Ten Swamp Dogies II

Tea Time

2012-02-09T13:05:00.000-08:00

To celebrate Ariana's 20th and Christiana's 18th Birthdays,
they thought it would be fun to have a good ole' fashioned Tea.

~The Birthday Girls~

The "Young" ladies.

The "Young at Heart" ladies.
;)

~Ambiance~

Smiles all around:) The decorations were so fun!

The best part of the evening... The food;)

~Games~

Croquet anyone??

~Lovely friends~

"Perhaps that is the true gift of a teatime celebration: It fills our cups with joy and warmth and
friendship. May the echo of the teacups' message be heard not only on special
occasions, but anytime friends come together." ~Emilie Barnes

Happy 20th Birthday, Ariana

2012-01-26T12:41:00.000-08:00

What a blessing these 20 years have been with you,

Ariana. You are truly our "Precious Heart".

We love your quiet and sweet spirit.

Your contentment with the simple things in life,

God's beautiful creation and the way He provides our needs through it.

(I always knew you'd be a "Farmgirl" at heart.)

The way you make us laugh so hard when we're least expecting it!!

We are so blessed by your heart for the Lord,

and desire to please Him, and the way you just enjoy life.

May the Lord just continue to shower His

blessings upon you, Ariana, as you continue

walking with Him all the days of your life.

We love you so much,

Happy Birthday

Happy New Year ~2012~

2012-01-13T12:54:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve

What better way to start a party than with, "Good for ya", Boiled Peanuts.

(Picked fresh from the garden.)

How are they "Good for ya"?

For each 1 cup serving of boiled peanuts, you receive:

Protein 8.5 g. (Men need 56 g, women need 46 g. daily)

Fiber 5.5 g. (Lowers Cholesterol and regulates blood glucose & insulin.)

(Men need 38 g., women need 25 g. daily)

Vitamin E 17% of daily requirement.

Zinc 1.15 mg. (Men need 11 mg., women 8 mg daily)

Fat 13.9 g. of mono. and poly UNsaturated fat.

(Adults should consume 20-35 g. daily for a healthy heart.)

The "Grillmaster" at work, once again!
Delicious, farm fresh, beef and delicious hot dogs made of fresh (who knows what!)

Ariana, Courtney and Haley.

Ben and Mary's challenge.

(These kings could dance around the board all night!)

C enjoying some (Good for ya) peanuts and Tom, well ............

Sweet Laurissa.

Just good food!!

Brothers and Cousins.

Time for a FAST game of Round Robin.

May the force be with you...

Liv and Michael I., the last two standing, go head to head.

Who will reign victorious?

(Michael will!)

Liv enjoying time with the GREATEST

granny on earth!!

We love you, Granny (Mom).

The Round Robin players of 2011/2012.

The "Cuz Luv", ha ha.

Aunt Lee, the multi-tasker! Knitting, texting, (was) drinking tea:)

Let the "partay" Begin!!!!

Ya don't say!!

First fire of the night.

A little Taboo anyone???

Second fire of the night and the end to the WILD ride by Christiana!!

(Momma was sweating some beads watching this girl fly by!)

Singing in the New Year.

Julia, (Dad) Frank, and (Sweetheart) Brian.(wink)

Brothers - Friends.

It's past midnight......... Just so you know.

It's later past midnight..................

Awww...

Probably about 1:30 A.M. by now. They're getting a little (More) excited!!

(Hay's just can't seem to get off the ground...(smile))

There's just no end to the madness!!

Brothers, Sisters, Cousins = Love of family

Tom annoying the spectators with sparklers, ha ha, just kidding, (or am I?).

The Belyew family:)

All the boys and men.

Ready for another Wonderful year!!

Don't be jealous, but we had a surprise visit from,...... well, it goes without saying.

He said he'd come back to celebrate with us when the Bronco's win the SB.

Can't Wait!!

Happy 15th Birthday, Thomas

2012-01-12T07:34:00.000-08:00

Inseparable

Relaxation at it's finest.

Papa (Thomas) and Thomas

Papa loved his Thomas!

Uncle Tommy (Thomas) and Thomas.

Uncle Tom's been reading to you from your first day of life.

When you were on in the hospital with a very small chance

from the Drs. that you were going to live, Uncle Tom was

there reading God's Word to you.

We're so thankful for you, Thomas!!

I think back to the day the Lord blessed us with you,

3 weeks before the "Due" date,

"Dying" on your helicopter ride to the hospital,

the doctors giving you a 10% chance to live,

and just so many struggles for life you went through.

Through all of that, the Lord used your life, as a testimony to His

goodness and mercy from the day your were born to show others

that despite statistics, He alone is in control of life and death.

We pray that He continues to use you mightily for His glory,

until the day He takes you home to be with Him forever.

To God be the Glory,

GREAT things he hath done.

Happy Birthday, Tom.

We love you

Christmas 2011 ~Part 2~

2012-01-02T09:56:00.000-08:00

The annual "Bloomfield Hills" caroling.

This years carolers.

(Tom and Gabriel were sick.)

James and Mary

Jon and Ariana

Christiana and Olivia

Oooooh, looky here!!

Yee Haw! FOOD, Now that's what I'm talkin' about.

Thievery at it's finest.

---------------------------------

Time for caroling once again,

but this time on wheels, not on foot.

Through the eyes of momma without her glasses, ha ha.

Mary and Sadie

Ariana and Mariah

Abby and Ari

All the youngins.

All the non-youngins.

Yep folks, we all fit on the trailer, except for 2 in the truck.

FUN FUN :)

(Thank you, Stricklens, we had a blast!)

----------------------------

Christmas

Our annual Christmas Eve celebration at Grannys.

The boys are always thrilled with ANY kind of weapons.

Let the battle begin!!

James, Gabriel and (cousin) Haley.

Mary is excited, in case you couldn't tell.

;)

Beautiful Alford ladies.

Enjoying the 80+ degree Christmas weather.

If there was a pool, we would have been in it!!

GOOD EATS

AND DRINKS.

Momma is in heaven!!

