Ashcraft Family Digest-Condensed

Daily Journal - Whiteland senior back after 2 surgeries on knee

2010-09-09T11:32:00.000-04:00

Daily Journal - Whiteland senior back after 2 surgeries on knee

Tri the Parks-Blalock Lakes

2010-06-10T19:17:00.008-04:00

Tri the Parks is a series on triathlon held in Georgia state parks. This one happened to be in nearby Newnan. This triathlon was a bit longer as it was not a super sprint but a sprint.

600 meter swim

14 mile bike

3.1 mile run

I am the closest "red" cap.

Somewhere out there!

The bike started out with a hill and continued with all rolling hills. Funny, I don't ever remember going DOWN any!

The run even started with a hill. Yes, that is an althete already finished and enjoying a snack!

I, we, finished!!!!

Warrior Dash Divas

2010-06-10T19:01:00.003-04:00

Since I said "yes" to a triathlon I have foundmyself n the strangest places. Joanne, the Super Trainer Extradonaire, mentioned something about the Warrior Dash, and it must have been over heated that day because I said sure. Well I am glad I did because it rocked!
The "race" was suppose to be a 5k, thankfully it was shorter, with 11 obstacles. You can see one below. The best obstacle by far was jumping over FIRE!!!

The divas before....yet the Viking hat was included!!!

After.....notice the color of the once white shirt.

Peachtree City Super Sprint Triathlon Debut

2010-06-09T16:25:00.003-04:00

Well it all started with a 5k run in February. After successful completion of the run my trainer says something like...."So, you can swim right? and you know how to bike, you just finished a 5k so how about a triathlon? I just laughed but signed up....

Peachtree City Super Sprint
May 15, 2010

Body marking!
Yes....I am as scared as I look. My coach was in Orlando gearing up the half Ironman so I had to go solo...kinda

Abbie was my #1 fan!

Just a little to much fun for the day.

I finished and NOT last. My time was 1 hour 2o minutes!

300 meter swim

8 mile bike

2 mile run

No more furlough days!

2010-05-03T19:41:00.002-04:00

Like many states Georgia is struggling to balance budget. Georgia teachers have had to take 10 furlough days and well.....many are finding suppemental work! Andy is on the right (in case you couldn't tell).

Spring Break 2010

2010-05-03T18:56:00.005-04:00

We had a great time in the Great Smokey Mountains over spring break. My mom treated us to the Dixie Stampede. Abbie got to see lots of horses. At one point I don't know what was more fun-watching the show or watching her! She had a great time!

The picture with the fog was taken from our condo balcony! Beautiful. Abbie loved the shops downtown Gatlinburg...I think we visited each at least twice. We went up the OberGatlinburg tram and had a great view of the city.

The weather was beautiful-only 1 rain day and we all needed it. It also made a good reason to visit the scrapbook outlet.

ShamRock and Run

2010-03-13T19:17:00.006-05:00

Well today was the day, but let me start with Friday. My family has been great in supporting me with my running and now training for a triathlon, especially Abbie and Andy, so I treated the family to a night at Country Inn and Suites in Newnan. The hotel had an indoor pool which everyone liked, well almost everyone, Aeriell didn't pack her suit. I asked for a late checkout so after the run we were able to go back and swim a little longer.

Now for the run. I will say it was nice not getting up at o'dark thirty to drive to Newnan this morning. BRRRRR is was cold, damp, and windy. Abbie was a real trooper and thank you to Dad for "running" with her at the last minute. If you look closely at the picture of her at the finish line you will notice she is wearing socks on her hands...it was cold. She and Dad complete the race....yeah Dad...and Abbie got a medal....Dad just survived.

The announcer told me I had 15 minutes until the start of the 5k so I was able to see Abbie finish...Andy then said something like...honey I think the 5k started...I saw a lot of runners when we came up the hill! Ugh..not a way to start. But neverthelss, I took off and away I went. In the end I was able to shave 1 minute off from my first run in February.

Dad's Helper

2010-03-09T21:23:00.003-05:00

Abbie loves helping her dad! They were taking the wallpaper down in the bathroom. She loved that the spackle was pink-her favorite color.

Eye protection.....

Houdini Strikes Again

2010-03-09T21:10:00.006-05:00

Houdini's food bowl was accidentaly covered when Abbie's clothes were being taken out of the dryer on morning. Well, Houdini is smart but no common sense to move the pj's off his food.

Apparently he left us a message letting us know that he wasn't real happy.

