Random Thoughts and Happenings from Woodstock GA

YEAR in REVIEW!!!!!

2011-01-04T19:44:00.000-08:00

I really can't believe that it is already 2011!! This past year really seemed to fly by! It was only yesterday that Alabama won the National Championship and all were saying "Roll
Tide"!! to start the year off!! We had a great year! Mike and Connie were back and forth in preparing to move south. They then sold their house in Virginia and moved in with us. Yes we were slightly cramped for seating and they were only able to us a very small portion of their belongings, but all was good!! It was a good thing having them here with us. Summer flew by quickly!! We had swim team and great visit to the beach for the last week of summer... Pictures were in the previous post!! While on vacation we noticed Anna was having some simple, yet weird symptoms....lets just say she was in the bathroom alot!! Well on the third day of school, I listened and borrowed Mikes blood sugar monitor and tested her blood sugar... mine was 89 hers was 264... Standard protocol for kids is three days in the hospital at Scottish Rite Childrens hospital of Atlanta!! All in all it was a great visit at the hospital if you can have a great visit at a hospital!! Anna has been a trooper and is adjusting beautifully to learn how to take care of herself!! Ofcourse some days are better than others!! She has decided to try her hand at band and has had a recital for school playing the clarinet!

Jonathan has had a good year. His football team made it to the state semifinals and even beat the 3 year reigning champions!!! It was one of the most exciting games ever!!! He has had a few too many girlfriends for my taste!! But he is a great guy and cute to boot!! You know you always pray for cute and adorable kids, but when they stay that way, sometimes you wonder!!! Did I really want this? He is currently wrestling and will begin Lacrosse sometime soon. Then he steps right back into football!! and Highschool!!! UGGGHHH!! He is growing up too fast!

Jessica is as adorable as always!! She is ready to get started with some gymnastics.. I am hoping she can start her first class next week!! She gets perfect grades and loves going to school!! I don't think she really likes the homework part of it, but she does it all with out a word from me! She loves singing and dancing at church with her friends! Jessica is my ROLL TIDE girl!! She would sit in my lap during every Alabama game!! Her goal is to go to Alabama and be a Cheerleader!! Woohoo!!!

Christian or CMAN!!! What can you say?? He is all Energy!! It is never a dull moment in our house!! Tyler and Carter are his best buds!! He has decided that he wants to play Lacrosse this spring!! Saturdays are going to be crazy!!! Christian isn't a big fan of school, but he makes great grades!! 100s all over the place!! I do believe recess is by far his favorite subject!!He is excited to get to wear a tux this Saturday in his cousin Rachels wedding. The girls are flower girls for her too. I will definately post pictures too!!

Keith and I celebrated out 18th wedding anniversary with a visit to the Cirque de Soliel!! It was good, but I dont quite get the ovo part of it... what was in the egg?? I really want to know!! Thanksgiving was GREAT!!! Went to Camden for the week, got to see my Grandaddy and got to see Felecia after 10 years of not seeing or talking to each other.. It was as if we had never stopped and who knows why???

Well Christmas was wonderful!! Woodstock saw its first white Christmas since 1882!!! It was absolutley beautiful!! We spent New Years in Camden with my family and got to hang out with Felecia again that Wednesday and Elizabeth and Gary for New Years Eve!! Lots of fun!! That is our year in review!! Whew!!

Life Change!!!

2010-08-18T19:51:00.001-07:00

BACK IN THE SWING!!

2010-08-04T19:30:00.000-07:00

School has started again and so far so good!!

Jon has been loving his classes. That is a good thing seeing that he is now a teenager!!However, he did have a hard time when we had him moved back into Advanced Math. Football season is coming on in full force!! Go Wolverines!!

Anna is so excited about switching classes now. We have a great system to keep her organized this year.. We will see if works!! She seems really happy with her teachers and her classmates!! Yeah!

Jessica is one of the most easy going kids I know! She has a great teacher and already knew the majority of her class. The school they attend has what they call intact families. She has had the same core class for 3 years now. I love it.

Christian is a spunky second grader. He has more energy some days than the energizer bunny. I really wonder where he gets it from? He is in the same family as Jessica and loves his class. He has some great friends..

Summer did disappear way too quickly! :( The last week in July we packed up the car and traveled south to Panama City Beach! The shore was gorgeous and the water was spectacular. They call it the Emerald Coast for a reason! We did get a lot of algae on the last two days, but the shells found so made up for it. We had a house full of people, the beginning was a little dificult, Keith had to go to a trade show in Savannah, so he couldnt come til Wednsday. That was hard for me. I mean had a good time with my family (mom, dad, Courtney, Marcus, Eric, Mindy, and all the kids), but I kindof felt like the odd man out and just missed my Hubby!! :(

Anyway we did have lots of fun! Then mom, dad and Marcus had to leave by Tuesday night! another bummer.. Keith came in on Wed. (yea)!!We had a great week together!
All Sixteen of us! Can't wait to do it all again!!

2010-07-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

Wow what a world we live in!!! I can sit in the doctors office and check my emails, find a blueberry farm and then blog about it all with only using my two thumbs!! Who woulda think it possible??? I can also recommend you check out this other wonderful blog of Cynthia Miller she is having an ARC giveaway!! Some absolutely fascinating books!!! Ohhhh I so hope I win!! Here is the link: http://tinyurl.com/2axev4l

ENJOY

Summertime!!

2010-07-02T19:48:00.000-07:00

Well it has been a while again!!! This summer has flown by just like a hurricane would. We started the summer getting up at 730 am every day to start swimteam practice and would stay there typically til 11 am. Ok yes that is a long time! I didnt stay and do that EVERY day, but it was often enough! The great thing is that our team had a fabulous season!! WE won all but one meet and only lost that one by 13points!! One race!! We have some great swimmers!!

I also had a job the first ten days of summer and believe it or not, it was really fun!! yes stressful, but really fun! I got to know six other women really well!!It was a hard decision when I chose to leave that job and go to Panama City with our church youth group!!! Big Stuff is the name of the camp and it is PHENOMENAL!! Just imagine...1500 kids in one room litterally rocking out and praising God!! It was so cool!! I roomed with 12 other girls as we shared two rooms that joined one another!! Our room was a MESS!! but it was a fun mess... dance parties til 2am and long talks at strange hours... We were the place to get snacks!! we would have made out like bandits had we charged for the stuff!!! I pray that the girls got as much out of the week as I did!! It was life changing!! Oh not to mention the bus breaking down on our ride home!! We luckily, as the kids put it "we landed in PARADISE!!" It was a very nice mans' land with a pond and we got to swim in it!!!

Fast forward to the here and now!! WE have laid low and seen all kinds of movies, played games, gone to the pool and just hung out together!! Life is great and we are done with swim team! And we are going to Mom and Dads in Camden AL to hang with them and the family for the Fourth!!

Oh yeah, somewhere in there, I turned 38!! I had a great weekend with my sister!! It was a blast!!! And I had my first head cutting ceremony with my best friend from high school!!She is so totally amazing!! I cant believe how postively well and courageously she is attacking her breast cancer!! I never knew she had it in her!! But man I am so glad to see it!!! Well that is our summer so far!! Cant wait to see what the month of JULY holds for us!!

First Swim Meet

2010-06-03T20:42:00.000-07:00

WE ARE VICTORIOUS!!!! Yes, it was a great evening watching the kiddos swim their little hearts out!! They all did a fabulous job. We were against our rival Wyngate. Last year, they beat us by one point!! Since we have lived here, every time has been really close. Jon, Anna, and Jess had to each swim 5 events! I think Jon had atleast 3 first place finishes!! He da MAN!! Christian had 2! Jess I think had 2!! and Im pretty sure Anna did as well!! It was great!! I will get pics as soon as my phone is charged!!

Summer Time

2010-05-27T06:02:00.000-07:00

Yes the offical beginning to summer time!!! School is out tomorrow. I cant wait!! But for now I have business to blog about. I just entered a contest on my sisters blog. I even put a scene in, it was fun to do, so i thought I would post it here. She gave the word "wicked" and you were to use it in a scene, or flash story. This is what I put exactly as it was entered (BTW i was writing it on my phone and then my phone wouldnt let me correct anything, so instead of redoing all of it, I just posted as is) so here goes.....

As we continued to fight our breath came morequickly and shallow. I don't know about his, but I do know that my body was spent. Every muscle fiber had been used and abused I was beginning to fade and fade fast. I felt the exhaustion as I contined to kick and swing at him with that was left iniside of me. He seemed to be faltering as well he moved a little slower and stumbled a few times. It won't be long now I said to myself. One of us will be victorious! In a flash, we became tangled leaning heavily on one another, I heard him whisper, "she will never fit with you, she doesn't fit into your world. If you really love you will let her go."

For a fraction of a second, I paused in thought. Looked around the arena and focused on those crystal blue eyes. Hazel wisps of hair blew in her face our eyes locked and the love we share was clear in her smile. My love for her swelled and gave me a renewed strength. As I turned back to alexander, I caught the wicked gleam in his eye as the painseared up my right side fear over took me. I reached down grabbing the blade from his hand and shoving it through his heart! I could not let her live with a wickedness like his. The rage over took me as I began to stab him repeatedly.
exhausted, we fell together in a heap onto the sand floor. I rolled onto my back and looked to the sky my side ached painfully. As I closed my eyes, relief flowed through me with the knowledge seeping in that it was over. I was still alive for now. Warm lips touched mine with a sweetness that was all consuming, warmth and love radiated to my bones. Opening my eyes I gazed into the ocean of blue before me.

