Dip

Hey,

Wanted to see if anyone had the recipe for that wonderful dip with onions and cheese. I wanted to impress the family.

Thanks,
Stacy

I received second hand information that I got the job. I believe it to be reliable and on the level, I just have yet to get the "official" call. We at the Morton house are stoked! Now I can fly my friends to the Super Bowl like a man!

job/pray

I had an interview last week for a position with a rock solid awesome company that would pay me enough to feel ok with walking away from a family business that I helped build. Please pray for me, it is God's will that I get it or that I don't, I am praying that I do. Thank you guys for being my friends.

Christmas festivities anyone?

How about we get together this Friday night and celebrate the holiday season. We could do an ornament swap like last year and/or white elephant gift. Again, we are still not able to host. Any takers? WE could all bring food.

Arlington, it is!!

We thought we could just order pizza, there's a local place that's pretty good, or we can always order Domino's. Other than that, how about everybody bring a snack/dessert. We'll plan to see everyone at 6:30ish - 7:00ish.

Here are the directions again:

Take exit 24-25, stay on the exit ramp for exit 25 (make sure you take this exit, otherwise it's another 10 miles to the next exit)
Left at the end of the exit ramp
Take the first right (Hayes Rd)
Turn right into Snyder Plantation subdivision (Dargie Rd)
Turn right at the end of road
Take the second right
Turn left at the end of road
Turn right at the end of road
Turn left at the end of road
Turn right at the end of road (Gold Spring)
Our address is 12040 Gold Spring.

My number, just in case: 484-4279

Meeting this week?

Are we meeting on Friday? We're available to host, if we need a spot to meet.

Gumboots

I was having this discussion in a taxi heading downtown, rearranging my position on this friend of mine who had a little bit of a breakdown. I said breakdowns come and breakdowns go, so what are you going to do about it that's what I'd like to know.
It was in the early morning hours when I fell into a phone call. Believing I had supernatural powers I slammed into a brick wall. I said hey, is this my problem?
Is this my fault? If that's the way it's going to be I'm going to call the whole thing to a halt.
I was walking down the street when I thought I heard this voice say "Say, ain't we walking down the same street together on the very same day."
I said "Hey Senorita that's astute"
I said"Why don't we get together and call ourselves an institute?"


Way to go Ryan, rock, rock on!

I laughed so hard (one bad word)

Congrats to Ryan

We saw Ryan's completion time for the marathon this morning - 3:39:55. That's awesome!!! Hope you're feeling well today.

Friday Night Directions

Ok--here goes. I am going to try my best at the directions to my mom's. but with Byhalia Rd. (one of the biggest streets in C'ville) being closed, it kinda stinks. FYI, if you have been to Jack and Melissa's, then you know the right neighborhood. My mom's house is just a few blocks away from theirs'.
The directions are as followed:

Traveling East on Poplar:
Continue East on Poplar into Collierville
PASS Byhalia Rd (Taco Bell, Walgreens, Kroger, etc.)--it will be closed!
PASS Wal-Mart, Methodist church (both on left)
TURN left on to Peterson Lake Rd. (Md. School is on right side of Poplar)
Continue down Peterson Lk. past Elem. School
TURN left onto Powell Rd.
TURN right onto Barbara Lynn (this is past the Community Center)
HOUSE (on right) at 884 Barbara Lynn Dr.


Coming from Houston Levee: (These directions are new, so I hope I don't mess them up!)
At Houston Levee/Wolf Creek Pkwy--Continue down Wolf Creek into Collierville
Follow the road, all the way, straight (you will go straight through one stop sign), turn only when you have hit (run into) old Shelton Rd. and turn right onto Greenview (Em, you might have gone to Mel and Jack's this way)

On Greenview, TURN right onto Greencliff
TURN right onto Jeffrey Ln.
TURN left onto Barbara Lynn.
Address: on left-884 Barbara Lynn

I hope that this gets you there!! Any questions, or alternate directions, please call me! The traffic will be more than usual, and you won't be able to use the main road in town. So, if you need us, please call. We will probably be at my mom's, preparing the chili, between 5 and 5:30. So, please get there when you can after that so that we can get a spot before the parade starts at 7!

Trish

Friday night--PARADE!

Ok--sounds good so far! We will finalize the details in the next day or so, I guess. For any of you that have been to Jack and Melissa's house, my mom's place is in the same neighborhood! I will get back with specific directions. If you want to MapQuest or something, the address is 884 Barbara Lynn, Collierville, TN 38017. However, if you look at these directions, you will need to remember that Byhalia Rd. will be closed, probably starting at 5:00. The parade STARTS at 7:00, but we will need to be heading up there and claiming a spot much earlier than that. I can get stuff for chili and have that cooking for us to eat after the parade (it's usually over between 8 and 9). We will leave for the parade a little early for dinner, and will come back late for dinner. So, we might have to compromise. When you come, if you want to bring some type of snack or appetizer to share before we leave (or as we are at the parade), that would be great! Also, if someone has a way to bring a Thermos type container of Hot Chocolate and some cups, that would rock!! Anything else that you might want to bring to add to any of this, please do!! Depending on the weather, also think about blankets, etc.

Small group this week...

who wants to host? I hope you all had a great holiday. WE just got in from Dyersburg. I am mentally exhausted!! and sick of leftovers.

so, who can host?

