The Whitton Chronicles

It's about stink'n time!!!!

2009-03-01T15:14:00.010-05:00

It's been seven years and we are finally seeing snow. Enjoy the pictures. You can tell we aren't accustomed to snow because look at Maci's outfit. You know your in the the south when you run out to play in the snow in a pair of capri type pajama pants and sperry's. I took pictures after they cam in because of the snow that was still on them.

Manasseh doesn't have a clue what is going on. He didn't seem to enjoy it as much as we did.

WOOHOO!!!!!!

Update on the Whittons

2009-02-12T19:53:00.003-05:00

I believe the last time I blogged was when Sara Kate and Bryce were here during our Christmas break. I can't figure out if we have been too busy, too boring, or if everything else we have done since then pales in comparison to the time they were here. I'll let you be the judge.

The best of both worlds....

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Needless to say I was living in the best of both worlds during their stay. Enough said.

Bayley's birthday was January 6th and there were festivities to be had. Let me just say that I am NOT adjusting well to these whole double digit ages. Furthermore, it is NOT a good idea to have a house full of a bunch of 10 year old girls and suggest they play the Wii game Disney Sing It. Not unless you enjoy 200 girls singing at the top of their lungs. Don't worry Scott, I'll be sure that you are able to attend the encore presentation. I know how much you would love to be a part of that and just for your listening pleaseure... Shana and I will do a special song just for you. Hey, dreams can come true.
Anyway, Granda and GDaddy sent the ultimate gift. Are you ready? A hair dryer and a straightner. I'll let you watch the video of her opening it.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

After that video for your viewing pleasure... Aunt Barbara sent a present that knocked Bayley's socks off. It's a good thing too because she cant give herself a pedicure with socks on. She was elated.

A couple of weeks ago, we decided to try something new at our house. We decided that each night someone different would cook dinner all by themselves. Who's genious idea was this? MINE!!!! Did I tell you the other stipulation to this tantilizing tale? If you cook... you have to clean up the kitchen. We have had chicken spaghetti (Maci), Grilled chicken(Paul), Hard Taco's(Bayley), and home made Lasagna(ME). The next week, Maci made Mexican Build Up and Tuesday Paul made Fiesta Lime Chicken (YUM). We were not there on Thursday and Friday night. At the end of each week we vote for our favorite meal. Up to this point Paul had won each week. I forgot to mention that I am taking two online courses at Central Georgia Technical college. Paul is taking 3 courses to get his Masters in Educational Leadership at Tennessee Temple. Needless to say, we have all 4 been inundated with homework every night the last 3 to 4 weeks.
Last week, Maci made Mandarine chicken and Rice. Because of the homework and all no one else was able to cook that week. MACI WON!!!! This was a long awaited victory for her and she didn't even care that she won by default. She's not competative.
Oh, by the way our 16th year anniversary was this past weekend and Paul and I went to Stone Mountain. Walking down the mountain isn't as easy and carefree as you think. Especially when the whole thing is made of granite. On the way home we stopped at IKEA. Paul bought himself a Wok and I bouht those cool little spice racks I've been wanting forever.
Monday night Paul made Stir Fry and Tuesday night Maci made stuffed Manicotti. They were both very very good. Tonight was Bayley's night and her entree of choose was Breakfast Burritos. She was very proud of them. They were delicious as well. After dinner we started this little Trivia game. We each ask trivial questions for the others to answer. Bayley is all about this game. She is studying early America and such right now, so a lot of her questions have been about that. Although tonight she through us a curve ball. She busted out some science. She asked "what is it called when the clouds let off moisture" (or something like that I wasn't really listening). Paul answered the question and he was right. She asked the next question (again not really listening) and Paul answered it again (show off) and she said "No... your so close I think that's it" Apparently she didn't know the answer either.
Anyway..... that is a quick update of the things that have been going on here in Lizella. Consider yourslef informed.

It's been a long time.....

2009-01-01T18:47:00.006-05:00

I have been reminded on several different occasions that I have yet to update my blog. And what is even more sad, :(.... there is usually only two people that read it. You know the volume of harassment is great when only 2 people can get to you enough to make you spew verbiage across the information highway.
Just a quick over view of the last couple of months. We finished out October and went right into November in a hurray as usual. Thanksgiving was wonderful and we were most Thankful for the family that God has blessed us with. The annual day after Thanksgiving shopping trip was dwindled down to just Me, Granda & G Daddy. Shana and her family had to go to Atlanta to celebrate with Brad's family, and we decided that Barbara is entirely too crazy. (We are slow learners) We waited and sauntered out to Cleveland around lunch time and staked our claim on the few items we selected from the catalogs and ate lunch at a questionable Mexican restaurant (no thanks to Scott) and didn't even have to wrestle anyone to the ground and pounce on their head for anything.
We came home on Friday evening to get ready for our Children's Christmas Play that was happening on the 29th and 30th. THEY DID AN AWESOME JOB. I have a couple of pictures to share. The following weekend was the annual Cookie Day weekend. As usual we had a lot of fun and it was very educational. I thought I might share a couple of the morsels of information with everyone.....
1. You should never take Mom and Barbara to Bojangles on a COLD night hemmed up in the back of a car. And most importantly... don't skimp on the ooey gooey.
2. I do have Satin lips and I'm not afraid to use them.
3. G Daddy is such a treasured part of the group that it didn't even matter that he dropped a whole pan of cookies in the floor.
4. And one other tid bit. I can count and Shana can't.
5. Robin is the QVC queen. Love the bowl set!!

After that is when it all began. Shopping trips, Christmas Parties, the adult cantata and much more. It was all great and very tiring. Christmas day came and went and all was GREAT. As usual Granda and G Daddy out did themselves. They bought the girls a Wii. I am soooo sore. We have had A LOT of fun family time with that present. No broken windows or TV so far.
Bayley called and told "Uncle BO" that she missed him and wanted to know if he would come and see her. HE DID. We were over at Mr. and Mrs. Whitton's when he arrived. On the way back to Granda's to see him, she said, and I quote, "My tummy if flip flopping" and I said "Why?" and she replied... "I haven't seen him in sooo long." Upon repeating that to Bo and Sue, Sue replied... "I used to feel that same way." I'm not trying to start anything... I just thought that was very funny. We later sat down to a friendly game of Mad Gab... I think Bo and Sue may need marital counseling now. I seem to remember his statement "Just because your with your Cookie Club sisters doesn't mean you can get lippy" To which she replies "I'm with my peeps" Don't worry Sue, we got your back. Even if he is a smidgen taller than me. I aint sceered.
I was able to get all my Christmas decorations and winter cleaning done on Monday after we got home. G Daddy made Paul and I chopping block/cabinet. We got it all set up and organized. Shana called on Monday afternoon and asked if Bryce and Sara Kate could come and stay with us a couple of days for her and Brad to go to an event in Toccoa. We were happy to do so. (I'm serious Shana)
I picked them up today in Atlanta around 11:30. We have not done much of anything that is very special. After supper, we decided to bake some cookies. Sara Kate has been my shadow and quite the little helper.
I have some footage and some pictures to record this occasion. For a couple of very important reasons which I will share with you at the end of the blog

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Now, 1st of all, the kids did a super job on their Christmas program. Thank you G Daddy, Granda and Aunt Barbara for coming down to watch it.
As for the great cookie bake.... there are a couple of details that I feel need to be brought to every ones attention. As Sara Kate stated, accessories are always important, even while baking. If you will notice, the bow and the apron match. Her necklace was just an added bonus. And I will have to say, the cookies tasted that much better for it.

Bryce stayed with us long enough to break the egg, but he was not on board with the matching accessories. (he must get that from Shana) Anyway, he can break an egg with the best of them.

Stay tuned for another post in the next couple of months.

All things Family

2008-10-12T22:28:00.007-04:00

This has been one of the busiest 2 days of our lives. As everyone knows, we haven't been to visit my family since the end of July. We had 2 1/2 months worth of fun to pack into two days. So buckle your seat belts and hold on. It will be a bumpy ride.

