Atkinson Times

We're still alive and kickin'

2009-12-17T23:22:00.003-05:00

Goodbye, May!!!

2009-05-31T20:54:00.007-04:00

It is hard to believe that May has come and gone already. It has been a very busy month - I am in a big crunch at work, hence the blogging dry spell. The month started with a trip I took with coworkers to Savannah for the Spring Meeting. We celebrated Mother's day the next weekend in Manning. Now, Tyler and I are preparing for a mission trip with church to Tennessee. We will be leaving next Sunday. June is going to be just as busy for our family! Here are a few pictures from our busy May.

Me with coworkers before heading out to dinner in Savannah

Tammy and her crew on Mother's Day

The boys with Mimi

Proud Mama

Mimi and Oneil

2009 and Paw Paw is 69!

2009-04-27T20:08:00.008-04:00

On Sunday we celebrated Daddy and Stephen's birthdays. It was great to have everyone together again - we had a great afternoon!

Tommy thumping his brother and getting a look from Stephen

Stephen striking a pose

Daddy striking a pose

Birthday masterpiece

Happy Birthday to you!

Make a wish!

2009 IT Picnic

2009-04-26T23:45:00.030-04:00

Saturday we had our department picnic at Saluda Shoals. We have been working so hard at the office, it was really nice to have some time to relax and enjoy some time together with food and family!

Bradley, Jessica and Tyler - all 12 years old!

PJ and his crew

Scott and his crew

Mike and Karla

Me and Leigh

Jeff and Brad

Taylor and Leigh

Bert and his crew

Lisa, Tatiana, Jane, Me, and Jessica

Lisa, Lena, Me, Jessica, and Tyler

John

Dale and Leigh

Debra and Bradley

Salty and Casey

Janet and her hubby

Sheryl and Bert

Me and the babies

Liyueh

Rita and Dale

Beth, Stan, Rhonda, and Forrest

Mae and her crew

Tyler and Helen splashing

Tyler and Helen

Lena and her crew

Tanya

Dessa

Ron and Marianne

Me and Jeff

Helen and Yegor

Dog Day Afternoon

2009-04-18T21:18:00.011-04:00

Today was the "Bark To The Park" benefit and Nadene and I took our crews downtown for a fun afternoon for the dogs. I have never seen so many dogs in one place in my life! It was a beautiful day, and the dogs had a great time.

Tyler's shot of the fountain at the park

Tommy, Anderson, and Nick - bundles of joy!

Tyler racing a dog for an event

Tyler won a blue ribbon!

Nadene and I with our canine babies!

Tyler and Mom with the pups

Salty and Casey - ready for another round!

Nadene and Penny

All pooped out

Hooray for Erin!

2009-04-17T21:24:00.004-04:00

Today I had the pleasure of cheering Erin on in the Special Olympics Spring Games where she got first place in the tennis ball throw. It was a beautiful day, and we had a great time cheering on all of the athletes!

Me, Erin, Nadene, and Vicki (her assistant from school)

Erin by the Olympic Flame

Me and my buddy, Erin

Erin and mom, Nadene

Weekend Celebrations

2009-03-01T17:01:00.024-05:00

We had quite the weekend of celebrations. Since the kids were out of school Friday, Tyler invited his friend Brooklynn to the movies and over to play video games Friday night for his birthday. On Saturday afternoon, we went to Barnwell to celebrate February birthdays for Ryan, Rhette, Liam and Tyler and also to give Ryan and Shanon their belated wedding present. Then on Sunday, Paw Paw came over for some more birthday celebration! The fun just never ends . . .

Tommy, Tyler, and Brooklynn celebrate Friday night

Shanon and Ryan open their wedding present on Saturday

Tyler gets some loot!

Watch out ladies!

Legos for Liam!

Stuff for the yard for Rhette!

Tee ball for Liam

Rhette models her new wrap

Jerry looks through Ryan's new clothes to see which ones he likes since they wear the same size

Make a wish!

Say CHEESE!

Happy Birthday to Ryan, Rhette, Liam and Tyler!

Such birthday joy!

It's so hard to stay mad when people are singing to you

Blowing out the candles

YUM - oreo cake!

Happy Birthday to Tyler

B.B. King in Hilton Head

2009-03-01T01:17:00.010-05:00

It has been quite a while since I last blogged . . . sorry for my absence! The dog chewed through my camera cord, which prevented me from posting highlights from our latest trip. Jamie and I went on a long weekend getaway to Hilton Head for our 20th anniversary (coming up next week). We decided to celebrate early since B. B. King was playing, and Jamie had never seen him before and is such a big fan. The concert was actually February 10, which was the last night we were there. The weather was beautiful while we were there, and we really had a nice, relaxing trip!

Jamie's guitar in our hotel room

Buddy Guy opening up for B. B. King

B. B. King telling lots of stories

And singing lots of songs

Jamie on our balcony

Me on our balcony

Our "Prime Ocean View"

Our babies glad when we got home!

Tyler's First Date

2008-12-27T19:22:00.004-05:00

Tonight I took Tyler and his girlfriend, Bethany, out for their first "date" to see "Marley and Me". I hope I didn't embarass him too much by bawling my eyes out in the movie! Here they are at Marble Slab after the movies.

Merry Christmas 2008

2008-12-25T23:37:00.016-05:00

We enjoyed Christmas day at home today - we were all pretty tired from all the travels. Jamie and I enjoyed a long winter's nap this afternoon!

Christmas loot

Tyler's new scooter and pet loot

Tommy's new Ipod

Who knew he would get so excited about socks?

A new razor for Tommy's whisker

Casey with her new birdie

Salty with his new chipmunk

Tyler zooming on his scooter

Tyler strikes a pose

Watch out for Dad!

Emily enjoying her cat food from Nadene

Mom sacks out when it is all over!

Christmas Eve Journeys

2008-12-25T01:54:00.028-05:00

Christmas Eve was a very busy day for the Atkinson family. I had to work that morning and celebrated with my work "family", and then we were off to Barnwell to celebrate with Papa J and Mama Rhette and family. We got back just in time for the 6:00 service at church, and then I went over to Nadene's to exchange with her and her family. Even though it was quite exhausting, I feel so blessed to have so many people in my life to celebrate with and enjoy spending time with them all!!!!

My Farm Bureau family

Tyler in Barnwell - a little bit excited!

Wendy loves her Reeses!

Don loves his books!

Jerry with his hunting statue

Jamie is ready for more fishing stuff

A new watch for me

Michael and Liam are now Wiiers

Papa J takes a little snooze

Like Father, Like Son

Jerry, Shannon, and Ryan (with Paula in the background)

Monty and Paula

Tommy kicking back in his new USC shirt

Liam had a little too much chocolate!

