Macaroni & Cheese Gang

2007-09-01T23:27:00.000-04:00

Go Dawgs!

Today it became official. Football is here...yeah! The start of the most wonderful time of the year came today. And oh yeah, the Dawgs won! They put it to the Oklahoma State Cowboys, 35-14. Our QB looked good and I think he'll have an awesome year. The RB's and WR's had really good days and the Defense shut out the Cowboys in the 2nd half. You know what the song says..."Mama, don't let your baby grow up to be a cowboy"...Let 'em grow up to be Dawgs!

2007-08-27T22:03:00.000-04:00

What a day! Today had to be the most interesting Monday probably ever. It started off with getting the call that our TS had been broken into sometime over night. On top of that, we were having to deal with a much more serious matter. (One, I don't think it appropriate for me to discuss in this setting). The big deal with these two matters was employees who were releasing confidential information on some of our clients. After dealing with these two things all day, I had a "preacher" call me a moron. He was a little upset I wouldn't break the rules of our program for some people he wanted to help. So, I realize this post is kind of vague but, if you want to know I probably will be able to share some...

Other than that, things have been good here. We had our first Corps Council meeting here yesterday. Good meeting. Our Soldiers are very intersted in The Army and want to see it do well. The only issue is, some of them take too much liberty with their local officer positions. On Saturday we went with Corps Cadets tubing in Helen, GA. That was fun. B & K had a really good time. At first they didn't want to go, but changed their mind once we got there. It was a lot of fun. This week we have family camp coming up and we have 42 people going. A huge crowd, but we are blessed to be a part of this Corps.

There's probably more to share, but that's all I can think of for now. Later.

2007-08-13T20:59:00.000-04:00

YYYEEESSSSS!!!! Someone posted a comment on my blog!!! Woooo-hoooo...

2007-08-09T20:33:00.000-04:00

Back to School

Well, here we are at the beginning of another school year. It seems not so long ago, yet so far away that B first went to preschool. We are excited for B & K to get back to school to have some normalcy and to make some new friends. They both had good first days and like their teachers. B was excited because his class is down some stairs and then a little incline. He made some new friends today and K got pushed around on her first day. A little girl gave everyone some grief today K said. Sounds like a kid who's never spent time around other kids.

It's hard to believe we have been in G'vill for almost 7 weeks now. It has been a good seven weeks. The main thing is to get to know the Corps people we don't know. We have a good Corps with lots of personality. With the blending of the two Corps we really feel a big responsibility to make sure the Hispanic side of the Corps feels accepted and comfortable. We have seen the Lord at work in this to this point and are excited to see what happens. With the business of The Army, we are anxious to establish a higher level of accountability with our staff. It is a good staff, but they haven't been held with much accountability. We also are evaluating our programs to be sure we are getting the most for our people. So, pray for us and our programs

2007-06-29T22:30:00.000-04:00

We have been in G'ville for almost a week now. Been a very interesting week. We arrived late on Sunday evening to find the Quarters, let's just say not as clean as we left the Quarters in Waycross. So, we have spent most of the week getting things cleaned which were not taken care of. This is a nice Quarters but definately needs some work. Spent some time in the office this week getting to know our staff and getting familiar with The Army here. We haven't met all of our staff yet, but eventually we will. The Army here seems to have some small projects to work on and things which need to be addressed. But, in all things have begun to settle in well. B&K have done well considering...with no new friends or much to do around the house, they have done well. On Monday one of our Soldiers came by with her grandson and let B&K come over to her house for a couple of hours. Now, we thought this would be some great time to get extra work done at the house but, it didn't go that way. In Waycross, we never had to use house keys because we always went in through the garage. Well, here it should work that way but, on Monday just after we went out for some lunch, a storm came through and the power went out. Now, I had one key in my pocket on my car keys but wouldn't you know it, it didn't work. So, needless to say, we didn't get in...in fact, didn't get in until about 6:00pm. Between this and the cleaning we had to get done, we have barely started to unpack and won't be at home much at all this month. So, we may never get done. Looking forward to the welcome and seeing some friends and meeting some new people. Until next time, later!

2007-06-23T22:02:00.000-04:00

Well, I sit here in a hotel room, with B reading a book about Jonah to my right and K singing and dancing at the foot of the bed. We are only one more night away from our farewell Sunday. We are excited and nervous about tomorrow. We know a few people who say they are coming even though they haven't been there in a while or even never for a couple of them. We really think it will be a good day but, perhaps a little tougher than we realize. We are glad to get all this over because, the past few days have been pretty taxing emotionally. I am a little frustrated with some of our staff because they all seem to think we are already gone and have started doing some things they know aren't allowed. I realize we'll have frustrations in G'ville, but I hope we have adults working for us and not teenagers. Don't get me wrong, we have loved our staff here, but they have definately been a little immature at times. Well, we lived through 4 years here in Waycross with so much as an accident or anything like that and today, our last full day in Waycross, someone backs out into the passenger side door of the Bonneville. Of course when I asked her if she was ok, she said her back hurt. What! She was going 3 MPH!!! Anyway, then she didn't have proof of insurance...So, I don't know if the Officer was able to verify it through a tag check or not. Then, I locked the keys in the car! Thank goodness for AAA. So, today was definately an interesting day. Well, this time tomorrow we'll probably be unpacking like crazy to get some basic things in place for us and the kiddos. So, for now, later...

2007-06-23T22:01:00.001-04:00

Your Star Wars Name And Title

Your Star Wars Name: Chawi Neath

Your Star Wars Title: Smacho of Enyaw

What Is Your Star Wars Name and Title?

