being back home and not seeing your smiling faces every day! Even with Ally's surgery it was a fun-filled happy time! I had an uneventful but tiring red-eye trip home. It turns out that there was a 12 mile back-up on the PCH and thankfully our shuttle driver knew it and took us on the 101 and 405. Kristin, I kept watching for you going the other way back home from CHLA. Unfortunately the driver was trying to make up for lost time and I moved into a seat one row back so I couldn't see what was going on along the highway nor see the speedometer! But we did make it to LAX just on time!! Right now we are battening down the hatches for Hurricane Ernesto which is supposed to come ashore tonight just a few miles south of us. We have hauled in all the outdoor furniture and plants and are thankful our plans to sail on the Chesapeake this weekend were cancelled a few weeks ago.
One CA joy not mentioned yet is that Morgan actually READ words to us from her flash cards over the weekend. We all knew she could do it; her teachers at school said so, but she finally DID IT at home. And they weren't all simple 3 letter words either! She made "teacher" Grandma very proud for many years ago I learned to read by the same method, the Carden Method, that Mary Law Private School uses. I even met Miss Carden a number of times when she visited our elementary school in NJ. Small world!! Love to all the CA Kelsos.
Lydia Kelso a.k.a . Grandma Kelso <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Southport, NC - Thursday, August 31, 2006 1:52 PM CDT
Greetings to Allyson's family from Waldwick, NJ. We pray for Allyson every week at Waldwick Methodist Church and are always pleased to hear reports from Great-Grandma Janet.
Janet Barnard <bluebonnet50j@yahoo.com>
Waldwick, NJ USA - Wednesday, August 30, 2006 11:09 PM CDT
Whew! Everytime I am gone for awhile (like 4 out of the past 5 weeks), and need to catch up on Ally's progress and daily events, I am touched to tears and so proud to know these fantastic people! I can understand "Aussie Ally's" comment, and I do hope you all catch up with each other in Australia - prepare to have your picture taken!! If we could bottle Ally's strong spirit and resilience, we could save the world!! Hmmmm - wonder where that came from?? :) Love to all! Pam
Pam Thompson <pamelatc@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 3:25 PM CDT
Hello everyone!
GREAT new pics of the CA peeps!!! You can just see the 'devilment' in Allyson's eyes as she is most likely calculating who she will "bonk" with her cast next????!!! Love the Morgan-wearing-Navy-hat shot....very dear! And, Kristin and Mark...YOU LOOK HOT!!! :)!! I know you enjoyed both of your "grownup" outings this past weekend! Fun to get out/about with your friends and be "kid free" for a bit of time! I am sure Grandma K had a great time with the little peeps - - and maybe not too much jump roping????!!
Safe travels back to NC, Lydia! And safe travels to LA today, Kristin! AND..the countdown to the first day of REAL KINDERGARTEN for Morgan! Where does the TIME go??? She was just barely "2" a few minutes ago!!! HA!
I am continuing to PREPARE for our trip to Australia and New Z....but I'm about at a standstill unless I want to pack my clothes early and 'watch them wrinkle'...or "fix my hair and nails" and stand in the corner for the next week! The anticipation is half the fun in a trip!!
Hope everyone is having a great beginning to your week wherever you are!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 11:32 AM CDT
Hi there and great news pics! Of course I love the Ally t-shirt and well, it just ROCKS as does her mom ;) (and dad, and sister and Ally herself, and well, her whole darn family rocks! I know, I am a little biased :)))
Glad the weekend was great and you had some fun "grown up" time. It was fun to hear all about it and I hope this is a good LAST pre-K week and that Grandma Kelso has uneventful travels back to NC.
Keep pressin' on Al-Pal, and keep scooting, walking, crawling and kicking Mommy in the HEAD (that WAS very funny and I can just see and hear your devilish grin, you little stinker!)
Have a great week and lots of love to you all!
Aunt Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, August 28, 2006 8:37 AM CDT
Love the new update and I especially LOVE the pictures and captions! Kristin, you look FABULOUS and I can't even tell that you were having a hair crisis. Of course, Mark, you look handsome too and I am sure you had a wonderful time.
We had a nice weekend here in Minny. Saturday was karate and Tyler got another stripe. He is 2 weeks away from getting his 6th belt (double purple stripes) and is busy practicing for the largest karate tournament in the state. He will get to compete in an individual event as well as sparring. His hopes - to WIN the biggest trophy EVER!!!!! Great, once more THING to put in the basement!!!We went to the Renaissance Festival on Sunday and Tyler loved the jousting match. The weather was actually warmer than we thought it would be and we got a bit "pink" from not bringing sunscreen. Oh well!
Wednesday we head out on our 10 hour drive to Arkansas. We are starting to get loaded up with new videos and game boy games to play in the car. This will be Tyler's longest car ride EVER.
Have a wonderful week!!!!
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Monday, August 28, 2006 6:53 AM CDT
Henry David Thoreau said:
"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.
Live the life you have imagined."
