Sweet Home Alabama! But we will always have a Texas connection with our son and his wife living in Fort Worth area and our daughter/hubby/grandkids in ministry at the Fort Hood Soldier's Hospitality House.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
We drove down to Phenix City after my work last Wednesday. Kids were waiting and ready to see us. Elizabeth, Chris and Barron fixed a spahetti dinner for us. Thursday morning we went over to Mama and Daddy's to rearrange the furniture so we could fit everyone in their house who was coming on Christmas morning. Elizabeth, Julie and I went over to Columbus to do a little last minute shopping. Julie and Mark hosted us for dinner Christmas Eve while Eliz/family had Christmas gift swapping at the May's.
We were so excited about Nate flying in that night, but alas, major snowstorm hit the Fort Worth area so he spent Christmas Eve at DFW airport, but was able to take an early flight so Barron met him at Atlanta airport.
Christmas morning we got up early so kids could check out their stockings and goodies that Santa brought. Then all of us that could (my siblings, spouses, kids and grandkids) gathered at Mom and Dad's for annual Christmas breakfast/brunch. Everyone ate well (too well actually) and had particular fun watching all the little ones open their gifts, not to mention that we didn't mind opening some gifts of our own as well.
On Saturday Julie, Eliz, Barron, Nate and I did some after-Christmas shopping -- love to go to Michaels and check out some of their deals -- visited such places as Kohl's, Hibbetts, Dicks, Columbus Book Exchange to name a few -- and then headed to Dinglewood Pharmacy in Columbus for their famous chili dogs!! Chris met us there with the kids, and we got to spend time with some friends who happened to drop in there as well. For those who remember Liz Entrekin from years back, she and her sister, Wendi, came there to see Eliz/family for a short while.
Managed to work in a short visit with Kevin, Cheryl, Sarah and Bob (and grabbing some new fishing stuff). Barron, Nate and I took some time to visit with Cathy and Billy at their home (and sample some of the cakes/pies she had there plus she fixed a good supper of vegetable soup and cornbread!!).Mom and Dad stopped by so they got to see Nate one more time.
Then we hurried over to Grooms (airport shuttle service) for Nate's return flight to Texas that evening. Sunday morning we sent Chris off early to Sunday School as he is currently serving as Children's Director at Lakewood BC. Eliz/girls and I got ready and picked up Barron on our way to church. For Sunday dinner, we (Barron, Elizabeth and I - Chris graciously took kids home) joined Mama, Daddy, Cathy and Billy at Red Lobster. Yummy!!
We made a quick trip to Julie's and Elizabeth's to load up suitcases, gifts, and other goodies and headed home.
It was an AWESOME Christmas!! (Now I'll go post some pictures)
We were so excited about Nate flying in that night, but alas, major snowstorm hit the Fort Worth area so he spent Christmas Eve at DFW airport, but was able to take an early flight so Barron met him at Atlanta airport.
Christmas morning we got up early so kids could check out their stockings and goodies that Santa brought. Then all of us that could (my siblings, spouses, kids and grandkids) gathered at Mom and Dad's for annual Christmas breakfast/brunch. Everyone ate well (too well actually) and had particular fun watching all the little ones open their gifts, not to mention that we didn't mind opening some gifts of our own as well.
On Saturday Julie, Eliz, Barron, Nate and I did some after-Christmas shopping -- love to go to Michaels and check out some of their deals -- visited such places as Kohl's, Hibbetts, Dicks, Columbus Book Exchange to name a few -- and then headed to Dinglewood Pharmacy in Columbus for their famous chili dogs!! Chris met us there with the kids, and we got to spend time with some friends who happened to drop in there as well. For those who remember Liz Entrekin from years back, she and her sister, Wendi, came there to see Eliz/family for a short while.
Managed to work in a short visit with Kevin, Cheryl, Sarah and Bob (and grabbing some new fishing stuff). Barron, Nate and I took some time to visit with Cathy and Billy at their home (and sample some of the cakes/pies she had there plus she fixed a good supper of vegetable soup and cornbread!!).Mom and Dad stopped by so they got to see Nate one more time.
Then we hurried over to Grooms (airport shuttle service) for Nate's return flight to Texas that evening. Sunday morning we sent Chris off early to Sunday School as he is currently serving as Children's Director at Lakewood BC. Eliz/girls and I got ready and picked up Barron on our way to church. For Sunday dinner, we (Barron, Elizabeth and I - Chris graciously took kids home) joined Mama, Daddy, Cathy and Billy at Red Lobster. Yummy!!
We made a quick trip to Julie's and Elizabeth's to load up suitcases, gifts, and other goodies and headed home.
