A Day In the Life

COUSINS ARE HERE!- Happy Fourth of July

2011-07-05T09:20:00.000-05:00

Cousins are here from Texas so we went to the mountains to celebrate the 4th!

We did manage to get a picture of them all....

This is an awesome picture of Alyssa and AnnaCarroll. They are 3 weeks apart, AnnaCaroll being the oldest. We love it when they come to visit!

Three Stooges....

2011-06-24T12:13:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I had gotten an email from a casting company... They were looking for boys who were 5'1, 88 pounds with dark hair and 6.5 shoe for the movie THE THREE STOOGES.... well that fit Trent perfectly and I sent in his picture and info. Yesterday I received a response wanting Trent to come in to see if he could be a double for an actor that was playing a Young Moe. I was excited and thought that it would be a great opportunity for Trent. We arrive on set and they escort us to the actors trailer... WOW. we could get used to this.

There were 3 boys total up for the same part. They looked them over and measured each one. They expressed that they needed a boy that looks just like the kid actor. As soon as the kid actor walked in... I chuckled... Trent looked nothing like the kid.. AT all... Look below... he was faired skinned and had freckles... Oh well... maybe next time. I think Trent was alittle bummed.. but he did get to meet the actor and see the set and the process of what goes on.

Mean while... I got to meet Sean Hayes....that was cool.

He plays Larry.....

12U Ola Allstars

2011-06-19T12:06:00.001-05:00

Well... Baseball season is finally over. This weekend was the Allstar State tournament. We played 3 games this weekend. Won 1 and Lost 2. Came in 4th out of 7 teams. Trent had an awesome game on Saturday. He pitched good and got some good outs. And plastered one to center field. It was an awesome hit.

Very proud of our Allstar Team. Now... what do I do every night @ 6:30pm for the rest of the summer....

What a cutie!!!

First Co-Ed Outing then comes the Status Change

2011-06-17T12:28:00.000-05:00

Trent was invited to his first Coed Party.... Times a Changing.....

For a week after this party he had been talking to a sweet girl (I'll call H) that he has known since the 2nd grade over his Facetime.....

Well I woke this morning and like usual checked my facebook.... I was shocked to notice that my baby boys...'status" had changed to "In a Relationship." Wow... that woke me up......He was so cute about it too..... I must say H is very sweet.... good choice my son..... When I mentioned to him that I had seen his status change and that I was proud of him for having the courage to "ask her out".... he said.... "Well she wanted me too." LOL

TEEN WOLF

2011-06-14T11:45:00.000-05:00

As most of you know I have been using some extra time to do EXTRA/Background work on local TV and Movies that are being filmed in the Atlanta area. It has been so much fun. One of my first projects was for MTV's Teen Wolf. We filmed this episode back in November. It was so much fun. Here is picture of Colton who plays Jackson. The show premired at the beginning of June.

But my first episode aired last night. My cousin just happen to be in town with her 5 girls... and we all piled into my parents room and see it I had made the TV screen.... yeap... there I was... it was awesome and the show is not bad either.

Click here to watch. I'm near the 22 min mark..... Thank goodness I wore a yellow sweater....
TEEN WOLF Ep 3

Oh Lawd.... what have we done....

2011-06-12T12:02:00.000-05:00

Well we did... we broke down and bought a trampoline. I can't believe that Brett was on board with this....He says that it will help us all get in shape... heah... we will see..... Since the purchase Alyssa has been on it nonstop. Of course the thing is like Fort Knox.... the sides are actually sewn into the bottom... there is no way to fall off.....

DAYTONA

2011-06-04T11:11:00.000-05:00

This year we were able to enjoy some vacation time @ Daytona Beach with my parents. I wasn't too good at picture taken but did get some.

One night we ate at Bubba Gumps Seafood... Here is Trent on his bench with his chocolates. And congratulations to Dad for winning the Forrest Gump Movie Trivia contest.

As yo can tell ..... Trent is way past getting his picture taken.... But I did get one....

End of School

2011-05-27T09:19:00.000-05:00

I can not believe that my baby will be going into middle school! Wow... where has the time gone?

So proud of Trent Barfield!! He received President's Award for Educational Achievement, PE Award, A/B Honor Roll and Perfect Attendence Awards! What a blessing!!!

He was so lucky that Grandmommy, Nanny & Papa were able to be there to see him accept his awards.

Ms. French has been a blessing this year! I sure hope that Alyssa gets her in 4 years!

First grade doesn't have an award ceremony. But Alyssa did receive a Reading Award for meeting her AR goal and the "Little Miss Fix-It" Award.....

I am so proud of my babies.....They have worked so hard this year.

Kenny Chesney

2011-05-20T08:19:00.000-05:00

Every year I try to venture out to a couple of concerts.This weeked.... Jackie Sue and I went to see KENNY CHESNEY......

He puts on such a great show!!!! Awesome....

Ola Baseball Day @ Turner Field

2011-05-15T07:49:00.001-05:00

First of all.... Meet Brock... He is Trent's private hitting/pitching coach. He also happens to be a grounds crew member @ Turner Field. What a fun job that must be. Trent's thinks it's oh so awesome to know someone on the field... even if they are managing the greens.....

He stopped to talk to me during warm ups and oops...his mower quit working. It took the entire grounds crew to help with it.... Sorry Brock.... (he was nice to say that it was a bad battery and not my fault)

Below is Trent and his team walking the field before the game.

Brett's cousin, Becky and her husband Steven, (with their friends) came to the game too. What fun we had.

My dad loves to come with us. He says we only invite him for his handicap parking... but he knows thats not true.....What great memories we are making.

This is an awful picture of me... but the only one of all of us... so here it is. The sun was brutal that day.... but at least I got alittle bit of a tan.....

Mother/Son Dance

2011-05-13T15:06:00.000-05:00

The theme for the Dance was "Get your Game On." When we were planning the dance... we tired to think of a way to get the boys to actually come to the dance. We all know that this dance unlike the Father/Daughter dance... was for the moms only. I had to drag Trent to the dance. Let's face it... what 5th grade boy wants to be seen with their mother AT A DANCE.... add video games, lazer tag and booger wars... and magically they all came.

Trent danced alittle too... just not with me.lol

Relay For Life.......

2011-05-01T08:32:00.000-05:00

Relay For Life is a time to celebrate loved ones who have won their battle against cancer, pray for those who are still fighting and remember those who are no longer with us.....Every year I am a big supporter of Relay For Life and join Rock Spring Elementary's Relay Team. I try to raise at least $600 a year in support of this great cause.

Alyssa raised the second highest amount in the school. As a result... she got to pie a 5th grade BETA student in the face.....

She had so much fun doing that! Way to go Alyssa. Poor Grace.. she was a good sport.

Ms. DiSario, our wonderful principal, also got pied.

Mr. Daughtry, RSE's awesome Assistant Principal, was our representative in the Henry County Mr. Relay~ contest..... he was such a trooper.....

At the end of the night he was crowned Mr. Relay 2011. You Go GIRL....

Easter Time

2011-04-24T15:03:00.000-05:00

Little Josie enjoyed her 1st Easter!

It's getting harder and harder to get good pictures of the kids! They don't want to stand beside eachother long enough for me to get the shot!

2011 Spring Pictures

2011-04-15T14:56:00.001-05:00

BRAVES-Opening DAY

2011-04-09T07:05:00.000-05:00

Braves Weekend for us! I was blessed with Opening Weekend tickets for Friday night and Saturday!

Friday night Brett, Trent, Jeff, my dad and I went. It was great! But note to self... don't buy tickets under the lights.... the bugs are awful.

It was nice to see Bobby Cox throwing out the first pitch to Freddi.

Saturday just Trent and I went. It was great. We started with our tradition of watching the Braves batting practice and warming up. Got some great pictures!

