Don't drag me into this...

Long Time Gone

2010-06-25T09:07:00.001-07:00

Hi Everybody! I have not posted for some time. Sometimes, life just gets too busy. A lot has happened since last November. Holiday season came and went...we had several *snow* days in the Rock this past winter (so much that local schools were in session into June, something that is almost unheard of here)...spring came and went (was actually a pleasant spring for the south)...and now we are in the grips of summer (this past week saw highs at 100 degrees, actual air temp).

I am not going to dwell much on what happened since last November...lots of good, but a couple of bad that has just stuck with me (I couldn't get out of that rut!).

Hopefully, I'll be able to post consistently now.

Hunting

2009-11-09T14:00:00.000-08:00

Roxanne has been 'teaching' Mia how to hunt in the windows. This is her favorite time of year when the leaves start to fall and the birds are flying around. It was funny to just sit and enjoy watching them together. Funny girls.

Happy Belated Halloween!

2009-11-04T10:43:00.000-08:00

I (heart) Little Rock!!

2009-10-10T12:22:00.000-07:00

I love this town. Little Rock...you are awesome!

Happy Belated Birthday!!

2009-10-10T12:19:00.001-07:00

What a year it has been! I am so thankful for the opportunity to spend my birthday with so many family and friends. I had a great birthday and I'm looking forward to spending more time with the folks I love and cherish!

One more...

2009-09-11T09:06:00.001-07:00

I found this sign to be very humorous. My stepmom and I were indulging in a funnel cake from the fair and I noticed this one. We happened to be sitting under what I will call the "ski lift" for the fair--It was just like a ski lift; it would carry people from one end of the fair to the other and back. Very cool (well, not so much if you happened to be on the lift, in the sunshine!).

More Oregon pictures

2009-09-11T09:02:00.001-07:00

Oregon

2009-09-11T08:52:00.000-07:00

I was able to make my trip to Portland, OR both a business and fun trip. For the first part, I had training for work. For the second part, I was able to visit with my dad and stepmom. We had stops at the Pittock Mansion (very cool place within the city itself); the Oregon State Fair (HUGE!); Thompson's Flour Mill (oldest one in the state and was inoperation up until 2005--started back in the 1800's!); and of course, my dad's hometown of Silverton.

Meet Mia

2009-09-07T09:43:00.001-07:00

Stir Fry Crazy

2009-07-24T10:34:00.001-07:00

Blu has a new toy. We've been enjoying some stir fry this past week!

Happy 4th of July (2009)!!

2009-07-05T17:57:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone had a safe and happy 4th of July!!

Camping and Canoeing...Summer Fun! (Happy Father's Day!)

2009-06-21T18:34:00.001-07:00

Just enjoying some summer sunshine and Arkansas waterways! Hope everyone had a Happy Father's Day!

Peabody Ducks

2009-06-05T10:01:00.001-07:00

For as long as the Peabody Hotel in Little Rock has been around (maybe 8 years or so; it used to be called the 'Excelsior' hotel), I have been meaning to go by and take pictures of the ducks. I found out that the ducks enjoy riding the hotel elevator where they often look out upon the crowd gathering below and they also march to the Big Band music of John Philip Sousa.

Well, I finally got my chance to do this a couple of weeks ago. We were hosting a national conference for my work and it was being held at the Peabody. So, I took my chance. Enjoy!

Beach Vacay...and a new friend

2009-05-29T12:42:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Cathy!!

2009-05-18T10:45:00.001-07:00

Catch and Release

2009-05-08T13:42:00.000-07:00

This little fella was being chased by the cows this morning. Don't worry...they released him back into the wild!

Damages

2009-05-01T10:25:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was the first time I had been to the farm since the ice storm back in January 09. I saw a lot of the tops of trees broken; maybe it seems less due to the treens 'greening out' (leaves coming out). I know Mother Nature has a way of working it out and I have no doubts the farm will be as it once was. It may take a couple of years to get there, but it will.

Farmtown

2009-04-27T13:19:00.000-07:00

Mabel and Molly

2009-04-20T07:01:00.000-07:00

Two more additions to the Coburn clan. Hopefully, this fall we will have one more!

And then there's this...

2009-04-13T06:50:00.001-07:00

Pictures from this year's PBC are slowly starting to trickle in...I'm really sorry the Coburn clan missed the outing this year! Glad you guys had a good time (from the looks of it) and can't wait for the next run!

Colton Sawyer

2009-04-13T06:20:00.001-07:00

He is such a ham...but a cute one!

