Oh that Holiday Season! In my particular family there are many reasons to celebrate! My Brother's birthday was on the 18th, Christmas, MY birthday (30th) and then New Year's...finally to top it off-Mardi Gras!!! Whew...I am tired just typing all of it!
My family has a different kind of Christmas tradition-we eat Steak on Christmas Eve rather than the traditional meal. We all gather together, go to Church for Communion, and then eat steak and linger after to open a few presents and catch up. After the majority of the family leaves it is just my immediate family and Janice and Gene (Dog) Strickland. We all trade presents and then the other different tradition begins-we roll Mom's change. Yes, I know it's rather strange. In fact, I would need to ask Neil because I honestly can't tell you when this started! I know we have been doing it for at least 5 years-the giggles at Dog and Neil struggling to get down & roll the money are so worth it to DeAnn and me!
I love to get presents for people that I know they will enjoy-it makes me so very excited! I enjoyed so many of the presents that I got for people this year! It was a very Merry Christmas! I loved the extra time with my family and friends!
On the horizon-is my birthday on Friday and then New Year's, which also happens to be FAB's Birthday. Finally Mardi Gras. This is my last year on the float so I am going out with a bang!! Ready for my Float 4 girls!! :)
Talk to you sooN!
Reese
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Monday, December 19, 2011
SKYDIVING!
So I booked this right as I was starting this whole journey. And although it is good for 2 years I am going to be jumping on my birthday!!! I am so excited! I get to pick 2 songs...wonder what I should choose!
Talk to ya soon!
Reese
Talk to ya soon!
Reese
Sunday, December 18, 2011
GRAND Canyon! (part 1)
Mother Nature was just a show-off.
Mom and I knew it was going to be cold and we packed accordingly. We lost basically a dayflying there and a day coming back. But we planned it so that I didn't have to take much time off work at all. When our plane touched down in Flagstaff we knew we were in for a rollercoaster-there was snow everywhere. And not just a little snow...a few inches.
We went to Enterprise to get our car and we had heard that the I-40 was closed, so we asked if there was another way to get to the Canyon. Now before I go further let me tell you that we made plans for ourselves which is why we got the car. We thought we would be able to do some driving and go to see the Painted Desert, Montezuma's Castle, and other things. The nice gentleman at Enterprise said that there was another way and we got those directions.
On the way up we stopped at a Target to get necessities (at least for us) Diet Mt. Dew for Mom and Sobe water for Me and a few snacks for us both. And off we went. Mom and I were both a little worried about driving on the snow/ice. But there were others out driving in cars that were smaller than ours-plus there was someone in front of us almost the whole way there. We liked that too.
Once inside the park we slowly made our way to the lodge. It was dark and very cold by this point. I think we were both ready to put our stuff down and chill out from the plane ride to the car ride, it was taking a toll on us. So we took our luggage inside and checked-in, where we were promptly told our cabin was just down there and we could drive if we wanted to. I think Mom and I both wanted to laugh hysterically or sob-but we "womaned" up and took our stuff down to the cabin. OHHHH the warmth when we opened that door! They hadn't left the light on for us, but they had left the heat on! We unloaded and got comfortable! It was great but we were starving. We hadn't eaten since our quick breakfast on our layover in Charlotte. So we decided to go to the lodge for dinner and we were in bed by 8 that night!
We had looked over the options of lectures and things at dinner so we knew we wanted to do the nature walk at 10 and it was a great place to start-because it was at the visitors center. We got there early enough to catch the movie and then we went on our walk and got our very first glimpse of the canyon! Ty, the park ranger who gave the lecture, we informative and funny. He told us about the plant life, wild life, and how the canyon impacts them all. He answered all of our silly questions and I had tried to convince Mom that we should try the trail to the geology museum. Ty helped me out and told us that he thought it would be clear so off we went! During the walk one of us would just stop because we saw something that just took our breath away. Pictures do not exactly do it justice because the scale is something that is very hard to catch.
