.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-24T05:20:00.000-08:00

I know it's a little late to be posting these pics but still wanted those of you who blog to see our fun weekend.
Trick or Treaters, Caleb and Sadie Bradley with Eli.

Eli flexing his muscles to get ready for his costume!

TO INFINITY...AND BEYOND!!!!

how could anyone resist these Trick or Treaters??

We made a "candy" stop at Gaga's.

Burt and Christy have been hosting a Halloween party for the past 4 years and costumes are optional. This year Ron and I decided to suprise the kids with our costumes.

Needless to say, this was something NO ONE EXPECTED!
Before the weekend was over, we just had to have another Mammie and Pawpaw moment!

I LOVE THOSE BABIES!!

CFC Golf Tournament

2009-09-18T15:02:00.000-07:00

The annual TVA Combine Federal Campaign Golf Tournament was held today, September 18 at the Brown Acres Golf Course in Chattanooga. Ron played with his usual team, Hugh Burns, Richard Hodge, and Chris Mantooth. The game was a 4 man select shot game and after 18 holes, they were tied for first place at 17 under. Then due to a scorecard playoff, they came in second place.

Here is the team, Burns, Hodge, Mantooth and Finley. Great retirees team (except for Chris who is still a TVA employee).

And here is the second place trophy.

Proud of his trophy!!!!!

Star Spangled Banner Birthday!!

2009-09-01T17:42:00.000-07:00

As we get older, the things we wish for changes dramatically. And it also gets harder to find things which please and yet surprise our spouses on special occasions.
Several months ago, Ron and made the comment that he would like to have a flag pole...yes a flag pole! So when his birthday was approaching, I looked several places and found one.

Here are the pics of the first flag raising.

I must admit, it makes a beautiful addition to our landscape!

What has Eli been up to???

2009-08-28T22:51:00.000-07:00

With the excitement of the birth of the twins, we all have tried to spend time with Eli doing various things. He loves the outdoors and so I have tried to put together a small group of pics showing just how much fun he has been having.
First a dip in the Froggy Pool!

Next a trip to Bogan Park with Mammie and Pawpaw for some climbing and feeding the turtles
and fish popcorn.

One afternoon, Nikki and I took Eli and the girls for a picnic. Of course, no picnic would be complete without some time to play in the sand! Later that evening, Josh got to play "Cars" with Eli.

One evening, Josh and Uncle Burt took Eli to a ballgame.

Pawpaw doesn't get to visit as often as I do so this was a special pic. Don't you just love those smiles!!!!

And of course, Eli enjoys sharing his relaxing time with his sisters.

The new pajamas were a big hit.
Is it a bird?
Is it a plane?
NO...it's Super-ELI.

Another Picasso???

2009-07-24T18:53:00.000-07:00

This is a little late but I wanted to document another talent of Eli's. He loves any sport but he also loves being creative (a talent he inherited from his Mama and Mammie).

While waiting on the birth of the girls, I was doing some touch-up painting at Nikki's and Eli decided he wanted to paint also. Nikki let him get creative and he LOVED every minute. This was a creation he gave to PawPaw and it now hangs in PawPaw's garage for everyone to see.

As you can see, he really gets into his painting (notice the yellow belly).

This is the completed painting. He also signed his name in a very creative way.

And for those of you who know me, yes it will end up in his Scrapbook!!

First visit

2009-07-21T08:19:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Nikki, Josh and the family came to Chattanooga. Burt and Christy were having a new floor put in their living room/dining room and they wanted to help return the favor for having had help a few years ago when they did the same thing.

Needless to say we were very glad they were here no matter what the reason. Most of the day Saturday the guys worked and the girls watched. Nikki, Christy and I did take the kids to a playground in East Ridge called Pioneer Frontier. Eli had a great time playing. It really is a big playground, well built and with a variety of things for all ages.

Then on Sunday, Nikki and I with the kids went to see Gaga. This makes 12 great-grandchildren.

Here are 4 generations. These days I think that's pretty amazing.

And the girls had to have a nap (Annabel on left and Harper on right, I think).
It's still a little difficult for me to tell them apart sometimes. Especially in pictures.

Love these girls and their big brother too!!!!!

Training has begun!

2009-06-28T19:03:00.000-07:00

Last week while I was helping Nikki with the girls, Eli was practicing his hitting. He loves to play ball and it really shows how much he enjoys his new "Better Batter Baseball" machine.

Mammie just loves watching him play.

The Long Wait is Over!!!

2009-06-22T14:20:00.000-07:00

Friday, June 19 may not have been remarkable for most of you but for the Finley family it certainly was. The occasion was greatly anticipated and turned out to be everything we were hoping and praying for. Both our beautiful grandaughters arrived healthy and Mom held up great through the C-section.