Newnan Junior Service League ShamRock & Run 5K, 10K and 1 Mile Fun Run | Newnan, Georgia 30263 | Saturday, March 13, 2010 @ 8:00 AM

2010-02-28T13:38:00.000-05:00

Abbie and I are participating in the ShamRock and Run.
Abbie is doing the 1 mile and I the 5k.
Pictures will be forthcoming.

http://www.active.com/page/event_details.htm?event_id=1825864

Callaway Gardens | Fitness Series - Sprint Triathlon

2010-02-22T22:23:00.002-05:00

Callaway Gardens Fitness Series - Sprint Triathlon

June 20, 2010

Join me!

Callaway Gardens | Fitness Series - Sprint Triathlon

2010-02-22T22:23:00.000-05:00

Callaway Gardens Fitness Series - Sprint Triathlon

June 20, 2010

Visualize

2010-02-08T19:13:00.002-05:00

OK, so I have no photo for this post so you will have to use some visualization. Just humor me here.

We are sitting at the dinner table tonight eating one of Abbie's favorite meals....sloppy Joe's. I looked at her and asked her why she was leaning over to one side. I thought she would say something like her tooth hurt or she bit her tongue but no, not Abbie. She stated, "Mommy, can't you tell I am trying to get my sloppy Joe to go down my arm and fill it up."

Well, that's what I get for asking right?

Super Bowl 5k Run

2010-02-08T19:03:00.003-05:00

No, your eyes aren't playing tricks on you that is actually me in the picture below. I have gotten back into running and hooked up with an awesome trainer. I have been training since Christmastime.

This is me just about ready to cross the finish line...VERTICALLY! Abbie is in the purple cheering me on! My goal was to run the 5k (3.1 miles) in under 40 minutes. My official time was 36:01 which averages out to about a 12 minute mile. I came in 8th out of 13 in my age bracket, so I didn't come in last...my other goal.

Despite the rain, cold, and occasional flooding on the Riverwalk I had a great time and quite proud of myself. I am so thankful for my family supporting me in my endeavors. This is just the beginning!

Christmas Morning

2009-12-27T21:44:00.005-05:00

We haven't been in our own home for Christmas in 2 years....this was nice. Videos forthcoming!

BJ snuggled with his present..while........

Houdini chewed through his!

The girls...

Happiness.....

Giving GmaJudi the download..

Christmas Cookies

2009-12-27T21:25:00.003-05:00

This is obviously Andy's touch to cookie decorating!
In honor of Houdini.

Concentrating to make the perfect wreath.

She is so proud to use her very own cookware.

As of 12.27.09 this is no longer true :-(

Aeriell busy with her creations.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-11T22:01:00.001-05:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Little Lambs Memorial Garden

2009-11-25T17:34:00.002-05:00

We visited the Little Lambs Memorial Garden where Pamela Kate's ashes were placed on the birdbath in October of 2008.

Not for the animal lover

2009-11-25T16:49:00.002-05:00

Scott, my oldest nephew, finally got his buck...and a 12 pointer at that!

Visit to Clark Elementary

2009-11-23T16:45:00.003-05:00

Abbie's cousin had to go to school this week so we paid him a visit. We ate lunch with him, and Abbie was able to play on the playground for a while. Notice the backdrop of the playground...is there more than just corn in Indiana?

Rain, rain go away so I can go out and play!!!!!

2009-11-11T20:26:00.002-05:00

Abbie and Houdini are BOTH ready for it to stop raining. 5.63".....enough is enough!!!

Laying out your clothes for the next day.

2009-11-08T21:46:00.003-05:00

Abbie was instructed to lay out her clothes for school tomorrow! What you can't see is the necklace....yes....where her next would be if laying on the floor-panties under her leggins and socks under her shoes!

Hannah Montana is in the house!!!!!

2009-10-31T20:03:00.005-04:00

Happy Halloween Y'all! It was cold and rainy all day today. I took Abbie to "Ark in the Park" for a few games then home... BRR. I am glad she is not a candyholic because she was fine with the little she got. She traded her hard candy in for other things like M&M's and Gummy Savers. She wants to send her hard candy to her teacher's husband, who is in Iraq.

Abbie's school had their Fall Festival on the 30th. She got her hair done.....

Play-Doh vs Hair

2009-10-31T19:55:00.003-04:00

Why? Well, the only answer I have is......It's Abbie-what else? She did learn that using Play-Doh is NOT the way to accessorize your hair.