With a voice as beautiful as birdsong she whispered "Stay with me my love we are now free to be with each other. I love you with all of my heart. please dont leave me." I touched her porcelin skin and all went black.

Hope you enjoyed it!

Contests

2010-05-17T19:48:00.000-07:00

My Little sister is working on her book for YA and is constantly meeting new authors and really fun people. I am totally enjoying living a fantasy role through her. I dont think I could put three good paragraphs together to make up a story...Ive thought about trying, but every time I do, I just freeze!! Anyway, I keep hearing about these ARC's and am wondering how I can get one!!! My hope is that I win a contest!! Here is the link for the contest!!

http://lafemmereaders.blogspot.com/2010/05/spring-cleaning-giveaway.html

I hope you stop by and enter on your own!! She has some really fun reads over there!! I really need and ARC!!

Change

2010-04-29T05:37:00.000-07:00

I am still up in the air about this..Do I like change?

hmmm.... not sure yet...

I know change is good. sometimes it is easy and other times it is hard,
or complicated..Often it may be rather sad and difficult.

My favorite kind of change is the EASY!! I like it when you have a change of some kind and it is the difference is there, but barely noticable. It flows well into your life and the ripple effect is a small one. I find it difficult sometimes to adjust to those major changes...I try really hard to go with the flow and roll with the punches, and I do have to say that I can roll really well. What I dont like is when the change is something that I really DONT want to do, or commit too. Oh well sometimes, you have to do what you have to do... You just cant help it... Life must go on!! And wether or not I like change, I know that as a person, I can only grow if I change (even on a daily basis)!! So Bring on the CHANGE!! I am ready!

Just another RANDOM POST!!

Food Fight!!!!

2010-04-26T20:11:00.000-07:00

I am helping out with our Jr high youth group and we had a great outing a few sundays ago. Here is a glimpse at our adventure!! Be warned, this is not for those easily grossed out... It is intense!!

500 followers contest!!

2010-04-26T06:34:00.000-07:00

Shannon Messenger,
a fabulous up n coming writer
is having a
500 FOLLOWER
(WOW) contest
go here to check it out!!
Http://bit.ly/91Jiv

What do you think?

2010-04-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

I vividly remember my mom and dad often questioning "what were you thinking?". I have recently come to realize that often the truth to that question now would be "nothing". Yep i often find myself thinking about absolutely nothing at all. I wonder if that is normal, or do I have ADD or something? But you know, The really sad part is it sometimes occurs when I should be thinking of atleast something. Please be sure not to tell my children or Keith about this revelation, I will never hear the end of it.!! Sometimes I wonder if maybe I just block things out so I dont have to face whatever it may be. You know if i dont think about it or acknowledge it, It cant be real!! :) (Or so I tell myself!) I do try really hard to keep it all together and be on top of things, but sometimes you just have to let things go... We are not PERFECT!! I definately dont pretend to be! I love life and I Love people, but I often make mistakes. I try to learn from them the first time, but that doesnt always happen. Maybe by the third!! Who knows! Practice does make perfect doesnt it?? If you totally get where I am, I would love to hear from you... and know what you THINK!!

WOW

2010-04-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

Have you ever woke up one morning and wondered where did the time go?? I did today, last week was spring Break and it started with Easter. So Easter has come and gone, along with it Spring Break...The long list of things to do still hasnt had anything taken off of it. We did get to go to the beach (not the ocean) and get a nice sunburn... I did apply sunscreen atleast twice on everybody!! The disgusting peeling has begun..We went to Pine Mountain and hung out with some of our FAVORITE PEOPLE!! Chase and Joci, you know who you are!! Then we just played games as a fam and hung out with each other!! It was a really sweet and fun Week! I just hated to see it go so quickly! So now we are in the quick run til the end of the school year!! WOW!! CRCT testing has begun and before you know it summer will over. I am so reminded to enjoy the moment and cherish those around me..My kids are growing up soooooo fast. It is really fascinating and yet a little scary to watch. They are fabulous individually, but work wo well together. I love being with them all. I also love to share them with others so if you are reading this blog, know that I love you and am very thankful that you are in my life!!

Winning and Losing

2010-04-01T14:21:00.000-07:00

**sighs deeply**

You know how it is, you've entered a contest

**throaty cough**

(ahem, your sisters contest even!!!)and you think

**devilishly grining**

"hey, I might have a pretty good shot at winning this one!!"

And....of course.....

you don't!

**shoulders droop, bottom lip juts out, sighs again**

Now don't get me wrong, you're not blaming anyone in particular, it is just a little frustrating. Yeah, let's just say that it has been what, forever since i have ever won anything... I think it was a cake in a cakewalk at the Halloween Carnival... Yep, that is about as good as it gets!! he he!!

But I never give up... here is another lovely writer who has some grand contests!! Shannon you are a great writer,I love to read your blog
**claps loudly**

cant wait to read your book...

**grins devilishly again, while rubbing hands together**

By the way, If you are in need of a BETA reader,
**wink wink**
I am here!! I love to read!!I am really hoping to win one of these great books you have.. Best of luck finishing your revisions!! If you are like me and want to win a great prize as you laugh with the author.... check it out here

http://ramblingsofawannabescribe.blogspot.com/

FANTABULOUS CONTEST!!!

2010-03-24T19:21:00.000-07:00

Well, I do have an amazing family all around, but I will tell you, sometimes my sister has the BEST IDEAS EVER!! She is so cool, (and her writing is so good) that she now has OVER 100 followers!! Ofcourse, I have been following her since day one!! (hey sis, shouldnt that be worth extra!!) HE HE HE!! I am very excited that she has FINALLY started letting the juices flow and doing what she was made for. She is very creative and has such a great way with words!! I am still waiting to see her WIP!! I am supposed to be her BETA reader!! Yeah! Cant wait! If any of you out there are writers, reading this, I love books and would love to give you a common persons opinion on it!!Great Job Courtney congratulations!!

here is a link to her blog www.princesscourtneysbarr.blogspot.com

"FRIED CHEEESCAKE!"

2010-03-03T19:21:00.000-08:00

Jon my oldest and I had a nice day together. I firmly believe that a mental health day from work, or school is a very valuable commodity. So needless to say, Jon had his first mental health day today. School was starting 2 hours late and I didnt have a substitute job today, so Jon got to stay home and I took him out to lunch. It was a great date time we went out for Sushi at a place in town call Izumi's. Their appetizers are great and the sushi rolls were just fabulous. Ohhhh and then we indluldged in some decidant "deep fried Cheesecake" Yes you heard me right Deep Fried cheesecake....Oh was is good? Yes it was delicioso! It was a raspberry cheesecake that was smooth and creamy with ribbons of Raspberry flavoring. It was dressed up with beautiful drizzles of mango and strawberry fruit puree. I didnt plan on eating too muc of it, but Jon and I cleaned the plate....LOL I love taking my kids out for dates. Getting to know them is such a valuale investment in time!

Contests contests Contests

2010-03-02T14:55:00.000-08:00

Ok, i only have two to really talk about.... My sister who is a writing diva!! is constantly sending me tweets and links to all of these contests... i have even written a short story to enter one..Stepping out of the box for me anyway... I dont have voices telling me what they are going to do all the time... My voices are all around me! HE HE! anyway, here are the links to the contests come one come all there are prizes to be won and great things to read~

Check out the awesome contest via @saramcclung! http://babblingflow.blogspot.com/2010/03/march-madness-saradise-style-major.html

http://writinginthewilderness.blogspot.com/2010/03/happy-march-monday.htmlhttp://dangerouswithapen.blogspot.com/2010/02/show-me-your-dangerous-contest.html

Check them out... FUN FUN FUN!!!

LOVING IT!!

Words......hmmmm?

2010-03-02T13:51:00.003-08:00

Have you ever really thought about the words we use every day? I have heard that women speak over 15,000 words a day. well, i am not surprised by that, we have a lot of important things to say. I am surprised however by some of the things my children say... not all are good.. Yesterday while in the car, my youngest let me know of a word I had never heard of, "sexing". Who knew that I had been sexing for many years!! go figure. Atleast when the actual event occured, I was in the presence of mind to redirect the conversation with a little story and describe it as flirting. (the definition Christian was given was when a man and woman are hugging and kissing) Needless to say.....Keith and I have been sexing for years!!! and all in front of everybody...Hmmm is this a good thing, or a bad one? You decide.

On to other issues, What do I want to do when I grow up??? Does any one have ideas? I feel like I should do something with the medical field seeing that is where I have had the most training. I am enjoying being a substitute teacher, but I definately know now that I dont want to be a full time teacher!~ I have tried my one quick hand at writing a short story. It was fun, but i needed to edit it a little more than I did. If I could have my own personal preference, I would stay home and make money. I just dont know what I would want to do. I do still want to teach Jazzercise and keep in shape, I just dont want to do it every day in the afternoon. It takes up too much family time.... but for the moment...I can do it!! So if you have any suggestions please feel free to pass them on this way.....

