HAPPY BIRTHDAY HAZEL

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO HAZEL. HOPE YOU HAVE A LOVELY DAY, EVEN IF THE WEATHER IS LOUSY. LOVE YA, JODY

Happy New Year

Hi There Cousins! I hope that you all had a fantastic Christmas and are looking forward to 2010! Weren't we just recently worried about Y2K? Where did this decade go?





The snow in Flower Mound was beautiful as it must have been in many other parts of Texas as well. Our grandson Dylan took advantage of running around in it---just like most 12 year-olds, I guess!

Our family was together at our house--Brandon, Jenni, Dylan, Ben, Ronnie's mother and our niece, Ashley. That's what I love about the holidays---getting family together. Of course, we get to tell tales on each other and embarrass our children, but that's part of the fun, isn't it?

Jenni is feeling good---she's a little over 4 months along now. Her sonogram last week was amazing. Baby Maci is about 11 ounces and so far everything looks good---no markers for abnormalities. We're still praying for a healthy baby, of course. Jenni says that the baby is very active---probably will be a tomboy like many of us girls. They have chosen the name Maci Ann.

I wish you all a very happy New Year! Love you all, Martha

Merry Christmas Everyone

We are dreaming (and getting) of a white Christmas. It's snowing like crazy here. We even have a blizzard watch in effect. LOL!
Buster and I are both off for two days and we'll go finish the little things tomorrow morning and have a quiet Christmas Eve. I plan to make snacks, watch Christmas movies, (Buster got us a DVD with Frosty, Rudolph,Santa Clause Is Coming To Town, Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol and more), and play board games. Christmas morning, I have to call Eden the minute I get up and tell her to get out of bed. (LOL...she said she'd actually miss me yelling at her to get up at the crack of dawn!) And I am cooking pork tenderloin and all the trimmings. I will call Mom, the in-laws and Eden. Speaking of Eden, she's spending the holiday with her boyfriend, Zach's family. She really likes them all alot and they have welcomed her with open hearts and arms.
Take care everyone....email, write or call when you can.
Love you all.
Keri

MERRY CHRISTMAS ALL YOU COUSINS

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF YOU. I LOVE ALL OF YOU AND HOPE WE CAN KEEP UP THE CLOSENESS WE HAVE NOW. NEXT YEAR I PLAN TO BE IN ND WITH MY KIDS. I MISS THEM SO MUCH BUT IT WON'T BE LONG NOW. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELVES AND EACH OTHER. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU. MUCH LOVE, JODY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR PAUL DAVID

Hey, Sweetie. I hope you really have a wonderful birthday. You brought joy to me & my bunch at a time when we needed some joy in our lives. I hope you and your sweet Mady have a wonderful life. I love you!! Jody

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PHIL BRAZEEL

HOPE YOU HAVE A SUPER DAY AND A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS. LOVE, JODY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FRIDAY TO OUR CELESTE AND HER SWEET GRANDSON BRADY

HEY THERE, CES -- HOW WONDERFUL TO HAVE A GRANDSON BORN ON YOUR BIRTHDAY!!!! I HOPE YOU AND BRADY HAVE A WONDERUL DAY AND HAVE LOTS OF CAKE, TOO. WE EXPECT PHOTOS ON THE BLOG!!!!!! WE LOVE YOU BOTH

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Well, congratulations to the Texas Longhorns and the TCU Horned Frogs ( y'all wuz robbed!), and most of all the Graham Steers! Friday night they will be playing in Mansfield for the semi-finals of 3A, Division II high school football. Go Steers!
We'll be there, as we were last Friday in Waco, where it dropped to 25 degrees before the game ended. I looked like the Michelin Man, with all the layers I had on. Guess I'll put it all back on for this Friday, and shed layers as needed, if needed!

Merry Christmas to all! None of that Happy Holidays crap!

Love, Suzy

CLSC Tour of Homes

Well guess what, Danny & Prissy Cusenbary's home is on the CLSC Tour of Homes this year. It will be Wednesday. Also on it is the old Stovall house (or Burgess house, if you're a "newcomer") on Standpipe Mountain. You know the one - the one where you are soooo glad you don't have to move that grass. Anyway, isn't that super for Danny & Prissy!!!! Lord, I bet she's been cleaning for a month! Good luck on the tour!!!!!

Happy Birthday tomorrow, Wade

Happy Birthday to You!!! And many more.
How's San Antonio? You can tell Marisa and she will post your response for us.
Love you,
Candy

WHERE ARE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hey, Where is everyone - oh, I know - FACEBOOK!!! Hey, let's not forget the blog. Celeste and I are the only ones that seem to be using it - I know folks are busy but we still need to hear from you. We've got lots of December birthdays coming up, let's not forget them. Much love to all of you and have a super holiday month. Love ya, Jody

As Promised!

Sorry it has been almost a month since Sullivan Wade's birthday, but I did finally get the pictures off the camera to share with you, and he hasn't turned three yet, so we're still good, right? You have to love the one with his foot on the table - the ultimate in casual dining, huh. He is so precious and so sweet, as are the rest of his family - his mama, sister, daddy and grandpa! Thanks again to Mike and Marisa for a great weekend and thanks to Amanda for hauling her mother to San Antonio.

Wish Me Luck?

Today, I start my new part time job as a Sales Associate for JC Penny's in Williston. I'm really excited and nervous. Not sure of a schedule yet, but I'm figuring with being part time, it's going to be varied.
I'll let you all know how it goes.
Keri

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRETT

HEY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY UP THE IN COLD COLD NORTH ALASKA!!!!! HOPING YOU AND ALL YOUR GIRLS ARE HAVING A WONDERUL DAY AND HAD A GREAT THANKSGIVING. LOVE TO ALL OF YOU, JODY

Happy Thanksgiving, cousins! And Go Cowboys, Longhorns, Horned Frogs, Argyle Eagles, and Graham Steers! Eagles and Steers in 3rd round of 3A playoffs. Could play each other in 2 weeks if they both win tomorrow night.