A busy Easter Weekend

2009-04-13T06:09:00.001-07:00

After the storms rolled through on Thursday night (and yours truly spend a few minutes in the closet with the pups and Nana--Blu had taken Mitchell to meet his mom in Clarksville and then decided to ride out the bad weather in Russellville), the weekend came in and I can say Saturday was perfect! Sunday was another story, but at least we didn't have any tornados, just storms.

Blu and I went fishing on Saturday and had a lot of fun--not too many fish, but I think I caught my fair share (I had most of the 'big' ones!).

My good friend, Karyn, got her first turkey (a tom) early Saturday morning too...Congratulations Karyn! I know her hubby, Matt, is probably beaming from ear to ear.

Saturday night, we went to dinner over at Blu's nephew's. We had a great time catching up with family.

Little Angels

2009-04-08T10:41:00.000-07:00

Chloe is on the left; Scarlet is on the right.

Home!

2009-04-07T07:33:00.000-07:00

Mr. Little Funk is going home from the hospital today! YAY!

Welcome Baby Funkhouser!

2009-04-06T06:23:00.001-07:00

Jaydon Ellis Funkhouser, born 4 April 2009 at 2:01AM. 8lbs, 8 oz.

Congratulations Jaysson and Cathy! We love you guys!

Twins!

2009-04-02T11:08:00.000-07:00

The extended Coburn family welcomed twins on Tuesday, 31 March 2009. Chloe Angelina and Scarlett Emery. Congrats Kristen and Knox!

(That's John and Sam holding the girls).

World Autism Awareness Day is April 2nd!!

2009-04-01T19:19:00.000-07:00

World Autism Awareness Day, April 2, to show your support for the Alpha Xi Delta/Autism Speaks partnership!!!

Sad and angry

2009-03-27T10:19:00.001-07:00

I heard about this story on the late news last night. And it left me very conflicted. A family (the husband just happens to be a NFL player) was on their way to a hospital to see their dying mother and ran a red light. A cop caught this and pulled them over in the hospital parking lot. The cop was very adamant about going through 'procedure' (the wife/daughter of the dying mother eventually ran in to the hospital w/o listening to the cop, leaving the husband outside to deal with the situation). The hospital even sent out a few nurses to try to talk the cop into letting the husband go in to the hospital. In the end, the cop issued the husband (and driver of the vehicle) a ticket for running a red light. And he did not get to say his goodbyes to his mother-in-law.

On one hand, there is a cop trying to do his job (albeit, without any compassion)--what if the driver had hit someone while running that red light? (Even though it appears he did slow down through the intersection and he did have his emergency lights on)

On the other hand, I understand the family trying to race to the hospital to spend those last few, precious moments with their loved one. And I can say that because I have been there, and no one (gun or no gun, badge or no badge) would have stopped me from trying to get there in time.

The City's Police Department has issued an apology to the family, canceled the ticket, and the cop has been placed on leave, pending an investigation.

This is one of those hard stories. What would you have done?

Ft. Worth, Texas

2009-03-26T10:13:00.000-07:00

I was visiting another city this week...Ft. Worth, Texas. We had a regional conference to attend for work and it was much fun. For a team building exercise, we had a 'scavenger hunt' amongst the city's historical markers. That was a lot of work and a lot learned along the way. We stayed at the brand new Omni Hotel in downtown and I highly recommend it. There are signs of spring showing all around the city.

And how was your week?

Kicken' it ol' school...kind of

2009-03-10T06:22:00.001-07:00

Portions of this picture have been edited for content...

Blu, Annie, and Brent decided to listen in on Mitchell's muzak...in his truck...fun times indeed.

Why we love Annie...

2009-03-10T06:17:00.001-07:00

...because she brings so much joy and laughter to our lives! We love you Annie!

Double Baby Shower blues...and pinks...and yellows...and greens!

2009-03-10T06:11:00.000-07:00

We held a double baby shower for the Funkhousers and the Becks over the weekend...what a grand time we had! Can't wait to meet Baby Funk (April) and Baby Beck (May)!

Arkansas weather

2009-03-02T10:29:00.001-08:00

I really should learn to expect this...we go from being 70+ degrees one day...to having snow showers the next. It was pretty while it lasted and didn't cause any major problems!

Meet Bailey

2009-02-27T10:35:00.001-08:00

She is Deb's baby and a new playmate to Zip and Katie. Just how cute can you get?

Tired.

2009-02-27T10:32:00.001-08:00

Lots of driving in the past couple of weeks. Two 'day' trips (one to a project on Bull Shoals Lake in Lead Hill, Arkansas and one to a project in Batesville, Arkansas). One trip for 3 days to Shreveport, LA for an annual conference/convention. And one 'round trip' from Little Rock to Springfield, MO. to Fayetteville, AR. and then back to Little Rock in 2 days. All of which I drove on my very own. I'm ready to stick around here for a little while...