The picture below is of Tim Hudson! What a great guy.... He came over to a young baby and gave him an autograph....

Check out my awesome shirt!!!!! (and our great seats)

I was so proud of Trent! After talking him into going over to the dug out with the other kids seeking autographs.... he came back with Brooks Conrads autograph. Trent was so excitied. Brooks poined him out and Trent threw him the ball and then Brooks signed it and threw it back. What a great guy!

American Girl-

2011-04-04T08:53:00.001-05:00

My mother in law was gracious enough to take all of us to the American Girl Store! We had a lunchoen and got to meet their 2011 American Girl Doll.

Alyssa had gotten this American Girl for Christmas. She named her Aly.

This is the American Girl for 2011, Kanani. She is so pretty.

During our meal we learned alot about her lanauge and Hawaii. Ali (Alyssa's doll) even got to sit in a highchair at our table.

Here's the little stinker... as we were trying to get a good picture......

Finally.... a good one.

At the end of our meal we got a delicious dessert. YMMY!

Thanks Grandmommy for the memberable experience! She has played with her new dolls ever since she got home!!

TWEET TWEET- Opening Day

2011-03-27T08:20:00.001-05:00

Hey!!! It's Opening Day @ Ola! We are the 11/12 Ola Orioles. I can't believe that Trent is playing on the last field at Ola before he has to play on the biggest field at Sandy Ridge. Time sure does fly.

This is a great picture of Trent and his buddy Phenix. They have been playing together since they were 5 years old.

Some of the boys getting ready for the parade.

Great picture during the National Anthem.

Every single year during the Opening Day Festivities it is freezing and/or raining. This year it was cloudy, but started off really pleasant.... then BAM! As soon as our game was to start @ 11:30am this burst of cold came. Trent pitched extremely well....no walks, 6 strike outs and only 1 earned run. But we lost 5-4. Our defense had a rough day. Trent did well though and that's what counts. (and I must say our team uniforms looked awesome!) I take full credit for that....lol

BRAVES COUNTRY TOUR

2011-03-18T08:41:00.001-05:00

Saturday we took the kids on a tour of Turner Field. Braves Opening Day is right around the corner....

Inside the Club House!

Ok. Friends.... we need to get together only $150,000 so we can purchase (2) Sun Trust seats. That amount is for (2) season tickets for every game for 2 years! Come on... if we all pull together...... The seats are those right behind home plate. All your meals will be included and are cooked by a personal chef and there is a huge HD TV in front of your seats so you can watch the game live and on TV.

Father/Daughter Dance

2011-02-14T07:55:00.000-05:00

Wow! I am sorry I have been such a slacker with this blog. Hopefully, I can get myself back in gear to maintain it! I've been so busy with work, council, hobbies and baseball that I have neglected it. Here are some things that I've wanted to blog about.....

I have been on Rock Spring Elem's School Council since the school opended 3 years ago. And finally I've seen one of my ideas come to life. The Father/Daughter dance was a huge success. Alyssa and Brett had a great time. Seeing all the little girls with their father or father figure was priceless.

She even got Brett to dance. (Actually I think he had to pull her out there)

Braves 2011

2011-02-05T09:19:00.000-05:00

So today I took Trent to meet one of is "Idols." He absolutely loves Martin Prado who plays for the Atlanta Braves. What a nice person! I checked Trent and his friend, Hayden, out of school and off we went. Knowing the line was going to be outrageous I wanted to get there early. They were scheduled to arrive around 4. At 2:15 we were in line, in the freezing rain. Needless to say we were number #100 when we got there. We met a nice couple who was in line behind us with their teenage sons. They had brought a Thermos with hot chocolate and shared it with the boys. Trent was so nervous and excited. He had brought his Prado jersey and a baseball to have the players sign. The bench coach and 4 relief pitchers were also there. I took a baseball book for all of them to sign and a Prado baseball card. Everyone working for the Braves so was nice. Isn't Prado a cutie?

SNOW DAY

2011-01-12T13:00:00.007-05:00

Look at that face! Priceless....

Brett chasing Trent with "ice"

Celebrating Christmas!

2010-12-26T14:07:00.000-05:00

The Sunday before Christmas we celebrated the holiday with Brett's parents and brother.

Trent was so excitied to receive a Braves PRADO jersey and autographed baseball.

Alyssa got her first American Girl doll. Looks like I will be going to North Point Mall to have the entire American Girl experience.

Let me introduce you to Annabell. Yep. Remember the Nov trip to the mountains where she showed up? After posting a listing on Craig's list and calling the local vets office in Blairsville... no one has claimed her. So looks like we got a new member of the family. We think that she is a puppy still. We will officially take her to the vet to be cleared sometime after the holidays.

It was Ethan's first Christmas! He is a doll. Reminds me alot of Trent at that age.

Christmas morning the kids were so excited. Santa had brought Trent an Ipod Touch and Alyssa a DSi. I think I was just as excited to see them so excited!!!

Christmas afternoon we went to my parents house. Here are the cousins.......

Merry 1st Christmas, Josalynn!!

Christmas at RockSpring

2010-12-17T13:36:00.001-05:00

I was so glad I was able to get the time off work to go to the school for the kids holiday parties. It was sad to know that this was Trent's last Christmas party. Wow! Time flies by so fast. Of course I wasn't able to get as many pictures of Trent with his classmates because that is just not "cool." I am just thankful that Alyssa still loves the idea of Momma being there.

It was pajama day. They watched the Polar Express and drank hot chocolate.

Alyssa with her friend, Alex.

Trent with his friend Taylor.

South GA Wedding

2010-12-06T13:31:00.000-05:00

This weekend we all went to Brett's Cousin's wedding. It was so nice to see everyone. I made sure we got a picture of us together because we never seem to.

Trip to the Mountains

2010-11-24T13:24:00.000-05:00

We celebrated Alyssa's birthday in the mountains with all of the cousins. She had so much fun!

We shopped but mostly layed around. It was great!

During our visit this awesome dog showed up. She was a total lap dog. I told Brett's Aunt that when they come down next week for Thanksgiving... if she's still there bring her down. Brett needs to feel the void that Jake left. He is missing his companion. We will see what happens

Happy 7th Birthday, Sweet Alyssa!

2010-11-19T09:46:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe that you are already 7 years old. I remember like it was yesterday giving birth to my precious little girl. She was a chunky little thing. Daddy called her Chunky Monkey... and still does. Her birth was very uneventful... at first. Within 3 pushes out she came. Since her due date was on Thanksgiving Day to doctor elected to induce me a week early. She would have came that week anyway, she was ready. Immediately after birth I knew something wasn't quite right when the Doctor wouldn't let Brett cut her cord. She was blue and wasn't breathing.... But after a long several minutes with the respiratory team... she started to scream.....

She looked just like a china doll.

We had finally completed our family.

Within weeks of birth her little personality started to shine through.

We celebrated her first birthday with her cousins, AnnaCarroll and Dylan. They are born within 4 weeks of each other.

Alyssa, you have turned into a beautiful little girl. We are so proud of you and couldn't imagine life without you. Happy 7th Birthday... chunk munk..

Detention

2010-11-12T13:53:00.001-05:00

Well..... the word detention has made it's way into the Barfield household. And no it wasn't Alyssa.
I received an email from Trent's teacher that said...... I wanted to tell you about an incident at lunch today. Another boy in our class was putting green beans and salad dressing in a girl’s milk when she wasn’t looking. Trent watched him do this and thought it was very funny. Since the other boy had an eager “audience”, he continued to do it until the poor girl figured it out. I thought you would want to know, so you could talk to him about how horrible it is to be the one doing the wrong and the one sitting by and watching.
Needless to say when Trent got home that afternoon he was ticked. He had gotten detention for the incident. We try to teach our kids not to be taddle tells and do what's right. I thought it was just 5th grade boys being 5th grade boys...... He laughed and didn't tell so he got detention...... Not that I totally agree with the situation or outcome but it is what it is... and that's that. He still hasn't fully gotten over the fact that he got in trouble.