Thanksgiving

Hey everyone!
I am assuming that we are not meeting as a group this Friday because of the holiday weekend, and I seem to remember discussing this last week. We had a great time last week! Thank you, Chad and Amy, for having us! And, the drive wasn't bad at all--at least for us! If anyone is getting together on Friday, we will miss you and hope that it's a wonderful night. We will be leaving town for Hardy on Thursday afternoon, but we hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving, and we will see you all next week!

Friday Meeting

Chad and I are hosting this week, as long as everyone's willing to drive to Arlington. Wanted to get a count of who's planning to attend. My plan is to have some sort of Mexican dish for dinner (tacos or fajitas).

Baby Reid

So, I am sure you all know by now, but Reid made his appearance last night via c-section. He is reportedly beautiful (as if we needed to be TOLD). I believe his stats are 6lbs 15oz, 20 1/2 in long with light brown hair. I am unsure of the exact birth time. I think somewhere in th e8:30- 9:30 time. Mom and baby both doing fine- dad I don't know about. he is really unimportant at this time anyway!!!

Congrats Mel and Jack! God bless Reid and your new little family!!

Friday night - it happens every week...

So, here we are again. It is Friday...who can host? We still do not have the room for real live people because of all the boxes! soon, we hope to change all that! I know that Jack and Mel ae out. We still can't go out to eat-money woes!

what's up homies?

It's Baby Time

Okay guys,

It looks like its time. We scheduled an induction for this Saturday(11/11). The doctor feels like it is time and I definitely agree. Please pray for health for me and Reid. My blood pressure has chosen now to get all whacked out. It is really high today and I feel pretty rough. I will be put in the hospital on Friday night to do all the preliminary stuff. We just can't wait for Friday.

Please PRAY!!

Hey guys,

Please say some prayers for me, as I threw out my back yesterday morning. I've been laid up in bed the last two days, and probably will be again tomorrow. The worst part is that I can't stand up, walk, or sit in a chair. I think God's teaching me something, as I'm learning a lot about how to depend on the spouse this week!!!

who can host?

we are still covered up with boxes! Can anyone host with everyone bringing an app or dessert? BYOB of course!!!

Friday meeting

Hey guys,
I have to flake on hosting this week. I got called out of town at the last minute for this week, and I won't be able to come home until at least Friday night.

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!!

Thank you guys so much for all your help last night at Fall Fest! You have no idea how great it was for you to be there. Thank you especially Angie and William who were there for practically 2 straight days. Everything looked great and everyone had a great time!!! I just wanted you all to know how much I appreciated it. It's wonderful to have my friends so involved in my job. Thanks a bunch!
em

Fall Fest help

If you are not signed up for a shift but can help with break down, show up at 8:30 and come to the circus hall.

thanks- Angie

fun fall fest

ok gang- we really need some help with the circus hall for fun fall fest on Friday night. I know that most of our shifts are covered, but we need break down help after the last game. It won't take long. Most of our stuff is pretty easy. Scrubs will be doing the cleaning, but not breaking down. It would be a great way for our small group to really make a difference. let me know who to expect. The event is over at 8:30. If you are working the shindig, you and yours will get in free!!!

the Mortons missed the fellowship Friday. I am just now getting out of bed since Thursday and I still don't feel great!!! Can't wait to get back in the groove of things. Sara- I hope the pukes go away soon!!!

later taters

Missed you guys!

Hey guys! Just wanted to apologize for flaking out last night. This week seemed to catch up to me Friday night and the thought of food in general or watching people eat was too much. I definitely missed the fellowship! Hope all is well with you and your families. Keep us posted with any news.

Also, Baby Yates now has a website. Please visit www.babiesonlie.com/babies/b/babyyates and the password is yates. We figured it would be the best way to keep folks posted on any interesting happenings!

Have a wonderful weekend and an even better week!
Sara

Friday night...who can host?

Ok- we are still up to our ears with boxes. Who would like to host? We can order take out or something. If no one feels up to it, we could meet at a restaurant. What is your input?

Nelson's Casa

Check the comment under Angies last post. I put all of the details there.

Stacy

what to do?

So, what exactly is the plan for tomorrow night? I am unsure what is going on. someone guide me...

Friday Option

Hey,

Ryan and I would be happy to host. If the boys want to go to beast feast and then come over or go home thats cool too. The girls and any guys that want to could come over and eat here. I have been excited to play Catch Phrase. Let me know what everyone thinks. Oh yeah. Em or Scott, is there anything you definatley do not want for dinner? I think we talked about this once, but I have forgotten.

Stacy

we found the computer!!!

Okay, we ae making progress. William put the computer back together last night. I am afraid at the e-mails that I will find. Sorry that we dropped the ball on Friday night. We were so covered up(literally). So, we need to get together Friday night. Our house is just not ready to hold us yet. Could anyone offer up their home for small group? We could just ourder take-out or something. Let me know. It will be great to see everyone.

Friday the 13th!!!

Ha! funny how that used to be a big deal as a kid, don't step on a crack, beware of ghosts, etc. Well, thought I would get dialogue going for the week. What's up with Friday night? I have to go see a play at UofMemphis that i committed to before we started meeting. Beast Feast is at Hope and Jack was thinking of going if the guys wanted to all go. Anyway converse with your spouses and post!!!
Trish and Stacy, hope your fall break is awesome.
The Browns are home and doing well, I am in love with Baby West.

He has arrived!!!

Hey Everyone!