Grandma Ethel's 90th Birthday

2009-10-25T20:22:00.003-04:00

My Grandma Ethel turned 90 on October 11th. Many gathered on the 24th to celebrate. My brother and his family drove in from Indiana, my great Aunt Gladys flew in from Minnesota, and a surprise friend drove in from Minnesota.

5 of the 9 great grandchildren were able to make the party.

Sisters: Ethel 90 and Gladys 84

Aunt Gladys and me.

We are very close. I spend mandy days on her farm in Minnesota in the summers when I was little.

No matter how old either one of us gets, I will always be her Sugar Plum!!!

I wish everyone had an Aunt Gladys!

Peek a Boo Fall

2009-10-25T20:17:00.001-04:00

Happy Fall to all!

October 15th Infant and Pregnancy Loss Awareness Day

2009-10-14T23:26:00.002-04:00

Introducing Bailey!

2009-10-04T18:27:00.003-04:00

After lunch with a great friend and plant shopping at Lowes I spent the afternoon in the yard trimming plants, flowers, and such. Bailey was found behind the lantana on the side of the house. So far so good. We will keep you posted.

Celebration of Learning

2009-10-04T18:12:00.003-04:00

At North Columbus Elementary School the classes have what's called "Celebration of Learning." Abbie had her first one last Thursday. The class just finished landforms, so the kids created a map legends with the landforms they had studied. At the Celebration the kids made landform cookies that they were able to eat (once Mrs. P. took their picture). It was so much fun. The Celebration was early in the afternoon, so I was able to stay the rest of the day!

Introducing Cadet Ashcraft

2009-09-24T15:38:00.002-04:00

Labor Day Riddle

2009-09-07T20:00:00.001-04:00

What do you get when you have.....

PVC pipe, duct tape, water, bike pump and two grown men on a day off?

Stadium Seating-Abbie style

2009-08-19T20:03:00.002-04:00

We brought home the new Hannah Montana movie today, and I guess Abbie wanted stadium seating.....

Only Abbie

The Next Revlon Girl

2009-08-15T12:30:00.002-04:00

Abbie has so much fun with make-up if you couldn't tell!! I love watching her put it on. Gotta love cheap and goudy makeup that brings hours of entertainment!

First Day of School 2009

2009-08-09T20:54:00.003-04:00

This year both schools, Muscogee County and Ft. Benning, started only 1 day apart! Abbie has the same teacher as last year, they loop at her school, Aeriell has classes on the 1st and 2nd floors, Andy has 2nd grade this year, he loops too, and I am teaching 4th and 5th grade! It's going to be a great year!

Only Abbie

2009-07-27T16:40:00.003-04:00

101 Uses for a pink lawn bucket

Abbie saw one of these the other day but they only had blue-how dare they. Anyway, I went back later and behold....PINK! I brought it home and Abbie quickly put it to use (bottom picture). I bought it so she could collect the countless number of sticks fall onto our yard on a daily basis. I guess she is breaking it in! YES- she has attempted to put Houdini in it but....the cat won that round.

Slip Slidin' Away

2009-07-27T16:33:00.002-04:00

Slip Slidin' Away

We found a gem of a public pool this summer with something for everyone. As you can see, AFA enjoys the slide. Abbie loves just floating around in the pool!

Drive in Movie

2009-07-19T15:05:00.002-04:00

As always, Abbie puts her own spin on a common term/phrase/word.

This time it is ...

DRIVE IN MOVIE

Chicken Wings

2009-07-19T14:55:00.002-04:00

Trying new things when GmaJudi is around is always a given. This time it was chicken wings. Abbie had her first! She loved them so much that GmaJudi ordered them again the next night for dinner!

Gma Judi making sure it's done right!

No meat left of this wing!

The face says it all!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ABBIE

2009-06-24T18:33:00.003-04:00

I can't believe that my baby is 6 years old!!! She had her birthday Camp Rock Style at Monkey Joe's, and it was GREAT! She had just enough friends there to help her celebrate. The most important thing (according to Abbie) is she got to sit in the queen's chair! Her GrandmaJudi was the bit hit with Abbie's new bike. 'Course we can NEVER beat out GrandmaJudi!

PITIFUL

2009-06-14T13:17:00.002-04:00

Houdini and Abbie

Even though Abbie bugs the stew out of Houdini, carries him around like a sack of potaotoes, and wakes him up from a wonderful sleep, Houdini adores Abbie. It hadn't been 5 minutes after Abbie fell asleep that Houdini came and crawled right of top of Abbie. A new level of pitiful has been reached!

