Ansley rides at Evermore

Beatrice and I left the boys at home last Sunday afternoon to go to Nutcracker Practice and to Evermore Farms to see Ginny and Ansley.

I haven’t seen Ginny or Ansley years. Amanda and I used to adore Ansley. We used to have her over for play dates at the Beach House. Remember, Boo? We had a mastiff named Raymond. Wow. That was soooo long ago. We used to push Ansley to the beach and back in a little red wheel barrow.

Ginny and Ansley are also close to Barry White’s heart. He lived with them for a stint while Brian and I traveled around the country. 

I couldn’t resist the chance to introduce Ginny and Ansley to Beatrice since they were in town for a horse show. 

I can’t believe how grown up and beautiful Ansley is!!!  It is so hard to believe that she has grown so quickly. Ansley is just as pretty now as she was back then. 

B loved everything about the horse show — all the girls, the ribbons, the trophy’s, the horses, the dirt, the excitement and Ansley! Did I mention that Ansley got a fourth place ribbon?!?!

It was a busy and fun, sunny afternoon. The only thing missing was Amanda and Lilly who were sick (…with what we later learned was walking pneumonia).

One Day You Gonna Need

for more information go to Playing for a Change

Hope your Weekend is…

…filled with sweetness!

via: paris hotel boutique

 

What a terrific week. Baby Whitaker turned 1/2 year old (!!!!!), I made the decision to actively focus on the good things about Dad’s life by creating an ongoing list of things that make me smile about him,  we went to the pumpkin patch. Hmm…what else? I made it to the gym several times – all this among a ton of other things. Beatrice’s Fall Break commences today as I am excited to resume a smidge of normalcy next week. XoXo, Christy

Dad’s Old Yellow Truck

A little mind jogging has led down a path that is flowered with delightful little memories of Dad. Kristen reminded me of his  yellow truck (…remember the Hercules trucks?!?!?) while Holly mentioned his loud snoring (that could be heard all the way downstairs) at Amanda’s sleep overs. This ongoing list is totally making me smile. It is soooo Good Grief!

I am going to add these things to my list:

•  
  • Loud snoring
  • Bright Yellow Trucks
  • Ms. Ann Platt’s Tea Cakes (I thought of these today)

Good Grief

In the spirit of the Griner Gang Memory Walk Team, here is a quick post including a few memories of Dad. Like Marcy (who lost her Mom at the same time last year), I have difficulty explaining how I feel about the death of my parent. The difficulty arises when I explain my grief to others…and to myself. More, most of the time I am smiling about his life while there a things that will spark a tear. I am attempting to rejoice, revere and be glorious  in the celebration of his wonderful life, rather than be sad and selfish about it. He was a fabulous Papa who led a great life. I want to be happy and merry in it. I want to have Good Grief that is uplifting, powerful, and inspirational.

Off of the top of my head these are some things that remind me of him (and make me smile!):

• Oreo’s dipped in milk
• Grape Koolaid
• Over Sweetened Tea
• The Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair Parade
• The Pancake House at the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair
• Arrowheads
• Storytelling
• The Battle of Bloody Marsh
• Dune Buggies
• John Wayne
• Casablanca
• The UGA Bookstore Fall Catalog
• Worn Brown Lazy Boy Recliners
• Blue Camero’s from the seventies
• Old Blue and Yellow Addidas Running Shoes
• Sayings like, “this is so good it will make your tongue slap your brains out.”
• Ice Cream
• Rear Windows with multiple stickers
• Football, Football, Football
• Southeast Bulloch Football
• College Football especially Georgia Southern Eagles and Georgia Bulldawgs
• Georgia Southern Booster Club
• Snooky’s Breakfast
• Parades
• Toast with Letters made of Butter
• “All aboard that’s gettin’ aboard. If you aren’t getting a board, get a plank.”
• Molly Gogs
• Old Spice
• Lacoste Shirts
• Astronomy Magazine
• Discovery Magazine
• Ag Hill at UGA
• Vince Dooley
• Banjo’s
• Red Man
• The Beach House
• Shoney’s
• Pizza (especially the old Statesboro Pizza Inn)
• His Signature
• Janie Frickie
• Wonderful World by Sam Cooke
• Loud snoring
• Bright Yellow Trucks
• Ms. Ann Platt’s Tea Cakes
• “I can’s see through you. You  must be drinkin’ muddy water,”  he would say if anyone was standing between he and the television! (Aunt Kathy reminded me of this : ) one)
• Moogie

The Griner Gang 2009 Alzheimer’s Association Statesboro Memory Walk Team Formed

 

Holly has organized a team for the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2009  Statesboro Memory Walk in honor of Dad. I am so thankful that she did this again this year. It is such a committment of time, effort and love. I am humbled by her friendship and efforts. Thank you so much, Holly!!!

I can’t help but be just a little down as the anniversary of his death encroaches. I miss him so MUCH. Yet, it is nice to channel the energy into a positive effort to find a cure for a disease that runs in my family and in Brian’s. It makes me feel a wee bit triumphant against the disease that took Dad from us so early.

