Easter 07

Had a great Easter today. Went to church, went to lunch with friends, Columbus Catfish game, and played games with our homegroup tonight. Something happened at the Catfish game that struck me funny. When the organ played the little tune that makes everybody says CHAAAARGE!!!, nobody said charge. Its sad that in Columbus, Georgia the hockey game draws more of a crowd than a baseball game.

A few things have happened since the last update. When we were leaving Wilmington, we stopped by the U. S. North Carolina on the way out of town. I found out it would cost $15 a piece. We decided we'd get a nice enough view from the shore. My niece Knucklehead a.k.a. Olivia came to visit us and joined us at the Easter Egg hunt. Chrissy kicked butt on the egg-in-a-spoon race. Knucklehead found the golden egg. By the way.... does anybody know the story behind the Easter Bunny or the eggs?

On to the picks:

Be VEWY Quiet. I'm hunting wabbit eggs.

The battleship North Carolina

One of Chrissy's many Teacher Appreciation Week presents. When's Project Engineer Appreciation Week?

Maggie enjoying her new fence

Andrew

The hotel we are staying is an old train station so there are a few trains around and a railroad museum to visit. We saw this train and it made us think of Andrew since he loves trains so much.

Thoughts about the Cape (Chad)

1. There are no hush puppies in Wilmington. NO HUSHPUPPIES!!!!!

2. Irish pubs are everywhere. Lots of fun.

3. Restaurants I'd recommend: Fat Tony's, New York (I wish I were Boston) Pizza, the Trolley Stop, and Elijah's.

4. I've always wanted to live in a downtown area like this. I don't see ever getting to do it though because of my job. Where we're staying is similar to 5 points in Birmingham, or 5 points in Jacksonville. Everyone wears black and looks like their struggling art students that don't eat meat and hate W. I like being able to walk to restaurants. I like sitting outside at cafe's watching the sunset. I'm sure I'd be bored after a few months and want to move back to the sticks; but I'd like to try it for a little while.

Good times.

Wilmington

So far our trip to Wilmington has been nice but not as nice as Savannah. It was very cold Sunday and Monday so I didn't do a lot of sight seeing those days. Yesterday I had to go get my oil changed, it was supposed to be done a few weeks ago so this was the perfect time for me to get it done. Thankfully I did because 2 of my tires were about to die, Wal-Mart was not legally allowed to rotate the tires because they were so bad. Wal-Mart did not have my tire size in stock so off we went to Sam's. ( Thankfully Christina bought me a Sam's membership just last week for teacher appreciation week. It saved us $70 on the tires. ) Once the new tires were on the car Chad and I came back to the hotel to walk to the Little Dipper. The Little Dipper is a fondue restaurant, I had never been to one before. It was a neat experience, but it took forever to eat. You only get 2 skewers and each piece of meat takes about 2 minutes to cook, we didn't finish supper until 9:15 and we started at 8. We were too full to get dessert. It sounded delicious cheesecake, berries, and chocolate--yummo! Maybe we can stop by before we leave and have dessert then. Tonight we will be either trying a seafood restaurant or a place called Circa 1922.

Cape Fear?

As some of you know Chad and I are in Wilmington, North Carolina. Our hotel is right on the lake/river (or whatever it is) which is Cape Fear, we are even next to Cape Fear Community College. I am curious though as to who would name this place Cape Fear. It doesn't sound very inviting to me, I would even think that people would be deterred to move here because of it's name. It's pretty here and doesn't invoke fear at all, unless of course you are walking the streets late at night and pass a dark stinky alley but that would be scary anywhere. I need to research this but it's about time to go meet Chad for lunch. I'll write more about our trip a little later.

Columbus Cottonmouths

Friday night Chad and I went with Mitch and Jawan to watch the Columbus Cottonmouths take on the Jacksonville Baracudas. I have never been to a hockey game so it was a new experience for me and thankfully not as cold as I thought it would be. I really enjoyed it even though I didn't really understand what was going on, it was nothing like those Mighty Ducks movies. There were a few fights but most of them seemed to happen for no reason. Also, I didn't understand why they would pass the puck against the wall where the opposing team would get it instead of passing it to their own teammate. ( That part was explained to me last night so now I get it.) The coolest part about the game was that they had a special guest, John Snyder, and he drove out in the General Lee. Actually, the best part was watching Luke dance every time the music played and just hanging out with our friends.