Father and Sons

Tommy, Tyler and Liam playing with the rockets

Papa J and Mama Rhette

Erin opens her DS game

Penny gets a new toy

Erin gives me a big hug (a great present)

Nana Nancy, Erin, Nadene, and Penny

Great minds think alike - we gave each other the same ornament

I had to go back at midnight since I left my camera, and the dogs enjoyed their presents from Nadene

Christmas Celebrations with Mimi

2008-12-21T19:35:00.028-05:00

Last night, we were off to Manning to celebrate with Mimi, Oneil, Michael, and Liam. We spent the night in Manning, and then today, we went to the McElveen dinner in Turbeville. We had to rush out after the dinner because there was another reunion, so I actually got some better than normal pictures of everyone outside!

Tyler and Liam are excited to open presents!

Liam peers over the markers and through his hair . . .

Tyler is ready to go fishing

Tommy is excited to get some cash

Michael gets an ornament

When did Tommy get so tall?

Who knew there were pink fishing rods?

A hundred dollar smile!

Jamie with his anchor

Tommy fantasizes about his future girlfriend

Oneil gets a new tractor!

A new digital picture frame

Merry Christmas, Mimi!!!

Tommy playing ping pong with Danny at the dinner

Aunt Sadie and Uncle Ellis

Traci, Judd and Dexter

Benji, Christi, Harmon, Carter, Alison, Walt, Breanna, and Ian

Michael, Liam, and all of us!

Katie, Lin, Mason, Madison, and MacKenzie

Uncle Wayne and Aunt Deborah

Aunt Iva Jane and Uncle Jimmy

Oneil and Mimi

Tyler gets to open his presents I forgot after we get home!!!

Goodbye to sweet Zoey

2008-12-21T07:44:00.002-05:00

We found out yesterday morning that Tyler's kitten, Zoey, was hit and killed by a car. Zoey was the sweetest kitten - she slept with Casey every night and loved everyone. We are all sad and will miss her very much . . .

Let Christmas begin!!

2008-12-18T21:04:00.019-05:00

Our Christmas celebrations started off with a bang on Wednesday with Daddy, Aunt Gayle, Stephen, Melissa, and Paul. We enjoyed a wonderful meal together and had a great time opening presents with all of our animals!

Daddy is happy to have everyone together!

YUM - the best turkey yet!

Melissa gives Salty some love

Paw Paw bonding with his grandsons

My Angel from Daddy

Aunt Gayle with her cool glasses

Tobey posing for the camera

The zoo crew

Tommy with the dogs

Tyler says cheese!

Jamie's "cocky"

Melissa will definitely use this!

Think Stephen will use this?

Glamorous Gayle!

Cook us something yummy!

Daddy presents Stephen with a finale gift

Stephen has a mild chuckle . . .

All of his baby teeth!!!!

Welcome Home, Salty!

2008-11-29T18:48:00.013-05:00

Today we brought home the new baby of the family, Salty. We got word on Tuesday night that we were approved to adopt him, and we picked him up at the Animal Supply House this afternoon. He seems to be really happy so far - he had one little barking episode when Zoey ran across the room. It was funny because we hadn't heard his voice before then other than a few whimpers! They are all getting along great now, and Casey is happy to have a new playmate!

Me, reunited with Salty

Tyler meets Salty

Salty getting used to Casey and Zoey

Casey is excited!

Jamie cradles the new baby

Come play with me!

See my new toy

Dog kisses

Being nosey

All tired out

Father-Son Fishing

2008-11-29T00:21:00.003-05:00

Today Jamie and Tommy spent "Black Friday" fishing in a father-son tournament. In the picture below, they are posing with the winners of the tournament along with Jamie's friend, James, and his son Riley.

Thanksgiving Blessings

2008-11-27T20:39:00.010-05:00

Today we celebrated Thanksgiving in Manning with Mimi. It was extra special because it was the first time that we have gotten together with Oneil's daughters, Tami and Ann along with their children. We will all soon be family, and we had a great time getting to know them all today!

Liam - so thoughtful

Liam - so silly!

Tyler, Liam, Hunter and Michael

Piling on the food!

Wii having fun yet?

Sisters - Iva Jane and Sherrille

Michael and Liam

His, Hers, and soon to be Ours!

Happy Thanksgiving to Everyone!

A Day for the Dogs

2008-11-23T21:21:00.016-05:00

On Saturday, Tommy, Casey, and I went to the 2nd Annual PAALS with Heart in the Park Dog Walk. Casey had a ball meeting all kinds of dogs, and we came in 3rd place in the poker run! We also met a potential new member of the family. We applied to adopt one of the rescue puppies named Salty. He melted Tommy's heart, and Tommy wore me down. Casey would love to have another buddy to keep her company when we are at work and school since Bobo is no longer with us. Hopefully, we will find out this week. Say a prayer for us (either way)!

Group Shot

Casey with her dates, Tommy and Josh

Penny and Casey

Our team

Casey, me, Tommy and Josh

Erin, Nadene, and Penny

Erin and Barry

Me meeting Salty

Salty striking a pose

Mom, PLEEEASE!

Josh keeping Salty warm

Erin with one of Salty's siblings

Salty's family

Cat Food Thief

2008-11-18T21:27:00.002-05:00

Tonight the boys caught a cat food thief red handed . . . or should I say "red pawed". My phone started vibrating in my Weight Watchers meeting, and Tyler was screaming on the other end that his brother caught a possum! When I got home, we took the trash can off and set our thief free in another neighborhood!

16th Birthday Boy

2008-11-16T19:44:00.006-05:00

Today we celebrated Tommy's 16th birthday with Paw Paw, Aunt Gayle, and Paul. It is hard to believe that he is so grown!

A gas gift card

Never too old for a new video game

Laughing at a birthday card

Wonder what he wished for?

Afternoon at the Museum

2008-11-02T20:38:00.015-05:00

This afternoon, we went to the State Museum where Cyndi was working on several different activities for kids to teach them about earthquakes.

Tyler and Liam building earthquake proof houses

Cyndi shows them another demonstration with different kinds of soil

Tommy and Nick work on their houses

Proud builders

Cyndi demonstrates different kinds of waves

Team Tommy and Liam for the wave race

Team Nick and Tyler for the wave race

Tommy with the wind in his cheeks

Tommy gives Liam a lift

Tyler and Liam gazing at each other

Nick, Tyler, and Liam in the kaleidoscope

Posing after all the fun

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T22:31:00.003-04:00

Erin stopped by after going to a festival and posed with Tyler for a Halloween portrait.

Special Buddies

2008-10-28T21:40:00.010-04:00

This past Sunday was the Buddy Walk, and the boys and I went out to support our Special Buddy, Erin. It was a beautiful day - every year it is like God is smiling down on us because the weather is so good. We had a great time with Erin and her family and friends!

The Erin Express

Erin's Entourage

Erin with her friend, Hunter

Nick, Tommy, Peyton, and Tyler

Nadene and Nana Nancy

Hunter, Erin, and Me

Fishermen or Fisherboys?

2008-10-18T09:19:00.005-04:00

Tommy and his friend, Nick, went fishing last night and are proud of their catch!

