The "B" Hive

1 Year

2011-06-30T16:31:00.003-04:00

This was Dad one year ago today.

This is Dad today. It is hard to believe that a year has gone by since he has been in his own home. A year ago, I would have never thought that he would be here today. A year with a child goes by in the blink of an eye, but with a sick parent, it seems to drag on and on. Dad is happy and is well taken care of. He has lost a lot of weight in a year but still has a great smile and laugh. We still have some good times and are able to laugh as well as cry. I am so thankful for a place like Spanish Oaks that treats all of us like family.

The Sign

2011-06-30T16:24:00.000-04:00

Blake got in trouble last night for his "mouth." This was on his door this morning! When he starts paying rent, I will make an appointment!

Tybee Island 2011

2011-06-29T20:44:00.002-04:00

We spent this past week at Tybrisa at Tybee. We had a lot of fun at the beach and the pool. Brett really enjoyed the beach and Blake and Bryson wore themselves out riding waves and finding all kinds of shells! One thing about the beach is....naptimes are really good! We sure missed Dad while we were there. He loved the beach!

The Lemonade Stand

2011-06-29T20:30:00.000-04:00

$34.00 is what they made at this lemonade stand at the front of the neighborhood. They ambushed all of the cars as they came in!!! Blake and Bryson will use this money at the beach for ice cream, etc!

Blue Eyes

2011-06-29T20:26:00.001-04:00

Aren't these the prettiest eyes you have ever seen???

Golden Isles Soccer Shootout by the Sea Champions

2011-06-29T20:14:00.004-04:00

This is the tunnel for Champions! The parents make this tunnel for the team when they win a game. This was the most intense tournament that we have played in. The Hornets wanted the win and they had to work extremely hard, especially during the last game, for the win. We are proud of all the boys!

Brett had a great time, especially when he found the water bottles in the cooler!!

And Brett had a better time when he was with Donald. Donald is his hero!!

Yearly Honor Roll for Blake

2011-06-29T20:01:00.001-04:00

Blake got Yearly Honor Roll at the 4th Grade Award Ceremony. He was not too thrilled about having his picture taken! We are soooo proud of you Blake!

Most Improved

2011-06-29T19:56:00.000-04:00

The 1st grade awards ceremony was today. Bryson got yearly honor roll, most improved and an accelerated reader award. Way to go , Bryson. We are all so proud of you!

The Pink Storm

2011-06-29T19:54:00.001-04:00

The Pink Storm has hit again!!! Bryson had a blast this season in softball. She was the catcher and loved every minute of it. I was amazed at how much all of the girls improved throughout the season!

Way to go Pink Storm!

Tybee Spring Break

2011-05-22T20:38:00.004-04:00

Rick took the day off for our last day of Spring Break and we headed to Tybee for a day at the beach. Brett absolutely LOVED it and wore himself out. Jellyfish were everywhere. I was surprised to see them out this early in the season.

The Royal Wedding

2011-05-22T20:03:00.021-04:00

Prince William and Catherine Middleton got married on April 29th. There was so much excitement about this wedding that we HAD to get up just to see them get married at 6:00am our time. I vividly remember Prince Charles and Lady Diana getting married. I was at Magga and Papa's house and I remember measuring their hallway. It was the same length as Diana's train.

Bendy Grainger had a "wedding" party at 5:00am. Everyone wore their pajamas and a hat! We had donuts, fruit, coffee and "sparkling" juice to celebrate the BIG event! I did not think that Bryson would get up, but as soon as I woke up, she was up and ready to go! Mom went with us! We had a great time and hopefully Bryson will have the same memories that I have of the Royal wedding!!

Hide and Seek- we lost

2011-04-26T21:11:00.000-04:00

Brett did not get a nap today. He was standing in the sunroom talking to me downstairs and next thing I knew, Rick was yelling that Brett was missing. We called and called for him but he did not answer. I knew that he was not in the backyard or pool since I was downstairs. Rick does not usually panic, but he was really freaking out.
We found him about 10 minutes later in the corner of the sunroom like this............

Notice the pillow (Bryson's purse)! Poor thing! He was worn out!!

Easter 2011

2011-04-26T21:04:00.000-04:00

Blake and Bryson left the Easter bunny notes........

and carrots..........

And the Easter bunny left Blake, Bryson and Brett baskets!

They were excited and woke up at 7:00.

