Brittany & Steven

What's this- A blog?

2011-04-03T15:53:00.001-07:00

Well I have no excuse for this :) I could not believe the date I blogged last was in January. I am quite embarrassed and I suppose busy as well. I would love to say I would get back on track tomorrow, but no promises here. Tomorrow I leave for the beach and then 4 very big letters- CRCT. For those of you that live in Georgia and teach that would be the state mandated test that I just so happen to be in charge of at our school this year- no pressure right! So, after that back to blogging! Free Signature Generator

Ice Ice Baby

2011-01-09T17:25:00.000-08:00

One of the perks in being education are the long holiday breaks. Tonight marked 21 days without our students. I was getting ready to head back to school tomorrow when I heard the news, Georgia was expected a winter storm.

Now, Earle had been trying to warn me about his storm for a few days-("You know he does the weather report at work"), but I did not think it would have a big effect on us.

The way everyone was running around the past few days you would think that we were expecting this...

Just in case the entire city headed to Wal-Mart to stock up.

As of right now it has snowed all of 5 minutes, but no school tomorrow regardless. Let's see what happens!

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Pictures to Come

2010-12-26T15:03:00.000-08:00

About 3 months ago I started looking into getting a new camera. It all started with an Internet search that led to me asking questions to a 2nd cousin of mine about which camera she would suggest.

It just so happened that she had bought a camera in October, and it was now needing another home because she happen to have two of the same one.

Well, Santa Claus happened to get wind of this and it showed up under the tree Christmas morning. It took me a few minutes to figure out how to turn it on, but I am slowly learning.

I'm sure you will see several pictures of the dogs as I practice with my new camera since they are the only ones that will let me practice right now.

Here are a few that I worked on today!

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Oh Christmas Tree

2010-12-15T15:04:00.000-08:00

Conversation:

"Hey, does the Christmas tree look like it is leaning to you?"

"Yeah, I noticed that too."

"Guess it will be alright?"

Action:

Reaction:

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She's Eleven!

2010-12-13T14:23:00.000-08:00

Happy 11th Birthday McKenney!

About 8 years ago this little stinker came into my life! She was about 3 at the time with the vocabulary of a 6 year old. I was given the opportunity to babysit her and her brother one night that turned into several! So many of my college memories involve McKenney and her crazy and loving family. God even opened up the doors for me to spend an entire summer at their house with them. They all played a major impact on who I am today. So, happy birthday and I miss you!

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Where did you get that outfit from?

2010-12-12T12:15:00.000-08:00

Well, if pictures could talk the ones below would have lots to say!

Saturday was a fun filled day that involved many different outfits if you will.

My family headed up to Stone Mountain to experience "Snow Mountain" Brooke, Kristy, Jessica, Mom, Dad and I all made the trip.

From going skiing before I know that the snow requires many different outfits and gear. As you can see we had that part covered!

Once we were all dressed we headed up the mountain for some tubing time.

After going down the mountain a few times we decided to go play in the snow for a while.

We had a great time at the park and even more fun was to come.

That same night I ditched the snow gear and grabbed my good ole tacky sweater for Mel's Tacky Christmas Sweater Party.

It was an entire day full of laughter, snow, memories, and many different outfits!

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Stylin

2010-12-09T18:31:00.000-08:00

Brace yourself for what is to come.....

I warned you. Last night I retreated back to my childhood and played a little bit of dress up. There are several reasons I have this outfit on.

Well to begin, at school I volunteered to work car riders this morning. In case you have not looked at the temperature lately it was about 30 degrees this morning.

I am also joining in on some family fun this weekend, and we are going to Snow Mountain to go tubing, so I asked Earle to get the ski stuff down from the attic.

It also just so happened that he brought me home a prize last night for my graduation from school. He got me this hat to keep me warm at school.

Well it only took a few minutes before I had everything on and could not stop laughing. I had to show it to someone so I texted it to my boss with the captain "Ready for car riders!"

I decided to leave the goggles at home in fear of scaring 100 elementary students and their parents this morning t 7:15. Decided it might be a good ideas to put on a little warmer shirt this morning and the hat made an appearance as well.

It was freezing this morning, but at least I got to sport my new snow gear!

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Some Creatures showed up around the house!

2010-12-04T08:52:00.000-08:00

While browsing through my pictures from the last two weeks, I noticed some very interesting creatures that had made their way into my pictures.

The first made his appearance at our Thanksgiving lunch. I am sorry to inform you that despite his very cute little face he was eaten up. Please meet my friend Tom the Cheese ball Turkey. RIP Tom!

Secondly, one morning last week I happened to look under our TV stand and thought 2 things.

1. I wore a lot of black to school this week and

2. Smokey Joe apparently is related to Where's Waldo.

Can't wait to see what shows up this week.

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Its a Celebration!

2010-11-22T16:14:00.001-08:00

Over the past few months I took my camera to many different birthday celebrations. They stayed on my camera for several months after that. My poor computer died and so once again the birthday pictures had to wait to make their debut.

I finally had the time to download them to my new computer and here is what I found.

Kristy, my sister, had a birthday in July. I don't remember if we did anything for her birthday, but here is a cute picture of her anyway.
Dad turned the big 6 to the 0 this year. We did what we do best and snuck around his back to plan a sweet 60th birthday party. It involved dancing the Aunt Teri and Mrs. Mike and cupcake smelling just to name a few events.

Dad turned to so old this year he was allowed to have 2 parties. This was his 2nd party at Jin Express!

Next, Momo (pronounced Mawmaw-see why I can't spell) had quite a little shin dig! We partied like rock stars with her little friends. She is the one trying to hold that sweet little man's hand while his wife looks at her funny :)

Last, but not least, my cousin Danielle came by from college to celebrate another birthday! She was so excited she could hardly keep her eyes open.

Happy Birthday all you summer birthdays, sorry it took so long that it is now winter!

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Stressed but Blessed!

2010-11-12T14:57:00.000-08:00

What an incredible, stressful, and purposeful few months.

When I logged on to my blog today I saw that last post was September 7, and I thought it had only been a month since I was on here last, but then realized it was November.

I’m not quite sure where time has gone this last two months, but there have been some big changes that God is leading me through.

Earle had a 31 day KLS episode. The very disease that inspired in some part this blog, kept me away for a while. With careful thought and prayer he has decided not to go back to his job of teaching. We know God will not close a door without opening another one.

I started a new job at school that is an everyday learning curve. Would not trade it for anything…. so far. Since August I have sat in the front of a helicopter, tested out the fall festival slide, and received several hugs from some wonderful students.

Trying to get back into a routine has been difficult these past few months with so much going on at once.

I always love to look back on difficult situations and find how God worked through it. I am not there yet with all this, but I certainly know that it is coming very soon. There have been times in the past few months God has carried me through some day and others when his presents felt far away from us.

I am currently reading a book called “The boy who came back from Heaven.” I can tell that this will be part of the story I will tell in a few months about getting through all we have going on right now. I’m not sure how, but know it will be so. It is an incredible story of a 6 year old boy who survives a horrible car wreck. My favorite quote so far is a description if their situation after the wreck “Stressed but blessed.”

If you are reading this, please stop and say a prayer for my grandmother, Momo. Her health is not where it should be and she could use lots of prayers right now! If you talk to her, don’t tell her she is on here, she would get me :)

I know this post was a continuous ramble, but sometimes that is what our days bring. Hope to be back soon!

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Few thoughts for this week!

2010-09-21T16:15:00.000-07:00

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I'm Back

2010-09-20T17:17:00.000-07:00

A very wise friend of mine once said."If you juggle too many ball, one will fall every time." This is such a true statement, and I am sorry to say that I have had more then one fall this past month.

You see I started a new job on July 22. Huge learning curve. I moved from teaching into the office. Can I say big learning curve again?

More then one of my old hobbies was dropped for a little while until I got things under control. So with that said, I promised myself that this week was time to get back into the swing of things.

I need to apologize to the
following....
1. My Blog- I know it has been lonely
2. The Gym- I almost forgot where you were
3. The Fruit and Veggie section at the grocery store
4. Smokey and Rusty- I know you need a walk

Tonight turns over a new leaf!
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Earles say the darndest things.

2010-08-03T14:10:00.001-07:00

I started work a week ago and so far so good.

I am getting adjusted to seeing the sun rise from the sky again each morning. It has left me little time to blog, but I had to share what my husband said today.

I noticed when I came in from work a white powder on the kitchen floor. I knew he had something to do with it because he is a mess maker. We all have our talents. Here is a little bit from our conversation.

Me- "Hey Earle do you know what that is on the floor?"

Earle- "Nope" (with a sly smile)

Me- "Think real hard."

Earle- "Oh yeah. I put baby powder in my drawers. It must have fell out."

Me- I was speechless.

I Know the Plans

2010-07-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

This past two weeks have been an absolute world wind of time and emotions.I write this not to in anyway brag on myself but to once again marvel in the glory of God's promises.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

One of my favorite things about God is how is can see the entire plan for beginning to end for our lives. We on the other hand can only see small bits at a time. Sometimes he allows us to see how some of the steps have worked together and we have an "oh, I know why that happened now" moment.

I recently experienced one of these moments that starts about 9 years ago and has lead to this week.I'm going quick through the memories so hold on...

My friend Melinda and I visited Georgia Southern University to look at colleges. I decided to go and then she talked me into rushing.

Joined Alpha Delta Pi.

Meet another girl in ADPi named Amanda McKinney.

Amanda was killed in a car accident and I was forced to take a good look at my relationship with God.

Started going to Church and meet some really really great friends and my future husband who all happened to be a year younger then me.

Graduated from GSU with and education degree and decided to stay and extra year to get my masters since all my friends were still in school.

Graduated from my master's and moved back home to teach. Interviewed at a few schools and did not get the job.- Jeremiah 29:11

Offered and accepted a job at LCE (meet some of the most wonderful people, but that's a whole new story)
Taught summer school last year and happened to find that a college nearby was offering a specialist in leadership degree.

Decided to go into curriculum instead.

Told my principal and she said go into leadership.- so I did.

Fast forward about 9 months. I have been working on this degree and I graduate in December. Throughout it all there have been some questions on my heart about my decision to go into it. There have also been laws passed in the time I started I degree that left questions about if this was the right choice for me. I have always known that things would work out like they were suppose to so I tried not to worry about it to much.

A few weeks ago our principal sent out an e-mail informing us that our Instructional Specialist, Amy, was being moved to another school. Amy is absolutely wonderful. She does a great job with students, parents, and teachers. I have had the privilege to intern under her for the last 9 months, and I learned a great deal from here in the past school year. I have the utmost respect for her and I know she will do a wonderful job at her new school.

This in when the world wind started. In processing Amy's leaving, I learned that I could apply for the job because I was in the leadership program.

I really can't tell you the next sequence of events because they happened so fast and I went through so many emotions in my heart. Jeremiah 29:11.

Tomorrow I will start my new job as Instructional Specialist. I am excited, nervous, and thankful all in the same breath.

So as I process the steps that got me here I can't help but smile. God knew and always has known how this would unfold- step by step, decision by decision, and moment by moment.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future
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Shopping 101 with Meredith

2010-07-07T10:38:00.001-07:00

This is my friend Meredith. There are not many memories that I have from the past 15 years that don't involve her in some way.

She has a way of getting herself into some pretty interesting situations, and her questions never seem to amaze me.

For example....

A few years ago Meredith and I took a trip to Statesboro. Me to see Earle and Mer to see Russell. We decided to meet back on Sunday afternoon to ride back home together.

