Smith's Empty Nest

JANUARY, 2012 ~Mom and Dad's final week of their visit....

2012-01-11T15:40:00.000-08:00

While Mom and Dad were here for Christmas...we celebrated my birthday, the holidays, had dinner at Rodger and Pam's with their family and the Vandies. Mom and Bonnie went shopping and in their last week here, we did dinner at Cracker Barrel with us, Stef, Jimmy and the kids. The day before they flew home, we went to lunch with Bonnie at Mimi's.

Mom and Dad, Me and Ken at the Cracker Barrel Restaurant

Kenny & I

Our whole group at dinner

Stef with her grandparents

Haley and Hunter play checkers

Papa plays with Jonah

The Famous rockers....

Birthdays for Steve and Jasen ~2011

2012-01-11T15:17:00.000-08:00

Steve, Shellie and the guys went on a get away...right after celebrating Christmas with us. Grma stayed the week with us. When they came to pick Grma up, we had dinner and birthday a party for Steve and Jasen.

This is the chocolate cake I made from scratch.

Jasen likes Vanilla so I made these jumbo, white cupcakes for him!

Papa watched a DVD with Haley...in our bed!

We gave Jasen a Georgia T-shirt and Nims Island DVD.

Ken took care of Steve's present...it had something to do with HK guns!

Christmas with the Smith's 2011

2011-12-30T14:03:00.000-08:00

The day after Christmas...we celebrated with the Smith clan. We had a ham dinner with all the trimmings and then started opening presents. It was a fun evening of good food and company. Steve, Shellie and the boys ( and Grma) spent the night with us because they were off on a vacation the next morning and Grma stayed the week with us.

Christmas at our house...2011

2011-12-30T13:32:00.000-08:00

We celebrated our Christmas "Eve" on the 25th. We dressed in our PJs and had a pajama party! We made homemade pizzas, the kids opened their stockings from Nana & Papa...and then we opened our gifts. Jonah was so cute being one of Santa's helpers...handing out the gifts! The kids got bean bag chairs, and the boys had a "Star Wars" Christmas! Haley got a triple bunk bed for her AG dolls and the newest AG doll mini -with the books. We had a wonderful family evening, laughing and enjoying Jesus' birthday!

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-30T13:08:00.000-08:00

On Christmas Eve, Ken had to work...so we all went to church @ 3pm. Then back to the Vandies for opening Scott and Jenny's gifts to us, then we SKYPED with them- so we could be with them! We had a yummy dinner of meatball sandwiches and delish snacks. Ken went off to work and mom, dad, me, and the Vandies watched ELF! It was a fun night.

Happy birthday to me!

2011-12-19T17:48:00.000-08:00

On my birthday_ Stef gave me this gift! It is made with Stef's, Haley, hunter and Jonah's handprints! It is amazing! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it!
Then...Mom & dad went with us to Texas Roadhouse for my birthday dinner! YUM!
The next day we celebrated at Steve and Shellie's for my family birthday. Stef and Shellie created a yummy dinner of turkey sandwiches, salads, and chips! Stef made homemade rolls! SO GOOD! I made my special white "wedding-cake" cake. i think I will make this a tradition! I am so blessed! Ken gave me the smoker! Can't wait to use it!

Tacky Christmas Party and "let's build a gingerbread house!"

2011-12-19T17:23:00.000-08:00

Stef, Jimmy and I dressed "tacky" and went to the Kidzu party! We had a really fun time!

On my birthday, Stef and the kids came over for lunch and the kids and I TRIED to build a gingerbread house. I'm not gonna lie...it was super frustrating!! The kids loved decorating the pieces but we could NOT get it to stay together! We may NEVER do this again!

Decorating for Christmas!!!

2011-12-05T18:27:00.001-08:00

It's officially feeling like Christmas! We got our tree today! It is perfectly shaped and all decorated! The gifts are tucked underneath.

A very SPECIAL trip....

2011-12-04T20:17:00.001-08:00

.....to Williamsburg VA! What a historic, fun, amazing place! We had a blast and can...not...wait...to...go...back! HAPPY BIRTHDAY too me!

A Pillow Monster for Haley! Shhhh..... she doesn't know!

