The Coates Family

2012-01-29T20:30:00.000-05:00

James, Thank You for showing me your belly.

James, Thank You for picking up that sock.

James, Thank You for making me workout today.

James, Thank You for making sure the fence is sturdy.

James, Thank You for being so sweet to your Mama.

So Sweet

2012-01-16T13:13:00.002-05:00

Weekend Fun.

We had a great weekend at the Coates residence. James was able to see all of his Grandparents for some early Birthday surprises. He now has some lovely pottery to match Mom and Dad's dishes and walks around the house with his new John Deere truck pressing the little noise button over...and over...and over again. He loves it and in case you didn't know... "theres nothing like a Deere".

James, Mr. Jackson, and I went to watch Daddy race on Sunday. He clapped everytime he saw JP.

Melt your heart much?

Clap for Dad!

We are so proud of JP. It looked like a hard course and it was for 40minutes. I know I couldn't do it for that long. They also had a kids race that I see James doing in a few years!

We also enjoyed a nice break to run some bases and play in some dirt.

We have got to get this kid a sandbox for the summer.

2012-01-14T14:38:00.000-05:00

Nap Time.

Oh how I remember 4 weeks ago his feet barely stuck out of this crib. Now, they stick past his ankles. Why he insist on sleeping horizontally in his crib I will never know. I am watching him on the monitor as we speak and his is kicking the side of the crib that is against the wall so he can get his feet out.
Boys.
Gotta Love them.

Lets not forget about Mr Jackson. He is still enjoys a good 4 naps a day while James is on 2. He has no complaints about the rug I chose for the nursery. I wonder sometimes if he thinks he is hiding and we cant see him...sneaky Jackson.

Shag is back people!

2011-12-26T22:00:00.000-05:00

Just a little Christmas Cheer.

Nothing is better than being surrounded by family for the Holidays. James had a GREAT First Christmas. The Coates and Haynie Grandparents all gathered for a weekend of festivities and JP and I couldn't have been happier. Not only did we have babysitters around the clock but they also cooked and cleaned. Ummmm come back all the time... please!

James has chosen walking over crawling and when ever he has the opportunity he takes off. Wouldn't it be nice if he was talking Jackson on walks soon :) I will make sure to update with some of those pictures in the near future.

Click on any of the photos to be taken to the smugmug album.

2011-12-22T19:29:00.001-05:00

2011-12-20T21:24:00.000-05:00

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

What you talkin bout Willis

2011-12-11T19:40:00.001-05:00

We Play Hard.

We Nap Hard.

2011-12-04T22:56:00.001-05:00

Double Click on the picture to see our Colorado Adventure!

2011-11-27T20:01:00.001-05:00

We are on our way home in the morning.

I miss the Carr family already...

2011-11-21T18:22:00.004-05:00

We Have a StowAway!
Someone is ready to see his cousins.

2011-11-14T20:21:00.005-05:00

I was thinking about how I needed to take pictures of something other than my sweet boy today. First of all who can blame me? I just want to take a swim in those deep blue eyes every second of every day.

As I was thinking about how I used to make time for photo adventures, or just time to play with the settings on my camera. I turned and realized James had made it half way up a flight of stairs and I couldn't help but laugh... well panic, then laugh (his balance isn't that great yet).

I was laughing that the timing of my thought provided me with the answer. Hes at that age where you just cant take your eyes off him. He loves to crawl and play outside and I love that about him. If hes not trying to chase a squirrel, hes picking up a worm, or finding the one piece of trash in the entire yard. Can you just hear me in the yard yelling "Come on! Seriously! How did you find that?"

Maybe I will get back to those adventures in a few months.

For now I am going to soak up some Baby James time.
From what you all keep telling me, they grow up way to fast anyways.

2011-11-08T20:03:00.003-05:00

Catch me if you can...

2011-11-02T21:24:00.008-05:00

Let's get something clear.

If you want to take my picture first you are going to have to catch me.

Then I will require a break to entertain some friends.

Next, I will need to inspect and make sure you have the proper equipment

Finally, you will have to answer one question correctly.

How do I look in these jeans?

Pretty cute right...

I can always try again tomorrow.

2011-10-31T21:00:00.003-05:00

For Shame.

With all this Redskins love its a shame they cant pull out a win for us!

I really shouldn't be posting this after the embarrassing 0-23 game yesterday. Poor JP still hasn't fully recovered. Thankfully that is not the game Uncle Casey came down for. He came down for the Panters vs Skins game the weekend before....

which they still lost...

but they scored.

(Salt in an open wound, I'll stop)

The picture with James in his helmet stroller is what he was for Halloween. We have a little neighborhood party and he strolled around.

Just an FYI this fella has 3 teeth coming in at the same time. Who does that??? 2 top teeth and 1 more on the bottom.

2011-10-27T20:40:00.002-05:00

Kids do the Darnedest Things...

He's so Worth it.

2011-10-19T21:19:00.000-05:00

This is how we start our mornings.

I love it.

2011-10-15T21:06:00.005-05:00

When did all of this happen? I was sitting in the Living room just watching James and I just kept thinking... When did he get so big? He looks like a little man just zooming from one side of the room to the next. Stand up, Sit down, crawl, stick something in mouth, pull Jackson's tail, laugh, attack Gator, stare out window...repeat.

This kid was made to be outside. I love it. If he is inside he will find a window and a way to stare out. I figure I need to start preparing for camping trips...lots of camping.

Camping with JP...does anyone else find that absolutely hilarious?

The weather was so nice this past week we even had all of our meals on the patio. Pure Joy, I have never seen him eat so much.

2011-09-29T18:30:00.002-05:00

Such a Big Boy!

OK, So maybe he had a little help...

and...my favorite

2011-09-25T16:32:00.000-05:00

Rain Rain Go Away...

2011-09-20T19:41:00.011-05:00

Some New Kicks for the little man.

I don't know if you are aware about the foot problem in the Coates household. Calm down, don't worry, its not contagious...

but it is hereditary.

Apparently, the Coates men have very wide feet... I'm talking Fred Flintstone style here people.

You would think for a 8month old this would be a problem, but it is. We have had the hardest time finding shoes that fit these little feet without squishing them. Which is why I was so excited when I found these SkidDers at target. Just perfect for my little mans size 4 wide feet.

(They are really just glorified socks but we will take what we can get)

Plus, he thinks they make him extra fast.

2011-09-18T19:21:00.002-05:00

2011-09-16T21:31:00.001-05:00

This is how we sleep...Isnt it just the cutest.

2011-09-12T15:29:00.003-05:00

Hail to the Redskins...

2011-09-10T20:20:00.002-05:00

Dear Dad,

Today I would rather be a Dragon...

2011-09-08T19:48:00.003-05:00

Just look at how long our little fella is.

He still doesnt want to pick that belly off the floor.

Just an FYI... It doesnt slow him down one bit....

We havent decided who's toy this is just yet....

2011-09-05T20:48:00.001-05:00

James First Wagon Ride

2011-09-01T19:40:00.002-05:00

We have teeth!

2011-08-24T21:33:00.008-05:00

Lets see what Mr James was up to at 6 months

We played in the sand

We Love to Swing

We discovered Cookies

We saw our first Baby Einstein Video

We have a new snuggle buddy

We have mastered the Army Crawl

We celebrated Anniversary's

Most Importantly, we just LOVE playing with Daddy.

We also have two bottom teeth that have cut through!

2011-08-03T21:39:00.004-05:00

2011-07-16T19:32:00.001-05:00

Click on the Picture to See the rest of our Beach Trip

Dont Worry Mom, Lake Picture's are coming...

2011-06-30T22:19:00.001-05:00

Vacation here we come!

2011-06-29T20:57:00.001-05:00

2011-06-26T19:49:00.008-05:00

Big Changes

We had our first taste of Rice Cereal today, It was a HUGE hit. This kid opened his mouth and just waited for the spoon. I'm pretty sure he was wondering what took us so long. The pediatrician recommended waiting until 6 months due to allergies and making sure his digestive system is ready. However, Sweet James has been giving the signs for a few weeks and since he is so close to that 6 month mark we went for it.

James has also been sleeping through the night for a while. My sister recommend a book that I still reference every now and then, Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child. It recommends putting your child to bed earlier to get them to sleep more. We had been putting James to bed between 7 -7:30, and to be honest I thought anything earlier was slightly insane. I decided to give it a try, at 6 he had a bottle, by 6:30 he was asleep, and we didn't hear from him again until 6:30 the next morning. Its been quite lovely other than the fact that it is hard for JP to see him when he gets home from work. He still wakes occasionally for an 11:00 feeding but its pretty sporadic. Now if JP and I could just get to bed before midnight we would be all set.

We have a busy few weeks ahead of us! Brother Gray is already in town and Jessica will be here this week with the kids. Then its off to the lake for the 4th of July, back to Charlotte for a few days, and then to the beach for a few days.

Dear Vacation, You cant get here soon enough!

2011-06-22T19:51:00.004-05:00

I Love Me Some Baby Legs

and feet

and ankles

and knees.

I Just Love Me Some Baby James

2011-06-18T22:51:00.002-05:00

Happy First Fathers Day to my Sweet Husband.

Oh, how I just love these boys.

2011-06-17T11:18:00.003-05:00

Teething Much??

He managed to grab every single toy on his blanket and put them under his arms so he had his own buffet of things to chew on. James was so proud.

2011-06-06T20:47:00.000-05:00

2011-06-05T08:05:00.002-05:00

and we bounce....and bounce....and bounce...

2011-06-01T20:40:00.000-05:00

2011-05-29T22:33:00.002-05:00

Catching Up

Click on the photo to see what we were up to during April.

(Yes, I am that far behind in downloading pictures off the ol'Camera)

2011-05-25T11:41:00.005-05:00

Click on the Picture to see more of James Outside.

2011-05-22T19:17:00.004-05:00

Happy 5th Annivesary to my Sweet, Loving, and just all around Amazing Husband.

A special thanks to all the Grandparents who came to watch Sweet James so we could have a date night (he is already going through withdrawal from all the attention).

2011-05-18T18:44:00.004-05:00

Out of all the bath toys a four month old could have guess which one he chooses as his favorite...

That's right, Big Red Cup for the win.

Oh, how funny and exciting this cup is.

2011-05-16T19:20:00.002-05:00

Someone has finally decided to protest against the swaddle

2011-04-16T10:49:00.012-05:00

Strolling Around... I just adore this stroller. Yes, I know adore and stroller don't usually go in the same sentence but I'm sticking to it. It is so easy to maneuver, its light, has an emergency break; I could go on and on. For all you BoB Strollers fans out there, now I get it. At the end of the work day I get excited to take the boys for a walk with it, granted the wine in Mama's Sippy cup probably helps a little, but I think its mostly its the time with my boys in this hassle free stroller.

