tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35958534914878754732024-03-13T16:58:58.303-04:00Whiskey Tango ...Hello!Hello! Welcome to my life. A mid-thirties gal in South Carolina sharing insights to the randomness of everyday events. You are welcome to jump in and join the fun!Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.comBlogger803125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-17271081252375969262023-12-19T05:52:00.002-05:002024-02-15T23:48:31.544-05:00Good Deed<p> At work this week we had a discussion on kindness. How does kindness affect the work place and what are examples of how we can be kinder to each other. That sort of thing. </p><p>Immediately someone spoke up with a story of how she saved the day for a lady. I immediately knew this was going to turn into a pissing contest of wonderful things we’ve done, pat me on the back for my awesomeness. Of course, I am right. The next person, brag brag brag. I knew my patience would not extend to an hour of one-upping of good deeds. </p><p>So I went next and told the story of my boss showing immense kindness and empathy for his very new employee who stayed up all night because her dad was in the ER. It was day five on the new job and I knew I would be fired. Days six and seven were similar and my boss told me to focus on family, do not worry about the job and not to worry about making the time up. Focus my energy on my family. </p><p>His response provided such comfort and peace to my parents, who felt guilty that their situation was pulling me away from my job and potentially have major affects on my keeping this job. My boss protected me so I could focus on what was going on with my parents. </p><p>These are the stories I wanted to hear. We can all brag about our nice moves but I would rather hear how someone else’s kindness made you feel. </p>Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-2480491491532864552023-11-07T09:09:00.002-05:002023-11-07T09:09:32.931-05:00Next destination: Cincinnati <p><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">D and I took a whirlwind trip to Cincinnati a few weeks ago. I really didn’t know what to expect, but ended up really loving both Covington, KY and Cincy, OH. There is this very beautiful mix of old and new, tons of art/murals, and a cool college town vibe without the bars every 10 feet.</span></div></span></div></span></span></div><p></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8dfQ5wvfg5Fc6imtu4jqrmfvGIibMwxOc4os1t9pusyJM6mZYghrYUteFWKLKCHGZv-Ohs8S_x4uPfKhoKILnEOqGePbvpoUntUN_C4yZmmvAYNDPcqrgfKyaK9gXzTRJrDbwETP8jbPTakkG8JqLLtKT3RpzgcK5_VAut3lBrHkpOAgkNK78YttiI8Q/s4032/IMG_0677.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8dfQ5wvfg5Fc6imtu4jqrmfvGIibMwxOc4os1t9pusyJM6mZYghrYUteFWKLKCHGZv-Ohs8S_x4uPfKhoKILnEOqGePbvpoUntUN_C4yZmmvAYNDPcqrgfKyaK9gXzTRJrDbwETP8jbPTakkG8JqLLtKT3RpzgcK5_VAut3lBrHkpOAgkNK78YttiI8Q/s320/IMG_0677.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVPMsrmkgiKZe7zL2QgKjOEPfugyGREujpkQzvENFfGbFRw5uZPCGIcki7zDnT5UQM_tXnoWQUhE7NicFyjBK21iunLUqOQfbWpZDS2HiN492w00jIv-3q7ruKeAsC3Cyx3L_PKiO8bHarQBm6KZyzEpDsYaT49c1kLKke9xUFrUCohRtNMImNkiveN70/s4032/IMG_0680.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVPMsrmkgiKZe7zL2QgKjOEPfugyGREujpkQzvENFfGbFRw5uZPCGIcki7zDnT5UQM_tXnoWQUhE7NicFyjBK21iunLUqOQfbWpZDS2HiN492w00jIv-3q7ruKeAsC3Cyx3L_PKiO8bHarQBm6KZyzEpDsYaT49c1kLKke9xUFrUCohRtNMImNkiveN70/s320/IMG_0680.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yes, I took a pic of the bathroom. So nice!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>But first, we had to stop at Buc-ees. Twice. Because who doesn’t need a little more Buc-ees in their life?! <div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DQ_HSNDHhAPTHwHVd0SwAsH7J0qxMc4X1VI9qq6CTJMqQxncNDDXahszFKPXo4_kPbV-zdpZLlj3Y4U4-LVdlenHc7Ejca_zuyARX5st0RKdRnrlmEdbvJJwoLIVCSYlXPlA9YA-pTuTNzITbJsvnLWcCJRYXNUGnTBJiZdWCZ2R5Xt24geT-Y-3_g0/s3022/IMG_0692.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3022" data-original-width="2762" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6DQ_HSNDHhAPTHwHVd0SwAsH7J0qxMc4X1VI9qq6CTJMqQxncNDDXahszFKPXo4_kPbV-zdpZLlj3Y4U4-LVdlenHc7Ejca_zuyARX5st0RKdRnrlmEdbvJJwoLIVCSYlXPlA9YA-pTuTNzITbJsvnLWcCJRYXNUGnTBJiZdWCZ2R5Xt24geT-Y-3_g0/s320/IMG_0692.jpeg" width="292" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcZhA2QMGeq6BqW3xVMJZc-lC2qyy_ZBbVy4Ren_y-klOT8_m7nvqgCeijG8pDutjPkK52T4KJ1w1P7xrqNdnPAdPkol3veXueLS_o3YlO2LQX-jUXZeTTchPstGCYJuyKhWzRSfAuSVzCHvLJX0LvCmsZO6WyHaJOPFJ8nOnN_Ipt3WSV1hVxWTsrmto/s4032/IMG_0701.heic" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcZhA2QMGeq6BqW3xVMJZc-lC2qyy_ZBbVy4Ren_y-klOT8_m7nvqgCeijG8pDutjPkK52T4KJ1w1P7xrqNdnPAdPkol3veXueLS_o3YlO2LQX-jUXZeTTchPstGCYJuyKhWzRSfAuSVzCHvLJX0LvCmsZO6WyHaJOPFJ8nOnN_Ipt3WSV1hVxWTsrmto/s320/IMG_0701.heic" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYoDWPgrLAeDheqjL_c6e4fOCB9oCCw6s30qbCgR0HC3fsL-Jw8i1aCiHZ9nWf5kCpkHTd64PJ3piTsLyoTQKfl_V_ixE_c0Vwxdwtv9Q22b_MraqAgWUyabrBcnnE_ZfIN56sgVdcv6WbuMWOsPGYWYcsFYf3Fe-z52NkvkbhdFYPT8lt0MGXwpopmxY/s4032/IMG_0718.heic" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYoDWPgrLAeDheqjL_c6e4fOCB9oCCw6s30qbCgR0HC3fsL-Jw8i1aCiHZ9nWf5kCpkHTd64PJ3piTsLyoTQKfl_V_ixE_c0Vwxdwtv9Q22b_MraqAgWUyabrBcnnE_ZfIN56sgVdcv6WbuMWOsPGYWYcsFYf3Fe-z52NkvkbhdFYPT8lt0MGXwpopmxY/s320/IMG_0718.heic" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3fr8_HBgB3r6uXErK89UJkOdFInbRL3cje5wsJg2GCVQHGbsYlYIgPRq0OZ5H5tecg_N1JgxWUkKBo5NbtMeFYedzIsLMk1VDO9-06JYpgejNfM2mwetX2tr2DFsMt6ZgbQBfgQnZhTzFAVVtSPI4hheHBjUGHCIkFjw1D2WFafyz2Lngr3Og5mkIFAQ/s3596/IMG_0720.heic" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3596" data-original-width="2697" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3fr8_HBgB3r6uXErK89UJkOdFInbRL3cje5wsJg2GCVQHGbsYlYIgPRq0OZ5H5tecg_N1JgxWUkKBo5NbtMeFYedzIsLMk1VDO9-06JYpgejNfM2mwetX2tr2DFsMt6ZgbQBfgQnZhTzFAVVtSPI4hheHBjUGHCIkFjw1D2WFafyz2Lngr3Og5mkIFAQ/s320/IMG_0720.heic" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdNH2Hwb92FJj8rX_MlbPSrXKY7Q3prt93JmpKyEwXKT9EGmNHRqz7cBP3tH8-gA1SQ4EaLKjkVyfPBAZBu5Fw8Bw2MsqHFBdCFeIJZ-H_rrEC2HDu_Du12isqRJjzoyPmHIU64YNN9XvLeC01QX1RHj9HrjuuHb4IHTWc-yF9-9l9R4TUFAXSkbq2O3g/s2519/IMG_2597.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1946" data-original-width="2519" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdNH2Hwb92FJj8rX_MlbPSrXKY7Q3prt93JmpKyEwXKT9EGmNHRqz7cBP3tH8-gA1SQ4EaLKjkVyfPBAZBu5Fw8Bw2MsqHFBdCFeIJZ-H_rrEC2HDu_Du12isqRJjzoyPmHIU64YNN9XvLeC01QX1RHj9HrjuuHb4IHTWc-yF9-9l9R4TUFAXSkbq2O3g/s320/IMG_2597.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />So I have this thing of taking pics with the name Covington, so we stayed in Covington, KY, and completed my fourth Covington photo :) We found a sunflower farm, beautiful view of Cincinnati across the river and a cool old/new mix of buildings. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-cs8L58InJjQe7nub3Yu-VNJnb9xRxd9hnKy3-Byj7CEiAk9-UNaQFFJ5oFEta1hwl8-KnALLe9Z4YFmSfkaqRWRxrX5khCg341rWWsDPkeLJE35-TiyFMcGGEjt7MbSJdErGhGE2GiKtBtoM06gcGiqOqvjZM6xxMaNiSyk835-7FwUcerUkoZo1aPo/s2579/IMG_0733.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1934" data-original-width="2579" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-cs8L58InJjQe7nub3Yu-VNJnb9xRxd9hnKy3-Byj7CEiAk9-UNaQFFJ5oFEta1hwl8-KnALLe9Z4YFmSfkaqRWRxrX5khCg341rWWsDPkeLJE35-TiyFMcGGEjt7MbSJdErGhGE2GiKtBtoM06gcGiqOqvjZM6xxMaNiSyk835-7FwUcerUkoZo1aPo/s320/IMG_0733.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnOsVAaoDi2V1Z8j4VyaG0j6Vuf5PKTpH1q5_UWD1b8ALGFBg8zKSQJSYSN6I_pv7B7bEzTf5SaiMYnMhvyTv_vjMU_TRvOUt4GS7lBXaFRLwKQq0LqnAgs7IpTMdevAwh4TyiMegJypHndPPe9kJHZs3l263ONBlMkwtPg1p8eZdy7zEM_PgavrIH76A/s2420/IMG_0732.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1815" data-original-width="2420" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnOsVAaoDi2V1Z8j4VyaG0j6Vuf5PKTpH1q5_UWD1b8ALGFBg8zKSQJSYSN6I_pv7B7bEzTf5SaiMYnMhvyTv_vjMU_TRvOUt4GS7lBXaFRLwKQq0LqnAgs7IpTMdevAwh4TyiMegJypHndPPe9kJHZs3l263ONBlMkwtPg1p8eZdy7zEM_PgavrIH76A/s320/IMG_0732.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUBNCzE6wrSbfQlkMtEHAt1YrJZiKwUZgdF2do9L0e3otRed6JQDhexPTBIb8wMQJFIJY13KILIm3oF4qWwuOJ7Kjq3yL5PF-eVVCYWFqv3LEmlWtRK-JSKx1fYj5etf4k2IACHnOcM9QVsy90-la32kePrWYe69pMSQn5JBSFHxcIQJPFAMs-dBWAusk/s4032/IMG_0724.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUBNCzE6wrSbfQlkMtEHAt1YrJZiKwUZgdF2do9L0e3otRed6JQDhexPTBIb8wMQJFIJY13KILIm3oF4qWwuOJ7Kjq3yL5PF-eVVCYWFqv3LEmlWtRK-JSKx1fYj5etf4k2IACHnOcM9QVsy90-la32kePrWYe69pMSQn5JBSFHxcIQJPFAMs-dBWAusk/s320/IMG_0724.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Cincinnati was also very beautiful with murals on every surface. It surprised me how much I liked both cities!! Most everyone was friendly, the city was easy to navigate, and very easy to walk. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDZ6IPhl8QGeKnOed8aJ4-ED-OGeBM_PkJXDGW6_XzcVpKYs3dT9D9EmZhmWLW9d7OP_tnZCahWPlrBVLiVnN1sMDSPjOlTpWfeZaHVQccUFsfF_TiatDxr1LyJi50yKBZOOOK7OhTM67ahhnfBv9svvWmYROud4AspdSAd3jEjNZjPKnFoQp-lizQ71w/s4032/IMG_0823.jpeg" style="font-family: verdana; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDZ6IPhl8QGeKnOed8aJ4-ED-OGeBM_PkJXDGW6_XzcVpKYs3dT9D9EmZhmWLW9d7OP_tnZCahWPlrBVLiVnN1sMDSPjOlTpWfeZaHVQccUFsfF_TiatDxr1LyJi50yKBZOOOK7OhTM67ahhnfBv9svvWmYROud4AspdSAd3jEjNZjPKnFoQp-lizQ71w/s320/IMG_0823.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>One night we drove to this overlook in KY to watch the lights of Cincinnati and the fireworks from the Reds game. It was breathtaking to watch the lights flip on as dusk approached. Very beautiful and peaceful. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZa3NMv0KfJTjfW2YkfyloDPLdDPEjzHNcu75VI2Rr6Vi6LsIJT_CsSqiUJIHJ7vfeDUAXEwSF8VTgWivznwT8o8jc8Ir3B4FAW4I_dBqYjOlmYHaSEqDl1bEdvgZdYvGURcICo_sYGWxCzz_4VKzdq8hK3YB8uLRxA1lqGiCToGKcKn1CArW56EDlqxc/s4032/IMG_0847.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZa3NMv0KfJTjfW2YkfyloDPLdDPEjzHNcu75VI2Rr6Vi6LsIJT_CsSqiUJIHJ7vfeDUAXEwSF8VTgWivznwT8o8jc8Ir3B4FAW4I_dBqYjOlmYHaSEqDl1bEdvgZdYvGURcICo_sYGWxCzz_4VKzdq8hK3YB8uLRxA1lqGiCToGKcKn1CArW56EDlqxc/s320/IMG_0847.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIhJ_F7DmeeuZN9hHpNbrx47N1Chqqn_GEIAligeELXO6LhD6U1DWWwP3R2-T8sVaRUwrHzXdm_a3PrkGZfiEfvxxFxA8iTV0EqGcXNFMBLXLaPZJj3eOZF42wnQThaiOWRYZ8tIEPBHue_97vhQvC1aEnWJrdnMoerR5K9i8SiXSUJcpFvaZhMppWwyA/s4032/IMG_0857.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIhJ_F7DmeeuZN9hHpNbrx47N1Chqqn_GEIAligeELXO6LhD6U1DWWwP3R2-T8sVaRUwrHzXdm_a3PrkGZfiEfvxxFxA8iTV0EqGcXNFMBLXLaPZJj3eOZF42wnQThaiOWRYZ8tIEPBHue_97vhQvC1aEnWJrdnMoerR5K9i8SiXSUJcpFvaZhMppWwyA/s320/IMG_0857.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWz7w8lPFZpI4h2T8hPD6BCWRe4CKTEOZxMIcfv_UOUx7KTNXvuQDbsmGvbVCaN97fjCCkFVo2hqCD9XrJZq1nJrq_LH5tNcpya8PNvmY7ZBj9gXtEZ9k0jJba-2S1mt8bTc2mSyliqCHnnP3Bf2326K11Npt5kF52G6aoFNoUhn80cFOuCFfSUfDAaxM/s4032/IMG_2645.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWz7w8lPFZpI4h2T8hPD6BCWRe4CKTEOZxMIcfv_UOUx7KTNXvuQDbsmGvbVCaN97fjCCkFVo2hqCD9XrJZq1nJrq_LH5tNcpya8PNvmY7ZBj9gXtEZ9k0jJba-2S1mt8bTc2mSyliqCHnnP3Bf2326K11Npt5kF52G6aoFNoUhn80cFOuCFfSUfDAaxM/s320/IMG_2645.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>We took a different route home so we could see new sites. Found this adorable place for lunch in Augusta, KY. It was right on the river and we sat outside on the patio. What a great little find on our travels! <div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMMr8X3XgzK9SZWV-0_KmJBX1ZgWwbkFNYdZWSt-fHbha7CimoZZZkHsnV8tOURNzxmLiG8KiEcAl9-0PiUaJYdFDU2aLafl3QLRpVaq5D1G2vGV8CRRs-gPvRRsVxkqR2ek3uh8rCevB5xM_EpOHhR2JzImKkkCvfFFLNwzxTPPGohhum2kDEs3gpQg/s4032/IMG_0862.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: verdana; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMMr8X3XgzK9SZWV-0_KmJBX1ZgWwbkFNYdZWSt-fHbha7CimoZZZkHsnV8tOURNzxmLiG8KiEcAl9-0PiUaJYdFDU2aLafl3QLRpVaq5D1G2vGV8CRRs-gPvRRsVxkqR2ek3uh8rCevB5xM_EpOHhR2JzImKkkCvfFFLNwzxTPPGohhum2kDEs3gpQg/s320/IMG_0862.jpeg" width="320" /></a><br /><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnuVFiJ4gM98kravj7j15WD9RIFAH5iJRkGIJJh1M3klwc0E3TV3w-Y4bhH1N6PBfCfxlZKEO5astodpeeUfoeBKjZjAkeaWGmlp7jxOeLEBXBcOuM-FL3ezz73PMEq6FNpiCdRXXYzTlTjZKe4YeKWdFkvLOIRCY6sO1bdkFyFUbgs3GkRRztft1I5I/s4032/IMG_0866.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: verdana; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnuVFiJ4gM98kravj7j15WD9RIFAH5iJRkGIJJh1M3klwc0E3TV3w-Y4bhH1N6PBfCfxlZKEO5astodpeeUfoeBKjZjAkeaWGmlp7jxOeLEBXBcOuM-FL3ezz73PMEq6FNpiCdRXXYzTlTjZKe4YeKWdFkvLOIRCY6sO1bdkFyFUbgs3GkRRztft1I5I/s320/IMG_0866.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9QF8NBHEqOJm90pytIJklpQhKB6C7VNwYOWjdtUIK44cmqaU5cytu_T_lQmslIdsVAx1v9sBptdMVB4WuaQRt-UXAarqcXIxkxQtKiiYGuyXaZ2pevJvl5vjeYIYfyQT0tGqZfL_vycZ4QwMsVBsHKZMdiH3ykctrWgPiSoTOxofvwK8BfJ-S3VHavtY/s4032/IMG_0880.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: verdana; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9QF8NBHEqOJm90pytIJklpQhKB6C7VNwYOWjdtUIK44cmqaU5cytu_T_lQmslIdsVAx1v9sBptdMVB4WuaQRt-UXAarqcXIxkxQtKiiYGuyXaZ2pevJvl5vjeYIYfyQT0tGqZfL_vycZ4QwMsVBsHKZMdiH3ykctrWgPiSoTOxofvwK8BfJ-S3VHavtY/s320/IMG_0880.jpeg" width="320" /></a><br /><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSr2HQu2a2-CViUmhVkegQ_HRz2ANcIR3w92KPmJNBVrGvf0hWELKNT1P9X_uWOA75oTkMDgy2oK_M0HxwMfrukjPwLUUZD8x8grzwjfgaZ2WFAUiTL9ubKTVgZ42amBIerbaKu56rqGwxR1TOKNva8DZVEqEGgNwCA9Kak5APL1RLIp81jdoWqZlJeU0/s4032/IMG_0883.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSr2HQu2a2-CViUmhVkegQ_HRz2ANcIR3w92KPmJNBVrGvf0hWELKNT1P9X_uWOA75oTkMDgy2oK_M0HxwMfrukjPwLUUZD8x8grzwjfgaZ2WFAUiTL9ubKTVgZ42amBIerbaKu56rqGwxR1TOKNva8DZVEqEGgNwCA9Kak5APL1RLIp81jdoWqZlJeU0/s320/IMG_0883.jpeg" width="240" /></a></span><p></p></div></div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLDrD-HijUmPBcOpCYakAc2bOySPp0wMM6mE7dzMuaKaMHFkByiV1ODHjoUlWCYNYK2y6fBA7fzvMquo2AsotR7ukYGYLJLK7U9tupASRQLZHeAlqPF3zw5iz6TtNeJ1DEKTTKVLX1dHaM4gcwWnWSIL_Rx4XPtjHmJv7DyJ7FHfOyrSHUE3s7A4zMNPI/s4032/IMG_0896.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: verdana; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLDrD-HijUmPBcOpCYakAc2bOySPp0wMM6mE7dzMuaKaMHFkByiV1ODHjoUlWCYNYK2y6fBA7fzvMquo2AsotR7ukYGYLJLK7U9tupASRQLZHeAlqPF3zw5iz6TtNeJ1DEKTTKVLX1dHaM4gcwWnWSIL_Rx4XPtjHmJv7DyJ7FHfOyrSHUE3s7A4zMNPI/s320/IMG_0896.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div>We came home through West Virginia. Enjoyed the Capital building with its golden dome, more river views and this random overlook on some random backroads we were on. And, of course, tunnels!! </div><div><br /></div><div>Such a great whirlwind trip for the weekend. Just love hopping in the truck and taking off somewhere - anywhere! Seeing new places and meeting new people :) </div>Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-9321139026474964322023-09-12T01:04:00.001-04:002023-09-15T04:39:32.971-04:00One Year. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">It’s impossible to fathom that it’s been one year since I lost my Dad. A million times I’ve wanted to ask him a question or tell him something funny I know will make him laugh. The first time I screwed up and told a friend I’d ask my Dad how we were related to her neighbor and I saw her freeze. Immediately realized what I said and told her I guess I wouldn’t be able to do that, all the while repeating inside, “Please don’t cry, please don’t cry.” </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5-v_nn88S3F3UjPbXDOW-94JWhuTg_ra96YpwKHlyaWm6Gfl4r6q8CbiwCKujdX9xd13Rqw5e8SOSTbztIseuVCP6pZjrTrUyoSAwO8V-LKCaueWDa5ZpKhFseEX3K3EgU7jJ2FRG1TLu-rqzqx93fn1HQxCDfbBkyhM-K_aYxq4Ymq4s_EJmSJ7jgJU/s1061/Screenshot_20210103-121154_Facebook_Original.