It's Snowing! Yeah! I wanted to see snow and even though I am not getting to see as much as Mama & Daddy have in Clyde, I am getting to see it!

Winter Scrap Fest 2007 ... So far

.4! Parking Challenged? Major Scrappin!

Okay, it has taken me a while to get this posted ... darn internet! I couldn't believe it when I stepped on the scales and she wrote .4! Like I said in the last post, I didn't think it possible that I had not gained. I think I have been pushing my luck! Time to buckle back down. I did have a fabulous moment this week when I put on jeans that were too tight in May and they would not stay up (see the ME 2007 layout above for a picture of just how big they were on me!) And then I tried on another pair that did not fit me just four weeks ago and they fit perfect! So happy!

Has anyone ever called you, "Parking Challenged?" Well, I have been called that three times in the last two months at work! The first guy called it to my attention in early November, so I started paying attention and tried my best to get straight in. Thought I was ... guess not. Last week, Linda, our HR person, and Ruth, the publisher, both told me I had a major problem. They were shocked that I was actually pulling "straight in" - it seems I veer over to the right ... a lot! So anyway, I am trying to do better. Should have added that to my new year's resolutions, I guess.

Okay, see all those pages at the top? I have done all of those in the last three days! Lifetime Moments is having another contest and since I won a bunch of gift certificates and supplies at the last one, I thought I would give it another go around.

Mediacom is really getting on my nerves!

Just wanted to check in and say HAPPY NEW YEAR - since I didn't get to say it yesterday or on Sunday - thanks to the wonderful technicians at Mediacom! I am blogging from work now because my internet connection has been down since Sunday - ugh! Driving me crazy. And just when I signed up for another on line crop fest t www.lifetimemoments.com. They are also having a crop weekend at A Cherry on Top another one of my favorite online scrap sites. Not going to sign up for it until MCHSI decides to cooperate!

So I hope everyone had a beautiful new year. I was glad when the rain finally stopped. Frank and I stayed home instead of going out to any celebrations pretty much because the weather was already bad and add to that all the bad drivers on NYE and it seemed like a better idea to stay in. We had lots of fun! He made nachoes and we watched the ball drop - a good evening all in all.

Have you made any new year's resolutions or set any goals for 2007? Of course, my first goal is to continue to lose weight and attend my WW on Wednesdays - which I am dreading tomorrow because the scales today say I have added a couple of pounds. Oh well, got to face the music - I did eat a lot differently since last Wednesday. Chicken fingers at Cheddars, Prime Rib and Lobster at Frank's, then Nachoes - I really don't deserve a loss this week. But I am back on track and I did make my personal goal by then end of 2006! I am not going to beat myself up but I am going to be more strict. If the scales are right, and I have a 2 pound gain with Frank having been in charge of the menu for the last 10 days - well let's just say, 2 pounds "ain't as bad as it could've been!" My other goals include meeting more people and selling more ads in my territory, keeping in touch more with family and friends (hopefully this site helps me do that), and being better organized (of course they are not necessarily in that order.)

Well, hopefully, my internet works when I get home, if not, I will plan to post WW tomorrow afternoon before I leave work again. TTFN! Leave me some "love" (comments) tell me what your goals are .... pleaseseseese!

Whoa! Spending the day with Tucker & Moe!

Today, Frank and I went horseback riding in Candler at Fordbrook Stables. Mike and Rhonda Ford run a pretty cool horse farm just off Sardis Road. Our ride was two hours long ~ straight up a beautiful farm to views of downtown Asheville, the Grove Park Inn, and the Biltmore House. There were eight of us on the ride plus our trailguide, Rhonda. She was pretty funny, telling us they hoped we enjoyed the "two day" ride we had signed up for. We did enjoy it it, but I'm glad it wasn't two days ~ we were a little sore after the two hours we did ride. Frank's horse was named Moe, and he was a biter (which Frank thought a bit ironic since I am the biter in the family) and my horse was Tucker, a sure-footed, take your time and do it right (like Frank) kind of horse. They gave me Tucker because he was so gentle and smart, she said he usually gets the kids in the group and she had even used him to take a blind woman on the tour. Mike, the owner, knew me from advertising with me at the Town Tooter, so he took extra care in getting a good horse for me when he found out it was my first time. We really did have a great time and got some pretty neat pictures. I think we will have to put this on our list of things to do again ... and soon!