Proud Grandmother with baby Anniston.

"Precious"

Time to do hair.

We're 'bout to fix us some hair!! Yes sirree bob!!

Concentrate.......

She's gettin' a little outa control.

Gabriel's thinking (See his tongue sticking out).

I'd better put a stop to this before somebody gets hurt!!

-------------------

Getting Late on Christmas day..........

things get a little more (strange, interesting, creepy)?!

The Bopsy Twins

(Which one's real and which is fake?)

"Get this creepy girl away from me!!"

Walter McFuzzy stopped by and we were so glad to see him/her.

(By the pictures it's a her, by the name it's a him, ha ha.)

"Oh, I LOVE you McFuzzy!!"

"I'm just thinking, these people around here are a little weird."

"I'll try to keep a straight face."

Woop Woop

"I'll just busy myself reading and try to blend in with the crowd."

If this don't keep you from drawing attention, nothing will!

"This sweet tea is the best I've had in a while!"

"With all the days activities, I'm exhausted.

Just a little 15 minute "Shut-eye" is all I need.

"Mary, let me hang the ornament I brought and then I must be going."

I've had a great time, hope y'all have, too.

I'll be going now, but I'll be back.

See y'all real soon.

Happy 18th Birthday Christiana

2011-12-29T19:29:00.000-08:00

18 years ago today our hearts were filled with much joy!!

I can't think of a more perfect birthday present to a father than a sweet little (Big 10 lb.) baby :)

God's gifts are the greatest!

Full of "Happy Energy", excitement and laughter.

These things have I spoken unto you,
that my joy might remain in you,
and that your joy might be full.
~John. 15:11 ~

May the joy of the Lord continue to bless others through your life.

What a blessing you are to every one of us.

We love you sweet girl.
:)

---------------------

Happy Birthday, Ben (Daddy)

What a blessing to have such a man as you are to lead our

family these 27 years.

We are so blessed by your commitment to the Lord and to His ways.

What a testimony to us all!!

We love you dearly, daddy (Ben).

Always will be special,

BIRTHDAY BUDDIES.

Christmas 2011 ~Part 1~

2011-12-21T15:01:00.001-08:00

Uncle Tom invited us to go along and enjoy the

Colonial Christmas with him.
We're so glad he did!!

When we arrived everyone was singing.
Hot Cider was served and we joined in with singing.

The Dining Room

We experienced the Colonial Christmas Dinner for

the twelve days of Christmas, from Dec.25th to Jan.6th. and

the different traditions they had.

Dance Lessons in the Ball Room.

Reading a petition.

The political skit that was quite hilarious.

Aunt Mary even joined in with a few lines and was

the star of the evening.

The Storyteller from the perspective of the slaves.

Colonial Period Games.

(The first Monopoly. Don't remember the name of it.)

Aunt Mary enjoying herself with this lil' Gent.

Love the porch :)

On the joggling board. It was made for people with rheumatism.

Later it was called the courting bench because when you sat on it,

it would bounce you both towards the middle ;).

---------------------------

Time to step outside and enjoy the cold before it disappears.

We had a couple nights of cold weather so Liv decided to

use her handy dandy projector and set up an outdoor

theatre. No mosquitos to eat you alive, for a couple days,

anyway. (We'll take it!)

cozy or what?

----------------------

The "Annual" Dade City Christmas Stroll

Group "2011"

We look so forward to this every year!!

And a good day to you ;)

So many fun hats.

Why would anyone in their right mind buy 50 pounds of kettle

corn before they start shopping, so they can lug it around all night!?!

That would be me!! I couldn't even get through half the stores without

running into stuff. Good Grief!!

Ariana holding Aunt Mary's head band she purchased.

(She ended up giving it to Ariana for Christmas ;)

Happy Times

Like she needs caffeine!!!

She'll start shaking in about 5 minutes, ha ha.

Happiness is ........

Every trip starts with a

delicious cup of java with a candy cane to stir it with!!

Mmmm, mmmm, fantastic!

-----------------

That's all for Part 1.

Be back soon with more Christmas fun.

2011-12-20T08:38:00.000-08:00

If we could condense all the truths of Christmas into only three words, these would be the words: "God with us." We tend to focus our attention at Christmas on the infancy of Christ. The greater truth of the holiday is His deity. More astonishing than a baby in the manger is the truth that this promised baby is the omnipotent Creator of the heavens and the earth!

~John F. MacArthur, Jr.

Veiled in flesh, the Godhead see; hail the incarnate Deity, Pleased as man with men to dwell, Jesus, our Emmanuel ~Charles Wesley

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!

~News Flash~

2011-12-11T10:38:00.000-08:00

The "Comment" part of our blog has been messed up for a while and different people have been asking about it. I think I've figured it out. You have to comment as "Anonymous" for it to accept your comment. Hopefully this will fix everything. If not, I'm stumped at what to do next!! Thanks for your faithfulness, as aggravating as it is.

November ~2011~

2011-12-07T08:26:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Alabama Color.

Trip to Alabama to the Annual knife sale at

Bear and Son Cutlery factory.

http://www.bearandsoncutlery.com/

While there we met the owner of Alabama Damascus Steel

(One of only three places in the U.S. that makes Damascus Steel.), and he invited us to

visit the shop and see how it's made.

It was amazing how much work goes into making this steel.

It really shows you why it's so strong (and expensive).

It's a very long and extensive process!!

It's worth a visit if you're ever in the area!!
http://www.alabamadamascussteel.com/servlet/Page?template=about

We had two camera's the entire trip,

but nobody seemed to turn it on the first couple days!!

These are some of what we did get :)

Picnic Time

(Picnics on the road = happiness)

My favorite restaurant,

the back of a truck!

After taking 20 pics, trying to get this girl to smile,

this is what we end up with, times 20.

(Notice Ariana's cardboard spoon.)

Like Gabriel always says,

Improvise, Adapt and Overcome :)

Looking for the brown gold.

Not sure what's so funny......... Could be Anything!!

