Brewton Happenings

Pumpkin Time

2008-10-27T07:58:00.005-04:00

Look at those serious faces!!

We spent an evening outside carving pumpkins and sitting around the fire roasting marsh mellows. Each of the boys carved a pumpkin. Had I known it would keep them so quite and intent, I would have brought a dozen!! Russell and I could not believe that it keep them out of trouble for a least a good hour!!!

Sunset at Bailey

2008-08-27T13:25:00.002-04:00

I tried to catch the sun before it completely, but I was not quite fast enough. You can just see the top of the sun as it is setting behind the trees.

Up close and personal

2008-08-07T10:22:00.003-04:00

These are some shots from our camping trip at Hunting Island last month. Every morning the deer would wonder from camp site to camp site looking for a hand out. The first morning we saw them Bret wanted his dad to get the gun! Once he realized you can't shot these deer he decided to make friend with um instead!

These are a few of my favorite things......

2008-07-25T13:58:00.006-04:00

Long walks on the beach

Castles in the sand
Sea Shells

Need a Blessing?

2008-06-26T10:10:00.001-04:00

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?[2] When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell.[3] Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.[4] One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple.[5] For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.[6] And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.[7] Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me.[8] When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek.[9] Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.[10] When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up.[11] Teach me thy way, O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.[12] Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty.[13] I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.[14] Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

Bestest Buddies

2008-06-25T11:26:00.003-04:00

These two are a trip when they get together. They have been bestest buddies since daycare and diapers. Many a trade of Batmans, Spidermans, Marvels, and Matchbox cars has transpired thru this friendship.

Happy Birthday Vikki

2008-06-24T12:48:00.002-04:00

Today is your birthday and I can't tease you about being 10 years older than me! Not a day goes by that I don't miss you or think of you. I will keep you forever in my heart until I see you again. I will be at the dock at Twickenham (our favorite spot) this weekend. I'll be soaking up the sun with you b/c i know if they have a sunny spot in heaven that's what you will be doing too!

Hello!!

2008-06-18T09:42:00.003-04:00

Were did everyone go?? All my blogging buddies are not blogging......Jan's hanging in there (you go Jan!) Amy we need a challenge or something, I'm all alone here!

Lilly Pads

2008-06-18T09:29:00.002-04:00

I love lillie pads, most people try and keep them out of thier ponds, they tend to take over. These are growing wild at the Twickenham Landing the whole pond is covered with them.

For you Aunt Marina

2008-06-17T12:34:00.003-04:00

Baron and Abby
Baron's new Tattoo....Russ says Smiths don't need to be branded they are easy enough to spot with out branding!

Here are some more pics from Saturday. I promised my Aunt Marina who lives in Metter, GA that I would post some more for her to see.

Lake Murray

2008-06-17T10:33:00.004-04:00

Saturday we spent the day at Lake Murray with my brother and his family. Great place to heve a family get together. We had fun swimming, eating and visiting.
Wayne and McKenzie

No summer picnic is complete without some watermelon!

Some of us had too much fun!

Down at the Fishing Hole

2008-06-06T10:46:00.003-04:00

Here are some shots from Twickenham Plantation , Memorial Day weekend. I love being out there on the river, it puts me in awe of all Gods creations. We saw lots of amazing sights so I'm sharing a few.

6th Grade Graduation

2008-05-29T12:03:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was 6th Grade Graduation and Awards Day at THA. Shane and Bradley have both successful completed 6th grade. Hallelujah! It has been a long hard year, but they both passed with honors! Bradley was selected to read his essay about his elementary years. We celebrated with a big lunch at the Mexican restaurant in Ridgeland. It was a proud day for Linda and myself, and thank the Lord Bret passed 3rd grade with honors too!!

My Baby Boy

2008-05-19T12:27:00.002-04:00

Bret's birthday was the 14th. I can't believe my baby boy is 9! We have celebrated all week. We had ribs and birthday cake Wed. night, then we ate out Friday at Kobe's. Saturday he had his buddy Jimmy over to spend the night and Sunday we had a birthday dinner at Russell's parents house. No wonder my boys rotten! Any way here's some shots of the celebration!

3rd Grade Field Trip

2008-05-14T12:52:00.004-04:00

Yesterday I went on Bret's 3rd grade field trip to the State House. It was quite an interesting day! The House and the Senate were both in session, we were able to sit in on both. Sadly we did not get to see Gov. Sanford he was a little too busy!

Sandi and John

2008-05-02T12:17:00.002-04:00

These two were on my heart today. This is my cousin Sandi and her new husband John. They just got married on the 28th. John found out in Feb. that he has terminal cancer. He has been to the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville and they have told him there is nothing more they can do for him. Please be in prayer for these two. Sandi has never had luck in the man department until she found John. He is a super great guy and I know she will be very lost without him. I am so glad she decided to get married and I wish them much happiness!