It was an AWESOME Christmas!! (Now I'll go post some pictures)
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Friday, December 4, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Thanksgiving
It was wonderful to have all our family together at our home. The 4 grandkids came up on Monday courtesy of a special elf, Nate flew in on Tuesday, and Eliz/Chris drove up later in the day. The weather cooperated some days and we were able to enjoy being outdoors, checking out the creek and the swingset, cleaning out culverts, breaking down beaver dams, roasting marshmallows, playing nighttime games especially with Caleb's new night goggles, watching the movie UP, putting up the new Christmas tree inside while lighting a tree outside, having pictures made with Santa and LIVE reindeer, getting to ride in a school bus driven by Elf Roger, shopping, eating and then eating again -- FUN!!!!! Did I forget to mention the BIG GAME??!! And then taking Nate back to the airport and seeing him leave, then packing up and sending Eliz and family back home on Saturday, and spending a quiet evening just the two of us on Saturday night!! God is so good and has blessed us so much!!!!!! Hope you had a great holiday too!! For pictures, click over to Elizabeth's blog at www.maymemos.blogspot.com!!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Halloween and Fall Color
So excited about Elizabeth bringing the grandkids up for the weekend. They are excited about Heroes Unmasked - our church festival Saturday night. Please pray for dry weather so the kids can enjoy playing at the creek and the new-to-us swingset!!
The autumn colors on the mountains that I get to see every day driving back and forth to Huntsville are so brilliant and vivid -- not enough words to describe it!! Where is Nate with his super camera??!!
The autumn colors on the mountains that I get to see every day driving back and forth to Huntsville are so brilliant and vivid -- not enough words to describe it!! Where is Nate with his super camera??!!
Friday, October 9, 2009
Family Ties
We lost Uncle Jim (Wilkins) yesterday after a valiant struggle following several heart surgeries. The best news is we know he is with his Lord and Savior in a much better place where there is no sadness and no pain, and reunited with those family members who have gone before! That can put a big smile on your face, just thinking of that wonderful reunion, and we get to join them soon. (I do believe our time here is getting shorter!)
One of the best traditions of the Wilkins' family was their annual reunion. I remember the first one I attended after Barron and I married. The reunion locations alternated between Georgia and Alabama each year and this particular time the event was near Lake Jackson, GA. The strange thing was that Barron, having been away in Vietnam for several years, didn't recognize some of his distant kin so I didn't feel quite the stranger, and years later I still remember some just from that event, and got to know some much better over the years.
One thing you knew you would enjoy at the reunion was the meal. Those ladies (and sometimes men, as my husband is one of the best cooks around these parts) knew how to cook downhome southern style, and there was always a very large assortment - from fried okra to sweet corn to fried chicken to wonderful desserts - sometimes even homemade ice cream.
My leap into family genealogy came out of the family reunions. My mother-in-law had particularly asked me to trace her family tree, so I would come prepared to these gatherings with notebook and pen, and strive to get as much info as I could from people I was just beginning to know. I continue to pursue genealogy and especially learning more about our families, where they came from, how they worked, raised their families, worshipped.
Uncle Jim -- you were loved by your wife and children, your extended family, your church fellowship. You will be lovingly missed!!
One of the best traditions of the Wilkins' family was their annual reunion. I remember the first one I attended after Barron and I married. The reunion locations alternated between Georgia and Alabama each year and this particular time the event was near Lake Jackson, GA. The strange thing was that Barron, having been away in Vietnam for several years, didn't recognize some of his distant kin so I didn't feel quite the stranger, and years later I still remember some just from that event, and got to know some much better over the years.
One thing you knew you would enjoy at the reunion was the meal. Those ladies (and sometimes men, as my husband is one of the best cooks around these parts) knew how to cook downhome southern style, and there was always a very large assortment - from fried okra to sweet corn to fried chicken to wonderful desserts - sometimes even homemade ice cream.
My leap into family genealogy came out of the family reunions. My mother-in-law had particularly asked me to trace her family tree, so I would come prepared to these gatherings with notebook and pen, and strive to get as much info as I could from people I was just beginning to know. I continue to pursue genealogy and especially learning more about our families, where they came from, how they worked, raised their families, worshipped.
Uncle Jim -- you were loved by your wife and children, your extended family, your church fellowship. You will be lovingly missed!!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Oktoberfest - Cullman style
We had a beautiful day on Saturday to get out and participate in Oktoberfest activities. The farmer's market was open at the Festhalle Plz, but there was German food, drink and music. The Cullman County Museum was open and free, and we enjoyed checking it out, plus the quilt display upstairs. We walked through the Classic Car show but missed the doggie parade. A quick stop by the Duchess Bakery for a treat, and perusing the items at A Touch of German.