Here are both girls after they had their baths. Dad and I watched closely to what went on in the nursery.

The new (and improved) Puckett Family.

Mammie meets the girls.

These have to be the proudest Aunt and Uncle in the world!!

Of course, big brother is totally amazed by his sisters.

Mammie and Pawpaw with their "Grand" Children.

And then finally, introducing:
Annabel June (on the left) and Harper Naomi (on the right).

The most wonderful part of age and time: GRANDCHILDREN.

TWINS!!!

2009-06-19T20:08:00.000-07:00

Just couldn't pass up an opportunity to let my blogger contacts know that Nikki and Josh now have two beautiful girls born Friday June 19, at 3:22 and 3:23 p.m. Annabel weighed in at 6lb 6oz and 20 inches long and Harper weighed 6lb 4oz and 19 1/2 inches long. Both girls are healthy and Nikki is experiencing some pain but hopefully that will get better by tomorrow.

Pictures, and lots of them, will be sent soon.

2009 Achievements

2009-06-09T12:33:00.000-07:00

Ron and I are very fortunate to have another "family" in our lives. Not related by blood but by love only. This year, Angie graduated from Dalton College with a teaching degree and Jenny (my namesake) was promoted to the 6th grade. This family is very special to us and we are so proud of their accomplishments.

Birthday 2009

2009-06-09T12:07:00.000-07:00

I can't believe Burt and I have had another birthday. The years seem to go by so fast. Here are pics from the birthday brunch Burt and I shared (with Ron and Christy) at the Chattanoogan. The food was great and afterwards we got to SKYPE with Nikki and family. What could be better than being with my family.

The week after my birthday, my BFF's from Franklin, TN and Cartersville, GA came and spent the day with me. What a wonderful suprise. We spent the day just visiting and eating!

How lucky am I to have such thoughtful friends!

The Small Things

2009-06-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

We have all read or heard of the book "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff" but what usually happens is we forget to appreciate the small stuff.

When Burt and Nikki were small, they were always bringing in "Bouquets" to Momma.

This is my first beautiful bouquet from Eli.

Thank God for children/grandchildren and the small things.

Mother's Day

2009-05-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day was a mixture of emotions this year.
Ron and I missed Mammaw but enjoyed spending the day with Burt, Christy, Josh, Nikki and Eli.

The kids surprised me with a Garden kart (so I can sit when I work with my flowers) and also a Tulip Tree.

When Ron and I moved to Slygo, we had 114 trees in our yard but due to age and storms, those trees have now been reduced to 8 original trees and 5 we have planted ourselves. So gradually we are hoping to have a shady yard again. This new tree will hopefully grow to become a wonderful addition. Thank you kids for choosing the perfect gifts!!

These are the beautiful roses Ron surprised me with.

And last but not least, Eli painted me a garden stake (with Mom's help). I'm waiting until he can come and help me place it in the most perfect spot.

What a wonderful day!!!

Wasting away.....

2009-04-28T16:49:00.000-07:00

Ron and I have been enjoying retirement and living our "Bucket List". On our 38th anniversary, Burt and Christy helped us reach one more milestone.
WE WENT TO OUR FIRST BUFFETT CONCERT!!! and it was all I had heard it would be.
The clothes, the people, the music, great from beginning to end.
Here are samples of the outfits I thought were very typical of "Parrotheads".

And then there were the crowds.....

Just look at the work some people go to so they can be a part of the Buffett experience..

But anyone who loves Jimmy Buffett knows that it's all about the music. And we really got a great show.

And finally, 2 young "Parrotheads" and 2 old "Parrotheads".

Oh yeah, and Burt made some new friends...

One final word, whether you're wasting away in Margaritaville, planning your Changes in Lattitudes, Changes in Attitudes, looking for Fins, having a Cheeseburger in Paradise,
or the Last Mango in Paris, Come Monday, It's Five O'clock Somewhere, and we'll all still be listening to Jimmy Buffett!!!

Planting flowers with Eli

2009-04-28T16:29:00.000-07:00

It's spring time in Buford and Eli and I did our part to help beautify the Puckett house.

Springtime Storms

2009-04-15T08:57:00.000-07:00

Along with the beautiful flowers of spring, come the rains and the storms. This year has been particularly prone to sudden flooding and winds. Easter Sunday was no exception. As we slept, the winds did damage to areas around us and as daylight broke we began to see just exactly what had happened. No rain (at least not much) but wind shears up to 65 mph. These pics are from the surrounding area in Slygo.