We got dressed in time to make it to early church. Brett wore Blake's easter outfit from when he was 21/2. They looked so pretty and handsome.

It was a very relaxing day by the pool and then a nice nap that afternoon!

Easter at Mom's, Egg Hunt and Dyeing Eggs

2011-04-26T20:59:00.001-04:00

We had Easter dinner Saturday night at Mom's. We also dyed eggs and had an egg hunt. The Easter bunny left a basket for Blake, Bryson and Brett! We had a great time. Notice Brant's egg...it's the deformed one.

Brant's egg

Easter with Dad

2011-04-26T20:47:00.000-04:00

We spent Saturday with Dad. He walked across the street to a little stream and we had a really good visit! Brant even brought him a cigar and it did not take him long to remember what to do with it! We were hoping to be able to bring him home for Easter, but Hospice did not think that it was a good idea. Fortunately, we were able to spend some quality time with him and the weather was beautiful!

The Cast is Off

2011-04-26T20:39:00.000-04:00

What a brave little boy he is!!! He did not even cry when they took his cast off! The doctor even commented on the smell! He stuffed two pennies in the cast and I had to dig them out so I am very thankful that his arm is healed!

He even had to smell it!

Jazzie the Bad Dog

2011-04-26T20:29:00.000-04:00

This is Jazzie.

Jazzie is Mom and Dad's English Mastiff.

She is 4 years old and as you can tell from the boa...is spoiled rotten.

She thinks she is a princess and demands to be treated like one.

So, Mom treats her like one.

But sometimes (a lot of times), Mom has to go places and Jazzie has to stay in the backyard behind the fence.

A princess should not be locked up and Jazzie does not like it when Mom leaves her.

This is what Mom came home to last week.

Notice the fence on the left.

It used to look like the one on the right.

Jazzie's new name is Samson. She is now a bad dog and now has invisible fencing in the backyard as well as the front yard.

Mom is not happy.

Palm Sunday 2011

2011-04-20T21:07:00.000-04:00

I am not sure how we got dressed for church and had time to take pictures, but we managed somehow!! Here are some recent pictures of the kids!

Mom's Birthday

2011-04-20T20:55:00.000-04:00

Momma turned 62 on Friday. I had been trying to think of something that would cheer her up since she has had such a rough year. I decided to ask a few of her close friends to meet us at the Toucan Cafe for lunch on Saturday to surprise her. Cathy and Lucy, Beverly and Marcia met Bryson. Mom and I for lunch. Needless to say, I don't think Mom had any idea and was very surprised. We had a great time and Cathy, Mom and Beverly figured out that they have been friends for more than 5- years. WOW! They were in each other's weddings.

As you can tell, Lucy and Bryson became fast friends!!! A man at another table enjoyed watching them together so he bought them a raspberry torte that they thoroughly enjoyed!!

We went to visit Dad after lunch and he was doing so good. He sang "Happy Birthday" to Mom and kissed her on the lips!!

I even got a kiss too!!!

Mom has had a wonderful birthday "week." Eleanor took her out to lunch yesterday and her neighbors took her out to dinner last night. Happy Birthday Mom....we love you so much and appreciate all you do for us!

Prom 2011

2011-04-20T20:47:00.000-04:00

Bryson and I went to Forsyth Park to take pictures of some of our friends for prom. Everyone looked so pretty!! Bryson enjoyed getting her picture made with Alexis, Elizabeth and Courtney!

Watch out for the Pink Storm!

2011-04-07T20:20:00.000-04:00

Bryson is on the Pink Storm team this year! Tonight was her first game. She played catcher the whole game.

She did a good job...a really good hit, but it was a foul!

Our lives have gotten doubly busy...Bryson and Blake are both playing ball this season and we are running ragged from one end of the world to the other!!! But......we wouldn't have it any other way. One day we will be bored and wish that we had something to do (at least that is what we are telling ourselves right now!!!)!

Cast Signing

2011-04-07T20:15:00.000-04:00

This was a big event in our house, so I had to take pictures of..............................................................
the signing of THE CAST!!