Allyson's website has been such a source of compassion, love, support, and caring for our family, and we will continue to thank you time and time again.
Please join me in saying a prayer for the Siemon family. Many of you have known Pat and Lynn for decades. Many of you had Mrs. Siemon as your English teacher when she was at Franklin.
Pat found peace last night at 8 PM and his funeral will be next Saturday in Charlottesville. He will be buried on the land he loved in Barboursville. He fought cancer for over 10 years, but he is at rest and at peace watching over us now.
Thank you for caring about the Siemon family. And, God bless us all.
With love,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Sunday, August 27, 2006 4:55 PM CDT
Hi Kelso Family,
I just got back from a beach trip to NC, so I've just been getting updated on the recent surgery and other events. I'm so impressed with Allyson's ability to bounce back after each of these procedures. What resilience! I hope she keeps doing well and that the whole family is fine. You will be in my thoughts and prayers as always!Love to you all! I'll be checking for that rainbow!
Theresa Cover <tesscover@aol.com>
Fairfax, Va - Saturday, August 26, 2006 7:05 PM CDT
Happy weekend to all!
I know the CA peeps are having a fun time with Grandma K...and Morgan, I'm so proud of your jump rope abilities!! You go girl! And, Allyson, so good to hear that you are "slightly" venturing off to do a bit of "walking" with that cast holding hands!!! Once you can balance with the OTHER SHOE on, you'll probably be off and running!!!
For those of you who read this website frequently probably recall the message from "another" ALLYSON KELSO who lives in Sales, Vic,Australia. She wrote recently that she "found" Ally's website by googling in her OWN name and Ally's website popped up! (I am new to the "googling in of names" but I've now done it...you would be AMAZED, or maybe not, at what/who you find!) Anyway, because I am GOING TO AUSTRALIA in less than 10 days, I wrote to the AUSSIE Allyson Kelso! TODAY I heard back from her....her message really makes me a believer in the "six degrees of separation" ideology! When she was 15 she lived in Atlanta, Georgia (where I grew up, or "so the story goes"...) ...and she has only visited Virginia and Washington DC in the STATES! (where I currently live!) We are making "hopeful plans" to meet in Melbourne during our STAY there! It will be a SIX hour drive for her, but she said she was going to try to do it! What a wonderful thing that will be if we get to meet her!!! (she has a WONDERFUL name already!!!)
Today was among the most special....Kathie J., Aimee H., and I had our ANNUAL luncheon with Nesse Godin (now, google in her name if you wish to read some meaningful history) who is a Holocaust survivor and public speaker all over the U.S. I first met Nesse about ten years ago when she began speaking for the students at my middle school. Over time, we've become very close friends, and anytime I am in her presence, I am honored and humbled by her experiences and her brilliant spirit. She makes people in this world WANT to be BETTER PEOPLE. Today's luncheon in Silver Spring was no exception. There sat four ladies from ages 31 all the way to 78 sharing time, talk, laughter, and love over some very delicious morsels! If you can find a moment to spend getting to know Nesse, just google in "Nesse Godin" and there is a WEALTH of knowledge, information, and UNDERSTANDING waiting for you.
I am continuing to hold Pat. S. and his family, Lynn, especially, close in prayer. These are very difficult times as they spend time with Pat who is still in Hospice in Charlottesville. Please keep this family in your prayers.
I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend wherever you are! I know that Mark and Kristin will have a great time being "young folks" with their military friends at the Hawkeye Ball!!! Maybe they'll post a picture of them in their "gussied-up-duds" for their evening out!!!
School begins in FFX County next week. Hmmmmmm......I think I'll be packing and organizing my Aussie Down Under clothes!!! :)
Love to all..and best, best wishes to all the educators who begin to set up the classrooms for the many students who will benefit from your energy and enthusiasm!!!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Saturday, August 26, 2006 6:41 PM CDT
Hi there! Happy BIG night out, K & M! Have a blast on grown-up night out #2 at the Hawkeye Ball, and enjoy your time and *drinks* with all your friends! Can't wait to see pics - Love you lots! xo
Ash <ashliagmg@aol.com>
- Saturday, August 26, 2006 5:51 PM CDT
Hi!This is Grandma K from NC visiting in CA. All is going well out here. Allyson has slept through the night both nights since she came home from the hospital. She sure is a trooper. She's been trying hard to walk but the cast and the boot on her leg and no shoe on the other foot because of the blister make her very unbalanced. But today she walked holding our hands and wasn't afraid to put her foot down and bear weight on it, truly a good sign. Morgan has been a joy and today she actually jumped rope by herself! We went to the Hawkeye picnic today and tonight Mark and Kristin are going out to dinner with friends Josh and Kim and tomorrow is the Hawkeye Ball so Mom and Dad get to be grownups again. I am looking forward to having my friend, Jan, from San Diego, come up tomorrow to spend the night and we will babysit together and get caught up with a bottle of wine after the girls are down for the night. The weather has been perfect, which for me means low humidity, a welcome relief for a few days! Love to all!