Beach Bums

2008-04-30T10:38:00.003-04:00

More beach pics

Beach Days

2008-04-29T10:25:00.003-04:00

I'm so glad beach weather is here. Cindy and I have gone the last few Saturdays. Its so nice and relaxing!

My Garden

2008-04-09T09:53:00.003-04:00

Every year I try to talk Russell into planting a garden, and every time I end up with a couple of pots on my deck. So Judy, don't let Wayne talk about your little garden it looks like an acre compared to mine! The cabbages are a school project Bret is doing. I'm thinking I may need to replant them in the ground, the little plant tag says the can weight up to 40 pounds!!

Green Amaryllis

2008-04-08T12:59:00.003-04:00

My friend Allison gave me this flower last year and told me it was a Green Amaryllis. I had never seen one before, it came from her Grandmothers yard. This is the first time it has bloomed for me. It has a light lime green tint to it.

The Weekend

2008-04-07T09:50:00.004-04:00

We had a pretty laid back weekend. The most excitment was babysitting the Crosby Girls. It was nice to have some females around for a change! We played in mud puddles, rode 4 wheelers, and cooked out.

Brooke just getting started.......

This picture reminds me of Christopher Robbin from Winnie the Pooh!
Oh dear Chuck, this could be a vision of things to come!!

Butterfly

2008-04-04T09:32:00.002-04:00

I love this time of the year! After a drab winter it's nice to see all the color. Although I had to slush in the mud to get this picture! But hey these showers will bring more flowers, and butterflies!!

Ms. Vickie

2008-04-03T11:37:00.003-04:00

Amy wanted to know if that was Ms. Vickie in my porch blog, so here are my latest pic of her. She is still the sweetest kitty ever, and has the cutest personality. She always keeps us amused. We are so happy to have her, My little angel kitty!

Porch Sittin

2008-04-02T10:02:00.002-04:00

I love spending time on my front porch. We sit out there everyday when the weather is nice. Porch sittin is a long time tradition in my family. Where ever we gather we always migrate to a porch! What can I say we just love the outdoors! When my uncle has our Christmas family reunion guess where we all eat....on the porch!! Front porch, back porch or side porch, but always on the porch. Rain, sleet, or snow you'll always find the porch full!

Happy Birthday Shelby

2008-04-01T09:08:00.003-04:00

We had a B-day dinner for Shelby last night. He turned 17 Saturday, where does the time go! He wanted a steak dinner so we fixed him right up! The boys had to play some basketball after to work it off.

My Little Redneck

2008-03-28T09:13:00.002-04:00

This boy knows he loves a camera! Today was report card day and for the 1st time ever Bret made all A's and B's ! Let me tell you I earned those right along with him! I told him I would reward him for his Hard work, so he picked out a PIGGLY WIGGLY shirt and a REDNECK hat. What a trip!

Boys and trees

2008-03-25T09:23:00.003-04:00

Bret cannot pass up a tree, every time we go for a walk he has to stop and climb a couple! I can't say much though, I used to be the same way ( i had alot of tomboy in me).

I'm back....finally

2008-03-21T12:41:00.002-04:00

I have been so slack about my blog as of late so sorry. Got the new camera for Christmas and I am still learning how to use it. Have lots to share so I'll try to be more attentative to my blog! Thought this was pretty of the storm rolling in!

New Blogger

2007-11-07T14:13:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note to let everyone know that Scott Hansen has his blog up and going. Stop by and check it out.

Deer Slayers

2007-11-07T09:57:00.001-05:00

Well the egos have been huge around our house! All the guys were on cloud nine. Bret has been trying all season to get him a deer. He had already missed twice, so he asked Russell if it was wrong to pray before he got in the deer stand. Well they had a word of prayer and as you can see it was divine intervention. These were both first kills for James and Bret, so they had to be blooded. Men and their barbarous rights of passage! But guess who gets to deal with all the savage laundry afterwards?

Two Peas in a Pod

2007-11-06T09:16:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been slack with my blog. Amy gave me a little nudge! I've been so busy I've put off posting like I should. I have lots of pics to blog just not the time to do it. We have James staying with us now so that's 3 boys to clean up behind and carpool around! Don't get me wrong having James has been a joy, he's a barrel of laughs that one! Shane's happy to have his best bud staying at the house, but Bret is still adjusting! James and Bret both shot their 1 st deer recently so I'll be posting those pics soon. Football is over now and Shane's Rebel B - Team finished the season undefeated, WooHoo!! James is done with football as well and is starting wrestling next! That should make for some interesting blogs! I'll try to keep up from now on!