Click here to see more photos from today:

Horseback Riding

Fore!

Today was our second day of vacation and I am trying to have a little something for us to do each day without going out of town. Cummings Cove Golf Course was our choice for today's activities. We got to the course just after lunch, got to see our favorite member-employee, Jim Fagen. He is the best! I always enjoyed working with Jim and I don't think he has aged one day in the 7 years since I started work there. Before heading on the course, we saw Mr. Carlson and Mr. Campenella in the grill room. Again they hadn't aged a bit - must be golf course living! So we headed out to check out the new holes on the course and just as we hit #1, Nancy Carlson, Sue & Pat Robinson, and Ruth Webber were coming in on 18! It was great to see them, too. We had a wonderful time - the course was really in good shape and the day was just gorgeous.

After we played we went over the mountain and down into Hendersonville trying to find a place to eat. We got on 25 and headed north all the way through Fletcher and into Biltmore. I thought we would go for the CHEAP pizza buffet at CiCi's but it was packed (a bus full of teenagers had just disembarked!) So we headed out towards River Ridge and saw a new restaurant, Cheddars, we went in even though it was packed, too, headed straight for the bar (a trick we have learned - you can eat at most bars even if you are only drinking tea and water - it saves a lot of time waiting in line and works great when there are only two of us!) We looked at the menu - but the lady next to us was having the best looking chicken tenders I have ever seen so I ordered those and Frank ordered the Hickory Smoked Ribs and they were to die for! Really good (I sneaked a bite) and tender. Afterwards, he had the COOKIE MONSTER dessert - a warm, just baked chocolate chip cookie topped with vanilla ice cream, nuts and drizzled with chocolate sauce. I stole a bite of that, too and it was delicious. It wasn't so much that I didn't WANT to eat more as it was that I didn't want to get my hand STABBED while reaching for another bite! Frank really, REALLY liked it!

3.4!

HAPPY 43rd ANNIVERSARY, MAMA & DADDY!

Yea, I did it! I made my goal of 40 pounds by the year's end! I was getting a bit worried after last week's "0" but I was glad to see that had changed this week. Now for my next goal ~ 50 pounds by January's end (that's 5 Wednesdays away.)

So Christmas has passed and what a wonderful week it was! I had last Thursday off to finish up shopping and wrapping and the kids came over on Friday to get an early start on the holiday weekend. All night long we had to smell the delicious aroma of Frank's pinto beans cooking in anticipation of Saturday night's Christmas Eve Eve party.

Saturday we got to have a wonderful Christmas breakfast at Mama & Daddy's. Eggs, gravy, bacon and a biscuit with homemade strawberry jelly ... yum yum! I am so glad I didn't have to give that up because I was on a diet! Angie and Gene and all the kids were there and we all had a wonderful time. Brett read us the Christmas story, then Hannah and Katie played Santa and handed out the goodies. Thank you, Mama & Daddy, for the wonderful homemade canned goodies ~ can't wait to get into the beans ~ already opened the jelly ~ think we'll have vegetable soup this weekend! Frank makes really good grilled cheese and that soup will go great with them!



Saturday night we finally got to dig into those beans! Yum Yum, again! Good food abounds during the holidays. Tiffany and Helen brought Harmony over to open her presents ~ the picture above is her with her Opa and the Old Fashioned Top he bought her. The look on her face is priceless! The kids had drawn names and they got to open their presents to each other and then it was time for bed.

Christmas Eve morning they all woke up, opened their stockings and said their "Thank You's" to Mr. & Mrs. Santa and they were off! Frank and I had to get up to Art & Helen's new property to get their sign put up. It was a much better day than the day we dug the hole for it! We let them know about the sign with a puzzle of a picture we had taken of the sign. I think they enjoyed putting together the puzzle as much as actually getting to see the sign! Frank put out another great spread of food at Art & Helen's with parmesan onion puffs, mini deli sandwiches, delicious jumbo shrimp, and more! We all ate 'til we popped! It was nice to have Ethan, Joanna, Harmony, Shawn, Tiffany, and Justin there to celebrate!

I took most of my pictures on film this year, so you'll have to wait a bit longer for the pictures to develop. Will put 'em up soon as I get 'em! Thank you to everyone for a wonderful 3 day Christmas celebration! We love you all and hope you have an equally nice New Year's weekend!