Lydia kelso a.k.a. Grandma K <lkelso@ec.rr.com>
Southport, NC - Friday, August 25, 2006 6:59 PM CDT
Hi Kelso family,
I was just reading through some of your journal and I am glad to see little Ally is doing well. Just wanted to send a hello to let you know we are thinking about you guys. Hugs and kisses to morgs and ally!!!!
Love ya
The Philly gang
megan <geo03@ verizon.net>
springfield , pa - Friday, August 25, 2006 10:18 AM CDT
Good morning, California Family! Yahoo! You're home and resting ... know those hospital stays are nothing short of gruelling!! I am so happy the foot surgery was successful, and sorry that both couldn't be done at once. We were, of course, quite dismayed over the eardrum problem that has developed. We will pray that there is a "fix" for this condition, sooner rather than later, and that there will be little or no hearing loss. God bless that precious little girl -- one more thing to deal with! But I know that her winsome personality and spunky attitude, she'll come through that one OK as well. :) Just know you've had our prayers, and those of all our dearest prayin' friends ... and you'll continue in our hearts and thoughts as you deal with another issue with Allyson. Much love to you all, Aunt Dale & the Atlanta Gang
Dale G. Pugh <DaleGPugh@aol.com>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Thursday, August 24, 2006 10:12 AM CDT
Hello OTHER Allyson Kelso! Wow!
We will be in Australia beginning Sept. 7th for three weeks! I am going to write you and see if there is any chance we can meet you! I am Allyson's maternal grandmother called "Teetay" on the website..."Geep" is Allyson's maternal grandfather. She also has paternal grandparents and "Grandma K" is with her right now! I really do believe "it's a small world after all" and I hope our paths will cross while we are in Australia. I will send you the details of our whereabouts in a separate email!!!
Thanks for "finding us" Allyson Kelso in the GREAT Down Under!!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Thursday, August 24, 2006 7:15 AM CDT
Teetay & Geep - Maybe you can meet the other ALLYSON KELSO in Australia when you visit there in a couple weeks!! WOW - too cool! Thanks, Allyson Kelso on the other side of the world for following our little Al-Pal's journey! :)
Al - Pal -- HOPE YOU HAD A GOOD NIGHT'S REST!!! Thinking of you!!! Lots of love and creep a mouses and kissses :)
Aunt Ashli <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
Washington, DC - Thursday, August 24, 2006 5:41 AM CDT
wow i just searched my name and up came your web site all about your allyson kelso well it has just put me back in my seat i will now be following your life and hope all goes well for you.
allyson kelso <akelso@vic.australis.com.au>
sale, vic australia - Thursday, August 24, 2006 5:11 AM CDT
I wish I could send a MESSAGE for Allyson's cast that says:
"Ally, WE ALL LOVE YOU!" Thank you, Morgan, for writing the words that so many of us want to say!
Great pics! I think we can all sigh and say, "Nice legs!" (all of you!!)
Many thoughts and prayers are continuing to come your way!!
I know we will look forward to Allyson's WALKING "lopsided pictures" in the coming days!!
Love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 7:08 PM CDT
Hi there!!! Wow Ally, I have the feeling you'll be bulldozing around the house in NO time! You go girl, and way to get started on your medical career with the removal of your IV ;) I am proud of you ALL, and Morgy -- love that art work!!
Big hugs and kisses to you all.... Now get some rest! Talk tomorrow... Love you! xoxo
Aunt Ash & Uncle Tommy and NALA!!!!!!! <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, August 23, 2006 7:06 PM CDT
What a wonderful update! I am so happy and thankful that everything went so well. Ally - YOU ROCK and you are MY HERO. What a trooper!!!! You have all been in my thoughts ALL WEEK.
xoxoxoxo
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 6:33 PM CDT
Hi guys,
We're home and little Allyson is doing pretty well, crawling around and figuring out how to walk with her new cast and the little "sandal" that goes over it to give that foot some traction. I'm sure Kristin will write more after we eat some lunch.
mark <mark.kelso@verizon.net>
Port Hueneme, ca - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 1:41 PM CDT
So glad that the surgery went well. We waited on pins and needles, checking the website all day--so thank you bunches for the updates, keeping us informed. Can't wait to see the artwork masterpiece cast pictures! Hope it's a good trip back today and that you all get some real rest at HOME SWEET HOME! I love what Teetay wrote from Dale about the hole in Ally's heart being filled up with prayers. What a miracle! The angels continue to watch over precious little Ally. Love you all!
Aunt Mer, Uncle Glenn, and Cousin Spencer <lovefromstickyhotlanta@prayingforally.com>
Kennesaw, GA USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 8:53 AM CDT
Good morning everyone!
