Rebecca's Blog

Snow in Atlanta!

2009-03-01T18:52:00.002-05:00

We have snow today! Here is the view from my balcony, around 1pm.

Here are some pictures of the Cathedral of St. Philip.

In just a few weeks, these trees on the Cathedral property, right on Peachtree Road, will be in full bloom. I'll take a photo then so you can see how beautiful they will be!

In Memoriam

2009-02-20T14:47:00.011-05:00

Lucy

Here you are, the first time I ever saw you, 10 weeks old, sitting under a shelf at the breeder's kennel. You were the cutest puppy we'd ever seen! Willson immediately chose you as her puppy. Okay, so you were very shy and didn't want to hang out with the other puppies, but you immediately loved Willson. She'd been planning on finding you for several years, ever since she first saw a Berner in Nantucket. We'd driven up to Greensboro, NC to meet you and bring you home. It was a very happy day.

Here you are, so happy to be sitting in your new mom's lap for the first time. Soon after I took this picture, we put you in the car with us and began the drive home. You were Willson's first child and she was a wonderful mother for you!

Here you are, with Willson, arriving in Nantucket on the ferry from Hyannis. I think you loved Nantucket as much as any place you ever visited. Maybe it was because the weather suited you so well, or maybe it was the beach. You really loved the beach and digging in the sand!

Sometimes you would come to spend the night with me, even though I wasn't allowed to have you in my building. You would hang out with me, no matter where I was. You especially liked sitting in my chair and on the sofa in the living room. Remember that time you busted me after I let you sit on your mom and dad's sofa at their new house? That was funny.

Lucy, I will miss you more than I can even imagine right now. Even though I am very sad, I know that you were one very happy doggie with your mom and dad. Here you are with them at my house the first Christmas after they met. We are all going to miss you very much. I love you, Lucy!

2009-01-04T08:10:00.002-05:00

HAPPY

NEW

YEAR !

Merry Christmas!

2009-01-02T11:31:00.003-05:00

Hi John, what are you doing?

I'm just hanging out, playing in this crate while I wait for Christmas to come. I am being a VERY GOOD BOY so Santa will come to visit me!

Did you have your picture taken with Santa this year?

Yes. At first I was afraid and I might have cried and tried to get away from Santa, but when mom and dad sat with me, I was okay. Here I am with mom and dad in front of our tree.

So, did Santa leave gifts for you on Christmas morning?

YES! Santa brought a train and more toys, too. I had a wonderful Christmas!

Happy New Year to all of you!

Christmas Treats!

2008-12-22T12:57:00.003-05:00

Emmie came over to play with me yesterday and we found some chocolate kisses in the living room! Emmie said I could have one and she helped me upwrap it. I love chocolate!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-28T11:52:00.003-05:00

STILL the cutest child in the world!!!

John is TWO !

2008-08-16T14:18:00.004-04:00

We had lots of balloons for the party. John loves balloons!

All ready for the party and waiting for my friends to arrive!

Yum, a juice box!

All my friends went swimming before we had lunch and birthday cake!

Birthdays are so much fun! Eating cake isn't bad either!

Nantucket, More, More

2008-08-09T20:13:00.002-04:00

Driving down Polpis Road

Nantucket Harbor Boat Trip

Nantucket Wildflower Farm truck on Main Street

John's first boat ride!

Bartlett Farms

Nantucket Beach Club

An annual race of the waiters from various restaurants. They have to carry a glass of water and a bottle and cannot spill any of it as they run around several blocks downtown. So funny!

Boat in the pond at Madakat

Another flower market on Main Street!

Nantucket, More

2008-08-09T19:29:00.004-04:00

Brant Point

John has a cookie at the Sconset Market

Looking up Main Street

Hydrangeas in full bloom

Picket fences everywhere

A flower market at the bottom of Main Street

One of my favorite artists, Jan Palowski

Baxter Road Beach Cottage in Sconset

More Baxter Road Real Estate

Follow the dirt road to Paradise

One of many ponds on Polpis Road

Mail delivery for the entire neighborhood in Squam

Nantucket, no words necessary

2008-07-15T18:40:00.007-04:00

A visit with the Wynns

2008-07-15T17:02:00.002-04:00

My nephew, Rick and his family came out to the Cape last weekend and we met at their club for lunch. Here are twins Julia and Haley in the pool.

Here are Julia, Haley, brothers Oliver and Charlie with a friend at lunch.

Here are my sister Elaine with son Rick and Suzanne

We had a great visit and I hope to see them again next weekend!

On to Cape Cod

2008-07-15T13:01:00.002-04:00

It wasn't a long drive from Kennebunkport back down to the Cape, so I just enjoyed the beautiful weather. I've probably never seen so many boats!

The Fourth of July on Cape Cod is very busy, as each town has a parade and there are many fireworks displays, too. I drove along 6A (the quiet side of the Cape) and watched all of the festivities. Happy Fourth!

Hydrangeas are everywhere, and in full bloom!