O! (Well, Sort of)

Only 2 more days 'til we start to celebrate! Can't wait! (BTW, I have not cheated on any presents this year .... so far!) Wish it would snow like in that picture up there! Those are my three happy kids in the snow in Maplewood-I think it was 94 or 95. That is Frank and his dad in Balsam Grove in the mid 70's. It sure seems like a long time since we had a good snowfall! Let's all keep our fingers crossed! (Side note: Frank just saw those two pictures together and bust out laughing! He called the snowman my kids built a "SNOWSHROOM" ~ he said, "Look at 'em standing behind it so proud!" I told him snow was made different in the "old days" when he built his, that 20 years later the snow is smaller just like computers, laptops, and tv's. It's called Technology! Okay, it's really called the difference between him having a Dad with a shovel and my kids having a Mom with camera!)

So I must confess it took two weigh-ins in one hour to get me to "0" weight loss and "0" weight gain today. Confused? Well, I usually weigh in around noon and I don't usually have a lot to drink beforehand, however, today I was extremely thirsty and about 11 am I gave in and drank a 20 oz. bottle of water. When I went to weigh in, I was .2 on the plus side - which I just didn't want to see, so I waited and waited and listened patiently through the meeting. Most of the time, I was thinking, "I wonder if she will let me go to the potty and weigh me again?!" So after Miss Julia was through, I went to the potty and then asked to be weighed again, and GUESS WHAT? Drink 20 ounces of water an hour before you weigh in DOES make a difference. She weighed me again and I was at the same weight as last week!

So, tell me, should I go with that? I think so, it is more positive for me and afterall, a lot of my weightloss as been a big mind game already! So I will stick with my zero! I called Mom and told her and then I told Frank the whole story, so I guess as long as I am being honest with all my encouragers then it's all good! This past week was hard for me for a couple of reasons 1) I'm a girl! Sometimes that's all you have to say. I craved salty and sweet all week long. 2) I gave in to eating some of the most delicious cake I have ever had: Lynelle's wedding cake - a very little bit of chocolate (thank goodness, Amanda & Frank polished it off to quickly for me to eat more than one very small bite) and more than I should of the white with white icing (this plain ole' vanilla girl's favorite). The white had strawberry jam between the layers and it was out of this world. Pastries, Etc. in Arden made them both and let me tell you, if you ever need cake, they are the people to call! Needless to say, I was glad when Matter came down the stairs and took it away from me to finish. YIKES-WHITE WEDDING CAKE WITH STRAWBERRIES? Big TRIGGER FOOD for Paula.

Good thing the cake is gone and all the celebrating for the year is finally over .... NOT! Check back next week and see how I survived!

Brian & Lynelle's Wedding

Click on the picture below to see some of the photos I took today at the wedding. It was so beautiful and there was such a sweet spirit there. When she walked in, he looked at her and walked straight down the aisle to meet her, as if he just couldn't wait any longer .... I swear I had tears!

Lynelle & Brian's Wedding

Going Out On Limb? Nah!

Today, Lynelle is getting married! She has labored long and hard over the decision and finally decided to trust God as he directed her to trust this new love, Brian. My wish is for her to be happy, cared for and loved!

And a blessing from above:
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

First Love!

I have been meaning to upload this picture of Nick with his girlfriend, Courtney. It was taken the Saturday after Thanksgiving when we celebrated Turkey Day at Tiffany's. Courtney is really cute and she just happens to be the daughter of Tamara Johnson, a girl Angie and I went to school with. Sometimes I think the kids are right, I do know everybody! I think it comes with the territory, afterall, I have lived here all my life! Love this picture, if anyone wants a copy, let me know. Happy Friday!

1.4!

Okay, so Frank says I never admit it when I am wrong - well, this time I am happy to report I WAS WRONG! Wrong about how much weight I thought I had gained this week - I hadn't gained any and I lost 1.4 more to bring me up to 37.6! Our scales here went a little goofy and from Saturday morning through last night (when I jumped on the them and broke them) that had been saying that I had gained 3 pounds. For the life of me I could not figure out how I had done it, and I was terrified to go weigh today. But I decided I had to suffer through it and if I had to post a plus, it would be okay. Thank goodness, I lost!