Ice pictures

2009-02-10T06:08:00.001-08:00

Our neighbor up at the farm took these pictures and shared them with me. You can see the amount of ice that just covered everything. I told her that it's hard for us that are down here in Little Rock to imagine what it's like because we don't see it and don't face it every day.

I heard they finally got power back yesterday and I am glad. We have a long road to recovery, but I know we'll get there.

(thanks Susan for sharing and letting me use your pictures!!)

Just a taste...

2009-01-30T12:05:00.000-08:00

These pictures offer only a smidgen of what it's like up in north Arkansas right now. I actually shot these during a previous ice storm (around the beginning of January 09). It's pretty to look at, but just devestating to deal with.

I hope and pray those that are still w/o power will have power soon. I am reminded just how lucky we are when such events happen.

Blu and some other family members went up to the family farm earlier this week (he has yet to come home), and they say it is really bad. We have some fence-mending to get done, but can't get to it until the ice melts. The cows are doing fine; looks like we have some work to do in the coming months. Stay tuned for more pictures of the farm!

Blazzled

2009-01-19T17:48:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I make one change to my blog (new background) and lose all my previously saved info (like favorite blog list). Never realized just how out of sorts you can get when your blog is 'un-organized'. So, to celebrate I made up a new word. Blog+Frazzled=Blazzled. Actually, I don't know if that word already exists (sorry if it does)...guess I should check.

The Girls

2009-01-12T10:42:00.000-08:00

The newest additions to the Coburn clan...meet Olga (#30--with the snot) and Dolores (#33). They reside at the farm, along with around 18 other new additions.

And Happy New Year!

2009-01-05T10:12:00.000-08:00

Just a few snapshots of how we rang in 2009...quite loudly! And what Zip thought of it all at around 1AM!

I hope everyone had a safe and happy New Year's and looking forward to what 2009 brings!

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-22T07:16:00.000-08:00

From Our Home To Yours...Many wishes for a wonderful and blessed holiday season!

Merry Christmas!!

It's December...

2008-12-11T13:37:00.000-08:00

And I have not posted for some time. I don't know why...probably because I've been extremely busy at work (more than I ever imagined), plus it's that time of year. Time seems to escape me when December rolls around. Hard to believe Christmas is only 14 days away.

I found this picture on my camera...I'm not responsible for it. I know it was either my husband or my stepson, but I'm not sure which. I thought it was a beautiful picture and it brought a smile to my face. A nice surprise.

For the most part, we are ready for Christmas. I think. I still have some trimming to do on the Christmas tree at home (at least it's up! With lights! Of course, the tree is pre-lit). The tree and I have issues every year. It bites when you are trying to 'fluff' it. And a Christmas tree that has been in a box for 11 months needs fluffing. Lots. So, I am licking my battle wounds as I prepare for another battle...adding the ornaments or aka 'trimming the tree'.

My Christmas cards are in the mail (YAY! On time this year!) and I have two more presents to shop for (but I know what I'm going to get; just need that boost of energy to go get them). And I have a couple of packages to get in the mail (another battle--the post office. Sigh.)

Over all, I feel as though I am ahead. And that is a good feeling. Christmas is my favorite time of year, but it's also the hardest time of year for me. I still think about my mom every day. I know she is smiling down upon us because this was her favorite time of year too. And she would be happy that I am *feeling* good about Christmas.

A Thought in Passing...

2008-11-06T10:48:00.000-08:00

" The Democrats will now control the Oval Office and both branches of Congress.”

Something about having that much power in one concentration scares me. While I think it’s not a good thing to have two sides arguing all the time (especially when it comes to making decisions for the good of the entire nation), there is a reason why that argument exists (reality check, anyone?).

Now, we will wait and see what happens. And I hope and pray that President-elect Obama comes through on all his promises to us, the American people.

Catch ups

2008-11-03T16:13:00.000-08:00

It was a busy October! My oh my, where has time gone??

I have a few baby announcements that are late in coming...Blu is a great uncle once again. Colton Sawyer was born back in August to his nephew and wife--congratulations to you guys! And I hate to say it, but we really can't wait to meet the new addition (yes, we have been THAT busy!).

And congrats to the Jobe family who welcomed Logan Dwain (I think I did not spell this right, but will check on that) on October 3rd...I am sure Annie will be sharing pictures sometime soon.

And finally, Blu was successful in muzzleloading this year and shot an 8pt.

Two weeks later, Spenser shot his first deer during our annual youth hunt.

Hopefully, if work permits, I'll be able to get out in those deer woods next weekend for opening weekend 2008!!