It all started about mid day Friday. Sara Kate wanted to get her ears pierced. Since, apparently, I am all things fru fru, I was elected the one to take her (that and her Mom is chicken). We got to the mall and went straight to the ear piercing place. As my luck would have it, the other lady wouldn't be in for about an hour. Never fear, I thought, we'll just go eat lunch and come back. So that is exactly what we did. As divine intervention would have it, the ear piercing place was right beside "The Great American Cookie Co." There is a God and He is good. (and so are the double doozies) After what seemed like 2 hours, both of the ear piercing personnel where present and accounted for. Let's get this show on the road. Sara Kate had been so patient and I was afraid she was going to change her mind. I have video of this monumental occasion, so I am going to let it speak for itself.

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The abrupt end to the video was do to the waterworks that I detected were eminent. She had absolutely no desire to gaze upon herself right after they were done. She wanted to, and I quote, "go home right now". After a few minutes, I talked her into picking out another pair of ear rings and I finally got her to look in the mirror. She was very pleased with what she saw. However, she still has NO desire to watch this video herself.

I would also be amiss if I didn't mention how patient and compassionate Bryce was during this whole excursion. He was the picture of a great Big Brother. He didn't even complain that every store he went in was dripping with pink and sparkly things. We did however, manage to find some kind of Poke Mon thing that didn't have pink on it and we snatched it up and bought it before they realized it was in the wrong store.

After all of that drama, we came to Granda's. Their first activity was getting fit on the WII fit, while I recharged my battery. Not long after that the kids talked G-Daddy into a "Golf Cart Ride" Let's just go ahead and get this out in the open. G-Daddy is getting to be a big softy in his retirement years. I came out to see what they were doing, and G-Daddy was sitting on the steps of the Deck and the children were driving the Golf Cart. To this they replied. We are getting our Golf Cart License. Well, I don't know how thorough the instructor could have been sitting on the side lines, but I will say Thank Goodness the DMV is a little more hands on with giving out drivers license to the public. Anyway, they are all officially "Golf Cart Licensed" ( a piece of card board with their official given name and birth date, and they are filed away in the "glove compartment" of the golf cart in case they are pulled over by a deer on duty some day.

After the golf cart ride, came the great pumpkin painting extravaganza. Not much to say that you can't predict about painting a pumpkin other than, enjoy the pictures.
By this time we (the adults) are give out. So its off to be with everyone.

The morning started with the sound of a rocket launching (which we also did the night before ((not kidding)) Seriously, we really launched a rocket. Not kidding, Where does the whole rocket launching thing come into play this morning you ask. Let me tell you. When we are all here, G-Daddy HAS to make his famous waffles. He bought a high dollar waffle maker because this one literally sounds like a rocket breaking the sound barrier as it lands from Mars. Not only is it a wonderful waffle maker it is also handy in the alarm clock department for those who need a little extra help waking up in the morning. However, he has been known to make waffles out on the deck as to not wake any the children before Granda has her coffee. This is strictly for the safety of the children. But I digress...... G-Daddy made his waffles and Uncle Brad his perfect fried eggs on toast with sausage and gravy. Yummy!

Now, the photo shoot. We always try to have Aunt Shana take pictures while we are here. I may be fru fru in the appearance dept. but Shana is all about the picture taking. Seriously, we walked all over these 28 acres to find the perfect spot for Maci and Bayley's photo op.

Upon returning from the photo shoot, we ate lunch and started straight away on decorating cupcakes. Each child was suppose to have 6 cup cakes to decorate with various types of candy. Aunt Shana stole a couple of somebodies and decorated them herself. They all turned out beautiful. After cleaning up the kitchen from that we enjoyed sitting a spell on the front porch. Although that could have happened before, I'm not exactly sure.

After supper, we cleaned up the kitchen again and went outside to the bon fire. There we sang old camp songs and roasted marsh mellows for smores. YUM YUM. Aunt Shana stressed the whole time that someone would fall in the fire. But no one did. We all enjoyed our sweet treat and laughed at each others shenanigans.

Then on to the hay ride. You will see in the video the masks that Sara Kate and Shana had to wear. If I'm not mistaken, Shana referred to the whole thing as an allergy infested bed of Hell. Enough said.

We ended the night by sitting around the bon fire again and playing a silly little game that made us laugh. I have to say, I am so thankful for a family that enjoys being together. And goes out of their way to make the time that we do spend together soooo special. Thank you Granda, G-Daddy, Uncle Brad, Uncle Scott, and Aunt Shana. I love you!!!

P.S. Granda has passed out beside me and is muttering something about, "this was the big one Elizabeth"

P.S.S. Oh and Maci rode a motorcycle. That was nerve racking.

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V-I-C-T-O-R-Y!!!!

2008-10-02T22:23:00.002-04:00

That is MY battle cry. I finally got it. Please enjoy the video montage (how cool am I) of the game tonight. We won 48 to 16!!! GO RAMS!!!! There is no stopping me now.
I'm still working on manning the camera to the best of its ability. I just might have it under control by Basketball season.

There is a girl on the squad that reminds me soooo much of Sara Kate. This has GOT to be what she is going to look like when she gets older. When you see a close up of a blonde doing the "get fired up" crowd cheer, tell me what you think. Bayley & I are in complete agreement.

ENJOY!!!!

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Hip Hip Hooray!!!!

2008-09-26T17:06:00.006-04:00

Three cheers for Bayley. The voting has been done. The ballots have been counted and Bayley has been announced the winner. She has now officially started her reign as the Student Council Secretary at Skyview Elementary. She has promised in her campaign that Bayley is a name you can trust. She has also promised to be all that she should be for her fellow students.

When asked.... "what does this mean you will be doing" she replied without trepidation and I quote..... "I don't know, but I am the 3rd most important person at Skyview, other than the Principal and all the Teachers." All us "little people" should feel proud to have such a go getter representing us.

Not only is she the 3rd most important person in the whole school (except for the Principal and Teachers that is) she is also the camera girl for WSKY. (the schools TV station) She will begin that monumental task on Monday. This task, she is a little more sure of her responsabilities.... She has to step over a cord several times during the broadcast. If she doesn't, she will trip over it and as she said "there goes WSKY"

I thought you might would like to read a copy of her campaign speech:

Good morning my fellow Countrymen,

My name is Bayley Whitton. We are young, we are free. The sky is the limit for our possibilites. As I think of each students roaming the halls, the thought comes to mind, "They need direction." Direction calls for Leadership. I am fully prepared to do all that is whithin my power to make your time at Skyview Elementary the best that it can be. So remember.... Vote for me "Bayley Whitton" for Secretary.

God Bless America!

We are keeping her campaign posters, she may need them in the year 2025.

Plant Cells?

2008-09-23T22:02:00.007-04:00

Even though this week is National Stay at Home Week, or so I'm told. We have been anything but staying at home. Neither Skyview Elementary nor Covenant Academy got the memo. Well, I take that back. Apparently Maci's cheer coach did, because she wasn't there today or yesterday causing me to have to make a trip to Covenant to pick Maci up.

If my children would let us know that they need things before the eleventh hour, all would be right in the world. This whole middle school thing takes a lot to get used to. When they are in Elementary school, they get all kinds of papers keeping us informed as to what is coming up and what we need to do. Well, that is so not the case in Middle School. I haven't seen an informative piece of paper much less a graded paper. They don't know Maci all that well, or they would revert to safety pinning notes to her shirt. She must be doing o.k. They mailed her progress report and she did quite well.

Now for the reason for this blog..... She has a report due at the end of this week. Can you believe it? She is going to turn it in tomorrow. We are so far ahead of schedule it is scary. I can't get ahead of myself. She told us Sunday afternoon, she had to have a board for her science project and that she had to have it by Monday. I got in the car Monday afternoon, and guess what was in the back seat. HER BOARD!!!!! Anyway, her project is finished, and if she actually turns it in tomorrow she will get extra credit.