It is amazing how quickly our kids grow up!! I look at them every day and am amazed at how much they are growing. I have a friend whose daughter is 2 years older than Jon and told me just how HOT he is.... let me just say, it is hard to hear how HOT your oldest child is... I know he is cute and a great guy, but HOT is just different. We have tried to get back into the swing of doing date nights with each of them. I have recently had the priveledge of going out to eat with Anna and Christian they are both such great kids. I love them dearly. I look forward to taking Jon and Jess to lunch as well. I try really hard to make the time light hearted as I try to dig deeper into their heads!!! Who knows what you will find. It is going to be fun finding out though!! I will keep you posted!

Words......hmmmm?

2010-03-02T13:51:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentines Day!!!

2010-02-13T18:23:00.000-08:00

Well the day we single out to celebrate LOVE is here... Are you prepared? Can you make up for all of the days you let that special someone down? Or have you been the one who lets those you love know it without a doubt, every day? I have just recently run into many people who dont like Valentines day..... I am sort of torn.

I find it fun to take the time and do something special for those in my life that I love. We make it lots of fun and get them one or two really quirky gifts.

Keith has taken the extra time to make me feel really special this year... I have had a special gift every day for the past 10 days. With each one there has been a little note, It has been so sweet and romantic, as well as unexpected! They have ranged from a single chocolate rose, ice cream, massage oil, cheez its, and gummy bears. it has been so much fun waiting to see what he would come up with next... Keith had done this once before when we were dating. He gave me a dozen and a half roses one at a time. Lets just say " I loved it so much, I still talk about it". Seeing that we have four energetic children, finding that time to make each other feel special is a rare treat indeed.

So to everyone out there in this cyber world...Celebrate the LOVE!! Take time to just give a hug, a smile, or a kiss and show those who are special to you how much you love them!!! It will make your Life a happy one!1

A New Year!!

2010-01-17T18:18:00.000-08:00

OK yes it has been a while...(I hear you courtney!) We had a fabulous Christmas holiday!! STayed in my PJs for 3 whole days!! We absolutely hated that Mimi and Papa didnt get to make it!! But that just means the kids will get a third Christmas. The joys of being children!! We played games the whole time!! Kids just love it! We then went to mom and dads. We had a great time!! I got to spend a day with my parents at the shop, helping to organize the papers. It was so remeniscant of my highschool years!! We would got to the shop with mom and hang out for hours at a time. When we were kids we did make it fun and would sled on cardboard boxes down the big red hill. Now that was soooo much fun... I dont think mom appreciated the really gad stains we would have on our clothes and persons!! ok no more memory lane!

We got to play with Hannah and the Twins while we watched lots and lots of football!! woohoo!! go SEC! Yes I have waited to YELL and CHEER but I am so very PROUD of the CRIMSON TIDE!! ROLL TIDE ROLL!! I was very jealous of Courtney and Marcus who had the priveledge of being at the Rose Bowl!! *sigh*

So we had a great start to our New Year!! We've even had a few SNOW DAYS!! Yes in the state of Georgia we have had 2-3 inches of snow. My kids were in heaven. They stayed out all day sledding down our hill in the back yard. The next day it was icey and they got to sled down the street!! The boys along with our neighbor Joseph realized that the hill covered with leaves was just as good for sledding as the snow was...who knew?? They had a blast. Well now we have another holiday tomorrow and we have three cases of strep in the house!!! Happy Happy JOY JOY!!

Oh yeah, did you have any New Years Resolutions?

VICTORY IS SWEET!!

2009-12-05T20:14:00.000-08:00

ROLL TIDE ROLL!! 32 to 13 over Florida! I am still grinning from ear to ear!!! I am so proud of them all!! Great job guys! My girls mad up a cheer for the game that follows!! Another friend wrote this great poem!! Thanks Heath!

More determined than ever the elephants they came & he clapped and he shouted and he called them by name; " Now Cody! Now Mark! Now G Mac & Ro! On Tiffin! On Javy! On Trent and Julio! To the top of the conference to the top of the polls! Rammer Jammer Alabama! Roll Tide Roll!!

I Just Love it. We have been good! Went to Nana and Papas (My mom and dad's) for thanksgiving although it was weird not having Courtney and Marcus there!! But it was great to have dinner with them in town!(They were driving through) We had ablast with the twins, Eric and mom and dad!! The kids got driving lessons in a golf cart! They all did a great job!! I hate that I didnt get to see my big brother at all. He was either working at the shop, on a wrecker call, or working at the deer plant. We did have a feast in a half!! I only gained three pounds!! Life is good!! ! still have to get decorations up!!!! Merry Christmas!! Till next time! Roll tide!

NEW MOON

2009-11-20T06:26:00.000-08:00

The wait is finally over!! New Moon is a fantastic adaptation of the book!!! Thank you! Thank you goes to Chris Weis for staying very close an true to the book!! You did a phenomenal job!! As did all of the cast!! I am so ready to see it again and again!! Jon and I had a fabulous date night!! We had a scrumptious dinner at Red Lobster and then went on over to the theater where we ran into bunches of friends!! The theater we first went into had no good seats left so we asked if we could wait int lobby for the next one to open up!! Oh it was so worth it!! Front row with the foot rest!! Couldn't be better!! They opened it up at 10, so we quickly got to know the people around us!!! It is always Mzing when a movie like this can give common ground to a 12 year old, college student, teenager, 37 year old and 50+. We have been given something special that I hope with changes in the directors, will still remain true to the story. It was so great!!! Now I have marked my calendar for presidents day in February for the movie of The Lightening Theif based on the novels by Rick Riorden!! Great teen series!! I couldn't put them down!! Enjoy one and All !!

Apple Picking in Elijay, GA

2009-11-01T19:10:00.000-08:00

Courtney you are slacking... this is three posts in three days? Whats up?

I know its late this year, but we made it again to our anual apple picking trip. There was only one apple still up in the trees.... the Rome Apples. They are huge and ofcourse were fun to get. We broke one of the rules and let our kids climb the tree to get them...Yes, we made sure it was big enough to hold their weight first. It was a lot of fun, they had a petting zoo there too. Anna fell in love with one of the baby goats. There was this little boy there who was grabbing the pigs tail and following him around while he and the pig squeeled with glee (the boy that is)!
I don't think the pig liked the game quite as much. The hardest part when doing an outing like this one is when you enter the main area and are tempted by all of the baked goods and the jellies, peanuts, ciders, and other goodies for your taking.
I am so excited theat the kids enjoy this family time as much as they do... they have been asking to go for three weeks!! Love it! Needless to say we had an absolute blast just being together they are so much fun!! I think they loved climbing the tree the most.

On the ride home, the girlswere playing in the back of the car and singing some reallly cute songs!! It brought back so many memories of Alison and I playing the same kind of things when we were that age!

1st Round of State Playoffs In the bag!!

2009-10-31T18:05:00.000-07:00

Jon had his first round state playoff today in the cold rainy mud!! Yeah!!! They won the game 33 to 20. Our team looked fabulous! They play really well together! It was an exciting game!! Jon is having a great time playing football and really learning alot. I hope he continues to enjoy it!!here are some of my pics from the game... we have someone on the sidelines taking pictures too... I will upload them soon!!

IT's HALLOWEEEEN!!!

2009-10-31T17:20:00.000-07:00

Once again, it is Halloween night and all the lively characters are out and about in full fashion. Both Ghouls, goblins and pretty bugs and princesses are having a fun evening in the COLD RAIN!!! I am so glad Keith volunteers to take them on their rounds!!! This year Jon got to go on his own with his close friend Corey and about 6 other guys... He was NEO from the Matrix, Anna was Selena Gomez (AKA Alex), Jessica was Lola Hannah Montana's bff, While Christian was the ever famous Zorro!!! They are still as cute as ever...NOW for Mom and DAD to get their fair share....MUAHHHHH...

new hairdo

2009-10-29T11:31:00.000-07:00

Its a whole new me!! I got my first low and Hi light!!! It was soooo much fun and sooo needed!! She said my hair was a mousy brown!!

U've been BUZZED!!

2009-10-27T19:58:00.000-07:00

GO WOLVERINES!! ALL THE WAY TO STATE!!

Jon is in his first State Playoff situation and has decided he should have a mohawk to celebrate the season!!! He is still cute as can be if I do say so myself!! Keith actually did the buzz job I just got the chance to clean it up a little. Jon is proud of it!!

THEY'RE GROWING UP!!!

2009-10-14T14:48:00.000-07:00

Well it is inevitable isnt it? Jessica is now 8 and has pretty pink earrings in her ears... Jon has gone to his very first Homecoming Dance!!! Is there any way I can slow this down??? Didnt think so..Bummer... Actually when all is said and done, I am enjoying them growing up. They each have their own special traits and idiosyncricies (I think I spelled that right)!!

Jon is a great oldest child. He is responsible and caring. He is easy to talk to and a lot of fun to be around. Anna is so sweet, she has a loving heart and wants to be grown up!! (working on that). Jessica isnt far behind!! She is the shopping and jewelry queen. She is a fashion diva!

Christian is my little big man... He says the funniest stuff sometimes... YO DUDE!! He is a ball of energy!! He was bouncing off the wall today!! FUN!!

Anna is always one for drama.. she has many voices she speaks with and love to play dance and sing!! She smiles constantly, well except when Christian is doing something to aggrivate her!! He is really good at that too!!