Momas Don't Let Your Babies Grow up to Be Cowboys

2007-10-17T09:50:00.000-04:00

I just know that one day this child is gonna be a comedian. Every teacher he has ever had has dubbed him class clown. He is constantly cracking us up, you never know what he will say or do next. He is quick witted and never at a loss for words. All I can say is it's a good thing he has lots of charm to go with that attitude he's got!

Shane's 12th Birthday

2007-10-16T09:23:00.000-04:00

I'm a little late posting these but better late than never! Shane's Birthday was October the 6th but we celebrated at BH and Margie this past Sunday. My baby is growing up too fast. Some of his gifts included a cell phone, an MP3 Player, and tickets to the Brad Paisley concert! What happened to the days of Power Rangers and Scooby Doo?? However I'm very proud of the young man he's becoming. Happy Birthday Baby Boy!!

Gamecock Fans

2007-10-05T13:30:00.000-04:00

Well you try and raise them as best you can but, sometimes they take their own roads! Where did we go wrong, we thought we were such good Clemson parents at look at what happens. It's that Crazy Gamecock Aunt Janet, she lead them astray!!

Birthday Boy

2007-09-25T09:58:00.001-04:00

Sunday was Russell's Birthday, we celebrated at his parents house with a big dinner. We forgot to take a picture of the cake before we dug in! It was a nice gathering and everyone left stuffed!

Favorite Recipe

2007-09-21T09:11:00.000-04:00

My Favorite recipe is chicken salad from Garrett's / Low Country Produce! You'll have to ask Ms Garrett is you want the recipe. We usually order this at work about once a week. When we go pick it up Ms. Garrett will say "Here comes my chicken salad girls".

Bad Puddy Cat!

2007-09-20T13:23:00.000-04:00

This little kitty is so bad! She is into everything all the time! You have to be quick to get her picture these days. As you can see she is attacking the camera strap. She keeps us entertained that's for sure!

Bumble Bee

2007-09-19T08:01:00.000-04:00

This bumble bee was busy this morning bright and early. You can bearly see his little butt sticking out of the flower in the 1st shot. It reminds me of Winnie the Pooh when he was stuck in the hole trying to get honey!

Sunset at Brewton

2007-09-18T09:19:00.000-04:00

It was so nice outside yesterday so we spent the afternoon working in the yard. I love the way the sun sets behind the trees and throws its rays across the yard. It looks like God's light is peeking in thru the curtains!

The Great Dove Hunt

2007-09-17T11:46:00.000-04:00

Bret went dove hunting with his dad yesterday and shot his 1st dove. He blew the poor little birdies head clean off it's body! He was quite pleased and has requested that I cook him dove for dinner tonight.

Girl Friends Unlimited

2007-09-14T11:39:00.000-04:00

http://www.girlfriendsunlimited.com/default.aspx

Check out this link for Girl Friends Unlimited. It is a women's program that I think our church should consider! I'm willing to get it started if you guys are interested. It is a chance for women to get together and fellowship. If just we blog girls participated it would be worth the money. It cost about $200 for a years membership. Our scrap booking night coming up on Sat is one of the many gathering ideas they suggest. We all keep talking about getting together, and I really think our church needs something to interest younger ladies in. I also think it is important for the younger ladies to grow relationships with the older (young at heart) ladies who can offer them insight, guidance, and advice. Unless you are involved in WMU there is nothing for you at our church. I know that Betty has expressed an interest in doing something along these line herself. This could also be used as a great outreach tool. Look it over and let me know what you think (the link is at the top). I say lets go for it!

Mushrooms????

2007-09-11T08:38:00.000-04:00

I found these growing in the yard behind BH and Margie's house. Everyone has been blogging a lot of mushrooms recently so I hoped you can help me identify these strange looking things. Maybe Riley will know what they are! Maybe it's some kind of mutant mushroom.

Sunday Nap

2007-09-10T10:18:00.000-04:00

I'm not much of a nap taker, but Sunday afternoon I think my body decided differently. I promise I just laid my head down for 1 minute, and next thing I know I'm out like a light. Bret covered me up and snapped my picture. He showed me the picture his morning and said Mom put this on your blog! He was quite pleased with himself. As you can see I had a little buddy too! Oscar is always ready for a good nap.

Family and Food

2007-09-04T12:25:00.000-04:00

This weekend we had our annual Labor day cookout. Every Memorial day and Labor day BH's family comes to visit and we cook Frogmore Stew. We had a great time despite the weather. We just fished and crabbed in the rain! The food and the company were great as usual.

