Janice's Place

New Beginnings

2011-12-31T20:20:00.003-06:00

New Beginnings

Our newest beginning is Bella. She is so darling and sweet. She loves to be held and rocked. I did plenty of that and didn't mind one bit.
The other 3 "Grands" 1st Christmas at the new house. Elijah, Sadie, and Brooklyn loved going upstairs and playing in the little room set up for them. All of the toys, trucks, games and the tv at their disposal.....

Another new beginning, Brad's coaching job.

Thanksgiving with family

I certainly enjoyed having Mark, Jo Carol, and Stephanie this year.

Our 1st Christmas tree was a very nice one. It has stayed fresh the whole time. I saw the cowboy hat idea and thought it went well with our new place.

May each of you have a Happy New Beginning to your 2012. May the Lord continue to bless us and this great country.

Moving DAY

2011-11-13T19:50:00.004-06:00

This is a short post to say November 18 is moving day on Ave. A. We will be moving to our new house on CR 332. Then we have found renters for this house. I was at the Post Office and noticed a sign that someone wanted to rent a 2 or 3 bedroom house. I called the number and the rest is history.... the person on the other end of the number was looking for his brother a house. So the family came by on Friday and they want to rent it. So I am very thankful the Lord had a hand in all of these affairs...So I have called movers, called the phone company, called the internet provider, call the TV company... put in for a change of address. I must say that was the hardest one to do. I wanted to keep the box in town. Frankie wanted a mailbox in the country. So we compromised... got a mailbox in the country. But it will look very nice~
Come by and see us... there is always a breeze~

2011-10-30T21:36:00.002-05:00

Getting Close

Kitchen cabinets are looking great!! The finish feels so smooth...

Cabinets in Frankie's office.

The fireplace is gas. The black plastic on the hearth is covering the mantle.

Things are getting close. I think we should be moving in middle of November.

Compare... I think it looks very close...

Is This My Birthday Present!!!

2011-09-23T09:10:00.003-05:00

New Digs!!

As you may know, we are building a house. Here are a few pictures. I took some on my phone, of the inbetween stages, but this will work for now.

Ready to begin, we had to have alot of clay brought in and mixed with the sand.

Those boards are my front bay windows!!

The View!

Wow, what a difference a few weeks make. The crew is making great progress. If the weather holds, it could be a Ballard Thanksgiving....

Front door...

My 60th Birthday Bash

2011-09-23T08:24:00.005-05:00

60th Birthday

Here are several pictures of my birthday party at the Stagecoach Inn. Crystal went all out to make it a great time for all. Thanks Crystal! I somehow didn't get a picture on my camera of Erica. I think she was taking all of them. Thanks Erica for serving as the main photographer.

Sharon, Mom and I enjoying the nice evening.
The Lightfoot Gang! Joe and Tim

The Dorton Gang Francine, Kevin, and Caleb. -Jacob

Grand Gang!

Friend's Gang

Carolyn and I have been friends for 35 years!! Wow (don't tell us)

Is that a smile?

Looking good, yall!

Mom, it is only a picture!!!

Thanks, Caleb, for coming!

Thanks Sharon and Tim for spending the evening with me.

Darling, Girl.

Hey, Handsome!!

I had a wonderful birthday party. Thanks to everyone for coming. We missed Brad, Amy, Brooklyn, and the newest girl Bella. Also Vern and Carol, Mark and Jo Carol, we missed yall.

Beau's Hairdo

2011-09-18T21:24:00.003-05:00

Beau's Challenge

As you can tell from this photo Beau had some sort of wild hair do.. I only saw a couple of pictures of this but the kids from the youth group did a bang up job.... The challenge was if each kid in the youth group brought a friend to a youth rally in Belton he would let the kids create a new hair style for him. Oh, I didn't mention he would have to keep it for 2 weeks. So as you can see the challenge was accepted and met!!

About a month later his hair is short but is looking considerably better. Frankie and I are very proud of the work he does with the Robinson Church of Christ Youth Group. He spends countless hours on youth trips, youth devos, youth rallies, and preparing for all of the classes he teaches. Erica and children know he spends alot of time away from them helping others. I know the kids at Robinson will look forward to the challenge again next year!! Beau may not!!

Things Change

2011-09-12T21:30:00.004-05:00

Things do Change!

Who would have ever thought if you know us that we would actually be building a house. I never expected it would happen. The frame is up and the rafters are going in this week. The concrete stainers will be there on Thursday. I'm seeing November as a move in date. Mark you calendars!!

Grands change... E will be 5 in a month. B is 3 and a new big sister.
This child is 2... this pic was last summer at the library. Can't believe now she runs the library!

I absolutely love this shot. E took it and I have used it over and over. Pioneer Woman Cooks photograph contest! He didn't win, but we entered it.

The latest addition Bella, she is the bell of the ballards. She is so darling and sweet. I love the western look used for her nursery and this is such a sweet burp rag...She is too sweet to burp too much...or even need this...

So things do change... This month I turn 60, new job, new house, new grand. Wow that is too many news... but I am thankful for all these wonderful things in my life. Thanks to my husband for putting up with all the news and my wonderful children and their spouses and those GRANDS. I love you all!!

New Posts

2011-09-07T22:25:00.002-05:00

I had intended to write 3 blogs tonight, but my last set of pictures could not upload. So I will write a short note. We are building a house. After living at our present place for 35 years, we thought why not. The concrete is poured, the driveway in place, and now the frame is going up. Beau, Erica, and family went out recently to see how things were going. Elijah was worried I wouldn't bring my toys, and I wouldn't have my computer so he could play Farmerama.. but I assured him I would have all and maybe a sand pile and swings....So he and Sadie were okay with the new place. Also I will have plenty of water... free water well not exactly free we did have to have a well dug.. buttttt... it will be sort of free.. so I can water plants, grass, trees, etc ...
I'll post pics later.

2011-09-07T22:13:00.002-05:00

Big Sister/Little Sister

We are so happy to announce our new Grand... Bella Grace... she arrived on Sept. 1. Everyone at Hendricks Nursery knew exactly who she belonged to... weighing in at 10.5 lbs. One guy standing at the nursery window knew ...too.

Brooklyn got some little Chuckie Cheese time with Nana and Aunt Jo Carol.

Bella's first bath. Mom and baby doing fine.
Amy had picked out an outfit so B and Bella would match, but Bella had a different idea.... so a quick change got her ready to go home.

First Win!

2011-09-07T21:59:00.002-05:00

Bluecats!

Brad had his first win as a head coach on August 26. It was the first win in 19 games for Coleman. The town and players were beyond happy. Of course we are very proud of Brad and his coaches, and players for all their hard work.

Brooklyn running off the field after giving dad a victory hug. Coaches' wives cheering the winning husbands.
Final score.... not pretty but it was a win...

Coach Ballard looking on and guiding the Cats!!

Brooklyn's Big Day

2011-07-31T21:50:00.002-05:00

Brooklyn's 3rd Mickey Mouse Birthday Party

On a very hot day, "B" had her big Mickey Mouse Swim Party. Brad had mounted misters in the trees to help out us old folks who braved the 100+ day. It turned out to be a great idea and kept us cool!!!

Brad and his coaching friend, Zack, are helping to entertain the troops. Brad is pushing his son and Zack is pushing Brooklyn. Addie is fending for herself!!!
The birthday girl is showing off her presents. Bubbles are always a great gift!

Another great gift Play-Doh....

Time for cake. Amy again did a great job making a Mickey Mouse Playhouse Cake. Mickey on top giving his approval!

The birthday girl and soon to be Big Sis. I know she will make a great big sister... This 3 year old is Quite a Girl... Just ask her Nana... ME!!!

High School Girls

2011-07-24T19:33:00.003-05:00

Kilgore High School Ragin Red Girls

Last weekend was the 2nd annual Ragin Red Girls' Reunion. I wasn't able to go last year, but this year it was on my calendar January 1. Dee Shipp Samford was our hostess and she did a bang up job making all the arrangements and getting everyone together.

Dee our hostess.

Dee is reading us a poem from one of the missing Ragin Red Girl, Pat James Murrey. Pat has a way with words and the poem left us in stitches.

Here a few of the girls are visiting of course eating.

Dee had a game for us to play. Dee and I made up "If you ......" give yourself a point. The one with the largest score got to pick a gift first. For example: "If you were in choir and watched Mark Nyvall walk in with his red letter jacket on, white turtleneck shirt, penny loafers... give yourself a point." We all started putting down our point. Mark was the man....!!!! Several girls have seen him since and he still looks pretty good but he has a pony tail and wears flannel shirts. Not quite what I remembered him. But we all change.

Nancy, Jeanne, Charlotte, Kaye catching up on what we have been doing. Nancy and I roomed in college and taught our first year together in Cameron. First we thought we hadn't seen each other since my wedding, but later I found a picture of most of this group at mom and dad's house about 1978. So that was probably the last time I had seen her. Wow!!! Next year will be at Mary Williams Pharris' house. I can't wait!! Hopefully a few of the MIA Ragin Red Girls will be able to come.

Vacation

2011-06-22T12:31:00.004-05:00

Our Vacation June '11

We go to Branson usually every year, but this time we decided to go to Nashville, too. To get to Nashville we went through Cairo, Illinois. The bridge was out in Cairo and it looked as if we might have to travel farther into Illinois, but we found another bridge and crossed the still swollen Mississippi.
We got tickets for the ever popular fanfare in Nashville. This is from our perch at LP Field, the home of the Titans. The Issacs opened the show with the National Anthem. We had actually seen the Issacs in Temple. They are fantastic.

First group... Zac Brown Band. They teamed with Randy Travis to sing "Forever and Ever Amen". I couldn't get a good shot! Wonder Why?

Then Alan Jackson singing their hit together.

Next, Sara Evans. She was really good. This picture was from the Jumbo Screen!

I took some pictures of Jason Aldeen, but he was our least favorite. Soo he doesn't get in my blog. I know he is heartbroken.

About 12:00 am Brad Paisley finally takes the stage. Well as you can imagine Frankie was ready to hit the road. We caught 4 songs then headed to the parking lot. We had to park in a scrape metal business. I didn't know we would need a parking pass for this event soooo..... scrape metal it was.