She did this all by herself. She made the brownies (from scratch). Her daddy broke a fire ball so that it would take its place as the cell's nucleus (or something like that). The rest she did all by herself. I think the most challenging part of the whole thing was keeping Bayley and her Daddy out of the candy and brownies until she got what she needed. Way to go Maci!!!! Here are a few pictures. She is very proud of herself.

I am to understanad that this will be graded and then consumed during lunch. Talk about weird science.

TGTF

2008-09-18T20:46:00.006-04:00

This is a post that I wrote last week at about this time. The facts are not exactly the same, but the circumstances are similar.

Thank God Tomorrow's Friday. At this time, that is my only consolation. It is in fact the reason I will drag myself out of bed in the morning. We just got home for the day about 20 minutes ago. It is 9:43 at this time. Today, was quite a day, It started like most mornings.... around 6:00. I spent most of the day in the dish room, which I am certain is exactly what hell is going to be like. At the end of the day, I made arrangements for Bayley to be picked up (thank you Michelle). I rushed to Covenant to pick Maci and Brandon up so that I could get home, take a shower and get the Lunch Lady funk off of me, gather Bayley and have Brandon and Maci at Windsor by 4:30. I was on Ayers Rd. and my cell phone rang. It was Maci, I was all prepared to tell her I am almost there, but NO!!! I answered and the child said to me, and I quote. "Mom, you don't have to come and pick me up, I have practice and I forgot to tell you." She then proceeded to act as if it would be absolutely no problem for me to take Brandon to wherever and come back at 3:45 and pick her up. Now for a little math lesson. At that time it was 3:20 I wouldn't have even made it home by the time I would have had to be back to pick her up. I'm sure your thinking, "Shelley, what is the big deal? You could have just stayed the extra 25 minutes and waited on her." Well, you have forgotten that my life is not that easy. Did I mention that I wanted to come home and take a shower? If you will refer to the first paragraph of this nail biting blog, I worked at the gates of hell today. I was not exhibiting the most pleasant odor that has ever emanated from my person. You see, in order for us to be at Windsor by 4:30, we were going to have to leave no later that 4:10. Now here is where the math comes in..... In no way was I going to be able to get her and take a shower and have Brandon at Windsor by the time he was suppose to be there. Not to mention Maci had to come home and change into her uniform. I have never been much of a fan of cloning, but today, I would have tried anything.

Praise the Lord for my neighbor across the street... her daughter is on the squad with Maci. I don't like to ask people for help but, when I saw her walking across the school parking lot with a soft glow of light beaming behind her. While the Hallelujah Chorus was ringing in my ears, I knew this had to be Divine Intervention. I asked her and she said she would bring Maci home.

I flew home took a quick shower and was ready by the time Maci got home. Brandon changed, Maci changed and we ran out the door. I drove like a bat out of the bad place to make it on time. I pull in and mowed over a few innocent bystanders and notice that there is hardly anyone there. I voiced my concern, and Brandon said, "I didn't have to be here until 4:45."

I am sorry to say that neither Brandon or Maci are with us anymore, for I have pulverized them. At least in prison, I won't have to play taxi for anybody. OMG. I know they have jobs for inmates, you watch.... it will be my luck I'll have to either work in the kitchen or I'll be assigned some kind of taxi service.Oh well, Thank God Tomorrow is Friday!!!!!!

And She Sings Too

2008-09-09T22:36:00.003-04:00

Listen, I have been up since 6:00 and I have just finished working for today. No fancy words or clever whatevers just simply a picture of Bayley's Choral Debut. She did great. I can't believe she is old enough to be in chorus. I also tried to video the song and I'll try to post it.

O.K. I've tried 3 times and can't get the video on here. Shana I will need your guidance, since you have put videos on yours on several different occasions.

Vote For Bayley....

2008-09-08T21:32:00.008-04:00

....A Name you can Trust. At some point this month (not sure yet when) all of Skyview Elementary will be faced with a decision. And we're not talking about what their favorite ice cream flavor is. No way, this is a topic that far surpasses the childish whims of ice cream. For they will be voting on their Student Council Representatives. Only 4th and 5th graders are allowed to run for such important offices. In fact, if I'm not mistaken, 4th graders run for Secretary and Treasurer and 5th graders run for President and Vice President. But that doesn't diminish the importance of this event. For here at campaign headquarters, production has begun on the very important Campaign posters. Tomorrow they will be strategically hung in the halls as to attract the most electoral votes as possible.

So, if you are keeping close tabs on the other small election that is going on at this time, I would like to remind you that good leaders have to start somewhere. Who knows, she may be the next President of the United States of America in the year 2058.

I'm just saying......

Here are a few pictures of the posters she made.

First Game of the Season

2008-09-06T10:41:00.009-04:00

The squad

This last Thursday was the first game of the JV football teams season. The game was at Fullington Academy in Dooley County. Don't ask me where that is. All I know is it is somewhere near Unidilla Ga. about 20 minutes south of Perry. You know your in South Ga. when you are constantly attacked by gnats. They were ever present.

Along with the gnats came the sweltering sun. I don't know about you, but when I was in high school, it was COLD at the football games. I am consistantly amazed at the support the football players receive from their school. At all the games that I have been to, we have always had as many if not more fans than the home team. It's pretty cool to be a part of a school with such comrodery.

Anyway, the game started and with the first play, we got our first touchdown. That just set the mood. The Cheerleaders went into action. They cheered the entire game, and I do mean the entire game. They didn't just cheer for the boys, no there were crowd cheers that were thrust upon us. You see, if we (the fans) particpated in the way we were expected they would then hurl hard candy or small footballs at us. This brought Bro. "D" and Bayley into action. We all know that Bayley will do anything for candy. Bro. "D", on the other hand, will just do anything. If the boys didn't feel supported they were in a coma.

Well, the boys did a great job and continued to score. They won their first game 32 to 8. All that was left to do was invade Chic-fil-a and celebrate. So that is exactly what we did.

All that's left to say is GO RAMS!!!!!

Let the games begin...

2008-08-23T09:16:00.007-04:00

The time has come. School is back in session. Where most people are breathing a collective sigh of relief, I am more bracing myself for all that is before me the next nine months. But I will have to say that this year is seemingly going a lot smoother and quite a bit more pleasant. (Lord, that is not a challenge.)

Bayley started school on Aug. 7th. We had to drag her kicking and screaming. You see, she may look like me but she is her Daddy through and through. It is really annoying how they can read or hear something one time and remember it for a lifetime. Me on the other hand, when it comes to trivial things, I'm not to be bothered with cluttering my mind with useless information. I don't know how many times Paul has told me something and I've said "how do you know?" which brings the annoying reply "I read it somewhere" or "You just didn't pay attention in school did you" Well who could soak in all that stuff when you are trying to map out the most beneficial way to get to your next class that will enable you to see as many of your friends as possible. Which I guess explains the tears Thursday night when I made her write all of her spelling words 10 times each (a blog all its own).

Maci on the other hand may look like her Daddy but emulates me to the bitter end. She didn't start school until Aug. 13th. She is officially in the middle school. We went to the open house the day before school started and I was in a panic by the time I left. I was worried about how she was going to get from class to class on time and with all of the supplies needed for that class. She on the other hand couldn't be bothered with such as that. She was entirely too busy catching up with her friends that she hadn't seen all summer. When I picked her up the 1st day, I asked her how her 1st day went and she talked for about 15 minutes with a breath.

So there you have it Paul and Bayley realize the true intent of school and the need for education. Maci and I on the other hand have heard that school is very important but for more than just that one little thing called education, but because the "powers that be" have gone to such trouble to organize such a wonderful way to enhance our social lives.