But it appears that even though there was damage and power loss (37 hours for us) we were very fortunate.
These are pictures from my mom's back yard. This tree is approximately 10 feet from the garage and 15 feet from her house. As you can see, the wind took it away from the house and the damage was minimal.

Some call it luck, but I think the hand of GOD protected the house.

What a weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-04-15T07:00:00.001-07:00

Easter 2009

What a wonderful time. It started with Eli waking up and enjoying his basket(s) loot!

Then came the family pictures!

Then came the egg hunt!!

There were 10 children who hunted eggs. Here they are with their Great-Grandmother.

Easter at our house is a 30 year tradition which I hope can continue for the next 30 years!

Up, Up and Away.....

2009-04-15T06:31:00.000-07:00

Where do balloons go???

Eli released the balloons from Nikki's shower. He wasn't too sure about holding more than 1 at a time but really got into sending them into the sky!

The Twins are dressed!!!

2009-04-15T05:39:00.000-07:00

Easter weekend Nikki had her first "twin" baby shower. Christy was the perfect hostess.

Nikki received beautiful girly things most of which were Pink (of course).

One of Nikki's favorite items, white keds!!

I won't bore you with all the pics of the baby things but needless to say, it is taking 2 car loads to take eveything to Buford! Thank you to everyone who came to share this special time with our family. We are so blessed with family and special friends!

Crossville Scrappers

2009-03-29T10:43:00.000-07:00

Spring wouldn't be complete without taking a trip to Crossville with my Scrapbook girlfriends. We spent 4 days/3 nights doing nothing but eating, sleeping and scrapbooking (well maybe a little TV and adult beverage too).

This was the condo where the 4 of us spent a wonderful weekend. Sharon Powell was our hostess (Thanks Sharon and Scotty).

Does it look like we took enough Scrapbook (!?#!) stuff?

And after we unpacked and got started.....

This was my workstation and as you can see not everyone makes the mess that I do. (They say that a disorganized space is the the sign of a intelligent mind . . . Oh yeah, that's what I have!). Anyway, the others have been doing this a lot longer and they really know how to keep things in their place (I kept losing my adhesive).

Sharon had a little therapy she did each night. (This was not a Scrapbook related injury!!)

Then we started cleaning up the mess and packing our beautiful pages to get ready to return home. It took me 10 minutes to make a mess and 6 hours to clean it up.

We had a wonderful time, delicious food, and we all are looking forward to this "annual" trek to Crossville, TN.

Left to right...Front..Sharon Hutchens, Sharon Powell
Back, Sharon Finley and Beverly Gilmore (nickname..Sharon).

A Loving Tribute

2009-03-11T19:03:00.001-07:00

Gloria Marie Trundle Finley
81st Birthday
July 7, 1927 - March 6, 2009

Mammaw we love you and we miss you.

Bill is 40!!

2009-02-22T17:31:00.000-08:00

Friday, February 20, my nephew celebrated his 40th birthday. I can hardly believe how fast time has flown.

He is the father of 3, Ross (in back), Kate, and Chad. And of course, his lovely wife Linea.

Here is the latest picture of our newest family member. Kirby is now 6 weeks old. GaGa was doing her "babysitting" duty.

And of course, no party would be complete without some fun. Kate and Madison were very impressed with their talent!

Favorite Valentines

2009-02-14T08:06:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to send a special Valentines Day wish to 2 of my favorite valentines!!!

Burt just wanted the camera and Nikki enjoyed her valentine cards

Speaking of cards, here are the first valentines they received from Momma and Daddy, Papa and Gaga and Mammaw (yes I keep everything).

But the best is the Valentines Burt and Nikki made for us.

These are so special.

I hope Burt and Christy, Josh and Nikki and Eli have a special day. We love you all!!

Creative Discovery Museum

2009-02-01T19:53:00.000-08:00

Nikki, Josh and Eli came home this weekend and we spent most of our time just visiting and talking "girl" (twins) talk. We did get to the Creative Discovery Museum on Sunday. As if you needed to see how much there was to do, you can get the full picture from Eli's face. He was so excited with everything.
There was waterfalls, bubbles, swings, dinosaur bone digging, musical instruments, a kitchen, puppet shows and anything you can imagine for children.

Here are the pics which show just how much fun we all had with Eli.

Girlfriends

2009-02-01T19:13:00.000-08:00

"Can miles truly separate us from friends? ..."
~ Richard Bach

One of the best things about getting older (no not the weight or the wrinkles) is friends. Not just the acquaintances we have where we work, live, or worship but those really close friends who just seem to know when you need to talk. They enter your life unexpectedly and choose to stay no matter what.