The day started out a little overcast and gloomy-but as you can see the sun is starting to peek out!!
Mom and I knew it was going to be cold and we packed accordingly. We lost basically a dayflying there and a day coming back. But we planned it so that I didn't have to take much time off work at all. When our plane touched down in Flagstaff we knew we were in for a rollercoaster-there was snow everywhere. And not just a little snow...a few inches.
We went to Enterprise to get our car and we had heard that the I-40 was closed, so we asked if there was another way to get to the Canyon. Now before I go further let me tell you that we made plans for ourselves which is why we got the car. We thought we would be able to do some driving and go to see the Painted Desert, Montezuma's Castle, and other things. The nice gentleman at Enterprise said that there was another way and we got those directions.
On the way up we stopped at a Target to get necessities (at least for us) Diet Mt. Dew for Mom and Sobe water for Me and a few snacks for us both. And off we went. Mom and I were both a little worried about driving on the snow/ice. But there were others out driving in cars that were smaller than ours-plus there was someone in front of us almost the whole way there. We liked that too.
 |
| Mom driving up...a little white knuckled!! |
Once inside the park we slowly made our way to the lodge. It was dark and very cold by this point. I think we were both ready to put our stuff down and chill out from the plane ride to the car ride, it was taking a toll on us. So we took our luggage inside and checked-in, where we were promptly told our cabin was just down there and we could drive if we wanted to. I think Mom and I both wanted to laugh hysterically or sob-but we "womaned" up and took our stuff down to the cabin. OHHHH the warmth when we opened that door! They hadn't left the light on for us, but they had left the heat on! We unloaded and got comfortable! It was great but we were starving. We hadn't eaten since our quick breakfast on our layover in Charlotte. So we decided to go to the lodge for dinner and we were in bed by 8 that night!
 |
| Our little lodge! |
We had looked over the options of lectures and things at dinner so we knew we wanted to do the nature walk at 10 and it was a great place to start-because it was at the visitors center. We got there early enough to catch the movie and then we went on our walk and got our very first glimpse of the canyon! Ty, the park ranger who gave the lecture, we informative and funny. He told us about the plant life, wild life, and how the canyon impacts them all. He answered all of our silly questions and I had tried to convince Mom that we should try the trail to the geology museum. Ty helped me out and told us that he thought it would be clear so off we went! During the walk one of us would just stop because we saw something that just took our breath away. Pictures do not exactly do it justice because the scale is something that is very hard to catch.
 |
| Our first view of the Grand Canyon!! |
The start of the hiking!!
Elba Tigers were playing for the 2A State Championship and we were supporting them in our way!
ELK!!!
These were both taken at one of our favorite overlooks! Mom wouldn't go out quite as far as I would but the view was amazing!
We loved this! We thought it looked just like a deer!!
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| I like to put things into perspective! There is zoomed all the way in....see the people on the ridge?! |
 |
| This is the same perspective just zoomed out! Hope that gives you an idea of what we were looking at!!! |
Happy Birthdays & Kudos!!!
Today is my Baby Brother's Birthday! I know I was a happy girl the day he was born and little did I know the roller coaster ride I would go on! I remember fighting with Neil when we were young-but no one was ever able to mess with him. Big sister to the rescue if that happened. When we were both in school at Troy-I know I drove him crazy, but we had some wonderful times together. I know that for many reasons this is why we are such great friends. I know he is always there when I need him, and even though sometimes I am sure he thinks I am strange, he loves me and knows I am there for him. When Neil had his amputation surgeries he asked for me and DeAnn. I know that this might have hurt Mom's feelings but Neil knows he can be well...let's say "frank" with D and me. That's how we are. I just revel in getting the perfect gift for someone and Neil heard about his present all weekend! I had reasons to be so proud he loved it! The Kudos are for DeAnn-we just found out that she passed a BIG test in her profession and she can breathe a sigh of relief after a month or so of waiting!