Today our house was PROJECT CENTRAL!! Anna and Jessica were both finishing their projects that are due on Friday!!They did a great job! It is always fun especially when they all come in ont the same time!! yea me!! Luckily dad was home today and got to help Jon with his Math!! Fractions UGHHHH....Anyway Life in my house is never boring.. I will try to update more often!!

The absolute best thing about all of them is how well they get along and that they enjoy playing with each other!! I am so proud of each one of them. I look forward to each day we have together. I just have to let them keep on growing dont I!! It is going to be a fun ride!!

2009-08-29T20:50:00.000-07:00

WELL Yes we are still Alive and WEll in Atlanta. We have had an awesome SUMMER even though it ended more than 3 weeks ago. We had a great time together and with family. We got to spend some time at the beach, and alot of time at Nana and Papas'. We had swimteam, baseball, birthdays, weddings, Braves games, ER visits, more baseball, just fun swim time and finally we have gotten into football!! So Sorry I have been amiss in keeping everyone updated... If you are in the area, please give us a call!!

I was having trouble posting my snapfish pictures to the blog and so I decided to just post this link instead. Enjoy!!

http://www5.snapfish.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=2141647014/a=114023833_114023833/otsc=SHR/otsi=SALBlink/COBRAND_NAME=snapfish/

FYI

2009-07-20T19:23:00.000-07:00

Just to let you know.... we are still here!!! I was trying to upload pictures from as far back as Easter and my camera died!!! Sighhhhhh so I will get them uploaded as soon as i can...It has been a fun summer!!

A Christmas Addition

2009-01-11T17:07:00.000-08:00

As some of you know our youngest Christian has been asking for a puppy for atleast three years... He is definately persistant.... This year, he even posed the question to THE BIG MAN himself. So it was time. Keith and I searched the internet for days and weeks... when we found one we liked, they were usually already gone. On the 23rd, we had decided to get one that was in Carrolton Ga only to find out she was already gone, and we had our lovely complications I talked about in the previous entry.... so as Santa said, he cant bring dogs on the sleigh....

He left a lovely note for the kids, with some dog bones, letting them know that mom and dad were on the search for the perfect dog and would bring one home as soon as they found it..Christmas eve, I had to work all day and Keith got the lovely job of finishing the last minute shopping with everyone else in GA. I absolutely love Christmas DAY... Our kids are the best... the promptly come into our room at 730 and jump on the bed... we read the Christmas story from Luke. Keith and I go first and get ready with the camera and then they come down the stairs...(one at a time, so we can get their individual pictures) Our day can be a rather long process... we take our time opening the gifts and love seeing each others expression at what we had gotten them... We made some great mini egg quiches with tiny suasages for breakfast then did crackers, suasage and cheeses for lunch. The grand finale was a luschious ham, green beans and some killer sweetpotatoe pie ( if I do say so myself). The kids had a fabulous day got almost everything on all of their lists and then some!!! Yes, the Wii probably trumped all of their other gifts by far. It has been lots of fun having tournaments in all of the sports as we learn the games. I do love the excitment children bring to the whole day... Mimi and Papa were totally exhausted by 5...

Then it was all over. A big mess and the next day I had to work for 11 hours!! Yea me... Luckily, it was extraordinarily busy. I had to work alot over the next few days and then it was a New Year... The center I teach classes at held a class on New Years day and all of the instructors participated... It was a blast.. I was very sore the next day. On Sat. Keith, Jessica, Christian and I drove to Wedowee Al. (just south of Anniston to pick up our new addition) She was so scared, she had no idea what was happening. For the next 2 days, her favorite place was underneath our bar stools.. Since then she has begun to let loose, loves to play (and bite), sleep, and bite, eat, and bite. We are working on the potty training thing and I have to say she is getting better... She has her moments though.

The first two nights, I got to sleep on the couch by her crate, so everyone else in the house could sleep. Keith got up early on day and took her out, too. It is truely awesome to see the kids step up to the plate and take care of her without complaining. Sometimes I do wonder if the Democratic system is not flawed. When we were trying to come up with her name, we started out with 30 names... Not one could we all agree on ( you got to vote as much as you wanted too) then we whiddled it down to 5 still no winner.. the next night we had a revote and a name that wasnt even on the first list (Kaela) won out.. go figure..she is a lot of fun to have around... I am so glad we got a new pup...till next time I have posted a slide show with more extensive pictures on my space enjoy....

PRE-Christmas 2008 RECAP

2009-01-02T21:29:00.000-08:00

OK I know it is now 2009 and I totally missed the walk through our Christmas events, but my Christmas was totally crazy..I started working at Macy's on the 3rd then worked once or twice a week...the weekend of our 16th wedding anniversary on the 12th Keith and I both get to go to the ER and get IVs and shots all because we couldnt stop throwing up... I have never gotten that dehydrated from vomitting before... Anna and Jon then came down with the same thing.. we think? My workout that wednsday just about killed me... Litterally..

Ok so we had put up the tree with no other decorations up yet... When Anna was home sick, she and I put the lights and trees up outside as well as in the dining room. Then Mike and Connie, my inlaws, arrived on the 18th... they spent a few days with us... while we were waiting to see if anyone else gets sick before we head to my mom and dads to celebrate Christmas... on Sunday.
We leave around noon on Sat...(oh yeah, because Keith found out on the 12th that he was taking over the Northeast region of sales form the company he works for and would be traveling back and forth from Va the next week!!!!!) So needless to say, we had not yet started packing.... We hadnt shopped hardly at all.. We were both feeling very overwhelmed and knew we would have to stop in Auburn to get some things from Academy (the sporting goods store). We were able to get all of the gifts for the men in my family, which was great... then on to moms... we arrive late Saturday and have a blast watching old movies and stuff. On Sunday we had the whole crew over to mom and dads there was 21 of us in their house... it is always a blast... Courtney and I did all of the cooking due to moms migraine that conveniently hit right before she was to start cooking..I am totally messing with her.Courtney and I had fun cooking and if I do say so myself, the food was great. I do love having all of my sibs in the house together. It is just a blessing to see them as often as we do now.

Keith had a meeting in Birmingham on Monday and wanted to get some shopping done( since we hadnt gotten it done before) so he was gone all day on Monday... The twins had to leave at about 3 to go back to their moms so Eric was very gracious and took Jon hunting that afternoon. It was a successful time... He came home with a doe... He was so Excited... Now he is ready to get a buck... So after all that excitement, we head out to Smiths Station, Al. to meet up with Keith's parents and see his side of the family for their Christmas celebration. All was right. Keith had a conference call that came in at 1:30 I walk into Goody's in Montgomery and run into one of my cousins that I had not seen for oooohhh 14 years maybe... she looks absolutely fabulous and it was great to catch up... then we are off again only to travel approximately 20 miles before we break down on I85 just shy of the Auburn exit we were heading for. As I am searching for our insurance number, Keith talks to my dad and he surprises us both as he is coming to pick us up.... I so love my parents.... they are the absolute best... We unload the suburban and send the kids with mimi and papa to go to Aunt Elaines...I would have loved to have spent more time with them... we dont see them enough...

Then papa comes back to pick us up and take us to the party for atleast 30 minutes...Then we go back to meet up with mom and dad...It was a small gesture, but I know my parents had not eaten, so we tookthem out for dinner at a great little steak place... Dad even brought us a great suburban to use till we could figure out what to do with our car(or if we get a new one) So keith and I head back to Atlanta since I had to be at work at 945 on Christmas Eve...Yeah me!! I will finish this tomorrow... Are we having FUN yet????

MIDNIGHT!!

2008-11-22T19:09:00.001-08:00

Midnight on Thursday evening I was totally excited and also a little sad.... I had planned to go to the premier of TWILIGHT with all of my friends, but they all backed out. Soooo needless to say, I had to go by myself, but I was a ok with that, cause it was AWESOME!!!!. I loved the movie, it had the passion, excitement and held to the book very well. There were a few things I might have changed, but for the most part... I LOVE IT....I will be seeing it again tomorrow or Monday!!! Keith told me last night that he wanted for our anniversary to take me to FORKS>>> I still get tearry eyed just thinking about it.... He knows that i would love to go and wants to take me.... yeah me!!!! I was trying to get some SEC championship game tickets for him and told him that someone was trying to scam me and i didnt think it would happen....:( Anyway, we have had a really lazy weekend. I have folded a ton of laundry... I was hoping my sister would call me and fill me in on her trip to Tennessee.... I know she and Marcus had a blast, and I wish I could have gone with her....Talk to you all later... SMILES!!! and Happy Thanksgiving... GO SEE TWILIGHT!!!

LSU goes DOWN!!!

2008-11-09T19:31:00.000-08:00

IT WASNT THE PRETTIEST GAME EVER, BUT BAMA WON IT!!! Roll Tide Roll!!

Saturday football is always fun!! Especially when you spend it with family... The kids and I traveled to Tuscaloosa to hang out this weekend with Courtney, Marcus and peanut. We had a blast! We always have great food! And plenty of laughter and fun....The game was very stressful!! But in the end we came out on top and that is all that matters. Courtney wanted to take the kids to see HSM3 the girls had already seen it, and Jon wasnt interested in seeingit, so I took him to see Eagle Eye. It was a great movie... I loved it.... Courtney and I then proceded to stay up late and watch two more movies.. I went to sleep sometime around 3.. The kids woke up at 7. Yes I am still tired. Mom and dad got there shortly afterwards... We then watched a few more movies... It was a movie marathon weekend.. It is alway s fun just to hang and talk with the family... I love them all dearly and am so blessed to be closer......