Admittedly, I am the world’s worst fundraiser. I will need your thoughts, creativity, support, advice and love to finish the task of being a member of this team. I am attempting to log my efforts toward the team on this blog for the next eighteen days. The walk is on October 24th.

To initiate my committment to walking, I (FINALLY) completed my page on the team’s website. Personalizing the page with a photo and a cut/paste of a  PSA from last spring, I am ready to begin collection money via the website. You can see the page, here.

mm…what do you think? Upon review. I think the page is a little too dreary while the copy is too long. I am going to try to revamp it to make it more cheerful and bright. I believe that Dad would honestly want us to me happy. I think he would want my energy to be focused on celebrating his life and his transition into the afterlife.

**The photo is of Holly and Beatrice at last year’s walk. : )

Our Ballerina

Beatrice debuted her dancing skills before her parents last week. It was the first time we have seen her in class. It was so much fun. We were really impressed. Mom kept Whitaker so that we could fully enjoy the performance. Brian and I both smiled the entire hour. It was so funny.

These were impromptu. Brian recorded from his phone so ignore the clarity. I hope you enjoy them!!!

Please Vote for RBP Best in the Boro

 

Beatrice says, “The men at red b power are number one.” You should, too!

Hello everybody! It’s that time of year again…time for the “best of the ‘boro!” I am voting for my favorite electrician and I hope you will, too!!! You can vote once a day, every day this week. It is really simple. You don’t even have to nominate any other businesses; and you don’t even have to be from here. It’s one vote per email address per day. If you nominate 50% of the ballet then you are entered to win fifty dollars. Thanks for helping me nominate Brian!

Here is how to do it: * First, go to Statesboroherald.com * Second, go to contests * Third, go to Best of the ‘Boro * Fourth, follow the directions and nominate red b power, inc. (or brian hulsey) as the best electrician! * You must vote this week for service businesses.  You can vote four times: today, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday!

*Note: the picture is of Brian and Beatrice at the HBA Tour of Homes last year.

Southern Life

SOUTHERN LIFE

by Patricia Neely-Dorsey

If you want a glimpse of Southern life,
Come close and walk with me;
I’ll tell you all the simple things,
That you are sure to see.
You’ll see mockingbirds and bumblebees,
Magnolia blossoms and dogwood trees,
Caterpillars on the step,
Wooden porches cleanly swept;
Watermelons on the vine,
Strong majestic Georgia pines;
Rocking chairs and front yard swings,
Junebugs flying on a string;
Turnip greens and hot cornbread,
Coleslaw and barbecue;
Fried okra, fried corn, fried green tomatoes,
Fried pies and pickles too.
There’s ice cold tea that’s syrupy sweet,
And cool, green grass beneath your feet;
Catfish nipping in the lake,
And fresh young boys on the make.
You’ll see all these things
And much, much more,
In a way of life that I adore.

*photo from amanda’s darien, ga waterfront album

Baby Monitor is…

The Baby Monitor is offically gone…G.O.N.E.

Yay.

There are no more activity discs for download and not a blaring alarm in the room. It’s party time, little one. The new confidence  in your health calls for a celebration. Fiesta!

Baby Whitaker, I love you.  I think this moment calls for a party, a family fiesta of all fiesta’s. This milestone creates deep happiness, warmth, and love in Papa, Beatrice, Barry, and I.

Congratulations Baby Boy!

*photo from the banner sister’s etsy

Lilly

Happy Tuesday!

I love this picture of Lilly (my neice!). I can’t help but smile every time that I see it.

*photo from amanda’s gallery

Missing the Story of Us…

Well, remember how our camera was on the blink? I thought it mended. To my sadness, it is honestly, really biting the dust. I have been on hiatus from my blog for a long time. But you know, I miss blogging. I miss taking all the pictures and sharing them with my friends and family. I enjoy Facebook. Yet, I find it a little nosy-rosy, a little gossipy and loud. More, I find myself involved in people’s lives that I wouldn’t ordinarily would not. I peruse Facebook. Then, all of the sudden I am checking out someone’s cousins best friend from ten years ago’s photo album. Or, worried about what someone had for breakfast. Somehow, I let Facebook consume me.  Anyway, I scored a little bloggy time tonight (which I haven’t had much of lately).  While visiting my favorite blogs I realized that I miss telling the story of US. Our little Hulsey Story. The Story of Brian, Christy, Barry, Beatrice, and Whitaker. I plan to see what I can do about the camera debacle, while I will be praying for more personal time to blog, more time to weave the days of our little lives into a blog that we can remember, look back on and enjoy.

Happy Day!

Oh, and on another note. I stumbled upon this picture while I was playing on the internet. It’s Whitaker. I love it. According to the copy, she must have been reading my mind. Thanks Kim!