Proud Nick

Ugly fish

Proud Tommy

Calling All Coneheads

2008-10-16T20:53:00.003-04:00

Looks like my husband is a Conehead - this was taken going 50 miles an hour on Lake Murray last night.

Ride Like the Wind

2008-10-12T20:09:00.007-04:00

Today I took Tyler and his friend, Brooklynn, to the fair. It was really nice and the lines weren't very long. They had a big time. I rode the Zipper right before we left - I haven't ridden since I was a teenager and I rode with Jamie. It was the first time I heard him pray out loud.

Me, Tyler, and Brooklynn on the sky lift

Tyler and Brooklynn on the ski bob

Niagra Falls!

Hair action on the bumper cars
Tyler caught a tender moment with the seals

Belated Birthdays in Barnwell

2008-09-28T22:32:00.014-04:00

This afternoon, we finally made it to Barnwell to celebrate August (me) and September (Wendy . . . and another nameless sister that played golf instead) birthdays. Wendy and I both turned the big 4-0. We weathered it pretty well, if I say so myself. We had a big time playing Dance Dance Revolution on the Wii.

Birthday Divas

Does Wendy know me or what?

Ryan and Shannon

Liam and Tyler enjoying some cake!

Tyler and Tommy, remember Mom is always watching!!!

Serious Michael

Not-so-serious Jamie

Tommy tries to show Michael how to dance as Liam cringes in the background

See Michael, here's how it's done

Tyler bustin a move

You go, girl!

Liam gets a ride

Bye, Wendy and Don

Bye, Papa J and Mama Rhette

Work and Play

2008-09-07T22:52:00.009-04:00

Jamie and I are both having hectic times with work right now. Jamie is having to work lots and lots of overtime, and mine is more sporadic calls and little spurts of working at home. Earlier in the week, Jamie took a break to repair a leak by the chimney with Tommy. We also spent time with Liam and Cyndi this weekend and went to the park on Sunday. Below are some of the latest pictures.

Jamie getting on the roof to check it out

Dubious ladder support

Tommy comes up for a peek

Dueling at the park

Tommy hangin' out with Casey and Bonedaddy

All atop the slide

Resting on the rocks after a hot afternoon

Little foot, big foot

End of Summer

2008-09-01T22:21:00.009-04:00

I can't believe that it is September already! Things have been so hectic since we got back from the beach that I feel like I need another vacation already. School started back the week after we got back, and Daddy got a new dog. Here are some pictures from the last few weeks.

Tyler on the first day of school

Tommy on the first day of school

Emily saying goodbye to the boys

Tobey, Daddy's new dog

Tyler says hello to Tobey

A spider Tommy caught in the driveway

Rear view of the spider

Myrtle Beach Days - August 17

2008-08-17T22:18:00.007-04:00

Ah, what a week it has been, but it had to come to an end sometime. Today was clean pack and cram in the car day. Jamie left early since his headaches were bothering him and he had to work this weekend, so we had to really do some creative packing to get everything in the Jeep. We sent a few things with Mimi and Oneil, and we had to cram things to the roof, but we got it all in there. Casey and Zoey both rode in Tommy's lap, but seemed to be comfortable enough!!!

Cuddled up and cutting some zzz's

Tyler peering from the contents of the Jeep

Tommy cradling Casey and Zoey

Wouldn't it be nice if we all got along this well?

Are we home, yet???

Myrtle Beach Days - August 16

2008-08-17T21:09:00.026-04:00

Our last full day at the beach was filled with fun and family. We had some fun at the house with Zoey and Casey, played "Redneck Horseshoes" and rented bikes on the beach. Fun in the partial sun!

Oneil and Mimi on their morning walk

Liam hamming it up

Zoey gives Casey a love nibble

Our beautiful Casey

Playful Zoey

The dynamic duo

Relaxing

Tommy and Michael playing Redneck Horseshoes

Mimi and Oneil basking in the shoes

Ankle in the sun

Michael and Stacy playing horseshoes

Stacy in action

Mimi warming up

Mimi in action

Mimi and Tyler on the bikes

Michael and Liam trying out the bike

Tommy giving Stacy a push

Stacy and Tyler crash!

Tommy and Tyler get a bigger bike

Me and the boys

Oneil and Mimi give it a whirl

Tyler and Liam hitch a ride

Michael and Tommy ride off to return the bike

Myrtle Beach Days - August 15

2008-08-17T20:28:00.009-04:00

Friday saw the departure of Daddy, Paul, Stephen and Melissa and the arrival of Mimi and Oneil. It was a momentous occasion for Oneil to leave his farm and come to the beach, and we

were very glad to have him share our vacation.

Gifts and goodies from Mimi

Making a wish

My surprise sprained ankle

Michael tries to find Tommy's "tell"

Liam and Tyler intense on their video game

Mimi and Oneil under the stars

Myrtle Beach Days - August 14

2008-08-17T19:20:00.010-04:00

Thursday turned out to be quite the exciting day. Tommy had been talking about parasailing all week long, and on Thursday we decided to go for it. Stephen and Melissa went first, and then Tommy went with Paul. Tyler and I rode in the boat as spectators, and Paw Paw watched from the shore (after going home to take the fish out that Tommy left in the oven). Everyone really enjoyed the experience - and special kudos go to Stephen who is afraid of heights!!!

Stephen and Melissa - up, up, and away!

Coming in for a landing!

Home free!

Tommy and Paul in the clouds

Look, Paul, No Hands!!!

A sigh of relief!

Myrtle Beach Days - August 13

2008-08-17T18:39:00.008-04:00

Wednesday was pretty much a washout as far as the beach was concerned. It rained all day long. We decided to go shopping at the outlets along with everyone else! The traffic was so bad that we stayed in for the rest of the afternoon and then went out to eat seafood. We enjoyed a homemade cheesecake for dessert compliments of Melissa for my birthday!

Hamming it up at the restaurant

Daddy and Paul on the beach after dinner

Melissa and Tyler

Daddy and Me

Me pretending to blow out the candles!

Myrtle Beach Days - August 12

2008-08-17T18:17:00.009-04:00

On Tuesday, Daddy, Paul, Melissa and Stephen arrived for more beautiful weather and fun on the beach. We had several hat modeling photos!

The boys with their new USC hats from Jamie

Michael and Stacy with their floppy beach hats

Jamie with his sheik hat

Stephen and Melissa arrive!

Paw Paw on the beach!!!!

Liam chopping the waves

Myrtle Beach Days - August 11

2008-08-17T17:49:00.009-04:00

The weather couldn't have been better on Monday. Michael, Stacy, and Liam joined us and the boys had a great time playing in the sand and catching the waves!

Tyler and Tommy diggin a big hole

Tommy looking at me ever so lovingly

The boys made me a birthday cake castle!

Liam is going to ride over Tommy

Tommy says "Not so Fast!"

Going back out for the next wave!

Liam gets a good one!

