At the Lake!

This morning began as any Sunday around our house. We got up, got ready, went to church and then came home. However, today we did something a little bit different. We spent the afternoon on a houseboat. SO MUCH FUN!!! A friend of Mike's invited us down to spend the day with him, his wife and daughter. They are such great people and we had a ball. He and Mike had a little bet going that he could sling me off the tube, but I wasn't going anywhere. I held on for dear life. Thanks for our day! It was a great end to the summer! Well, my summer anyway...I have to start working on my classroom this week! Here is Arden and her daddy gearing up for the ride!!

Just relaxing...but not for long!!

After the ride!!

Hangin' out by the houseboat!

Arden getting out of the water. Time to go home :(

I'm Big Bird, Who Are You??

My Score: Big Bird

I scored 75% Organization, 60% abstract, and 69% extroverted!

This test measured 3 variables.

First, this test measured how organized you are. Some muppets like Cookie Monster make big messes, while others like Bert are quite anal about things being clean.

Second, this test measured if you prefer a concrete or an abstract viewpoint. For the purposes of this test, concrete people are considered to gravitate more to mathematical and logical approaches, whereas abstract people are more the dreamers and artistic type.

Third, this test measured if you are more of an introvert or an extrovert. By definition, an introvert concentrates more on herself and an extrovert focuses more on others. In this test an introvert was somebody that either tends to spend more time alone or thinks more about herself.

You are very organized, both concrete and abstract, and more extroverted.

Here is why you are Big Bird.

You are both very organized. You almost always know where your belongings are and you prefer things neat. You may even enjoy cleaning and find it therapeutic. Big Bird is never sloppy and always under control... pretty good for a 6 year old bird living without a family.

You both are sometimes concrete and sometimes abstract thinkers. Big Bird can be quite dreamy at times and has no problem using his imagination. At the same time he is also practical and can be methodical in his search for answers to questions. You have a good balance in your life. You know when to be logical at times, but you also aren't afraid to explore your dreams and desires... within limits of course.

You are both extroverts. Big Bird gets along with everyone. He makes friends easily and always has a positive attitude. You definitely enjoy the company of others, and you don't have problems meeting new people... in fact you probably look forward to it. You are willing to take charge when necessary or work as part of a team.

The other possible characters are
Oscar the Grouch
Bert
Snuffleupagus
Ernie
Elmo
Kermit the Frog
Grover
Cookie Monster
Guy Smiley
The Count

Hey, don't be a grouch! If you liked the test, let others know by rating it below. Feel free to vote for your favorite character too.

Link: The Your SESAME STREET Persona Test written by greencowsgomoo

Happy Birthday Dear Regan, Ramsey, and Anneloes, Happy Birthday To YOU!!!

Tonight we celebrated Regan, Ramsey and Anneloes's Birthday. It was the perfect mix of food, family, friends and fun. I have never seen so many different types of meat. There were ribs, chicken kabobs, and pork loin. And as usual, everything was delicious! I wanted to make more pictures, but I didn't get a chance because we left a little early and went to Capalano's to watch the Joe Harvey Band. If you haven't seen these boys play, then you are missing out. They are FAB!!!! I could have stayed all night and listened to them. Every song they played, I knew and loved!!! Did I mention I love these guys?? Anyway, here are a few pix from tonight!This is one of Arden coloring; she wasn't interested in the festivities...just yet!!
Regan Anne Cheesing for the Camera!!

Awww...isn't he precious???

Me, Anneloes, and Tessi!!

Leo, Tessi's Brother

Ok, is it just me, or do these girls look like sisters????

Arden decides to join the fun and eat some ice cream!!!!

Just ME!!

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you!

Today is Carter J's 8th birthday. I can't believe how quickly time has passed. When Salem was born, I drove Paula to the hospital when her water broke. (There is more to that story but I will spare you the details.) But when Carter was born, I was on vacation in Orlando, and I was not happy that I didn't get to be there when he came into this world! We flew home the next day and as soon as I got off the plane, I drove straight to the hospital! Carter, you are so special to us and we hope you have a wonderful day!. We love you sooooo much!