James wanted everyone to meet Mr. Monkey. This is his oldest, most trusted, and most favorite friend.

Until Next Time!

2011-04-08T21:08:00.002-05:00

Mon Petit Chou.

Have a great weekend everyone!

2011-04-06T07:22:00.001-05:00

Party at my crib...

We had a power outage this morning, from 2am-4pm we had zero electricity. This wouldn't be a problem if I didn't work from home and everything else I needed to do also involved the Internet. Around 11 I threw in the towel and stopped trying to do anything and decided to just hang out with James. He was already off his routine so I decided we should just forget naps and spend time at target. Target always helps everything.

When we got home he was so tired I decided to just put him in his crib for a nap...no swaddle. Well, this is why we swaddle. When I put him down this child could not keep his eyes open, after 10 minutes in his crib "free" I heard giggling and cooing in the hallway. I walk in and he is having his own little crib party.

Gotta Love this Kid.

Party at James Crib

2011-04-06T07:21:00.000-05:00

2011-04-02T07:06:00.000-05:00

2011-03-31T19:56:00.001-05:00

Come Along on a Car Ride with James....

He's talking to us in the last one...

2011-03-29T20:16:00.004-05:00

Life is Good...

2011-03-15T09:00:00.001-05:00

I thought I would share my wonderful "Push" present with you. Isn't it lovely. It has James initials on the front and his DOB on the back. Good job Sweetie! I just love it. I have to tell you ladies that JP had never heard of a push present, and defiantly had no intentions of getting me one. "Anything for a present" he says. Hummm...funny thing, a few weeks after delivery here it is (the delivery room might have traumatized him a bit).

Lets talk books. Remember when you were pregnant and everyone tells you about "that book". You know, the one that got them through the first few months with their newborn and you just HAVE to get it. The one that helps them sleep, eat, and just makes everyone happier. I just thought you all should know... I have a book like that now!!

After reading every single book recommend to me I was done. There was no way I was buying another book the had suggestions because they just made me feel like everything I was doing was oh so wrong. First thing you should know is all of these books they basically have the same general concept- Eat, Activity, Sleep (Unless it is nighttime then it is just Eat, Sleep). This always made sense to me and I have been trying to do that since Week 3 whenever I could. Well, things started to come up and I would have no idea why they were happening. For example, ALL and I mean ALL of James naps turned into 30 min naps over the course of a weekend.

A friend of mine told me about this book called the "Baby Whisperer" and I just disregarded her and thanked her and when on (Like I said I was done with the books). A few weeks went by and she asked how things were going and we talked for a bit. Well before I knew it I got a package in the mail with this book in it. I opened it and skimmed a few sections and tried something I read and Holly Cow James went right down for his nap and we haven't looked back since. I just LOVE it. I know certain generations don't believe in these books and a child eats when he hungry and sleeps when he is tired. Well I say Nonsense! I know they are not for everyone but it is working for us.

Finally, the latest picture of my boys. I just love them. XOXOXO

2011-03-11T14:35:00.001-05:00

James has the cutest crooked smile ever! I keep trying to capture it but its just not happening. His jaw dips a little to one side which causes me to have to pay more attention when he is eating, but I am pretty sure one day the ladies will think he is a heartthrob. It might even bump him to smoldering status.

2011-02-20T16:58:00.014-05:00

Another week has come and gone in the blink of an eye in the Coates household. James is doing well and getting more and more on a schedule with a little less fussy time everyday. He does not like to be swaddled but we realized he was waking himself up at night by hitting himself with his hands. We decided to tolerate the initial swaddle fuss for longer periods of sleep. I don't know what he is so upset about I would love to be swaddled...unfortunately, JP said it wasn't going to happen.

He is growing so much everyday. We are going in tomorrow for his 4 week checkup and to see how much he weighs. I am thinking 10lbs easy...

2011-02-02T12:05:00.020-05:00

I haven't blogged since November 2009...I am just going to give myself a moment for that to sink in. I have randomly checked everyone blog at some point in my year or so absence it is great to see you all doing so well. I blame my absence on facebook, I check it and fell current on whats going on in the outside world. A lot has happened during this time which I will touch on at a later date but lets focus on the obvious...we had a baby!!! Now, I have been told by many (you all know who you are) that having a baby means you have to blog again, which I find interesting since I have far less time than I ever did before. All I can say is I will try.

Welcome to the World James Thomas Coates

I had a blissfully boring pregnancy and I am so grateful. Yes, the last 4 weeks it was hard to tie my shoes, my feet would swell if I was up to long, and I was hungry. Boy was I hungry. Thankfully, I married the most wonderful, patient, loving man who reminded me daily what a gift all of this was... AND if I wanted smores ice cream, by golly he would go out of his way to make sure I got it.

I went almost the entire pregnancy without a single contraction. There was a distant mild menstrual cramp that would last a moment and then disappear, but they were random and I could count them all on one hand. Our due date was here and then it was gone as quick as it came. I even had my "membranes swept" the week before hoping this would help with labor but nothing. I was convinced he was so cozy a C-section was in my future. We had the option to go in on Sunday and be induced but we decided to wait it out one more week since at that point I was only 1cm dilated and 50% effaced. The OBGYN wasn't going to let me go past Thursday with out being induce so it bought us 5 days. I went in on Monday for a checkup and was at 2cm and 70%. This was good because it meant I didn't have to go into the hospital the Wednesday night before and take the Cervidril.

I had so many people through out my pregnancy tell me to get "checked" every time I went in to the OB because it would help with labor. That last appointment did. I started having contractions about 30mins apart, then it hoped to 10, and then they went to 5. I thought something was wrong with my watch, they were consistently 3mins apart and I was just mildly uncomfortable. Where was this massive pain everyone tells me about? Well, then I heard/felt a pop and the game changed... this was around 1am. JP had been up since 4 that morning so he had gone to bed earlier. I called for him and told him we should probably go to the hospital. He hoped out of bed ready to go (Ummmmmm...Who was this man and where was he any other time I needed to leave the house??).

We were checked, our physician was called, and then we were admitted. My water broke on its own at 3 cm which lead to a blissful epidural. JP and I joked that we were in "the Spa" as we watched TV, had jello, played on the computer, and listen to the woman in the room next to us have a natural birth. I was at 8cm, 9cm, and then 10 before we knew it. After only 11 hours of labor in the hospital James Thomas Coates was here! We just love him so much and don't remember how things were without him.

Everyone wants to know where we go the name from and what we are going to call him. We are calling him James. JT is to confusing with JP, Sweet Baby James is a name he will out grow in no time, and besides we just love the name James. He was not names after a James Taylor song, although it is a perk. We named him after both of our fathers who we love greatly and molded us into the individuals we are today.

We are so excited and so blessed to have him in our lives. Thanks to everyone who has offered to help out or brought us food. Mama Kim came down and watched Jackson while we were in the hospital. She stayed for a few days after taking the 4am baby shift so JP and I could get a little sleep. Then Robin came in the following weekend cooked up a storm and stocked our freezer with goodies. Finally, Sister came in for a long weekend without the kids and dropped some baby knowledge on me. She also helped me get out of the house and back into the real world, and for that I am forever grateful. Oh, and she helped manage my wine cabinet that hadn't been touched in months... Thanks for not letting any of those bottles go bad sis ;)

2009-11-29T21:18:00.011-05:00

We're Here
I know. I know. Once again this update is long overdue.

~JP and I are official Charlotte residents! As we were fishing the Internet for houses we noticed that the original house we made an offer on many months ago showed up as "Showing" but "Pending" sale. After speaking with our realtor we found out the couple who was under contract had pushed the closing date once and was trying to get it pushed again. To make a long story short the seller was looking for a way out of the contract, we put in a backup offer, the sale fell through, and we got our house! We are SO happy here. JP has his garage, Jackson and I have a yard, and the neighborhood is just amazing. Everyone has been coming over to greet us with goodies. We have also discovered that most of the houses have been passed down from generation to generation (which just confirms that everyone else loves it as much as us).

Mom, Dad, and Robin have been over a few times to help us get settled and we really appreciate the help. We are trying to work on one room at a time. This week my project will be the office, I can NOT handle having to go through every box to find a stapler, folders, documents, chargers, cameras, and so forth. I have got to organize my space.

Did I mention we have a real fireplace? We are sitting in front of it right now...ahhhhhh....something else to love about this place.

2009-10-11T17:44:00.004-05:00

Hail to the Redskins...

Just wanted to post a quick photo. JP and I went to my first ever NFL game this weekend! Loved it. I would have loved it a little more if the skins had won but what can ya do.

2009-10-04T18:43:00.005-05:00

My New Lady...

Yes, Jackson had to be in the photo.

2009-10-01T08:49:00.024-05:00

Long Overdue

So much has been happening I have decided my life would best be summarized in bullet points.

-We sold the house! We officially closed on Tuesday, you will have to forgive me for not really telling anyone but after the last buyers loan fell through we were just holding our breath on this one. FYI-For Sale By Owner can work and if you are the seller save you a lot of money. JP and I are actively seeking a property in Charlotte but in the meantime staying at Robins lake house in Mount Gilead (Thank You Robin). I know one puppy who has absolutely no complaints about this temporary situation.

-Speaking of Puppies... Jackson turned one! I cant believe it it seems like we just brought him home yesterday ( I know all of you Moms think I am crazy). I have discovered that I can no longer leave him alone with JP when I travel for an entire week. He now farts every time he stretches and burps after every meal...thanks JP.

-Speaking of Birthdays... Mama Kim and Robin both had a birthday this month! Congrats to our sweet ladies for putting up with JP and I for another year.

-Speaking of the lake... we were able to borrow it for a weekend for Natasha's Bachlorette party. All I can say is RELAXING...RELAXING...RELAXING...we all so needed it. It was a perfect weekend just floating in the water.

-Speaking of Natasha... she had a Beautiful wedding in Asheville two weekends ago. It was outside (in between the rain storms) with big beautiful apples everywhere. What a sweet couple they are, truly one of those meant to be things. With all of these weddings this summer I keep telling JP we need to get married again...he has learned just to say ok and smile.

-Speaking of weddings...Clay and Becky also got married! LOVE their pictures...very cool. The reception was beautiful and oh so much fun. It was so great to see all the cousins, aunts, and uncles we haven't seen in a while. Mom and Dad rented a town house for the weekend and it was perfect. It was close to everything and had the "must have" park in the subdivision for the kiddos.

-Speaking of family...As you all know sister flew into town with the kids for almost two entire weeks! My house was so empty when they left :( ...it was so sad. Please come back. When we were packing I would find a raisin or cheerio tucked under a cushion that would make me sigh. JP found many in the car and did not have the same reaction as I did. We did so many things and had so much fun I dare not to bullet point those two weeks. There are some fun photos you can check out on The Coates or The Carr Picasa sites.