Slip n Slide Georia style

2009-06-01T20:39:00.003-04:00

Sunday went to the Garcia's and spent the afternoon/evening with them. Ed, a big kid himself, sit up a homemade slip-n-slide. Well, I think the pictures say it all. Abbie is so light she couldn't get enough momentum to slide, so she kinda swam down the slide.

Ed and Andy....who can go farther and get dirtier?

Perfect ending...

2009-06-01T20:30:00.003-04:00

Abbie was chosen to say the final line of the program. The interpretation is below.

"We've been sitting still a long long time,

and we have gone about our limit,

but if you like to take some pictures,

we'll be still for 1 more minute."

First Day/Last Day of school pictures

2009-06-01T20:20:00.004-04:00

I can't belive that Abbie has finished Kindergarten!!! Where did my little girl go? I had enough withitness to have Andy take a picture in front of the door and w/her teacher like on the first day of school.

Award Day

2009-06-01T17:02:00.002-04:00

A little late in posting but hey...better late than never.

A. not only turned 15 in May but also finished up the middle school years. She received attendance and all A's medal! Way to go!

Names in the sand

2009-05-11T12:39:00.004-04:00

It is so hard to describe this entry. Several months ago I came across a blog http://namesinthesand.blogspot.com/ that took my breath away. This wonderful woman, who lives in Australia, writes names of children who have been granted their wings much too early. The pictures should say the rest.

Andrew Dean Ashcraft 11.16.08 Pamela Kate Ashcraft 07.10.2008

Columbus, Georgia

I know I never got to see your face or hold you in my arms but that does not take away for the love I feel for both of you. I know you are in the best hands possible. I can't wait to meet you.

Psalm 94:18-19
When I said "My foot is slipping,
your love Oh Lord supported me.
When anxiety was great within me,
your consolation brought joy to my soul."

Ride for miracles

2009-05-11T11:52:00.003-04:00

My cousin, Scott Ressmeyer, is an amazing person (and no he didn't pay me to say that). I don't exactly how he fits his large heart into his body. He decided to ride through 48 states in 20 days for his 50th birthday. Because of the heart he has he connected his ride to the Children's Miracle Network and is raising money to buy our local high risk nursery hospital a Giraffe bed. I have included the link to his blog page, where to can learn more about him, the bed and adventure, and SPOT, a tracking system.

http://rideformiracles.wordpress.com/

Keep track of Scott's whereabouts by using SPOT

http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0ELn1bKOC71Q8KFTuL3MJueqjClTUbcsu

Iron Chef Abbie?

2009-05-04T20:20:00.003-04:00

Jonas Brothers CD 15.00
Dinner 10.00
Abbie cooking PRICELESS

I don't think much explanation is needed except Abbie bought the CD with her own money and was so excited!

(turn of background music before you watch the video)

MOD Walk for Babies_Centennial Park

2009-04-26T21:07:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was the big day. We arrived at Centennial Park and found the SHARE Atlanta tent. I was finally able to put faces to names I have been talking to on the Forum site.

We, Andy, Aeriell, Abbie, and I, proudly wore our family shirts and eagerly waited. Andy and I both felt a rush of emotions when we saw our babies names on the memory wall. Andy later told me he again was rushed by emotions when we crossed the "finish" line.

Being among thousands of people was breathtaking...all walking for different reason but walk for babies!

I am so proud of both of the girls for walking the 3.9 miles.

Afterward we went to the water spout area then took a much needed rest back at the hotel. We walked to Underground Atlanta that evening and ate at Johnny Rockets. Today we went to the Coca Cola Museum!!

Thank you for all your help and support!

The view from our hotel room.

March of Dimes Walk for Babies

2009-04-24T16:31:00.002-04:00

Well, tomorrow is the big walk at Centennial Park in Atlanta! We will be heading out bright and early sporting our family shirts. Pictures to come soon. I am excited to write that I not only met but EXCEEDED my goal of $300.00. As of today i have $502!! We have decided to make a day of it and treat ourself to a fancy hotel Saturday night. Shhhh....the girl's don't know. We have book a "Build a Bear" package at the Embassy Suites right across from Centennial Park. The girls will build and bear and dedicate it to our 2 angel babies!

Check back for pictures!

Privacy Please

2009-04-23T20:36:00.004-04:00

Mrs. Potteiger has created a one of a kind! We were giving Abbie a spelling pre-test tonight and said, "I would like a privacy folder please." Only Abbie!

HAPPY EASTER

2009-04-12T13:48:00.003-04:00

SENDING EASTER GREETINGS!