Did ya'll see this headline, "S.C. mom has son arrested for playing with present before Christmas?" Click on the headline and it should take you to the story if you've not already seen it. When I read it all I could think was, "I'm glad my mom is soooooo nice!" 'Cause man, if anyone knows how that boy was feelin', it's me! (Right, mom?) I found my typewriter and my camera and used both before Christmas morning when I was in the 5th and 6th grades. I remember the year, I only asked for a denim jacket and the game, Payday, I just had to know if I got them, so I opened them up and made sure, then wrapped them back up. I also found out I was getting a pink robe and a few more things. It was a GREAT Christmas. One year, Mom decided to number the presents so I wouldn't know if they were mine or Angie's ... didn't help. I checked them all - then I knew what everything was, just didn't know who was getting what! My very first Christmas as a married gal, I made a big boo boo in what I said would make a "really stupid gift for me" (a watch, because I always lost them) only to realize that was what Billy bought me. As soon as I had the opportunity, I unwrapped it and made sure, and then proceeded to "mention" every day until Christmas how much I "needed a new watch." :) Sneaky? Well from that year on, my presents were taken to mom's or left at Eckerds. It didn't always work, afterall, I knew where Mom hid stuff when I lived there, what had changed? I will tell you what changed me for good ... FRANK! He told me, straight up, if he found out I cheated and looked at it, it was going back and I wouldn't be gettin' nothin'! Well, I believed him and I have NEVER opened, or even tried to sneak a peek at his gifts for me! I am glad he wasn't around to offer that advice to my mom. As for being arrested, I can only hope there is a statute of limitations on such crimes and that the time has passed to press charges!

Atta Boy!

Last night we went to Frank's company Christmas Party at McGuffey's in Hendersonville. I finally got to meet his boss and some of the folks he talks about all the time. In their newsletter they said there would be karaoke, door prizes and some awards. I wasn't looking forward to the karaoke, but I am always up for a door prize and I had my fingers crossed that someone would FINALLY recognize Frank for all that he does on the job. He never and I mean, never, calls in sick, he is never late, and he always works so hard. He recently took on the shipping office manager job and he is learning to type faster, he has learned to make spreadsheets and even made "tables" in Word - which is not that easy. I am very proud of him for taking on a new job and making the extra effort to learn new stuff.

I am happy to report that Stewart Solutions feels the same way! The first award given out was an "Atta Boy" award and it went to Frank! He didn't seem surprised! LOL! Of course, I know he knows he does a good job, but this time, EVERYBODY knows! I was really proud for him. His boss, Roger, said some wonderful things about him including that he was actually jealous of the way Frank was always professional at his job. He really showed a lot of respect for Frank last night. Anyway, next time you see Frank, you can pat him on the back and give him an "atta boy" for his "atta boy."

As for the door prize, neither of us won. And the karaoke? As long as Gary, the DJ, was singing all was well, but do you see who actually got up and sang? This picture may well serve as blackmail in the future! Yep, that's Frank with Dee, his boss's wife and human resource manager; and Roger, his boss. They all joined in for a good and hearty version of Kenny Rogers' "The Gambler." Undoubtedly, no one ever told Frank that "you've got to no when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em and know when to walk away" was from a COUNTRY song!

First photo is of Frank with his buddy, Big Bird, I mean, Russell (he's the little fellow on the right-haha!) Russell and his wife, Vicki, have a 14 month old son that the left at home for the first time in a year. Vicki is from Haywood County and most likely went to school with some of my cousin's kids. She mentioned a Lacy Deaver as one of her best friends and that name sounds familiar. Her mom is Opal Mashburn. Hey mom, do you know her? She said her mom grew up on Dix Creek. Anyway, we met some other folks and had a great time with them, too. I especially liked Tony Zachary, a good ole Brevard boy, who can clog like you've never seen. Frank says he actually goes to competitions. He was really good and when they played "Rocky Top," I even joined in and clogged a few verses (which explains the third picture up there.) Let me tell you, it was great exercise, and much more fun than a treadmill. Maybe I will take it up again!

2.0!