The next morning we noticed several Chevelles parking around the motel. We inquired and found out a Chevelle show was at the city park. We headed out to find it. Frankie has a love for Chevelles. He had one when we married and for awhile afterwards. He sold it to Larry his nephew. So we drowled and sweated over these classics!

Finally, the long awaited Grand Ole Opry. We had talked about going here for several years.

The Inner Circle of Country Music

We saw a video showing the history of the circle and how is was nearly destroyed by the flood of '09 in Nashville. The Cumberland River is literally on the front parking lot of the Opry. So when it rained 14 in. the river flooded and flooded the Opry and surrounding mall. The mall is scheduled to open in '12, the Opry didn't miss a night. The circle was redone and you would not know there had ever been a flood.

When I tell people we saw Little Jimmy Dickens, everyone says, "He is still alive?" Yes, he is. 90 years old. And he is little!

Next up John Connally. He introduces the American Idol winners!

This was taken after both had performed and were presented their framed poster saying they had performed at the Opry.

Next, Roy Clark from Hee Haw fame. He is looking very frail. But we enjoyed seeing him.

Billy Ray Cyrus was good and he didn't sing Achy, Breaky!!!

The program said Randy Travis would be singing, but Josh Turner showed up. Randy had to be out of town. Soooooooo Josh was great!!

Sunday we drove across the Smoky Mts to Gaitlinburg, TN. I was thinking a small quaint town nestled in the mountains, not a tourist mega town. But Cooter has a small museum and it was neat. Here one of the many cars used in making the TV show Dukes of Hazzards was on displayed. It also showed how the cars were wrecked and restored.

We hadn't seen rain in several months, so when a rain shower surprised us I had to get a picture.

We were absolutely swept away at the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. We had a wonderful trip. 10 days and 12 states. We came back through the south, but we were in overdrive. I got a few pictures but none that good.

The Month of May in Pictures and a Few Words

2011-05-31T21:26:00.006-05:00

Jump House Prisoners!!

Since I can't show my class, I'll just show their feet. We went to the zoo for our field trip. Somehow a picture of their shoes just seemed right.

The picture was taken by E. This is mother and her good friend, Barbara.

Another pic by E. I think he has some talent here. The picture on top and this one are at Sharon's last school performance as a music teacher.

The 3rd grade gave Sharon a wonderful performance and a special gift at the end.

OOOOppps!!!!

Elijah and Brooklyn having a great time. My camera is so good!! I love it.... Both Amy and Erica are very jealous of my camera!! B is in mid air!!!

Now really me cooking!!! But I did, with a little help!!!

E has a new friend, Charly Bennett. Notice my camera as her hair is blowing in the wind. Not to mention it was a windy day!!!

This last picture is not actually in May, but it was so great I had to use it!! Mark, Brad, Beau, Elijah.

Family Birthdays No. 2 Actually 2

2011-04-20T22:32:00.003-05:00

Sadie has turned 2. All her friends wore their cute tutus.. get it 2 2 Erica also ask a real ballerina to teach a few positions. Elijah is looking a little out of place.

The birthday girl .... She enjoyed all the presents and fun.
This little "red head" looks like she is breathing fire, but she was trying hard to blow the candles out. Notice the cake... It was so cute.

Family Birthdays

2011-04-20T22:16:00.002-05:00

Special Family Members

We recently went to Springtown to celebrate birthdays with some special family members. Patsy, sister in law, celebrated her birthday. Carol Ann always opens her home to all family members (and they are plentiful) to enjoy cooking and good times.

Frankie's brother, Paul, also was having a birthday so we got to see both of these special people. Paul recovering from chemo and radiation so he was weak, but eager to talk farm and tractor talk. He took the picture (below) and did a good job.

You can see Frankie got the height, but Paul will let you know he got the looks.

A wonderful 4 generation picture. Ruthie, Ruth Ann, Crystal, and Mattie. Soon there will be an addition to Crystal's family. She is due early June. No family reunion for her this year!! We always enjoy seeing Paul, Ruthie and family. Also Ruthie is the best cook.

Retirement

2011-04-20T21:51:00.002-05:00

Retirement Party

Frankie decided to retire from Luminant on April 1. He threw himself a party with just the guys from Rockdale where he spent 20+years and Oak Grove where he spent 5 years. I got to be there plus Francis King. We felt special. We enjoy going to Jake and Boo's Grill in our former TV shop. We like to sit eat and think about the ole TV days in Rosebud. Brad is about the only one who remembers too much about those days.

I think alot of bloviating was happening. All these guys are real talkers and enjoyed stretching a story.

Gary Kornig and Joe Myer catch up on shop talk.

2011-03-18T22:02:00.003-05:00

Beach House

We have talked and thought for years about getting a house down on the coast. Since Crystal is now there we thought she could live in a house and pay us rent instead of someone else. So we did it. Crystal loved her apartment we found back in November, but it all fell into place for us to buy this place and so with the help of Kevin, Francene, Caleb, and Jacob plus Frankie they moved her to the new place. Here are a few shots of the house. It is not exactly on the beach, and you can't exactly see the water, and you can't exactly hear the water, but it is 3 blocks from Laguana Madre Inlet in Corpus. There is alot of wind which usually means water is near by and ever once in awhile you can get a drift of that great smell!!!NOT... that means water is near. The picture above is a little store room. It could hold some bunk beds, but now it holds tools.

Crystal and Francene found this absolutely great table. The furniture place knows Frankie by his first name. I think they shutter when they see his truck pull up!!! Those who know how Frankie loves to haggle will know what I mean!!

We looked and looked for patio furniture, finally settled on these two chairs. Not really what we wanted, but will just have to wait. Or until Frankie checks craigslist again!!

The front of the house. Not real fond of the lavender paint, but that will change too just not sure when. Frankie parked the boat in the front yard so the house will blend in with all the others!! I think this place will get alot of use. They boys love fishing and can start taking their families down to experience the wonders of the beach. I went out in the boat on Tuesday, and read my book. Crystal and Frankie fished and caught several. I enjoy going, but not fishing.

Some of My Favorite People!!

2011-02-09T13:37:00.002-06:00

Favorites

The last few weeks I have been with some of my favorite people. First is my lifelong friend,Dee. We have been friends since the 7th grade. I moved to Kilgore from Jacksonville in 1962. The 7th grade is a terrible time for girls and I was a very shy, sheltered preacher's kid. Now I know some are saying you, Janice shy and sheltered, but I was!! There were 3 girls at church that helped me transition from a Jacksonville outsider to a Kilgore girl. Dee was one of them. Our friendship has countined through college, marriages, children, deaths, divorces, and now grandchildren. So as we approach 60 it is a very difficult thing to swallow with dignity. But needless to say it is here. I think Dee and a few more friends are pushing and tackling this very well. Here is Dee's 60 birthday cake and surprise party. Here is our group. Jeanne, Dee, Mary, Cammie and Elaine. There are a few that were not able to attend and we missed them. We are a little more gray headed, but thanks to some great color we look pretty good.

Now to the next group of my favorite people, the little people. A couple of weeks ago I was able to take the grands to the zoo. This is one of my favorite things. Years before mother would take my kids to the Tyler Zoo. Brad, Beau, and Crystal would tell you quickly that they always wanted to go to the zoo. So when Crystal called on this particular day, I hated to say we were at the zoo.
We were at the end of the tour and Elijah and Brooklyn were thinking of Chuck E Cheese.

This is a cute picture of Brooklyn at the butterfly garden.

The cousins have been able to spend alot of time with each other recently. In September we will be 4 grands. We are excited to announce Brad and Amy are getting ready for #2. We will be anxiously awaiting him or her!!!

2011-01-07T22:34:00.005-06:00

CHRISTMAS VACATION

FROM 10,000 FEET TO BELOW SEA LEVEL

This Christmas saw alot of changes to our family. The "Grands" are quite ready to know all about Christmas. They were really excited about their presents. Here are a few pictures showing what went on during 2 busy weeks.

Sadie is so darling opening her gifts from Sharon and Tim. This singing bear was so funny. She needs a couple more to make them harmonize!!!

Elijah looking so cool in his 3-D glasses. Good thing we won't have to rent them at the movies.

Brooklyn is checking out those famous pears from Mamaw!!!

Well, Crystal moved to Corpus during the holidays. We packed her up the day after Christmas and headed out on Monday. She and I stayed until Thursday to set things up. She didn't have electricity at first but by Wednesday afternoon it was on. She already has a job working at the school for the history department. I will miss her and my weekly trips to Temple will be different, but I know she is happy and doing great at her new place and school.

The black book case was a bugger boooo.... if Brad had not given in and helped us we would still be looking at the directions.

Well, 10,000 ft above sea level, was alot of fun. We certainly enjoyed the cool weather and plenty of snow. Here is a beautiful sleigh made by the Amish. We really enjoyed an old fashion ride through a Winter Wonderland.

I did ski and throughly enjoyed it, but no pictures. Brad had the camera ready to take one, but I just went down the Bunny Slope. So he didn't get a picture of that. Here I just got up from the snow tubing. Now that was fun!! Streaking down a ice covered hill going about 30 miles an hour and then hitting a break in the ice and flying up off the tube--- nothing held back.

This picture was after several tries at sledding. She would have nothing to do with tubing and cried all the way down, but then she realized this was more her speed.

This picture shows the hill was very steep. The little specks in the background are people. In the foreground is the edge of the hill.

Amy, Brad and I all skiied and went tubing. Frankie didn't do any of these activities but he hurt his foot. Just walking on the snow!!! What a baby!!! Brooklyn would doctor his foot every night and he kept it propped up most of the time.

We had a great Christmas Vacation from the high mountains to the ocean. We marveled at God's creation from the highest peak to the calming waters on the Gulf. God granted us safe travel, good fellowship with family, and a glimpse at all his wonders.

Frankie and I hope you have a healthy and happy New Year. May the Lord continue to bless you and your family. We are thankful for his blessings of wonderful children, grandchildren and great family members and friends this year.

Bad

2010-12-19T21:30:00.002-06:00

If you are looking at the pictures below, you notice that the spacing is not good. I hit something wrong at the beginning, but I know you will still get the gist of the pictures.