Suzy

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY UNCLE JOHN DOWDLE ON WED.

HEY THERE!!!!! HOPE YOU HAVE A REALLY SUPER DAY. I'VE HAD YOU FOR AN UNCLE AS LONG AS I CAN REMEMBER AND I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH. YOU TAUGHT ME TO PLAY CHESS (which I immediately forgot!! lol) I REMEMBER WASHINGTON DC AND MT. VERNON AND VIRGINIA AND EATING ON THE PIER OVER THE POTOMAC. YOU HAD LOBSTER. I CAN'T REMEMBER WHAT BULA AND GRANNY AND I HAD BUT IT WAS SEA FOOD. WE'VE HAD GREAT TIMES HAVEN'T WE. GIVE MY BULA A HUG. ILOVE YOU, JODY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDOX

HI THERE SWEETIE, HAVE A GREAT BIRTHDAY TOMORROW. LOVE, JODY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARK CUSENBARY

HEY THERE, SWEETIE!!!!! HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT DAY TODAY. LOVE YA, JODY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADISON CATHERINE BODA

HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY SWEET GRANDBABY. TWELVE YEARS OLD!!!!! I CAN'T BELIEVE IT - TIME HAS GONE SO FAST. I'M SURE YOUR NANA, YOUR LALA AND YOUR UNCLE JIM BOB ARE ALL WATCHING AFTER YOU AND ARE SO PROUD OF YOU. I MISS YOUR SWEET HUGS. HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY AND HAVE A PIECE OF CAKE FOR ME!! I LOVE YOU, MIMI

Houston Hill & Croft Connor

Oct.3rd was Houston's 30th and his nephew Croft's 1st birthday. We celebrated in Austin! Love to all the family, Deb

Thank you all for the birthday wishes. These past couple of weeks have just been full of too many activities. As you know, my half-brother Jay passed away on October 26. The next day Ronnie had gall bladder surgery. Since he was unable to go, just Kay and I flew to Lafayette for Jay's memorial. My boss from American showed up at the airport to go with us. She said that she felt bad since Ronnie couldn't go and she just wanted to be supportive. That's the kind of group I work with---they are all just so kind.

Ronnie is so much better now and another birthday has passed for me, so we're content with that. Oh, and if you haven't heard, we are going to be grandparents!!!!! One worry though is that our daughter-in-law Jenni had some tests two weeks ago and just found out that she has a 1 in 73 chance of the baby having Downs. Of course, I've worried about it ever since we heard as have all of the family. Now that a little time has passed, Jenni has had some time to read and do some research. She's found that the type of test she had often shows a fairly high risk (normal is 1 in 2,000). Despite that, she has an amnio scheduled for November 24. Please pray for a normal healthy baby. The amnio should be 100% definitive.

Love all you guys, Martha

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CANDY

HEY THERE!!! HOPE YOU HAVE A SUPER DAY. YOU ARE AS SWEET AS YOUR NAME. I LOVE YOU, JODY

Happy Birthday To My Moma!

Nov. 8th is my Moma's birthday!

Happy Birthday to you.....happy birthday to you!
Happy birthday my dear sweet Moma!
Happy birthday to you....


And many more.........

I love you!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOMORROW TO MADDISON MARIE

HEY SWEET GIRL!! HAVE A SUPER BIRTHDAY. I'D LOVE TO SEE A PICTURE OF YOU ON THE BLOG. (hint to Grandma) HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY AND REMEMBER THAT WE LOVE YOU. JODY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SULLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HANDSOME!!! I HOPE YOU AND BIG SISTER AND MOMA AND DADDY A HAVE REALLY FUN DAY. EAT SOME CAKE FOR ME. I LOVE YOU, JODY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARTHA

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MARTHA ANN. I REMEMBER WHEN YOU WERE BORN AND HOW PROUD KAY WAS THAT SHE GOT TO NAME YOU. YOU HAVE ALWAYS BEEN AS SWEET AND PRECIOUS AS YOU WERE THEN. SO GLAD I'M IN YOUR FAMILY. LOVE, JOANN

STUFF!!!!!

Well, I guess you all have read Keri's blog! I really have to start getting rid of things - I can give a lot of the historical and geneology stuff (there's that word again) to the museum at the old Post Office BUT there may be personal stuff (?) of Granny's and Granddaddy's or Lala's or YOUR Dad's stuff. Lots of pictures and a big steel filing cabinet. I can't take these things with me. And I am not physically able to get all the stuff from under the beds. Also I have some steel shelving inthe laundry room and I'd be glad for someone to have. And I would need help getting the things to the museum. I really don't want to go to ND until after the kids have been there a year (that's the lease on their townhouse) and they would like to get a house big enough for me to live with them (yes, that's what BOTH of them said). I hope to sell the house to someone to "flip" - I can't afford the repairs that are needed. And it is a big lot so 2 rooms or more could be added to the back. Anyway, any time any of you can come down to help it will be appreciated. Maybe the Dowdles will be able to come since John has had his hip replaced and Bula's shingles are better and I know they want to see us and we want to see them. And wouldn't it be nice to gather without it being for a funeral!! AMEN TO THAT!!! You all talk among yourselves and think about poor ole Jody (sob) and all that STUFF!! LOL Love you all, Jody

Help for my Moma please

As you all know, Mom is going to plan to move to North Dakota sometime within a year or so. In that time, she's got to get the house clear of crud, crap and junk. We do know that Nana has some historical or hysterical things that some of you may want to check out.

So, when you have time, or can make the time, head over to Graham and help Mom out.