The Bucket

2011-04-05T20:40:00.000-04:00

Blake, Bryson, and Brett were playing pleasantly outside planting a garden.
They decide to make Brett the Boss and put him in a 5 gallon bucket so he could tell them what to do.
The bucket tips over.
Brett is in the bucket and puts his hands down to brace his fall.
He screams and it looks swollen. We go to Effingham Hospital (big mistake).
They take xrays.
Radiology tech says wrist is fractured. ER doc says it is not.
I called yesterday to get the report, but Effingham says that Brett has to call for his own report. Even after I explain that he is 2, they say that HIPPA laws protect him from disclosing any information to me......his mother.
At 3:00 the following day, radiology calls to tell us that there is a fracture.
So....we head to the Orthopedic Center and he does have a buckle fracture of the wrist.
They wanted to put a cast up to the shoulder, but I talked them down to the elbow. Hopefully, he will not wiggle out of it. We shall see.

Back to the doctor in two weeks to see how it heals. Never a dull moment in the Lee household.

Dad and his Sisters

2011-04-03T19:23:00.001-04:00

Dad's 3 sisters: Mary Alice, Cheryl and Kathy are in Savannah for a Sister's weekend at Tybee. They met us today to visit lunch and we went to Carey HIlliard's for lunch! Mom had given Dad a Coke before they came, so he was very alert and doing good. He walked well and even stood on his own for severel minutes. You should have seen his sisters...they were like a bunch of hens surrounding him to make sure that he did not fall!!! These are pictures that I will treasure!

Happy Birthday Jeanne and the 1st Egg Hunt of the Season

2011-04-03T19:14:00.001-04:00

Jeanne's 68th Birthday was March 31 but we celebrated it this Saturday with a catered lunch at her house. After dinner, the kid's had an egg hunt with candy filled eggs. Unfortunately, the adults could not participate...., but the kids had a great time!

Happy Happy Birthday to you!!!!

Rick is Over the Hill.....40!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-04-02T20:51:00.000-04:00

Rick turned 40 on March 19, 2011. At first, I was going to plan a surprise party, but to be honest with you....after 3 kids and 2 going to 2 different ballfields, I needed his help!!! So....I told him about his party and he helped me a lot!!!! We decided to have A BBQ and Oyster Roast. We had a great time with lots of great friends and family! Thank you to everyone who helped Rick celebrate!!!

Thank you everyone!!!!

Wacky Tacky Parade at School

2011-04-02T20:34:00.001-04:00

As part of the Accelerated Reader reward at school, the kids had a Wacky Tacky Parade. I am not sure what happened to the picture that I took of Blake but he was in it also! Brett was also in the parade. He walked with my class some and with Bryson's class also.

Politely reminded by Barb that I have once again fallen behind

2011-04-02T20:21:00.000-04:00

Barb reminded me yesterday that I had not written anything since Invention Convention. We've been very busy so I am working on catching up on things tonight!!

The Shirt Saver- Invention Convention

2011-03-08T19:55:00.000-05:00

Bryson had to participate in Invention Convention this year. She decided to make a seatbelt with attachments that would help keep her Grandaddy's hands occupied so that he doesn't rip his shirts. We worked on this project over a month and a half. Bryson came up with the name without any help. I think that The Shirt Saver is very appropriate!! She won 2nd place for Health and Safety. Grandaddy would be so proud!

Spring is near!!

2011-02-21T20:08:00.000-05:00

I know there is nothing wrong with Brett's ears....he heard the ice cream truck about 2 miles away! They were so excited!! Spring must be right around the corner. They were so excited!

Great Visit with Dad

2011-02-21T20:05:00.000-05:00

Spring fever has hit! The weather is so nice!! We went to visit Dad today and the weather was perfect for a walk outside! Dad was doing so good and was very happy to be outside! He walked a good bit without too much assistance! I am so thankful that I had my camera in the car, because I would have been so upset if I had missed out on these wonderful pictures!! We are continuing to be thankful for the good memories to share with Dad!

The Kookaburra Soccer Tournament

2011-02-21T20:01:00.000-05:00

The U10 Hornets competed in Sumter, SC at the Kookaburra Soccer Tournament. They won 3 games and unfortunately lost the championship. We are so proud of them for the hard work and good sportsmanship. They came in 2nd!!

She's 7!!!

2011-02-21T19:58:00.001-05:00

I can't believe she has turned 7!!! I think that it is every little girl's dream to own a horse. Bryson is not any different!! She wanted a horse party. We found the Sound Spirit Ranch about 5 miles from our house. I must say that this had to have been the best party we have ever had!! For two hours, Jet, Chance, and Doc entertained all of us and walked many miles with children on their backs!! Brett recycled his Halloween costume and was the perfect little cowboy!