I talked with Kristin LATE last night and she was in Allyson's room! Allyson was 'eating' but had no real DESIRE to STAY IN HER BED for very long periods! She wanted and needed some "holding time" so they were certainly making her wishes come true! She was being medicated for the pain, and everything was going well. Morgan had napped for a bit at the hotel, so she and Grandma K. had returned to the hospital for awhile! Kristin said Morgan was "shyly reticent" to see/touch Allyson's CAST until she was given the "Okay" to write on it! With great GLEE Morgan wrote "I love you" on Ally's new cast and signed her name with PROMISES of MORE ARTWORK today when they get home! I am SURE a "rainbow" drawing will appear on that cast very quickly! (Morgan's favorite thing to draw!) And, I'm SURE the CAST DRAWING and Allyson's little toe will APPEAR on this website for all of us to see!
How very cool that Christina saw Dr. Reinisch on the Health Channel! He is quite reknown for his work! Thanks for sharing that, Christina!
And, to all of you who continue to pray for Ally, support her and our family, and continue to CARE, we are grateful. As one of my sister's friends said, "The hole is Allyson's heart was filled up with the prayers that have been said for her!" What a wonderful way to express it, so to each of you from each of us....THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS for "filling up all the holes with your prayers".....if ever I doubted that power of prayer (and I haven't) you confirm that power day after day.
I hope everyone is having a wonderful August Wednesday and that you have time to spend with those you love.
Continued GOOD thoughts for the Ca peeps as they journey HOME today!!
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
And to my FORMER STUDENTS....Did you get that summer reading finished???? Hmmmmmm....if not....HURRY!!! The clock is ticking!!!
thinkingaboutthebeginningofschoolwithawholenewattitude.com :)!!!
Australia, here we come!!!! :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, August 23, 2006 7:05 AM CDT
Hey everyone! Ally, I hope you had a very good and successful surgery today. My whole family is praying for you and your entire family. You inspire me to never give up and always have hope. My mom and I were watching Discovery Health Channel the other day and saw a show about plastic surgery. The story was about a little boy who was getting a cleft lip surgery, just like Ally. It turned out that the surgeon who was operating on the little boy was Dr. Reinisch! We recognized the name from Ally's surgery. He was explaining the surgery and showing how it had to be just right. I just thought it was pretty coincidental that we saw one of Ally's doctors on TV. Well, again, good luck with the surgery. Praying for you every day!
<3 Christina
Christina Knippler (Mrs. Matus' former student) <acoolkid15@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 8:50 PM CDT
Hello everyone!
I am sure Kristin and/or Ashli will update the webpage tomorrow sometime, but I wanted to give a posting update for those of you who are out there 'reading'...!!
Allyson came through her FOOT surgery beautifully and has a WHITE cast! Morgan will surely want to decorate it with stickers and pictures! She was a bit UNcomfortable, but was being given medication for the discomfort. The ENT did replace the tubes in ONE ear, but was UNable to do the replacement in the other ear. There will be more information on that forthcoming! I talked with both Kristin and Grandma K. and Allyson had just gotten to her "room"....Kristin said it was a small room near the nurses station and "not the best" room, but she was coping with it. Grandma K. was going to the hotel across the street to check in with Morgan to have a little down time. I don't know what Mark was doing, but I imagine he was with Kristin and Allyson!! So, that's about "it" for what I know tonight. Thank you all for your love, prayers and good, positive thoughts today for Al Pal and her surgery 'date'....she will RALLY as she always does, and I sure hope she is holding TIGHT her "silly buddy duckie" or one of her new "care bears"...!!! Tomorrow, there will be a journal update I am sure!
Again...thank you for the good wishes and the thoughts.
I spent the day with good friend, Lynn Siemon, long time teacher 'bud' whose husband, Pat, is in Hospice in Charlottesville, VA....the time is near and the day with Lynn was so well worth the moments of time we shared....FOUR of US drove down early this morning, and I wouldn't give anything for "this day".....it is hard, hard, hard, to know you will lose your spouse of 42 years, and hopefully, our visit, the time, and the shared stories and laughter, helped Lynn's spirits if even for a short, short time.
Thank you for the prayers you might send her way.
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 8:32 PM CDT
Hey Ally!
Wishing you a good and safe surgery and a healthy recovery! I've been thinking about you during the day!
Morgan, you are such a great sister! I'm sure you'll be good to Ally as she recovers! :o)
Good Luck to everyone!
*Lizzy Knippler* <lizzywiz18@cox.net>
Fairfax, VA USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 3:35 PM CDT
We have been thinking and praying for all of you today. We hope that Ally's surgery is successful and we know that nothing will keep her down!! Love the smiles of such loving sisters on the home page! May God watch over you all today.
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 1:29 PM CDT
We are all sending up gigantic prayers for little Ally today. Love the newest sister picture-adorable! We love you all and will be checking back on the website all day!
Aunt Mer, Uncle Glenn, Cousin Spencer <piperdown@comcast.net>
Kennesaw, GA USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 7:23 AM CDT
Hi everyone! Sending my thoughts and prayers to the CA crew today as Ally takes on surgery #5. She is such a strong little girl and I knw God will be watching over your entire family and the entire medical team. I can't wait to hear how everything goes!