Engagement Announcement

Dear Cousins,
I was reading in bed last night when I got a text message from Rachel which said "R U awake?" I was replying (I don't have a keyboard, so it's 'w-x-Y d-E p-q-r-S') when I got a text from Nathan that read "She said YES". He had asked Randi to marry him and she agreed to join our family.
We are all so excited. They have been together for several years now and are precious together.
Next time you see them, ask to see the ring. It's my Nana's engagement ring that was repaired and cleaned up just for this event.
I can't wait till you get to meet my first daughter-in-law.
Candy

J.E.'s services

Services for J. E. will be tomorrow (Thursday) 2pm at the Chapel of Martin Casstille, 330 St.Landry Street, Lafayette, Louisiana 70506. Josephine's address is 146 Normandy Rd. Lafayette, La. 70503

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAYER

HI THERE, LITTLE MAN. HOPE YOU GET LOTS OF PRESENTS AND A BIG CAKE. LOVE TO YOU AND YOUR MOMA, DADDY AND BIG SISTER. LOVE, JODY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO CHUCK(you're a sweetie) GERBER

HOPE YOU HAVE A SUPER-DUPER DAY AND EAT SOME CAKE FOR ME. LOVE YA, JODY

I just received word from Estelle that J.E. passed away. I don't know any other details, other than he will be buried in Tennessee where Jo's family has a plot, and the funeral will be in Lafayette.

More October Birthdays!

I think Jody is right! Everyone had their babies in October.
Happy Birthday to Hunter Connor and Sarah Blake. Have a great day, you two. We all love you.
Candy

New Pictures of Jaxon!!

Look what came in my mail today!! Leah sent me some new pictures of Jaxon so I wanted to share with you all. Isn't he adorable? Well, of course, he's part of us! I was so thrilled with her note and the photos. Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Jaxon and Mollie!

Two birthdays on the same day and I'm not late - woohoo! Hope you will both have wonderful days - lots of cake and goodies. Of course, I'm quite sure Jaxon isn't reading the blog, but I'm still sending him a long distance wish.

Happy Birthday, Prissie

Have a wonderful day. Eats lots of cake.
Love,
Candy

Happy Birthday to Matt, Dylan and Benjamin

Wow! Lots of special birthdays on the 15th.
Matt, have a wonderful day. Your card with some 'walkin' stuff should be there today. You are the best son-in-law ever.

Dylan, Happy birthday. Eat lots of cake.

Benjamin, Have a great day. Do only what you want.

Love you all,
Candy

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARISA

HI THERE , PRECIOUS GIRL. I HOPE YOU HAVE A SUPER-DUPER BIRTHDAY. WE ALL LOVE YOU! JODY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LYNDELL HAIGOOD

Hey there, good-lookin', hope you have a really great birthday. Hope Cathy's fixed your favorite cake. Love ya, Jody

HAPPY LATE BIRTHDAY GRANT CUSENBARY

Hey, Sweetie! I am so sorry that you birthday wishes are late. But they are sent with love and hope. Love ya, Jody

Today in Williston North Dakota

It snowed!!!! LOL!
I have a feeling I'm not in Texas anymore!

Our living/diningroom

HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY TO CROFT

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SWEET BOY. Estelle told me you were born on your uncle Houston's birthday. I'm sorry I had forgotten. I'm sure you are having a big day. We love you! All your cousins!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY,HOUSTON HILL

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO MIGHT NOT KNOW, HOUSTON (or Jimmy as he was called growing up) IS DEBORAH'S SON. HE IS NOW BACK HERE IN TEXAS AFTER A STENT IN CALIFORNIA AS AN ACTOR. I GUESS HE IS STILL ACTING BECAUSE AUSTIN IS THE GREAT HOLLYWOOD OF TEXAS. WE ALL WISH HIM GREAT SUCCESS. AND A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Update from Keri

Hey all....

I still don't have any dang photos yet, but I will...I promise!

We are doing GREAT. Buster is working alot and loving every minute of it. They gang he works with are all great and he's really enjoying it.

Nick started High School Tuesday and he said that everyone is great. He's making tons of new friends and having lots of fun. He's taking "weightlifting" class and is constantly sore. LOL!

Madison is blossoming in her new school. She's made some friends and each day when I pick her up, she's smiling from ear to ear.

I'm loving it here. I must say, however, the townhouse IS smaller than what I am used to, but I do love it. It's easy to 'feel at home' here.

It's COLD today. I'm getting a taste of things to come. 39 degrees at 3pm when I picked Madison up today. It MIGHT even snow tonight. Good Grief!!! LOL!

I've been home all day, except when I went to pick the kids up. I've made a honeybun cake and I'm making a stew now. All good cold weather food. LOL.

Bula has sent me a good bread recipe, anyone else have any casserole dishes or good yummy recipes to share?

Williston, ND

The town is great, the people are beyond nice and so far, so good. I am taking Madison to her future school after lunch to register and have a tour. I will probably take Nick today too. We went and bought groceries and have a full (well, beyond full) kitchen. I think some of my dishes and glasses are going to have to go to storage. I have too much stuff! Like I said, the new place is great, but not a lot of cabinet space in the kitchen or master bath. I DO have a ton of counter space in the kitchen which I am really loving.
We have cable (got to watch CSI last night, it rocked!) and internet, but as of right now, still no phone. I will post our number once it gets turned on.
I supposed I'd better eat some cereal and then try to find a place to put all of my crud in the master bathroom (the bathtub is much bigger than the one I had at the house! Yippeee!) and then I have to pack some unneeded dishes. Pack again? UGH!
Later!!!!
Keri

Update on the big move....

We are in Garden City, Kansas for the night. I'm so tired, I can't hardly make sense, but we are fine. The trip hasn't been bad at all, but getting no sleep and packing isn't fun. The kids are enjoying the pool here and then we are going to eat.
Update more tomorrow.
Love to all

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KATIE BLAKE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SWEET GIRL. I HOPE YOU HAD A GREAT DAY WITH A BIG CAKE AND LOTS OF PRESENTS. LOVE YOU, JODY

HAPPY LATE BIRTHDAY MICHAEL GERBER

I'M SORRY THAT I AM LATE IN YOUR BIRTHDAY WISHES. THE KIDS ARE LEAVING TOMORROW AND I'VE BEEN BUSY. I HOPE YOU HAVE HAD A WONDERFUL DAY. LOVE YOU, JODY

Moving Sale at the Boda House!