Anyway, school is off to a good start. There have been test taken and projects turned in already. Maci made a 95 on her first test and Bayley has already turned her project in for her REACH (gifted) class. I am very proud to have two smart beautiful girls.

I wasn't able to take a picture of Maci's first day because I was already at work. (sorry Shana)

Family, Friends and Fireworks

2008-07-04T23:45:00.014-04:00

As is tradition, we spent the 4th of July @ Granda's. For the last several years we have invaded Granda and G Daddies house to enjoy a day of wonderful food, swimming, great fellowship and lets not forget.... FIREWORKS!!!!

The festivities began @ roughly 9:00 a.m. Bruce cooked gingerbread waffles, grits, eggs and bacon for breakfast this morning to help give every one's metabolism a jump start. After breakfast the kids got all dolled up for pictures. Maci, Priscilla, Bayley, Hannah, Bryce, and Sara Kate, and lets not forget Daisy and Woody (the dogs). After pictures, they all took off to the pool. This is where they stayed for most of the day.

Around 5:00 or so, Shana's friends Eric and Tammy and their two girls, Tammy's parents and her sister joined in the mix. We had supper and again, sat out to watch the children swim. During our leisurely time out by the pool, we sipped on fresh home made Yoohoo ice cream. YUM YUM. There is nothing better than sitting out by the pool under the new pergola with your bounce sheets (to repel the mosquitoes) all while eating home made ice cream. God Bless America.

The best part was the fireworks. We all gathered our chairs at the top of the hill and watched as Uncle Scott and Uncle Brad put themselves in harms way to provide a firework display to remember. Seeing as how fireworks are illegal in Georgia, we had to do this under cover of night. (And you thought it was so they can be seen better) I am proud to announce that Aunt Shana's life saving techniques were not needed this year. There were no children in harms way and no pouncing took place. I rest comfortably in the fact that she was set and ready for action.

I will have to say, that I am so thankful to all the troops and their families for the sacrifices they have made so that my family and friends can gather together and celebrate our countries freedom.

Enjoy the pictures..... there are a lot of them.

Life is a Beach II (with Pictures)

2008-06-26T22:47:00.013-04:00

Well, after the last blog, we went crab hunting. Crab hunting you say? Yes, crab hunting. I've always found that a little funny since upon seeing one of the frightned creatures, my frightened creatures would commence to screaming and running the opposite direction. The element of surprise was definitely not on our side. As we were walking back, the thunder and lightening started. We were quite worried about getting rained on but we made it back in time. No one got any of Nature's home perms. (I really need help with my hair fetish)

The next day, needless to say, the water was quite rough. Paul and the girls went to St. Andrews Bay to go snorkeling and were stung yet again by jelly fish. They didn't get to see a lot of cool things because it started storming. Paul brought the kayaks out after lunch and the games began. As stated yesterday, he has an ocean kayak that I have mastered (ha ha), and he has one that is affectionately known as the "stunt" kayak.

I had watched several able bodied men set out to ride the waves in only to see them flip in the midst of one of the waves. I boldly said, I'll give it a try. Paul took me up on it. I couldn't go back on my word so after a brief adjustment to my last will and testament, I set off. Paul helped me get out far enough to not impale any of the innocent ocean waders. After the second huge wave that smacked me in the face, I decided I would turn around and head back to shore. Paul is all the while yelling, keep it straight!!!. I made it. I didn't flip. So forgive me as I gloat a tad "I AM NO ORDINARY LUNCH LADY" Nikki has a picture, I will post it when she e-mails it to me. Now I know that this is no sky diving attempt like my crazy brother did last week but for me it was quite a step. (Baby steps)

We are home now and I must say, there is no place like home. Again, it rained on us most of the way home and from what I hear it rained most of the day in SeaGrove. Either way, we were going to get wet. Thank you Lord for the safe trip home.

Anyway, I'll post the pictures now. Tricky how I made you read all of this just to simply look at the pictures. As I said before, I am no ordinary lunch lady.

Life is a Beach!!!

2008-06-25T21:42:00.002-04:00

I couldn't do it. I couldn't wait until I got home to blog about my vacation. We have been having a wonderful time. We have been shopping, swimming, kayaking, boogie boarding, and let us not forget, jellyfish bitten.

We left Sunday after church and drove in the pouring rain. We are talking major down pours here. The kind that you have to turn the hazard lights on in order to let people know you are on the road. By the time we arrived (8:30 or 9:00) it was threatening to hit us again. It started raining the minute we got all of our luggage in the condo. Thank you God.

Monday it was still very cloudy and somewhat cool (if it can be cool in Florida). The ocean was very rough and we (I) chose to wait until the conditions were more favourable. In fact, apparently the word was out that the Whitton's had arrived and all of the marine life was here to welcome us. The jelly fish especially. Bayley (of course) was stung by lunch time. So needless to say, she has been very cautious when it comes to the ocean.

Tuesday the sun was out and the ocean was a little more calm, the jellyfish were are little less but the sea weed was horrible. We are talking, major sea weed. Not just the kind that is in a clump we are talking about that and the kind that looks like someone blew their nose in the ocean. Nikki and I tried to walk out into the ocean but proved to be more that I could handle. The thought of that slimy stuff touching me and getting stuck all in my crevasses was more than I could handle. Not to mention that I am more than certain that it would not be very attractive in my hair. You know how I am about my hair (and how Shana isn't about hers or Sara Kate's)

Today however, the sea weed was a little better in some spots and the jellyfish were a little more sparse. I went out and sat on the beach and enjoyed rubbing my feet in the sand. The heat finally got to me and I decided to venture into the water. We took off with total reckless abandon. It was the 3rd day of our vacation and I was not going to be hampered by some stinking sea weed. After swimming for a while, We decided to go out in the kayak. I am proud to say that I was allowed to man my own kayak. Paul was in the "stunt" kayak, and I was in the blue one. Nikki and Ed followed close behind in their kayak. We rowed out until you couldn't hear anything or anyone. We say very quietly and watched for cool fish to swim under us. Then it happened......
I looked over and saw a fin sticking up out of the water coming toward us. (I'm just kidding, but I had you going didn't I. ha ha p.s. Lord that is not a challenge.) Seriously, we saw several jellyfish that were very very very long. We also saw a school of fish swimming around. I looked down and saw a Manna War. You know those things that look like sting rays. I had a little passenger (Joseph) with me. I showed them to him and he calmly but very sincerely said. "Mrs. Shelley, lets go back." I had no problem with that. So we headed back to shore.

Well, although it is not the end of our vacation, it is however, the end of this blog. We miss everyone, and we'll post again later. I am using Paul's new laptop and can't figure out how to do the pictures. He is in the pool and I'll have to get him to show me how.

The new and improved Bayley

2008-06-13T15:34:00.005-04:00

Well, I don't know that she needed much improvement, but see for yourself. She got her hair cut today and I told Granda that I would post a picture of her so she could see it.

This may quite possibly be the shortest blog I have ever written. After all, they do say that a picture is worth a thousand words.

We love you Granda and hope you feel better soon!!!!!

VBS

2008-06-13T09:01:00.004-04:00

We are winding down VBS this week. Part of me is happy because it is very tiring. But the inner hula girl in me is kind of sad. It is a lot of fun. Sandy and I are in charge of the music. We have to teach the children the motions and words of a new song every night. Some of the motions were made up by the guy that writes the songs, but sometimes(and there was a lot this year) we add our own signs.

It is amazing how quickly the kids pick them up and how well they participate. I have been very proud of each of the classes from 3's and Pre-K to the teenagers. Yes the teenagers, (Middle school through High school). It is 2 hours and 40 minutes of aerobic workout. That is the part of me that is a little happy to see it end. But as you will see in the video that I have attached. I should be doing this 24/7.