One thing some of you may not know is that today-29 years ago there was another celebration going on. After Mom had Neil-she picked up the phone to call Daphne where her niece Helen was living. Helen answered the phone and Mom told Helen that she had the best BIRTHDAY present ever for her....a NEW BABY COUSIN! That's right Neil was born on our cousin Helen's birthday! I have called her and wished her a Happy Birthday. One of the great things about my moving around is that living in the Daphne/Fairhope area for 4 years I really got to know Helen and her brood, Bryan & Joey, and Uncle Lewey and Aunt Sharon. I treasure those friendships and in fact called today to plan a trip down there!!
As I wrap this up, I realize how blessed I am with such wonderful family and friends! This year has been a wonderful ride! Thank you to everyone for your help and support!
One thing some of you may not know is that today-29 years ago there was another celebration going on. After Mom had Neil-she picked up the phone to call Daphne where her niece Helen was living. Helen answered the phone and Mom told Helen that she had the best BIRTHDAY present ever for her....a NEW BABY COUSIN! That's right Neil was born on our cousin Helen's birthday! I have called her and wished her a Happy Birthday. One of the great things about my moving around is that living in the Daphne/Fairhope area for 4 years I really got to know Helen and her brood, Bryan & Joey, and Uncle Lewey and Aunt Sharon. I treasure those friendships and in fact called today to plan a trip down there!!
As I wrap this up, I realize how blessed I am with such wonderful family and friends! This year has been a wonderful ride! Thank you to everyone for your help and support!
Monday, November 28, 2011
Black (& Gold) Friday
Thursday was a wonderful day to spend with my family. The sun was out, there was a nice breeze and we had a slew of Granthams at my Dad's house. We ate some of the best food I have ever put into my mouth and when it was over I seriously considered piling up with Dad on the couch and sleeping the rest of the afternoon. But I knew I would be disappointed with myself if I did this. I put my boots on and got into the car with Roxie and we drove back to Tuscaloosa.
I got home and started piddling with a few things that I knew needed to get done and finally I checked in with "Command Headquarters" in Dothan. See, after Mom and Dad's divorce Dad got the "Thanksgiving" holiday. Mom would drop us off, kill a little time and head to Dothan to do some "Black Friday" shopping with Aunt Jenny. I'm not sure it was called "Black Friday" when they started but they have perpetuated it. Last year was my first time participating as it was in Tuscaloosa with the Iron Bowl being in town. I had a TON of fun so I knew I had to check in with them to see how things were going and if they needed anything from me. They assured me they were good, but 30 minutes later they were calling asking me to go to Wal-Mart. I have been looking for a good opportunity to do some walking/standing in my new hiking boots so I threw them on and off I went for the 10 o'clock sale for sheets, pillows and towels.
When I got to Wal-Mart I immediately found the sheets and got right behind this woman who I later found out was from Louisiana. We of coursed talked about wanting to play each other again in football and great talk being as we were with each other for at least another hour and 1/2. I promise I will NEVER again in my life do this-but at 10 to 10 one Wal-Mart person was saying go and the other was saying stop. The crowd pushed in and I really do have a bruise on my hip from hitting the bin that the sheets were in. First of all there were only about 7 king and 7 queen sheets and most of those had been sorted and the people only had to pick them up. Secondly the bin was so deep that for me to help this one woman get her king sheet set (the last in the bin) that she had to work it up from the bottom with her fingers through the bin and I leaned over 1/2 way into the bin. Then a woman tried to steal it from me and I gave it to the lady and said "Let's get out of here" as a set of Full Sheets came grazing across my ear. Yes the lady who tried to steal the sheets threw them at me. I thanked her as nicely as my southern belle mother taught me and didn't look back. I will NEVER again do that but I LOVE to see what people are getting, help when I can and just watch. I know I shouldn't but this one woman was SO excited about the play Barbie car she got for her daughter and many other situations like that! I got out of there and was home and in bet by 11.