Baby West is here.
7lbs 13oz
20 in

October 8th, 2006

Friday Night!!

Hey everybody!

After talking to a couple of people, here's the scoop: We won't have a formal meeting, but there is an opportunity to get together! With so many people gone, we'll just do a get together--BUT let's not get away from meeting on Friday nights :-) We have been off to a great start!
The Morton's could still use some help in the new house, but they don't want to burn everybody out. William's quote was, "You don't want to burden your friends; then you won't have any." However, we have nothing going on, and I have a week of freedom (Halellujah!!!!!), so we are going over there tonight to help with just getting the house ready to move in to. Any other SM people that want to come and help, or just offer moral support and entertainment--then come on!! But, they don't want anyone to feel obligated. We did have a semi-smallgroup"meeting" this Tuesday when some of us went to help that night, so it's not been neglected. Tonight will be casual and easy. We'll do something like pizza, fast-food, take-out, etc.
Continue praying for everyone (especially our preggers) and let's keep it up!

Love to everyone,
Trish and Josh

Friday Night ?

Hey everyone!

It is all so exciting. We had a relaxing weekend camping, but are ready to see everyone. I was just wondering what our plans are for Friday. We would be happy to help the Mortons unpack. We may have to wait a couple of days, Ryan has a test on Thursday so he'll be busy studying for that. Let me know what everyone decided about this Friday.

Stacy

Come and help the Mortons

Hey everyone,

Great news about the Morton's place. I talked to William and here is how we can be the most helpful. If you can go to the Mortons after work today(Tuesday) and help pack boxes and load the pods. If you can't no worries just whoever is free tonight, show up!!!

no longer homeless

Hey everyone- Just wanted to let you know that we rented a house. It is on Cole Rd. near Mendenhall(between Sanderlin and Shady Grove). We wil be loading pods today and tomorrow and unloading them on Thurdsay at the new house. Thanks for all the prayers and support!!

Angie and fam

Directions

Sorry, I forgot to give directions. From Poplar, head south on Estate. Pass Park and continue to Sea Isle. Turn right on Sea Isle. Make your first left onto Whiting Street.

From Nonconnah, follow to I-55/Jackson, MS. Get off on first exit, Mt Moriah. Turn right off exit and make your first right at White Station. Take White Station past Quince and turn right on Sea Isle. Make your second right onto Whiting Street.

Our house is 1397 Whiting Street, the fourth on the right. See you tomorrow~~

I feel like......

You know when Lando said to Han and Laya "I wish I could help but I've got my own problems." I feel like that but not in the mean way he said it. However if I could filter out the meanness and leave some of his pure coolness, I would. Oh, but the coolness would have to be compatible with any gratitude or niceness I would tend to convey to yooz guys.
Ridgeway Trace, it looks like. I see it as a stepping stone I found just in the nick of time after I lost my footing.

-I'll take a wish and a prayer cross my fingers cause I always get by(Tom Keifer),
Wm

FRIDAY NIGHT ACTION

Okay guys! It sounds like there is a lot going on. To the Morton's CONGRATULATIONS and how can we all help? As for small group this week, we had planned to have you guys come over and do take out Memphis Pizza Cafe (or something to that effect) and play games. You know, very low key. If our efforts would be better elsewhere, let us know. I know the Nelsons had planned to be out of town and Angie's big wedding is Saturday and Em, well, who knows when baby West will decide to show!

Please let me know if Friday is on at our house or not! If so, let's plan for 6:30 or 7:00 like last time and as always BYOB. Hope everyone's week has been good!

We're being evicted!!

We hear that the house has sold. We have until Wed, Oct 5 at noon to be out. I am a little freaking out. I have a big wedding this weekend. It is all consuming right now. If anyone knows of a rental opportunity, please let us know. If you would, keep us in your prayers. My nerves have just about been stretched thin!!

Thanks!

Angie

Small group tomorrow night

Sorry for the late post, but this is just a reminder that we are meeting tomorrow night at our house around 6:30 or 7:00. BYOB, and we were just going to order out chinese-so bring cash. If you don't like chinese- you are too strange for our group and maybe you should re-think your life. I will have an appetizer if someone wants to bring a dessert.

Remember if you show up tomorrow night, you are committing to a group on a weekly basis! No more...we are too busy or don't have a sitter. Commit if you are going to be committed. Chad and Amy- we will catch you next time.

Be thinking about what we want to study. We can discuss that, eat, and play games if you are interested. Bring your favorite game if you have one!!

later taters

THANKS FOR YOUR PRAYERS...