Blue Skies and a Fishing Village

2008-07-15T12:13:00.002-04:00

One day, the only day it didn't rain, I headed north toward Boothbay Harbor and Camden. The sky was so beautiful, I just had to take a picture, so I put my camera on top of the steering wheel and here it is!

But soon the road became two lanes and the traffic was horrible, so I had to turn back south. I went out to Cape Porpoise, a very charming little fishing village and saw the lobster boats in the harbor. The village is quite charming as you'll see below:

Being in Maine for two weeks was wonderful, even if it did rain every single day but one!

Freeport: boring

2008-06-25T16:48:00.004-04:00

Freeport had one cool thing, otherwise... a big yawn!

I knew that Freeport was home to many brand name outlet stores, as well as being home base for LL Bean, so how do you NOT go to LL Bean when you are in Maine? I had visions of buying Christmas gifts and something for John's 2nd birthday... Well, Freeport is one big outlet mall, and its the same stores you'll see up at Dawsonville, GA.

I went in the LL Bean outlet store and didn't see even ONE thing that I was tempted to buy. Maybe if I needed luggage or another tote bag, but I don't... and there wasn't even a tee-shirt that tempted me for John. So, I left zero dollars in Freeport.

The one cool thing? LL Bean offers free concerts every weekend during the summer months and the band was setting up as I arrived. People had already claimed their spots w/ lawn chairs and the music was going to begin at 7pm, but I didn't stay. What a great marketing thing for LL Bean!

Smelling the Rosa Rugosa

2008-06-25T16:30:00.003-04:00

This ornamental plant, Rosa Rugosa is found all over the coastal areas that I travel in the summer. I first noticed this beautiful plant in Nantucket many years ago, and then again on the Cape, and now again in Maine! After being in the pollution of the city during the winter where I cannot smell anything, it is always so wonderful to come north where the air is clean and smell the roses!

From Wikipedia: The sweetly scented flowers are used to make pot-pourri in Japan and China, where it has been cultivated for about a thousand years. This species hybridises readily with many other roses, and is valued by rose breeders for its considerable resistance to the diseases rose rust and rose black spot. It is also extremely tolerant of seaside salt spray and storms, commonly being the first shrub in from the coast.

Portland

2008-06-25T16:21:00.003-04:00

Views of Casco Bay from Portland's Eastern Promenade

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception sits on top of the hill in downtown Portland

Back to the USA. More Maine!

2008-06-23T16:15:00.004-04:00

Who knew there was a Franciscan Monastary here in Kennebunkport? Now it's a guest house with beautiful grounds. Here are some pics. If you'd like to see a larger pic, just click on it...

Beautiful peonies at their peak, in front of the Franciscan Guest House.

While we're looking at religious sites, look at this awesome, awesome chapel by the sea! This is St. Ann's Episcopal Church and it's the most charming little chapel I've ever seen! I went inside last Sunday (it's only open during the summer months for 2 services each Sunday) to see the inside and talked w/ one of the caretakers. The church was built in 1886-87 and has been updated and preserved several times since then. A few Bushes have been married here... and who wouldn't want to be married here?

Here is a picture of the inside.

So, on to something very important: food! The Maine Diner is famous both near and far. I'd seen a television feature on this place on the Food Network (Diners, Drive Ins and Dives... a fabulous show in case you haven't watched it) and when I drove past it last week going thru Wells en route to Kennebunkport, I made a note to return and see what its all about. Check out their website: http://www.mainediner.com/ and look at that menu! Of course I wanted to order basic diner food, like meatloaf, mac and cheese, etc... but sadly just ordered a salad to go. The salad was great so I am going back and maybe order a lobster roll... even though I am not a big lover of the lobster.

Cute Dog Alert!

Look at this awesome doggie that I saw taking a walk along Kennebunkport Beach! His mommy was very nice and let me take several pictures of him. He even put his face thru the window of my car and let me pet him!

This little Westie also wanted to take a walk, but is too old to walk that far, so his mommy put him in a stroller!

Ellen and HRH Prince William!!!

2008-06-23T15:25:00.003-04:00

My friends, Ellen and Pettus LeCompte just returned from the UK (where they have a cottage in the Cotswalds, too bad...) and attended a polo game with guess who? Ellen is the very pretty lady with auburn hair and the coral colored necklace and her husband, Pettus is standing behind her, smiling. Ellen said that the Prince was very charming to talk with and even more handsome in person than in his pics! Woo Hoo, Ellen... you were definitely in high cotton, again!

Way to go, Ellen and Pettus. You make us very proud!!

Beach Tennis

2008-06-18T17:09:00.003-04:00

Kennebunkport Beach

2008-06-18T17:02:00.002-04:00

Picture perfect day at the beach and not too hot!

Mother and son playing beach tennis. See video in next post. This boy is not yet 5 years old a quite a player, taught by his tennis instructor father!

Lets just get our feet wet...

Kennebunkport Village and Walker Point

2008-06-18T16:35:00.005-04:00

Kennebunkport's Dock Square is the hub of village activity. Here are some pics I took this morning when the sun finally decided to return to Maine!

This cute little Inn is tucked on a back street at Dock Square.