December trip

2010-12-19T20:39:00.009-06:00

Christmas Trip

We headed to Colorado on Saturday. After spending the night in Denver and seeing Stephanie we headed up to the high country. Amy is getting fitted for ski boots. Brad also got some but he didn't like me taking his picture.

Brad's new job will be Ice Road Trucker.

Before we went up into the mountains, we visited with Stephanie. Got a couple of shots of Bronco Stadium.

Coors Field home of the Rockies.

Stephanie wanted to take us to a Denver favorite for breakfast, Starbucks.

Enjoying Starbucks

Frankie at Starbucks?

2010-11-26T19:16:00.001-06:00

Thanksgiving was really great. But my blogging skills are lacking. Just scroll down to part 1 then part 2. Someone give me a lesson

2010-11-26T19:05:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving Part 2

Brad has on Dad's hat. Mother had them and Crystal took them and now Brad thinks he can wear them. They might need some reshaping.

Looking for Thomas was mission #1. They all thought I had a new video of Thomas and they wanted to be sure I didn't have it hidden anywhere.

We ate lunch on Thursday at Beau and Erica's. We had a great time. Mother loves being with the great grands.

All chowing down. Notice the placemats. So cute!!

On Wednesday Brad was able to swing all the kids. Thanks to Bobbie. Maybe next year I will have a swing.

2010-11-26T18:48:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving in Rosebud Part I

Brooklyn is a Thomas the Train "junkie". She starts wanting to see my videos as soon as she gets here. Notice her pj's Thomas the Train.All the grands got to be together on Wednesday. We had a great time.

Amy bought the little animals that expand from a capsule. They couldn't wait to see what each one would be.

Sadie out side chasing the cat with a stick.

I love this picture. She is waiting her turn on the swing. But just taking it easy.

2010-10-18T21:29:00.002-05:00

ELIJAH'S 4TH BIRTHDAY

Last Saturday we celebrated Elijah's 4th birthday. He has insisted for about 2 months he wanted a lake animal birthday party. Now what exactly is a "lake animal" party? Erica did a great job pulling off the Lake Animal Debut in Robinson.

Note the Lake Water Punch....

Eating yummy Lake Cake with Jello water and creamy grass!!

Here is the birthday boy blowing out candles. Again the lake animal theme....

I think this one is ready for the Children Olympics... "and this determined slider has great form and grace. I think she will win the Gold...." She is fearless. She would climb up the ladder holding her new best friend "Minnie Mouse", Somehow she would let go of it long enough to slide down.

A Few Pictures

2010-09-24T21:26:00.003-05:00

A Few Pictures

School has started and my blogging has been put on hold. But finally have a few minutes to show off my Grands. The summer ended with Brooklyn's birthday and keeping Elijah. Then a few weeks later got to keep both Sadie and Elijah. I had help I must say keeping both. Crystal pitched in and helped out on Sunday while I was enjoying the Rangers beat up on the Yankees. Then last Saturday went for a fast visit with Brooklyn. Each time I am amazed how much they are learning and doing. It is so fun to watch them growing and stretching their imaginations.
Elijah is playing with the Little People School House that Mother had for years. All of my children grew up playing with this under the stairs in our house. Needless to say Elijah just loved all the Little People.

Brooklyn is playing with an Elmo camera that Crystal gave her for her birthday. The camera says "Work it, baby work it" It is so cute...

It was birthday part 2 Erica sent the cutest gloshes and umbrella. Since it rains every day or two down there Erica knew exactly what she needed.

Budding pianists..... Elijah would play then he would ask us to "Name that Tune?" We would say Jesus Loves Me or Bingo... and he would say YES.... Then we would guess again.... He does have an ear for music. Sharon sat with him and he could hear different sounds and knew the tunes!!

Pepaw and Elijah enjoying Tic Tac Toe.. Elijah style. He makes up the rules as he goes. But he did understand you needed to block...

Of course the famous crazy picture.... Beau and Brad would always want to make a crazy face. I guess it is a boy thing....

Hope you enjoyed a few pictures of the Grands.....

Brooklyn's 2nd Birthday

2010-08-08T15:12:00.003-05:00

Brooklyn's 2nd birthday party was Saturday. As you can see Elmo was front and center of this shindig. Amy made this great cake. It tasted as good as it looked.

Brooklyn and Alex, her second cousin, are learning the finer points of Leapfrog Computer.

The most inexpensive things, a box, make great toys.

The birthday girl sporting some new shades.

Party ON

2010-08-08T14:48:00.003-05:00

Here a few more party shots.
Before she unwrapped her loot!!

Melanie showing B the new sandbox turtle.

Amy will hate this shot and I didn't notice it until I had it downloaded..... then I had to use it

Pure "Ballard pot roast"

Checking out those ribs, Brad did a great job cooking. It was sure hot though!!

Mother had a great time. She did not break the pinata, but I insisted she get a picture with Elmo.

Branson Vacation

2010-07-18T16:53:00.004-05:00

We made our summer pilgrimage to Branson, MO, last week. We took some of our dear friends, Pattie and Joe Lightfoot. We had a wonderful time. We saw 7 shows!!! Yes, I know that seems like overkill, but looking back it was really a great time. Here are a few pictures of our trip. The one below is of the Dutton Family. They were on America's Got Talent last year. The entire family plays even the little grandchildren. It was really fun to see them. We also saw another loser from America's Got Talent The 3 Redneck Tenors. I thought they were really fantastic, but I like opera, too. But they did comedy and adding in singing. We also went to see SIX. Frankie and I saw them 3 years ago and were so impressed. There are no instruments. They do all the instrumentation themselves with their mouths and a mircophone!!!! It was unbelievable. We saw Droopy Drawers and the other characters at the Baldknobbers. We also went to Frankie's favorite------ Pierce Arrow. We ended our week with the Presley's. This was another great show. I had a wonderful time and enjoyed being with Pattie and Joe, too.

Here Pattie and Joe are touring Eureka Springs, AK.

One of the highlights of the trip happened on Monday. We went on the Branson Belle Showboat. One of the featured acts is Todd Oliver and his talking dogs. Well after the dogs left the stage the 2 legged dogs took over. Todd Oliver came into the audience and picked two people to help him out. Joe got to debut his talent. Todd told Joe and the other person when he touched him on the back of the neck to open his mouth. When Joe opened his mouth the most awful sound would come out. Todd is a ventriliquist and I have never laughed so hard. Sometime I thought I would not be able to catch my breath. Below Joe and Todd pause to take a quick photo. Joe was a good sport and we certainly enjoyed this show!!!

The showboat has a meal before the entertainment. Here we are waiting for our food. The food was really good and we love their coffee!!! The boat was completely full. About 700 enjoyed the show that night.

This last picture is just the best. I took it in Eureka Springs. Humpty Dumpty really does sit on a wall!!!!

No Pictures/No Camera

2010-07-01T19:21:00.002-05:00

The last three weeks I have had camera trouble or no camera. I forgot my camera at Brad and Amy's a few weeks ago. Then Amy was going to bring it Father's Day weekend but when she found Brooklyn with it sitting on the bed and the camera strap around her neck ( B. knew what to do) Amy thought she had better put it up. Well "out of sight out of mind" Amy's words, so hopefully I will get it back this weekend, just in time for July 4th. But I have missed alot of pictures. 1. Father's Day 2. Amy's homemade ice cream 3. Trip to Kilgore to see Dee 4. Hurricane Alex 5. Galveston Reading Conference 6. Hurricane Alex in Galveston.....7. Me in Galveston during the hurricane. Well I was in Galveston and there was some winds and rain. The wind and rain was strong and about 1000 educators trudge through it going from session to session. We would just get in the Convention Center and it would start pouring, then it was time to go over to the San Luis Resort for our next session and it would be blowing sand, rain and strong wind so we would forget about our hair and "fly" over to the San Luis. By the way, I didn't get to stay at the San Luis, but I certainly want to. The cutest guys open the doors for you!!!
I did win a $25 gift card to Border's at the last session. I also ate some great seafood!!! STUFFED Shrimp and some WOW Mexican food with tiny shrimp also a favorite local hangout "Shrimp and Stuff" a shrimp salad Po-Boy. So Shrimp is still great in Galveston.

Hopefully this weekend I can have some great pics of 4th of July celebrations!!!
Let's celebrate America!!!

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-04T20:57:00.003-05:00

Memorial Day Fun

On Saturday all the family was over to enjoy hotdogs and watch the grands play in the water. Sadie is "chilling" in the alligator pool.

Brooklyn and Elijah enjoying pour the water bucket on each other. A new game they couldn't play enough.

Elijah wants to be sure Brooklyn got the same water treatment.

Brooklyn is taking a break from the pool to enjoy a few minutes in the sun.

My camera batteries died after a couple of pictures at the lake. We enjoyed Sharon's 50th birthday on Sunday. She wanted to have her party watching the sun set over the lake. This picture is just a few minutes before the setting. We certainly had a great time listening to music and seeing old friends that came to help us celebrate with Sharon.

Dogs, Grands, the Beach

2010-05-07T20:42:00.002-05:00

These pictures are some I have taken over the last few months. We went to Corpus Christi to look over Texas A&M Corpus. Of course no trip is complete without a trip to the beach. This was the first weekend in March and winter had not left Texas just yet. So it was really cold that weekend.

I love this picture of Brooklyn. I kept her while Brad and Amy interviewed in Katy. Brad got the job and they will be moving there this summer. She was so much fun. I've used this picture before, but I just love seeing Sasha in the mirror.

Easter... Elijah looking through his basket. My grown kids tell me they didn't get baskets for Easter. They are probably right. $$$ was tight.... I hate that they didn't get all that candy, colors, books, and whatever else. I have pictures of them coloring eggs in Kilgore with cousins, and hiding eggs at Grandma Ballard's. So they did have some Easter.

Max is a treasured member of the family. We recently found out he is part Beagle. We always knew he wasn't a Lab, but Beagle. Payton has a kinsman.... Max is undergoing heartworm treatment this month. I've had him for over a year and didn't think about heartworms. He got the last treatment our Vet could get. Not sure why but it has been on the news around here that treatments are gone. We are lucky.... He has to stay quiet for a month. He is stretched out here by the computer as I type.