5th Grade Trip to Dahlonega, GA

2010-11-05T21:23:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I finally got to go with Trent on a field trip. He wasn't too happy at first, but I think that he had a great time.

Trent and his friend Holden on the bus. It was a 2 hour trip to the mountains. That's a long time on a bus with 40 5th graders. The first stop was Amicalola Falls.

Amicalola, a Cherokee Indian word meaning “tumbling waters,” is an appropriate name for these 729-foot falls ~~ the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River.

While there they learned about different animals. They were shown several types of owls.

Here is a great picture of Trent "touching" a snake. Yeap... that's it. Barely grazing it.

After eating at The Smithhouse we got to walk around downtown Dahlonega. I had a really great group of boys. They all minded really well.

The best part of the day was getting to pan for gold and touring the mines. These are bats that were hibernating in the mine. NASTY little things.

Halloween

2010-10-31T21:30:00.000-05:00

This year we celebrated Dylan's birthday on Halloween then went Trick or Treating at Brett's brothers house then went to my parents house. Thank goodness school was out on Monday. The kids were so wired up!! Trent was Jason and Alyssa was a pirate girl!

FOOTLOOSE

2010-10-17T08:56:00.000-05:00

I was 8 years old when this movie came out. I remember going to see it at the theatre in Fayetteville. I had spent the weekend with one of my mom's best friends. She had three boys so she took me for weekends to get her "little girl" fix. When my mom found out about the movie she was not happy. Looking back..... this movie probably would have had a PG-13 rating... but there was no such thing back then so it was PG.

A month a go I decided I wanted to try to make some extra money...... so I signed up with a casting company with informs me when extras are needed for films that are currently being filmed in the Atlanta area. These notices are normally very specific.. We are looking for a blond haired, 5'3 female who wears a size 4 with 6 shoe etc...etc... After several of these notices that didn't even come close to me... one finally came across..... Looking for extras for the remake of Footloose.... filming at COWBOYS in Kennesaw...

Holy Cow! This is it.... One of my favorite movies and one of the best scenes in the movie. They sneak out to go dancing across the county line.....Maybe my little stint on Hee-Haw will finally pay off. lol I emailed the casting department and sent in a recent photo. Within the day I had received an email confirming my part in the scene.

There is a scene in the movie where Ren and Ariel sneak out to dance over the county line because it is forbidden where they live. They go to a country western bar to dance and discover that Willard can't dance. And that's where Ren starts to teach Willard to dance.

Anyway..... I was beyond excited at that point.

So last Monday and Tuesday I danced for 12 hours each day. By Tuesday night I was worn out and sore.

I arrived early Monday morning and it was exactly what I had imagined. The two main male actors were in the first scene that we filmed. I really didn't know either of them... one (Miles) is new to acting but has a movie with Nicole Kidman coming out next month and the other (Kenny) is popular with the MTV watchers. Both were extremely nice and interacted with us little folk. The highlight of the filming was actually being on the dance floor with Julianne Hough. She was amazing. Her 3 sisters and mom were also in this shot.

When it was time to break each day for lunch I was surprised to get back to the catering room to find all the lead actors eating with the extras. They were so humble and very friendly. Julianne was the only one who didn't mingle with us common folk. Maybe Ryan Seacrest was there somewhere and we just didn't know it?

It took all I had not to ask for an autograph and we were threatened with our life not to take pictures. They had been confiscating phones all day with those who got caught. I did get a shot in before I turned all professional.....lol For those of you who know me... know that I am not a drinker.... but my prop for most of the two days was a long neck.....

The first day of shooting I met a friend. Come to find out she actually graduated from Jonesboro High School too. We hung out most of the two days together.

So hopefully in April when the movie comes out I won't find myself on the cutting room floor. But who knows.

Trent's Party and 3rd Annual Pig Dig

2010-10-11T13:16:00.000-05:00

Last weekend was our 3rd Annual Pig Dig. Trent wanted to "tag" is birthday in there so it worked out perfectly.Brett worked really hard on his fall display. It looked great.

Here is Brett taking his turn to flip the pigs. We start cooking them on Saturday night and they must be flipped every 15 minutes. The guys sign up for 2 hour shifts that last from 6pm-6am Sunday morning. Then on Sunday around noon we have a feast. Our stew starts cooking around 9am.

Trent loves to have Brett's family birthday party the same weekend.

They played hide-n-go seek in the dark and rosted marshmellows.

All of the cousins and Trent's best friend Logan.

The girls preparing the BBQ before the feast.

Even Jake was tired after all the gathering was done.

Happy 11th Birthday, Trent!

2010-10-05T07:07:00.003-05:00

Wow! 11 years old. It's hard to believe that my baby is 11 years old!

Trent, I wanted you to know how proud your dad and I are to call you our son. We have been blessed with a terrific son like you! It seems like only yesterday we brought you home from the hospital not knowing what being a parent really was.

We have learned alot since then. You have helped us to grow.

As I reflect on these past 11 years my heart bursts with pride and I smile at some wonderful memories.

All you wanted to be for Halloween that year was a chicken!! I searched everywhere and finally found it!

Riding your first John Deere tractor... chasing daddy around the yard.

Baseball 2008... getting hit in the face by a line drive. And the black eye that lasted 7 months.

Also in that year you had your first (and only) grandslam!

You have become an intelligent, bright, thoughtful, incredible young man. We are so proud of you in every way!

Happy Birthday Joseph Trenton Barfield!

Fun at the Fair

2010-10-02T00:54:00.020-05:00

Yesterday we went to the Rockdale County Fair. It wasn't what we expected but was fun anyway. The kids had a ball.

Do you remember the Gravitron?

The ride is completely enclosed, with 48 padded panels lining the inside wall. However there are a few versions of this ride that don't have a roof (i.e. the top canvas isn't installed). Riders lean against these panels, which are angled back. As the ride rotates, centrifugal force is exerted against the pads by the rider, removing the rider from the floor, due to the slant. The ride can reach a maximum speed of 24 rpm in less than 20 seconds, due to the 33 kW 3-phase motor. At this speed, the riders are experiencing centrifugal force equivalent to three times the force of gravity. At full speed, it is possible (though generally prohibited) for a skilled and strong rider to stand horizontally on the pads.

The ride operator is located in the center of the ride. Part of the operator's duty is to control lighting and music in addition to the ride itself. Some variants include closed-circuit television cameras, allowing waiting riders and passersby to observe the ride in action.

I am so mean... Without knowing what the ride actually did Trent said he wanted to ride. So I let him. I thought for sure he would come out crying.....

But he loved it!

Mom and Dad relaxing on the carousel

I am still wondering why every... and I mean every ride had to spin...... I rode a ride (equivalent to the Mr. Momo that used to be out at Six-Flags)...... and was sick for the rest of the night.... it's terrible getting old.

2010-09-30T12:36:00.002-05:00

I found this in Trent's room so I mailed it with a self addressed stamp envelope.... let's see if we get a response.

School Pictures

2010-09-30T10:37:00.000-05:00

Seriously... how cute are these???

They are the best school pictures I have seen in a long time. Alyssa's missing teeth are so picture perfect!!

Gotta Love Their Humor

2010-09-21T09:58:00.003-05:00

Have you ever noticed the way the Braves Rookie pitchers carry their supplies to the bullpen. It just cracks me up!!

pictures provided by http://braveslove.blogspot.com/

# 1 Fan Experience

2010-09-14T21:19:00.000-05:00

This used to be the best night ever....(Click here)

We'll things change!! A couple of weeks ago I heard a rumor that my dearest Ryan Klesko would be coming to town for a September game. He was going to be there promoting hunting/fishing show that he is afilated with. It's been since 2008 that he retired. If you recall... at my last ~~stalking~~ meeting with him my camera failed me and I didn't get a picture. That was the only thing that was missing from my collection.