Blake was in Sumter,SC at the Kookaburra Soccer Tournament playing hard to bring back the 2nd place medals!!! He made it back for the last 10 minutes of the party and was VERY upset because he did not get to ride.

Bryson is a natural. She was not afraid of the horses and as the owner said, "She is a natural. She is not afraid to boss them around and is very assertive." That describes Bryson in a nutshell!!!! Brett had no fear either!!

I even got on a horse! After seeing the pictures (which will not be posted) of Rick heaving my fat *&^ on the horse, I will be going on a diet tomorrow!!

After singing Happy Birthday and eating cake and ice cream, Bryson opened her presents.

Rick and Doc became fast friends!!

The horses were worn out so it was time to brush them and unsaddle them. Bryson listened carefully and was very attentnive to the horses.

They were hungry too!!

This horse was hot so he rolled and rolled to cool down and get the sweat off him.

Here are some more shots of the party!!

Bryson,
Seven years ago you came in to our world and things have never been the same since!!! You have brought us so many laughs and so much joy in 7 years!! Words that describe you are: spontaneous, fun, funny, happy (most of the time), fru fru (that came from Blake), sassy, smart, strong willed, and determined!!! These are wonderful qualities if you direct them in the right way. You have made us so proud this year with your grades- you have made honor roll each 9 weeks. You are very kind and compassionate. You are a natural caregiver. When you visit your Grandaddy, you always make your rounds and check on all of your "friends" at Spanish Oaks. They all look forward to seeing you and ask about you when you are not there. I have always said that I think you will be a teacher or a nurse. You will be in some kind of caregiving field. I can't wait to see if I am right. You insist on spending every Friday night with Grandmomma and hop in the car to go with her any chance you get. It doesn't matter where she is going. You are growing up way too fast. Sometimes I feel like I am talking to a teenager. You make me laugh with some of the things you come up with, especially when you say something that leaves your Daddy speechless (usually something to do with girl parts!!!). You seem soooo grown. You have so many good qualities and your Daddy and I love you with all of our hearts. Happy Birthday Sweetheart! I hope you had a great one!
Love,
Momma

The BEST Valentine Gift ever!!

2011-02-12T20:09:00.001-05:00

Dad has been such a happy camper lately and in the best moods. I can't help but think that it is the caffeine from the cokes that we bring him. Brant started this tradition of bringing Dad a McDonald's sausage biscuit and a coke on the mornings when he comes. Dad always seemed to perk up and talk a lot more. Since then, Mom and I take him a coke each time we go to see him if Brant isn't here.

Usually after about 3 or 4 sips, he will say, "WOW", or "Hello there!" and his eyes light up. I really think that Brant found the trick for Dad.

Today, we took him his coke. Rick got to Dad before I did because I was visiting another patient. Dad heard me talking but did not see me. Rick asked him if he recognized that voice. Dad said, "It's Kellie." (I can't remember the last time that he has called my name.) We got him up to walk and he did pretty good. Apparently, Dad and Mom had a lot of elelctrical energy between them because when Mom touched Dad's back, the loudest static shock sounded! Dad's face was priceless and we all laughed!

At lunch, we sat down with him to eat. I told him to say the blessing. We have done this numerous times and he never responded. Today, he bowed his head, folded his hands and said, "Lord, thank you for the food and this family and we will see you again. AAAAMMMMEEENNN!" We were in shock. Three actual, complete sentences that made sense!!! It was a great day and one that we will cherish forever. So thankful for the good days like this and so greatful for Spanish Oaks for taking such excellent care of Dad!

Trouble

2011-02-10T19:00:00.000-05:00

Hershey's Cocoa.............

GA Lock In and Thailand Mission Study

2011-02-05T20:03:00.000-05:00

Bryson went to her first Lock In at church last night. She was so excited. It was for the 1st-5th grade GA girls and was a mission study for Thailand. Bryson had soooo much fun. They did facials, manicures and pedicures, made flip flops and sachets and ate lots of food. She said that she did not like the Thailand food!

Looking for Thailand on the map

Listening to stories about Thailand

Bryson and her flip flops that she made (on left)

The chocolate facial.....her favorite part. She was definitely pampered, but exhausted!!! She said she wasn't tired when Rick picked her up this morning at 8:00, but she crawled in the bed with me and I had to wake her up at 1:00 this afternoon!!!! Those lock ins are hard!!