I lost 2 more pounds! That makes 36! I got another 5 pound star. Isn't it funny how stars appeased us when we were small? You know we got them for doing our chores, for reciting memory verses, for homework, and for attendance. Somewhere along the way we traded stars for dollars. Don't get me wrong, I really like the dollars, but sometimes one of Julia's stars is all I need to bring me joy! Today was a good meeting about staying on track while so busy during the holidays. My goal by the end of the year is 40 pounds, so wish me luck, and please, whatever you do, don't offer me too many temptations! :)

Ra pum pum pum

My Little Drummer Boy! Isn't this a cute picture? EVERY DAY, Frank listens to his Christmas music. He loves that stuff! He says his favorite song is "The Little Drummer Boy," so that's what I named him in this little picture. I came home today and the television was on the SIRIUS Christmas tunes channel and playing full blast! And it's like that every day he has off. He also listens to it on the radio non-stop from Thanksgiving on. It's obvious he never worked retail or he probably wouldn't be so taken with it. AND GET THIS ... AMANDA FEELS THE SAME WAY! She is actually the one who gets him started every year. This year she came home in the first week in November saying they were playing random Christmas songs on MY 102.5. And there it started. It really is kind of cute. I am sure they both know the words to every song playing. Next time you see either of them, hum a line, I am sure they'll join right in! Ra pum pum pum!

Another 2x2 Quiz

Since tomorrow is the 2nd ~ How About a 2x2 Quiz to Take. The easiest way to answer is to highlight and copy (highlight, ctrl +c) the questions on this page and then click "O Comments" and paste (ctrl +v) into the big box that pops up. Then you can answer the questions. Be sure to click "OTHER" and put your name and then click "publish your comments." Would love to hear from all of you!

1. Two people you'd be lost without

2. Two nicknames you have been given

3. Next two places you want to go on vacation

4. Two everyday things you couldn’t live without

5. Two of your favorite songs

6. Two things you want to do before you die

7. Two things you worry about

8. Two stores you shop at

9. Two things that scare you

10.Two snacks you could eat every day

Have a great day and HAPPY DECEMBER!

Matter's Basketball Schedule

Here is Matthew's Basketball Schedule for 2006-07
His games should start around 6 pm
(Home Games in Blue)

11/17/06 Played on the Varsity Team w. 56-55
11/21/06 6:00 PM v. Hendersonville w. 52-47 (Matt scored 8 of 10 free throws)
11/28/06 7:30 PM @ Owen w. 40-23
11/29/06 vs. RS Central l. 36-39 (Matt had 3 points)
12/1/06 8:00 PM @ Hendersonville W. (but the game started early and I missed the whole thing - will have to get score later)

12/6/06 6:00 PM @ R-S Central Marine Corps JROTC
12/8/06 6:00 PM v. Roberson
12/14/06 6:00 PM v. Christ
12/15/06 6:00 PM v. Madison
12/19/06 8:00 PM @ Mitchell
1/2/07 4:30 PM @ Roberson
1/5/07 4:00 PM v. Pisgah
1/9/07 4:30 PM @ Brevard
1/12/07 4:30 PM v. East Henderson (vs. Uncle John's Team!)
1/16/07 4:00 PM @ Smoky Mountain
1/19/07 4:30 PM v. North Henderson
1/20/07 4:30 PM @ Pisgah
1/26/07 4:00 PM @ Pisgah
1/30/07 4:30 PM v. Brevard
2/2/07 4:30 PM @ East Henderson
2/6/07 4:00 PM v. Smoky Mountain
2/9/07 4:30 PM @ North Henderson

Matt's Team loses a close one!

Well, they led most of the game, but in the end, time and inexperienced referees worked against them and they lost 39-36. Matthew had one fast break and scored 2 points off the turnover. He also made one of two free throws. His mother almost came off the bench when he was tackled and his head hit the floor! He came up okay, or so he said, but he didn't seem to be "all there" the rest of the game. Amy and I were very concerned. His coach must really have confidence him though, as he kept him in throughout most of the game. I took lots of pictures and hopefully they will turn out good~will post when I get them developed. Enjoy your rainy soggy day out there!

West vs. Owen - Jayvee Results!

Don't know much yet, will update after tonight's game vs. RS Central. Do know Jayvee team won last night 40-23! (Varsity also won!)

2.0!

It's WW day again ~ and I lost 2 more pounds! Yeah! Guess I didn't gobble gobble too bad! Setting my goal at 5.8 more by the end of the year so keep your fingers crossed for me!