Nope, I STILL don't like McDonalds..........

but I like McDonald's bags filled with delicious pecans!!!

You can't eat just one :)

The taste tester and tester and tester....

(It was hard to get her to stop!)

Wonderful family.

Now comes the fun part.

We ended up with about 5 quarts.

-------------------------

Garden Goods

What a blessing to be able to pick peas in November.

Thank you, Lord, for your many blessings.

Time to pickle some okra.

This is about 12:30 A.M. and a nice hot cup of java is in store

for the long night ahead.

Ariana is so looking forward to her first sip of delicious java.

(Something is sure funny in the background.)

YUK!!

(This coffee is horrible!!)

What is this floating in my cup!?!

Still laughing........

I've been sabatoged!!

Lemmy put garlic in my coffee........and.....I'm so sad, so so sad...

Okay, the emotional sad time is over, time to get to work.

Okra has been producing the entire month of November

and is still producing into December.

I sure hope the December post does not include Okra.

Gloves for the heat....

as in, HOT peppers.

----------------------

Odds and Ends

Making Etsy shop items,

Gifts,

Costumes and Clothes.

Fun times with chalk.

Christiana's next vacation (Dream).

Making our annual Samaritan's Purse boxes with Liv.

And this concludes some of the goings on in November.

May we all, this Christmas,

with it's bright and special pleasure,

remember all year long,

that Jesus is,

our greatest treasure.

Merry Christmas

HAPPY 21st BIRTHDAY, LIV

2011-11-28T21:16:00.001-08:00

I could never have dreamed of being blessed as much as I am!!

I love the way you laugh when I laugh, which is a LOT, even when it's not funny!!

How you're always there to listen (really listen).

The way you always know when a hug is needed.

Your diligence in so many areas.

Your steadfastness to the Lord and His word.

etc, etc, etc.

You are loved more than words can express!!

I am a blessed mother.

(Thank you, Lord!)

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-28T07:26:00.000-08:00

What a blessed day!!

Game of the day.

Precious baby Anniston was born two days after Thanksgiving.

God is so good!!

Pumpkin Truffle :)

Pecan pie cheesecake, Delish!!

Time for a nice stroll with a delicious cup of java.............

until these hounds attack!!

Sulking....

We're happy now.

Houston, we've got a problem!!

Sweeeeeet :)

The Thanksgiving Elves.

Peace and quiet, one more time!!

Our thoughts, EXACTLY!

Precious family from the hills of Tennessee.

Christiana, Aunt Mary, (cousin) Granger and his fiance' Chelsea.

Gabriel and (cousin) Haley.

Little girlie cousins.

With perfect weather, who wants to stay inside.

"You promise you'll catch me?"

"Just trust me, momma."

Time for an evening stroll.....

Sweet Mary Berry.

We have so much to be thankful for,

but the greatest blessing is knowing that God Almighty desires

for every one of us to spend eternity with Him, so much so, that He gave of His only son

to die in our place. He loves us that much!

Psalm 100

1Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.

2Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

3Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

4Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

5For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

HOPE YOU ALL HAD A DELICIOUSLY DELIGHTFUL THANKSGIVING.

WWII Reenactment--

2011-11-07T06:26:00.000-08:00

-General Von Kesseingers Express-
Perish Florida November 4-5, 2011

This Saturday our Uncle took us to a World War II train reenactment in Parish Florida. We were acting as French citizens being evacuated to Paris by the Germans, who had taken over the french train. The Germans were constantly harrassing us and making sure "Our papers were in order":) They did such a good job at making us feel like we were REALLY back in 1944 under the German rule....Despite of course a few corny "German" accents:):) But then again our "French" was pretty pathetic, too(wink). Our papers... You HAD to sign your name on the First line... and you had to make sure you got both of the stamps.... and if you had a camera you had to get all the right paperwork for it... Although they never told you what to do unless you got it wrong and then they would start yelling at you like crazy until you did whatever they told you to... It was so hard not to laugh at 'em;) But if you did then they would start up again with "Vy ah you lafing! You stupid Fwench voman. Get dat smile ouff your face!! etc..."

(Don't let that smile fool you!)

The assembly line:)

Making sure Matt has his papers in order.

Something just doesn't look right in this picture?

I don't know if it's the bright-pink girl in the back or the German taking pictures with an I pod??

The hospital camp.

They found this man with a time bomb in his suitcase trying to get on the train, So they....

Shot him!! Oh dear:/

And here drives up the General and Countess, with their stolen goods that they tried smuggling out of the country. They had boxes of gold and the Mona Lisa(smile).

Well, well, look at these smashing citizens:)

Boarding the train.

Jacques posing for a quick snap shot.

Onward we march to find a slightly vacant train car...

Leaving the station.

Bonjour moneme's.

Our Lovely Grandmother.

Oh dear!!! They have captured an American soldier.

Everyone looks over to see whats going on... Jonny on the other hand yawning to kingdom come... Poor guy had to get up sooo early...(not)

Theo lối mòn mình tôi đi thơ thẩn

Nắng vàng xuyên kẻ lá gợn lung linh

Trên bước đi qua bóng tối cây xanh

Nhìn giọt nắng lịm trên chân lần cuối

The Gustapo are searching the train!

And looky looky what they found...Another time bomb!!

And now the train has come to a stop... An enemy plane(to the Germans) has just crashed near the tracks and they have to send out a search party to capture the two pilots.

Unfortunately, they were successful in their capture:/

Now a little further down the line we are at another stop where they took out all spies and prisoners to be shot!

Ready... Aim..........(in German).

Dun du dah!!

The Americans have ambushed the Germans surounding them on all sides. We have been liberated!!! Vivila Americana!!!

Now the Americans boarded the train weeding out all the Germans, who, while under attack tried hiding in the crowd acting as French.

Here is one (hilarious) soldier that threw me and Jonny from our seats and handed us his hats, gun and some other stuff...Quite funny! He told the Americans when they came to take him away that we had ordered him into puting on that uniform and this whole big story... But it didn't work...Ha!

Me and John have taken over the train!