My Girly Girl...

My little girl is going to Kindergarten, but in this picture, she looks like she is going to Middle School. Where does the time go? Arden is just like mom and me. She loves jewelry, clothes, shoes and make-up. Tonight she wore her Girly necklace that Tab made for her and I promised that I would send her a pix, so here it is! She is our little princess! Miss Tabetha, I am sending a picture your way!!

HAIRSPRAY...

Tonight Mom, Arden and I went to see the movie Hairspray. I wanted to see it for three reasons: Oprah talked about how great it was, John Travolta was dressed as a woman, and I LOVED the older version with Ricki Lake. Arden was only interested in one thing...ZACH EFRON, or "Link" in the movie. For those of you who don't know the name Zach Efron, you apparently have been living under a rock. Zach plays "Troy Bolton" in High School Musical and "Link" in this movie. There are some other big names in the movie also, Queen Latifah, Christopher Walken, and Michelle Phifer. We had lots of fun and it was great spending time with my mom. Love you!

For your viewing pleasure...

I am trying something new today...a slide show!! I have compiled a few random pix just as a test. Enjoy!! I have to give my friend, Stephanie, credit for the slideshow idea. I saw hers and had to try it out. SHE IS A GENIUS I TELL YOU, GENIUS!!!!!

Mylie Rae

After a fun day at the zoo, we had company!! As I said in an earlier post, my family is soooo close and we will find any excuse possible to get together. Tonight the excuse was Regan and Ramsey's birthday. Ramsey, Uncle Danny, Jennifer, Justin, Mom, and Miss Mylie Rae were at our house. Regan didn't get to make it and we were sad:( We missed you!! However, Ramsey and Regan wouldn't have been the star of the show anyway, because Mylie was here and she was the main attraction. She is sooo beautiful and I love cuddling with her. Here are a few pix of our night together!
Proud Papa "D" and Mylie Rae relaxing in the La-Z-Boy!

Mylie and Mommy strike a few poses for the camera!

Can you guess what we had for dinner??? Here is one of Arden and Jenn. And of course, we couldn't leave out "The Boys". We tried to get them to stand closer together, but they didn't cooperate very well! The 3 Stooges!!!!!!

The Birthday Boy!

At the Zoo!!

Today we went to the Nashville Zoo. The weather was perfect for being outside, cooler than usual with a slight breeze. Of course, we went with my best friend and her family. It seems we have done everything together since school was out. The first attraction were the Gibbons. They are so entertaining and know when they have an audience, because they show out, BIG TIME!!!
The Meerkats were a treat as usual. They are soo animated and have such sweet personalities.

The main attraction were the elephants. Arden liked them best of all. They are so amazing to watch.
Here are a few more shots from our day. Thanks for looking and have a great rest of the week.

More Like Sisters!

Today is Regan and Ramsey's 19th birthday! I can't believe that they are all grown up, graduated from high school and going to college. I am an only child but I have never felt like one because my family is so incredibly close. Growing up, I always had Paula and Jennifer to hang out and do things with. We were all 3 only children, so we had to improvise and make the best of each other's company. My Granny Ma could tell you some stories about us!!!! Then came Kirby. She was the first baby our family had seen in almost 10 years and boy, were we happy to have her!! It wasn't too long after she got here, well actually 13 months, that Regan and Ramsey were born. I remember mom, Granny Ma and I driving to the hospital in Chattanooga just in time for Uncle Danny to come out and tell us the good news, "One boy and one girl!"

These 3 children were sooo loved and I could not get enough of them. They have always been special to me and I have never seen them as cousins because we are much closer than that. This post is dedicated to my "sisters"! This picture was taken at my Granny Ma's 80th Birthday party. From right to left: Regan, Paula, Jennifer, Kirby, Me, Granny Ma and Arden. Isn't our Granny Ma beautiful??? I love you all very much! Oh, and I couldn't leave Ramsey out, it is his birthday, too. Love you, RJ!

Girls Night Out!

