The Mobleys

Happy 19th Birthday, Girlies!

2011-10-02T19:36:00.000-04:00

Last Thursday, the girls made 19! Can you believe it? I can't! Lisa made them the perfect cake again this year, and we celebrated with a little taco salad party at our house ~ Love you, girls! Many, many more!

Can't Get Right~

2011-10-02T19:31:00.000-04:00

Years ago, there was some crazy movie, and in it was this character named "Can't Get Right". Over the years, we've often revised his name for various occasions/people for various reasons. Well, for the last 3 weeks and counting, I, dear friends, "can't get right". Since my simple little surgery, I just havn't been the same. I know, I know. You have to allow your body to heal. And that hasn't actually been all that bad. A lot of soreness, etc. But, nothing major after the first few days, or so. However, I've come to the conclusion that it has caused severe hormonal changes that have been more than a little difficult to live with for all parties involved. No one has come right out and said anything, but I get the general feeling I've been a little moody. The next day, I may be as bubbly and giggly as a high school cheerleader. The next, the Coke commercial may make me cry. And the days, it seems, upon days of gloomy depression. Feeling like I just couldn't get out of my own way, and didn't want to try.

Then, last Sunday, Wayne and I had been out in the boat all day, just riding, fishing and piddling away the day. I had been doing fine. I was inside getting a shower and cleaning up while he was outside cleaning the boat up. As I was unpacking the boat bag, I smelled my beach had to see if it needed washing, etc. WRONG MOVE. Apparently it had gotten in the way of the bait. I don't know, but the smell immediately tossed my cookies, and until today, exactly one week later, what I have been able to eat would have fit in that hat. And it seems that it's the smells that bother me the most. I've had other symptoms, etc. but the undaunting nausea has been a real butt kicker. I haven't been this sick for this long since I was first pregnant with the girls. Geez!

Now, I know what you're thinking, but it's NOT possible. Well, let me correct that by saying we've all read the Bible and impossible, I guess, isn't plausible, but at this house, I'm telling you it's impossible without His intervention. But, after talking it over with some of the girls at work, that's exactly what it's been like. My body has been convinced I've been pregnant. LOL! Little does it know ~

I'm feeling much better this afternoon, and after a solid week of the nausea, am hoping that, at least, has passed, and I do feel a LOT more chipper. But, poor old Wayne has had to handle a lot. He even had to plan the girls birthday supper last week. I just couldn't make muster ~ Thanks, Hon! You're the best, and we will see the other side of this yet!

I'm here ~

2011-09-27T18:22:00.001-04:00

Not much to allow, and don't feel like it anyway. Will catch up later ~

Update on me

2011-09-16T09:00:00.000-04:00

Had my follow-up visit yesrerday with Dr Gerard, and all pathology came back benign. Yay! Seems my problems are being caused by endometriosis (sp?). At this point, we're waiting to see if things will return to normal on their own. If not, she'll medicate and see if they'll return to normal, etc. I have to go back in November for a repeat pap, and at that point I'm really gonna push for the hysterectomy. She's explained that if the meds dont work, that's the alternative. It would be a total, since the ovulation causes the pain/problems, so there's a possiblility I'd have to be on hormones (or be crazy). But, if you've got to take pills one way or the other, I'd rather take pills and not have to deal with a cycle. So...

The girls are headed to Athens with the Pearce's for their first GA game. Look out Athens! Wayne, Pepe and I are headed to Da's for the weekend. Am SO looking forward to that! So, catch ya'll on the flip ~

Well, yeah...

2011-09-08T08:48:00.000-04:00

Same stuff, different day around here. Mostly. Thankfully at the condo most every weekend still. Least till the night temps drop. NOT looking forward to that. What ever will we do with ourselves? Had a crows for Labor Day. The Howards stayed with us, and Jeremy. Met the Baxter's at St Catherine's. And had all over for a low country boil. The girls found a manatee at the beach that demanded human contact. It was super neat. He'd come up under their feet and want them to rub him. He'd float up to the surface, and when they touched him, he'd roll onto his belly for them to rub him. They were thrilled!

Michael, Lisa, Da & Syb came over in Sapelo Sally. The had a little delay and the weather was trying to poo up, so they headed back rather quickly (well, with a stop at Barbour to see Misti's baby). Hope they'll come back soon so we can take them around to Belvedere to Pandy's house. I'm really looking foward to getting to see Pandy's house... LOL!

Wayne's in push mode again (not that he really comes out) about building the house. I REALLY want it, too, but it's SO scary! Especially since my salary keeps going down, down, down. Health insurance is going up another 20% in January, they say ~

I'm home today, drinking the dreaded "clean out" stuff. Having a little surgery in the am. A D&C with hysterscopy and laprascopy. Other than the D&C, it's exploratory. Wayne's not happy. He doesn't understand why my dr won't just do a hyterectomy. She's very holistic, and considers that a last resort. But, things haven't been good for a long time, and if this isn't the answer, and she won't talk about it, I'm probably on the hunt for another OB/GYN. After 26 years with the same one, I'm sure it'll be a shocker. Anyway, it's gonna be a "crappy" day around here. LOL!

Let's go SHRIMPING!

2011-08-23T18:30:00.000-04:00

It's getting that time of year! As Da says, "they've got the red traveling pants on"! We made our first trip into the sounds for the "big uns", and in just a little while picked us up 4 pounds or so. Enough for a REALLY good supper after we got back from Da's for our visit Saturday~

Sunday found us back at old faithful... St Caterine's. Jessica has a new friend who's been coming around. Not sure of an official status, but things sound hopeful ~ LOL! Anyway, Trey stays at his grandpa's at Half Moon a good bit of the time, and has his own little Whaler. So, he made the treck all the way to the southern tip of St Cat's to spend some time with us. It's nice getting to know him, and was really impressive to the pops that he could run a boat and navigate himself so well.

Before Trey's arrival, I had some old stale bread and buns to toss, so what better time, right? WRONG! It was just like a scene out of "The Birds"! LOL! But, fun nonetheless! Can't wait for our next trip out ~ Hopefully this next trip will bring in some Baxter's and Harris', and maybe even some Pearce's and Howard's. Holiday weekend and all ~

Go Braves!

2011-08-18T18:12:00.000-04:00

Wayne and the girls attended their first Braves game Sunday, thanks to and going with the Pearces (Matt, Jacob & Shelby. Pooh gave up her ticket for Wayne). I think a good time was had by all ~

Vaca - Day 10 - Mon, Aug 8

2011-08-10T16:47:00.000-04:00

Last day. So sad. Had an appointment at Dr Cobb's for some bloodwork, so Wayne and I headed out early, got a little Hardee's breakfast along the way. We are so sad... if there is a Hardee's within driving distance, we're on it!

Anyway, on the way home, I told Wayne I'd like to go to Statesboro. I still had my birthday gift card from Hobby Lobby (Ahhhhh ~ heaven's open. LOL!) And, Wayne had been wanting to hit Alltel and maybe get him a personal cell phone. That state Southern Linc stinks! So, off we went ~ very productive day. Got the rest of the stuff I wanted to finish decor-ing my living room. Wayne got his phone, and we hit Chick-fil-A to finish off the vacation ~

Lord, it sucked to go back to work on Tuesday!

Vaca - Day 9 - Sun, Aug 7

2011-08-10T16:42:00.000-04:00

A wonderful day at St Catherine's with the Baxter's and Roy, Jr and crew. Roy had called on Saturday while we were at Da's, but we forgot to call him back until Sunday morning. He, his girlfriend and her 2 girls were coming down and wanted to meet up with us at the beach. It was nice meeting the girlfriend, and her 2 girls are DOLLS! Hope we get to see more of them in the weekends to come ~

They pulled out kinda early, but the Mobleys and Baxters held tight. The wind was so strong, and the surf was "narly" LOL! We'd lost our good anchor at the quarantine station Wednesday, so had only the old navy anchor, and it wasn't holding. At one point, Wayne was actually standing on the anchor holding the boat trying to keep it from beaching. No luck! We ended up pulling behind the beach in the creek and still ended up tying to David's boat. Gotta get to West Marine and get a new one before the weekend!

We decided to head on back to Glennville a day early. Needing to prepare ourselves for the week to come ~ So sad to leave!

Vaca - Day 8 - Sat, Aug 6

2011-08-10T16:37:00.000-04:00

It was just too unmercifully hot, and hadn't been to see my daddy all week. So, we collected the Baxter clan and set out on a day trip for Sapelo. We had such a wonderful visit! Da and Grandma are doing okay, it seems. I worry about them both so much. Syb and her blood sugar, etc. Daddy seems to be having more of those "spells". But, his pacemaker kicks in and keeps him going. Can't say this is a good thing, excactly. Wish there were just no spells at all. His hip is killing him at present. But, hard head won't even talk about going to the doctor. Says he knows they'll just tell him he's old and his hip is gone and needs replacement, and he's just not willing to talk about that. Love my Da, and just want him happy, so I don't push.

We had decided upon our return to Gould's, we were all gonna hit the Buccaneer Club we thought. Well, on the way home, we ran into 4 guys on jet skis who stopped us asking where they could by gas. They were trying to get to Thunderbolt. Yeah, you read that right. Thunderbolt! Don't know where they had put in, but they had exhausted their on-board fuel, and were getting low in the extra tanks they'd packed. Now, this was about 10 minutes to 6pm on at Saturday night, and we were floating just out from the quarantine station, Blackbeard Island, Sapelo Sound. Closest gas? 20 minutes to Shellman. Reckon Ronnie & Gay-bo will be staying late? NO! LOL! Well, one of the guys had a smart-phone (smartest thing in the crowd, ask me), so he pulled up Shellman Marina, called and told them the story and they agreed to wait on them to get there. So, we lead them in to Shellman and wished them luck. I've gotta get with Ronnie and find out if they stayed the night, or filled up and tried to make it in the dark... Will try to give an update when I find out.

Anyway, in the midst of all that hoo-ha, Brother Dave decided it was going to be too late for him to go to the Buccaneer, so we kinda dogged it off. But, after we hit Gould's, the phone rings, plans commence with the baths (LOL!) and we were at the Bucc before 8:30. It was delish! And enjoyed the company so very much!

Vaca - Day 7 - Fri, Aug 5

2011-08-10T16:25:00.001-04:00

Florida bound, baby! Thanks to Carla Rush, we managed to get the girls tickets at Marineland to swim with the dolphins! I know, don't they do that every weekend? LOL! Well, not exactly like this ~ WHAT at experience!

And the end to end all ends.... Making out with a dolphin!

Whoa there, Megan. No tongue!

God's gracious creature ~ thanks, Cokie!

Oh, yeah. The girls are gonna kill me, but, LOL! Objects may seem larger through glass ~ LOL!

Hit the Santa Maria Restaurant (not our Santa Maria, of course) for another late lunch. The Santa Maria is actually on the water, not water front, at the Marina, old downtown St Augustine. What a beautiful area! We've already made plans for a girls trip back down there in the fall for some shopping!

Other than good food, the neat thing about Santa Maria is that the window sills are lined with "flaps", and the waiter brings you baskets of bread. Now, dummy me thought we were feeding birds... No. Catfish! By the bazillion!

While eating and enjoying the activies and view, it did bring on "wonder whose yacht's those are, and if they have sons/grandsons that are single?" LOL! My poor girls... they haven't got a chance with us! LOL!

Vaca - Day 6 - Thurs, Aug 4

2011-08-10T15:35:00.000-04:00

Didn't even take my camera! What was I thinking? LOL! A friend of ours owns/lives on Bird Island, an 8 acre island just southeastish of Barbour. He's been asking us to come visit for a year of more so he could show us his island. So, this was the day. Steven is a dock builder by trade, and we really didn't know what to expect, but it was terrific! His description was it was about 40 docks all mangled together. And, while I can see that, it was just facinating! They collect all kinds of "stuff". Whether it washes ashore on their island or beach, or if he finds it in his piling digging, etc. with work. Everywhere you looked there was something interesting! Next time, I promise I'll take the camera!

It was only about 3900 degrees, and I got a little over heated and had to be scurried off the island back to the condo. Crappy end to a great day, but maybe Steven and Mindy will have us back out ~ LOL!

Vaca - Day 4 & 5 - Tues & Weds, Aug 2-3

2011-08-10T15:26:00.001-04:00

Tuesday and Wednesday were full of nothing much. Just chillaxing and riding and enjoying. Hit Barbour for some ice (Thanks, Ronnie & Lynn!)