Friday morning was gorgeous and a great day for some football. I busied myself getting everything ready and when Neil, DeAnn, Dad, Jerry, Buford and Tommy pulled into the driveway I was just pulling the Buffalo Chicken Dip out of the oven! Perfect timing.
It took Neil a few minutes (and some grumbling) to get what he wanted on the TV (I apparently didn't have 1 station he wanted) but then we were off! I had chicken balls on the grill that were hot and ready to serve right as the LSU v Arkansas game was kicked off!
Throughout the game more and more Elba fans showed up! I was in heaven! I love to have people over and it was great. Finally FAB and her parents showed up and the party was on! After the LSU game we loaded up to head to ACA for the REAL football game! Elba vs ACA. The Elba Tigers showed what a great football team they are although they again struggled with penalties that cost more than just yardage. However they won and will be playing here in Tuscaloosa this Friday at 3.
Unfortunately I won't be here as Mom and I had planned our Grand Canyon trip for this weekend. We fly out early Thursday morning! I am STOKED! However life keeps you grounded by reminding you that there are MANY things that need to be done before you leave and that is just NO fun! It reminds me a lot of getting that paper done before Spring Break or Christmas.
Just wanted to update you all on what all was going on! It's going to be a crazy end to a fabulous year...and the good thing about NOT finishing my list...it leaves something to look forward to for next year!
I got home and started piddling with a few things that I knew needed to get done and finally I checked in with "Command Headquarters" in Dothan. See, after Mom and Dad's divorce Dad got the "Thanksgiving" holiday. Mom would drop us off, kill a little time and head to Dothan to do some "Black Friday" shopping with Aunt Jenny. I'm not sure it was called "Black Friday" when they started but they have perpetuated it. Last year was my first time participating as it was in Tuscaloosa with the Iron Bowl being in town. I had a TON of fun so I knew I had to check in with them to see how things were going and if they needed anything from me. They assured me they were good, but 30 minutes later they were calling asking me to go to Wal-Mart. I have been looking for a good opportunity to do some walking/standing in my new hiking boots so I threw them on and off I went for the 10 o'clock sale for sheets, pillows and towels.
When I got to Wal-Mart I immediately found the sheets and got right behind this woman who I later found out was from Louisiana. We of coursed talked about wanting to play each other again in football and great talk being as we were with each other for at least another hour and 1/2. I promise I will NEVER again in my life do this-but at 10 to 10 one Wal-Mart person was saying go and the other was saying stop. The crowd pushed in and I really do have a bruise on my hip from hitting the bin that the sheets were in. First of all there were only about 7 king and 7 queen sheets and most of those had been sorted and the people only had to pick them up. Secondly the bin was so deep that for me to help this one woman get her king sheet set (the last in the bin) that she had to work it up from the bottom with her fingers through the bin and I leaned over 1/2 way into the bin. Then a woman tried to steal it from me and I gave it to the lady and said "Let's get out of here" as a set of Full Sheets came grazing across my ear. Yes the lady who tried to steal the sheets threw them at me. I thanked her as nicely as my southern belle mother taught me and didn't look back. I will NEVER again do that but I LOVE to see what people are getting, help when I can and just watch. I know I shouldn't but this one woman was SO excited about the play Barbie car she got for her daughter and many other situations like that! I got out of there and was home and in bet by 11.
Friday morning was gorgeous and a great day for some football. I busied myself getting everything ready and when Neil, DeAnn, Dad, Jerry, Buford and Tommy pulled into the driveway I was just pulling the Buffalo Chicken Dip out of the oven! Perfect timing.
It took Neil a few minutes (and some grumbling) to get what he wanted on the TV (I apparently didn't have 1 station he wanted) but then we were off! I had chicken balls on the grill that were hot and ready to serve right as the LSU v Arkansas game was kicked off!