Fun filled weekend

2008-11-07T21:15:00.000-08:00

It has been a loooong day... I taught class at 815am. Took a shower, ran to Target to get afew things. Picked up some car oil and other stuff for my trip today...Went to lunch with my friends...probably my last one for a while :(... I will miss them sooo much. Then I went home to pack for our trip...I also took a short nap. THen had to go to Jons school... He had to go to the principals office today and had a pre scheduled Teachers conference..... Ran home, changed and went to Towne Lake to teach again. It was a better class than this morning....:)And so then.... I ran back home and showered, did the dishes...Left the house at 745....traveled with the four kids to my sisters in Tuscaloosa....THe kids were passed out when we arrived, so we are now chatting and preparing for A GREAT DAY of FOOTBALL tomorrow.. ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!!

Unplanned Visitors

2008-11-05T19:59:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures I took last saturday morning of a few visitors we had in our back yard... Dad, I know you will love these...Mom, you will have to show him!!

Halloween

2008-11-05T19:26:00.000-08:00

Ok i am a few days late posting, but i was waiting on some pictures from a friend of all of the kids who went trick or treating together...Christian,the girls and about 5 or 6 of their best friends went out together. I stayed home and got my own costume together for a party I was invited too at a friends house around the corner. It was fun meeting alot of our neighbors and getting to know them. If you cant tell, Christian decided to go as Captain Jack!!! Jessica was Hannah Montana of course!!! Anna was Anna the fashion Designa!!! It was a lot of fun putting them together.. Enjoy...O yea, we are still working on all the candy!! No we did not leave Jon out.. My battery was dead for my camera, so we used Keiths after the kids had gotten

Great Weekend!!

2008-10-26T19:02:00.000-07:00

Well after the girls date, I had to go and teach a class... It felt great to jump around and move so much.. THen I had to run home and shower to go out with Keith... We went to a new BBQ joint.. really good fried pickles and bbq... it is called JD's BBQ... We will go back there at some time... Then i had the lovely idea that we should try to go Bowling.....Well lets just say that I havent bowled that BADLY in my life... I bowled a lovely highof .... I cant say it out loud... Keith actually bowled a 188 go figure.Well it fun to laugh at how frustrated I was getting... Then We went out and got some coffee came home and watched a tv show... It was a great start to our weekend.Things could only get better with the football game on Saturday... Bama over Tennessee!!! ROLL TIDE ROLL!!! Today was a relaxing day!!! then I had Jazzercise class at 4...Now on to changing my set up just a little bit!!!

Cool or BAD MOM.....you decide???

2008-10-26T18:53:00.000-07:00

It is Friday afternoon, I go to the school to get the girls out at about 11:30am. I take them to Steak and shake... we had a really good lunch and some fun talk about the kids in their classes... It was a great mother daughter time!! Then (they have no idea what i am doing) I take them to the close AMC theater... they then guess that we are going to see HSM3... They get so giddy and jump up and down... they are so much fun to watch... Luckily, I had already bought tickets and so we went straight to the theater... for the 1:30 showing.. There was a party of oh lets say 40 or so kids in front of us in line. the Moms were really pleasent... they were great...We had FABULUS seats!!! and I THOROUGHLY ENJOYED the movie... It is probably going to be my favorite of the three. I especially loved when Chad and Troy are in the junkyard pretending to be little kids... I laughed so hard I cried... And then cried some more.. It was very well done!!!Anyway, some people give me really funny looks when I tell them I took my girls out for this date day.... BUT I know it was one they will never forget....nor will I....:)

Fall Traditions....

2008-10-19T17:42:00.000-07:00

As you all know one of our FAV fall traditions is Alabama Football... I sometimes wish they could play everyday...I know I am a girl, I should like football that much. Those of you who are in the south know that this isn't just football, it is SEC football... Anyway, that is one tradition, the other one that we love alot is Apple picking. We hadnt been for atleast two years... last year was just tooo crazy to even think about going, the year before, I dont remember why we didnt, but we restarted the tradition TODAY!!! It was soo much FUN the apples are delicious... We ate quite a few at the orchard and then I made some caramel dip to enjoy with them after dinner...Yummmm..Oh yeah, if you ever get to go, we went to Elijay GA to Reeces Apple farm and they have Apple CANNONS... The kids got to shoot apples at targets and won food prizes..They had a blast...

We Survived another Saturday and some pictures

2008-10-18T20:15:00.001-07:00

Alabama football, what are you to do??? I was hoping that after a whole 2 weeks off, we come out with our guns blazing... well, i think they got Jammed in the second half... hopefully, we will stay focused over the next few games... we HAVE To.

Anyway, this is just a quick little post with the pictures I promised from Jessicas birthday... It was a lot of fun she had a great time and didnt give me any attitude when I had her do the Thank you notes for her gifts today...Ok so her she is... our beautiful and sweet little seven year old...

BTW we are going apple picking tomorrow... i hope and will post some more pics tomorrow..

The Weekend

2008-10-17T18:24:00.000-07:00

It is FRIDAY!!! Another Alabama Football Weekend!!!! Dont let us down boys!! I am so excited about weekends!! The weather is absolutely perfect for fall football... Roll Tide Roll... Jon headed out today to go camping with the boyscouts. I hope he stays warm... it is supposed to be 40 degrees where he is... I have to admit that not having all of them home is definately weird... We miss them when they are not here. I know he will have a blast though...Oh my day today i had breakfast with a new friend who I am partnering with to lead a Bible study. It was a lot of fun getting to know each other a little more. Then I went shopping for halloween pieces for the girls costumes.... found a few things...

I then went to Moes with my Jazzercise friends... It is always a lot of fun... they are the best... after that, I had lunch #2 with other friends at Bogeys... Well actually I had a $12 yes TWELVE DOLLAR cup of COFFEE!!! It was coffee with baileys and suppposedly $6 worth of Vanilla Vodka...No I normally dont drink at lunch, but i had been freezing all day... and normally those drinks dont have a whole lot in them.... This one was different!! It was so strong I only drank half of it. I wanted to bring it home, but my waitress wouldnt let me... ANYWAY!!! I had fun at lunch... they are a funny group of ladies too. Then I got to take a short nap before going to teach class at 445..... It was a small, but great class...When I got home...You are all going to get a kick out of this... I LOVE KEITH SO MUCH!!! His heart was there. He walks in the door and says he would like to take me out to dinner....mind you it is 620pm.... Needless to say none of our sitters were available.... GO FIGURE... they all were comitted to doing other things....Anyway, I am done rambling... Have a great night... TTYL

TWILIGHT TRAILER!!!!! YIPEEEEE

2008-10-11T19:17:00.000-07:00

I am so excited that theis movie is coming out so soon!!!! I cant WAIT!!!! I have NEVER been this excited about any movie EVER!!!! I hope you enjoy the trailer if you havent seen it yet...

BREATHE!!!!

2008-10-04T21:28:00.001-07:00

I dont really know what happened to our team today????? They have looked so good for the past few weeks. We were blessed to to survive the game and come out on top.... Auburn didnt have the same fate....I didnt mind the game too much, but I did hate that we had to play against the Referees too. They had so many calls that just werent there... and then ofcourse they didnt call the same ones on them... Mom and Courtney came up this weekend and we have had a lot of fun... we got up this morning and took Jessica, Christian and Anna to Chuckee Cheese..... It was a lot of fun to play with them... Then we went to an antique store...After that we headed home to get ready and watch the game.... The first quarter was great, but the rest was DIFFICULT to watch....but now I can BREATHE>>>> We have two good weeks to get read for the next game against ole miss... ROLL TIDE!!!! Jessica had asked for fried chicken and fries for her birthday dinner so we had a delicious dinner and then watched her open some of her presents... SHe had a geat time... Her real birthday is tomorrow and we will have more fun stuff to do... I think her best present is having Nana and Aunt Courtney here.... she was so excited when I told her they were coming...I will post the pictures of it all tomorrow....

Vacation 08

2008-09-22T18:51:00.001-07:00

2008-09-22T17:58:00.000-07:00

Well it was what most would consider a normal Friday night. But for us,it was a fun night. Jon got to go to the Midnight release party for the 3rd book in the Eragon series. I had gone to a thrift store the night before and gotten some boots and shirts for his costume to wear in the contest they were having. So as most moms know, for about 2-3 hours the night of, we were fixing his costume to wear that night. It was all worth it. He won the competition dressed as the actor who portrays Eragon in the movie. He really looks like a young Eragon. He won a free book and was SOOOOO Excited. Gotta love midnight release parties.....

Vacation at Nanas'

2008-09-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

Since I am watching a football game I really dont care about, I can continue to blog. This past week has flown by. It is September..... here in Cherokee county, we get one week out of school in September!!! The kids have been in school since Aug. 4th, so they are ready for a break!!! It has been fabulous football weather, but not the best swimming weather... We go to the pool and they last ohh about 35-40 minutes. I on the other hand am quite comfortable sitting in the sun reading....oh yeah, they come out with their teeth chattering...To start this week off, we left late last friday and headed down to my moms house for a long weekend. Saturday morning, Jon got surprised with papa taking him on his first dove shoot.... (one of my favorite hunting adventures) He had a great time.... bagged two doves with papa... and won a great pair of planting shears. Mom and I hung out at the house, went swimming with the kids and just relaxed....