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="1061" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5-v_nn88S3F3UjPbXDOW-94JWhuTg_ra96YpwKHlyaWm6Gfl4r6q8CbiwCKujdX9xd13Rqw5e8SOSTbztIseuVCP6pZjrTrUyoSAwO8V-LKCaueWDa5ZpKhFseEX3K3EgU7jJ2FRG1TLu-rqzqx93fn1HQxCDfbBkyhM-K_aYxq4Ymq4s_EJmSJ7jgJU/s320/Screenshot_20210103-121154_Facebook_Original.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The only family photo we have that includes all of us. </td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I try to remember details of that last hospital visit that we had no idea would be the last. The details have gotten grainy. Did I stay the last night? Or was it the night before? I don’t know that any of us would remember everything correctly, it was such a blur. </span></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilNzKrbmaiJB38QaMJGA2mLtdIqQN36PqZnfaDYlcpySuSl7IlLfQTuZ-qyxzp6_ozrw4OY3OznPX7LDi-rrgh-PmiraBb6IGiOrKh_-410A03zAG3Vvl6zaT920jPfKXAerkMJNsqbXpdAVh7TspkLYEdT9OktxR2lamY1vK7AIuIB6BZ9iksA-CA5mA/s3264/IMG_2180_Original.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilNzKrbmaiJB38QaMJGA2mLtdIqQN36PqZnfaDYlcpySuSl7IlLfQTuZ-qyxzp6_ozrw4OY3OznPX7LDi-rrgh-PmiraBb6IGiOrKh_-410A03zAG3Vvl6zaT920jPfKXAerkMJNsqbXpdAVh7TspkLYEdT9OktxR2lamY1vK7AIuIB6BZ9iksA-CA5mA/s320/IMG_2180_Original.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dad and A. at Christmas, sporting their new hats</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPb8frqTWX29Cpy0xmh6NSd3smfKVaTLWOAduD8w7YqXJ9B3n1FYKDoysywbtEQhfQ_8PMX5pgm3MHAGrB_8mQhtP_CJERX4W5CdCS73Im_8iL0iqWls2xdvnPsgF1a80ixC46IW-dDgIcTxl43NYJI9nweNGYYxK54lEPsDA2tAr0rXzAkvGBtuOXGks/s2048/IMG_2088_Original.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPb8frqTWX29Cpy0xmh6NSd3smfKVaTLWOAduD8w7YqXJ9B3n1FYKDoysywbtEQhfQ_8PMX5pgm3MHAGrB_8mQhtP_CJERX4W5CdCS73Im_8iL0iqWls2xdvnPsgF1a80ixC46IW-dDgIcTxl43NYJI9nweNGYYxK54lEPsDA2tAr0rXzAkvGBtuOXGks/s320/IMG_2088_Original.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We always celebrated our birthdays together</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Pop passed 15 minutes before his birthday. The poor nurse cried more than us-we were halfway in shock. I wondered if I should hug her, too, while hugging mom. </span></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ-I4D4VTN1EKwVB92IVrKTsOfHlwAwGbZIKHnETaZSfvVm5h-sbbrP99yamEAvx-J8Jt66M1FU8YmrGGGDfxZn5jQmL6gGBvLwLuvmvhCIaWESio4eTblfTY17N82TdM-3G34QssK74cCPvvrk2RFg9NNM75RUwzUm0QRTUtSjb8ll2sS6SZQrdAFcYg/s320/FB_IMG_1583632251923_Original.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He wanted a pic like LB- with a kid on each side. lol<br /> M’s First birthday. </td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ-I4D4VTN1EKwVB92IVrKTsOfHlwAwGbZIKHnETaZSfvVm5h-sbbrP99yamEAvx-J8Jt66M1FU8YmrGGGDfxZn5jQmL6gGBvLwLuvmvhCIaWESio4eTblfTY17N82TdM-3G34QssK74cCPvvrk2RFg9NNM75RUwzUm0QRTUtSjb8ll2sS6SZQrdAFcYg/s1080/FB_IMG_1583632251923_Original.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQT1pXcZ3xeJAAPf_bO070F77LEb0_2ajS9FtlUGDA2zGc6NR_2feuAh9aVjWaWOJxPWetHEgmoQs4ynDE_KbjRO9Q8Mo3CzWDfxUTGtSKajgq5jBpG8uSSypMi0HfQtcHOrAIjmBGgkfoU3PLYZ9JegV4cC5XjUMhw7xVKvn_IO1UalDtNy9CGKjWAo/s960/FB_IMG_1583631445687_Original.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQT1pXcZ3xeJAAPf_bO070F77LEb0_2ajS9FtlUGDA2zGc6NR_2feuAh9aVjWaWOJxPWetHEgmoQs4ynDE_KbjRO9Q8Mo3CzWDfxUTGtSKajgq5jBpG8uSSypMi0HfQtcHOrAIjmBGgkfoU3PLYZ9JegV4cC5XjUMhw7xVKvn_IO1UalDtNy9CGKjWAo/s320/FB_IMG_1583631445687_Original.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Talk about “His Girl!” They were crazy for each other! He would brush her hair so gently so it wouldn’t hurt. </td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">Enough of those days. More of who he was. He was smart, insanely smart. Could do figures and make blueprints in his head. Or sometimes he pulled out a pencil and wrote right on the hood of his old truck. He could see what he wanted to make and then he’d make it. My brother is a lot like him in that regard. </span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_8oB-wpLkqxyi3xgFVtkk_Wo7MTEHLeykRtO7JwNog3ofMNl3_e7n6na5synf3XseMpnpmpiqYRFDTCySXLUTUE-Ox85pxVgV0hjpH-SXAG6CWZAsvwrFQwShgmHAb3GBJLz0ihsar_j9X9iXXZJGrlY_eypPXRheJcCecNLEzeVkZhYqIFrMBCMu1tQ/s1632/dad_Original.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="1632" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_8oB-wpLkqxyi3xgFVtkk_Wo7MTEHLeykRtO7JwNog3ofMNl3_e7n6na5synf3XseMpnpmpiqYRFDTCySXLUTUE-Ox85pxVgV0hjpH-SXAG6CWZAsvwrFQwShgmHAb3GBJLz0ihsar_j9X9iXXZJGrlY_eypPXRheJcCecNLEzeVkZhYqIFrMBCMu1tQ/s320/dad_Original.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;">He never met a stranger and would go on with some junk with anyone. When we were kids I remember him wearing cutoff blue jeans and cowboy boots in the grocery store at the beach. He was pushing his buggy and “dancing” in the aisles and it was HILARIOUS. He never was a fan of the beach and would opt to do all the grocery shopping instead of battling the sand. He would get us set up with all our belongings and the umbrellas up, overlapping for maximum shade, and head out until we needed to be picked up. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizffgDWE-1gm-UGUsT-cekubsj_KlEfnP-Hlv5RgAZ1Y4a1NGQjpNYsl2B_mg-_rWFmkhFE_T3wf00VuHcbmqIbwF0DlexgTiTv6iXWDR97wdfPp_30vRNG7nHTfp4M35fUuYjrYJ_SdtYuAXKDGdr9FkKNHU_6t2fKrQkDUcHp4VKaNaXXQtxapHIKL0/s1453/boys3_Original.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1039" data-original-width="1453" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizffgDWE-1gm-UGUsT-cekubsj_KlEfnP-Hlv5RgAZ1Y4a1NGQjpNYsl2B_mg-_rWFmkhFE_T3wf00VuHcbmqIbwF0DlexgTiTv6iXWDR97wdfPp_30vRNG7nHTfp4M35fUuYjrYJ_SdtYuAXKDGdr9FkKNHU_6t2fKrQkDUcHp4VKaNaXXQtxapHIKL0/s320/boys3_Original.jpeg" width="320" /></a> </div>These two cuties- we prayed over these kiddos. They loved to listen to Daddy talk and read them stories. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi31JgOmbk6FFe_wyB2pNThCu-mQdCCd36SLs4CJo_wwUCFSY6utTNY-ycGHwQFYJooP9To7KLujy8DoJANfpnNb2ZnR9iCuJpkIbejNOdmuIwQHFWiMrnF5yE4l_y8eqhkIKhy70xLZGBuUTU1BeHzj0YmG-KI15ZW8bT7kEgAnqAFLESPsABpcT5Acpg/s2422/20200919_161242_Original.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1817" data-original-width="2422" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi31JgOmbk6FFe_wyB2pNThCu-mQdCCd36SLs4CJo_wwUCFSY6utTNY-ycGHwQFYJooP9To7KLujy8DoJANfpnNb2ZnR9iCuJpkIbejNOdmuIwQHFWiMrnF5yE4l_y8eqhkIKhy70xLZGBuUTU1BeHzj0YmG-KI15ZW8bT7kEgAnqAFLESPsABpcT5Acpg/s320/20200919_161242_Original.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>Three generations (missing Liam) but the boys loved playing on PawPaw George’s tractors. <p></p></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">And he loved. He loved big. My mom, who he celebrated year 52 with in the hospital. So thankful for their love. His three children with our very different personalities. He was so proud of each of us for very specific, individual reasons. And his grandbabies. Gracious he was so happy to have grandbabies to spoil and love on. He was a very special man and is so very missed. Love you, Daddy. </span></div>Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-18170266075239005402023-08-29T13:37:00.003-04:002023-09-12T00:15:04.804-04:00Claiming Trips <p><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="text-align: left;">When I decided to chose “claim it” as my focus for 2023, I had no idea how awesome the year would be. </span></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The trip following the Gulf, flying to California, quick day trips and now a weekend in Cincinnati! And we are only halfway through the year! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Not to diminish the horrific year 2022 was because losing my Dad was the worst thing to ever happen to me. And I still have breakdowns that crush me from time to time. One day I'll actually deal with it, but not today. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Today, I'm documenting the awesome Gulf Coast trip my friend D and I took in February of this year. We started in Panama City Beach, FL, amidst a horrific storm that scared the poop out of me. We had a hole in the wall hotel booked right on the beach and this storm was a doozy. We came in well after dark and had no idea the beauty we were overlooking until morning. So pretty. </span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDYRGx72AFW4lYhqBUKbyNawyrYnkqGS00yb3Yc6uBJRSSPgMJbQp834yE2X9mQlr4scSWujf8hYRnY4j9cy3dw3bQ_skar51y1Gf5ZWdSGcL4NSgjC45ndM2jEs6Al3ylGFJaMtXbCOr4ZkP9LgFc4U1pMXTZquoZRic4g4vREgu_vUdNQ9dAh801MkQ/s4032/IMG_1868.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDYRGx72AFW4lYhqBUKbyNawyrYnkqGS00yb3Yc6uBJRSSPgMJbQp834yE2X9mQlr4scSWujf8hYRnY4j9cy3dw3bQ_skar51y1Gf5ZWdSGcL4NSgjC45ndM2jEs6Al3ylGFJaMtXbCOr4ZkP9LgFc4U1pMXTZquoZRic4g4vREgu_vUdNQ9dAh801MkQ/s320/IMG_1868.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Obligatory stairs leading to beach pic</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDv91gAhAraK82HbsmdGqHemCTVQz95Iw5A6iET-buRzYUQ3GtskW5QQcbv3Dwx9e9hkOK7ZEeHIZiY1iXTQZMXNVLhqxc08ymW4ofKDVtY6ILLwE81GN9QGWFtmujzRIqhoXjdnGxIyL0Dpn-vjgxw96acJbduFzxllqYPa7oQcTuMtG63rQebWH7zww/s4032/IMG_6603.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDv91gAhAraK82HbsmdGqHemCTVQz95Iw5A6iET-buRzYUQ3GtskW5QQcbv3Dwx9e9hkOK7ZEeHIZiY1iXTQZMXNVLhqxc08ymW4ofKDVtY6ILLwE81GN9QGWFtmujzRIqhoXjdnGxIyL0Dpn-vjgxw96acJbduFzxllqYPa7oQcTuMtG63rQebWH7zww/s320/IMG_6603.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">View from the hotel room</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">After leaving Panama City Beach, we stopped off for a quick look at Destin, FL. and discovered we were the youngest people by several decades. But it was still nice. Hopped back in the truck, drove through Navarre, Pensacola, and were welcomed into Alabama at the Baldwin Welcome Center. We drove over tons of bays and rivers (Blakeley River, Bay John, Mobile Bay, Chacaloochee Bay, Delvan Bay, Polecat Bay, Mobile River) until arriving at our next stop: Mobile, AL. </span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTdfeu3Tz1elC9Xxpr-mUHD5s_6S5b6QGKkljqa1AXFoLZ0rbMdFzAxg8rqsr1l5VIDkZchV3lXjy2yspEhCdGBNpSfOWZCWriirvs_lXgxrGPXORMnd_Mim0KdtzKrCEXJLmfC3e8RsnNKI7Q2mWkDuRT8ogp5c3s36YQJCbgxmKJkClOVO2ufdul0k/s4032/IMG_6622.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTdfeu3Tz1elC9Xxpr-mUHD5s_6S5b6QGKkljqa1AXFoLZ0rbMdFzAxg8rqsr1l5VIDkZchV3lXjy2yspEhCdGBNpSfOWZCWriirvs_lXgxrGPXORMnd_Mim0KdtzKrCEXJLmfC3e8RsnNKI7Q2mWkDuRT8ogp5c3s36YQJCbgxmKJkClOVO2ufdul0k/s320/IMG_6622.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Destin, FL, I think? </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KfW0YI0j0UV6e6veq_lZIWNAznrMXK0mS-blqe4j8_XdsmdldoRoXQQbD6mR7L9uUeY84wYKkGfwcPTCucHPCk0YUzz1qtXPXspS14yfgcjOew2JWWCTaSLAQ1ztaCVoyPs4YetTzfPXQJd-OcKARSit-nkdRtJnxQtH6X9O9SfkJkuoyPuI4auNsak/s4032/IMG_6632.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KfW0YI0j0UV6e6veq_lZIWNAznrMXK0mS-blqe4j8_XdsmdldoRoXQQbD6mR7L9uUeY84wYKkGfwcPTCucHPCk0YUzz1qtXPXspS14yfgcjOew2JWWCTaSLAQ1ztaCVoyPs4YetTzfPXQJd-OcKARSit-nkdRtJnxQtH6X9O9SfkJkuoyPuI4auNsak/s320/IMG_6632.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">At some point the amount of water you are driving across kinda freaks you out …</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnJ25kE46rcOyAIQKmru_9opHCJnXYyMVeKiIfkyveAIqZxAS3Sv6h7_bmrYyLeO-sP2Ep2ZZkDbTvJq1IALFfY9WisYen4ZBQUzg1d7k24vRpD1z3M_TfqNbIcnn3OoXY9HG_JXR9goWYbIUI6dvlQi0z9FX2fuDonCTFeGqo8z1o8NkMIc33dI-dJLg/s1453/IMG_6652.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1020" data-original-width="1453" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnJ25kE46rcOyAIQKmru_9opHCJnXYyMVeKiIfkyveAIqZxAS3Sv6h7_bmrYyLeO-sP2Ep2ZZkDbTvJq1IALFfY9WisYen4ZBQUzg1d7k24vRpD1z3M_TfqNbIcnn3OoXY9HG_JXR9goWYbIUI6dvlQi0z9FX2fuDonCTFeGqo8z1o8NkMIc33dI-dJLg/s320/IMG_6652.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We loved Mobile and would have LOVED to spend more time there. We basically stopped for a late lunch at Wintzell's Oyster House, which was also quite tasty. Our waitress helped us get out of town before the Mardi Gras parades shut down the streets so we could keep moving towards our next night's stay: Gulfport, MS. (On a side note, if D could have packed up that waitress and brought her along, he probably would have! haha)</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaYB7lEfefaTmcQYNksocjaSn9PMyJ2i6Ih2XHn-BtYFuh4JMaldF2oO4jdRV5H_KBiEvpYVRQWUmAxsspPuC0qnuEL-IzqfZnJAgGfAJDXX3k16n23-p7o6h4uIMGF5ZznjFIb6EAQIoeHcdw-wHvNaQRcrDUmyzPLSmKfJoBxYdT9H7zDnXejiOmJ3A/s4032/IMG_6674.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaYB7lEfefaTmcQYNksocjaSn9PMyJ2i6Ih2XHn-BtYFuh4JMaldF2oO4jdRV5H_KBiEvpYVRQWUmAxsspPuC0qnuEL-IzqfZnJAgGfAJDXX3k16n23-p7o6h4uIMGF5ZznjFIb6EAQIoeHcdw-wHvNaQRcrDUmyzPLSmKfJoBxYdT9H7zDnXejiOmJ3A/s320/IMG_6674.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwtjPmpZpVhg5_h3PwzjSLsRcGjBL16DFYqNDg1NKjybKs5FTSTBdGaZ5hZSmcafATuqr2rHl6uS3WoBD7wnzkScQ8czHbVPf2keP_XJC7J326WzKyEWB5Aqm185lWLDBwxPsYGSC02R8NJ8ii29Re7I1w3UqTDba7rZJPE0QbsCL1WlavnmABlULveEA/s4032/IMG_6675.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwtjPmpZpVhg5_h3PwzjSLsRcGjBL16DFYqNDg1NKjybKs5FTSTBdGaZ5hZSmcafATuqr2rHl6uS3WoBD7wnzkScQ8czHbVPf2keP_XJC7J326WzKyEWB5Aqm185lWLDBwxPsYGSC02R8NJ8ii29Re7I1w3UqTDba7rZJPE0QbsCL1WlavnmABlULveEA/s320/IMG_6675.jpeg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Interesting decorations inside - great entertainment </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-vzRdBVmURluvD0Tcvc_Edb9d0x_Ksnp6owOXTVbxUfKdeNM_mVT-LlUt_Ij7_2OpOCGhOIn0QBq9lQdlLfS58rH1iJumfA6ZPY1wUs2mc4deqAfwXT_tHwuqtLBv_LlocZGOPQkj7SXcNDCMbGW8otaMKABrsP7N2XSem2sWzH0b7ujDyJy8YfY5KB0/s4032/IMG_6676.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-vzRdBVmURluvD0Tcvc_Edb9d0x_Ksnp6owOXTVbxUfKdeNM_mVT-LlUt_Ij7_2OpOCGhOIn0QBq9lQdlLfS58rH1iJumfA6ZPY1wUs2mc4deqAfwXT_tHwuqtLBv_LlocZGOPQkj7SXcNDCMbGW8otaMKABrsP7N2XSem2sWzH0b7ujDyJy8YfY5KB0/s320/IMG_6676.jpeg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">That first bowl of gumbo and he fell in love</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">One thing we both agree on, it's detours. So we'll take a random side trip with no second thought. We travelled through Biloxi and into Gulfport. Biloxi wasn't our favorite but to be fair, we saw it later at night and just zoomed through to get to Gulfport. It was another late arrival at our hotel in Gulfport so we really had no clue what our view would look like in the morning. It was stunning. At least, it was until I got a cracked contact stuck in my eye with horrific pain. </span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR2Ta3LlonpDlanI6Q48gHvzeQyEa08zd-FMhv3e6T_WJ66N1lmYl4e1AL03WXBh_cLmC8sa1epoUwR6-BcIq4gB5d0xjoifS4ZRfcSPl2RXWHTJprIFx-PEoquomT-k0nHsskRQizHPuW_AVLKSYBTjdWoFQlQ36yMW1_-117tTvy5PhclBwZTR-pnKI/s4032/IMG_6708.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR2Ta3LlonpDlanI6Q48gHvzeQyEa08zd-FMhv3e6T_WJ66N1lmYl4e1AL03WXBh_cLmC8sa1epoUwR6-BcIq4gB5d0xjoifS4ZRfcSPl2RXWHTJprIFx-PEoquomT-k0nHsskRQizHPuW_AVLKSYBTjdWoFQlQ36yMW1_-117tTvy5PhclBwZTR-pnKI/s320/IMG_6708.jpeg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">View to wake up for</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpft3WghwFgBR3txgliV-JinB6nnEZkb8K6kzm8RRA3uH38F_hOqGCob4s14vP7J1vJWEGaGO9_x2-UQOO4M_ZKeF0zbhnFRky6rfPIPK9dnz7wgZ90_sHfMbyfKxPv4HSuiJUyk43VNXQIEu5eM9degxwwjcI8l-oGl4YC15gv8GiZ-p5Xb4WtiPTGgo/s3088/IMG_6709.