Bryce and Sara Kate were an absolute joy to have. Their teachers Holli and Jamie loved them and were so sad to see them go. Holli is a student at UGA and Jamie is going to be a freshman at Shorter this fall. They are both a wonderful example to my girls. I adore them both. Their class was very full every night so far. But they handled it with an endless energy that I would love to bottle. And I can not forget, Ryan, Holli's boyfriend was along for the ride too. He is a major help and one of our best Hula Dancers. :)

The Hair!!!!

2008-06-09T21:51:00.014-04:00

Life in Lizella has been changed forever. Bryce and Sara Kate are here for a visit. We are having lots of fun and are staying very busy. Although, Manasseh only weighs 5 pounds, he is a source of quite a lot of pandemonium. Bryce and Sara Kate are not accustomed to a dog that exerts a lot of energy. Their beloved Gigi is quite a bit calmer than Manasseh. Sara Kate has also brought out a little bit of Manasseh's inner freak. I was getting ready to work on my VBS songs and she was standing beside me and she said (and I quote) "Manasseh stop humping my leg". Those are words that make dog owner so proud. Not to mention the pride it brings to the aunt of a 3 yr old. Oh well, Sorry Shana.

Back to the reason for this blog. I adore my sister. She is all the things I'm not like organized, disciplined, loving, helpful and the list goes on. There is one thing however, that I do have over her. In case you don't know, it is the ability, no the neurotic need, to be so particular with the way my girls look. Others call it vain, I choose to call it paying attention to detail. From birth, my children have been burdened with bows and ribbons on anything and everything they wear. Sara Kate, not so much. It it probably because she is so darn cute. But my argument is, if she is naturally that adorable, imagine how adorable she would be with a bow or even a simple ribbon. The sky is the limit.

So.... without further adieu please see pictures below of the limitless beauty which I call Sara Kate.

Here she is looking good watching T.V. (television)

And to the right, the look is complete with a ribbon. (To think it only took 30 sec. to tie that ribbon)

SUMMER TIME WITH THE FAM!!

2008-06-06T20:50:00.017-04:00

It is officially summertime. Although, I am more than certain that it is no where near as hot here as it is in Macon however, it is all the same very, very, HOT. Thank goodness that Granda and G Daddy have a pool. So... right before we completely melted away to a liquid form of ourselves, the kids decided that they would go swimming. After a helping (or two) of Granda's home made Lasagna, we took off to the pool.

When we were young, we had an old tractor tire inner tube that we played on in the pool. Two of us would get on either side of the tube and would rock back and forth to try and see if we could make our partner fall off. It made for a great work out and provided hours of entertainment. Well, we found a inner tube float and watched as Maci, Bayley, and Bryce tried to all get on it. Mom and I enjoyed watching them get on. I think they laughed as hard as we did. Sara Kate was waiting patiently on the side of the pool to get on when things were stable, but that never happened. She finally gave up and started playing on her own.

I tried to capture some of them playing and falling off. I posted some pictures for your enjoyment. However, I am using Mom and Dad's computer and it is a MAC, that is all I have to say. I would put captions under each picture, but I can't figure out how to do that either.

Happy Summertime.

Free At Last!! Free At Last!!

2008-05-23T21:48:00.012-04:00

Thank God Almighty we are free at last!!!
Well we made it. School is out for summer. Although we had to go 2 extra days because of the tornadoes (yes I said tornadoessss) we finally made it to the last week of school.
Bayley was suppose to get out on Tuesday, May 20th. Due to the damage, their last day was Thursday, May 22. Maci's last day was not until Friday, May 23, however she is in 6th grade and their graduation was held Thursday, May 22nd. Does that make sense? I had to put a post it note on my forehead every day to make sure that I was where I needed to be when I needed to be there.
As if my schedule wasn't hectic enough, on the morning that Maci was going to graduate, I went into work a little early to get a jump on some of the end of the year stuff that needed to be done and I came in to glass everywhere. Someone had broken into the kitchen and smashed the window going in and then the window in the door to my office. I guess they were looking for money. They even tried to break the lock that was on our walk in cooler. What in the world is that all about?
Anyway, needless to say I was a little out of kilter the rest of the day. I was able to go to Maci's graduation anyway. They did one of those heart wrenching videos. You know the ones that you have to send one of their baby pictures, and they put them in there to make you realize how time has passed, and you feel as if you missed way too much of their precious lives. Yeah one of those. Then she gets her awards and comes over to me. When she stands next to me, I take note of how tall she has gotten. Then, as if that isn't bad enough, here comes Bayley. She is almost as tall as her sister and she is leaving the 3rd grade. My baby is going into the 4th grade!?!?!?!
I'm going to post some pictures for you to see of Bayley and Maci's last awards and graduation day as a 3rd and 6th grader. Oh my goodness. Maci is going into the 7th grade!!!!! I would say I don't feel any older.... but I do.

Until next time.

Whew, that was too close!!!

2008-05-12T12:03:00.005-04:00

Talk about praising Him in the storm. I never thought I would have to be literal in that translation. But at 5:30 Sunday morning, as we were crammed in the hall closet, I had to put that into practice. Don't give me too much credit, I think it was more pleading in the storm than it was praising in the storm. As everyone know, Bayley is petrified of bad weather. I hated to even wake her up, but we had to get to a safe place. I mean really, how do you calmly wake your children up and tell them the sirens are going off, get in the hall closet!
I have two children that couldn't be more different. We woke them up and I think Bayley dove from her bed to the closet, and Maci sauntered from her bed to the close. In fact, I had to raise my voice at Maci to get her to hurry and save her own life. By the time Maci got in the closet, Bayley was already receiving her mail there.
I have to say, that was one of the scariest times in my life. I am trying to keep (I would say the children, but we all know I'm talking about Bayley, because Maci is trying her best to go back to sleep.) calm when I can see a glimmer of fear in Paul's eyes as well. It looked as if there was a disco gong on outside. The lightening was so constant. You could hear this rumbling, moaning sound as well. It lasted for a while and then calmed down. We checked things out and realized that the immediate danger was over and we plucked the girls from there safe haven. We all decided to wait the rest of the storm out in our bed. I was to wired to just lay there, so I got up and came to the living room and watched outside.
The sun was beginning to come up by this time. Then it happened. Even with the sirens still blasting in the background, I heard them. What you ask? BIRDS!! I knew it was officially over because the birds were singing. I believe, next the first cry and the laughter of my children, that was the sweetest sound I have ever heard.
We were very fortunate that nothing was damaged. There are thousands that weren't so fortunate. Paul and some other men from the church grabbed there chain saws and set out to help anywhere they could.
So even though it wasn't the normal Mother's Day, it was a good one all the same because everyone was safe and unharmed. Thank you God for sheltering us from the storm.

I'm just getting to post because our power has been off so Happy Belated Mother's Day!!

2008-05-11T00:14:00.004-04:00

Ode to Granda!!!!

2008-05-10T22:47:00.003-04:00

I know it has been a long time. I have been cheating on the infamous blogger. Maci came home one day asking if she could get a shoutlife. This is a Christian alternative to My Space. I finally gave in and let her have one under the stipulation that I would check it on a daily basis and I had to approve the friends she accepted. Well, I kept up my end of the bargain and have somehow got sucked into it myself. There are a lot of people here that have shoutlife pages. So, I have been posting blogs on that page almost daily.

But since it is Mother's Day, I thought I would grant my sweet Mother's request and update my blog. So, here goes. I am writing this blog to honor her. I mean after all, as I have been so often reminded, she did suffer death to bring me into this world. Its the least I can do to take a few minutes of my time to reflect on the greatness that is called my MOM. (How was that mom?)

Seriously, I could have never in my wildest dreams have picked a better mother than the one I have. Bayley handed me a note that she had written for me the other day that said "God must have been thinking of me when He made you." I'm more than certain she didn't come up with that on her own. In fact, I think I have seen that somewhere before. But, it still rings true. No other mother would have sat and held this blubbering idiot all day when I started my menstrual cycle. How many mothers would crawl into your room in the middle of the night and bark (you heard me right) bark at you in your friend right in the middle of an intense conversation about boys. How many mothers do you know that would send you congratulation cards when my friend and I made the color guard at school. How many Mom's would paint countless pieces of furniture for their grand kids, plan annual leaf jumping events, marshmallow roasts, and hayrides every single year. I could fill pages upon pages with wonderful things she has done to make my life and the life of my children memorable.