Hands up all you bunch of whoolagins.. The man was sitting there planning out his whole trip in Paris:)
He was going to take Lem to the Theater and cafe:) Oooo...

And the Gustapo agent tries hiding behind a newspaper:)

"What..What are you talking about? Look at my papers! I'm innocent.."

Heading back home... A few of the "Hiding Germans" stashed a few papers with the boys...
So as the Americans came through looking for German spies... They found "You know what" in the boys hands so they immediately suspected them all to be spies=o

(They were taken off the train and held hostage, until the great escape!)

Oh no!

Their taking them away!!!There they are... Until they all strategicly escaped;)

(Thanks to Uncle Tom)

Watching from the side lines. General Stanley

In which we depart.

Tom, your getting too big(wink)

What a bunch of snobs;)

As if people would really want to take pictures of . . . them...

;)

Say CHEESE:) Matty-moomoo-pie driving to HQ with his squad team.

The Gunner

Sisters

Don't y'all look sharp;)

"The human eye can be sharper than a blade,

Sink deeper than the sea,

More pleasant than a mere Willow Tree.."

Our crew

(Minus Granny and Momma)

Thank you so much Uncle Tommy for such a Great day!

Posted By: Christiana Noel~

September/October 2011

2011-10-10T16:49:00.000-07:00

Preparing the Seed Beds

The ole farmers always said that if you accidentally bang your tools

together in the garden that you'll both be there again next year.

"We do it on purpose."

Greens, Yellow Onions, Broccoli, Green Leaf Lettuce,

Romaine Lettuce, Collard Greens, Mustard Greens, Turnip Greens (We LOVE Greens!),

Tomatoes, Beets and Cabbage.

Hoeing (Without the hoe.)

Peanut shells make great mulch.

Herbs still coming along nicely.

Farmer James.

The seeds are put to bed.

"Life is good"

The ever growing peppers!!

The spicier the better.

YEEHAW

Gotta make it fun,

or it's just plain work.

------------------------------------

Seeing how long they can make this picture.

It's fun to see how different everybody's drawings are.

---------------------------------------------

Sugary Sugar Cookies

Liv's Art

See who the calm one is??

(James is not the calm one, he's just pretending ;)

BareFeet

--------------------------------

A TRIP to the Eye Doctor

Ooooh, What can I do with this??

"Please don't leave me here with this quack!"

The Doc doesn't look like a quack to me.

"Young lady, you're an interesting case, but I have just what you need."

"Here, let me show you how this works."

"Are we ready?!?"

WHAT!?!

(Who, ME?)

(Paybacks!)

"Well, now, aren't these just special?"

(Who was the patient?)

Be back soon,

or you may prefer we didn't return, ha ha.

August/September 2011

2011-09-11T10:32:00.000-07:00

A little visit with Nemo.

The only place you get to touch the Stingrays

without pain!!

We have a lake full of these,

but you don't ever get to see them this clear.

(Good Thing!)

So Cute.

NOT so cute :/

Our friendly ocean partners,

who don't look so friendly!

Lurking......

I'm glad we don't get to see what's under the water when we're

at the ocean!

I don't like these things. For one thing they travel in groups,

so in case the first sting doesn't take,

they can call in reinforcements,

and they usually do!!

These don't feel so good, either!

This is one creature we don't have to worry

about running into.

(I don't think!!!)

This is a camouflaged fish.

(In case you couldn't see past the camouflage ;)

----------------------

FUN WITH FRIENDS

Of course all fun starts with something like this :)

Some people do have to eat other things besides Java.

(I'm not one of them.)

Bestest Twins there ever was.

(Spend 5 minutes with them and you will see why :)

------------------------

NURSING HOME

Gabriel talking to one of his fans, ha ha ha.

Sweet fellowship with a little music added in.

We love you, Granny.

You're a great example of a servants heart.

-------------------------------

LABOR DAY

We spent a few days in Orlando at the "Gatehouse".

Relaxing time reading.

The Merry Maids painted a few rooms while we were there.

It wasn't all fun and games, although by the sounds coming from the rooms,

I think I might be wrong about that!!

(Gotta enjoy your work or it's just work :)

SWEET!!!

Relaxation at it's finest.

Our amazing cook!!

(We can always count on Ariana to make us healthy, delicious food,

wherever we go!!)

Underwater Fun

The new breath freshener.

It's allot cheaper and you can buy it in bulk!

(BTW: Don't try this at home or any place else!!)

---------------------------

BUSCH GARDENS

Hyena

(Serious posture problems.)

They sleep 20 hours per day.

I'd say these are lazy animals.

Something's happened to Chrisch and it doesn't look good.

Oh yeah, time for some sickening rides.

Can't wait!!

And there you have it..........

Hope you enjoyed.

Back In The Day

2011-08-29T14:48:00.001-07:00

While we were looking through old pictures yesterday, one of my very favorite things to do, I thought I'd post a few to share with you.

Chef Tom and Jon
Liv and Tom - 1999

Mom, Gabriel and Liv

(They didn't care much for these huge things!!)

Happy Tom

Lovin' Life Ariana

Dad - 1987

(He's still at it in 2011!)

Tom and Jon

(No, they weren't raised in a barn, just a chicken pen.)

Dad, James and Tom.

(Dad showing the boys how to relax, ha ha.)

(Like father, like sons.)

Gabriel loving up on the "Little Sister" Liv.

(He still calls her that.)

Tom and Mary.

Tom and Jon

(Best friends from the start.)

The rescued

(Presented with "In the arms of Jesus" trophies after the ocean adventure.)

(They sure have grown since then!)

Tom

Tiny Mary

Mary

(She finally reached 4 lbs and got to come home. She's still

on her heart monitor here, but praise God, He healed and strengthened

her heart and now she's as healthy as can be.)

Thank you, Lord.

Liv, Christiana, Ariana

(A very special bond of love.)

Jon

Just taking a break from farming to read a little news!!

James just catching a few rays at the ocean.

(This boy knows how to relax.)

This is when Dad's job was a lot harder.

These farm hands just weren't pulling their weight!!

