Lazy Day !

With two days of rain moving in, Emma and I spent the day together just being lazy. Another great football weekend is coming up. Hopefully with no big surprioses!!! Everybody is gone to a pep rally at the school and I'm watching Sprint Cup quallifying for Sunday's race. Hopefully the weather will be good for the ALS walk tomorrow morning. This event has been a key funding contributor for local services provided by the association in the Atlanta area. Will be praying for a great outcome.Thanks to some of you old friends for reaching out and catching up with me. Love You All!

Walk To Defeat ALS - Saturday

This Saturday the Walk To Defeat ALS takes place in Atlanta. The Georgia ALS Association has been of great assistance to Debbie and I, starting the day I received my diagnoses. Here is a link to our family ALS team site: Click Here If you care to sponsor a walker or just make a general donation, any amount is fine. I struggled with putting this on my blog, but a number of friends and family have asked how to help fund research and other ALS resources. Love You All.

A Great Guy!!

I had the privilege to have Mark Davis and his son Nate over on Saturday to watch the Fla Ga game. Mark has been our Sunday school teacher since we returned to Atlanta five years ago. Mark is a Godly man that has a huge heart. We have always had this Gator Dog thing going on, and have had some fun with it over the years. This is the first time we have watched the game together. It was a great game!! Mark was very gracious!! I still have hope that I can convert Nate to being a Gator. Mark I appreciate you, and love you brother!! We need to do it again.

The weather this afternoon was fantastic. I supervised flower bed clean up and new planting. As you can see, Emma is showing off her new costume. Go Gators!!

Bear Cat !

For the past few days the dog and cat have been in a heightened state of alert. Yesterday afternoon I found out the reason why. I was catching up on some email and just happened to glance at the front door. What did I see? I would call it a Bear Cat! I called Emma and Mi, and soon the drama began. Don't know that I've seen one of these before!

A Great Surprise !

What a great weekend! My birthday was Saturday, and on Friday night folks started showing up. By the time I got a cake, Leia & John, Casey and Wendy, and Mom and Dad were all here. It was a special time for me. We all had a great time together and it was one of those rare times when we were all together. Leia and John drove all the way from Oklahoma to be here. What a haul! They left this morning around 6am to head home. They both have work and school tomorrow. Casey and Wendy went on to Hilton Head to celebrate an anniversary. Cool on that beach today! Mom and Dad are working the way back to Gatlinburg. Great memories...Love You All

Choices

Shelby is on the road this weekend at Liberty University. This is the time that she is narrowing her college choices. She and her girlfriends have a full weekend planed, including ballgames and other activities. Several girls from our church, and her class, apparently are planning to attend Liberty. Pastor Johnny is on the Liberty board and spoke in Monday's convocation. Great school...Can't wait for her feedback...Have fun Shelby!

GEAUX GATORS!

Finally the Gators come to life and play a game up to preseason expectations. 51-21 is a score that nobody would have predicted. A complete game. Les Miles didn't get the chance to go on 5 4th downs. GEAUX GATORS!

My Bulldog Fan !

Alison got to make her first trip to Athens Saturday night. She got to go with Katy, her friend. They got to the game in time to sit on the car and eat subs. She enjoyed every minute of it. It was very obvious when she got home! I was watching the Gators dismantle LSU. I was so happy to share in her excitement. Alison is a competitor, and loves sports. Having spent all but two years of her life outside of Florida, she had to end up a Georgia or Alabama fan! I love that bulldog !

SUUUWEET!!

The last time we played Arkansas, it was here in Atlanta for the 2006 SEC Championship. Debbie and the girls and I were in the rafters. After last week, who knew what team would show up this time. The Gators are back on track. A solid win, with two freshmen rushing over 100 yds. Too many penalties, but Urban will straighten that out this week. Don't want to peak too early. Go Gators !

Wow !!

This morning when I got up and moved to my desk, I couldn't help but notice a new addition. A huge "Happy Birthday" balloon. Debbie let me know that Shelby had gone out and found it for me. Shelby is such a sweet giving person. She is always doing the little things that let you know that her thoughts and actions are outwardly focused. She has always possessed a sensitive spirit that could only be a gift from our Lord. I Love You Shelby Katherine!!

Busy Setter !

Alison is spending a lot of time on the court now days. This is that time when the games and tourneys pile up. It amazes me how she could improve her game so dramatically in one year. This really is a tough sport requiring a great deal of discipline and practice. Volleyball is a great sport. A lot of good exercise also. Alison, hang in there, not many more games left. Love You, Dad

Mississississississippi ?

What a mess! I didn't think that the Gators would stumble on this one. It amazes me that how wide the spread is between up and down when you are talking about 19 year old kids. Two good things come out of this. 1. Early vs Late season loss. 2. Georgia lost too! I really believe it comes down to a game in Jacksonville, as it should. Come on Gators ! Mom and Dad left for Florida today. I'm thankful that we have had the time to spend together over the last three weeks. They called not long ago, and let me know they found enough gas to make it back. Love You Guys!

Rocky Flop Again !