HUGE moving sale Saturday the 12th at 1908 Medora St in Graham.
If you know anyone who needs anything, send them our way. We'll have a sofa&loveseat, coffee table,air compressor,lawnmower,tool boxes, weedeater,dishes,glasses,VHS tapes,books,a DVD player,shelving,small rugs, a basketball game from our game room,mini blinds, kids' clothes, two formal gowns, women's clothes, jewelry, purses,men's boots and clothes, toys, beanies, and who knows what else. Sale begins Saturday at 7am. My Mom will be there too! I hope to see a ton of people there and it'd be a huge bonus to see some family!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY COLLIE CUSENBARY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY COLLIEWOBS. ILOVE YOU A WHOLE BUNCH. I WISH MOMA WAS HERE TO CELEBRATE WITH YOU. MUCH LOVE, JODY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EDEN BODA ON TUESDAY

hEY, LITTLE GIRL -- HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY FIRST-BORN GRANDBABY. 19 YEARS OLD. MY HOW THE YEARS HAVE FLOWN. I'M SO VERY PROUD OF YOU AND YOUR NANA WOULD BE SO PROUD OF YOU. I LOVE YOU THE MOSTEST!!!!! MIMI

Happy Birthday, Madeline Grace

Dear Maddie,
I hope your day has been lots of fun and your little sisters have let you do whatever you want. Happy Birthday.
Love,
Candy

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUSTER CUSENBARY

HO-HO- HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! I DON'T KNOW IF YOU ARE IN THE CYBER-WORLD BUT IF YOU ARE --- I LOVE YOU AND HOPE YOU ARE ENJOYING YOUR RETIREMENT. JODY

First Day of Kindergarten

Since patience is a virtue that runs in our family, I've been patiently waiting for Amanda to send me the picture of Caden's first day of school, which was on Monday, August 24. It's so hard to grasp the idea that she has started to kindergarten already, but then I've always been a little slow to grasp things - lol! In Amanda's defense, she has been having a rough week as Lance's dear granny passed away over the weekend, so his family has also had to deal with their loss. My heart goes out to all of them. And no, I am not the one who bought Caden the cute outfit with the horses on it.

ATTENTION: DOWDLE REPORT!!!!!

Just talked with Diane and Uncle John is doing just great. They had to be there by 5 AM and, of course, they didn't get to him until 10 AM. He has been alert all day but with spells of dozing. They plan to have him up by 5AM (!!) to start WALKING. ( I remember when Moma had her colon surgery, they had her walk from the recovery room to her room!!!) I know he would love cards and phone calls. Love, Jody

Happy Birthday tomorrow to Brad

We've sure sent up a lot of prayers for you this year. Have a happy day tomorrow and let us hear from you.
Love,
Candy

JOHN DOWDLE'S SURGERY

HEY, EVERYONE!!!!!! JOHN IS HAVING HIP REPLACEMENT THIS MORNING. PLEASE SAY A PRAYER THAT ALL GOES WELL AND HE CAN THROW AWAY THAT CANE. DIANE WILL KEEP US ALL INFORMED I'M SURE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO LILLY AND HEIDI CUSENBARY

HAPPYBIRTHDAY TO LILLY AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO HEIDI - Your cousins love you sweet girls. Love, Jody

Greetings from Williston,North Dakota!!!!

Hello all!
We are loving it here in Williston. Floyd was given "an offer her couldn't refuse' and we are going to be moving here soon. Mom is going to get custody of our baby, Buzz, since apartment life wouldn't really suit him right now. Mom will move up when housing becomes available.
It's nice here. The town is larger than Graham, but not much. It's got parks for kids everywhere, bike trails, a skateboarding/bike park, ice rink, two movie theaters and more. VERY nice people everywhere and great weather. Yes, it's going to be cold as all get out in the winter,but we'll learn to adjust. I'm scared,nervous, excited and happy about this.
Eden (for now at least) will remain in Irving at DeVry. She is FINALLY employed and is moving to another apartment where she doesn't have to worry about her roomates stealing her food or smoking pot. (yeah, that's not good, is it?) She has made some good friends and is moving in with them and we are please. Eden has also found a church home in Irving and says her Nana would be thrilled.
So, in a couple of weeks, if you know anyone who loves yard sales, send them to 1908 Medora in Graham because we are going to have a massive moving sale where everything MUST go!
I'll send photos of the town when I can.
Love you all.
Keri

Definition of a Good Weekend

The new faucets on the sink.

back spash around the stove

quartz up close and personal

view from the breakfast room. Ta-da!

Steve and I have thought long and hard about updating the kitchen. The first time we looked into it, we really couldn't afford what we wanted, so the project went to the back burner. This summer, we decided it was now or never. We got estimates and asked the right questions this time and found that we could do it! Yahoo! You are all invited to randomly trickle to my house to see my new kitchen. You will not recognize it. The counter tops and sink are amazing, but the best part is Rachel and her decorating gene...not gotten from me. The little touches are the best. Come see.
Another good part about the weekend was the visit from Rachel, Matt and Owen. They arrived Friday night and it was play time all weekend. One particularly satisfying incident was at Atlanta Bread Company for lunch on Saturday. Owen and Rachel had gone to the restroom for dry diaper. I went to the ice machine to start our drinks. When they got to the table, Owen asked, "Mimi?" Rachel pointed me out across the room. He RAN to me yelling, "MIMI! MIMI!" It was wonderful. It made me so happy.
Then today, when I was talking to them on the phone, I told Owen to say Hi to his Mimi and he said, "Mimi." He's never verbally responded on the phone before, so I am just about to bust.
I'll tell you all about the potty later. It's great too...and he's only 19 months old!
Love,
Candy aka proud Mimi