small group smack'em yack'ems
Hey guys. Thanks so much for praying for us. Here's the latest update. We got discharged last night around 5 and got to come home. I am on medicine and modified bed rest for another 2 weeks. (I think actually until October 2nd, 36 weeks). I had been having "braxton hicks" for awhile, but had noticed them pick up since Thursday. I had an appointment on Monday, so she hooked me up to the monitor and checked me to see what was going on. I was having contractions every 2 minutes and had dialated to 2 centimeters. So, she sent us down to labor and delivery to stop it all. They gave me magnesium, procardia, and finally terbutiline. They also gave me 2 shots of steroids in 24 hours in hopes to help him finish growing. We truly thought around 1:30 AM on Monday night that we were having this little guy. The mag wasn't working and as my doctor said..."these are the big guns". But, thankfully, when she added terbutaline to the mix they slowed down to only a few an hour. (She's fine with 4-6 an hour, but no more and I can't be dilating any more either). They slowed me off the mag by yesterday afternoon around 3 and on the terbutaline I was only having 1-2 an hour. So, I know that's probably more info than you all want, but oh well.
Anyway, the hospital visit sucked. That medicine is no fun and I have no desire to be back. I have been told that if they start up again I'm right back there to get them stopped until that "magic" date. So, I am sitting still for once. Scott of course has his hands full...work, Scottie, the house, etc. He's been great. It's hard to watch him have to do 100% of the work because I just can't, but he's been great.
We just wanted to thank you all for your prayers. We're glad not to have to live a little one at the hospital after his birth.
Feel free to call if you guys need anything. We'll have to keep Friday up in the air for now. We'll see how I'm feeling and how the week has been, but we love you guys and are excited about getting together again soon.
Thanks to Angie and William for taking the initiative of leading the group...we're so excited. Scott wants me to tell you all that he will be home working on the house most of the day today and hopefully most evenings. We're not sure how it's going to work right now. I can't drive or do anything really, but my parents got back last night, so that'll be helpful. Scottie and I will probably just get dropped off there most days so he can either go to work or work at home. So, if any of you guys feel like coming over to have some "grrrr...guy time" just give him a call on his cell: 335-7301. You are all awesome and we love ya! Talk to you all soon.
em and scott

You have skills, you just don't know it.

Let me tell you, no matter how technically unskilled you think you are, I can make use of you on a construction project, that's my job, I do it every day. I'm looking to lend a hand to Scott after hours (after 5:30ish). If you can spare the time, you won't be in the way.

Emily and Baby West

Well, it seems that West is just itching to get out. Emily is in pre-term labor at St. Francis. She is being given meds to stop the labor and steroid shots to ready his lungs. She is just a bit frazzled, and scott is concerned about getting things finished at the house. Back up- he is first and foremost concerned about his wife and baby, then the house. At this point, there is not alot we can do for her except pray. There will be some help needed with Scottie, but she is taken care of today. Any guy that can help Scott would be greatly appreciated. Call William for updates on that . His cell # is 486-1901. Call Melissa or me for updates on Em and West. Just pray, pray, pray!!!!

Small Group

Hi everyone- It seems that we have all been going in a million different directions lately. The small group communication has all but stopped. I know that especially at times like this, I need fellowship and worship. After talking to Emily, I have agreed to take over the leadership of our small group. We have had lots of "we are going to do this, we are not going to do that..." talks. I know from experience(3 small groups in 12 years), this is only headed in one direction...down. Don't get me wrong, I love the dinner and fun times that we have, but I yearn for a closer relationship with my peers and God.

I am posting to let you know of some changes for this small group. Others in the group have vocalized these ideas, too. This is not coming out of left field and from just my own head. The small group as it has been is no longer. We are going to be meeting on Friday nights from now on around 6:30 or 7ish. Since several people in group have to work the week-ends at church, Friday nights just seem to be more practical. No school, either. We won't be as time crunched. It has also been expressed for us to get together more often. So, starting this week, we will meet every Friday night. We will still munch on goodies, but grow deeper in Christ together. I know this is a high level of commitment. If you feel like you are not up for it, or the time doesn't work for you, there will be no hard feelings. Because of the sensitive nature of many of our discussions, if you are going to continue with the group, you will be expected to be at small group. It seems that it is not always comfortable to air your "dirty laundry" with someone that you are not truly building a relationship with.

This has been something that has been weighing heavy on my heart for quite some time. I hope that you understand that this comes from a place of love and a desire to grow closer to Christ with others that share that commitment. I have enjoyed getting to know each of you and hope to know you better as the years pass with our group. Please publish to the bloc and let the group know what your decision is going to be. Thanks for your patience and understanding. My prayers are with each family as you decide what to do with this information. Remember, for those who Friday will not work, or don't want such a high-level of commitment, perhaps you could still meet on Sunday afternoons. I will leave that for someone else to decide.

We will host the first meeting of the newly refreshed small group this week. If a weekly commitment is what you are interested in on Friday, show up around 6:30. Just know that you will be making a committed decision.

Love to you all- Angie

Checking in

Congrats to Ryan!!! Kristen thanks for the phone call, life is a bit hectic but I will call back.
The Doc reread the xray and did not think he saw a fracture, YEA!!! That means no more crutches and I can hobble around in this post operative show that does not allow my foot to bend. It is sore but I can tell if feels a bit better everyday.
We also had an ob appt. or due date is now one week up, Nov 16!!! Everything looks great with the big boy and Jack and I are busting our tails to get the house/nursery/our lives ready for the big arrival!!!
Pray for sanity!

September 14th

.....is not Angie's birthday.

September 13th

...is Angie's birthday!

Fall MTV

Fall MTV: Okay, two things: I wanted to give you all a "heads up" in case you don't make it to church this weekend that Eli Morris's father passed away yesterday. I don't think arrangements have been made yet, but just thougtht you guys might want to know.
Also, I am DESPERATE for volunteers for MTV this semester. I need help with 1st and 4th grade, but really need help with crafts. If anyone is willing (I know Angie and William have already committed to being here) please call me and we'll chat.
Believe it or not, I think you guys would have a blast!
I'm with Trish...how is everyone? Where is everyone? Scott's still pluggin' away at the renovation, but it's looking great! I'm so proud of him!
Hope everyone is doing well...love you all.
em

Hi

Wow--where did everybody go?!?!