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpft3WghwFgBR3txgliV-JinB6nnEZkb8K6kzm8RRA3uH38F_hOqGCob4s14vP7J1vJWEGaGO9_x2-UQOO4M_ZKeF0zbhnFRky6rfPIPK9dnz7wgZ90_sHfMbyfKxPv4HSuiJUyk43VNXQIEu5eM9degxwwjcI8l-oGl4YC15gv8GiZ-p5Xb4WtiPTGgo/s320/IMG_6709.jpeg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">My pirate impression</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0iqD5limw2KFLtim7AtacnNT3BWrlhSONGVQuzWDxlI93PcM-BTlRNpXkxpOU5H0e2z9Yc3BIFpVJaDoSsdtMalz63e9BIC5GosB1cBb2PN0WkWbV3i_SfMyfLl9b1ef_pwl3JlWVshGRmcVPBwPNsZwgOmYOxIxVYbvKHsu-mGAEMAq3oizf0_crWc/s4032/IMG_6715.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0iqD5limw2KFLtim7AtacnNT3BWrlhSONGVQuzWDxlI93PcM-BTlRNpXkxpOU5H0e2z9Yc3BIFpVJaDoSsdtMalz63e9BIC5GosB1cBb2PN0WkWbV3i_SfMyfLl9b1ef_pwl3JlWVshGRmcVPBwPNsZwgOmYOxIxVYbvKHsu-mGAEMAq3oizf0_crWc/s320/IMG_6715.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">This Waffle House may have the most beautiful view of all WHs. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">D found an eye doctor with insanely early hours that was willing to work me in first thing in the morning. THANK HEAVENS. It wasn't a fun morning but the doctor was able to remove the contact from my eye and I, very thankfully, brought my old raggedy glasses with me so we could continue to this trip. Precision Vision will forever be my heroes. (I asked if a 1-hour glasses place could make me new glasses that weren't so destroyed... but she very delicately said probably not with my prescription. lol). </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheNXNTlTDY79jTBgzyp0P3aLJUMamsUeJdIYL4dqFvQIs2ghwp51bQ1AfR8aEd7MOOHJy-BFhZG_bldFlqvG4fGS8oL2_RN6EJstuQkB5fZ7Qz63_mai5X8ZUTRsAI0tRUTDuUmbj4s34pRGTS8O4PwmNlj601khHcYrPQwF9rp4k5rimXsUds-LK1Yco/s1388/IMG_6712.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1093" data-original-width="1388" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheNXNTlTDY79jTBgzyp0P3aLJUMamsUeJdIYL4dqFvQIs2ghwp51bQ1AfR8aEd7MOOHJy-BFhZG_bldFlqvG4fGS8oL2_RN6EJstuQkB5fZ7Qz63_mai5X8ZUTRsAI0tRUTDuUmbj4s34pRGTS8O4PwmNlj601khHcYrPQwF9rp4k5rimXsUds-LK1Yco/s320/IMG_6712.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Super cool DR gets the chipped contact out of my eye! </span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Once my eyeball was freed from the plastic slicing it, we headed on our way to the one location I was SO EXCITED to visit in person: Bay Saint Louis, MS! I had recently discovered a home cook on TikTok named Mississippi Kween and I just thought she was hilarious. And she lived in Bay Saint Louis. Let me tell you, no regrets stopping here and would love to take a trip back to fully explore. It is a beautiful place, super friendly, cute shops and just a place of love. We spoke with a girl in the ice cream shop we visited, and she shared with us growing up through Katrina. This town was totally wiped from the map. Completely. School, when it came back in, was held in military tents with volunteer teachers. The folks were living in those toxic FEMA trailers, and they tried to help each other rebuild to move back into real homes. It was very emotional to hear her story and </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">try to imagine how this potentially changed an entire generation of folks. </span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOayO5aO0HNJkm7Ozg-VseFs6zT2o7JbL9JvM0hdUZI8FHj2672TIGezi1y6Oov0P_gLGwbnupL8wHl8-W9gV_TO_KaygTqTK41EczVlCXH1KMKLjxOgjicDgS8wCcm6Y79KTy5YEkarTGtdXhVdShO6vlA3SFnn0QdMezte4aPne4kGbLMQF2IfTxo0s/s4032/IMG_1920.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOayO5aO0HNJkm7Ozg-VseFs6zT2o7JbL9JvM0hdUZI8FHj2672TIGezi1y6Oov0P_gLGwbnupL8wHl8-W9gV_TO_KaygTqTK41EczVlCXH1KMKLjxOgjicDgS8wCcm6Y79KTy5YEkarTGtdXhVdShO6vlA3SFnn0QdMezte4aPne4kGbLMQF2IfTxo0s/s320/IMG_1920.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adorable mural! Love it!! </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqfY6XJgZAPKrVLmo_XBA03a9dCvinsunECU1F1wPd-hqMBsR4M-KeYOal8R0-giq-v4udzboo3Zt-_La8g807VHwRr4s6RLJ1oQBy04D3R5Va18xmjuUxGjrX9g2kYM0TZkyKOzbHa6fqvxuHh3EntRFzMdMmPfUoAwGuXEUXtTkafrweCdWqqYrsbsE/s4032/IMG_6761.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqfY6XJgZAPKrVLmo_XBA03a9dCvinsunECU1F1wPd-hqMBsR4M-KeYOal8R0-giq-v4udzboo3Zt-_La8g807VHwRr4s6RLJ1oQBy04D3R5Va18xmjuUxGjrX9g2kYM0TZkyKOzbHa6fqvxuHh3EntRFzMdMmPfUoAwGuXEUXtTkafrweCdWqqYrsbsE/s320/IMG_6761.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">D hugging up on the Queen</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA7FY1gjPWdYoNGNF1hsUZOmUk5bzEwarkZME7Q5So5kyl0qS25_ECllNJL97tMgoyEfvfxgPHHBS1NIwBm8fOlJrTesRKfq8QbsRqdfNFtu3Kf1k-iDOcXYrsdTgNCTU_85KrUB4d3Za1p-RJf5cMRLqB1_ZEMuIh4aRHLrqKf_0AGuRS2E0ajHcxgU4/s4032/IMG_6762.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA7FY1gjPWdYoNGNF1hsUZOmUk5bzEwarkZME7Q5So5kyl0qS25_ECllNJL97tMgoyEfvfxgPHHBS1NIwBm8fOlJrTesRKfq8QbsRqdfNFtu3Kf1k-iDOcXYrsdTgNCTU_85KrUB4d3Za1p-RJf5cMRLqB1_ZEMuIh4aRHLrqKf_0AGuRS2E0ajHcxgU4/s320/IMG_6762.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another lovely mural - such positivity! </td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">After D finally pulled me back into the truck and out of Bay Saint Louis, we headed over more water and into Louisiana! Bienvenue en Louisiane! First stop was a required photo in Covington, LA! Found an interesting mural to pose with before locating the restaurant I'd found on Google: New Orleans Food and Spirits. This was so delicious and surprisingly reasonably priced for the atmosphere. Very glad we found this place. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif320StW5jp_U6FLPDLaUHekfo0AbuPYA9SohPBNko1hyEQ5V2LkySFNAjHyh7P_0qnwDHIXZP14morWCg5_vVCSLDvHtqJENJRz6D7mzWuu3YN87581uNOH3fswKEk52YmiAGqBPunKBclV1B_svYOcbDqtmU3t66PcvAOrQ9d9Oi7uCMDupQ_pZ9Oe8/s4032/IMG_6779.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif320StW5jp_U6FLPDLaUHekfo0AbuPYA9SohPBNko1hyEQ5V2LkySFNAjHyh7P_0qnwDHIXZP14morWCg5_vVCSLDvHtqJENJRz6D7mzWuu3YN87581uNOH3fswKEk52YmiAGqBPunKBclV1B_svYOcbDqtmU3t66PcvAOrQ9d9Oi7uCMDupQ_pZ9Oe8/s320/IMG_6779.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0WhylG6cdXXZpfg3rZrmoU2evxa-2kH0xrBoZ68HqaQwr7Ao7KWXDxURI9Jk46YIEx8ZHCQ6lpC7_AUXo5l2U4BGLsPq3VKACmY-nV-tIphh52NunSnXWS1BdR1RmVL8V82IgbaNIU4JD8znH_2TYPl1yNQBHr97GIq2cKbduQqn3cmwUBit7_8mres/s4032/IMG_6783.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl0WhylG6cdXXZpfg3rZrmoU2evxa-2kH0xrBoZ68HqaQwr7Ao7KWXDxURI9Jk46YIEx8ZHCQ6lpC7_AUXo5l2U4BGLsPq3VKACmY-nV-tIphh52NunSnXWS1BdR1RmVL8V82IgbaNIU4JD8znH_2TYPl1yNQBHr97GIq2cKbduQqn3cmwUBit7_8mres/s320/IMG_6783.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More gumbo- and he still loved it! </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJnCEmsY9JtqGlphaM_2fjH9hQrTjVmEl8HMrPo4_WiJMZJgozzC6M_wFV-TC6mVHqAiYdJzE6DLTGBLXrxkMFjsioSU3pH7xshz1f-hGROilU6NmyTJqIRdKXCSUZ_7m7HQ71W_7927FvQ0D6ZJuuIFr5P1gwdqMlRamoAKa_D3uFSKN7K1-zOL-NojI/s4032/IMG_6786.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJnCEmsY9JtqGlphaM_2fjH9hQrTjVmEl8HMrPo4_WiJMZJgozzC6M_wFV-TC6mVHqAiYdJzE6DLTGBLXrxkMFjsioSU3pH7xshz1f-hGROilU6NmyTJqIRdKXCSUZ_7m7HQ71W_7927FvQ0D6ZJuuIFr5P1gwdqMlRamoAKa_D3uFSKN7K1-zOL-NojI/s320/IMG_6786.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Covington, LA </td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">D's one request was to drive over Lake Pontchartrain... OH MY GOSH, it was so dang freaky. It felt like driving on the ocean or something - water as far as you could see. And since the sun was setting, it was even creepier! This trip lasted over 20 minutes and never have I ever been so thankful for solid land. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiUYS6lyUQqZOyMSWHahossy0_0zGOF1nGgjRH0ZPW36skvnJPBNml64jtwIvSGgTZYf6GJKIfsFLiJQkO4WWMZ3yxxvLb6c0MLINrNLW82qty51x2jr8nBVPXuY4wrPtOPMl3oO1YuQ7qLZFaSByApIgu9iSWm1b7STD4yhJPkFiJfI-Uy2zREhgnjW8/s4032/IMG_6788.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiUYS6lyUQqZOyMSWHahossy0_0zGOF1nGgjRH0ZPW36skvnJPBNml64jtwIvSGgTZYf6GJKIfsFLiJQkO4WWMZ3yxxvLb6c0MLINrNLW82qty51x2jr8nBVPXuY4wrPtOPMl3oO1YuQ7qLZFaSByApIgu9iSWm1b7STD4yhJPkFiJfI-Uy2zREhgnjW8/s320/IMG_6788.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ZRGOXOf78SHLNbpziAGwl5fKl-66fEaROQ65m-O5h11qILWgTBsSiZPUNdUVQhU2Cv4eGDlJPCmUsPHYhVmIhGNA-ognn3ZEAVfh1IUJA-yqOKIJodOo-CcRdNJsXhezAkAfsDeR5ixazAX8HwxNVAU9eswwZfvxlcbXvcfHisdBc-QAvwM0QVJqnmU/s4032/IMG_6799.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ZRGOXOf78SHLNbpziAGwl5fKl-66fEaROQ65m-O5h11qILWgTBsSiZPUNdUVQhU2Cv4eGDlJPCmUsPHYhVmIhGNA-ognn3ZEAVfh1IUJA-yqOKIJodOo-CcRdNJsXhezAkAfsDeR5ixazAX8HwxNVAU9eswwZfvxlcbXvcfHisdBc-QAvwM0QVJqnmU/s320/IMG_6799.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">This basically brought us into New Orleans for our next two nights' stay at the Hotel St. Marie. We chose a room with a balcony overlooking the street, an unexpectedly peaceful treat. Mardi Gras would be kicking off just after we left, so I worried there would be pre-festivities. Instead, we found a relatively empty city that gave you the heebiegeebies. We were ready to leave by the end of our stay in New Orleans.</span></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBS3LzoN_zB7_IvWcohEPwOWgYOHdFYr980LjaeUXIBPctIx-Ml16uRUo1BvQKJX1u1pYSxzWFett8SIkDt-MDtPS47C9V22qCPVp4rnHC3aSwW-TCcFQMNKNO3w430z9xNeufEO94muYSqAN-oO1pNKaeHZYgrURbc-efBPxjqaqtr1BmEE1YGFuyXg/s4032/IMG_1943.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBS3LzoN_zB7_IvWcohEPwOWgYOHdFYr980LjaeUXIBPctIx-Ml16uRUo1BvQKJX1u1pYSxzWFett8SIkDt-MDtPS47C9V22qCPVp4rnHC3aSwW-TCcFQMNKNO3w430z9xNeufEO94muYSqAN-oO1pNKaeHZYgrURbc-efBPxjqaqtr1BmEE1YGFuyXg/s320/IMG_1943.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9tjey0k9Jy_jHnltCkc_3HF0eCMv1ZHfN_e8pYyETe0_drODs_dILqwUCmUHYVAYTYaQy3K_vE04o7ZXLElngzkUt4-JZvFgxo-kf19ApWZSCq-MV5d1W9jLtUw9olsLbpdPVy5gNF0b2Fo-Seyuuz5wSAqTI0FxMxBkZAp6p_recb4_pYjVZQJHnsVo/s4032/IMG_6850.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9tjey0k9Jy_jHnltCkc_3HF0eCMv1ZHfN_e8pYyETe0_drODs_dILqwUCmUHYVAYTYaQy3K_vE04o7ZXLElngzkUt4-JZvFgxo-kf19ApWZSCq-MV5d1W9jLtUw9olsLbpdPVy5gNF0b2Fo-Seyuuz5wSAqTI0FxMxBkZAp6p_recb4_pYjVZQJHnsVo/s320/IMG_6850.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You know we tried a few places for beniets or however you spell it. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf5CqLKEHdpbqz2k0RoyWcMNb9Pr2k6PQpmzlzBRe-3KXXZVJNmUNxsx5QpedGdDrCrXTRo8Fnv1tilvcmTgZhCF8CMStnC4OPwU8LawXX36fXMfgmkQ9t7OiIKCnVqyZBqDZV-Fg4ejrcnNlugvdInhbV0nCiDcVOkfO1qVXOieiWqXYPYqSkuhnm2Xw/s4032/IMG_6858.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf5CqLKEHdpbqz2k0RoyWcMNb9Pr2k6PQpmzlzBRe-3KXXZVJNmUNxsx5QpedGdDrCrXTRo8Fnv1tilvcmTgZhCF8CMStnC4OPwU8LawXX36fXMfgmkQ9t7OiIKCnVqyZBqDZV-Fg4ejrcnNlugvdInhbV0nCiDcVOkfO1qVXOieiWqXYPYqSkuhnm2Xw/s320/IMG_6858.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loved the river right in downtown</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Wct5yCgle099RPDfLw0ZdrwzP9jo6RbF-y_MzGaVcPLewz8xDjT-tCCtDXYbopq1ffUGpOrYv1cmY3zRS-XfrST-iowEMSzUsSn5V4pks5eGTcLI-L-3YZ9yrrsf9XXJNj_ZhDCt2fGTQPUacdIev7LNm3dDjQMrVJqnqBAumvhxm3q1-haZNfks7QI/s4032/IMG_6895.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Wct5yCgle099RPDfLw0ZdrwzP9jo6RbF-y_MzGaVcPLewz8xDjT-tCCtDXYbopq1ffUGpOrYv1cmY3zRS-XfrST-iowEMSzUsSn5V4pks5eGTcLI-L-3YZ9yrrsf9XXJNj_ZhDCt2fGTQPUacdIev7LNm3dDjQMrVJqnqBAumvhxm3q1-haZNfks7QI/s320/IMG_6895.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oysters in New Orleans … and he loved it!! Hahaha</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcKzGLtWQhKERsQkO28Bzqs7Y5_PQL__9UXQ3irzYsR9XDa4O1791oFHmM29OV44YeC99U-l1iaexpJiy61zHKhazrkPXZwOd-zOFgONtki8hc-HNJf9lGSQ4gbqX4q1iXov1bGg8MhIhk94tl0iadOQCkRRJAsl1-W7X5yR0Ge650zWRPAR33Xyf_Po/s320/IMG_6905.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying our balcony at the hotel</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcKzGLtWQhKERsQkO28Bzqs7Y5_PQL__9UXQ3irzYsR9XDa4O1791oFHmM29OV44YeC99U-l1iaexpJiy61zHKhazrkPXZwOd-zOFgONtki8hc-HNJf9lGSQ4gbqX4q1iXov1bGg8MhIhk94tl0iadOQCkRRJAsl1-W7X5yR0Ge650zWRPAR33Xyf_Po/s4032/IMG_6905.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"></span></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXDharzIBiRyL5ES1qSt3hs_DnNOR3H4ET7AKDkeZtCXIDfVATB276cyG1NqjPb8tssCDLJSeY2nCH7ZMSRPFmJmoIH6QGdNLKlrOJ3tKxEfyHoFL2NN954zsGzWAKg0TYEYl4KmQNANy5IgdywYxZmpXt1HGqa91ekc_1zdVELY9mUx4SMCAN9TG-exw/s4032/IMG_6908.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXDharzIBiRyL5ES1qSt3hs_DnNOR3H4ET7AKDkeZtCXIDfVATB276cyG1NqjPb8tssCDLJSeY2nCH7ZMSRPFmJmoIH6QGdNLKlrOJ3tKxEfyHoFL2NN954zsGzWAKg0TYEYl4KmQNANy5IgdywYxZmpXt1HGqa91ekc_1zdVELY9mUx4SMCAN9TG-exw/s320/IMG_6908.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This view - so pretty </td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We headed onto our next stop, slipping back over the border to Natchez, MS. We won't go into details about the lady offering D some special attention for the night... </span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-VeiqmgJz-lomoAZhrxfV5o3WoGFFmmj5i1zJNhPH1TyvBjR23KN92S-td2IMAVCu9o5BQ60hFhlPfzVBzEHwIZzmi9TD5RLSSPiUSp25iVJE7Y0vwYc7BAQecfrazw6G63sgUb2WlWsNqELeV-afngjgljfRgqunWZryGraPeLMwwHhP5ZI0rwe6qw/s4032/IMG_6956.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-VeiqmgJz-lomoAZhrxfV5o3WoGFFmmj5i1zJNhPH1TyvBjR23KN92S-td2IMAVCu9o5BQ60hFhlPfzVBzEHwIZzmi9TD5RLSSPiUSp25iVJE7Y0vwYc7BAQecfrazw6G63sgUb2WlWsNqELeV-afngjgljfRgqunWZryGraPeLMwwHhP5ZI0rwe6qw/s320/IMG_6956.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The mighty Mississippi River!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidguuC9l3evi78_oM2l-mFuJOSKTsSAgZA-6ul8dc2S7uR5-hlDRHN0dkKyEB9wMOOISM3g9UPVUxplXiwbbTwvBDFhsxC753joPHyfu5TcSOfTbp04WnQzsIIYJmijpNCLyMcMgUxFsNJk_APimg3_HqXlaaWRq3mxVnyeeKPYCqsU3TX9E0ctDhSo6c/s4032/IMG_6957.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidguuC9l3evi78_oM2l-mFuJOSKTsSAgZA-6ul8dc2S7uR5-hlDRHN0dkKyEB9wMOOISM3g9UPVUxplXiwbbTwvBDFhsxC753joPHyfu5TcSOfTbp04WnQzsIIYJmijpNCLyMcMgUxFsNJk_APimg3_HqXlaaWRq3mxVnyeeKPYCqsU3TX9E0ctDhSo6c/s320/IMG_6957.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4YlIQ_WUhTyH1S0vQNHUZedKceM34Z4T9mEp8BU5QiazE0szRoAn193Q5NC-lejWOERlETzT1A8I-wblhOwnQWf4OPxtOFYjvNRXqqdTh5LW3_LpBpTgNpdia4LshYJUW717kaXzLSU5XWF5MvnLgxTjYbJLt1cMVEyDPrg9dNn7uiGIybZ3lxgEYels/s4032/IMG_6966.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4YlIQ_WUhTyH1S0vQNHUZedKceM34Z4T9mEp8BU5QiazE0szRoAn193Q5NC-lejWOERlETzT1A8I-wblhOwnQWf4OPxtOFYjvNRXqqdTh5LW3_LpBpTgNpdia4LshYJUW717kaXzLSU5XWF5MvnLgxTjYbJLt1cMVEyDPrg9dNn7uiGIybZ3lxgEYels/s320/IMG_6966.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the workers at the eye Dr recommended this place. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQH_WvriABrEUfh-C5350TVGrlYdub-qJqfc1BRtADJSxRrJHEeOJ-tKU05yttAPOYrGhBNk5s4byYq6X8RfT3cmyAgjamv-DVetWmqe6WtQwFXKzE9hvW6rExxP1O9YTiPlnykg0boeDIBqshpeL-iTI9XtF_9xJrBKMqF-Qs8rW4DxHLn_WSstQaWA/s4032/IMG_6980.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQH_WvriABrEUfh-C5350TVGrlYdub-qJqfc1BRtADJSxRrJHEeOJ-tKU05yttAPOYrGhBNk5s4byYq6X8RfT3cmyAgjamv-DVetWmqe6WtQwFXKzE9hvW6rExxP1O9YTiPlnykg0boeDIBqshpeL-iTI9XtF_9xJrBKMqF-Qs8rW4DxHLn_WSstQaWA/s320/IMG_6980.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You won’t believe this, but D got gumbo hahahaha</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDrn3LY1jkcIbeDyGRz-0yAwdnucSWKgod5IgNSSQ-XqWd7rl31cBVUIqQz8JkChrSr25pOhmnHDuou-2fSgUq9M5_q4o-6mtwVb4MZNf51Z3sheWJoJsOjN7EsTCls8FIln3FvVFiv-SQoSrayfKJTfBgvGGiVaVatA9DZbMXEZlKX2sHSq_spvR5Bvc/s4032/IMG_7005.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDrn3LY1jkcIbeDyGRz-0yAwdnucSWKgod5IgNSSQ-XqWd7rl31cBVUIqQz8JkChrSr25pOhmnHDuou-2fSgUq9M5_q4o-6mtwVb4MZNf51Z3sheWJoJsOjN7EsTCls8FIln3FvVFiv-SQoSrayfKJTfBgvGGiVaVatA9DZbMXEZlKX2sHSq_spvR5Bvc/s320/IMG_7005.