I have such a wonderful group of girlfriends. I don't get to see some of them as often as I would like but when we do, it's as if we had always been together.

Joan and Sue Ellen are two of those friends (really more like sisters). Joan lives in Cartersville, GA and Sue Ellen lives in Franklin, TN. So we rotate as often as we can at each others home now that we are all retired. This past week we went to Sue Ellen's. Just us 3 hanging out by the fire, shopping, eating, and watching it snow!

We met each other almost 13 years ago when we were carving our horses for the Coolidge Park Carousel.

Happy 80th Birthday

2009-01-20T16:24:00.000-08:00

Today is a special day..no not the new President but the 80th birthday of my aunt Edna Earl Callaham. She has had some real health issues the latter part of 2008 but as of now she is recovering and regaining her strength. We are so grateful that she is improving each day and very glad my mom and I we were able to celebrate today with her at her home in Gadsden, AL.

I took her some flowers from my family.

Here she is with her husband, Earl (50+ years of marriage).

Here are the 3 children of the Crowe Family. Delorus (82 years), Edna (80 years), and Kenneth (68 years).

Fun times with Eli

2009-01-19T19:33:00.000-08:00

This weekend, Ron and I went to Buford to start getting a new baby room ready. We painted and moved furniture but also had time to play with Eli. He loves to help do anything you are doing so he and I made cupcakes.

The designs were all "ELI".

Introducing: Kirby Mclean Eller

2009-01-19T18:20:00.000-08:00

I have a new great-niece. She was born on January 6. This picture was made at 5 days old.

This is new mom Maggie.

And big brother Haynes.

Beautiful family. (Dad is my nephew Brent)

Christmas Morning

2009-01-07T18:16:00.000-08:00

Christmas has always been a special time for our family. This year was no exception. Burt and Christy decided to spend Christmas Eve with us so we could enjoy all the excitment together when Eli saw what Santa had brought.
I love the picture of the kids together in bed with their "jammies" on.

Special day

2009-01-07T07:53:00.000-08:00

Ron and Josh took Eli to the barber shop on Christmas Eve. This was a special trip for Ron because the barber, Windy Adams, has been cutting hair for the Finley men for over 60 years (that's 5 generations).
We are so glad that we can continue this tradition with Eli when he is at our house.

You're my Guitar "HERO"

2009-01-07T07:32:00.000-08:00

My family is definitely talented. Here is the Wii session of Guitar Hero. I think Eli shows the most talent or at least he seems to be enjoying it the most.

Gingerbread House

2009-01-07T06:31:00.000-08:00

Christy bought a gingerbread house kit and brought it to our house a couple of days before Christmas. A great "sisterly" project for her and Nikki. Of course, Eli wanted to help and I got to do a little structural work myself. The pictures don't do justice to the fun and laughter we all enjoyed. The house turned out great. And we have enjoyed having it as a centerpiece ever since.

Christmas time's a coming

2009-01-04T17:26:00.001-08:00

A few days before Christmas, Burt and Christy went to Buford to pick up Eli and bring him to "Chagganooda" . We decided to take a day trip to Nashville to the Opryland Hotel to see the lights and all the decorations. It is one of mine and Ron's favorite places to visit. And I think Eli also enjoyed the beautiful lights and Christmas scenery. Here is a brief photo trip of the day.

IT"S SNOWING

2008-12-19T09:32:00.001-08:00

This snowfall occurred on December 1. I hope it's just a sample of what we can expect this year. I love the snow and it's been so long since we have had a really good one.

Christmas in Buford

2008-12-19T09:05:00.001-08:00

The annual Christmas parade in Buford was a great success. We were able to take Eli while Josh and Nikki had a wedding to shoot. There were lots of people and lots of candy. Eli really enjoyed picking up the candy as it was thrown and next year i think we need to take a bag or lots more empty pockets.

We're Going on a trip....

2008-12-19T07:31:00.000-08:00

Eli is 3.

ELI IS 3??????

That seems impossible.

His birthday party theme was Little Einsteins. I have really gotten an education since his birth. The shows that he is attracted to on TV not only entertain but educate (of course that's what they are supposed to do).

But I think one of his favorite toys was an antimated dinosaur. He just sat and hugged it and carried it around and kept saying, "isn't it cute!"

These are his playmates Bryn and Dylan

I can't believe how fast time has passed. What did we ever do without ELI.

THANKSgiving

2008-12-19T06:42:00.001-08:00

Even though it has taken me TOO long to post this, I am very THANKFUL for our families. Here is pics of Ron with his sisters and Mammaw. So very Thankful that she is still with us.