2007-06-18T18:41:00.000-04:00

Well, we're only about a week away from moving and I think I'm finally ready for it. I don't necessarily look forward to leaving Waycross but, I am ready to go just to be done packing and cleaning. We are looking forward to different headaches, etc. But, we will miss some friends we have made, especially for friends B&K have made. We had a very nice Board meeting today and we will miss our board here. They are good people with good hearts. They are very compassionate and caring. We are excited about living in a city where there are "options." Places to choose from to eat, shop, etc. We are also looking forward to living near some family and of course The Dawgs! We are excited about some vacation in July. We have VBS the end of July and before long it's back to school for B&K. We feel we have been truly blessed by the Lord and Gainesville is evidence of that. This is a good Corps with good people and we look forward to being there for a long time. Well, that's all for now. Maybe after the move, I can more interesting stuff to write. By the way, how come none of my friends or family took the hillbilly name test? Are you embarrased? Later...

2007-05-29T22:11:00.001-04:00

Your Hillbilly Name Is...

Jerry Lee Birmingham

Hillbilly Name Generator

2007-05-21T22:16:00.000-04:00

We're Moving!

Well, it has been a long time since I've posted anything and thought I'd give it a go tonight. We'll the fires are still burning. We had a tough time for a while with the EOC and what they wanted from us. Since, we have been relieved of our duties and I am extremely happy about that. On Monday, May 7, we found out we are farewelling. We have been appointed as the Corps Officers in Gainesville, GA. This causes us some nervousness especially considering we went to training from their. We are getting accustomed to the idea and have talked with some of our new soldiers. We think it is an exciting place and really pray the Lord's blessing on this move and our ministry there. We have some interesting things going on in Gainesville. We are closing our Hispanic Corps and merging with the Anglo Corps. This will allow The Army to benefit in many ways but, at the same time, the transition will be something which will take some time. We have a lodge and transitional housing. We have a daycare in our facility which is contracted out with a company in FL. So, we are looking forward to this new chapter in our lives. Please remember B & K in this move. B has finished his fourth season of t-ball and has gotten so much better over the years. K is taking some private lessons for gymnastics and is going to a session with some of the National Champion Georgia Gymdogs in a week or two. We are having VBS this week and look forward to it being done. One of the toughest parts of farewelling is trying to make sure you leave things in good order and leave your successor in a position to feel good about the work you have done and move forward. So, that's about all for now...Later!

2007-04-23T21:07:00.000-04:00

Latest News...

I don't really have an update of any substance. We've had a massive wildfire burning out of control here in Waycross. It has burned over 55,000 acres since last Monday. We've been asked to support the rehab and the EOC. The fire has been classified as "monumental." It is the second largest fire ever in SE GA and is expected to eventually be the largest ever. This website (www.satilla.org) will let you look at some of the info with the fire and at some of the pictures too. Open the website and click on the Ware County Fire Update. Scroll all the way to the bottom for pictures. Later.

2007-04-06T20:49:00.000-04:00

God is Funny

You know, God is funny about putting us in situations which will challenge us and tempt us. I told you I would tell you about the Lord teaching me and testing me. Well, here it is. I am coaching B's T-ball team this year. It's kind of tough because we have 12 players and they can only play the infield because no one can hit it into the outfield. But, in the winter, B played basketball with the Upward Basketball league and I helped coach. On his team was a kid (ironically enough the grandson of some former Corps members) who was...challenging to say the least. He would disappear during practices, run off to the vending area, want to get into fights with the other players, tempt the coaches with backtalk, etc. In fact, the last game of the season, he showed up for the game before it started. When the game finally started, he was no where to be found. Didn't show up the entire game. Very challenging kid and sometimes difficult. Well, much to my dismay, when I picked up my T-ball roster, guess who's name was the first one on the list...You guessed it, the challenging one. So far, it's going well, but definately still challenging. So, there's my story...and yeah, I'm stickin' to it. Later!

2007-03-24T21:44:00.000-04:00

Guess What We Are Watching!

Just sitting here and K has the remote. We are having to watch "Bring It On." It is a cheerleading movie. She is learning moves for her future plans! (She really said something to that effect.) Future Gymdawg and Dawg cheerleader. Yeah!!!

2007-03-10T12:23:00.000-05:00

What is up!

When we all woke up on Friday, March 2, 2007 we heard a lot of bad news. First, of all, devastating storms had moved through the SE and 20 people had died. Eight HS students died in Alabama. Then, you hear of a Charter bus just shooting over a bridge overpass, in Atlanta of all places. Six people die (now seven), including 4 baseball players and the bus driver and his wife. I am often grateful of how good I have it. A Great God, wonderful family, all the necessities of life. Very rarely do we have something happen to us which throws our world into a spin. We might even finding ourselves saying "I'm glad I wasn't in that Tornado or I'm glad I wasn't in that bus." Christopher Reeve said the same thing before his accident in 1995 when he was researching a role in which he was going to play a paraplegic. Only to later in his life to live out as a quadraplegic. I know the scripture reminds us that the Lord only gives us what we can handle and I wonder, after being thankful for the Lord's protection, would I be able to handle a situation like these two. I pray for the Lord's strength and sustinance. But...I regress. Another thought on these two situations. I was attracted to the bus crash because of the complexity of why the bus driver took this off ramp and because it invovled a baseball team. For those who know me, know I love sports and couldn't help but think of these guys as athletes. There is no way, they could have imagined being a baseball player would eventually take their lives. But God, chose these people because He needed them. Pray for their families and those who experienced the crash and survived. I got the opportunity to spend a few days in Americus, GA as the Incident Commander for TSA relief there. Americus, was hit as hard as the town in AL but for some reason, the national media gave it very little attention. But, let me tell you, the destruction was phenomenal. There was a half a mile wide stretch for as far as you could see with every tree in the path being snapped halfway up. The hospital was "covered" in trees. Complete buildings gutted with only the four corners left standing. (I'll post some pictures soon) All throughout town, people kept saying to me, "Thank you for what you are doing." Canteen workers would tell us how polite the people were and how thankful they were. As I heard this, my mind again went back to scripture, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in (Matt. 25:35)." I even find this convicting because in our line of work, we can become numb to always being asked for help. But, thank the Lord, He puts me in situations to learn from and experience. Well, just a simpleton's ramblings on recent events. I will have a story for you soon on another situation the Lord is using to test me and teach me. We have an Officer friend here in GA who is needing some prayer right now, remember them in your prayers. The Lord knows. For now, that's all folks...