Rode 5 miles off shore. Still can't believe how much clearer the water is ~ We could see the prop on the boat and then some ~

We took our stale bread and doughnuts out (I know, crazy! Who has stale Krispy Kreams?) We usually toss them at high tide at our bluff (to encourage fish/shrimp, LOL!) But, for whatever reason, we had it in the boat, so tossed it out. Way out. LOL! The poor floating KK's didn't have a chance! The ripple hadn't passed yet before... yep, that's a black tip shark nipping him some icing! Okay. I think we've all decided that swimming out there just isn't the thing to do ~ LOL!

You know I love me a pelican. So, heading in, I had the change for a nice shot ~ We certainly live in God's beautiful world!

The girls had picked up some new polish, so had to get shots of that. Yeah, that a bee and it's trail along the other toes. Jessica is getting quite good at designs, if anyone's interested. I'm sure she could be bought. LOL!

What funky feet! LOL! Anyway, we ended up riding over Shellman way. Our old stomping grounds... Thought I'd get a shot of the end of Harris Neck. It's not likely to look like this much longer. There are developers with great plans, it seems. The design plan I've seen looks like another St Simons village. Kinda sad ~

Had some grooming to do ~ LOLOL! (Wayne's gonna KILL me)

Caught 'em a tiny blowfish at the dock ~

And a decent bonnet head in the Todd River ~

Got to witness a most beautiful sunset, also in Todd ~

And an absolutely beautiful night-ride back to the condo ~ Isn't that what vacation is for? Moving at your own pace?

Vaca - Day 3 - Mon Aug 1

2011-08-10T15:07:00.000-04:00

I'd picked up a deal on Savannah Hot Deals and we were off to Tybee for paddleboarding lessons. Let me first say, I can't stand Tybee. It's so crowded, and you have to pay to park even at the Arby's. It's just ridiculous! Now, that out of the way, the girls had a GREAT time!

They even picked up a new friend along the way ~ It was priceless! This dolphin (obviously used to humans) followed them along, and even stopped to swin amongst some folks on the beach.

After much ado about parking, and the fact we were NOT going to eat outside, we settled on a late lunch at the Rock House. It was delish! Our vacation goal was to not eat at places we'd already been if at all possible, so this was our second eating expedition of the week, and another success.

Vaca - Day 2 - Sun, July 31

2011-08-10T14:56:00.000-04:00

Happy 40th, Chick! Wasn't there, but gave her a call ~ hope it was a great one!

We spent the day at St Catherine's with the Pearce's. Beautiful day! The kids decided to do a little float fishing (yeah, they didn't learn anything from Jessica's earlier experience). Low and behold after a couple of whiting, etc., Megan hooks her a shark. As she's trying to get it in (without it getting her) it manages to bump Jessica on the butt through her float, and brush by JP's legs ~ LOL! You should have seen the activity that ensued! Priceless!

Vaca - Day 1 - Sat, July 30

2011-08-10T14:48:00.000-04:00

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! 23 years I've been married to that man... wouldn't change a thing! Spent the day wandering around St Simons. Had a late lunch at Barbara Jean's ~ world's best crab cakes, must say. Didn't have room for the chocolate stuff, maybe next time ~

Wandered around some more before hitting Island Cinemas for the new (and last, sigh...) Harry Potter. It was just as great as I expected! Can't wait for it to come out on video, and our collection will be complete!

Catching up... again.

2011-07-28T18:42:00.000-04:00

Going on vacation next week, so I decided I'd better catch up, 'cause I'm anticipating some stories to tell ~

Ok. Let's start with last Thursday. Jessica and I were in the living room. She, watching NCIS. Me, reading. Wayne was at the gym, and Megan was in the back of the house. We heard this load noise, and I looked up and asked Jessica what it was. She said, "Oh, it was Megan closing the shower door." Ok. Whatever. When Wayne came in, he was all excited wanting to know what we were doing? Had we called GA Power? Jessica and I just looked at each other, and he said come with me...

We lost one of our beloved Bradford Pears! And it fell on the power line, breaking the service pole on the roof and digging a hole in the roof! Within the hour, we had GA Power and Lim Waters assessing the damage, and by 10ish Friday morning. Lim had repaired his part, Walter Ray had sent a crew and fixed the roof area, and GA Power had been back to put power back to the house. LOVE that small town life!

Oh, yeah, you read that right. GA Power cut the power off Thursday night due to hazerdous conditions. So, we called in Mema, and she and Tonya formulated a plan ~ Tonya moved over to their house, and left us hers. LOVE our family!

Sooooo ~ got a huge mess to clean up on a Friday. If we wait to do it Saturday morning when it's cool, we'll miss a weekend at the coast. What to do....? My poor husband and girls braved the 240 degree heat (nearly), and heat stroke to get it cleaned up by 4. Now, this is what the end of that looked like ~

Megan stayed home to go canoeing and church with Jeremy. So, Jessica humored the old folks and spent the weekend with us at the condo. And God's place it truly was ~

Yeah, that's a beauty of a storm brewing. But, we got to the condo just as the big fat drops started falling. Not going to complain... Lord, we need the rain!

Sunday, the Baxter's had made their 18 hour trip to the coast (LOL) and we joined them at St Catherine's for a beauty of a day. Ran into some porpoise on the way. Must have been more than 20 in the pod, one even making several complete jumps out of the water ~ LOVE our God's creatures!

Jessica had some excitement Saturday, fishing out of the beach float tied to the back of the boat... She'd caught several whiting and a couple of croakers. And then... she hooked something that had the float pulling this way and that. She didn't think it was very funny, and her daddy had to rescue her from a rather large sting ray. LOL! I think she's re-thinking that float-fishing where your feet and butt are in the water and you can't get out real quick. LOL!

So, then Sunday we were all talking about supper and this place and that. Jessica allowed that the last time just Megan came off with us, we took her to Longhorns. Now, I don't remember that, but with just enough pressure on the old man, and some batting doe eyes... Outback on St Simons was "on our way home". LOL!

The "New" Boat

2011-07-18T17:52:00.000-04:00

We've been on the lookout for a small paddle boat or canoe type boat. Something we can turn over and leave on the bluff for easy access when the tide is high. Well, Saturday, before the rain set in, our "new to us" boat took it's maiden voyage from Gould's Landing.

They were a little tenative to begin with, and a trip to Brunswick later for an additional paddle. But, everyone voted it a go. Thanks, Fred!

Paddling Ms Megan? LOL! Pooh Jeremy! Just as the rain started to set in, too...

Even big boy tried it out. I can see a lot of time in that thing with a fishing rod or cast net. Can't wait!

Oh, and naturally didn't have my camera handy, but I actually got to see our dolphin feeding in front of our place on Sunday. What a glorious site. The dolphin, the hawk catching fish, my new swarm of hummingbirds. God is GREAT!

Happy 15th, my Yeah-Yeah!

2011-07-10T19:42:00.002-04:00

Masonic Kids Beach Trip 2011

2011-07-10T19:37:00.000-04:00

Came off without a hitch. Well, the bus did break down at the beach, but no problem. Da had another one within minutes, and we were off again. Had 19 boats this year, with 29 kids from the home and staff kids. GREAT day. Just as they were leaving the hunt camp for the return trip, caught a nice thunderstorm that just made things interesting, but it had cleared up by he time they hit Doboy Sounds. Got all the buses cleaned and back in their homes. The beach pavillion and cook site cleaned up, and you'd never know we had ever been there. 'Course there's always Bitchin' Bob. This year he's taken it to a new level, and got the kids involved in switching the trip back to Blackbeard. He must not remember the last trip when he had to be pushed up the dune... and he hasn't seen it lately. That back-side dune is 25 feet straight up if it's an inch. Oh, well, we've concluded he has some kind of bus phobia, or something. But, the lodge will make the decision, I guess, next year. Sure did hurt Da's feeling, once again. And superbly ticked me off. Hope I don't see him until I have a chance to simmer down... Anyway, here's some of my favorite pix ~

Whatever he's telling you, Yeah-Yeah... take it with a grain of salt ~ LOL!

And then, this morning, we get this site... Da said this is what happens when gas prices go so high... Yep! That's Michael Sands on a bicycle ~

All jokes aside... I'm so very proud of my sister-in-law, Lisa. She has lost so much weight, and changed her diet so that she is eating so very healthy. She's an inspiration ~ not too much though, as Da had us bacon, pancakes and Grandma's famous grits for breakfast. Da says it took 65 years for that one artery to clog and he doesn't figure he has another 65, so he'll do what he pleases, thank you. LOL! Had a GREAT weekend with Da, Grandma, Michael, Lisa, Stacy, Monica, Dalton and my crew. Haven't laughed so much in a very long time. Thanks! Love you all!

Crazy, busy week ~

2011-07-08T09:05:00.000-04:00

Our computer is ailing, so I'm having problems of all sorts, but the main one at the moment is missing pix. But, here are a few from our wonderful 4th! Amber and Dylan came down (long story there) and Pooh and kids chimed in for some tubing and beaching on Saturday. Then, Sunday bought Matt and we met up with Holly and kids and the Harris clan at St Caterine's for a WONDERFUL day of fun and sun! Can't wait to get back ~

Yeah... what's with the toes, Jess? LOL!

Shelby enjoyed herself, but JP just didn't trust Uncle Wayne not to injure him... LOL!

Now, Amber & Dylan ~ they'd been dating for, oh, 3 or 4 years or so. Her parents nearly had them married off. They were/are actually pushing that. Anyway, Amber decided she needed a break to feel her world out. After all, she's only 18 for Lord's sake. Her mom, in particular, is not happy with that decision and is VERY "medley". Well, the girls have been asking her to come stay at the condo with them for a while, and this weekend it finally happened. Amber had to come back Saturday night to make church Sunday am, but she had Friday and Saturday to enjoy. But, they didn't want her to drive back all that way by herself, so she could only come if Dylan came, too... So, process that. And that's all I'm gonna say about it. A GREAT time was had by ALL! They even came back Sunday afternoon and stayed again 'til Monday. Not much on tap for us, as Wayne had to be at work by noon Monday for holiday patrol, but I still think they enjoyed hanging out at the clubhouse and just "chillaxing".

Getting ready today for me, the girls and Chick to hit the ferry to Sapelo to help Da get set up for the Masonic beach trip tommorrow. 50% chance of rain, but trust me, it won't dampen the spirits of this bunch! Hope to have lots of great pix soon, and know we'll have a great weekend!

Catching Up ~

2011-06-28T20:27:00.001-04:00

Boy! I've been slack! I'm surprised I haven't been assaulted yet ~ Anyway, let's see... where to start... Father's Day. Wayne didn't get his, really. He worked with Tracy on an FDIC shut-down, so wasn't home all weekend, and needed sleep on Sunday. But, we cooked him crab legs and fried shrimp for lunch, and the girls had picked him out a new shirt, so I guess it wasn't a total wash.

Wayne, Clint & Rrrr had an unofficial official day (of fishing) planned for Thursday, so I had the bed to myself Wednesday night. I read, and watched tv, and slept like a log. But, Thursday am? WHEW! Something was wrong with my big toe! I've had arthritis-type pain in it before, but nothing dabilitating. I wore a shoe Thursday, but when I took it off that night, IT WAS ON. Didn't sleep Thursday night, mostly writhed and twisted. Friday was Wayne's Father's Day doings in Savannah. I, again, wore a shoe, but was glad to get it off, and then was sorry I had. Another night of misery, highlited by hot soaking, elevating and lowering, and some crying added to the mix. Wayne had been on-line at some 3am researching, and had made his determination of gout, which was confirmed by Monica and Ms Diane on Saturday, then Dr Cobb on Monday. But, by daylight Saturday, I'd located some meds from 2003 and was going okay. LOL! Doc gave me a shot in the butt and some fresh pain meds, and I'm feeling much better, thanks! Would give pretty much anything to not go through that again. Even tossed out the idea of just cutting it off, 'course that could have been the pain meds talking.

Jeremy's Uncle Ricky offered us up some fresh corn, so Friday night, Wayne, the girls and Moncia went to pick up 5 or 6 bushels (they came home with 10!) Thanks Uncle Ricky! We'll think of you every meal we eat corn ~ The girls thanked him on Monday by baking him Aunt Gussie's Lemon Cake. YUM!

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T09:38:00.001-04:00

Not gonna get to see mine on "his day", but still wishing him a great one. Love you and miss you always, Da!

