Hydrick's Blog

Ahh Springtime!

2009-04-04T11:57:00.004-05:00

Ok, I haven't had much time to post anything lately -- but I thougth I'd post a few pictures from my yard -- everything is so pretty this time of year! I can only imagine what the COlumbus Pilgramage looks like!

CALEDONIA DAY!

2008-10-13T10:08:00.003-05:00

This next weekend promises to be a fun one. House full of family, including those two seet babies, Gracie and Nathan, and who can forget Caledonia Day?

Happy Birthday Mom!

2008-10-01T10:29:00.002-05:00

Yep, Today is Mom's Birthday! We believe she's Still "GOT IT"!!! Check out this photo from a few years back. Mom, we all love you very much and hope your day is great!

Georgia Aquarium

2008-09-20T12:43:00.003-05:00

Hey there, I hope everybody is having a great Saturday. I know that Laura, Jay and Deb and Ken are all unpacking today and tomorrow. That's so much fun, I really wish I was there :) Mom and Jan are recovering from a week visit by Jeanie -- not that Jeanie wore them out, but, they definitely played more games and stayed on the run all week. Meanwhile, I'm doing house work - cleaning, dusting, vacuuming and trying to watch some football. Last weekend Matthew and I went to the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. It was really cool here are some pictures:

Prayer

2008-09-15T20:28:00.004-05:00

Pray.

Remembering

2008-09-13T08:13:00.003-05:00

Wow, it's hard to believe that the years have gone by so fast. I've missed dad just about every day of those past few years. I've tried to put the memores of Dad into one box in my mind and have tried to see if I could find one word to explain who my dad was... that has been very unsuccessful!! I think of the things he told us over the years, the advice, the love he gave, the hard work to provide for his family, his faith in God, and his amazing ability to get along with just about everybody and I realize that 1,000 words would not explain who my dad was. He had such a simple way of living - -work hard, love his family and provide, but what he actually left us was way more than that!!! Not a week goes by when one of his sayings, or some of his advice, pops into my head and makes me smile. The memories keep getting sweeter as the years go by. I realize this is rambling some, but, these are the things I'm thinking about on this special day. Speaking of memories, Here's one of my favorite memories of dad and our family:

Family

2008-09-09T20:37:00.008-05:00

Well, we made the trek to Vicksburg to see little Gracie. (well, and Becky, Jim, Laura, Ken, Josh and Nathan too of course). The trip was a quick one but was well worth the drive. Gracie is barely two weeks old and is so sweet !!! She just wanted to sleep and sleep. It was really emotional seeing Great Grandmother and Grandmother hold her. That little life with all that potential ahead of her. There's something very special about when the grandmoms get to hold their grand babies and great grand babies. Nathan was a big ole charmer. He's so funny and just had the biggest amazement at every part of life. He was always so amazed at everything that happened. And that heart-warming smile!!! very adorable! It was a great weekend (well, a great 24 hours). Enjoy some of these great poses:

Be sure to click on the photos for a full screen view:

Oivia Grace Dennis Arrives

2008-08-24T15:37:00.007-05:00

Welcome Gracie!!

Hot August Day...

2008-08-18T09:01:00.002-05:00

Hey family! As we really enter the dog days of summer, the temperature is in the 90's, Mom knows that better than any of us right? But this year hasn't been quite as bad as last year. Remember the four or five days in a row of over 100 degree temperatures last year? and, I already see a sign of relief. My dogwood tree just off of my front porch is always the first to start changing colors. I think it's because it doesn't get enough water in the spot that it's located and it starts changing colors way before I think it should.

2008-08-14T13:20:00.002-05:00

Josh has returned from his english teaching mission in China. It was an incredible journey for him and the kids were so sweet. Josh, we are glad you are home and in time for Gracie's arrival too!

Finding Joy in Life

2008-08-14T11:30:00.009-05:00

I found this great video about Finding Joy, and thought I'd share. (Since we're all expecing a little bundle of joy this week!!!).
Just click the photo below to watch the video - turn on your speakers!

Hope you like it.

Becky, Get Ready!

2008-08-09T13:39:00.004-05:00

Wow, time really does fly doesn't it? Grandmother, remember this picture -- and how we all flew up to see Becky!!!

Dad has some nice sideburns didn't he?