Then for dinner we spent time with Gaga (my mom).

THANKSGIVING for all our Blessings.

Finley Halloween BASH!!!

2008-11-16T18:09:00.001-08:00

This year was the 3rd annual Halloween Party held at Burt and Christy's. Even though it was held on November 1, everyone had the Halloween spirit. Lots of good food, laughs, and fun was shared by all.

The Finley family theme was Cowboys and Indians (just in case you couldn't tell).

But the cutest Cowboy east of the Rockies had to be Eli.

Here is Eli with his pirate friend Owen.

Old becomes New

2008-11-05T14:06:00.000-08:00

60 years ago my dad built a wood frame house that has stood the test of time. Considering that my dad only had a 5th grade education he was a remarkable craftsman. As a child I thought there wasn't anything he couldn't build or fix and as I grew older he proved that to me time and time again.

Well as we all know, nothing lasts forever. Since my dad's death 11 years ago (that seems impossible) the house has had very little maintenance done and it had begun to show the age. So after many weeks and months of trying to convince my mother that something needed to be done so she could continue to stay there, she agreed to have new windows and siding put on the house.

WHAT AN AMAZING CHANGE. She is so proud and so are we. The style has stayed the same as when my dad built it but now it will be there for many more years.

Panama City Retreat

2008-10-17T20:15:00.000-07:00

Ron and I were invited by the Powells (Scotty and Sharon) to join the Gentrys (Charlie and Carolyn) and the Priddys (Ron, Janice and Jeremy who is not in the picture) for a week of golfing and relaxing at Panama City. We, of course, had to be talked into it (HA!) and boy are we glad we went. Our great condo was on the beach and the weather was wonderful.

Now as most of you know, I don't golf (not yet that is) so I spent my time just shopping and relaxing on the beach and by the pool.

Of course vacations wouldn't be complete without wonderful food and we had some of the best! We ate at several restaurants but the one we enjoyed the most was at The Commodore Condo 410 prepared by chef Charlie Gentry. Prime rib, Barbecue, Pork tenderloins and burgers served with all the fixings.

I did make some pictures at one of the golf courses, at a couple of the restaurants and just some great scenery pics. Enjoy here.

Let me just say, THANK YOU to everyone for a wonderful week from both Ron and myself. We hope to spend more time with our old and new friends.

At the Fair

2008-10-02T17:09:00.000-07:00

Ron and I took Eli to the Gwinnett County Fair a few weeks ago.

I don't know what he (or we) enjoyed the most...the animals

or the food.....

As evident on his face, the chocolate milk was a hit!!

And of course, no visit to the fair would be complete without a ride on the carousel with Mammie.

Danny and Jena

2008-09-14T16:58:00.000-07:00

Over 25 years ago, Ron and I became acquainted with a young man at church named Danny Grant. He and Ron played softball together and we were very happy when he met and decided to marry a young lady named Jena Roberts. They became part of our family and as their family grew, Ron and I became honorary "grandparents" to all 8 children. That's right, 8 children.

Our lives have been blessed by this wonderful family and on September 10, Danny and Jena celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary.

Today we joined with their family in celebrating this wonderful occasion.

Running and Counting

2008-09-11T01:02:00.000-07:00

Eli is into running and counting and he got PawPaw into the act. His excitment while counting was worth a video and take note of the end of the video. He put all his alphabet letters down to create a starting line.

LABOR DAY??????

2008-09-10T23:04:00.000-07:00

Labor day weekend Ron and I got to spend some time with Josh, Nikki and Eli.

Shopping is one of the things we (Nikki and I) do the best and Eli got to spend some time at the indoor play area at North Point Mall.

A trip to the mall wouldn't be complete without a ride on the carousel. Eli can spot them instantly.

I'm so glad he enjoys riding.

Pancakes for Softball

2008-09-10T22:51:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, Burt is the History teacher

at East Ridge Middle School but he is also the

girls Softball Coach (among other titles).

For several years Applebees has graciously

opened their facility to let the kids serve pancakes to parents, teachers, guests and anyone who is willing to donate to help sponsor their team expenses.

The food was great as usual and the girls did a great job in serving and cleaning up. We really enjoyed ourselves as usual.

Here are the rest of the pics from the breakfast. WAY TO GO COACH!

EVERY PARENT"S NIGHTMARE

2008-08-15T15:57:00.001-07:00

While celebrating Ron's birthday, my cousin, Myron Callaham, got that awful phone call. His son had been in an accident. After several phone conversations, they decided to travel back home. He had been riding his motorcycle and lost control. Thankfully he wasn't alone and the other riders were able to get immediate help for him. It could have been much worse, but he only broke his ankle and his hand. HE WAS WEARING HIS HELMET even though Kentucky does have a no helmet law. I have linked the video showing the before and after shots of his bike.