So I scurried online and bought some seats from StubHub... Side note... I LOVE Stubhub. Unlike Ticketmaster, you get to kind of pick your seats. Anyway, of course I called my beloved friend Heather, she has been there through the years and I knew that I could drag her with me.

In my head... this was to be kind of like a goodbye. It might be time to ~~grow up~~ move on.

Of course we got there when the gates opened @ 5:00. I was so excited and nervous. We got through the gate and began looking for the line. I had my Klesko jersey... hoping that he could sign it. We looked and looked... but no one seemed to know where he was. From some reason EVERY worker that we talked to was so overly friendly and nice. It was kind of unusual.

Out of the corner of our eye we saw two men dressed in business attire with Braves ID's. Surely they new what was going on. I went up to them and asked where Ryan was. They looked little nervous and said, "He's right out there." They were pointing to the center of the main gates. But they explained that once we were in the park, we couldn't go out and be readmitted. Heather started to panic... I just simply said , Well, OK. I will just go out the gate, get my jersey signed, and then purchase a cheapo ticket and come back in. I really had it all figured out. I started to hand Heather my stuff when one of them said, No just go to the 755 Club and tell them that you left your inhaler in your car and need to retrieve it. They will let you out and then back in. Cool. That was a plan. Will anyway before we knew it... that nice gentleman took us into the 755 Club and had our ticket re scanned and was out the door on our way. Whew... that could have ended badly....

Then we saw the line and at the other end was.....

OMG.... my heart started to pound..... I had to give Heather a quick lesson on how to use my camera.

Getting closer.... Man he is still hot.......

As we stood in line I noticed how relaxed he was. Not like the previous times I have seen him. I was really, really excited at this point.....

Then it was my turn... I simply asked him if he could sign my jersey.... ABSOLUTELY he said.

Then he said, "Wow, this jersey is neat.... I don't even have this one." I explained that I have had it along time. Then I asked, "May I get a picture?" Sure, he said, come on around. I quickly ran to his side of the table. I couldn't believe this was finally happening after 16 years of being his #1 fan.....

And here it is...... finally. It turned out great. After Heather snapped the picture I thanked him and said it had been a pleasure watching him all of those years..... He said, Thank You.

Wow! What a great Fan Experience. After it was over... we went back through the gates.... I thought I was really going to pass out.

Thanks Heather for being my partner in crime!

Tea Party

2010-08-29T20:32:00.000-05:00

Alyssa was invited to a Birthday Tea Party! What a great time we had. All the girls had loads of fun, Carey is so creative!!

First they made a place mat.

Then they had some tea and snacks.

Then they decorated cupcakes and cookies.

It was so much fun for the girls.... I even got Alyssa to wear a skirt to the party!!

They are growing up so fast. Happy Birthday, Haley!!

Ola Mustangs Flag Core

2010-08-27T20:23:00.000-05:00

Alyssa was so excitied to be invitied to be apart of the Ola Highschool Marching Band. She talked about it for weeks.

BFF's Mallie and Alyssa having a party for the girls as they prepare for their big production.

Waiting, watching the first Ola Home game.

She did great and had an awesome time!

2010-08-23T21:50:00.000-05:00

Last week my parents went and ate lunch with the kids at school. Just so happens Alyssa comes in first, they eat for 10 mins before Trent comes in, then Alyssa leaves and then 10 min later Trent leaves.
Visitors have the option of sitting with the students at their table or sitting on the stage. Of course Alyssa wants to sit on the stage where everyone can see her and Trent would rather blend in at the student table. But they did indeed sit on the stage.
When Alyssa came in first, she immediately ran to nanny and papa with a big hug, then asked, "Nanny, can my friend come and sit with us?" Of course that was fine..... Momma said she turned around there was a boy with a Mohawk coming her way. So they all ate lunch on the stage.... I couldn't help but to laugh.... Not that there was anything worng with that.... when she asked they were expecting a little girl with pigtails.....Funny....When she got home I asked her out of everyone in the class why did you pick Nazek to eat with you... So sweet she said... "Momma, he is one of the only ones who hasn't had someone come to eat with him." WOW... I wasn't expecting that....

Happy 14th Anniversary

2010-08-19T08:13:00.001-05:00

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always preserves."

-- 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Today Brett and I have been married for 14 years! That's hard to believe. In ways it seems like only yesterday... but in others it seems like it's been forever.....

The Best Day of His Life----so far...

2010-08-08T10:46:00.000-05:00

Saturday night I took Trent to the Braves game. We went extra early to try score some autographs. We got there early enough for batting practice and the pitchers warm up. It was awesome!

Notice Eddie Perez.... He was the man back in the day. He is a coach now....

He was really nice. I waved and he smiled and waved back.....

Trent before the game. Notice the awesome shirt. It looked good on the big screen during the 2nd inning.

We had come very prepared for the game. Our 3 goals were to 1) get an autograph, 2) get on the big screen and 3) catch a foul ball.... two out of 3 isn't bad... Trent was in heaven. He had been waiting for the moment to grab the attention of one of the players..... Eric Hinske was so nice. This is a picture of him signing Trent's ball.

This smile has been on his face since Saturday night. I was so happy I wanted to cry.
He said, "Momma, this is the best day of my life." So adorable.

Great picture of Chipper and the Trainer.

Check out how ginormous Troy Glaus is....

Outdoor Patio

2010-08-08T10:24:00.000-05:00

Brett has been working really hard on our yard. I am really impressed on how far its come. It will be so nice come fall just to set out and relax.

Trent was excitied to learn how to grill. Here he is preparing the steaks.

Happy 1st Birthday, Monroe.

Our Little Monroe turned 1 on August 7th. His little friend Chloe came over to play. She lives nextdoor.

It's really neat because Monroe and Chloe are both long-legged deer chihuahuas.

The deer chihuahua differs from the AKC standard because of their temperment. AKC Chi's are prone to shivering and snapping, and a fierce unwillingness to share the owner with another dog.They are very, well rounded, happy animal that will gladly snuggle with three other chihuahuas, all on the same master's lap.

They had a great time. They ran and played and played.

First Day of School

2010-08-02T21:18:00.000-05:00

Today was the first day of school. I can't believe that I have a 1st and 5th grader. Alyssa has been ready for weeks. She packed her bookbag Saturday night and was ready to go. It took alot more convincing to get Trent up this morning. Eventhough Trent didn't know not 1 boy in his class he seemed to adjust well. He was so upset that his friend Logan wasn't in his class this year. When I asked him how his day went he said I made two new friends today! But then also said, "Mom, I think Logan has moved on." We need to invite him to do something with us. I explained to him that just because he is not in his class doesn't mean that they wont be friends anymore. I told him of the story of Carey and I. We had been friends since kindergarten. We were only in class with eachother 3 times our entire life--- Elementary through Highschool and we just went swimming with them last week. Great friends will be friends forever. He seemed satisfied with that.

Alyssa came home from school today and went right to her room. She was "teaching" her stuff animals math. Her "pupils" were lined up on her bed and she was explaining to them how to add. It was so cute. She didn't come out of her room until dinner time.

Blairsville Weekend

2010-08-01T20:11:00.004-05:00

Last weekend we decided to take a few days and enjoy some mountain time in Blairsville. Most of the cousins came and they played and played and played. Brett and I enjoyed looking in the country stores and spending time with his family.

Girl Cousins!

2010-07-26T08:56:00.000-05:00

When we went to Texas we had a girls night out. Eventhough Alyssa was sick we managed to get some great pictures! She looks so much like Brett and Trent in these.