Nathan Enjoying The Swing!

2008-07-31T09:00:00.003-05:00

Thanks Laura of this great video. Just as we suspected, Nathan is already a star!!!

As Laura, Jay and Nate keep traveling back and forth from Kentucky/Canada and soon Japan!!!, we just keep waiting for more photos of that baby! Thanks for the video Laura! Becky, better get ready! Time is flying by! ;)

Blog

2008-07-26T10:15:00.002-05:00

Well, Time sure flies. Since the last post on this blog alot has happened. The passing of one of our favorite Uncles, and brother in laws was really rough to deal with. Joe was such a great person and I know that I for one will always think of Unlce Joe and his personality and "Style".

I hope that Jeanie is doing ok - I can't relate to exactly what she's going through, but, I can imagine it's pretty lonely and will be for a while. Mom can shed some light on that I'm sure, can't you mom. But, thank God that we are a faithful family and that we all know that live is presious and that we should live each day as if it were our last. Why groan and moan about ourselves, when we know that God is in control and He has given us this life to enjoy. So be happy. Push through your struggles and you'll enjoy life much more!! I've been thinking that I've really been too busy at work lately. Not sure how to change that but, the days are going so fast, I barely have time to enjoy them. I'm going to work on that. And tell the folks you love that you love them -- yes, family members, but, also your friends, neighbors, etc. Everyone needs to know that they're loved.

Well, that's the post for today, I'm going to try to keep this blog rolling -- Watch soon for a Gracie Countdown!!!

Faith

2008-04-26T14:47:00.003-05:00

As all of our thoughts and prayers go to Joe and Jeanie during this tough time, I got to thinking about faith. Can you imagine the faith that it takes to get through situations like this? Some of you know what that's like. When it comes to trusting in Jesus and just pure faith and believing that God will take care of you, that can really be tough sometimes. I tend to be moved more by music in times like this and there are a few songs that I've been listening to that really get the point across of faith and trust and what's really important in this ole life. I've uploaded them here for you to listen to.

I especially like the Hold Me Jesus song and the lyrics:

"Hold Me Jesus, cause I'm shaking like a leaf,
you have been my King of Glory, come and be my Prince of Peace!"

I can just imagine that feeling of being terrified and needing that peace that only God can provide. When our loved ones are going through situations like the one that Jeanie and Joe are now, it helps us learn to lean on God.

Anyways, here is one of those songs for you to listen to:

Workday in Columbus

2008-04-17T20:46:00.003-05:00

Well, we finally all made it over to Columbus to plant some flowers and clean up the beds some around Mom's house. HEre are a few photos:

Congratulations Kyle and Lynne!!!

2008-03-02T16:00:00.007-06:00

Kyle's big day was this past weekend. March 1st. The wedding went

off without a hitch. Everything was just perfect, from the beautiful setting to the Beautiful Bride and he gorgeous dress, to the Groomsmen who helped Kyle get through all of the stress of preparation for this day, to the caterers... everything was perfect for Kyle and Lynne. Here are some photos that you might enjoy!!

Beautiful setting for a wedding.

Grooms mom and grandmother
Lynne and her father

Taking Photos

Groomsmen

BIG WEEKEND COMING UP!!!

2008-02-27T09:16:00.007-06:00

Look at that picture at the top --Everyone's growing up!!! Laura's a MOM, Kyle's about to be a husband, Becky's pregnant!!!! Our family is expanding for sure!

This weekend: KYLE is getting married!
It's hard to believe it's already March (Well, almost March). It's official! Kyle's all grown up now!!

Check out that suit!!! Pretty awesome!

Becky, see, you've had some experience holding babies!!
Kyle, are you wearing this t-shirt in your wedding?

SNOW!

2008-02-27T09:12:00.002-06:00

Jeannie's photos of snow from her house. What a beautiful place to live. Can you imagine looking out your window and seeing this??

LOOK AT THAT BABY!!! --

2008-02-27T09:10:00.005-06:00

More photos of Little Nathan. I can tell by some of these photos that Grandma is smitten!!! :)

A new edition...

2008-02-12T09:58:00.000-06:00

NATHAN WAYNE KNIGHT
February 10th, 2008

9.08 pm

19 1/2 inches, 7.1 lbs
LOOK AT THAT BABY!!!