Elizabeth Hellman <dancer3191@cox.net>
Chantilly, VA United States - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 6:48 AM CDT
Ally, today is your big day but you are becoming a pro at all this CHLA stuff, right? I think you have shown us all that NOTHING is impossible and that when you just "go-with-the-flow" a smile and a hug can make everything feel right.
We are thinking about you all day today and are sending giant MN kisses your way for a speedy recovery. I wish I could be there to sign your cast!!!
Kristin and Mark - patience has become one of your greatest virtues and I hope the long wait for surgery #5 goes well. What a wonderful gift to have Mark home early! I love and admire you both more than you will ever know!
xoxoxoxoxoxoxxoxo
Aimee, Jimmy and Tyler <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
Eden Prairie, Mn - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 6:35 AM CDT
Hi Al-Pal! Thinking of you ALL DAY today and sending prayers your way for a smooth surgery! Rest up, little Lu! And Morgy-Big-Lu, you rock-rock-rock as a big sister and I know you will have fun being at CHLA with Grandma K and being there for Ally when she wakes up. Kristin & Mark -- thinking of you guys all day too and I love you ALL lots!
Ash <ashliagmg@aol.com>
- Tuesday, August 22, 2006 6:17 AM CDT
White light headed your way Al-Pal and Morgie-Lu too! You'll pull through with flying colors no doubt. Speedy recovery vibes headed your way today!
-Cat and the clan
Cat <Potterd002@hawaii.rr.com >
Honolulu, HI USA - Tuesday, August 22, 2006 3:15 AM CDT
Morgan...you just have to be the best sisters in the world as we watch you caring for Allyson...not as a mother, but as her best friend...you are so caring and she trusts you so much as she shows with her smile...exuding confidence that she can do anything you can do...you are a special angel, lil karate girl, and, Geep, after a long absence from posting, and then admiring, loving, and tearfully seeing your love for Allyson, just wanted to say "hi" and God-speed to the whole family on the eve of Ally's surgery...you have fun keeping busy, as usual, while Ally is "busy"...I love all of you ....Geep
Geep <jfmatus@msn.com>
Dulles Airport, va usa - Monday, August 21, 2006 10:56 PM CDT
Morgan...you just have to be the best sisters in the world as we watch you caring for Allyson...not as a mother, but as her best friend...you are so caring and she trusts you so much as she shows with her smile...exuding confidence that she can do anything you can do...you are a special angel, lil karate girl, and, Geep, after a long absence from posting, and then admiring, loving, and tearfully seeing your love for Allyson, just wanted to say "hi" and God-speed to the whole family on the eve of Ally's surgery...you have fun keeping busy, as usual, while Ally is "busy"...I love all of you ....Geep
Geep <jfmatus@msn.com>
Dulles Airport, va usa - Monday, August 21, 2006 10:55 PM CDT
Dear Allyson,
On the "eve" of your foot surgery I want to tell you that you are blessed to have so many people loving, caring, supporting, and wishing you all good thoughts tomorrow! There are folks all over the U.S. and a few in other countries who check in on your website frequently enough to watch you grow over the past 20 months. You are a beacon of hope to many people, and you are the cherished love for your family.
In my calendar devotional book tomorrow's message is this: (and I thought it rather appropriate for YOU, Al-Pal, and the "day")
"You're blessed when you care. At the moment of being 'care-FULL' you find yourselves CARED FOR. You're blessed when you get your inside world - your mind and heart - put RIGHT. Then, you can see God in the outside world." from Matthew 5:7-8.
Tomorrow you will have another surgery and you will once again prevail and come 'awake' with your bright smile. I hope your Mommie and Daddy will play the "singing card" that I sent you called "Survivor"....YOU ARE A SURVIVOR and you are everything we want in a precious grandaughter. You are BLESSED to be surrounded by your big sister, also adorable and smart just like you, and your handsome Daddy, your adoring Grandma K., and your most precious gift, your MOM!!!
Sleep well BEFORE surgery....and wake up sometime tomorrow afternoon with your bright NEON casts and new ear tubes!!!
Somewhere around NOON-ish on the EAST COAST there will be MANY PRAYERS said for you. I will be "stormin' heaven" all day long with the very best thoughts and prayers.
I love you all, and God bless....HUG your little bear with all your might!
Teetay :):) :)!!!
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Monday, August 21, 2006 7:09 PM CDT
Hi there! Mark - great to chat with you yesterday and I am sure your mom was sooo surprised to see you HOME. I am glad you are there with the girls, too, and that you have this week with your family for surgery, visits and Al-Pal's recovery days.
I will be thinking of you all as you trek down to CHLA tomorrow AM and stay the night as Ally recoups. And I'll know I'll hear the update as soon as there is one!
BIG, HUGE, CRAZY, BEAR HUGS and KISSES and "creap a mouses" to my Al-Pal as she heads into surgery tomorrow. Can't wait to see her groovy casts - perhaps a nice, bright color so we'll all see her coming once she gets up and cruisin' or scootin' again!?!? I vote for hot pink! No, bright green! :)
I'll be thinking of you and sending prayers for no traffic on thr 101, no hospital delays upon check in, a healed blister-funion foot, good books for K&M to bury their noses in to pass time (ha!), some good playground time for Morg and Grandman, and a super-speedy recovery for Ally!