The New Fence

Look at what a great job Chad did on our fence, he is such a handy man. I know this isn't the best picture of the fence but it is the only one I have and it's too dark to take a new one now.

Birthday fun in Jacksonville

We went to Jacksonville for my Dad's birthday. We had a great time visiting with everyone except for the fact that I've been in pain all weekend with a toothache. I got my 3rd wisdom tooth pulled on Thursday. He tried to pull #4, but after 20 minutes of jerking on it, he said I needed oral surgery to have it removed. The 3 that have been removed don't hurt at all, but the one he didn't remove is killing me. In other news, I should run out of vicatin tonight. Woo hoo!!!

Here is a picture of the birthday cake and the birthday boy. We ate this orange and blue cake right before watching the Gators get beat by Vandy. I hope they play them again in the SEC tourney. And I hope Noah "accidentally" throws the ball out of bounds and hits Vandy's idiot coach in the head. On with the pictures:

Loosing my wisdom

Why do they call them wisdom teeth? I think its because if you get them taken out, you'll truly understand what misery feels like. I got 2 down, 2 more to go in a few weeks. They were taken out yesterday afternoon around 4:00. I figured by now, I'd feel much better. I've still got gauze pads in my mouth making me look like Alvin, Simon, and Theodore's huge long lost brother. For some reason I'm incredibly tired too. I'm still swallowing blood too, though no where near as much as last night. I had aspirations of doing some computer work from home today and maybe working in the yard a little bit, but I haven't felt like doing anything. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go look pitiful for Chrissy so she'll make me a bowl of chocolate pudding. It sure is tough.

Got the Fence Post Blues

I hate paying other people to do things I know I could probably do myself for 1/2 the cost. When I finish the projects though, I usually say I'll never do anything like that again, until the next project roles around.

The newest way I've found to torture myself is putting up a 6 foot privacy fence in my back yard. The dog doesn't like going to the bathroom without one of us being out there with her, you know, for support. Fred Sanford also decided to buy the house catecorner to our property, not right behind us, but to the left of that house. So me and a friend from work started digging holes on Saturday. Digging the holes was easy, thanks to the cool auger we rented. Putting the posts in straight and getting them lined up is tough. Oh, and I don't care if I ever see another 80 lb. bag of concrete. My friend had to leave at about 3:00 in the afternoon so I was left with Chrissy helping me out. She did a great job, but I think I ended up getting her sick. She helped me Sunday after church too. About 5:00 Sunday, we got all the posts in the ground. I'm going to wait a few days for the concrete to harden and then I'll put the panels up. I'll put some pictures up when its finished. I know there is nothing more exciting than looking at pictures of a fence, but I'll be proud of it; and I'll never do anything like this again.

Fairwell Mr. Nixon

It is so difficult to have a favorite player. While watching the Red Sox around 2002, I really enjoyed the way their right fielder played. Trot Nixon was awesome. He always played hard. He got hurt a lot, but tried to play through it so I know he was tough. He had the nastiest hat in the league. The sweat stains were disgusting. He also pulled off the cool foo man choo (did I spell that right) around 2005. His contract ran out this year and the Sox failed to re-sign him. I heard they hardly even made an offer. It was obvious they were heading in another direction. Now, they still haven't got a right fielder, and the guy there after doesn't have much better numbers. Trot signed with Cleveland last week for 3 million/year. I think its a shame. There are very few players left now from the 04 Champs. And now my favorite one is gone. I'll still pull for him, except when he is playing against the Sox. I hope he has a career year this year.

But now who do I pick as a favorite? I don't want to go with Manny or Papi, because thats who everybody picks. I like Schilling, but I'd rather pick an every day player. I think my pick would have been Loretta, but they let him go too. I looked at their current roster this morning and I can't believe I forgot about this guy. I'm going with the Greek God of Walks, Kevin YoUUUUUUUUUUUkulis. I like him because he's a little bit chunky, and I can relate to that. He's smart. He hustles. You never here about him whining. And he's the Greek God of Walks.

