It's a Splash!

On Friday, Stacie, a dear friend of mine invited the boys and I to join her and her nephews for a day of swimming. Stacie lives just outside of Athens and had a furlough day. She has spent several of her past furlough days by visiting us in the Sham, so we were glad to make a trip to see her this time. Mom took care of Sam, while we headed to the pool. As usual, Jack was a little fish, splashing and kicking. He loved chasing and swimming away from the big boys. Gavin showed us some incredible moves off the diving board, and Grayson gave jumping a thought. And what trip to Athens would be complete without a trip to Chick-fil-A? Thanks for including us in on your fun.

A week in review...

Whew...what a week. It's been a busy one. The greater part of my Tuesday & Wednesday was spent helping with the preparations for Wednesday Night Supper at our church. There are several "Supper Shepherds" or lead chefs and they are responsible for recruiting their own help each time they cook. Denise (one of the shepherds) had been asking me to join in the fun. So, I did. I don't think I'll look at my WNS meal the same way again! A lot of work goes into preparing lasagna, salad, bread & dessert for 275 people! I had a lot of fun working with the other ladies in the kitchen and will most definitely volunteer with Denise again when her week rolls around again.

Thursday night was Bunco and Merideth's birthday. So, several of us girls celebrated with cake and coffee. Like our make-shift birthday candle?

Friday seems so long ago. One thing I do remember about Friday was that Josh had been in the mood for some sushi for a few days. We decided to trek down to Gainesvegas to indulge. Jack liked the chopsticks and the huge drum by the door to the restaurant.

We spent Saturday in Athens. We headed down for lunch and met up with Stacie at Chick-fil-A. Where else, right? Poor Josh just puts up with my CFA obsession. After dropping Jack off at my parents, we headed to a matinee. I think the last movie Josh & I went to see together was Juno. We took Jack, who was probably 2 months old, and he slept the entire time. Just in case, it's a while before we get back to the theatre we wanted to pick a winner (and we did!) We saw Slumdog Millionaire. It was a beautiful movie with a beautiful story, and I highly recommend it!

After the movies, we headed back to my parents to celebrate my sister's recent engagement and also her & Josh's birthday's (a little early!) Of course, the Wii was on non-stop, and Jack even got a turn. When it was time for birthday candles, we realized we didn't have the appropriate numbers (23 for Em & 32 for Josh). As you can see we managed to improvise yet again!

On Sunday, we hit the road again. This time headed to Chattanooga for cousin Nathan's 3rd birthday party! It was an inflatables party. I think it's safe to say the adults had a lot more fun than the kids. There are lots more pictures here.

And, in case I haven't filled you in, Jack is walking now. Often times, he still prefers to crawl, but he's gotten very good at getting up after falling. Josh pointed out he looks a little like Frankenstein with his arms flailing about in front of him. We look forward to his check-up Wednesday to see how he's grown.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

Just got in from Terri's wild and crazy bachelorette party down in A-town. Okay, so it wasn't that wild and crazy, but it was a ton of fun. In fact, I can't remember when I have laughed that hard. Most of the old crew from high school/WFBC was there. Stacie and Cassidy organized it and kept it a secret. She just thought she was having dinner with them, but we were all waiting on her...with some fantastic accessories.

We all got a kick out of the gifts she received, which I won't share here...tee hee hee. Anyway, it was a fun time and the wedding should be the same. Looking forward to Saturday night.

Time to (thow a) Party!

Friday morning Jack and I left town and headed for Athens. We had a shower to help throw for one of my best friends, Terri, back in Winterville. On the way we stopped in Commerce and met another great friend, Brooke and her 3 cute boys at Chick-fil-A for breakfast. They live in South Georgia but were up visiting family and friends for the week. Although it was a brief visit, it was great to see them and meet the newest member of the family, baby Ben. Here are a couple of pictures of these cuties!










Once Jack and I arrived in Athens we met up with my mom and did some shopping and running errands. Later we went over to Watkinsville to meet my dad for lunch. Jack wasn't a very cooperative diner until Grandpa got out the ice cream. Since we were in the neighborhood we stopped by to see one of my best friends at work, Stacie. We got a tour of her new office. Finally, we headed home for Jack to get a nap.