One of us suggested that we meet downtown in a store called Paper Doll. When it was suggested Meredith made a funny face and said, "We can go, but those people in there are kind of snobby."

I did not pay her comment much attention but kept it in the back of my mind. I have been to the store several times and did not remember them being snobby.

We headed into the store where a big sale was going on. Meredith and I began browsing the store and picking a few things out. Across the room I kept hearing her comments.

"I mean why do they even have these clothes out."

"This are cute, too bad."

"Don't even look at these clothes."

I slowly turned around and gave her a funny look. I walked over the the rack to see what she was talking about.

I finally just asked her what she was going on about. She pointed to several clothes and told me that I could not even try them on because they were not even for sale.

I looked around for a few more clues to what she was talking about. I looked above the clothes and saw a sign that read:

New Spring Collection

Not on Sale

It slowly began to click in my head that the store was having a sale. I then realized what Meredith thought when she saw this sign.

New Spring Collection

Not FOR Sale.

I began to laugh and pointed to the word ON which I repeated several time, "It says NOT, not FOR."

I saw the light bulb click in her head to which she started laughing too.

We quickly headed out with no clothes- for or on sale.

I was reminded of this story because a few weekends ago Mer and I went shopping again. I suppose they knew she was coming because they had a sign posted for her when we walked in the door!

Love You Mer!

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Trip to the Boro

2010-06-29T12:23:00.000-07:00

It all started with a quick trip to the gym. I ran (get it) into Brittany B. and we began to plan a small mini vacation to see Meredith in Statesboro. I rode over a day early and got to spend the morning with Meredith. Here are some of my favorites moments of a very fun trip!

Meredith got a job teaching 5th grade next year! So happy for her. We headed over to the teaching tree with a list and Russell's credit card :) She was quick to remind me not to mention that part to him.

A few hours later the rest of the crew made their appearances- Melinda, Leah, and Britt. Brittany thought I would look better as a moose.

Our wonderful host made us chocolate chips goodies and fresh fruit. The cookies were gone in about 10 minutes.

After we spent some time talking we headed out the door to go grab some dinner. I can't go to Statesboro without eating at a little place called El Sombrero, aka Mexican Heaven!

To make the night even better, Kimberly and Jenna came to eat with us.

After dinner Mer and Britt decided to go bush diving in front of El Som. If you you want to know more about that you will have to ask one of them!

The next day we had one exciting event after another planned. We started off with a visit to another wonder place to eat, Heavenly Ham. Melinda was so happy.

On to the next stop, Splash in the Boro. Who says 27 year olds can't have fun at a water park. We went down the slide more then once, floated in the crazy lazy river, and relaxed by the pool.

I snuck away from the pool for a little while to see my favorite niece and nephew, Taylor and Tanner. We played Wii, dress up, and enjoyed a little Popsicle action!

Everyone meet back up at the house for showers, and we headed for Savannah. We had no real plan in mind so the night got interesting. We started off on river street where we had dinner at 2 different restaurants. The first one had awful service so we left and had a wonderful dinner at Tubbys!

While eating dinner we hatched a plan to take a ghost tour! Thanks to Mer's new friend, Droid, we were able to find the perfect tour and we were on our way.

Can't be to careful when it come to ghost gear.

We hated to say goodbye, but we had a wonderful time! We made the long trip back across the state and ready for the next adventure.

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Two and Counting

2010-06-28T14:22:00.001-07:00

Two years ago started just like any other hot June morning. Sun shining down, birds chirping, alarm clock sounding, expect for one little thing-

June 28 happen to be the day we got married. It's hard to believe that two years has already gone by. Earle and I had to celebrate a little early because of our busy summer schedules, but it was perfect. We played around with different vacation ideas, but decided that grilling out at home would be just as good.

Earle did a fabulous job with dinner. Steak, sweet potatoes, and a hand made salad. Um, yummy.

We enjoyed a nice dinner and talked about everything that had happened in the last two years. It was a great evening.

Here's to Two Years and Counting!

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Today

2010-06-17T16:32:00.000-07:00

I began grad school classes Wednedsay for my leadership degree. So here is a little recap on the day.

Syllabus says class begins at 9, but I need to meet with my principal. The only time that would work between now and next week was this morning at 7.

Alarm clock and Coffee!

Head to LCE to meet Mrs. Lee and Mrs. Thorton. Have a successful meeting.

Leave just in time to make it to class by 8:55.

Observe no one else seems to be here and the doors are locked.

Few more people show up-feel little better.

Now 9:25
25 minutes pass class to start.

Send out text message- "What times does this stinkin class start?" to a few others.

No Answer

By now 4 of us have showed up.

Thought: Dr. Patrick changed class to 10am last semester maybe we missed the memo.

Sit at coffee shop until 10. Still no other classmates.

Decide to check e-mail to which I find:

Class will begin at 12:30 tomorrow not 9:00

Make a really mad face.

Got back in the car drove home to take a nap.

Finally made it to class at the right time.

Thank Goodness tomorrow is Friday!

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Going to the Chapel

2010-06-15T11:32:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I noticed my phone had a few missed called from my friend Lindsay. I was very happy she called, but even more excited about the news she was calling about! She was engaged!

Lindsay was not only my college roommate, but played a big role in my spiritual life. I am so happy for her and Justin.

To make things even better she invited me to a day of dress shopping with her mom and another one of my favorites, Jenna

Jenna and I were quite the help and inbetween finding the perfect dress, shoes, and flowers we paused for the occasional picture or 5.

Lindsay mom was a wonderful host for the day and a fashion finder.

Since we were not allowed to take pictures of Lindsay wearing any dresses this was the next best thing. You just have to use your imagination.

Things would not have been a true reunion if we did not take a few moments to be our silly selves.

The day contined on with the wedding theme and after a good old southern lunch of BLT's we all headed to Macon for some beautiful engagment pictures.

We made do with a car dressing room and after a few wardrobe changes the pictures began!

Lindsay and Justin are to sweet and I can't wait for all the wedding celbrations.

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Facebook Fun

2010-06-07T15:21:00.000-07:00

Just logged onto facebook and this is what my mom has just put up! Too funny ;)
Love you Dad!

try not to laugh, but it was kinda funny when my really sick husband poured himself a big glass of hummingbird nectar instead of his red gatorade!!!! poured it over ice and took a big drink and then started spitting..... and i started laughing!!!!!.....and still laughing!!! he didn't laugh!!!!!
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No Words

2010-06-05T15:43:00.001-07:00

7 years ago an event was unfolding- that God used to change who I was, who I would become, who I am trying to become daily.

I was awaken by a phone call on June 5th that two sorority sisters of mine had been a car accident. Amanda had been killed on impact and Corrie was in critical condition.

Shocked continued to wear on me that day and a sadness consumed me up until the day of the funeral

I will never forget setting in a packed church and listening to Stewart preach about how Amanda’s life and death was going to be like a ripple in a pond-going on in all directions and causing change in people.

I sat in that church and made a decision to commit- to God-fully.

I always told myself I would fully commit to living for Jesus when I got a job, then it became when I got married, and then when I had kids.

God grabbed onto my heart that day and reviled that tomorrow is not promised.

Amanda was in her early 20’s, and her tomorrow was not promised, but she was fully committed to her Savior.

Don’t wait.

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2010-06-02T14:10:00.000-07:00

If the month of June did not exist one may argue that neither Earle or I would be walking on this earth today.

See, out of our parents, grandparents, nieces, and sisters, there are a total of 6 birthdays in the month of June (plus father's day )

This meant one big shopping trip to knock out our list. We headed to Auburn to hit up Tiger Town. I can't tell you what we got but here are all the special June Birthday Family People!

Maria- Earle's Mom- June 25th
My Dad-June 15th
Momo- June 14th
Our niece Taylor- June 14th
Kristy, my sister- June 3
Andrea, Earle's sister- June 9th

Glad for June!
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123 Cheese

2010-06-01T16:27:00.000-07:00

Took a few random pictures on my phone today that I wanted to share.

First, I finally got the chance to get back in to the grocery store after missing a few weeks due to trips and such. I continue to give praises to Southern Savers website. Jeannie, the blogger, is a genius.

Here is my trip for today. The total before coupons and sales was $55.00, I payed............. $25.oo!!

On the way home I took this picture outside my car window. There was no one around, but it made me laugh out loud to imagine what the true story behind this was. I think I may even use this picture as a writing prompt for my students next year.
Happy Tuesday!

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Nobody Likes to Help you Move

2010-06-01T16:15:00.000-07:00

Recently, I introduce you to my sister, Kristy. She graduated in December and now six months later she has made another big girl decision! She moved from Orlando to Atlanta! (to be closer to her sister I'm sure) Several weeks ago I received a facebook message with the subject: Family Fun Day- May 31st in Atlanta- this was code for I 'm moving and I need help.

Now, Kristy said he correctly when she said nobody really likes to help someone move, they just do it because it is the right thing to do.

Mom, Earle and I once again loaded up the car (Let me remind you we just spent 24 hours together to and from Miami) to go help with the big move.

As you can see she has a few items.

It was not as bad as it looks and now Kristy is only an hour away from us!

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A Bitter Sweet Reunion

2010-05-29T15:50:00.000-07:00

Most people don't know that I have family way down south in Miami, Florida. A total of 650 miles away to be exact. My dad was born and raised there.

Wednesday we took a way overdue trip to celebrate the life of a great Pop!

Pop is my dad's father or Joe Bartley or also known Colonel.(more on that later)

Sadly for us, Pop passed away on Monday night, but I can tell you that he is in a much better place then he was.

Brooke, Earle, Mom and I loaded up the car and headed down Wednesday and then finished up the drive on Friday to join my dad who was already there.

The funeral was a time to say goodbye and remember what made Pop such a great person. Growing up with family so far away we visited much less then our hearts would have liked, but I have some very special memories of our trips to see Grandma and Pop.

To begin my dad has 3 brothers, making that a total of 4 boys growing up in under one roof. Someone had to give orders and that happened to be Pop, who soon gained the nickname colonel long before I was born.

To a 10 year old hearing this name it could only mean one thing- Pop was a great colonel in the US Navy, so I wrote a essay on him for my class. Imagine my surprise when several years later I realized that colonel was a nick name due to Pop giving orders all the time.

I also remember talking very loudly to him over the phone. Loud, because he often thought he did not need to wear his hearing aid to hear. When I say talk loudly it was more like a yell. Fun times!

When I made the choice to go to Georgia Southern, Pop was quick to tell me that he had spies watching me while I was away at college.

I also learned the correct way to eat a grapefruit from Pop on one of our visits.

This is the last picture I have of Pop and myself. At 82 he made the 650 mile trip to our wedding. What a precious memory I have of him that day.

I sure hope he had is hearing aid in for God or that he is not giving to many orders up there! We love you Pop and will see you again in time.

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy laden,and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28

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Yeah for Birthdays and Random Tuesdays

2010-05-18T17:38:00.000-07:00

Twenty- Seven years ago this sweet little friend of mine was born. Happy Birthday Meredith!! Wish I could be there to celebrate with you.

Random Tuesday
Teachers like their sleep and after hearing the news that our new work hours would be starting 15 minutes earlier and ending 15 minutes later next school year, a sudden celebration/stress reliever/get away afternoon was planned. The trip took me, Kanada, Amy, and Brittany all the way to down town to talk, eat, shop and we even snuck in a little game of trivia. It was a much needed break and I am thankful as always I have such wonder friends and coworkers!