Myrtle Beach Days - August 10

2008-08-17T17:31:00.010-04:00

We were all really glad to finally make it to the beach for my 40th birthday week! After much anticipation and preparation, we arrived on Sunday at about 3. It was amazing how much better the traffic was compared to our regular July 4 week.

Tyler being silly on the beach

Tyler after I asked for a birthday smile!

Me at 40!!!!

Tommy arrives with Casey after 5

Casey loving the water!

We all love the beach!!!!!

Over The Hill - Kim turns 40!

2008-08-08T21:40:00.001-04:00

Fishing Buddies

2008-07-20T22:30:00.004-04:00

Jamie and Casey went out on the lake Saturday for a fun, relaxing day of fishing. Jamie finally caught one!

Casey and Jamie posing for a picture for James

Look, Daddy . . . a fish!!!!

S0 . . . THAT'S what a fish looks like!

Boating with the Boys

2008-07-13T20:09:00.013-04:00

Today we took time to go out on the lake in our "new" boat. We had a great time with the new tube that Jamie got with his birthday money. Casey had an especially good time, although she terrified her mom by falling off the boat one time!

Casey lapping up the wind

Tyler is raring to go

Old lady on the lake

Captain Jamie

Casey before her fall

Swimming

Jamie tried to throw Tommy off the tube . . .

but didn't succeed (that time)!

Tyler isn't too sure about this!

Taking the Lipton plunge!

Heading back in after an afternoon of fun

Meet Zoey

2008-07-12T21:08:00.004-04:00

We have a new addition to our family. A friend had a stray kitten abandoned on his property, and Jamie brought her home last night. We decided to keep her for Tyler and name her Zoey. She is adjusting fine and checked out great this morning at the vet! She and Casey are buddies, although Emily is being a little more reluctant to make friends.

Tyler and his new baby

Zoey and Casey curled up for a nap

Birthdays with Mimi

2008-07-06T22:45:00.001-04:00

4th of July Celebration

2008-07-05T11:42:00.002-04:00

We had a great time with friends at the lake celebrating Mike's new job with Jamie!

Then and Now

2008-07-04T16:22:00.001-04:00

A day for Celebrations!

2008-06-29T19:30:00.010-04:00

I knew that when our praise band opened church service with "Celebration" by Kool & The Gang that it was going to be a great day for celebrations! It started with celebrating our great week of Vacation Bible School. Then, we were off to Daddy's to celebrate Father's Day and Jamie and Aunt Gayle's birthdays.

The sea of green Power Lab t-shirts from VBS

6743 - that's a great year!

Paw Paw lost patience a few times with the grandboys

Sweet little Herbie slept thru most of the mahem

Aunt Gayle gets a good laugh from her "Age of Aquarius" card

Jamie models his new tee

Daddy with his new toy

And they huffed and they puffed . . .

And the party's over.

Last night of Power Lab

2008-06-26T21:17:00.007-04:00

Tonight was the last night of VBS. We had a great time bowling. The kids were really awesome this year!

Ready, set, bowl!

Addie, Kristin, Bradley and Ryan

Ben

Emily and Addie

Thanks, Lance for a great week!

Pool Party!

2008-06-25T21:12:00.013-04:00

We had a blast tonight at a local neighborhood pool! The kids swam, ate hot dogs, sang, and heard a great message from Andy. What a great night!

That is Tyler upside down on the slide!

Chicken fight, anyone?

Josh and Chris chillin'

Anyone hungry for a hot dog?

Charlotte and Kim

Lance jamming with the kids

Andy giving the message

Prayer time

Hamming it up on the bus!

Dudes!

What a crew!!!

Gardening at Pleasant Hill

2008-06-24T21:21:00.010-04:00

Tonight we went back to Pleasant Hill Elementary and worked outside planting some gardens around the portable classrooms. It was quite warm, and the kids worked really hard - the gardens turned out great!

Crewmates Ryan, Sam, Kristin, and Bradley

Crewmates Ashlyn and Addie

Everyone working in the garden

Crewmate Ben with Tyler

Trying to catch a breeze out the bus window on the way back

Trevor giving the message back at the church

Harvest Hope

2008-06-23T21:47:00.009-04:00

Tonight we headed to Pleasant Hills Elementary to help out with Harvest Hope Food bank. After learning about Harvest Hope, we sorted food and toiletries for the food bank. The kids worked hard!

Learning about Harvest Hope

Spreading plastic before we fill bags of sugar

Now that's a lot of sugar!

Megan helping out with the mouthwash

Pouring sugar

Our message back at church

Power Lab Blast Off!

2008-06-22T21:35:00.010-04:00

Tonight was the first night of vacation Bible school at church. I am a crew leader for PM offsite. Each night we will have a field trip and do various service/mission projects. Tonight we went to the park and made cards for shut-ins from the church. It was a nice evening, and the kids did a great job on their cards!

Power Lab decorations

Heath and Tyler

Ashlyn and Addie

Tyler, Ian, and McKinley

Our crew ready to go in the van

Ken, my co-crew leader

Working on the cards

Tyler, McKinley and Ben working on their cards

Bradley's card is finished!

Tyler's trip with Paw Paw

2008-06-20T21:47:00.012-04:00

Today Tyler got home from a trip to NC with Paw Paw to see Uncle Stephen and Aunt Melissa. He had a really great time! Here are some pictures from their museum visit.

Waiting for a tornado

Tyler with his head in the clouds

Feeding the cow

Baby gator

Butterfly

Special Dragonfly

Ribbet

The eyes are on you

Kickin' back with the lemurs

Happy trails to you

Father's Day Tribute

2008-06-15T21:29:00.010-04:00

Happy Father's Day to all the dad's out there! Especially to the ones most important to me - my dad, my father in law, and, of course, the father of my children!

Daddy and Me after dinner at Outback

Mama Rhette and Papa J in their yard

Jamie and Tommy

Jamie and Tyler

Jamie and the boys in California

Jamie and the boys in our backyard

Jamie and the boys with their USC Snowman

My mountain man with our boys on Grandfather mountain

Brotherly Love

2008-06-13T20:04:00.004-04:00

Tommy and Tyler are really driving us crazy these days. They are at an all time high in the area of bickering and fighting. I just thought I would wistfully remember days gone by with a few photos of more harmonious times!

When being a brother was still new

A moment of delirium where they both shared a pillow!

Tyler's New Juke

2008-05-31T21:09:00.002-04:00

Tyler is now the proud owner of a new "Juke" cell phone. He was so excited!

Stay off the Road!!!

2008-05-19T19:22:00.003-04:00

Fair Warning! We have a newly licensed driver in the house! Better stay off the roads for a while!

Friends + Food = Fun

2008-05-17T20:30:00.007-04:00

Today we went to a picnic with Jamie's former co-workers at Dwight's house. The weather was beautiful, the food was great, and we had a great time!

Companions from Companion

Dwight, Joe, Jamie, Ray, Todd, and Comarkco

Emily having fun on the trampoline

Tommy, Justin, and Joshua talking shop

Tyler sings the blues

Jamie and Mike jammin'

Dinner time!