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Natchez is right on the river and the Louisiana state line, which is good because I needed to hop back into LA to see my PENPAL! That's right, at the age of 40-something I have a penpal that I'd never met. So we headed to Winnfield, LA, to see the super awesome R. for the first time. We met up at this unique diner that is run by residents in a drug/alcohol rehab to help teach job skills. Food was on point and the staff super nice and funny! I considered the visit to the diner a treat since I'd heard about it several times from R. </span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioe337X6soCM8NvXHuQ-7ZMRC9f2QD8NwlXhM4sGoY85L1mP0oS8HtryArm2zCr8A9KSBHkQkjCVBuu-DsYXk3ACQFLhX9DdedNnkHvGUSIyYUX8tih2rWddle1Sp9a4E19pyTr6rHnl5ANMnRniMttfuMa8poXG-Mzq84r2ktGZsA8FKoGeNv2_7aZYA/s4032/IMG_6987.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioe337X6soCM8NvXHuQ-7ZMRC9f2QD8NwlXhM4sGoY85L1mP0oS8HtryArm2zCr8A9KSBHkQkjCVBuu-DsYXk3ACQFLhX9DdedNnkHvGUSIyYUX8tih2rWddle1Sp9a4E19pyTr6rHnl5ANMnRniMttfuMa8poXG-Mzq84r2ktGZsA8FKoGeNv2_7aZYA/s320/IMG_6987.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My precious penpal R. and her husband, R2.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi--2mLuTdrz-lzHE2mwRUaSXwZ541Ej9idXmQ13aj5p-PlMAIuw6BjP7IG6QwB0pegwYrrsaTO3JZQWVm5riA19BhZ-qsxt-hZFv0v4kerKkj3t0MY-fdpWnHhR_kXuTei4i8tYVxwa0qPtwR1R97ITDVD9UBqvLMW39dtiizmpC4vt0oxBAuzwWe0MWE/s1560/IMG_7069.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi--2mLuTdrz-lzHE2mwRUaSXwZ541Ej9idXmQ13aj5p-PlMAIuw6BjP7IG6QwB0pegwYrrsaTO3JZQWVm5riA19BhZ-qsxt-hZFv0v4kerKkj3t0MY-fdpWnHhR_kXuTei4i8tYVxwa0qPtwR1R97ITDVD9UBqvLMW39dtiizmpC4vt0oxBAuzwWe0MWE/s320/IMG_7069.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoyed a delicious lunch </td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We followed them to R2’s church where he pastors and on to the house where we visited for hours and hours. Who knew when we'd be able to see each other again, so this visit was going to count! An amazing experiece and visit - it seemed as if we'd been hanging out around her kitchen table for years, so comfortable and at ease. A huge blessing on this trip. </span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheK4vvnAWMK7HrxsUXjPlzIcVErRxId66SZqcmNseoI8GDYdsMGWb62pu3uf8BabpbfKzKTJ_yS74fFk7XaCOaLIdWRRzQoOC6ngpkM6DJ_7DtmAc9SJ8AnZbQAEJtZ6Tp3KyoSX7Mr7koUwIY7uMDcNACBlTeGdj7WTjRCdD-BKw3UutEbp7YWnnM6qo/s1883/IMG_6988.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1412" data-original-width="1883" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheK4vvnAWMK7HrxsUXjPlzIcVErRxId66SZqcmNseoI8GDYdsMGWb62pu3uf8BabpbfKzKTJ_yS74fFk7XaCOaLIdWRRzQoOC6ngpkM6DJ_7DtmAc9SJ8AnZbQAEJtZ6Tp3KyoSX7Mr7koUwIY7uMDcNACBlTeGdj7WTjRCdD-BKw3UutEbp7YWnnM6qo/s320/IMG_6988.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My non-biological family in LA! </td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Slept again in Natchez before heading off to Tuscaloosa, AL, home of the ROLL TIDE Roll. And boy, did you know it. So cool seeing the school pride and support everywhere you looked. A tad bittersweet for me as I used to visit my close friend, Sherry, in Tuscaloosa. Her husband recently passed away and she moved closer to her family in West Virigina. We stopped to get gas and i immediately recognized the gas station as one I'd been to several times before, on the way to and from her house. I had to call and I updated her on all the businesses that opened since she'd left. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PCdQ81JDRauRVgGl8maDkArdNPVQuSfWStk2B8pgcZb9MnGgCHXEii03pnfJ0t3HeY4wiCmU2NL1UuMu5PIMo0QpwV0MRxzmsKlA2PgnJL8euut2qOJc26W7PXAFNiaOmJwOaxep3yvJIZxZ_PyGgGFwjihQSvjZoTJjCf-YHdFIu_fEe0llju4IyeA/s4032/IMG_7022.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PCdQ81JDRauRVgGl8maDkArdNPVQuSfWStk2B8pgcZb9MnGgCHXEii03pnfJ0t3HeY4wiCmU2NL1UuMu5PIMo0QpwV0MRxzmsKlA2PgnJL8euut2qOJc26W7PXAFNiaOmJwOaxep3yvJIZxZ_PyGgGFwjihQSvjZoTJjCf-YHdFIu_fEe0llju4IyeA/s320/IMG_7022.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBDuqWutUj77nAR7vXw-sJKwKz3llch_Tq1zZkEIxVBw1Ryrjw3zj1P6ErnZO7Lp37_O6zZ8mMEQIAyOuYL1ltvB4ShwcLh-SN6zh2gVt_uwb7dX0mIWo9BZf4OBQFaUWOPQTalfKFE7XpXuZdz7Q984lmfeDqnibLHXbriCqwH9G74eU6TTy7PpKgllk/s4032/IMG_7038.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBDuqWutUj77nAR7vXw-sJKwKz3llch_Tq1zZkEIxVBw1Ryrjw3zj1P6ErnZO7Lp37_O6zZ8mMEQIAyOuYL1ltvB4ShwcLh-SN6zh2gVt_uwb7dX0mIWo9BZf4OBQFaUWOPQTalfKFE7XpXuZdz7Q984lmfeDqnibLHXbriCqwH9G74eU6TTy7PpKgllk/s320/IMG_7038.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Someone was tired of photos </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvH8JHM0mjcXigC-u6WzSA3yVpkhpLu5s-a8VBahkwS0kHmJ55txs9qSi5CRqa6t-7vE4pTWzs-sfyZ7GaQ3EFtr-Hd2TbvquiwSzKvhqLcNiBLLaTjLAA9BUJ7bRjcFptHXhyLvvnV9YaK4ua8i-QvGH5pYylGXsYF91Lssuv39VXYS2Z2NDPtiMgIPw/s4032/IMG_7039.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvH8JHM0mjcXigC-u6WzSA3yVpkhpLu5s-a8VBahkwS0kHmJ55txs9qSi5CRqa6t-7vE4pTWzs-sfyZ7GaQ3EFtr-Hd2TbvquiwSzKvhqLcNiBLLaTjLAA9BUJ7bRjcFptHXhyLvvnV9YaK4ua8i-QvGH5pYylGXsYF91Lssuv39VXYS2Z2NDPtiMgIPw/s320/IMG_7039.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Our reason for going through Alabama centered around the Birmingham Civil Rights Museum. Unsure of what I'd find or how it might be perceived, a pasty white woman walking into a civil rights museum, but I can say the experience exceeded all my expectations! I highly recommend going and taking your school age children. They did a great job on the musuem.</span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJtcWilGZa-Tczp4gqWOf0kTqIay9FTW7vTyFeP74IX9z0FWgclzLfILwItI4cHhUyCfClOdFUI7WGF7kMMKHT5ikq6Nts_Ky2grhwTOuVpyTYQ5Oej_CAIgO5duydT4XbPGJrAfnxwr1QfjMWFERjAsdDltcku-IA9Kdj5QrmFjRFLr8uZcdfHJoQnJY/s4032/IMG_7044.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJtcWilGZa-Tczp4gqWOf0kTqIay9FTW7vTyFeP74IX9z0FWgclzLfILwItI4cHhUyCfClOdFUI7WGF7kMMKHT5ikq6Nts_Ky2grhwTOuVpyTYQ5Oej_CAIgO5duydT4XbPGJrAfnxwr1QfjMWFERjAsdDltcku-IA9Kdj5QrmFjRFLr8uZcdfHJoQnJY/s320/IMG_7044.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All these AA churches, many of which are still in use. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWxH7ea_RjTzX0eW213cP1ZlfWETKZXLiE3frsJPNdZgYWJa1LOkpsYz8Krv8gUCDT5G_7R9VaLaG8zax9FMI-dlnIwf8C6hm8i7seurYC2WyzY0IZW8nUC-27GgVdivZxNEvgtdfJn2A_1GIz7tw3B6crizlS5cqZxpZL3ZV72SqhKenzxOkpVrDyDAY/s4032/IMG_7046.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWxH7ea_RjTzX0eW213cP1ZlfWETKZXLiE3frsJPNdZgYWJa1LOkpsYz8Krv8gUCDT5G_7R9VaLaG8zax9FMI-dlnIwf8C6hm8i7seurYC2WyzY0IZW8nUC-27GgVdivZxNEvgtdfJn2A_1GIz7tw3B6crizlS5cqZxpZL3ZV72SqhKenzxOkpVrDyDAY/s320/IMG_7046.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I believe this was a church that was set fire and killed 4 young girls. Horrific. </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Alabama also brought us the best gift yet - BUC-EES! My first Buc-ees experience and WOW what an experience! Loved it, loved the Buc-ees swimsuits and ties, stuffed animals, tshirts, shorts, etc. Everything with that buck-toothed beaver on it. I haven't broken down and tried a brisket sandwich yet, but I want to! Next time maybe. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj43-rQaHQdZ31Gf8CIECN0IcL2UI7Q-uiHWkPMlZo8wX5z88fkYe46dSRygJEeP0raUObqZ9X_VKONTLlOXu8virtq2N1F__dRQ3Tioet1qVpUP7cht4YYb8uJb0wS1-s_4ciaeI03PenJ8el5ZAeMYSo8VJPo9sWPo4G7vW-df22Npf56cT3aJ-YPpxY/s3088/IMG_7047.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj43-rQaHQdZ31Gf8CIECN0IcL2UI7Q-uiHWkPMlZo8wX5z88fkYe46dSRygJEeP0raUObqZ9X_VKONTLlOXu8virtq2N1F__dRQ3Tioet1qVpUP7cht4YYb8uJb0wS1-s_4ciaeI03PenJ8el5ZAeMYSo8VJPo9sWPo4G7vW-df22Npf56cT3aJ-YPpxY/s320/IMG_7047.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYqO0fXgUlH2zqCUmzaxMZ39EcpOQE-vJTf1aLTgzqUccoiwporLk38QLoPmPpuAeI1KdLu64Y63UHjfncsmJ6SmIpoLiP2p7DYikQSbEydfk-WikSbHGW4NrOhCtrIEanLwmtQAUWLfGHjRFu8vF7KRFi6VUwEoPHE9dPtVj9giktlY_M6o4VYe3yRlc/s4032/IMG_7050.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYqO0fXgUlH2zqCUmzaxMZ39EcpOQE-vJTf1aLTgzqUccoiwporLk38QLoPmPpuAeI1KdLu64Y63UHjfncsmJ6SmIpoLiP2p7DYikQSbEydfk-WikSbHGW4NrOhCtrIEanLwmtQAUWLfGHjRFu8vF7KRFi6VUwEoPHE9dPtVj9giktlY_M6o4VYe3yRlc/s320/IMG_7050.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">And then we arrived back home, exhausted and still wearing glasses thanks to the shattered contact. So many amazing memories with my super good friend, D. I never traveled like this before him and the job change and I'm very thankful for the opportunity. <3</span></p>Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-51687654222838898812023-08-08T02:13:00.005-04:002023-08-09T16:04:53.511-04:00First Quarter /Half Review<p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> Is anyone else so dang tired it's hard to keep putting one foot in front of the other? I overslept TWO HOURS this morning! Which reminds me, I need to check my alarms and make sure I haven't messed them up. I swear, I change things on my phone in my sleep. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">I'm totally in disbelief that we are already into April 2023. That doesn't seem possible! First quarter - GONE. So what happened in the first three months of 2023? Come along for the ride!</span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTguzF41zog6YhokCsWpDzRCYb9orJoZIIwAcFVN9OXDUyjtc460spFlI7e7u63gLTBEJZGZxHKBduqgrpL0DgtjSyjqTpQpavfzY7tVwBD-ZFtI_WeKftLOJPze3z63MjWr9Y6U45Lq18y79KClNRD3bOhQT9_yuWP7Jhk3D9SUDAtn0-siiPQfY/s4032/IMG_6082.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: helvetica; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTguzF41zog6YhokCsWpDzRCYb9orJoZIIwAcFVN9OXDUyjtc460spFlI7e7u63gLTBEJZGZxHKBduqgrpL0DgtjSyjqTpQpavfzY7tVwBD-ZFtI_WeKftLOJPze3z63MjWr9Y6U45Lq18y79KClNRD3bOhQT9_yuWP7Jhk3D9SUDAtn0-siiPQfY/w129-h172/IMG_6082.HEIC" width="129" /></a>J<span style="font-family: helvetica;">anuary: Mom's birthday (she turned 29 again!). It was tough, as you can imagine not having her husband there after 50+ years of birthdays together. But all in all, we are doing ok, including mom. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">I finally met my Charlotte co-workers as we returned to office 3/5 days. It's interesting getting to know people completely via a voice through Skype with little thumbnail pics to look at. Occasionally we'll have video on, but it's not often. I am VERY fortunate to have the awesome team I do, because they are the best people. Even if there are a few I still haven't met yet. It's ok, they are still super cool people.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Leave it to us to celebrate the gingerbread house decorating a wee bit after Christmas, but it was still very fun! I love giving Macy these great memories of doing things like this with her mom, MawMaw and Aunt Beth. (Will add pics later) </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">So I just discovered this in AUGUST. That it wasn’t completed or posted. Sorry about that (I apologize to myself)… </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Feb 11-18 was an epic adventure/road trip all across the Gulf Coast and meeting my penpal for the first time!!! That’s for another post but so amazing. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Then in May we flew to LAX and drove to San Diego! Another great trip - I’m loving all the travel! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">June = beach trip with the family to Pawley’s Island! And somewhere in there I received a promotion at work. And bought a new hybrid Honda CRV. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyYz-uVqnSjkG9TL-DdOBC_JLW5q-tc4dAyiWwVdsJElDlA5MFTxdKGfCP35etvoj5tfIbhR9phBEc55VVKXuYHSZy3Ie_EGtFWo0mqV1AhpLzSsCvVIRLzlRGZ1hVkhkze_m8SiboZ1qLE5dC6jKMpWKidLjek9FtHaQ0hvUYg0Qan8oqd3KLULocBs/s4032/IMG_0494.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyYz-uVqnSjkG9TL-DdOBC_JLW5q-tc4dAyiWwVdsJElDlA5MFTxdKGfCP35etvoj5tfIbhR9phBEc55VVKXuYHSZy3Ie_EGtFWo0mqV1AhpLzSsCvVIRLzlRGZ1hVkhkze_m8SiboZ1qLE5dC6jKMpWKidLjek9FtHaQ0hvUYg0Qan8oqd3KLULocBs/w139-h186/IMG_0494.HEIC" width="139" /></a></div>Which brings us to August. It is hot. Stormy. And the kids go back to school tomorrow. ;) One of the last photos I have of Dad is Macy’s first day of 5th grade. He came over to see her off. He looked so tired. As I made Macy’s sign for tomorrow, I couldn’t help but think about that. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Because it’s 2am I should probably get some sleep. I’ll fill in some of these blanks later :)</span></div><p></p>Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-57711784804379036732023-01-20T17:45:00.003-05:002023-01-20T17:45:56.657-05:00Claim it - my word for 2023.Each year I try to find a word and focus on this one word, in hopes it would make a lasting impact on my life. I haven't done too well with it for the past several years. I so hope 2023 is different. <div><br /></div><div>This year is already off to a different type of start with good things on the horizon. In my workplace, they allow 16 hours towards volunteering. Since I was trying to learn the ropes last year, I didn't even attempt to figure out the "giving back" portion of the company. Thanks to a friend who also works at my company asking me to volunteer with him, I kinda rolled my eyes and said - sure, why not. (Just as a side note here: the number one reason people don't GIVE or VOLUNTEER is because they are never asked.) </div><div><br /></div><div>So you have here the newest volunteer math tutor for HEART Math Tutoring! I've met one of the two students I will be working with this semester and she is PRECIOUS. Adore her. We hit it off right from the beginning. Now, let me say here, I have a tendency to reverse numbers when I'm tired or stressed. I told my student this - let's call her Maggie - I told Maggie and she thought that was hilarious! :) I'll meet my second student this coming week. </div><div><br /></div><div>Today, I scheduled time with a coworker to learn more about my company's match in giving. Holy smokes, you can give up to $2,000 a year and they match this!! And the match can go to any organization you prefer, not necessarily the ones you gave your money to, which is also awesome! I immediately looked up two organizations that mean the world to me: </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Itmann Food Bank in West Virginia. They have the most creative ideas on how to help people through difficult financial times. Yes, they give out food. But they also have a chicken project that provides a chicken coop and chickens for those who are willing to try it! 35 families now have chickens! And they provide school supplies, clothing, and more. Love them. </li><li>The Marfan Foundation. Likely you have never heard of Marfan Syndrome, but it has a huge impact on my family. This foundation works to advance research, serve as a resource for families and healthcare providers and raise public awareness. I've sat in on a presentation from them and it's amazing where they are taking research and finding new solutions to Marfan related problems. </li></ul><div>So, in addition to giving to these companies, I can also give them my match. AND I can give my gift in memory of my brother-in-law and Dad! I think that's just AWESOME that I can remember these two loved ones through my gift from work! </div></div><div><br /></div><div>AND FURTHERMORE! I discovered as I volunteer and log my volunteer hours, I can earn Community Care Grants to give to organizations. I earned $50 for signing up to send a card to someone in Maine. I'm so excited about this aspect of my workplace. This is foreign to me and I love it. </div><div><br /></div><div>What else can I CLAIM in 2023? I'm hoping to get my passport and am encouraging Mom, my sister and niece to also get theirs... you know, just in case we should want to travel somewhere! Mom has an interest in traveling and I think I could convince her. And I want my niece to see the world outside of our little state. Or the states around us. I want to have to understand there is so much more to this world and it's so beautiful and awe-inspiring. For Christmas, I signed her up to receive the magazine, "Faces", which is supposed to be about other countries. So I hope to instill in her a love for travel and exploration. </div><div><br /></div><div>I know this year is going to be tough, going through so many things without my Dad. Today I found a voicemail on my phone from him and listened to it. I can't believe it's already been four months since I've heard that voice. Wow. But he would never want us to sit and mourn. That wasn't him. He loved us so very much, this I've never doubted. The voicemail was him worrying about me and wanting me to call and check in to let them know everything was ok. Yeah, 2023 is going to be hard. But it's going to be good, too. Claim it. Claim all the good out there and push through the bad. We got this, right? </div>Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-33714742812126103532023-01-01T16:03:00.001-05:002023-01-20T18:08:25.564-05:00Goodbye 2022 and good riddance. <p> Macy said tonight she was sad to see 2022 leave. Of course, Mom, Katie, and I said WHY?!? We are so over 2022. But, I am so thankful Macy sees so many good things that happened in 2022. </p><p>2022 for me: </p><p>— I changed jobs after being at my government job of 12 years. It was scary but so good for me. I worked from home and still haven’t met most of my coworkers, yet developed friendships all the same. </p><p>— I traveled! At least three trips to the NC Mts with family and friends. VA/W Va to see Sherry and a promise to visit Shirley next time!!