-Speaking of fun...Hanner had a bachlorette party! All I will say is FUN...FUN...FUN...Loves me some Hanner.

-Speaking of Hannah...Another one bites the dust. Miss Hannah will be married by the end of this month! Our wonderful friend Sunday will be taking the photos so I know we will have some amazing ones to share.

FYI-Yes I am still attempting to read The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo...with my schedule it is just not happening.

2009-09-10T17:28:00.003-05:00

All it's cracked up to be...

Wedding season is upon us!

We are a little busy around here and loving it. Two weekends ago we had Natasha's Bachlorette party at the lake. Followed by Jessica and the kids flying in on Wednesday and we headed to Raleigh for a few days. During that time we made a trip to Wilmington for Miss Hannah's Bachlorette party (insert awesomeness here), and now we are in Delaware for Clay and Becky's wedding. Exciting times!

Next weekend is Natasha's wedding so hopefully I can get some pictures up after that.

2009-08-23T20:27:00.017-05:00

My have we had a lot going on these past few weeks. We had our house on the market for about 50 days and accepted a contract for full asking price! Talk about exciting. I told JP I wouldn't look at houses in Charlotte until ours was under contract so since the signing we have spent the past few weekends in Charlotte searching and searching. After a few frustrating trips we found it... Our DREAM house. 3 car garage (with two man rooms and a bath), fully gutted and renovated inside the home, fenced in back yard...need I say more. It wasn't even on the market yet. The only reason we were allowed to see it was because our realtor knew the listing agent. JP and I walked out of there and put an offer in. We were high on happiness.

WERE being the key word here.

While waiting 48 hours to see if our offer was accepted our buyers loan fell through. They had a preapproval letter however they could not get approval for nearly the amount they offered AND they had no cash...100 percent financing. Ugh. As fast as we found the perfect home we lost it. Who knows how long it will be until we get another offer. We know Real Estate is getting ready to go into the slow season until February so we are talking about taking it off for a while or possible renting it out. To add to my misery we lost Sweet Jaxx Friday. He was an amazing dog who got me through high school by protecting me from our crazy rooster, he will be greatly missed. Please keep Mama Kim in your thoughts and prayers.

In an attempt to leave on a not so depressing note I will leave you with a conversation I had with my sweet husband today.

Lisser walks into the room looking mighty fine

JP: You didn't say Thank You.

Lisser: Thank you for what?

JP: For washing the dishes.

Lisser: For washing the dishes that you just used to make your breakfast?

JP: Well I washed the knife you used for peanut butter.

Lisser: Are you kidding me right now?

2009-08-21T07:32:00.006-05:00

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad

33 years is quite amazing and such a great example for us all. You have taught us so many things about love, marriage, and family. Thank You for that.

All of my photos are on the computer we moved to the lake BUT I did manage to find a picture of the three beautiful babies you made...aren't we cuties!

In your own words Dad "You did good"

Love You and Thinking of You All Day

2009-08-05T20:48:00.012-05:00

To Blog or Not to Blog.

This summer is crazy! Did you know it is August already? I don't know where the time has gone. I hope you have all accepted the fact that the summer time blogging is few and far between. (look at me acting like more people than my Mom read this)

A few weeks ago JP and I took a trip up to Saratoga Springs NY for Ian and Amy's wedding and it was amazing. JP spent most of the time with the fellas doing their groomsmen errands so I spent a lot of time during the day walking around and shopping (bhoo hoo I know). I downloaded some pictures but they are mixed in with many puppy photos so I need to go through them before I add them to Picasa. I now realize I enjoy taking photos of Jackson WAY to much and I complete don't care because he is so precious. I am thinking about becoming a pet photographer ;) If JP would let me take his photo I would say he is precious too but as you see this is how JP acts when the camera is out... I think I need to redirect my training for a while.

Other than the trip to NY, I have been in Detroit twice and Chicago twice since I have last posted. JP is still working in Charlotte and driving all the way home on weekends (we are hoping that will all be over with at the end of September).

Love you Mom!

2009-07-21T19:09:00.005-05:00

On our way to New York tomorrow for the Klass Wedding! Jackson has decided to eat dirt as his way of protesting the trip(its not working). However, I have no desire to pack. So, if anyone would like to come over and take care of that for me it would be greatly appreciated. I am sure I can convince my husband to throw in some free wine.

2009-07-12T21:40:00.011-05:00

When did it really hit me? Not until this week. You see its official, I have been traded in for a new model. Who can compete with the way the sun hits off that Titan Silver and that new car smell? Apparently, not me. Looking back on our marriage there were hints that one day this would happen. Regular paint wasn't Red or Blue; it was Siena Red and Topaz Blue. The car game punch bug was turned into E30, for those of you wondering this game does NOT end and it does NOT matter if anyone else is playing. Current Score JP 5000; Lisser 0.

When JP picked me up from the airport the other day in his new BMW wagon, I was at the end of a very long travel day. I got in the car and started venting about my trip. This was when I was informed that inside the wagon was a "place of calm"... "we could talk about my day when we got home". The rest of the car ride included a discussion about why the headlights were jiggling, which I never saw so most of the ride was "see", "did you see it that time", "watch", "now look". Finally, I said I did see so we could move the discussion forward onto how we could fix the invisible problem.

Since we purchased the new car it has been a hectic Christmas at the Coates. We went to the lake for July 4th and spent time with Robin, Casey, and finally got to meet Sara (Who was very sweet and a big hit). Jackson swam and wore himself out to the point of no return...I think he slept for two days straight after we were home. We have new neighbors here on Appling Way and they are awesome, I hate so much that we are moving. I think they have unintentionally become my adoptive family when I am home and JP is in Charlotte. They have a 3 year old Weimaraner name Remy who I walk with Jackson during the day, and it also gives them both someone to play with. They have also introduced me to Ciao Bello Gelato (amazing... you must try it) Coconut and Key Lime are my favorite. We have regular taste test and I must say all of them are quite delious with the exception of Chocolate Jalapeño Gelato...it was just so wrong.

We are off to the Klass wedding on Wednesday in New York...whhhoooo hooooo vacation!

2009-06-20T18:20:00.008-05:00

Just call me "Cry Baby Coates"

Apparently I am meant to spend my summer in tears. All the books I have been reading just make me cry...Seriously! Have you read this? The Time Travelers Wife. I think I am the only person who hasn't until now.The movie comes out in August so please read it before then if you haven't. It is being produced by the same director from the notebook and Rachel McAdams is it so make sure to take some tissues with you to the theater. That is if you have any left after seeing My Sisters Keeper that comes out June 22. Still Shame on you Mama Kim for not reading it. I just picked up The Lovely Bones so after that I am going to go for something completely mindless. Actually, last time I tried to read a mindless book I ended up knee deep in the Twilight Series for two weeks... maybe I should just seek therapy now.

I was in San Diego last week for work and got to visit Grayfer and meet Licia his girlfriend...oh and Boom Dog. They were great. I didn't have to much time since I was headed to Palm Dessert for two days but I did manage to see him Tuesday and Thursday night. Gray is busy with work during the day and school at night. The neighborhood he lives in is awesome and he showed me around town and the beach. There is so much to do there! JP and I are going to have to head up for a vacation. I have to say one of the things I LOVE about the west coast is that there is no humidity. It is so nice to not have that dampness constantly in the air and still be able to enjoy the sunshine.

Also, a Happy Fathers Day to Popeye! We love you so much and are so thankful for you and all you do for us. XOXO

Off to somewhere in the central time zone this week...

2009-06-08T07:57:00.015-05:00

Good Morning! JP and I had a great weekend. It was HOT here if it wasn't raining, always one extreme or the other. These pictures are from a restaurant down the street. It is so nice to be able to walk somewhere and eat. I completely forgot we had a pocket camera, and how convenient they are.

JP tried to convince me of two things on our walk...

1. Our walk was in fact a "hike" in the afternoon sun and the sidewalks are as much a part of nature as the trails, my sweet husband is so outdoorish. It reminded me of the time Myron tried to convince JP and I to go on a hike with him in Boone a few years ago. "Well its a stroll really" Myron says as he packed his book bag full of water and granola bars. JP said he wasn't falling for that and sure enough Myron returned home hours later.

JP actually loves nature if he can see it all from his mountain bike. Which leads me to number two...
He is trying to convince me into road bike with him, which I think I will give it a go if he provides the bike (that's fair right). Also, if any of you can remember how I met JP you will completely understand why he has to convince me to ride with him...again.

I am also looking for an embarrassing picture to post of my sweet sister. See it is her Birthday today!!!!!!!!!!!

LOVE YA SIS!!
check back soon for picture...

2009-06-04T13:29:00.015-05:00

This has been quite a week. It started out with me losing Jackson...yes...no fun.

We go on daily hikes to Umstead National Park during the weekdays when it is not crowded. The park isn't even 5 miles from here, I think that is one of the things I will miss most about Raleigh. Anyways, I know you are not suppose to let your dogs of leash BUT I discovered a secret trail that nobody is ever on, and by secret I mean it is one of those trails that is so obvious everyone misses it...except me (insert evil laugh). Since no one is on it and Jackson off leash burns so much more energy that Jackson on leash, I set him lose. He never lets me out of his sight and he usually is right in front or behind me on the trail. Making the occasional venture off to hop over some logs and jump in the river, or my favorite jump around in a huge puddle and come back looking like he is in camo. Most importantly he "Comes" when we call him.

Well, as we were hiking Jackson was about 6 feet in front of me on the trail. The next thing I knew a deer was in front of us with its butt in Jackson's face, and then the deer did the unthinkable...it paused and smirked at us (that's what I saw). I think it was just as shocked as we were. As if someone had told Jackson to aim, he instinctively poses in his pointer position revving up his engine. Meanwhile, I am creeping up the 6 feet behind him which has suddenly become longer than a football field, to grab him. Right as I reach for him he takes off...of coarse. No "come" command, stay, wait, other way, was going to work and I knew that. He had the smell of deer in his nose and it was probable the most exciting thing that has ever happened to him.

I began my chase behind him, behind the deer, and lost them quickly. I was no longer on my secret trail, I had created a new one with ticks, snakes, spiders, and one huge multi colored beetle (that I heard crawling!!). I knew where I was at so I hiked about 20 minutes in "that" direction hoping he would hear my voice and come. That was a no go, and the giant beetle was the final straw. I decided I needed to go back to the truck and get my phone to call the rangers for help. I crawled in the truck and made the call to see if they could help, and they said that a ranger would come meet me.