The master sandcastle builder.

Christmas - 1999 ( I'm guessing)

Christiana

"See, I told y'all I was a little angel."

;)

Why are the girls on the bottom!?!?

And Mary???? You cruel things!!

Dad and Christiana - 1994

Ariana's been the chicken keeper for a loooong time!!

You do an awesome job little girl.

Hope you enjoyed this trip from "Back in the Day" as much as I did.

We'll be back soon.

Just Another Day

2011-08-16T12:47:00.000-07:00

Cow Herding

Yip, Yip
sh!;azid,,q:{{d;adfaqz

Dusty trails back home.

Gabriel, "Those girls look like they're up to something."

Christiana, "I've got this pole.......Cows are in........what to do, what to do?"

Howdy Y'all

Such violence!!

Trumpet?

Blow gun?

Straw?

Retaliation and Chrisch with her horn-blowgun-straw-sword thing

coming to poor Jons rescue.

And just when we thought all was safe in the 100 acre woods,

this ninja (I think) appears!!

With his ninja sidekick.

(They'll never escape from the girl with the multi-weaponry.)

He's mellllltttting.............

Really??? Nah

Just a peak into another crazy day. Just think, life could be boring.

(Join us next time.)

Do what we can, summer will have its, flies? Hmm...

2011-08-05T18:29:00.000-07:00

Welcome Blogosphere followers and random citizens...

I can't really think of any "opening" words so....

(:Enjoy the pictures:)

-Beach Trip!-

June:/

A while back Daddy took us kids to the Ocean

for the evening to do some swimming and fishing:)

It was a blast(as always)!!

Off to the sea to see what they can...catch
"And as you can see to the front of the screen, Two tackle boxes,
most likely used by natives in the early 1400's..."
Mays more than likely running from sharks.... :o
Sheer Happiness!
The mighty fisherman !

Jonathan digging to China.

;)

A picture worth a thousand words...

I'll let you figure out what they are:What can I see in the deep blue sea?

(Oh my, these comments are pathetic!)

------------------

-The Crab-
Here my friends is the epic and heart breaking story of Chester the

"Oceano Atlantico Caranguejo"

Translation:Atlantic Ocean Crab

This is when his life fell to disaster...

Poor Chester was captured by SOUCFTOW!

(Strangely Odd Unknown Creature From The Outside World)

And things just got worse when

another SOUCFTOW decided to have him for lunch =:o
"I will begin by pinching off his claws...."

Luckily for our dear friend Chester The "Strangely Odd Creature From The Outside World" decided to spare his life... Only to think of something more creative to do with him!

Curiouser and Curiouser the SOUCFTOW wondered what to do...
In the meantime, Chester decided to defend himself

by chomping off the SOUCFTOW grasping things, (aka: fingers)!!!!

Only to his dismay... He was transported to a more secure SOUCFTOW...

The strangest thing happened next....

They let him go!Back to his natural habitat...aww

Chester often remembers still to this day the horror he

went through on that particular afternoon.

And yes my friends, he is safe and sound:)

-THE END-
----------------------

-Random Things Around-

-The Homestead-

Yes, This is James randomly about to munch down on a half ripe tomato...

Cause you know what they say.."Half ripe tomatoes are the best kind" Sweet James

Garden Goodness, With some kind of vine draped over it...

(Probably poisonous or highly toxic!) I would say this is a random view for the typical tomato plants.

-The Chimney Sweep-

One of our dear friends the chimney sweep flew out of the chimney into the house... So what to do but Catch it!! This here is a close up of my awesome pointer finger...

Unfortunately this picture doesn't do it justice, If I just had of tilted it a little to the right...

-INSECTS- A wasp

(No kidding!)

Our swallowtail caterpillars!

A couple weeks ago we found our dill weed covered with over 50 swallowtail caterpillars!

First we thought we would catch 'em and feed 'em to the chickens... But then we decided they might turn into some awesome looking butterfly...So we took the 42 that were left and put them in our terrarium to watch them grow:)

They eat... Parsley, Dill, Carrot Tops, and Fennel.

This is the end result:) Awesome...

Unfortunately after two weeks they ALL died at the same time in one night... The young ones and the old ones:(We still don't know why... Oh well, we tried.)
Well, I hope this was a satisfactory post of your liking:)

Have an awesome week and don't forget to come back soon for more summer happenings;)

Posted By: Christiana Noel

Happy Birthday Momma!

2011-08-02T06:09:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday To:

The Most Wonderful Mom In The Whole World!
~Devoted~
~Hilarious~

~Loving~

Hope you have(had) the grandest of birthdays:)

We Love you SO much!

Daddy, Gabriel, Olivia, Ariana, Christiana, Thomas,

Jonathan, Mary, James

Mountain Trip ~ Part 3 ~

2011-07-20T15:35:00.001-07:00

Tennessee Mountains

continued......

Snapping beans with an awesome view.

(It's so strange, but sooo nice.)

The storms rolling in over Gatlinburg.

(Easy way to check the weather report, ha ha.)
"Look the other way, James!"
You just never know about these two!!
;)

Grill Masters

(Exchange Tom for Gabriel and you have our awesome cooks.)

(Tom, I'm sure you could do great, too.)

She smells the food.

All 14 of us invade the Old Mill Restaurant.

Patience boy, patience.

Country Store ( art )

This is on top of the mountain we're staying on and where

the ski slopes and ice skating are.

The hiking schedule for the week.

To get a little rest from hiking the kids decided

to ice skate for hours.

(Rest??? I don't call that rest, that's why WE rode the ski lift, instead.)

Mary and James trying hard to join the train.

They made it!

(All but poor Tom... He was fixing his skates on the sidelines...)

9.0

Speed skating against..... noone.

We can see everything that goes on on Gatlinburg and

Pigeon Forge.

(Especially with the binoculars.)

This rides from Gatlinburg to the Ice Skating and ski slopes on top

of the mountain.

($10 per person.)

This was a HUGE storm that rolled in with very high winds.