And, then there's my wonderful hubby ~ he is just the best daddy to my girls I could ever ask for. I don't know what I did to deserve him, but thank God every day for him in my life. I love you, babe!

'Course, you know, if I really dig deep (and it's a scarey thought), I have lots and lots of GREAT men I count as "fathers". You know what I mean, we all have 'em. Folks that had a hand in raising you, and that you know, even all these years later, they still have your back. I know I'll leave someone out, but... there's Uncle Asa, of course. Uncle Gary, goes without saying. Then there are all of those perifrial (sp) father's... Mr Richard, Bobby and Ed, all 3 Whitlows. Wayne and Roy and Jack. If you let your mind loose, there are just so many... I want to wish them all a very happy father's day, and sending my love and gratitude for all the love and guidance you have given along the way ~ Thanks!

Oh, Yeah ~

2011-06-16T07:14:00.000-04:00

In a hurry, I guess. But, I missed a couple of items I wanted to hit in that last post... Since Jeremy has come into Megan's life, she's begun to take a great interest in his interest in birds. So, this past weekend, she noted a new one that she'd just never noticed before. Tagged as her new favorite bird, she has researched and discovered it's a Southern Oyster Sucker ~

Most know I have loved photography since I was old enough to hold a camera. I once had dreams of doing that for a living. But, alas, the real world... anyway, My old camera with the interchangeable lenses bit the dust years ago, and several years back now, Wayne bought me a good digital. I have thoroughly enjoyed using it, and it is super easy to use. But, some have asked, "why don't you invest in a REALLY good digital? You could do so much more." Well, I believe this picture says it all. You see, for me, photography is about making note of everyday life, as well as portraits, etc. So, it's really important to me to be able to have my camera wherever we are, and sometimes, no, a lot of times, it's on the water. And, the girls have gotten used to being able to "document" things, and are liable to pick it up and snap whatever, whenever. Yeah, sometimes they get things I'd really rather they didn't, for I'd MUCH rather be behind the lens. But, my point is this. It's gotta be touch, 'cause you never know when it's gonna get slimed ~

See the dripping mess on the bag. Yeah. And her wet hand. Yeah. Anyway... Jessica was simply facinated with the rather large conchs at the beach this weekend. Both girls had them crawling up their arms and legs, etc. What a hoot!

Holly J's B-day!

2011-06-13T20:30:00.000-04:00

Two blessed days at St Catherine's. Zoe enjoyed herself as much as anyone else, it seems.

Lord! Kaitlyn certainly captured me at my worst! I look severly intoxicated, but hadn't had a drop ~ go figure ~

And, my girlies ~ They are my heart. For sure ~

Since Da's birthday was this past week, and he could come off the island the weekend, he wanted everyone to meet him at Ms Speed's. It was a resounding success. The entire family made it (Michael, Lisa, Tyler, us, Tracy, Lissa & Matthew), plus we had Aunt Paula and Jeremy. My shrimp were scrumptious! And never miss an opportunity to see my Da.

Got three more days of work, then we have a father's day surprise for Wayne on Friday. Will let you know how that works out ~ holding my breath! Then we have tenative plans with Michael and Lisa. He's been wanting to come to the condo by boat from Sapelo, and have Wayne show him how to get around to his Aunt Pandy's at Belvedere. So, hope that works out ~ I don't turn down a boat ride, even if it's just around the corner. Plus, I REALLY want to see Pandy's house. LOL!

Oh! Had an MRI in Savannah last Friday (no results yet), but while on the road got the most fabulous news! Both gitls got HOPE for Summer semester! YEAH! Now, Fall semester HOPE has new rules, so we'll see...

Found some excellent bargins at Old Navy, Plato's Closet and The Pink Closet. And for you Pink Closet people, if you find her on facebook and like her, you'll get 10% off.

My Dada's Day

2011-06-08T19:39:00.000-04:00

Happy birthday, Da! We love you with all our heart and hope your day has been as GREAT as you are! Can't wait to see you this weekend! Love, love, love you!

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-05-31T20:12:00.000-04:00

I had a doctor's appointment in Savannah on Wednesday, so off I went. by myself. Ran some errands. Found some much needed new sandles. Hit the Kroger on the way home. It should be against the law to let a hungry fat woman in a REAL grocery store. Geez! But, we shouldn't need food/snacks at the coast for a few weekends. So, when the girls got home from babysitting, the three of us took off to Gould's. Poor Wayne had to work ALLweek, and Thursday was my flex day because Friday was yet another furlough day. We picked Jeremy in Ludowici, and we were off!

Thursday, we put the little boat in and hit St Catherine's. Alone. Not another boat in site. Which makes one wonder, after a while, if you have heat stroke, or something when you see a large floating object headed your way ~ Blimp #1 ~

It only held us up a little while while we decided if we'd had too much sun... the general consensus was, NO!

Friday, Jessica and I left Megan and Jeremy to fish and bird watch, and we headed into Brunswick. I love Brunswick! I guess it's just got a more laid-back coastal vibe over Savannah, but I'll go to Brunswick hands down over Savanah any day. We hit the Old Navy for their swimsuit sale, got much needed pedi's. I swear, I don't know what that Vietnamese woman was saying, but I KNOW she was talking about my ratty heals! Bless her heart, she earned her money on me ~

Saturday, Jeremy had left us, but it didn't detur. The four of us headed back to St Catherine's for some more rays ~ can never have enough.

Sunday, we headed for Sapelo for some Da time. He had a house full as usual, but we got some good quality time anyway, until he had to go rescue Sybil, Tammy and Tona in Hog Hammock in a broke-down van. There are tenative plans in place for Michael and Da to come over to Gouldn's this next weekend by boat so we can then lead them around the corner to Pandy's at Belvedere. Sure hope that works out. Michecl hasn't seen the finished condo ~

When we got back to Gould's, we got a text from Jacob saying they were down, and were coming to go to the beach with us on Monday, Memorial Day. We hopped up and got the little boat out and the big boat in and gassed and ready for action. Meanwhile, yep, blimp #2!

I said, "Lord! How many blimps could there possibly be in the the state of Georgia?". Jessica allowed, "Well, Mama, at least 2." Smart butt! But, who'd have thought it? LOL!

Monday, being Matt's birthday and all (happy birthday, by the way, Matt) was another GORGEOUS day. We headed out to St Catherine's again, where we met up with the Baxter's and Harris' for a wonderful day in the sun. Whew! Now, a 4-day week, and I'm headed back to Gould's for another wonderful weekend. Well, we gotta work a little, but we'll still be at the coast ~ Always good!

Kaitlyn Baxter - Class of 2011

2011-05-24T12:40:00.000-04:00

So proud of our Kaitlyn ~ will be moving on to EGA soon! You go girl!

Lisa Bunton did her cake for me -- too bad the girls were misinformed and Kaitlyn now dslikes purple (per Joe). Oh, well. She got over it. It was gorgeous and delishous! What a day!

Biscuit Toxsisity

2011-05-19T16:11:00.000-04:00

Since Da's heart troubles at Christmas, he has been swelling something terrible. All his shirts and pants are just screaming, and he is terribly short of breath. Well, I don't know who finally convinced him, 'cause Syb, me, Michael, Mary... well, just everybody has been trying to get him to get checked out, just to make sure he's not retaining fluid and gonna have more heart problems or something. So, today was the day ~ Me and Jessica drove him and Syb to Augusta to see Dr Mehta, the most wonderful cardiologist. The diagnosis? Severe fatassia, better known as... biscuit toxsisity (sp). LOL! Like us all, Da needs to back off front the table, and increase his physical activity. He's picked up 22 pounds since January. Anyway, what a great day! Smooth trip to Augusta, beautiful weather and company, and GREAT news. Da's fine! Next check-up? May 2012!

New Job for the Girlies

2011-05-18T19:23:00.000-04:00

Megan & Jessica started their new job today. On Wednesdays (and whenever else they're needed) they're keeping Lawton & Ledger Brewton, the 6-month old twins of Mark and Cheryl. What an experience! And excellent birth control, I might add... LOL! There was some throwing up, a good bit of pooping, and even some feet in poop. Yeah, GREAT idea! And gives 'em a little spending money for the summer. I'm sure this is only the first pix I'll share this summer, but they are cuties!

The Buoy Made it to the Bluff

2011-05-15T18:51:00.001-04:00

Mine & Wayne's project today ~ our "procured" buoy made it off the island safely, so today we otook our load of leftover bricks, picked our bouy up at Meridian and spent the afternoon decorating at Gould's. What a sight! It's not that heavy, just really awkward. But, I'm happy with the results ~

Successful Onion Booth

2011-05-15T08:24:00.000-04:00

It was a lot of hard work, but the girls onion festival booth was a success. They made, after expenses, about $150. That will get them movies and things they want to do this summer for a while without hitting the old parents. LOL! They are such thoughtful girls... they know how this college thing is hitting out pockets, and try everthing to lighten the load. God has surely blessed us! They start their babysitting job this week. Wednesday's only for Mark and Cheryl Brewton's twins. Should be interesting! Will keep ya'll posted ~ LOL!

G'ville Sweet Onion Festival

2011-05-10T19:49:00.000-04:00

Come by the girls' booth, #46 and purchase your personalized, hand-painted sand dollars with your choice of design ~ only $5! Proceeds go to a good cause (teenager's spending money to stay out of my wallet this summer - LOL!)

Sharing the booth with them will be Linda Griffin with her Premier Jewelry ~ Give 'em both a look-see! Oh, and be sure to have lunch with the Philadelphia Lodge! Wayne, Papa and Matt, among others you all know and love will be cooking and serving hot dogs, sausage dogs, burgers and fries!

Super Girls!

2011-05-10T19:37:00.000-04:00

Pepe is better, thanks those who inquired! He's my boy, and I miss him terribly! He's still in the hospital. The girls and I took lunch yesterday and went to visit. He was still a very sick little boy, and wasn't at all upset to be left there again. Today, the girls went by and it was a different story altogether. He was jumping on the pen door, and running around. They picked him up a DQ hot dog (one of his favorite things), and he ate it all, bun and all. The first food he's had since last Thurday. Dr Kibby was excited at a real turd in his pen, instead of the water mess we've had. He still can't control it completely, and he still weak and dehydrated, but we have sincerest hopes he'll come home tomorrow. Lord willing! Man, will I be glad! There's just something missing in the house right now ~

Well, back to the post title ~ Super Girls! Tonight I had cube steak out to fry. I guess the girls saw how tired I was and took pity. I sat on the stool and "directed" they cooked the entire meal. Country fried steak, homemade loaded mashed potatoes and garden peas. And it was WONDERFUL! Thanks, girls!

Sick Little Pepe'

2011-05-07T14:39:00.000-04:00

I was supposed to go to Kaitlyn's Senior dance recital (and Shelby's) today, but when I got home yesterday, Pep-Man wasn't feeling well. He hadn't eaten his breakfast (shocker) and had the most horendous gas! UGH! Anyway, about 2am this morning he got up heaving. The more time passed, but worse he got, until when Wayne got up about 8 his diarriah (sp) was nothing but blood. I was more than a little panicky, and exhausted from out night of horror, so Wayne and the girls loaded him up and to Reidsville they went. Steve wasn't in today, but Dr Kibby took good care of him, they assured me. He's had to stay up there. Seems his blood sugar was over 500, which was causing all his troubles. She's watching him and giving him meds to get it down and get him re-hydrated, so hopefully we'll get the call to pick him up tommorrow. I'd hate to know I have to spend Mother's day without my "son". LOL! Yeah, Wayne will get a kick outta that!

Budget Cuts

2011-05-07T14:33:00.000-04:00

We've all had to tighten out belts a little with the price of gas, etc. This is the latest development on that front ~ Now, we've always used out little boat more than the big one, just 'cause it's still super comfortable (thanks to Da), and we can go about 3 times as much on the same gas. Well, this past weekend, the Baxter's joined out budget conscious effort. Kaitlyn was otherwise occupied, so David, Holly and Joe took the little boat out. We spent the day at St Catherine's and had a WONDERFUL time!

I'm sure it was profound, whatever he was telling us ~

I love my little piece of heaven ni McIntosh County!

Wayne had to work on Sunday (actually had to attend the funeral of a colleague's grandson), so the girls and I headed out to see what we cound get into ~ Sapelo Sounds were a little rougher than I wanted to tackle, so we stopped in the Todd River for a little sandbar time. Nothing like haing acres of sand with no one to share it with but the sandpipers ~ We ended up back by the pool at Barbour (thanks Ronnie & Lynn) and played Mexican Train most of the afternoon. What a great girls day!