Mother's Day at Mimi's

2008-05-11T20:16:00.011-04:00

Today we enjoyed our Mother's Day celebration at Mimi's house. It was a beautiful day, and we enjoyed spending time on Mimi's new patio!

Mimi opening her presents with Oneil

Michael's creative wrapping for Mimi's new garden table

Sleeping beauty

Patio time!

Michael - up close and personal

Jamie basking in the sun

Tyler and the "love puppets"!

Tyler's Band Concert

2008-05-09T18:56:00.005-04:00

Last night was the end of the year Fine Arts Festival, so Jamie and I went to see Tyler play his trumpet. It was really amazing how much the kids learned in their first year of playing!

Tyler and Bryson before the concert

Mr. Rhodes giving an intro

Anyone see Tyler?

Dazed after "The Drums Took Over the World"

Goodbye, Sweet Bobo

2008-04-26T15:31:00.006-04:00

Today was a very sad day for our family. We had to say goodbye to our beloved dog, Bobo. Bobo was a part of our family for the past 12 years. Bobo was a very loyal and obedient dog - we will miss him very much.

Bobo the reindeer

Bobo and Casey taking a nap

Our family in 2001

Tommy giving Bobo a hug

Our family in 2003

We loved you and will miss you, old friend

Happy Birthday, Paw Paw!

2008-04-20T21:38:00.009-04:00

Today we celebrated Daddy's 68th birthday. We had a fun time opening presents, having lunch, and finally cake and ice cream.

Daddy, Aunt Gayle, and Tyler goofing off

Say cheese!

And more cheese, please!

Aunt Gayle has had enough cheese, already!

Paw Paw makes a really big wish!!!

Journey to the Promised Land

2008-04-13T21:26:00.034-04:00

Today was an exciting day in the life of our church. We recently purchased 60 acres adjoining our property and today we celebrating by lining up and crossing over into our "Promised Land". It was a beautiful day, and we all really enjoyed a great time of food, fellowship, and fun!

Lining up to cross over

The line went all the way to the back lot

Entering our new land

Each family brought a stone to build an altar

Our altar

Gathering to hear the message

Alex, Tommy, and Nathan

Tyler

Tommy on the swing

Alex and Nick on the swing

Tyler on the swing

Tyler is having a big time

Tyler heads up the rock wall

Up to the top!

Free fall!

Betty and Aunt Gayle

Me and Aunt Gayle

Tommy, Heath, and Nick

Beth, Carsten, and Sam

Bonnie

David

Bonnie, Cana, and a friend

Vicki

Janice

Ed and Robin

Matthew and James

Suzi, Chris and Christian

Ron and Bernadette

Cassie and Pastor Brian - finally getting to eat

Fishing Widow

2008-04-11T18:34:00.003-04:00

Recently, Jamie has taken up fishing with his friend James on Lake Murray. Needless to say, I have become a fishing widow many weekends. James posted this video of Jamie driving the boat on YouTube. He is having a great time!

Never a dull moment

2008-03-23T21:14:00.004-04:00

There is always something chaotic going on in the Atkinson house. Last week was no exception. Sunday night at 11 after we got back from Mimi's house, Tyler started the week with a bang by getting sick all over 3 blankets, my bed, the dog, and the floor. Tommy bathed the dog in the shower, Tyler got in the other tub, I washed the linens, and Jamie cleaned the carpet. On Tuesday night, I came home to a mysteriously quiet house. I didn't see the kids anywhere. I found them in my bathroom with Tommy in the jacuzzi tub trying to give the cat a bath. While Tyler was playing outside that afternoon, he didn't want to take the time to go inside to use the bathroom. There was a surprise inside of the bush he decided to relieve himself on - the cat! Needless to say, Emily was none too happy. She was even more unhappy to get a bath as you can see from the photo. The other shot is from Thursday. Since Paw Paw retired, he has decided to help our family out my coming over on Thursdays to help with the laundry. Thanks a million to Paw Paw!!!

Poor, unhappy Emily

Paw Paw the Laundry Man!

Happy Birthday, Mimi

2008-03-17T20:48:00.009-04:00

This Sunday we went to Mimi's to celebrate her (belated) birthday. It was a beautiful day, and the boys had a great time riding around in the golf cart with Jake, the dog from across the street. Michael, Stacey, and Liam had a hard time getting there due to trees blocking the road from the storm on Saturday. We had a good time when they finally arrived!

Tommy and Tyler with Jake

A frustrated Michael finally arrived

Liam is so happy to be out of the car!

Cousins

Tyler gives a birthday performance

Michael and Stacy a bit more relaxed

Me (possessed) with Jamie

Mimi and Oneil opening her presents

Tyler's Big Weekend

2008-02-24T18:13:00.018-05:00

Tyler had an exciting weekend full of birthday celebrations. It started on Friday afternoon - I took 1/2 day off of work and picked him and three friends up from school. We went to the movies and then picked up supper from Dominos. They all had a fun filled night with pizza, Rock Band, and Wii games. Then on Sunday, Paw Paw and Aunt Gayle came over for yet another celebration. I can't believe my baby boy will be 11 tomorrow!

Tommy, Dad, Dylan, Mark and Brooklyn all watch

Tyler blow out the candle on his birthday cookie

Tyler shows Mark his new Ipod

Tyler thanks Aunt Gayle and Paw Paw for their gifts

Paw Paw aka "Long Whiskers" shows off his bowling prowess on the Wii

Tyler aka "Long Hair" after a big throw

Aunt Gayle aka "Long Arms" turned out to be the ringer!

Happy Birthday, Tyler!!!!

Birthdays in Barnwell

2008-02-17T21:11:00.012-05:00

Today we traveled to Barnwell to celebrate birthdays for Liam, Tyler, Rhette, and Ryan. That is a lot for February, huh? As you can see from the photo's, Tyler has recovered from the eye injury nicely. He is back to his old, charming self!

Tyler enjoying the birthday serenade

Everyone blowing out the candles

Gathering to open presents

The other half of the gathering

Tyler with his I-Dog

Legos for Liam

Tommy is really under all of that hair, and no - that is not a burglar in the background

Michael attempts to block all of the NOISE Stacy and I were making while he was playing Battleship with Tommy. The nerve of us having a conversation!!!

Anxiously awaiting THE race

Aargg!!!

2008-02-05T20:04:00.000-05:00

We had quite the weekend. Tyler was playing with the edge of a poster frame like a sword and ended up jabbing himself in the eye. We spent the wee hours of Sunday morning in the ER and found that he had lacerated his cornea and scratched the white part of his eye. Luckily, he only peeled the top layer of the cornea and it is already almost healed. He was in a lot of pain Saturday night, and is still uncomfortable. We were in the opthamologist's office at 9 am Sunday morning and then back there on Monday afternoon. He was able to go to school today, but ended up calling Mom to get him at lunch. The nurse suggested that we get a patch to cover his eye to try to keep his hands off of it, so here he is modeling his new pirate garb. I tried to get a picture of the actual injury, but he would not hear of it. Hopefully, he will be healed soon and back to normal. (Did I actually say that?!)