Crazy Kids!

2007-02-23T15:57:00.001-05:00

2007-01-09T14:48:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since I've done a "real" post, so let me update. We had a terrific Christmas again, up over $5000.00 from last year in Kettles for a total of $60,000. We are so proud of these numbers because our first year here, we only did $42,000 and the year before we arrived, they only did $29,000. So, we feel like we have really worked hard but are extremely proud of the results. We took some time to visit family. That's always fun but, nothing like getting back home. Speaking of getting back home, both B & K got really sick with high temperatures and B was diagnosed with a mild case of pneumonia. Both my in-laws and my sister and mom got sick after we all left. So, with traveling and sick children, I still felt like I haven't caught up from Christmas. The Dawgs took care of VA Tech in the Chick-Fil-A Bowl and finished the year on a very strong note. Look out in 2007 & 2008. We have a board member who is a VA Tech alumni, I can't wait to see him. The hated Gators of FL won the football national championship. The one game this year, Ohio State didn't show up for. Jeez! Of course with the new year, you always take time to analyze your goals and priorities. We really feel the Lord leading us to new challenges this year particularly with our staff and are aggressively trying to reach those potentials. We have a Thrift Store renovation coming up this month which should bring significant results. I have to go to MS in March for the Territorial Disaster Conference. We hope to get some vacation in around Spring Break with some friends in FL. So, the first half of this year should be busy and very exciting. Hope you all have a great 2007. You will only reach the goals you set!

2007-01-09T14:39:00.000-05:00

Recently, I had a friend have their wisdom teeth out and their misery was so funny, just thinking about it made me laugh out loud. Now, before anyone starts giving me grief, yes I have had my wisdom teeth out and know the feeling well, and this persons knows I love 'em, that's why I've gotten pick on them. So, here in honor of the wisdom tooth, some jokes...

"Open wider," requested the dentist, as he began his examination of the patient. "Wow!" he said startled. "You've got the biggest cavity I've ever seen -- the biggest cavity I've ever seen." "OK Doc!" replied the patient. "I'm scared enough without you saying something like that twice." "I didn't!" said the dentist. "That was the echo."

A man phoned his dentist when he received a huge bill. "I'm shocked!" she complained. "This is three times what you normally charge." "Yes, I know," said the dentist. "But you yelled so loud, you scared away two other patients."

Maybe I can find more later...

2006-12-04T17:40:00.000-05:00

Check This Out... The other day J came home to and just like always clicked the button to open the garage door. As this began to happen, our garage "imploded." Something had gotten hung and caused the door to lock up. As she continued a couple of times to see this happen, the door continued to fall apart. Ironically enough, when we called the garage door company, the secretary asked if we lived at 671 Kentland Drive and I said yes, she said the repairman was in the area doing another door and had driven by our house and called in to ask if there was an order on our house. So, we got the door taken off and had to get the doors in our house (because we've never gotten into our house by using a key). Since we won't have a garage door for a week or so, we need to be able to lock our doors. So, interesting... Later!

2006-11-19T21:54:00.000-05:00

Been a while...

Well, it's been a while since I've had a chance to stop and try to post something. It's been an interesting few weeks. I don't like to talk about business in the blog but, that has dominated the past few weeks. Two weeks ago, I had to do the toughest of jobs and that is to fire someone. I had one employee misrepresent The Army and it was necessary to make the change. Now, the change will be a good one but, the fallback from this is greater than just letting an employee go. Her mom and dad were two of our most faithful soldiers and as you might imagine, they have decided not to attend The Corps anymore. So, needless to say, that is not the desired results but we firmly believe God will be honored and The Army will benefit from this change. We've spent the last couple of weeks getting ready from Kettles which started on Friday and through the first two days we are ahead over $1,100.00 from last year. This week will be nice. We are going to spend Thanksgiving with some Officer friends and on Saturday, Georgia will roll Tech as usual. B learned how to ride his bike over the weekend, now if he'll just quit being afraid of the occasional fall, he'll be alright. Oh, K also learned how to ride her bike this weekend. She almost beat her brother at it. This past Sunday, the DC was here for worship and our Corps Thanksgiving Dinner. We had a full house and a wonderful time of worship. The DC was very complimentary of our young people which made us feel proud considering how much we put into them. I went to the beat down of Auburn at the hands of the finest University System in America last week when Georgia kicked the tar out of the Tiger/War Eagles (whatever the heck they are)! Well, gotta work on some Kettle figures and averages. Life, never-ending! Later...