(P.S.- Check out Amy's new stylish bangs)

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Hurry Up October

2010-05-14T12:49:00.000-07:00

Going to see Sugarland in concert October 14!!!!! So excited.

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A goodie but oldie

2010-05-13T17:21:00.000-07:00

One of my favorites!

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

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A Week of Family and Friends

2010-05-12T17:50:00.000-07:00

This past week has been one with good food, great family, and wonderful friends. Here is a look at the week in pictures!

Thursday

Mom, Dad, Brooke, and Momo let me experiment on them with a new Paula Dean Recipe(Everyone survived)

We even had out door dining!

Friday

A much needed time was spent with these lovely teachers after a long, but fun, field day.

Things got a little crazy, blame it on the heat from field day.

Saturday

Lacy and CJ came to town for a little visit. We got a little pedicure action going on and listened to her brother's band play. So glad to see this one in LaGrange!

Tuesday

My cousin Danielle turned 20. Wohoo. We celebrated with two of my favorite things Mexican food and family.

My grandmother all pretty in pink.

(notice Earle telling the story about his stitches in his hand)

Wednesday

It had been way to long since I got to see these girls. Of course there were stories about teaching and food in the mix. Michelle, Casey, and Allison are my high school teacher friends. It's good to keep people that are in higher places as your friends.

Have a happy rest of the week!
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A Day for Mom!

2010-05-09T17:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all you moms.

I am blessed to not only have a wonderful mom, but a fantastic mother-in-law and three sweet grandmothers.

In Sunday school we discussed how much our family shapes our lives and the point they have now brought us too-how true that is!

We celebrated with a late and delicious lunch at Brooke's cute little house.

There was plenty of yummy food to go around!

And lots of presents too.

This is our first attempt at a family photo, not as successful as I would have liked.

Take two, much better.

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Happy Cinco De Mayo

2010-05-06T18:15:00.000-07:00

Tried a new recipe tonight for a little cinco de mayo after party tomorrow and wanted to share. Easy, quick and good.

Mexican Pinwheels

1 block of Cream Cheese

Half a jar of salsa

Chili Powder

Shredded Cheese

6-8 Tortilla (I used 6')

Mix cream cheese and salsa. Spread mixture on tortilla. Sprinkle with chili powder and cheese. Roll up tortilla in wrap and let chill before cutting into pieces. So good! (pictures to come later)
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Greedy Golf Ball Man

2010-05-03T15:53:00.000-07:00

Earle turned 27 on the 26th.

I asked him if he wanted me to blog something special for his birthday.

I did not get much of a response from him so I decided to wait until a good idea came my way.

It would not be like Earle if somehow he did not manage to give me a good idea through one of his crazy adventures.

Oh did he ever come through.

Early Saturday morning he and 3 other guys decided to play a little round of golf. After hitting the first tee they discovered that had all hit their ball over the fence around the course and into a field.

Earle nominated himself to jump the fence and get the balls. He located every one's golf balls and then "he got greedy."

As his eyes scanned the field to much delight he found golf ball cemetery. He then began to pick up as many balls as he could hold.

As he reached down to pick up the last ball a flash of black lighting caught his eye. Coming at the speed of Cheetah was a dog on a mission: to get the golf ball man out of his yard.

Without much thinking, Earle took off running and almost cleared the fence.

He did a little tuck and roll action and landed on his back - manged to do some pretty good damage to his hand and leg.

5 stitches later the story is something we can laugh at. I imagine it to be something like the scene from Sandlot when the boys hit the baseball over the fence.

He has claimed revenge on the deadly pup the next time he plays.

So happy birthday Earle and thanks for always making us laugh!
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S P R I N G - B R E A K

2010-04-22T16:03:00.000-07:00

If you are a teacher, you need a spring break. If you don't teach, then you don't know what I am talking about.

This spring break was an eventful week, that included a trip to Statesboro, Tybee Island, Hilton Head, and Shorter Alabama. Here's a quick recap of the week in pictures.

Spending much needed time with the Mayfield Klan
Pink stylish sunglasses

Racing for Easter eggs

I'm spelling spring break in case you don't get it.

Not all looking at the camera at the same time

Grilling some chickens (vegetarians turn your head)

Buster enjoying the weather Relaxing in this tub

Easter Eggs!

A cute pedicure

Knowing that a fun time is always had during Spring Break!

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Watch your Step

2010-04-20T16:45:00.000-07:00

I think it is funny when people fall down. It matters not if they are my best friend or some poor strange on the street. They fall, I laugh.

Some may cause this immature, but I like to think of it as a good sense of humor. I knew it would always come back to get me soon enough.

My pretty friend Jenna has a few of the best falling stories I know. I was a first hand witness to one of the times. I still laugh out laugh every time I think about it. She tells the story with great detail. Please read here. I can also remember being outside the biology building at Georgia Southern one day when again someone fell down, and I could not contain my laughter. It was a rainy may day and this innocent little college student hit the wet payment and books went a flying! I did manage to ask her if she was ok and wait until she walked inside before the laughter began. Again, I still laugh out loud when I think about her falling down.

This takes me to part two of the blog.

We will call it Payback.

A few weeks ago I decided to go out and enjoy the nice spring weather with a little walk/run with the dogs. Everything seemed to be going perfectly fine until... I'm not really sure what happened.

There I was minding my on business walking down the road when some how I manged to just fall down. Nothing in the road, no distractions, nothing, I was even walking. I hit the ground with a roll and thud. It was as if an invisible foot has crossed my path to trip me up.

I was greeted by the dog looking into my face with a "what in the heck" look on it. To which I did what I do best when someone falls: I started laughing.

I could not stop thinking about how funny that must have looked to anyone that saw it. I mean one minute up and walking and the next second down!

The laughter was premature because of the damage done during the fall.

I managed to scrape my legs right before our beach trip and....

break my I-pod all in one fall.

All is good though because it still works, just no screen anymore.

Sadly to say, I will continue to laugh if you fall, but you are welcome to do the same at me.

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Coincident: I think not

2010-04-18T17:17:00.000-07:00

If I ever take a step back from the big picture and look at how God uses small moments to get something done, I am always amazed. What we like to think of as coincidents are actually a plan working itself out. I had one of this realization today, and the sequence of events made me do nothing but smile.

Four of five months ago a meeting was schedule at my school. Among other things on the agenda was a reference to a website that our local library was in charge of. The site allowed library members to download books. A few days passed, and I tried it out only to fine that my library card would not let me in. I made a mental note to stop by the library (which I have not been to in several years) and get it taken care of.

Meanwhile about 536 miles away in Statesboro my friend Meredith (seen on the left) had been suggesting to me that I needed to read a book by some King something person. I too made a mental note to check on this when I had the time.

3. After several more weeks of my same old routine I finally took the time to stop by the public library and renew my library card (which they now have on key chains) before we hit the beach for spring break. I picked out a few of my favorite authors forgetting all about Meredith's suggestion.

Spring break came and went and we spent one of those nights with Meredith and Russell, where once again the book came into my path. A copy of one of the books by this author was sitting on dresser in the room we stayed in. I caught the full name of the author to remind myself I needed to try and pick up a copy.

When I returned from a much needed break a nice little jury summons letter was waiting on me. Jury duty 101 was in my near future.

To tell you the truth I was a little excited about Jury duty. I sat for several hours in a room with nothing more then TV and stale air. We were released at 11 and had a 2 and half hour lunch break. I thought to myself where in the world am I going to go for 2 hours and sit. Then it hit me: the library of course.

After playing on the Internet and searching though some books, God brought a thought to me-Meredith's book. I strolled on over to the K section and after a few minutes of searching I found the book she had suggested. I checked it out and headed back to my jury room.

I began reading the book last Monday and finished it up on Saturday. The book followed a young couple, who with God's guidance, overcame obstacle to make their marriage work. The part that really spoke to me in this book was the way that God spoke to the characters though bible verses. They called on him during difficult times and he provided scriptures to them.

I knew this would something I needed to work on myself. I wanted to be able to call on scripture in times of need.

This is where God leads me into the last part of this story, but not the last of it.

In Sunday school we were asked to take an index card and write down a measurable goal that we wanted to accomplish by the first day of summer. It took no longer than a minute before God spoke loud and clear to me.

Learn my scriptures

Now the next part of the journey starts ;)

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Saving Money 101

2010-03-22T18:02:00.000-07:00

Earle and I have prayerfully decided to put our house up for sale to see if anything happens. This leads me into two thoughts. My times has been stretched because of getting the house ready to be seen by strangers and this has also caused me to look for ways to save money for the down payment on the next house.

I also have to admit that looking for ways to save money is fun and I enjoy trying to save the most money each week.

If you have ever seen the target commercial below you will appreciate the following blog.

1. The New Salon
Now, this may look like a really bad idea to some of you, and it took lots of staring at the boxes in the store before I convinced myself I needed to try and highlight my own hair. I combed the aisle's of CVS for several minutes before I made my selection of the perfect shade of blonde.

I was very surprised to find that coloring one's own hair calls for more parts then my car's engine. I fanned my spread out and began the process by reading the directions.

I soon called for backup, beautician Earle to the rescue, to help with the back of the hair. I followed the direction for the first few steps then decided to add my own twist because it did not seem I was seeing any results.

After squirting every bit of solution into my hands I lathered up my entire head (I do not suggest that you do this). I wanted to make sure it "worked" (remember we are working on saving money here and I did not want to have to buy a second box) so I kept it on for more then the recommended time limit just to be sure.

I am happy to say that I did not come out with blue or orange hair. I am not sure that there was even a difference, but at least I can say I tried!

2. The New Weekend Getaway

A few weeks ago a great plan was hatched by my friend Casey, a wine tasting weekend in Helen, Georgia. This plan excited my very much and the weekend sounded like tons of fun. For a different number of reasons our weekend getaway was never had, but we did the next best thing- (and saved money) a wine tasting night.

Everyone gathered at the house and brought a bottle of wine they wanted to try along with an appetizer. I am really fond of food too.

It was not weekend getaway in Helen, but it was quite a night.

Our wine tasting table before everyone arrived.

Brooke brought two very yummy appetizers. She is very talented and has recently started blogging on her creations. Take some time to look at her recipes. She puts a healthier twist on some favorites. Brookes' Blog

Below we have Key Lime Coconut Cupcakes and freshly made bruschetta.

3. Grocery Shopping to a new level

When Earle and I first got married I tried to clip coupons, by tried I mean I did it one time.

Then.............

I discovered the best thing since sliced bread: Southern Savers blog. My sweet friend Jenny tracks the sales at grocery stores and organizes the coupons for you. If you really want to save money you really need to dig into this blog. It has saved me tons in just a few weeks. Here are a few of my shopping trips I am the most proud of.

CVS

6 pack of Bounty paper towels

2 Oral B toothbrushes

4 boxes of cereal

Total Before Coupons: $25.00

I payed: $4.25

Publix

1 Pack of Chicken Breasts

2 Bottles of Vitamin B

1 Yoplait Yogurt

1 tub of I can't Believe its not Butter

Total Before Coupons: $16.00

I payed: $3.52

More savings to come!

Have a great money saving week.

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The Biggeset Loser

2010-02-18T16:39:00.000-08:00

About a month ago our school was challenged by the middle school next door. The competition involved a biggest loser challenge.

The Rules:
1. Teams of three could enter
2. Weigh ins are every three weeks
3. The team with the highest percentage of weight loss would win the prize

After the announcement was made at a faculty meeting, eyes began to dart all over the room as teachers begin to pick their teams. I can't say that it is a good thing that someone wants you on their team because they probably think you need to lose the most weight.