Grandma looks great with little Nathan!

P.S. - Don't forget to take the poll on the right ->

20 days!!!

2008-01-29T10:07:00.001-06:00

Only 20 days until little Jedi makes his appearance!!! That's really amazing. Time has flown by.

Photos

2008-01-29T10:01:00.000-06:00

Here are a few photos that mom has taken that I thought were just so pretty. One of puffy clouds in Columbus, and the other, the sunset at the beach when she went with Jeannie and Brenda, Tom etc.

I also played around with a photography program that I have to make them look like an oil painting. It's a mighty big paintbrush that the "Big Guy" upstairs has. :)

You can double click the photos for a larger version.

Beautiful Sky

2008-01-25T11:30:00.000-06:00

What a cool looking sky. It almost looks like the ocean with waves. Thanks Mom for this photo:

Trust

2008-01-24T11:33:00.000-06:00

In thinking about tornado damage, upcoming babies, upcoming wedding, upcoming surgeries, illness, ongoing self doubt or fear, occasional depression or sadness, lonliness, and all the other emotions and worries that everyone has from time to time (not specifically talking about me or even our family), I did a little research to find a bible verse to refocus my mind on.

Instead of worry, fear and all the other terrible things that might happen, or could happen, or will happen, one thing gets us all through those times... and that's Jesus. We all know that, but sometimes forget to put those worries and emotions out of your mind and heart, and focus on Him. Like that old song that we all know so well, "Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of Earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His Glory and Grace". That is so true and it's easy to get disctracted and start focusing on all these worldly things. It's easy to get caught up in the "woe is me" attutude. When there are other people out there that are so much worse off and maybe even don't have a strong faith to rely on like we do. What a weight can be lifted if you just refocus your mind on the positive and leave it up to God.

I'm putting a great little song in this post that you can listen to- just click the play button (pink one with the arrow) and turn your speakers up. This will be my theme song going through this little surgey thing.

So, as for you all , chin up, say your thanks, and be happy.

Tornado Damage Slideshow

2008-01-14T11:38:00.000-06:00

From Birmingham's ABC 33/40 news, James Spann blog: This guy flew from Bham to the Tornado destruction in Lamar County, AL, then on to Caledonia. Pretty cool, you can see Jan's house in one of the photos - but, it's small. You can control the speed if you move your mouse over the top part of the slideshow.

Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

From the Biloxi Sun Herald

2008-01-14T11:07:00.000-06:00

The Sound Off
"Early Thursday afternoon a tornado went through Caledonia, Miss., and some surrounding areas, devastating everything in sight. As a native from Caledonia and having had through Katrina, I am asking the residents of the Gulf Coast to reach out and help them make it through this rough time... . So much has been wiped away and so much rubble is left behind. From some of the pictures I have seen, it reminds me of some of the damage I saw down here just two years ago. I know many of the families in Caledonia, Columbus and surrounding areas helped us here on the Coast when the hurricane hit. I am asking that you help my hometown recover from this loss. It is a quaint little town that is completely friendly to all."
If you want to help
Sue Burleson of Gulfport is coordinating help for the tornado-stricken area of Caledonia in Lowndes County. To help:
Call 865-1375 or 324-5709 or e-mail: JandSBurleson@aol.com