2006-11-01T14:20:00.000-05:00

Fun in light of the Halloween Holiday!

2006-10-23T14:50:00.000-04:00

Get Your Own! | View Slideshow

2006-10-16T13:11:00.000-04:00

Corps Happenings

Yesterday, we started our fall Revival with Major Henry Hunter. Major Hunter was the CO here from 1984-1988. We had a great turn out for our Sunday morning meeting which doubled as Homecoming for the Corps. We had somewhere around 53 in attendance. This was one of (if not) the largest Sunday's since we got here. Now, the numbers aren't as important (nice...but, not as important) as the fact that people who don't normally go to church got a chance to hear the Gospel. Major Hunter (for those who know him) didn't pull any punches. He was indeed to the point and was used by God. Now, we are also having some major struggles with some of our teenagers. We have some who have stopped coming (by definition for all the "drama") some who were just lazy for the second week in a row, and another who has been placed in a special facility for some personal issues. We love these kids dearly and hurt more when these kinds of things happen. We wish we could just take them all and put them in this safe little cacoon for their own protection. But, what would they learn, what would we learn. This way, God is teaching us how to be His servants. We also know, that Satan is not pleased with what is going on with our young people. We know this because he has worked so hard the past year trying to take them away. Please pray for our kids, they need it more than ever. I am looking forward to Christmas starting, this is where I feel I am personally at my best. The DC is coming down in November and will be an exciting time for the Corps. Well, gonna go for now. Planning on going to the GA game Saturday. Maybe the team will come too!!! More on that later. Bye!

2006-10-08T16:47:00.000-04:00

Your Linguistic Profile:

50% General American English

35% Dixie

10% Yankee

0% Midwestern

0% Upper Midwestern

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?

2006-10-08T16:20:00.000-04:00

Random Thoughts

Well, I figure I should post so, I don't get called out by other bloggers! This week has been interesting. You never realize how much you value your computer until it crashes. My laptop shot out on me this week and I had to reinstall the operating system and every program I have been using. The good news is, I was able to back-up my files and pretty much have gotten everything back to the way it was before. We have a busy time coming up with the Corps. Next week, we have our fall revival with Major Henry Hunter. Sunday (the first day of Revival) is Homecoming Sunday. This is an exciting time for us and the Corps. Last night, the Dawgs got embarassed about as bad as I have ever seen them get embarassed. Not beaten...EMBARASSED!!! Good thing this only happens every decade or so. Brandon's boo-boo is getting a lot better and the glue is wearing off and of course when it does finally come off, it will probably be interesting! Well, that's all for now. Later!

2006-09-29T10:20:00.000-04:00

My boy's best scar!

Well, last night, K was getting her bath and I was doing some other things and B was...well, using the restroom. K got done with her bath and went to her room to get ready for bed. B finished...and began to get ready for a bath, when suddenly I hear him fall and hit the wall. I heard him start crying (screaming) right away and run to find Mom. Now, I immediately react to find him and tell him to come to me. I know that because of the way I heard him hit and the reaction he had to it, I expected this to be a bad fall. I had no idea! He came around the corner and there was so much blood, I expected his head to be gashed wide open. I started yelling for J to come to the bathroom while I immediately grabbed some wipes to put on the wound. Because there was so much blood, I had no idea where it was coming from, only the area. When he came around the corner holding his head, blood was in his hair, down his face, in his hands, etc. and he was frantic. Needless to say I probably scared him because I freaked out too. (It has always been like me to sympathize for children more when they are hurt or otherwise, but when it is your child, you feel like you have just been rendered paralyzed.) It only took us about 5 minutes to get the bleeding to stop to see the 1/2 inch gash in his forehead. He kept telling us how bad his head hurt and all I could think of was to switch places with him. I took him to the ER for the obvious reasons. It was a pretty good wound and expected to need stitches. By the time we got to the ER he was starting to feel a little better and his mood was improving. Now, I had said to someone "When I get to the hospital, unless someone is dying in front of me, I expect to go back quickly." I think we only waited in the lobby for about 2 minutes. The best ER service I've ever experienced. We got back to see the doctor and the Physicians Assistant who helped us, was none other than one of our T.S.'s outstanding volunteers. She recognized me and was very, very good to B. Well, the Dr. came in and asked all the head questions you could think of, (did he lose conciousness, did he vomit, etc.) all to which I replied no. He handled it very well! I kept asking him how many fingers I was holding up and asking him if he was awake and keeping his eyes open, etc. (BTW, with any head collision, you hear about not going to sleep, well, considering this happened at 8:15pm and he was only 30 minutes from bedtime, this was easier said than done!) When the Dr. came in, he decided against stitches in favor of "Dermabond." This is a flesh glue (for lack of a better term!) which wears off after about 10-14 days. Now, imagine the wound and the PA squeezing it together while the Dr. applied the glue. B was not a happy camper. This of course made his head hurt worse. They brought in some Children's Tylenol and he was afraid of it because of the Dentist visit I wrote about because of the taste in the medicine which made him sick. We finally took the medicine and he was ready to come home. I could tell when he started feeling better because everytime someone would walk by our room, he would ask, "when are we going home?" He is fine today and will be okay with a good scar to show for it. My boy is tough!

2006-09-29T09:28:00.000-04:00

Ok, Ok, Ok...

The other week I picked on a friend of mine for not posting and you know what, it came back to bite me. I got called out by another friend of mine and I deserve it. Simply put, I have been a little lazy and really not had much to write about. We got back from Officers' Councils last week which was the best one I have attended yet. Our new DC is passionate about serving and that is a breath of fresh air. So, not much to say on that but, here is another post of more significance...