It reminded us of the hurricane winds and with the house hanging

over the side of the mountain, it was a little scary for mom.

It was amazing watching a lightning storm from ABOVE the lightning.

The plan was to hike Mt. Leconte (12.2) miles this morning,

but as you can see, you can't see!!

But after a couple hours, the clouds lifted

and they took off.

(5.6 miles straight up and 6.6 miles straight down.)

And they're down right at dark.

(Actually the young ones were down an hour ago, but dad's

knee blew out on the way down, so he was a little longer.

Atleast he made it. It's common to carry people off of this mountain.)

So, since 12.5 miles wasn't enough,

Clingman's Dome is on the list for the next day.

AHHHHH

Brothers

Ariana and Susan are holding me up

after huffin' and puffin' straight up this thing.

(Pitiful, I know.)

But.... with the pleading of my family,

I made it to the top of the mountain,

and then to the top of the dome.

(So feel free to give a hurrah or two, if you feel led.)

Part of the hike up you're in Tenn. and the

other part in NC.

That was the hiking trail, yesterday.

(These people just won't quit!)

Sisters

I love this pic.

(Just so you know.)

Aggressive male bear,

smelling the food grilling and trying to figure out how to get it.

They have had them climb the trees to get over the rails,

but I think he's a little big for that.

(I was praying he was, anyway.)

We also saw a momma and two tiny babies,

and a few others during the week.

(They're everywhere.)

When it gets dark, it's so beautiful seeing all the lights.

-----------------------

Bush Bean Plant

All we need now is a steak and potatoe the same size

and we're set for a party.

Ariana trying to steal the secret recipe.

---------------------

Returning to the

"Good Ole Days"

Ready for some sweet fellowship

and some awesome food.

Fun times.

(Camera girl, see those raised eyebrows? I think you're in TROUBLE.)

Perfect Picnic.

(The temps. were in the 50's during the day.)

The happiest dishwasher I've ever seen.

Jam session with the newest member of the band.

Alvin on the washboard.

(He's good!)

(BTW: Gabriel's playing his invisible bass. Just couldn't fit

that huge thing in the van, somehow ;}

Two more recruits.

(Eugene on the "other" washboard and LC on the washtub.)

(They might be at the Bluegrass Festival next year. Be watching.)

The boys picked 2 gallons of blackberries after breakfast,

and the girls made 2 of these for after dinner.

(It just doesn't get any better than this.)

Why can't we stay here,

in this place,

in this time,

when things were simple.

Heaven is our destiny,

and if we're a child of the Most High God,

it will be so much better ,

than any other place we could imagine.

How unworthy we are,

and How marvelous He is,

our Lord and Savior,

Jesus Christ.

Hope you enjoyed our Mountain Trip.

Mountain Trip ~Part2~

2011-07-20T14:39:00.000-07:00

Tennessee Mountains

Ready for our first hiking trip.

(Altogether, we, except momma, James and Mary, hiked 35 miles, straight up and down,

except for about 5 miles.)

Sugarland
(2 miles in - 2 miles out.)

Liv, these stairs don't go any higher.

After 2 miles in,

we reach the welcome center.

(Time for us old folks to rest.)

Time for some good ole' country cookin.

Doing a little weeding,

while looking out for the bears wondering around.

Just finished building the walkway.

(Great job, Mr. McIntosh)

Our morning view.

Amazing Beauty.

Ariana has a "Different" way of doing hair.

(All left sides first.)

(Then the right sides.)

Wouldn't you just love to be out on your property farming

with this view.

I sure would.

1800's Church.

The acoustics were amazing.

No need for a sound system here.

Pastor Ben and Deacon James.

On our way to Abram Falls.

Now this is what you call refreshing after a loooong walk.

Dad and Alvin are under the falls,

getting their message.

Ready, set......

and there he goes.

Ready, set......

and there he still is.

The gangs (not) all here.

ha ha

On the way home for another BIG meal.

Liv's house.

(She's moving in next week.)

continued...............

Mountain Trip ~ Part 1 ~

2011-07-17T12:30:00.000-07:00

Headin' to the hills of North Carolina to enjoy some great music

and great fellowship!!

Morganton, North Carolina
Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom,
must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it.
Thomas Paine

A few months ago our NC families made arrangements
for us to come to the festival.
They thought since the children played Bluegrass/Gospel,
they would LOVE this festival.
(They were absolutely right!)

This was set up when we arrived.

One of the cooks, trying to arrange her new kitchen

for the next five days.

We need a good hearty breakfast to make it through the grueling

days of listening to great music from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM each day.

(Life is tough!)

Now that Jon's taken care of, who's next?

Jon's "Flop Art".

Enjoyin' some good ole' Kettle Corn.

Wayne Taylor & Appaloosa

(Great Music)

Balsam Range

(One of our new favorites.)

Momma's most visited place.

(Refills only $1 and momma gets free chocolate in her coffee!)

Liv LOVING life and all the bands she listens to,

but has never met, until this week.

The ones responsible for getting us here and spoiling us rotten.

We Love You.

One of the best fiddle players you'll ever hear.

Cool refreshing Home Churned ice cream.

(It was 98 deg. and sunny all week.)

Dailey and Vincent

(Our favorites performers of the week.)

Singing a wonderful tribute to our veterans.

Liv and Gabe with Jamie Dailey.

Now with Darrin Vincent.

Traveling must be hard in this old bus.

The Snyder Family band.

(That little guy was sooo cute. He's just starting out and doing great.)

Darren Beachley and Barry Scott.

A little comedy added in.

Barry Scott has always been one of our favorites,

since he was with Doyle Lawson. It was great to finally meet him.

The Crowd

Our Uncle Eugene in the middle with the white shirt

used to drive for Mountain Heart,

so we went over to "Headquarters" to get

our picture.

Just plain "Tuckered out".

Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.

Christiana was honored to have Doyle Lawson sign her mandolin.

He's one of the best mandolin players and a fine christian.

Back at camp at 11:15 PM and time for dinner.

(How's that for a schedule?)

Dad went and bought us all hats to keep our brains from frying

in the heat!! The iced cold river helped, too.