But its not just about the things she has planned and done for our entertainment. It's about the countless times I've seen her praying and reading her Bible. The times that she has reminded me that God is in control and that he will be faithful. The times I have seen Daddy have to carry her down the stairs int he middle of the night. Take her to Atlanta to the hospital, call her the next morning and never hear her complain about her situation. She always showed us that she trusted God to bring her through whatever situation she was in. I never detected bitterness, complacency or contention. Only joy, peace, patience and faithfulness.

So yes, this blog is an Ode to Granda. She is truly a legacy. I would love to be 1/3 of who she is.

Thank you Mom.
I love you,
Shelley

Caged Chaos

2008-04-15T17:06:00.005-04:00

Since it is that we are constantly (well seldom) chronicling chaos, I feel it is necessary that we chronicle today's purchase. Although this isn't a life changing purchase or even an a life altering purchase it deserves to be logged in the annals of Whittondom. (a little over the top huh?)

Because our little angel has decided that it is his life's purpose to chew on anything and everything, I decided that he needs to be contained during the day while we are gone. I'm sure your saying, "He hasn't been?" Well, when we got him he only weighed 2 pounds. There wasn't a lot that he could get in his mouth, much less tear up. He has since grown leaps and bounds. He now weighs a whopping 4.5 pounds. I am worried that he will chew on an electrical chord and give himself a home perm, and we all now perms went out of style a long time ago.

I stopped on the way home and bought a medium size crate so that he would have plenty of room to move about and he could also see out and not feel so closed in. See how I'm reasoning this all out? We brought it home and put it together, we put him in it and he turned and looked at us as if to say "Really?" So we put his little blanket and a few of his favorite toys in it and put it in his new resting place. The next thing I know I come around the corner and you'll never guess what I found. You'll have to see it to believe it. Enjoy!

It almost looks like Manasseh is locking the door in this picture, and keeping watch in the other one. Well, I've got to go, I just measured Maci and I'm on my way to get one her size.

Enjoy your evening.

Project Build a House

2008-04-08T19:08:00.005-04:00

The long awaited day has come. Bayley had to turn in her Reach Project today. As I said previously, Bayley is studying various types of architectural structures. So because for no other reason than to ensure that we, her parents, have enough to keep us busy, they assigned her a "project". She did her usual.... "Mom we have to build a house. Here is the paper, let's get started." After I recover from a small heart attack, I look at the paper and realize that the project isn't due for another month. As far as Bayley is concerned, she has just relieved herself of any obligation to remind us until the night before its due.

This time was no different. She declared her need to get started on her project two months ago and then filed it away where only her therapist will be able to resurface it. You know, right behind all the things that I did to cause her to fail in life. Luckily, one of the Ladies that I work with called and asked me a question about said project right as we were walking out the door to visit Granda and G Daddy during Spring Break. Thank you Misty.

At that time I took the opportunity to remind her about the project as well as brought to her attention that the best person for the job was in fact G DADDY. This would absolve me of any type of stress during my week off. You see, when you get G Daddy involved in something, it takes on a life of its own. After a drive to Michaels for supplies and a lesson on the way, they came home and got started.

Today was the day. She turned it in and got and "E". I left my camera at home this morning, but Bayley did take a picture of it herself. Thank you Granda and G Daddy for being who you are. My children are the luckiest kids in the world to have Grandparents like the two of you.

I love you!!!

Funny looking house isn't it? Let me explain. I got a new camera a couple of weeks ago. Bayley and Maci have staked their claim on my old one. When I was looking at the pictures she had taken this afternoon, I saw a picture of her project. I thought, yeah, I have a picture after all. I noticed she was taking pictures of her friend and the dogs, and thought, she is going to be my little photographer. Well, after writing this nail biting blog entry, I hooked the camera up to download the picture and guess what? She deleted THAT picture. The one shown above must have taken its place. I don't know why I even try.

Oh well, he is just adorable isn't he? I'll try to remember to post a picture on the next blog for all those interested.

Until next time...

Yea Me!!!!!!

2008-04-02T16:22:00.004-04:00

I don't know if I have shared this little tid bit of information, but I have been taking a course at the college during the winter quarter. I am required by the new health regulations to be certified in a culinary class called ServSafe. It is something the anyone that is in management in a kitchen has to take. Whether it be a school nutrition dept. or a restaurant.
I wasn't looking forward to it because it was going to take my Monday nights away from me. I was also a little intimidated because the School Nutrition Director, (my big boss) was the instructor. No pressure there. Anyway, I buckled me seat belt and prepared myself for the long ride. I will say that as the quarter progressed, I did find the information to be very beneficial.
As most of my friends and family know, I am a bit neurotic about food poisoning or anything like that. I was bad before, but after Sara Kate's episode, my neurosis hit an all time high. Let me just tell you, this class did nothing to make it any better. If anything, it made me never want to eat out again. I can't look at a baked potato without thinking about Botulism, or enjoy my alfalfa sprouts on my salad anymore, for fear of consuming some kind of foreign bacteria. We won't even talk about the fish toxins.
Anyway, every week we had a test. I did well on each test each week so I was fairly confident that my pea brain was actually absorbing some of this stuff, or at least I haven't contracted Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning. (I'm just saying.) The only thing about this is She told us that we could pass or do well in her class but still not pass the Certified test. This test is what the Restaurant Assoc. uses. It kind of made me think about the good ole SAT test. You know the kind that you had to bubble everything in, even your name and address.
To make a long story short, if we don't pass the test with at least a 75% we have to take the course over again. I did not want to go through that again. So, the day came and I took the test. I have been waiting on the results for the test for about a week. Well, I found out the results Monday.

Drum roll please ........ I made a 95!!!!!!!!!

Again, this may not be exciting to you, but I felt I had to share. If for no other reason than it will explain why when I go out to eat and they bring my food out to our table I whip out my trusty thermometer and verify that the food has in fact been cooked to the proper bacteria killing temperature. Thank you for sharing in my victory over this course and remember to keep your food out of the temperature danger zone. (41 degrees to 135 degrees in case you were curious.)

Mom you are, however, NOT off the hook.

Shelley

Easter in Lizella

2008-03-27T15:23:00.004-04:00

Well, it was quite a busy time in Lizella last weekend. It started @ precisely 3:15 last Friday. The school day was over and every child in Bibb county had a new lease on life. There was a thick yellow film on everything that hasn't moved in at least 15 seconds. I have never known the pollen to be so thick in any place, but I am not kidding, you can be driving down the road and you can literally see the pollen blow off the trees. Regardless of the pollen, the Easter Bunny was coming to town. He would just not be as brilliant white as normal. He had a suttle yellow tint to him, after all, yellow is the new white, or it sounds good anyway.

As I said, there were Eggs to be hunted. On Sat. morning our church hosted an Egg hunt. I was overwhelmed at the response. There were probably close to 100 little angels there ready to stake their claim on a small plastic egg that cleverly hid the ultimate prize... candy. Although this is normally a happy time, I couldn't help but be somewhat sad. O.K. I did break down, but only one time and I was very inconspicuous about it. Why, you ask? What could possibly cause me to have the mully grubs on such a fun day? Well, at the risk of revisiting the emotional place from which I finally dug myself out of Sat. evening sometime, I'll just state the fact. Maci and Bayley neither one was in the least bit interested in going the Egg Hunt. At first it didn't really bother me until I got there and saw all the children and the anticipation that they exhibited on their little faces. I thought, as I watched them charge the field to find their treasure, that I had a handle on myself. But, when the mother of a 5 month old little boy asked me if I wanted to take her son and help him find eggs, I realized that I had failed miserably. By the way, he was more interested in the necklace I was wearing then the eggs I was trying to gather for him. But, this was all a distant memory as I went shopping trying to finish up my Easter shopping.