Lots of shopping options, if you are a shopper (but I am not)

Its not all Bush and Bush here...

The Kennebunkport Inn

Walking from my rental house to Dock Square, I saw this house and wondered, how do they go in that door? Maybe they use the back door instead.

THE place for lobster, apparently not only in Kennebunkport, but in all of Maine, is at this little lobster shack in Cape Porpoise. It opens at 5pm and you go early to avoid the long lines. Best prices and best lobster on the coast... everyone says that, so it's probably true. I ate lobster here the last time I was in town and it was yummy.

Look at the color... wow!

The Bush Compound at Walker Point, just north of Kennebunkport on the coast near Arundel. The Secret Service cottages and so forth are all to the left of the house, as well as the tennis courts, boat house and swimming pool, but I wanted to show a pic of the rocky seacoast in their front and side yards!

Can you hear the waves?

On to Maine

2008-06-15T12:42:00.002-04:00

I stopped at the Maine Welcome Center to pick up some brochures and saw this sign. How nice of the Maine Dept of Tourism to remind me of this!

Look at the awesome colors! As I drove up the coast, I was mixing colors in my head, trying to imagine how I could put those exact colors on paper or canvas.

A day at the beach. Bet the water is still cold, but so what? There were lots of people on the beaches in southern Maine.

I stopped at York Beach for a quick lunch and enjoyed the views from the outdoor restaurant. What a beautiful day!

Summer Adventure 2008

2008-06-15T12:22:00.004-04:00

If I had a cottage by the sea, maybe it would look like this

or maybe this, but it would have window boxes filled with flowers,

and flowers would peek thru the fence as you look out to the sea.

First stop en route to Maine was the Cape. I spent most every day in Chatham and took water aerobics classes at the Chatham Health and Swim Club. Their water instructors were all very nice, but not as wonderful as our own Susan at the YMCA Buckhead!

John, The Musician!

2008-06-02T18:09:00.002-04:00

Cookie Time!

2008-05-25T14:01:00.002-04:00

Okay, so I haven't been keeping up with the blog, sorry! Here is John having a cookie after school one day last week. He has grown so much and is such a happy little boy!

John really does like cookies~!

What a cutie!

Soon I'll be heading north to find cooler weather for the summer. Check back here to see where I am and what I am doing!!!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-04T10:41:00.000-05:00

John helped his parents celebrate at their awesome party.

Then on New Years Day, John and Emmie spent the morning together while mom and dad slept in. Here is John at Emmie's just after a nice morning outing! What a big boy!

Happy New Year to all!

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-24T09:03:00.001-05:00

Hi John, it's been a long time since we updated the blog! It's so nice to see you back on- line again! So, what's up with you?

I've been growing and growing and now I can walk, too! Things sure are different walking around instead of just crawling. I am having a lot of fun playing games!

You are playing peek-a-boo! So, where is John? Seriously, where did John go?

Here I am!

I am trying hard to be a very good boy because Santa comes tonight!

Here I am with mom and dad, sitting in front of our stockings. I think this is where Santa will come tonight!

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Crawling Away From Home

2007-10-19T07:39:00.000-04:00

John, what do you see out there?

I see our front yard and the driveway. Emmie, I think that I am big enough to go out there by myself and take a walk.

No John, I will have to go with you. Lucy can come with us, too.

I am going to sneak out there all by myself. Emmie won't notice that I am gone. Shhhh.

See, I can do this all by myself! Wait, who is that following me? Emmie!

Okay, so I will have to wait til I am bigger to go out by myself.

Meanwhile, I am having plenty of fun!

Busy, busy John!

2007-08-26T17:14:00.000-04:00

Hi John, whatcha been doin now that you are all grown up and you've had your first birthday?

I have been SO busy going to lots of birthday parties this month! Many of my friends have August birthdays, so we've really been party-ing a lot! Here I am all dressed up with mom headed to one of the parties.

I know that you like birthday cake, but how are you doing with the veggies?

Oh, I love veggies, too! See, here I am at dinner! Now that I have so many teeth, I can eat almost anything!

Well, I hear that you have been crawling all around the house and you like to climb in chairs also.

Yes, chairs are lots of fun because you can sit in them, climb on them, and stand on them, too!

I like to sit in the chair and read books.

What are you looking for on top of that table?

It really doesn't matter what is on top, I just like to reach up and pull things down!

And I like to look out the windows, too! Soon I will be tall enough to see over this counter!

John's First Birthday

2007-08-11T15:35:00.001-04:00

Look who had a birthday!

STILL the cutest baby in the world!

John, Lucy and the Haircuts

2007-07-22T17:49:00.000-04:00

Hey there John, whatcha been doin lately?

I've just been hanging out in our new house, counting my new teeth, walking around while I hold on to the furniture and I've also been reading a lot.

What is that on your shirt?

A big monster shark! I am not afraid of sharks, but Lucy is afraid of sharks and a lot of other stuff.

Sometimes I read a book to Lucy when she is afraid. Or I show her all my new teeth. She likes books and treats.