2011-12-04T20:08:00.001-08:00

Haley has been so sweet to make these for others that she hasn't had time to make hers. So, I made it and Hunt and Jonah are going to give it to her for Christmas! She's going to be so surprised!!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-04T19:48:00.001-08:00

This Thanksgiving I created a THANKFUL TREE. The kids put people they were thankful for on leaves and hung them. I love it! This was technically our 2nd Thanksgiving...We had one with Scott & Jenny in early Nov. We fried our turkey in the BIG EASY and it was good! As usual we had tons of food and desserts. In the evening, we lit the firepit and had a swing in the hammock swing! It was a wonderful day! We have much to be thankful for!

Fall in our yard

2011-11-13T15:54:00.001-08:00

I never get tired of the colors of Fall! I hope I never take it for granted! It's beauty is amazing!

2011-11-07T13:29:00.000-08:00

On Nov. 3 ...Scott and Jenny arrived for a 3 day visit! We were all, so excited to see them! Haley and Stef joined us to pick them up at the airport. We went straight to the Vandie's house and hung out till late. On Friday...the guys went golfing and the girls- w/ kids went shopping...lunch at Zaxby's and eventually we ended up at the Vandies for dinner together with Crystal & Jamie.
Sat.... a turkey went into the fryer and the Smith's from Athens arrived mid day and we shared an early Thanksgiving together. Family pictures were taken and the firepit was lit! Roasted marshmallows and tons of fun was had by all! The Vandies stayed the night in the basement so we could stay up till midnight playing cards and enjoying our time together! Lot's of love and laughs!
Sun.....we enjoyed breakfast all together. More pictures were taken- hugs and love were given- goodbyes were said. The Vandies left for church and we took Scott and Jenny to the airport. They wish to do this trip every year and that makes us all VERY happy! My mama's heart is full and overflowing! Couldn't have asked for a better time together! We love you S&J!!!!

Happy Halloween...2011

2011-10-31T14:04:00.000-07:00

We went to see the kids today, in their costumes! Haley showed us the pumpkins they carved! So cute! haley, the butterfly, Hunter -the Anikan from episode 6, Jonah- "Super Jonah". Love them!!

Meet Jonah

2011-10-21T19:23:00.000-07:00

Jonah is our 3rd grandchild! He was born August 20, 2007. We almost missed his birth...but we got there in time! They moved to Georgia when he was 1 year old and we missed his 2nd year except for our visits to GA. Thankfully, we made it to GA and have hung out with this cute guy ever since! We had the privilege of watching him everyday, in his 3rd year. We have so much fun with him.

He is - a child of the KIng, shy with strangers , a very picky eater, happy, serious, his brother's shadow and room mate, athletic, competitive, silly, loving, helpful, did I mention competitive?, intense, playful, stubborn, opinionated and adorable!

He likes- anything his brother likes, Star Wars figures, light sabers, Cars, Net Flix, Bey Blades, racing...anything, Wii with Papa, monkeys, pillow pets, balls, Nintendo DS, Legos, chicken nuggets, Nutra Grain bars, his sister, his dog, Lucy, and chocolate milk.

Who knew a cute 4 year old could make your life so incredible! Jonah brings such a bright light to our lives....we can't wait to see what kind of man of God he grows to be!

We love you, Jonah!!

Meet Hunter

2011-10-21T18:44:00.000-07:00

Hunter is our second grandchild! He was born June 3, 2004. We again got to be there for his birth and to watch him grow and be apart of his 7 years! As you can see, his smile is electric and he oozes friendly charm! You want to be around him cuz he's so happy!

Hunter is very special in so many ways....he is a child of the KING, happy, friendly, loving, smart, very smart, literal, big thinker, active, enthusiastically- loud, detailed, playful, sensitive, tender-hearted, fair minded, a great and loyal friend, and funny!

He loves-Jesus, Star Wars movies, figures, and Legos, swinging, karate, Bey Blades, Net Flix, building intricate things, creating things, candy corn, pillow pets, animals, his dog, Lucy, Hot wheels cars, knock knock jokes and light sabers!

How did Ken and I get so blessed ? Can't wait to see what kind of Godly man, this sweet boy grows up to be!!! Love you, Hunt-man!

Meet Haley

2011-10-21T18:18:00.000-07:00

Haley is our first grandchild. She was born on Sept. 26, 2002! She was special from the beginning and she was born the year the Angels won the world series!

We were privileged to be a witness at her birth and to be actively involved with her life...to this very day! She is a daughter of the KING, precious, sweet, loving, shy sometimes, goofy, all girl, the BEST sister, creative, helpful, honest, caring, a loyal friend, smart, strong, and adorable!!!