Frilly girly girls they aren't ~ Thank you Lord! LOL!

Easter Weekend With Da

2011-05-07T14:21:00.000-04:00

Forgive all the pictures, but I'm trying to catch up here, and isn't a picture worth a thousand words? We spent a glorious 4 day weekend at Sapelo with Da for Easter. This pic is the girls first official beach day of 2011. They picked up over 100 sand dollars for their Onion Festival project. (More on that later).

LOVE my Da!

Waters still just a little cool, but they'd found the mother load of olive shells, so it was worth it. They picked up 9 or 10 in that one spot, just waiting for the waves to come and go. Ms Mary was SO jealous! She's only found 2 in the 8 weeks she's been on the island. But, the girls fealt guilty and ended up sharing with her ~

Poor little starfish had lost a leg, but if you look REAL close... it's already growing back ~

LOVE my family! Not exactly sure what they're planning here, but I'm sure it's legal ~

Okay. Technically, it's legal. This is a bouy marker from Gray's Reef Fish Sanctuary. It broke free on it's own, and has been beached at the hidden beach on Sapelo for 9 months or so. So, being the environtmentally conscious people we are... we "claimed" it, in the dark of night, of course. It's currently making it's way to Gould's Landing where it will be an interesting addition to our "Yard Art". Can't wait for it's arrival!

Okay. This was something new. When we went to hit the ferry on Monday, this rather large vessel was in the "parking lot". It's a Princess Cruise from Deleware, I believe Da said. It makes it's way down the eastern seaboard making stops all along the way at different ports and islands of interest, and that day was a tour of Sapelo. Neat. I think I'd like to do that, in reverse. Maybe pick it up in Florida somewhere, and tour up to, say, Maine, etc.

Again, LOVE my Da! I don't think he was any more ready for us to leave than we were to leave... See you soon, Da!

Busy Friday

2011-04-22T07:08:00.000-04:00

Furlough Friday and lots to do... Wayne is going with me to Savannah. I have an appointment with my endocrinologist, then an ultrasound and mammogram. Yeah. Anyway, while I'm whopping it up, think Wayne's gonna go visit with Krista a few minutes. I know she's glad to see anybody. I think this is 4 weeks she's been in Memorial. But, holding the babies strong, and every day they're "fermenting" is a day they are stronger and have a better chance for survival. Will keep you posted on all happenings today ~

Goody Girl Championship Potatoes

2011-04-20T19:03:00.001-04:00

Got this from GuyFieri, and was delish with the exception of my crab boil bag bursting so we had to deal with the little spice balls... Anyway, I put a pound and a half of bacon in/on it, and made it the entire meal. Now, if we'd had an oven so we could have bread the meal would have been complete ~

Ingredients
1 package crab boil
3 pounds red potatoes
1 pound bacon, diced
1 cup diced red onion
1 Tablespoon minced garlic
1/4 pound butter, at room temperature
2 cups finely shredded Cheddar
1 green onion, chopped
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt & Pepper
16 ounces sour cream

Directions
Fill a 6-quart pot 2/3 full of water, add crab boil. Cut the potatoes into 3/8 inch, or bite-size pieces. Add the potatoes to the pot. Bring water to a boil and cook th epotatoes until fork-tender.

While the potatoes are cooking: in a medium saute pan, cook bacon pieces until crispy; remove and drain (I strain in a spagetti strainer). Retain some bacon drippings in the pan and add the red onion; cook until caramelized. Just before onions are done, add garlic and cook until lightly brown.

In a bowl, place butter, 1/2 the cheese, 1/2 the bacon bits, 1/2 the green onion, the cooked red onions and garlic, cayenne, paprika, sale, pepper and sour cream; mix togther thoroughly.

Strain potatoes and add to bowl; let stand for a few minutes or until cheese starts to melt. Fold ingredients together, trying not to break up the potatoes excessively. Top with remaining cheese, bacon and green onions. I lidded the completed dish to allow the top cheese to soften/melt a little, too. Delish!

Before & After

2011-04-18T19:13:00.000-04:00

Before ~

After ~

Dogs Know

2011-04-14T11:29:00.000-04:00

I know, I know. Again with the dumb animals. Some call them that, but again, I beg to differ ~ Thanks to Linda Baxter for sharing this touching story!

Anyone who has pets will really like this. You'll like it even if you don't and you may even decide you need one!

Mary and her husband Jim had a dog named 'Lucky.' Lucky was a real character.Whenever Mary and Jim had company come for a weekend visit they would warn their friends to not leave their luggage open because Lucky would help himself to whatever struck his fancy. Inevitably, someone would forget and something would come up missing. Mary or Jim would go to Lucky's toy box in the basement and there the treasure would be, amid all of Lucky's other favorite toys. Lucky always stashed his finds in his toy box and he was very particular that his toys stay in the box.

It happened that Mary found out she had breast cancer. Something told her she was going to die of this disease......in fact; she was just sure it was fatal. She scheduled the double mastectomy, fear riding her shoulders. The night before she was to go to the hospital she cuddled with Lucky. A thought struck her....what would happen to Lucky? Although the three-year-old dog liked Jim, he was Mary's dog through and through. If I die, Lucky will be abandoned, Mary thought. He won't understand that I didn't want to leave him! The thought made her sadder than thinking of her own death.

The double mastectomy was harder on Mary than her doctors had anticipated and Mary was hospitalized for over two weeks. Jim took Lucky for his evening walk faithfully, but the little dog just drooped, whining and miserable. Finally the day came for Mary to leave the hospital. When she arrived home, Mary was so exhausted she couldn't even make it up the steps to her bedroom. Jim made his wife comfortable on the couch and left her to nap..

Lucky stood watching Mary but he didn't come to her when she called. It made Mary sad but sleep soon overcame her and she dozed. When Mary woke for a second she couldn't understand what was wrong. She couldn't move her head and her body felt heavy and hot. But panic soon gave way to laughter when Mary realized the problem. She was covered, literally blanketed, with every treasure Lucky owned! While she had slept, the sorrowing dog had made trip after trip to the basement bringing his beloved mistress all his favorite things in life. He had covered her with his love.

Mary forgot about dying. Instead she and Lucky began living again, walking further and further together every day. It's been 12 years now and Mary is still cancer-free. Lucky. He still steals treasures and stashes them in his toy box but Mary remains his greatest treasure.

Remember.....live every day to the fullest. Each minute is a blessing from God. And never forget....the people who make a difference in our lives are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care for us.

If you see someone without a smile today give them one of yours! Live simply.. Love seriously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God .

Still No Kitchen ~

2011-04-11T18:40:00.000-04:00

Was promised he'd be done today... Not only is he not done, he didn't hang a single cabinet door, or do anything else I can tell for that matter. Plumber/electrician got the sink and appliances installed, and broke the glass front of the oven in the process. Will be 2 weeks before that's fixed. Geez! Will this ever end! The rest of my crowd has gone to the ball park tonight to watch Jacob & Shelby play. I didn't think that's where I needed to be... I'd hate to curse some poor kids mama out. My mood is not one to be let in public...

Kitchen... Getting There

2011-04-07T17:50:00.000-04:00

I got counter tops today ~

And floor covering!

He hopes to finish painting tomorrow and pick up the doors and drawers so he can paint them over the weekend. Then, he says, on Monday they'll install them, get the bar light, sink and appliances installed, and I can cook supper Monday night. I don't think I'll count those ducks just yet, but we're getting there!

Dumb Animals

2011-04-03T21:28:00.000-04:00

After last nights fiasco with Pepe at the dock, we left him at the condo and went for one last boat ride "around the block" (oh, and over to Barbour Island for some "rat turd" ice, thank you Ronnie and Lynn). It was so calm and sunny. What a beautiful day the Lord hath made...

On back to the condo for Monica and I while the guys went to take the boat out and get it washed. Well, our neighbor, Ronnie Bragdon, who never gets excited about anything, was running back up the dock telling them, ya'll have to go see the dolphin around the river bend. Well, it ended up that he'd called his wife, Deborah, who arrived about that time with her camera, and she and Ronnie, Wayne and Stacy hopped in our boat and eased around the corner to check it out... It was one of the most touching scene's Wayne says he call recall seeing himself borne of nature. There was what was obviously a baby porpoise, who, through whatever means had died. But, the amazing part? His mama bumping and floating him along up the river headed to the sea ~ Wayne said the baby was swollen, and had obvious signs of missing flesh, so no telling how many hours, or days this poor mother, in her grief and mourning and bumped and pushed her baby along like this. Our only speculation? She was headed out to sea with it ~ Dumb animals? Yeah, you go ahead and think that. All God's creatures, great and small ~ love them all! And God bless her little heart ~

Blessing of the Fleet

2011-04-03T21:19:00.000-04:00

The girls were in a wedding on Jekyll this weekend, so Wayne, Pepe and I headed on down to the condo early Friday in preparation for our annual Blessing of the Fleet weekend. The Howards made it down Friday night, and early Saturday morning we were off! Johnnie, Melanie, Breanna and Austin Harris met us at the Gould's dock and we had smooth sailing all the way to Darien. We got there just in time for the parade, made our rounds through the festival and the art in the park (they had a GREAT band playing in the park, by the way) before zipping through General's Cut over to Mudcat Charlie's for a little lunch. The David Baxter clan wasn't able to join us on the pilgrimidge this year due to the Onion Padgeant people not checking with us on dates, but couldn't be helped... LOL! But, David and Holly drove down at had lunch with us at least. Mudcat's was wonderful, as always, but it was bitter sweet having to leave Brother Dave and Holly J on the dock when we left... but, there's always next year guys!

On the way home, we stopped in at Sapelo to visit Da and Grandma for a few minutes before heading on back to Gould's Landing. Sure was nice to see them, and Michael, if even for just those few minutes, but I sure am glad we headed out when we did ~ The weather man had been predicting 3-5 foot seas in the afternoon. Well, I didn't measure them precisely, but I'm pretty sure we met and exceeded that prediction! Whew! What a trip! But, alls well that ends well!

And then... nearly had my heart ripped out. We had gone back to the dock to take down the curtains, and since Pepe had been cooped up by himself at the condo all day, I let him tag along. Now, the old fellow has been getting progressivly more and more blind, and my head was up my butt and I just didn't see him, but he walked straight off the end of the dock and into the water. Since his last attack, his back end doesn't swim real well, and the tide was ripping, pulling him right under the dock. Monica and I both reacted very quickly, me stripping my jacket & dropping my phone out of my pocket preparing to go in after him. And the next thing I knew we were both lying of the dock, hanging off the end, reaching and grabbing. Lord! Just as his little body, already under the floater, and his little head went under the last time, somehow, Monica managed to grab his front leg, and yank him up high enough for me to get a hold, and the two of us swished him up on the dock. Then we all had a nervous break-down. Poor Wayne, who had been in the boat, had no idea what was going on, nearly until it was over, but then had to sit down because his knees were shaking. Monica was just sitting on the end of the dock, and couldn't stop her hands from shaking. Me? Well, BASKET CASE! I wrapped him in my jacket, and just sat there for the longest time, rocking him and trying (unsuccessfully I might add) not to ball like a baby. OH MY GOSH! Poor dog must have feline in him somehow. I know he's been through at least 8 of his 9 lives ~ Love my Pepe!

Kitchen ~ Week 3

2011-04-03T21:04:00.001-04:00

Lord, bless, my Lissa has been back around, and will you just look at my gorgeous girls! Thank you, thank you, thank you ~ again!

Now, on to the kitchen... LOL! Well, we got a little color. You can't tell from the pic, but a lot of little work has gone in this week. Tedious stuff that just doesn't show all that much. We're hoping for the rest of the color, flooring and cabinet doors, drawers and handles this week, then counter tops, sink and bar light the next and we're done... keep checking back for progress ~ Oh, and I'm still on the hunt for the elusive "perfect valances"! LOL!

What a happy birthday!