THE ROAD TO NORTH DAKOTA

Hi there all. If you don't already know, Keri and Floyd are on their way to North Dakota, Williston, to be exact. He has been working up there for his company here in Graham and they really like him up there and he really likes them and there is LOTS of work opportunities in North Dakota,, so they asked him to bring Keri up for two weeks to decide if we want to move (yes, where they go, so does the Jody). She called this morning and they were near Valentine, Nebraska. She said it was beautiful with flowers and green, green grass. They will spend the night in South Dakota tonight and then on to Williston. I'll keep you all informed or Keri will, she took her laptop, of course. Oh, got my hand fixed and all has gone so well. No pain and only a little discomfort. I get my stitches out on the 20th. Love to all, Jody

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EMMA

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EMMA. HOPE YOU HAD A WONDERFUL DAY. SORRY THIS IS SO LATE. LOVE, JODY

Look how precious this baby is. Steve and I got to spend last weekend with Rachel, Matt and Owen. He is just a delight. I wish I could post a video of the "nekkid" dance. He comes out of the bathroom, newly washed, and runs to the ottoman in the living room. He holds his little fists tight to his chest and stomps his feet really fast. stomp, stomp, stomp, stomp, stomp. It's so funny. The first night at their house, Matt put him to bed about 7:30 and came back into the living room to visit with us. After a little bit, we could hear talking in the bedroom so Matt went to check. When he returned he said that Owen was standing at the end of the bed, facing the door, cheek in fist, looking totally bored as if to say, "I know you guys are having fun without me." Matt rocked him to sleep (poor Matt) and then came back in. Wish I'd heard him first.

He is such a good eater. He'll try anything and likes most things, but the cutest thing I've ever seen is Owen with a bowl of queso at a restaurant. He had his own so he dipped his chip very carefully and ate a small bite...then dipped a little deeper and ate more cheese than chip...then gave up on the chip and dipped his fingers into the bowl and ate the queso straight! Rachel put some fajita chicken meat into the little bowl and he ate it with his spoon.

A new favorite game is traveling in the car with Ba-Bop (Steve) in the back seat. Owen points to the reading light and Steve turns one on. Point to the second one and Steve turns IT on. Says, "Momma, light" and Rachel turns on the two in the front seat. Score! Little fists into the air and held tight in victory. Then reverse the procedure for as long as the car is in motion.

One more story...quit rolling your eyes...We went swimming in the hotel pool on Saturday. Owen was not happy with the t-shirt that he had on and cried until he got to wear the one he wanted. He then took the discards and put them into the drawer and closed it. Ha! I wish Steve would do that!

OH! And Grammie has morphed into Mimi. That makes me very happy. Mimi is what Rachel and Nathan called my mom. It's what you are called, too, isn't it Jody? I don't know if I'll stay Mimi, but it works for now.
Love to all,
Candy

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JIMMIE STEWART!!!!!!!

Hi there, sweetie. I hope you have a super day. If Suzy and Boyd should show up tell her I miss her on the blog and hey, YOU could get on and talk to us. Have a big piece of cake for me. Love, JoAnn

LALA(Aug.2) & GRANNY (Aug.4)

Today I hope I can get all the cousins to share rememberances of these two very, very special Ladies. I talked with Bula yesterday & she said she would love to read these. With Lala - what can you say - she could be so very funny when she wanted to and there was nothing she loved more (except her family!) than a good book. She loved murder mysteries, especially Helen Jackson Braun's THE CAT WHO.... books and the MISS JULIA books. She and I would talk about these characters like they were real people. And she loved the A&E series of NERO WOLFE. Now about Fay Cusenbary -- if you knew her as Granny, Moma Cush, Cushen or Aunt Fay - let us here from you. My favorite story of Granny was one I don't remember but I've heard it so often that I thought I was there and then yesterday Bula told me I was!!! I was just a baby and was at her house early one morning (I was probably crying & Moma rushed down the street to get Granny to shut me up!!) Granny was fixing to go to work and just as she was quieting me the girls (I bet Blanche Repass & Ima Lee Hawkins) honked the car horn coming to take her to work. Bula said she laid me on the dining room table, got her coat, gave me to someone and left. Bula said a little later she heard voices in the living room and the girls were laughing and telling Lala that when they got to work Granny took her coat off and they all just hooted. SHE HAD NO SKIRT ON!!!! She wouldn't come home to get it, just put her coat back on and went to her desk. The girls came and got her skirt. Sooo, what it comes down to is that it was my fault Fay went to work skirtless --- Mr. Crawford and Grandaddy never let her forget it. Another special memory to me is the day Moma, Keri and I went to the rest home to let Granny meet Eden. She was thrilled to see us and we had a lovely visit and she held Eden. When we left, I hugged her and told her I loved her. As we were walking out she said "I love you the mostest!" I didn't know it at the time but those were the last words my Granny would say to me and I treasure that memory so much. So----now, please, on this the "between day" of their birthdays, write a memory or two. Love to all of you! Jody

my hand

Hi to everyone!! I know Keri wrote about my attack from my carpal tunnel but I wanted all to know that I'm to have surgery (everyone go "OHHH!!) on Aug. 12. Dr Dave from Mineral Wells is going to do it (He did my knee and Floyd's carpal tunnel) I was able to see him Thursday in Mineral Wells. He will do it in Graham at the hospital and I'm not getting "up under", just a local. I don't mind being knocked out but it is so hard to get a vein for the IV and I end up soooooo bruised. I hope to be able to watch - I watched Dr. Cawley cut a little cancer (not malignant) off my left arm and was fascinated. We'll see how brave I am this time. So good to hear from all of you who answered Keri blog. Loved it. So anxious to hear about Diane's house. Susan, so glad you're home. Celeste, loved hearing from you and Amanda. I'm glad Candy can paint - I can drip!!! Love to all, Jody

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MINDY!!!!!!