2006-09-12T13:37:00.000-04:00

What Classic Movie Are You?
personality tests by similarminds.com

2006-09-12T08:57:00.000-04:00

Thoughts on 9/11

The other day, my dad asked me if I remember what I was doing on 9/11/01. I have always heard stories of how people can recall where they were at, what they were doing in 1941 when Pearl Harbor was attacked. I now know the feeling. I remember as if it were yesterday! I think I still feel the same today as I did that day. Anger, fear, horror, sorrow, confusion, etc. How are we supposed to feel when we see something happening which is obviously an act of evil, innocent people are dying, and we can't do anything about it? Now I do understand, all of the people who died weren't perfect people. Probably some were bad people according to society's standards but, they didn't deserve to have their lives taken that way. I watched on Sunday and Monday night the ABC special "The Path to 9/11." I was facinated as I watched that this was real. It almost seemed like it was your typical movie but I kept having to remind myself, this really happened! As I watched the President speak last night I couldn't help but think, if there is anyone who doesn't want to get those responsible for these acts, if there is anyone who opposes what our troops are doing, how can you call it anything other than disrespecting those who died. I don't want this to be mistaken for a political statement. I don't care who our President is, if we cannot support what he feels is the path to get those responsible for these actions, we are standing over the graves of those who died and ignoring their sacrifice. In the days after 9/11 many Christians leaders were asked on national television, how could God let this happen? I kept thinking had I been asked this question, I would have asked, how does God let you go and drink during happy hour? How does God let you curse His name? How does God let sleep in on Sunday mornings? God didn't "let" this happen by those means. This event has been thousands of years in the making. The moment Adam and Eve chose to disobey God, we were doomed for these types of actions. The only hope we have is not some military action, but personal action. We must be a people who set out to change peoples' lives. To show them who God is and how He wants us to live. This will go along way in helping to prevent these types of actions. Imagine if someone else had gotten to the terrorists before their 'leader' did! What the world might look like to today. Random thoughts...Blessings!

2006-08-31T14:26:00.000-04:00

Only 46 hours until Kickoff! Go Dawgs!

2006-08-31T14:19:00.000-04:00

Getting into the spirit!

At the beginning of a new school year, a young boy's new teacher noticed he was wearing a Georgia Bulldog shirt. The teacher asked why he was wearing that particular shirt. "Because I like the Georgia Bulldogs," was the boy's reply. "Well," said the teacher, "how do you know you like the Georgia Bulldogs and say, not the Florida Gators." "Because my mom and dad like the Georgia Bulldogs and that makes me a Georgia Bulldog," he said. "Ok, do you always do or like the things you mom and dad do and like?" "For example, let's say your mom and dad were morons, what would that make you?" "A Florida Gator fan!"

2006-08-18T14:39:00.000-04:00

First time for everthing!

Jessica and I got questioned by the Feds today!

2006-08-17T15:06:00.000-04:00

'Cause He Had a Bad Day

This time it fits, it works. Yesterday, Brandon had a bad day. It started that he had to go back to the Pediatric Orthopedict for some cavity work on his teeth. I keep asking myself why they do that to teeth that are going to fall out anyway but they say, it is so it won't damage the root or the permanent tooth. Anyway, B couldn't have anything to eat or drink after midnight last night which meant we had to keep an eye on him getting up and drinking water in the middle of the night which he likes to do often. Well, he did get up and got some water but we don't know how much. The entire trip to Valdosta he kept saying he was hungry and thirsty which made us feel terrible. Once we got there, his mind got off of food and drink while reading books and stuff. They gave him the medicine first to make him disoriented and out of it for the shots and stuff they give him to numb his mouth. Well, he asked for strawberry this time instead of grape and didn't like it at all. He started complaining that his tummy was bothering him and when we finally convinced him to take the medicine we thought he was going to chuck it back up. While they do the procedure, we have to wait in the lobby. When they called us back in, he was asleep but they said he did get sick and chucked. We and the Dr.'s thought that would be the end of it and stopped to get him something to eat and drink but he only wanted water and nothing else. He was very groggy and slept a lot. As we were about 1 mile from our house, he started chucking again. For much of the rest of the afternoon, he chucked until his last time about 5:00pm. It was so bad, his friends came over and he wouldn't even get off the couch. After the last time he chucked, Jessica took him to convenient care and pretty much by then, he was okay. It is a terrible feeling to stand there and watch your child chucking and just trying to comfort them and wish for anything in the world you could trade places with them. But, he is a trooper and was fine last night. He got up this morning and went to school no questions or fuss about it. I'm proud of my Bug!

2006-08-11T13:19:00.000-04:00

For Sale!

Six Thrift Store Employees!

2006-08-07T13:27:00.000-04:00

Back to School!