Angels were definitely watching over him that day!!

Happy Birthday Ron

2008-08-15T12:33:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, August 9, Ron celebrated his 60th birthday with family and friends. We were both so blessed to have such a large group in attendance. The weather was PERFECT, and there was lots of BBQ Ribs and Cake!!! I hope everyone enjoyed the day as much as we did.

On Sunday, the family gathered at our house for breakfast and then we went to the new carousel at Warner Park. I made a few shots of Eli.

Josh and Ron share August 13 as their special day so Sunday was all about Josh. We enjoyed lunch at Food Works and here are a few pics during lunch.

INTRODUCING.....RONNIE B

2008-08-08T20:40:00.000-07:00

For those of you who know I have carved a horse which is on the Coolidge Park Carousel, I now have completed another animal, a baby rhinocerous, for the newest carousel in Chattanooga at the Warner Park Zoo.

It has taken me approximately 2 1/2 years (speed is not my strong point) but I'm quite proud of the completed project.

Here is the project as it developed over time.

Beginning the bare wood requires lots of fitting and sanding.

Next, I apply 3 coats of primer.

A hole is drilled for the tail which is made out of aluminum so it isn't easily broken. Then lots of patching and smoothing.

Finally the painting begins.

The detailed painting takes lots of blending and smoothing to create realistic textures.

Finally, the STAR OF THE SHOW!!

I also took pictures of some of the other beautiful animals which help make this carousel one-of-a-kind.

Please come to Chattanooga and visit our newest addition.

Eli's Jungle Book

2008-06-21T08:52:00.000-07:00

Eli loves the movie Jungle Book so when we decided to vacation at Myrtle Beach, Burt and Christy suggested (insisted) that we go to Preservation Station (they had been there before).
It was a great suggestion. Eli was fasinated with the animals and we were anxious to see how he would react to having them next to him. Here are the results.

Of course we all had to get into the act.

This was another great memory for our family vacation.

CONGRATS!!!!

2008-06-21T08:48:00.000-07:00

My sister and brother-in-law have just celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. From all of us we wish you health, and much continued happiness for the next 25 years.

Finley Family Vacation 2008

2008-06-16T14:36:00.000-07:00

We just got back from our family vacation with the kids. We all left for Myrtle Beach on Saturday, June 7. This was the view from our condo and the view was this beautiful all week.
Nikki has posted the pictures she made and I'm sure Christy will post her pictures also. But for now, these are the ones that I managed to take while we were having an enjoyable week together. Some may be duplicated from the kids but bear with us, as most of you know we all take a camera when we do anything.

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-06-05T20:35:00.000-07:00

O.K. so I'm trying to catch up with all my blogs at one time.
Anyway, we spent Memorial Day weekend with Nikki, Josh, Eli, Burt and Christy in Buford. On Saturday, we had a picnic lunch at Mulberry Park and just as we arrived, it started raining. But that didn't put a damper on our fun. We ate and then spent time at the playground and walking around the park. Here are some pics from our picnic. As you can see, a little water didn't stop Eli from enjoying the slide.

A little water didn't stop Nikki from enjoying the playground either!

Josh has been having more than his share of "problems" with his jeep and it was about time for him to get another vehicle. So...on Sunday he bought a Mazda 3. A great gas saver and as Eli said, " it's cute".

On Monday, we spent the day relaxing and working around the house. I helped Nikki plant some new flowers and the guys cleaned gutters and the house (lots of fun and mess). After lunch we walked up to the center of town and watched part of the Georgia Cup bicycle race. It was a great afternoon.

I look forward to spending more days like this.

Olivia Rose

2008-06-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

Just a short blog about a long awaited baby. We've known Caren for 30 years and seen her grow from a tomboy into a lovely young woman. On March 26, she had her first baby. This was the first time I got to see them and I have to say, SHE IS BEAUTIFUL. Proud parents are Tony and Caren Schepisi and proud Grandman, Bonnie.

Congrats to everyone.

My How Time Flies

2008-06-05T19:33:00.000-07:00

I know most of you realize as you get older that time goes by so fast but it's really obvious when Graduation time comes around. I just can't believe that I have had so many "kids" graduate this year...and 3 of them from College. Wow! How did they get to be so grown and I didn't get any older???

Well, I'm so proud of each of these Graduates and I just wanted to include them in my blog for posterity.

First...Sara Doyle..Graduated from University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. She is planning to go to UT in Knoxville for Graduate work. Here she is with big brother Josh.