Back near the house, the Garrison families were making Sorghum Syrup -- we are so glad they let us watch, and they had the Honey Barn open so we stopped in there as well.
For dinner, we dined at St. John's Evangelical Presbyterian church for a traditional German meal, my first taste of pickled cabbage! The apple cake was delicious!! We stopped by the sanctuary and sang along with a group performing there, such songs as "Turn your radio on" and "Unclouded Day".
Thanks Wendi for coming to visit and enjoying Oktoberfest right along with us!! Everyone can check out pictures on Facebook.
Back near the house, the Garrison families were making Sorghum Syrup -- we are so glad they let us watch, and they had the Honey Barn open so we stopped in there as well.
For dinner, we dined at St. John's Evangelical Presbyterian church for a traditional German meal, my first taste of pickled cabbage! The apple cake was delicious!! We stopped by the sanctuary and sang along with a group performing there, such songs as "Turn your radio on" and "Unclouded Day".
Thanks Wendi for coming to visit and enjoying Oktoberfest right along with us!! Everyone can check out pictures on Facebook.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Travis Lee Band
Last weekend we hosted the Travis Lee Band in our home! What terrific folks: Vic, Travis and Allegra Puhse. Mighty talented too. Vic and Travis (father and son) shared with the Spring Arbor Men at the monthly breakfast (thanks for allowing Allegra - Travis' wife - and Jan to join you). After getting back to the house, they took some time to catch up on some sleep as they had driven straight through from Baton Rouge, leaving Louisian after midnight -- just did make it in time for breakfast. Then we headed to the church to get all their band paraphanalia set up -- and we certainly appreciate Rex Helms coming over to make sure we got it done right!!
Pastor Roger and Vickie joined us for dinner Saturday night -- Barron cooked some fantastic hamburgers (voted as "the best hamburgers in the world")and everyone enjoyed Jan's homemade peach cobbler straight from the oven and topped with vanilla frozen yogurt!
Sunday morning the Travis Lee Band was in charge of the worship service (they even had a little time to join us in Bible Study) -- and Travis shared a word from the Lord as to the urgency of the times!!! Spring Arbor again showed themselves to be a super congregation by hosting a covered dish dinner - yummy!!!
Barron played tour guide as we drove around the streets of Cullman seeing the Festhalle Plaza, the Catholic Church twin spires, some of the beautiful older homes, and a walking tour of the Ava Maria Grotto!! JJ and Lisa Maze called and invited the Band and us to come over for a game of volleyball which we greatly enjoyed (of course Barron and Jan were delighted to observe). Unfortunately Allegra did take a fall and received a large bump on her leg but an ice pack made it feel much better - and I think she enjoyed her time in the jacuzzi tub too!!
Monday morning Barron and the Band headed to Cullman Christian School for a time of sharing with the middle school kids. Barron reported it was a very special time. As Travis had been a school principal and Allegra a teacher before God called them to step out in fulltime Christian evangelism, it was a perfect setting for them to share and enjoy! Thanks Roger for taking all four out to lunch as well.
They headed home to Missouri that afternoon and made the trip safely. If you would like to have the Travis Lee Band come to your church, retreat, conference, etc., we will gladly put you in contact with them, or you can find them on Facebook!!
Pastor Roger and Vickie joined us for dinner Saturday night -- Barron cooked some fantastic hamburgers (voted as "the best hamburgers in the world")and everyone enjoyed Jan's homemade peach cobbler straight from the oven and topped with vanilla frozen yogurt!
Sunday morning the Travis Lee Band was in charge of the worship service (they even had a little time to join us in Bible Study) -- and Travis shared a word from the Lord as to the urgency of the times!!! Spring Arbor again showed themselves to be a super congregation by hosting a covered dish dinner - yummy!!!
Barron played tour guide as we drove around the streets of Cullman seeing the Festhalle Plaza, the Catholic Church twin spires, some of the beautiful older homes, and a walking tour of the Ava Maria Grotto!! JJ and Lisa Maze called and invited the Band and us to come over for a game of volleyball which we greatly enjoyed (of course Barron and Jan were delighted to observe). Unfortunately Allegra did take a fall and received a large bump on her leg but an ice pack made it feel much better - and I think she enjoyed her time in the jacuzzi tub too!!
Monday morning Barron and the Band headed to Cullman Christian School for a time of sharing with the middle school kids. Barron reported it was a very special time. As Travis had been a school principal and Allegra a teacher before God called them to step out in fulltime Christian evangelism, it was a perfect setting for them to share and enjoy! Thanks Roger for taking all four out to lunch as well.