Easy on the eyes, hips, and thighs

I am digging these flare trouser’s from White House Black Market.  They look like me don’t they? These pants are easy on the eyes, hips, and thighs.

You know what. I think they are screaming my name. But, where would I wear something like these? I just don’t have a lot of places to wear this type fashion anymore.

I  tried them on before we went to Amelia but didn’t buy them. A coupon arrived in the mail today.

Hmm…they are also on sale.

Trashing Whitaker’s Baby Moniter…we hope

I

 

While Beatrice was at ballet class, Whitaker and I performed a very important errand. We went to have the monitor disk downloaded to be sent to an office in Savannah for decoding. Upon decoding the doctor will review the data.

We have a Whoop-Whoop-Happy-Dance in store.  We have been practicing. We are ready. The spunky mommy-baby duet is in the foreground as we hope and pray and believe that the days of listening to beeps, fastening velcro around the chest, alarms, ambulances, cpr, and constant blinking lights is headed for cessation. All gone. Buh bye. It is almost over. We hope we can throw these tasks in the trash can as we embark on life as normal, life without the apnea monitor.  In the trash baby. In the traaaash. TrahhhSHAY.

Keep your fingers crossed for us and keep us in your prayers. We are ready to trash it; and, smile about it.

*photo from flickr

Brian Goes to FastTrac

Brian went to his first FastTrac course this morning. It is the same class that I took several years ago through the SBDC; yet, I am certain it is better. I was a member of one of the first classes. I am sure the logistics, material, and organization have improved. Today’s class speakers included Carla Lee (!!!!) from Spanky’s. The exclamation marks are because Carla is so super awesome. She was in my Rotary club down at St. Simons. More, she graduated from my alma mater. She is a Southeast Bulloch Yellow Jacket! I think she was in Mom’s Y-Club years ago. Yes, Amanda, it is THE Carla Lee! The mention of her name brings back memories of walking by that condo on our exercise trips…or late night drives down that tiny street.

Anyway, Brian said she was a terrific speaker. He added that  the class is going to help streamline red b power in preparation for business growth. Way to go red b!

Color Coated

 

America’s most famous street; and one of my favorite’s got a make over last week. Lombard street was painted pretty and color coated for Candyland’s 60th Birthday.

Awesome. Love that game.

via flavorwire

Awesome Easel

 

I totally want one of these for Beatrice and Whitaker. I have been shopping for months on ebay and craigslist with no luck; so, if you see one…you know who to call. Tack on a little commission for your footwork. Viola! You just made a sale.

This one is from Imagine Childhood. I love that company. If I could buy everything that they have, I would. We are planning to go to a music festival this fall as I probably should invest in Imagine Childhood’s Junior Jam instrument set. Brian would be very happy with his wifee. And, so would his children with their Mama.  Hmm…

Happy Wednesday!

Brian took these photos on Sunday. I thought I would share them before I forget about it; and, while I have the time. 

Happy Wednesday!

Red, White and Refashioned

This makes me wish that my sewing machine was in order and that I was in practice sewing. It’s an old Old Navy onesie with ruffles. Dana at Made did it. I love it! You can visit her blog for directions.

Tana’s Blessing

 

I love “Tana’s Blessing” by Kim Dixon. She took it while we were imprisoned from an outdoor-downpour inside the tiny Firefly Cafe.

It was so nice to sit and talk after celebrating Amanda’s Birthday. Amanda and Kim, the photography buffs, practiced a short range shots including this one. They are both so talented. I wish I could take pictures like they do.

The kids call my Mom, Tana. And, Whitaker is her little blessing.

Nice work, Kim.

 

Happy Birthday, Amanda

Mom, Amanda, Whitaker, Amanda’s friend Kim and I met in Savannah for Amanda’s Birthday. We ate a late lunch just off of Troupe Square at the  Firefly Cafe, which we topped off with a treat from Leopold’s Ice Cream. It was all superfabulous.

Ordering the Mediterranean Tofu sandwhich with a house salad and the Firefly’s  famous corn chowder (firefly style, which means the soup has cheese and sourcream!!!), was a very scrumptious decision. I love this little restaurant so I was happy when Amanda’s chose it as our destination. Woot-Wew for the Firefly Cafe. I was even more elated when she suggested we go for desert at Leopold’s.  I have alway’s wanted to taste the treats at Leopold’s. The ice cream float I ordered was just as delicious as I can imagine. I dreamt the famous parlor was more luxurious, complicated, and artsy as I was surprised by it’s simplicity.

It rained a brilliant storm while we were there.

I missed Dad a little on this day.

Happy 29th Birthday, little sister. I love you!

*Photo by Kim Dixon (and yes, this is the same Kim that was with us. she took this creative picture while we were there!)

Happy Friday

Tara Donne via Marry Ruffle

Happy Friday. 