She loves Jesus, American Girl Dolls, Karate, dancing and singing on the Kidzu kids worship, Drawing, writing, sewing with her Nana, baking, roller blading, playing with her friends, watching movies with her family, stuffed animals and her dog , Lucy!

There is so much more to this precious girl and Ken and I can't wait to see who the Lord has created her to be! So far... she is amazing! LOVE you , Haley!

Happy 84th birthday, Grandma!

2011-10-20T19:23:00.000-07:00

We got together to celebrate Grma Smith's 84th birthday. After a yummy meal, we hung out outside and roasted marshmallows, enjoyed the fire, had cake and ice cream. It was a wonderful evening...the weather was perfect!

Mindi and Lindsay come to visit Stef....

2011-10-20T18:35:00.000-07:00

These girls are such good friends of Stef's. She grew up with Mindi...like a sister, and she taught JrHi with Lindsay @ Heritage Intermediate School. Both go to our church in SoCal. We loved seeing them and having them over for dinner!

Let's go skating....

2011-10-18T14:21:00.000-07:00

The kids went skating with their homeschool group. I got to go along! I hadn't skated in years! We had so much fun! The kids did GREAT! Even Jonah put skates on! I didn't fall while skating...but, When I took my skates off...I fell off the stool in front of everyone in the food court! awesome!

Camping at Old Federal Campground...so close to home!

2011-10-18T14:08:00.000-07:00

We drove 2.4 miles to the most beautiful campground ever! We stayed 2 nights and enjoyed the beauty of Lake Lanier ( our site was right on the Lake) The Fall colors were spectacular and we had such a relaxing time. The days were warm and the mornings cool. We can not wait to go back!

Baking weather....

2011-10-06T14:37:00.000-07:00

Bacon-cheddar scones
Ingredients:
3 cups all purpose flour, 1 T baking powder, 1 t black pepper, 8 T ( one stick) of salted butter-cold and cut into cubes, 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese- shredded, 1/4 cup sweet onion ( or green onion) finely diced, 10 slices of bacon cooked and chopped,1 cup buttermilk ( more if needed- up to 1/2 cup)
For egg wash: 1 egg- beaten + 2 T water
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat over to 400. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and pepper. ADD the cubes of butter, mixing on low until the butter looks like sm. peas. and mixture is crumbly. ADD the grated cheese and mix just until incorporated. MIX IN onion, bacon, and 1 cup of buttermilk. BY HAND, stir until it comes together. ADD more buttermilk if needed- 1 T at a time) TRANSFER the dough to a floured surface and shape into an 8 " round. CUT into 10 wedges and apply the egg wash. Separate the wedges and place on a silpat covered sheet. Bake for 18 mins.
THESE ARE DE-LISH!!!!

Our beautiful yard

2011-10-06T14:19:00.000-07:00

The beauty of our yard in early Fall...is so amazing! This is the front yard- looking from the deck. The backyard is equally beautiful! The dogs love to be out there with us and I love spending hours in my swing chair! Notice the beautiful flowers from our planters!!!

Brothers & Sisters!

2011-09-30T13:56:00.000-07:00

Ken and I are blessed to share life with Steve and Shellie!

Haley's birthday "no-slumber" slumber party

2011-09-28T08:06:00.000-07:00

Haley had 8 girlfriends over for a fun celebration! We decorated "sleep-over" cupcakes and tie-dyed T-shirts. Mom made homemade pizzas on english muffins, and there were drama games and an American Girl movie! Such sweet friends for a sweet granddaughter!

Haley's family birthday party! She turns 9!!

2011-09-28T07:32:00.000-07:00

Haley requested the doggie cupcakes for her party! It was fun doing a "dog-theme". We did white dogs ( Sophie), black ones ( Lucy) and brown ones ( Bella). For her birthday dinner we had tacos. For her presents I made her some American Girl Doll clothes, 2 outfits with matching doll outfits , 2 AG books and Ivy, the American Girl Doll that is Julie's friend! We had a very fun evening...celebrating our very sweet granddaughter!

Haley's latest creations!

2011-09-20T11:15:00.001-07:00

How cute are these "monster-pets" as she calls them? She is amazing and I am so proud of her!

Camping on Tybee Island

2011-09-17T07:28:00.000-07:00

Ken and I were so excited to visit Tybee Island, for the first time! We were also excited to be taking the trailer out again , for what really was the first REAL camping trip. It was a 6 hour drive , through Savannah to get to Tybee. Along the way there were marshes on each side.