Love you lots!! xoxoxoxo
Aunt Ash (and Uncle Tommy and Nala and Peeve too!) <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Monday, August 21, 2006 3:09 PM CDT
Good morning, California Family! Well, you are about up to Precious AllyBeDally's foot surgery, and I've been praying for all to go well with that! This morning I read where she has a really bad blister, and I'm so sorry! I hope it won't preclude surgery, but we'll be calling later in the day to find out. The latest picture is so darling ... and her smiles equal those of her pretty mama! :) I am glad Grandma Kelso is there, and that Mark was able to return so that you're all together. Yahoo!
We have a piece of bad news, in that our little Zachary crashed while riding on his scooter in his driveway Friday night, and he broke his left wrist badly. Randy raced him to Leslie's intermediate care office, but KNEW it was broken. They xrayed and gave him morphine, and Les and Randy took him to Scottish Rite for the orthopods to do their magic. As it was both bones, and badly broken ends, it took quite a bit of manipulation to get it into place. He was casted, and they got home about 3:30 AM. He is in a huge cast all the way to his shoulder. They will xray end of week to be sure that the bones have remained together. If there has been any misalignment, they will have to do surgery and put pins in. We're praying all will be stable, of course!
THIS part is FUNNY ... while crying and waiting for care, Zach asked for a milkshake. They told him to be calm and patient and when the doctors finished setting his arm,
they'd get him a milkshake on the way home. It was about 10pm at the time, and they thought they'd be leaving within an hour. Well, there were several more serious injuries before Zach ... so the hour grew later and LATER! So at 3:00 A>M> they were driving about Atlanta looking for a place still open to get a milkshake. Finally got to a Steak and Shake still operating, and Zach got his milkshake!
The next day they were laughing about "what-won't-parents-do-for-their kids?!" :) We love you all, and know you are in our hearts and prayers as you go through another surgery with Allyson. All the Georgia pray-ers are "on the job" -- faithfully lifting all of you in their prayers.
We love you very much. Aunt Dale & Uncle Loren and the Atlanta Gang
Dale G. Pugh <DaleGPugh@aol.com>
Lawrenceville, GA USA - Monday, August 21, 2006 8:30 AM CDT
And GOD BLESS THAT FACE!! What a smile-R Allyson is!!!
Surgery will just be a piece of cake for her....she is "thunder and trouble" with a bandage@!! Nothing is going to stop this girl.
God bless, Allyson! Always!
Love,
Terri aka Teetay :)\
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Sunday, August 20, 2006 10:34 PM CDT
Hey Al-Pal. Love the new photos! Your smile just RADIATES happiness. Can a smile get any bigger??? Wishing you the best and speediest recovery after this next surgery, whether it's one foot or both. :)
And, guess what? (This page has been viewed 65555 times.)
That's a whole lotta love holding you up here. I can't believe you're at that number already. You know folks and someone up above are looking out for you!
White light going your way for surgery day.
Aloha always.
-Cat
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Sunday, August 20, 2006 6:39 PM CDT
Whahooooo!!! Funniest thing happened today...."my phone rang..." .....(NOT so funny!) ...I answered and all I could hear was Allyson saying over and over again, "Mama...Maaamaaaaa...mama....MAMA!" So, I began saying "Mama" back to her and other things thinking for SOME REASON Kristin was having Allyson "speak into the phone" to SAY SOMETHING NEW THAT I COULD HEAR~!!! She continued for a moment...and then, I heard Kristin's voice in the background saying, "Eat? More? Good girl, Allyson!" I stayed on the line TALKING TO ALLYSON for a couple of minutes ....I heard Morgan talking in the BACKground...and I was still WAITING for Kristin to GET ON THE LINE to 'explain' WHY she'd made the call....
Suddenly, the LINE WENT DEAD!
Bottom line was...Allyson was "holding and playing with the phone and apparently pushed REDIAL and there I was!" I am so glad ALLYSON KNOWS MY PHONE NUMBER!!! We had a "lovely chat"...so to speak!
Hope that puts a smile on your Sunday evening faces! It has made me smile all day long!
Mark's HOME!!! Another WHAHOOOOOOO!!!! YAY!!! He came home for Allyson's surgery and I know Kristin and "the girls" are SO HAPPY! The BEST part is he will get to surprise his MOM tonight when she arrives in CA!!!! What a great Sunday night for all of them!!!
HOLDING only GOOD WISHES for Allyson's foot surgery Tuesday morning..and 'hoping' it can be both feet as scheduled!!! Keep those prayers handy!!
Please continue to keep Pat Siemon and Lynn in your prayers. Pat is comfortable in the UVA Hospice Center in Charlottesville. He has fought a courageous battle with cancer for over 10 years. I know God is holding him close tonight.