My Special Person - Denise Basta

2007-08-30T12:50:00.001-04:00

The Bastas
Me and the boys visiting NY
Us in Canada Girl time with me, Denise, her daughter, and her sister
I decided to do my challenge photo today, since I will not be able to post again until Monday. My special person is my best friend Denise. We met when we were both 18. She had just gotten married and her husband was in the MCAS and stationed in Beaufort. We both worked at Rose's Department store. She was in a new town with a new job and a husband deployed for 6 weeks. We hit it off immediately and have been best friends ever since. Denise is now back home in New York. I try not to hold it against her that she is a Yankee!! We have great fun with the fact that I'm a southerner and she is a Yankee. We try to visit each other at least every other year. Our families have even bonded over the years and miles. She is special to me b/c she is a true blue friend. Always the same, nothing about her person ever changes. She is the same yesterday , today, and tomorrow! She has been with me thru alot, even if it's from the other end of the phone sometimes! We don't get to see each other as often as we would like but we have remained close anyway. We have made a pact to do a cruise together when we both turn 40 (that's not to far off!) True friends like her are hard to find!! I Love Girl!!

Beautiful People

2007-08-29T10:15:00.000-04:00

My post today is on my nephew John Dallas and his beautiful family. These are pictures that his wife has taken. I wanted to share them with yall. These people are BEAUTIFUL, and I'm not just saying that b/c they are my family. Look at them! They look like models, they live in a beautiful location (Hawaii) and the cat is even beautiful. John is the son of my sister Lisa who died at age 29 in 1992. Lisa was married to Dean Pittinger they lived in Early Branch. Their family has seen alot of tragedy. Lisa and Dean lost their 1st child (DJ) when he was 2 years old. He drowned in a family pond that we all grew up around. Lisa was 9mths pregnant with John Dallas when DJ died. DJ died on March 14th and John was born on March 26th. Lisa died in a car accident and not even a year later her children's grandfather also died in a car wreck. Dean raised these boys by himself and quite well I might add. Dustin who is the youngest is in college at Lander and John is in the Army. I know my sister would be so proud of them. She would be bragging on these BEAUTIFUL grand children for sure!!

Go Rebels

2007-08-27T10:53:00.000-04:00

Well I survived Shane's 1st ballgame. We played Dorchester Acad. and won 32 to 6. WooHoo!! Go Rebels! The only bad thing is one of our guys broke his arm in 2 places (right at his elbow) That did not help this Mom's gitters any!! That kid was so tough he wanted to go back in the game! Of course all the other players think his broken arm 's pretty cool, that's boys for ya!

Faith

2007-08-24T08:26:00.000-04:00

Because of my faith in Jesus Christ, I can face each new day knowing I am never alone. Every new day brings renewed hope and peace in knowing that no matter how bad yesterday was or what happens today the Lord is with me. I have had many trials and tribulations in my life but they have shaped me and molded into who I am. Some days my walk with the Lord is closer than others. Each new sunrise brings another chance at getting closer to being the person God created me to be. So this is my picture of today's sunrise and how it reminds me of my FAITH!

If you look closely at the clouds, it looks like the wings of a dove. All week I was thinking of using a picture of a dove for this challenge. This morning on my way to work I saw this sunrise and changed my mind. When I snapped the pic I did not notice the dove. Once I blogged the photo it appeared to me, the Lord sent me my dove! Can you see it?

Bailey At Sunset

2007-08-23T09:55:00.001-04:00

Caught these yesterday. I know I've already done Bailey, but this sunset was so beautiful I couldn't resist.

Back To School

2007-08-21T11:14:00.000-04:00

The kids started back to school today! Which teacher are you feeling sorry for? It's scary how grown up Shane looks. The good thing about them being back in school is now the house stays a little cleaner!

Gurl Time

2007-08-20T10:58:00.000-04:00

I got to spend some quality time with my brother's girls this weekend! Alishia is the blonde the other one is Jessie. When they were younger they used to spend alot of time at my house. We would hang out and watch movies, paint our nails and talk about boys!! Now that we are older and busy with familes of our on we don't get to do this as much. It was nice too catch up. I am very proud of them both. Jess is very laid back, sweet and easy going. Alishia on the other hand the is the crazy, out spoken, free spirited one! I love them both very much and hope to do some more girl time soon!!

Great Aunt Again

2007-08-17T09:20:00.000-04:00

We have new additions in the Smith Family! John Alston Pittinger is 4 weeks old. He is my sister Lisa's grandson. His dad, John Dallas (my nephew) is in the Army and stationed in Hawaii. He is on our prayer list at church, he spent a year in Iraq but is home safe now! They are expecting to get transferred back this way soon.