The Ballerina

The little ballerina says, “cheeee.” Dancing started today.  A (giant) storm rolled in as we were loading the car so we had to take quick photos in the driveway. I only got a few but here they are:

     

   

I felt guilty for leaving her at the studio because they come and escort her from the car. It just felt like I should walk her in. Hold her hand…or something.  I worried the entire hour – certain that she was balling with hysteria. I am not a nervous nelly kind of mother but today was different.  Seriously, I really felt like I was stalking the place because I rode by so many times. “Shay will call me if everythig isn’t okay,” I kept reminding myself. My phone never rang and the first thing that Mrs. Shay said was: she did great! I felt relieved and sad and happy and sure — all at the same time.

For all the girls (especially Allison and Amanda): does this bring back memories, or what?

Beatrice’s first day of MMO at FBC Preschool 2009

Beatrice says, “cheeeese” for Papa before her first day of preschool. She is going to Mommy’s Morning Out two mornings a week. She was so excited this morning. And, so were we!

Then, she watered the flowers.

“I ready to go to schooooo now,” she says.

I took a couple of pictures with my phone after school:

Note: Beatrice loves backpacks and leashes and things like that. This morning she was looking for a bag to carry so I grabbed this backpack. The fun thing about this super cute pink gingham backpack is that it was mine!  If you look closely, you can see the initials PJ on the bottom left side of the pack. Aunt Peggy made it for me when I was a little person. She is so proud to wear it. I love it!

Enmark Savannah River Bridge Run

This looks very intimidating to me.

Throwing  my apprehension to the wind, I am planning to cross it in the Enmark Savannah River Bridge Run this year.  My goal is to walk across the finish line.

I think I can…   I think I can…   I think I can…

I would love some company on the road trip down there and at the beer stand at the finish line.  Anyone? 

*photo by bmwild

20 Tips to Waste Less Food

I am in a constant quest to simplify my life and my home. I found the 20 Tips to Waste Less Food by Small Notebook really helpful.

Today I Love…

Today I absolutely, positively am digging this red and black hat that is handmade and delivered in person with love from Mollie Wollie. Striped in God’s colors (the colors of the dawgs) it arrives just in time for the Georgia Football season!

I am one of those people who brakes for homemade gifts. So, I really like this. It’s better than all the etsy ones that I was lusting over a few months ago.

I think this will be perfect for a chilly UGA night game. Don’t you? 

To add to my excitement, I think little Whit has made his modeling debut on Mollie’s knitting website. I am very honored!  I knew my boy was handsome.   Speaking of knitted hats, Mollie, and Whitaker, I think that these three have actually already made another blog. That is right, isn’t it? Let me look and see. Yes, in fact, they did. Mollie’s work and Baby W made Danielle’s blog several months ago!

FBC Open House 2009

We went to Beatrice’s Open House at First Baptist Church. Melissa took this picture of us. I am not really into photos that include me right now; but, I was conned into this one because of the hustle and bustle around us. I didn’t really have a choice.

I can’t believe Beatrice is 2 1/2! This is exactly the age that I started The Little School preschool, which was in the building right behind Snooky’s.  I am a March baby, too. We moved to Statesboro so Mom could start teaching that Fall. Wow. It’s hard to believe that I am thirty four with two children and a husband.

Back to the photo and the evening: Beatrice was totally at ease. She ran over to the kitchen set to start cooking on the stove. Then, she served the food to her friends while they sat at the table.

Everything seems so full-circle.

Today I love…

Today I am in love withLe Creuset enameled cast iron pots. Even though they come in yellow, green, red, white, orange, red, black, cobalt, and even kiwi, it isn’t just the color that warrants a post. It’s the good-for-you factor, too. Isn’t it the best for the environment and the best for you? I do not know. I am asking.

And, isn’t there a link between aluminum and Alzheimer’s? Maybe that is a hoax. I have no idea.

Don’t worry. I have not drifted over the deep end. In fact, I only have one cast iron item in my cupboard. I am not drastically discarding my cookware.

The truth is, though, if I could have a dream wardrobe of my favorite basins, buckets, and crocks, I would be decked with cast iron – specifically La Creuset in all shapes, sizes, and casts. My canteen would shine with fresh charms of fry pans, skillets, and dutch ovens. In the mean time, I am going to gradually make an effort to introduce more cast iron into my cook room – whether it is a specific brand or enameled, or not.  

…so today I love La Creuset.

*photo uploaded by Amy Catherine

Summer Slump

It is hot as haites around here. Even the rain can’t cool it down enough to ignite my motivation. I have been in a blogging slump throughout our busy weeks during the dog days of a South Georgia summer. We have been traveling a lot this summer. Unlike our trip to France last year, we have been staying close to home. We have been to Amelia Island with Mom’s side of the family, to the Jacksonville Zoo, and on multiple trips to St. Simons. I hope to share lots of pictures and stories; but for now, I am just like the bulldog in the picture. I am relaxing my blogging efforts and taking it easy.