2011-03-30T11:48:00.000-04:00

Yesterday made 41... yeah. Well, what can you do? The alternative is out of the question, so I guess the numbers will just keep climbing ~ Started my day with Wayne and the girls singing me happy birthday and presenting me with some new Reefs (Yay!), then on to work, where the birthday wishes continued to pile in through the day. I LOVE Facebook! I know, I know, some condem the evil that is knowing everyone's business, etc. But, for me, it's the ipitome of the social network. I feel so loved from all the warm wishes, etc. Just absolutely made my day ~

Wayne wasn't able to be in town for lunch, so had that on my own, but that's okay. Don't get but 30 minutes anyway. When I got home, Tonya stopped by with a beautiful birthday cake she had made FROM SCRATCH. Her first attempt in her 41 years, and may I say a resounding success. It was a wonderful pound cake (my favorite) decorated beautifully with a giant frog (since that was my childhood nickname). Sad to say, I failed to get a pic before we tore into it. If it's still semi-intack tonight, I'll see what I can do with a "remainder shot". LOL!

Then we headed over to the Baxter's where we were fixed the most delishous steak & trimmings meal. Joe had even baked a pound cake. Yeah, we ate some of both cakes... your birthday only comes once per year, after all. LOL! It was so wonderful to have real food (not restaurant fare)! We're on week 3 of the remodel, and I think everyone is sick to death of the restaurants in Glennville. Megan actually teared up when I told her Monday night that Ms Holly was cooking for us on Tuesday. Sad ~

Anyway, began my 41 year, and am loving life, love, family and friends. Thanks to everyone for making my day special!

Kitchen - Week 2

2011-03-27T17:32:00.004-04:00

Coming along nicely! I've quit coming home at lunch every day, so that I have a bigger "ta-da" in the afternoon. I'm so loving it! Wayne and I went into Brunswick on Saturday and picked up the sink and faucet, door and drawer pulls and the bar light. Can't wait for it all to go in. We've gone back and too on floor coverings from snap-down to linoleum, finally ending up with some new hybrid vinyl/linoleum cross-breed. Glen wasn't in when I was picking, so I knew I was running the risk of him coming back with some ridiculous price, breaking my heart and forcing me to choose again. But, when we found this floor covering... the heavens opened and the angels sang. LOL! Well, maybe a bit dramatic, but it is "THE ONE". Well, long story short, Glen didn't break my heart, they ordered it, it came in the next day and should go down this Wednesday. Looking for a GREAT re-modeling week ~

Eve Needs a Beat-Down

2011-03-24T18:16:00.000-04:00

Just saying ~ all my female friends out there will agree. If I make it to heaven, Eve is in for one more beat-down. Doctor's appointment today. Another medication for 10 days, then an ultrasound to see what's going on. They even did a pregnancy test on me today (didn't share that with Wayne, LOL!) No one would have to worry about me then, you could all come see me... on visitation day at Charter by the Sea ~

I'm So Confused

2011-03-23T19:34:00.000-04:00

How will I ever build my house at the coast? All we're doing is re-modeling he kitchen, and I'm so stressed and confused... How will I know this will go with that? With a remodel, there's the mess, but I'm used to mess. It's the decisions that are killing me!

Just one more ~

2011-03-21T18:24:00.001-04:00

Kitchen - Week 1

2011-03-20T20:54:00.002-04:00

FINALLY ~ Coast weather!

2011-03-20T20:49:00.000-04:00

Hey, Stacy will be proud... an outside light! Took some doing, but it's up and functioning well. Pepe' appreciates it for his nightly potty trips, for sure.

It's still so cool to me having an address and phone number in McIntosh County... It's the little victories that make life worth living ~

And last, but not least... we had SUPER high tides this week, full moom and all ~ This is the view from roughly what will be our living room. Some day ;-)

St Patty's on the Bluff

2011-03-20T20:42:00.000-04:00

What a GLORIOUS St Patty's celebration at Shellman Bluff!

A large time was had by all, thats for sure! Uncle Gary & Linda came down with the model A, too. Hopefhilly this will become an annual event for them, too. Well, not if they keep taking advise from Ronnie Shoe and the Hillbillies ~ LOL!

Had to leave early and head on down to Fleming for Johnny Harris' (not the restaurant) 50th birthday bash, good food, great friends ~ then back to the condo for a lazy Sunday. Sure am glad the weather's warming up!

Let the Work Begin

2011-03-20T20:28:00.000-04:00

This is my poor tiny, little one-woman kitchen ~ BEFORE ~

Let the re-modeling BEGIN ~

Thanks, Lissa!

2011-03-20T20:25:00.000-04:00

My Lissa has been by again, and what a beautifiul blog I do have... now. Love the new pics of the girlies! Thanks, girl!

Siblings

2011-03-08T18:26:00.000-05:00

I don't think I had a true sibling relationship growing up. I didn't get brothers until I was 11 years old. After that point, I can trully say, we got along famously, I think. There are some days, and seems like more often than not, that my girls act like they trully can't stand the sight of each other. Now, I know it's different with twins, especially since they still live in the same house, and travel to school together every day, and are in all the same classes with each other. But, folks, you just have no idea the pure venom that pours from their mouths. I don't get it. We keep trying to tell them they will one day regret the things they say to each other, and the distance they are placing between them. God has no greater gift than a sibling. A true friend that will always be there, no matter where life takes you. Please help me in prayers for my girls and their relationship ~ they need it!

Here we are again ~

2011-03-03T03:27:00.000-05:00

It's 3:24 am, and here I sit at this darn computer again. Pepe' woke me up to go out about 12:45, and that was that. I accidentally tripped and hit the switch to my brain, and not I can't shut it back down. Too, too much going on in there. Afraid it's going to be another long day. Oh, well. It should end nicely. Supposed to meet up with the Baxters and Howards to make a run to Mudcat Charlie's for supper to celebrate Stacy's birthday earlier this week, and if we can work it out for Wayne to have a ride back to the coast on Friday, me and the Pep Man are going on down to the condo tonight. Excited at the prospect of spending some time with Da and Papa at the Masonic camp clean-up this weekend, and would be really nice to spend the day with Pepe and my book on my bluff... we'll see how it pans out~

Cheesers

2011-03-02T07:20:00.000-05:00

I love my brother & sister-in-law! From the nutty looks in this picture, I'm not sure just why... LOL! But, I do!

Blessings ~

2011-03-01T07:18:00.001-05:00

‎1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

16 Rejoice always,
17 pray without ceasing,
18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

This message just really hit me this morning, and made me realize He has made me this way. I typically have a very happy, positive, thankful and reflective personality. I find joy in the little things, don't hesitate to stop, drop and pray, and am so very thankful for the life God has given me, my family and friends, a rewarding job, and the opportunity to share in the glorious world He created. Live life to the fullest, every day ~ for this is His plan.

Thanks, Lissa!

2011-02-28T19:03:00.000-05:00

I had made a very lame attempt at giving my blog a make-over for St Patty's Day. When low an behold my Lissa sweeps in to save the day ~ Thanks, Lissa! You keep me looking fresh!

Well, Wayne's gone to lodge, and will be late. I think me and Pepe' are gonna take a Tylenol PM & go to bed early. Just not feeling very well and hoping some sleep will do the trick. Later ~

Super Sunday

2011-02-27T21:42:00.001-05:00

Sold my Costa sunglasses yesterday, so was on the hunt for a new pair pretty seriously. We hit the hilltop, but their selection wasn't great, and was much hindered by the having to open each and every box to see what was in it. The girls had never really bought themselves anything with their graduation money (they deposited most of it in their bank account), and Jessica had decided she wanted a pair of Costas, too. And we had some returns to make in Savannah, so off we went.

Bass Pro, even though higher priced that Hilltop, has a wonderful selection, and we had the most patient and helpful sales girl. All three of us girls came out with new Costas, and boy am I happy with mine! We hit Firehouse for lunch, ran into Johnny, Melanie, Brianna and Austin, and had a good visit. Can't wait to get back to St Catherine's with them on a regular basis. Then we hit Hancock for some zippers for various repair jobs we have been putting off, Dillard's to make a return and Holister to make another return. Didn't take long. Then we came back out to the Dollar Tree at 204, and hit the mother load for St Patty's hats and decor for only $1 each! Proud of that I am! Now, we have our beads, hats and decor ready ~ Can't wait!

We had hit our last straw with Spooky this morning after Wayne and Megan had spent 3 hours washing and detailing vehicles yesterday only to find her camped out on my hood this morning. And Pooh graciously agreed to adopt her. So, when we got in for Savannah, we "boxed" Spooky up, and trecked her to her new home. Hopefully she'll stay put. She seemed to be okay with it. The Pearce's had invited us to have supper, and boy was it wonderful! Both the food and company ~ we sure need to do that more often.

Back home now, everyone bathed, even Pepe, and getting ready for a new week. This will be a short one for me, as I'll be headed to the condo 'bout Thursday night, I hope, for a long weekend. It's clean-up weekend at the Masonic Camp, so should be lots of folks to visit with ~ Ya'll have a good week!

Insomnia

2011-02-26T06:17:00.001-05:00

Technically, I don't guess you can call it insomnia. I've just been up since, oh, about 4am. I've played on Facebook (and found some other non-sleepers). I've read up on all my blogs, and even read some new ones from folks I don't even know. I'm getting tired now, so it's gonna be a LONG day. My nephew is coming for a short visit at 9:30, so must be up for that. Jessica has plans with Playa Paul. I think Wayne and Megan may go fishing at the lake (watch out Chick!). 'Course then we're to be at Cheryl's at 6pm for a Weitman thing. Well, maybe Durrence... JR is home, and they're having a cook. I'd planned on a trip to Harvey's for some groceries, but me and Pepe' may just have to sneak a nap in there somewhere ~

I'm Gonna Do Better ~ Promise

2011-02-23T09:22:00.001-05:00

Okay, I've been chastised by the last person... LOL! I'm going to do better. Crackbook has/had consumed me, but I've quit farming and Mafia-ing. All I have left is treasure hunting and Zuma, so I have more computer time. How very sad. I've also got to try to get my blog page updated. Mr Snowman is kinda sad, and makes me gloomy just thinking about the long, cold winter we have had. Lord, I'm ready for SPRING!

Lots of stuff going on around here ~ Da is back on the island, and actually went (officially) back to work this past Monday. God has surely blessed us through that ordeal, and I thank Him every day for that. The girls are back in school, and doing well. They are on track for picking up HOPE beginning Summer, I hope, and my wallet will be a LOT better off for it. Providing our new Gov doesn't kill HOPE or something crazy. He is talking about limiting it, so we'll see. Wayne finally caved in and saw a doctor for his shoulder, and again was diagnosed as still having frozen shoulder. He went, oh, about 10 years ago now, and that was the verdict. They gave him a cortizone shot then, and prescribed physical therapy, but he still had "Superman Syndrome", and didn't follow through. So, now, he got another cortizone shot, and is doing therapy twice a week, so hopefully they'll get him fixed, or at least improve his range of movement and reduce the pain. Men...

I'm loving my move to the Glennville office (happened in Oct). I changed my work schedule so that I go in at 7:30, take 30 mins for lunch, and work until 5, but I have OFF every other Friday. And with the continuing furloughs, I actually only work about 1 Friday a month. YEAH ME! And with the weather warming up, I'm seeing I'm really gonna LOVE being able to head to the condo on Thursday nights, and having an extra day most every weekend. I also love being able to go home at lunch for a few minutes. Pepe' gets a mid-day pee-pee (which is always good), and I can move clothes in the laudry, etc. It's been really nice. I've also enjoyed the lunch options, and REALLY enjoyed getting to go to lunch with friends more regularly. It's just been a great thing all around.

Last weekend, we spent out first weekend at the condo of the New Year. With the heat supply we have, the nights must stay above 40ish to keep us from freezing, and this was the first weekend we've had like that through this horrible winter. Oh, it was wonderful! We put the little boat in and went for a ride ~ we made the circuit out the Barbour River, into the South Newport, out past St Catherine's, back through Sapelo Sound and back into the Barbour River. The sun was shining bright, and the water was calm, and it was the best day we've had since, oh, I don't know... when we loaded Da in Papa's truck to bring him home from Augusta. It was great! We came back in, and picked up some limbs around the lot, and got the fire pit going. On my Fridays off, I've picked a project to work on. One of my projects was cleaning out the desk at home, which left a LOT of stuff that needed shredding/burning. We made it through about half the stack with plenty left for another day. I think we've decided the girls and I have a little pyromaniac in us. We REALLY like to burn stuff... Well, they say admission is the first step to acceptance and healing? LOL! Sunday was a bit breezier, so we got the boat out and cleaned up, then met up with Holly & Kaitlyn to help take some Senior pictures. She just kind of had a dry run to get some ideas of what she liked and wanted to do differently, so there will be more picture days, I'm sure. She also wants to make a trip to Sapelo for some there, so look out Da. We're invading again ~ I'm so very glad the coast season is upon us again, and can't wait to share our place with our family and friends, and hope beyond hope they'll all come and be with us some.