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Sunday, August 20, 2006 6:12 PM CDT
Hi there and HAPPY SUNDAY! Happy Grandma Kelso arrival and pre-surgery weekend :) Sounds like you all have been having a fun outdoorsy weekend and getting lots done! And Ally seems SO HAPPY about whatever she is up to with miss giggles and smiley face - love those grins and smiling eyes!
TG and I are having a nice 1st anniversary day... started out with a stroll with the Nala-kid and then mass... and this day reminds us so much of our wedding day! And, get this --- the post-recessional "exit" music by the organist as we left our chuch pew was our very same recessional music for me and TG one year ago! Handel's water music suite - it was awesome! I picked up on it right away and now have justified reason to sit TG down in front of the wedding video to prove that it was the SAME music. He just said he was so "into the moment" of just being married to me that the music escaped his mind ;) Good answer, TG! (ha!)
We has SUCH a productive day yesterday... I am sooo grateful for Mom's "little arms' (ha!) help and Dad's fun-slaving away in the kitchen and cooking us some yummy treats. I could not have done some much late-summer-cleaning without them. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Teets! It sounds like we also got Kristin in the clean-shine-organize mode as she got some garage straightening done. Woo -hoo!
Hope everyone is having a good day... we're in for a lazy Sunday, maybe some more organizing... or maybe NOT!
Lots of love to everyone! xoxo
Ash <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, August 20, 2006 8:46 AM CDT
What joy on the faces of those CA peeps!! Loved the update/news of the "blister" and of course, the WONDERFUL Hueneme Beach Festival! I recall the first time we attended Morgan was mesmerized by the many, many kites flying "high in the sky"....perhaps this year she will introduce Allyson to little "Italian ices" that taste just like lemonade!! I know it was a fun event for all!!!
We spent a lovely day "working" BUT HAVING FUN WHILE DOING IT with Ash and TG....they are reorganizing their guest room and rearranging closets so all their "stuff" actually fits! The new downstairs 'tenant' comes next week, so we stacked away lots of stuff in the "owner's closet" for storage so he will not be bothered by it!
Topped off the night with a yummy dinner from Old Glory, a Georgetown landmark restaurant!
Hope everyone is having a great weekend and enjoying the winding-down of summer!
Our foremost thoughts will be with you all during the coming days!
With love to all...especially the SMILEY FACE SISTERS!!! (now ...Kristin..ask Ally where that "smile" was last Sunday when we were attempting to have her picture made at the studio??)
Terri aka Teetay :) <terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>>
Herndon, VA USA - Saturday, August 19, 2006 9:19 PM CDT
Hello everyone,
You have been with us from the beginning....please continue.
Send out your prayers tonight for Pat Siemon, a long time friend who has battled cancer for many years. He is currently in Hospice CARE in VA and acknowledges that his time has come. Lynn, his wife and long time English teacher friend/and former USAF 'wife', is with Pat as he closes his life chapter.
Please remember them in your prayers. Pat has fought the "hard fight" as do all cancer patients, and our lives have been very entwined. Thank you for remembering him today as you close your eyes.
With love to all,
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Friday, August 18, 2006 10:25 PM CDT
Morning, California Family! I CRIED BIG BUCKETS OF JOY last night when Teetay called us with the TERRIFIC NEWS! I am so happy that the hole is completely closed. When I spoke with one of my friends, she commented, "that hole was filled up with all of the prayers said for Allyson since she was born!" I think she may have something, and I have been saying Thanks to God for this wonderful healing in that part of Allyson's body! HOORAY! I know you're getting excited about Grandma Kelso's arrival, and I know that she will be a big help and lots of fun with the girls!
Grandmas ROCK! Please know that our praying friends will hold you ALL and Allyson's medical team in their prayers and hearts on the day of Allyson's surgery, and for her recovery following. The Atlanta Gang sends you our love! Hugs and Kisses, Aunt Dale/Aunt Grammy
Dale G. Pugh <DaleGPugh@aol.com>
Lawrenceville, , GA USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 9:27 AM CDT
What GREAT news about Ally's heart!! Kristin, I can only imagine the huge sigh you had after hearing the news and how much joy you must have felt. Ally is a fighter and she is blessed...God is good!!
I am sure you are busy getting ready for Grandma Kelso's arrival and Ally's sugery next week. We will be praying for you and the surgeon as he repairs the gap in Ally's feet!
Miss you all and thinking of you always!