Saturday evening, our choir preformed the Easter Cantata "Known by the Scars". This cantata is a wonderful depiction of the love of God in how He sent His son to die for us and save us from our sins and become our hope in this dark world. We did this cantata a couple of years ago, but we added a couple of things and instead of using the narration in the book, Paul wrote the narration. He did an excellent job. We also had a guest come to visit us Saturday. Rebecca and Corbin came down to visit and spend Easter with us. Rebecca's husband Rodney, was in our youth group when Maci was born. Now, he is married and has a child of his own. That doesn't make me feel old at all.

Sunday morning came around and it was truly a beautiful day. It was as if all of creation was celebrating the true meaning of Easter. The choir was ready to repeat the cantata from the night before, the lights were down and we entered the sanctuary. From the first note to the last note. God revealed himself to me through the message in the program. His Spirit was truly in that place. I am constantly amazed at the fact that the God of the universe longs to have a relationship with me. That He longs to spend time with me.

After church, we went to a friends house and had lunch and hid a few more eggs. After all the eggs were found and all the bellies were full, we all piled in our respective cars and took off to the ball field. The day would not have been complete without someone getting hurt. Mr. Ed was the lucky recipient of a torn calf muscle and a torn ligament. I don't think we have ever gathered and played any kind of sport that someone didn't get hurt. We ended the night playing the Wii with a couple of friends.

Maci is having to go to school this week because her spring break isn't until next week. Bayley and I came to Mom's for a couple of days to keep Granda from calling the powers that be. Lucky for me, oh who am I kidding. Lucky for Paul, Bayley remembered she had a Reach project due the week of April 7th. She has to build a house with 10 different architectural structures. Needless to say, we got GDaddy right on that. Stay tuned for updates on this late breaking event.

It's been a long time

2008-03-14T21:08:00.007-04:00

Due to much harassment from people who shall remain nameless, I am going to update everyone on what has been happening in Lizella. It has been anything but normal. I don't think there is an adjective to describe the happenings of the past few months. But here goes....

I am going to begin with Valentines day. Again normal is not even an option here. Maci has a "boyfriend" and we had to, no excuse me, had the pleasure of searching for the "perfect" gift for him. I learned that to be able to shop for a boy, you must actually have a son. I was at a complete loss. In the past I have gotten him shirts or shorts or some article of clothing. I'm afraid I may have offended them so I tried something different this time. On the eve of valentines day, Maci, Bayley and I were sitting around trying to figure it out. I had already bought him a little something but Maci wanted "the perfect gift". All the while Bayley is basking in her sisters delima. Well it came down to it and we decided to get him a picture frame and put a picture of Maci in it. She was very pleased with the choice and all was right in the world.

Well the day arrived. This was not only difficult for me. Connie, Brandon's mother, had a difficult time as well. Brandon was extremely picky about what he wanted her to get Maci, but wasn't a lot of help in the process. After several dry runs to the store, Connie decided on a beautiful sterling silver bracelet and a webkinz. Which by the way, was her first recommendation to Brandon and he acted like she was insane. A true testament that mothers do know best. Brandon has a brother that is absolutely precious and he and Bayley always exchange gifts as well. The girls were ecstatic about their bracelets and webkinz and chocolate (We can't forget about the chocolate).

Now the part that blew us all away and rendered Bayley speechless, which by the way is very hard to do. Bayley has liked a boy named "Pedro" for a long time. He lives across from our friends Sandy and Tony. He started coming to church with Tony and was saved shortly after. He and Bayley became good friends and have been for a couple of years now. Well, it turns out that he likes Bayley a little more than the limits of friendship would allow. Sandy brought him over to the house Valentines night (unannounced to Bayley of course). I think she had a small heart attack. She was all hyper, due to chocolate I'm sure, and when she saw him getting out of the car she froze in her tracks. It was quite enjoyable to watch but quite nerve wracking all at the same time. Anyway to make a long story short, he asked her to be his girlfriend and gave her a chocolate rose and a silver necklace. We had to scrape her off the ceiling that night when it was time to go to bed.

I also forgot to mention that when she got in the car that afternoon, a boy in her class had given her a stuffed animal, a pair of earrings and a box of chocolate. Oh well, I said nothing around her is normal.

Fast forwarding a couple of weeks, Paul was out of town last week preaching a revival in Calhoun. When he is gone something always happens. This time was no different. I am taking a class at Central Ga. Tech. College for work every Monday night. I had a project due that night. I went to the Doctor that day afraid I had strep and She told me it was an ulcer on the back of my throat. Again, no normalcy here. The next day on my way to pick Maci and Brandon up from school, the transmission goes out in my van leaving me at a four way stop thinking now what?. A girl from church was passing me and I flagged her down and she pulled over. Because of God's mercy, I was right beside a convenient store and there was no one behind me. I put the car in neutral and let it roll back as far as it would. My friend and a man that resembled one of the Oakridge Boys came and pushed my van out of the road. I promptly called Paul and told him of my late breaking situation. Remember now, he is in Calhoun. I look back now and realize that was probably torture for him. I asked another friend to pick up Maci and Brandon. Paul called back and told me Benjamen (our Youth Pastor) was on his way to come help. By this time I am crying. Paul didn't know what to do. He called at least two or three more times just to be sure I was o.k. Benjamen got there and brought me home. My children got home and both of them came up to me and immediately asked me if I was o.k. I don't think they were worried about my physical state as much as they were my mental state.

I called my Mother to bend her ear and cry on her shoulder and you want to know what words of encouragement and wisdom she spewed forth. Are you ready for this? She said, "You have got to put this in your blog." I wasn't kidding when I told you I have been harassed about this blogging thing. I'm kidding, she was very helpful in helping me laugh in the midst of my unfortunate situation. I mean after all, if you can't laugh about it, what else is there but to cry. Thank you Mom for teaching me to find joy in any situation. God knows, you are a shining example of that.

Well we made it through last week, Paul came home and the girls made him sign an agreement that he would never leave them alone with me for more than 24 hours at a time. This week, I have found out that I am suffering from a mild case of Alzheimer. I only wish I could remember some of the details of the week to share with you.

Tonight, the girls went to Maci's best friends 13th birthday party. It was a "Hollywood Premier" party. Her parents rented a limo and all the kids dressed up like they were going to a Hollywood premier. They had a wonderful time. Maci and Bayley were so excited. Jenny fixed their hair and they got all dressed up to help Caroline celebrate her big day. They were, needless to say, absolutely gorgeous. I am going to try and download some pictures so you can see them. Believe it or not, Bayley and Pedro didn't plan their outfits.

80's Flashback

2008-01-29T16:28:00.000-05:00

Last week was one more of a week. It started with an extra day off work and school, and ended up with me flat on my back with strep. I have never, to my recollection, ever had strep. I am now a card carrying member of the unspeakable pain that it causes. I knew it always knocked my kids for a loop when they got it, but holy cow, that stuff is not for the faint hearted. I am glad that that little experience is behind my.

As if that weren't enough, I got better just in time to have to take Manasseh to the Vet because he was doing something weird with his mouth. I figured I would take him and they would tell me that I had infected him with my Hunky Funk and it was turning into lock jaw which would in turn cause him to have to have surgery. Thank goodness it was only one of his baby teeth that had broken and needed to be pulled. You will be happy to know that he is also on antibiotics and is recovering nicely.

Now for the reason for this blog. Saturday the girls where invited to a birthday party at a skating rink here in Macon. I didn't even know these places still existed. I mean I haven't been to one in over 20 years. The girls, however had gone to another birthday party about this time last year and they were very excited. With a little trepidation, I went. Once we finally made it to our destination, the girls piled out of the van and took off toward the door. My trepidation being mostly on the part that this place had been here since the beginning of time and I am more than certain that it has not been sanitized near as much as it should be. (Oh my goodness I can't believe I let my children go in there much less were skates that someone else wore.)