We're ready for the St Patrick's Day celebration at Shellman. We have a 50 pound box of beads standing at the ready, and we all have our St Patty's crazy hats ready to put on. Yeah, should be interesting... Wayne's not putting the truck in the car show this year he says. He's decided that until he decides and joins a club, he'll always be "out" of the loop, so why bother with them. But, he is driving it down so we'll have it for the parade. So, look for us and we'll look for you ~ we've got the beads, and will have the candy by then. Can't wait - such fun! Oh, and Craig Wilkinson wil be performing at the festival this year, and just found out that Chris Moore will be singing with him. So, gotta get a time so I can catch that show.

Anyway, this got kinda long, huh? Well, had to catch up... I'm gonna do better, I promise, and am so proud of my other blogging buddies for keeping theirs going. Kylie has re-joined the group, and I can't wait to get some more B&E. Those girls are a riot! Welcome back, Kylie! We're so very proud of you (for multiple reasons)! He will not put more on you than you can handle and which will make you stronger. Any-whoo... catch you later!

Christmas Blessing

2010-12-27T21:57:00.001-05:00

We were ready for Christmas. The decorations were up. The gifts were wrapped. Little did we know we didn't need any of it. LOL! We have yet to give the first gift from under the tree, but boy did we ever get the greatest one of all...

It all started with a simple trip for daddy and Sybil to Thomson (about 20 minutes west of Augusta) to visit with Paula, Brian and Shelley, Mikey and Sammie. They were just going to stay overnight, then come on back to Glennville for the holidays. They arrived kinda late Sunday, ate and went on to bed after some short visiting, thinking they'd get up Monday and have a good visit, then head on back south. God had a different plan. Da had this "spell", you see, where his heart just started slowing down until he passed out, then it would stop. Thank God Mikey was there, who has some EMT training from the military, and got him back around and Brian, who is a hospital administrator, and knows more than a little about the system, and could tell the ambulance driver which hospital he needed to go to, Medical College of GA, straight away.

Monday was kind of a blur, what with the quick trip to Augusta for us to see what was going on. By the time we got to the ER, he was feeling only slightly better, and was giving them a FIT! Again, God stepped in. On the way to Augusta, I was finally able to get in touch with Uncle Asa to let him know what was going on, and low and behold, he was actually in an exam room with Dr Cobb (Da's trusted advisor), so he was able to relay to him what was going on, and he sent word for Da to keep his butt where it was and let them treat him how they saw fit. Turns out, this news is what made him calm down ('course the repeated "spells" helped, too). After an hour or so, Dr Cobb left word with Sybil he wanted to talk to Da when it was okay. So, when he sabilized for a few minutes, we put him on the cell phone with Dr Cobb, who told him exactly that. Stay your honory butt where it is, listen to those folks and let them do what they need to do." Then he asked him who he thought trained him... the doctors at Medical College of GA. He's been fine ever since, in that department.

Late afternoon, they finally moved him into the cath lab and got the temporary pacemaker on him, which, thankfully, kept his heart from completely stopping again. Tuesday afternoon they did a double by-pass, which he came through wonderfully. However, his heart rate and blood sugar are running high, causing them to keep him in ICU 3 days longer than expected, but on Christmas day, he finally got moved upstairs and could get a good nights rest.

Today brought in the cardiologists, and the determination that a pacemaker is needed. Seems he actually has 2 problems. Electrical, in which his heart just slows down and stops, and plumbing with the 90% blockage. He actually never had a heart attack. The electrical issue is what brought him in the ER, where the blockage was detected and corrected before he could have an attack. Another "hand of God moment" for us.

Anyway, lots of ups and downs and struggles. It's down to just me and Syb up here at Paula's and going back to the hospital to spend every day with Da. (I wouldn't be anywhere else). We're hoping for maybe a Thursday release, and I don't think it can come too soon for anyone. LOL! Paula surely won't EVER say, "Ya'll come see me." LOL! Well, I've had it for today, and am bedding down. Finishing the day as I started it. In prayer. For Da, for us, for Tracy and Michael as they bury their grandmother, and for my friend Kelly Odom for success with her MRI tomorrow, and I know I'll think of others while in conversation with Him.

Praying for the Kicklighter/Sittles

2010-12-07T19:17:00.001-05:00

This was about the time that Justin came into our lives. He and Michelle were the apple of the Papa Sam's eye, and were always such a joy to have around. Justin grew into a fine young man, but developed way too many demons to handle. Having dealt with the same situation myself, I am praying double time for Danny, Sherri, Michelle, Ashley and, certainly, Gage. There is just no way to understand these things. We can only trust God to make things right in the end. We love ya'll, and will continue to keep you in our prayers. Rest in peace, Justin. Bet Sam has him a peppermint in his pocket, and an apple on the counter ~

Happy 26th!

2010-12-07T19:01:00.001-05:00

Happy anniversary, David & Holly! I know it's been a long haul (LOL!) Here's hoping today was as great as you both are ~

So glad David's procedure went well today, as well. His clots have dissipated enough they could re-start his heart. And it did, which was a VERY good thing. Love ya'll!

Christmas Cobbtown Style

2010-12-05T11:38:00.001-05:00

A Cool Yule 2010

2010-12-04T12:11:00.001-05:00

Turned out this morning for Jennifer's School of Dance's Christmas Recital. Why? Well, the girls & I usually try to make it. We have Shelby Anne and Kaitlyn that both dance in it, as well as other friends kids and grandkids. But, this year was extra special. David Barney Baxter was a "Snow Surfer". What a hoot! The video didn't turn out as well as I would have liked, so I'm counting on Holly's taking this afternoon. Here's some photos to share anyway ~

Loving My Lissa!

2010-12-04T08:42:00.001-05:00

She's done it again! How'd you know I was trying to change my background yesterday (with NO success)? LOL! Thanks, girl! You keep me fresh and seasonal ~ Don't know what I'd do without you!

Thanksgiving With Da

2010-12-02T11:43:00.002-05:00

We've never had, really, a traditional Thanksgiving. We usually went to Grannny's, and her not really being a cook, and all, we usually had ham, or grilled steak or cube steak. When Granny passed, we began to celebrate over at Mema's, and she would actully do the traditional thing, but then Papa decided to make his own tradition. He does down to Daytona with Bob and the guys to the Turkey Rod Run every year. So, there that went... so this year, as long as Da is on Sapelo, I guess, we have started our own new tradition. LOL! Syb came out to cook at McLeodville, and Michael and Tracy both joined in those festivities. But, Da was on Sapelo all alone... couldn't have that! Wayne and I, the girls and Pepe' hit the Wednesday afternoon ferry and spent the glorious 4 day holiday with Da.

We cooked, and ate and cleaned up. Then hit the couch for a movie or show to sleep through, only to wake in time to worry about what to cook for the next meal. LOL! No joke. All 4 days ~ OOF! I'm still full just thinking about it! We knew we weren't gonna do the turkey and dressing thing, and we were gonna have our big Thanksgiving meal for supper, (grilled steak, fried shrimp and stuffed mushrooms) so for lunch I fixed hot dogs rolled in croissants with cheese and chips. When I called them all in for lunch, I told them their turkey and dressing was ready. When Da got a load of what was actually for lunch, he said, "if that's turkey, I don't even want to know what part it is!". Then he decided they were turkey "schlongs". So, the rest of the weekend when someone would invaritably ask if we had a big Thanksgiving... Da would say, "Yeah, we had turkey schlongs!" LOL!

Michael came over somewhere along the way, and amongst the sand gnats, he, Wayne and the girls managed to get us some oysters picked to roast. He didn't get to stay to enjoy that, but Syb came in just in time to have some. I hate Michael didn't get to reap the rewards of his hard work, but we sure ate his share!

I didn't get any Black Friday deals, but I didn't miss 'em. What a wonderful holiday weekend!

Giving Thanks

2010-12-02T11:26:00.002-05:00

Yes, I know I'm late again with this, but was on my heart and something I fully intended to do. Early, on-time, or late ~ it's never too late to say "Thanks!".

I am sincerely thankful for my life. Like everyone, it's had some bumps (some ditches), but what a ride! I am thankful for my wonderful daddy. Through everything, my daddy was there. I am, and will always be a daddy's girl. I am thankful for the best aunt and uncle God could have provided. Talk about rock steady! Truely a second set of parents (for all the good and bad that brought growing up ~ LOL!) I'm thankful for Granny, Mamie and the aunts for having raised me. Oh, the memories I have of Granny's summer trips to Holiday Beach and Jekyll, and Friday night sleep-overs with the Burger Box or Hen House suppers. Mamie and her yard work (manure in the trunk of her car and all), and her nightly oranges, and yes, she'd share. Tootsie peeking around the car house to see if we'd made it home, or on her hands and knees picking up pecans with me to make me some extra spending money. Aunt Gussie's cakes... 'nuff said there. Oh, especially the lemon ~ sigh ~. And Taneen. Well, I guess the outstanding memory there is her and Tootsie squabling like teenagers. LOL! As the World Turns and Guiding Light EVERY weekday, and Lawrence Welk every Saturday night.

Then there's the cousins. Tonya and Emily were more sisters than cousin. Still are, even though none of us have as much time together as we'd like. Oh, the things we got into ~ The instigator (me), the aggitator (Tonya) and the piss ant (Emily). Papa says me and Tonya could talk Emily into almost anything. LOL! Sorry about that, Pooh! But, oh the memories we have... every summer weekend at the coast, lots of summer afternoons at the San-Su pool (that's where I became Frog), then later at Ms Esteen's Cherio with Tara and Dina (that's where I swallowed the quarter).

And along came some brothers. God gives you what you need, by whatever means necessary. We'd been through a rough patch, when this light came into our lives. The world calls them step-brothers because their mother married my daddy. That's just a technicality. They are my brothers, to the bone. And I am thankful for both of them every day (and their families they've brought in, too).

Then the most wonderful thing happened ~ I married my best friend! I guess I am most thankful for Wayne, and of course, he gave me my girlies. I keep telling the girls that what we have is very unusual. Hoping they won't jump out and start early like we did... We were high school sweethearts. I had been out of high school a grand total of 6 weeks when we got married (FOOLS). I don't know how we've made it, except for a tremendous love for each other, and dedication to our family. Most young couples, it seems, mature and grow apart. Somehow, we've managed to stay in love, and still have our hopes and dreams heading along the same paths. We are so very lucky, and I never take that for granted. Oh, and my girles. That was a surprise... we were talking about maybe getting a dog or something. Low and behold, God had a different plan. And then he doubled it! LOL! What an adventure! Wouldn't take a minute back, and wish I could go back and do it all again...

Last, but not least, on my Thanksgiving list... friends. Not that I don't count my family as my absolute very bestest friends, all of them. But, I have been blessed with some great friends, however time and daily life may have lessened our time with each other. I know, still, all I have to do is pick up the phone, and it's like we've never been apart. From way back to high school, and now as adults. There are WAY too many to start naming names (I'd leave somebody out by mistake for sure), But I am thankful for each and every one of you, and what you mean to my life.

So. I guess what I've learned through this rambling blog, is that not only am I thankful. I am blessed!

We're Done ~ Decorating, That Is

2010-11-21T19:50:00.001-05:00

Had some final touchups to do today, but the girls got the outside of the house decorated...

Tonya gave me this snowman years ago. He's supposed to wrap around your computer monitor, but his elastic, like mine, has given way. Megan recycled him to a new home, and I LOVE IT!

The outside after dark, of course...

My old wreath had seem better days. So, it was retired this year, finally, when I found this treasure at the Plunderosa in Statesboro. I just love it!

And Megan's updated tree. See, we do love her. LOL! I found her some new tiny ornaments today, and she's happy. So, alls well.

Jessica's gone over to Christine's to watch the Falcons game, and was gonna eat supper over there. Christine was having to babysit, so I can imagine it was pizza, or hot dogs or the likes. Well, she missed out, to say the least. I fried some of the girls' shrimp they caught us, and fixed a big ole pot of cheese grits... YUMMY!

Gotta go make my Holly J list now for the trip to Da's this week. I CAN'T WAIT! Catch ya'll later ~

It's beginning ~

2010-11-20T15:20:00.001-05:00

Wayne took off for Moultrie today for the car show, and since we're going to Da's for Thanksgiving (our usual Christmas decor weekend), the girls took this fine day to begin decorating for Christmas. The trees are up, mine and both girls. And, they are currently working on the outside. I feel a Wal-mart run in my future... I hate Christmas lights... just saying. Anyway, here's our start!