They headed home to Missouri that afternoon and made the trip safely. If you would like to have the Travis Lee Band come to your church, retreat, conference, etc., we will gladly put you in contact with them, or you can find them on Facebook!!
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Walt Disney World -- Fantastic Family Vacation!
We had a wonderful (tiring) time and managed to see everything we really wanted to see. I am going to post some pictures just to show you how much fun we really had!Of course, my favorite is the kiss from Mickey!!!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Holiday, Birthday, Vacation
The big day is almost here ... we leave for Phenix City Friday night and on to Disney World on Saturday!!!! Much preparation has gone into this event -- mostly by Elizabeth!! I anticipate this will be one of those "not to be forgotten" family times!!
As I noted on Facebook, we spent yesterday (Labor Day holiday and Barron's #62 birthday) quietly. His sister, Sandy, came over with a dozen of homemade yeast rolls right out of the oven - yummy!! I am really glad he shared!! Barron showed off his Yanmar tractor and the swingset he has rebuilt (it was an old one from the church). Friends and family called to wish him a Happy Birthday!!
Next week will be fun, fast, tiring, and probably over too soon so it was very nice to just spend a slow-paced day at home together!!!!
As I noted on Facebook, we spent yesterday (Labor Day holiday and Barron's #62 birthday) quietly. His sister, Sandy, came over with a dozen of homemade yeast rolls right out of the oven - yummy!! I am really glad he shared!! Barron showed off his Yanmar tractor and the swingset he has rebuilt (it was an old one from the church). Friends and family called to wish him a Happy Birthday!!
Next week will be fun, fast, tiring, and probably over too soon so it was very nice to just spend a slow-paced day at home together!!!!
Monday, June 29, 2009
Surprise Surprise!
Elizabeth and kids pulled a fast one on us when they were sitting in the church pew when our Sunday School class was over yesterday! That gave us most of the day to have together, and they are staying an entire week! Appreciate Chris letting us have this time together - just wish he didn't have to stay home and work!
The kids loved the creek and the cleared area, plus we hung one of those disc swings under the large cedar tree so it's nice and shady most of the day! With this 90 degree weather you need lots of shade. We lost power for a while last night when a storm threatened, but no rain - only thunder! Fortunately the power was restored after about 2 hours. The girls were so tired they went to sleep in the van when we went to the store for a gallon of milk. The boys followed soon after a game of cards and dominoes!
I will upload some pictures of the kids at waterday at church, birthday pool party for a friend, and wedding pictures where the girls were flowergirls! Enjoy!!
The kids loved the creek and the cleared area, plus we hung one of those disc swings under the large cedar tree so it's nice and shady most of the day! With this 90 degree weather you need lots of shade. We lost power for a while last night when a storm threatened, but no rain - only thunder! Fortunately the power was restored after about 2 hours. The girls were so tired they went to sleep in the van when we went to the store for a gallon of milk. The boys followed soon after a game of cards and dominoes!
I will upload some pictures of the kids at waterday at church, birthday pool party for a friend, and wedding pictures where the girls were flowergirls! Enjoy!!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Disney World
As some of you know, Barron and I are taking our family to Disney World in September -- what a way to celebrate getting a little older! Barron turns 62 and I am dragging 50 (59 to be exact). Elizabeth and I talk daily, checking out websites and learning all we can about the great things to see and do at Disney World. The girls even sent me a picture of them by the "countdown chain" they made. The grandkids get money for doing some of their chores, so Elizabeth printed out Disney Dollars so they can save them and exchange them for money to spend at Disney World. I thought that was an idea worth repeating! The kids will especially love having Uncle Nate along since he loves all those coaster rides! Ask him about Mountain Space from our trip years back -- I didn't do very well and swore never again!
Saturday, June 20, 2009
BFC 2009 Project - sad farewells
Another BFC project concluded last night and we are already home. In fact, Barron has gone to buy gas so he can get busy cutting the grass which of course has grown several inches since we left last Saturday!
We stayed with Pastor Eugene Kilgore, wife Alisa, and three kids -- and joined by John and Mary Beckett and Chuck Pannell. What a great time we had each evening together as we looked back over the day to all that God had done!
Last night's dedication service was a lovely worship service! More about the entire project later, but had to share what a great time we had this week! If you were not with us -- then YOU missed many blessings! Continue to lift up those who are still traveling home!
The plan now is to get copies of ALL the pictures that were shared, plus the presentation, out to each family of the 2009 team -- plus to Ebenezer Baptist Church. This will take a little time but hope you will enjoy them!