This second little cutie is Mackinsey Lynn Baker and she is 12 weeks old. She is the daughter of my niece Jessie. Jessie is my brother Barry's daughter, and they live in Walterboro. I know we should not have favorites, but Jess has always been mine!! I am very proud of her, she has grown into a very sweet and strong lady! She is great mother!

Both of these additions make #3 for Jessie and John. I don't know how these young moms do it!!

So I have been a great Aunt 11 times now and there is still one more on the way!!

Spider!

2007-08-16T11:15:00.000-04:00

I woke up this morning to find this guy hanging outside the kitchen window. He was not there last night when I went to bed. I guess he heard we were running a zoo and checked himself in. This is one pet I don't want. I told Russell he has to be gone when I get home. Russ says I should let him stay b/c he eats the mosquitoes. So since my kitchen window is over the sink, I say he can stay if Russell is doing dishes from here on out!!

More Pets

2007-08-15T13:11:00.000-04:00

Meet Winkie the goldfish. My mother gave the boys her fish and the tank when she got sick last year. She was not able to take care of the tank anymore and she had had the fish for a long time. He did not have a name when we got him. The boys decided to name him after my dad. My dads real name was Winston, but his nickname was Winkie and that's what everyone called him. My kids called him Papa Wink. Even though my parents divorced over 40 years ago my mom still liked the name the boys picked. So anyway now we have a fish in memory of my mom and dad.

Blue and Belle

2007-08-14T12:05:00.001-04:00

Blue
Belle

Meet Blue and Belle. One year for BH's birthday everyone chipped in to buy him a beagle which was Blue. We picked him up on a Friday night from Mr. Nettles in Ridgeland. We had to keep him until Sunday when we were having BH's party. Well.....Bret fell in love with him in those 2 days and cried his eyes out when it was time to give him to BH. So naturally BH did not want to take the dog and break the child's heart. We had to call up Mr. Nettles and luck had it that Belle was the last beagle left, so we ended up buying 2 dogs!!! Blue loves to go over to BH's to visit with his sister. Blue is also a "Working dog" with a purpose. We have a dang gone zoo at our house. I'll have to post some of our other pets soon.

Keep on the Sunny Side

2007-08-13T08:23:00.001-04:00

I love to ride down to the sunflower field in the mornings, when they are all facing the sun. You can't see them and not feel happy. This will become a dove field soon and be filled with brown and green camo, so I try and enjoy it while I can!

RELAXATION

2007-08-10T08:44:00.000-04:00

How is this for relaxed? I cheated a little, b/c this picture was taken back in May. I've been wanting to use it and this seemed like an appropriate time. Bret had been on a field trip with Mrs. Rogers his 2nd grade teacher. Their trip was to downtown Beaufort. Mrs Rogers mother lives down on The Point. They had lunch at her home and she told them some old stories about Beaufort. They walked around the Point and down to the National Cemetery. I'm told this is an annual event she does every year for her students. Bret loved it, and was totally exhausted afterwards! Russell picked him up from Thomas Heyward that afternoon in his work truck. My boy was so wiped out he didn't even make it out of Ridgeland before he was catching zzzz's. He loves being in Dad's work truck. Always such cool things in there, hence the yellow hard hat!

Ball Boy

2007-08-09T07:57:00.000-04:00

Well Bret could not stand it!! He just had to get in on the action. When they showed up for practice yesterday the coaches presented Bret with a jersey and declared him official "Ball Boy". Russell said he was on cloud nine, grinning from ear to ear! Needless to say though, Shane is not very impressed with all this.

Update on the Angel Kitty

2007-08-08T08:52:00.000-04:00

Well she did it, Vikki won Russell's heart! The boys and I were a little worried when we left to go to Columbia that Russ would take her to the Animal Shelter. By the time we got back she had won him over. She now curls up in his lap at night and just purrs and purrs!! She has been a constant source of enjoyment, she makes me laugh everyday!

My Rebel

2007-08-07T13:31:00.000-04:00

Shane has started football for the Thomas Heyward B Team. His dad took him to practice yesterday, Moms not ready to watch her baby get punished just yet! He looks so intimidating in the 1st shot. Bret could not stand the fact that I was taking pictures of Shane, so he planted himself in just as I snapped the camera. He is so Rotten!

Details

2007-08-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

I have changed my mind several times for this blog. I thought I was all set with my picture, and then as I was getting to the office this morning my new subject presented itself.

A Surprise

2007-08-02T10:37:00.000-04:00

I was down loading some pics off my camera today and found these two. I think most of you will recognize this character. I keep my camera in the car now in case I run across a good blog subject. Shane and James decided to take some random photos, I had no idea. What goofs!!!