Sunday was lots of fun too. Dad, the kids and I surprised mom at church.... ha ha she thought she was going to get away without us there....GOTCHA!!! Then, i got the grand idea to go visit with my big bro at his house. He had told me that they were doing something for Leanne, and he SWEARS he told me to be there around noon.... (no he didnt) But lucky for him, we were there at 10:30. It was a lot of fun, the kids had a great time. Leann's fav cake is German chocolate and the one her sister Diane brought was absolutely wonderful!!! My kids love to hang out with uncle Jeremy and Aunt leelee..... We often go home and dont even get to see them but for like an hour or so, so this was great!!! The only problem was I forgot to take my camera.....UGGHHH. Then we got to watch the twins and spend oh about an hour with them on Monday. They had football practice, so we stayed and watched. I ran into a few friends from highschool one i hadnt seen in 18 years.... Wow that is a long time. So it was really cool....Then we drove back on Tuesday morning so I could teach class tues afternoon. It was a great weekend.

Belated Braves game update.

2008-09-20T18:36:00.000-07:00

Braves game..... On August 18th. I composed a blog about the Braves game that my younger brother Eric took my boys to. They had a blast... Eric, Mindy, Hannah and the Twins (Coy and Colton) came for the weekend to Atlanta... Eric had 8 tickets to go to the game and used them with Keith, Jon and Christian going with. They had some really good seats and now my little ones can say they have been to a professional Baseball game.

It was a lot of fun having Eric and his family at the house. They are always fun to hang out with. I hope they can come back again.... I just know that until hunting season is over, I wont see Eric, unless I go to Camden again....He is ALWAYS working!!! But he does always seem to enjoy life while he is at it!!!

Jessica had been invited to a friends house for a sleepover, so Anna and I went to a movie. I now have an 8 year old who LOVES Mama Mia!!!! Atleast some of the adult themes were over her head...

First Day of School

2008-08-05T19:45:00.000-07:00

I cant believe that school has started already.... I find it interesting that many moms are soooo ready for the first day.. Their kids are at each others throats... they want them gone all day... Some days, I do too, but not everyday. Christian is now in KINDERGARTEN!!!! I dont really know what to do with myself. I am not quite used them not being here. It is fun to hear about their days though. JON is A SIXTH GRADER! I just cant quite get a grip on it yet... What do I do with my day??? I want to watch soaps and eat bon bons, but I know that is not realistic. So i am preparing to take up some of the projects I have put on hold over the past year. Wish me luck so I can get them done.

Ok Courtney, I wrote the beginning to this blog on Aug. 5th!!!! I havent started asingle project, and I am still not used to being home by myself... but it is fun doing things like going to the store and out to lunch without a child in tow. But I do miss Christian and the others too. I just wish they didnt come home with the attitudes they tend to pick up at school..... YEAH ME!!!! I think something smelled funny to Jon. I am not sure why he had that face!!!!But arent they a great looking crew, if i do say so myself. They are a great bunch of kids!!!!! I am so blessed to have them!!!

BREAKING DAWN

2008-08-05T19:29:00.000-07:00

If you havent read this book series, I highly recommend it. It is a truly remarkable series. Who ever thought I would really like a book about a young girl falling in love with a vampire?? Not to mention the werewolves that are involved. Since Courtney and I couldnt make it to NY, we went to the local Barnes and Noble in Tuscaloosa. It was so much fun!! We met some great people who had the same interests we had even though I am 20 or so years older than most of them. WOW!!! But through it all, I made some great new friends...It was so much fun hangin out with them..... I hope Stephenie Meyer continues the series with other books. She is a fabulous writer and story teller... Check out the video from Tuscaloosa news where we were interviewed.... It was cool...

Another Birthday

2008-07-20T18:57:00.000-07:00

Hello! Hello! Hello!

it is that time again! Christian will on Tuesday be 5. We had a challenge with Keith being out of town on Tuesday so we celebrated for him today. He is an absolutely adorable little boy. I could just eat him up. He was so appreciative for everything we did today. He asked for fried fish with fries and hushpuppies for dinner. It was delicious. He also asked for his cake design to be him and Jerry chasing Tom.... Impossible? No but not the most beautiful cake i have ever made, but to him it was just fabulous!!! THe only thing he had really asked for was a guitar.... I just love his smile when he opened it. It made my heart melt. I cant believe he is growing up so fast. They all are.

This weekend has been quite busy. We went on a 2 mile hike on Sat. . the only thing we didnt know was how vertical the hike would be. It was pretty intense, but the kids did a great job. They only complained when we were close to the top and they were getting hot!!! Keith had wanted Jon to practice carrying his new Boy Scout backpack. He wasn't as prepared as he thought he would be. But he did a great job. These are some of the pics we took over the weekend!!!!

What do you do?

2008-07-17T20:17:00.000-07:00

What do you do when those you love are hurting?????? You hurt too. As of Tuesday midday, I have been a rollercoaster of emotions. I am only three hours away now, but still feel just as helpless as i did when I was fourteen hours away. Mom called and told me that Courtney was in the ER with an enlarged cyst. She was on some major pain meds, but still in a lot of pain. They would porbably have to operate, but not sure how major the operation would be. There were very few answers to my questions at the time. It took me back to my times in the hospital waiting and waiting for the doctors to come and they don't, atleast not til the next day. The frustration and impatience were fresh event to me a few hours away. Now we know that she is scheduled for surgery at 930 next friday morning. She is on bed rest for the next week and will have a 6 week recovery period. I want to go and see her if for no other reason than to give her a hug and tell her that I love her. I then go on into the debate of when and for how long to I go there to help her? I want to be a great help, not a hinderence. I cant imagine how scared she is right now. I like mom, just wish i could tell her that everything will be FINE>>>>In many ways, I know it will be. God is always in control, no matter how much we think we are in control. He uses all things for good, eventhough we don't know how it can be used that way. I definately dont like for anything bad to happen to anyone, esp those I love. But I can stand firm in the knowledge that God knows better and more than I do. (eventhough i dont act like it)

I find it strange that I also just found out that a new friend of mine has been diagnosed with breast cancer. She has a great faith and is a STRONG fighter. I know, that my swing of emotions doesnt really help anyone, but I also know it is normal and something that even I must go through to be healthy and help those around me.

Time for some Updates

2008-07-12T18:44:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone.... it has been a little while since I posted...

Well, the Jazzercise audition has come and gone. I am now a Jazzercise Instructor. I have team-taught quite a few classes and taught one class all on my own. It has been FUN and EXCITING!!! (esp when there is no one taking notes on what i am doing wrong!!!) I know with each class i will be getting better and better. So that is enough about me. Keith is busy as always working with many in the state to update their Video surveilence systems.

We were blessed to have a visit from Mimi and Papa right after we saw them in VA. We luckily got to see them for Fathers Day. It was a fast week and they are actually looking at houses in the area. But first things first, they have to get their house together for sale. Best of Luck to them. I know how hard that is!!! :)

Swim team for the kids is now over and they all came home with a trophy. Jon and Jessica both recieved the Most Improved for their age groups. They are all looking forward to next year too. Now we just spend time at the pool for fun.

Some of the pictures here are from our birthday extravaganza. We got to fireworks in my brothers back yard too. That was AWESOME!!

July is our big month in the summer for Birthdays... Jon is July 4th, moms is July 10th, Erika is July 17th, and Christians is July 22nd..... Needless to say, it is a lot of FUN. We had a big birthday bash at my moms on the 4th. It was so much fun having all of the cousins in one place at one time. Jon and Christian go to choose the menu. We had fried and blackened catfish with moms hush puppies and coleslaw. Courtney brought a massive cake that was yummy! My grandaddy and Aunt Eloise even came down to see everyone. We are having so much fun being closer to the family. It has been a great time seeing them so much....I even got to see my nephew whom I havent seen in 3 or 4 years. He looks just like my big brother, and acts like him too.(sometimes that's not such a good trait.)

We have had a few guests since i last posted as well. My sister came and met her best friend Stacie (who came with her two adorable girls) here at the Watson Villas. My kids loved her girls and ask when they are coming back. Although Stacies visit was very short, they seemed to have a great time. Courtney was here for my Birthday and made me a beautiful as well as delicious cake. It was truly a fabulous birthday. Who ever knew turning 36 would actually be a good thing?

Well, I think that pretty much brings everyone and everything up to date. Enjoy all of the pictures!!! I will try not to take so Long next time!!!

Commitments

2008-06-22T19:14:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it pays off to make your kids commit to something they dont want to do... Keith and I decided to put all four of them on the neighborhood swim team this summer. They missed the first two weeks of practice and then just jumped right in, literally.... Each one of them has brought home a first place ribbon almost every week. That is the best motivation possible... They come out of their event and ask how they did. They are having so much fun... and I have had fun meeting other moms in the neighborhood as well. I thought it would be great to post some pics of our future olympians!! I am not biased am I?? Of course not : )

Summer flies by

2008-06-22T18:53:00.000-07:00

Isnt it just amazing how quickly time can fly???? It seems like just recently I was starting my journey with Jazzercise, but now it is upon me I will be auditioning this THURSDAY!!! WOW! And to make matters worse, My birthday is on Sat :(... There is some good in this... I will be an instructor come Thurs afternoon and my sister Courtney and her best friend Stacie will be with her. It will be so much fun!!!! Hopefully i willbe able to teach a class or two next week and Then it is off to Camden for some real down time...(while i learn more routines) Get ready mom and Courtney!!!! ha ha ha!!! Whew it will be fun... Oh and Keith may be out of town most of this time!!!