Today is back to school day for Brandon & Katie this time. K is going to Daffodil (which is the pre-school program here in Waycross) and B is fully in Kindergarden. They started off with not wanting to get up today but fortunately got up and got dressed in plenty of time to get to school. Jessica said they both did really well getting there and settling in. That's a comforting thought for a parent because I remember as a kid, other kids crying because they didn't want to stay at school or didn't want their parents leaving. B & K are both big boys and girls (as we like to say) and are smart so, school should be a highlight for them and us. After Jessica dropped of the kids, she had some dental work done and is out of pocket but starting to get back to normal today. Now, I keep wanting to use the Daniel Powter song "Had a bad day" as the theme song for my day sometimes but it wouldn't be fair. My bookkeeper was on vacation last week which meant I had to do Great Plains (our accounting system). This meant payroll, deposits and the sort. Well, Thursday when I had to transfer funds from the Thrift account to the Corps account the server wouldn't print checks. So, for the next SIX hours, I was on phone call after phone call trying to get the problem fixed. Finally did but not until I had to get saved again!!! (Just kidding!) Well, today I come into the office and Monday's (much like many TSA Corps) are busy and crazy. Today was the exception, today was indeed "Manic Monday!" My caseworker (who has only been here for a month and a half was being swamped with clients who wanted to "tell her how to do things." So, for my friend and family who know me, I am always up for a good challenge... I took off my gloves! I now have specifically four fewer fans in the Waycross area and perhaps even more I am unaware of after today. Now, I wasn't mean but, I did and will always put TSA before the "wants" of those who are only out there to take advantage of TSA. Because for the past 15 or so years, clients only need to show up to receive assistance, hiring a new caseworker was a good opportunity to change the structure and system. So, we are going through the growing pains of such a process. Anway...I regress. Here are some pictures of the kids first day of school and there will be more when there's more to write about. Later! (Go Dawgs!)

2006-07-23T21:12:00.000-04:00

Our Disney Trip

Well, we visited Mickey, Minnie and the gang this week. Believe it or not, the trip to the Magic Kingdom wasn't an unbearable line all day. It was hot but not humid and we didn't stand in a line longer than 20-30 minutes. The fireworks display was incredible (probably one of the best we all have ever seen). We left on Monday and traveled to Orlando amidst rain and traffic. The hotel wasn't even on the map and never mind Map Quest. It took us over 30 minutes once we got off the exit to find the hotel that was only 1/2 mile down the road. Those who know me, know I was not a happy camper. Tuesday we spent time going shopping and doing some other activities. We went (for the second time) to a place called WonderWorks, which is like an interactive science museum. It has things like earthquake simulation, hurricane simulation, giant piano, land a space shuttle, fly a jet, etc. etc. It is a great attraction for a fairly reasonable price. Tuesday evening we went to Carraba's for dinner which was fantastic and took Brandon & Katie to the heated swimming pool for a late night swim. Wednesday was Disney day. B & K had a great time and so did we. Probably the highlight of the day was getting to see the updated Pirates of the Carribean ride. Even though it is an expensive place to visit, Disney is worth every dollar you have to spend! Thursday after checking out of our hotel, before heading home, we went to one of my favorite places for a meal...IHOP (International House of Pancakes!) Great pancakes just not as good as Memaw's. Afterwards, we went to Downtown Disney which is basically an outdoor mall and attractions and only cost something if you participate or buy something. We finally got home about 8:00pm Thursday. We spent Friday and Saturday resting and unpacking. It was a short vacation but a lot of fun. Can't wait until the next time. I have to go to camp this week and I don't beleive Jessica is as nervous about the week as I was. Later!

2006-07-16T20:47:00.000-04:00

The Chronicles of Mr. Mom - Day 6

Hallelujah! It has come and gone! The week is over and we have survived. We did not have any major incursions and we all came out loving each other perhaps even more than when the week started. I realize my literary reflections as the week have gone on have gotten lesser and lesser (mainly because I have to find time write). But the day started with Jessica taking Katie from the hotel to camp with her to pick up the kids. Which meant Brandon and I got to ride all the way home together. It was a great trip, except for stopping an overly crowded exit with every Boy Scout from Venice, FL in McDonald's. So, we decided to go futher and find another McDonald's which had every Boy Scout from somewhere else in FL. After 45 minutes of waiting we got back on the rode. We got home about 4:00 and tried to relax for a while. We had a time getting ready for Grandma and Grandpa to get here. We had to pick up a few things and had dinner at one of B's favorite places (Chinese!) Grandma and Grandpa arrived about 8:15 and B & K were excited to be with them for a few days. So, after a long week (a good week), we are off to Orlando, Fl and The Magic Kingdom. We should have a good time and we'll see what adventures wait us in the days and weeks ahead!

2006-07-15T21:29:00.000-04:00

The Chronicles of Mr. Mom - Day 5

Well, it is almost over. In fact, this time on Saturday, Mom would be back in the picture. But, imagine this...6:50am! That's what time Brandon decided to get up after going to sleep at 11:30pm last night. I had to get up early to go to a meeting in Atlanta and was hoping they woudl both sleep. David and Jessica said they would watch them and bring them to Atlanta for me before going to camp for the DC Installation. By the time I left at 7:30am both B & K were wide awake which caused me to fear for everyone else's sleep. I left and met up with everyone later in the afternoon for lunch. I was fearful for David and Jessica's sanity with 5 kids in the house but they survived. We headed to our hotel for the night planning to swim but much to my disadvantage, it stormed and I thought the war would soon take place. B was not happy he could not go swimming before going to camp and let me know about it for about 45 minutes (very tired little Bug!) We went to camp, B & K got to stay with Mom while I was at the installation. After everything was over we headed back to the hotel and the end of the day. They played with Jacob and Taylor until about 11:00pm and finally crashed around! Another day over and Saturday is all driving!