TOY STORY 3

2010-07-19T19:11:00.000-05:00

I finally took the kids to see Toy Story 3 this weekend. Wow! That movie hit me hard. It made me realize how fast life is moving. As I sat on the last row between my two children, I cried and cried. Looking over at my ten (soon to be eleven) year old......I couldn't control the tears. I remember when Trent was little....Toy Story was his favorite. He had all the characters and carried Woody and Buzz around for years. It's hard to believe that 10 years have passed and he is now beginning 5th grade.

Trip to Texas

2010-07-08T23:21:00.000-05:00

I took the kids out to Texas to visit with their cousin's. We had a great time. I was so glad that Alyssa could spend time with "the girls"
I couldn't believe how great the flights were. We had no problem getting on our fights either time.
The Monday we just hung around the house and let the girls play on the slip-n-slide. (The boys were too old they said)

Tuesday we took them to their neighborhood Beach Club. It was awesome. They played in the sand and swam all day.

Jackson

Trent, AnnaCarroll and Alyssa

AnnaCarroll catching the sun

Trent and Alyssa. I can't believe how much they look alike here.

Wednesday we spend the entire day at the Waterpark.

This slide below was alittle scary. But of course Alyssa just had to ride. It. Notice the guy in the yellow tube. with his arms crossed! The person riding this slide is enclosed in the tube, then the floor completely drops out from underneath you (like FreeFall). Alyssa's face was priceless at the end of the slide. Trent at first didn't want to ride it again... but Alyssa did. (not to be showed up... he did ride it again)

Kids play area!

Alyssa coming out of a slide

Little spitfire, Kate

Trent (10), Jackson (9), AnnaCarroll (6), Kate (5) and Alyssa (6)

Our last night there we decided to do a "girls night" while the boys went to a Texas Rangers game.

Poor Alyssa.... I don't know if it was the ride, water or what but she got sick. (all in the car on the way to the mall) So we turned the car around and had to bathe/change her. She was fine after "releasing" her self. We had the girls picture made and went to Build A Bear.

We enjoyed our nice little trip to McKinney, Texas!

10U Ola All Stars

2010-06-21T10:54:00.001-05:00

Trent was selected to be apart of the Ola Allstar Team for 2010.

He finally got to play with his cousin, Bryce!

Congratulations! 10U Ola Allstars for your 2nd Place State Finish. We placed great considering that we only had 4- 10 year olds and the rest were 9. I don't know what the other counties feed their boys, but they were HUGE. The were about 25-30 pounds heavier than Trent and Trent was the oldest player on the team. It was crazy.
But Boy.... I'm glad its over. We only played 2 weekends but man it was soooo HOT.
Trent played shortstop, 3rd and pitched alittle. He did awesome.

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

2010-06-10T01:13:00.000-05:00

It was to my surprise when the last week of school I was walking down the hall and noticed Alyssa's picture on the bulletin board. It said.... Here are the May Students of the Month who exhibited "patience" this month.

What?! See my little "Taz" on the front row.... Wow!

So Behind!

2010-06-02T10:48:00.001-05:00

I am so behind on posting! But I have to tell you a few cute stories.

ALYSSA: A 2 weeks ago she lost 1 bottom tooth. She was so excited. The tooth fairy came and brought her $1. She doesn't know how to save anything.... so of course she spent it for ice cream money at school.
A couple of days later.... another bottom tooth gone and then a top tooth. She decided to wait and not let the tooth fairy come. I don't know why at the time... but she wanted to wait.

Then a few days later. (Memorial Day Weekend)....while I was at the Braves game that Saturday night, she lost her top front tooth. I had taken Trent and a friend to the game so I wasn't home when it happened and came home extremely late that night. I had NO IDEA that her tooth was loose and had come out. So the next morning while I was preparing breakfast she comes in the kitchen with a confused/sad look on her face. She was holding a baggie with her teeth in it. "Mom, I laid my teeth under my pillow... but the tooth fairy didn't come."
Thank goodness of my quick thinking. I went on the explain to her that the Tooth fairy didn't work on holiday weekends and we would have to placed them under again that night. Thank goodness she understood. No worries....... That night I noticed her "working" the other top front tooth.... "What are you doing," is that other tooth loose?" She said that she was saving her teeth for a $10 dollar bill..... I told her that if another tooth comes out when its not ready the tooth fairy wont come at all......
As this was I happening I began to worry. Were they not ready to come out? Is this apart of her brittle bones? I went ahead and made a dentist appointment for this Friday.
But only 2 days later.... the other tooth had fallen out. We are taking 5 teeth within a 2 week span. She is totally toothless in the front.

TRENT:
Our little Monroe has been trying us these last couple of weeks. Little things that are totally expected from a puppy..... The other day I was in the living room watching TV when Trent comes running in crying uncontrollably. In his little hands were the remains of some of his army men. They had been beheaded by Monroe. I felt so sorry for Trent. He was heart broken. "Your dog ate my men!", he yelled.
Later on that afternoon I could hear humming from his room. I peek in to see that he was having a funeral for his beloved men of honor. Taps were being played.

9/10 Ola Henry Co. Tournament Champions!!

2010-05-24T21:33:00.002-05:00

WOW! I wasn't expecting this. It was a hot weekend of the ball field. I got alittle much needed sun. 9/10 Braves did awesome. We played some real baseball. We finished 1st in our age group then completed our regular season in first with a record of 9-3! Way to go Big "T"!!

I can't believe the lengths that some coaches and teams would go to to win. We played a team that would just knock the heck out of our players hoping that they would drop the ball. Trent was playing short stop and caught a runner in a "pickle" trying to steal 3rd. Trent ran him down and the guy just bulldozed Trent knocking him into the ground. But Trent never let go of the ball. Then the other team's coach threw a ball that was in his pocket out on the ground hoping to confuse the umps into thinking that the ball was dropped. It was nuts..... he got a warning but I thought he should have been thrown out. By the end of that championship game I was shocked that Brett nor I had completely lost our cool.

Rock Spring Field Day

2010-05-20T23:18:00.001-05:00

This is the first year that I have had both kids in the same school, doing the same types of activities. Trying to balance everyone's calendar is getting tougher and tougher as they get older. This week I decided to take both field day's off to go and help out. Boy am I tired. We all had fun though.

I was amazed at how athletic Alyssa is. It's a shame she can't play sports. She would be very good at it. She is super fast... the fasted girl in her class. Her team also won the tug of war.... she was so excited.

When you get into the older grades.... it is on.... they are so competitive.

Trent's best race was the jump roping race. He tore it up.... Alot of the boys just aren't coordinated to jump and run at the same time. It was funny.

Trent and his friend, Logan.

Needless to say... both days I went home and took a nap.

ALYSSA'S PROGRAM

2010-05-18T22:01:00.004-05:00

Kindergarten is finally coming to an end! Tonight was Alyssa's end of the year program.

Their theme was rainbow. Each class was represented with their own color. Alyssa's class was orange and her cousin, Dylan's was purple.

Alyssa with Ms. Calhoun and Ms. Staton.

When I asked for a "silly" face this is what I got. They actually could be twins.They are the same height and really favor eachother.

BRAVES DAY

2010-05-17T09:09:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was Ola Baseball day @ Turner Field. It was hot... but worth it!

We even were brave enough to take Taz with us. She did good but next time she said that she will stay with Nanny.

Trent's in the middle of the screen.

Mother's Day At Stone Mountain

2010-05-12T08:07:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite places in Georgia is Stone Mountain. This mother's day we took a trip there. We had a great time.

We started with a picnic. It was alittle chilly in the shade.

Jekyll Island

2010-05-11T20:15:00.003-05:00

Well I did it! Yesterday, I sent Trent on a 3 day field trip with his class without Brett or I. County rules state that only Dads can go with sons and Moms can go with daughters on overnight trips. I was really nervous about sending him but I have known his chaperone for several years and he was a fellow Mudcat coach so all was good. and Yes.... Brett could have went... but let's face it... he doesn't even like to watch his own two so I would have never sent him to watch over 3 or more kids that weren't his own. lol.

