One last beach trip - now football season can officially begin!

I've always thought football season shouldn't begin until October. This year, we decided to make it a reality in our home. So we gave into the high-rise condo with the giant pool but no character, but we had a wonderful time at Orange Beach. We arrived incredibly late on Thursday night. If you've ever stayed in a one-bedroom condo in America, you've probably noticed they almost all have the bedroom on the back side of the condo away from the beach! How stupid is that? If I'm going to the beach, I want to hear the ocean constantly. So . . . my dear husband at 1:30 am Friday morning moved the mattress out of the bedroom and into the living room so I could be closer to the ocean. How sweet! We had great sun, food, and drinks! The only downer was that we thought we were going to get to watch the UGA game and were bummed that it wasn't carried on the cable in the condo. If you can handle missing a football game, I highly recommend a September beach trip.

Welcome, UGA VII

Loran's Best - welcome to the UGA family! Poor dog has no clue what has just happened to him!

She's here!

Cricket Sol Peeples arrived this afternoon in Asheville, NC. Baby and Mom are doing well. Congratulations Gary, Molly, and Madeline! We love you and miss you!

Truly a post for those who really want to know what we're up to . . .

David spent some of this afternoon practicing what he learned in Golf School until I interrupted for help in the kitchen with our dish for a Carmax potluck we're going to this evening. I ran the Overton 5-Mile Classic on Saturday and it was a lot of fun. The course included pavement, grass, and trails so there was never a dull moment. D and I are both now planning to run the St. Jude 1/2 Marathon in December. I am posting about this so YOU will hold us accountable for our training. (Especially me because I tend to get to about ten miles and get bored.) This morning we went to church and think we're just about ready to join. Hallelujah! Church hopping isn't much fun. The church is St. John's Episcopal . More to come on how this progresses for us.

Saturday we worked in the yard (Surprise!) and shopped. D ordered new running shoes for his extra-wide feet. I found the cutest Easter plate at the Williams & Sonoma outlet for cheap, cheap, cheap. For a shopping break, we took part in an American ritual that we NEVER do. We went to Startbucks, sat on the patio, and had a coffee and smoothie. I think it was a smoothie D had - looked fruity/frozen and wasn't coffee. It was practically a whole new experience for us. (I know, it is shocking for you Starbuckolics out there!) The best part of Saturday was going to bed at 10:00 and not getting up until 9:00! Tahoe wasn't too pleased, but I was!

In Tahoe's corner this week, he has found something new to bark at! Our neighborhood has hired a security patrol and the patrollers ride through the streets on bikes. Well, everytime one rides by, Tahoe has to tell us. I'm so glad we have our golden retriever to warn us of the scary patrolmen!

We're waiting!

This little family, plus Mom most of all, is waiting on the arrival of our second niece. Every time the phone has rung this weekend, I've dashed through the house to grab it hoping for news from Gary of a little lady on the way, but nope, she isn't ready. We wish and pray for a speedy and safe delivery for Molly and a healthy baby for all!

Short on pictures but big on FUN!

David was kind enough to go see a local production of High School Musical with me. A friend from work was playing Coach Bolton. I thoroughly enjoyed. D says he did. I'm not asking any questions!

In other news, D has taken up golf lessons. For those who play with him, I'm sure you're estatic! Of course the pro (Is that what they're called in golf?) has already recommended him get news clubs. Thanks, Man! I went to Charlotte last week for a conference and of course had a wonderful time. We had the chance to go rafting at the US National Whitewater Center . The rapids were man-made but I still had a great time. The Center offers a variety of outdoor sports including kayaking, running trails, climbing walls, rafting, etc. and is an amazing complex. I would love to have one in Memphis. I would go all the time.

A few have asked about the bathroom counter from Home Depot. Amazingly, the replacement was perfect and it has been installed with the help of a great handyman who was able to cut it to fit our oh, so tiny bathroom. The next home improvement project will either be a fence or a new master bathroom. I'd prefer the bathroom, but if you saw my dear neighbor's yard, you'd know why we're considering the fence. (Hate to be negative but prefer to be honest!)

Have a great week.

It's Elvis Week! Let's Run!

Tahoe tries on the race shirt. He doesn't seem to mind it!

I think I'm getting him a sweater this winter. Just don't tell D!

D by the gates of Graceland

M in front of Graceland after the race