2006-07-15T21:18:00.000-04:00

The Chronicles of Mr. Mom - Day 4

Well expecting the worse especially today condsidering we were going on a trip, we tried to get the day off to good start. Wanting desperately to not the frustrations of the previous day be a distraction. We got off to school and to work at a fairly decent time. My main task before our trip was to do some cleaning up at home and to pack enough things to last for a couple of days. I pick Brandon & Katie up around 2:30 and we headed off to see their friends Jacob, Taylor & little Evan Swyers. We drove from Waycross to Columbus. This was the part I was most worried about because of traveling by myself with B & K. However, despite a few small incursions, the trip was uneventful and peaceful. We arrived in Columbus and the chaos was on. We went to dinner then back to the house where they played and played (and played and played and played and played and played and played and played and played and played...you get the idea!). My good friend Jessica volunteered to bath B & K for me so David and I could hang out. Finally about 11:30 I had to force B & K to go to bed which resulted in a minor disagreement. But overall, a better day than Wednesday and an early morning on Friday should prove interesting!

2006-07-13T10:02:00.000-04:00

The Chronicles of Mr. Mom - Day 3

Today was a difficult day. Not because of Brandon & Katie or Jessica being gone but b/c of some other issues I faced in the day. I always look forward to the day after and even further from days like today so I can forget about them and move on. The day started out okay. Brandon & Katie were up picking on each other at 7:00 in the morning. So, we got up, got ready and went to McDonald's for breakfast before off to school. I picked them up later in the afternoon and took them home. Trying not to allow some of the distractions of the day come out on B & K, we decided to go swimming early. Once at the pool, we had a great time. B & K both were jumping off the diving board (with arm floaties on of course). They both are really close to learning how to swim! We got home, got cleaned up and had dinner. Funny thing is, we had two pancakes and eggs left over from breakfast and B insisted that I save them so he could have them from breakfast. He had everything and some applesauce. They watched TV for a while and off to bed. So, it was a good day. I was glad the day ended. I have some what of a difficult time wondering if I did my best yesterday. In persponally dealing with some things and how I handled some things. But, all the matters is that when I look at B & K, they remind me why I am who I am and they make the next day bearable. They make me want to work harder on who I am and what I do. Even though Brandon is almost 6, I am learning everyday how to be a better parent and a better person. So, this week probably came at a good time!

2006-07-12T10:13:00.000-04:00

The Chronicles of Mr. Mom - Day 2

You know how you've heard the phrase the quiet before the storm? Well, it seems we are there. Day 2 began with Brandon & Katie being quite cooperative in getting up, getting dressed, making their beds, brushing their teeth and hair. I got them off to school and in to the office at a reasonable time and thought this was a good start. One of the sanities I have this week is daycare. Being able to have those hours in the day for them to play and me to stay sane. So, I picked them up in the afternoon and it seemed like the war would soon be started. B immediately got mad at me and pitched a fit because he wanted to wear his costume but I said no because we were going to church shortly. He calmed down and we went to dinner which was quite civil. At church they had a little trouble with hitting each other and picking at each other during Bible Study. During Men's Club B went with me and K went back with the ladies to play Bingo. She came running out later to tell me she had won a game! B wanted so desperately to help the men clean some things up. Instead he and eventually K played in the front with a giant inflatable bowling ball. After the men finished our project, I played with them for a while and we had a great time. We went home and in the back of my mind, I still was apprehensive about the peace...We got home and went straight to bath time. Now K had cut her foot at church and was miserable. Once she got in the bathtum and the water hit it, she was off to the races crying. I put Peroxide on the cut and kept washing it but she kept crying. Finally I got her out, got her dressed, doctored her wound and settled her down to watch cartoons. B finished his bath got dressed and teeth brushed. I gave them both applesauce for snack and right after that, they were ready for bed. So, the inevidable is still there. Where do I turn, what do I do?! It was a good day. They both are excited for Day 3 I'm gonna take them swimming!

2006-07-11T14:02:00.000-04:00

The Chronicles of Mr. Mom - Day 1

As I watched Jessica drive off to camp, I couldn't help but think of the Armaggedon which would soon take place in my home over the next few days. I would stand on one hill and Brandon and Katie would stand on the other (and at other times, B & K would stand on opposite hills). So, I quickly had to figure out my battle plan. What could I do to prevent this impending encounter. I picked B & K up in the afternoon and took them home. Right away their friends came over and I knew then, it was on! The house was attacked and looked an explosion had taken place in K's bedroom. Eventually B took off down the road with his friends without permission which meant he was sent to his barracks and his allies sent packing. K kept reminding me how good she was being... After this, we had dinner and played t-ball in the front yard for a little while and went for a walk. I realized we didn't have any milk so I called a Soldier at the Corps and asked her if I could bring B & K over while I went to the store (it would be a lot faster that way). S0, she took them to a little park not far from our house and to DQ for ice cream. We all got home, they got baths really good, brushed their teeth, and laid down in their beds very good. They both were asleep by 9:30. So the battle still looms... All kidding aside, B & K were great last night and I hope having church tonight will help prevent any lines being drawn in the sand! But to borrow a tag line from a good friend of mine...I survived...today!

2006-07-05T15:10:00.000-04:00

Reflections!

As many people did yesterday, we went and watched fireworks! Brandon and Katie kept trying to convince us all day that "the sunset was coming." Of course when we finally went to watch fireworks and by the time they started at 9:30pm, Brandon & Katie were ready to go to sleep. But as we sat there, Jessica and I talked about the fact that this was the fourth time we had sat in the same parking lot to watch the fire works in Waycross. We found it hard to believe that it had been a full three years since we've moved here. Which causes me to stop and reflect on our ministry here in Waycross. This has been a good three years to us. Much more than we expected and at the same time what we had prepared for. The Lord has blessed our family. Brandon & Katie have made good friends, which we take as a good sign for future appointments. Jessica and I have made good friends. Our Corps has seen growth and we have seen growth. We are extremely happy that Brandon & Katie have learned some much about God here and have had a crucial role in our ministry. They have learned how to tell others about God and they have learned to invite others to church. They have learned many things about life here and for that Waycross will always have a special place in our hearts. So, do we know if we will get to see the fireworks for a fifth time here in Waycross, we don't know what God has in store for us. But, we are happy to be serving Him here in Waycross and are thankful for the challenges and joys He puts in our paths to help us to grow along the way. Thanks to all our family, friends and soldiers here and abroad who have prayed for us and loved us during these times. Here's to a good year!