I get out of the truck and close the door and guess who runs around the corner. Yes, my Jackson. Dragging his tongue to the ground he walks right up to the passenger door and sits so I will let him in. Apparently, I am a chauffeur to and from deer hunting events.

I don't know if its because we always hike the same trail, park in the same parking lot, or if he just has a good nose. Regardless, I am glad he found his way back. Oh and Deer are the best exercise ever...Jackson passed out in the car and slept till the next morning.

I completely did not mean to ramble on about my dog for that long, wow we really need kids don't we! JP and I officially put the house on the market this week and were hoping to have an open house this weekend. It looks like we are going to have to wait with all the rain we are suppose to get, we still want to do some work to the flower beds and work the railing so maybe the weather will motivate us. Pray for a speedy sale so JP and I can live in the same city again. Actually, he is in St Paul this week, pray we can be in the same state again!

Dad is doing well on his river adventure. I love to read his updates and see where he is at and if he has gotten himself into any trouble yet. He seems to really be enjoying it and doing a great job of keeping us posted so we don't worry to much about him. I tried to upload one of his pictures but its just not working out. You can see them all on his blog page.

2009-05-28T18:58:00.010-05:00

Lets see what we have been up to.

JP continues to spend far to much time in the car. Since he has started working in Charlotte he is staying at the Lake House which is an hour drive to and from the office. Then driving 2 hours back home on Fridays, not to mention all the time he spends driving to and from sites during the week.

Last weekend we officially moved into our storage unit (partially), there are still a few more trips to make. We are trying to declutter before we list.

We had our three year anniversary. (JP still says the 5 years we dated before marriage doesn't count but I am slowing wearing him down)

I discovered a new favorite snack-Wasa Crispbread with Grapes, Ricotta, and Peanut Butter. Delish and quite filling.

I have read 3 very good books in two weeks...sheer madness...who needs TV.

Jackson weighs 70lbs (yes 70!!!) and still growing...shiesh.

We declared Memorial weekend our Movie weekend and went to the movies at 10am. We saw Night at the Museum and Terminator.

I have officially decided I love crocks, JP wont let me get him a pair to try.

JP power washed the deck and walkway to our house and it looks amazing! Who knew it made that big of a difference, we are going to finish and stain it this weekend.

Well that is all for now, make sure to keep up with Popeye he has taken off on his Mississippi Adventure.

2009-05-17T12:18:00.015-05:00

Mutah 09'

Wow. No post in over a month! Looks like I almost feel off the face of the earth. Sorry about that... I'm back now.

What a great trip. Shanna, her girls, JP and I, all went to the airport early Friday to head over to Salt Lake City. Adam was already in town due to a conference, and sister and Myron were driving over the next morning. The flight was not bad at all. JP and I had our own row and so did Shanna and the girls. It was nice because the kids were available to move back and forth and not be in one seat the entire time...the free cocktails didn't hurt the grown ups either. Also, Gracen loves to talk about a boy named Ethan, going to Africa, her "favorite" part about flying, becoming Penny (the lead character in the move Bolt), how much fun Mutah was going to be, and dinosaurs. She is quite entertaining.

One we arrived JP and I checked into our hotel and discovered some great Mexican food in SLC. Also, the next morning we met the Riggsbee's at the Blue Plate Diner which was once again a huge success. Both of these restaurants looked like hole in the wall scary places and they were oh SO good. Thank you JP for making such fine food selections.

My favorite part of the was when we arrived and Rylie came up and gave me a big hug! Such a sweetie. I am glad she is getting old enough to remember us all now. She would even say things like "Lisser Sit", "Lisser Eat", "Lisser Play"...I realize as I type this they sound more like commands you give a pet... but they weren't...I think.

We did not sit still to often in Moab. I am not sure if this is due to the four children or the great outdoors...perhaps a little of both. Saturday we drove 4 hours down to Moab and spent the rest of the afternoon settling in and catching up. Sunday we went and saw the Arches National Park, Monday we took an entire day to go Jeeping (loved it), and Tuesday the boys went biking and the girls went into town (FYI- Pina Colda Smoothies Rock). Sister breaks down a much more exciting day by day description on her blog. Also, it was so good to see "Unka Gray" we miss him and are so happy he made the LONG drive over.

JP and I went back to SLC on Wednesday since we were flying back the following morning. We went and saw the temple which was beautiful, and walked around the museum. Then we went and saw the movie Star Trek and crashed...not bad if you are thinking about seeing it. All of our trip Photos are on Picasa if you want to take a look.

Now that we are back we have to get serious about listing our house and getting on the move to Charlotte. We need to move some furniture out and tear some wallpaper down in order to do that. I am defiantly not motivated but thinking about it soon.

Off to Philly this week.

2009-04-09T16:17:00.007-05:00

Wow. Do you know what I want out of a book? I want to put it down and keep a piece of it with me forever. I want to say that I read something and it changed my life. I want to be motivated, inspired, and moved. If you want that too...go get this book. I just happened to grab this in the airport when I left mine on my bedside table, and started reading it on my way to Denver . After work the next day I could not wait to get back to the hotel to finish it. Don't read the back cover, don't read reviews, don't look it up on the Internet and think about it, don't say you will do it later. Put down what you are reading now and pick this up.

Call me when you are done...

2009-04-05T13:46:00.008-05:00

Movin' on Up

You just cant hold the Coates family down in one place for to long. After 8 months in wonderful Raleigh my husband had to go off and get himself a promotion. The distributor he works for here in Raleigh, Johnson Brothers, has just purchased a distributor in Charlotte. He will be helping to manage sales. I will not bore you will all the details, but to sum it up; Congrats JP we all love you and are very proud of how hard you work and how far you have come.

*3305 Appling Way we will miss you

See there was a reason I didn't unpack all the boxes, I knew something like this would happen ;) We have already found a house in Charlotte (which I love) but we are not keeping our fingers crossed just yet. We do have to sell this unfurnished one we are living in first. There is hope! Our neighbors are renting and have been looking in the area to purchase, we are praying something works out. It would save us bokoos of cabbage (dieing to use that word...not sure why) and just make the entire process so much simpler. We will keep you posted.

2009-03-31T09:26:00.024-05:00

It's Clean......Right?

Today I am inspired.
OR perhaps it is the very large cup of coffee I had from Chick-fil-A (thank you Ashlee Lawson). Either way I am inspired to clean, and I would like to thank my mother for teaching me a few tricks I would like to share. Let me start by saying "inspired" cleaning in the Haynie family means rearranging the mess...
*Photo with broom for dramatic affect

Example Numero Uno, pick up everything on the floor and put it on your bed. This allows you to see the floor and feel like you have accomplished something. Now you can take a break to do something you really want to do. A reward if you will; look at one of those furniture magazines you have been getting in the mail or something.
Numero dos, take all the old mail and hide it in the desk. Hide it in boxes, drawers, basically anything that closes, you'll go through it later.(insert reward)
Tres, rearrange the furniture now that you can see the floor. (then reward)
Cuatro, vacuum, sweep, mop...or REALLY think about it (double reward)
Cinco, any dirty pans go in the stove. You are only going to use this later and in order to fit them in with the rest of the pans we would need to rearrange that cabinet.
WARNING Do not attempt to rearrange the cabinet in the same day! Trust me you get side tracked and will never finish..ever...never ever.(minus one reward)
Seis, Move everything from the bed to the closet because by this point you have ran out of time and you have created a larger mess in your inspired rampage.
Siete, remember what it was you were trying to avoid when you started all of this...
Ocho, blog to avoid further.

2009-03-29T18:03:00.010-05:00

Living Like Kings...

JP and I got a new bed and we just love it so much. We upgraded to a king size and it is so comfortable... I insist on tell JP how fabulous it is every night when I go to bed. Unfortunately, we do not have our king size comforter yet so it makes quite the impression to see this huge bed with a tiny blanket on top. Thankfully, Casey is bringing us a new down comforter this weekend from the Polo Outlet in Boone. Then I get to shop for new bedding! I LOVE shopping for bedding, and I must say I am quite disappointed in Pottery Barns selection this season. I was looking through the catalog and usually I am sold on something on the first few pages but I wasn't finding anything. If you have suggestions of places to look I am all ears.

We are also getting ready to cut down some giant pine trees in our backyard that are in this picture above. We want to put up a fence for Jackson, and for privacy. Also, we have a mystery pooper. Yes, someone lets their dog walk into the middle of our yard a take a dump...how rude.

My trip to DC was cancelled next week, this will be my forth week off the road (yay). JP is quite busy with work, they have purchased a distributor is Charlotte and so he might be traveling down there a little more than I would like. Next week I am off to Denver for a short trip. I hate I wont be able to see sister but our Moab trip is just around the corner!

2009-03-18T16:12:00.006-05:00

I Believe...

I Believe everyone puts a diaper on backwards every now and then.

I Believe the hamper is there for your clothes to go in...not next to.

I Believe the Swifter is one of our generations greatest inventions.

I Believe everyone should have days when they wake up and don't have plans.

I Believe in singing out loud to "Say my Name" by Destiny's Child.
(the last one is kind of sad...I don't know why but I must)

Thanks Becky

2009-03-14T20:15:00.016-05:00

The Rain Keepth Pouring...

Oh what a week. Lets start with JP shall we. His company has lost some employees recently and he has been having to help pick up some of the routes that are open while they wait for the new hires to begin. Which wouldn't be that bad if he didn't have to do his regular job on top of that. He is up early, home late, and working on the computer until he falls asleep. So this weekend he made a goal for himself to catch up on some sleep and not to leave the house for a full day. He was successful and I think he picked a great day to do it. It is so miserable, cold, and wet outside nobody wants to go out in it.

I know its seem I complain about rain a bit much but that is just when it comes in increments of more than one day. I think rain forces us to relax sometimes because it limits what we can do. Plus, that sound of rain hitting the roof or the windows is just like listening to a lullaby...so lovely. However, after three days it is more like a broken record and in the case of our back yard, a giant swamp. I am going stir crazy and so are the animals (yes animalS). We have our loving Riley dog this week and I have determined that Jackson thinks he is a squirrel. Normally,he would acknowledge that he is a small dog but due to lack of exercise (thanks again rain) he has decided to hunt him...in a playful manner of course, but it is still a hunt. Watching those natural instincts take over make a mother proud. Then you realize he is hunting another dog and its more of an "awwww" proud because you are concerned he is "special". I have posted a photo of our hunter, you can see the hump forming in his head and how his coat is getting so rich. He looks more and more like a setter everyday. I apologize for the constant dog pictures on my blog but he likes it...look at that pose! He's giving us his Blue Steel.