The campground was nice with tons of trees. The only problems we had were the heat and humidity! We didn't realize it would be so bad this late in the year! Also, The Island is not very "dog-friendly". So, we couldn't walk on the beaches or on the pier. Bummer!

We were happy to have visited there. We'll come back in the winter!

Haley sews a baby doll...

2011-09-17T07:03:00.000-07:00

Haley's little baby doll she created during our sewing lessons! She is doing such a great job!

School at Home....

2011-09-17T06:57:00.000-07:00

Haley, Hunter and Jonah are homeschooling this year! They are loving it! Here, Haley decides she is Jonah's teacher! Hummm...I see a teacher in the making! Apparently, homeschooling allows Jonah to go to school in his undies! heehee

Our 2nd Braves game....

2011-09-03T17:19:00.000-07:00

We had a fun "date " to Turner Field to see the Braves play Washington. Ken and I always have fun at the ballpark! The weirdest thing happened....the super annoying guy that sat behind us at the last game ( 2 weeks ago) sat RIGHT behind us again, at this game! What are the odds of that?

Karate belt test for the Vandies!

2011-09-03T17:10:00.000-07:00

Ken & I got to watch as the Vandies (minus Jonah) got their next belt. We had the privilege of hangin with Joe Joe. He LOVED his DS! Hunter was so cute and did very well with his kicks and board breaking. Haley did well, too. She is so dialed in and she also did kicks and broke a board. Stef and Jim did their thing too! What a cute karate family!

Sewing lessons for Haley! Project #1

2011-09-03T16:42:00.000-07:00

Haley is learning to sew! She is so loving it! I am teaching her as a part of her home schooling. It is so wonderful to share this with her. She picked a cute monkey pillow pet to make for her first project! Haley did ALL of the cutting, pinning, sewing and stuffing, herself! I am so proud of her! Look how cute it turned out!

Quilting again....

2011-09-03T07:51:00.000-07:00

I finally feel like I'm in a place, with this move, that I can do some stuff I used to do....like quilting! Don't really understand why some things take longer to "come back and feel right again". Anyway, I have enjoyed this project and have another baby quilt to make after this one. Check out my view! I LOVE sewing in my dining room and gazing on my beautiful front yard!

Jaemor Farms with Mom & Dad

2011-08-24T08:58:00.001-07:00

We had a fun time visiting Jaemor Farms ... The fresh veggies and fried pies, ice cream and syrups are delish!

Jonah's 4th Family birthday party!

2011-08-23T18:59:00.001-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the cutest 4 year old, Jonah! We had his family party on sunday and what a fun time! Great grma and grpa were there, the Smith's from Athens, Pam, Rodger and Brooklyn too! There was a CARS 2 theme featuring MATER! The presents reflected the other love of Jonah's right now....Star Wars! Spaghetti and meatballs, 2 salads, cantaloupe, garlic bread rounded out the meal! Jonah....can't believe you are 4!!

Jonah's party at the park with his friends!

2011-08-23T18:49:00.001-07:00

Jonah turned 4 on August 20th. He and his friends gathered at the park for games, fun, snacks and cupcakes...oh, and presents too! Nana baked cupcakes with a CARS 2 theme! Everybody had fun especially the birthday boy!!!

Our first Braves game....

2011-08-16T17:54:00.001-07:00

Stef and Jimmy gave us Braves tickets for 2 games....for Mothers and fathers day. We went last night to see them play the Giants. We had great seats and so much fun. and oh ...the Braves won!

Dinner with the Smith's in Athens

2011-08-16T17:50:00.001-07:00

While Mom and Dad were here Shellie and Steve had us out for a visit and dinner! It was a very nice day! The guys went shooting and the rest of us got a good visit in.

A trip to the Tallulah Gorge and Falls

2011-08-12T16:49:00.001-07:00

Mom and dad had never seen Tallulah Falls and neither had Stef and the kids...so we made a day of it. We first stopped at the Gorge...then on to the Falls. When we got to the Falls, Stef was in charge of pushing dad in his wheel chair. It actually got very scary because it was more "downhill" than we thought and Stef just about lost control of dad! She and I switched shoes and it was better. I got to push him coming back....uphill! What a workout! We had a picnic lunch before we headed off to see the Cabbage Patch Hospital in Cleveland. Those photos later!

Mom & Dad 's 80th birthday party!