2006-06-26T10:07:00.000-04:00

Katie's New Look

We've been asking Katie for a while if she wanted to get her ears pierced and just about everytime she would be pretty defiant. (I think mainly because we were at the mall and she wanted to go to the Arcade with her brother.) But yesterday, we went to the mall and as we walked kind of casually, we said, "Katie, do you want to get your ears pierced?" And without breaking stride, arms swinging, hair bouncing, chewing gum (that's her new thing - like 3 pieces of gum at once in her mouth), she said "Yep..." So, I took Brandon to the Arcade (he beat me in table hockey...) and Jessica took Katie to Claire's. About 10 minutes later they came around the corner and she had the cutest earrings in her ears. Jessica said she sat there and didn't even wimper when they pierced her ears. Now, you know, she's always been our cute little mama but boy now, she's like our little mama supermodel! (Of course all she wants to do is play with them now, so for the trial period we have to watch her close.)

2006-06-20T14:46:00.000-04:00

Brandon's Doctor Visit

Today, Brandon had to see a pediatric Orthodontist to have some cavities filled. I know, you are saying the same thing I said the first time I heard...'why does he need to have cavities filled if he is going to lose the teeth?' Well, the Dentist said if they aren't fixed and get worse before he loses the tooth, it could damage his permanent teeth...Anyway we went today to have one of two teeth taken care of. While the waiting room, Brandon was very patient, he played with some toys (he was starving because he wasn't allowed to have anything to eat or drink all day). When they called him back he said very patiently looking at books. The nurse brought him some vitamin to drink (which was very chalking looking) to help sedate him and he drank it like a big boy. We went into the other room to wait and when it was time to go, (we couldn't go back with him) he got right up and went straight back. While we were waiting the nurse came to tell us the cavity had gotten a little worse and they had put a stainless steel cap on instead of filling it. Jessica said well at least it's porcelin and I said nope, silver... Once he was finished and we could leave, he was a little dazed but knew everything. We were going out to the car and as I opened the door, Brandon said "no wait" and made me shut the door so he could try to look at his tooth in the window reflection:) We got in the car and gave him a mirror and he said he was going to tell his sister he had a gold tooth! I'm proud of my Bugger! Later...

2006-06-16T13:46:00.000-04:00

You Are Cyclops

Dedicated and responsible, you will always remain loyal to your cause.
You are a commanding leader - after all, you can kill someone just by looking at them.

Power: force beams from your eyes

Which of the X-Men Are You?

2006-06-14T22:38:00.000-04:00

Brandon & Katie

I figured since I talk about them in the profile, I should introduce you to them...Brandon & Katie! The world's best looking kids (biased...)!

2006-06-13T18:33:00.000-04:00

Cars!

Good Flick! (Especially Tow Mater!)

2006-06-13T18:04:00.000-04:00

My Sister's Big Week!

Well, it has been week since my sister got married but, what a big week for her. It began on the Thursday before with her Commissioning Weekend festivities. Her graduation from the Evangeline Booth College on Saturday and her Commissioning as a Salvation Army Officer on Sunday. Following this, she prepared for her wedding on Tuesday. Boy, she and my brother-in-law, Joe, picked a time for some many major changes in their lives. Becoming a Salvation Army Officer is a life changing event, but those who are married will know that getting married trumps everything. They will spend their first four weeks on their honeymoon and then report to Camp Walter Johnson for their first summer as Salvation Army Officers'. I am glad their first appointment is at camp pro-tem, it gives them plenty of time to overcome those first weeks and months jitters of being married. I am nervous for my sister but also very proud and confident in her ability to do what God has called her to.

The weekend festivities were beautiful and it is nice to have a relative now in the ranks of Officership. The weekend was beautifully done as well. Candace and Joe did have the best looking ring-bearer and flower-girl in the history of weddings (Brandon & Katie)! Pictures will follow sometime in the future. For now...Go Dawgs (in the NCAA College World Series)!

2006-06-09T21:40:00.000-04:00

Go Dawgs!

For those who might not be as up to date on the happenings of the number 1 university system in America...let me bring you up to speed. The Lady Gymdogs won the 2006 National Championship. The Georgia Men's Golf and Tennis teams will be at the top in their respective seasons. The Diamond Dawgs play south carolina this weekend in Athens for a chance to go to the College World Series in Omaha, NE. Of course as always with the University of Georgia, football season is just around the corner and the Dawgs will be defending their SEC Championship of their beat-down of the lsu tigers (sorry...no respect). But hey, that's the life of being any opponent of the UGA. Go DAWGS!

2006-06-01T14:24:00.000-04:00

Testing 1...2...3...

Testing, testing, testing...Does this look stupid? Well...it feels stupid...so far. But, hey, I am getting better at this!

2006-06-01T13:33:00.000-04:00

Okay, this is my first try at this and being a person who considers themself somewhat computer saavy...I am frustrated. I want there to be a button or a fairly easy access to adding items to my blog, changing the color, or whatever. But, I regress...