Here I am with mom, protecting Lucy from my shark! All three of us had haircuts yesterday!

This morning Lucy and I compared our new haircuts. Lucy cried when she had her haircut, but I didn't cry. I am a big boy and I wasn't afraid.

Wow, that is a nice haircut. May I see how it looks on the side view?

See? It looks good, doesn't it?

Yes, it does. You are very cute and quite the flirt!

Saturday at the Farmer's Market

2007-07-07T13:02:00.000-04:00

Most Saturdays, after my walk around Memorial Park, I go to at least one of the many farmer's markets in the metro Atlanta area. This morning I visited the Morningside Market (all organic produce) in the Virginia Highlands. Here are some pics from today's vendors:

Happy 4th of July!

2007-07-04T15:14:00.001-04:00

Atlanta has a full day of celebrations for the 4th!

Here is a view of the P'tree Road Race from my balcony. The runners are rounding "Jesus Junction", so named because of the two cathedrals and one church anchoring the turn in P'tree Road.

Look who is celebrating the 4th of July in his new home! I think he is planning to take a swim in the pool after his nap. Fun on such a HOT day!

Yes, definitely the cutest baby on the planet!

Sayle, this one's for YOU

2007-07-03T16:13:00.000-04:00

Let me count the ways, Part Deux

2007-07-03T15:54:00.001-04:00

Looking toward Spain

Looks just like the signs on Peachtree Road. Not.

One of the stunning homes on Baxter Road in Sconset. See the ocean in their front yard?

Looking toward Monomoy

Wonder who lives in this house? Maybe someone who likes boats.

Watering the flowers at the monument on Main Street.

Just getting started...

The Sconset Cafe

Bartlett's Farm, Part Deux

2007-07-03T15:46:00.000-04:00

This plaque for John Bartlett, Sr is right on Main Street, just next to the spot where the Bartlett Farm truck parks each day to sell their produce and flowers.

The farmer's helper helps you select your lettuce, and other veggies that are in boxes on the sidewalk, not shown in the picture.

YUMMY !

Bartlett Farms

2007-06-27T13:33:00.001-04:00

Nantucket has a mid-island farm, now famous, growing all sorts of vegetables and flowers. But, Bartlett Farms is probably best known for their best-I've-ever-had tomatoes. Yes, that's a fact. I've never in my life had better tomatoes. Anywhere.

Here is the new sign, welcoming you to the farm. They've paved the roads and added a huge barn since I was last here. Wow, they are almost getting fancy now!

There are miles of fields in all stages of growth. It looks almost perfect.

Here are the best in the world tomatoes. They grown them in a hot house before regular season and the field grown tomatoes are ready mid-July. These hot house ones taste as good as the others. I've been eating at LEAST one a day. Pure heaven.

In case you can't get out to the farm, Bartletts has a truck parked on Main Street every morning for your daily produce shopping. Yum.

Let me count the ways...

2007-06-24T14:47:00.000-04:00

Click on the pics to see a larger view (ESPECIALLY the last one!) Enjoy!

Hyannis to Nantucket

2007-06-23T17:17:00.000-04:00

Around late January each year, I start dreaming of this sign.

Here is the ferry that takes us from Hyannis to Nantucket. We drive right on and park in very narrow lines that fill up the entire bottom of the ferry. Then we go upstairs to enjoy the view and two hours later, we're there!

Look who is happy on the ferry! Of course he is happy, he's headed to Nantucket!

Arriving. Look at the beautiful port and all the boats!

Click on the picture and see a much nicer view~

Rebecca's Awesome Summer Adventure, Part One

2007-06-22T17:43:00.000-04:00

After driving two full days and spending the nights in Winchester, VA and Hyannis, MA en route to Chatham, I finally arrived on June 14th. Wow, the weather is SO much nicer here on the Cape than in HOTlanta. So, here I am and the time has flown by. I can't believe it's time to leave tomorrow for Nantucket. But wait a minute... don't let me mislead you, it's never bad news to be heading to Nantucket! Here are some memories of Chatham.

My morning begins with a walk and then a stop at the Monomoy Coffee Company on Main Street for an iced latte. Not Starbucks, but still yummy!

Next stop is the Chatham port at the lighthouse and a fabulous view of the ocean. I've enjoyed this view every morning while enjoying my latte and it's fun to see what color the water will be each day.

Then I begin exploring. Here is a man headed toward one of those boats? Hmmm, maybe he is going to swim out there and take one for a ride...

Oops, no puppies allowed! Bummer... they like to swim, too!

One day I went to Provincetown, (P-town). Supposedly the art galleries are the best in P-town, but well.... I was underwhelmed. P-town is always a scene and this time was no exception. Even in a slight rain, it was still wild and crazy in P-town.

Someone's little beach house. Cute.

On Friday nights, "In Season" which begins next Friday, the Chatham Band Stand is home to a wonderful band that provides great musical entertainment for families. Over 3,000 people come to Chatham for these concerts every Friday night during the season. Balloons, ice cream, doggies, tons of kids... you get the picture. Sorry I'll miss it.