Well, we went up and exchanged their shoes for skates with someone that couldn't be bothered with getting off her cell phone long enough to ask us what size shoe they wore. (I guess the cell phone is what brings this place into the 21st century). The lights were dim (I'm sure to hide all the germs and bacteria on every surface) and the music started playing.

Instantly, I was back in the early 80's when my youth group would take a field trip to the skating rink. I watched my girls skating to "Lean on Me" and countless other songs that took me back to the days of big hair and "Gag me with a spoon" t-shirts. If I had had pair of socks with me, I might have even risked an unknown foot fungus to be a part of the scene.

I am happy to say that when they turned on the disco ball and off the lights and declared this time couples skating. Both my girls decided to take a break and sit with their Mother. I don't think their decision was based on the threat of "restriction" if they didn't.

Well, you'll be glad to know that I am no longer stuck in the 80's. I have come to my senses and declare that before we go back, the girls will have a round of antibiotics to wort off any unseen bacteria, and we will all be sporting our own personal pair of skates.

I had pictures, but they didn't turn out well. You'll just have to rely on your imagination.
See you on the skating rink.

Shelley

Hooray for Maci!!

2008-01-21T13:01:00.000-05:00

As stated in the previous post, Bayley received her report card the first week they went back to school. Maci received hers by mail this last Friday. She did well. She made all A's and B's except for one C. She is not accustomed to making C's so it was quite emotional around here.

I found it somewhat ironic that it was in Bible that she made the "C". That was quite a blow to her parents self esteem. Not that she has to measure up to our standards, but that maybe we aren't the living example she needs. I mean really, we should recite the catacisms around this house more often. What were we thinking. Maybe we haven't done too much damage.

I always feel like these report cards are more our grades instead of hers. The first report card she got we all celebrated. She made all A's and B's and we were really excited because she made an A in Latin. She (we) worked so hard for that A and it was well deserved. This second time around, Maci has become more independent in her studies and doesn't need our help as much. She is forming her own study habits and is doing quite well if I do say so myself.

I can't help but know that there is a lesson for her in this grade. Although the obvious lesson is that she needs to apply herself more. The more important lesson is that she may not always measure up to the standards that man places on her, but God doesn't expect her to "measure up". Jesus took care of that for her a long time ago.

So, I accept this grade and will be encouraged to dig deeper in my walk with Him and rest in the fact that I will never be good enough, but He will always be more that enough.

Way to Go Bayley!!!

2008-01-17T20:26:00.000-05:00

We are now into the 2nd week of school since Christmas break. If you remember correctly, I mentioned that I was kind of looking forward to school starting back because that meant maybe things would get back to normal. I don't know if that was a little delusion left over from a bad dose of Mom's Wookie or if it had been too long since I had fed 700 children within a two hour time frame.
Anyway, as I'm listening to my children argue about which book of the Bible they are going to read their devotion from, (I suggested they read from the first book of get along with your sister). I thought I would insert yet another chaotic chapter in our chronicles.
Bayley received her report card last Wednesday (1/9). As always, she made all A's and an O which stands for outstanding in citizenship (behavior). Which I think is ironic. If they new she was arguing with her sister about where they should receive an encouraging word from the Lord, they wouldn't think she was being a good citizen. Today was their "Recognition Ceremony". She received a ribbon for "Honor Roll" and one for "Outstanding Citizenship" and the highest recognition, "Skyhawk Superior".
We are very proud of her. She is like her Daddy in the fact that a lot of school work comes naturally. She is not like him however in the whole behavior thing. I guess that is the one thing she got from me. If she gets in trouble for not yielding to the Holy Spirit, or keeping a messy desk, we'll all know who to blame.

Maci's school started about a week later. She hasn't received her report card yet but we are very optimistic that she will do well also. She is getting ready for Spirit Week next week and is very excited. They will be dressing up Tues, Wed, and Thurs and will have a big pep rally at some point during the week. She is very excited about the cheer and stunt that they are going to preform. We will post later how she did on her report card.

BAYLEY TURNS 9!!

2008-01-13T22:13:00.001-05:00

I can't believe it has been 9 years since we brought this tiny (to us anyway) baby girl home from the hospital. Where has the time gone.

Bayley turned 9 on Jan. 6th. Since her birthday is so close to Christmas, we tried to prolong it by waiting and having her "party" the next weekend to give people time to recoup from the holidays. Not wanting her happy day to go by not celebrated, Maci and I snuck out (not easy since Bayley is affectionately known as Nosella from Lizella) and bought some balloons and banners. When she fell asleep on the eve of her birthday, we snuck in her room and hung them in completely undetected by her or her fearless watch dog, Manasseh. The mission was a success.

As you can tell, Maci was very pleased with her part in the whole thing. She even gave up going to friends house that evening so she could be a part of making this a special day for her sister. (she had a little help in making that decision but she made it all the same.)

She woke up one time in the middle of the night and didn't even notice the new decorations in her room. But she woke up later and came and asked us how it got in her room. We woke her up the next morning singing "Happy Birthday" to her. We made a breakfast casserole and put a candle in it. She thought it a little strange but has come to expect that from her family.

Finally, the day had come for her party. She decided she wanted to have a movie party. Back in August, we had a big High School Musical 2 party and Paul set up the projector and put a big sheet outside and all their friends came and we all watched it together. She wanted to do the same thing for her party. She LOVES polka dots, so we got a pink and green polka dot cake and Paul set up a mini drive in theatre under our carport. It was a little cold, but everyone brought their blankets and we enjoyed watching "Evan Almighty. Fun was had by all.

From utter chaos to controlled chaos! (I think)

2008-01-03T22:27:00.000-05:00

As stated previously, we are a very busy family. When most people enjoy the time off from work or out of school, we are running around like wild people trying to complete everything on our list. (Get up Shana! It wasn't an actual, physical list. that is unless it was one you made for me.:) From Christmas Cantatas, hosting a church wide gathering at our house, cooking thousands of cookies with the cookie club, to many trips to the mall, we have had our fair share of Christmas festivities. Although, quiet chaotic, it is my favorite time of year. I don't think that the story of God's love for us will ever get old. I am constantly overwhelmed at His ability to see past my mistakes and failures, to what I have the potential to become.

We had a wonderful Christmas with our family this year. I am convinced their is nothing better than family. My sister and I have forced a new tradition on our Parents (we're still working on Scott.) We dusted off the old Tabu and pictionary games and played a few rounds of each. We have learned one thing. Daddy and I are too much alike to be on the same team and Shana and Mom are our obnoxious rivals. We stepped it up a notch and bought a new game at Christmas. We are now unashamedly Mad Gabbers. You have not played Mad Gab until you have played it with Mom and Dad. It was soooo much fun.

After Christmas, Maci went on her first official "Youth Trip". They left for TN. Sat 12/29 and returned Tues. 1/1. I only paniced a few times while she was gone. I will however not be held responsible for her apearance in my absence. Bayley stayed with her Aunt Shana, Granda and G-Daddy. She ate up all the attention. She finally came home on Sun 12/30. Shana will however, be held responsible for her appearance.

We ended the time off by re-decorating their rooms. Santa brought Bayley a new bed and bedding. Most of New Years Eve was spent going through and making room for her new things. Maci got a keyboard for Christmas and we had to do some creative re-decorating to fit everything in her room. I guess it was fitting that we do this on New Years Eve and New Years Day. After all it was "out with the old and in with the new." (Pun intended)

So, the title to this blog makes complete sense to you now I am sure. The whole "controlled chaos" thing in all honesty, is hopeful thinking. I'll let you know soon. Oh, Mom and Shana pleast take note. I didn't say "From utter chaos to organized chaos". You can only hope.