Project Update

2009-04-10T14:04:00.002-04:00

Well the end of spring break has nearly come to an end and so has our floor project. We can't believe the difference these new floors make not only with allergies but brightness too. We love it!

Houdini, however, hates it! He can not get enough traction to pounce B.J. Both Houdini and BJ are out of sorts with the new floor. Abbie on the other hand loves the floor. She loves to slide up and down the hallway.

Spring Break Project

2009-04-07T22:12:00.004-04:00

Our spring break project is to replace the carpet in the playroom, living room, and hallway.

Yes, I am sure we are breaking several child labor laws!!

Who said cats are the only ones who like boxes?

Dad's Helper!

Abbie was so excited that SHE was the only one small enough for this job!

The "Crew"

No, they aren't bandits...dust protection.

FACE?

Our neighbor's son came to visit over break! Lucky us! When your dad's been in the military for 20+ years, one gets creative in making a makeshift dust mask. He does have a face...I think.

My turn!

Abbie added a little dancing butt action only she could create!

Dynamic Duo

These two kids put in a full days work! Without them Andy would not have gotten as far as he did today!
Thank you you two!

A New Look

2009-03-23T20:09:00.003-04:00

We looked all over at the end of last summer for a screened in gazebo and came up empty handed. We got the deal of the year when we found this one-I love Big Lots. A beautiful Saturday made it easy to assemble. Andy added the lattice on Sunday. Now all we need is grass!

That's what friends are for....

2009-03-23T19:57:00.005-04:00

Andy has become one of Abbie's best friends. He is so good to Abbie-plays just about anything she wants! We all love Andy. Thanks for being just a great friend.

Pondering with a best friend

2009-03-23T19:47:00.005-04:00

I was looking through the pictures on my camera and came across this one. Abbie and Khai have been best friends since they have been 2 years old (they are only 2 months apart). They went to the same home daycare and preschool. Khai lives just a few houses up the street, so they live at each others house. Mrs. Donna, the angel who watched them for nearly 3 years, nicknamed them "the twins" and the funniest thing is they think they are-they just live at different houses. Aren't we glad that the color of a person's skin is no longer a factor in friendship?!

We took the girls to the park one day, and I thought this picture was priceless.

May it be a reminder that we all need a friend.

Happy Birthday Andy~

2009-03-07T09:52:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday Andy!

Andy's birthday was Thursday, March 5. I had a friend drop off cupcakes to his school for his to share with his class. We took him to Cheddar's for dinner. His mom brought over red velvet cake adn brownies! The girl's got him a GA polo shirt anda Rock Bank cap. I bought him 2000 Wii points to download new Rock Band music. We got home, the kids in bed adn rocked on!!!

Snow Day?

2009-03-01T13:26:00.003-05:00

Who says it doesn't snow on flamingos?

Rock Star snowman

We woke up this morning to hailsnow that quickly turned into snow. It is so beautiful to look at our window. At times the snow seems to just dance from the sky and other times it looks like God is using the salt shaker, and you can barely see across the street. A couple neighbors came over to help build our Rock Star snow man-thanks Mr. Tom for letting us borrow your snow.

At times is thunders and lightning outside....now that's odd.

I will send updated pictures later tonight! The final outcome of the day....stay tuned.......

Aeriell's Commissioning

2009-02-20T13:05:00.000-05:00

Aeriell had her Commissioning Ceremony from Teen Challenge on Friday, January 20, 2008. She was able to give her testimony and be prayer over before she left the program. She is standing next to Mrs. Kim.

March of Dimes Walk for Babies

2009-02-08T09:07:00.001-05:00

I am a member of a special team "SHARE Atlanta" of people who care about the health of babies. That′s why we have banded together to raise money and participate in the March of Dimes March for Babies. I am asking you to join our fundraising efforts today by sponsoring my walk.

As you mayor may not know, I know firsthand the difficulties associated with miscarriages. While I was going through my two losses I was helpless; there was nothing I could do. This walk IS something I can do now. SHARE Atlanta has been a great network of emotional support for me and I don't know what I would do without them. SHARE Atlanta is a non-profit organization that helps parents who have experienced a Pregnancy or Newborn Loss.

The March of Dimes sends out a wonderful packet with information and resources regarding pregnancy and newborn loss. I was grateful when I received mine.

Contributing online is fast, easy and secure. You can donate directly from my personal webpage with a credit card or PayPal. If you prefer, I can also accept cash or check. Just click the appropriate box on my webpage.

The March of Dimes champions the needs of moms and babies in our community and across the nation. The money we raise for March for Babies will support lifesaving research, services, education and advocacy that help babies get a healthy start.