Neighbors Help

2008-01-14T11:06:00.001-06:00

Neighbors help town look to future after devastation

By Neal Wagnernwagner@cdispatch.com

CALEDONIA- Lynyrd Skynyrd wrote “Troubles will come and they will pass,” in his 1973 song “Simple Man.”
Although music is probably the last thing on minds of the many Caledonia residents who had everything they owned destroyed by a tornado Thursday afternoon, they all seem to share Skynyrd's thoughts.
“Our building is gone, but our church is still here,” said Caledonia Church of Christ member Jennie Diermann as she looked at the pile of wood and bricks that was the church's sanctuary just days ago.
“The church is wounded, but we are certainly not dead,” she added.
She and everyone else in Caledonia Saturday seemed to have one goal - rebuild and move on.
Until the church building is rebuilt in what Diermann predicts will be about a year, the congregation will meet in the old Presbyterian church building on Main Street.
Across the street from the Church of Christ, the Caledonia United Methodist Church sustained some roof damage.
As a result, CUMC is holding its 11 a.m. worship service on its front steps today.
The congregation is inviting the entire community to the morning service, in hopes of helping people move past the disaster, which lasted a matted of minutes but will leave lasting marks on the town.
Civil Service
Hundreds of volunteers from many walks of life have descended on Caledonia since Thursday to help the goal of moving forward become a reality.
Power company employees were rushing to replace power lines, tow trucks were dragging crumpled cars out of town and hundreds of service-minded volunteers were helping families sift through the remains of their homes.
“You just wouldn't believe how many calls we have gotten,” said Diermann. “Not only have we had a very supportive congregation, but strangers we don't even know are here today helping us clean up.”
Among those volunteering time was Barry English from Center Hill Baptist Church in Hamilton. He and about 15 volunteers from other area churches were working Saturday to clear fallen trees and remove the Church of Christ's roof from its pulpit.
“Right now we are just taking things one day at a time,” said English. “I can't tell you how long it will take, but I can guarantee you we will have people out here every day until this mess is cleaned up.”
A few Columbus area waste management companies are also helping to clean up the mess.
Companies like Mississippi Industrial Waste Disposal, Go Box and Triangle Maintenance have been volunteering to haul large dumpsters to and from various cleanup sites throughout Caledonia.
MIWD President Hayden Crume brought four 22-foot industrial-size dumpsters to the Caledonia school campus Friday and returned Saturday to deliver one more to the schools and another to the Church of Christ.
“Ya'll just give me a call when this thing is full and I'll empty this one and bring you another one,” Crume told volunteers at the Church of Christ.
Like many other volunteers, Crume came to Caledonia without being asked and used what he had to help people he had never met.
“I just figured I would bring these boxes out here to help out as much as I could,” said Crume.
School Cleanup
At the Caledonia school campus, where much of the tornado's fury was unleashed, volunteers and Mississippi Emergency Management Agency employees worked beside tow trucks to clear a path through the wreckage.
“Right now the wreckers are towing smashed cars out of the parking lot so we can start clearing out some of the destroyed buildings,” said volunteer worker Jamie Mouchett.
Mouchett said crews had cleared many mangled cars from around the campus Friday but still had many more to go.
“Our main goal right now is getting the kids back in the classroom as soon as possible,” Mouchett added.
Brad Alexander, another volunteer worker, stood next to a mangled pickup truck as he gazed at the twisted steel beams that used to hold up the school's vo-tech building.
“I'm just glad all the kids were fine,” said Alexander. “It's amazing.”
Electricity and natural gas service was restored to the undamaged parts of the schools Saturday morning and will be tested all weekend to ensure safe operation, said Lowndes County School District Superintendent of Education Mike Halford.
There hasn't yet been a date set for classes to resume.
The storm has officially been declared a tornado by The National Weather Service.
The NWS is expected to release the tornado's Enhanced Fujuta Scale damage rating Monday; the storm has been rumored to be classified as an F-3.

Caledonia Tornado Photos!

2008-01-14T10:50:00.000-06:00

A smile in the storm! - Jan created a Yard Sale sign - what a great time to have a yard sale - with all your belongings thrown across your yard the the empty lot next door.

Looks as though Jan's house actually survived - better than some. Roof damage, windows broken, water damage, porch is missing, but, all in all, can be repaired.

Caledonia Tornado!!

2008-01-12T10:50:00.001-06:00

THE SALVATION ARMY RESPONDS TO CALEDONIA, MISSISSIPPI TORNADO
Columbus, Miss. - In the afternoon hours of January 10, 2008, a strong line of storms moved across Mississippi, spawning tornadoes and damaging winds. The Salvation Army of Columbus has dispatched a mobile feeding unit to Caledonia, Mississippi, to provide assistance and warm meals to those affected by a tornado that damaged homes and the High School, as well as support to First responders in the area.
Captain Bert Lind of The Salvation Army, said "We are prepared to offer hydration, snacks, and warm meals, as well as emotional and spiritual care to victims and families affected by today's storms for as long as the need exists."
"Our heart goes out to those affected by today's tornadoes. The Salvation Army has responded to the area and will provide whatever relief we can to those who have been touched by this disaster," said Captain Bert Lind of The Salvation Army. The Salvation Army stands ready to serve. Our practical response will also be under girded by our prayer support for the victims of these tornados."Mobile feeding units from Jackson, Mississippi and Tuscaloosa, Alabama have been placed on alert for possible support of Salvation Army operations in Caledonia.
"We are in communication with Emergency operations centers across Mississippi, offering our assistance to areas affected by the storms," said Bill Feist, Emergency Disaster Services Director for The Salvation Army.