In other news it looks like I am off the road for three weeks (which will be lovely), but then I must pay for it and be on the road for 4 weeks straight. Also, our AC unit in the house broke. Being a homeowner is awesome (sarcasm goes here). I had to pay someone 200 dollars just to tell me what was wrong with it, and don't even ask me how much they said it would take to fix it. We have someone coming by to give us a second opinion on Monday...which I was guaranteed will not cost me another 200 dollars. If someone is recommending we should replace the entire unit I think we need to hear it from more than one professional. I also bought a new camera lens which I LOVE and used for these two photos, but I am thinking about exchanging it for the version that zooms...we will see. Finally, after the long week my hubby had he still managed to bring me some flowers on evening. It was just the sweetest unexpected thing, I love that he did that.

That is all for now....

2009-03-08T17:57:00.004-05:00

Spring Forward...

What a wonderful weekend for a time change. We took advantage of our extra time this weekend and had a much deserved date night. JP and I received a gift card to Ruth Kris for Christmas and took a bottle of wine with us from our trip to California. Let me tell you this wine was AMAZING! You can tell such a difference when you are drinking good wine. Today we went to Crabtree Lake so JP could mountain bike and I could hike with Jackson. It was so beautiful just to be outside all day. Why cant it always be 85 and breezy?

I hope the weather was just as amazing wherever you are...

2009-03-01T16:06:00.027-05:00

Rain Rain Go Away...

It has been raining here for almost 48 hours straight! Ugh, I think I brought it back with me from Colorado. It was so nice to see sister and her amazing children for a few days. The weather did not participate until the day before I left. So technically I have seen rain every day since last week...nice.

I learned some new things about my sister while I was in Colorado. First of all she considers slobber a "topping" if Rylie really wants her to "have some" of her meal . She also speaks baby, has managed to grow an extra arm, a third eye, and knows "who's smell" it is. Sister you are Amazing.

Wyatt is a doll! He is so calm and happy, unless he is hungry and man can he wail. He also does this thing where he squeezes you when you hold him, like a little baby hug...he repeatedly melted my heart. Don't get me started on the utter adorableness of baby Grace. She is so sweet and was so great to take photos of. What a happy, playful child, I heart her. I know they have heard it before but Rob and Liz...your in trouble those big brown eyes are going to break a lot of hearts.

Rylie is still full of energy and has discovered princess. She is also a helper and wants to do everything you are and just chat chat chat. Her little voice is the sweetest. Somehow I managed to put her diaper on backwards and give her a rash while I was there all in one day... not kidding. She wanted to put some of my face lotion on while "we" were putting on Lisser's makeup. How was I suppose to know she would breakout 8 hours later! Thankfully it was just a little rash and gone the next day...whew. All my pictures should be posted on Picasa soon, I wish I had taken more. I am very excited about our trip in 8 weeks to meet up with the Carr Family again. Moab here we come!

JP and I are doing well at home. JP is staying very busy with work while Jackson has began to lose his teeth. We keep finding them randomly through out the house. His hair is getting long and becoming this dark mahogany color. I can't believe he is almost 6 months old! On the home front we are getting an estimate this week on getting some giant pine trees taken down out of our back yard so that hopefully we can fence it in soon. The joys of home ownership.

Off to Baltimore MD this week...

2009-01-31T15:38:00.020-05:00

It's about time...

Time for an update on the Coates! I just got back from DC and after dealing with two days worth of snow and Ice storms I figured I would bring back a cold to share with family and friends... your welcome. Soup and rest will help the recovery.

We think JP has sold his race car. He is taking it over to CMP on Saturday for someone to look at. I am not sure how he feels about it, I think it is a little harder for him to let go of it than he thought. He is still going to be racing, he just wont have his own car. They do a lot of group and team racing at the tracks and he still will want to keep an active license. I have no doubt he will still be a regular at the track.

In Jackson news it has been quite a busy month for the little guy. He has graduated from puppy school, officially hit puberty, and made some new friend at the sitter. Yes, I found a doggie sitter. Last week when I was out of town JP had a very busy three days and it was hard for him to get home with all the meetings and smoozing he had to do. Since we were both wrecked with guilt from leaving him in the crate all day I started looking for some options. After a lot of phone calls and visits to kennels we found a wonderful person (AKA Shenandoah) who actually quit her job as an engineer to stay home with her dog. We went by her house and just LOVED her (I totally wanted to hang out). Jackson was introduced to her pack which is a chocolate lab, pit bull, and weimaraner. At first he was scared and kept to himself, but 20 mins later he was the happiest pup around. Shenandoah is very active and takes the dogs on hikes, swimming, to the park exc..exc...Jackson also really needs the the socialization with other dogs. It's good to know when we are busy there is somewhere we can take him.
JP also went out to CO with his mom and brother for a few days. These boys can never take a serious photo... but it's good to know they always have a good time.

Most excitingly I got to meet Chesson, hang out with Ashlee, Sunday, Annie, Byerly, and Elisabeth for a few hours last week. All of their kids are so ridiculously cute. My favorite was watching Myles and Will tear it up on the harmonica. Will would get all hunched over and REALLY get into it...LOVED it. Will and Sweet B Rose are also two peas and a pod, they completely have their own language and I can see them just hanging out all day.

Side note for the ladies that were there- How awesome is Ashlee's house! Let's all move in.

I will update our Picasa link soon and add some more pictures from this month. Love you all!

2009-01-04T18:37:00.007-05:00

Holla' Days 08'

Now that the festivities have come to an official end I am able to update the blog. First of all let me start by saying how absolutely full I am. If I didn't eat for this entire month I think I would be completely fine. Let the dieting begin! For two reasons. The first being the obvious...I ate way to much this Holiday Season, and took the "Don't worry about it, it's the Holidays" saying to a entirely new level. The second being that I turned thirty and apparently this is when everything "drops"... so much to look forward to ;) Really we are handling it quite fine, no mid life crisis's here...its just another year.

Quick Recap- For Thanksgiving JP and I went to his Aunt Susie's house here and Raleigh and had a wonderful meal. Almost everyone made it up and we got to introduce Jackson to his new family (he was a hit). Mom and Dad were able to stop by on their way to Delaware for Christmas and spend the night. It was great to relax with them and show them all the work we are doing on the house. JP got an incredible deal on a table we found on Craigs list. He also surprised me Christmas Eve with a beautiful antique chair we found at a local shop (he can be such a sweetie). We were upstairs and he said he left his phone charger in the car. As I was sitting on the bed I noticed his phone plugged into the wall (I am so happy he is a poor liar). Then when he came upstairs he could not stop smiling...the gig was up. Since Christmas day was the only day JP had off we did not travel for the holiday. Instead we started some new traditions and cozyed up by the fireplace all day. It has been great. Finially, for New Years we had JP's race buddies over to bring in the New Year in style. I went to bed at 11:50...must be my age.

Update on Jackson- The vet discovered he didn't have enough bacteria in his stool so he was on medication for two weeks. He is doing great and now the only problem we are having is that he is getting car sick. Which I hate, because we have been hiking lately and getting there is hard on his tummy. Sweet boy is just growing SO fast. We watched Riley dog for two weeks and Jackson and him played the entire time! It was so stinkin cute. I am sure that when Riley went back home he slept for another two weeks and was glad to be able to walk around a corner with out being attacked.

2008-12-07T19:22:00.006-05:00

Quick Update...
Yes, I am putting a picture of feet on the blog...but aren't they cute! The little fella is doing well. I was gone to California last week for work and JP and Jackson had some bonding time...it made me so homesick to image all the fun they were having with out me. On Saturday, JP and I started a puppy training class that will last for 8 weeks. We figured it has been so long since we have had a pet we could really use the refresher. PLUS we have never house trained an animal before and heard the advice and tips on that alone is worth taking the class. Poor Jackson has had a bad case of diarrhea since we got him so we are still working on the vet with that one. We have tried so many things we just cant figure out what is upsetting his stomach. With that said I am so sorry about talking about puppy diarrhea on the blog, but it is all I have know for the past two weeks. Mama Kim request pictures of her "grand pup" if you have time to look at 20 pictures of worlds cutest puppy feel free to check out our Picasa site.

While I was in California I was able to see the Bells. Aunt Charlotte gave me the best recipe for white chicken chili...SO GOOD! When I unpack it I will have to share. Also, JP I painted the Den today. It looks great...it will look even better when we put furniture in there that we haven't owned since college.

Thats all that happening on our end, we are just relaxing and enjoying the holiday season. Hugs to you all!

2008-11-26T20:51:00.012-05:00

World Meet Jackson...

JP and I finally caved...I was the instigator but to my defense he didn't try to stop me. 24 hours ago I took a two hour drive to look at some Irish Setters right outside "Jackson" NC (the middle of nowhere) and couldn't leave this face behind. There were 4 out of 7 pups left when I got there and when I met this little one I knew he was for us. He is 12 weeks old and was the smallest out of all the boys...also by far the sweetest. While all the other boys were wrestling and playing he walked over and asked me to pick him up. Then when I put him down he went and played for a bit with his brothers but soon after that came back and crawled on my lap and fell fast asleep. I think I yelled "Sold" at that point. A special side note for Sunday Grant who loved to watch the Bill Dance fishing show when we lived on Grove Street. My puppy's mother Indy is Bill Dances Irish Setters Daughter...small world. After a few minutes of whimpering in the car he slept the rest of the ride home, and with that said we have discovered that Jackson loves to sleep. This 11lb pup was given a clean bill of health by the vet today.

We started potty training and crate training, he is doing very well but any tips would be greatly appreciated. The vet said not to put a blanket or anything in the crate for now because the point is for him to be uncomfortable if he pees or poops so he will learn to hold it. He did great last night, I woke up once because he was howling and the second I took him out he went.

This Thanksgiving we are very thankful for Jackson.

Happy Turkey day to you all!

2008-11-11T19:37:00.017-05:00

SAN TASTIC...

Does anybody have the time? I have NO idea how long it will take my body to recoup from this trip. For the past 10 days every hour my stomach has growled, gurgled, rumbled, and even hissed at one point. 3 hours...3 hours is the time difference between here and San Fransisco and yet I feel like I have been to the moon and back. The first week was fine, actually quite great. I went to bed early and got up at 5am every morning. I had ran, showered, prettied myself up for work, gone for coffee and muffins, and answered an entire day worth of emails by 8am. Let me tell you it was FAB-U-LOUS. Then I would go sit in 30 minutes worth of traffic to go 5 miles! Seriously people...there is no shame in carpooling. The highway had 5 lanes,1 was a carpool only, and yes it was empty while the other 4 lanes were at a dead halt. Not fun but since I was full of coffee and on east coast time I just turned up the tunes and rocked out (yes, i was that girl).