So, I'm on the early morning ferry tomorrow for Nantucket. Will be sending updates from there next week!

Sunday Brunch

2007-06-03T15:25:00.000-04:00

Hi John. Those sure are big car keys! Are you are going to drive us someplace?

Yes, I am going to drive us to Babette's for brunch. It's yummy!

So, what do you like to eat at Babettes?

I've ordered some eggs and grits, but mom gave me some pancakes to eat while we wait. I love eating big boy foods!

Does it help with chewing to have some teeth?

Well, I like having teeth, but so far I chew mostly with my gums.

Having teeth does make you a big boy!

My mom and dad had their first real date (after the fix-up date their friends arranged) at Babettes. I sure am glad that date went so well! Here they are remembering that first date!

You are having an after brunch drink? Are you worried about drinking and driving us home?

I like to top off the meal with a nice drink, but I can still drive. It's just my formula, silly!

Happy Mother's Day!

2007-05-14T13:01:00.000-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to Willson, mom of the cutest baby in the world!

We had a wonderful lunch at the Driving Club with David's parents and his sister, Catherine. Here is a picture of Catherine and John's other grandmother, Ceci.

And here are the proud parents of the cutest baby in the world!

Saturday in the park with Emmie

2007-04-28T12:04:00.000-04:00

Hey Emmie, will you take me to the park to see my girlfriend?

Sure John, what is her name?

I don't know her name, but she has very special powers, like Harry Potter.

Look, there she is jumping rope. She is the boss of the playground and can make everyone do special things.

Really, what does she make people do?

She tells the moms to do push-ups when they don't bring juice.

No kidding? Look, I see the moms now!

I know she is older, but I will show her my teeth and she'll know that I am a big boy.

And, when she sees how high I can swing, she'll want to play with me!

John stays at Emmie's this week!

2007-04-25T11:10:00.000-04:00

Hi John. It's soooo nice having you at Emmie's this week! So, you are driving again. What happened with your speeding ticket?

Well, I just smiled at the judge and she dismissed the case. I might have flirted with her just a little bit.

Yes, I've seen you in action with the flirting. You've really gotten that down to perfection.

What else have you been doing lately?

I've been playing the conductor for the music on my iPod. It's such fun to move my hands with the beat of the music!

And you must be very hungry since you are trying to eat your mom's pearls. Did you tell her about the butterscotch pie you had yesterday? Oops, that is a secret, right?

Butterscotch? What butterscotch?

Okay John, it's official.

You ARE the biggest flirt in the world as well as the cutiest baby in the world!

Happy Easter!

2007-04-08T13:56:00.000-04:00

John brought his parents to Emmie's house for Easter Dinner.

Looks like the Easter Bunny stopped by!

Hi John, what are you doing on Easter Sunday?

I'm just hanging out with my parents and Emmie. The Easter bunny came to my house, but I can't eat the jelly beans yet. Bummer!

Emmie made this egg for me, but it doesn't taste so good because it's made of wood.

Look at the Easter Bunny Cake! I can't wait until next year when I can eat it!

Happy Easter to everyone!

Flirting in the Park

2007-03-23T14:24:00.000-04:00

Hi John, what did you do today for the first time?

I went to Emmie's Memorial Park and played in the swings. And, I also looked at some girls!

See that girl over there? She is about my age. Do you think she will play with me?

Why don't you ask her mother?

Hello Mrs? Your daughter is cute. Can she play with me?

Great! I promise to be very nice. Riley is a pretty name. How old are you?

Would you like to meet me here again tomorrow?

(Riley was a bit shy, but her mom said "maybe".)

New Play Mat and Blocks!

2007-03-21T14:52:00.000-04:00

Look at John's new play mat and alphabet blocks!

Yes, I see that you can pick up the blocks all by yourself. And, I saw you knock them down all by yourself, too. That was great!

Okay, so they taste good, too? Neat!

March Madness?

2007-03-15T13:51:00.000-04:00

Hi John, whatcha been doin?

I'm waiting for the NCAA basketball tournament to start.

Which team are you for this year?

I'll give you just one guess!!

Okay, so what else are you doing now that you can sit up all by yourself?

I'm still learning new jokes. Wanna hear another one?

Sure, go ahead.

Knock, knock.

Who's there?

Huge.

Huge who?

Who joo expect???

John, not only are you very funny, but you are still the cutest baby in the world!

Thank joo!

Whatz in that sippie cup?

2007-03-09T16:41:00.000-05:00

Hi John. What are you drinking in that sippie cup?

What sippie cup? I don't see a sippie cup.

Look down at your hands. Isn't that a sippie cup? And ummmm, what is that wet stuff on your shirt? Did you spill something?

Oh, THAT sippie cup. Lucy and I might have gone to the store for some juice, but I am just holding the cup for her while she finishes her lunch because I am not supposed to have juice yet. Maybe I will just take one taste.

Wow, this is really good! Lucy probably shouldn't drink this so I will help her!

John's Jokes

2007-03-02T22:15:00.000-05:00

Hello John, are you sucking your thumb?