I guess when Alyssa is in the fourth grade I can go with her... Lord knows they wouldn't let her go without me.

After Trent was gone Alyssa said... Mom, I know I kick and hit Trent alot... but I wish that he would come home so we could play. Maybe sweet girl you should be nicer to him when he is here.

So far I got a picture via text of him holding a snake. He looked terrified.

2010-05-11T08:02:00.000-05:00

Homerun Derby

2010-05-10T20:14:00.000-05:00

Last weekend Trent participated in the Ola Homerun Derby. He knocked 2 over to give him 3rd place overall!

Way to go Trent!

I can't believe that there is only 2 weeks left of school! WOW! This year has flown by. My kids can't wait for summer. Alyssa longs for the days in the pool at her "old" school.

The Tooth Fairy

2010-05-05T07:47:00.000-05:00

Funny story....

Alyssa has an extremely loose tooth. The other night she was determined to pull it. She tried and tried to wiggle it out but it was simply not ready. Finally around 10pm I told her to stop and just go to bed. I laid down with her to help reassure her that the tooth wasn't going anywhere and that it would be there in the morning.
As we laid there she said...."Momma, Olivia said that our parents are really the tooth fairy and that there is no such thing as the tooth fairy." I was shocked and quickly asked, "Why does she think that?" Alyssa then proceeded to tell me that Olivia had written the tooth fairy a letter and asked if she was real to take the letter. The next morning.... Olivia found the letter and the tooth on her mom's dresser.....
I then asked Alyssa, "Well what do you think?" With missing a beat... "Momma, I know you are not the tooth fairy because I looked through all your drawers and I didn't find anything!"

Guess Santa will have to be on his toes this year.

MOOVe Over Cancer

2010-05-05T07:37:00.000-05:00

Relay for Life 2010

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives people across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. At Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event, because cancer never sleeps.

Trent raised the 3rd highest amount in the school for Relay for Life. Because of that he got to pie a Beta Club member in the face during his schools Mini-Relay. It was so funny. He was extremely nervous and excited at the same time.

Of course... Alyssa thought that was hilarious.

Friday night was the Henry County Relay for Life.

Team Rock Spring Elementary.... Moove Over Cancer was our motto.

Our team had over 75 members! It was a great time to reflect on those whom we have lost and our fiends that continue to fight this horrible disease.

Trent gets his 1st HomeRun of the Season!!

2010-04-20T12:47:00.000-05:00

(In a Skip Carey voice....... )BRAVES WIN! BRAVES WIN!!

Trent has been playing very, very good this season.
Striking out 6 on Thursday and 6 on Saturday. He actually made all outs in 2 innings in a row!
Congrats

WAY TO GO BIG T.

Monroe

2010-04-14T12:36:00.000-05:00

Not a very good picture... but here is a picture of our Little Monroe....

We think he is a pincher---chihuahua mix. Monroe's disposition isn't one of a chihuahua. He is very, very lovable and tolerant of Alyssa. She plays and plays with him. He is a good companion for her. Puts up with more than he should......

Spring Break

2010-04-08T12:23:00.021-05:00

This week was spring break! I decided to take a couple of days off. O Thurssay we met cousin Kimberly for alittle bowling. She came down from Chicago. The kids love to spend time with her.

Then on Friday... I braved Six Flags with 3 kids. Trent took a friend, Jakob. They had the best time.

Jakob and Alyssa wanted to ride The Wheelie.... Remember that? Trent wasn't so sure. I made him ride it with Alyssa. Look below at his face he wanted to cry....

But afterwards he was fine.... They rode it 3 times. I watched. I can't do spinning rides anymore.

The weather was perfect for that day. Nice and breezy.... But they begged to ride Splash Water Falls....

Spirit Catcher Photos

2010-04-05T11:00:00.000-05:00

These pictures are priceless.

2010-03-31T09:31:00.000-05:00

I have been in a writing funk..... Several times I have sat down at the computer and NOTHING comes to me. I will try to catch you up on my last couple of weeks.

My dad was very sick in the CCU @ Henry last week. Nothing is harder than watching the strongest man you know be so weak and in pain. His heart was slowly failing. His blood was not completely flowing to the lower chambers properly. They conducted a cath to find no blockages. Praise God! On Friday they re-shocked his heart. So know its just a sit and wait kind of thing. He is having pain from somewhere too. They did scans, ultrasounds and other tests on the liver, pancrease, gallbladder and lungs but have found nothing. He is out on disability for awhile. So please continue to pray. He is about to go insane not working or being able to do anything.

Trent had his first games of the season last week. He has been moved from 3rd to shortstop. He likes the change because he is always moving aroung at the SS position. He pitched in the first one striking out 5 batters, but we lost 10-9. The second game was on Saturday along with our Opening Day. We won that game 15-4! It's different not being a MUDCAT but a BRAVE is second best I guess. I had worked several weeks on our float... did the best I could considering I was the only one doing it. Thanks to Nolan Construction for helping cut out the Tomahawk. I will post pictures soon.

Does anyone know where the spell check went on this blog? It's driving me crazy!

Opening Day @ Ola Field

2010-03-27T22:42:00.003-05:00

9/10 Ola Braves!

We had our Opening Day. I was exhausted but my tomahawk turned out awesome! Go BRAVES!

Time Flies

2010-03-15T20:43:00.000-05:00

Look at my precious children! Seems like only yesterday they were babies. These are the first studio pictures that I have ever had done. There are more to be loaded up but I havent received them yet! I can not wait to get these back from the studio. Trent looks like a little man and Alyssa a princess.

Will You Be A Heart Hero

2010-03-10T14:06:00.000-05:00

I'm joining millions of other kids to help save lives with the American Heart Association's Jump Rope For Heart Program!

Trent is doing Jump Rope For Heart at his school and learning about kids, like him, with special hearts. He is also learning about his own heart, and how to take care of it. And his getting active and jumping rope!

Please help him save lives and be a Heart Hero!

When we face the inevitable dark days of life, we must choose how we will respond. Will we allow ourselves to sink even more deeply into our own sadness or will we do that difficult work of pulling ourselves out? We bring light to the dark days of life by turning first to God, and then to trusted family members and friends. Then, we must go to work solving the problems that confront us. When we do, the clouds will eventually part, and the sun will shine once more within us.

As some of you are aware, back in 2008 Trent was diagnosed with Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome.

Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome is a heart rhythm problem (arrhythmia) caused by an extra abnormal electrical pathway in the heart. In a normal heart, electrical impulses travel from the upper chambers (atria) to the lower chambers (ventricles) in an organized, rhythmic pattern through the atrioventricular node ? or AV node.

In people with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, there's an extra pathway between the upper and lower chambers of the heart, which allows the electrical signals to bypass the AV node. When electrical signals travel through this abnormal detour, the signals reach the ventricles too early ? a condition called preexcitation. Electrical signals can also travel through the AV node and then go back up the extra pathway, which can create a short circuit and lead to fast heart rate (tachycardia).

That summer his heart was able to be fixed and now he is healthy! Please help me raise money for the American Heart Association and be a Heart Hero!

Where have I been?

2010-03-01T19:52:00.000-05:00

I can't believe that it's been THAT long since I posted. I have been extrememly busy with just LIFE stuff.
Baseball season has started back for Trent. So between that and Girl Scouts we have been running nonstop. Although.... I am not complaining.... That's what I love to do. What I don't like to do is..... have my car breakdown twice in two weeks, taking it to the dealership, leaving it there and not getting it back for 2 weeks and it still doesn't run right. It is undering warranty which is an awesome thing... but going to and from Cumberland Pkwy everyday... I have to have trust in my car.
I love, love my car.... but with 92,000 miles on her... maybe its time to part ways.