We stayed with Pastor Eugene Kilgore, wife Alisa, and three kids -- and joined by John and Mary Beckett and Chuck Pannell. What a great time we had each evening together as we looked back over the day to all that God had done!
Last night's dedication service was a lovely worship service! More about the entire project later, but had to share what a great time we had this week! If you were not with us -- then YOU missed many blessings! Continue to lift up those who are still traveling home!
The plan now is to get copies of ALL the pictures that were shared, plus the presentation, out to each family of the 2009 team -- plus to Ebenezer Baptist Church. This will take a little time but hope you will enjoy them!
Monday, June 15, 2009
BFC 2009 -- Pictures
DAY 1 -- Saturday, June 13
The work crew will start building interior walls and running electrical wiring. The kitchen crew prepares meals for the team and church members (who are providing our desserts). What joy as we have a time of praise, music, and testimony after each meal!
BFC -- 2009 - Ebenezer BC, Dunlap, TN
BFC got off to a fine start ... Barron and I hosted four of our Texas group on Friday night and were joined at dinner at Bobby's Seafood by Vicki and Roger (and Cade) and Vonda and Melvyn. What fun! After a good breakfast at Hutch's, we (Texas 4 plus us) got on the road. Crossing Lake Guntersville and the Tennessee River, we arrived in Dunlap about 9:30. A number of the BFC team had arrived plus a host of folks from Ebenezer Baptist Church were already on the job site. The kitchen crew (of which I am one) prepared lunch for about 40 and by dinner we served almost 100 folks. A nearby church, Ewtonville Baptist, is allowing us the use of their multi-purpose building to prepare and serve the meals. Great fellowship. Pastor Eugene Kilgore shared with the team mighty miracles they have seen as they were able to purchase the land and building supplies in preparation for two BFC teams to assist them this summer. West Metro Association BFC from Atlanta will follow us in about two weeks - this is the first team Barron started when we lived in Paulding County, GA about 1987.
Barron and I are privileged this week to be staying at the Pastor's home with his lovely wife and three children (younger 2 are a set of twins). Three others from Texas are also staying there -- the kids have cheerfully given up their bedrooms for us! Adam, I made a picture just for you of our bedroom as it is decorated in Volunteer colors!!
We had a great service yesterday -- the music was DIVINE -- but unfortunately I had to leave last evening and return home so I could be at work today through Wednesday. Then I will drive the short 2 1/2 hours back to Dunlap and be with the team on Thursday and Friday. Vickie and Roger were to arrive last night but I did not get to speak to them before I left Dunlap.
Keep the BFC Team and the church in your prayers daily. On Friday evening we will have a Dedication Service after the evening meal -- usually on the job site -- as we thank the Lord together for all that He allowed us to accomplish this week! If you don't mind a short drive, feel free to come up and be with us. Let me know if you will be there and we would be glad to have you join us for the dinner meal as well!
Thanks so much for your prayers and wish more of you could have gone with us this year!
Barron and I are privileged this week to be staying at the Pastor's home with his lovely wife and three children (younger 2 are a set of twins). Three others from Texas are also staying there -- the kids have cheerfully given up their bedrooms for us! Adam, I made a picture just for you of our bedroom as it is decorated in Volunteer colors!!
We had a great service yesterday -- the music was DIVINE -- but unfortunately I had to leave last evening and return home so I could be at work today through Wednesday. Then I will drive the short 2 1/2 hours back to Dunlap and be with the team on Thursday and Friday. Vickie and Roger were to arrive last night but I did not get to speak to them before I left Dunlap.
Keep the BFC Team and the church in your prayers daily. On Friday evening we will have a Dedication Service after the evening meal -- usually on the job site -- as we thank the Lord together for all that He allowed us to accomplish this week! If you don't mind a short drive, feel free to come up and be with us. Let me know if you will be there and we would be glad to have you join us for the dinner meal as well!
Thanks so much for your prayers and wish more of you could have gone with us this year!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Disney World - here we come!
We had a special time with the kids Sunday night when we presented them with girl/boy - Mickey/Minnie baskets with special Disney items -- and let them guess what grand prize these "clues" were telling them. David immediately queried, "Are we going to Disney World?" And they were all very excited when the answer was YES, and included Daddy Barron, Grandmama Jan, Mama Elizabeth, Daddy Chris, Uncle Nate, and ... David, Caleb, Abigail and Julia!!!!! They have 90 days to talk to their friends who have gone before and find out the Do's and Don't's, the Best and the Least of what to do at Disney World. David talked to Uncle Nate on the cell phone to let him know that the SECRET was out!! It was even more fun the next day when they told their great-grandparents and their Aunt Julie about the plans.