We had a huge wind and rain storm come up all of a sudden and it was

blowing everything away, including the stage cover,

so we had to put everything up until it all blew over.

?!?

IIIrd Tyme Out

Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder

The last evening of the festival, July 4th.

It was a wonderful week,

with wonderful family.

----------------------

A STEP BACK IN TIME.

After the festival we head north to

Weaverville, NC.

This is the girls home for the next day until we head to Tennessee.

Our Aunt and Uncle built this on their property and it's

just like stepping back in time.

When you open the door it plays the old record player to the right,

automatically, with old records from back in the day.

This is their spring feather bed that is the most comfortable

bed EVER!!

(You can ask any girl, they all 3 slept in it together! (Except Mary).

They cooked every meal on the old wood burning stove.

It was warm, but they didn't care.

Our hostess with the mostest on the right.

We love you, Vaughtie.

"How's bout some fresh cukes?"

Momma, with her hot flashes, is cooling it outside with her coffee.

(Huh?? Cooling it with coffee? That might be the problem!)

Fresh picked squash from the garden just outside the door.

Is this the life or what?

Mary, about to faint, on the fainting couch.

This girl just belongs here.

Mountain Trip ~ Part 2 ~ coming soon.

Fishing, Etc.

2011-06-25T08:34:00.000-07:00

Deep Sea Fishing

Thank you, Michael, for getting this trip together.

The Fisher(men)

;)

The Galley

Sweet Friends

Red Hog Snapper

(Good Eats, but not so good on the visual side.)

Paul with the "Big" catch.

----------------------------

Smokey House

Mary and James decided to open a restaurant for the neighborhood,

so they hired Christiana to be their cook,

and they opened for business.

Waiting to be seated.

Mary, explaining the "Special" of the day.

Yummy Goodness.

Our "Happy" waiter.

(With a little comedy added in.)

We even had "Mr. Jenkinsmith" fly in straight from England.

(He was a fine gentleman, indeed!)

"I'm used to be served straight away, boy, straight away!!"

(Still waiting......)

We LOVE Smokey House.

------------------------------

FPEA Convention 2011

For the second year in a row, they upgraded our room (free)..

This year it was a huge room on the 8th floor,

with living room,

separate (Huge) bedroom,

balcony

and it's own hallway and doorbell.

(Liv brought the littles and C over for the day,

and they had a blast.)

Here's the view to the right.

It was a wonderful three days spent with my best friend.

This is in the Everglades section of the Gaylord Palms Hotel.

Gettin' a little sun.

Put your own caption,

(I have no clue.)

James and Matt

(Been doing a little fishin'.)

------------------------

Friend Time

Jon and Colby flyin high.

"Anybody want to challenge me?"

"Oh, yeah!"

Arms full of sweetness.

"Are we having fun yet?"

YEP

Well, I was, until............

----------------------

NOT FUN

Jon was trying to get this hook out of a blanket,

so nobody would get stuck with it,

and somebody got stuck with it.

Hooks don't come out the same way they go in,

so dad had to push it on through his finger and then pull it out the other side.

This is when you wish you had some serious pain killer.

He does NOT

want to ride in this rodeo, again!!

(Jon, you're a brave soul.)

Today's Quote:

Never approach a bull from the front,

a horse from the rear,

or a fool from any direction.

Happy Birthday, Gabriel

2011-06-20T10:54:00.001-07:00

Twenty-two years ago today,

we were blessed with

our 1st baby and

the first "Pollock" grand baby.

Ben Gabriel

Daddy spent hours and hours flying you through the air,
since that was the ONLY thing that soothed your colic.

(We figured we might as well dress you for the part. Robin Hood?!?)

Wild Wagon Rides were a favorite.
(Julia (cousin), Olivia (sister), Hannah (cousin))

Like father, Like son.
(And Christiana wondering where her overalls are.) In honor of being rescued from floating in the ocean after
their boat sank, Uncle Tommy presented the men and boys with these
"Safe in the arms of Jesus" statues.

Thank you, Lord, for keeping them here with us.

The "Olders". (and Jon.)

Their favorite place to be........with each other.

(Their close relationship is such a blessing to me.)

1Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

Heb. 12:1

We love your cheery, joyful spirit.

When you walk in the house after working and are so happy,
it changes any dull mood.

Your sensitivity to those that might be feeling low,
and the way you try to cheer their spirit, no matter how long it takes!

The time you spend with the boys, teaching and training. You are truly their hero.

Your obedience to your Lord, and even though you mess up,
you never give up. You're not a quitter.

I could go on and on, but just know that you are loved so much.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Love,
Daddy, Momma, Lem, Airs, Chricha, Jonny, Tom, Mary, James

Happy Father's Day 2011

2011-06-19T10:54:00.000-07:00

We love you poppy!!

(Christiana)

Happy Days, Pappa. Now let's go fishin!!

(Jon)

Happy Father's Day, daddy.

I love you so much and am grateful for the examples you show me.

You're the best.

(Gabriel)

Happy Father's Day and for all you do for us.

Can't wait for the BIG fishing trip.

;)

(Liv)

Happy Father's Day, daddy.

I love you.

I hope you have a great, great, great Father's day,

with all the kids.

Love, (Mary)

(Money for a new carburator for the boat,

and a gas card for gas to get out to sea.)

Daddy, I hope your Father's Day is swell.

Love, James

Hi daddy, it's me Tom, this is your day!
Happy Father's Day
I Love You

I love you, daddy.
Thank you for making life adventurous!!

Love, Ariana To a faithful, loving, God honoring husband and father.
You are loved so much, not just on Father's Day,
but every day.

You're the Best.
Love, Tina

------------------------------------------

Loving Father Wonderful and loving Grandfather. Thank you, daddy, for such a Godly Heritage.

Love, your son, Ben.

We miss you.

Oh, The Joys of Farm Life

2011-06-08T09:50:00.000-07:00

The snake we let go last week to catch the field mice,

wanted a little change on the menu.......

as in "Chicken"!. Two, to be exact.