❤️ (This year’s autumn leaves were amazing!) Dylan and I drove to Iowa, met a few of my coworkers there (Rachel and her kittens!) and saw amazing views of this country. 8 states and another town with my last name!! Rachel came to visit us so we squeezed in Charleston and Folly Beach and a few trips into Charlotte. Hit up North Myrtle for Thanksgiving and enjoyed a quieter Christmas at home. </p><p>— Watched Ellie win Miss Freshman at her high school - she was so confident and poised! I was very impressed! Enjoyed a little time with her and Donna where I was able to see how much she grew up during those Covid years! She’s a teenager now!!! And is such a”good kid.”</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhwgvqB5_SLVb1RG_tFrABnHWxDtSSGZP46lNOrdGf9nXJudZLca6Dlq1gMoOLnuFm8_CTcS7w9R9lT3I-37cqxzP6-Z6tXeqOgF6-o1V6WYhDkEihSn8V8C2sONmjqdAKVZ0uh_pJGwsZevnSMxy5iBOfZh1FKxAL_CAC5cBi7_6i5pJGniDfkqH/s582/306806499_10162066487673242_4087984975803920985_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="582" data-original-width="526" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhwgvqB5_SLVb1RG_tFrABnHWxDtSSGZP46lNOrdGf9nXJudZLca6Dlq1gMoOLnuFm8_CTcS7w9R9lT3I-37cqxzP6-Z6tXeqOgF6-o1V6WYhDkEihSn8V8C2sONmjqdAKVZ0uh_pJGwsZevnSMxy5iBOfZh1FKxAL_CAC5cBi7_6i5pJGniDfkqH/w157-h174/306806499_10162066487673242_4087984975803920985_n.jpg" width="157" /></a></div>— And the toughest event ever - having my Dad pass away in September. Even with this, I saw so many amazing things. How he impacted the medical staff in a positive way. At various times, nurses came in after clocking out to say how much they enjoyed him and his family. He showed determination. Strong faith. A fighting spirit. So much love for his family. We have loved the George stories, meeting his old friends and coworkers. Seeing family. Yes, these were (and are) very hard days. But for us because our hearts hurt missing him so much. He is healed, happy, with our Heavenly Father! And all the family and friends who went before him. We will see him again. For that, I am so thankful. <p></p><p>So yes, 2022 sucked. But it was beautiful, too. It took a 10-year-old to remind me of this, but she is often wise beyond her years. </p>Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-3226538775258859782022-12-19T03:57:00.001-05:002023-01-20T18:06:53.563-05:00And in a snap<p>Four years have come and gone in a snap of the fingers. I wish I could tell you majorly exciting things happened during those years, but not so much. I changed jobs after 12 years and that’s opened up all kinds of new opportunities. And even more change is on the horizon as the office calls us to return from working at home beginning in 2023. I’ve made new friends, met new people, and traveled halfway across this country to see new places and beautiful views. I’ll do a stand alone on that one soon. </p><p>The biggest change, in all of my 47 years thus far, is losing my Dad. September 11, 2022. </p><p>I remember this episode of Grey’s Anatomy where Christina is talking to George about joining the Dead Dad’s Club. A few days before he passed, I couldn’t get that image out of my head. I bawled the whole way home from the hospital because I didn’t want to join this stupid club and I was very afraid I was going to.</p><p>It doesn’t seem real. Never seeing him again? Hearing his laugh? Getting his advice? Kissing the top of his head on my way out the door? Hearing his truck coming up the driveway or his tractor in the field? Sitting with him in one of his swings and hearing stories of his family? Eating way too many of his biscuits and taking more to go? How can all of this have ended with one final breath? It’s not real. It just can’t be. </p><p>Mom told me one time she worried about me, that I was still single because I was trying to find a guy to live up to my dad, and that would be hard to do. She is so right. He wasn’t perfect, but he loved God, guided us back to Him, loved his wife of 52 years and respected her, loved his children and steered them on a solid, steady path, and doted on his grandchildren. He dealt fairly or to the other person’s advantage. He worked hard and took pride in doing a great job. And his knowledge was vast, spanning a million subjects and always learning more. </p><p>Dad was salt of the earth, a country boy, with no presumptions and no airs. He didn’t try to be someone he wasn’t and he very much knew who he was. He respected people, no matter their color or standing. And loved to laugh! Always going on with junk and teasing folks. </p><p>Needless to say, the man who meant more to me than any other man ever has in my entire life-he is gone. Will I be ok? Of course. He prepared us for him leaving us since we were kids. His parents died young and he never expected to live to 75. He was so shocked as more birthdays came and went. And he passed 15 minutes before he turned 76. We buried him one day before I turned 47. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS6f9504fyFyDLbs4YyGLujiqSj8Hw2lZJiecVLmm2joaXQvajdBuW1vaLIggEQR7roz_ZNY-7nvCQuCayNuSKmILlysU6SLAslS4GBXSagDfKkxZZgXCqQlcmA_GS__Kc48kAPo0zDvMBMKPY0uCIhWRnwKnVDJoeIyfph21FSVIDrA6iy4imet-B/s701/306806582_799330084602922_6836223698979963436_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="526" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS6f9504fyFyDLbs4YyGLujiqSj8Hw2lZJiecVLmm2joaXQvajdBuW1vaLIggEQR7roz_ZNY-7nvCQuCayNuSKmILlysU6SLAslS4GBXSagDfKkxZZgXCqQlcmA_GS__Kc48kAPo0zDvMBMKPY0uCIhWRnwKnVDJoeIyfph21FSVIDrA6iy4imet-B/w273-h320/306806582_799330084602922_6836223698979963436_n.jpg" width="273" /></a></div><p>My very wise sweet niece, 10-years-old and lost her dad almost 4 years ago, wrote a letter to her Pawpaw for us to read to him. She said “I am really, really going to miss you and I know this is not goodbye but I will miss you until then.” Yes sweet girl, we will all miss him until we join him in Heaven above with others who loved the Lord and passed before us. It is this that brings me the most joy, knowing he has met Jesus Himself! He is reunited with his parents, his siblings, and friends. He is fine! It’s we who are left here that selfishly want our beloved husband, father, pawpaw, brother, and friend back. But his Heaven Father has him in His loving care and a host of heavenly beings rejoiced to have him enter those gates. </p><p>Sheesh I needed a place to dump so many emotions. If anyone is out there and still reading this defunct blog, I apologize. 1-for ditching you and 2-for coming back with a truckload of emotions. I’ll end with - go hug someone you love and let them know you care. Heck, it’s literally a handful of days before Christmas- perfect timing. ❤️ </p>Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-30270213749821701722018-08-06T17:08:00.001-04:002018-08-07T15:42:06.502-04:00Dia & Co. Review! Ok ya'll.<br />
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I don't usually do this stuff, but all the sudden, I've become a direct mail kinda gal.<br />
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It started with Young Living Essential Oils. Got my oils in the mail, 16 months later, I'm still ordering every month. I do love those oils and they do work!<br />
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Then it was Monat hair products. Um... I do like some of their products. I liked what their shampoo and conditioner did for my hair - wow! But then it was like my scalp hated me and it, so no more of that. I do like their detangler, my mom loves their hairspray and I like the dry shampoo, but it doesn't go very far.<br />
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Then, it was Plexus! I've had it a month and am having to slowly get into it. Detox isn't pretty and it tried to kill me (just kidding, I'm just a whimp) but I'm ok. I am introducing a little at a time. And a new order ships next week. :)<br />
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<b>ALL THIS TO SAY, I ORDERED DIA & CO PLUS SIZED CLOTHING DIRECT MAIL.</b><br />
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Ya'll, for real, I ordered this on FRIDAY and it arrived at work on MONDAY. Holy smokes, it was on fire getting here so fast! Right from the beginning, I loved the box it came in. Purple packaging tape and lined in purple inside! I love purple!<br />
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But I'm jumping ahead, let me tell you from the beginning. I chose Dia & Co because I'm a plus sized lady. I figured if they specialize in my sizes, they would probably have a better chance understanding what would look good on a chunky monkey like me. So, Dia & Co it is.<br />
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Did the survey, answered the question, requested the items I was most interested in. Picked a price range, asked for no yellow clothing, no dresses and no skirts. What do I like to show off? Ummm.. nothing. No legs, no belly, no bust, no shoulders - can I have a burlap sack with eye holes please? But, it's all good, I figure they have seen and heard it all before me.<br />
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I sent a pic of what I was wearing that day - jeans and a flowy shirt. Flip flops. The only measurements they had were my height and bra size (that I can remember). I was determined to be open-minded and try on everything I received. I figured this was part of the experience, to lean on their expertise and step out of my comfort zone. I let my coworkers rate my box and gave a show this afternoon in the office. Here is what we thought:<br />
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(One day, I'll add pictures. Not today)<br />
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First - I did receive a dress and I was ok with that. I wasn't surprised, I'd seen too many dresses and skirts in pics advertising Dia & Co. But it's all good. I'm glad they included it.<br />
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I received:<br />
--a necklace (everyone in the office LOVED it)<br />
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--a dress in kelly green and black (they loved the dress. I was OK with the dress, just not a dress person. But it did make me consider I could wear dresses in the future, should I want to). It's going back. April picks this as her TOP PICK.<br />
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--A black soft shirt with crochet sleeves. We all loved this shirt. I would not have chosen it becasue of the sleeves, but on, I really liked it! It's a keeper! Sharon and Cyndi pick this as their TOP PICK.<br />
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--An interesting blouse with a sheerish looking white back, light blue and white stripes and florals on the front. Ther eis no way I would have tried that shirt on ever. April reaaaallllly liked it. And I did, too, once it was on. Debating on this one.<br />
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--Bright magenta ankle pants - what a FUN color! The fit in the waist, legs all that was really great. But the crotch wasn't quite right for me. So I really appreciate they sent them and the color/size but the fit wasn't super right.<br />
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Overall - they did a great job picking the right colors fo rme! The right shapes of clothing and they looked good on (according to the work trio). They said the tops were a different type of fit than what I would normally wear and they were very flattering. And Dia included tips on what else to wear these pieces with - items most folks would already have in their closet. So that was helpful, too.<br />
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Count me as impressed. Items were in the price range I chose, which were a little more high end. But this will give me a chance to learn designer names that look good on me, styles and cuts that look good and help me shop for myself later on! :)<br />
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<br />Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-30490293242461669982018-07-10T17:22:00.000-04:002018-07-10T17:22:08.249-04:00A New Beginning, Mid-YearToday I've made yet another commitment financially and I hope it was a smart move.<br />
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I've invested in PLEXUS. I've never been one to do the shakes, the meal replacement, blah blah. And the options I have chosen isn't about meal replacements or shakes. But about probiotics, cleanses, and pink drinks before meals to help me eat less. Looking at what all I ate today, I kinda wish it were already here. <br />
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I want to sleep better - heck, sleep at all! I want my clear mind back, to be able to remember the small details and have my brain function. And, no lie, it would be nice to lose some weight. Maybe an energy boost would help with that...<br />
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Regardless, I'll let you know how it goes. Keep you up-to-date on my progress. Here's to new adventures!Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-23145451040232559502018-04-02T17:29:00.000-04:002018-04-02T17:29:12.256-04:00It's not real. Whew - I've so much on my mind. Have wanted to dump it all here for a while, but could never summon the energy to do so. For a while now, I've been addicted to YouTube for entertainment at night. It started with Santa bringing me a Kindle Fire, which allows me to lay in bed and watch movies/clips/etc forever. and ever. Allllllll night. I'm not sleeping anyway, why not watch videos?<br />
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So my dirty little secret or embarrassing indulgence... Vampire Diaries. I can't find full episodes for free so I try to piece together snippets from each episode, sometimes getting them out of order and missing huge chunks of the story. I thought I had a clue of the story line, only to find another snippet that put me in a tail spin. Ugh. I'm getting Netflix and binge watching soon.<br />