This picture of Brooklyn is at Sadie's birthday party. It was so fun to see her with her cousins. They played so well together.

Elijah is head over heels in his sand box. He loves to play here. I am glad Beau and Erica have a nice big yard for all to play.

The two Brooklyns Brooklyn Thomas and Brooklyn Ballard or Big Brooklyn and Baby Brooklyn. I think Baby Brooklyn will be catching up to Big B soon.

Then there is this little red headed wild girl.... She enjoyed her first birthday early in April. She is so funny. She is going to be a spit fire of a child. But on the soft side... Last Friday while babysitting Elijah and Sadie... she sang herself to sleep while we were out walking. She twirls her hair and sings herself a song. It is so darling.

Crystal celebrated quietly her 26th birthday. We are so proud of her. She is working hard in her classes and makes all A's. Well there was that one B... But we are not talking about that.

Elijah learning to fly a kite. He was a little nervous that he would float away. Only to see his kite float away when the wind snapped the string.

Hope you enjoyed these snaps of my life, my grands, my dog......

Art Give Away

2010-04-10T22:09:00.002-05:00

Roxanne the Artist is giving away a painting she has completed. Check out her blog and enter...

http://www.roxannetheartist.blogspot.com/

And They Said it Wouldn't Last.....

2010-04-08T22:08:00.007-05:00

Bunco 2010

For the last 8 years, I have been playing Bunco. This is a game that requires very little skill. You just roll 3 die and hope one lands on a 6. But this simple game has brought alot of fun and laughter to our small group of friends. Billie Wieser started this group in April 2002. This picture shows 6 of the original 12. Two Bunco gals that we miss terribly are Mabel Wieser and Mary Martha Hailey. They are gone but not forgotten. We lost some because they moved Debbie Keener and Penny Mercer. Some had family comments that they needed to take care of Carolyn Dorton Hester, Carolyn Ferguson, Yvonne Marmon, and recently leaving us Barbara Borden,we miss each of these,too. Our full time players now are Barbara Springer, Carol Stock, Eunice Spurlock, Sue Heugatter, and Judy Shelton.

Each month we usually have a theme ex. garden party, Valentine Day, Mardi Gras, Christmas, Thanksgiving, fall, we even were hobos once???? But whatever the occasion we have a great time. As the above sign says......

Original Buncoers

Billie, Pam Parcus, me, Sharon Skupin, Belinda Slovacek, and Ollie Miller

We welcome our newest member Gayle. She and Billie were friends in nursing school.

Billie putting the finishing touches on dessert.

We love to eat. This is also a time to bring out those dishes we love to use, but don't really have t much of a chance. There has been some absolutely wonderful cooks. The food is always so delicious and the desserts are oh so good!

Did mention we love to eat......

We could not play every month without our subs. Here Suzy Burns Reed and playing her last Bunco, Barbara Borden, are saying hello. Suzy is a sub along with Becky Meacham, Doris Hoelscher, and Sue Posey. Thanks to Billie for organizing and keeping this wonderful group of friends together for 8 years. Last time we played Carol asked me a question that we had started talking about earlier in the evening. I had forgotten what we were talking about and Ollie mentioned in 8 more years we will hardly be able to remember what we are doing after each roll!!! I think she might be right. But until then .... I hope all my rolls are BUNCO's!!!!!

Easter Love

2010-04-02T21:55:00.002-05:00

Create your own digital ecard

2010-04-02T21:50:00.000-05:00

Spring Break Fun

2010-03-21T16:56:00.003-05:00

Spring Break '10

Spring Break was a great time for me. I went to Abilene on Saturday-Monday. Then on Tuesday afternoon Brad, Amy, and Brooklyn came in. I kept Brooklyn on Wednesday while Brad and Amy went on an interview. Then on Friday and Saturday I kept Sadie and Elijah while Beau and Erica worked on their new house. So I throughly enjoyed all my time visiting relatives and keeping grands.

This is Elijah and Earstin playing at Whistle Stop. Earstin is Trent Lightfoot's little girl. Friday was a great day to play out.

Brooklyn and Sasha..... Sasha is Sharon and Tim's husky. Sasha just wants to mother any little thing around. Here she is giving Brooklyn a good lickin....

Sasha guarding Brooklyn

Elijah is trying out some of the fun activities at the Whistle Stop in Temple. Sadie was with us too, but she was napping at this time. So I don't have a picture of her. Mother, Sharon, and Crystal all helped out. Someone would stay in the car and be with Sadie and then we would switch out. So not everyone got a picture taken.

Brooklyn is coloring at Aunt Sharon's. Notice the mirror. Sasha was not far away any time Brooklyn was around.

Game

2010-03-18T09:22:00.003-05:00

Not only did the discovery of the new cookbook help my cooking and sense of humor, it now showed me a place to feed the hungry. www.freerice.com An easy vocabulary, map, artist and whatever else game. You answer easy vocab questions or name an artist, or name a country on a map and do other things and you can fill a bowl with rice for starving children. It would be a great "on your break game", and your feeding hungry children. Check it out!!!

Roxanne and the Cookbook

2010-03-15T21:15:00.003-05:00

This weekend I took Mother to Abilene. I had been looking on Jo Carol's blog at Roxanne the Artist. I had wanted to buy something from Roxanne, but....... So Jo Carol took me to meet Roxanne. She is absolutely the sweetest, most hospitable lady. Jo Carol took us by her house, "Oh, Roxanne's truck is here. I'll call her and see if she can just come out to the car and we can say hi." Well Roxanne said come in... So we went in and she has the most wonderful house. Roxanne is an artist and I mean AN ARTIST!!! Check out her blog http://www.roxannetheartist.blogspot.com/
She has the neatest house, two dogs, husband, named Coach. He really is a coach, Coach for Abilene Cooper High School. She let us see her house and her decorating ideas. Wow... I told her I pictured her out in the country. Not on the busiest street in Abilene, Sayles.
Thanks Jo Carol for introducing me to Roxanne. Thanks Roxanne for being so wonderful to 2 complete strangers. Also Coach for letting strangers walk through your house!!!
Also Jo Carol introduced me to Pioneer Woman Cookbook. This lady in Oklahoma put out a cookbook. It is just the greatest cookbook I have seen. She takes a picture of every step. The cookbook is not a low-fat, not a no sugar, or low cal. This cookbook is for working men on a working cattle ranch in Okla. I am going to get it this week and make some twice baked potato, brownies, and whatever else I can find. I'll let you know how it turns out!!

Our Big Snow

2010-02-23T15:12:00.007-06:00

This morning we got our big snow!!! I have just seen pictures of snows like this, but it has been 25 years since we have had this much snow. So it was just a great time to go out and take a few pictures of Central Texas in White. My friend, Carolyn Ferguson, loves taking pictures so we loaded up and took off. (School had been dismissed early)

Believe it or not the sun was not out. But you can see shadow and this the best photo. It was taken on Baileyville Road not far from Ira's place.

These little guys found a tree to hide behind.

Carolyn and I were out about 2 hours. We found this great place. I think by our place on Coker Lane.

What a perfect shot.

Our place. The cows were down toward the woods. Don't need to tell them twice to get out of this mess!!! Carolyn and I had a great time going around and trying our hand at a few great shots in Central Texas.

Dollar Store

2010-02-22T17:07:00.002-06:00

No pictures this time, just a few words about Rosebud's new Dollar Store!!! I know most all city slickers are saying,"So What!!!" Well, let me tell you.... If you have ever been without toliet paper, or any personal hygiene items on the weekend then this is big news.... in Rosebud. I have taken to desperate measures when those things have happened and our local grocery store was already closed. Now we have a Dollar Store. It is opened until 8:00 pm most days. Can you believe it. I went yesterday. Yes, it was Sunday. Now growing up in East Texas we did have Eckerds Drug and it was opened on Sunday. But not since college and going home have I been able to go after 7:00 pm to a place and purchase items without it being a convenience store and those convenient prices!!! So you small town folks can feel my pride and am so glad I have a choice on a Sunday afternoon. To drive down the road a few blocks or go to Temple, Cameron, Robinson (oh, I might go there...) or even buy something in Wylie because I know I will need it when I get home. So on Sunday I bought toliet paper, dog food, detergent, chips, sympathy cards (2 for 1.00) popcorn, some snacks for kids at school, mayo, mustard, catsup all the last items for Frankie to take to work. I was so proud that I could do this. Now I will go to our local grocer and will gladly buy all my food items. But just the thought that if I forget something or if we use all those toliet papers rolls I CAN GO TO THE DOLLAR STORE JUST LIKE THE BIGGEST OF CITIES!!!!! Yeah, Rosebud.

2010-02-13T17:23:00.005-06:00

Sesame Street Live

Of course when I heard this was coming to Waco I knew I needed to take my grands. We had taken the boys and Crystal years ago to Austin to see something like this but only on ice. Elijah is just at the right age to know the characters. Crystal gave him Cookie Monster several years ago and he was not quite sure about it and Erica put it up. But now it is his favorite and plays with it all the time. Sooooo needless to say Cookie Monster is his favorite and tried to shout out several times to him during the show.

Here Ernie or is it Bert???? coming toward us.

The picture above is just as the show started. Of course we had nachos. Notice the cheese!!!

Elijah just before the show. After it was over he wanted to see it again. We had a great time and I hope to get to do this again with my others.

It has been cold, rainy and then two drops of snow. I am jealous of all the snow and fun Brad, Amy, Brooklyn, and Gail got to have over the week. They had 8-10 inches of snow and got to make a full snowman. Not like the ones we always tried to make through the years. So I am so glad Brooklyn got to experience her first or second snow and it was so perfect for all the fun things we usually miss here in Texas. Check out Amy's blog to see all the pictures of the great snow. I just heard on TV that there is snow in some part of all 50 states except Hawaii!!! Wow

2010-01-15T22:57:00.002-06:00

The New

After weeks of mess and setting on one chair, the makeover is complete.

I still have a couple of things to put up and find, but I am pleased with the remodeling.