More photos

2008-01-08T13:07:00.000-06:00

Becky's Suprise!!

If you click on this photo, you'll find someone sticking their finger up their nose.

2008!

2008-01-07T20:39:00.000-06:00

Wow, can you believe it's actually 2008. That seems so far in the future!!! THe holidays were so great. I'm glad we were able to all get together and celebrate. Christmas in Vicksburg was so much fun. Especially the bon fire. We shoudl do that more often for sure and just talk. It was also great spending the holiday with Jay and Laura, Becky and Jim, little jedi and (hmmm.. I'll have to think of a name for Becky's Boy -- or GIRL??? anyways, we all had fun. January is back to the routine though right? Weight Loss, Winter Weather (well, not this week), cold, blue depressing day sof January. But, think of it like this - we get to rest and relax, spend time sleeping, naping, and getting ready for an awesome Springtime!!! Here are a few photos - I'll try and send more later on. Have a great week!

To get you in the spirit...

2007-12-16T21:32:00.000-06:00

and one to make you laugh:

Christmas in Vicksburg!

2007-12-10T10:12:00.000-06:00

Well, I think it's official. Our holiday 2007 plans are to spend the weekend in Vicksburg with Debra. (Deb, better get to cooking) ;)

I'm excited about spending time in Vicksburg this year. I can't remember the last time I was in Vicksburg. I think our plan so far, is for everyone to travel down to Vicksburg on Thursday evening(Dec. 20th) and be there for Laura's graduation the next morning. Then we'll spend the weekend playing games, touring Vicksburg, eating, playing more games, snacking, playing more games, and of course, eating some more. Then at some point we'll be playing Dirty Santa! I already have that special place on my mantle for my dirty Santa gift!

I'll then drive Cody back to Birmingham at some point - probably late Sunday or early Monday (Christmas eve). Mom and Jan will probably stay in Vicksburg till Christmas Day (Or Christmas Eve). I'll actually be back in Birmingham on Christmas Eve for the first time. (Jaxon has been worried not getting any gifts from Santa because he tore up his outside sleeping pillow, but I reasurred him that he hasn't been such a bad dog and that Santa loves him anyways). So, it will be a lot going on that weekend and so much fun! I know that Mom has already been out buying things and planning her trip. It'll be great being together to celebrate. By the way, do you think there is any chance of snow in Vicksburg at Christmas? ha, yeah, I didn't think so.

Christmas in Vicksburg

Jaxon the Amazing Paper Dog!

2007-12-10T09:12:00.000-06:00

So, when we first got Jaxon, we thought, wouldn't it be great to be able to teach him to get the morning paper. (Especially on cold days). Well, miracles happen in December right? He has been getting the paper for about a week now. The Sunday papers are a little tougher, especially this close to Christmas with all the sale flyers. Here's the video:

Thanksgiving...

2007-12-06T16:32:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving was alot of fun. It was great to see everyone. Notice that the photo of Laura. Despite what she looks like, she's NOT full of turkey and dressing. Although, little Jedi Knight was probably full of turkey that day.

Dirty Santa!

2007-12-05T16:52:00.001-06:00

It's Back...
By Popular Demand!
DIRTY SANTA!

Well, I laugh everytime that I think back to that game of Dirty Santa last year (or two years ago). I don't even remember what I got that year, but, I do remember the Belly Dancing kit (see photo above) and that shelving that Ken broke... uh, I mean got. So, Becky, start thinking of a good gift. I'm looking around the house for a good gift. Hmm... what about a doggie ball? ha -- since we have so many dogs in our family now, that might be a popular gift. So, put your thinking caps on. See you all soon.

Tis the Season...

2007-12-04T09:25:00.000-06:00

We just got this in from the North Pole and looks like some of the Hydricks have been working overtime to spread some holiday joy! Thanks for the email John, although it wasn't really that difficult to imagine you all dancing like these elves.