Love,
Dani
Dani Van Natta <daniv16@verizon.net>
Hooksett, NH - Thursday, August 17, 2006 7:30 AM CDT
HOORAY FOR ALLY!!!! Kristin I am sure after that news you had a humongous smile on your face! When Grant was a baby he was born with a hole in his heart and after a year, it, too had closed up on its own. I can remember the relief we felt after hearing that it had closed. I am so happy for your terrific news. I am sorry I have been out of touch for several weeks. The end of the summer was filled with last minute summer fun things we had planned for the kids before school started. I am homeschooling all three kids this year! Madeline still goes to the homeschool academy twice a week and I will probably send the boys there next year. Anyway, after a long day of school, I asked the boys if they were going to like first grade to which Camden replied,"Mom, I didn't realize first grade was going to be this hard...I am pooped out!" We have had so many 100+ degree days here lately and it is really getting difficult to even just walk outside to get the mail! Our electric bills have not been pretty either. I am praying that we can get some rain here soon. Everything looks so brown and ugly. Well, I must get ready for our school day. I have been thinking of you lots Ally. I got so tickled at the photo of her with the empty vodka bottle! Kristin, you take the best pictures! Hugs from a very HOT Texas.....Anna
Anna Rainwater <anna.banana3@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, August 17, 2006 7:06 AM CDT
K - I told you it would close up on it's own. I believed it would since the same exact thing happend to Andrew almost 2 years ago. I am so happy for you guys and know what a relief it is not to have to worry about one more thing in your life. Way to go Ally
By the way thank you for all the information you gave me on Caringbridge. Andrea started a site for Lauren (my neice who has Lukemia) yesterday. I think that it will help the family out so much just as your site has.
Hugs from all the Hoppers in VA
Robyn (number1girls sister) <rphop@aol.com>
Beautiful Weather, VA USA - Thursday, August 17, 2006 7:03 AM CDT
WAY TO GO AL-PAL! I knew faith would get you through this one. I had faith the entire time that it would close, just like D's did. :) Such awesome news to hear. I'm celebrating tonite with you all across the pond.
-Cat
Cat <potterd002@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 11:53 PM CDT
HALLELUJAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So excited to hear of the incredible news! So happy for you all. Loved all the new pictures, too. We love you and miss you. GIANT GEORGIA HUGS coming your way!
Aunt Mer, Uncle Glenn, and Cousin Spencer <kelso's@hotlanta.com>
Kennesaw, GA USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 8:50 PM CDT
Can you hear the SHOUTS OF JOYOUS GLEE all over the country???? !!!
What God-loving news that was to hear Kristin's voice tell me "the hole in the heart is closed up!" I had MORE than tears in my eyes...tears os absolute joy and relief! Even though we have confidence that Allyson can weather "any challenge" the ASD and possible future heart surgeries was not something we wanted to face at all!!! So, happy, happy days ahead with the miracle baby who already has a heart of GOLD and now we know it is 100% SOLID GOLD!!! I could not have heard anything better than those words today. I think the "little hole" that came into my heart March of 2005 when we learned of Allyson's ASD closed up today as well! As for "mommie time" with Morgan....you go for it, Kristin!! Enjoy those little angels and their combustion of energy! Like I've said many, many times...God is good, and we thank Him today...once again! Now, if the "gastro" issues will just "go 'way" it will be wonderful, too!!
Love to all from a very happy Teetay tonight!
Terri aka Teetay :)
terri matus <teetay43@aol.com>
Herndon, va USA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 6:09 PM CDT
What fabulous news!!! Glad to hear you girls are having such a wonderful day :)
Lots and lots of love!!
Reb, David and Alina
Rebecca Lacki <rebeccalacki@sbcglobal.net>
Oakland, CA - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 5:56 PM CDT
Hip hip hooray!!!!!!!!!! That is fantastic news! You guys deserve some of that for a change!
Big hugs all around! And, a special squeeze around Ally's heart for me!
xoxoxoxoxo
Aims <numbersgirl1@yahoo.com>
EP, MN - Wednesday, August 16, 2006 5:23 PM CDT
WOOOO HOOOO! It was a fabulous update and so good to hear the joy in your voice -- RRAAAAAYYYYY! (ok, the Philly gang better be laughing :) KDMK and Morg, you are Ally's good luck CHLA gal pals, and I am so glad to hear about her HEART tests and that we're out of the woods for all that craziness --- it was hard to even "go there" when thinking about possible heart issues. Now, as we already expected, Ally is PERFECT and has a super strong heart of gold -- and hole-free!! :)
Lots of love and hugs RAAAAYYYSSS for you FOUR today -- Mark... I know it's a grueling time out in Fallon but I hope this news is brightening your day!!
xoxoxoxoxoxo
Aunt Ash & Uncle Tommy too! (he is smiling for Al-Pal today... hockey girl, here you come!) <ashliagmg@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, August 16, 2006 5:14 PM CDT
I can totally relate to the bad mom thing too. Right after Michael's 3rd surgery he had some leftover stuff in his hair and I attempted to remove it with a comb and grabbed all of his stitches and couldn't get them out. He said I was trying to open his head up and make sure that they did the brain surgery correct. He survived the trauma and has never brought it up to me again.
I can't believe how big Allyson has gotten.
Marcie McCauley <threesenof@aol.com>
Chantilly, VA - Tuesday, August 15, 2006 1:40 PM CDT
Click here to sign the guestbook.
| Donate | How To Help | Partnerships | Contact Us | Help | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | |
|
Copyright © 1997 - 2004 CaringBridge, a nonprofit organization, All rights reserved. |