The Mess

2010-01-15T22:09:00.003-06:00

Mother's 82nd Birthday

We got together on Sunday for Mother's early birthday celebration. All but Brad, Amy, and Brooklyn were there of my crew. We took mom to eat her favorite Bar-B-Que. Then back to her place for presents and some of Sharon's best brownies.

Elijah helping mom blow out the candles.

This picture tells more than words. Mother thinks the great grands are the best. When all 3 are around the cameras better be clicking!!!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-27T19:41:00.002-06:00

Christmas Time

Elijah got a doctor kit for Christmas. Notice his official badge. Here he is checking Mother's ears. Later he checked Tim's and reported there was nothing there!!!
Elijah and Brooklyn are checking out the loot. I think both were pretty happy.

Darling Sadie was looking at her new toy. Daddy was checking it out for instructions. Next year she will be right down in the middle.

Here Elijah is loving his animals. Crystal knew exactly what he wanted.

Brooklyn got her first backpack. I just loved this one. But she is not quite ready for big school.

We had a wonderful time this week. It was great to have the kids and grands around. Nothing like Christmas and children.....

2009-12-22T07:23:00.002-06:00

Big News in Rosebud

We usually don't have alot of excitement in Rosebud, but on Saturday the whole town turned out to see a landmark go down. The Hoelscher (what us locals call it) Cook Grengross Patterson Funeral Home burned under suspicious causes. This building was built in the early 40's and has been an important part of this small community. Helen Wallace, a local store owner, told me yesterday she thought the whole town might be gone. She and her husband own the flower shop building next door. It only received some minor damage. They are still worried about the brick wall between the burnt part and the flower shop.

2009-12-22T07:11:00.002-06:00

Fun with Brooklyn

Our annual Christmas Party at church. It looks like a little "deer in the headlight" look, but let me assure you things picked up.

Brooklyn loves to look at the Christmas tree. Amy taught her to look and say Ooooooo. She is real good about just barely touching. Then the little balls are just too tempting, so she can't help herself. Pluck!!! off comes a one!

Don't you just love her!!!!

2009-12-13T20:39:00.002-06:00

Home Improvement????

This picture is looking where the bar use to be. I think it looks nice. I will be looking for a small hutch or cabinet to put there.
Frankie said we needed some color in our life. I don't know if this is what he had in mine.... but I like it.

Looking into the living room. I am getting tired of the mess. I think this is the last days..... this afternoon I lost it and got really stressed over this....

This is the new den.....
I think when all is through, it will really look great. So far being gone everyday to work has been the only way I could have done this. I hate mess. Now if it is my own mess I can tolerate it, but junked up mess is another thing, but to reach the end you have to have a mess.

2009-11-26T22:09:00.003-06:00

Thanksgiving Day 2009Mother holding Sadie and Elijah. She had such a great time watching and playing with the babies.
Brooklyn taking care of her baby. Sadie had taken a nap here earlier now it is baby's turn.

We enjoyed Smore's on Wednesday evening. Sadie loved the graham crackers.
Erica keeping Sadie warm. We used my new chimea that Crystal gave me for Mother's Day.

Brooklyn not real sure about the marshmallow. She got more on her hands.

Elijah and Tucker eating the yummy marshmallow. I think Elijah just wanted the marshmallows. We had a great time. Sharon, Tim and Joe came by and visited. The grands went to see the other grandparents and it was so quiet. But we watched the Aggies and Longhorns, and it was a great show of Texas football.

2009-11-22T09:37:00.002-06:00

Beau and Kyle No, No....

Yesterday, Pam brought Cooper and Paige over to visit and play with Elijah and Sadie. It was uncanny to watch them play and remember Beau and Kyle playing many years ago. It was such fun to see them playing and being together. It was so fun.

Elijah, Paige, and Cooper picking up all the toys. Crystal was making a contest out of it. Who could pick up the most the fastest.... I think that was the game?

Not the best picture of Sadie, she is the happiest thing.

This is the picture that looks so much like Beau and Kyle.

Paige got in on the pick-up game...

Playing cars... Cooper has aspirations to drive NASCAR. He knew numbers and who drove what car. I think Kyle Bush is his favorite.

2009-11-14T23:06:00.002-06:00

Saturday Afternoon Delight

This was a great afternoon. Mark and Jo Carol and Josh and Emily were in Waco to see the Longhorn-Baylor game. Then afterwards Beau, Erica, Mom and Grands met at Rudy's to visit for a bit.

Mark put his hat on Sadie. I don't think she quite knew what to do with it.

There was so much Burnt Orange my pictures sort of look orangy.

Josh and Emily looking great.

Elijah into making faces each time the camera is pointed his way. Sadie was so good. She sat there and looked around for nearly an hour.

Jo Carol getting over her black eye. Not sure if Mark hit her or a candle. But it would have to be a big candle. She says a candle.....

Pumpkin Time

2009-10-19T20:33:00.003-05:00

Pumpkin Patch Time..... Amy, Brooklyn and I visited the Owen Farm pumpkin patch in Richardson. We had fun. Here are a few pictures of the day. I forgot my camera so these are borrowed from Amy's camera. Look on Amy's blog. She has more shots of the day. I stayed until this afternoon keeping Brooklyn. We had a great time.

Next Weekend

2009-10-12T19:49:00.002-05:00

Haven't seen Brooklyn since her birthday..... So this weekend it is to Wiley to see Brooklyn, her mom and dad. Also to see the Rams play and babysit some. Can't wait to see her!!!!

Whirl Wind Weekend!!

2009-10-12T19:20:00.004-05:00

This is Charly. She is our church grand. She is so darling and we couldn't miss her 1st birthday. Happy Birthday, Charly.

Elijah is opening his Dallas Cowboy helmet and uniform. But he really just wanted a Thomas the Train Engine. We decided he should have opened Thomas last because that was it. Nothing else mattered..... Not even the COWBOYS!!!!!!!!

Sadie and Pepaw have a few moments together.

The "Birthday Boy".... Hard to believe he is 3.

This is the back of the lodge where the retreat was held. The Paulxy River is just a few feet to the right of this picture. It is so peaceful and quiet there. I hated to leave, but .... grands always take over as far as this Mimi is concerned.

This past weekend was a whirlwind: Bible retreat, 2 birthday parties, and plenty of travel fun. Mother had wanted me to attend the Western Hills Ladies Retreat in Glen Rose. That was great, then we found out Elijah's birthday party would be in Stephenville. Well that was great, too. We would be only 30 minutes away, then our church grand baby (aka Charly Bennett) also was having a birthday her 1st. So there was alot of traveling to do. So I set out to try to make every single event scheduled. Here are a few pictures from all of this.....

Tag Team Babysitting

2009-10-07T21:45:00.003-05:00

Frankie and I kept the Grands on Saturday, while Beau and Erica had a rare night out. We had a great time. I fixed the supper Erica had left for us. Frankie fed Sadie and Elijah ate pasta. He didn't want to eat the green noodles at first. He said "these are green..." I got a laugh out of that. Green food never did appeal to the boys too much. But he ate them when Pepaw said they were good. Frankie bathed Elijah and even took off a "World Record Mess". That he promptly put in the trash and then the trash out to the garbage. Elijah went to bed after about 5 books. Sadie never would get too sleepy. As soon as Erica got in she started crying. Isn't that the unspoken rule. She needed mom!! We had a great time. Hope to get more grand time with all of the babies.

Birthday 58!!

2009-09-19T21:54:00.003-05:00

Had a great birthday weekend. Missed my older son and family, but enjoyed two grands and family.... Had cake and ice cream at mom's after lunch. Then Crystal and I went to Best Buy and I got a new flat screen monitor. I have been using Frankie's laptop and I like it, but I can't print. So I decided I would just buy a flatscreen and set my other computer back up.

Joe telling a joke and Tim wanting to know when he is getting to the punch line...Mother and Beau enjoying a visit.

Elijah taught us a song... I'm a little nut.... I'm a big oak tree

Flowers from Brad, Amy and Brooklyn

Elijah's hands... For some reason he loves to fingerpaint. Can't imagine WHY

Afternoon in Waco

2009-09-05T19:54:00.002-05:00

Crystal and I took Elijah to the Waco Zoo. I had never been before. The 4th grade always went on their class field trip, so all the kids had been, but no I had never been. I knew it had gone through alot of upgrade and I must say I was really impressed. The animals were wonderfully displayed and all was green and shady. We didn't get to see the new Kumono Dragon. But other than that we thought it was great. Here a few pictures of Elijah. I can't wait to take Brooklyn and Elijah together the next time. Some of our best times mother would take the boys or Crystal to the Tyler Zoo. They would talk about it for weeks.

Summer is over

2009-08-23T19:20:00.004-05:00

Summer is over... It still will be hot and we will still pay the high energy bills, but for all real reasons Summer is Over. I always enjoy summer so much. It is a time to be with family, read a novel, clean out those closets or other hard to reach places that you have wanted to do all year. Summer is a time for that great vacation you planned for 9 months and then it went by too fast.
But summer for teachers is a time to rejuvenate for the next year. I went to a 3 day conference in Galveston and with 1200 other teachers from South Texas area. I really got inspired to teach reading in some new and different ways. So teachers really do rest and we really do get ready for the next new crop of young minds.

I have alot of teachers in the family. They are all thinking about the new group. This will be my 36th year to have a new group . Pam now has one up on me. I know as I look back over the different classes there are always a few who stick out in my mind. Alot of good and a few bad. On a sad note I did teach one who arrested this summer on suspected murder. That saddens me...

But more students are leading productive and fullfilling lives. Since I taught my 3 kids in the 5/6 grade, their classes stick in my mind. I hope those are leading a good and productive lives.

I want to give a shout out to the teachers in my family and extended family. They know all the blood, sweat and tears it takes to get ready. So for Brad, Amy, Sharon, Tim, Caroline, Emily, and future teacher Crystal have a great year. Make this your best, make it the one you will always remember, make this year the one you look back and say WOW what a class. I plan to do that and I know it will!!!!

Coastal Vacation

2009-08-08T22:51:00.003-05:00

Frankie and Crystal got in some fishing. Wow what a catch....

It was a beautiful sunset at the beach. It was warm, but at night it cooled off and the breeze was nice.