Gaggle of Geese

2007-08-01T09:07:00.000-04:00

I ran across this gaggle of geese on my way home for lunch a few days ago. They were swimming in Bailey Pond, so I stopped in the middle of the road to take a picture. Thank goodness there is not much traffic on Baily Road!!

Late Bloomers

2007-07-31T08:34:00.000-04:00

Here are some shots of a few flowers that bloomed this week. I do not know what the pink one or the white ones are called. Can any of you help me identify?? I'm always sticking stuff in the ground not knowing what it is. My therory is if its pretty plant it!!!

Lake Murray

2007-07-30T07:48:00.000-04:00

The boys and I spent this weekend in Columbia with my brother Barry. Saturday we went out to Lake Murray for his step daughters 7th birthday. She adores Bret (go figure??) so she was very excited about showing off her new cousin!! We had a great time, the weather was grey and cloudy but everyone thought it was perfect. (nice and cool) The 1st picture is from their wedding back in April at her mothers home in St. Helena. Diana was a Beaufort girl, born and raised here until she went off to USC and she never came back!! It was a little scary being the only Clemson fan up there in Gamecock Country!!!

My on-going project

2007-07-26T12:06:00.000-04:00

This is my on-going project that I started 5 years ago when we moved into the house. I have done almost all of the work myself!! Russell wired the fountain for me a couple of months ago. He got tired of having to remove the extension cord each time he needed to cut grass. He has suggested several times that we cover it up and plant flowers there!! I have stuck to my guns on making it a Koi pond, therefore have had very little assistance from him on this project. I'm not done yet, but it's come along way!! If you look close at the 1st picture you can see the Koi. I know have 4, started with 2.

An Angel??

2007-07-24T09:01:00.000-04:00

Friday we had a headstone done for my sister Vikki's grave. Last evening I decided to ride out to the cemetery to see it. She is buried in Gooding Cemetery in Crocketville, which is in the middle of nowhere. When I got there I could hear a kitten crying in the woods, but I just ignored it while I visited my sisters grave. After a few minutes this little kitty squeezed thru the chain link fence and hopped up on my sisters headstone. I tried to grab her and she ran into a bush. So I started digging in the bush for her and she ran back to the headstone again. I grabbed her up and she started to purr!!! There are no houses close by so I don't think she belonged to anyone. Needless to say she came home with me. I have named her Vikki!!! Russell was not as touched by this experience as I was. He says she has to go!! I don't think I can part with her though!! We already have 3 cats and 3 dogs. I don't really need another pet, but I can't help but believe that she was a little angel sent to make me smile . Vikki was always bringing home stray cats and I think she sent me this one!!! Russell thinks I'm nuts!! So I'm not sure what we are gonna do....... I'm hoping she'll charm him as she did me, and as you can see Bret has a fondness for her too!!!

Everybody Loves a Parade

2007-07-23T12:49:00.000-04:00

We spent Saturday enjoying the Water Festival. Russell, Ronald, and Louis participated in the parade. Afterwards Farm Bureau treated us all to lunch at Duke's BBQ.

Keeping Cool

2007-07-20T08:50:00.000-04:00

More pics from the Keys.......are you sick of them yet??? Here's the gang trying to keep cool. The hot tub was not the spot for that though.....it was 102 in there!!! We had to run the hose in the pool to cool it off too!! Now I know why people in Florida have screens over there pools!!

New Blogger

2007-07-19T13:13:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that we have a new blogger. Linda is now hooked, she is working on her page right now! Check back we got her linked up to all of us so be sure and add her to your links.

More Keys......

2007-07-19T10:28:00.001-04:00

Here is a picture of the house we stayed in and some of the mangrove trees around the dock. I was fascinated with these trees, they were everywhere. I think the are so cool, they kinda remind me of SC's cypress knees.

Dolphin Research Center

2007-07-18T08:48:00.000-04:00

The Dolphins at the Research Center were our neighbors while in the Keys. The cost to get in the Center was $28.00 per person, a dolphin encounter cost a mere $100.00 per person. A swim with them would set you back $200.00. Needless to say we choose the free show from our dock!! Every morning at 9:00am we would gather at the dock for a show. However I was never quick enough to catch a dolphin in the air. If you look close you can see a splash!! Oh well....I thought the pictures were nice anyway. I don't think you can take a bad picture there, everything is so beautiful!!!!