Upcoming News

2008-06-16T20:35:00.000-07:00

WOW can you believe it/??? Courtney and I are going to NY to see Stephenie Meyer in Person!!!! Yeah!!! I have posted this new counter just I can know how long I have to wait.... it will be sooooo much FUN!!

New SpringWidget

2008-06-16T20:34:00.001-07:00

Get this widget!

Its been a while

2008-06-09T19:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, my sister is really giving me a hard time. It has been a really crazy month. The kids and I traveled to Fairfax, VA and had a great time visiting with all of our old friends that we didnt get to say goodbye to when we moved. It had been such a worldwind of a move... so we spent a world wind of a week just hanging out, having lunch, dinner, and even breakfast with some of our favorite people. We had every night schedulead with seeing someone.. It was just great.... We even got to see Mimi and Papa. I know they probably felt like they were just our place to sleep. I do have to admit that it would have been much more difficult had we not been able to stay with them. The kids got to spend one day each with them. Just to get some quality One on one time.... the kids loved it...They dont get a whole lot of one one time with very many people. On sat i drove the kids back to Atlanta, met up with Keith on the perimeter and traded cars. I then drove another 2 hours to meet my sister in Bham so we could go to the Miss Alabama Pageant. My cousin Rachel was a contestant in it. She didnt win, but she and the many other beautiful women did a really great job. Their accomplishments at such a young age are absolutely phenomenal. it was a lot of fun to go to.
Anyway summer is here and so is swim team. We have another meet this
Thursday. I will be updating my post then.
see you soon

TWILIGHT!!!! sooo cooool!!

2008-05-05T13:04:00.000-07:00

Here is the link to see the Teaser Trailer for the movie..... LOVE IT!! It is sooooo COOOOL!!
ENJOY!!

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.fullscreen&videoid=33429669

First Vacation

2008-04-29T18:32:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, the kids and I joined Keith in Savannah Ga for a truly FUN weekend. It would have been more fun if Keith wasnt there on Business. If you have never been to Savannah, I hightly reccommend the trip. The beach, downtown, the food, and the true southern hospitality!!!!!

The weather was fabulous, the the food was fantastic... got to go to the Lady and Sons. It was GREAT!!! I think that the kids favorite part was going to Fort Pulaski (believe it or not). Chrisitian calls it the place with all the soldiers. There was a ranger in confederate uniform who fired an authentic musket rifle.. It was really loud, but cool. Christian really liked that part.

Eventhough I had the kids the WHOLE time, they were really well behaved. They stayed together at the beach and enjoyed the cold water!!! Spending all day Sat there. Jon and Anna did get sunburned pretty badly. Yet, they still had great attitudes on Sunday. All together, I am looking forward to our next trip to Savannah. Until then, we will be heading to Va to visit our old friends and family the first week of June...Enjoy the pictures....Tomorrow, the Host is released and we will be getting a preview of the TWILIGHT Movie Trailer!!!! YEA

Alabama Football

2008-04-13T19:40:00.000-07:00

Well, It was just as great as we thought... Alabama football in the Spring... Man there is nothing like it!!!! The excitement the feeling in the air is so intense... it is just great. We made it to Courtneys just before some pretty big storms hit the Tuscaloosa area. Sat. was supposed to be pretty blah, but it was just FABULOUS!!! the sun was out all day and it was about 70 degrees.. It felt almost like September. If you have never gone to a spring game, you really should. I was talking to a friend from VA on my way home tonight and I almost broke down in tears when i was telling her about our time at my sisters. We stayed up until 2 am playing cards, watched movies had great conversation, watched a clip from the upcoming TWILIGHT movie...wow!!

It is so much fun getting to see them so often.. They are fabulous and we LOVE them to no end!!!Have a great night and stay warm... come back spring!!!!

Time to Travel

2008-04-10T19:39:00.001-07:00

It is here, the day my kids have been waiting for (Keith and I too)!! We are leaving for my sisters (courtney) tomorrow just after lunch. We are headed for Ttown to watch the Aday game... I am so excited. Football in the spring what could be better?? The only challenges I have are getting the kids packed for the trip... It isnt too bad though, atleast they are now able to pick out their oun clothes... We are so ready, the kids have been asking for this day for a month now... i will have some pictures coming soon!!! ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!

Free time

2008-04-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

I cant believe it... you might not either.. I have just read 3 books within the past 4 days.. Oh yeah, they were 500 pages EACH!!! My mind is a whirlwind of wonder and surprising emotions as i look forward to the fourth book in the series... If you have never heard of the book series titled TWILIGHT by Stephanie Meyer, you should... At first i was just strangely curious, it is a book (TRUEST of love stories) about a girl who falls in love with a vampire(i dont normally read books that would be about vampires at all).So believe me when i say i was SKEPTICALLL. But i will be the first to admit, by the first chapter, i was hooked.. I so wanted to know what was going to happen next... It is like watching 24 (for those of you who do) and having to scrusiatingly wait a whole week to see what is going to happen next. Now since i read so quickly, I have to wait til AUGUST!!! I just cant believe it... I will tell you that the most fun was having Courtney call me every hour on the hour to ask me where i had gotten too? I just had to tell her that i would be farther along if she stopped calling.... Actually it was great, she would point out something i had missed or give me a little info that was to come... she cant keep a good secret... I wish she had prepared me more for when Bella (main character) kissed someone else... I was very bothered by that and wanted to hurt her... not right!! Anyway, got to get ready for dinner and come back to reality, as keith put it .....

WHAT AM I TO DO WITH MY FREE TIME NOW????
Atleast til august or the movie?

The Little Things

2008-03-29T18:42:00.001-07:00

Anna is doing much better. Her voice is slowly returning to normal.... She atleast didnt have to speak in a whisper today.. I love the weekend... I love having everyone home and just playing around all the time... Laying in bed with your hubby just cuddling...SLEEPING IN is the BEST!!! But it can only be done (safely) when your kids are old enough to make their own breakfasts.... Life is great when they get that big....Only having one commitment for the weekend that actually falls through because of rain... and then getting to go to lunch with some fabulous ladies.... sweeping and mopping my beautiful floors (not quite the fun you would imagine) ... having burgers for dinner... what is a better day??? I love seeing the little things that make our life so fun and beautiful!!!!!

Challenges

2008-03-27T12:52:00.000-07:00

I love my four children like nothing you can ever imagine. I am so very blessed to have them and their fabulous father, but with children, as all you parents know, they dont come without challenges. Anna has over the past 4 days been without her voice. She is endearingly sweet when she whispers to talk. But ofcourse, the doctors only gave us amoxicillin for her possible sinus infection. Hopefully it works, but now my question is.... does she have to miss school???
After talking to my mom, I have decide to keep her home, not for contagious reasons, but for her voice in general... Then there is getting them motivated to do anything, esp. something they dont want to do....

I do have to brag on my kids... Anna, Jessica, and Christian took the initiative to clean up keiths side of the garage. He had been sorting through his tools for quite a while now... I guess they got tired of it and thought it needed to be cleaned... They are so sweet. I had to close my eyes to see the great surprise.. kids are AWESOME....

Easter unwind

2008-03-24T18:36:00.000-07:00

Easter was a fabulous for time for us.. We got to spend it with Keiths family in Pine Mountain and Smiths station GA. It was time for a bunch of kids doing alot of easter egg hunting. It is always fun to be with his fam. They are so warm and loving and always have great food. We are blessed to have all of this family, mine and his so close by..... Our next outing should be to Tuscaloosa for the Aday GAME.... We are already so excited....so till next time...

Easter

2008-03-21T20:52:00.000-07:00

This weekend is such a fun time for us. We get to paint eggs, dye eggs, hunt eggs, and even eat eggs. You would think it is all about the Big Bunny, but when you ask my kids..... They get it right. It is about Jesus Rising from the dead, not just dying on the cross. That is right, they know he is alive and living for them. He wants to know them and to love them and to live forever with them.. It sends chills down my spine to hear them say the TRUE meaning of EASTER!!!!!

God bless you all... May you all have a truly blessed EASTER

Breaking a Record

2008-03-20T17:56:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to post a real quick message. I have stumbled upon a quick and easy way to make snickerdoodles and oldfashioned tea cakes. (mom if you read this, the tea cakes are really close to yours) I dont know if any bag of sugar cookie mix will work because i used the generic Target brand. It tastes a little different than the betty crocker and pillsbury. You make them as directed, use a small pampered chef scoop to put them on the parchment paper lined pan. (this is for the tea cakes) and bake as directed. then top with powdered sugar.

For the snickerdoodles, just roll the same scooped amount into a mixture of cinnamon and sugar and bake as directed.

It fooled my kids..... Hope you enjoy the simplicity and taste too!!!!

Love ya Courtney! arent you proud?