CGSA Boys Rule U10 Champions!!!

2011-01-31T06:59:00.001-05:00

Here are the pictures....I'll write about it later!

Happy Birthday Dad!!

2011-01-22T20:29:00.000-05:00

This picture cracks me up. Mom and Brant had decorated Dad. When I told him to smile for the camera, he did this!!! Brant said he looks Chinese!

We celebrated Dad's birthday today. It was actually on the 20th but we were all sick and could not go see him. Chestine, his nurse, had him dressed so sharp- jeans,belt, leather shoes and a knit shirt. He looked so good and was in a great mood. Cheryl and Kathy came to visit and we had a great time. Dad walked about 4 times and should sleep really good tonight!! I am so happy with these pictures! He looks so "normal," especially in the ones of the recliner. If he only had his cigar with him!!!! Happy Birthday to the best Dad and Grandaddy anyone could ever ask for. I wish things were different, but we will take these good days and appreciate them. I love you, Dad!!!

Look at Blake's face! He's helping Grandaddy blow out the candle!

Not quite sure what Dad was doing with his tongue!!

My favorite picture so far!!

Smitten and Nervous and it's Barb's fault!

2011-01-12T20:21:00.000-05:00

Blake has been asking to go to RA's at church on Wednesday night. I thought this was strange since we don't normally go to church on Wednesdays, but I told him that would be fine. Rick and I would be more than happy to take him. He said that several kids at school had been talking about how fun Wednesday nights were at church so he wanted to go. Well, he chickened out last week and said he did not want to go. As soon as he got home today, all he has talked about it going to church. He said that Rachel was going to meet him at the elevator and show him where to go. He's been talking about Rachel a lot lately, so I asked them if this was a "date." Of course he did not find this too funny, but he did admit that he liked her!!

As soon as it was time to go, Blake got hit with a terrible case of diarrhea. We had to wait a while for him to come out. I noticed that his Axe deodorant was next to the toilet with the top off!!! On the way to church, I asked him what was wrong with his stomach and was he nervous about going to church. His response was, "No, Mom. I think it was those 8 strawberry cups and 3 pieces of ham that Barb gave me at lunch."

Rachel was not at the elevator when we got there. I could tell he was disappointed. She saw me leaving and ran out of her classroom to see if Blake was there. I told her that he was in RA's. Rick has gone to get them now. I wonder what happened!

Thanks Barb!!! You helped him out again! What an excuse!!

Dad

2011-01-09T19:47:00.000-05:00

We went to see Dad today and he was doing so good! There was actually a glimmer in his eye and he made eye contact with us and talked. He was excited that Blake shot a deer and told Bryson that she looked prettier and prettier every day!

I stepped into the dining room and when I came out, Rick and Blake had Dad standing up. I have not seen Dad standing up in a while so I was surprised. Blake said that he wanted to walk. It took a little while to get him standing upright, but he did walk a good ways! As soon as he stood up, he started singing the Rawhide song. Rick said, "Rawhide!" Dad said, "Woohoo!" Then Rick asked Dad if he wanted to dance. Dad looked at him and said,"With you??" Rick said, "No, I guess not. I'm not that pretty." Dad said, "I will have to agree with that!" What great memories and laughs we had today. So thankful for the good days.

The Second Deer

2011-01-09T19:41:00.000-05:00

Blake shot his second deer this weekend. It was a 115 lb. doe. Blake is so excited! He said that he was in the deer stand praying to God that he would see a deer and one walked out of the woods! Rick said that as soon as he shot it, he said, "Thank you God!" Looks like more deer meat is headed to our freezer...not for me though!

The Note

2011-01-09T19:38:00.000-05:00

I found this note in Bryson's room in her Hello Kitty notebook. I was shocked!!! When I asked her about it, she burst out into tears and got very upset that I had found it and said that she meant to erase it.
Then, she tried to make things better by saying that I had not read what she had written about her Daddy. She looked for it and then remembered that she had thrown it away. Apparently this was the day that things did not go her way and she called Grandmomma to see if she could move in with her. That did not go her way either!

She is very upset that I have kept the note. One day she will laugh about this. Until then, she is very upset and doesn't want us to mention it! Can't imagine what those teen years will be like!

Happy New Year 2011!!