Thank You!

The Ashcraft Family and our two angels.
The mission of March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.

http://www.marchforbabies.org/personal_page.asp?w=101031306&u=joniashcraft&bt=2

Mary Kay consultant?

2009-02-08T08:53:00.003-05:00

NO, it is NOT halloween!

Santa brought Abbie a fashion make-up kit for Christmas. Andy was busy trying to located our backyard again, and Abbie came in for a rest...she had been outside all morning. She asked her dad if should could do make-up and of course he said sure. Dad went back outside, and Abbie became the most beautiful 5 year old in the entire world. By the way, I am told that this was her 2nd coat.

Buddies

2009-02-05T08:42:00.000-05:00

Yes, this is Houdini, our house bully, sleeping soundly with his best friend. Although Abbie carries him around like a bag of potatoes, poke him, pull him out from under the bed by his tail, sits on him,

pounces on him, sqeezes him, lays on him and anything else you can even imagine, Houdini still loves her and loves to play with her. They will play for hours. Houdini is a bully but so loveable too.

Wii Mania

2009-01-26T18:46:00.002-05:00

We finally purchased the Wii and we love it! It is absolutely amazing how real if feels to bowl! Abbie's favorite is boxing. As you can see she gets quite excited and into her game.

Look Mom! No hands!

2009-01-12T22:32:00.003-05:00

We usually try to display our "Princess" manners when we are at the table, but it is so hard when eating spaghetti! Abbie gets the biggest kicking out of doing this. Note: the headband is "Abbie style."

I welcome any title suggestions. I just crack up everytime I look at this.

The Reason We Have Insurance!

2009-01-10T22:24:00.000-05:00

Why? That is a question that I have nearly quit asking. We were all having an "Ashcraft Lazy Day." I have no explaination but often wonder "how on Earth?"

Static Ball

2009-01-01T13:31:00.002-05:00

What do you get when....

you have a trampoline and an Abbie?

?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?

Personal static ball!

2009-01-01T11:58:00.002-05:00

Blessings to everyone on this new year!

We went to Ed and Marie's for good food, friendship, laughter, love and Rock Band. Abbie almost made it...her eyes made it until 11:45!

Ed started our new year with prayer!

Magic Kingdom-Round 2

2008-12-26T23:40:00.001-05:00

Round 2 of Magic Kingdom was not quite as long as the first which ended up being a little over 12 hours!!! Today's missions: Mickey and Minnie, Princesses, and Winnie the Pooh ride (again). We accomplished our mission! God had favor on us when He created short lines for both Mickey and Minnie and the Princesses! I think our total wait time for our mission was less than an hour! We also saw a really cool 3D movie featuring Donald Duck.

After Magic Kingdom we spent some time at Downtown Disney.

SEE SLIDESHOW AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE!

"Hey Mickey, what's in the fridge?"

Minnie's Gazebo....

Mickey has Honey Do lists too!

"I just can't take it anymore!"

Santa comes to Florida

2008-12-25T23:10:00.000-05:00

Christmas 2008! Although we were not at home for Christmas, tradtions continues. Abbie wrote her usuall letter to Santa. This year she wrote it all by herself! Santa wrote back! This year we were able to actually track Santa on his journey-Abbie really thought that was cool! Santa left presents and filled the girls' stockings. The girls were able to open their stockings together when we arrived at Aeriells. The rest of the day was filled with outside activities and rain. Our first Florida Christmas!

Abbie's letter to Santa

Santa's reply:

Santa came!!!!

Stockings at Aeriell's
Oh to be 5 again! Santa emailed me to make sure he left the right Fashion Pup.

Creative Christmas

2008-12-24T17:30:00.003-05:00

Christmas away from home is always a little different, but when you add in the "Aeriell factor" (being away from home)we have to be a little creative. Because Aeriell had to be back at school today, we let the girls open most of their gifts. Abbie requested that we hide them again and give clues to the location of the package. I have a feeling this might become a yearly event...at home next year though! Here are a few places the girls found their gifts:

Magic Kingdom

2008-12-24T16:14:00.007-05:00

The Magic Kingdom IS Magical!!

We took the ferry boat into The Magic Kingdom. What a sight to see!!!

GmaJudi and Abbie joined forces to zap "Surge" and help Buzz Lightyear.

Santa blessed us at the parade.

Mickey and Minnie always brings smiles!

WOW! What a way to end the evening!

Oh Christmas Tree Disney Style!