2011-08-01T08:16:00.001-07:00

We threw Mom and Dad an 8oth birthday party on July 30th, 2011. it was all family....even Shelley and Jim were here to help us celebrate! We served Shrimp Scampi, Pasta w/ meat sauce, garlic bread, fruit trifle, and mango green salad. The cupcakes were red velvet and spice with chocolate 80s on top. It was a super fun time !!!

Mom & dad arrive for a month!

2011-08-01T08:11:00.001-07:00

Mom and Dad are spending a month with us. We had the Vandies and Bonnie over for dinner!

Happy birthday Ken! # 62!

2011-08-01T07:39:00.001-07:00

Ken and I have been watching NCIS seasons....Ken got season 6 & 7 for his birthday! For his "cake" we had homemade ice cream sandwiches! What a fun celebration with the grandkids!

Sophie and Bella turn 5!

2011-07-27T19:21:00.001-07:00

This is sweet Sophie and cutie pie Bella!

Our sweet Hammock swing chair!

2011-07-27T18:58:00.000-07:00

We bought a neat swing ( hammock style) at Bass Pro in CA. Brought it home and Ken built me a frame to hang it on. I LOVE the way it turned out!!!

yep...it's a good hair day!

2011-07-23T18:17:00.001-07:00

My new "do". I went shorter for the hot summer! Thanks Monica! I love it!

Baking fun with Jonah and Haley

2011-07-23T18:11:00.000-07:00

I got to hang out with my 3 favorite G-kids today! Haley and Jonah helped me bake cookies to send to Uncle Scoby and Auntie Jenny! Silly Jonah wouldn't even taste the cookie dough! Oh well.....more for Haley and me!

A Lovely Day @ Amicalola Falls State Park

2011-07-21T13:57:00.000-07:00

Ken and I had a blast exploring Amicalola Falls! It is gorgeous!!! This beautiful park is 1 hour from our house! Aren't we lucky? We walked and saw the very bottom of the Falls then climbed 175 steps to see the base of the Falls from a bridge- with the Falls flowing right in front of us! B E A U T I F U L ! We then drove to the top of the Falls and looked out. We saw the Lodge and viewed the blue sky! What a pertfect day!

Camp Kidzu!!!

2011-07-13T19:40:00.001-07:00

PANDA-MANIA! Stef dressed up in the Panda suit..and Haley was part of the worship team! So fun! I was part of the creative team and we had fun creating a story room everyday. The coolest was the day we built a whale out of black plastic tablecloths and a ton of tape....fans and cans of tuna for the fish smell! The kids loved it!...yep, my feet hurt everyday!

Look who came to visit!!!

2011-07-13T19:26:00.000-07:00

Shelley and Jim came to see our place for the first time...on their way to Africa! That's right, I said Africa! They are going on safari after visiting us! We had a fun 2 days showing them around and seeing them off on their amazing trip! Can't wait to see them on the return trip!

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-09T18:24:00.001-07:00

Let the fun begin! The Smith's and the Vandies came together for a yummy meal and homemade ice cream. After dark, we lit fireworks in our driveway! Super fun!!

Pre-4th celebration with Claudia and Murray!

2011-07-09T18:14:00.000-07:00

Our friends invited us to the pre-4th of July stage show of Beauty & the Beast, in Lawrenceville.

It was so fun and very entertaining! We ate dinner at a yummy Mex. restaurant and then sat and listened to a great musical. Afterwards...fireworks and....all FREE!

Look what was built while we were in CA!

2011-06-28T12:13:00.001-07:00

That my friend...is a hornet's nest! Disgusting, right? It was hanging out our kitchen window...2 stories up! After Ken ( who is allergic to bee stings, by the way) tried to kill it from the kitchen window...only managing to make the hornets mad! Today....the professionals came! No more nest! YAY!

yumminess!

2011-06-28T11:58:00.000-07:00

We tried a new recipe....Balsamic Chicken Sandwiches! They were so good! Thanks Louise, for the recipe! We'll be making this again!

Beautiful sunset after a summer rain!

2011-06-28T11:55:00.001-07:00

Good times with 3 sweethearts!

2011-06-24T19:42:00.001-07:00

Stef & Jim are finally getting away for their 11 th anniversary. They headed for Tybee Island and we got 3 cute kids! I bought some old "new movies" and we went to see Cars 2 that opened today. Our first day we watched..Beethoven 1 & 2 and Where the Red Fern Grows. First we laughed...the Beethoven's were so funny. Then...we watched both dogs die in Where the Red Fern Grows! Awesome! The kids set up their beds in the den and watched some Sponge Bob till they fell asleep.