2011-01-01T19:52:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! It's hard to believe that I am starting the 3rd year of this blog. Looking back on last year, it is hard to believe that we went through so much. I am so glad that I wrote it all down so that I don't forget! My hopes for this year are for good health for all of my family and peace and mercy for Dad and MaMa. Looking forward to a calm 2011 (yeah, right)!!!

Great news!

2010-12-30T20:43:00.000-05:00

Brett went for his sedated ABR test today. The last two behavioral hearing tests have not shown good results especially in the left ear, so to be sure, they did this test today. The test took 3 hours and he laid on my chest on his back the whole time. I had to be careful not to move as this messes up the test and the ear tubes can come out. This test sends sounds through the inner ear to the brainstem. He is hooked up with electrodes on his head and ears. This measures the brain activity as the sounds are emitted. Much too complicated for me.

Anyway, his right ear shows normal hearing. The left ears shows some mild hearing loss especially in the high frequency sounds. Since his right ear is so good, they think that he will be able to compensate for the hearing loss in the left ear without hearing aids. We are so happy about his results. He will continue speech therapy and hopefully everything else will develop normally! Thank you Lord!!

It's Snowing!!!

2010-12-26T21:06:00.000-05:00

Can you believe it??? Twice in a year, it has snowed at our house!!! Yesterday we heard that there was a possibility of snow here. Can you imagine how surprised we were that it actually happened?? It snowed all day, but unfortunately, the rain from earlier kept it from snowing. It sure didn't keep the kids from playing outside!!! We were in and out of it all day and by nightfall it was accumulating on rooftops, but not on the ground. What a neat way to end the Christmas weekend! Here are the pictures of the day!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-26T20:50:00.000-05:00

Christmas morning started off at around 7:00 this morning! Brett wasn't too sure that he wanted to wake up, but he had heard so much about Santa that he wanted to check it out!!!

Santa left his footprints and surprises for everyone!

Blake was so surprised to see the Whiplash scooter he had been asking for!

And Bryson was thrilled about her Ipod touch and GoGo dog!

Brett wasn't so sure, but quickly figured out that this Santa thing was a good thing!!! This is my favoroite picture of the season....he was so surprised about EVERYTHING he got!!

Even the shaving kit!!

And the bike!

Blake enjoyed going through all of his gifts!

He got several "Brain Games." He said that he wanted these because Grandaddy loved to do these puzzles. We all had fun trying to figure them out and Rick and Sean worked on them for hours....literally. I have never seen Rick have such a long attention span!

We had a great lunch and then Laura and Bryson played Just Dane 2 on the Wii for a while....

Brett enjoyed it too! But he shot the dancers and the deer (on the hunting game) with his Pow Pow!!

Bryson got a pedicure and a makeover courtesy of Laura. She really enjoyed the girl time!!

We had a good Christmas. We went to visit Dad and had dinner with him. He was doing good. When I told him, "Merry Christmas" he said, "Good Christmas." Christmas sure won't be the same without him here, but we had a good day and enjoyed our visit with him. His name came up several times during the day about what he would have been doing if he was here with us. Hoping everyone had a great Christmas and remembers the Reason for the Season!

Christmas Eve at Mom's

2010-12-26T19:57:00.000-05:00

We had our traditional Christmas Eve at Mom's house. The only thing missing was Dad. Mom made her great Chicken Chowder and we ate quickly so the kids could open their presents. I remember how exciting that was. It seemed like the parents took forever to eat!!!!

Bryson and Mom had a special gift to open together....they (and me) are going to see Beauty and the Beast and Mamma Mia the Musical when it comes to Savannah! It will be a fun girls night out. Bryson and Momma were so surprised when they opened it!!

Brett got a bike to keep at Grandmomma's house so that he can ride around her block.

Bryson's new outfit. I think she looks like Punky Brewster!!

Blake's favorite of the night...Camo Crocs!!

And the traditional gift from Grandmomma and Grandaddy...Guiness 2011 and Ripley's 2011

Brett;s favorite gift of Christmas...a real Pow Pow...the pop gun from Bass Pro Shop. He has shot this gun no less than 400 times (seriously) AND sleeps with it!!

Bryson got new monogrammed luggage and a book light from Grandmomma and Grandaddy!

From Brant: Monkey Butt Powder....Blake loves it!

As soon as we got home, Brett got a bath and Pow Powed some more.