Also, my aunt Sandra, had surgery today so I am asking everyone to remember her in their prayers. Hopefully, she will be up and walking again soon!

Happy Birthday, Justin

JUSTIN!

Hope you have a really great birthday, Justin! Hard to believe that I turned 15 the day after you were born ~ it helps to know that Frank was even older, haha! I put up this pic because I think you two look like you were really having a good time and I think you look adorable! Have a happy, happy day!

One Hot Chick!

Actually it's not a chick, but it is one good lookin' turkey! One down, three to go! 

Thanksgiving Then & Now

Art just sent me this picture of Frank's grandparents, Frank, Sr. & Hazel. It put a really big smile on Frank's face. He said this was the one who made sure that he was always fed and taken care of and that she taught him all his manners and it was obvious how much he loved her. Personally, I think she spoiled him rotten, but I am glad he had someone so special to look after him. The picture is from 1976, the last year Frank lived in Miami.

Guess who is frying turkeys? Yep, that's Frank in his chef's coat, dropping in the first of four birds (3 turkeys and one duck) today. One turkey is for tomorrow when we get to celebrate Thanksgiving again at Tiffany's; one is for our freezer; and I am not sure what the third one is for. The duck is for me - my birthday dinner on Sunday! Someone told me when 40 comes at you to duck, so I am going to!

Happy Thanksgiving!

What are you thankful for? Me? I am thankful for my family. Even though I don't always show it and can be spoiled sometimes, I do really appreciate everyone in my family. Thank you, Mama and Daddy for all the good food and for fixing up your garage so that we would all have a place to gather together. It looks beautiful and there is no place like Grandma & Granddaddy's on the holidays! Thank you also for my spoon rack for my birthday. I have had spoons patiently waiting for months for their place on my wall of fame. Thanks also Angie for making some really good food and all the "over the hill" and Elvis Cutout - and the WW mag sub! It was a great birthday surprise!

Here's a picture of all the kids in Grandma & Granddaddy's backyard - Frank found the sawhorses and the cool shed made for a nice autumn backdrop - love this shot! LtoR Brett, Matt, Amanda, Hannah, Katie, Luke & Amy.

West JV Wins!

Matthew shooting free throws at end of game against Hendersonville tonight. They won 52-47 and Matthew made 8 of 10 free throws in the game. They were especially helpful at the end when Hendersonville made a run towards a win.

1.4 ~ Again!

I weighed in a day early because I planned to go shopping tomorrow with Frank. My loss? 1.4 Pounds, same as last week! Yeah! That brings my total to 32 pounds in 13 weeks! I am very happy with this and hope to keep it up for a long time.

During our meeting, we were asked to write down the things about our weightloss journey that we were thankful for. My list included the support I get from my family and from my friends at work who are also going to WW; WW Snack Cakes and Orville Redenbacher Smart Pop Mini Bags - Only 1 Pt; Shopping in my closet - it has been nice to put on some smaller things without having to spend money on new things; Willpower - thankful that I have been able to say no, to say whoa, and to stay low. I must say when I started I thought it would be such a long, arduous process that I would get bored with it and quit before I reached goal. Now, I learned a long time ago to "never say never" so I am not saying that now, but I HOPE to never be as heavy as I was when I started and I HOPE to always be able to stick to the things I've learned - about smaller portions, especially.

Amanda at Pier One; Amy learning to Waitress

Amanda is grateful to no longer smell like barbecue sauce, while Amy is happy to be earning a bit more money each week as a waitress at the shack. Both of the girls are growing up so fast. Amanda and Atley have been dating now since the spring and Amy and Brandon are going pretty strong, too. Brandon is a cutie, believe it or not, he is taller than Amy. She likes it because she is a shoe hog and with him, she can still wear her heels! He is a really nice boy. And Atley, well if you have ever met him chances are you have had at least one laugh! He keeps us laughing when he is around, although that isn't as much as it used to be - I think Amanda has adopted Dee's as her second home. Amanda is also going to BRCC and has almost finished her first semester. She has already signed up for her second one. She is really good in Spanish and tells me that when she gets to WCU she wants to minor in it. I think that is very smart in this ever growing MexAmerica!