Today we saw Cars 2 and loved it! The kids have been wonderful. Ken had to work tonight so it's a sleep over in the living room tonight. We watched Nim's Island which seemed like it might follow the whole "death" theme from the night before...but NO! It was super cute with a happy ending! YAY! Oh ya....DQ was enjoyed too!

Back to the real world....

2011-06-24T19:29:00.001-07:00

Our first week back from SoCal was pretty interesting! We were so happy to see the kids, G kids of course! We also loved seeing our furry kids! Bella the princess and Sophie the cuties pie! Our garden went crazy and we harvested some great stuff and ....much to our dismay, we discovered this HUGE hornet's nest hanging on our roof! YIKES! CALL THE PROS!

Vacation to SoCal

2011-06-19T19:29:00.001-07:00

We drove the I- 40 and in 2 1/2 days we crossed into California! We spent the first night in OK City...then night 2 in Williams! We saw so many special friends....Scott and Jenny and their new place, Scott's work place, The Flipside family, mom and dad. We stayed with Larry and Louise- you guys are the best! We went to an angel game ( they lost) but the fireworks were great! Loved being in Angel Stadium with Scott & Jenny, Palmers, Murdocks!!

We ate in our favorite places...Tio's, In N Out, Vince's, The Parrot, Mongolian BBQ, Golden Spoon, The torta sandwich place-YUM!, Del Taco, yes... Carl's Jr.

Thank you all for making time to spend with us! We love you all and miss you already!

We left early in the morning and took I-15 to I -70. The scenery was beautiful but the weather got scary! Eventually came home by way of 1-40. We had a blast...but it's great to be home!

Until next year......

Katie's visit Days 2 & 3

2011-06-04T16:54:00.001-07:00

Day 2 ...I took her to see Lake Lanier, then we went to Hunter's birthday party! He had so much fun with his friends! Day 3.... we saw Chateau Elan and had yummy Ice cream at Mayfield Dairy! Thanks Katie for coming to visit! I loved seeing you and having you see my corner of the world!

Katie comes to visit!

2011-06-04T16:29:00.000-07:00

Katie came to visit me and stayed 3 days! We had such fun being together and seeing the sights. The first day I took her to Tallullah Gorge "look-out" and Falls. We explored the North country and had a fun lunch in Cleveland at the Creekside Deli. Then we stopped at the Cabbage Patch Hospital! There we saw a "baby" be born from the patch. It was cute.

YIKES!

2011-05-31T10:28:00.000-07:00

This morning, Ken spotted this 5 ft King snake in our driveway! I hate reptiles!!!!

Hunter's 7th birthday! Family party!

2011-05-31T10:16:00.000-07:00

The theme for Hunt's party was Kung Fu Panda! I made panda cupcakes and we had a family dinner of burgers , pasta salad, chips, fruit, veggies and dip. It was a fun time of food, family and presents! We love you- our 7 year old Hunt- man!

Memorial Day swimming at Pam & Rodger's

2011-05-31T10:05:00.001-07:00

It has been scorching hot here...in the 90s. It was so nice to go swimming and have lunch at the Mc Elrea's. Haley and Hunter did great in the water thanks to their swimming lessons last summer! Jonah, however, screamed and was really afraid of the water. Yep...he's getting lessons this summer!

The newest craze...Bey Blades

2011-05-31T10:00:00.001-07:00

Jonah , Hunter and Haley are really enjoying the spinning tops called "Bey Blades" Here Jonah is spinning his in the Bey Blade area! Such fun!

Bathroom make-over complete!!!

2011-05-26T09:33:00.000-07:00

The only room in our house that wasn't my taste was this bathroom. I have been wanting to re-do it since we moved in! I FINALLY got to it! I LOVE the way it turned out.The very old fashioned blue flowered wallpaper was taken off and I painted the walls Gobe Desert ( taupe with green under-tones) It looks very elegant!

Our 1st camping trip in our tent trailer!

2011-05-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

We packed up and headed for Jenny's Lake Campground. It is only 1 hour away from home! It is so beautiful! This ended up to be a very MEMORABLE trip. The short version is... Ken came home from work with a bad cold....he was on short sleep....we forgot to pack most of our camping stuff...had to buy stuff from Walmart... propane leaked so we couldn't cook or have hot water! If something could go wrong...it did! We packed up the next morning and went home. The trailer propane was fixed that day and we packed all our camping stuff in the trailer when we got home! Now...we are ready for our next trip!