Arden is completey obsessed with High School Musical and since tonight was the Finale of the High School Musical Production at the Cannon County Arts Center, we HAD TO GO!! It was FABULOUS! The talent was great and since most of it is local, that made it even better. I took Arden and Salem to see the production in Crossville back in March and it was spectacular, so I had high expectations for this show. We were not disappointed! We shared this night with my best friend and her daughter and another mutual friend and her daughter.We all wore our HSM shirts, yes even the big girls!!

It was a blast. The cast interacted with the crowd and Arden even got a high five from 2 of them. This was our first trip to the Arts Center and we will definitely be going back. Here are a few shots from our night out!

A Bad Hair Day...I think not!!

Today Connor came to stay with us. We had a great day together, and Arden loves having him here. When we keep him, I get to "test" her skills to see what kind of big sister she would be, IF she were one. Here are a few pictures from today. He is soooo intense when watching Playhouse Disney!! The picture on the top was right after he woke up from his nap and his hair was too cute not to make a picture of!! We love you, Con Man!

What a Weekend!

Well, usually I can say that my weekend was uneventful, but not this one!! Friday night we had lots of company. Kirby, Connor, Wes, Regan, Tessie (our friend and former exchange student from Germany), Annaloes (our friend and former exchange student from Holland), Mitchell, Tyler, and Uncle Danny came over. (I hope that I am not leaving anyone out.) We watched a movie and just hung out. We had a blast!
Saturday morning we got up and got ready to go to the Indy Race in Nashville. Bridgestone sponsors the race each year and they go all out. Food, food, food!!!! It is a large time! This year my mom, step dad, Uncle Danny, Paula, Terry, Salem, KrisAnn, Zach, Mike and I all went together. I had everything ready to go; my camera was in my purse along with the tickets. I had it all under control!!! The weather was gorgeous when we left...not a cloud in the sky. On the way to the race, we all checked out my step dad's new iPhone and looked at the radar. NO RAIN!!!
When we got there, it was hot, but not as hot as it has been at past races. After we walked around, mom suggested that I snap a couple of pix. I got out my camera, turned it on and it said NO MEMORY CARD! I wasn't as prepared as I thought; the card was in my laptop!! None of us had a camera!! BOO HOO!!! No pictures today. I was so mad at myself, but nothing I could do. Just suck it up and go on. After we ate dinner and visited, it was time for the first race at 3:30. We girls stayed in the hospitality tent and the boys went to watch the race. A few big name racers spoke to the crowd in the tent, gave autographs and got some good PR. Would have loved to snapped a few shots, but oh no, I didn't bring my memory card. I am not bitter or anything, I'm just saying. Later, the first race ended and the guys came back to the tent. We sat around for a bit longer and then "Hottie" Dario Franchetti(Ashley Judd's hubby) came into the tent to speak to the crowd. However, he wasn't giving autographs and that was a little disappointing. But Terry managed to get one for Paula. I AM STILL JEALOUS!!:)
After Dario left, we went to strech our legs again and go into the stands. It began clouding up, but still didn't look like rain was anywhere in sight. The fans filed into the track and found their seats, we sang God Bless America, they introduced the drivers, and with about 3 minutes til race time, it began to sprinkle. It stopped as quickly as it started. Whew! We all thought it was over. The preacher said the prayer and even asked for a little "divine intervention" to control the weather. As soon as he finished, it opened up and poured!!! Everyone rushed below the grandstands for cover, but it was raining so hard there was no relief. My mom and I left the pack and headed for the ladies room, along with a hundred other women, and that is where we hung out for almost an hour! The rain finally let up, and we met up with the other poor drenched souls and tried to devise a plan...to stay or not to stay. Finally, we decided that an hour and a half wasn't too long to wait for them to dry the track. So, we got a bite to eat, tried to dry our rain soaked clothes and began walking toward the track. Then I looked back out at the sky and saw another round of rain heading our way. That was it!! We were outta there. So we walked back to the car, and just in time too. It began pouring, again!!!!!!!!!!
Needless to say, the race was postponed until today at noon, and we didn't go back. Well, my step dad did, but no one else. Mike and Uncle Danny went to see a Braves game, and Arden and I went to church and then to the lake with Donald, Tesh, Kirby, Connor, Wes, Salem, Regan, Tessie, Annaloes, Tyler, and Leo(Tessi's Brother). It was a beautiful day, little overcast, but perfect for Connor. We had a blast and enjoyed spending time with our wonderful family. I Love you guys so much.