Megan tells people we don't love her as much as her sister... Guess which tree is hers ~ LOL!

Spookfest 2010

2010-11-20T15:15:00.001-05:00

I know, I'm a little late... but, at least it's still in the same year! We had a blast again this year. Were missing some folks, who came in late from the GMS play-off game, but, like me, better late than never ~ LOL! Planning has begun for Spookfest 2011 ~ don't miss it!

Crockpot Chicken & Rice

2010-11-16T12:01:00.001-05:00

Yeah, I know it's been a while, and I promise to do better. I've got lots of picture to upload, but am having trouble keeping up with it all ~ Just a quickie, though. Found this recipe online for something to cook at the coast that would be ready when we came in for the day, and it was a resounding hit, so I thought I'd share ~ Hope you all try and enjoy!

Crockpot Chicken & Rice

6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup uncooked white rice
3 Tblsp dried chopped onion flakes (or can use a pack of Lipton Onion Soup mix, W just doesn't like)
2 cans cream of mushroom soup
1/4 cup grated parmesean cheese
butter
salt/pepper

Grease crock pot good. Mix rice, onion (or soup mix) and soup in a bowl. Lay 3 breasts in the bottom of the crock pot, season with salt and pepper and put a pat of butter on each. Cover with half the rice mixture, then repeat with the other 3 breasts, seasoning the same, then the remainder of the rice mixture. Top with grated parmesean cheese and cook on low for 8 - 10 hours or high for 4 - 5.

I cooked on low for 9 hours, and the chicken just fell apart, but wasn't dry at all. Was delish!

Date Night

2010-10-25T07:40:00.000-04:00

The girls were otherwise occupied, so Wayne and I decided to take in a movie. Yeah, it's probably been over a year since we've been to a real theater... altered plans a little, and off we went with David and Holly (since Kaitlyn was otherwise occupied with our girls, seemed right. LOL!) We hit David's Chinese buffet in Pooler before taking in RED at the Regal. It was fantastic! I love Bruce Willis and Morgan Freeman, but, what was the guys name, Malkovich? He MADE the movie. What a nut! We were 7 minutes late on curfew and took a dressing down, but it was worth it! What a great night with great friends!

Fun w/The Groovers, etc.

2010-10-23T10:45:00.000-04:00

Hey! My Lissa's been by and updated my blog ~ Thanks, Lissa! You keep me on my toes, and with a beautiful blog! Love ya, girl!

Well, last weekend was quite an adventure! The girls and I hit the Sapelo ferry Friday afternoon and met up with cousin's Jane and Linda, and a new Linda (McNey) from the ATL for a weekend at Da and Grandma's. What a trip! They are all gamers, and we stayed up until the wee hours both nights playing Mexican Train Dominos and Quirkle (my fav), and Lord, I can't remember the others. But, what fun! We toured 'em the island, and even made my first culture day in Hog Hammock. Thanks, Grandma and Da for hosting such an event. We really, really enjoyed it!

Ready for Spookfest 2010

2010-10-12T21:34:00.003-04:00

Ya'll come! It's always a hoot, and has grown into quite a little party. Thursday, Oct 28th, I believe. Bring a snack of some kind, and maybe your favorite beverage. Caswell Street is a hot bed of trick-or-treating for those who still partake. Those who don't, can dress up and spook and scare, or just sit back and watch the show. We try to gather about 5:30 to have time to "prepare", and go until it's done. The girls have the outside of the house ready already ~

Another Great Weekend

2010-10-12T21:26:00.001-04:00

The Columbus Day weekend saw such nice temperatures, and calm seas. We had a blast. We spent Saturday making the trip around to Shellman to check out the Howards, who'd spent the week at Mema's coast house. We ended up just riding around and fiddling. Ran up on the Baxter's, and manged to root them out of their fishing hole. Well, it wasn't like they were catching anything anyway. LOL! Such terrible tides to fish. But, working folks must fish when they can, not when they are biting. The Baxter's (and Brad) came over to the condo Saturday night for a low country boil. YUM! Thanks, girls, for all those shrimp!

Sunday proved to be another calm day, so us and the Baxter's took the trip around St Caterine's. Yes, the whole island.

We stopped along the way to play with the jelly fish. "Touch his butt! Touch his butt! Ooh, she touched his butt!" (Finding Nemo fans)

On the way home, got to enjoy nature's majesty, as our Great American Bald Eagle graced us with a photo op. There are actually a nesting couple there, but she wasn't so friendly. What an awesome site!

The girls caught us just enough shrimp to attempt to fish. Check out Jessica's giant blow fish ~

Yeah, she was rubbing his belly trying to make him swell up. LOL! How lucky I am to have such great family and friends to share in this joy ~

Birthday Trip to Sapelo

2010-10-12T21:11:00.000-04:00

First, we had cake. Jessica's was a monkey face ~

Megan's was sea turtle hatchlings making their way to the sea ~

After the football game Friday night, Christine Melton, Amber Hart and Kaitlyn Baxter came home with the girls to spend the night. It was nearly 11 PM when they all arrived, and I have NO idea what time they actually bedded down (I got up at 2:30 to, you know & could still hear them). They pulled the mattress off Jessica's bed and into the living room in the center of our sectional couch, and bedded down. They watched movies and the poor boy's ears must have burnt clean off before dawn. LOL!

We were up and moving early, hitting the Queen Anne to Sapelo at 9 AM. Don't they look spry? LOL!

'Course my girls don't think a photo op at the mansion is complete without one in the pool. Notice the stolen sugar cookies in their hands... THIEVES! Those are for mansion guests!

They had some fun on the air field across from Da's house, catching butterflies, and being silly girls ~

Before heading to the lighthouse to show off the views. Yes, they are at the top, and on the outside. No, their daddy had no idea they were doing this.

Then it was off to the beach for "sand angels"

'Cause you're never too old to play in the sand ~

The girls enjoyed a gorgeous sunset over Post Office Creek behind Da's house before also enjoying some Sapelo shrimp for supper (Thanks, Uncle Michael). We had carried burgers, but Da didn't think those girls could come to his island, and not have shrimp.

Sunday morning was for girly things. They spent most of the morning upstairs chilling and "making up". LOL!

Not sure if he was smiling because he had a great weekend (WE DID), or if he was smiling 'cause he was glad all those girls were headed back to the mainland... LOL! Love you, Da and Grandma! Thanks for a wonderful 18th birthday weekend!

Happy Birthdays!

2010-09-29T07:19:00.000-04:00

Well, it's official. I'm old. Today, I have 18 year old daughters. UGH! I am so very proud of the young women they have grown into, and can't wait to see what their lives bring for them. Keep your heads up, and your noses clean, girls. WE LOVE YOU!

Now, for my FAVORITE sister-in-law ~ Hope your's is the greatest birthday, ever! You have the team to make it happen... can't wait to hear what they have in store for you today! Love you!

Happy Birthday, Granny!

2010-09-22T09:32:00.000-04:00

Today would have been her 89th, and I miss her, still, every day. She was such an integral part of my life. Always. I don't know what we'd have done without her when the girls came along. And, Lord, she loved her girls more than life itself. We were all so very lucky to have had her as long as we did. She was 84 when she passed. And she had a long and good life, but it doesn't help the hurt, still. I think of her most every day, and love to hear the girls tell their stories about Granny. I love you, Granny!

Home Alone, Mobley Style

2010-09-16T20:17:00.001-04:00

Haven't been as diligent with the posting as I once was. Sorry, will try to do better. Always the drama around here, just not always the time to document it. Will give a little health update from my doctor's visit from last week. The tumor and prolactinoma seen to be in check with the continued twice weekly meds. However, the hypothyroidism is just nuts. He can't seem to get it regulated, and it has my vitamin D out of wack. A few months back my D was so low, he put me on an an 8 week therapy of 50, 000 units of D2, once a week. Now the typical dosage of D is 100-400 units per day, which calculates to 700-2800 per week. Well, after this first round, bloodwork, D level is lower than when we started. And your body is supposed to make it from sunlight, and I've been doing my darndest to get the most I can, but it's just not working. So, round 2 is a 10,000 units daily for a 10 week course of vitamin D3, then back in December to see if that's working. On top of that, apparently, vitamin D also affects your absorbsion of vitamin C, and together they are responsible for your bone health, so now of concern is my bone density. So, next week I'm scheduled for a bone density test, just to check things out, and give us a base line. Whew!

On other fronts, Wayne and the girls have left me and Pepe' home tonight to our own wilds. They've headed on down to the coast to get a full day of shrimping in tomorrow, then we'll pass the girls on their way back for the football game tomorrow night. They're staying home to attend a friend's birthday party on Saturday, then will re-join their daddy and me at the coast Saturday night for another day of shrimping on Sunday. Wayne and I are going to make a run to Sapelo on Saturday to see daddy. Lord, I miss him, and worry about him so...

But, back to tonight. I've facebooked. I've read the Sentinel. I've caught up on all my blogs. Now, off to a bubble bath and book. Oh, sweet "ME" time!

Oh, yeah. Forgot to mention. Pepe' and I waited until the crowd had left us, then headed to the Rusty Pig for brunswick stew, french fries and BBQ sauce. Yum!

Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-06T16:19:00.000-04:00

Wayne and I went on down to the coast Thursday night, getting up Friday and getting the swing "mounted" (Whew! What a job!) before Wayne had to be on the road working at noon. Pepe' and I enjoyed an afternoon on the bluff by ourselves, just reading and relaxing. Friday night saw Tyler, the Howards and Wayne come in before the girls came in from the football game (Tattnall won, if you're interested).

Saturday, we had "an itenerary". (LOL! Sorry, HJB. Love ya!) The Mobleys and Howards gathered with the Baxters and Harris' at Clyde's early for breakfast, got a quick visit in with Bubba Buck, Bob and Harry while we were there, before heading back to Gould's to get boats in and packed and headed to St Catherine's for a great day of sun and fun.

Horns blew (LOL!) and we loaded up about 2, headed back for baths, then met back up and made the trip to the Buccaneer Club for supper. We ended up with only 3 boats, but had a party of 21 before we quit. Supper was WONDERFUL, but the boat ride back was the best. Wayne and Stacy were trying to set some kind of speed record going over, and the trip was only 25 minutes, but coming back was leasurely, watching the beautiful pink sunset, and took us the regular 40 minutes or so.

Sunday morning found us headed to the sounds for some giant Georgia whites (shrimp that is). Megan gave quick lessons on the dock, and Monica and Dalton were a quick study, for sure. Dalton even had the catch of the day ~ a nice size sheephead! LOL! We got a picture before he kissed him, and let him go. We were after shrimp, after all. We spent a couple of hours out there, with the kids bringing us in a good mess, 4 meals of 80, plus a 50 count bag for Monica. Not bad for nearly missing the tide (yeah, Megan hasn't stopped poking her daddy about that either). Plans are to hit it again in a couple of weeks. Sure would like to see my freezer full of shrimp!

When the shrimping kinda died down, we headed over to the north tip of Blackbeard for some floating. Wayne has decided that having these "boys" around isn't all bad. "Hey, boy, tote that anchor out just past where you can touch. I don't care how cold the water is!". LOL! Poor Tyler. But, he'll survive.

It was a little cool. So, we loaded boats back up and headed out. And I mean OUT. Now, I haven't been on the "outside" but a few times in my life. It just wasn't something we did. Well, one thing, we never had a boat big enough to feel comfortable, I guess. But, it was such a nice calm day, we took out. We went 9 miles out, all the way to the "S" can. When we stopped I asked Wayne, "So, is this where we're dumping the body?" Tyler got a real spooked look about him... LOL! He wasn't real comfortable with the whole thing, just kept talking about the lack of trees, etc. LOL! Well, in his defense, Monica wasn't real cool with it either. Well, she didn't mind the being out there part, it was when we all JUMPED IN! You just can't believe how clean and clear the water was. It was amazing the difference from our inland water! I could see the girls toes, and the prop on the motor. It was that clear, that far down. Beautiful! And maybe phychological, but seemed the salt content was higher. Your bouancy seemed greater. I don't know, but definately something I'd like to do again. And, maybe next time take some bait and tackle. LOL!