Hollywood Sudios

2008-12-22T22:24:00.004-05:00

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

2008

Brrrrrrrrr....it was a cold day in Florida today. Who would have thought about sweatshirts? We had a great time regardless of the weather. We saw so many things that we are still trying to digest it all. When ask what what everyone's favorite they replied:

Aeriell: High School Musical

Abbie: Autographs

Andy and Grandma Judi: Little Mermaid

Joni: 3D Muppet Movie.

The girls were able to get many autographs and pictures with the "stars."

We came back to the condo for a short recharge then headed back into the C-C-C-Cold to witness the most beautiful "Spectacle in Dancing Lights" show I have ever seen. The evening was capped off perfectly with pictures and autographs by Woody and Buzz Lightyear.

Tomorrow we are off to the Magic Kingdom! and hopefully a warmer day.

Another Tradition Continues

2008-12-21T21:04:00.004-05:00

The Christmas tradition of new PJ's continues...just on a different day and location.

Christmas Scavenger Hunt

We are in Orlando this year for Christmas. Tonight the girls were given clues for three different presents, one being the PJ's. The last thing they had to find was a postcard. They then had to bring the postscard in order to exchange it for a present. They closed their eyes, and their Disney books were placed in front on them. Inside their scrapbook they found their pass to Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom. It is so fun to be a parent!

Christmas ABC's

2008-12-18T22:20:00.005-05:00

"Z is for the zest we greet on Christmas Day"

North Columbus Elementary School's kindergarten classes performed the Christmas ABC's. Abbie, of course, was the "Z" so we will spare you the entire alphabet and just highlight the letter Z. Afterwards they sang several Christmas songs. How did my little Abbie get so big? In case you need a translation the letter "Z" says, " Z is for the zest we greet on Christmas Day."

Charlie Brown Christmas

2008-12-16T20:48:00.003-05:00

As expected, we spent the evening watching Charlie Brown Christmas.

Although Linus is an 8 1/2 year old, thumb-sucking, blankie toting boy his thoughts are profound!

"And there were in the same country shepherds, abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them! And they were sore afraid ... And the angel said unto them, "Fear not! For, behold, I bring you tidings o great joy, which shall be to all my people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ, the Lord."
"And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." And suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the Heavenly Host praising God, and saying, "Glory to God in the Highest, and on Earth peace, and good will toward men."

"That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown." - Linus Van Pelt

Thank you Linus!

Oh where, oh where has BJ gone? Oh where, oh where can he be?

2008-12-13T23:19:00.004-05:00

BJ, our Yorkie, likes to sneek under the covers in the morning while we are getting ready for

work.

Abbie got a nice good morning surprise when BJ popped his head out and gave her a nice warm kiss.

(Houdini, the house bully, had not yet discovered the whereabouts of his victim.)

Gingerbread Christmas Tree

2008-12-13T23:10:00.006-05:00

Grandma Cathy came over and helped Abbie with her Gingerbread Tree. It was definately a sticky mess only Grandma's can manage!

I'm not quite sure of the amount of green icing that made it to Abbie's tummy, but it is my guess just about as much, if not more, than on the tree. The visible sign of this would be Abbie running around like BJ, our Yorkie, just coming out of his day in his kennell.

But hey, the look on this beautiful face makes it all worth it....I think!

Christmas Card Making

2008-12-13T22:52:00.014-05:00

Today Abbie and I had a girl's day out that comprised of many activities. First, we went to the Scrapbook Shoppe to make Christmas cards. Being Abbie, she had to take time to check out what was in Santa's bag.

First comes the cold, gooey, and messy while paint.

Notice: This will be a left handed card due to a very valuable Hello Kittie bandaid.

Next comes the face.

Last is a little help making the reindeer.

Thanksgiving Day

2008-11-27T22:39:00.007-05:00

We started the day wathcing the Macy's Day Parade and eating homemade blueberry pancakes!

It was such a beautiful day! The sun was out, the sky was clear, and the temperature perfect!!!!

Andy's mom, Cathy, fixed the entire meal, and it was GOOD!!!!

Abbie and her counsin, Megan, had a great time playing in the leaves. Such simple play is a perfect reminder of thankfullness-is that a word?

Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

2008-11-25T20:51:00.010-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving

Charlie Brown

Well, it is that time of year again. This is a tradition, I will admit, that I married into, but I don't mind keeping. We are all in our PJ's eating popcorn and cookies. Hearing the genuine laughter come from Abbie is precious, and a sound that I do not want to forget.