Was so glad that we made it to Phenix City on Saturday in time for the visitation with the Carroll family. They certainly took a tragic event in their lives and made it very special for all of us at the funeral on Sunday when they shared a video of Rodney's life and theirs -- especially when Shea and Matt took time to give us their perspective on their Daddy, his influence - and most importantly on his spiritual walk with Jesus!! Amen!!
We took advantage of Cathy and Billy being away on their Mediterranean cruise to use their home as our base for the weekend. The girls spent the night with us Saturday night where we all ended up together in the master king size bed! When we left on Monday, the kids were enjoying Water Day at the church!!!!!
Was so glad that we made it to Phenix City on Saturday in time for the visitation with the Carroll family. They certainly took a tragic event in their lives and made it very special for all of us at the funeral on Sunday when they shared a video of Rodney's life and theirs -- especially when Shea and Matt took time to give us their perspective on their Daddy, his influence - and most importantly on his spiritual walk with Jesus!! Amen!!
We took advantage of Cathy and Billy being away on their Mediterranean cruise to use their home as our base for the weekend. The girls spent the night with us Saturday night where we all ended up together in the master king size bed! When we left on Monday, the kids were enjoying Water Day at the church!!!!!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Flowerbeds
Just a few pictures of the new flowerbeds we added at edge of yard/driveway -- both for beauty and to hold soil in place. The daylilies are ones Barron dug up on Saturday from Uncle Jim and Aunt Inez' house. The gardenia bushes in the front flowerbeds are loaded with blooms and I am so enjoying their beauty and aroma! The roses are pretty and Eliz/family gave me a Welcome mini-flag for Mother's Day, but I have substituted a Flag one to use between Memorial Day and July 4.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Sunday and family
Had a great SS class and worship -- and Vickie and Roger joined us for lunch at Jack's. Then a surprise visit from Uncle Jim, Aunt Inez, Mary, Velda and Pat (Inez' niece). They were very complimentary about the house and grounds.
Jonathan sent an email this morning and included a picture of his new home (the compound) in Afghanistan and several pictures made at the local bazaar of some of the beautiful rugs. I plan to get at least one for the house!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Pictures of the Scott kids
I had meant to add these to the blog last month but had left the pictures on my work computer and then forgot about it. One is of Sandy, Jonathan and Chris at his wedding. The other is of Sandy, Jonathan and Barron that same weekend.
MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND
What a great time regardless of the rain that continues to come day after day! Church service was a tribute to those who have served our country in the military -and those who didn't come home! Barron and I wore our red-white-blue, as I explained to some, I am an Army brat that married a Viet Nam vet so I am patriotic through and through! David had chosen such beautiful music and Roger's sermon was all about the Greatest Sacrifice -- our Lord Jesus Christ!
Backing up to Saturday, we went out to Ebenezer cemetery to see the new Veteran's Memorial they have put up. Unfortunately we noted that Scottie's name is not on it but they have promised to correct that. Then we stopped by to visit Uncle Jim and Aunt Inez - and Sandy and Larry happened to stop by too. Uncle Jim looks better than he has in a while, but is putting in a large garden (an entire acre of peas) so not sure how long his health will last with all that is involved with gardening!
Sunday evening Tiny and Jackie came over as they were in town to celebrate with June on her 70th birthday and we had a great visit. Enjoyed sitting out on our front porch together. Finalized details for the Wilkins reunion and reminisced about the past!
Monday, Butch and Barbara joined us for lunch and Barron had prepared a delicious one: Grilled Ribs, onion and potatoes, sliced tomatoes and sweet cantaloupe!! We talked about family of course and they brought some papers for me to add to the family genealogy - which is a neverending task! I do so enjoy it so if any of you know how I could do it for retirement $$ -- please let me know. We made a quick trip out to the Wilkins house and showed off our new church building as well. We will definitely have to get together more often now that we are close by.
I forwarded Jonathan's 3rd email from Afghanistan to many of you (if you didn't get it and would like to, let me know) -- and how sad that our country lost two of its finest over the weekend!!!
We are so thankful for those who serve to protect us!!!!!!!!!!!
Backing up to Saturday, we went out to Ebenezer cemetery to see the new Veteran's Memorial they have put up. Unfortunately we noted that Scottie's name is not on it but they have promised to correct that. Then we stopped by to visit Uncle Jim and Aunt Inez - and Sandy and Larry happened to stop by too. Uncle Jim looks better than he has in a while, but is putting in a large garden (an entire acre of peas) so not sure how long his health will last with all that is involved with gardening!
Sunday evening Tiny and Jackie came over as they were in town to celebrate with June on her 70th birthday and we had a great visit. Enjoyed sitting out on our front porch together. Finalized details for the Wilkins reunion and reminisced about the past!