Preceding some cut throat discussions and a mean game of rock paper scissors the teams were formed and team names were made up. Some of these include:

More to lose then you think
No Mo Muffin Tops
Wii Fat
Fatty Boom Batty

Work was all a buzz the next day as carrots replaced chocolate and strawberries replaced sugar. It only took a few days before the kids wanted to know why all of us were in bad moods ;)

Truly, this competition has been a great learning experience. I have really taken the time to research foods and what they provide to the body, besides taste. Earle and I joined the gym, where I am proud to say that after a month of working out and watching the calorie intake I lost .5 of an oz! That's 1/2 of an ounce, and that was after I used the potty too!

Though the pounds may not be coming off like I would like, I do feel better and have more energy throughout the day.
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Backfire of a Plan

2010-02-15T11:08:00.001-08:00

Listening to a professor for 5 hours may sound like fun to some people, but I do not particularly fit into that category.

During my class on Saturday my brain started wondering all over the Internet. I came across a pet adoption agency and found a ball of fur that tugged on my little heart strings. This adorable small find was Cliff the Cocker Spaniel.

A plan quickly came to mind. I posted a link to help find Cliff onto Earle's facebook wall. I thought he surly could not miss the hint then. I have a dog who I love very much so this "hint" was nothing more then a way to pass the time in class. Little did I know!

A few days later Cliff had been forgotten when I learned of a new word: Goldendoodle- a mix of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Seems that all the dog wall posts have sparked a doogie nerve in Earle's heart.

A student of his was in the process of trying to give away their 2 year old Goldendoodle, Rusty. I approached the situation very carefully asking the most important question first: How much does he weigh?

The response I was given by his student was about 40 pounds. Earle teaches math support classes so that should have triggered something right there. They also e-mailed me a picture of Rusty so that I could too see how cute he was.

After receiving the picture. I responded with just one word, precious. (He looked about 40 pounds to me)

Fast forward a few hours later after a long day of teaching and a good run at the gym. I walk into the kitchen and find....

The real 70 pound Rusty looking up at me. Getting a dog without really thinking your getting a dog can be a little shocking to the system. I was a little quiet for a while to say the least.

Now that I am settled with the idea that Rusty is joining our family things have settled down a bit. He is a wonderful dog that makes me want to send Smokey to obedient school!

They are getting along great and becoming good friends.

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A two week nap!

2010-02-06T09:04:00.000-08:00

Lots of exciting news and events over the past two weeks…

Earle had a sleep test and spinal tap scheduled at Emory on the 23rd to get some more research on Kline Leven Syndrome. A few days before the test, he had to stop all his medicine to get an accurate measurement of his blood and protein levels. The good and bad news was that he got sick the day he went of the medicine… bad because he feel asleep, good because we know that the medicine must be helping in some way.

After a few boxes of cookie crisp and a few thousand nerds we headed up to Emory to drop him off. They hooked him up to the machines and he did what he does best, slept.

The next morning we made the trip back up to pick him up. I walked in to find they had turned him into a mummy.

They waited until I arrived to do the spinal tab and the blood work, lucky me. He did such a great job considering he was sleepy sick.

It was a long weekend but the tests were run and a few more boxes of cereal were eaten.

As always some of the things that come out of his mouth during this time never surprise me. Here is a snapshot of living with a real live Rip Van Winkle…

· To the Korean doctor at Emory- “You got pretty skin. Can I touch it?” and “Does your daddy own Kia?”

· To Dr. Rye during the blood work as he takes off the band on his arm “Let’s do this another day, okay?”

· As I walked by the bathroom, while he was taking a bath I hear this song- “I’m in Jamica Mon, I’m in Jamica man.”

· Tell Andrea and Whitfield bye” Bye raaaatard!”

It is always a interesting time to say the least with spiritual lessons along the way.

He is up and feeling better!

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2010-01-26T16:41:00.001-08:00

Dear God,

Thank you for a new day
Help Earle to get well soon
Give me energy to get through the week
You are a great God
Allow your will to be ours
Let those who are seeking find you
Guide me to stop eating the chocolate in front of me ;)

Amen

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Small Neck-Big Mouth

2010-01-18T08:53:00.001-08:00

When I was young I chocked on a the bone of a catfish,

When I was about 10 I decided it would be a good idea to put a game board piece in my mouth, and again, I choked on that.

In college, I freaked myself out and had trouble getting a piece of salad down, to which I thought I chocked.

I diagnosed myself with a small esophagus and just decided to take small bites.

With a slight fear of choking all my life I decided to stay with liquid forms of medicine. This can be a little strange when a 27 year old pulls out her cherry flavored liquid Tylenol to take for a headache.

I recently hit a milestone in my pill taking journey and taught myself to swallow a very tiny pill each day. it continues to be a struggle on some nights but I fight through it.

Then......

what seemed like a typical Thursday night in our house turned into another documented sign that I do have a small espohagus.

I was talking my usually nightly very small pill when it get stuck. Stuck in my throat that is. After a few seconds I realized that I was not dead, but this little thing was uncomfortably lodged in the side of my throat.

We did what any mind abling citizen would do at this point...googled it.

"Pill stuck in Throat" came up with lots of hits.
Some of the advice included:
eat applesauce
drink water
wait
eat bread

After trying a few of these with no luck I decided to jump up and own on the bed hoping I could force it down or maybe stand on my head to make it come back up.

At 10 pm I was still not dead so I decided I would just have to wait for the stubborn thing to dissolve. I put on my pajamas, tucked myself in, and somewhere during the night the pill continued its journey down my digestive track to the correct place.

Maybe I should google small throat disease.

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Christmas Break

2010-01-04T18:51:00.000-08:00

Brittany, "I mean where have the past two week gone?"

Earle. "Brittany, we did a lot!"

Christmas break has come and is almost gone. Tomorrow the sound of a blaring alarm clock will resume its' job as my wake up call. Earle was right. We did more then a lot over the break. We had a few adventures, constructed a few houses, and even saw some old friends.

Nothing else can start a two week vacation off then to drive to Orlando to see my favorite older sister graduate. We packed up the truck and headed down south. I was well equipped with movies for the entire trip there and back. Kristy is a very smart person and even managed to get two degrees. Notice all the honor cords around her neck. We did a lot of eating and laughing the entire weekend.
She was very quick to remind anyone that forget that it was HER day.

Very soon after the Orlando trip, the second big adventure of the break began: Gingerbread Wars, version 2.

I'm not sure how the first annual gingerbread war came about last year, but I do have sad memories of the results. Out of the four entries I placed 4th. With the losing pressure from last year mounted on my shoulders I began to do a little gingerbread building research. Some may call this cheating, but I like to call it strategy.

The competition started off a little slow, but things quickly began to pick up.

We had a new entry this year. Earle decided to join the competition at the last minute. Well actually the night before. He stayed up until midnight perfecting his gingerbread creation.

This was the final masterpiece: Gingerbread Cabin

The entries were lined up and the secret voting began. We have a very technological savvy way of doing this. Mom places a number on each house and we vote for the one we like the best. I was very nervous as this point in the game.

After the results were tallied, a tie! Andy skyped in at the right moment and gave his vote from Korea via web cam.

At last the winner was revealed: First place...........me!

As you can see from the family picture we took after the competition I was very excited over my victory.

With the victory fresh on my mind. We headed out for a busy, but fun day of Christmas family visiting.

7:00- Wake up and pack the car

8:00- Mom and Dad's for Santa

11:00- Aunt Teri's for brunch

3:00- The Tanners' for a quick shower

4:15-Nana's house for a little visit

5:00- Andrea and Jason's for a Christmas dinner

11:00- Bed at the Tanners

That's right guinness book of world records. We hit up seven houses on Christmas day.

We got to hang out with some pretty awesome and excited kids. Taylor loves her Uncle Earle.

We tried several times to take this. Taylor kept saying, "Let me see me."

Taylor also took time out of her schedule to put on a fashion show for us. I think she did her make up too.

You may be wondering where Tanner man was hiding all this time.

Well, Santa came through and brought nothing other then a Wii!

After a very eventful Christmas day a little R and R time was much needed with some beautiful college buddies. These two helped me forget about the traveling blues and catch up on some good times.

I even got Earle and Josh to stop talking for a moment and give me a quick pic. BFFs!

The last big adventure involved some extremely cold weather, extremely bright lights, and extremely fun friends. Lindsey and her boyfriend met us as we went though some very pretty Christmas lights. It was freezing, but fun.

Brooke is trying to thaw out. She is still a little white from being frozen.

So friends, it saddens me to say that Christmas break 2009 is now a part of my past. Here's to just as many adventures in 2010!

I leave you with a few videos from our two weeks.......

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LCE Idol

2009-12-21T14:05:00.000-08:00

Every year our school holds the annual LCE Idol. Each grade level puts on a show for the kids. They have a great time and so do we.

I am very sad to say that I missed it this year due to a very important sister's graduation. I have located three of the last four years for your viewing pleasure. The fourth one is hiding, but when I find it you will to get to enjoy it too.

2008

2006

2009

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Progressive through Some Food

2009-12-21T13:29:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, we had a progressively good time with some Sunday school friends of ours. It was decided to spread the Christmas Cheer at three houses by celebrating with a progressive dinner. We ate way to much and laughed just as hard.

The feast began with a colorful spread of appetizers at Lindsay and Foster's house. Some of my favorites included: Heathbar Apple Dip, Fondue Cheese, and of course some Mexican Salsa.

After stuffing our faces full, it was on to the next stop. Adam and Amy did a fabulous job with the main course. Casey's casserole was even edible. We enjoyed a fantastic main course of some good old southern cooking. Chicken, corn, mac and cheese, and green beans.

The set up was better then a five star restaurant and the service was great too.

Lastly, my favorite meal of the day, dessert! We scurried off to Jack and Sara's house to enjoy a spread of deliciousness that included cheesecake and homemade hot chocolate. I tried one of everything.

Now, our Sunday school class agreed to celebrate the real reason behind the season......presents : )

I'm just kidding we love Jesus also. We had a very "colorful" gift swap that left a few embarrassed.

Adam and Amy paused a moment to proudly display their new gifts......

Not sure which part of the progressive dinner I would entitle this, but Jack showed us how he likes to dress up as an old women and dance around his house singing Christmas music.

The food was wonderful and good times were had by all.

I'm a Big Girl Now

2009-12-21T13:18:00.000-08:00

Some things we know about Brooke:

1. She likes to pretend she is Korean

2. She makes really good Buffalo Chicken Dip

and

3. She just moved into a cute little house!

Brooke and her friend Jessica moved into this darling little thing. I was given the grand tour of the place when I arrived and even got to meet their ghost they have living with them, Mr. Willie.

Fresh in her moving clothes I caught her proudly displaying her keys and her cute new bedspread. (Overstock.com)

Our tour then took us into the living room to see the stylish decorations of Brooke and Deb.

Brooke, Jessica, and Mr. Willie -

I hope you make many fun memories in your new house ;)

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Happy Birthday Mom!!

2009-12-09T14:15:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, Mom had a birthday. Now I am not going to say how old she turned but here is a list of FIFTY SEVEN random things we all love about her.