Trent is on a new ball team this season, Ola BRAVES. This is going to be quite different. He has been a Mudcat since he was 6. New team... new coach... It's hard to adjust to something new. I finally got the uniforms ordered, which is always stressful. So now I am busy planning for the Opening Day parade.... tomahawks and all.

Brett finally took Alyssa's training wheels off her bike. When he did she zoomed across the front yard. No worries, she did awesome. That's all she wants to do now.

More later....

Snow Day 2010

2010-02-13T16:32:00.000-05:00

2010-02-13T16:30:00.000-05:00

Thinking Day

2010-02-08T08:10:00.002-05:00

Each year girls participate in activities, games and projects with global themes to honor Girl Scouts in other countries.

The theme for World Thinking Day 2010 is girls worldwide say "together we can end extreme poverty and hunger."

Alyssa's Daisy Troup participated in Thinking Day over the weekend. The country that they represented was Kiribati.

Kiribati is an island nation located in the central tropical Pacific Ocean.

During the ceremony they sung Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes in the Kiribati Language.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3NUelH6CHQ

Looking Back

2010-02-04T15:20:00.000-05:00

I was looking back at my older blog entries and realized that I have been doing this blog since 2005! Wow! 5 years! My entires were so much more entertaining back then. Time has really flown by.

Click on this article.... you just don't know how many times I wanted to do this....
Car Pool Mannequin

Up, Up and Away.....

2010-01-24T20:18:00.001-05:00

So this weekend I took the kids to see my grandmother and other relatives in Florida. We left the house around 5:45am and off to the airport we went.

I wish I could have taken a picture of Trent's face when he realized that he had to take his shoes off going through security. He did not want to walk in his socks on that floor. lol.

As we arrived at our terminal I had a bad feeling that our flight to Orlando may not happen. People were sleeping on the chairs and our flight looked completely booked. Soon Brett's phone call confirmed it. Because of the weather the night before the flight and all flights for the day were over sold. So change of plans..... we ended up flying to Tampa instead of Orlando. No big deal because Grandma lives in between the two. So mom and dad picked us up in Tampa instead. After switching our tickets we waited for the flight which was an hour later than the first.

Our 757.

2010-01-24T20:10:00.000-05:00

Little Perks.... As we boarded the plane Trent really, really nervous. I guess the attendants could tell and asked if it was their first flight. When I said yes they swiftly escorted us to the cockpit. The pilots were so nice. The captain was a huge TECH fan so that scored extra points for us. They let the kids actually sit in their seats and placed their captains hats on them. Trent was in ALLLLL.... Trent said to the pilot, "This is just like the video game!" The pilot thought that was hilarious. They trusted Alyssa with all of those buttons.

At the end of our tour they asked Trent if he had any questions. Trent wanted to know how they could fly the plane with all of the fog. (Trent was very worried about that on our way to the airport) The captain showed him all of the navigation buttons etc and Trent was at ease with his answer.

We finally took our seats and were on our way.

The flight was so short. The shortest I've been on. As soon as we got our drinks we were landing.

Happy 40th Anniversary Uncle Dan and Aunt Barbara

2010-01-24T19:55:00.000-05:00

My Uncle Dan, Aunt Barbara and their children.

My mom, Aunt Linda, Grandma and Uncle Dan

This is Grandma and all of her "Great Grands" that were there!

Alyssa Rides Again

2010-01-21T07:46:00.000-05:00

Alyssa continues to amaze us! Brett called me at work the other day and asked, "Did you know that Alyssa is riding a bike at Danny's?" (Danny is his brother) I didn't know it would be such a big deal because they ride the bus there everyday. "Yeah, I guess I just assumed she was." "Why?" I actually thought he was making a big deal about it because they have a huge hill in their back yard. Brett replied, "Yeah, she is riding a bike WITHOUT TRAINING WHEELS!"

What.... that's crazy. Trent was in the latter part of second grade when he finally learned.

Yep... I guess she just got on it and taught herself. Brett sounded alittle dissapointed. I was alittle releived that it happend this way. We always worried about her riding a bike because of her brittle bones. But she's been doing it so it makes it eaiser to let that go.

~Tomorrow the kids and I are taking a weekend trip to see my grandmother and my mom's side of the family. Pray for me! They will be flying for the first time. (Sad, I know.... Brett works for Delta and we never fly.... anywhere.)
Alyssa was all for it from the beginning. Trent... well not so much. He is so worried about "The Bad Guys" I finally talked him into flying, but he is extremely nervous about it. He is very close to Grandma, who is 86 and not doing so well. So we are on our way to Orlando!

Our Knight Rider

2010-01-11T17:35:00.000-05:00

So as you know Alyssa got a new bike from Santa. She has been riding non stop. Last weekend around 7:30 or so Brett decided to take Alyssa and go over to his uncle's house who lives down the street from us about 1/2 mile.
Brett got a phone call as he was getting ready to go. When he got off the phone he realized that Alyssa had taken off into the darkness on her bike. Evidently he was taking too longob the phone and she went to Uncle Stan's on her bike. Brett jumped into the car and I called Uncle Stan. Yeap! That is where she went to. That landed her into some serious trouble and gave her the nickname The Knight Rider.

Fast forward to today..... I received an email from her Teacher titled A FUNNY for the DAY.
As I read her email my stomach started to drop.

It said....
The students were learning about Black History and fair and unfair laws. (I thought oh no.... remember last year the mess with Trent and his teacher...great)

Our student teacher was explaining that Dr. King tried to have laws changed so that everyone was treated equally and fair.
Alyssa’s comment was just priceless—“ I wish Dr. King could come to our house and change the rule about not being able to ride the bike at night time.”

Too cute,

Mrs. C

Oh man... It could have been much worse. I laughed until I cried.

Last week during our heat crisis......Trent fell alseep during class. After waking him up several times that day she finally asked why was he so sleepy. He told her that we had no heat and it was so cold he couldn't sleep. Great.... should I be waiting for a DFACS call or donations from the school. He failed to mention that he couldn't go to sleep that night because the TECH game was on and his father was screaming at the TV until midnight.

Propane... What a Pain.

2010-01-06T09:12:00.001-05:00

Propane is a three-carbon alkane, normally a gas, but compressible to a transportable liquid. It is derived from other petroleum products during oil or natural gas processing. It is commonly used as a fuel for engines, oxy-gas torches, barbecues, portable stoves and residential central heating.

When used as vehicle fuel, it is commonly known as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG or LP-gas), which can be a mixture of propane along with small amounts of propylene, butane, and butylene. An odorant such as ethanethiol or thiophene is added so that people can easily smell the gas in case of a leak.

What a way to start a week back to work! To come home to find that we have no heat, no gas. How pi$$ED am I..... not at the fact that we have no heat but the fact that we had just spend $288 on gas on DECEMBEDR 19th! Not even a month ago.... What the heck???????

For years I have been telling Brett that we need to switch over from that god awful tank... but its eaiser said than done.
Besides the money involved........ the worst part is that they are telling us it could be Thursday until the gas comes.......

So last night we all snuggled in one queen sized bed, clothed in layers, with our electric blanket and a heater watching the Orange Bowl... with the TECH Quarter Back #9, being a ball hog... getting sacked ...doing "Flush and Run" plays until midnight and ~~laughing~~ thinking about poor Jeff who drove all the way to Florida to freeze on the metal bleachers watching the pitiful game. On the bright side he did get to see Cool and the Gang perform live....

Tonight I am going to the in-laws......

ps.... Where did the spell check go?

Little Ethan is Here!

2009-12-29T20:07:00.000-05:00

Brett's Cousin and my very dear friend Megan had her baby one week early! (Even though she doesn't think so....)She had a very non-eventful delivery.