Next we have Kelly Simons. She has graduated from GEORGIA. As you can see, I'm a little partial to that school. I'm not sure of her plans but I think they have something to do with San Francisco and photography. Whatever it is, I'm sure there will be lots of traveling and lots of wonderful pictures and stories. She is pictured here with proud mom and dad.

The next college graduate is Ann Callaham. She is the daughter of my first cousin Myron. I don't have any recent pictures as yet but after this blog, I'm sure I'll get one. She graduated Summa Cum Laude (not shabby) from Cambellsville University in Cambellsville, Kentucky. As for her future plans, she will be leaving in September for East Africa to teach. I know she will be a great blessing for those children and they will also be a great blessing to her.

Next we have the High School Graduates. First, Paul Daniel Grant. As most of you know, Ron and I have another family...The Grants...all 10 of them. Paul is number 3 and the first boy. He graduated from Ringgold High School with honors. He's come a long way from that premature baby boy. His plans right now are to attend Dalton College. Here is a picture of all the Kids.

Next is our niece, Courtney Marie Ideker. She graduated from Alpharetta High School while attending Valdosta State College. Talk about multitasking... Her plans are to attend University of GEORGIA in accounting(I think). Right now her dad (UTK Graduate) is having a hard time changing colors but I think he'll adjust. Mom and Dad are on the left and Grandad is on the right.

Next is another cousin. David Crabtree. His dad is my first cousin (Kenny). We don't get to see that much of them but we still want to acknowledge his achievement. He graduated from East Coweta High School in Sharpsburg, Geogia (close to Newnan). I'm not sure of his future plans as yet but hope to get pictures and more info very soon.

And last but not least is my great nephew Patrick Graham. He graduated from Chattanooga Christian Middle school. It doesn't seem possible that he's 14. He will continue at CCS and I'm sure I'll be blogging about his future college plans before you know it.

Let me Clarify...

2008-05-29T12:08:00.000-07:00

For those of you who are bothered by my blog about snakes, let me make it perfectly clear...there is only one way to move a snake permanently....KILL IT!!

If you notice the tool Ron is carrying has a blade on it. I just didn't think that I should put the gruesome details and pictures . But rest assured, that snake has gone on to its maker.

WARNING!!!!

2008-05-20T10:26:00.000-07:00

I realize all creatures were put here for a purpose; however, even with the best of purposes, I HATE SNAKES!!
When Ron and I first moved to the country, we occassionally saw snakes but haven't really seen any close to the house for at least 20 years. Imagine my surprise when I went to the mailbox yesterday morning and had a visitor next to the walkway. Ron wasn't home and of course when he got home the snake had disappeared. Well I went online and read that it was probably a black/rat snake and not harmful. I don't care....I HATE SNAKES!! One way to get rid of such snakes was to put moth balls close to their bed and they can't breath so they leave. Ron put out the moth balls around the front of the house and we hoped for the best.
SURPRISE...This morning it was back. So the only conclusion was to remove it...PERMANENTLY.

I hope this snake was an orphan and there will be no more. But I'm always on the lookout now.

Thomas Visit

2008-05-20T10:08:00.001-07:00

Here are my pictures of our visit to Thomas the Train back in April. I'm not trying to duplicate the blog that Nikki has but I do have a few different pictures, especially some of her with Eli.

Mother's Day

2008-05-08T08:48:00.000-07:00

These roses are my gift from Ron this year for Mother's Day. He is also building special beds for them.

I can't be with all my family and friends on Mother's Day but I want to share them with you as a tribute to the wonderful Mothers you are.

LOVE TO YOU ALL

The Masters

2008-05-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, Ron is totally in love with Golf. So after watching The Masters for 37 years and hearing "one of these days", Christmas day 2007, I gave him a ticket, along with Burt and Josh.

Christmas morning was such an exciting moment when they opened their surprises (Nikki and Christy were in on it with me). So all they had to do was wait until April.

Here are their pictures of The Masters Par 3 round on Wednesday, April 9. The weather turned out perfect and I think, so did the day!!!

Easter 2008

2008-04-14T08:46:00.001-07:00

As most of you know, Easter is a big occasion for the Finleys. We have been celebrating it at our home for 31 years! No coincidence that it started when Nikki was born. It coincided with her birthday, and we had the largest yard so...

Anyway, our celebrations have been large and small, depending on the weather, and this year was no exception. Somewhat large 30+ family and friends. We added 2 new faces this year, Pat and Sadauth. They are friends of Burt and Christy but hopefully we can add them to our regulars each year.