Here is a photo of all of us at Amelia this summer. Can you believe we got this many people to go on vacation together? I really enjoyed it. There was something wonderful about introducing my children to all of my cousins, Aunts and Uncles. It reminded me of all of the Tygart Trips of yesteryear. It was hectic and stressful at times. But, isn’t that how all large congregations are? You can’t please all of the people all of the time. It was beautiful to watch everyone’s talents shine throughout the planning of the week and during the week. I really enjoyed it.  

*the bulldog photo was originally uploaded by kaylovesvintage

Happy Tuesday

I wish I had a garden full of fresh flowers so that I could race outside, pick a few and arrange in a little vase; but right now, I don’t. I have a few Zinnia’s, Marigolds, Impatiens, and Verbena’s in bloom in planters – none are appropriate to pick except the Zinnia’s, which I only have a few.  Maybe I could go to the flower shop where I can get a bundle of Daisies for 5.00. I love it when I have a vase of flowers. I swear, it makes my dirty house seem clean.  Fresh blossoms about the house make the medicine go down, if you know what I mean.  My favorite cutting to bring indoors is a Gardenia but mine are out of bloom. Gardenia’s smell soooo good. Okay, decision made. The 5.00 stems are amid the stir of today’s brouhaha.

Have a fantastic day. See you tomorrow… xoxo Christy

P.S. If you get a chance, skip over to Daisy Cottage. It’s worth the time to take a peep at her Sister’s House.

Image – Friday Flowers

RIP Camera

R.I.P our little beloved camera.

We bought our camera from Amy after she loaned it to us to use in France.

When I met Brian he was saving his money to go to photography school in California. The shutterbug wanted to become a professional camera artist. I admit he would have (and still would for that matter) be good at it. He has photographed several weddings at the the bride’s request. When he wants to, he can really take amazing photos.

Brian became attatched to the camera on the trip. In fact, I think he fell in love with it so I scraped up all my pennies to buy it for him for our anniversary. Since then we have used it almost every day. I have even considered taking some classes so that I can take better pictures of our little home and family.

Alright, so the bottom line is: I left the stroller outside with the camera in the stroller. It rained. And, you guessed it. The camera is soaked. We are headed to Amelia Island next week as we planned to have it there. Thanks to me we will be camera-less.

Oh, little camera dearest. I miss you already even though I stink at turning your dials,  commanding your buttons, and using you with expertise.

Can a Fuji be flat lined? If not, how should you decide on a new model. I checked out Rachel Henderson’s suggestions. I have emailed the Hulsey girls over at Larita & Co. Any ideas?

From my research, I have come across a highly recommended DVD series:

{get this super duper dvd here}

 

Maybe I will invest in the dvd’s when I ever get a new camera. Our fingers are crossed as the little old camera is in our prayers. Please resurrect yourself little black art maker.

Today I love

via.

a dutch door. I have always wanted one of these charming little things.

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication

 

 

 

 

 

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication 

 

 

 

 I just love daisies. And, blue jeans (if only I could fit in mine). Happy Thursday.

 

 

 

Come spend the afternoon with us…

Come along and spend the afternoon with me. I soaked my shirt so I am going to take it off and get ready to rummmmmble.

Now, my shoes.

Viola!

Whitaker, there is a first time for everything. You really ARE going to love our backyard afternoon. We promise!

Don’t worry. Mommy is going to wash these. I like them this way.

 

Poppy likes to do this…at the REI store.

 

 

My favorite thing in the back yard…the water spicket.

 

 

Let’s go find Barry White.

There he is!

Whisker (that’s what spell check calls him so we do too some times) is tired. I knew he would love it.

Today I love

Today I love…

 

this picture from Absolutely Beautiful Things. It reminds me of trip around the country that I took with my husband before we got married. I don’t remember our site look quite this cute. But, this picture reminds me of that trip. Precisely, six years ago we were somewhere in the midwest camping. I can’t remember where we went after the fourth. We watched the fireworks in Avon, Colorado. But, I just don’t know where we would have been a few days after that. Anyway, today I love this picture.

Statesboro Farmer’s Market

We made it to the Statesboro Farmer’s Market on the morning of July 4th.After getting the whole family fed, dressed and ready to go to market, we geared up in the stroller to walk downtown. It is the first farmer’s market we have attended all season despite perfect attendance last year. Yippee. We finally made it!

The first person we saw darted over to tell us that Beatrice didn’t have on any panties. “She Sharon Stoned me,”  she said. Nice. Real nice – especially since I didn’t bring the diaper bag. Oh my goodness. I mean, can you believe this?  I was embarrassed but have developed a thick skin to such awkward situations. Brian, who is more delicate, was mortified. I couldn’t help but laugh through the uncomfort while smiling at the stereotypical potty training hang up. She must have discarded her pull ups at home. I promise I put one on her with Brian as my witness. 

This really was funny. I covered my head with shame. And, just laughed.