Yes, I love to suck my thumb!

So, what have you been doing today?

I've been learning some new jokes!

Do you want to share one now?

Okay, here goes:

Knock, knock

Who's there?

Tank

Tank who?

You're Welcome!

That was really funny, John! You are a great joke teller!

Take a ride in John's car!

2007-02-25T17:19:00.000-05:00

Hey there, I just learned to drive. Wanna take a ride with me?

See, I can go fast when I press the buttons. This is so fun!

Oops, that was a sharp curve! Maybe I should honk at that policeman to get out of our way.

Ha Ha Ha, that policeman thought he could catch up with us! Watch me switch gears and we'll really leave him in the dust!!

What? I could be arrested?

John's Baptism

2007-02-20T16:30:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday, John was Baptised and so many of our family and friends came to help celebrate! John's parents and Godparents took him to the altar for the Baptism and he was a very good boy! Here is the banner that was carried down the main isle of the Cathedral before the service.

Here is John with his mom, just before the service. You can tell that he enjoys being around so many people that love him!

The family poses for one last picture before the service. Afterwards, we had a fabulous luncheon at Goge and Ceci's wonderful home. It was a wonderful day and we all feel very blessed!

Mr. Big Boy!

2007-02-10T08:11:00.000-05:00

John is growing so fast! He loves to play peek-a-boo and is learning to clap his hands. Remembering to open the hands instead of clapping his fists is still a challenge, but he just laughs anyway!

Being 6 months old is not all fun and games because you have new responsibilities, too. Like eating green veggies (he is not a fan), being nice at the doctor's office, except when they give you shots, and learning to roll back over from all sorts of new positions after doing exercises.

But of course, being The Cutest Baby in the World comes with some real perks, too! John has lots of people who love him so this will be a very Happy Valentine's Day!

Hangin' at Emmie's

2007-01-20T14:25:00.000-05:00

Hey John, whatcha doin?
I'm just hangin at Emmie's this weekend. This is my new high chair. Its pretty cool. The back moves forward and backward so I can play with my toys and eat my cereal here, too. Do you like it?
Yes, it looks pretty cool. So, how is the food at Emmie's house?
Emmie has lots of special treats, but I am not supposed to tell my parents. First I had apple sauce, then a peppermint stick leftover from Santa and later some chocolate milk. Yummy! Why can't I have food like that at home?
Would you like to have the Child Abuse Hotline? It's a toll-free number. They will speak to your parents about this.
No kidding? Thanks, that would be great!

Who is your friend sitting in the high chair with you?
He is my teddy and we are really good friends. He is soft and furry and lets me chew on his ears and nose, too.
Are you going to share that teething toy with him?
No, he isn't teething yet, but I will share with him when he starts getting his teeth.

Tell us how you feel about your parents going out of town for their first trip since you were born. Are you okay with them being gone for a few days?

Yes, of course! I know they were worried about leaving me at home, but they might worry if they knew how much fun we are having!!! I hope that they see Brad Pitt so they can tell him that I am doing better with the paparazzi now. The paparazzi has learned that I am on a schedule and can only be available to the press during certain hours of the day.
Okay, I've gotta take a quick nippi-nap because there are serious parteeee plans for later today!

An Interview With John

2007-01-10T17:35:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year, John! Now that you've been with us for about 5 months, what do you think of your new home and life in general?

Well, it was strange being here at first, but I think everything is great so far. The first couple of months are a bit fuzzy, but I have figured out that college football, meals, and a good schedule are priorities around here. I have also learned that my hands are really cool. I can pick up stuff and put things in my mouth now. That is very cool, especially since I am teething. I like my parents, Lucy and all of my grandparents, too! All together, life is good!

I see that you are chewing on a bumble bee toy. Is this the way you are spending most of your time now?

No, I am just taking a break from the camera and all the video shots that I'm required to do under my new "Cutest Baby In The World" contract. I had no idea I'd have to devote so much time to the media, but when you are so cute, I guess that just comes with the territory. I've been recognized in a couple of public places and the girls are really digging me, too.

So, I know you've been trying out new foods, like cereal, squash and maybe green beans. Have you tried apple sauce or any of the sweet fruits yet?

WHAT? I knew that my parents were holding out on me! When will I be able to have the really good stuff???

Well, ummm, errr... you'll be spending some good quality time with Emmie next week, so perhaps she will have a surprise for you? Shhhh. Meanwhile, do you have any other thoughts you'd like to share with us?

I have enjoyed everyone I've met so far and I like books, toys and everyone singing to me. My parents think that I go straight to sleep when they put me down, but lets just say that I am working on a few secret projects of my own! They don't know about the 3am parties and the stuffed animal parades.

Okay, thanks John and I'll check in with you again soon!

Happy New Year!

2007-01-10T17:01:00.000-05:00

Its a new year and I have a new schedule! I will be working 3 days a week, Mon. thru Wed., which leaves Thur. and Fri. for being Emmie and painting and other projects. After so many years as a full time worker bee, I am looking forward to my new schedule and more time with John!