Here's the link to watch them dance. http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1151883103

Thanksgiving Turkey

2007-11-19T14:14:00.000-06:00

Ok, I tried to find a photo of Josh to use here, but, couldn't find a good one. SO, I chose THIS TURKEY instead!

Can't wait to see everybody.

YIPPEEE!

2007-11-16T09:51:00.000-06:00

YIPPEE!!!

Just as we all expected, Jan made it through the Great American Smokeout and QUIT SMOKING!!! She is now one of thousands of people who succeed and quit smoking during the Smokeout!!!

CONGRATULATIONS JAN! WE KNEW YOU COULD DO IT!!! WE'RE SO PROUD OF YOU!

Beautiful Fall Colors

2007-11-14T10:55:00.001-06:00

Even with the drought that we've had, the trees are looking great!
Thanks Mom for the photos - who needs the Smokie Mountains when you have these trees in your yard?

Simon Says No Smoking!

2007-11-09T13:46:00.001-06:00

I've created a little 'distraction' for Janice so that when those cravings get tough, she can distract herself with a game of SIMON! Just hit the play button below and see how far your memory will take you.

More Exciting News...

2007-11-05T12:28:00.001-06:00

Just last week I was talking about how our family was "Expanding". Well, here we go again (just not adding a baby this time).
Kyle and Lynne Tripp are getting married!!! The date has finally been set for March 1, 2008. WOW Spring 2008 is going to be a busy one. First Laura and Jay's baby, then Kyle and Lynne's wedding! Kyle -- Congrats to you both!!!

Frogs and Snails and Puppy Dog Tails...

2007-11-01T10:35:00.000-05:00

Well, our family is expanding these days -- Well, at least Laura is expanding these days! LOL

It's really cool that one of my neices/nephews is having a baby! I can't believe time has already passed so quickly.
Mom is only 3 and 1/2 months away from being a Great Grandmother, Jan and Ray Great Uncle and Aunt, Josh, Becky and Jim: Aunts and Uncles!!! and Debra and Ken, GRANDPARENTS and Laura and Jay, PARENTS! (WOW, Laura and Jay: Parents!) I know that Jay and Laura will be great parents. I can't wait to see Nathan, or whatever his name will be. Congrats to Laura and Jay! Laura and Deb, keep us updated on your progress! Also, check out the countdown clock to the right of the page - time will fly by!!

Havin' fun with Mtnmommaw

2007-10-19T21:33:00.000-05:00

Look at these beauties posing at Newfound Gap, Tennessee! See any similarities? My gray hair is hidden under brown! Deb & Jeannie and Nellie just crusin' through those beautiful Smokies! Rear view is best.

2007-10-16T19:44:00.000-05:00

Does James Garner look handsome in his Maverick outfit! The statue marks the center of downtown Norman, Oklahoma where James grew up. Ken and I had a chance to vacation a bit. I've decided I like Ooook - lahoma where the "wind comes sweepin' down the plain." I'll bring my pictures this weekend. See you folks soon.

It's Almost Halloween and THIS IS SCARY!!!

2007-09-28T10:14:00.000-05:00

ha --Cody, you know I'm kidding!

Cody finally did it. HE HAS HIS LEARNERS PERMIT. If you don't believe me, here's proof:

I thought about starting this blog entry with some statistic about teenagers and driving (Cody, google that phrase),

or a link to a website that as a parent/teen driver agreement: http://www.nsc.org/issues/teendriving/agreement.pdf,

or a chart showing what the consequences might be for not obeying the laws of the road: (http://www.safeteendrivingclub.org/reading_article.php?ID=4),

or a link to a website about talking on cell phones and driving (http://blogs.edmunds.com/.ee8dbc8) but, I won't start this blog entry like that. :)

Yes, we've all been through that point when we learned how to drive and had to convince others that we could drive safely.

Cody, all I can tell you is that you really can't be too cautious. And everything your mom, dad, brother or grandmother (oh, and Uncle) tells you about driving safely, it's all because we've all been there. Congratulations on your learners permit! and be safe.

Fall is here!