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T15:52:00.000-05:00

We brought in the New Year at Laurie and Ron's house this year. Laurie and I realized that we have been friends for almost 25 years - even though we may not see each other but a couple of times a year, every time we get together it is like we are back in high school again! We had a great time eating, drinking, and shooting fireworks with family and friends.

Happy New Year, everyone!!!!

Tommy stuffing his face

Monty the snake

Danielle and Robert

Kimber and Justin

Dave enjoying a chicken wing

Laurie, Juan, and Mona

Tori, Henry, and Harley

Mitchell performing some wheelchair tricks

Tommy and Jamie putting on the show

Tyler performing with the conch shell

Ron (aka Powder)

Me and Laurie having a big time

Jamie and me - a New Year's kiss

Jamie, me and Laurie

. . . and the party's over!

Merry Christmas to All!

2007-12-25T17:53:00.001-05:00

Christmas is finally here! The boys woke up bright and early (for them) at 7 and couldn't wait to see their loot. Tyler finally got his long awaited Wii and Tommy got his Rock Band for the Xbox. After discovering their gifts left by Santa, Tommy cooked us breakfast on his new griddle. Jamie and I then took a nap and we opened presents at lunch time. It is nice to settle in at home for a while! We had a wonderful Christmas with all of our family and hope that everyone else did, too!

Tommy and Tyler trying not to peek while Jamie and I get up

Tommy gives Bobo a bone

Casey likes her new bone

Emily gets some new kitty treats

Tyler likes his new game from Grandpa Bill

Tyler pretends to play his trumpet ornament

Tyler gets a new Halo action figure from Tommy

Thanks, Grandpa Bill!

A new alarm clock - hooray!

A cell phone ornament

Pretty new earrings for mom

A nice new shirt for Dad to wear to work

My own personal Rock Band

Merry Christmas from Lexington!!!!

Christmas in Barnwell

2007-12-24T18:56:00.000-05:00

Today was the last of our Christmas road trips. Jamie and I were off to Barnwell to celebrate with his dad. The boys spent the night there last night with Michael and Stacy, so we actually got a little respite in the midst of all of the celebrations and trips. It was nice to have a night of quiet and rest! We had a great time in Barnwell with everyone - there is always such a mountain of presents as you can see from the pictures below. It is chaos as everyone is opening all at once - I always wait to open mine until at least the kids are done so that I can get some good pictures of them opening. We also feasted on Brown's barbecue from Kingstree. It is a vinegar and pepper recipe - my favortie and my mom's favorite, too.

O Christmas tree

One side of the mountain

Is Papa J under there somewhere?

Liam with Transformers

Liam with a space robot

Tyler with a Ripstik

Tommy with his new man cologne

Tommy with a new car wash kit

Wendy with a log deer head for Jerry

Father and sons with air compressors

Me with my new library of books

Jamie with a new USC koozie

Mama Rhette with her new mink

Jerry and Cyndi

Monty and Paula

Don and Wendy

Ryan and Shannon

Tyler tries out his new Ripstik

Tommy gives it a shot

Liam, Michael, and Stacy

Tommy drives us home

Merry Christmas from Barnwell!!!

Christmas in Turbeville

2007-12-23T16:17:00.001-05:00

Today was the annual McElveen dinner in Turbeville - held the Sunday before Christmas. It is always so good to see the family again! Needless to say, my diet is complete sabotaged from yet another day of feasting. We had a great time of fellowship with aunts, uncles, and cousins!

Uncle Gerald presiding

Liam opens his present

Harmon and Breanna wrestling Tommy

Tommy and Breanna

Tyler giving the newest addition, Carter, a bottle

Carter tries to take a bite on her teething ring

Mimi and Oneil

Stacy and Michael

Christi and Benji with Harmon and Carter

Aunt Beth and Uncle Ronald

Uncle Billy and Aunt Laurice

Uncle Jimmy and Aunt Iva Jane

Aunt Sadie and Uncle Ellis

Aunt Linda and Uncle Donald

Uncle Wayne and Aunt Deborah with Ian

Mimi with Tommy, Tyler and Liam

Merry Christmas from Turbeville

Christmas in Manning

2007-12-22T21:49:00.000-05:00

Tonight we had our Christmas celebration in Manning with Mimi. Michael, Stacy, and Liam came and we had dinner and opened presents. It is our first Christmas celebrating with Stacy - we had fun!

Casey is raring to go!

Liam loves Star Wars!

and Heroscape!

Tyler shows off his tonsils

Another game for the phantom Wii

Tommy and Tyler show off their dirt bike gear

Tommy with an obnoxious cd

Stacy says cheers!

Stacy models her new earrings

Michael and Stacy with their fajita pan

Tyler tries to help Mom with her present

A new earring tree for Mom

A shiny new trash can (Casey proof)!

Jamie does his Gene Simmons impression

Jamie tries to get Casey back in line

Jamie with a dirt bike model

Mimi with a new picture of Liam

and a new picture of Kim and Jamie

and a new ornament of her and Oneil

Merry Christmas from Manning!

Christmas at FB

2007-12-22T00:42:00.001-05:00

Today we celebrated Christmas at work with yet another feast and a fun time of fellowship. It is hard to believe that it is my 19th Christmas at FB! We had a great time.

back to front: Marcus, Shawn, Liyueh, Dessa, Natali, Leigh, Rita, Suzanne, Mae, Debra, Me

Our fearless leaders: Forrest, Dale, Stan, Sheryl, Dale, Leigh, and Bert

Lisa, Lena, Wiley, Mike and Dale

Susan and Pattie

Andy, Ron, Dave, Carol, Brad, Dale, Sherry, Jeff, Lanny, PJ, and Paul

Our security detail: Dave, Lanny, and Jeff

Let the Christmas Celebrations commence!

2007-12-19T23:56:00.001-05:00

Tonight was the beginning of our Christmas celebrations. We are celebrating early since Stephen and Melissa are going to Maine to visit her family this year. Everyone arrived mid afternoon and we feasted and opened presents. Stephen and Melissa prepared the turkey and it was really delicious!!!

Stephen prepares to massacre the bird

Tyler provided us with entertainment during dinner

Tyler thanks Paw Paw for his present

Uh - what the heck is this???

Tommy enjoying his cackling key chain!

Tommy is happy to get to view Jessica Alba!

Stephen and Melissa

Paul

Aunt Gayle with Tweety

Paw Paw with his DARK denim

Oh, goodie - TJ MAXX

Me and Jamie admiring my Hawaiian Warrior

Jamie opens his giant box

Who knew Melissa was an Omnivore?!

Stephen is now officially a bookworm

Stephen is excited about his new shirt!!!

Paw Paw will NOT return his shirt!