What a beautiful Tennessee afternoon! I couldn't believe how pretty the HD picture was. Mom and Dad had the opportunity to attend the game. I'm so glad that they could be there to remind the Tennessee fans that we haven't forgotten how to play! It's getting close to the time for me to make the annual call to Eric and Jennifer. We call each other after the game to check in. Usually the winner makes the call.
Go Gators !!

National Quartet Convention 2008 !!

We made it! Mom, Dad & I made it to Louisville for the NQC. It was a great time to be together and enjoy some moving times. The NQC is a rare opportunity to get filled up with great music that contains great truth. Late nights, and catch up days. A rare opportunity to see the Crabb Family perform a reunion concert. They tore up "Through The Fire" Of coarse the Booth Brothers took most of the Singing News awards. We just had one great time together...what more can I say..Love You Mom & Dad!

23 Years!

If you would have told me in 1985, it would be 23 years until we won against Miami. I would have thought "no way" Last night we played another typical instate game that was very physical. At the end, the gators were pulling away. What was obvious, was that we had a clear advantage when it comes to conditioning. That was the difference. When 18year old kids reunite to play against friends and neighbors, you can throw out just about everything except conditioning. Struggles and challenges in this life serve the same purpose, they condition us! Go Gators!

Gatlinburg

We had a quick trip. The girls got to sleep and relax a little bit. The weather was great!Dad and Alison got to load up and take the Vespa accross the mountian a few times.

From what I can tell, Alison is driving the thing! Both of them light up when someone mentions taking a ride. The crabs were ready to go when we got there. Everybody got plenty. We always debate whether or not the red kings or the snow's are the best. I stick with the kings. We had a spread!

Debbie and the girls got a chance to get out in the park and hit the trails. Looks like it was a fun time. Everyone stayed dry! We all had a great time. A special memory!

Melt The Butter !!

Well, tomorrow Shelby and Alison get back from the retreat and we head to Gatlinburg. It will be a great time. The Gators play game 1 on Saturday. Mom & Dad have secured Crabs for a feast. I'm sure the girls will be worn out, and will retreat to sleep in the basement for a day or two. This is always a great time of the year to go. I will be going back up in another 10 days on the way to the NQC! Fun Fun ! Go Gators!!

Scooten!!

Dad sure is enjoying the Vespa. Here is the latest pic from KFC Gatlinburg. It makes me so happy that he is out living it up! It is an adventure for both of us when the pictures start coming. Have Fun Dad! I love you!

Choir Buddies!!

Yesterday afternoon, Brian, Gary and Scott brought some Zaxby's and stopped in for some fellowship. We had a great time skimming through some southern gospel video. Need some plaster repairs! These guys are always wanting to get together and hang out. The Lord brings strength through guys that walk with him. Early football predictions are down. Scott & Brian - FSU, Gary - Alabama, Chuck - GATORS! Hope I'm right again! Thanks guys for the love you share, and for the prayer time we spent together! Rip It!!!

Eric & Jennifer

We had a great time Friday evening when Eric, Jennifer, and the girls came by. It's been probably 3 years since our families have been together. Wow, have the kids all grown. We had a fun pizza party, and Eric & I found some wings in the box. Eric was coming through on the way to Stone Mountain for his 30th HS reunion. Man that's getting old. On a serious note, I was so glad to see Jennifer up and going. She had a brain aneurysm just weeks ago. The Lord touched and restored her! We all have tests and struggles, and they will be stronger for it. Through the fire my weakness is made strong! Another walking miracle!! Bless You Guys!

Two Tenors!

Benny & Kristin Cook came over and spent some time with us Thursday afternoon. Benny and I used to create some distractions (singing tenor in the bass section) in choir practice. Benny has also had some significant health challenges over the past few years, and our Lord has really seen him through. Kristin worked in the admissions office at NCCS when we originally considered that school. She certainly positively influenced the decision. It had been a while since Benny & I had spent time together, soooooo, we had to have some Bar B Q!

Unbelievably I introduced him to one he had never had. Zieglers !! Benny & I turned up a Southern Gospel DVD and ran the rats out of the house while the girls were gone to get the food. Man what food! The challenge was to get done in time for Debbie and them to get to the school for orientation. We made it. A great time guys. Benny, I love you brother!

Fun Times

Everybody is going in different directions as we wrap up the summer. Shelby had he Senior pictures made yesterday. I can't wait to see em. Debbie took Emma for some casual shots. Alison has been helping me do some stuff in between in house wheelchair skiing! Well, that's when I pull her through the house at 5mph in a manual wheelchair and fling her like a water skier!! What a hoot!

Meanwhile back in Gatlinburg, Dad has started the GVRA. Gatlinburg Vespa Riders Association. I can't wait tot get up there for a few days around Labor Day! Bennie Cook and his bride are here for BBQ this afternoon. Bennie and I used to sing together in choir. We could tear it up together. lol. Got to switch computers and get a little work done.