I think this might be my best shot of the week. Just at sunset, Frankie baiting his line.

Notice the odd shape of the pelican's beak.... He had just swallowed a whole fish.....

No trip to the beach is complete without a trip to the aquarium. Crystal had not been in quite a few years and she really enjoyed it. Here she is looking up from a domed view of the water. We had a great time.

We went to Corpus on Tuesday and visited TAMU CC. Crystal has decided to finish her schooling there. We talked with an advisor and got a view of the campus. We also looked at apartments and she got a feel for what she will need to do before she gets down there. She will go there in May '10.

We ate at some of our favorite places: Topping the list was Charlotte Plumber's, next Crazy Cajun, then Castaways, then Virginia on the Beach, then The Wharf..... Frankie has always liked Big Fisherman .... but I must say it has now moved down to the bottom. San Juan Mexican food has even gone ahead of BIG FISHERMAN....not sure what has happened but in years past we would wait hours but it has lost its appeal. Food was not very good, service terrible, and place is dark.... that is what I have always said.... finally someone listening to me.

Well, I am off the Galveston on Monday. More Shrimp..... I ate shrimp everyday... don't even want to check my blood......

Brooklyn's First

2009-07-29T22:27:00.002-05:00

Brooklyn will turn 1 tomorrow. It is hard to believe she is already there. It has been so much fun watching her going and growing this year.

Check Out Girl's Blogs

2009-07-24T09:43:00.002-05:00

My computer crashed and I am now using Frankie's laptop. I am not real sure of all the bells and whistles just yet so look at Amy's and Erica's blog. They have great pictures of the grands and what is going on with them. Hopefully I will have the laptop down soon and will post again.

Welcome to Central Texas Again

2009-07-13T20:34:00.003-05:00

There are no pictures this time. I am just winding down from nonstop fun. Brad, Amy and grand Brooklyn were here for several days. Then Beau, Erica and grands finally moved on Saturday. Brad and I went up early Saturday to welcome the movers until Beau and Erica could arrive from Alvin. On Sunday afternoon we all went to Robinson to welcome them to Central Texas. Mother, Sharon, Crystal, Brad, Amy, Brooklyn, Frankie and I were glad to have them back and close were we can see each other more than just a couple a times a year. I even got to keep Elijah for a few hours this afternoon, while Beau and Erica worked at unpacking more boxes. (I didn't know married couples of just 6 years could accumulate so much. No telling what anyone would say if I ever moved 31 years of stuff):) But we are glad they are here and we all live within just a couple of hours instead of 4 -5.
WELCOME TO CENTRAL TEXAS AGAIN!!!!

Happy 4th

2009-07-04T22:13:00.003-05:00

Fourth of July Parade in Rosebud can be described as "Only in Texas". Frankie and I along with James and Luann Johnston (preacher and wife) braved the 101 degree heat this afternoon to watch the Rosebud 4th of July Parade. Here a few of the pics to show what goes on in rural Central Texas.

I am sure the camel felt at home in the heat.

Long horn cattle are always welcomed in a parade. Not a great pic.

Sharon Skupin and her dog get ready to walk Main Street for the parade.

John Caywood and Little Miss Dallas were proud to ride in the parade. I think Little Miss Dallas might have wondered where all the people were. The lady to the left is the little girl's grandmother.

Only in Texas and Rosebud can we have a camel, a longhorn, Little Miss Dallas and 101 heat!!!!

You gotta luv it......

Chocolate Anyone?

2009-06-29T22:00:00.004-05:00

As most of you know, Mother has an obsession with chocolate. On our trip to Arizona we came across the Mile High Cafe in Jerome. One of their desserts was Amy Tuttle's Fabulous Chocolate Cake. Well of course we had to sample some. Sharon and I soon ODed so it was up to Mother to finish this off. She couldn't quite do it so the cake made it down the mile high trek and was taken to the hotel for her after dinner treat!! With her depression upbringing nothing could go to waste. No offense Mother....

More Pictures

2009-06-24T20:49:00.006-05:00

Sharon and I are looking down into Cottonwood. We had gone around alot or curves to just get here. Uncle Bob told us later he drovc a truck all through these mountains when he was just 17 years old.

Looking down again into the valley area.

A great picture of Cathy, Mom, Jane, and Phyliss.

My Aunt Ima Jean and Uncle Bob, she is the only sister dad has left. Standing behind are Phyliss and Dean. Dean has visited mother in Temple.

Phoenix

2009-06-23T11:10:00.003-05:00

Our long awaited trip to Phoenix is now history. We had a great time. We visited, visited, and visited, which is just what we wanted to do. We appreciate all the trouble all went to in Phoenix to make our time there so wonderful. We certainly were treated like long lost relatives!!!

No trip is complete without a trip to the cemetery. Here I am looking at my Grandma and Grandpa Spurlock's graves. Granpa died in 1953 and I don't have any memories of him except the pictures I have looked at for years. But Grandma Bessie I remember fondly. She came to Texas alot and came to my wedding.

Cathy and Nick --- She and I had alot of fun in those trips to Phoenix we made. We even double dated some back in the day.....

Mom, Don, and Sharon.... Don decided to go to medical school... Wow "Is there a doctor in the house?"

Jane and Jim are dog lover's. Poodles, min-pens, and cats, just up Sharon's alley.

Mother, Phyliss, and Sharon have a group hug. Phyliss took us all around on Saturday. I will put more on later.

Fun and Games

2009-06-09T23:12:00.003-05:00

Mother holding Sadie. Sadie loves to be held and cuddled. Elijah was completely the opposite.

Elijah could not figure out how the water kept going on and off. He would yell "Please" and Frankie would let the water hose go. It was so funny. I took some video, but I was not sure how to down load it.

Well here she is 10 months old and Miss Independent. She is walking like an old pro. She can even go up the little step between the den and living room. Brad and Amy's life will never be the same. Walking and talking changes everything.

Elijah is sitting the conductor's seat of a real train engine. We visited the Temple Depot. He saw 3 trains leave the station. He was so excited.

This weekend was full of grands and kids. All the grands were here and I was in Mimi/Nana heaven. Brooklyn is walking... Not just standing and a few steps, but full fledge walking. Sadie is cooing.... and blowing bubbles, Elijah is spouting the New Testament, Apostles, and "Jesus Love the Little Children" So all the grands had tricks to show. Am I a bragging old woman or WHAT??? Here a few pictures of all the fun. Somehow I didn't get a picture this time of Sadie. So the one of her will probably be from last time.

Little Sister's Birthday

2009-05-31T19:43:00.005-05:00

Today at church the Bennett girls enjoyed their little sister, little cousin, and aunt. The two older girls are 10 and 9 and their sister is 8 months, and little cousin is 9 months old. That made me think about my little sister. I am 9 years older than my little sister. It is her birthday tomorrow. I remember Daddy taking Mom to the hospital and we stayed at home with Grandma. Then Daddy came home that next morning telling us we had a new sister. As much as I love little babies today, I know I was so excited to have some one to play with. But as years went by Sharon was always getting into my stuff. One time Mother and Dad made her go on a date with me!!! But through it all she is still my little sister and I love her. So Happy Birthday to my Little Sister. Here are a few pictures as Mother, Sharon, Tim, Frankie, Crystal, and I celebrated her birthday. We miss those who weren't with us today... Audrey, our brothers and their families, and of course our Dad.

Grandbabies!!!

2009-05-25T18:53:00.002-05:00

These past two weekends I've got to see all the grands.... It has been wonderful. Brad, Amy and Brooklyn were here last weekend. Then today Beau, Erica, Elijah, and new grand Sadie were here on their way back to Alvin. It was so great to see all of them. I can't wait until they are all here. Not sure were we all will sleep, but it will be great. Enjoy these pictures. I have.... Elijah has a bug container. He collected, with Aunt Crystal's help, a cricket, and rolly, polly... but they were all returned to their natural habit before he left. He said he will collect some in Alvin. I am holding Sadie and she just loves to cuddle. Erica said she just melts when you cuddle her. I think I melted.... Brooklyn is walking.. It is so hard to believe she is doing all of these "firsts". She has such a cute personality and mannerism are so sweet.

TAKS Exemplary!!!!

2009-05-18T18:27:00.005-05:00

We got our Math TAKS results today. We made 93%. We were so excited. That means for all non-school friends ---- EXEMPLARY for 3rd grade. We made 100% in Reading and now 93 in Math. In fact our whole school is exemplary. I don't really know how, but we have accomplished a big feat. We have Hispanic, Black, and Anglo, so as you can see it is quite a mixed group.

Mother's Day Blessings

2009-05-10T20:01:00.003-05:00

If you have ever seen my backyard you know it is not that great. In fact, probably the worse ever.... Well Crystal wanted to do something in the back yard so she put the dogs on the other side and started in on rebuilding the backyard. She did a great job. She planned out what she wanted to do, bought plants, tiki torches, chimnea, umbrella, chairs and soon it started taking shape. It was a wonderful Mother's Day present. Here are a few shots from this weekend and Crystal's hard work. Sharon had us over today and we celebrated with Mother. I know Sharon's day was not quite right without Audrey there. Also my boy's and families had other committments, but were here in spirit. We certainly had a great time. Tim cooked and did a bang up job. I am so very blessed to have such a great family.

Easter Weekend

2009-04-13T09:33:00.002-05:00

Few pictures of Brooklyn, Mother, and Sharon having a few "bunny minutes" with Brooklyn. Brooklyn and Max are both wishing they could trade places. Max wanting inside and Brooklyn wanting to go outside!!!

Weekend

2009-04-05T21:25:00.003-05:00

Just a few pictures from this weekend. Elijah is hunting Easter Eggs after church this morning. Of course I was glad to be able to be there. It was great to be around to see the new baby. She is just beautiful. So different from Elijah, yet the same, too.

Sadie Anne weighed 7lbs 9oz. 19 in long. And that is red/strawberry hair. Both sides of the families say there are some red heads. I have red headed cousins and Erica's dad says there are red heads on his side too. So here she is. Just beautiful!!!!

Proud Papa....

Elijah is being introduced to his new sister. He absolutely loves her already!!!