Hey Gal, I'm sorry this is a day late but HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! Love ya, Jody

Mom

I had to take my Mom to the ER last night around 12:30. She has carpal tunnel in her left wrist and it flaired up so badly that she couldn't stand it. The ER doc gave her a strong pain med and a shot of steroids, and I took her home with me. She said that 'strong' pain shot wore off in no time and she didn't sleep much. She is hurting bad again today and is attempting a nap. I'll take her home in a while.
She can't get into her doctor til Aug. 12th, so she might be miserable for a bit. Just wanted to keep ya'll posted. I'll let you know how she's doing.

Happy Birthday, Jennifer

Jennifer,
I hope your day is a good one. Hugs to the men in your life.
Love,
Candy

This is Keri reporting from JoAnn's computer again.

Hi this is Keri on my Mom's computer. She just lost her dog, Angel today when a neighbor hit her with the car. Mom's ok, just a bit sad. Angel was a royal pain but Mom enjoyed her. We just got back from 'taking care' of her, and I think Mom's worn out.
Sorry this isn't pleasant, but it's something I wanted ya'll to know, since alot of you have met Angel.
One thing is certain, Angel died happy. Mom rescued her. She was left for dead and almost starved out in the country and Mom took her in, fattened her up and showed her love. She was a tad too feisty for me, but she was a cute little thing and kept Mom company. She will be missed.
RIP Miss Angel...
Keri

So, what's going on?

No one has been 'blogging' much lately...so I'm going to start again by filling you all in on my family's goings on....(try not to fall asleep)

I'm not working at the bank anymore.When Eden had her wreck, they were extremely rude and hateful to me, making a bad time worse than it was and should have been. That weekend, Floyd had to leave for who knew how long to work in North Dakota and I wasn't 'well'. He told me that my happiness was worth more to him that the little amount of money I made and so I quit. Honestly, I've never been happier.
Floyd has been home for a week, and has to leave out again Monday morning to go back to North Dakota. He may be there another two weeks, but who knows?
Eden is settling into life at DeVry. She has a bus pass, some good friends and is still looking for a job. (Anyone know anyone in Irving who'd hire her? LOL)
Nick (not Nicky, NICK) is doing well. He will being his freshman year of high school this year. He was going to be a Graham Steer, but has since changed his mind and is now more interested in theater. I love it. He does impressions and is very funny. I think that he'll be super at it.
Madison starts jr. high this year. She is nervous about it, but I'm sure she'll do great. At the moment, she wants to be a songwriter.
Buzz, (the rat terrier), our youngest is well. He was terribly upset when his Daddy was gone for two weeks, but after their reunion, he seems like his old self. It won't last since his Daddy is leaving again Monday.
I'm still running my websites and having fun with them. I've rediscovered cooking is a passion. I'm having tons of fun making huge meals for my family. They are loving it too.
Hope you are all well.
Keri

THE SUZY!!!!!!!

Did all of you guys get the word that Suzy has been "retired" and will not have a computer till they get one at home? Suzy found out about it yesterday morning and just had time to get the word out before they shut her computer down. She is very, very happy about all this - she was going to leave in January if not laid off before so she was thrilled to be laid off and get severance pay for 6 months. GOOD FOR HER!!!!! She told me this morning that in all the years she had worked there, there has been 33 layoffs. Goodness!! She is relieved and glad she doesn't have to worry about it any more. They came to Graham Saturday morning, bringing Eden with them. Wasn't that sweet!!! Eden had wanted to be here for her Daddy's birthday. We thank them for letting her come with them. God bless family!!!!! Let's all hope Suzy gets her computer soon - she'll go crazy not being in touch!!!!!! Love to you all, Jody

HAPPYBIRTHDAY JENNIFER HAIGOOD BLAKE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY UP THERE IN ALASKA. I ASSUME YOU ARE STILL UP THERE WITH YOUR CLAN. HOPE YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY. HOPE YOU CAN GET HOME TO VISIT SOON - WOULD LOVE TO SEE THOSE BEAUTIFUL GIRLS BEFORE THEY GRADUATE FROM SCHOOL!!!!! LOVE TO YOU AND BRETT AND THE GIRLS!! JODY (OH YEAH, COUSIN NOT SISTER LOL)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY FAVORITE SON-IN-LAW

HEY THERE, SWEETIE!!! HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT DAY TOMORROW AND I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR BIRTHDAY DINNER SATURDAY EVENING ( even if you have to cook it) GLAD YOU ARE HOME FROM NORTH DAKOTA - SURE DIDN'T WANT YOU GETTING TOO COOL UP THERE IN THOSE 70DEGREE DAYS!!! LOVE YOU, JODY

MOMA

Hi dear Cousins. Tomorrow, July 15th, will be the anniversary of the day we lost my sweet Moma. I would love and appreciate it if you all would take a minute and post a memory you have of your cousin or aunt Pat. Something sweet or happy or funny would be so special to Keri and I. All of you have been so wonderful and supportive of us - you guys are what family is all about and I love you dearly. Thanks and God bless! Jody

Happy Birthday, Valerie!

Hope your day is fun and you get to do whatever you want.
Love,
Candy

Happy Birthday, Don

We know that if you had your "druthers", you'd be holding a baby for your birthday...as evidenced by that wicked Lala imitation you did at the reunion.
Make the most of your special day.
Love you,
Candy

Inspired by...

Owen's adorable picture in his hat, I thought I'd post this cute photo Amanda took of Brady in his little sun hat. I think she told me they were at Chic-Fil-A or something and he was being a happy sweet boy. Of course, this proud grandma thinks it's a sweet picture. The biggest problem that I have with all the cell-phone photos and images on the computer is that when I'm out somewhere and someone wants to see a picture of my grandies, I don't have any hard copies to carry with me. Such is the age of the internet I guess.