The good news is that luck was on our side that day.  There just happened to be a garage sale…right there out of a downtown home.  What are the chances of such timeliness? It was perfect. We discreetly asked to purchase some undies. They didn’t have any for sale but found some to give to us.   THANK THA LORD. The garage sellers wouldn’t let us pay for the underwear, which were slightly larger than Beatrice’s size, so we bought a lemonade and popcorn from the Two Cousins Lemonade Stand located on the premises to reciprocate the generosity.

Little did we know the humor was only starting.  Later during the outing, Beatrice went to play with a dog. As she walked over, the loose fitting panties dropped down to her ankles. Bear bottomed, she chasedthe animal as Brian raced after her. The panties were slipping down her like a painter coming down a ladder. The right side dropped. Then, the left side. Then, the right. And, the left until the pink polka dotted panties made it to the bottem where they were tripping her.  Her heiney was in clear view. Brian scooped her up. Put her in the stroller. And, turned to me with a glare. “Let’s go home NOW,” he said with an evil rattle and big grin.

So, we left all the good veggies and the fresh grilled chicken behind. We pushed the stroller home with one of Mrs. Murray’s pound cakes and small bag of peaches, laughing all the way.

Happy Fourth.

This is where I spent most fourth of July weekends up until high school and pre-marriage. It’s right down from the K&P Access on St. Simons Island. There’s really nothing glamorous about this place, but it is so memory-inducing for me. St. Simons was our beach! I love this photo. We were either under one of the umbrella’s or near them.

When I was very small there were steps in front of the resort down to the beach. Erosion destroyed the steps.  Now it is just a bunch of boulders.

 

Here’s another nostalgic photo that reminds of the week at the island on the Fourth of July.  I remember always going in Strother’s Hardware in the  Village. It was one of the few stores there. It was down from the dime store and Dressner’s Cafe and across from Clifton’s Ice Cream (which is where Barbara Jean’s is now). Dad and Mom always had some sort of project like painting the exterior, or building a deck, repairing the floor. It seemed he would visit Strother’s daily to shop for materials and find new dreams for fixing up the place.

umbrella photo via King and Prince

strother’s photo from jennifer george

Happy Fourth Everyone! I’m staying in Statesboro for the Firecracker Festival.

Kinda different from St. Simons, but fun all the same.

Happy Thursday

 

Happy Thursday. I love this photo of these whimsical cupcake planters.

What do you think: are they cute or what?
Aside from wowing you with the picture of the dainty, colorful terra cotta wonders, I have to tell you about my life in the Hulsey hood.  Well, to tell you the truth, I am free, free, free, free fallin’.  Our boy is sleeping. 

 

Ahhh, yeah.  At least a little. Five hours last night to be precise. All the bad boys are hiding in the shadows. And, I am freeeee. Now I am free fallin’.  That is one of the longest spans of slumber I have had in over three months. I want to ride it. I want to ride this wave as far as I can. Even with the side effects the Prevacid is the answer to the happiness of our baby. Now, I am free fallin’.  Oh, he is so yummy. Mama is happily surprised by the mood-elevation-magic of a little slumber.

Here he is living it up while Beatrice played in the back yard.

 

I really can not explain how liberating and wonderful it is to have our little man feeling a little better.  Thank you Bulloch Pediatrics for helping find easement to Whitaker’s reflux. And, thanks to my girlfriends and family for supporting me these last few months, the long days of living in Hulseyville.  Man, oh man, this has been a ride. But, now we’re free fallin’, freeeee fallin’. Bring on the weekend. Bring on the world, the outdoors, the public places, the smiles, the laughter. He’s a good boy loves his mama, loves jesus, and America, too.

Even Barry White is excited.

 

Beatrice can’t hold back her excitement either.

Oh, about those super cute cupcake planters in the image at the top – if you would like to make them here is a tutorial. I hope looking at them makes  you smile as much as it made me. I hope it kicks your Thursday into first gear so that Friday can be jump started. And, here’s a link to the best rendition of Free Fallin’ that you have ever heard. It’s from my super fave, John Mayer.

 

Monkey Foot Design Wet Bag

Our Monkey Foot Designs wet bag came in about a week ago. I love it! Supposedly, you stick the yucky diapers in the bag and the odor is eliminated. So far, so good. We are not exclusive as we are using both cloth and disposable about equally as much. The bag is so cute that it charged my waning interest in cloth diapers. More, it can be used for bathing suits, cosmetics, etc. in the case cloth diapers don’t work out for us. It isn’t like a boring ol’ diaper pail. This number is cuuuute.

I highly recommend Monkey Foot Design. She is as awesome as her fabric choices are funky. I had a few questions about cleaning the bag as I emailed her my query. She responded within a few hours. Awesome job Monkey Foot. If you want to see more of her designs visit her etsy store. It is a treat.

I am thankful for this girl and this girl and this girl for your cloth diapering inspiration. And, so are my kids and their kids for all the diapers (that require 500 years to decompose) we are saving from the land fill. And, so is Baby Whitaker who reaps the health benefits. And, so is my husband who shares my budget with me. 