TAKS Dinner

2009-03-22T22:10:00.004-05:00

Here are 3 great teachers. The girl in the middle I taught in Rosebud in the 5th grade. Now she is teaching Language Arts in Chilton.

My principal is in the middle. Gladys Graves. She is a great principal.

As you can see we have a few "hammers" up in the bunch. I think this is the prison pose.

We got our scores back on my third grader's TAKS scores. I am proud to announce 3rd graders made 100%. That means all of our kids passed the test.... We are so happy and surprised. On one hand I want to hug and kiss each one, then turn right around and whip them hard. One for not doing this for me all the time and putting some gray hairs in my hair and make me want to take up drinking (heavy!!) Just kidding.... here are a couple of pictures of our principal taking us out to eat Sunday night. We went to Papadeaux (maybe not spelled exactly right) in Austin. This is not everyone who helped the 3rd and 5th graders get 100%.

Spring Break 2

2009-03-22T21:54:00.003-05:00

Brooklyn got to visit Nana's house over Spring Break. She has changed so much and is really starting to get a personality. "Darling" is what I say.

Already using a brush !!!!

Here Mom and Sharon get to play with Brooklyn.

Brooklyn can always find the camera!!

Mom, Brooklyn, and Nana. Amy and I finally decided on a name. I like the name Nana and I know other's who use Nana and it fits them, too.

Spring Break

2009-03-16T16:33:00.002-05:00

I am on Spring Break. I made a list of all I want to accomplish this week. Everything began with CLEAN

Clean the back yard
Clean the little building
Clean the back room
Clean the house

Today I started on the Back Yard. I raked the stuff into several piles and started putting it in the garbage can. We are minus one dog so maybe the WILD one was taken. I really feel like he was the culprit, but now I have to clean up his mess!!

I hope your Spring Break has less cleaning on your list and a little more fun.

Stolen Pictures

2009-02-24T20:52:00.002-06:00

I stole a couple of darling pictures from my daughter-in-law's blogs. They are just too precious to not share with all. Brooklyn is already 7 months old and Elijah is ready for a "big boy bed". He also got a big boy haircut. So things change so fast in the "World of Little People". Soon we will have three. Sadie will soon join the Ballard clan. So things change quickly. Enjoy them while you can was said to me and now I know why.......

Baby Shower

2009-02-09T19:02:00.004-06:00

Here are a couple of pictures from the weekend shower. The first is Erica's friends and most are pregnant..... A baby boom???? Maybe. The other is relatives.. Julie, Sadie's grandmother; Jannine, Sadie's great-grandmother; Eunice, Sadie's greatgrandmother; Janice, Sadie's grandmother; and Sadie's mother. If that is confusing notice look at all of the J's... and try to say all of them!!

Erica's friend, Amiee, did a fantastic job having this party. We ate, played games, and had a silent auction, opened gifts and had a great time. Those Alvin girls can really party....

Special Message

2009-02-04T23:09:00.001-06:00

Rick Warren (REMEMBER HE WROTE 'PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE')
You will enjoy the new insights that Rick Warren has, with his wife now having cancer and him having 'wealth' from the book sales. This is an absolutely incredible short interview with Rick Warren,'Purpose Driven Life ' author and pastor of Saddleback Church in California In the interview by Paul Bradshaw with Rick Warren, Rick said:People ask me, What is the purpose of life? And I respond: In a nutshell, life is preparation for eternity. We were not made to last forever, and God wants us to be with Him in Heaven.One day my heart is going to stop, and that will be the end of my body-- but not the end of me.I may live 60 to 100 years on earth, but I am going to spend trillions of years in eternity. This is the warm-up act - the dress rehearsal. God wants us to practice on earth what we will do forever in eternity.We were made by God and for God, and until you figure that out, life isn't going to make sense.Life is a series of problems: Either you are in one now, you're just coming out of one, or you're getting ready to go into another one.The reason for this is that God is more interested in your character than your comfort.God is more interested in making your life holy than He is in making your life happy.We can be reasonably happy here on earth, but that's not the goal of life. The goal is to grow in character, in Christ likeness.This past year has been the greatest year of my life but also the toughest, with my wife, Kay, getting cancer.I used to think that life was hills and valleys - you go through a dark time, then you go to the mountaintop, back and forth. I don't believe that anymore.Rather than life being hills and valleys, I believe that it's kind of like two rails on a railroad track, and at all times you have something good and something bad in your life.No matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on.And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always someth ing good you can thank God for.You can focus on your purposes, or you can focus on your problems.If you focus on your problems, you're going into self-centeredness,'which is my problem, my issues, my pain.' But one of the easiest ways to get rid of pain is to get your focus off yourself and onto God and others.We discovered quickly that in spite of the prayers of hundreds of thousands of people, God was not going to heal Kay or make it easy for her.It has been very difficult for her, and yet God has strengthened her character, given her a ministry of helping other people, given her a testimony, drawn her closer to Him and to people.You have to learn to deal with both the good and the bad of life.Actually, sometimes learning to deal with the good is harder. For instance, this past year, all of a sudden, when the book sold 15 million copies, it made me instantly very wealthy.It also brought a lot of notoriety that I had never ha d to deal with before. I don't think God gives you money or notoriety for your own ego or for you to live a life of ease.So I began to ask God what He wanted me to do with this money, notoriety and influence. He gave me two different passages that helped me decide what to do, II Corinthians 9 and Psalm 72First, in spite of all the money coming in, we would not change our lifestyle one bit. We made no major purchases.Second, abo ut midway through last year, I stopped taking a salary from the church.Third, we set up foundations to fund an initiative we call The Peace Plan to plant churches, equip leaders, assist the poor, care for the sick, and educate the next generation.Fourth, I added up all that the chu rch had paid me in the 24 years since I started the church, and I gave it all back. It was liberating to be able to serve God for free.We need to ask ourselves: Am I going to live for possessions? Popularity?Am I going to be driven by pressures? Guilt? Bitterness? Materialism? Or am I going to be driven by God's purposes (for my life)?When I get up in the morning, I sit on the side of my bed and say, God, if I don't get anything else done today, I want to know You more and love You better. God didn't put me on earth just to fulfill a to-do list. He's more interested in what I am than what I do.That's why we're called human beings, not human doings.Happy moments, PRAISE GOD.Difficult moments, SEEK GOD.Quiet moments, WORSHIP GOD.Painful moments, TRUST GOD.Every moment, THANK GOD. God's Blessings on you today.

May this special message touch your heart. Janice

January Blues

2009-01-18T20:23:00.005-06:00

I took a couple of pictures off the girls' blogs just in case some don't go to their blogs. Brooklyn is sitting up and starting to do those cute little things that we all want to see. Elijah is being "2" he did go to the potty and I know his Mom and Dad are glad that is starting to happen before the new baby gets here. I have the January Blues. Christmas is over, all the kids are gone, Frankie is gone before sunrise and gets home after sunset. At school all we are thinking about is TAKS and after last year and 100% I feel pressure to do the same. I try not to make too big a deal to the kids, but I would like them to make good, too. But it will soon be time to start thinking about spring and summer so January Blues will be a thing of the past.

Last Christmas Posting

2008-12-31T17:34:00.003-06:00

Well things are finally winding down here in Rosebud.
We have had alot of fun and a great time with the grands.

Elijah got his first football helmet. He said, " Heavy"

It is a helmet from Brad's team, the Rams. The

coaches were getting rid of them, so Elijah got one.

You are never too old to have fun in the floor.

Mother is playing with Elijah with his new trucks.

Here Beau and Elijah are having some racing fun.

Frankie got this a couple of years ago and Elijah couldn't get

enough of it.

Hope ya'll had as much fun over the holidays as we did.

Happy New Year!!

Christmas Time

2008-12-27T11:44:00.002-06:00

Christmas is a great time to catch up with relatives
and see new ones. Sharon and Tim are getting a
chance to hold Brooklyn and spoil her.

Mimaw and Elijah playing with his new tent truck.
Elijah just loved it. The truck has a bed and built in
basketball goal. What a great toy to send home!!!

Audrey and Ish out in the country. Ish had never been
on a farm or seen an active ranch. He was fasinated. Of
course Ish could definitely use all of his experiences in his
next comedy routine.

Amy and Brooklyn are watching Daddy as he open
his new Wii. I am sure it won't be long until Brooklyn
will beat him!

The best part is always the tissue paper. Brooklyn
loves to crumple paper and eat it.

It was a wonderful day. I got to see all the kids and grandchildren.
Mother, Sharon, Tim, Audrey, Ish, Joe, Kevin, Crystal, Brad, Amy,
Brooklyn, Beau, Erica, and Elijah all were here making the day special.
Thanks to everyone for the gifts and wonderful food that makes
Christmas Time the great time it always is!!!!

2008-12-14T23:23:00.002-06:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

Musings

2008-12-11T22:59:00.005-06:00

Today was the 7th anniversary of the death of Matt Luedke. He was a friend of Beau's and our family. He died tragically in a truck wreck in 2001. Every year it is a sad time to remember his death. Tonight was the first time I spent this day with Larry and Beverly. A few of us went over to a mutal friend's house and remembered Matt. Especially the great times when our boys where close friends, played baseball together. Those baseball years were some of the best times. The parents would all pile on chartered busses and go to the playoff games in places like Huntsville, Jacksonville, Lufkin, and Austin. Frankie had a special black Cougar shirt he would wear. I bleached on accident. We still carried it with us on our many bus trips!! Tonight Larry talked about the years the boys' talked about just playing at Disk-Fault Field in Austin. Larry mentioned the night the team won their first trip to Austin. He said Beau ran up to him and said we are going to Austin, Larry. These special group of boys played baseball all summer across from our house. We had the cool ice crusher... so they all come over to cool off. They also went every afternoon after school to Steven Marek's grandmother. They would play basketball, baseball, football and eat a full meal before they ever got home.
The night he died was a cold,wet night. Not too different from a couple of nights ago. Crystal and I hated to call Beau that night. Finals were going on. Here in Rosebud we had already lost another guy they had played ball with just in September. So another young life taken was more than any town should bare. So 7 years later I remember Matt, Beau, Steven, Keith, Eric, Ryan, Kyle, Josh, Brad, Adam, James, Seth, .... It was a wonderful time for me. I loved having them over and loved being a part of these special group of boys. Proud to know them as men, fathers, fathers to be, and I know Matt would have been a great man and father.