Florida Keys Sunset

2007-07-17T12:31:00.000-04:00

We made it back from our vacation to the Keys! Boy is that a long ride, but worth every mile! A great time was had by all. The first night there I got a pic of the most amazing sunset, no other sunset the rest of the week came any where close to topping this one. I got some great shots with the under water camera as well but have not gotten them developed yet. I did not have an Internet connection there so I really missed the blog. Couldn't wait to get home and see what I missed!! Cindy extended her vacation and spent an extra week with us. She has some beautiful pictures too. She also has a good sunset pic that I hope she'll post as well.....

Something Round.....

2007-07-06T07:30:00.001-04:00

Well not completely round. This also was Russell's idea for my blog. These are the sunflowers he planted in the dove fields. He's getting pretty good at coming up with subjects for my blog.

Live Oak Avenue

2007-07-05T13:46:00.000-04:00

This was Russell's idea for my blog. This is a pic of the marker and the Oaks on the drive going up to the main house on Brewton. I never paid much attention to the marker before. I thought it was a tombstone!! Now that I know what it is I think it's pretty cool. I am always in awe of the oak lined drives that all the plantations have, it's nice to know the story behind them.....

Happy 4th of July

2007-07-05T13:35:00.000-04:00

Ok so I'm a day late....can't download from home! Good thing my boss is so laid back! Well my 4th was not very interesting. I spent the day doing laundry and getting ready for our trip to the Keys. We will be leaving in the wee hours of the morning Sat. I took a picture of my suitcase.....how am I gonna fit all this stuff???? I do not know how to pack light, I always take way to much. I plan to take my laptop and my camera so I can blog on location!! The Crosby's and the Stanley's will be going with us, sooo I should have some interesting pictures to share!!

Mystery Location

2007-07-03T07:48:00.000-04:00

I wanted to see if any of you can guess where this location is....I tested Russell and he got it right!! I was a little stressed yesterday so I decided to go for a drive to clear my head and ended taking some pictures. Great way to de - stress.....

Why so many posts today!

2007-07-02T10:39:00.000-04:00

In case any of you are wondering why I posting so much today its b/c I could not post from home this weekend. We have dail up, and after trying to upload pics for 2 hours I gave up.....so I'm playing make up today!!!

Flew The Coop

2007-07-02T10:19:00.000-04:00

Bret found this little martin on the ground by the pond out front. He had flew the coop or I should say the gourd!! Russell had to rescue him twice before he would stay put. I guess he didn't like the 1st gourd Russ stuck him in b/c he took a dive right back out. After the 2nd attempt in a different gourd he stayed put! This happens a lot right before they learn to fly well. I couldn't walk away and leave the little guy on the ground, we got to many predators about!!! Although he did not seem very appreciative!!

Kitchen Help

2007-07-02T09:22:00.000-04:00

Good kitchen help is sure hard to find, but I got lucky this weekend!!
The Crosby's came by for dinner and Tonya made brownies.
As you can see Emily was more than willing to help with clean-up!

The Next Crocodile Hunter

2007-07-02T07:59:00.000-04:00

I hope no one from the wildlife sees these pics.....Saturday we found this little guy taking a swim in the pond in the front yard. We don't mind them in the other ponds on Brewton, but I guess he did not see the "No Gators Allowed" sign posted in this pond!!! Good thing Sure Shot Bret spotted him, with a little assistance from Dad and the Ole 22 all is well!!!

Mimosa

2007-06-29T11:27:00.000-04:00

Mimosa trees are my favorite. This one sits on Russell's grandmothers old property beside Dean Electric. Everyday on my way to and from work I admire this tree. There are actually a couple of these along the road between the curve and the railroad tracks. I want to dig up a small one and plant it in my yard one of these days.

Waters Edge

2007-06-28T09:26:00.000-04:00

Here's some shots of one of the ponds on Brewton. Can you see the gator?? I just love the water lillies, they get pretty purple flowers on them when they bloom. This is also a great fishing spot.

Silver Queen

2007-06-27T08:00:00.001-04:00

I know everyone was sick of the rain we were having but our corn crop loved it. We picked and cooked our first few ears and they were yummy!!!! As you can see the worms think so too!!!

Country Roads, take me home.....

2007-06-26T07:56:00.000-04:00

Jaime, todays post is for you! As we were riding around on the plantation, I'm think to myself ok what can I post for Jamie to remind her of home. Then it hit me, we have posted trees, flowers, bugs, but no roads. Now I can not get John Denver out of my head (Country Roads) hope you enjoy!!!!