She use to try and scrub off her freckles when she was younger
She had me, Brooke, and Kristy.
She takes care of Charlie
She is a great gift giver
She cooks wonder dressing for Thanksgiving
She loves and accepts everyone she meets
Her middle name is Carol
She sneezes every time she eats a York Peppermint Patty.
She likes to drink Margaritas
She has a green thumb
She always has a stylish no ride
She makes up words Example: Thunk, a verb, past tense of think
She makes up phrases Example: I swear on a bear.
She read us stories before bed when we were little
She works in her PJs some days
When she tells stores, she gets very animated
She cries during George of the Jungle
She brings home any dog that she sees on the side of the road
She secretly wants to be a rocket
She would marry George Straight if he asked her today.
We think that when she was little she had Elvis sheets on her bed.
She will not try clothes on at the stores, if she can not wear them she gives them away.
She types fast
She has not found out about all the stuff we did growing up
She likes to keep the house clean
She married Dad
She is not only a dog whisper, but a fish whisper as well
On the side she rescues frogs out of the pool.
We can keep up with her but looking at her facebook status.
The older she gets the higher her heels get
She ordered 10 different dresses for my wedding
The more she drinks the louder she gets
She is always smiling
Her make up always looks pretty
She does not like for you to take pictures of her in the morning
She if extremely afraid of black grasshoppers
She is hiding her GPA from college from Brooke and I
She loves Christmas decorations
She is a secret Sci-Fi junkie (all into planet of the apes)
She hates the way she looks in tennis shoes
She will not get a pedicure because she thinks the people are going to talk about her toes in Korean.
She is a great Mom
She is into the same music that my kids listen to
She does not like to fly
No matter how she feels at a party she will dance
She really can’t handle long island ice teas, but she has not learned that yet
She helped me plan a perfect wedding
She has two cars so she will not put miles on her new car.
Her initials spell DCB
She does not talk about people badly
All of her teeth are brand new (Thank you Dr. Childress)
She is good at her job
She cried every time Brooke and I pulled out of the driveway for college.
She is a good speller
She got a tattoo after she almost gave Brooke a spanking for getting one
She came to all our school plays, honor days, and everything else growing up.
She does not act like she is&*$$%&*W!

We love you Mom

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Stop, Drop, and Roll

2009-12-08T17:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a Monday all day.

There was a one particular moment in the day that made me forget it was Monday.

It involved my students, a cell phone on vibrate, and the fire alarm.

Each month we have fire drills at school. The kids have been doing this since Kindergarten so they pretty much know how it goes. I just happen to have my cell phone laying on my desk yesterday. It was turned to vibrate. I usually put in in my purse on on the mouse pad in case it were to go off. Yesterday, I had it sitting on my computer, when what you do know, it rang.

Normally, I would just walk over, cut it off and that would be that, but yesterday, as I walked over to the phone to cut it off, I turned around and all my kids were walking very quickly to the door.

Thinking that somehow they had managed to all come up with a plan to escape class as the very exact moment I turned my back, I asked, "What are yall doing?"

With a very puzzled look they replied, "Fire Drill!"

I must say that it took me a minute to stop laughing. They all thought my phone going off was the fire alarm.

After I composed myself we all starting laughing.

It's good to know they are good a prepared for a fire.

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Tis the Season

2009-12-07T17:10:00.000-08:00

Can you guess what this spells?Thats right, it spells LCES! Compliments of the 4th and 5th grade teachers.

One of my favorite things about my job (besides the whole reach a child thing) are the people I work with. There is always a bright smiling face roaming somewhere on our hall or a funny story to share at the lunchroom table.

Every Christmas we like to get together and celebrate a little, and this year was no different.

On Friday at 2:45 sharp we made a b-line for the door to get "our party on!"

As mentioned before, we really don't ever get together without some sort of food involved.

Amy was estatic over her cute snowman. He even makes a few pictures during the night.

Kanada has been trying to steal one of these from my house since she saw it a few months ago. I decided it would be better if she had one that said her name on it, not mine.

Since Brittany had been at Quantum training all day, I decided not to make her pause and smile.

Anne was very happy about her candle and book.

Kim loves music. Kim loves i-tunes. Kim loves her gift card to i-tunes. We love the cookies that Kim brought. (pictured below)

Christy's toes and eyes were happy. She was all smiles about her pedicure gift certificate and the magazine to compliment it!

This is the contest winner for the cutest coffee cup! It is the perfect gift.

After the gifting giving portion of the night was coming to a close, it was time for, well I am not really sure what happened at this point. We figured out the timer on the camera and the pictures will speak for themselves.

1. "Ah, let's take a cute group picture."

2. "Oh cool, let's try to spell LCES."

3. No comment (please notice that Anne and I are about 1 second behind)

I can't comment on the picture above, but I can say that when ever this wonderful group of ladies get together we don't do anything but laugh. Merry Christmas LCE girls!

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The Soup that Surfed the Web

2009-12-03T17:15:00.000-08:00

Today I got an e-mail.

It was titled Santa Fe Soup.

It was from my cousin Lita and it was a recipe.

Now, she has never sent me a recipe before, and I don't think I have ever received a recipe as a forward, but I suppose their is a first time for everything.

I can't say that it is any good, but I thought it was my duty to send it on. Don't want bad cooking luck for 7 year!

Subject: Santa Fe Soup1

lb. ground chuck (browned and drained)
1/2 med. onion chopped
1 pkg. ranch original dry mix
1pkg. taco seasoning dry mix
1 can 16 oz. kidney beans (undrained)
1 can pinto beans (undrained)
1 can black beans (undrained)
1 10oz. can original rotel (undrained)
1 can diced tomatoes (undrained)
1 can whole kernel white corn (undrained)
2 cups water

Cook onion and meat til browned....drain...stir in remaining ingredients and simmer for 2 hours. Garnish with sour cream or shredded cheese. Good with corn bread....Enjoy it really is good!!!

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Sorry November

2009-11-30T17:26:00.000-08:00

Dear November.

I apologize.

I have neglected you.

The following may have contributed to my lack of interest in writing about you.

I present in no particular order, November

Nov 29th-Put up all the Christmas decorations in our Pajamas.

November 16th- Decided we needs some new floors (see finished product above)

November 31st- Wanted to take a picture in front of the Christmas tree with Earle and Smokey. What you want and what you get are two different things. The angle is terrible ,but I could not resist putting in on here anyway. I knew a second picture was not an option. Please notice they are both silently protesting in their own ways.

November 15-30th- Earle has decided that in order to get ready for the winter months he is going to grow out his beard. You know those 60 degree Georgia winters can get cold! Everytime he passes a mirror he puts his hands in his pocket and smiles at himself.

November 21st- Had grad school class from 9 until 4.

November 29th- Rescued all the Christmas decorations from the attic. Took some time to turn Smokey into a reindeer. Don't think he liked it.

November 28th- Surprised Mom with a trip to see the Rockettes perform at the Fox in Atlanta for her birthday!

November 24th-Steve and Maria made the long trip from Statesboro to spend some Thanksgiving time with us.

November 26- Happy Turkey Day! Always so much food, we are so blessed.

November 30- Worked on a research paper I put off until the last minute. Imagine that. 20 pages into the first draft!

November 25th- Had an appointment with Earle's KLS doctor to see whats really wrong with him. (insert laugh here) Basically he has milk in his gas.

November 30th- KANADA COMES BACK TO SCHOOL!!!

November 23-34- New floor instillation begins. We discovered this pretty little thing in the kitchen. Dad voted we should mop it and just save the money. Sorry, couldn't do it. (It smelled so old)

November 22- Did a little room redecorating.

November 18th- Looked at 9 different floor samples for 4 long hours to try and pick out the best.

Until next Year!

PS. Lets not forget Aunt Teri and Mom's version of the Rockettes

Weekend in the Boro

2009-11-15T16:51:00.000-08:00

Friday
On Friday, Earle and I loaded the car and let it do its' thing. We headed to the Boro to meet up with some long lost friends and family.

We rolled in at about 9 to our first destination, the honeymoonin Russell and Mer's house. We also got a double surprise. Josh and Kimbo came to enjoy the food too. They cooked up a storm for us, and let me say I don't think there were any left overs.

We caught up and covered topics that ranged from Willie Nelson to Christmas stockings. It's such a blessing to have friendships that fall right back into place no matter how long its been since you have seen each other.

Saturday
On Friday we had the friends covered, so Saturday we dedicated to spending time with the Tanner Klan, young and old. We celebrated a late birthday complete with cake and ice cream.

Next, Andrea and I snuck off for a little sister bonding time at one of my favorite places, the winery. We too covered a range of topics, which we will keep off the world of the internet. : )

We ended the day with some chili, football, and girl gossip.

Sunday
On Sunday, Earle and I packed up the car and let it do its' thing.

Successful weekend indeed!

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Did they Really Just Score Again? Really?

2009-11-09T14:41:00.000-08:00

I am not what you would call a sports fan.

Yes, to the average Joe you I might have you fooled. I attend my fair share of football and baseball games, I married a baseball coach, and occasionally I found myself watching a game of football, but the truth of the matter is I have no idea what is going on.

Except for a annual cross town rivalry that sparks some sports emotions I forget are in me until that day. Every year two high schools in our county battle it out.

I just have happened to graduate from one of those high schools and Earle just happens to coach at the others of these schools; house divided I guess.

Unless you grew up here its really hard to explain to someone the roots of the Troup verse LaGrange rivalry. You pretty much growing up in this town really disliking the other team. You just have to live here to feel the emotion.

This is the one game I look forward to every year because in that small chance that we beat LaGrange it is a great year for braggin rights.

Brooke and I geared our selves up with jackets, smiles, and a plan to sneak into the game. After grabbing a quick dinner we proudly displayed our Troup colors as we found some comfortable seats.

This game also requires some time management skills. Put in lamond terms: get to game early or you will not find a seat or a parking place.

This is the stadium an hour before the game started. Tellin you this is some serious football. It was not long before I spotted my friend, Spacey Casey, an her adorable mini me, Sarah Kate.

Brooke and I paused from the football frenzy for a quick second to snap a photo. This was when we were still hopeful for the game.

In remembering the fact that I don't really watch a lot of games per say, I will say that I do enjoy seeing the artistic minds of the cheerleaders. The Troup LaGrange game breakthroughs always bring some over the top wording.

After the breakthrough things pretty much went down hill from there. LaGrange scored, then they scored again, and then again after that.....and so on you pretty much get the picture from here on out.

So until next year. Go Tigers! Fight! Fight! Fight!

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Say Cheese

2009-11-04T17:40:00.000-08:00

My family's last family photo looks something like the one below. Expect for I had thick glasses, a mushroom haircut, and all four of the girls had feathered bangs we proudly displayed. Though our 1985 picture is certainly a good topic of conversation it was about time to get a updated version.

We meet at some beautiful land to photo some memories. A family member, cousin Buffy, that is trying her hand out at photography helped make it happen and what a great job she did.

You can't tell it from the pictures but it was about 50 degrees. What we do for beauty!

This is where the coldness finally got to us and we had to get close. Brooke missed the memo

Buffy also wanted to practice for some upcoming engagement shots. We gladly helped her out and pretended to be engaged again. She even let us bring along our little furry friend.

She did a fantastic job and I'm sure you will be seeing some of these soon through the form of a Christmas card.

On a Boat for Halloween

2009-11-02T18:31:00.000-08:00

It's funny how time just slips away from you.

Our Halloween decorations are in the attic.

The ladder made it to the house but somehow time flew by and before we knew it Halloween was over with our decorations in the attic.

I guess we have high hopes for next year.

Halloween entitled a serious of random events that can be summarized into a few fun events.

First came class. I not quite sure that I would call this fun, but it was an event none the less.

Second came some scary movie bonding with the family mems as we watched a boot leg copy of Paranormal Activity.