Speaking of John, see my next entry for recent pics of the awesome grandchild!

And, have a very Happy New Year!

John, The Holiday Party Animal

2006-12-30T14:07:00.000-05:00

The past week was very busy with parties and celebrations, but John never tired of meeting new people and being a young party animal! Here are some of John's cousins at the Willson family party in Tennessee.

Here is Suzanne Wynn from Boston, holding Kate Dennis from Nashville.

Here is Haley Wynn from Boston, selecting a gift for the children's Chinese Auction. What fun!

Aunt Kennon Dennis holds daughter Kate while watching the children's Chinese Auction.

James Dennis is old enough to play the children's Chinese Auction this year. What a cutie!

Christopher and Jaque Willson play the game also.

Megan Cater is all ready for Santa and may help out in her new elf outfit!

Here is John watching all the action while sucking his fingers... he is teething!

After all the partying in Tennessee, we all returned home to wait for Santa. Here is John making his final Christmas wish list in front of the tree.

Guess what? Santa came to visit John and brought him lots of toys and some clothes, too! You can see John's Santa gifts on Willson's blog. One thing that wasn't on his list was a "Time Out Puppy" with a timer in his tummy. John isn't sure what this is all about, but we assured him that he'd find out in a year or so!

I hope that everyone had a very happy holiday and here is to a wonderful new year in 2007 !

What happens at Emmie's stays at Emmie's

2006-12-17T13:08:00.000-05:00

So, mom and dad were having a Christmas party last night and I went over to spend the night with Emmie for the first time. She told mom and dad that we'd have a quiet evening, just my regular bottle, some cereal, maybe read a book, and early to bed. Well, as you can see by the smile on my face, that is not exactly what happened!

First, I put on my new party outfit before a few friends came over. We were having fun just hanging out and watching the Snoopy's Christmas video when someone decided to put egg nog in our bottles. That is probably when the trouble started...

Before long, the music was turned up really high and someone put some Jack, whatever that is, in our egg nog. I have to admit it was getting sort of loud so I decided to stay in my swing and just watch for awhile. But then the cops came and shut down our party! Emmie said that she wouldn't tell mom and dad, so please help me keep the secret. I can't wait for my parents to have another party... this was awesome!

Santa Claus

2006-12-03T18:18:00.000-05:00

Santa Claus comes to my house and leaves presents and candy?

He only comes to see good boys?

Well, Santa knows that I am a really, really good boy!

Will you tell Santa that I am such a good boy, he should bring me lots of toys and bring something for Lucy, too!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2006-11-25T21:50:00.000-05:00

What a great first Thanksgiving! Here I am relaxing in my new holiday outfit. Do you like my travel bib? Get it? A car? Travel bib? My mom thought of that one.

Here I am with mom at Emmie's house. You can see how big I am getting... these pants are size 9 months! I am having the best time playing with all of my grandparents. Next year I will be old enough to eat the turkey and dressing!

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!

Meet John's Friends!

2006-11-17T17:12:00.000-05:00

Two of John's favorite friends are the lion and the giraffe. The giraffe's nose turns red when he plays a tune!

Got Milk?

Emmie, why are your hands so big?

Ladies Man

2006-11-06T21:24:00.000-05:00

I promise, it's the truth. All I have to do is show up. When I enter the room, all the girls want to hold me, feed me, kiss me and love me. This is awesome. I can't believe how easy this is... having lots of girls just hanging around waiting to hold me. What a cool gig!

What do you mean, it won't always be this way?

What is going to change?

No way. You think that I will actually have to do nice things for the girls to love me like this? I am very happy now, just being the center of the world.

Growing up may not be so cool after all...

Cutest Baby In The World !

2006-10-29T16:56:00.000-05:00

How should I act when they announce that I am the cutest baby in the world?

I probably shouldn't start clapping. I want to be a gentleman, like my daddy.

If the paparazzi keeps stalking me, I will punch them out!

Brad Pitt told me it would be like this. Maybe I will call him for moral support. Yes, that is a good idea and I will let Emmie talk with him, too.

Sayle's Visit from NYC

2006-10-22T19:05:00.000-04:00

I can't wait to meet Aunt Sayle. She is coming to visit from New York City! I've had a bath, finished my lunch, taken a nap, and now I am ready for her to arrive. I hope that Sayle will like me.

Sayle tells me great stories about her life in the big city. She brought me some NYC outfits, too. I wonder if I will ever be big enough to go to New York City?

I will have to grow up a lot before I can go to NYC. I'll just think about all of those places Sayle will take me once I am a big boy.

Look down here! Lucy says she wants to go, too!

I will dream about my first trip to NYC while I take a nap.

Fun and Games

2006-10-13T17:59:00.000-04:00

Look at John's cute feet that I can hold in my hand!

Emmie, look over there... I see a lion!

He wants to play with me!

Oh no, that lion wants to come closer!

Emmie, that lion has crawled up behind me!!

Dinner with John!