Throughout the game more and more Elba fans showed up! I was in heaven! I love to have people over and it was great. Finally FAB and her parents showed up and the party was on! After the LSU game we loaded up to head to ACA for the REAL football game! Elba vs ACA. The Elba Tigers showed what a great football team they are although they again struggled with penalties that cost more than just yardage. However they won and will be playing here in Tuscaloosa this Friday at 3.
Unfortunately I won't be here as Mom and I had planned our Grand Canyon trip for this weekend. We fly out early Thursday morning! I am STOKED! However life keeps you grounded by reminding you that there are MANY things that need to be done before you leave and that is just NO fun! It reminds me a lot of getting that paper done before Spring Break or Christmas.
Just wanted to update you all on what all was going on! It's going to be a crazy end to a fabulous year...and the good thing about NOT finishing my list...it leaves something to look forward to for next year!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
We Love Those Elba Boys!
It has been a while!
So here is my not so great excuse...I have taken over a new caseload at work. I am back to working with high school students and I am really excited! Although it is a large caseload and you know it takes a while to make new work things your own after taking over for someone else.
Mom and I leave for the Grand Canyon on December 1st!!! We are both SO very excited! We have been planning and shopping and getting ready for the trip.
It's the season of Thanksgiving and I am so thankful so many things. The older and get the more thankful I am for the childhood I had. Elba, Alabama was a great place to grow up and the football team is playing here in Tuscaloosa on Friday night! How do I not come back from Thanksgiving and NOT support my ELBA TIGERS!!! If you are unable to make it to Tuscaloosa on Friday you can listen to the game live at WEEVIL 101 http://weevil101.com/
So yes....We love those Elba boys cause their from Elba High! They were most anything from blue jeans on down! We go out on Friday nights just to see the Tigers fight We love the Elba Boys cause their from Elba HIGH! Yeah BLACK YEAH GOLD! Yeah Tigers LETS GO!!!
I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving and I will talk to you soon! I hope you all have safe travels!!
So here is my not so great excuse...I have taken over a new caseload at work. I am back to working with high school students and I am really excited! Although it is a large caseload and you know it takes a while to make new work things your own after taking over for someone else.
Mom and I leave for the Grand Canyon on December 1st!!! We are both SO very excited! We have been planning and shopping and getting ready for the trip.
It's the season of Thanksgiving and I am so thankful so many things. The older and get the more thankful I am for the childhood I had. Elba, Alabama was a great place to grow up and the football team is playing here in Tuscaloosa on Friday night! How do I not come back from Thanksgiving and NOT support my ELBA TIGERS!!! If you are unable to make it to Tuscaloosa on Friday you can listen to the game live at WEEVIL 101 http://weevil101.com/
So yes....We love those Elba boys cause their from Elba High! They were most anything from blue jeans on down! We go out on Friday nights just to see the Tigers fight We love the Elba Boys cause their from Elba HIGH! Yeah BLACK YEAH GOLD! Yeah Tigers LETS GO!!!
I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving and I will talk to you soon! I hope you all have safe travels!!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Catch Up with Pictures!
So to recap on what I have posted-but haven't shown the pictures of...
UGH! I hate the picture but yes...it is me acting like I am throwning a ball on the field of Bryant Denny Stadium! Yes I did actually throw it once we were done playing and taking pictures...so I can check that one off the list!
That is my brother and me at the Alabama vs. Ole Miss game! We went up to Tunica MS on Thursday night, Graceland on Friday and down to the game on Saturday! It was a whirlwind road trip but sooo much fun hanging with Dad and Neil!!
Although Dad wasn't on my list for this item specifically he is probably the biggest reason that I know as much about Elvis as I do (and he knows so much probably because of my Aunt B). It was great him being with me at Graceland and checking this one off my list! The tour was wonderful and the car museum was just amazing!!! 
A Phi Mu thing...the Lion in front of Graceland was begging for me to have my picture taken with it!
Dad and Neil at the back of Graceland...listening to their tour!
Elvis' logo on his grave
More pictures of Memphis to follow later...hope you enjoyed this quick catch up!!!
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