Las Vegas

2008-10-16T09:26:00.001-07:00

I went on a mini-vacation over the Columbus Day weekend holiday. To Las Vegas, with the girls. We had a lot of fun, got to catch up with each other, WALK a lot, and eat plenty of good food.

It was a good trip and I feel refreshed. That's a good thing because coming back to work on Wednesday was total chaos.

If you ever get a chance, visit the Shark Aquarium at Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino. They have a pretty good exhibit, not too expensive, and made for a relaxing afternoon activity.

One thing I did do differently this time in visiting Vegas was to stop by the 'old part of town' called Freemont Street. It was pretty cool--they run a light show on an overhead ceiling top. The show runs on the hour at night. We got to see Queen performing "We Will Rock You". I think they change the show around each time.

And I didn't lose my shirt. But, I didn't win a million dollars either.

How was your Columbus Day weekend? I hope everyone had a good one!

All you need is love...

2008-10-09T05:57:00.000-07:00

Nothing is more calming than a warm lap to sit in or a warm kitty purring in your lap.

The catloader (aka Roxanne aka Na na) loves her dad.

Playin'

2008-10-07T05:56:00.001-07:00

Went up to the farm over the weekend; it was, after all, the opening weekend of bow season. :)

The pups got to romp and play among the hay bales. They loved it. But, no deer to be had.

We've got time.

Another year to celebrate...

2008-09-26T12:29:00.001-07:00

I celebrate the second anniversary of my 29th birthday today...YIPEE!

Today must be an online quiz day...

2008-09-16T10:03:00.000-07:00

Here's another one (this one is from Susannah):

http://www.strangegirl.com/emma/quiz.php

You are Anne Elliot of Persuasion! Let's face it; you're easily persuaded, particularly when friends and relatives try to use "the Elliot way" against you. But this doesn't mean that you don't have conviction. Actually, your sense of duty is overwhelming. And though you won't stick your neck out too often, you have learned to speak up when it counts. To boot, you know how to handle sticky situations. You love deeply and constantly.

Color and Hue Quiz

2008-09-16T09:45:00.000-07:00

I stole this this quiz from Sernin...thought it was fun. See how you do!

http://www.xrite.com/custom_page.aspx?PageID=77

Line those colors up!

Here's my info:

Your score: 11
Gender: Female
Age range: 30-39
Best score for your gender and age range: 0
Highest score for your gender and age range: 1476

More pictures of Snow Creek...

2008-09-09T06:14:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Amy for the additional pictures!

WHITEWATER!!! In September no less...

2008-09-08T10:21:00.000-07:00

We had water in September thanks to Gustav. So, a few of us brave souls decided to make the best of a beautiful Saturday and go paddling. As you can see, we had a lot of water...and fun!

Gustav...in Arkansas

2008-09-03T10:05:00.001-07:00

This is one view from the window(s) in my office. Typically, the green trees you see are, by this time of the year (just coming off August), brown.

Not so much this year. We had two high water events earlier in the year (March and April) and now, we are in the midst of dealing with what is left of Hurricane Gustav. Couple that with the fact we really didn't have a scorching summer (we had some rain throughout June, July, and August), and you get green trees. I hope this means we will have a beautiful fall (the silver lining in all those grey clouds!).

Most predictions are saying the State of Arkansas could get up to 10 inches in some areas. That could be a bad thing.

We're watching this event closely and I hope this storm will soon pass (without any further damage). We had some big trees come down in the neighborhood and I've been hearing that from people all over the office.

It's a month of Birthdays!

2008-08-25T08:49:00.001-07:00

In retrospect, I should have labeled a post for all birthdays in August...I didn't realize we had so many wonderful reasons to celebrate!

Little Garrett is officially a year old--how time flies. We have watched him grow from newborn to almost walking. Maybe next time I see him, he will be walking! I'm sorry to say I missed his birthday party, but I was wishing him many happy birthday wishes from home.

We had two more birthdays over the weekend and I was told by a little bird it was also an anniversary weekend for Mom and Pop Funk. Both Mom Funk and Matt, who share the same birthday (!), celebrated on Sunday. Happy birthday to you both!!

And Happy Anniversary to Mom and Pop Funk. I hope you have many more wonderful years to share together!

I have one more birthday to note for August...Happy Birthday to my dear friend and sis, Gretchen. Even though you're far away, I wish you many good wishes on your day!

Happy Birthday!!

2008-08-18T06:59:00.001-07:00

Another birthday celebrated for a good friend. Happy Birthday Joel!

Books

2008-08-08T13:24:00.000-07:00

Done! I really, really, REALLY enjoyed reading Stephenie Meyer's Twighlight series. Just about as much as the Harry Potter phenom. It was enough to keep me up very late (or early depending on how you look at it).

Happy Birthday!!