Today found us packing and cleaning. Wayne had to work again at noon, and Megan and I tried to buy a washing machine on the way home, to no avail. Anyway, got one ordered and should be washing again by NEXT Saturday. So, if you see us, and there's a little stain or wrinkle. Please, just over look. LOL!

Tried to touch base with my daddy last night, but he was off with Michael. Will try again tonight. Hope all is well. Haven't heard much out of him, but then again, he's had big weddings two weekends in a row. Love ya, Da!

Happy Birthday, Mattie Matt!

2010-08-30T07:30:00.000-04:00

WE LOVE YOU! And hope your have the best birthday possible. 'Course, I know, that school thing is gonna interfere... but, make it the best!

Savannah Sloppy Joes

2010-08-25T19:32:00.000-04:00

Wayne doesn't like the canned sloppy joe fixings, but thought I'd try this one I found on Paula Deen's hit list. It was so very easy and my bunch LOVED it! There was tweaking, of course. I didn't have "Paula's" sauces. I used a Harvey's brand Vidalia onion steak sauce, and Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce, and, of course, left out the peppers. But, it was great!

A smoky southern take on an all time classic.

Savannah Sloppy Joe's

Ingredients:

3 pounds ground beef chuck
1 cup sweet onion, chopped
1/2 cup green pepper, chopped
6 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 jar Paula Deen Collection BBQ Sauce
2 tablespoon Paula Deen Collection Vidalia Onion Steak Sauce
salt and pepper to taste
8 slices of American Cheese
8 Sandwich buns, split and toasted

Directions

Cook ground beef, onion and pepper until beef is no longer red, stirring to break up. Sprinkle flour over beef; stir to blend thoroughly. Add Paula Deen BBQ Sauce and Vidalia Onion Steak Sauce (I actually used a 50/50 mixture) and simmer, stirring often, for 15 to 25 minutes, or until thickened. Salt and pepper to taste. Note: If mixture becomes too thick, just add a little warm water to thin out. To serve, top the toasted buns with a large scoop of the hot sloppy joe mixture and a single slice of cheese.

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 30 min
Difficulty: Easy

Another of God's Wonderous Creatures

2010-08-24T19:25:00.001-04:00

They taste ever so good when Karen at Ms Speed's gets through stuffing and broiling them, but ever just admire a flounder? What an odd creature. But, I know God has his reasons... This one was just big enough that his eyes had moved across to one side. NEAT!

My Zoe

2010-08-24T19:22:00.000-04:00

Holly J is under the misguided impression that she has a boxer named Zoe. Well, Zoe thinks she's MY dog. LOL! She sure had a blast at the beach Sunday ~ just chillaxing!

Sunbury Crab Company - NOT

2010-08-24T18:45:00.001-04:00

We have quite a hoo-ha in the planning stages for Labor Day, and after beaching and sunning, we all wanted to boat over to a restaurant for supper. Well, I had this bright idea of trying something new and suggested the Sunbury Crab Co that I've heard so much about. Having not been there before, and certainly not by water, while the kids enjoyed the pool at Belvedere on Satruday, David, Holly, Wayne and I decided to make a dry run over to make sure we could get there before we were "leading the way", but also to check the place out and try the food. Well... I'd checked out the website ahead of time, had directions and an idea of the menu. Wayne and David had checked the charts and loaded the GPS, so, off we went ~

It was a VERY pleasant hour ride over, with vertually NO hesitations. A really easy trip. Once we got there, we weren't real sure which place was the restaurant, as nothing is marked as such from the water. But, Wayne guessed correctly, and up we went. Parking is nice, as it is at a marina, with a roughly 100 yards or so of dock up to the restaurant. Here is where things headed south. The place is decorated really cool, but that's all that was. You see, no one, nor no where could I find on the website, or the lady who I spoke on the phone with on Thursday had mentioned that the place is nothing but a succession of open porches. You read that right. Open porches. No windows, walls or screens even. Not sure how they keep the seagulls out... So, you have this picture? With no windows or walls, no A/C! Yeah. A restaurant in south GA with no A/C. Who would've believed it? Even on the water, you have sand gnats and sea gulls. But, we perservered and ordered anyway. The strawberry margarita was one of the best I've ever had. Could drink another RIGHT NOW. But, we all ordered shrimp baskets with fries, and hoped for the best. Now, the tartar sauce was wonderful. But, the shrimp had NO batter, like they were just seasoned and fried, and were terribly overcooked.

Now, I know it was 1:30 on Saturday afternoon, not peak dinner hour, and we were one of about 3 tables of customers in the place. But, good grief, it was just fried shrimp. On the way out Wayne hit the bathroom, and discovered, low and behold, that is the only room in the place with A/C. Not even the kitchen. So, will we try them again? Wayne says, "H&(( NO!". Holly and I decided it may be a nice place in, say October. Unless of course the sand gnats are out.

Oh, Corey...

2010-08-23T17:49:00.000-04:00

Here's tatoo number 2, sadly of 10 I'm told, that he wants. Another Justice League thing, this one meaning fear, and consuming the other bicep. Also, bought himself a Green Lantern ring with his name one it, not nearly as cool as Little Orphan Annie's decoder ring, I'm told. Ha ha! Then, told Megan he couldn't come with her to the coast last weekend because he didn't have any money for gas to get to Glennville. Now, mind you, once he hit G'ville, the rest of the weekend was on us... Let me know if anyone wants Megan's phone number. LOL!

Happy Birthday, Lisa!

2010-08-12T18:20:00.000-04:00

Yet Another FUBAR on Jane :(

2010-08-12T18:18:00.002-04:00

I never buy things for myself, and I've been "admiring" this Salt Life sticker for my car for, oh, 9 months or so. So, on vacation, when we came across them in Darien, and it was a sea turtle, well, I just HAD to have it. I should, however, have waited until I was fully rested to install it. Most things like this, I thought, went on the INSIDE of the window. So, just KNOWING this, I cleaned and was ever so careful to get it centered and straight, with all the air bubles rubbed out. Pulled off the backing... and READ it. From the inside. What a dummy! So, now I just have a sea turtle. No Salt Life. :-(

Praying for the Durrence's

2010-08-10T20:32:00.000-04:00

Some rough news came home with Megan on Sunday night. Kyle and Leisha Durrennce's oldest son, Kaleb, had passed away at the too young age of 15. It doesn't matter the circumstances of his death, and it makes me SICK the gossip and speculation. What matters people, is that a child of God is no longer with us, and his family needs our prayers, not all that other. Small town life is a wonderful thing. Close-nit. Protective. But, sometimes, when tragedy strikes, it seems that the gossips are the first to the gate. Just pray, folks. The family, and Kaleb needs this most... I can't begin to imagine the loss of a child. I'm not sure I could live through the heartache myself. Support them, and be there for them, whatever their need may be.

Our "Stay"cation ~

2010-08-08T11:46:00.000-04:00

We've been SO busy with all that a high school senior and college freshman year entails, and building "the condo", and everything else, we decided to have (thank you Tara) a "Stay"cation this year. So, July 29th, we headed to Gould's Landing, not to return until just yesterday. Just in time to ready for a grueling work week ahead. Excuse all the pics, but a picture IS worth a thousand words... Da and Grandma were at Barbour Island with Matthew and the Dennis G Baxter's, so when we got down on Thursday, we went ahead and put the boat in and headed over for a quick visit while they low-country-boiled. Looked yummy, but we just couldn't fit it in, as we'd hit the Mickey D's on the way out of town ~

Friday was our 22nd anniversary. We went back over to Barbour for a visit. Well, actually we watched Linda and Syb clean and pack as they were headed home. We followed them back to the dock, just to make sure they made it (sorry, Da). LOL! And, after they cleaned up and headed out, we cleaned up and headed over to St Simons for some Outback to commemorate the old anniversary. YUM!

My days tend to run together, but we hit Blackbeard for some fun in the sun, only weren't there any more than 5 minutes before we were loaded back in the boat. Seems the jellyfish were targeting that particular beach, and everybody but me was stung, Megan taking the brunt of it, I'm afraid ~

So we stopped back at the pool at Barbour for our swim. Thanks to Ronnie and Lynn for that access, and more importantly, the ice. They have a "rat turd" ice machine, and we took bags, and hauled back a freezer full, that lasted us the rest of the week. Thanks, ya'll! We'll be utilizing that particular service again ~

On Monday, we ran into Darien to piddle. Had lunch at BJ's, checked on the little boat, etc. Tuesday, we hit St Simons and wandered the Village, had lunch at Spanky's, with more piddling. Wednesday found us fishing ~

Wayne caught the first big trout. He was SO very pretty ~

Jessica picked her up a blowfish ~

Oh, and a spot-tailed bass... Not sure how Tyler's gonna react to the lip usage there ~ LOL! She was doing the Roland Martin, thank him and release him technique. He was just a LITTLE bit too short.

The neatest thing that day was the huge water spouts (aka tornado) off the north tip of Blackbeard... And we never got wet ~

Thursday was more fishing, though the wind had picked up and the fish had slowed down. We took the girls back early so they could head into Hinesville to meet Corey and Tyler for movies and such. Wayne and I took that opportunity to hit Ms Speed's for supper. Fried shrimp, crab stew and stuffed flounder. Whew~ we did have a little otter friend wondering around trying to figure out what we were doing. Wish I could have been a quicker shot and got a better picture of him. He'd move all around, peeking over the tops of the shell rakes.

We got in a lot of reading, since DarienTel didn't get our cable and phone hooked up until Friday. But, that was okay, too. I think we all enjoyed the quiet time ~

Even Pepe' was just plain pooped ~

I wasn't feeling particulary well yesterday, so Wayne and the girls went back out fishing while Pepe' and I stayed in and cleaned up and prepared us to come home. We figured we'd need a day of rest at home before facing a full work week. The fish just weren't biting yesterday because of the fresh water from the storm Friday night. Mostly shark and other trash fish, but Megan didn't seem to mind~

They even ran outside in the ocean to the number 5 can and checked things out. Think that'll be our next fishing adventure... Well, guess I'd better get busy with some clothes and cleaning. Glad to be back... NOT!

"The Condo"

2010-08-08T11:14:00.000-04:00

We've had the WORST time trying to figure out what to call our little piece of heaven at the coast. It's not a house. It's not a trailer. It's a shop, but we stay there... Well, Mema was the prize-winner. It's officially, and sarcastically, "the condo". LOL! Like most home projects, we'll never be finished, but we're happy. This is the kitchen. I have a beige curtain I'm making that will run along the front of the cabinet and hide all the "stuff", but haven't quite gotten around to finishing that little project.

Living room ~ Wayne was in the process of painting the outside of the door, therefore the plastic covering the opening to keep my cool air in.

Bedrooms ~ Yes, that is a king sized bunk bed. Not likely to find another one of those just laying around. LOL! We've calculated that with beds, blow-ups and couches, we can sleep 15 REALLY close friends. LOL! WAY more than we want to look at on a regular basis, I'm sure.

The dining room ~

And the all important bathroom~

It's not the Ritz, but it's ours... LOL! Can't wait to get back down there next weekend!

Thanks, Lissa!

2010-08-08T11:02:00.001-04:00

Had a most wonderful surprise the other day... came home to find my Lissa had sent our Trace by with some GREAT new reading material. I've thouroughly enjoyed them, as I finished "Sleeping Doll" while on vacation, and am currently working on "Twelfth Card". GREAT books. Thanks, Lissa!

Thanks, Tata!

2010-08-08T11:00:00.000-04:00

Went to Shelby's birthday party with gifts, but came home with some for me... Thanks, Tonya, for the fantastic shoes. I'm always on the hunt, and never quite satisfied with what I find. These are GREAT!

And an extra thanks for taking care of the cat and mail while we were gone. Don't know what we'd do without you ~ Love ya!

Happy Birthday, Shelley Bean!

2010-07-27T18:22:00.002-04:00

My FUBAR

2010-07-26T22:19:00.003-04:00

Oh, I neglected to mention my mess up of yesterday. Everyone had left me to go to Clyde's, and I decided to take the golf cart and pour the bacon grease in the water. Well... I drove down on our shelley point, and, not wanting to get my feet muddy, backed up and pulled just a little closer to the water's edge. Well. when Pepe' and I tried to pull off to head back... spinning. Backed up and tried again... spinning AND sliding towards the water's edge. Had to get off, got my feet VERY muddy, walked back to the shop for the 4-wheeler and a rope to pull myself out of my predicament. The crowd pulled back up just as I was finishing washing both vehicles off. But, I owned up ~ my FUBAR.