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Let me tell you, though, what I've learned from watching a show on a tablet all the time:<br />
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<ol>
<li>My life is boring. Usually I'm ok with that, but after seeing the glam and excitement of staking out bad vampires and werewolf things, I was getting very disappoint and dissatisfied with my boring self and my boring life. Which I finally wizened up and realized....</li>
<li>No one works, cleans, washes the sheets they all roll around in, showers, goes to the bathroom, suffers from allergies, goes clothes shopping, struggles to find a bathing suit that fits, DIES and stays dead, wonders where these high school students are in the middle of the night... or the next day at school, pays the mortgage, scrambles to pay the electric bill, etc etc etc etc etc...</li>
<li>Everyone looks perfect, even if they've been stabbed, shot, if they are mad, sleep deprived, sad, lonely, confused - they just look so hot doing it all. Even on my best day, I don't look hot. Well, unless I'm outside sweating, and then I'm not happy that I'm hot. </li>
<li>If you want to look hot, you must pull some of your hair in front of your shoulders. Just something I've noticed. </li>
<li>When they kiss, they never miss. Never crash noses. Or crash teeth. Or accidentally whack foreheads. Nope. They are just that good. </li>
<li>This crap isn't real in any way shape or form. So why did I let it make me feel dissatisfied with my life? Watch the bloopers, see how often the sneeze, burp, flub the lines, miss the target, get frustrated... it's all crap. You know, in case you didn't realize vampires weren't real? </li>
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How on earth did I get wrapped up in this crap? But now I want to know the storyline... so Netflix, here I come. As soon as I finish True Blood (hahaha!) and I'm not a vampire fan AT ALL. Not a SciFi fan - is that considered SciFi? I don't even know what all is SciFi but I know I don't usually like it. Unless it's Iron Man because... well, it's Iron Man. </div>
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Ok ya'll, I'm headed home. :) to do everyday normal people stuff, like clean up my kitchen. </div>
Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-19931999962582642242018-02-11T21:58:00.001-05:002018-04-02T17:13:42.972-04:00Playing It Safe. I haven't gotten into the Winter Olympics like I normally do, but I'm sitting here watching tonight. Sounds like the cold in Korea is making unique challenges in some sports but one guy summed it up: everyone is trying to play it safe but it's a go big or go home type of situation. I'll be the first to say, I am not a risk taker. Not at all. -- Random thought: how do the skaters spin like that and not wobble around like a drunken monkey? And is it just evil to watch these Olympians and then a commercial for a bacon, egg and cheese buttered biscuit combo? Just checking.<br />
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2017 became the year of vendor events for mom and I and our business, Pressed Clovers. I use the business term lightly, But mom makes girls' hair bows and I sew baby bibs and burp cloths. We tried selling at a tractor show and did great! And then we went full steam ahead. Who knew there were Spring vendor shows? So here we go again... Winding up for round two! Very excited. You can find us online at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pressedclovers" target="_blank">Pressed Clovers on Facebook</a> and at <a href="http://www.wtsy.pressedclovers.com/" target="_blank">Pressed Clovers on Etsy</a>. We are on Instagram, too, as Pressed Clovers and I probably post more there as I'm completing items.<br />
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I discovered sewing is the only thing that can shut my brain down after a long day at work. If I think about anything, even about what I'm sewing, I will mess up. So I have to clear my mind and just exist for the sewing machine. Some nights it's a struggle. :) <br />
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Since I have the Olympics on, let me just say how much I miss Scott Hamilton. I love ice skating but Tara and Johnny are snarky and rude. They have little tact and it's just annoying.<br />
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Ok enough of that. I'm switching between the Olympics and Victoria on PBS. If you don't watch PBS, you are missing out on excellent television. Masterpiece Theater is awesome. Independent Lens also brings great programming, too. And I'm loving Ann Curry's show, We Will Meet Again. Good stuff. Tuesday nights - check it out. You'll cry. At least I cry.<br />
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So many things make me cry these days. The Apple Iwatch commercial with the letters from users - sniff sniff. Sad movies - sniff sniff. We took Macy to see The Star and when Mary told Joseph something about God never promised an easy life -- SNIFF SNIFF! And I'm sooo tired. I struggle to sleep, struggle to stay asleep, struggle to stay awake at work. It's terrible. If Spring doesn't get here soon and we can leave these snowy, cold, dreary, days behind I'm going to lose my mind.<br />
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I'll come back and add more pictures tomorrow. I'm actually doing this from my poor old phone, screen cracked, washed in a load of clothes and then dunked in the tub. Amazing. :) sweet dreams friends!<br />
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<br />Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-86960074549679426892018-01-17T05:16:00.000-05:002018-02-11T20:07:55.698-05:00And 2018 Begins. Happy New Year!!! Since we are only halfway through the first month, surely I'm not too late. I made my "resolutions" for lack of a better word, and am working on my life. So thankful I am so blessed that resolutions are something I can focus on because I don't have to worry about my basic needs. So thankful.<br />
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In the recent cold snap...heck, deep freeze!...I gave thanks for a protective and warm shelter, warm electric blanket, and running water when I woke up in the mornings. I'm hoping I don't have frozen pipes this morning as I forgot to leave a faucet dripping! I have yet to figure out how you people in the north survived crazy cold winters and don't have frozen pipes. Baffled. Beyond my comprehension.<br />
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So what have I been up to, you ask? Because it's obvious it hasn't been blogging. Last year was a tough work year. What should have been our down year, recuperation time, reorganize and get the office back in order year, became one of the busiest years I think I've ever experienced there. Including an election on Halloween!!! And the week of Thanksgiving! But my sweet nieces came to see me at work so I wouldn't miss out. Little Miss trick or treated from desk to desk.<br />
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I've spent my downtime exploring many interests, including family history and genealogy. I find this fascinating! This pic, my great grandmother and brother sitting on the porch of the house I live in now. Wonder if the paw prints were in the concrete at this point or if it was repoured at some point. Anyway, I've hit a roadblock on my great great grandfather that will take some real digging and hopefully that will crack the case. Although this is a "big" election year, I still think it will be less crazy than last year. So i should be able to find time to take some days off and Visit the historical center. I'll let you know if i figure it out.<br />
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Y'all, I started this entry early yesterday morning, having no idea what had happened overnight. Our police officers were ambushed, four sent to the hospital. One barely hanging on to life. I'm not sure why it is settling so heavy on my heart, but it definitely is. I am familiar with two of the officers through my work. Even if i weren't, the images in my mind of the chaos, fear, adrenaline, grief, anger, confusion...the families at home having no clue anything had happened. Or maybe listening to it unfold over a scanner, and feeling so totally helpless. My heart physically hurts for the officers, their family and friends. Please pray for them and especially for officer Doty.<br />
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Thanks y'all.<br />
<br />Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-40950062564367795542017-09-30T12:16:00.000-04:002018-01-23T14:59:15.445-05:00On the road again<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Thanks to my work schedule, vacation happened in August instead of June. We feared the temps at the beach in August would be brutal. Instead, this is the best weather I've ever experienced at the beach in summertime! So thankful! Cool temps and low humidity. Yeah! </span></div>
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That also means I spent more time on the beach than normal so I'm a lobster in places. Complete with water blisters. From day one. The joys of being a pasty white girl. I'll say this, however - the Young Living sunscreen impressed me enough to use it on Macy. Just don't try to apply it to your back without help. </div>
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This child loved the beach! Where we go has a river that dumps into the ocean and the water is so calm on that point. So no breakers, just gentle water. She played and played. When we went walking on the beach, we found some waves for her to hop over. Is she not the cutest thing? </div>
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These painted rocks are popping up everywhere. This came from our beach shopping trip at the grocery store.<br />
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This discovery happened in Gaffney, SC, at the Clock restaurant. </div>
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This one at the Schiele Museum in Gastonia, NC. I'll admit, we left the spider. </div>
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I actually love the painted rocks - they are usually linked to Facebook somehow - and it gets people interested in new communities and art activities. </div>
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Both sweet nieces were home last week - so glad they have each other. 10 years between them hasn't been much of an issue yet. Hoping that continues. It's always good to have AH home. As she's become a teenager, her free time disappeared and it's rarer for us to see her. Her little sister is crazy about her!! </div>
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These cuties!!! I was blessed with three days close together of sweet nephew love. Most of our time together looked just like this - a blur of activity! Those two are so much fun and such blessings to our family! Such sweet boys, blessings from the Lord, most definitely. I like to watch them when they spot their mama or daddy when they've been out-of-sight for awhile. Their entire body lights up with happiness and excitement! </div>
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Another sweetie whom I adore, little Miss Paige! Took advantage of some overtime hours and scheduled a day off to visit friends. And babies. :) God blessed me with the people who have stayed close to me in life - this girl is one of those people. And watching her family grow has been a huge gift. She's crazy talented and a great mama. </div>
Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-8171839096177294922017-06-20T12:15:00.000-04:002018-01-23T14:56:20.675-05:00Heaven help I need to The update some pics. I actually have started<br />
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ordering Chatbooks which syhows all my Instagram pics. I really like having those printed in book form to keep! Check it out.<br />
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Pics of the nieces. Their family went to the mountains for vacation where Macy finally caught a fish! AH is so patient with her little sister and I'm so thankful. </div>
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These two adorable cuties are doing well, too. Love them to pieces! <br />
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Thanks to my brother for getting a pic of me with both of them. Love snuggling.<br />
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And this pic!! Loooove it and have it on my fridge. My parents adore those boys!!<br />
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Macy and MawMaw after church.<br />
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Sweet niece #1! She had her wisdom teeth cut out yesterday. Poor thing. She seemed pretty upbeat about it.<br />
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I swear Macy adores her big sister!! This is after Macy's birthday party. She's wearing her new frozen dress up dress.<br />
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Happy Birthday to this sweet girl!<br />
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Her gift from my friend in LA. An HK sun hat! Super cute!!<br />
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My awesome amazing super wonderful parents!! So thankful for them. So blessed by God for giving me to them. They are such a support. And now, I can honestly say, they are my friends. Love you Mom and Dad!!<br />
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So now that I've dumped a million photos ... The update on my life! </div>
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1- I'm still using my Young Living oils and I love them! De-stressor, chemical free, healthy wellness avenue. And they have makeup now. And I'm going to try it! </div>
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2- Some punk keeps knocking on our doors late at night. Then Katie's furniture in her porch was moved or, most recently, her grill. My parents had someone knock several nights lately. If they are knocking on my door, I'm sleeping through it. But they have before. And it's annoying. </div>
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3- my work life is calming down and I'm finally getting to take some time off. Spent Friday with Macy and my sister's . This is what I try to remember when I'm putting in the hours. </div>
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Ok I'm falling Sleep - dropping the phone on my face. Sweet Dreams!<i></i></div>
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Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-31906936013512930272017-05-31T05:37:00.001-04:002018-01-23T14:53:38.395-05:00No More Tit-for-TatGracious there are times when the Lotd, quite simply, grabs your attention. Not always through some magestical way, but sometimes in the quiet of the morning. I've been very slack in reading and praying through the chaos of my life lately. As I wrote to one friend - does it look like everything is going well in my Facebook posts? - yeah, that shows you how deceiving Facebook is! And for some reason, I shut down when the going gets tough, instead of reaching out to God. And that brings on anxiety. What a vicious circle.<br />
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So this morning, after several nights of no sleep, I'm awake in my dimly lit bedroom, reading the Girlfriends in God devotional that I've been ignoring forever. Today's message was good, about those God moments where the overwhelming desire to praise Him can occur in any life moment. And they said to read Psalm 63. </div>