Friday night Stacie joined us for dinner at Rafferty's, one of my favorites. Yummy...cheese fries and soup and salad! Jack did pretty well until it got a bit too close to his bedtime. We headed home although Stacie asked about stopping by the Haunted House first...ha, ha!




On Saturday, I needed to help with party preparations so mom watched Jack while I helped get things ready. It was a bit hectic, but we pulled it off. Angie & Jill, two great friends and excellent fellow hostesses, did a great job. We had the party at a pavillion in their backyards. It was a lot of fun. Here's Jack flirting with Angie's daughter Andee Claire. Jack and AC have the same exact birthday; they were born just a few hours apart. I'm not sure she was in the mood for his antics.

You're So Vain

On Monday, I had the truck serviced and my teeth cleaned. Lots of fun stuff. Jack and I had lunch with Grandma Jan and one of her coworkers at my favorite spot...Chick-fil-A. Then, Jack and I spent the rest of the day hopping from place to place until we were scheduled to meet up with Stacie and Terri at Five Points Deli (the one that is not in Five Points...but still has my favorite Heath Bar Crunch cookies). We went there because it is right next to David's Bridal, where Terri would be trying on dresses...fun, fun, fun! Stacie fed Jack while I scarfed down a Pimento Cheese sandwich and then we headed next door.

Jack pretty much entertained himself by talking and smiling at himself in the enormous wall of mirrors, which was great at first. Then as if someone had flipped on the Carly Simon hit, "You're So Vain"...Jack began to kiss himself in the wall of mirrors. It was sort of cute, but also insanely gross. We took a few pictures, then he was pulled away from himself kicking and screaming. Don't get me wrong he's cute, but there is such a thing as being a little too self-evolved :)

Terri tried on lots of pretty gowns and even a few not so pretty gowns. I'd show them here, but wouldn't want to reveal her dress before it's time. By the end of the evening she had it narrowed down to two, both of which looked great on her. One is more simple and classic, the other a little fancier and sparklier. Jack made his choice clear...

Stacie's a Guitar Hero

On Sunday, Jack and I enjoyed spending time with family and friends. After church and the lunchtime monsoon (which I think delayed Josh's take-off we would later learn), we caught a cat nap. Just before the evening church service we stopped by Stacie's to try out her new toy, Guitar Hero. Too bad Josh wasn't with us! Jack also got to meet Gavin and Grayson, Stacie's nephews. Here he is with Grayson.

Gavin and Grayson were really good at Guitar Hero (at least they thought they were!) They kept saying they were beating their dad. Stacie had a little guitar that wasn't even plugged in, but they didn't seem to notice they figured they were battling and winning every time! Gavin made the funniest faces and movements when he was battling.

Gavin and Grayson also enjoyed showing Jack the toys they have at their Aunt Stacie's house. Like this big shark tent. There were also lots of trucks and a tractor pop-up tent. I was so surprised that we got such a good shot of the three of them at the same time. Even though Jack can't really do much, most kids enjoy playing with him and he couldn't be happier!

After church, it was back to Stacie's for more Guitar Hero. Here's Jack helping Terri rock out. I was not very good at the game. I had played once before on our nephew's, but I got booed off three times in a row this time. I was a little better after church, with less of an audience...it was just us girls and Jack. We look forward to coming back and playing again...although by that time Stacie will be a pro and playing behind her back I'm sure!

Shop till you Drop

On Saturday, Stacie came to spend the day with us. She's such a trooper; she agreed to accompany us on an all day excursion to Buford. I needed a few things from Target, and we had several other places we wanted to stop by. The fun began in Target when we spotted this really cute club chair for a kid. I couldn't resist putting Jack in it. It was so funny. Oh, and no we didn't buy it.

We saw some signs that Toys 'R Us was closing (they are opening a newer one, right next to a brand new Babies 'R Us...yeah!) and trying to get rid of as much as possible. So, we went in. They had a lot of markdowns, but they weren't giving anything away yet. We picked up a birthday gift for someone who shall remain nameless (in case they read this!) Of course, we couldn't leave without letting Stacie show off her Guitar Hero skills. She just got Guitar Hero at home and now we can't wait to stop by for a visit next Sunday!