Owen growing

Hey, ya'll,
Owen can open doors now and has special words for specials things. Meh-mo is Elmo; Va-ko is vacuum. Well, wasn't YOUR child's first word 'vacuum'?
Below are some pictures of Matt, Rachel and Owen at the zoo and Owen in his favorite hat (looking more like Rachel than before).
Love,
Grammie...uh, Candy

Happy Birthday, Sweet Girls

Dear Marissa and Caden,
Happy Birthday on your special day! Do something fun and think of all of us that love you both.
Love,
Candy

Hey Metroplex Family!!!

I am going to ask all of you to PLEASE watch over Eden. She is without her truck. On her first day, yesterday, she was driving to college and totalled her truck. She is ok, bruised, sore, scared, but ok.
She is alone, without a truck, without much money and without a job. She is looking, she has a bus pass, but she may be needing to see some family once in a while. I felt horrible having to leave her like we did, but Floyd is leaving tomorrow morning to fly to North Dakota for work. He'll be gone for about 10-15 days. I'm stuck here.
Please, look after her.
She is going to have to go (they are kinda making her) to Six Flags tomorrow for a DeVry thing, and she needs to be taken sometime very soon, to get her stuff out of her truck. She has groceries in her truck, she has her portable DVD player in there and shampoo, toothpaste and other things you really need.
I'm in a bind here, ya'll and really must ask for your help. I feel very frustrated.
Thanks everyone.
Her cell phone number is 940-456-1734
She is living at the Eagle Crest Apartments in Irving.

Something really cool I've been doing....

None of you may be interested, but I wanted to share.
I'm a creator of three websites, one is CSI Crime Scene Investigation based (mostly Grissom and Sara though) and we had a contest with real prizes last week. One of my administrators bought collector things like autographed pics, magazines and etc...but I am friends with one of the writers and producers on the show, David Rambo,so I asked him if he could send me some goodies for the contest. He did.

Here is what he sent. I didn't keep any of them. I got first place in the contest (I didn't run the contest, I wanted a prize!) and I won an autographed CSI magazine signed by William Petersen (Grissom) and Jorja Fox (Sara)

The package from the CSI Writer's Office

Autographed script (signed by the writer David Rambo) from "Young Man With A Horn"

Official CSI Season Nine Tshirt only available to cast and crew
Official CSI Season Nine cap only available to cast and crew

Eden's Grad Party Pics

We had a good crowd, (you can't tell by the pics, LOL!),TONS of food, and lots of fun.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR BULA ON SATURDAY!

BULA, I HAVE LOVED YOU ALL OF MY LIFE AND I KNOW YOU HAVE LOVED ME TOO! YOU AND MY UNCLE JOHN HAVE ALWAYS BEEN THERE FOR ME ESPECIALLY THIS LAST YEAR SINCE WE LOST MY MOMA. I HOPE YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY AND GET JOHN TO TAKE YOU TO SONIC FOR A JAVA CHILLER!!!! I LOVE YOU THE MOSTEST!!!! JODY

Eden Boda's Graduation Photos

Eden's Graduation was on May 29th at Graham High School.
Here are some photos:

Proud Parents and the Graduate

Ruth, Eden and Mimi
Nick, Eden and Madison
Eden and her very proud Daddy
Eden and her bawling Mom
WOOOHOOO!
She starts DeVry University in Irving July 2nd.

(she says "Send cash!")

Happy Birthday, Marcy

Hope your birthday is wonderful. We missed you at the reunion. See you next time.
Love,
Candy

GUESS WHAT!!!! JODY'S BACK

HELLO WORLD!!!!! Just got the machine back and Keri got me started again and I'm Not allowed to download anything or she'll get me!!! How is everyone?? Let me hear from you.

Happy Birthday Tomorrow, Suzy!

No one should have to write their own Happy Birthday wishes - that's just not right! So, I'm taking up the mantle while my Mom enjoys the sun in Puerto Rico. Happy, happy, happy day Suzy! Save us all some cake, because sharing is caring.

Rachel

Out of Town

Cousins,
Steve and I are heading to San Juan, Puerto Rico on Wednesday and will be gone for two weeks. Since Suzy and I seem to be the only ones posting, she will have to post her own Happy Birthday post.
Suzy, please post a good one for yourself and for Marcy when it's time for her birthday.
Love,
Candy

Happy Birthday, Maylee!

Hope you have a great day!
Love,
Candy

Happy Birthday, Steve

Right now you are mowing the lawn while I do laundry. What a good birthday! Tonight, however, I'm cooking chicken piccata and Boston Cream Pie and we are opening presents! Hope your day is lovely.
Candy

Next Set

Matt and Sully

Celeste and Chuck arrive with their chauff...driver

Bring 'em up right.

Daddies and their boys

Who is this masked man?

First Pics

Here you go. Click on them to save them to your computer! What precious babies we make in this family. Sorry I don't know how to rotate. duh

Owen Dances with Birds

Cousins,
This video is of Owen dancing to the theme song from Sesame Street. It's not very long because he discovered the camera and fell to the ottoman in embarrassment. It's cute however. You must sing, "Sunny day, chasing my...cares away." to yourself because I had no way to control the volume. All in all, not one of my better attempts, but Hey, It's Owen! So enjoy.
Candy

Happy Birthday tomorrow to Cathy..and Granddaddy Cush

Cathy,

Happy Birthday to you. One of my fondest memories is calling you on your birthday to tell you that just because Granddaddy was 100 years old, none of us had forgotten that You were 30!

Have a happy day,

Candy

I know y'all are probably sick of my pictures, and you're probably rolling your eyes and saying "Here we go again **sigh**" But anyway, here's my granddaughter Kaylee's graduation picture with her cap and gown.