Crabby Summer

Mom & Dad stopped off Wednesday, on the way to Gatlinburg to catch up with Casey. Several big events. Dad did a great job of trimming the shrubs on Thursday. Keeping with that theme,for the first time in his life, Dad paid $20 for a haircut. Of coarse, he got the hot towel, shaved neck, and bald spot therapy!

We found and cooked up 6 pounds of Red King Crab..yummm. Dad & I spent several hours hunting that crab! It got complicated.Yesterday we loaded the Vespa up to go to the mountains. It will get put to good use. Much safer that the old 80, that bears have attacked on several occasions. As always, we all had a great time.

Paul & Sandra

Well, Paul McNeal and his wife Sandra drove over from Alabama today. We spent a few hours catching up, and reminiscing about adventures at SouthTrust. Paul and I worked together for several years, had a trusting relationship, and just got it done. There were a few adventures along the way! Paul and I spent several afternoons at our home in Birmingham, tracking what became known as the "Taliban Squirrel" This squirrel would hang out on the roof and make a run at you, in an effort to get you to leave him alone. He bit his way through the wire mesh around our fireplace, and made his way down to the fire box. That's where he would chirp through the Heatalator vents around the fireplace. I finally got him with roach spray one day. We payed for that for several weeks, with a horrendous odor, as he decayed. Fun and Crazy Times!

Florida Bar-B-Q

Those of you that know me well, know that Bar-B-Q is high on my list when it comes to the world's best cuisine. I was drawn into a debate the other day about Texas vs Carolina vs Alabama Bar-B-Q. I want to add another state....FLORIDA. Never would have guessed! There is a place in Auburndale Florida called Peeble's Bar-B-Q. I have never had better! This place is only open from Labor Day to Memorial Day. Only Thursday, Friday and Saturday. I used to eat there regularly with customers, when I worked in the area in the mid 80's. Eric & Kevin have been there I'm sure. Sawdust floor, no air conditioning ! Eric, Ralph James lives right around the corner..Ahhhhhhh. Everyone have a great weekend. I am going to.

Home!

Finally got home last night from Florida. Had to extend a couple of days due to some stomach stuff. Debbie did a 24hr round trip to get Shelby home to leave for the beach again. It was great to get some time with Mom & Dad. They both go out of the way to accommodate. Couldn't ask for finer parents. God has truly blessed me with them all these years. Dad collected crab legs, for a small feast. We got the Braun Van home. Was a nice ride. Jimmy and Bobby Adcock insisted that we get it if we wanted it. What a Godly couple. Last year after visiting Bobby, we had sent Johnny's message on "facing adversity" down. Half way home yesterday, Debbie ejected a CD and that was it. Bobby was always sending cards and keeping in touch with the girls. Especially in the last few years, since Dorris went to run around heaven! I know there are some fun times with those two reunited in heaven! Ali and I stayed up late last night and got my new graphics card in. Wow! Flight Simulator will never be the same. More later.

Casey Is In The House !

Well Casey left this morning for Gatlinburg. Emma is running around trying to figure out where to sleep.Every time Casey comes, Emma just can't leave him alone. They are big buddies. We had a fun couple of days. As usual, it included a couple of dietary disasters. The latest was an 11PM Steak N Shake visit last night. Steak Burgers, Cheese Fries, Milk Shakes! You can't watch enough TV to put that to bed! We did get in a couple of "Mobile Home Disaster" episodes.We'll catch up in a few days down in Gainesville. Love my baby brother!

Have A Seat

Technology continues to amaze me. When you spend hours a day sitting in the same place, it becomes a challenge to remain comfortable. Got a new answer today. The ROHO Quadtro! This is a dry flotation cushion that literally floats you on air. The air moves through valves from cell to cell, and adjusts for where your weight is concentrated. Like siting on a moving egg crate! Already got it set up. Wow what a difference!

Casey is on the way up tomorrow. Stay tuned!

It's The 4th Of July !

Alison made it home safe last night from Bristol. She and Shelby were at the pool by the time I got up this morning. A beautiful day in the mid 80's. I just got finished watching the Hot Dog eating contest. Joey Chestnut won in a 5 dog eat off. Tied at 59 dogs in 10 min. Ughhhh! Those guys sure walk funny after that contest! ESPN covers this every year. Thousands gather at Coney Island on the Fourth of July to watch the glutinous gladiators compete in the annual event.I don't know if these guys are athletes. More like In-Sink-Erator's! Should be a fun weekend with plenty of racing and a couple of movies. Got to get ready to make a BestBuy run. Think I'll have a hot dog!

Happy Camper !

She's headed out of town again ! Alison leaves tomorrow for volleyball camp in Bristol. She's working on her "setter" skills. Some kid's are home bodies, and others are ready to get out there and have fun whenever they get the chance. Alison is certainly in the second group! I'm sure she will have a blast, and come home Friday exhausted. Alison loves activity, and was given the gift of "laughter". She enjoys sports and always has a smile, or just laughs as she goes, and goes. I love to watch her participate. If all kids were like her, there would be no room for spectators in any venue in America. Have fun Alison ! Be Careful!!! I love you Ali.