New Post

2007-06-25T13:12:00.000-04:00

I was going to post yesterday, which was my sister's b-day, but after a dis-hearting day I just did not have it in me to blog.....I miss her sooo much, she was so much more than just a sister, she was my dearest friend. The world without her in it will never be the same. It gives me comfort to know that she is with the Lord in a better place. I know she is my angel and watches over me and my famliy everyday!!! She was the anchor in my family when I was growing up. When my parents divorced I was 18mths old. My mother left us and my sister did not hesitate to step up to the plate and raise us. She was the bravest 12 year old I know!!! She made sure that I never felt like I didn't have a Mom. She was there for me thru all the important moments in my life. She was at my side when I married Russell and when both of my children were born. She has left behind two wonderful boys or I should say young men who will be her legacy to this world, and everything good in her has been passed on to them. When ever I miss her I think of the poem I posted and I know she is that butterfly in the wind.......

In Loving Memory ~ Vickie Padgett June 24, 1960 - October 22, 2007

2007-06-25T12:51:00.000-04:00

I find an old photograph and see your smile. As I feel your presence anew, I am filled with warmth and my heart remembers love. I read an old card sent many years ago during a time of turmoil and confusion. The soothing words written then still caress my spirit and bring me peace. I remember who you used to be the laughter we shared and wonder what you have become. Where are you now, Where did you go, When the body is left behind and the spirit is released to fly? Perhaps you are the morning bird singing joyfully at sunrise, or the butterfly that dances so carelessly on the breeze or the rainbow of colors that brightens a stormy sky or the fingers of afternoon mist delicately reaching over the mountains or the final few rays of the setting sun lighting up the skies edging the clouds with a magical glow. I miss your being but I feel your presence, In whatever form you choose to take, however you now choose to be. Your spirit has become for me a guardian angel on high guiding, advising, and watching over me. I remember you. You are with me and I am not afraid.

Self Portraits

2007-06-22T08:20:00.000-04:00

My kids love to take self portraits, and I never know when they will pop up. Almost every time I download from my camera I find some. They are priceless!!! I love em!!! This is a trait they share with Miles, he still loves to do self portraits too. Cindy and I laugh about this all the time, she too gets these little surprises when downloading pics.

Mandavilla

2007-06-21T09:19:00.000-04:00

This is one of my favorite flowers, they are so pretty and so pink!!! It's just a shame that I have not been able to keep one alive thru the winter yet. I'm open to any tips on how to do that. Every spring I'm off to the nearest nursery to buy a new one!!!! I've always kept mine in pots, never tried putting one in the ground........

Working Dogs

2007-06-20T07:54:00.000-04:00

This is Bear, he is Russell's dog. He has a purpose.....We have had him for 8 years now. We got him from Tommy Gollihugh and he was named by Tommy's daughter when we got him. Bear was the "Pick of the litter" and Tommy was going to keep him but then decided against it. He has been to Dog Training School at Turkey Hill Plantation (due to his very hard headed nature). His job is to go get whatever Russell shoots, he has even retrieved an alligator!! Right now he's off duty since there is no bird hunting in season. He loves to swim, dig and hunt in his spare time!!!! His life is not as easy as Oscar's but all in all it's not too bad........

Sign, Signs, Everywhere a Sign.....

2007-06-19T10:12:00.000-04:00

These are signs that Ms. Terni had made for the driveway to our house and the little road that leads out of our back yard. There are a maze of roads on the plantation and they all have names that somehow tie into something or someone. Some of the other names or, Smoking Joe Road (after Joe Frazier), Mom's Miss (Ms. Terni missed a deer there), Steve's Corner (Ms. Terni's Son), Quail Patch Road... There are several ponds and fields that all have names too!!! I'll have to post some more later. Shane and Bret Lane leads into the woods and pssed a fort the kids built.

River Rat

2007-06-18T13:30:00.000-04:00

My little water bug.....he loves the water. We spend alot of our Saturdays at Twickenham landing, greatest spot to go unwind and enjoy God's creations. The only down side is that the alligators have also decided this is a favored spot!!!

Dogs Life

2007-06-15T08:12:00.000-04:00

Tell me this little guys not spoiled....This is Oscar the family baby. We rescued him from the animal shelter about 5 years ago. How this cutie ended up there is a mystery. He is the sweetest boy ever, i can't imagine someone not wanting him. On the other hand if they lost him I know they must have been heart broken. We have 2 other dogs as well but according to Russell they are "Working Dogs" (a 7 year old black lab and a 3year old blue tic beagle) Russell says all dogs should serve a purpose.....well Oscar's is to lead a Life of Leisure!!! He not only gets the privilege of staying inside he gets his own pillow....If any of you have ever been owned by a dachie you will understand how these little guys just move in and take over!!!!

Wet N Wild

2007-06-14T10:50:00.000-04:00

This is my first post....my two wild & crazy boys! This is a rare moment b/c they are not fighting! Don't they look like two bugs??? This is a favorite picture, I have it on my desktop at work.

They love the pool, especially Bret, he would stay in all day if I let him.