I then headed to the mall to find a last minute outfit to wear for some more family bonding time: portraits. (more of that to come later)

Now, I'm not really one to watch scary movies but Halloween makes you do some crazy things. As if Paranormal Activity was not quite enough scariness for one night we then rented the Exorcism of Emily Rose.

Yes I slept with one eye open.

Although all the scariness seemed to rule the day, we did manage to break away and make a fun video.

Courtesy of Aunt Teri

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October 30th

2009-10-30T15:31:00.000-07:00

Today we took 76 4th graders here.... To see....

On a .....

For those of you that have not really put today's date together with this story, is the day before Halloween.

Some body at the aquarium thought it would be a good idea to let in any child who wore a costume for half price. I believe that call it "Scarium day." Several little kiddies participated. (not sure why they were not in school yet ). For that person I have composed the following letter:

Dear Aquarium Person who Came up with the Scarium Day,

I teach 4th grade and today we came to visit you. We had a great time and thought that scarium day was so creative. We however just came for a friendly little visit to learn about some cute little fish.

My favorite part was when our knowledgeable guide said, "Ok guys you have about 30 minutes, you can do what you want." I mean I only secretly freaked out a little because everywhere I turned this is the scene I saw...

Love,

Mrs. T

PS: Let's do it again next year.

Photo Fun

2009-10-27T14:03:00.000-07:00

Last year I fell in love.

Not not with someone, but with something.

Photo name collages, how creative to take different pictures to form words. I quickly scoped out amy new find only to discover that if I wanted one I would have to spit out about $120!

Now I had a little problem with this. This averaged out to be $20 dollars a letter. I no math genius but 20 dollars a picture just seemed a little high, so I grabbed my camera and had some photo fun.

Here are the results...

The final product: At a whopping cost of 25 dollars!

Fabulous Fall Fun

2009-10-25T18:28:00.000-07:00

Turtle Power

There are some people who look at me when I tell them that I am a teacher in a "what the heck were you thinking" kind of way. No matter what I say to them about the joys of teaching they just don't get why I would purposefully choose to spend my day with kids all day long.

Well... I have a little surprise for you people. What other job can you do this in?

Yes. we are none other then the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Now, not only did we get to dress up like this for our annual Character Day, but we also were able to walk the halls of LCE proudly displaying our costumes.

So to those of you stuck in an office behind a desk I say, "Turtle Power"

Destination Unknown

After a fun filled day dressed as an Ninja Turtle I was not sure anything else this weekend could top the day, but there was some close competition.

Somehow I talked my Sunday school class into letting me plan a trip for everyone. Not only would this be trip, but it would be a secret trip or as we called it destination unknown.

Basically, this is how destination unknown works (in case you want to be a future event planner). You begin by selected a destination and then the destination becomes unknown to everyone else but you.

This particular Destination Unknown consisted of three parts. We will call them: 1. Stuffin our face. 2. Ridin on two wheels 3. Rollin on four wheels

Part 1- Stuffin our face

No good trip is complete with out food. So Cisco's was the wish to our command. Nothing like some good Mexican food to start off the night.

This is my new friend Casey. Her husband Ben has a problem. Once he gets his hand on a camera he can't stop taking pictures. This is an example of one of those pictures. I think they have therapist for people like you Ben.

Part 2-Ridin on two wheels

After dinner part 2 of destination unknown was reveled. A team scavenger hunt. Don't let church people fool you, they are some competitive jokers. Good thing we did not have any sweet old ladies with us, they would have been dust. Here is a list of our items we scavenged for:

Items:
___ A receipt for 50 cents worth of gas.
___ A disposable coffee cup with a business logo signed by an employee.
___ A take-out menu.
___ A free promotional pen (must have company's info on it).
___ A one cent stamp.
___ A newspaper clipping of a women's event.
___ A 1980 coin (any denomination).
___ A family recipe from a local resident.
___ A carved pumpkin.
___ A bank deposit envelope.
___ A pizza coupon.
___ The business card of a gynecologist.

Take Photos of the Following:
___ Someone walking their dog. .
___ A stranger serenading your team with an instrument.
___ Someone with more than four children (including children).
___ Graffiti in a local business' washroom.
___ Someone 85 years old or older (holding their id).
___ Team sharing one soda (every needs their own straw).
___ A local town official.
___ Team receiving dessert complete with lighted birthday candle.

Speaking of sweet little old ladies. This is our new 91 year old friend. She helped us out with the older then 85 part of the hunt. She was so cute. She even wanted to change shirts for the picture.

Next came my grandmother to the rescue. She not only was walking her dog, but I raided her house and found pizza coupons, a newspaper, and a recipe. I tried to ask her for a card of an OBGYN, but she just was not with me on that one.

This here is my awesome team. Secretly I think we won, but the points of the other teams score sheets did not agree. (Mel and Earle I know you cheated somehow-God knows) Quick stop for a few more scavengers items.

This my friends may have been the funniest shots of the night. In the particular restaurant we went to search for graffiti in the bathroom wall, there was none. I first thought it would be a good idea to take a look in the men's bathroom.

My nose had other plans for me and I quickly ran out to pass the camera on to a more capable team member. He too saw not graffiti, but with the help of a handy dandy pencil in his pocket fixed that problem himself ;) Nothing like vandalizing a bathroom while on a church scavenger hunt.

Part 3 Rollin on 4 wheels

Our last stop was a local skating ring.

First I need some of you who were lucky enough to go on the FBC trip to Colorado with Earle to get an image in your head of him "releasing" his none skiing abilities on us and the mountain side.

Well, we almost had part duos. Those of you who need to understand that, did :)

Skating was tons of fun, but the memories of the night were what made the entire night a blast.

An Ode to 2 and 7

2009-10-22T15:11:00.000-07:00

I celebrated my 27th birthday with some very special people yesterday and there is nothing like starting off the day with your new Wii fit wishing you Happy Birthday!

27- The candles on the beautiful cake made by a great husband27- The number of minutes these two spent talking about Granger sports.

7-2= 5
$5.00- The amount of money she spent in Korea buying a shirt so she could dress like a present for my birthday.

5- The number of bible study girls that can fit on one couch.

5- The number of super cute presents I received!

2- A Wii character of Earle and I both

2- The number of chocolate birthday cakes we celebrated with!!

The number of some very random moments

1. Not sure
2. Earle's future in the hands of a cookie.

3. The big mess we made cutting the cakes.

4. Please notice my mother conducted the singing of happy birthday!

5. Apparently she did like chocolate cake.

6. Brittany getting rid of her hiccups drinking upside down.

7. Cho Hee's Dad (something about my family and funny faces)

Priceless

Spending time with some special family and friends.

27, 000

The amount of money I plan to make from sending this in to America's Funny Home Videos (AKA-Earle hula-hooping on the Wii)

No Pictures Post

2009-10-19T16:24:00.000-07:00

Yah for a relaxing Fall Break (minus the 8 hours of sitting in grad school on Saturday) with some good surprises thrown in there.

First let me begin by explaining why there are a lack of pictures on this post. I let Earle have the camera. I think he forget to take the pictures on Saturday due to the fact he was tyring to tune us out and watch football.

I forgot about his picture taking skills and put him in charge again on Sunday, silly girl! Well as it will soon be seen he was zoom happy and got me and Booke, AKA, Cho Hee's heads, sort of.

Meredith came in for a visit and where you find Meredith you will usually find many friends and some good wine. They both came my way on Saturday night and poor Earle had to try and watch TV through the chatter of 5 girls.

We caught up, laughed, watched you tube videos, and just acted like girls!

On Sunday, Cho Hee's flight landed safely and Earle and I were sure to go with Mom and Dad to meet her. We also might have had a embarrassing sign for her when she got of the plane, but those zoom happy pictures will come later.

She had a great time in Korea and even ate a cow liver. Gag me!

Have a great Monday!

Fr

The Trash Fairy

2009-10-16T16:36:00.001-07:00

My nose has a problem.

It works really well. I have so much respect for people that work with garbage or sewage.

With that said, Earle knew when we got married that I did not do trash. In fact, I contemplated putting this in our wedding vows.

Before Earle came along Meredith and I had creative ways of taking off the trash...we did not do it. Well, should I say we just kept piling it up in a big garbage can outside hoping some trash fairy would come take it away.

During the first week or so of living together this method worked just find. Then as trash tends to do it began to pile up and smell.

We being the bright intellectuals that we were, had a plan. It first involved borrowing her dad's truck to get the ton or so of trash that had piled up.

During those first few weeks of boycotting our trash duties, it had also rained.

We rolled up our sleeves, plug our noses, and gave a 1, 2, 3 to which the trash can did not move. It was full of water.

"Ok we can this."

"Let's just dump it over and run."

"1, 2, 3. Go!"

For those of you that take your trash out on time let me tell you what happened to our trash. The weeks of sitting outside in the rain made our trash bags not so strong and a few uninvited critters had come to live with the garbage.

The moment we dumped the the trash, the bags busted to expose our leftover foods from the last few weeks to which the rainwater washed everywhere.

I have no words for the smell.

At this point I seriously considered calling someone to help us. (911, yes we have an emergency)

We thought through the new plan and decided to use grocery store bags to pick up the old garbage.

Did I mention the smell?

I lasted for about 20 seconds before I took off running to the side of the house to lets say compose my stomach.

These clumsy dance of trash pick-up and run to a safe smelling place lasted for about an hour as we picked up our trash piece by piece.

All ends well and the trash made it to the dumpster, but not before we coated our noses with scented lotion to mask the smell.

Lesson: Don't believe in the trash fairy, she will not come and take your old garbage in the middle of the night.

I will Praise You in the Storm

2009-10-15T16:53:00.000-07:00

There a a Christian song that states, "I will praise you in the storm and I will lift my hands" What beautiful and difficult words at the same time. We know as Christians were are going to face hardships in life, but at the same time we must remember to praise God.

In times that can make absolutely no sense. How are you suppose to praise and be thankful during times of hardships?

This week a group of wonderful girls that God beautifully orchestrated to meet and myself had the opportunity to share what this meant to us. As Casey so beautifully put it. "There promise in our pain."

God does not promise us that life will be fair, but he promised us that he is faithful.

Jeremiah 29: 11 says, I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out--plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.

It was such a powerful moment to really think back to every single time this promise was fulfilled in my life.

God brought me out tearful breakups and lead me to the husband that I can't imagine life without.

God brought me through the death a friend and lead me to an even deeper understanding of what he wants from me.

God brought me though Steven being sick and lead me to a place where I am even more thankful for everyday.

God brought and continues to bring.

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Can I Help?

2009-10-14T18:33:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Mom and Dad traveled up the winding North Carolina Mountain side to spend a little mini vaca with the Tanner and Kaiser Klan. That left us in charge of the well being of their furry animal friends for the weekend.

We THOUGHT it would be a good idea to take our own furry friend to help us dog sit. We packed the car up and headed over.

Smokey was such a great help. In fact I captured some of his helpful moments of the weekend.

This is when he helped out by chewing up the paper plates.

In this picture he stood at the door for THIRTY minutes and barked at the cats.

Let me not forget the stuffed animal that he chewed up.

So to you Smoke, I say "Thank You" :)

A Reason to Celebrate

2009-10-12T15:27:00.000-07:00

What does...

1. A glowing mama to be

2. A cake made out of diapers

3. And a room full of food...

mean?

Whitney's Baby Shower!

At LCE we use any excuse to get together with some food (and oh Whitney is going to be having a little baby boy in about a month). Everyone brought their Paula Dean A game on while preparing for this little shin dig. A special shout out to Amy's Cheeseball.