The fun continued until dinner at Provino's...one of our favorite places in Buford. I think one reason we like it so much, is Josh and I went to the Provino's in Athens for our first date about 10 years ago! Shortly after that, it closed...not exactly an excellent omen, huh? Anyway, we're glad to see another location going strong...at least we think? After returning home, Stacie even agreed to stay for a movie. I hope we didn't wear her out too much. The greatest thing happened while we were loafing around the video store. Our bestest friend, Terri send a picture message to show and tell us that she had gotten engaged! We were so excited, we had to call her right then! I can't wait to see her and her rock on Sunday! Congrats, Terri & John!

Day Trip to Athens (again)

It seems like I'm always writing about day trips to Athens on my blog, but we really don't go that often. When we do, however, we try to call as many family and friends and see as many folks as possible! Last Tuesday Josh had an appointment at the Travel Clinic at UGA Health Center in preparation for his upcoming trip to Honduras. So, while he was getting shots and prescriptions, Jack and I had planned to waste time at the bookstore. As if campus hasn't changed enough since I graduated and moved, but summer is when all things crazy occur. Due to a (long overdue) student center expansion, there was no easy parking for a woman with a baby. Thankfully, my pal Stacie called in time to rescue me with an alternative idea...we met in five points to catch up.

I suggested Five Points Deli...to which Stacie was agreeable (what a great friend!) While waiting for her to arrive I ordered a few of my absolute favorite cookies in the world...Heath Bar Crunch cookies. They are fantastic. If you have any doubt about how much I like these...ask Josh! I always beg to swing by there and pick up not one, but a dozen!! On Tuesday, I held back and only ordered six. They were gone by lunch the next day. Stacie had fun with Jack and we ran into another old friend, Russell Ashe.

After picking up Josh we went by my parents house for a bit. Jack really enjoyed playing peek-a-boo with Emily. She kept trying to sneak up on him, but he would just lunge for her and grab her with both hands and basically slobber all over her face, but like any sweet aunt, she put up with it because it made him happy!

Later, we all went to dinner at one of our favorites, Loco's Deli, where Jack enjoyed some sweet tea courtesy of Grandpa. The day before we had learned that my grandfather was in the hospital having some tests run, so we had the opportunity to stop by and visit him after dinner. He's having a rough time and has some difficult decisions ahead (along with my dad and uncle). Although he was still quite a bit loopy from being put to sleep, it is always good to see family.

Day Trip to Athens

On Saturday, we spent the day in Athens with family and friends. The day kicked off with a visit at Papa's house (Jack's great grandfather) where we were able to catch up with Aunt Elizabeth and Uncle Bill after their trip to Fripp Island. They filled us in on all the great seafood they ate and how nice the beach was. I look forward to taking Jack to the beach soon. Jack was once again fascinated by Aunt Elizabeth. Maybe it's her funny glasses or the way she talks, but he spent a long time studying her and getting to know her better.

For lunch, we picked up some pork, ribs and stew from our favorite barbeque place, Fresh Air. It was delicious! We took the meat and all the fixings to my parents house to share. Jack played with Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt Emily and Jonathan. Later my friends Stacie and Terri arrived to play with Jack. We all watched the UGA baseball game. Stacie and Terri enjoyed entertaining Jack with his dancing and singing duck, an Easter gift from his grandparents. It is quite a comical little toy.

Later, Stacie put Jack's hair into a pony tail. Although, I think he looked more like Pebbles from the Flinstones because it just stuck straight up. He was a pretty good sport about it. Hopefully, he'll laugh at this picture one day rather than hate us for it! (By the way, we're on naptime # 2 for today and this one is not going so well!) If I had nothing to do but take a nap at 2:30 everyday, I'd love it. For some reason, Jack doesn't feel the same way despite the fact that he is so tired he can't see straight or behave pleasantly.