Thank you to my loyal fans, droping by the other night to hang. It was fun, almost as fun as this.As long as you guys aren't too messy (& your not) let's use the heck out of this big house while we have it. Our next house will most likely be smaller and riddled with projects for a while. Speaking of projects, I say this on behalf of the hardest working man I know, Scott Brown; go to this man's house and lend a hand, He could use help as simple as picking up construction rabble around the outside of the house. The man is a go-getter. ALSO, the reason I am writing this: one of my favorite clients a family of five, the Akins' 11year old son is being treated for bone cancer, he'll most likely will be fine after some painful chemo. It would mean alot to me if you guys could think of him and his family in your prayers. Thank You

and don't forget Uncle Ruckus

Thanks

Thanks to those of you who came to Small Group last night. It made for a great time, and I think that we all learned A LOT about each other. And, that's really what it's all about!

The mentality we need to have as Christians is very much what Eli said Sunday: leave the details up to God. It also, if you take out their kissy kissy and think of it as our stoping-for-nothing love for God and his plan, this song by Cake really says it in a way to which I can relate:

I don't want to wonder
If this is a blunder
I don't want to worry whether
We're GOING TO stay together
'Till we die

I don't want to jump in
Unless this music's thumping
All the dishes rattle in the cupboards
When the elephants arrive

I want to love you madly
I want to love you now
I want to love you madly, way
I want to love you, love you
Love you madly

I don't want to fake it
I just want to make it
The ornaments look pretty
But they're pulling down the branches
Of the Tree

I don't want to think about it
I don't want to talk about it
When I kiss your lips
I want to sink down to the bottom
Of the sea

I want to love you madly
I want to love you now, yeah
I want to love you madly, way
I want to love you, love you
Love you madly

I don't want to hold back
I don't want to slip down
I don't want to think back to the one thing that I know I
Should have done

I don't want to doubt you
Know everything about you
I don't want to sit across the table from you
Wishing I could run

I want to love you madly
I want to love you now
I want to love you madly, way
I want to love you, love you
Love you madly

If you dont quite get it, let me know I will explain.

Small Group this weekend

In light of next weekend being Labor Day, we are scheduled to meet this Sunday. Does anyone have any ideas about what they would like to do? Just about anything is up for grabs. We can meet out somewhere, or we can meet in the room at church (with or without food) so that no one has to give up a house. Meeting times are also flexible after church, as far as I know. Post ideas on the blog--let us hear from you!

melissa's shower

small group smack'em yack'ems Hope everyone is doing well. I'm trying to get a head count on Melissa's shower. I assume that everyone will be there since I haven't heard otherwise? Please let me know. Thanks!
emily

been there, done that

Funny you should bring up the vigil. William and I have been many times in the past. If I didn't have kids to get to school the next morning, I would be right there with you. Most of our pictures are in the pod right now, but this one happened to be floating around. This was us at the vigil in August of '93. You can't see by this photo, but I had a cast on my foot. It did not slow me down any!! FYI- William proposed not so long after this, and by Christmas we were married. I think it was Elvis shining down from above and passing on that "Burning Love"

Josh and I were watching "He Touched Me: The Gospel Music of Elvis Presley" on WKNO tonight. We felt an urgent need to attend the candlelight vigil tomorrow night. Is there anyone else who feels the need to pay their respects to the King of Rock 'N Roll??

Trish

Hello again

I am so sorry we had to miss tonight. It just wasn't in the cards for us. It sounds like the evening was productive. It will be nice to use the blog again. Blog often, blog much!!!

small group smack'em yack'ems

Thanks for the email, Mel and Jack!
I thought we'd be the first to respond on the blog for our official communication from here on out.
We are totally on board with this new way of doing things. We were sorry to miss tonight, but desperately needed to be there with my family. We look forward to August 27. See you all then.

My day

I had the weirdest day today! On my way to work, I saw some clowns jumping out of a car. They had a flat tire, and they were all running around the car, bumping into each other and trying to get the spare on. Then, while I was putting stuff up in my room, I looked out of the window and saw a troll riding a unicorn across the football field behind my classroom. It was definitely a day to write home about...

Anybody here?

Is there anything interesting (or not) going on?

they are coming

Cool, outragous stories and more incredible pictures of the trip to Hardy,AR. Kinda busy, but I will get to them.

what they are not showing you

small group baby-makers

Baby-makers?
Anybody besides Melissa and Emily making babies at the moment? :)

We can use this gazebo as a place to sit and hang out. It was built by a couple of my second cousins and overlooks the river.

Anybody want to jump in?!?! Not a great pic, but it was taken from the Big Cabin's front porch, and I think it does the job. It will feel great on this hot weekend!

Happy 4th and let's go camping!!!

I hate we all missed getting together this week-end. WE are very excited about the trip next week-end. Who has the info? What are we doing? Will there be s'mores? Will there be skeeters? will there be running water? Do I have to worry about rabid dogs? Are we going to go streaking? Does anyone read this d@!n blog?

Small Group This Weekend?

Hey! Brian and I were wondering if we/anyone had followed up on small group this weekend. I know that The Browns and Craig are supposed to be oput of town, but since we missed last time, we thought it might be called off because of the holiday. Let us know~ We will be in town.