Ariana, our chicken keeper, is NOT happy!!

I don't think she's gonna be so forgiving this time in letting him go.

Don't blame her.

Homeschool science lesson.

I'M NOT HAPPY!!!

----------------------

Pure Joy

The bed garden is coming along nicely.

Very Nicely.

Fried Green Tomatoes, mmm, mmmm.

Juicy (Iced cold) Melon on a hot day, mmmm, mmmm.

Peppers to spice things up, mmm, mmmm.

My dream of a bed garden is coming true.

Soooo happy!!

Herbs for seasoning, salve, flavoring and medicine.

Almost finished....

I will be glad and rejoice in thee:

I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High.

Psalm 9:2

April/May 2011

2011-05-22T20:08:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day

I am truly, truly a blessed mother.

Thank you, Lord.

I had "Love Notes" all over the house,

and special treats around every corner.

I know I drink allot of coffee, but I consider this overload!!

I love you, too!!

VERY, VERY MUCH

---------------------

Hay

The new conveyor sure makes it nice.

It doesn't help much for the bottom rows, though.

Sometimes ya just have to sleep standing up.

"How's things up top?"

"Going good, just doing a little meditation."

----------------------------------

Cake

Liv's latest cake was for a young lad turning 8,

who races cars. She made a replica of his car for the cake.

He loved it!!

------------------

Friends + Fellowship = Good Times

Your guess is as good as mine.

Sorry Cal about your head being cut off,

but I'm not the photographer.

(That goes without saying.)

Precious Friends

Gabriel having a deep conversation with Nathaniel.

(Looks a little dubious.)

Boys being boys.

Mary ????

Gabriel ?????

------------------------

Shaving Cream Wars

Cheese

Pucker up!!

Too Fun!

Is that James?!

Thanks for joining in on the fun.

See ya next time.

Happy 8th Birthday, James

2011-05-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

James Michael Monroe

Happy

Tenderhearted

Funny

Kind

100% boy

James' favorite place to be has always been

right beside his daddy and still is.

James Loves to talk,

even if it's to a fish.

"See, these fish daddy caught can talk"!

OH NO!! One more wild adventure :O

This is what happens when the girls get a hold of ya.

(Btw: The shirt is red, not pink. Just for those wondering.)

;]

Hay Baby "It's been a long day ridin' the range.""Reckon I'll just mosey on then........." Life is ALWAYS good!

Some of James' favorites:

Working with daddy and opening the gate.

Trains

Ford Trucks

Knights and Castles

Farming

Planting the garden

Swimming

Lots of Laughing

James, you bring a smile everywhere you go!! You're

such a jolly lil' fella and we're so thankful for you.

You have such a fun-loving and caring spirit and there's

never a dull moment when you're around. You remind us

of your Uncle Jim, your namesake, the way you remember

EVERYTHING and how you love to tell stories.

We love you James!!

Happy 8th Birthday

Where Does The Hay Go?

2011-05-06T13:46:00.000-07:00

When we started in the hay business, we thought

the hay would be sold as feed for cows and horses

and maybe, on occasion, for construction sites, but

never for what our latest deliveries were for.

Time for some before dinner "Stacking" :)

This is oat hay which horses and cows love,
and so does something else.

"Oh yeah, keep loading, good job, keep loading."

(Jon's about to be de-throned!)

To tell ya the truth, I don't know how she loads these

things without gloves!! Looks painful.

(Well, I really wouldn't know, I can't even pick them up!)

He's at it again.

As usual, I'm not really sure what's going on here.

Liv, the mime.

Jon, Mr. Puffin Stuff.

Puffin stuff's on is last puff!!

Almost ready.

Now we're ready.

Ya know, you can't stop until the sun goes all the way down,

or at least that's what I've been told.

(That's why we eat dinner at 9:00.)

We're here for the first delivery.

What is this place???

Huh?

Yep, right here in hot sunny Florida,

our hay is going to the circus.

Never would've guessed, but it has sure been interesting.

Life is good and the elephants are satisfied.

Ocean Breezes

2011-04-25T07:52:00.000-07:00

Yes, my dear friends,

There comes a time in every mans life

when he MUST heed to the call of the wild,

in our case...... THE ATLANTIC OCEAN!

One wave by hand

Two waves by sea....Folks, corny is my middle name!

Mays collecting sea creatures, or sea creatures collecting Mays.

Shells! Who knew!!

Who will challenge the dastardly daring chicken fighters?

Who I ask, who?

John ready to be WIPED OUT! And.... He was:/:)

"Did you see me mommy... I won!"

Did you see those cheeseballs tryin' to steal all the victory;)

James is about to ship his cattle over seas....

(Truck full of cows)

Johns newest cd cover.......

A little R&R.... And S.
(As in sun)

May's (a little on the frazzled side) having tons of fun in the sand:)
??????????
Still wondering:/

The annual moat digging.

Daddy had a few little peoples drop by to help with the castle.

(So cute!)

....

You can order this modern art deco for your own home

for the low price of $199.99.

(Shipping not included.)

Daddy and his masterpiece!

Airs looking confident, James on the other hand, not so much:/

Gotta love it!

I LOVED this one!(just in case you were wondering;)

Is your castle built upon the solid rock

Jesus Christ,

where it shall stand firm when trials come,

or is it built upon the sand?

When the seas rise and the waves crash, will your castle hold?

Our wonderful Father!

Trying to push the "pine cone" in for a little swim.

As you can see, he's not budging!

"Woman, don't even try to move me!":)

awwww....

We are either....

Trying to get a bite from the innocent bystander,

or
We are having a contest to see who can make the biggest double chin.

.......

Everyone was supposed to imitate their favorite animal...

And it looks like everyone had the same idea:/

Us... Again.......

...

Gabriel.... Need I say more?

My sister, My Friend!

The sun is setting in the west,The cattle go down to the stream,The red wing settles in her nest,It's time for a cowboy to dream. Well that's all the pics and lame comments for today!
Come back next time to see..... Something else:)

Posted by: Christiana