Haley's last day of 2nd grade

2011-05-25T17:10:00.000-07:00

Haley had an end of the year party and I got to go! She requested star sugar cookies for her party. Haley got 3 awards and we were so proud of her! Bye-bye, 2nd grade!!!

the Vandies new fence

2011-05-25T17:03:00.001-07:00

Ken helped Jimmy build this new fence for the backyard. It turned out great! Don't you just love their backyard? The trees are so pretty!

Shellie's birthday and Mom's Day part 2!

2011-05-16T13:03:00.000-07:00

I gave Stef and Shellie peony plants and garden flags for Mother's Day. We also celebrated Shellie's birthday! It was a fun evening of sitting outside and roasting marshmallows in our firepit.

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

On the Real Mother's Day....we went to dinner with Stef and family . We had yummy burritos at Barberitos. I am so blessed to have such sweet children! Scott called while we were eating to wish me a happy mother's day!

Jonah loves cups...

2011-05-06T13:00:00.001-07:00

This sweet little boy LOVES to play with my plastic cups! He counts them, stacks them, crashes then, lines them up, bowls them over and has a blast!!!

More blooming beauty!

2011-05-06T12:54:00.001-07:00

My mini rose has the cutest bud! the wild, climbing rose is showing her red flowers and my peony is huge and beautiful! Have I said "I love my yard" lately???

Adding more beauty to the sitting area!

2011-05-06T12:48:00.001-07:00

We planted some shade loving Hosta and a dwarf Japanese maple to our backyard sitting area. I love the way this is coming together! I also made new cushions and table cloth!

so pretty!

2011-04-29T15:37:00.001-07:00

Our bloomin' clematis!

Latest art projects....

2011-04-29T15:29:00.001-07:00

I got the bug to paint and noticed that my Angels sign in my garden and the bird feeders looked pretty weathered. So...I scraped the decal off my Angel sign and re-painted it. Then....I jazzed up the plain bird feeders with bright flowers and colors! SO MUCH FUN!

the view from our front porch...

2011-04-25T20:25:00.001-07:00

We are so BLESSED with our home. The yard is so lush and green! From the front porch you can sit and enjoy the view ...taking in the green trees and beautiful flowers! Thank you Lord!

Jonah loves hangin' with Papa and the girls! They are watching the thunderstorms roll in!

easter round 2!

2011-04-25T20:18:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful meal .... good company ....cheesecake and presents! Shellie and Steve gave Stef and me beautiful plants. It was a fun night!

EASTER!!!

2011-04-25T10:32:00.001-07:00

Christ the Lord is risen today! Hallelujah! We celebrated with church and then...our traditional egg hunt and decorating sugar cookies! I love making memories with my sweet grandchildren!

Happy Birthday Stephanie Joy!

2011-04-25T10:25:00.001-07:00

Stef turned 33 on Sat. She and Jimmy celebrated by going out to dinner with friends. On Sunday we had a steak and cheesy potato birthday dinner, followed but strawberry shortcake for dessert. We also had fresh strawberries and choc. covered strawberries, too! Oh ya....presents too! Love you, Stephanie Joy! You're ....immm... such a ....ummmm JOY! heehee

yummy!

2011-04-23T19:08:00.001-07:00

A little taste of home....thanks Costco!

Stef's birthday...

2011-04-23T18:34:00.001-07:00

Stef and Jimmy went out to dinner with friends, on her real day. For her birthday , she got a new camera from Jimmy! I took pictures of the pretty flowers in my yard with it! Happy #33, Stephanie Joy Vandegrift!

Pillow Pets for Easter!!!

2011-04-22T15:56:00.001-07:00

Great GRma & Grpa from CA, sent pillow pets in the mail! They were a BIG hit!

Hunter's school Easter Party

2011-04-22T15:50:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of making special cupcakes ( the chocolate ones) for Hunter! He is so precious! He thoroughly enjoyed his "indoor egg hunt". Jonah loved sharing goodies with his brother and mom and dad visited as well!

Karate Tournament!

2011-04-20T10:32:00.001-07:00

The Vandies had a Karate tournament last weekend in Cleveland, GA. We went up to see them perform! It was very exciting! Haley metaled in all 3 of her categories! She earned 2 GOLD and 1 BRONZE metals! She was so proud! Jimmy earned a SILVER and Stef a BRONZE! Woo HOO!

Jonah gets glasses

2011-04-20T10:26:00.001-07:00

Look how adorable Jonah looks sporting his new specks! Apparently....his eye sight is more like his brother's than his sister's...which is too bad. Darn those Smith "eye genes".