I miss baseball. April can't get here soon enough.

In other news, a lady told me congratulations yesterday on my team's championship, when she saw my gator hat. I had a big smile on my face when I asked her which one, football or basketball. It sure is great to be a Florida Gator.

My thoughts on the Pats-Colts Game

Go Bears

Napoleon Dynamite and the Pats

My Patriots just beat LT and the Chargers. They get another chance to knock the Colts out of the playoffs. I'm feeling giddy.

In other news, Napoleon Dynamite is on comedy central. I already own the movie, yet still seeing it on TV, I can't turn away (other than to write this blog).

President Bush's address to the nation

For those who don't like to sit through speeches like me (I even have a hard time sitting through church and I've got a great preacher), you can see a great summary of Bush's last speech on Justin Taylor's blog set in a Q&A format. Here's the link: http://theologica.blogspot.com/2007/01/address-to-nation.html

Any ideas for a Vacuum Cleaner?

Any ideas on a new vacuum cleaner? Chrissy has been asking for one for months. I finally broke down and started shopping with her for a vacuum cleaner. I was amazed that the preferred vacuum of every salesman/saleswoman we talked to was also the most expensive one; the Dyson. Anybody ever heard of this brand? Before I spent $300 for a vacuum cleaner, I wanted to do a little research; or at least have Chrissy do some research. According to the internet, there is not one vacuum with 100% approval. After hours of research and talking with others, we're more confused than ever.

I bought our vacuum cleaner 1-1/2 years ago from Walmart for just under $50. Before we went shopping again, I was going to do a little troubleshooting with the one we've already got. After 15-20 minutes of dismantling this thing (worried I'd forget how to put it back together), I got to the vacuum tube. No surprise, it was full of Maggie hair and dust balls. After cleaning it out, it works like a charm. I'm still planning on getting her a new one some day so I'd still like to here some other people's suggestions/experiences. Maybe I'll get her one for her birthday (just kidding).

God sure did smile on the Gators

What a year! 1st, the Gators win the National Championship in basketball, and then in football. I guess its just great to be a Florida Gator! When people asked me what I expected to happen, I always said it would be a close game, but we'd lose. Good thing I'm not a betting man. The defense only allowed one touchdown to the undefeated Buckeyes. Heisman trophy winner Troy Smith only went 4 for 14 with 35 yards passing, one interception. Running back Antonio Pittman was held to 61 yards (they should have used him more). The Gator defense was outstanding. I guess its true what they say; If you're not a gator....

I've watched Leak play for 4 years now and he has never played a game that well, except against cupcake teams. He managed the game like a cross between Montana and Brady. He really had the game of his life. I don't expect much from him in the Pro's but you never know.

I'm excited to see whats next for Coach Meyer and the Gators. I just hope he'll be around for a while.

Go Gators!

Merry Christmas to me!!!

What a great Christmas. I got so many presents and had so much fun.

I think my favorite present was my new bed. Don't I look comfortable?

I got a new Gator collar, just in time for the National Championship game! Go Gators and Go Auburn! I also got a bunch of treats. When I sit really cute like this, I usually end up getting one.

After Christmas in Alabama, we drove to Jacksonville with cousin Caroline and cousin Olivia. Don't I look comfortable?

I had a great time with my cousins. There was never a dull moment.

I didn't get to go to the zoo with everyone, but I heard they saw lots of monkeys like these 4.

Here is another one of those monkeys.

Then we went to the lake and did a little fishing. Jason caught one. Olivia caught 4 including this one.

Chad caught one too. Wasn't it huge?

We even got to do a little horseback riding (the kids, not me).

I hope all of your Christmas' were as good as mine.

Popes Farm with the Home Group

We went to Popes Farm last Sunday with the home group. Chrissy got her picture taken with Santa for the 1st time ever. There is nothing better for getting you in the Christmas spirit than a hay ride, bonfire, and hot chocolate with friends.