Tyler's debut

2007-12-06T20:12:00.001-05:00

Tonight was Tyler's first band concert since he started playing the trumpet. The kids did really well for only having played a few months. He seems to like it so far - hopefully, he will stick with it!

Tyler with band director, Mr. Rhodes

Tyler poses before the performance

The whole band warming up - can you find him?

Christmas Card Fun

2007-12-03T19:45:00.000-05:00

We had lots of fun trying to get a photo for our Christmas ornaments and cards this year. James met us in the park and attempted to get a shot for us. As you can see from Emily's eyes, it was a better card for Halloween! Tommy took a really good picture of me and Jamie after we got home.

Check out Emily's eyes - Halloween card material!

Tommy took the picture for Mom &Dad's ornament

Guy Time

2007-11-24T19:09:00.001-05:00

Jamie took Tommy and Tyler out to Mike's today to ride their bikes and have some "guy time" together. It was Tyler's first time riding outside of our yard. They really had a great time!

Tyler is raring to go!

Tommy shows how it's done

Tyler in the Big Woods

Bubba runs alongside Tyler

Tyler wipes out - Casey and Tommy run to check on him

Tyler gets the hang of it!

Up the hill

Casey and her mama, Goldie sniffing around

Jamming in the barn after the ride

Air guitar

The music brings Tyler to his knees

Belting it out

Time for a drum solo

Casey is exhausted after a fun filled afternoon

Happy Thanksgiviing!

2007-11-22T17:50:00.000-05:00

We had a great Thanksgiving today in Barnwell with Papa J and Mama Rhette. The food was wonderful, and it was nice visiting with family and friends. We missed Michael and Stacy, who were in North Carolina with Stacy's family.

Papa J and Mama Rhette

Tommy with belated birthday presents

Jerry and Cyndi

Monty and Paula

Ryan and Shannon

Don and Wendy

Three Generations

Our Family - with much to be thankful for!

Tommy's Birthday Cookie

2007-11-11T19:46:00.002-05:00

Today Paw Paw and Aunt Gayle came over to celebrate the big 1-5 for Tommy Boy. I can't believe he is that old. I am shocked every time I look at his size 10 feet. It is really flying by, and I know the next few years will be an even bigger blur. As you can see from the pictures, there was mahem and silliness (the norm in our house) as we sang Happy Birthday to Tommy.

Tyler gets animated as we begin singing

Paw Paw getting in on the action

Tommy refusing to let me get a good picture

Finally . . . after a threat from Mom

Wade and Robin's Shower

2007-11-11T00:05:00.000-05:00

Today we made a quick trip to Manning to go to a wedding shower for Jamie's cousin, Wade, and his finance Robin. The shower was at Mimi's, and a lot of Jamie's family was there. We arrived quite late, however, because I mixed up the time of the shower. Oh well, better late than never!

The happy couple

Wade and Robin opening gifts

Family watching the festivities

Breanna, McKenzie, and Madison

Mason hiding behind the couch

Sarah, Hope, Aunt Sadie, and Uncle Ellis

Mimi and Oneil

Ian giving me a look

Jamie and Aunt Beth

Katie choking Lin

Arlene, Katie, Aunt Iva Jane, and Lin

Aunt Deborah and Allison

Uncle Wayne

Aunt Beth and Uncle Ronald

Lin and McKenzie

Madison

Mason

Tommy raiding the Dr. Pepper

Tyler raiding the chocolate delight

Tommy reading his birthday card from Mimi

A New Toy for our Littlest Boy

2007-11-04T20:05:00.001-05:00

Today, Tyler got to try out a new dirt bike that we got from Jamie's friend, James. It looks like it is just his size! The guys had a great time this afternoon - Tyler rode the new bike pretty well, and Tommy got a wheelie in 2nd gear for the first time! Some news on another note, Jamie accepted a job at USC and will be starting there on November 16. His friend Ray from work wrote a really sweet entry on his blog here. It is hard to leave good friends, but exciting to accept new challenges!

Bye, bye electric scooter!

Peace out, yo!

On the move again . . .

Tyler watches Tommy get a wheelie

Now that's what I'm talkin' 'bout!

Kickin' back after a fun day

Happy Halloween!

2007-10-31T20:40:00.001-04:00

We had a great time trick or treating tonight. Erin came over to go trick or treating with Tyler in our neighborhood - they got lots of good treats, which is surprising since Tyler kept telling everyone to smell his feet!

Casey objects to being Yoda

Now that's a little better!

Super girl, Erin with Super dog, Penny

Super girl and Super ghoul

Neighbors Isabelle and Will with Tyler

Trick or treating next door

2007 Buddy Walk

2007-10-21T20:21:00.000-04:00

Today was the annual Buddy Walk at Saluda Shoals. It was a beautiful day for the walk, and we all had a great time! Thanks to everyone who helped support my "special buddy" Erin!

Nancy, Nadene, Erin and me

Erin shows off her baseball - "Go Tribe" - says Mommy

Department Picnic

2007-10-20T17:41:00.000-04:00

Today we had our "whenever we get around to having one" department picnic at the park in town. We had a great time socializing with my co-workers and their families and enjoyed a great lunch with shrimp and fried chicken! Nadene joined us since she helped us rent the shelter and to bring Erin by to thank us for our Buddy Walk donations.

Amy, Scott, and Ruth

Bert and Brenda

Rita and Dale

Stan, Beth, and Erin

Liyueh

Carrie and Jeff

Tyrone, Mae, and TyMaya

Nadene and Nancy

Casey and Tommy

Erin and me

Jamie and Tyler

Tyler, Anastasia, and Lena (can't spell the dog's name!)

TyMaya is serious about swinging!

Anastasia and Tyler having fun on the slide

Erin flying down the slide after a running start

Flashback to Flashdance

2007-10-14T23:25:00.000-04:00

My last of 3 posts in one day. Nadene and I went to the 80's monster bash in Charleston Saturday night and got to travel back in time to our high school days. We decided to go the preppy route since we actually had clothes that kind of fit the bill for it. We pulled out the old hot rollers and hair spray and all of the bright makeup. We were wondering if everyone would be dressing up - we didn't have a thing to worry about! The people attending the concert were as entertaining as the acts performing. Speaking of the acts, they were Naked Eyes, Tommy Tutone, Cutting Crew, A Flock of Seagulls, The Romantics, and Survivor. Enjoy the freak show!

Girls night out!

Nadene tailgating

Me tailgating

Rough crew

Rougher crew

Flashdance

and more Flashdance

Cyndi with friends from work

Probably . . .

ZZTop girls

Madonna girls

I ain't afraid of no ghost!

Should have been too young to get in!!!!

The people behind us

Smurfette

Prince and Boy George

Cyndi's shoe

Me and Cyndi

Liam's Soccer Game

2007-10-14T23:15:00.000-04:00

I was down in Charleston for the weekend with Nadene to go to a concert Saturday night and was able to go see Liam play soccer at one of his games Saturday morning. Things have changed since my boys played in the beginning - it was a lot of fun watching the kids at that age again. They were all so cute! Liam is really starting to get into it - I even got to see him score a goal today!