Saturday night, everyone gathered at my grandparent's house to celebrate Grandaddy's birthday with a fish fry. It was a typical large crowd minus a few main members. Jack enjoyed sitting with his grandad, who did all sorts of typical grandad stuff like letting him drink from is sweet tea. He seemed to really like it...no surprise there!

Jack also had a chance to be entertained by his many cousins. He enjoyed getting to know "Jon Jon" (or Jonathan). They enjoyed the swing together. Jack's last stop of the evening before we packed up and headed home was a rest on Mimi's lap (his great grandmother). Mimi has so much preparation to host so many people at her house that she rarely gets to relax and enjoy much of it. Thanks for all you do and did to make it a great birthday party for Grandaddy. Happy 88th Birthday, Grandaddy!

More about Sunday & Our Memorial Day Fun

Today was Memorial Day and we spent the day together. We rested from our road trip on Sunday, which included visits to both of my grandparents. We had dinner at Grandaddy & Mimi's for my mom's birthday, which was earlier this month. Josh and I talked about the food all the way home...Mimi is such an excellent cook. I have to remember to get her recipe for sweet potatoes. I also have to remember to keep Jack away from them or he'll never eat that stuff from the jar again! In between great grandparents, we visited Stacie and Terri.

It had been a couple of weeks since the girls had seen little Jack and they were eager to squeeze and cuddle him. When we arrived at Stacie's we found the two of them playing Combat on the old Atari console. That's right...Atari! Stacie quickly gave up her seat to Josh and selflessly offered to play with Jack! It was great to catch up with the girls and hopefully they will be coming for a visit soon!

After a pretty no-fuss day today, we joined some good friends for a cook-out. The Yorks hosted a great party and everyone had a wonderful time. They introduced us to Cornhole, which I promise is a very innocent game (much like horseshoes or golfshoes to those that know that game!) Here are a couple of shots from the festivities!

Josh & Jack enjoying the party

Merideth and Andrew taking in the festivities

Josh dominating his first CornHole competition

Tori & Noah enjoying the party

The Wheels on the Bike Go Round & Round

What a week it has been. Jack is such a funny boy. We are especially enjoying listening to all the new noises he is making these days. He loves to grunt and is beginning to make squealing type noises that almost sound like giggles. The funniest thing is when he makes these when we are not doing anything to provoke him! Another fun discovery has been himself...he is still enjoying watching himself in the mirror. It usually makes him laugh.

Warm temperatures this week allowed us to take frequent walks around the neighborhood. On Thursday, we even met Andrea, Andrew & Abigail (some friends from church) at the park for a walk around the track. Later we lunched on the square in Clarkesville. We have truly been enjoying the spring weather.

On Saturday afternoon we traveled to Athens to take in the annual Twilight Criterium bike races in downtown. The rain held off which was nice. Josh and I always attended the bike races in college and have tried to make it back as often as possible since then. It is a really fun event. Jack watched the bikes going by in the beginning, but as the night wore on and he grew tired, he was a little less interested in the bikes, noise and hoopla and more interested in finding a quiet place to rest his head. I got a real kick out of watching the kids take their lap. It made me think about what Jack will look like once he's riding his very own bike. We took in the event in the company of Stacie, Grandma Jan & Grandpa Blake.

Thursday Nite Reunion plus Jack

Last week I had to make an overnight trip to Athens. Jack and I planned it for a Thursday evening so we could reunite with the crew for Thursday night fun! Unfortunately, Cassidy wasn't feeling well, but Terri & Stacie were glad to have us fill in. Jack was pretty well behaved for his first Thursday night with the girls. He should also have felt honored...boys are not usually allowed at Thursday night events. Terri prepared Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti and we capped it off with the always enjoyable chocolate peanut butter cookies!

After calling it a night at Terri's, Jack and I got tucked in at grandma & grandpa's house. Mom & I spent Friday morning running errands and buying birthday gifts. After lunch we headed to Franklin Springs to watch Emily's tennis match. They were playing against Shorter...who needed a lesson in good sportsmanship. Jack sported his Lions rugby shirt from Emily, but didn't watch much tennis.