We put the cookies and milk out for Santa....

and the reindeer food out for the reindeers!!!! Now it's off to bed to wait for Santa and TRY to sleep!

Forever Friends

2010-12-20T09:06:00.000-05:00

I "borrowed" this post from Cathy's blog. They have been so generous to check on Dad and visit. After their visit on Saturday, Cathy posted this. Thank you so much for your kind words and your friendship. It means so much to all of us.

Bubba and I have been friends

with Robert and Sandra Rushing

since we were teenagers.

We were in each others weddings.

Sandy and I were pregnant with

Brant and Amanda at the same time.

Before the kids came,

we would sit up into the early hours of the morning

playing cards and laughing our heads off.

Today we were reminiscing about

a trip we took to the mountains in the dead of winter.

We were in Robert's dads small station wagon

and we had to stop and put on snow chains

because it was snowing so hard.

Robert has Alzheimer's disease.

He is living in a care facility.

We are all very sad.

God is in control of all of this,

but it is still a hard course to walk down.

God tonight I pray for

Your grace and mercy and kindness to Robert &Sandy,

Kellie & Rick, Brant, and Blake, Bryson, and Brett.

May they feel Your comfort and love in this season and the days to come.

We love all of you,

bubba & cathy

Christmas at the Carters

2010-12-19T21:33:00.001-05:00

Yesterday we had Christmas at Jeanne and Dick's house. All of us were there except for Lee, Kevin, Ava and Carter. We missed you! The children were very impatient and ready to open gifts. I remember that feeling oh so well!!!! I still think the parents ate extra slow that night so that we had to wait longer to open our girfts!

It was a whirlwind and I think that I have finjally figured out who gave what. Hopefully my children spoke to everyone and told them thank you, We will be enjoying the last week of the Christmas season this week off of work. Lots of cleaning and fun to do. Next stop will be MaMa's Christmas party on Tuesday!

Spanish Oaks Christmas Party

2010-12-15T22:09:00.000-05:00

Today was Dad's Christmas Party at Spanish Oaks. Once again, the Rushing's crashed the party. The only one missing was Brant and he could not come because of work. Dad had his whole family there including his neices- Denise and Lori, and his great nephews- Nick and Brayden. Dad was not too chipper today, but we made the most of it and had a great time. He looked so handsome!

I am so excited about this picture. Unfortunately, there won't be as many "good" pictures of Brett and Dad, but this one definitely ranks up there as one of the best and definitely one of my favorites!!!

To Believe or Not To Believe....

2010-12-14T21:03:00.000-05:00

that is the question............

Here they are on Northpole.com. Blake is trying really hard to convince me ( and I think himself) that there is a Santa Claus.

Here's how it all began:

Rick said to me the other day, "You know that Blake does not believe in Santa anymore?"

Me (horrified): "NOOOOOOOO, how do you know?"

Rick: "Well, he told me the other night at the hunting club that he knew that the parents were really Santa. I told him that he better believe and he better not tell his Momma that he did not believe."

Me: "WHAAAAT???? You didn't try to convince him that there really is a Santa?"

Rick: "No, Kellie...he's 10."

Needless to say, I fussed and fussed at Rick and told him that he had to convince Blake that there was a Santa. Later, I told Blake that someone told me that he no longer believed. He really tried to play dumb with me and convince me that he does. Later, he fussed at Rick for "busting him out to Momma." Since then, he swears that he does believe and I have given him some major guilt trips. He is watching me so carefully...checking the car, looking to see where the elf is and if he has moved and making not so subtle hints about what Santa does. I am definitely on my P's and Q's right now trying to stay on top of things.

Even if he knows the truth, I don't want to know. It will break my heart. I would just rather keep things like they are. I never want my kids to lose the spirit of Christmas!! We'll see what happens.....

Christmas Card 2010

2010-12-05T19:36:00.000-05:00

I have no idea how we did it, but somehow we seemed to get dressed early for church AND take pictures that may even qualify for this year's Christmas card...and there was no fighting involved!!!! By the way, the outfit that Brett has on was the same on that Blake wore 8 years ago...all the way down to the shoes!!