Monday, Butch and Barbara joined us for lunch and Barron had prepared a delicious one: Grilled Ribs, onion and potatoes, sliced tomatoes and sweet cantaloupe!! We talked about family of course and they brought some papers for me to add to the family genealogy - which is a neverending task! I do so enjoy it so if any of you know how I could do it for retirement $$ -- please let me know. We made a quick trip out to the Wilkins house and showed off our new church building as well. We will definitely have to get together more often now that we are close by.
I forwarded Jonathan's 3rd email from Afghanistan to many of you (if you didn't get it and would like to, let me know) -- and how sad that our country lost two of its finest over the weekend!!!
We are so thankful for those who serve to protect us!!!!!!!!!!!
Friday, May 22, 2009
Extraordinary Women Conf - Pictures
Just had to add two pictures that Andrea made at the Conference. The first one is with the Extraordinary Chonda Pierce. The other is most of us with Thelma Wells, who very graciously agreed to join us in a picture.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Extraordinary Women's Conference
Oh, what a fabulous time we had last Friday and Saturday! Super speakers: Julie Clinton, Angela Thomas, Karen Kingsbury, Thelma Wells, Stormie Omartian and the super funny and serious Chonda Pierce. Music by NewSong and Matthew West. Who could ask for more???!!! Even the rain couldn't defeat us!
As usual, on Sunday we attended Sunday School and Worship, then headed to Priceville to visit with Aunt Fannie. Cindy Scherer had asked us to pass along the gifts and pictures she had brought to town for her. Fannie loved the pictures but was very sad when see how Uncle Clyde had aged and then reading his obit. She said it was hard to realize that she had lost all 3 brothers now!
Weather has turned cool but SUNNY!!! We will enjoy it while we can, knowing that rain is predicted again for the weekend. Barron planted quite a few iris bulbs yesterday that Wanda shared from her garden. Now the front yard in lined with iris beds, plus a few more near the creek. Did I remember to tell you that he also planted two dogwood trees that he bought over the weekend? My sister Cathy also shared some Rose of Sharon bushes with us (some know them as Altheas). Maybe we can charge admission next Spring when everything comes into bloom??!!
Not too many more days until BFC trip to Dunlap, TN ... Hope to see you there!
As usual, on Sunday we attended Sunday School and Worship, then headed to Priceville to visit with Aunt Fannie. Cindy Scherer had asked us to pass along the gifts and pictures she had brought to town for her. Fannie loved the pictures but was very sad when see how Uncle Clyde had aged and then reading his obit. She said it was hard to realize that she had lost all 3 brothers now!
Weather has turned cool but SUNNY!!! We will enjoy it while we can, knowing that rain is predicted again for the weekend. Barron planted quite a few iris bulbs yesterday that Wanda shared from her garden. Now the front yard in lined with iris beds, plus a few more near the creek. Did I remember to tell you that he also planted two dogwood trees that he bought over the weekend? My sister Cathy also shared some Rose of Sharon bushes with us (some know them as Altheas). Maybe we can charge admission next Spring when everything comes into bloom??!!
Not too many more days until BFC trip to Dunlap, TN ... Hope to see you there!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Scott Family Reunion and Mother's Day plans
It was so good on Tuesday morning for some of our local Scott kinfolk to get together for breakfast at Cracker Barrel -- Cindy Scott Sherer, 3 daughters and 1 nephew were passing through so we had a quick gathering. Those present besides Barron and I and Cindy and family were Sandy Hicks, Wanda and James Williams, Doug and Ann Williams, Steven and Skyler. Scott Williams was able to stop on his way to work. We missed the others who couldn't make it. Cindy and family spent Monday night - or what was left of it by the time they arrived at 3:00 AM -- and were very complimentary about the house. We were delighted too with the pictures and gifts Cindy brought. Did I mention they were on their way to Pensacola for son Michael's graduation??
This Friday afternoon we will head to Phenix City for the weekend. I plan to stay with Elizabeth and the girls Friday night for a "Girls Night Out" as Chris and the boys will be at a RA campout. Then Saturday afternoon we gather at 12:30 for pizza and David's #9 birthday party. Hope he likes all his presents.
Sunday of course is Mother's Day so after church - weather permitting - the JP Benton clan will gather at the cabin for a time of food, fun and fellowship. If it proves to be a rainy forecast for the day, we will just gather in Lakewood Baptist Church's fellowship hall and have time together. Maybe someone wil remember to bring dominoes for a quick game of Chicken Foot, or cards so we can play Spades or Rummy or Canasta! The kids will probably be on their DS's. Maybe we should bring a video to watch??!