Schoonies to the rescue! No baby shower is complete without the sounds of the Coffee-shop. Thank you to XM radio. Nothing like that awkward everyone is staring at me and it's quiet moment.

After a delicious spread of fruits, vegetables and desserts the party turned to the important part: The presents. Whitney was showered (get it) with so much fun baby stuff, cute adorable outfits, and diapers galore.

A baby can't go wrong with two pack and plays!

Congratulations Whitney. We can't wait to meet Carter!

Cho Hee

2009-10-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

This is my sister Brooke's baby picture. We always thought she looked a little like Asian baby ourselves.

This is Brooke now or as we sometimes like to call her Cho Hee.

This boy below is the reason she is flying back to visit her homeland. This is Andy aka her beau. He has this thing for Korean people and even decided to go live over there for a year and teach English. Brooke is flying out tomorrow. Everyone say a prayer.

These are my mom's feelings on her trip! (Please excuse the country bumpkin interviewer) Have fun and we love you Cho Hee!

Shout Out

2009-10-06T18:08:00.000-07:00

Last night Earle and I were watching a show called Intervention. The show follows around an individual who is an addict, and the family stages an intervention to get their loved one back on track.

Through the show we paused to talk about how each person on the show had such a devastating life growing up.

Teaching often opens up your eyes to family situations that you don't want to think are possible, or ones that are just not fair.

Sometimes we are both overwhelmed at how much God has blessed us as children. We both had loving parents and siblings that showered us with love and support. We don't question God, but it can sure make you wonder why he choose us to both be so lucky. So just a little shout out to God to say, thank you.

Here comes the bride....the bride....the bride...the bride

2009-10-05T13:35:00.000-07:00

While driving home from Columbus yesterday Earle and I passed by the place we were married at. Through a chain of thoughts I began to thank about all the weddings I have been in and before I realized it I had a goofy grin on my face. I announced to Earle out loud, "I really like weddings." He looked at me as though I was speaking Chinese, to which I turned back to the window with my big old grin. Here are some shots from some of my favorite homeys' weddings!

Meredith and Russel are the most recent to join the club of weddings, but what a wedding it was.

This is my pretty friend Kelley and her husband Jonathan as they left their reception. There wedding was in December, and I thought it would be a good idea to wear open toes shoes to this wedding. I think I lost a toe to frost bite in the process.

Brittany and Meredith stopped to share a moment at her wedding. She has the best mash potato bar at her wedding.

Lacy and CJ were married on a beautiful July day in Athens. The scenery was beautiful and the the flower girls were unforgettable.

Group shot from CJ and Lacy's wedding. Those two girls are not as innocent as they look. During the prayer in the cermony something in their brains told them it would be a good idea to stick flowers down the back of my dress.

Melinda and Allen were blessed with a beautiful day and an incrediably backdrop. (I let them used my mansion to get married in.) It was such a fun reception that involved the father of the bride and groom dancing on chairs!

Mel found this cute umbrealla to showcase her new last name.

Meredith looked beautiful in her gown.

Brooke and Brian's entire wedding weekend was a blast. We had fun from the moment the rehersal started until we left on Sunday. Melinda almost died at Brooke's rehersal dinner because her tounge began to swell. I was the really good friend and took a video of the entire thing. That will come later.

Kimberly and Josh tied the knot July 4th weekend and it was a great celebration. She looked beautiful and they left in a really cool car.

Once you have been in enough weddings you have to get a little creative in your poses.

Have a great Monday!

"The Cheerleaders Through a Bomb in my Window!"

2009-10-04T15:53:00.001-07:00

In honor of October I tried to remember my favorite Halloween stories from the past. No sooner had my brain started to take the trip down memory lane did it land two Halloweens back to the fall of 2007.

When you teach school the holidays no longer dictate your plans for the night, but rather the time that you can be in bed often control the plans for the night. With that said, Meredith and I settled in for an exciting Halloween night that happen to be a Wednesday to watch some TV.

Because we are both so mature we thought it would be funny to try and scare each other. Some of our attempts included hiding behind the door and shower curtain and yelling boo! We were cool.

Despite all the fun we were having we headed to our rooms to go to bed and and I decided to try one last little trick for my roomie. I called Rachel, our other roommate, to help me with the plan before she got home

Meredith's room faced the front of the house with a window in the front. Rachel was going to park down the street and sneak up to her window. At the exact moment Rachel was going to bang on her window I was going to pull the power breaker! Our little trick went a little wrong during the process.

Rachel and I were texting as we orchestrated our plan. I tip -toed outside Meredith's door hardly able to contain my laughter. Rachel went for it. Several sounds then pieced my ears. I heard not only the expected scream from Meredith, but a crash too.

Meredith was screaming for me to come in the room. Now, I was standing right outside her door, but I had to wait a few seconds so she did not think I was in on the little joke myself.

You may wonder how you would react in a really scary moment.... with that said you don't want Meredith by your side.

I rushed into the room where I discovered all but her big green eyes were under the covers. She was screaming for me to turn the lights on but I was laughing to hard and I did not want her to see my face and ruin the joke. She refused to come out from under the covers. Mer was saying a few things I really can't put on here, but among other things she was telling me that someone had thrown a bomb through her window, maybe her cheerleaders! Our town is so unsafe and all, I'm sure this would be most people's first thought :)

She then slowly crept out one of her hands to reach her cell phone and call her boyfriend who lived 3 hours away. All this time I am laughing as quietly as I can when it hit me that my other accomplice was outside in the dark.

I was pretty sure Meredith would not be going anywhere so I went to check on Rach. When I saw her hand I suddenly remembered the crashing sound I heard. Rachel not only banged the window she banged right through it.

We got her to the sink and cleaned up her little cut. You know how you can feel when someone is watching you? That was the feeling we both got. We slowly turned around to see Meredith standing in the kitchen with us and the wheels in her head turning as she put together what had actually had happened. She was ghostly white and gave us both a few words to mull on for the night.

Meredith was safe from the bomb.

Rachel's hand survived

and the window was repaired!

Trick or Treat!

Welcome to the World Cason

2009-10-03T15:57:00.000-07:00

This is my proud mama friend, Kanada. I think she likes UGA or something. Yesterday she brought into the world a beautiful little boy. They both are doing great!

Please meet Cason Andrew!

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The One and Only

2009-10-03T15:20:00.001-07:00

This my friend Jeanette. You can find her roaming the halls LCES. Jeanette is also known as...

The Guarder of the Resource Closet

The Fixer of the Copier

The Tell it Like it iser

The Hater of Glitter Pens

The Warden of ISS

A few stories about Jeanette...

1. One Halloween the 4th and 5th grade decided to dress as Old McDonald's Farm. I volunteered to be the duck, thinking who could mess a duck costume up. I mean yellow and feathers could not be that hard. I worked a few nights on my costume and proudly walked into school. I was greeted by a smiling Jeanette who took one look at me and said, "What are you Big Bird?" The name stuck and I knew then I would not be trying any more duck outfits.

2. During my first year of teaching I came across some very awesome glitter pens that I vowed to use everyday, who can pass up colorful ink with specks of sparkles in them. I soon learned Jeanette could. She was not only a secretary, but she was a friendly face from the day I started that also liked to tell it like it was.

Jeanette sent me my first real teacher document to sign for her and I excitedly pondered over the perfect glitter pen color. I believe green was the choice for the day. I don't remember the poor student I sent to redeliver the form back to her, but the moment it reached her desk I heard her voice over the intercom of my classroom.

"Um Big Bird?"

"Yes?"

"I know you did not sign this form that has to go to central office in a green glitter pen?"

"It's pretty isn't it?"

Needless to say she really did not think it was to pretty so I was sent a new form and the correct pen to sign it with.

Friday was a very special day for many reasons, we got to celebrate with Jeanette as she worked though her last day as a Leopard. The morning started off a little emotional but we made it though.

No celebration is complete at a school without food.

They are not perfect, but they were made with love!

I has one last surprise for Jeanette before the day ended.

Jeanette we love you and know that you will do great at your new job. Come visit us soon!!

These are a few of my Favorite Things

2009-09-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

This February we will celebrate a very special anniversary, with our house. We will have bought the house 3 years ago. I will never forgot the night I moved in because it was such an eventful day. Meredith and I worked all day to get our things put in exactly the right spots. (This was before Earle and I got married, in case your confused)

After a long day I went to take a shower and Meredith followed when I got out. She first used the bathroom and when she flushed the toilet, that's when the adventure started. Out of the corner of my eye I spotted the shower drain blowing out of the shower and with a fire hydrant span of water behind it. Now I love Meredith, but all of you who know here know exactly what I thought the problem was.

After a few frantic hours it was discovered that the previous owners had managed to flush a kid's toy down the drain to cause a back up in the pipe. Meredith your safe this time!

During these past two years I have been so blessed to get some great stuff for our house and with a little help from our favorite antique stores we have found our own little treasures. Here are a few of my favorite things.

This china is such a fun combinations between antique and modern. I love all the different pieces. You can mix and match the designs or keep everything the same.

Last summer I was desperately searching for a white desk to go in the office. After a very long search I stumbled across this potters' bench in an antique store and it fit the purpose perfectly.

These were a gift from a very sweet student of mine last year and her family. They look great in the kitchen.

The first thing that caught my attention when I was buying this house was the stone fireplace. It gives the house so much character.

This is the first piece that we bought and it is still my favorite. It not only serves a purpose by holding our wine, but it is so fun to look at!

Mexican Food

2009-09-28T13:58:00.000-07:00

Well the secrets out, I love Mexican food. In fact, I ate it on Friday and Saturday night. Why you may ask. Well here is a little insight into why this delightful meal is just so darn irresistible.

1. Cheese dip
2. Free chips and salsa
3. Let's not leave out the margaritas
4. You can eat for less then $5.00 and be full
5. They make you wear a funny hat on your birthday
6. There is a Mexican restaurant in every town
7. It's always fun to hear the Spanish version of your favorite American songs (you should really listen to the spanish version of Proud Mary)
8. It's as close to Mexico as I will get

Enjoy!

The Wedding of Buster and La- September 19, 2009

2009-09-26T12:45:00.000-07:00

Happy 1 week anniversary Meredith and Russell. As an anniversary gift to you I am dedicating an entire blog spot to your special day. I know your excited!

This is my Meredith and I was truly honored to be a part of her wedding last weekend. Meredith lights up any room that she walks into and I could not have imagined a more fun weekend with her.

The weekend started with last minute deliveries of out of town bags before we set up camp at beautiful Fountainview Mansion for operation wedding. Friday night was filled with rehearsing it up, delicious food, heartwarming stories, the singing debut of Russell, and of course the presentation of the famous Publix cake. Meredith helped me a great deal with my wedding and even brought Russell along to help with a very important task, cake testing. Knowing that Russell was part of the clean plate club in school we knew he would do us proud. After several rounds of icing and cake it was time for the final verdict. After pondering with his taste buds for a few minutes, Russell replies that all he wanted for his wedding cake was a Publix cake that read "Congratulations Russell"

How could we deny him such an easy request. So once again, Congratulations Russell.

After we all had our roles rehearsed and our bellies full the girls headed out for a few photos before putting together some last minute details for the big day tomorrow.

The next morning the preparation began (a special shot out to my hair stylist, Brittany B) and yet again we were treated to a very special brunch with some very special gifts from our favorite bride of the weekend.

These were not only cute bags, but they were home to some very cute gifts as well. I mean who can't use a pair of very comfortable and useful flip flops along with a absolutely adorable towel wrap?