2008-07-29T07:00:00.001-07:00

We've been celebrating like fools of late...Mitchell and his cousin, Jon, both celebrated a milestone birthday...Sweet 16...on the 28th. That old Ford you see in one of the pictures is the truck Mitchell and Blu went in on together...yes, Mitchell now has a vehicle. But, he has yet to get his permit (and insurance!!). We'll get that worked out soon, though.

And our good friend Beck celebrates his birthday TODAY...Happy Birthday Beck!

Best Action/Superhero Movie in a LONG Time...

2008-07-22T05:26:00.000-07:00

I went to see "The Dark Knight" last night and I was NOT disappointed. Love, love, LOVE this movie. Very well done.

Christian Bale plays Batman/Bruce Wayne so well...very impressed with the dynamic between the two roles. And Heath Ledger ...WOW. Jack Nicholson has NOTHING on him for the role of the Joker. Amazing job done by Heath. All-around, the cast for this movie was GREAT. Come Oscar time, I hope this movie rakes in all the gold.

This is the type of movie that makes you fall in love with movies all over again.

Happy Birthday, America!

2008-07-10T05:08:00.000-07:00

A good ol' fashioned water balloon fight, fresh blackberries, and good times with good friends...what more could one want to celebrate the 4th of July??

I hope everyone had a great holiday weekend!

A planner...

2008-07-01T05:09:00.000-07:00

Earlier this summer, I went to the zoo with some friends. I took this picture and at the time, I thought this little fellow must be a planner.

He/she saw the rest of us on the other side of the pond (you can't really see the pond in the picture, but it's there--and it's filled with koi), feeding the fish, and he/she actually moved closer to the edge of the pond so that he/she could 'catch' the fish food (must be good stuff).

Smart fellow. He had it all planned out.

Bunnies, birthdays, and babies

2008-06-26T12:47:00.001-07:00

The following is my husband's description of how we came about befriending our hoppy friend (in the hat):

Dana and I were goobing in the garage last night, when we saw something moving under her truck…. We immediately thought it was a rat! Dana jumped up into her seat, and started to scream (not really...I was saying "It's a rat, it's a rat and I don't want a rat in the garage! All of this while trying to get a broom to swat at it before it got stuck in the garage) when it suddenly came out from underneath her truck and started to make it’s way into the garage. It was a fast little thing, and because we had the light off we really couldn’t make out what it was…….. As the strange creature had made it’s way to the corner, behind our brooms, I managed to get Dana from the top of the table to turn the light on! I eased my way over to the area in which the danger hid and………………………………………………………………..

BAM this guy jumped out ready to defend his corner in our garage!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

He immediately recognized that I was just a tad bit bigger than him, so he decided to take me on a wild wabbit chase all over our yard / garage…. He finally just gave up and let me grab him. We loved on the poor guy for just right at an hour or so. When we freed him back into the yard, it actually didn’t want to go.

And his definition of 'goobing':

Definition of “Goobing Around”

Main Entry: goobing around
Pronunciation: \ˈgüb-ˌa-round\
Function: noun
Date: 1682
: When Blu evades work or responsibility while sitting in his garage drinking beer or other adult beverages and smoking cigarettes.

We celebrated Amy Sue's birthday Wednesday night with a surprise party. I think she was surprised.

And finally, Garrett with all his smiles, loves being in a canoe. Future paddler? Definitely.

Home Alone.

2008-06-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

Sigh. On the agenda for the weekend:

Clean house!
Organize
Movies--Going to see 'Get Smart'. This is the first time in a very long time I have been to the movies on an opening weekend. Well, I guess it's been since the last Harry Potter movie. Those have a special reserve. And if I get a wild hair, I may even try to see 'Sex in the City'. We'll see.
Spending time with an old friend and her two boys. Going to the neighborhood pool (if we can lay claim to a spot--it's a pretty popular place to be!).
Relaxing.

It's a treat to be able to spend time by myself--time to 'recharge' those batteries!

Motley Crewe

2008-06-16T13:11:00.000-07:00

OK...I think THIS is the last one. Thanks Nat!

This one is the 'group' shot, sans my hubby who decided he wanted no part in the picture taking festivities that day.

Last of the 2008 PBC pictures...I think.

2008-05-29T13:21:00.001-07:00

The latest action shots to come in...what a great time we had. Can't wait until next time!

Zoo Day!

2008-05-29T13:01:00.001-07:00

I had the opportunity to tag along with some very good friends' of mine as they took their daughter to the Zoo for the first time.

It was such an amazing day--beautiful in every way--and I am so glad they let me share in this moment with them.

Back to San Antonio...