It reminds me, of the simple things that I often forget as I get wrapped up in the daily stresses of life. I think we could all use a friend like Linus. He tends to remind us of the true meaning of Thanksgiving and Christmas. I send Linus thoughts to all!

Thanksgiving Program

2008-11-25T16:27:00.008-05:00

"Talking Turkey"

Presented by NCES Kindergarten

I attended Abbie's first school performance this morning "Talking Turkey." She was a very proud pilgrim woman doted in a costume made from construction paper. Her innocence, joy, and love melted my heart when she saw me in the crowd and proudly waved...WOW...that makes a mom feel great.

It is not often that I have a day off when Abbie doesn't, so I took the opportunity to stay and visit for a while. She was busy in the "Writer's Workshop" drawing herself as a rock star. She took her turn at the turkey hand print station and then we were off to lunch.

"Mr. Turkey"

"I'm a Little Indian"

Introducing Houdini

2008-11-22T09:05:00.004-05:00

Houdini joined our family in August. A student at my school and her family were PCSing and could not take the recently born kittens with them. So, knowing how tender hearted teachers are, she brought them to school. A fellow teacher then found her way to my room with a bag of adorable felines. Andy has always wanted a cat, so I took this opportunity to play on his heart. Before I could even finish my sentence he said yes-BJ wished he would have said no.

Houdini was MIA for the first couple of days leading us to search the house high and low and places in which I now know I need to dust. Finally we found him just for him to hide again...hence his name-Houdini.

When I brought him home he would fit in the palm of my hand, and now, he is like a panther. His sweet little spirit has now grown into a big bully. He taunts BJ so and is relentless. He attacks BJ from all corners and from above with upper and lower right and left hooks, head locks, take downs, and the POUNCE. He even finds BJ under the covers.

Houdini is not only a master of hiding but also a master of destruction. There are times that one would think a 3 year old had been in the room...except he doesn't know the Barney clean up song.

I will keep you posted on the tales and woes of our little ferocious feline.

Callaway Gardens

2008-11-16T23:00:00.001-05:00

It's FINALLY Fall!

Our recent visit the Callaway Gardens Butterfly Center secured the notion that fall has arrived and is planning to stay for a while. The colors of the trees and the creation and beauty of all the butterflies we saw are reminders for some and proof to others that only God could have created such awe.

Abbie is still a little scared of the butterflies, and I guess if I were at her level, a butterfly would seem a little large. We found a butterfly guide sheet and she quickly became a butterfly hunter. Oh, only if the fears we had could be settled so easily.

As we strode back to the van, Abbie found several places to stop explore. GmaJudi...the picture by the yellow flowers is just for you!

Lookout candy...here I come

2008-11-01T01:00:00.000-04:00

Trick or Treating with Abbie is far different from when I was a 5 year old. This yearly tradition of being overly saturated by free candy use to be a neighborhood event, but now children are bussed into neighborhoods in order to get their bags filled to the rim. When I was 5 my mom and dad didn't have drive me to familiar friends and families' house in order to be safe. We knew everyone in our neighborhood, even the one house that was known to be the one where the "witch" lived. Nevertheless, our Colt's Cheerleader made her rounds and informed us she was big enough to go to the door by herself. The one nice change since I was a kid is the involvement of the local churches. We took Abbie to North Highland Assembly of God where we participated in "Trunk or Treat", cotton candy, inflatables, and a Christian environment. Thank you North Highland.

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown

2008-10-28T21:21:00.001-04:00

A Family Tradition

We just finished watching the annual Charlie Brown Great Pumpkin and eating homemade carmel apples...doesn't get any better!

Pumpkin Patch at Chatahoochee Valley Church

2008-10-25T20:50:00.000-04:00

My friend, Bridgette, from work invited Abbie (Andy and I assumed we were invited too) to her church's festival. It was a unseasonably warm day but beautiful. All the events were free and tended to by warm and gracious volunteers. Abbie's favorite event was the pony ride! She was a natural rider and so proud of herself. She played lots of games and made lots of new friends. Thank you Bridgette for the invitation, and thank you Chatahoochee Valley Church for welcoming us.

Indiana Summers

2008-07-11T01:00:00.000-04:00

Abbie and I go to Indiana for most of the summer. She gets to spend lots of time with her GmaJudi and cousins. Here is a small picture diary.

Our summer started out with 5 stitches-courtesy of Aunt Ellen's glass table.

4 WHEELIN' DARE DEVIL

Playing on the golf course has become a traditional summer activity.

Happy Birthday AMERICA!

Thank you soldiers for our freedom!

At the end of the day....

it's all about family...

and we love ours!