While she waited through the contractions.... Daddy Wayne and Granny Paula played alittle poker......

All smiles before the delivery....

Ethan Wayne Morrow born December 29th @ 1:21pm

8 pounds 3 ounces 20 inches long.....

Visit the Cousins From Texas

2009-12-28T20:00:00.000-05:00

We really enjoyed out visit with the Drennan family. They live in Texas and come to visit a couple of times a year. Alyssa really loves to spend time with her girl cousins~ AnnaCarroll and Katie.
Katie and Alyssa

Jackson and Trent

AnnaCarroll getting ready to play with her fashion dolls.

Our time with them was way too brief!

Christmas Eve

2009-12-26T23:10:00.000-05:00

On Christmas Eve every year the kids go out before bedtime and feed Santa's Reindeer.

I told the kids to go to bed. When I went to check on them Alyssa had made her a pallet on the floor next the the vent. Poor thing was sweating so bad. I had to wake her up to move her.

Christmas morning!

2009-12-26T23:09:00.000-05:00

2009-12-26T23:08:00.000-05:00

Even Jake was warm on Christmas!

Christmas with Friends

2009-12-19T23:05:00.000-05:00

Ti-George and me

Crazy Craig

Heather, Miranda, me and Brittain

Christmas Party with Alyssa

2009-12-18T22:57:00.000-05:00

I had taken both yesterday and today off from work to attend the kids parties at school. What fun filled days we had.
Alyssa had a PJ Pizza party! They made crafts, ate pizza then watched the Polar Express!

Nanny and Papa were able to come too! They had a fun... I think.

Alyssa's class after all the sugar was consumed.

2009-12-18T22:56:00.000-05:00

Trent's class had a party after lunch! 26 10 year olds! That's alot of kids in one room.

2009-12-08T23:03:00.002-05:00

Saturday I dressed the kids up and took them to see Santa. Alyssa was very excited and knew just what she wanted to ask for. Trent (who is on the fence with the whole Santa thing) was alittle forced to go. He is afraid not to believe, because if You Don't Believe.... You Don't Receive. Right?

After leaving Santa we went by my parent's house to see my grandmother before she went back home. Here are some great pictures of them putting candy canes on the tree and visiting with great-grandma.

4 Generations

Then we made a last minute decision to travel to Lake Lanier to see their light display. It was really cool. They had alot of neat lights. I took some pictures but they didn't turn out so great. At the end of the 7 miles of lights they had a huge bonfire to roast marshmallows.

Eventhough they charged $60 per car.......It was great to have that experience with the kids at least once.

Alyssa story.....

2009-12-04T09:45:00.003-05:00

Sunday Brett, Alyssa and I went to the store and on the way back stopped at McDonalds's. We had originally stopped for ice cream for Alyssa but when we started to order she wanted some chicken nuggets instead. So Brett ordered her a kids meal with nuggets and him a quarter pounder meal. We got our food and I passed Alyssa's bag back to her. As we are driving down the road the opens her bag and yells, "OK.... who ordered the freaking hamburger." Stunned Brett and I looked at each other trying not to laugh. Apparently she saw the quarter pounder box that Brett's burger came in then saw her nugget box and thought it was too a hamburger. Brett quickly explained that that didn't sound very nice coming from a 6 year old.... But it was funny nonetheless.....

Also... while cleaning under Alyssa's bed last week I found a note from her teacher on why she had to "move her clip" that day..... Alyssa don't you know sweetgirl that momma always will find out.

2009-11-28T09:31:00.001-05:00

So Thanksgiving has come and gone. We had a great holiday. Brett and I were off work for most of the week. We cleaned the house and spent some time together as a family, which was nice. I must say Brett did most of the cleaning. I had to work Monday and when I got home he had cleaned the kitchen, laundry room and den areas. It was so nice to relax and not worry about cleaning. On Wednesday I took Alyssa to her "favorite" mall. For her birthday I promised her a new Build-A-Bear. So she made Snow Glow ~ a white polar bear. We had an awesome girls day.

Friday was our annual crazy shopping day. Toys-R-Us threw off our normal plans by opening at midnight instead of 4:00 like they have done in previous years. We all (me, my sisters, mom and aunt) met at the store around 3:30am. We were done and on to Target by 4:30am and to the mall by 6:00am. We shopped, and shopped. It was worth the good deals that we got. They were all done by 10:30am. But I wasn't. My sister, Laurie and I shopped some more, enjoyed an awesome lunch and I took her home around 3:00pm. But I knew that if I stopped then I would crash so I decided to make my way to Tanger. Home @ 6:00pm. So I shopped from 3:30am to 5:30pm. WOW!

Saturday was GAME Day. We had tickets to the GA-Ga TECH game . Brett gets extremely nervous... I mean sickly nervous and at the last minute opted to stay home because of his "bad feeling" about the game. But Trent, Jeff and I had fun, even though Brett was right and we lost. Trent was mortified walking into the stadium from the Varsity. Those DAWG fans were throwing boxes and candy NERDS to the Tech fans as they walked by. I thought it was very clever and funny, but poor Trent took it to heart taking his Tech hat off. It was a good game. I will save my nasty comments to myself.....

Mallorie's Wedding

2009-11-22T22:36:00.000-05:00

Megan and Alyssa

Great picture of Alyssa getting ready to go down the aisle.

Alyssa said "Mom, I got a groom!"

The beautiful bride, Mallorie aka. mouse.

2009-11-22T22:35:00.000-05:00

Grandmommy and Alyssa

Trent didn't want pictures.... so this was the best one I could get.

The bride and the groom.

Megan and Wayne (she's only got one month before little Ethan is here)

Veteran's Day @ RSE

2009-11-22T21:25:00.000-05:00

On Friday Rock Spring celebrated Veterans Day. The fourth grade sang songs for the Rock Spring Veteran family. They were so good. There wasn't a dry eye in the room.

Afterwards a veteran talked to each class about what they did and what they saw. Here is a picture of Trent's class listening to the vets story.

Happy 6th Birthday, Alyssa

2009-11-19T08:59:00.002-05:00

Alyssa Michelle Barfield born November 19th ~ 7lbs 12oz.

A couple of hours old

1 year old
2 years old

3 years old

4 years old
5 years old
Now!!

Aunt Netta's

2009-11-18T08:45:00.011-05:00

We took a trip to Blairsville last weekend. The weather couldn't have been more perfect!

The "Bent Tree" picture. It won't be too long and the cousins will be too big to fit in the tree. They are all growing up so fast!

Aunt Netta's house is just amazing!

We celebrated Alyssa and Aunt Helen's birthday!

2009-11-09T13:33:00.000-05:00

To the daughter who I love.....

One day you will understand why you went to bed one hour early....

The scissors are not to cut a whole in your new pants "just because you wanted to."

ps. Great job on your report card, but lets work on "being a leader."

The teacher said that she will be a great leader one day..... that was her tactful way of saying that Alyssa is bossy. What? Not ALYSSA. lol.

To my son who I love....

One day you will understand why you just can't live with Uncle Stan. You can't live off of pizza and spaghetti.

ps. Awesome work on the Report Card.

To my husband.....

You can never, ever say another word about my driving... EVER>

The Many Faces of Trent

2009-11-04T20:48:00.000-05:00

Trent is very serious.

He is a thinker.

But he likes to fool around.

What a great kid!!

WAY TO GO MUDCATS!!! UNDEFEATED IN REGULAR SEASON PLAY AND 2ND in the Halloween Havoc Tournament!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T20:37:00.000-05:00

Alyssa's Field Trip to Southern Belle Farm

2009-11-01T20:30:00.000-05:00

To end Alyssa's study on "the Farm" they went to Southern Belle Farms. She was all smiles.

Here is a great picture of Alyssa's class. Ms. Calhoun's class had so much fun.