Thanksgiving and Max

2008-11-30T20:14:00.002-06:00

Here are a few more pictures from this week. Mother got back from Abilene and came over on Saturday to visit with Brooklyn. Elijah and Pepaw are checking out the "cow traffic" before they continue down the road. Brooklyn is enjoying some time with Max. Max is Beau's dog, but we all just love him. A couple of years ago, Max was under our neighbor's car and suffered a real bad burn and a broken leg. Due to the vet not putting a collar on Max for his broken leg, Max's foot got infected because he tried to chew on the cast. Long story short.... Max lost his paw!!! So Max is just a special dog that our whole family really loves. This time at my house Max's suffers another tramatic experience. He kept coughing and hacking. We all thought he had swallowed a bone. Frankie even reached down into his throat to check it out. (Don't let Frankie anywhere near your mouth; he might want to try to pull out a bone.) Dogs have a real bone that they need in their throat. Needles to say Max did not have a turkey bone in his throat, but he does have an upper respitory infection. We have x-rays to prove it. But we do love Max and we all have a Max story we would love to share if asked.

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-27T16:12:00.000-06:00

We had a wonderful time with all the kids in and relatives over on Wednesday. We went out to the farm and Sharon took several pictures of all of us. I am going to try to use some of them for my Christmas card picture. Frankie got to drive Elijah around on the tractor. Elijah just kept hollering at the cows. MOOOOO MOOOO!! We had a great time with food, laughter, and great fun.

Visit to Brooklyn

2008-11-16T20:10:00.001-06:00

We went up to Wylie this weekend. One to see Brad's football game, but I must say the main reason was to see Brooklyn. I got to see her a couple of weeks ago when I went up to babysit. Frankie and Mother had not seen her for awhile. Mother was visiting Vern and Carol in Ft. Worth. So they brought Mother over and got to see Brooklyn too. Brooklyn showed off all her tricks: laughing, smiling, blowing bubbles, etc. It was fun to see how much she changes each time.

Brooklyn had on her Aggie clothes, but that didn't help them any. Vern had to make sure he saw the Texas game. Brad wished he could have a couple of plays from Friday night back. The Rams lost. But Brooklyn keep her smile and cheery spirit all the time. We had a great time.

Trick or Treaters

2008-11-03T21:41:00.000-06:00

Being on a dusty street and near the edge of town I don't get too many Trick or Treaters. But Kaleigh and Rebecca dropped by to show off their costumes, The Bride of Dracula and a Dead New Bride from Beetlejuice. I am glad they came by and I can sort of be their Mamaw, since someone else in Alvin and Wylie are a Mamaw to mine. Elijah was a Cool 50's guy and Brooklyn was a pink poodle. I just love Halloween. At school the kids got to wear their costumes. I had ladybugs, ghosts, football players, genies, nurse, tatoo boy,

and one boy wore the cutest Nascar Racing Suit.

I have a picture of Brad as a sailor, Beau as a wolf, Crystal as clown. It is always great to see the kids having fun. This is a rare time Halloween was on Friday, so all the candy is gone and at home!!!

Elijah's 2nd Birthday

2008-10-19T19:07:00.000-05:00

Well as you can see Elijah turned 2. We were so happy to get to go the big party. Everything was decorated so cute. Haybails, chicken feed, cow patties, pigs in a blanket,little piggy cupcakes, cream soda, root beer.... Down home country in the Big City. It was also the perfect day. For Houston not hot or muggy or rainy.... just a great day to be outside and enjoy the great weather and company. The little girl is one of Elijah's friends from church, Maddie. Needless to say Elijah enjoyed the tissue paper and tearing the paper more than the gifts. But he did especially notice the small cars and small tractors that he got. Of course he lined them up several times before we left. The last picture is this afternoon at Mimi's Cafe in Pearland. Mimi's Cafe has been one of our favorites for sometime. Always happy to get to eat there. I had Quiche Loraine Bacon and Swiss Cheese, mother had Triple Chocolate Brownie, Frankie had Jambalya, Beau had Greek Chicken Salad and Erica had Scallops with Butternut Squash Raviolli...Elijah had pizza and apple sauce Yum Yum.....Notice mother's entree....Also Fried Dill Pickles We had a great time. Elijah was asleep before he hit his head on the car seat....

This and That

2008-10-06T21:44:00.000-05:00

This weekend Dee and I went to a wedding in Austin. We have been friends with the parents of the groom since college days at SFA. We had a great time. The bride and groom were Longhorns and since I have an invested $$$$ interest in the Aggies it was somewhat strange, but it was okay. We shopped in Salado on the way down and on the way back. So that part was great. I even went to Salt Lick to eat Bar-B-Que. I have heard of Salt Lick, but I must say we have a place right here in Rosebud that would give Salt Lick a good run for their money. Then tonight we started another Bunco group. This is some more ladies from church and the community. Some even come from Temple. Guess who that was??? The #1 game player in our family, Mother. She had a great time and brought one of her friends with her. I must brag on Mother's game playing. She entered a contest run by the local newspaper. You had to send in an entry each week with the items that had been deleted from the picture. She entered each week. At the end of the contest there was a drawing for the Grand Prize.......$1000 in gas. Well guess who Won??? right Mother. So next time you see her ask her for a fill up.
Congratulations Mother

Pennies from Heaven

2008-09-18T20:30:00.000-05:00

Monday night the teachers of Chilton ISD were given a steak dinner for their accomplishments during last year in making Chilton a "Recognized School". For those outside the education realm, this rating is given each year by Texas Education Agency. There are 4 catagories: Low Performing, Acceptable, Recognized and Exemplery. Well for Falls County that is a big deal. Rosebud-Lott, Marlin were Acceptable; Westphalia and Chilton received the Recognized. So the school board gave the returning teachers this dinner and a proclamation was read by the board president. Then she said the school board would like to give each returning teacher a
$1000. Well you could hear the gasps and chokes. It was good that I wasn't eating steak because I might have choked!!! I could not believe what was happening. I had taught at R-L for 30 years and never received a thank you and sure not any $$$$$. I went to each board member to express my appreciation as did all of the other teachers. I am deciding what to do with my windfall. So far a few ideas have come my way........

Family Reunion and Ike

2008-09-14T21:23:00.000-05:00

This year our family reunion was at Lake Belton. Usually we have a huge crowd and get to see alot of the family. But since IKE decided to visit Texas this weekend, most people stayed home. But for the few who braved the weather, we had a great time. Even the deer took time out to visit us. Lake Belton is a great place to gather and hopefully the weather will cooperate next year. Thanks to Carol Ann who got all of it together.

True Wonders

2008-09-09T21:02:00.000-05:00

I certainly want to take some credit for these two beautiful grandchildren. I hate gushing grandmothers but now I am one!!! Last week I just stood over Brooklyn's bed and gazed at her with such joy my heart hurt. It is so amazing to see her and see your child take care of their child. Speaking of grandchildren The Ballard Clan will be busting a seam soon. Elijah is sporting a shirt that reads."Big Brother" and I don't think it means the TV show!!! We are so excited to have all the babies around. Congratulations to my sons and daughter-in-laws for making these grandparents extremely happy.

Newest Pic

2008-08-21T07:25:00.000-05:00

Here is the latest picture of my newest grandbaby. Don't you just want to squeeze those cheeks. She is doing good. For those of you who don't visit Amy's blog, she has a broken collar bone due to delivery. But it is healing nicely and according to the dr. will be fine. But just the thought of that during delivery to her is just heart wrenching. Plus the pain Amy must have suffered. Please keep her, Amy and Brad in your prayers as they begin this new adventure.

Summer Reading

2008-08-13T14:18:00.000-05:00

I usually read all summer, but with all of my travels I just have read the GPS screen!! But I did read the most wonderful touching book I have ever come across. Same Kind of Different As Me, is such a great book. Everyone I see I am recommending it. My brother, Mark gave it to my mom and she let me read it, now I am wild about telling the story about these totally different people, yet as the title suggests the same. If you have a chance to read it don't pass it up. As I understand all incoming freshman at ACU will receive the book as part of their registration packets. I hope they take advantage of the great story inside.

A Visit With Elijah

2008-08-10T20:15:00.000-05:00

We went to Alvin on Saturday afternoon to visit with Elijah. Oh, yes, his dad and mom too. When we got there Elijah was asleep, but soon woke up. He came out of his room and started wanting to know where Pe Paw was??? So all of a sudden Frankie became Pe Paw.... And he remained that the whole weekend. It was so cute. We took Elijah out to eat (without his parents) and he is looking in the first picture at the stuffed animals at Joe's. He was calling the huge moose a cow, but he was soon saying Moose, Moose..... He is very brillant!!!! In the next picture he is helping to walk Lucy. Or maybe Lucy is walking him. Not sure. Then Elijah wanted to pull his toys around with the leash. So Pe Paw rigged up his truck. We had a great time. This is the last of my summer adventures. I need to reload my bank account by staying home.

Antiquing in Gladewater

2008-08-01T21:44:00.000-05:00

After welcoming Brooklyn I made a mad dash to Kilgore to see my dear friend, Dee. We have been friends since we were 13. So that says alot... We are in Gladewater having lunch and antiquing. I bought several neat things at some of Dee's favorite places. I bought a 50's kitchen stool that will be perfect for me to sit on at school. I also found some great little things that I remember seeing when I was growing up. Dee and I always have a great visit.

Four Generations and Beyond

2008-08-01T21:20:00.001-05:00

The four generation picture is very important to my mom. She got one when Elijah was born and she was not about to miss the moment with Brooklyn. Then the other picture is the "Spurlock/Ballard" picture. In the pic (l) Sharon Spurlock Lightfoot, Emily Spurlock Barnes, Eunice Spurlock, Janice Spurlock Ballard, Brad Ballard and Brooklyn Ballard. I think we are pictured out..... Well maybe not.....

More Pics

2008-07-30T21:53:00.000-05:00

I needed a little more room to put all the pictures on the blog. She fills up the baby crib. I don't think things have quite sunk in yet.....