2006-10-10T12:29:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I was having serious John withdrawal, so I went over to feed him dinner. He loves the bottle and doesn't even like to pause before eating all 6 ounces! What a cutie and can I say that my heart crumbles every time he gives me one of those awesome smiles?

Who knew that being Emmie would be so much fun? Soon I will be taking John for walks and show him off to my doggie (and people) friends in the park where I go each morning. My buddies at the park are going to love John, too!

Sarah Brannon's Wedding Shower

2006-10-01T08:48:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, Willson and Sarah's other bridesmaids hosted a wedding shower here at my place. We had 27 guests, plus a special visit by someone at the end of the party. Here are some of the guests just when the party started. That's Sarah, the beautiful bride, 5th from the left.

Don't you just love the scent of White Mountain Lilies? These are in the foyer so you can smell them the minute you come inside.

Here are a couple of pictures of the table. The food was yummy, yummy. And of course, you cannot have a bridal shower without petit fours...

Sarah opening her gifts. The theme was linens and she received so many nice things, I am sure that Sarah and Martin will be entertaining a lot!

Here are all of the beautiful Brannon ladies!

Are these gals looking at some other photographer? Yes, I think so...

Guess who stopped by for a visit at the end of the party? Who do you believe was the hit of the party? Yes, you guessed it... John!

Visiting Emmie

2006-09-28T17:17:00.000-04:00

John and Willson came over today and let me tell you a big secret (not) about John: he loves to eat! First he nurses and then goes for the bottle, having a feeding that lasts over an hour. No wonder he was exhausted after such a long and strenuous eating-workout!

Look how big he has gotten in just one week... and what a happy boy he is!

Willson is a great mommy and it's such fun to watch them together. Today they came over to help take china and crystal down from the cabinets for a wedding shower we're hosting this weekend. John can't come to the party, but he will come over afterwards and stay with me while his parents go out for some errands. Yeah!

Trees, Flowers and John

2006-09-24T18:42:00.000-04:00

Last Thursday, Willson and John stopped by while they were out doing errands. John loves riding in his new stroller and didn't wake up the entire time. Of course, I was tempted to wake him up to play with me, but his mommy said NO!

On Saturday morning, like every Saturday morning, I went to the Morningside Market to check out the fabulous organic veggies and the wonderful flowers. I bought my stash of zinnias, and then saw these brilliant orange flowers called Mexcian Sunflowers. They look great on my table!

Sunday morning I went to the Duck Pond in the drizzling rain. The weeping willow tree is just beautiful! I wonder where all of the ducks went? Surely a little rain wouldn't bother them, but they were definitely hiding some place...

Guess who needed a baby sitter on Friday night? I got to feed John and we tried to play with Lucy, but she totally ignored us. John loves his new bottle and is growing so fast, you can almost watch him grow! Such fun. Being Emmie is my favorite new role!

John's Sports Report

2006-09-17T20:05:00.000-04:00

The Falcons won today and looked great.

The Dawgs won, but they didn't play anyone important.

The Vols lost, so John refused to wear his Vols onesie.

A Perfect Weekend in Atlanta

2006-09-12T14:41:00.000-04:00

includes

spending time with my awesome grandson, John!

taking a walk in Piedmont Park

and watching the Green Market vendors set up for the day,

looking at the fabulous flowers that I may have to take home

and maybe pick up my paint brushes in the afternoon.

If you'd like to see some of my artsy stuff, that is another blog.

College Football Starts Today!

2006-09-02T16:59:00.000-04:00

You'll be watching the Dawgs and the Vols

You can be for the Dawgs unless they are playing the Vols!

John warming up his right arm for a pass!

John is growing so fast!

2006-08-26T11:43:00.000-04:00

Sleeping on Emmie is soooo comfy!

I have a puppy on my chest!

Parties, Parties!

2006-08-22T16:30:00.000-04:00

Fancy lunch at Joel with Anne, Dottie and Stephanie.

Thanks for a great time, Dottie!

After-work fiesta with co-workers, Michelle, Martha, Kitty, Angel and Sheri.

Yummy margaritas, chips and salsa. Ole!

It's My Birthday!

2006-08-17T14:59:00.000-04:00

Look what Willson and David gave me:

My Birthday iPod!

2006-08-17T14:29:00.000-04:00

So, People Magazine wants my photo for their cover? Really?

I'll have to think it over.

Mom, could you call our agent, please?

This might be a fun gig after all!

Yes Lucy, you can be on the cover, too!

2006-08-14T14:25:00.000-04:00

John resting after meeting his daddy's parents and sister. It was a big day for John!

Grandmother Emmie (aka Rebecca) painted a welcome home sign for Saturday when they came home from the hospital. John is a Leo, so there had to be a lion, and John's mother is a Milne, so there had to be a bear!

2006-08-10T10:47:00.000-04:00

Here is baby John, just one day old and taking a nap after eating a big lunch!

2006-08-09T12:22:00.000-04:00

Willson and David preparing for the big moment.

Here is our baby John Corbitt Overend, just about an hour old. He weighed 8 pounds, 5.2 ounces and was 20 inches long. He has tons of curly blonde hair all over his head! He is perfect!