2008-05-29T12:46:00.001-07:00

We had a national conference in San Antonio last week. Got to meet up with a gaggle of PA classmates, plus some folks from around the country I hadn't seen since going through the PA Program a couple of years ago. It was nice to catch up with them; I didn't get to participate in much of the conference (well, not as much as I would have liked) as I was tagged to help with 'behind-the-scenes' duties.

I thought it was a good conference overall.

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-05-11T08:42:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day

2008-05-08T06:29:00.000-07:00

In honor of Mother's Day this upcoming Sunday:

Your Mother Is Always With You

Your mother is always with you...

She's the whisper of the leavesas you walk down the street.

She's the smell of bleach inyour freshly laundered socks.

She's the cool hand on yourbrow when you're not well.

Your mother lives insideyour laughter. She's crystallized in every tear drop...

She's the place you came from, your first home...

She's the map youfollow with every step that you take.

She's your first love and your first heartbreak....and nothing on earth can separate you.

Not time, Not space...Not even death....will ever separate you from your mother....

You carry her inside of you....

- Author Unknown.

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-05-06T09:52:00.001-07:00

Buzzard Roost, Arkansas

2008-05-06T05:37:00.000-07:00

This was, by far, the BEST 4-wheeler riding spot we have been to in Arkansas to-date. I love, love, loved it. It was absolutely gorgeous--the weather was beautiful and the views were fantastic. I have pictures of the actual 'Buzzard Roost' area, but it's taking blogger quite a while to upload photos, so I opted to post just this one (my favorite spot on the trip).

We found this stair-step waterfall off the beaten path (literally). Someone else had also set up camp (not while we were there), so it must be a favorite spot by those who can find it.

Speaking of finding things...this place (Buzzard Roost) is not marked on any map. We happened across it via some good friends' diggings (Nutz and Beck) and also by catching AETN's special on it (see the YouTube video clip here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzVeENcb0tQ&feature=related) It is such an awesome place. I can't believe we have such a gem here in this great outdoors state!

We are counting down the days until we can visit again!

More of PBC 2008...

2008-05-01T05:25:00.001-07:00

I thieved these shots from my husband and from Amy...good pictures! It was a grand time and fun was had by all!

PBC 2008

2008-04-25T06:57:00.001-07:00

Shrimp Cocktail and Getting Ready for PBC 2008!

2008-04-15T05:31:00.001-07:00

It would seem that we have been delving into our inner Louisiana-Cajun-selves seeing as how we have had the opportunity to dine on mudbugs and now fresh shrimp. Yum! I took what we didn't eat over the weekend and mixed it in with some fettucine (Mitchell's own recipe! He'll be a chef yet!) last night for dinner and it was YUMMY.

We are also getting ready for the annual Parrot Bay Classic, being held on the mighty Buffalo River this weekend. Since we have had so much rain these past few weeks, it should be a mighty good ride down the river. They are calling for a bit of more rain Thursday into Friday...hopefully, not too much!

March did not go out like a lamb...

2008-04-01T05:43:00.001-07:00

That old saying, "March comes in like a lion, and out like a lamb"...well, not so much this year. It snowed the first few days of the month--very unusual for us to get snow (read earlier blogs). And we've gotten a lot of rain. More rain than the great state of Arkansas can handle. For once, I hope it stops raining.

Birthdays!!!!

2008-04-01T05:40:00.001-07:00

Birthdays in March...Spenser D turned the big 11 and our good friend Brent marked his 34th!

Home, Sweet Home

2008-03-23T16:06:00.000-07:00

I have been away from home this past week...any guesses as to where my travels have led me to? It's a town known for having a prison in the middle of the bay, a very famous chocolate factory, and the best sourdough bread in the world.

But, I did not leave my heart there. It was back home in Little Rock the whole time!

Fish and Lightening

2008-03-14T05:39:00.000-07:00

My husband is a true fisherman. It's getting to be that time of year!

And...we had some pretty rockin' thunderstorms roll through Little Rock last night. I managed to capture a decent shot of some of the fireworks.

Eleanor Grace

2008-03-13T12:38:00.000-07:00

More baby pictures to share... :)

My very close friend (she was my roomie in college) and her husband (whom I also went to college with) welcomed their daughter, Eleanor Grace, to the world back in November 2007. She was a couple months early; however, the family is doing well. These are some recent family shots.

She is such a cutie!

Congratulations Gretchen and Jeremy!

Lindley is Here! Diaper shower at Whole Hog...

2008-03-11T11:25:00.000-07:00

We had a diaper shower for our friend, Jennifer, at Whole Hog today. Mom and baby have a wonderful glow about them! Congratulations!

And the snow keeps coming...