Family time

2008-03-19T12:11:00.000-07:00

I know ! it has been a while... Luckily not too many people check out my blog!!! We have had a relatively easy month with the exception of the past 2 weeks. We had a great visit 2 weekends ago with courtney and Marcus and Peanut. Staying up til 2 and playing cards, laughing, shopping and just having fun enjoying each other. It was really a lot of fun. My kids are already talking about when we are going to their house in April. But luckily I had the next day to sleep in late and rest because right after they left, My inlaws arrived and stayed for the next five days. It was also a great visit. I just cant run around in my underwear screaming when they are here!!! ha!ha! I think they would have me institutionalized if they saw that!

Jessica got to perform in a sing along at school this past Tues. We went, but at the time i was not up on how to make my camera take a video. But i have since figured it out. so now i have to figure out how to post the video of her and Christian and Anna singing the songs.

I have to admit that Lazy days are so much fun... I am still in my PJs!! hope everyone is well!! Love to all. till next time! I will try to post alot sooner!!! Arent you proud??? video and pictures.!!!!!

A New ME

2008-02-07T17:47:00.000-08:00

Well, I am already getting heat from Courtney that I haven't blogged lately, so here I am again. Today was a really hard day for me. I have been training for the last 5 weeks to become a Jazzercise instructor. It has been very intense. It has been fun, but I didnt pass the audition. I as she put it just need a little bit more time. I am "on the bubble"!!! So now begins the training for the June Audition. The more I think about it, the more I am determined to be extremely successful at this. It is a LOT of fun and I LOVE to work out... so why not get paid to do what you love??? On the up side of all of this, I got on the scale this evening... I will give an update for tomorrow morning.... I have lost 15 pounds in this process!!!!! Yeeee haaaaa!!!! That right there is worth all of the effort in the WORLD!!

I know too, that going through this process will hopefully be a great witness to my kids. I want them to see the hard work and dedication that can go into something you love. As well as just because you don't make it, that is no reason to quit and not try again.... Finally they get to see that it is ok to cry when you are sad... and you don't get what you want... But for now... I will continue my work and luckily the routines are the same....

The kids are doing great... Though Christian has thrown up twice today and two days ago...The girls are doing well loving school. Jon I think is ready for summer...But he is enjoying studying World War II and loving that. They are all growing up too fast... Keith is doing well and enjoying his job. I hope this finds you all well. We are looking forward to spring and summer. See you soon.....

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2008-01-05T15:23:00.000-08:00

Well, 2007 has come and gone. Isn't it amazing that it is now 2008. It has been a really fun break. The kids are playing really well together and so far '08 has been pretty good. Mimi and Papa were here til the day after new years and we all enjoyed watching some good football. We all miss them already and hope they come to visit us again soon.

Christian has still been asking about snow!! Who knows, maybe someday we will get some.. I have started full swing into my preperations for becoming a Jazzercise instructor. I have four weekends til my Workshop on Feb 7. Three routines somewhat down and 7 more to go. I do have to admit it is intimidating, but lots of fun at the same time. I will keep you up to date as we go along.

My sisters birthday is on Monday. I can't believe she is now a really old 26!!! HA HA love you Courtney. I know you will be the first to read this. The girls have already been talking about our tea time in Jan. They are so excited! I am very excited to have mom come and finally see our house. It is going to be so much fun!! Well, i have to go and fix dinner or family will be starving. I did have some pictures to post, but i am using Keith's computer and mine is the one with all of the pictures on it. So next time!!!

The After Christmas Crash

2007-12-27T13:29:00.000-08:00

WE waited for 1 1/2 hours to get to see this man with the white beard... The things we do for our kids. Crazy huh?

Well, it all has come and gone.... We anticipate that one day, and it is gone it seems in fleeting moments. I hope you all had as great a Christmas as we did.. It took us approximately 7 hours give or take a few to open all of our gifts this year. We like to let the kids enjoy their gifts and incorporate some play time into the manic removal of paper and bows. It is wonderful to see their faces light up with each gift.. We had Mimi and Papa here too. It was the first year we were away from them and they got to come down. It was a really good day.

We went to Aunt Elaines for their family Christmas on Sunday. It was really good too. I love seeing all of them. They are a wonderful family. It was kindof different too. Uncle Don had passed away in March and his daughter Polly and her grandmother also passed away this year too. It was a hard year for all of them. I hope they were able to remember them and have fun at the same time. As one of the "family outsiders" (inlaws) I can say that i am very blessed to be in a family like this one, they are so welcoming.

We are all looking forward to our new Christmas party with my family in Camden this weekend.
My kids always get excited about seeing all of their cousins. I cant wait to grill out burgers or steaks or something other than ham..... Haha. Actually, i really missed getting to be there on Christmas morning, but we have started our own tradition with the kids getting new pjs on Christmas eve and pj day all day on Christmas.... THe kids love it!!!

This year on Christians list at the top, was a puppy. I regret to say that i have not found the right one yet. We had, but did not move quickly enough. He was gone within 3 days. It is a daunting thing to look at puppy after puppy online. Did u know there are over 200,000 in the petfinder database alone? I never did until now. Anyway, if you know of anyone with baby (less than 10 weeks) lab and sheperd mix puppies. let me know. We are slowly recovering from the chaos of Christmas, but did enjoy the love and spirit of it all. I now have the pictures i was going to post for you to view. Hope u like them.

Love ya Courtney....:)

2007-12-17T18:45:00.000-08:00

I am totally blowing my sister away.... more than one blog a month... WOW>>
I just thought I would write out a few things.. My husband and I just celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary. Wow. 15years flies by so quickly. I have been so blessed by this man and the kind of guy he is. He treats me so well and puts up with all of my stuff? Did i mention i think he is crazy??? No really, he does love me just as i am..I am really blessed. Anyway, since we havent sold our house in VA yet (grrrrrr.) we got a babysitter and went out to dinner and a movie. It was great. We havent done that since May.

This past weekend, we went to Pine Mountain and had fun at our little cousin (Lausyns) birthday party. It was a blast. It is always good to visit with Joci and Chase.. They are great people. Next week should be great too. We will get to see all of our relatives on both sides. I just love Christmas.. I just took some pictures of the kids and will post them sometime soon. I hope everyone who looks at this has a great CHRISTMAS. May the SPIRIT of the season JESUS bless you all. Love you.

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas!!!

2007-12-09T19:04:00.000-08:00

WOW time sure does fly.. Only 16 days until CHRISTMAS!!!! But if feels like April... I have to admit that it isnt too bad. Somedays I wish we still had temperatures that felt like Dec., but then again, I really dont miss all the cold weather. I do wish it would snow atleast for one day, but that is only for a fleeting moment.

The kids keep talking about snow on Christmas day, we'll see how they do when there is no snow. I just have a hard time thinking about Christmas when we are going shopping in shorts and flipflops, like we are at the beach.. Anyway, It has been fun fixing up the house, and putting up the trees.

We are looking forward to Mike and Connie coming to visit. As soon as they get here, we will be heading to Aunt Lanes to celebrate Christmas with them. Coming home Christmas eve and then to my mom and dads the following weekend. I am looking forward to all of it. It has been so much fun being close to the fam.. Thanksgiving was a blast.. EVERYONE was there... Over 20 people in my moms house... alot of them sleeping... but it was great!!! Black Friday shopping with Courtney was even more fun... We left from my moms house at 4am and were back at 1030. We did so good... I am very blessed to be close to family again...

well until next time...

2007-11-07T15:06:00.000-08:00

Well, i have been repremanded for not keeping up with my blog. So here goes. We have traveled almost every weekend since the last post. Keith got a great surprise when Courtney was able to get him tickets to the Alabama vs. Tennessee game. He had a blast. It helps that we won!!! We have all had so much fun going to Courtneys and hanging out with them and mom and dad. We have gotten to spend some time (very little) with Jeremy and Leanne, or Eric and Mindy. But we have really enjoyed being so close that we can see them all. Now it is their turn!!!!

Over the course of time, we have had some sad news, Great Granny Owens passed away. She is Keiths' moms' mom. Christian and I were able to go to Smiths Al. for the funeral. He did really well for his first funeral. I think it helps that we had been able to see some of his cousins recently and he is really comfortable with them.

We also celebrated Jessicas birthday, spent time with Mimi, tricked and treated, got sinus infections, spent time at Joci's, and I passed a Jazzercise movement screening (1st step in becoming an instructor). Keith on the other hand has been in New Orleans, New York, Orland, Houston, and somewhere else, I forget??? He has been travelling alot. We have also had loads of homework, housework, and just plain fun!!

I hope this keeps everyone a little more updated. I will try to post more often. Maybe once a week. We are still trying to get our house sold in VA. That is not fun. We hope and pray it sells quickly. We are getting more people coming to look at it at least. Oh yeah, my car decided to start spewing antifreeze today!! Yeah ME!!!!!!

Anyway, enough for today! Love to all who read this!!

First blog

2007-09-21T13:08:00.000-07:00

Hello! This is my first official blog. It is really kind of exciting. My name is Nina. I am the mother of 4 beautiful kids. They are the best. We have just moved back to the south. It has been wonderful. We love to see our family more often than ever before. Yet we do miss Mimi and Papa a whole lot. They are still in VA. Last weekend, we were able to go to Tuscaloosa and see my sister, brother-in-law, mom and dad. My sister got tickets to the Ala vs Arkansas game. It was so much fun.That was after we got to go to my cousins and see my husbands side of the family. It was a rodeo night in the rain, and then a birthday party on Sat morning. We had a blast. It was a very fun weekend. We are hopeful to go to the Alabama vs Georgia game this weekend.