Road Trip

To all who said they were available for the weekend of July 14th - 16th for our trip to Hardy (plus the Hills and the Nelsons, if you can come), we are definitely on for that weekend.

Trish asked me to remind everyone that it will be HOT, and we'll be outside the whole time. In order to be prepared, we need to bring portable fans and coolers. Also, since Hardy is in a "dry" county, adult beverages will need to be purchased in Memphis prior to the trip.

We'll post more details as the date grows near.

Good morning Carl

Yea, it is a good morning there little man.....IT'S 3 IN THE MORNING! Look, all I knows is I found this cord plugged into my house and your house is glowing like the FREEKEN' SUN! So I put two and two together there and decided that your pissin me off.

Congrats

Jack and Melissa, that is awesome news to hear!!! We need some boys around all these girls. Also, congrats on the new house. Sorry we have missed everyone so much. We will be out of town next week for our family vacation so we will talk to everyone when we get back.

It's a BOY!!

That's right guys, Jack and I are having a baby boy! The best part is that he is healthy and developing normally, which of course is always a main concern for me. We are thrilled and are already picking out blue paint colors for the nursery!!! so much for me being practical and painting a gender neutral room, its blue everywhere!!! Please continue to pray that our little buddy continues to grow and get ready for his debut in November.

Hardy Weekend

Based on all of the responses I received, the weekend that works best for most of the group is July 15th and 16th. Mark your calendars!!

tonight

It is byob and byom(eat) if you don't want a hot dog. Who is coming?

VBS and GO Fish!

Just a reminder that next week is VBS. It is a huge undertaking for Emily and she is doing a great job bringing it all together. Pray for her health and sanity for the next week or so. Also, don't forget to buy tickets for the concert on Thursday night. The group is called GO Fish. This is another one of those things on Emily's shoulders this week, so we need to all step up and buy tickets(and go, of course)

small group this week-end

It seems like last time we met, we decided to get together on Friday instead of Sunday. I offered to have it at our house. It would be very low-key. We could fire up the grill and just hang out. Game night is always fun, too. If that works with everyone, please send a response or a better idea. We just have to leave the house clean at the end of the night!!

Big News

Hey everyone,

just wanted to share great news and prayer request. Jack and I are buying a house!!! It is in Collierville in an older neighborhood off Shelton Road. We are under contract and have inspection on Friday and close on June 30th. Please pray for smooth sailing on the buying end also we are breaking our lease with the apartment complex and have a few dog damages so please pray that we do not have to go into debt to get out of the apartment. Have a great week!

TRIP

Ok guys,

There have been a couple of weeks mentioned for the trip to Hardy in July. Nothing is set in stone yet. As I said before, the ONLY times that WON"T work are this weekend, next weekend (Father's Day), and the July 4th holiday weekend. Besides that, it's OPEN!!! Anytime! Please post or email with the weekends that will and won't work for your family. We can plan a time that is good for the majority of couples. And, until August, Josh and I can always go up there early (Thur??) to accomodate those that need to come early and leave before Sunday. Let us know!!

Trish

fun with scissors

Fun with scissors

Are will still on for arts and crafts tomorrow (Sat) morning?

Trip to Hardy

Well, if the weekend is July 15-16, The female Yates is definitely out. Still discussing the male. I have been on a committee planning the high school reunion and it happens to fall that weekend. The gear is still available, though, if anyone might need it. Let us know~

Out of touch

Hey guys,
Brent and I wanted to apologize for being out of touch this week. Things have been a bit crazy, we have been in and out of town since last weekend. Angie and William, we are glad to hear that things are going better and we will continue to pray for William to recover quickly and for Angie and the kids as well. Brent is back out of town today to Nashville for a meeting tomorrow morning so we are sorry that we missed small group today. We would love to see everyone, hopefully we can get together maybe this coming weekend. Hope everyone has a great week and we will see everyone soon (hopefully).
Brent and Betsy

Thank you everyone!

I can't believe how awesome the house looks! We apprecialte all you did yesterday to help us get ready for the open house. There is no way we would have been able to do it on our own. Thanks for the prayer and concern, and meals and childcare...I could go on and on. It has meant so much to know that we have such great friends that will just jump in where needed. God has truly blessed us! William is feeling better. He made it through the night with no pain meds!

William's Surgery

Okay guys, new prayer request. William is to have surgery on his hand tomorrow, Friday morning. He might be a tad nervous about it too, so please keep him and the family in your prayers throughout the day and next week. Also, Trish is keeping the kids tomorrow, so throw an extra shout out for the kids' patience as well as Trish's! Hope to see you guys on Saturday morning :)

Here's the scoop for Saturday...

small group slackers Norma is going to follow me to Angie's house on Saturday to clean. We are just going to pay her $80 for the day...Mel and Jack said they'd help too.
The rest of us can just come and help do anything that needs to be done. I'll try to have her there by 10.
See you guys then!

TIME TO STEP UP, GUYS!!!!

small group slackers
Okay, guys. Everyone is asking what they can do to help Angie and William...here it is. They are in a complete bind. They have an open house on Sunday and desperately need to sell their house, as you all know.
I am trying to see if Norma, the Honduran woman staying with my parents can come and help clean before Sunday. If so, we will be paying for her..$80 for a day. Anyone who can help with that, great.
But, also, William had big plans to do yardwork/landscaping this weekend and they need to clean the house.
So, we need as many people as can, to show up on Saturday and help out. We will probably show up by 10:00 or so and get started. I promised Angie that we could have the house looking great before Sunday.
All of us can clean and we can help with yardwork. We always talk about being there for each other, now's your chance.
Call me if you have any questions.

strong enough to pull ears off a gundart

Actually my Dad and I were farting around with our lightsabers in a friend of a friend's gas mining facility and things got "out of hand" but once I got back to the medical frigate they were able to help me.