After spending an entire week in LA waiting to see a celebrity (which I did IF you watch the show Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia), and discovering that I am entirely not cool enough to live there flying to San Fransisco to meet my husband was quite a welcoming thought. Since JP wasn't flying in until Friday night I was able to spend all day exploring San Fransisco. Later that evening I went to the airport to pick him up and discovered he had used all the "free drink" coupons for himself on the 5 hour flight. Needless to say he was very chatty on our drive to Santa Rosa that evening and we made a late night stop by In and Out Burger.

Saturday morning the adventures began. Uncle Mike and Bill picked us up from our hotel and took us into town for a wonderful breakfast. Actually I ordered anchovies instead of artichokes but I cant talk about it (oops and gross at the same time) slight case of Bellitious. It was so great to see them. The picture shows us in front of Snoopy and Peanut, apparently the creator was born/lived in Santa Rosa. I believe the story is that many statues were created and painted different colors to be auctioned off for charity. Some of the local business bought them and after seeing these two statues JP and I kept discovering them hidden through out the city over the next two days. They were in banks, parking garages, in the park...you name it.

After breakfast, Mike took JP and I by their house for a quick tour. Their house is so open and spacious...we just loved it. They also have a great back yard with a pond, garden, and massive palm tree. Uncle Mike is also working on the kitchen and just put in all new appliances (we were drooling). I especially love how he put back splash on the wall behind the stove. We will defiantly put him to work if he comes to NC.

We stopped at a lot of great places in wine country but I think our favorite was a VIP tasting my Aunt Charlotte set up for us at Chateau St. Jean. It was beautiful. We had our own room reserved for a tasting in the Chateau with 5 wines that can only be found on site. Our guide was very knowledgeable and we had such a great time with her. I think we kept her an hour longer than we were suppose to. We enjoyed every bit of it.JP was more professional than I, he swirled and spit while I guzzled...you cant expect a girl to learn it all in one trip;) Actually, I learned a lot and was very impressed with my husbands knowledge of wine. The country up there was so amazing...if you ever have the chance please go.

The next two days we spent in San Fransisco. The best part of the trip was when we went to the Golden Gate Bridge(insert sarcasm and here is why). While we were parking someone decided to reverse without looking..."crush" goes the rental car. What? Did I get rental insurance? Of course not... Nobody was hurt but my mood had changed and staying to view the bridge was no longer an option. Even though that was ALL I wanted to do the entire trip. I guess we will have to go back and try again. It was madness up there. We were arriving around sunset on a Sunday night and I think the entire city had the same idea.

It was a long flight home but we made it safe and sound around 6pm tonight. Our case of wine made it safe also...whew. There is so much more to this trip the places we saw (everywhere!) and all the little adventures in between. Oh my word I could blog all day about it. I will upload some pictures to Picasa and tell you JP and I got new counter tops!!!YAY!!! We are going to paint this week so I will get those pictures up soon.

Love you all,

Lisser and JP

2008-11-04T20:37:00.010-05:00

10 Things I Love...

1. The smell of Fresh Cut Grass
2. Used Books
3. When Mom Snorts
4. The Fact that NO Phones ring in the air
5. Crawling into Bed with Fresh Clean Sheets
6. Feeling Inspired
7. Hugging Dad after He's Been Burning Leaves
8. Old Couples Holding Hands
9. Wrapping Up in a Warm Scarf
10. When People Frame Things Other Than Photos

Something I think You Should Check Out...
The PlatyPus 1-Liter Bottle- It is more of a bag than a bottle and can hold hot or cold liquids. Easy to travel with and weighs 80% less than other water bottles.

Going Green? Use Cloth Napkins instead of Paper Towels.

2008-10-25T20:43:00.008-05:00

JP and I took a drive to Asheville this weekend to see the family; it was very short and sweet. I always hate to leave and wish we had more time. I am beginning to accept the fact that getting together is more difficult every year so when we had the opportunity to see Gray we needed to take it. We made it in late Friday night and were back on the road Saturday by one. Gray was in town for his friend Cody's wedding so he was very busy but, we did get to see him Saturday morning which was nice. Mom also took me to the Habit for Humanity store in Hendersonville which I loved and it left me wondering if "Junking" was hereditary.

New News:JP and I have a new trip planned. I have a site in San Fransisco the first weekend of November and JP will be flying up for a long weekend so we can tour wine country and spend two days in the city. How fun is that! I am excited for a few reasons MOST importantly I wonder if P3 is still open (sister joke...if you get it you might not want to admit it). Seriously, the Golden Gate Bridge looks awesome in pictures and I cant wait to see if it is that breathtaking in person. Trolleys just look like fun and they are all over town. As far as wine country is concerned I don't think I need to explain... free hotel, beautiful weather, scenery, and wine, = no worries.

On a final note how cute is sweet Jaxx! We just love him and he is such a great dog I just had to snap a shot. In this photo I kept asking Riley Dog to sit...and Jaxx would sit... I would ask Riley dog to stay...and Jaxx would stay...exc...exc. He just kept looking at me with those big brown eyes being as patient as ever wonder why this other dog was crazy and chasing imaginary squirrels.

I am working from home this week so I am sure facebook and the blogs will have my full attention. Maybe even enough for a mid week post..

2008-10-19T12:41:00.008-05:00

Been a while...

Since it has been almost a month since my last post I thought a list of updates would be appropriate.

~Popeye Haynie and Grayfer had a Birthday. Happy birthday boys!!

~Wyatt Myron Carr was born...YAY! "Rocktober" continues to earn it's name.

~I too have become addicted to facebook. While I am having my morning coffee I learn about what everyone had done the day before or browse through pictures from the weekend. Lately, I have even found myself updating my "status" instead of updating the blog. (SHAME on me...I know)

~JP and I went to a lovely wedding in Charlotte...which completely made me want to get married all over again.

~We found a $1500 stainless steel grill on sale at Sears for 75% off because it was the floor model. It was such a great find! Then it almost blew out of the back of the truck on the way home...but we saved it. All is well...except we have a super nice grill and still no furniture.

~Since the last post I have been to Omaha, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, and Missouri; tomorrow I am off to New Orleans.

~JP and I purchased a 46' flat screen TV which is now mounted over the fireplace. We were in Sears for over FOUR hours because there was a new employee trying to ring us up and he completely messed up the purchase...and our bank accounts. It took him another hour to get a manager to fix what he had done. They had to return and rering it up so many times I was ready to walk out. JP made me stay in fear that I would never agree to the purchase of a flat screen again...he was probable right. Did I mention that I have a grill and a TV but no furniture ;)

~JP's friend Travis is helping us remodel our kitchen. They were over this week measuring for our new counter tops so I am hoping it will be done with in the next two weeks.

~Next weekend we are off to Asheville for a quick visit!

2008-09-21T11:28:00.008-05:00

I need to start by wishing Mama Kim a Happy Birthday. I am so sorry I didn't get to do a birthday post but I haven't had time to touch the blog these past two weeks. I hope you had a wonderful evening out with Dad, and relaxing at the lake with family.

Colorado was amazing! The weather was perfect, but the days flew by to fast. I completely understand why some of you mothers don't get to post for days on end...where do you find the time? If Rylie wasn't trying to brush my hair (or teeth), she wanted to jump on the bed, read a book, play, swing, rocks, Red Dog, shoes, go through my suitcase, show me something...which lead to showing me something else, exc...exc... I miss having that much energy!

Jessica is doing great, and in my opinion Baby Carr is coming early. I saw that child move my entire visit! This kid is going to come out and run a marathon. Look at my Picasa link to view all the pictures. I love them all.

JP is at a race this weekend, I went down and saw him yesterday. Someone in front of him spun off in the dirt which caused him to spin. Needless to say he had to pull off because of all the dirt caught in his wheels. Later that evening there was a second race and (drum roll) he won! He can probable explain the weekend better than I can so check out his blog "Beertech Racing". There are also some races today and then he will be home for the night. I only get to see him one night because I am getting ready to leave on another trip for four days...so sad. Things slow down after that for a little while.

2008-09-12T21:58:00.008-05:00

Quick update...Colorado is wonderful! Today we went to the Sand Dunes that are located outside Alamosa. The Dunes are 30 miles of nothing but sand, there are no trails just miles and miles of these beautiful hills. Rylie loved to walk around barefooted and also wanted to lay and roll on the ground. Needless to say she brought some sand home for dad in her diaper. She is also saying Li-Lur (lisser) on a regular basis...I am quite excited.

For anyone interested we have discovered that the house right next door to sisters is a vacation rental! I think it is three or four bedrooms, the sheet says it sleeps eight. So ladies we need to plan a trip up here for a visit.

I will post more pictures soon!

2008-09-07T17:30:00.007-05:00

The Light that guides us...

JP and I have to wish a Happy Birthday to two very special ladies... Grandma Haynie and Robin Coates. It is expected that my wonderful mother-in-law's birthday falls on my grandmother's because everything else between JP and I has been so remarkably similar. We constantly find ourselves doing the "me too" thing. All the way from us having the same Teddy Bear growing up (with the same name "Teddy"...real creative I know), to little things like the sheet sets in our parents house being the same, to our birthdays being on the same day. It never ends for us. So, the remarkable women in our lives birthdays should be on the same day (or in the same month...Mama Kim) . Thanks for all you do for us.
This is my favorite picture of my grandmother and I. Grandma Haynie has taught me so many things over the years by her actions and unconditional love. I have learned how to be hard working, a strong and independent woman, have unwavering faith, and most importantly and my personal favorite not to toot in anyone's face. (Remember that trip to Alabama...sorry about that...Jessica still finds it hilarious) Robin also has also been amazing by being so supportive of JP and I as we have started our journey as husband and wife. Thank you so much for immediately making me feel like part of the Coates family!
We Love you Both.

Now I bet you are wondering why there is a picture of a remote on my blog. Well, let me tell you "we" (ehumm..JP) has discovered that the remote control lights up. Oh My Word...you would have thought that it was Christmas at our house when he discovered this. Since "we" (ehumm...JP) have discovered this it is an unending point of conversation. It is a weapon (similar to star wars),it is held hovering over my sleeping eyes until I wake up to see what the red light is, it makes noises, and it is apparently also used as a flash light. Yes, we took the night light out of the bathroom and now have the remote guide us in. Boys...the little things make them so happy.
I must warn you it might be a while till my next blog. I am headed to Iowa to work for one day, then to see Sister for a week (Yay!), then to FL. It will be a little over two weeks until I get back. Also, the weekend I get back JP is racing at Rockingham Motor Speedway on the highbanks and I am going to go see him because I turn around and fly out on Monday. After this month things should settle down.