2007-09-17T11:45:00.000-05:00

This weekend's weather has been a breath of fresh air - in more ways in one. It's amazing what a difference it makes - such energy! Saturday morning found me outside cleaning my windows!! Ken cut the grass and cranked up the weed-eater. The butterflies are visiting my lantana but I have trouble getting them to slow down for a picture. Now I'm watching for the spider lilies to push up. The picture is from last year.

I've been remembering our family vacation last August to Montana and the icy rain during our horseback ride. Enough time has passed that I'm thinking about doing that again - my saddle sores have healed!!

Laura and her Panama Jack hat!

2007-09-15T16:44:00.000-05:00

That wonderful photo of Laura is not from a yard day at Grandmothers, but, a work day at Janice's. Just after she got her house, we all went to Caledonia and worked hard to help her get it ready to move in. From working on cabinets, to yard work, to staining the floors. We all worked HARD! Remember that day? Extreme Makeover Home Edition 'aint got nothing' on the Hydrick Makeover Crew!

Cool Blog

2007-09-09T18:04:00.001-05:00

Very cool blog, Ray. Give me some time to get used to this. Picture is from our last family trip to Tishomingo State Park.
Ijust returned from trip to Nashville for women's conference. It was awesome! Nashville's a big city but I think Icould adjust to the beautiful countryside.
The kids are doing fine. We have to make appointments with them to see them because they are so busyliving their lives. We celebrated Becky's birthday at Nagoya's restuarant - sushi and cooked right in front of you - Hibachi style.

2007-09-07T13:24:00.000-05:00

I do believe that Laura was sporting that "kewl" hat on one of those work days we had when she made the flower bed and we were putting out mulch and stuff! Indeed Larua will have to post a picture when her tummy begins to expand!

Like the Birmingham picture, Ray!

Janice

It won't be long

2007-09-06T06:40:00.001-05:00

Well, it's September 6th, it won't be very long till the weather changes dramatically (I Hope). Normally, I'm a summer person, but this year's drought and heat have worn me out. I doubt we'll see colors like in past years on the trees. They keep publishing articles here about the trees turning brown. They say, they're now, just trying to save themselves by dropping their leaves.

Well maybe another year. Here's a photo I took in Birmingham a few years back. It gives me hope of cooler weather.

Time Flies

2007-09-06T06:31:00.000-05:00

I thought everyone would love this photo of Laura. Remember this day? See if you can and let me know when you think it was.

Laura, you should post a few photos of you now -- especially with your growing belly!! ;)

Love ya'll - have a great Day!

I just THOUGHT last week was hot...

2007-08-13T09:38:00.000-05:00

WOW -- ok -- I thought it was hot last week. Check out this forecast from our local NBC affiliate. 112? Tha'ts crazy. Well, I guess I'll just drink plenty of fluids (ice tea, ice water), eat some ice cream, sit underneath a fan, and stay cool! LOL

HOT!

2007-08-09T09:10:00.000-05:00

WOW! IT is HOT! Can you believe the actual temperature is 101 or 102 -- even 103 this week? That's really hot. Be sure to drink plenty of water even if you're inside!!

I was looking at some of the photos I had saved on my work laptop and thought I'd post a few here.

Here goes: and Have a great day!

Milestones!

2007-08-03T09:28:00.000-05:00

August 3rd, another milestone in life. Cody is sitting at "Frisbee's", a restaurant opening next week literally behind our house, and putting in a job application. He is driven to do this because of #1 extra money to save up for neat Wii or computer games, and #2 he heard if a 15 yr old has a job, he can apply early for his driver's permit.. (shudder). I hope he gets it, will be good experience for him!!

Janice

Is it hot?

2007-07-28T07:18:00.000-05:00

Well, if it's hot outside and we're entering the "Dog days of summer" - meaning, that August will probably be REALLY hot, just hang in there. Have hope that soon it will be fall. Here's proof that it's not that far away:

That's right, one sort of red leaf on my dogwood tree. Lack of water this summer will probably keep the trees from being so virbant this year.

New Blog for us all :)

2007-07-27T16:06:00.001-05:00

Hey there, well, I don't know if any of us even want to use that or not, but, I created a blog for us all to use to post comments, or photos, etc. (maybe sonograms??) I'll email you all with some details.. any of you can write a post or post photos etc.

It'll be fun if we use it -- but, it's ok if you don't have time or arent' interested in using this blog.

:) Love ya'll -- have a great weekend.