The weather was cool and the kids were anxious to hunt. We hid around 8 or 9 dozen eggs and we always seem to lose at least 1 or 2.

Hope everyone enjoys Easter as much as we do. This is an invitation for next year.... JOIN US!

Playing in the back yard

2008-04-08T08:13:00.000-07:00

Now that the weather is getting a little warmer, when the kids are home they love to get out in the back yard. Eli loves outside no matter what the weather so we take every opportunity to spend time playing or just goofing off.

Here are some pics of the Finley clan enjoying the spring weather and playing in the back yard.

Still Learning

2008-03-30T16:55:00.001-07:00

Here is a link to all the pictures from the Georgia Aquarium

I'm still learning how to set this up in my blog. Please bear with me.
Just click on Georgia Aquarium.

JUGS--Just Us Girls Scrapping

2008-03-29T12:59:00.000-07:00

I have officially joined the ranks of Scrapbookers!!!

Thanks to my friend Sharon Powell, I am now deep in paper, albums, stamps, ribbons, pictures, etc. She got me started with an album for Eli and his first year (of course I had to do most of the work).

Now I have experienced the Scrapping weekend. There were 4 of us, Sharon, Beverly, Sharon and Sharon (in that order left to right). No that's not a typo...S. Hutchens, Beverly Gilmore, S. Powell and myself. We had a great time in a condo in Cookeville. Just the perfect place to scrap until our hearts content. No clean-up or bedtime!

I had a great time and these gals really taught me a lot about scrapping.

I hope this is just the first of an annual JUGS weekend.

Playing catch-up

2008-03-28T15:21:00.000-07:00

I'm finding it a little difficult to keep up with all the activities I have been involved with lately. So here is an official appology to all those I have criticized about not updating their blogs....SORRY!
Anyway, the month of Febuary has been very busy. Just before valentines day, Ron and I went to the Georgia Aquarium with Eli, Josh and Nikki. As you can see, the fish weren't as interesting as Eli, but we all enjoyed our visit.

Our friends the Powells invited us to join them in a FREE weekend stay in Pigeon Forge. Of course we said yes. Lots of shopping, eating and just sitting around enjoying Margaritas!!. This was our group shot as we departed the condo. Thanks Sharon and Scotty for showing us such a wonderful time!

Nikki and Eli came home for a short weekend due to the death of Lyndsey Mullins' mother. Lyndsey is Nikki's best friend from high school. We visited Lyndsey and her children on Saturday and Eli really had a good time.

And last but not least, we ended the month with a visit to North Carolina. Scott and Becky Puckett, Josh's parents, invited the whole family to spend a weekend with them (boy were they brave). We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Their home is beautiful and Christy and I even got to do some great shopping. Here are just a few pics.

Happy Birtday

2008-02-28T08:25:00.000-08:00

This is what 100 looks like!

This amazing woman that is loving called Aunt Hartley turned 100 on the 24th day of January. She is the aunt of one of my best friends, Sandy Hill. This was such a special occasion that I just couldn't resist the opportunity to be a part of the celebration.

This is a collection of the family and friends who attended the party.

This is Sandy with her husband, Randy and their two children, Josh and Sara.

Sandy was helping Aunt Hartley open gifts and read all her birthday cards.

Such a lovely and sweet lady.

A New Year

2008-02-24T11:32:00.001-08:00

Ron and I started this year off spending New Years with our grandson Eli, and of course Nikki and Josh. This has become a tradition for us in order to let Mom and Dad have a night out on New Years Eve. We love spending time with Eli and any excuse or opportunity is immediately accepted.

(This is his CHEESE face.)

January was also our first trip to Arizona. Ron had always wanted to go to the Barrett-Jackson Car Auction in Phoenix so that was part of his Christmas gift. It was such an experience and we hope to have many more.

While we were in Arizona, we got to visit with one of Nikki's college roommates. Lauriann invited us to spend the afternoon with her and Taylor. We went to tour Old Tucson Studios which is out in the desert. It was the film set for several movies and TV westerns (i.e. High Chapparel, Little House on the Prarie, Hondo). They also had a carousel which Taylor wanted to ride.

We also got to drive into the Red Rock Mountains of Sedona. Such an unbelievable sight. They are appropriately named. Here are a few of my favorite pics.

I hope this isn't too much info. I still have lots to learn about posting but hopefully I will get better and have many more stories to share.

2008-02-24T10:19:00.000-08:00

Blog challenged!!!

Well, here I am trying to keep up with technology.

Hopefully I can do as good at blogging as all the others I have read.

Slygo isn't as exciting as other areas but for two retirees,

we seem to be very busy and life is better than it's ever been.