Love,
Lisser

2008-08-25T12:11:00.007-05:00

A.K.A.“Rockstar Coates”…

You see I have this problem. I can not buy sunglasses on my own. I don’t know what it is, but I have to have someone’s opinion. If I am by myself trying I think they all look horrible, and if a sales associate tells me they look good…they are lying. Since I have this problem, I refuse to buy nice glasses. Not only that but I travel a lot and more than likely I would ruin them. So, 11.99 shades are my new addiction. I forced JP to stop with me to get a new pair and this is what we came up with. They are SO 70’s, and huge...and I am going to rock them out since I have never had anything like them. Why not. ...they will probable be destroyed by the end of the week anyhow.

On the Hurricane front, I did make it home Friday night but not by plane. I drove. I drove 8 hours so I wouldn’t be stranded in Florida all weekend. They shut down Jacksonville airport because none of the planes could land. The next flight out was Saturday which would get me home around 6pm…maybe. I had felt so stranded and helpless all week I couldn’t just sit there another two days. All the hotels were full, everything was closed, it was a mess. I knew if I could just get to Georgia it would be nothing but rain after that, and fortunately it was. Thanks Dad for all those long trips as kids, because an 8 hour drive felt like nothing.

JP and didn’t do anything to exciting this weekend to blog about. He beat me in some put-put, and killed me in a mountain bike trail. In my defense the gears were not explained to me and I was in the hardest gear the entire ride. I was thinking the entire time “How out of shape am I???” Then JP switched the gears for me and all I could say was…”oh”.

Sorry for the lame picture of my glasses, I hate to post up with out a pic...and seeings how we have no pets or babies I am all you have got. Off to Clevland OH…

2008-08-21T14:01:00.005-05:00

Blame it on the rain..

Gotta blame it on something
Gotta blame it on something
Blame it on the rain
Blame it on the stars
Whatever you do don't put the blame on you
Blame it on the rain yeah yeah
You can blame it on the rain....

Now that I have that song stuck in your head let me tell you why it is stuck in mine. I am a current visitor of tropical storm Fay. Let me tell you she is a hussy. I flew all the way here for a site that didn't think they were going to get hit...and they closed today at noon due to the weather. I had just enough time to run into the grocery store (that was closing) on my way home. There was an organic food section right by the door so I was able to grab hummus, pitas, water, and a microwave dinner. I now realize that the microwave dinner was not my finest moment...no power = no microwave. A flash light might have been a good idea. The power isn't currently out but the TV and phones are, yet I have Internet...technology. The local news crew has taken over the hotel here in St. Augustine, so if the power goes out I am headed their way. The hotel posted a sign that says this "We are not a shelter. We do not have a back up generator. If the beach is evacuated you will be on your own, our staff will be assisting their families."
Thanks Hilton.
Hopefully this will all pass tonight and I will make it out of JAX tomorrow night. Above is a photo from the local news station, I am so upset forgot mine!

Also, Happy Anniversary MOM AND DAD...32 Years!! You two are great, LOVE YOU!

2008-08-16T20:01:00.010-05:00

Durmites...

Durmites is a term for those of us who live in Durham County. Hannah, whom I have known as long as I can remember, is a fellow Durmite who now lives only 5 minutes down the road from us. I am so excited she is close...poor girl she cant get rid of me, I have been following her around for years. I am pretty sure my father has the pictures to prove it. Since we are so close this gave JP and I a wonderful opportunity to meet Kelvin (who is awesome) and try out a new restaurant (which was not so awesome). I am pretty sure JP is the only one who enjoyed his dish. Hannah ordered a sandwich and got a sandwich covered in a mound of potato salad. It is our own fault for the poor meal, see JP and I want to try out all the local restaurants so we can find the best places to eat. Therefore, I am sure this is the beginning of many bad meals. Since Hannah and Kelvin were such great company we are going to force them to try all of the restaurants out with us...sorry guys, you shouldn't be such great company.

Now for my embarrassing moment of the week. Actually I take that back, it wasn't that embarrassing, I ended up feeling kind of insulted. Let me tell you what happened. I don't have to "log into" work until 830, and I usually don't even do that until later. So, I joined Anytime Fitness which is exactly one mile from our house. That way in the morning I can roll out of bed and feel like I did something in the morning since, I am about to stare at my computer for the next 6 hours. Well, this morning I realized I didn't set the coffee pot before I left so I decided to go to Barns and Noble, which is maybe 2 minutes from the gym. I go in, grab a magazine (so I can see pictures of Brad and Angie's babies), then go order a coffee. The coffee was SUPER hot so I decided to sit down, relax, until it cooled off. I stand up to put the magazine away and the ENTIRE cup spills all over me....that's right... Grande size, and not a drop left in the cup. No exaggeration. Now, while I love my coffee I do not wish to bathe in it. This scolding coffee is all over the left side of my body. My leg is red from the heat and because my shirt, shorts, and shoes are so soaked and it felt like I was standing in scolding water. At this moment I thought of the move The Other Sister, where she goes to get the makeover and they only do half of her face and refuse to to the other half. I felt like that's what I looked like but with a now brown/white shirt, brown/gray shorts, red/pale body...quite nice. I know this is the part that should have been embarrassing, but it wasn't. Nobody even looked up from their magazines to see me standing in this puddle of coffee. Perhaps, people were trying not to look so I didn't feel embarrassed, but I would have settled for some mean snickering in the corner or some type of acknowledgment. I looked so sad and pathetic, I actually grabbed the side of my shorts and rang them out while I was standing there to add to the height of the puddle. Wouldn't you ask someone if they were OK? Finally, the barista came over, cleaned it up, gave me another cup, and sent me on my way. She was kind of erie and robotic about it so maybe it just happens a lot more than I realize.

In homeowners news, the wallpaper is officially off the kitchen walls. Now I have to go back with a scraper and remove all the glue so I can begin painting (after sanding, and caulking...ugh). JP and I did manage to pick out our wall color and granite counter tops this week. We probable wont be able to actually begin redoing the kitchen for another month or two but we have a lot of decisions made that will help us when it is time to get started right away. I also bought cabinet hardware at Lowe's on Clearance for 1.50 each...I was so excited. Who knew Lowe's could be so exciting? Sometimes, after I go to the gym in the morning, I go to Lowe's, with a cup of coffee (in hand not wearing it) just to look around before I have to actually work and see what deals they have going on. Love it.

Off to Florida this week for work, short trip this week. Only Thursday and Friday, the St. Augustine area. JP continues to be fabulous in his new position, I know he loves not having to drive an hour home everyday. Also, hats off to chef JP who officially makes the best tuna sandwiches ever...maybe he will share is recipe one day.

2008-08-10T09:29:00.009-05:00

City Fokes...

Where does the time go? This week flew by for JP and I. We still have a lot of unpacking to do and are not really concerned with it what so ever. Most of the unpacking revolves around the office and I have come to the conclusion that even if we unpack it there is no where to put it so the items would simply be moving from the box to the floor. Hence, the lack of concern.

We began demolition of the kitchen on Wednesday. The wallpaper is just hideous and we deemed it unlivable. We decided to start by tearing it all down, then sand it, and last just put the primer up and leave that until we decided what color the counter tops will be. JP has been fighting cold for the past week so he decided that he was going to stay in bed all day while I worked. I joked with him about having "wallpaper-itious" and said he was just trying to get out of our house work. Which is probable why as I sit here and type this now I have a cold and my throat is just killing me...

We are loving being in a city again where there are so many things to do. We went to the Beer, Bourbon, and BBQ festival yesterday with some friends and it was just wonderful. They had a band playing at the Amphitheater and a ton of tents set up for sampling. Such a fun day.

Sorry for the short post but I am in need of some Tylenol Cold and a serious nap.

2008-08-04T07:27:00.010-05:00

Haynie Mover's and Co.

Who has the best parents ever? That would be me. JP and I signed the papers to our first house last Wednesday, and I began moving immediately. Since I had to drive two hours to sign I decided to load the car up...why not, gas is SO expensive these days (and I am a Haynie we love to load up the car). As far as JP goes well, after we signed he had to go pack a suitcase for his "work trip" to Mrytle Beach... which was through Sunday. JP has been so tired with work, car stuff, running between here and the lake I came up with a master plan. Since my parents are so fabulous they agreed to come help me surprise JP and move for him so when he got home he could not have to worry about it. Seriously, in this heat who wouldn't want to walk into their new home and see their stuff and know they didn't have to do any heavy lifting.

The move went smoother than we thought. My parents came up Thursday night to the lake and since it was 8:00 and not dark out we decided to go to the storage unit and load up to avoid the heat. Well, it was still pretty hot but not nearly as hot as it had been that afternoon. Then we turned around Friday morning and made the drive to Raleigh and were done unloading by 2:00. We relaxed the rest of the afternoon and then they headed out the next morning to their lake. Which gave me time to almost completely unpack the next day. Yes, everything but the bathrooms and the office...done. When JP came home on Sunday he was VERY excited. In fact he was so excited not 20 minutes later, in the middle of my story I found him snoring on our bed. Love it when that happens...he couldn't even make it through a 20 minute conversation with me, Poor kid...

Thank you SO much MOM and DAD. People it was hot. I NEVER sweat like that (super gross). It was like spending the afternoon in a sauna. Only amazing parents will tough that out with you. FYI- Tom did all the heavy lifting, Kim directed. You can tell they have been doing this together for years. Mom would be there to help dad turn corner when he was carrying something and vise versa. I guess that's what 31 years of marriage will do to a couple. Give each other support with out even asking or knowing you need it... AND hopefully after 31 years JP and I will become great movers.

Can you guess which picture is "Pre-Haynie"? Mom and Dad needed to make sure people knew they were here :)

Off to Lowes...

2008-07-29T20:20:00.018-05:00

Sticky Situation...

I don't even know what I have been up to since the last time I posted. Things have just been so busy and non-stop for JP and I, AND in completely different directions. He has been in Raleigh in his new job for the past two weeks and I have been pretty busy with work, packing, sending and filling out paperwork for the house (nonstop), exc...exc... It is quite nice to work from home, BUT I have to say my favorite and least favorite part about working from home happen to be the same thing. The fact that I control my own hours (to an extent) but since we have been in the process of buying this house I will be dealing with house stuff till noon (which feels completely like work) and then have to do actual work until later in the evening because I was working on other things in the morning. Don't even think about how long my day is if I take a two hour lunch break to run some errand's or go to Walmart.