2008-03-08T06:12:00.001-08:00

We had another snowfall on Friday. Our weather for March has been extremely strange. It's nice to see the snow. I secretly wanted it to snow like this...guess I got my wish! Katie absolutely loved the snow...it took Zip a little while to warm up to it, but once he did, we all had a lot of fun.

Blu and I drove around our neighborhood (the roads weren't too bad) and we captured the snowman image (seen pictured) and realized not only did he have a cheesehead on top of his head, but he also had a #4...what a great tribute to a great football player who recently announced his retirement after 17 seasons in the NFL. Go PACKERS! (yes, I am a closet Packers fan and will miss the class and sincerity of Mr. Farve).

Mudbugs! And SNOW! All in the first few days of March...

2008-03-03T09:32:00.000-08:00

Blu and Mitchell went fishing on Lake Chicot over the weekend--it was a beautiful weekend, highs in the low 70's. Not too many fish caught, but they did bring home some crawdads. We had etouffee' Monday night. Yum!

This past Tuesday, we had a freak snowfall. Very unexpected. And now, they are calling for more snow on Friday (yes, the day I take the test). I've decided I AM GOING TO TAKE THIS TEST...after all, I have four-wheel drive and my sanity is worth saving (at least to me).

Scattergories

2008-03-01T08:26:00.000-08:00

"SCATTERGORIES" ...It's harder than it looks! Copy and paste into your blog and try it!

**Use the 1st letter of your name to answer each of the following --they have to be real places, names, things ...nothing made up! You CAN'T use your name for the boy/girl name question.

What is your name...........................Dana
4 Letter word....................................Dare
Vehicle................................................Durango
City......................................................Dublin, Ireland
Boy Name...........................................Dagmar
Girl Name...........................................Darby
Alcoholic Drink...................................Dark and Stormy Occupation..........................................Daredevil
Something you wear..........................Dungarees
Celebrity..............................................Doris Day
Food......................................................Dim sum
Something found in a bathroom........Drainage pipe
Reason for being late...........................Daydreaming
Cartoon Character...............................Daffy Duck
Something you shout...........................Darn
Animal....................................................Dog
Body part...............................................Derrière (yeah, I said it)
Word to describe you............................Dedicated

Test Anxiety

2008-02-27T08:32:00.000-08:00

The reason for my sleepless nights...an upcoming $555 test. Good for my job, good for my career...bad for my stress levels. I had a dream in which a former (retired) boss had us lined up, telling us whether we passed or failed. Of course, in this dream, I failed. Sigh.

Wish me luck...I take this test on March 7th.

Cold. Colder. Warmer. Warmer. Frozen.

2008-02-01T05:38:00.000-08:00

If you look closely, you can see the icicles. We've been having some interesting weather here in Arkansas...one day it will be mid-50's; the next, mid-60's (we even hit lower 70's earlier this week); and then the bottom falls out...upper 20's.

This is the only place I know where I have had the heat on in the AM, the air conditioning at lunch, and then heat back on in the late PM. Sigh.

What's Playing??

2008-01-11T05:36:00.000-08:00

Our nights this past week have been spent watching this series. It was like movie-crack for us. We loved it, every minute of it. There are reports that a similar HBO series, (The Pacific) featuring the Pacific theater during WWII, will premier in 2009. And yes, we will watch that one too.

Mitchell has requested we also watch "Saving Private Ryan". That was a (good) surprise request.

A Redneck New Year's Christmas...

2008-01-09T09:21:00.000-08:00

As promised, here's some shots from this year's 'Redneck New Year's Christmas'. For those that aren't familiar with this shin-dig...for the past 3 years, a group of us have gotten together to ring in the new year Arkansas Redneck style in the backwoods of Arkansas. The location changes every year and you have to know the secret headlock to find out where we are going each time. Much fun was had by all and no casualties...well, except for Ken's brother not being allowed to leave camp for a day (but that's another story)...were reported. Thanks to Amy for providing the wonderful pictures of our 4 wheeler riding adventure!

Happy (Belated) New Year! It's 2008!

2008-01-03T05:23:00.001-08:00

2007 is long a memory and now we welcome 2008...I chose this picture because it shows a path, but you can't yet see what's around the corner...just like what lies ahead this year.

I hope everyone had a wonderful New Year's celebration...we were once again spending time out in the great Arkansas outdoors, celebrating with family and friends. (Pictures to follow, hopefully!).

The New Obsession (and a belated Merry Christmas!)

2007-12-27T05:31:00.000-08:00

Can anyone guess what our household received this Christmas? If you like playing the guitar and absolutely love all rock songs...then I bet you will have no problems guessing. My husband is getting quite good at it. BECAUSE HE PLAYS EVERY WAKING MOMENT. :)

Weekend Adventures

2007-12-12T05:26:00.001-08:00

It was time to get out in the Arkansas backwoods. We have not been able to enjoy the peace and quiet for some time now. It was a good time, not to cold (even though we were all dressed for the arctic!).