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I opened my Bible app and the verse of the day appeared. I usually glance at the first lines that show but rarely click on it To read the entire passage. Today I clicked. </div>
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“To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer for that person. If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously. (Luke 6:27-30 MSG)</div>
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Two things stand out - (1) To you who are ready for the truth. (I am often not! And therefore the Lord's message will not be revealed until we are ready!) and (2) If someone takes unfair advantage of you, practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Wwwhhhoooaaa. That's definitely not what society teaches us!! Living the servant life - no society teaches we live to be served. It's ME driven. Not THEE driven. </div>
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So this concept of a servant's life keeps popping up in various places for me. Enough that I am recognizing this message. I pray I can have a servant's attitude because it's definitely not what I currently have. But it is what the Lord wants. </div>
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Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-12355745217568573132017-04-26T06:33:00.001-04:002017-06-01T07:58:44.417-04:00Sprang is Here!Happy belated Easter and Happy Sprang!! So happy we are seeing fresh green and pretty pinks popping up everywhere. Hate the nasty yellow pollen causing everyone grief, but you gotta have pollen to have Spring.<br />
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Roger celebrated birthday 42 and had Macy's help opening presents and blowing out candles. </div>
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A random night on Katie's deck. She's all about dressing up. </div>
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Dyed eggs for Easter, of course. </div>
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Serious concentration going on so we don't drop and break the egg. </div>
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I'm not sure what Katie used but she made dye that pretty much dyed the egg the second it went into the liquid. Great for impatient Macy. We ended up with a ton of dye cups and a ton of eggs!! </div>
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Easter Sunday. He is risen!! So thankful Macy is in a Christian family and already grasps so much about Jesus and His love for her. </div>
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Family photo!! Missing sweet niece #1, but she's a teen now and doesn't come home here much. ;) I try to remember that but it's been forever since I've seen her! </div>
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Some of the cousins came to Mom's for Easter egg hunts. These two should be brother and sister they are so much alike - Macy and River. </div>
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The only girl in her family group. And she can hold her own :) What a sweetie! </div>
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Cutie Rylan, closest to Macy's age and one of her good friends. </div>
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These two are first cousins and great friends. Leilla and Gates. </div>
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My aunt and uncle (mom's sister) and their grand babies!! Eddie has Rylan and Emmett, Ann is holding Perrin, Leilla Gates and River are standing by her. :) </div>
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While we are talking about family, my aunt Brenda came up from Georgia for an extended weekend and the sisters got together at aunt Kathy's house! (And one sister-in-law!) Back row, Brenda, mom, Dot, Ann. Front row: Bonnie Jean, Kathy and Faye. Love this pic! </div>
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Macy's first school program was last night! She had five songs memorized with motions. She did so well! </div>
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Aunt Faye came, too! So she and mom made the sisters' trip and then came to Macy's program. Busy day! </div>
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Very proud of this sweet girl! </div>
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At least that catches me up on pics! All of them are of Macy, but that's what I see the most of these days. Looking forward to getting the work life calmed down, so I can spend some time with my nephews. Gosh they are growing so fast, learning so much. What blessings! </div>
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Ok I gotta get my booty out the door and off to work! </div>
Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-61002383074612002222017-03-17T07:19:00.001-04:002017-03-28T16:55:30.522-04:00Actually, I am Irish!Thanks to ancestery.com I do know that I am part Irish! So happy Saint Patty's day from an official Irish girl. I also found out I am very boring and very white. I honestly expected something more than European, Irish and English. Oh well, I am what I am. :)<br />
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I am also a fierce dinosaur! Sweet niece went to a birthday party were dinosaurs was the theme. She wore this mask for half the day- loved it! So we became dinosaurs together. <3</div>
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I'm studying a devotion with an online group on Facebook. It's called Broken and Redeemed a study on the God who redeems our stories. I ordered the journal off Amazon and I have so enjoyed this devotion!</div>
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Why I like having the group online is because it opens up others understandings of the scripture that we read. I learn so much from what other people got out of the Scriptures, it opens my eyes to complete new lessons. I recommend it - find it on Amazon.</div>
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I rarely show photos of just myself, but here I am with one of the custom orders that has come in recently for Pressed Clovers. This year I asked that God would allow me to make things that people wanted. All the sudden my bib and burp cloth business took off like lightning. With it came some growing pains of trying to keep up three stores, two brick-and-mortar, one online, so at this point the online has been taken down. But I so love having people want what I make! To know that it is helpful to mommies and their babies because it's a good quality product. I've had some pains - I've had to learn some lessons and make adjustments, but it's so worth it and I'm learning so much as I go.</div>
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Then mom started making hair bows. Big beautiful fluffy poofy cute hair bows for all the little princesses out there. Beautiful work - it is amazing what she can do. So now that has also become a part of Pressed Clovers! And I couldn't be happier to have my mom working with me. </div>
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We are headed to a tractor show in two weeks to set up and sell. Should be interesting! Hopefully, it will go really well and the brand will be more recognizable for future purchases! I donated two sets for a church fundraising event in this same community last week and hope that will be remembered. </div>
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I know it's odd for someone with no children to get this excited over bibs and burp cloths. My prayer was very sincere, I wanted to make things that people wanted. I think I've done that, not on my own but thanks to the Lord. It truly seems like God was waiting for me to just ask for success and I finally did. I sincerely hope that I'm on the right path.</div>
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OK since I've already held this in drafts for a few days, I think it's time to go ahead and publish. Hope you're having a wonderful week and a happy happy Tuesday. :) </div>
Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-63717104437550422002017-03-02T04:53:00.001-05:002017-03-28T16:53:35.857-04:00SleeplessUgh. I accidentally fell asleep last night about 8:30 pm, woke up about 1:09 am and haven't been back to sleep since. That sucks. Finally, I've decided to just be done with the attempts (now that it's about 4:30 am) and be awake. Maybe I'll get moving and go have breakfast somewhere before work! Yum!<br />
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So I left off here with frustrations about my niece. Hopefully, this situation will never happen to another student. But today, I'd like to share good news! More of God's blessings - Macy had her annual cardiologist appointment and everything looks great!! What a huge relief! Why does the 4-year-old have annual cardiologist appointments? The condition she has - Marfans - typically impacts the heart. Feel free to google it, it's interesting to read, I guess. President Lincoln is a famous Marfans person. </div>
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Anyway, her good news is a huge relief. My dad, who we also suspect has Marfans, also received a good cardiologist check up. He has all the heart symptoms - leaky heart valve and aneurysm in the aorta - but so far they have held off on surgery and continue to do so. Hooray! </div>
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Mom couldn't shake a sinus infection - some serious steroids finally helped out. I'm not talking about that first round you get- this was scary amounts - but it worked! And after allergy tests, she doesn't seem to be allergic to environmental things - another great blessing! Woo Hoo! </div>
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Mom and my brother have allergies to food. Mom: peaches, carrots, almonds, shellfish. Clay: tomatoes, black pepper, beef, oranges, I can't remember what all. And he has a tin of other allergies, too. He has sneezefests of 20+ sneezes at one time. Craziness. </div>
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Macy and ree family went to the circus to see the last year of performances! So glad they were able to do this. She lived it!! </div>
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Katie, Macy, and I headed to Columbia to celebrate a very special girl's first birthda (with a quick stop at Krispie Kreme). Paulene and I became friends through United Way. </div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">And look at her precious girl!!! What a great celebration! </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The older sweet niece made it home. Our weather has been crazy warm so both girls rode bikes at Macy's school parking lot. Happy to have her home! </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">We had no idea Macy was getting sick, but when you see her coloring in this picture, it makes sense. Her curls are so stinkin' cute! </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">This is for my mom!! She's making bows now, doing such a good job!!! But she talks about the HUGE bows some mamas put in their daughters' heads. I had to explain it's kinda like big hair... The bigger the bow, the closer to heaven, right? HAHAHAHAHAH! </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Ok let's see if I can get one more hour of rest. :) sweet dreams! </span></div>
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Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-89303718517754764642017-02-22T15:51:00.000-05:002017-02-22T15:51:46.266-05:00Talk about Protection from Above!ARRRGGGHHH. Frustrations. Ok folks, how about some advice here.<br />
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My niece, she is 4.5. In 4K at our local school and since Christmas has just been a royal handful. She's totally boy crazy, which is bizarre because that's not encouraged in her homelife. She's had these two boys as her best friends from day one, but suddenly they are boyfriends, and she blows kisses and follows them around. The school separates them, but it's not really helping. Any ideas?<br />
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Additionally to that, last week when her mama dropped her off at school, the teachers were walking towards the entrance door. My sister told her daughter to run and catch up and she drove off. The school uses a flag to indicate if you have to stop and sign your child in and the flag wasn't out. <br />
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Weeeeellllllll, the teachers didn't turn around to see a little girl behind them, the doors shut and my niece couldn't get the door open. She was locked out of the school and had no idea what to do. She sat on the grass outside and cried. One of her classmate's mother was running behind and thankfully saw her crying in the grass, bringing her into the school with her son.<br />
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CAN. YOU. IMAGINE. My sister didn't find out until the parent got word to her 4 days later through a mutal aquaintance my sister works with - and the horror of what all COULD have happened... Oh my gosh, we were all just sick with the "what ifs." God really took care of this situation, protected my niece and brought her classmate's mother there just at the perfect time. My sister has spoken to the school and there is a new policy where an administrator will make a "last lap" outside after the first bell rings and the teachers who slipped out of duty early (or so it seems) were all called into the admins office for a conversation.<br />
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I'm hoping my sister also realizes you can't drive off until you know she's in the school, but that's another issue outside of this particular one. Heaven help, just thinking what could have happened...<br />
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Thank you, Lord. You are so good to us.<br />
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<br />Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-59926675344573242622017-02-06T20:59:00.001-05:002017-02-22T15:40:33.238-05:00The Right Thing?I am so dang stressed and I'm trying not to be. Why? A few reasons but probably at the top of the list is my car. And the guy that hit it. Sigh. Older fella, had his grandson in the truck with him and was going through the Mickey D's drive thru. It's one of those split drive thru concepts where I was on the outer ring and he the inner. As I pull up and stop behind someone waiting to pay, he pulls forward and pulls forward and crruunncchh. Into my drivers side back door.<br />
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<i>It wouldn't be so bad if 1- it didn't go down through all layers of paint and 2 - if I had a color easier to blend. Both repair companies said the same thing. Ugh. </i><br />
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He freaked out and jumps out, wanting me to settle outside of insurance. Ugh. I don't do stuff like that. But after an hour of him pacing and begging while we waited on the cops (I'll be honest, he intimidated me!) I said I'd consider it and call over the weekend. </div>
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This was Friday afternoon. I gathered as much into as I could for a Friday afternoon but wasn't quite finished. I didn't call over the weekend (bad me, I know) but wasn't ready to make a decision. Monday (today) I was able to see another company for a second estimate and talk to my insurance agent (adore her!). </div>