I have something shameful to admit. Let me start by saying along with being a Christian I am a total believer in Karma, I just think that people that do nice things and have a great attitude have great things happen to them...its part of the over all balance. Now, this might just be that people who have a positive outlook don't let things get them down as much. Someone who is constantly seeing the best in people isn't going to as annoyed over something as little as someone cutting in front of them in line as the victim that thinks everyone one is out to get them. Well, the other day I was tired and "blahish"(ugh) walking into Walmart (double ugh) and I had just put the last piece of delicious gum in my mouth. Well, after I found a parking spot, I get out of my car into the smoldering heat, take a few steps and I am not kidding mid chomp this piece just comes hurling out of my mouth. First of all, who chomps their gum with their mouth so obscenely open that it can just fly out mid chomp... I mean I must have looked like a cow eating grass. This hopefully has happened to all of us, the kicker is what do you do? I bet most of you would stop and pick it up. Well, my gum flies out in the middle of the parking lot and not only did it fly out mid chomp...I kept walking!!! I even think I kept chewing for a moment before I realized what happened!!! I am so ashamed and mortified at how gross I looked, I am thinking next I should do an episode of Jerry Springer. Seriously, if the wrong person stepped in that gum they could have an awful day because of me. NOBODY likes to step in gum...its gross...who is so lazy that they cant put it in a garbage can. Its like when you are out to eat and your hand is under the table and you somehow manage to touch a piece a gum! GROSS!! Throw it away people...putting in under the table...seriously even I will admit that's a whole other level. Now, as I kept walking, being all coy, acting like it didn't happen, blending in with the locals, I starting wonder when the last time I stepped in gum was. Then I stepped in someone else gum. Did I deserved this...absolutely. Every step I took in Walmart people heard me coming and were staring. Surprisingly I was in a better mood after my little lesson, the blah funk was gone. I think I was just reminded that laziness is completely unrewarding, and I was tired because I worked hard all week. Lame, I know... but I appreciated the reminder.

WOW did I just type an entire paragraph about chewing gum??? What a bore, I do apologize. How about a funny JP story...if you are still reading after that. As you can see from these photos some Dead Sexy men were in town last weekend and they showed up in cutoff denim shorts. The boys were in town to attended a Lemons Race. For those of you who don't know what this is, apparently you can only spend 500.00 on a car, must have 5 drivers, and then spend the entire weekend racing other crappy cars...to see who has the best of the worst. For better details check out the boy's blog. It looks like they had a LOT of fun. JP and the boys went with a mustache theme, they dressed up the car, and even had fun Tee's made. Well, as JP was giving his team shirts out, or something maybe he was just standing there looking all hot in his cut off shorts, mustache, and gas station shades...(I hear some girls are into that) These girls walked by, which by the way JP kindly point out they had to be there with someone.... seriously single girls at the track...his words "not likely". Well they asked if "it was free". My sweet, humble husband replies "Looking is free, but touching will cost you". I am sure he looked exactly as his does in the picture above as he said it. Mortified they walked away (or so I was told).

See you all after the move,

Sticky Lisser and the Mustache Hunk

2008-07-18T10:46:00.038-05:00

Key Largo, Montego, baby why don't we go... Off the Florida Keys...

It's Friday! This week went by so fast at the Key's. I went with Chrystal from work and I am so thankful that I had someone there to hang out with. Even though she got hit on the ENTIRE trip. Seriously not fair... I think a 14 year old "hollered" at me once...and I am pretty sure the word M'am was involved...and maybe this guy... but I think he just wanted a dollar.

We would work from about 9-3 and then wander around town and play the role of tourist. The first night we were there it was rough. We did not arrive in Key West until about 8:00pm and were starving. We decided to check in before we ate and then realized that the hotel had outside entrances. My company doesn't allow us to stay at hotels with entrances like these for safety issues. Well, I guess safety went out the door because everything else was booked and we didn't have a choice. I wasn't to concerned because I was going to prop a chair under my door anyways. For some reason I believe the chair is invincible, therefore nobody can get it. When we got back from dinner I was knocked out, UNTIL the dump truck picked up the trash at 4am. THEN a rooster begin to crow. Let me say that one more time to make sure I get my point across. From 430am until 830am a rooster crowed every 5 minutes...at the beach...no breaks. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday morning, I guarantee you I wake up at 430am tomorrow morning out of habit.

Besides the morning madness everything was great. Chrystal and I walked from our hotel to downtown (Duval Street is downtown) on Tuesday night. It took an hour both ways (that's why I am resting in the giant chair below), then Wednesday we realized renting a beach cruiser was the way to go. The rest of the week we biked it. It was GREAT. We also went to the sunset festival which was beautiful. There were vendors, bars, live music, exc...exc...and it was incredibly packed to be the off season. Now, I am glad to be home.

Also, if you haven't had Key Lime Pie from Key West...you haven't had the real thing. That's all for now...Have a great weekend.

2008-07-13T20:26:00.020-05:00

Winner's Circle...

Sweet JP won his race on Saturday at CMP. How great is that! First place...unbelievable...I am so proud of my super speedy husband. On that note what a disgustingly HOT weekend to be at the track! I don't see how those boys do it all weekend long. JP's cool suit wasn't working for his race either, so that made it a little extra challenging. Riley dog and I went down on Saturday for the day, and getting out of the car was like walking into an oven. After we adjusted to the heat it became slightly over cast which was nice, but I suppose this is when my sunburn began setting in. Those are the worst kind, because I didn't even realize I had gotten any sun until I got home. Oh well good thing I am off to Key West for work this week and I can show off my awesome tank top tan on their beach. To be honest I am not that excited, Florida this time of year...HOT...I am defiantly a mountain girl.
Some pictures of The Beertech crew getting ready for their race...

Dern Blogger!!! I apologize for the short post but blogger just ate the rest of it. I will post again later this week...if I am not still bitter at the blog.
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2008-07-06T15:07:00.009-05:00

Holiday Weekends...

I am just waking up from a three hour nap so I am pretty sure the ol'brain isn't fully awake yet so this will probable be a short and slightly all over the place post.

What a fun weekend! Time to diet again. We spent Friday in Charlotte with Rob and Brook. Rob and JP went on a mountain bike ride that morning, and that afternoon we had a lovely cookout at their place. Then on Saturday they drove down for fireworks on the lake. The rain stopped just long enough for the fireworks to happen...they were beautiful.

On the house front we are finally in the process of purchasing our first house. It is in a great location for us so we are very excited it is working out. It is still way more house than we need so the upstairs will probable remain unfurnished for a while. Meaning if you come stay with us we will probable pitch a tent in the guest bedroom with some sleeping bags, I know the Carr's wont mind. After all, they actually set up a tent in the Archers house when a bedroom was fully furnished and available. Sister will have to tell that story...

In other news...There is a lizard loose in the house (I really wish I was joking). JP trapped it the other night under the stove and then we lost it again. I have created an official lizard bucket. If you are wondering what a lizard bucket is, it is a Tupperware bowl you take with you where ever you go so you can trap lizards at first sight. For some reason this helps ease the fear of the sucker creeping up on me at any moment.

2008-06-29T21:14:00.011-05:00

Adventures of the House Hunters...Part Deuce
Prepare yourself I am about to ramble...and I am convinced that the spell check isn't working so this post might be a double whammy. Since I just got back from computer camp there are going to be a lot of technical terms like "way" and "totally". Please try and keep up.

Connecticut was great last week. I attended a week long class with nothing but computer genius's, and only three of us there to attend. I wonder why more people didn't want to come?

I was informed on Thursday that I didn't have to come into the office the next day since I was only going to be there for an hour. After much arguing (wink, wink) I informed my boss I would take him up on his offer and find an earlier flight home Friday morning.

Now, this is after JP and I found out Wednesday night that our offer fell through on the house we wanted. The people who own the house live in Connecticut and haven't seen it in years so they are giving their Realtor a lot of control. Basically, they wouldn't deal at all. It was all or nothing and all was way to much. However, we didn't have much time to sulk because Thursday morning one of the houses we originally wanted to see came back on the market. Since we had to act fast JP was going to have to go see it with out me on Friday. The only time we could see the house was 11:30 and I knew I couldn't make it.

To make a long story short (I know it's to late for that now) I got up at 3am and caught the 6am flight to Reagan (by the way I saw Obama and Hillary at the airport) then to Greensboro, drove all the way to Raleigh and pulled up at 11:31 for the showing. I still cant believe I made it. To put some icing on the cake the place was a total dump . The entire house still had the original carpet in it...including all the bathrooms! Does anyone else think that is completely gross? I don't want to know what that carpet has been through. We realize that carpet is an easy fix but that was just one of many questionable features that added up to a lot of extra cost.

The day ended up not being a total waste. You know how they say not to buy the first house you see. Well, JP and I decided to revisit the first house we saw. Which we couldn't do until 5:30 that afternoon. Did we go to a movie during work hours? Yes. Are we proud of it? Absolutely. You know you would if you could. Anyways, the reason we didn't make an offer was because it is WAY more house than we need. Our Realtor said that they are in the process of moving and really want to sell so they might be pretty willing to negotiate. We decided to make an offer and we will let you now how it works out. I have decided we might have to make offers a few times. Maybe I will just move in with Shanna...need a nanny anyone??

Thankfully we got to come home to a relaxing weekend with our friends Rob and Kay. There was a lot of boating, relaxing, and eating involved. Unfortunately, I didn't break out my camera but twice once to get JP in his "Grill Master" outfit, and the second time to get a picture of the piece of cake Rob cut...because it was so huge. Then he proceeded to eat the entire thing because we pointed out how huge it was. Boys.

2008-06-21T19:53:00.010-05:00

Off to Connecticut...

Well I am anyways. Poor JP has a lot of work to do in Charlotte this week order to prepare for the transition to his new job. Also, for once I am posting a little early! Sunday is my relaxation day and Monday I am on the road so I do not plan on looking at my computer again until it involves work.

How happy does he look to be driving AGAIN to Raleigh in this picture?? I got him a coffee from McDonald's to make him smile but I don't think it had kicked in yet. That's the only coffee available that doesn't come from a place called "Burger Shack" between here and Raleigh. He said it wasn't bad, maybe I will give it a whirl. By the way Grandma Haynie LOVES McDonald's frozen coffee drinks... I love that she loves that. In case you are wondering Riley dog does not go house shopping with us, we are not "those people" (not yet anyways). We were dropping him off at Grandma's so we could stay over night at a friends.

On the house front we have good news we think we have found a place in a great location. We had done A LOT of research and A LOT of driving to figure out what is the best area for us. Most importantly its in an area that people are trying to get into and that will only improve with age, so if we have to move again in 4 years we will be able to sell. We have also seen our share of houses so I think we are being pretty smart about all of this. We are hopefully going to put an offer in on Monday. Pray for us. We are so happy to find something but I know many times things just don't work out and if it doesn't I just have to know its for the best and keep looking.

For my random thought...does anyone else wish we had more blog colors to choose from? I wanted to update my colors and it's so hard because I think its so limited. I basically went back to what I had with a splash of purple and a lot of boring. What's a girl to do?