William can't saw worth a d#@!

okay- here is the update- William has some nerve damage and at least one severed tendon. They stitched him up the best they could...think ground beef with a needle and thread. Not for the faint of heart. He had a couple of nerve blocks and lots and lots and lots of shots. He came out with very little blood on his clothing which is a shock- I had even packed an extra shirt for him. He is in quite a lot of pain and now I am going back to Walgreens to get the good medicine. I will sell them to you for a high price. Thanks so much for all the prayers today. The Lord watched over him today. It could have been so much worse. I guess William will be out of the tug of war this week-end. It meant so much that y'all would drop everything to come to the emergency room to be with us. We love you all!!!

Now off to the drug store

Please pray for William's injury

Hi everyone,

I tried to call everyone, but if I couldn't get in touch with you or you haven't gotten my message yet, here is a little update on what's going on. Today, William seriously injured his hand on a table saw at work. What we know right now is that the saw cut through the ligaments and tendons of the four fingers on his right hand. Luckily, it did not go through any bone. There will be major recovery time and unknown nerve damage. It is not yet known whether he will stay overnight for surgery, or if the ER will sew his hand and send him on to a specialist. Everyone needs to pray for healing in William's hand, and for help with the family during recovery. William is in a lot of pain, and just needs a lot of support and prayer. Also, pray for the family in all areas of life during the rehabilitaion process. Josh told me that Scott took some pictures that he will send to everyone in an email. Updates will be sent through the blog and email as they come. Please put this on high priority on your prayer list, and let's as a group do everything we can to help!

Trish

Happy Memorial Day!!

Hi everyone!

Below is some info Trish gave me about the trip to Hardy. She's going to be asking her grandparents about some available weekends. The weekends already discussed on the blog won't work for them.

It'll be a camping trip for the most part. Chad and I are excited about that, but we don't have any supplies. Does anyone know of anyone that we could borrow a tent, etc. from?

Here's the info that Trish sent me:

We could use the place as a retreat, but it would be an outside retreat. Out of respect for the fact that the Big Cabin is my grandparents' house, we really couldn't all impose inside. There IS a wing of the house that includes a bedroom and full bathroom, as well as an extra refrigerator that we could use. But, we would plan most of our meals as sandwiches and cookouts on the grill or bonfire. Which would be great! The 2 or 3 outside cabins (seperate from the main house) that we would have access to all congregate around a large piece of land that used to be tennis courts--so it's large enough and flat enough to be a great communal place. The outside cabins all have a bedroom and bathroom, but as I was talking to Emily and Melissa, the three of us realized that the couples with babies might should have first dibs on these if they needed it. And, Emily mentioned that she and Scott and Scottie are totally fine withpitching tents. These cabins also have a few single beds on screened porches. The rest of us would set up a little "Small Group Village" of a few tents in the tennis courts. Don't get me wrong--the cabins and tennis courts are all right on top of each other--so we would have a lot of togetherness. The only drawback would be sharing the bathrooms, but we can construct signs to hang on the doors (you know, "showering", or "try back later", or even "hold your nose"). It would be great, and the several people that I have talked to are completely stoked about theidea of it being like a free outdoorsy camping trip. The campsite would be free, and we would have running water and a refrigerator (although ALL adult beverages would need to be housed in coolers outside)!!

Trish, will you just post a response to this with the weekends that we should pick from?

Hello out there in TV Land...

Where is everybody??????? I sent some info to Amy about the a trip, but if anyone wants me to copy and paste some of that on to the blog, I can!

Please pray for Angie, her hedache is the worst it has ever been.

How much you wanna make a bet I can throw a football over them mountains?... Yeah... Coach woulda put me in fourth quarter, we would've been state champions. No doubt. No doubt in my mind.

small group slacks

small group slacks
Mel, we are coming, but Scottie's not. Just wanted you to know, but if you've already called, don't worry about it. I don't think it'll matter. Thanks for taking care of it!

HUEY'S

Okay everyone,

I am going to call ahead to make sure we can sit altogether and stuff. Right now this is what I have. 12 people plus two highchairs at 7:30 at East Memphis Huey's. if your name is not here and you are coming post, email or call me: yates, browns, simpsons, kelleys, william and minime's.

small group slacks

small group slacks
p.s. William, have the children broken any limbs yet? It sounds like Angie doesn't quite trust you hanging by yourself for the weekend. :) I'm sure you're worn out though! You should go to all 4 services this weekend...free childcare!

Huey's tonight

small group slacks
I think we agreed on Huey's in East Memphis at 7:30 tonight. Does that sound okay with everyone? I guess we need a count on how many people are coming so we can try and make reservations?
Hope you're all having a great week!

I don't remember

when is huey's?