While I am at the thank you’s – thank you for all of your support. Please leave any words of cloth diapering wisdom or encouragement or commentary. Thanks. Happy week.

Sleepy Girls

Shhh…we are trying to get some sleep around here. If all goes well, we will have a better rest schedule by next week. The doctor confirmed that Whitaker’s restlessness is unnecessary and an indication that the Zantac is not working. We started Prevacid today in hopes that it will ease the pain. Apparently, the actual spit-up associated with reflux will not be removed. Pooy. But, with the pain eased he will be able to sleep more heavily and for longer periods of time  and not be so fussy. Currently, he is always hungry. He is constantly eating while not sleeping very well.

We are happy that he will feel better…and that we will get more snoozy.

 

Laura Resen via mary ruffle

This image looks so inviting. I can not help but include it as I dream of the restoration, relaxation, and slumber that we hope our new prescription brings (okay, so it won’t bring this much tranquility but a girl can dream).

We are back!

We are back! Brian joined us on the island for Father’s Day as we all drove back Monday in  time for Beatrice’s gymnastics group. It was a nice week except that I believe Whitaker had a growth spurt on Thursday and Friday, which is a fabulous thing and a tiring thing. I was up almost a full twenty four hours between nursing him and watching Beatrice. I found a terrific little store to make my coffee with all the “fixings” for 69 cents with a recycled cup. Woot. Woot. Bring on the simple dollar!

Father’s day was nice as I wish I would have come up with a project like this one from Tip Junkie.  Instead, I ordered a pair of Born Hammond Shoes which I thought he would really like. His wardrobe desperately needs some casual dress shoes. These came from REI which he loves. They just sort of look like him. I admit, I think I missed the mark on this one. I didn’t sense any overjoy. The “heart and sole” tag was cute but I guess shoes are just super personal. Photos and frame…so Father’s Day next year.

I got a little teary as I longed for my Dad on Father’s Day. Alright, a lot teary. I suspect that is expected. I know he is in another place but I am really selfish. I would like him right here with me in human form.

Speaking of Father’s Day presents, did I mention to you that Brian got me the stroller of my dreams for Mother’s Day this year? I think I forgot to tell you despite my desire to blog about it.  It is one of the most extravagant presents anyone has ever given me, well maybe not ever but in a long time.  It is so nice. I have used it every single day since Mother’s Day.

I think that is about it. Everyone keeps asking me about the heat and the challenge of mothering two small children alone. All I have to say is that when you are just a block from the beach life’s pretty good despite the temperature, the antics, and the adjustments to a new baby. There is something about the sound of crashing waves, the feel of gritty sand, the taste of salt that simply “do it” for me. St. Simons is what it takes for the medicine to go down for me.  It’s osmosis. It’s a contagious energy that threads through the environment and the people, in the limbs of trees, the dreads of moss, the hearts of people, and the life of people.  There is something about it that brings me closer to my spirituality and who I am as a person, a sister, a friend, a daughter, a mother.  I will sign off with this photo of a sunset in St. Simons.

Happy Tuesday. Christy

photo from flickr

 

Trunk is Packed

Our Trunk is Packed. We are going to the Beach.

We have had a good few days as we have been getting ready for Tygart trip to Amelia Island next month, had one of my favorite people in the world over for pizza, gone to storytime, and spent much time with Papa.

Whitaker weighed in at 10lbs at his check up yesterday. The weight gain made me so proud. Woot. Woot.  The Doctor recommended the moniter for another two months along with limited exposure to public places, children and germs.

We offered to stay home with Brian for a few days but he suggests that he can get more done in our absence.  By request, we are off to the islandas we were last Wednesday through Friday. I am a brave woman and an insane mother. It is a little challenging to have both of them without any support groups, spouse or friends or family. It is also challengeing to have them in a beach shamble – simple, fun, and interesting but definitely poses a few obstacles. I think I can. I think I can. The little train purged forward. Yes, I think I can. I think I can.

I took Barry last time, but I am going to leave little smell-so-great home this time.  I feel guilty already. There is barely room in the car which requires him to sit up front. The new stroller takes up the ENTIRE trunk. Barry scratches which makes the dog hair fly everywhere and his paw hit the shift. There was a time when none of the above would cause alarm. Now, it does. Plus, I should leave him behind to keep Brian company. There is just something wrong about leaving that old dog behind when we go to his absolute favorite place, the place where he was born, the place where he can run and swim and chase birds, the place where he used to could sleep in the bed and snuggle with mama, and catch opossums.

Our fingers are crossed that we are able to catch up with Amanda and Lilly, that we get to sleep, and that we get to go to the beach (labeled by Beatrice, the big swimmin’ pewwwwl).

Without further ado we are off to pack our trunk to go to the beach. I will meet you in the blogosphere when I get back.