Rincon Christmas Parade

2010-12-05T19:30:00.000-05:00

We're ready for a parade!!! Santa came to Rincon at the Rincon Christmas parade!!! This was the first parade that Brett really remembers, and he sure did get excited. Just watching him wave and get so excited about everything in the parade made it worth it! He and Bryson waved at everyone while Blake collected as much candy as he could. Capt. John Derst passed out bread and GA Pacific passed out toilet paper! At the end of the parade, we had a whole loaf of bread and 2 packs of toilet paper thanks to Blake!!!! Brett's friend Neal sat with us but did not like for us to take his picture!

Bryson and Elizabeth Huggins!

The Alee Temple Shriners were the best!

And Santa made his grnad appearance!

Of course, Brett loved the fire truck!!!

Thanksgiving 2010- The "New" Normal

2010-12-05T19:20:00.000-05:00

I must say that this was the hardest Thanksgiving ever. We really wanted Dad to be able to come to lunch with us, but after several discussions with his hospice nurse, it was decided that it would not be in Dad's best interests. As much as I knew this was the truth, it was still hard to hear, so we went to Plan B and ate lunch with Dad at Spanish Oaks and then had dinner at our house. Brant spent the morning with Dad and gave him a 55 oz. Dr. Pepper so Dad was in a great mood and pretty talkative!!!! Spanish Oaks is such a wonderful place and they do a lot to make not only the residents feel good, but also the family members,

Momma decided that she wanted a kiss, so we told Dad to kiss her. The pictures below tell the story. We had a great laugh about this!!!

I love this picture!!!

Notice Bryson's hand in the background pushing Dad towards Mom!!!!!

Of course, Bryson had to have a kiss too!

Thanksgiving lunch.....

After visiting Dad, Bryson and Grandmomma went to visit MaMa. Bryson took a lot of these pictures. She did a great job!!!

Then we had dinner at our house. This was the kid's table.

The holidays are the hardest and they are just beginning. We are so lucky to have such a close family and I feel so sorry for those who do not have friends and family to get through these tough times. One thing about it is...with small children, you sure can't get too depressed for too long! I am so thankful for Blake, Bryson and Brett. They will never know how much joy they bring to us especially during such difficult times.

Coastal Georgia U10 Soccer Champs!!!!!

2010-11-16T19:08:00.000-05:00

We came from the bottom all the way to the top!!!! The Rincon Raiders are the Coastal Georgia U10 Soccer Champs!!!

After 5 games in 2 days, we won!!! These boys proudly earned their medals and were so excited!!!

This was one of the two best goalies in the tournament. Not a ball got past him. Way to go Blake!!! We are so proud of you!!!

Until next season......we will enjoy our title!!!

Blake's PTO Performance

2010-11-02T20:49:00.000-04:00

Blake's 4th grade PTO performance was tonight. It was a country western theme with square dancing!!! Blake begged me not to make him perform because he did not want to dance with a girl!! It's the only time that I see him perform, so he had too!! He did such a good job!!

Trick or Treat!!!

2010-10-31T20:13:00.002-04:00

It's God's Gift to Women, Pinkalicious and the Cowboy!!!! Happy Halloween 2010!

We got dressed early to go see Grandaddy and have fun with him. Jazzie went too! Blake put his bow and the witch's hat on Grandaddy!!

I love this picture. Can you tell that Blake LOVES his Grandaddy???

Trying to get everyone to cooperate at the same time was a feat...but I think we finally got some good ones!

After a much needed nap, we went to Grandmomma's to Trick or Treat!

Then it was off to our own neighborhood to trick or treat with friends.

Blake and Noah.....I'm thinking senior yearbook pic!!! Barb helped us with the boxes. Thank you Barb!!! These boys love you!!

The group!!!

This was my favorite picture of Brett. Now it is off to get my kids off the sugar high and to bed at a decent time tonight for school tomorrow!!!!

Blake's First Deer

2010-10-19T20:49:00.000-04:00

Rick kept telling him that it was going to happen this year....he'd shoot his first deer. Apparently, Rick is "jinxed" according to the guys at the hunting club. He never sees a deer. So, Jimmy offered to take Blake into his stand and Rick hunted alone. Blake could not keep his eyes open and fell asleep several times in the tree stand.....until.....Jimmy saw it and woke up Blake. Blake shot it twice. It was a 3 point. The usual ritual of putting the deer's blood on the face took place and these are the pictures to prove it. Hunting is not my thing but it is a big deal to Blake and his Daddy. I am proud of him, but not proud enough to eat the meat!!! This was one TIRED, smelly and nasty hunter when he got home. I don't know who was happier....Rick or Blake!