HELLO

hey guys, did you see the email from Mack about the family that lost their home in a fire? Would anyone be interested in giving money for a walmart gift card? Doesn't have to be a lot just whatever we can come up with. I'm sure anything will be appreciated. Just let me know and I will be glad to take it up and get the card.
Betsy

This isn't ordinary darkness, this is advanced darkness

You can't go!
All the plants are gonna die!

poor William

I just wanted to remind y'all that I am going to be out of town all week-end. William will have the kids all to himself. I would appreciate anyone calling him to check up. Last time I went out of town, Nell cut her hair. I hope nothing like that happens this time!! Thanks!

scroll down to see the wisdom of a man

I don't know why but when you save a post in draft form and later post it, it will post it as if you posted it when you origanaly wrote it, or something.

Small Group Prayer Requests!

Prayer requests for this week:
Brent, Betsy, and Mckinley Hill- Prayer for Mckinley and her little battle with allergies, teething, and croup (sp?). Prayer needed for Brent because school is winding down for him while he is doing Spring Football with his new school and getting ready to switch over to St. Georges! Prayer for Betsy in her job. It has been a really rough week dealing with some employees. We also would like to mention that Brent's parents are still traveling and obviously would want them to enjoy the trip and arrive home safely.

Happy Mother's Day

Hey ladies,
Happy Mother's Day all you moms and future moms. It's pretty neat to be celebrating my mom-to-be mother's day. Can't wait to see all of you on Saturday.
My family ended not coming this weekend, I caught a nasty virus and was sick Friday and some of Saturday, believe me not fun!!!

small group slackers

small group slackers
Hey, guys! Well, Angie and William, how was your party? Sorry we missed it...we had a late dinner with all my parents' visitors and didn't have a sitter. Happy Birthday, William!
Happy Mother's Day, ladies.

please pray today

Please pray for my sanity today. I am doing the flowers for a wedding at Hope. I still have quite a bit to do. I need to just calm down and get it done. Pray for no headaches and no glitches. Then, I have to deal with the ballet recital...

free entertainment on a Friday night

Nell and Elliotte will be performing tonight. It is the year end ballet recital. It starts at 7:00 and should last a little over an hour. It is at the chapel at ECS. So- come one and all...just kidding- I don't really want to go myself!

Airwolf is tough - but no one can beat Iceman!

wisdom of a man

I'm Rex, founder of the Rex Kwan Do self-defense system! After one week with me in my dojo, you'll be prepared to defend yourself with the strength of a grizzly, the reflexes of a puma, and the wisdom of a man. Take a look at what I'm wearing, people, you think anybody wants a roundhouse kick to the face while I'm wearing these bad boys? Forget about it! Last off, my students will learn about self respect. You think anybody thinks I'm a failure because I go home to Starla at night? Forget about it!

Slackers on the road

OK, probably the first step in planning the trip will be to determine the date. So, will everyone just reply as to when would be best (or worst) for each couple. I'll consolidate the responses and come up with some proposed dates for the group.

Also, suggested places would be great, in case Hardy doesn't work out for us.

This has been fun, my first post on a blog!!!

how high's the water mamma?

Two feet high and risin'
How high's the water, papa?
Two feet high and risin'

We can make it to the road in a homemade boat
That's the only thing we got left that'll float
It's already over all the wheat and the oats,
Two feet high and risin'

How high's the water, mama?
Three feet high and risin'
How high's the water, papa?
Three feet high and risin'

Well, the hives are gone,
I've lost my bees
The chickens are sleepin'
In the willow trees
Cow's in water up past her knees,
Three feet high and risin'

How high's the water, mama?
Four feet high and risin'
How high's the water, papa?
Four feet high and risin'

Hey, come look through the window pane,
The bus is comin', gonna take us to the train
Looks like we'll be blessed with a little more rain,
4 feet high and risin'

How high's the water, mama?
Five feet high and risin'
How high's the water, papa?
Five feet high and risin'

Well, the rails are washed out north of town
We gotta head for higher ground
We can't come back till the water comes down,
Five feet high and risin'

Well, it's five feet high and risin'

Finally

I have figured out how to post, only took two days! Happy early Mother's Day to all the mommies this weekend. Jack and I are looking forward to a small group trip, I feel the need to laugh like the St. Louis trip. Hardy or bust!!!

Party Party Party

So, I said in earlier e-mail that Sat night is BYOMeat, but we will have hot dogs on the grill. Don't feel like you have to bring your supper!!! I hope to see y'all there!

Date Night

Hey guys! Brian and I are planning on going out tonight for our weekly "Date Night" and wanted to see if anyone was interested in joining us. Not sure of the plans yet, but thought I'd throw it out there!

I will give an undisclosed amount of money to anyone who can tell me where that picture was taken

Success?

Well, I think I did it-not completely sure. Guess we will find out soon:) Had a ton of fun last night both at small group and after. Hope everyone had a great Monday! 4 more days to go!

Woo Hoo!

Thanks so much, William and Angie for setting this up! And thanks to Brent for organizing and facilitating the last few small groups and for everyone else for helping out. I am more excited than ever.
We always have a blast with you guys!

Awesome!!!

Ok, I am a first time blog user. Thanks for getting it together so quick.
Stacy

Stop slacking

I think I have everything fixed on the blog now. Let me know if you are having trouble. Have a great day- it is beautiful out there today!

Old Crow

Angie and I had a great time Sunday nite, Peter's in bed and I've had my "whiskey from Kentucky", I'm better now. The way we hang out makes our group very enjoyable, and having the desire to do things together will further our goals as a group.

may I be the first to say...

...that was so dang easy. The picture thing is easy too