Mirror Mural...

Ok, I guess after working for 2 nights on the birthday card and having to put my creativity to use, the juices are flowing!! So today after going to Wal-Mart and buying Kindergarten supplies (which breaks my heart that my baby is going to school), Arden and I wondered over to the craft section. This is her favorite deptarment in Wal-Mart. Yes, she loves the craft section better than the toy section. Lucky for me, crafts are just as expensive as toys, so I don't get out any cheaper! She has a craft box at home with just about everything you can imagine. Her daddy took her shopping one day and she "racked up". One thing she didn't have was paint and all of those pretty colors caught her attention. I had no idea what we were going to do with it when we got it home, but I bought 5 bottles of paint and some sponge brushes anyway. I LOVE SPONGE BRUSHES!!! When we got home, we got busy and this is what we did to Arden's bathroom mirror!! The fish and sand dollar were our inspiration! Can you tell which plate I was working from and which one Arden was working from????

My Little Sproutlet...

If any of you have DirecTV and have little ones in the house, then you are familiar with Sprout or Channel 295. Arden watches this channel at night before she goes to bed and it stays on until she wakes up. It is the first thing I hear from her in the morning and the last thing I hear from her at night. SHE LOVES THIS CHANNEL!!! Her favorite shows are The Berenstain Bears, Make Way for Noddy, Sesame Street and I could go on and on. They have a special segment on each day called "The Birthday Show" where "Kevin" reads viewers birthday cards. Arden looks forward to this show everyday and can't wait to see the cards. I have told her for months that when it came time for her to submit a card, we would make one together. Now, keep in mind that her birthday isn't until September but the cards must be submitted 2 months in advance. So last night we stayed up until midnight working and again tonight until 11:00 making sure it was perfect! Here is our finished product. Yes...Arden likes glitter.

Another Day in the Sun...

Today Arden and I went to a fellow teacher's home for a "swim party". It was so nice to get to visit with my co workers and Arden got to play with some friends. We had lots of fun and are so glad that we got to spend the day at her beautiful home. Thanks Mrs. Betty! We love you and your little dogs too!!

ESPNWDO

I love personalized license plates, especially the ones that take a second or two to figure out. If you are behind me on the road, these are the letters that will be staring you in the face on MY license plate. If you are a sports person, you probably already know what it says, if not, I will help you out: ESPN Widow. Now that I think about it, I should have probably named my blog that, oh well. This post is strictly about my husband whom is the ultimate sports fan, and not just a fan, a FANATIC. His greatest love is Steelers football, but he is crazy about everything that sports has to offer. He loves ESPN and watches it every waking moment of the day. All 5 TVs in our house are on ESPN, he has Sirius Satellite radio so he can listen to ESPN radio, and thanks to Verizon Wireless, he can receive instant ESPN updates from GET IT NOW! We watch football (college, pro, arena), baseball, HotDog eating :), boxing, golfing, basketball, hockey, tennis, and even soccer. I am sure that I have left something out, but you get the idea. I couldn't believe that anyone could love sports that much but trust me, my husband does. He has STELERS on his license plate and kept asking me what I wanted on mine. I didn't want my name or anything traditional; I had to be different. Then while lying in bed one night, it came to me: ESPN Widow. I just had to figure out how to get that on a license plate and it to make sense. When I told Mike of my idea, of course, he loved it (and still tries to take credit for it.) So when you see me out and about town, just know that I am The ESPN Widow.

More Pictures of the Beach

Here are a few more pics from our trip. We were there for 8 days and it still didn't seem long enough. We had great weather the first 3 days and then the rain set in. The next couple of days were soggy, but then it cleared up and we didn't want to come home.