Now it's time to finish up getting ready for Christmas! Only 13 more days...

Happy Birthday to My Honey!!

2007-11-28T05:03:00.000-08:00

He is one HANDSOME Birthday boy!!

A Double-Digit Birthday

2007-11-20T05:27:00.001-08:00

See if you can count the candles to find out what age we celebrated! Happy Birthday!

Words You Never Want to Hear While Flying in an Airplane.

2007-11-15T05:08:00.000-08:00

Pilot on intercom: "Uh, folks, I'm going to have the flight crew instruct you guys on how prepare for an emergency landing. This is just an extreme precaution. It seems we hit a coyote during our take off from Denver...All of our systems are indicating everything is fine, but we just want to be cautious. So, please cooperate with the crew and we'll make it to Portland just fine."

This happened on my recent trip to Portland. I thought he was joking. Not so.

We made it to Portland, bells and whistles ringing. The remainder of the trip was quiet; the return flight experienced no problems at all.

The mighty hunters

2007-10-22T05:38:00.001-07:00

Blu's son, Mitchell, shot his first buck on Sunday. Muzzle loading. Our nephew, John, shot an elk in Colorado over the weekend.

Another reason to love fall...

2007-10-11T07:20:00.000-07:00

This was taken by a co-worker who had the opportunity to travel to Kalispell, Montana for training. Lucky dog.

Fall is my FAVORITE season

2007-10-10T07:54:00.000-07:00

It's beginning to FINALLY cool down here in the Natural State. Of course, now I say that and we'll go through yet another heat wave. Sigh.

I love this time of year. When there's just that hint of crisp in the early morning air and folks are just starting to put up their Halloween decorations (have I said that some retail stores--names not mentioned, but you know who I'm talking about--have already put out their Christmas decorations). Really Big Sigh.

I've realized that along with Christmas, Halloween ranks right up there as a favorite holiday. I'm really excited about being in our neighborhood for Halloween this year. Now, ask me the day after and I may be singing a different tune.

I'm hoping for some good fall colors too. You know...the ones that just make you stop and appreciate that moment in time. Taking a long drive out in the country somewhere, on a beautiful sun-filled, cloud-less sky day.

I hope everyone out there is having a wonderful fall season filled with many happy fall memories!

What it feels like to be 30

2007-09-26T05:29:00.001-07:00

Today, I celebrate the first anniversary of my 29th birthday.

Weddings

2007-09-17T06:15:00.000-07:00

Weddings are so beautiful. This one was held outside, on Saturday...and it couldn't have been more perfect. It was absolutely lovely. Congratulations to the happy couple!

And, of course it wouldn't be a wedding in Arkansas without a HOG groom's cake!

Passing the TEST

2007-09-14T05:17:00.000-07:00

I passed the test that comes at the end of Hunter's Education class. I can now legally obtain a hunter's license in the state of Arkansas. We'll see...

Thursday Nite Lights

2007-09-07T07:55:00.000-07:00

Mitchell had his first football game last night. Unfortunately, we lost, but he did well. YAY #52!!! Now all we need (for the future) is some RAZORBACK RED in the picture!!

Labor Day Festivities

2007-09-04T05:51:00.001-07:00

We had a pretty full Labor Day weekend...including opening day for dove season, a family BBQ, the HOG game (on the radio), a visit with friends (including a new baby boy!), and a family get together (with homemade lasagna!).

Blu and Mitchell shot their limit on dove early Saturday morning; we had grilled dove marinated in Italian dressing, wrapped in bacon (yum!). I cooked ribs for the first time in a slow cooker...it turned out really well. The recipe is here: http://www.bettycrocker.com/Recipes/Recipe.aspx?recipeId=6324 I had a little more than 3 and 1/2 lbs of ribs (more like 5 lbs of ribs)...Instead of liquid smoke, I used an entire bottle of Dale's (http://www.dalesseasoning.com/); And I used an entire can of coke, plus about 3 cups of water (to make sure everything was covered for cooking). I must say, these ribs turned out really well. They cooked for about 7 hours (not the full 9 as the recipe calls for), and were falling off the bone. We did not even grill them or add any BBQ sauce.

The HOGS game opener was Saturday night...against Troy (I think they are from Alabama somewhere) and we won (46-26).

Sunday we traveled to Russellville and visited with Brent and Michelle and baby Garrett. He sure is a cutie! And a good sleeper too!

And finally on Monday, we went to another family get together complete with homemade lasagna! It was delicious all-around.

I think I need another holiday to recupe from this one!