This Friday afternoon we will head to Phenix City for the weekend. I plan to stay with Elizabeth and the girls Friday night for a "Girls Night Out" as Chris and the boys will be at a RA campout. Then Saturday afternoon we gather at 12:30 for pizza and David's #9 birthday party. Hope he likes all his presents.
Sunday of course is Mother's Day so after church - weather permitting - the JP Benton clan will gather at the cabin for a time of food, fun and fellowship. If it proves to be a rainy forecast for the day, we will just gather in Lakewood Baptist Church's fellowship hall and have time together. Maybe someone wil remember to bring dominoes for a quick game of Chicken Foot, or cards so we can play Spades or Rummy or Canasta! The kids will probably be on their DS's. Maybe we should bring a video to watch??!
Weather-- Weather -- Weather
Wow!! Just a quick note to reflect on the past week and the coming week of stormy weather we have had here in north Alabama. The sirens kept going off at Redstone Arsenal today as tornados were in the area -- but thank goodness all are safe! Understand some damage was done in Tuscaloosa, Jasper, Hartselle and Madison. Barron is worried that the grass is going to be too high to cut -- maybe have to bring in a hay bailer!!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Easter
What a great weekend we had in Phenix City! We drove down on Thursday. First order of business -- return four grandkids to their parents. Friday, Jan, sister Julie, and daughter Elizabeth went shopping at Kohls -- and spent time with sister Cathy who we rain into at Steinmart! A quick lunch at Chick Filet! Friday night, Cathy and Billy hosted Mom and Dad and Barron and I for supper at Longhorn to celebrate parents' 63rd Anniversary! Billy gave us a tour of Broad Street, the River Walk and CSU buildings in Columbus, and then a brief look at some new large homes in north Phenix City -- right before the thunderstorm hit. Made it home safely and then watched the local weather station as 3 different storms passed through with emergency sirens blasting! Fortunately all were safe and no power outages. Thank you Lord for watching over us.
Saturday morning I went with Eliz/Chris and kids to an in-store egg hunt at Barnes and Noble. What fun!! The staff hid 300 eggs all over the store and only 9 kids were there (4 were ours) to find them. Then a free cookie at Starbucks' counter and a craft to make! We had a wonderful time.
Daddy and Barron had gone to the cabin (Barron was under the weather so no fishing for him) and Mama and I rode out and picked them up (Kevin had to take the truck back to town earlier). Everything was in order for our gathering on Sunday.
Saturday afternoon was egg dyeing time with the kids -- they always have a blast doing this!
Worship at Lakewood was DYNAMITE -- wonderful music, great sermon, super people!!
Everyone (22 of us) met at the cabin for lunch and we definitely ate well. Weather was PERFECT! Kids got to fish, boat ride and hunt eggs - adults got to sit and chat!
Trip home was uneventful although Barron had to drive in rain from Montgomery to Cullman - but thankfully no storm!
Saturday morning I went with Eliz/Chris and kids to an in-store egg hunt at Barnes and Noble. What fun!! The staff hid 300 eggs all over the store and only 9 kids were there (4 were ours) to find them. Then a free cookie at Starbucks' counter and a craft to make! We had a wonderful time.
Daddy and Barron had gone to the cabin (Barron was under the weather so no fishing for him) and Mama and I rode out and picked them up (Kevin had to take the truck back to town earlier). Everything was in order for our gathering on Sunday.
Saturday afternoon was egg dyeing time with the kids -- they always have a blast doing this!
Worship at Lakewood was DYNAMITE -- wonderful music, great sermon, super people!!
Everyone (22 of us) met at the cabin for lunch and we definitely ate well. Weather was PERFECT! Kids got to fish, boat ride and hunt eggs - adults got to sit and chat!
Trip home was uneventful although Barron had to drive in rain from Montgomery to Cullman - but thankfully no storm!
Landscaping Completed
Barron is convinced that he is the best rye grass planter because he has to cut it every single week and it is just April! I think the black mulch really helps the landscaping "pop" as they say on all those TV shows. The small bed with the rock border is one of the two that the grandkids did last week. They had a ball going down to the creek, crossing the creek by walking very carefully across a log, climbing trees, and digging up rocks. Then they got to ride in the trailer that Daddy Barron pulled with the lawn tractor!
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Landscaping Pics
We love the SNOW picture taken of the house, but really like these that show off the hard work of adding shrubbery, landscape cloth and mulch. Don't you think the very green grass is beautiful?! Still have to do the east side of the house where the azaleas and camellias are planted - but that's a job for tomorrow. Not to mention the back bed where my amaryllis are planted - sure hope they bloom this year!
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