The group and Santa

Andrew, Mitch, Jawan, Luke, Jennifer, and Amelia

Elizabeth, Chrissy, Chad, and Seth (with a really bad hat)

Happy Birthday Luke!!!!!!!!

Luke is now 1 years old! Doesn't he look excited?

Tina in Florida?

Tina, you fat lard, come get some DINNER!... Tina, eat. Eat your FOOD!

UF-FSU

Saturday, we visited Tallahassee. So much fun. I think this picture says it all.

Chrissy and JD

I'll show you the beginning and the end. You'll have to get Chrissy fill you in on what happened in the middle.

Chrissy and JD begin their journey:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLoqwNsq_wg

The return of Chrissy and JD:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGzmZzEN09w

Thanksgiving Fun

Me and Chrissy had a great time this Thanksgiving. We did a good bit of traveling as well. We drove to Jacksonville on Tuesday.

We went to Gainesville on Wednesday (Chrissy's future home?). It was freezing. I don't remember it ever being that cold.

Got to go to the swamp and the O-dome. Do you see what it says on top of the O-dome?

Went to Orange Park, Florida to visit friends Wednesday night.

Spent time with the family for Thanksgiving. Did a little fishin.

Went to St. Augustine on Friday. Chrissy rode a donkey for her first and probably her last time; more to come when I figure out how to download video to blogger.

Saw the Christmas tree lighting on the river in Jacksonville with some friends.

I'll write about Saturday and Sunday later. They are both worthy of their own blog.

Fun times, but I'm glad to be home

Matsuzaka?

Due to popular demand (thanks Abbie), I'd like to talk a little baseball. I guess I should start by giving my opinion of the Matsuzaka situation. For those of you who don't know, the Seibu Lions from Japan have a hotshot pitcher who some project would be an ace on any team in the major leagues. Obviously, they wouldn't want to release him from his contract unless they were paid bigtime. Seibu decided they would have a closed bid for all major league teams to see who was willing to offer the most money for the rights to negotiate with him. Everyone was expecting the Yankees to come in with the highest bid but surprisingly, the Sox were highest bidder. They bid 51.1 million when the next highest was 42 million. If they can't come to terms with the Mat, he will stay with the Lions and the Sox don't have to pay a thing. AAAAAAND, the bad guys can't pick him up either. If they come to terms, they will pay the Lions the 51.1 million and pay a salary of probably around 10 mil a year. It seems at first glance that this is a terrible idea, but there are other factors:

1. As I said before, the Yankees can't get him.
2. Some say that Japan is the new Dominican Republic (Look at the best players in the game today, and see how many are from the Dominican). It might be a big market in the future.
3. He was lights out in the World Baseball Classic. He's already prooven he can be clutch without throwing an MLB pitch.

I think it might be a bit much to pay for him, but maybe it will work out. I wouldn't say the Sox have made the best moves in the last few years. Beckett hasn't met expectations. They traded Hanley Ramirez (a potential allstar). I'm starting to wonder if the 04 Series was just fate, not front office intelligence.

Things to look forward too: Schilling is still there, Papelbon should be a starter, we still have a guy named Wily Mo. Only 5 more months until baseball season starts again.

Until then, Go Pats, Go Jags, Go Gators, and as always, GO SOX!!!

Chrissy's new wheels

After months of discussion and debate, we finally decided on a vehicle. Meet Lester, the Highlander. How did we get the name Lester? I just made it up. Lets see how long it takes for Chrissy to read this and change the name.

Reunion 06

Yep,

Its that time again. The McLeod Family Reunion was held last weekend. Highlights:

1. Watching the Clemson GT game with the family.

2. The horse auction. They had the guy that talks real fast and everything.

3. Chrissy getting to see my chin for the first time (see pictures below).

4. Getting in a wreck a few days before, and the other guy's insurance company renting us a Toyota Rav4 to take to the reunion. The good thing about that is that its one of the vehicles Chrissy is thinking about buying, so she's had a chance to drive it for a while.