Liam chasing the ball

Liam kicking the ball

Coach Michael and Liam

Boys and their Toys

2007-10-14T22:56:00.000-04:00

I have a lot to blog, so I am breaking it up into three different posts. The first entry is from Jamie and Tommy's trip to Maryland for the Red Bull Moto X of Nations. It is like the Olympics for dirt bike racing. They went the weekend of September 22. Over 30 nations participated and the United States won (of coarse!)

Jamie and James taking it in

Racing up the hill

Racing down the hill

Tommy, Justin, and Joshua

Getting air

Racing to get air

Group shot

My Sesame Street Personality

2007-10-10T20:18:00.000-04:00

I took a Sesame Street personality test that was on Jamie's friend Ray's blog on this site and here are my results:

Kermit the Frog

You scored 54% Organization, 53% abstract, and 72% extroverted!

This test measured 3 variables.

First, this test measured how organized you are. Some muppets like Cookie Monster make big messes, while others like Bert are quite anal about things being clean.

Second, this test measured if you prefer a concrete or an abstract viewpoint. For the purposes of this test, concrete people are considered to gravitate more to mathematical and logical approaches, whereas abstract people are more the dreamers and artistic type.

Third, this test measured if you are more of an introvert or an extrovert. By definition, an introvert concentrates more on herself and an extrovert focuses more on others. In this test an introvert was somebody that either tends to spend more time alone or thinks more about herself.

You are mostly organized, both concrete and abstract, and more extroverted.
Here is why are you Kermit the Frog.

You are both somewhat organized. You have a good idea where you put things and you probably keep your place reasonably clean. You aren't totally obsessed with neatness though. Kermit is also reasonably tidy. He'll even dress up for interviews. You both are sometimes concrete and sometimes abstract thinkers. Kermit spends a lot of his time as a reporter collecting facts, but he is also the author of the dreamy song "The Rainbow Connection." You have a good balance in your life. You know when to be logical at times, but you also aren't afraid to explore your dreams and desires... within limits of course.You are both extroverts. Kermit gets along with everyone. Sure a few folks annoy him, but that's just because they are annoying. Kermit likes to meet new people when he does his job as a street reporter. You definitely enjoy the company of others, and you don't have problems meeting new people... in fact you probably look forward to it. You are willing to take charge when necessary or work as part of a team.

Oh, and in case you were wondering, Kermit starred on Sesame Street years before The Muppet Show.

The other possible characters are

Oscar the Grouch
Big Bird
Snuffleupagus
Ernie
Elmo
Cookie Monster
Grover
The Count
Guy Smiley
Bert

Manning First Baptist - 150th Anniversary

2007-09-30T20:58:00.000-04:00

We went to Manning this weekend to go to church at First Baptist for the 150th anniversary of the church. We packed up the dogs and the motorcycles and made a big day of it! We also got to meet Mimi's new beau, Oneil. We had a great time and enjoyed spending some quality time together.

Group shot

Stacy, Michael, and Liam

Mimi and Oneil

Proud Mama

Proud Mimi

Tyler and Liam taking a rest from the lunch line

Tommy giving Dad's dirt bike a whirl

Tommy raring to go

Looks like a pro

Tyler getting ready to take a spin on Tommy's bike

Look, Mom - No Hands!

Floor shopping

2007-09-15T22:46:00.000-04:00

Today Jamie and I picked out a new floor for our kitchen, sunroom, and "dog room". After evaluating our options for a whopping 15 minutes, we settled for the high grade vinyl in the picture below. With the dogs and the boys, this is the option that will work best for us right now. Also, it will be about half the price of tile, which was our second option. I am really excited to finally get started on getting the house in order!

Our new floor

Floor accessories that we may also need!

Whirlwind weekend

2007-09-03T21:26:00.000-04:00

We had a whirlwind Labor Day weekend at the beach this past weekend. I left Friday morning with the dogs, and Jamie came down Friday night after the boys got out of school. We had a big crowd again, and the weather was great. It was really a wonderful way to bring the summer to a close! Check out Don and Wendy's blog for some more pictures

Papa J relaxing on the beach

Mama Rhette

Don and Wendy

Ryan, Shannon, and her new puppy Phebe

Tommy, Liam, and Tyler waiting for the big wave

Liam strikes a pose

Michael, Liam and Tommy catching a wave

Stacy and Tyler catching a wave

Michael and Jamie

Stacy and Michael

Liam does a victory dance

Tommy, Peco, and Don

Wendy, Peco, and Niko

Casey and Peco frolicking on the beach

Niko gives a good shake

Cyndi with Jerry posing for us

Sleeping beauty

The games are on!

Tyler, Liam, and Michael

Jerry giving Tyler and Liam some pointers

Tommy making ice cream

Mom says "cheese"

Everyone admiring the sand palace

Another view of the sand palace

Dad and Tyler

Bobo is happy to be home at last

Back to School

2007-08-25T12:35:00.001-04:00

Summer is over and school is back in full swing. I can't believe that Tommy is actually in high school! Both of them are going to new schools this year, so it is a new adventure. Tyler is also playing trumpet in the band. Here are some pictures of them waiting for the bus on the first day of school.

Tommy on the back of his future truck

Tommy and Emily

The bus is coming!

Tyler comes out to wait for his bus

Tyler looks apprehensive!

Waiting patiently at the end of the driveway

Last 39th Birthday Celebration

2007-08-12T19:28:00.001-04:00

Today was the last official celebration of my birthday that I will have in my 30's. We went to Elgin to celebrate at Daddy's. Enjoy some of the pictures from the day.

An attempt to get a Christmas card picture for Daddy.

An attempt to get a picture of me with the boys.

The picture after threatening Tommy if he doesn't quit messing up my hair.

Classic Stephen face

Random picture of Tyler sleeping with Casey that was on the camera

Saxe Gotha End of Summer

2007-08-03T21:11:00.001-04:00

Tonight was the end of summer program for parents for Saxe Gotha where Tyler goes to daycare. It was really bittersweet for us because this is Tyler's last summer there. We have really loved our kids going there, but Tyler will be going to a new school in a few weeks, and they will not be able to pick him up. The Son Force Special Agents really did a great job with the program for us.

Tyler with Ms. Joy

Tommy and Tyler with Ms. Ginny

Tyler with his first love from last summer, Megan

Home - Safe and Sound

2007-07-28T21:09:00.000-04:00

The last of our crew is finally home. Jamie didn't get in until 2 am this morning, but he did finally arrive safely. His flights were delayed due to the storms, and he said that it was pretty creepy to fly with lightning all around. As you can see from the pictures, he really got a lot of good experience from the conference. He showed Tyler the picture of him and Mike and Tyler asked him who the lady was with him! Funny!

Jamie and Mike - Gene and Paul better watch their competition!

Looks like it was a rockin' show