Matter's Playing BBall at West

Matthew made the basketball team at West! He played his first conference game on last night and got to play a lot of minutes - this is cool because he was playing on the Varsity team. They were short about 5 players because of football playoffs, so Matthew and 4 others from the JV team got to play up at Madison. They won. Matthew made one 3 point attempt that he missed, but he was fouled while bringing the ball down the court and he made his two free throws! Yeah, so he has two points to start his high school basketball career. He has a lot of games this year, the next one is at about 6:00 pm at Hendersonville High School next Tuesday night. Guess who will be there with her camera?

1.4!

I made it over the 30 pound mark! Yeah! This week I lost 1.4 pounds and it put me at a total of 30.8. I feel really good about it. I have gone "shopping in my closet" a couple of times now and I am wearing things I bought 5 years ago while working at High Vista. I even wore paints with a sweater TUCKED in! LOL! Not even used to having a waist again, much less wearing a belt. I have got to keep going though, I have 70 pounds to go! Whew, it seems like a lot, but so did 30, so I have hope! I do realize it will be a lifelong process, but that is okay. It's not just about clothes fitting, it is also about being healthy and that has become very important me. In eleven days I will be 40 and hopefully in another 11 days or so I will have lost 40!

Happy Birthday, Shawn

Yesterday, was also Shawn's birthday, so HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SHAWN! I remembered too late to get it posted last night, so here is Shawn's Birthday blinky & pic. Doesn't he look handsome? This is from Joanna & Ethan's Wedding in October.

Birthday Surprise for Mom

To celebrate Mama's birthday today, she asked me to come to church with her since Daddy was away. So I did, and I also called a couple of her oldest and dearest friends, Judy and Lillian, and asked them to help me surprise her at lunch. I was so happy when I got there and they had already arrived! Judy and Lillian were the friends we ALWAYS visited when I was growing up and today I got to see pictures of their kids' kids and show off pics of my kids. It was great seeing them and I hope it was a good surprise for Mama on her special day.

I thought I would also share this picture I took in Savannah this past summer in honor of Veteran's Day. Mama's church, Trinity Baptist, did a wonderful job saluting our soldiers today and I just felt moved to add my two cents worth. Thank you to the millions of men and women who served in the military over the years, to those who died to secure my freedoms, and to those fighting the war on terror today.

Happy Birthday, Mama

To the BEST MOM IN THE WHOLE WORLD! I love you! See you soon!

2.6!

2.6 pounds gone! I weighed in again today and I lost again. That is 29.5 pounds since August 23! I feel so good about the Weight Watchers plan because I really feel as though I have changed the way I see food - mostly seeing it in smaller portions. Frank is such a wonderful cook and we love to eat out. But I have learned it is okay to leave stuff on the plate and when I am at home, Frank now lets me plate my own food. It is amazing how much I was eating, sometimes 3 and 4 servings and not even realizing it. It has also been good for me to report it here. Each week, I am held accountable for what I have been up to, and so far it has all been good. I know, though, that it may not always be lost pounds, so I have promised myself that even IF I gain, I will report here. Because I have to be truthful with myself. Well, going to run now, I had to take a benadryl because of an allergic reaction I had to my flu shot and I think it is kicking in. . . zzzzzzzzzzz!

The Gutter Ball Classic 2006

The Gutter Ball Classic 2006

Last night I got to play on one of the bowling teams from work at the Gutter Ball Classic, a fundraising event for the Chamber of Commerce. These are the pictures from the event. By no means did we score well, but we had lots of fun and when the music started, we really got in the groove. Especially Bob (green turtleneck) - his first game was nothing to brag about, but his second game, the one that started with AC/DC's "Back in Black" was rockin'! His only open frame that game was when the music was off. Needless to say, we were begging for the jukebox!

3!

Yeah, I lost 3 more pounds - that is a total of 26! I got a 25 lb. magnet and a 10% Goal Keychain! Can't talk now though, work to do! Happy, Happy November 1 for me!

Life's Treasures

Here are my three treasures: Amanda, Amy & Matthew in 2003 at our Lanning Reunion. I can't believe how much they have grown. Amanda looks like she is posing for a magazine shot with that hair flying. Of course Amy always photographs so well and my, oh my, I would have to say Matthew has changed the most. He must be twice this size now! How time flies! As for the page, I used the new line from Cosmo Cricket and I used liquid chalk to distress the photo to match. I also sanded all the edges of the papers and the photo.