5. Reeeeeeeeeeally good food.

I'm watching game 5 of the World Series. Detroit's up 2-1, but I don't know if they'll be able to hold the lead. Its a sad time when baseball is almost over. Atleast there is still football to fall back on. Anyways, on with the pics:

Pumpkin Patch

Saturday was a great day. Chad's parent's and Nana came up to visit and so did Caroline and Olivia. The men went and did their own thing and us girls went to the pumpkin patch. We road on a hay ride and went through the pumpkin maze. The girls picked out 2 pumpkins a piece and later decorated them while I had to do a little work at the church. I meant to pick out a pumpkin for our porch but I couldn't decide which one I wnated (I'm not creative enough to decorate it like the girls did). I think that Chad needs to go with me and help me out. I think that everyone had a good time, I know I did. It's weird but I have never been to a pumpkin patch until last year when Jawan took me, I don't think that I had even heard of one before. Do all towns have one?

Brian's Birthday

This past Sunday was Brian's birthday, so Chad, Maggie and I went up to Oxford for the celebration. Friday night we went to eat with one of my best friends Carolyn. We had a great time hangning out and talking. That night Chad and Dad went to play tennis, big surprise there. Saturday Mom and I made a pound cake for Brian's birthday cake and Chad and Dad went and played tennis again. Dad grilled out some steaks and we all had a great lunch. We also watched the Florida game, go Gators! Guess what Chad and Dad did after that? You guessed it, they went to play tennis again but this time I got to go with them.

Reunion.

It's hard to believe that it has been 10 years since high school, but it has and last weekend was my reunion. It only feels like it's been a year or two (except for all of the kids everyone has, Chad and I are really behind). Chad has had a fun time teasing me about how old I am. Friday night we went to my high school's football game. I had a great time seeing everyone especially Abbie and Gina. I wished the game could have lasted longer so I would have had more time to see everyone. Chad and I had to miss the dinner Saturday night, but I did get a chance to hang out with Abbie and Marla afterwards. Well on to the pictures.

Here is Abbie and her daughter Zoe.















Here is Gina.















Here is Marla and Abbie.















And here is a cute picture of Chad and Maggie.

The Dog Days of Summer

Saturdays are usually the best days of the week since both Chad and Chrissy are home to play with me. Not so today. Chrissy has had a cold and laid around the house all day. Chad hasn't played with me much either. He was too busy watching football. Then they went to see a movie (Lady in the Water (Not worth the price of admission (even at the $1.50 movie (It was weird and the people in front of them wouldn't stop talking (Chad told me all about it when he got home (I'm using too many parentheses (I'm going to stop now))))))). I'm not going to be all negative though. There were a few good things that happened. Like I got to go on a walk, and I got to go for a short ride in the truck to the grocery store. Well, gotta go. Chrissy is making banana pudding and she's been known to drop a few crumbs from time to time.

The Things You Here.....

The things you here when you're around youngsters. We had an 80th birthday surprise party for my grandmother. It was a special time for our family. Here are some quotes from my nieces and nephews and one by a parent:

"Owen, Don't hit Uncle Chad in the ding dong"

"Mommy, when I think about that picture of your big butt, I can't stop laughing"

"Mommy, do I have to play with the neighbors? They're really weird."

"I may not be the smarted kid in my class, but I am the most fabulous."

I'm not convinced I will enjoy parenthood, but I sure will be entertained.

The Birthday Girl

The most fabulous kid in the class

The Big One Year Anniversary

I just have to tell you that I have a wonderful husband in case any of you did not already know that. Chad planned our entire anniversary weekend and kept it a secret from me until the night before the trip. He lined up a sub for me on Friday and we took off to Atlanta (actually we went to Oxford first to drop off Maggie). That night we got all dressed up, Chad even wore a tie, and he took me to the Sun Dial. It is a great restaurant with a great view. It is on the 72nd floor of a hotel. We had an excellent view going up the glass elevator and at our table. If you look closely you can see the Braves game in the background, maybe that's why he chose to eat there. Saturday we went to The Cheesecake Factory for lunch, I love that place. That night we went to the Braves game, and even though they lost we still had a good time.