Happy Summer. XOXO, Christy

photo via flickr

Sharpie Magic

Ten dollars worth of Sharpie markers meet the walls of a basement -  wow! – see more here. Hmm…maybe Beatrice was displaying her talent when she used nail polish to paint the bathroom and herself - or, when she used the sharpie on our living room couch. Yes, I did say Sharpie like the permenant marker. This could be her calling.

via d sharp

One day we’ll find it

One day we’ll find it. The Rainbow Connection. The lovers. The dreamers. And, me.

Lyrics to the Rainbow Connection

Why are there so many songs

 about rainbows
And what’s on the other side
Rainbow’s are visions
They’re only illusions
And rainbows have nothing to hide
So we’ve been told and some chose to
Believe it
But I know they’re wrong wait and see

 

Someday we’ll find it
The Rainbow Connection
The lovers, the dreamers and me

Who said that every wish
Would be heard and answered
When wished on the morning star
Somebody thought of that
And someone believed it
And look what it’s done so far
What’s so amazing
That keeps us star gazing
What so we think we might see

Someday we’ll find it
That Rainbow Connection
The lovers the dreamers and me

Have you been half asleep
And have you heard voices
I’ve heard them calling my name
Are these the sweet sounds that called
The young sailors
I think they’re one and the same
I’ve heard it too many times to ignore it
There’s something that I’m supposed to be

Someday we’ll find it
The Rainbow Connection
The lovers, the dreamers and me

 Sara Mclaughlin and Kermit the Frog also sing the song

Happy Monday.

Humane Society Silent Auction Date Set

So, if you are looking for something fun to do in Statesboro on June 13th this may be just-the-thing.  The items in the silent auction are impressive as Spode, Johnson Brothers and Crown Ducal antique chinaware is included. Penny Marz has also given a Custom Pet Portrait. Hey. Hey. I think Barry might could use one of those. This is an event that helps animals in Bulloch County through the Humane Society of Statesboro and Bulloch County, Inc. See you there.

Berrien County honors Mrs. Margie Tygart

 

 

“One generation plants the seeds and the next one gets the shade”

 

I don’t know if you know, but Grandmother is The Butterfly Girl! She was recently honored for a life time of community service by the Nashville Better Home Town  with a Sunday afternoon reception at Mimi’s Cafe.

The South Georgia group surprised the 82 year old with the unveiling of a bronze statue at the event. It is called the Butterfly Girl. The statue will be placed on the grounds of the Nashville Community Center. While describing the statue she said, “you won’t believe…it’s almost as tall as I am.”

This fine honor esteems her. I can tell as she bubbles with excitement at the mention of the acclaim.  Nashville could not have chosen a better way to celebrate her.  I am so proud of her and so happy for her magnification. She deservies it.

“I was so surprised that someone would do this for me. I couldn’t even say anything,” Grandma recounted the the moment they presented her with the figure.

The candid, heartfelt reception is detailed on the front page of the June 3, 2009 edition of The Berrien Press. “And, it’s in color,” she proclaimed with splendid amazement as she handed me my copy.

Grandmother does do a lot for her community. I can not think of another person more deserving.  Nor can I think of a finer way to commend her. The reception including the surprise unveiling of the statue is perfect!

 

Appreciative and spirited she shared the details of the afternoon with Beatrice and I including all the gifts, the cards, the photos and the video. I am posting as much as I can here (for the fam, like us who could not make it). I know you will enjoy it as much as I did. 

If you get a chance, watch the video. It is really cute.

The Invitation

Mrs Margie Tygart with the Butterfly Girl Statue

Grandmother with grandchildren (not all of us : )

The Tygarts at the event

I hope you can read the delightfully written article. It charmingly includes quotes like from Ms. Idelle that describe Grandmother as the “Ultimate Party Girl.” I love it!

 

 Oh, and here is the video. Enjoy.

i believe in global warming

my regrets to my conservative friends and family. i believe in global warming. can’t help it. i just do.

this print from HOW poster design awards

Thanks for finding this d. sharp

and loving every

and loving every minute of it…

{via d sharp}

“ Marriage lets you annoy one special person for the rest of your life.”

And, Mr. Hulsey is my special person (lucky, lucky fellow).

He is away at a car show this weekend, hopefully enjoying himself while getting some relief from the wifey and kids.

 

Before you start feeling too sorry for the poor guy for having to put up with my annoying antics – I know, I know poor boy has to put up with me - let me tell you that he also gets to do a little “annoying” to a ut-hum very special person.

With projects that create dust like this… 

 

And, consume time like this…

I admit that he enjoys his projects. More, he is good with his handy ways. 

But, like the rest of us he does have his special person to annoy.  Pardon me, but, I am just sayin’.

Even though we some times annoy each other (he undoubtedly gets the brunt of it), I do love him, love him, love him. If I could do something like this and I had the time I would surely sew him a letter like I found on Jordan’s Blog. Since I can’t, he will have to do with this simple little blog post.

House Rules

house rules via Uncharted Odyssey

I love these (wall vinyl, or paint, or stickers???) house rules.