Bulls kick off season tonight so as you might guess, we will be glued to the TV for a couple of hours. Of course, the DVR upstairs will be working overtime to record my Gilmore Girls and Boston Legal. Guess those are two of my favorite shows, add in Grey's Anatomy and the new, Men in Trees, and you've probably got them all. Oops, I forgot, I also like the new Brothers & Sisters on Sunday nights. Anybody out there want to add their favs? Just leave me a comment below. Love to hear from you.

Frank found us on Google!

I know it might be kind of hard to see, but look what Frank found on Google Earth today. It is our apartment with my van and his truck and Amanda and Amy's cars out front. Their cars are easily seen, they are the white dots closest to the blacktop. Cool, unh?

Good Morning!

This morning, Frank & I were listening to NPR and we heard a cool little story about a man in Georgia who won the lottery. First, he found out he lost his job because the plant he worked at was closing, then he went into the gas station, paid for his gas, bought a lottery ticket, the lottery ticket was a winner, $225,000 I think. He was so excited that he drove off without getting the gas he had already paid for! Anyway, I thought it was cute and so nice to hear something good happen to someone after they lose their job!

So far, the weekend has passed pretty slowly, which is nice for a change. Yesterday, we all celebrated Helen's birthday at the new Carrabas in South Asheville. I had the Trout Wulfe and garlic mashed potatoes! Delicious. Helen was very excited about the new laptop she got from Art. She is very new to the computer so it should be exciting to hear about her progress. I remember when my mom first started on the computer. It was a good way for us to spend time together and talk on the phone. I couldn't always help her, but most of the time she figured it out anyway. Now she is a pro, she emails, attaches, and prints pictures, she makes beautiful cards for family and church members, and she keeps up with addresses using Word and Merge commands for Sunday School. A wiz, I tell you! I am proud of her for learning something so new!

Well, today is grocery day, so I better get running. Hope you enjoy today's scrapbook page. It is from Joanna & Ethan's wedding. I am doing an album for them, so that maybe the subject of a few pages for your viewing. TFL!

Gesundheit!

Here's a page for one of my challenges using a foreign language in the title. I thought this one of Harmony sneezing while I took pictures after the wedding was so cute. Of course, the Gesundheit is German for Bless You!

Happy Birthday, Helen

Happy Birthday, Helen! It's so nice to have someone as nice as you to celebrate today with. (See you're special - yours is a blinky!)

4.6! Yeah!

Yeah! Today was weigh in day and I tell you I was a little bit nervous. But I am happy to report that I lost 4.6 pounds! That was over a two week period as last week I didn't get to weigh because Frank & I were in Georgia.

Well, I must say I think I have been watching way too much television. The political ads are really getting to me. Last night I had a dream with Heath Shuler in it. Now don't get me wrong, seeing Heath Shuler is not really a bad thing, but in your dreams? I guess I should be thankful it wasn't Charles Taylor! Even though I am a Republican, you have to admit the democratic candidate is a lot easier on the eyes than the republican! Anyway, I will be glad when the election is over!

A New Grandpa is Born

Here is Del holding his brand new grandson, Aiden Edward Brookshire. I know everyone is this new family is going to try to soak up as much as they can of this new baby's love. Nathan, Nicole and baby Aiden will soon be moving to Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

A Very Scrappy Sunday

Today I have been working on some scrapbook pages. I have all these great pictures now so I decided to get back into the paper side of it all. Hope you enjoy!

Little Princess

So isn't this adorable? I am going to have so much fun making this wedding album for Joanna & Ethan.

12 of 12 for October 12, 2006

This is a layout of 12 pictures I took on October 12. The journaling reads: 12 Highlights of My October 12 ~1) On the road to Brevard - foggy sun did make it out toshine on 2) autumn trees and3) pretty wildflowers; strip pic one includes 4) the time I got home, 5) Brandon and 6) Ben, two people I work with, and 7)Duane’s keyboard covered in cobwebs because he obviously does not work enough; pic strip two is the 8) scrapbook store I drive by everyday (my favorite), 9) my bike surrounded by fallen leaves, 10) my almost gone mums, 11) political signs (a sure sign of Fall), and 12) my boyfriend opening his new dehydrator that I gave him 6 days early! 10.12.06

The Happy Family