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Holy smokes this man showed up at my workplace and for another 30-45 minutes went to talking nonstop. He'd borrow the money. He has a friend that could fix it cheaper. He and his wife were on limited incomes. They were raising his grandson. Listed allll the ailments if every person. Admitted they would probably take his license because of all the wrecks he had while on painkillers. But then he found the Lord. And I was invited to his church. They have a great preacher! I mean, I was tired of hearing him talk. </div>
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So I gave him a month to get together the money and no-I'm not accepting $50 at a time for $800+ of damage. Then he tried the tactic of - well, you probably have a $500 deductible ... Sir, my insurance isn't paying. Yours would. ... Oh yeah, well, I heard even if you aren't at fault your insurance could go up... No sir, my insurance will not go up. </div>
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Can you see why I have a headache? I really want to file with insurance because I'm lazy. But I am trying to do the right thing for the little damage that was done. But I seriously feel like he's going to run out on this and try to leave me with the bill. And I told him I'd call back tonight with an estimate on rental cars. Ugh. </div>
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So I left work early, came home and enjoyed a three hour hot bath. Not that it solved my problems but I swear, it helped. </div>
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Any thoughts on this situation? Because I can tell you, my dad thinks I'm nuts and that I should file with insurance to be done with it. Man it would be so much easier or to do it that way. I'm not sure I'd ever agree to something like this again. </div>
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Sigh. </div>
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Let's look at happier, more fun times! Like a few of my coworkers and I went to conference in Myrtle Beach (let's not discuss how cold it is in January!!!) but it was fun. Really enjoyed my villa-mate. We are Hot Tamales!! Hahaha!!! </div>
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<i>This lady will crack you up! Had some great convo with her, as well. Love good talks. </i></div>
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Came home to this sweet thing, that I missed so much while I was gone. She is what makes me home sick when I'm away from home! ❤️<br />
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My happiness meter was overflowing when I took half a day from work (on my first day back from conference) to babysit these cuties!!! </div>
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Can we say TEETHING?! Poor fellas. But oh they are soooo snuggly! Growing so fast! I love every moment I get with them. </div>
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Holy smokes, as I'm typing this, I just made a sale on Etsy!! That's two for today(which is unheard of). Wow, I'm excited! I sewed like a madwoman this past week, trying to up my stock. Looks like that was a good thing :) </div>
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Some of my bibs in the store I sell them. Spent part of Saturday working on inventorying all I had for sale there to better track everything. </div>
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Totally missed the super bowl and its commercials. That's another story that we'll just skip for now. But look at all these great times!! These blessed moments! Life is good and I needed to take a moment to realize that. Thank You, Lord, for all You have given me. ❤️ </div>
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Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-8761245034011878792017-01-23T23:40:00.001-05:002017-02-22T15:37:24.289-05:00Repeat.This message keeps coming to mind: I'm not familiar with anything in the Bible saying God won't give you more than you can handle. Who came up with that, anyway? God does give us more than we can handle to make us understand we need HIM. If we could handle it all on our own, why would we ever look to the Lord? That makes more sense to me. Something I'm still chewing on.<br />
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Already I've not followed my #nestingwithjesus like I wanted to his year. Time to hop back on the horse and open my Bible ... Or app, whichever one works for me. I love my Dr Charles Stanely study Bible (www.intouch.org) but the Bible app having many different versions at your fingertips also has merit. Sometimes it helps me understand a verse to read a few versions. She Reads Truth taught me that. </div>
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<i>Dolls my mom made for me when I was a child. Macy enjoys playing with them now :)</i></div>
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Last week at the end of a doctor visit, I mentioned a total medical miracle that happened in my family I thought she'd be interested in. The conversation moved along to her asking me to pray for a friend's salvation. I was very humbled she asked - so add this request to your prayers, if you feel so moved. Thanks. </div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Anyone else addicted to PBS programming right now? Sunday night: Mercy Street, Victoria, and then a show about Henry 8th and his 6 wives. Loving it!! Trying so hard to be patient and not spoil Victoria but they realllly left us hanging. Mercy Street did, too. Now to get Poldark back up and running. Man I need to invest in some series on DVD! </span></div>
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Have I shared this already? My sister and I took Macy to her school parking lot last Sunday so she could practice riding her bike. She was so cute! She loved it! Asked this weekend - Bethie, do you remember me riding my bicycle in the parking lot? Hahah! The storms this weekend kept us all indoors. </div>
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She also entertained us with puppet shows in the puppet tent my friend, Donna, and her niece, Ellie, bought Macy for Christmas. She's loving it. Luckily my mom fits in the tent with her so they can both put on shows. Hahaha<br />
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<i>Macy begged for a Panther Drink! Oh no!</i><br />
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<i>Ok I'm headed for bed 2 hours after my self-appointed bedtime. Have a great week! </i></div>
Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-51350931274834785342017-01-18T05:04:00.001-05:002017-02-22T15:35:34.039-05:00From 9 to 77<h2>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255 , 255 , 255 , 0); font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">Holy smokes, only in the south can you go from 9 degrees to 77 degrees in one week. Craziness?! But today was totally beautiful, driving with the windows down and music pumping. It just brought everything back to life for this one day. Tomorrow - we go back to 50s as a high. It's all good, it is January, after all. But I'm so thankful for this one awesome sunshiney day in the middle of winter. </span></h2>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I have all this creativity in my head right now - it's almost stifling because I can't seem to pick one idea and run with it. Argh! I have some beautiful fabrics and can't make a final decision on which pattern to move forward with. Any ideas on how to choose one?! </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I did finally decide on this one. I need to put on the red border. Love this fabric but I almost had a panic attack when I cut it hahaha!! </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">This sweet girl... (She's missing her glasses in this pic) but I hadn't seen her all week until yesterday. She was so excited! Hopped up into my arms and hugged, snuggled, nose squished, and showered me with love. Wow what a blessing. She can bring tears to my eyes with her sweetness. I'm so blessed. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Love her! And her imagination. Her unique personality. Her smarts. And sass. Lol! </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">With my early afternoon off today I ran by the store I sell my bib sets in and dropped off these Valentine's Day bibs. Cute!??! I thought so. I'm hoping someone else does, too, and buys a few. Sheesh. I keep wondering if this is the right path. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Ok it's Friday night and here I am, squeezed into a love seat in my living room watching Shark Tank and wanting to throw things at my tv. Sometimes at the Sharks, sometimes at the presenters. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">So I'm going to go stretch my legs and I hope you have a lovely weekend :)</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><i>I originally posted this on my Pressed Clovers blog by accident. Oops! So it's a little out of date here. Sorry! </i> </span></div>
Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-22920345537602812872017-01-07T23:14:00.001-05:002017-02-22T15:34:22.510-05:00Nesting in 2017Once I was so excited about blogging and obviously that enthusiasm has waned. Makes me sad because I loved having this as a type of journal to see what happened when. Maybe I'll do better this year :)<br />
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2016 brought a new school year for the ninth grader and put Macy into full-time school as a 4-K student. She loves it (thank heavens)! We'll overlook that one incident early in the year where she bit a kid for stealing her toy. Bet he didn't make that mistake twice. (I really shouldn't laugh, but I'm the aunt and can get away with it.) </div>
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So thankful for the blessing of my nephews and watching them grow up. Christmas was different - we had two sickies here and after one twin ended up in the hospital after catching a respitory thing, they couldn't risk being around the sickies. But I had a day of keeping them and snuggling them leading up to Christmas. Already took another day off from work in 2017 to do it again. :) Gosh they are sweet boys! </div>
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I'm very excited that 2016 brought me courage to sew, to sell bibs & burb cloths in a local store and online, make pillows, it's been a great adventure! Now I'm planning a few quilts, and trying larger projects. </div>
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Baby quilt for my friend, Paulene's, baby girl. Such a cutie!!! </div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2016 is gone now and 2017 already brought us snow, sleet and freezing rain. That's some fun stuff (please note my sarcasm). While my sister took Macy to our neighbor/cousins' house to sled, I enjoyed a hot bath. That's the way to enjoy snow. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Sweet niece #2 </span></div>
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My sister and me this morning. </div>
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One thing I'm trying this year is Nesting with Jesus, a devotional onAnc Instagram with Nick Holden. In addition to his great explainations of the passages, his pictures are amazing. You can join too by searching #nestingwithJesus. Maybe it will touch your heart in a meaningful way. </div>
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Another thing I've dove into is Ancestry.com and a DNA test. It's been interesting finding kin folk and figuring out how we are related. Thankfully my cousin Floyd has a lot of family researched already and that makes it much easier. Met some strange folks, too, that I'll be backing away from shortly (related or not!). It's almost creepy how DNA works and how strangers are walking around with your DNA, too. CrazzzY. And fascinating. :)</div>
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One last photo to wrap up 2016 and welcome 2017 - I did this for Mom's birthday on January 3. I'm missing Aliah and Roger but they are part of the love, too. This family has experienced trials, but the Lord is always there with us. I'm not saying we always remember that, but it doesn't change the fact that He is still there. </div>
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Happy 2017, y'all!! </div>
Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3595853491487875473.post-24574768834096278022016-11-15T23:34:00.001-05:002018-01-23T15:05:17.523-05:00Memory LaneFor some reason, I have been lost in college memories tonight. My freshman year, I met four guys who completely changed my life. Thinking back I'm trying to remember exactly how we all ended up together. I met the first guy, <b>A</b>, in the computer lab. We dated all of two weeks before I knew this wasn't going to work. Which sucked because he was exactly what I liked-fair skin, black hair and beautiful blue eyes. Taller than me. Crazy smart. I convinced him we weren't right for each other by telling him I didn't like to think. Yup, he then agreed we weren't right for each other. And he never let me live that down.<br />
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He introduced to his friends, <b>D</b>, <b>W</b>, and <b>C</b>. I saw <b>D</b> for the first time peeking through his window where he was sleeping. We couldn't wake him up. Heaven help. He and I dated off and on every three years or so for the next while. I became closest to him as friends, too. </div>
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<b>D</b> and <b>W</b> were roomies and <b>C</b> and <b>A</b> were roomies. You might as well say I roomed with <b>D</b> and <b>W</b> because I basically did. Not because <b>D</b> and I were dating but just because we were close friends. They tied a stick to the window so I could throw it and let them know I needed in the side door. Girls weren't allowed after 10 on week nights, 12 on weekends. So I had to crawl through the window or be let in the side door. </div>
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<b>D</b> and <b>A</b> were the two I knew were looking out for me. <b>D</b> mainly-when I went on dates he insisted they drop me off at his apartment. He gave me piggyback rides so my shoes wouldn't get wet on the grass. He looked out for me in concerts and crowds. <b>A</b> was much the same, I would watch the two of them search me out in a crowd to make sure I was still ok. </div>
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Last Christmas, <b>A's</b> card mentioned he and his wife were seperated. I hate to hear that. They have two little girls. Well, probably not so little anymore. I haven't seen him in years but found that card his afternoon. Made me miss the group of them. </div>
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Made me miss my ex, <b>E</b>, too. I was dating him as I went into college and we broke up just before I started dating <b>A</b> then <b>D</b>. It was a very long drawn out goodbye as <b>E</b> signed up for the Air Force and we said goodbye for months after the relationship ended. He and <b>D</b> didn't ever see eye to eye. Imagine that Haha. Of course , <b>E</b> and I ended up back together 10 years later as adults. Still didn't work out. :(</div>
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So yes this is rambling and making no sense. I just miss having guy friends with No pressure. Just friends. I've slept in bed with each of them and had nothing happen because it wasn't sexual. It was friendship. And I miss that tonight. </div>
Beth http://www.blogger.com/profile/03832744002570094987noreply@blogger.com0