I LOVE our yard!

2011-04-20T10:17:00.001-07:00

I have thoroughly enjoyed our beautiful yard this spring! The pansies have lasted forever and brighten things up so much....my mini rose bush is so delicate and pretty....and the whole backyard is awash in lime green and new growth! Simply GLORIOUS, Lord!

"Not so secret" Garden

2011-04-20T10:10:00.000-07:00

We planted our garden today! Joe helped, of course. We planted tomatoes, red and sweet onion, 2 types of beans and cantaloupe and cucumbers. Can't wait to harvest the goods in a month or two! I love my GARDEN sign I found at Hobby Lobby!

Ron , Vicki and Emma come to visit

2011-04-13T19:12:00.000-07:00

The Martin's came via Tennessee on Sunday evening. They brought their granddaughter, Emma ( 2 years old) She is so cute and a bundle of energy / curiousity! The next day the Smith's brought Grma and we spent the day together! Dinner was Mexican and it was so warm the kids got to swim in our little pool!

colorful beauty

2011-04-13T19:06:00.001-07:00

Have I mentioned how much I LOVE Spring here? The colors thrill me, really! From the whites of the Bradford pears , azaleas and Dogwoods...to the pinks of the dogwoods, fruit trees and azaleas! Then there's the lime green of new growth that shows up on the Japanese Maples and all the trees of our yard! Lord, I love your creative creation!

more photos of our tent trailer

2011-04-11T20:41:00.001-07:00

We set our trailer up today in the driveway...to practice and to show the family. I tried out the new comforter on the king sized bed and we opened all the windows so you could get a feel for the "open-ness". LOVE IT!

Our new tent trailer!

2011-04-09T17:00:00.001-07:00

We decided to trade the 5th wheel in for a tent trailer! Ken was really wanting a change for our "new area". We love this roomy rig with a king sized bed and a queen sized bed...two dining areas and even air-conditioning! Taking it out next week!

more signs of spring....

2011-04-09T16:57:00.000-07:00

The clematis by the mailbox....LOVE IT!

Haley learns to sew!

2011-04-04T18:37:00.000-07:00

Haley asked if she could make a dress for her American Girl Doll. So we found the fabric and decided on the pattern. She cut it out, sewed it up and was so proud of her accomplishment! And she should be! She did a great job!! I am so PROUD of her!

Spring 2011...in full bloom

2011-04-04T18:31:00.000-07:00

Now that I know the names of these beautiful trees, I love watching them bloom to their fullest! The pink Dogwoods are my favorite but I love the lacy white ones as well. I LOVE our yard and the beauty within it!

S

Opening Day Baseball 2011!!! GO ANGELS!

2011-03-31T10:53:00.000-07:00

Family Karate Fun!

2011-03-31T07:12:00.000-07:00

The whole Vandie family does Karate now! Ken and I came to watch the belt test on a Friday night. It was so fun to see Haley LOVE it! Good Job !!! Stef and Haley are now orange belts and Jim is a yellow belt! Ken and I watched with Joe and Hunt. It wasn't their night to do Karate!

our outdoor living space...almost finished

2011-03-31T07:06:00.001-07:00

This Spring we have been working on an outdoor living space in our backyard. It is turning out Great! All that's left are some Japanese Maple trees planted around the space! We LOVE sitting up here and enjoying the " nature" of our yard!

Jimmy turns 33

2011-03-21T19:27:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Jimmy birthday on our regular family dinner night. We had a yummy dinner of London Broil, mashed potatoes, green beans, yummy gravy and jello salad. I made Jimmy's favorite cake Chocolate Oreo Cake. We had a great time together...Love ya, Jimmy!!!

Spring 2011

2011-03-21T13:14:00.000-07:00

March 2011 brought the blooms out on our trees ,earlier than last year!

Ken and Jonah checked out our front yard and picked up any sticks and pine cones they saw. Jonah loves being anywhere his Papa is!!!

A walk by the Lake

2011-03-16T09:20:00.001-07:00

Beautiful Lake Lanier...just 3 mins from our house! Looks like a storm is moving in! This is my favorite spot of the Lake near us...it reminds me of Lake Tahoe...the trees are so thick and beautiful!Ken with Sophie and Bella standing on the swimming beach!
Me with the girls out on a peninsula on Lake Lanier... so peaceful just to walk and take in the sights!
Such a pretty place...we are so blessed!