After the brunch we did what we do best, take pictures!

After getting a little bit more comfy the real fun began. I mean whats a wedding without the bride dancing to New York New York with a top hat while her mother plays her comes the bride.

We did manage to pull her away from her Broadway Production and get her ready for the role of bride and what a beautiful bride she was. Rus was not so shabby either ;)

I did manage to sneak away for a moment a snap a picture with my wonderful husband too.

The ceremony was probably not what Meredith had planned out in her head, but it was perfect! I mean who else can say they got married in a thunderstorm? Despite the fact that the groomsmen were holding down the tent so that the wind did not blow us away, the lanterns were spinning uncontrollably above our heads and water was slowly trickling down our backs you could not deny the look of love on their faces as they became husband and wife.

I leave you with one last face. The excitement of my dad as he held a polka dotted umbrella during the ceremony. If rain means good luck on your wedding day, Meredith and Russell you now have a life time of luck and love!

Nashville in the Minivan

2009-09-25T12:38:00.000-07:00

As I was driving home today I happened to pass a family in a minivan and my mind instantly went back to one of the funniest moments of my life.

Last spring a group of my favorite people and I headed off to Nashville Tennessee to toast the "Wildest Women in Nashville Melinda" before she was off and married. Because we have some many connections we scored no other than a dvd playen mommie cam spying minivan to take on our trip.
Melinda started off driving and needless to say her reputation as the wildest women does carry over to her driving ability. At the threat of us having to stop to take Dramamine she agreed to cool her jets in the backseat and let someone else drive. If we only knew what was coming next!

Our friend Brittany so happily agreed to take over the wheel and we soon arrived safely in Nashville. The only excuse I can give to what happens next is that perhaps we had just been in the car too long.

The directions to our hotel were a little confusing and the Memaw Van got a little turned around. We made an executive decision to pull into the next gas station to get directions. Now let me set the stage for what is about to happen.

7 Girls

1 Minivan

4 Lanes of Traffic

1 Fire Station to our Left with a trusty firefighter

Brittany happened to glance to the left and noticed a fire station with a nice firefighter outside talking on his cellphone just minding his own business, little did he know. In order to get in the driveway of this fire stations a very very tight turn would have to be made to the left across two lanes of Nashville Traffic.

Now I am not a mind reader or anything but I think the following thoughts went through Brittany's head during that moment, Hey there is a fire station and a nice firemen that looks like he could help us. Here we go. Uh oh I think the minivan is on two wheels, Yikes there is the curve. Oh crap I can't block the fire trucks, better just pull up on this hill and bounce over the ditch.

Now from the mind of the firefighter, Look at that van, surely that are not turning in here, what the...?

Now from my mind. Oh my gosh I can not believe that she just jumped the curve to pull into a forestation and now we are straight up parked on a hill in a minivan in Nashville!

After completely realizing what had just happened without missing a beat all of us ducked at the same exact moment to hid our faces while Brittany proudly jumped out to get us directions. (I love Brittany) I am not quite sure if Britt noticed the stunned looked on the firefighters face but we were sure to capture it with our cameras. What we then heard was even more funny that the Evil Knievel act we had just preformed.

Brittany - "Excuse me sir, I am a citizen in need of service and you are a public servant."

With the same what in the expression on his face the nice public servant sent us on her way where we arrived safely in Nashville minivan and all

I am thankful for

2009-09-24T14:07:00.000-07:00

In college I lived with some pretty amazing people that liked to look at the bright side of life. If one of us was ever caught complaining we tried to remember three things that we were thankful for in our life. These past two weeks have not been the best so I have been trying to remember what I am thankful for. Little did I know that God was going to show me my three things when I got home from school today.

1. About a year ago Earle and I were lucky enough to find a bible study that was the perfect fit for us. Not only are these lovely ladies friends of mine but they can all cook too. Today I came home to a great surprise from them, chicken, rolls, mash potatoes, green beans, and I included a picture of what I will probably eat first.

2. I really like to have my house clean and usually don't mind doing it, but sometimes its just nice to walk into a house where everything is clean. After the excitement of our chocolate cake I walked back to our room to find no other then super laundry husband doing the laundry.

3. I did not think it could get any better than super laundry husband and chocolate cake, but I was wrong. I got a surprise in the mail today! My friend Jenna who was one of those college friends that still helps me to be thankful sent us a prize.

I was really excited. In fact I took this picture 5 times just to capture the right amount of excitiveness on my face.

She sent baseball hackey sacks for Earle.

A sweet/funny/silly Jenna would pick out and draw on card and

some super stylish office prizes for me!

I kind of told Earle a little lie about the following. Well you can be the judge. I told him I was getting a picture and a video of him trying out his hackey sacks for Jenna to see. I just forgot to tell him that I was showing her through a blog. Good thing he is thankful for me too!

Sorry it is sideways! I forgot to turn the camera around.

Shhhh Greys is on!

2009-09-23T16:48:00.001-07:00

Yes I will admit it, I am a Greys fan. This was not all was the case. In college Greys Anatomy was on Sunday night which also happen to be the same night as Alpha Delta Pi meetings. My senior year you could say tha I had somewhat of an important role in the chapter that required my weekly attendance. Those good old Alpha Dootie Pootie days, in Jenna's famous words! So not much TV watching was going on those nights.

Then came Julie AKA Stewart's' wife to the TV life changing moment rescue. She insisted that we all watch the season finale of season one.

This is Julie and her special Grey's Anatomy glasses.

Now I must admit I was not quite ready for how serious those Greys fans were. As we sat down to watch the episode at good old Merrywood (please see picture below) little did I know that I would have to sign a contract ensuring that I was quiet for every second that the show was on. Apparently this unspoken contract exist among all Greys watchers, I almost lost a tongue once for using my cellphone while Meredith was watching an episode. Those Grey's Anatomy's fans don't play!

Now it is not quite the best time to begin watching a show, I mean the season finale, but my life does not always make the most sense anyway. This particular episode involved a bomb and that's about all I can remember. I sure you notalk contract people know exactly what I am talking about. The episode must have done the job. Despite the fact that by the end of the night Julie had found the duck tape for my mouth I was all but hooked.

After several seasons later I now understand the need for duck tape sometimes when those
"other people" just can't be quiet. (Not that I live with one of those people or anything)

I may be forty-seven weeks pregnant. I may be on bed rest. I may not be able to see my own feet. But I AM Dr. Bailey. I hear every thing. I know every thing. I'm watching each and every one of you. And I will return.
Miranda Bailey

I can see Clearly Now the Rain is Gone...The story of Russell and Meredith Part 1

2009-09-22T13:41:00.001-07:00

This is one of my best friends, Meredith. We meet in 8th grade science and have been inseparable since then.

This is one Earle's best friend, Russell. They meet in 4th grade on the school bus and have been inseparable since then.

This is the story of Meredith and Russell...

One cold September night in Highlands, North Carolina, several of us had gathered to just enjoy life. Little did Russel know that that weekend would change his life! After much laughing, some good food prepared by Parker, and a few glasses of wine on the front porch, the Matchmaker bug hit Earle. He took a picture of Meredith to show to Russell and repeated in his country Earle voice, "Willie (his name for Russell )you need to focus on that one!"

Some 400 miles away little did Meredith know that her future husband was being introduced to her through a picture. Fast forward a few hours... Meredith reluctantly picks up the phone to hear the voice of "Willie" on the other line.

The seed is planted and...

Now over two years later we were able to celebrate the wedding of out two best friends. Complete story and more pictures to come later.

You Got Fur?

2009-09-15T18:39:00.000-07:00

No these are not the two winners of the cutest kid contest, though it may be hard to believe, they are two of my favorite people! Please meet Tanner and Taylor, our niece and nephew. They not only light up every room they walk into, but they always come with energy and a smile.

There are sure to be more stories about this little duo please enjoy story 1- You got Fur?

While enjoying a nice summer day in the pool with Steve and Earle you could see the wheels in Tanners head start to turn very fast as he explored his surroundings. Upon looking up at Steve's armpits and noticing that there was hair under them he asked. "You got fur?"

To this he lifted up his arm to check for fur.

With all of us laughing uncontrollably he then turned to Earle to say, "You got fur too?"

How can you not love kids?

Be Still and Know That I am God.

2009-09-14T12:41:00.000-07:00

Enough said....

What’s Wrong with Him?

2009-09-13T16:46:00.000-07:00

This is the story of Smokey Joe Tanner Bartley Tanner

Back in December of 2005 Earle and I realized that it was one week before Christmas and we did not have Steven and Maria, his parents, a Christmas present. As we slowly walked through the Statesboro Mall, it hit us. We would get them a dog. I mean who would not love a new puppy!

So thus the puppy search began and quickly ended with the only add in the newspaper. Two days before Christmas we drove to pick up our “Perfect Christmas Present.” The only way to describe the furry creature that we picked out was love at first sight. I was not technically allowed to name him because he was not mine, but I’m sure that I came up with a few names for their new pup. As I spent more time with my new love I began to realize that in two days I would be giving up him. After all we didn’t have a back up present so he had to give him up.

The excitement of Christmas was quickly approaching us and we devised the plan “Operation Dog.” We hid our little bundle of joy until the perfect moment. I slowly descended the steps with puppy in hand and smile on face. The emotions that were felt by the new proud Tanner parents could probably not be put into words, but their faces told it all “What in the world have they done ;)” As the proud new Mama and Daddy bonded the name of Smokey Joe Tanner was created.

For those of you who know Smokey he is for a lack of words a little different. His unique personality and the combination of his new parents was not the best match. Three months into his new puppy life of dreaming of bones Smokey became a little hard to handle and thus the first of many… What is he doing? questions started.

To help ease the puppy growing pains I was reunited with my fluffy friend as a foster mother. Through many more What is he doing nights I turned into his new mother and thus we now had Smokey Joe Tanner Bartley.

For those lucky enough to spend any time with Smokey I hope these picture bring back memories and for those of you who don’t know him here are a few of his What is he doing ? moments brought to life.

He likes to eat spikey pink balls.

He thinks he can fly though windows.

He likes a good Coke once in a while!

He prays to God.
He plays dead.

He loves Christmas!

He ponders life.He sings.

Toyko Japan

2009-09-11T17:29:00.000-07:00

In teaching 4th grade writing you learn that inspiration can come from anywhere. Little did I know that the muse behind this blog would be a husband who is sleeping an average of 20 hours a day, a knock off of the Fast in the Furious in Tokyo Japan, and instant messaging on facebook. You never know what a Thursday night will hold friends! Now the explanation for the randomly listed items above:

1. Sleepy Husband
Earle has Kleine Levin Syndrome and has been sick. See website if you want to know more: http://klsfoundation.org/kleine/levin/video_article/strange_brain/
While in these episodes he tends not to make the most sense (though that could be on a normal day too). He was “watching”/staring at the TV last night…

2. Fast and the Furious in Tokyo Japan
He choose to watch not just The Fast and the Furious, but The Fast and the Furious that took place in Japan. Needless to say I was pumped. Some how I managed to pull myself away from good old Japan and……..

3. Facebook Message
Decided to see what was going on in the world of facebook. About 300 miles away a good old Jenna was doing the same thing. Our paths crossed on the world of instant messaging and soon we were caught up to the events of the week. Blogs became the center of our typing date and we decided to have a little fun with Earle. Upon asking him what I should name my blog if I created one, he replied without missing a beat, “Tokyo Japan” and then gave me a big Earle smile!

So as they say, once upon a time in Tokyo Japan