Love to all!

suzy

Is it already over?

Cousins,
It's 7:50pm on Sunday. The Rangers have already beaten the Red Sox; my clothes are in the dryer and I'm getting ready to take a bath.
I sure did have a good time seeing each of you at the reunion. Thanks for all of you that brought a side dish, cranked the ice cream freezer, delivered food, picked up relatives, chased children, changed diapers or took pictures. You know who you are! BTW, don't forget to share those pictures either by posting on the blog or sending copies to all of us.
We previewed the pictures from Rachel's camera Saturday afternoon and Chuck pronounced them just fine! Marisa and Amanda, we have a precious picture of the new baby boys that you will have to blow up and frame.
It was great getting to meet the next generation. Let's remember to tell them how important family is and encourage them to always stay in touch. For those of you that weren't there, you were missed...and we talked about you all. Read that as you will.
It was a good time. Let's do it again!
Candy

Happy Birthday, Melton

Melton,
Hope your day is happy and stress-free.
See you soon,
Candy

Reunion! Reunion!

So here's the deal. I frapped around and didn't make any plans to cater or pot luck or anything. So we're having hotdogs and hamburgers on the grill. Anyone that lives close enough is asked to bring a side dish. Those that are driving from farther away are off the hook. I need to know if anyone needs veggie dogs or burgers. We can accommodate that. We can also make turkey burgers if you need them. But you have to let me know.

So far, the weather is being really cooperative. I don't think we're going to be roasted. Something new for June in Texas. I am getting out the chickenfoot and Mexican train dominoes and if you don't know how to play...GREAT!...maybe I'll win. I have a kiddy swimming pool for our little ones and a pop-up tent for some shade for them.

I also have a Wii and challenge you all to a bowling tournament. If you have controllers, bring yours. I have two.

We should be up and moving by 9 or 10 so come when you are ready. There are three new hotels in the area around my house. Holiday Inn Express; Baymont Inn and Days Inn. Easy access to all the fun.

Here's the address: 4841 Shenandoah, Wichita Falls, TX phone 940-692-9841. Please let me know you are coming so I'll have enough food. I'll send letters to our computer challenged relatives. Oh, and it's Saturday June 6.

Can't wait to see you all and meet all the new babies. Bring your cameras and let's make some new memories.

Candy

Celeste

I just got off the phone with Celeste. She's in North Hills Hospital, but should be released sometime today. She had a really bad reaction to a medication and it made her tongue and throat swell, which required a breathing tube. She was in ICU yesterday, but was stabilized and moved to a room. She sounds really good and is looking forward to the reunion at Candy's.

Thanks to Candy for letting me know so I could check on her. By the way, Jody was in the ER when she came in - what luck!!

Suzy

Happy Birthday, Keri

Have a wonderful day! I know your Mom would post if she could. alas!
Love,
Candy

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all of you cousins who are moms. It's the toughest job in the world, but the most rewarding as well. To those of you who still have your moms, hug them, love them and enjoy them. Those of us who no longer have our moms, it's bittersweet, but I know I have wonderful memories of a wonderful mom. I still miss her every day. My own Mother's Day treat was yesterday when Amanda, Sherami and I went to Lone Star Park for the horse races! Caden had a ball, too! Brady was the only guy around and he seemed to enjoy being out in the pleasant weather since the rain held off.

Sorry to have missed so many birthdays these last few months. Hope everyone had a good one. Please feel free to ignore mine when it comes around - I plan on it! Yikes!

Love,
Celeste

Jody wants you to know

...that Buster Cusenbary is retiring from the Graham Police Department. A very nice article is in the Graham Leader. I am supplying the link here. Check it out.
http://www.grahamleader.com/
You're a lucky fellow, Buster. Wish I could retire, too. Don't catch ALL the fish.
Love,
Candy

Mike, Mike...who knew?

That I would not be able to get to my computer for three days? Goodness. Happy birthday. I'm sorry I didn't get this posted until after the fact. I hope your day was great!
Love,
Candy

Birthdays

Jim and I celebrated our birthdays with the kids in Austin. L to R, Marianna Gose(Houston's girlfriend), Houston, Croft Connor, Deb, Jim, Hunter and Pat Connor. So fun being a grandma! Hope I can keep up with him when he starts moving. Love to all, Deb

Happy Birthday, Doc

Dear Jody,
Happy Birthday. Have a great day...no emergencies...all well-baby visits.
Hugs,
Candy

Happy Birthday, Deb!

Hope you have a glorious day. Bring Jim and Croft (and his parents!) to my house in June and introduce him to his third-fourth-something cousins.
Love,
Candy

Wearing out Grammie

Easter egg hunting at church

Bring on the breakfast

bath time is fun!

Hey, ya'll,

Two weeks ago I got to spend some time with Rachel and Owen while Matt was at a conference. I usually get up earlier than Rachel (let's face it...the WORLD gets up earlier than Rachel) so I was going to take the baby and have some 'Grammie time'. Here's how the first 5 minutes went.

He walked to the tv cabinet and removed the tassles and threw them on the floor. I picked them up. He walked to the telephone and made several long distance calls. I hung it up. He walked to the fireplace and pushed the grate in so that it nearly fell on him. I replaced it. He grabbed the poker and tried to run with it. I replaced it. He got caught up in the curtains and I took a deep breath. He stopped to look out the window and identify everything in the back yard. I praised his every utterance. He ran to his high chair and indicated that he was hungry. No kidding! He ate a scrambled egg, a toaster waffle (held like toast), a cut up clementine orange, some banana and a glass of milk. Then down for more. Whoo! And I was there for 5 days. The only thing that slows him down is Sesame Street (Meh-Mo!) and the shots that he got on Monday.

Such fun. I wish you all so much joy.

Come meet this little bundle and introduce your new ones at the reunion at my house. Sterilized surfaces, hand sanitizer and masks available if needed. just kidding!

Love,

Candy