The Gillentine Family

Gatlinburg 2009

2009-11-09T14:47:00.012-06:00

What a great getaway!! We loaded up on Thursday and left out for Gatlinburg--COUPLES ONLY!! This was our 6th year to go and we had a blast. The guys of course made their annual golf trip and even added a day of fishing. The girls of course did our shopping and caught up on a few movies. The nights were spent with some great meals and even our competition of girls vs. guys in some games. We are sitting on ready for our trip next year!! The lord has blessed us with some great friends--Staci and Bart, Keith and Molly, Brad and Melissa, Rodney and Amy, and Chris and Lorrie! These group of friends are more like Family to us and we are so thankful for them.

Happy Halloween

2009-11-03T11:38:00.003-06:00

What a busy Halloween season--we went to several fall festivals and of course had to carve pumpkins. Bailey thought she was to big to trunk or treat, so she and Macy just decided to dress up and give out candy this year at church. But-- of course when Payton got home with all her candy--Bailey wanted some of hers--we had to discuss the sharing issue!! Halloween is just the beginning of the busy holiday season that we are fixing to be in--the girls are already gettting in the spirit of the holidays. This year we just carved pumpkins in the living room floor since our house is still turned upside down from the toliet running all day--hopefully the new flooring will be put in SOON!! I am not liking the topsy turvy that my house is in--yes I know I will be getting new floors but it is total CHAOS!!!!

Women's Conference

2009-10-31T09:28:00.002-05:00

This past weekend I along with several friends attended the E Women's Conference. What a blessing!! We heard Mandissa--AWESOME!!. Laughed with Chanda Pierce and cried with Karen Kingsbury. To hear each women express how God has worked in each of their lives and taken the battles that they have grown through and they are still praising him for all he has given them was such a blessing.

Women

2009-10-31T09:27:00.001-05:00

FALL DAYS

2009-10-31T09:20:00.002-05:00

It seems as though this is always such a busy time of year. The girls are involved in so many things and school is in full swing. Bailey enjoyed her first homecoming week at the middle school and all the crazy days--PJ day, Hippie Day, Tacky Day and of course show your school spirit day. Payton didn't understand why Bailey got to have so much FUN!! She even went to the homecoming dance--of course daddy was in full supervision. I don't know how much of a chaperone he was--I think he had just as much fun as Bailey did. We went to several Fall Festivals, Bailey ventured out with her friends and we didn't see much of her--am I ready for those days--not really but I believe they are here.

PUMPKIN PATCH

2009-10-31T09:16:00.002-05:00

We enjoyed a great Sunday afternoon at the pumpkin patch. Believe it or not--the sun was out and their was not a cloud in the sky. Of course the pumpkin patch was very muddy!! Just more fun for the girls.

Soggy Soccer Season

2009-10-31T09:06:00.008-05:00

Rain, Rain Go Away--Payton is ready to play Soccer!!

The rain continues to fall during Payton's soccer season. She has been lucky to play a few games and has enjoyed every minute of them. She just loves this sport! This year she is playing on a bigger field and is learning a little more about the game. She is becoming a little more aggressive (Surprising to anyone??) and is such a joy to watch. Hopefully spring season will not be so rainy and we will be able to play a little more.

Ole Miss Football

2009-10-31T09:01:00.002-05:00

We have enjoyed several Ole Miss Football games this season with our great friends The Strawns. It has been so rainy, but we have weathered the storms and cheered for the Rebels. Bailey, Payton, Macy and Charlie have had so much FUN!! Their season has been pretty good so far and we will continue to yell some HOTTY TODDY!! (Kid style of course!)

Back to School

2009-08-25T08:56:00.004-05:00

Where did the summer go???? Bailey and Payton started back to school the first of August, I think they both were kinda ready, but they just wouldn't admit it. Payton is is first grade, we are so excited that she got Jennie Beth Creely (she was Lee County teacher of the year last year). She is already reading faster than they can send books home. Let's just hope she continues to be that excited about reading. We have signed her up for the swim team this year and is ready for soccer to begin. Bailey started the middle school this year---OH MY GOODNESS!!! She has grown up toooooo fast. She was kinda nervous about starting and I wanted to walk her in and I don't think she was really wanting me to. So when we got to her room, she was ready for me to leave. She is really enjoying this year, and has classes with alot of her friends. She is already back in gymnastics, having cheer practice and will start tennis in a couple of weeks. It looks like we are in for a very busy school year: But we wouldn't have it any other way!!!

Smith Lake

2009-08-11T13:15:00.002-05:00

What a great week to end our vacation week. We went to Smith Lake to spend the weekend with Keith, Molly, Macy and Charlie. The kids loved riding the inner tube and jumping off the big rock. David thought he was in high school once again and tried everything on the water--the wake board, skiing on one and even jumping off the rock!! I went back almost twenty years and got up on water skis. I could even get out of the bed the next morning. It took me four times to get up but I did it!!

BEACH FUN!!

2009-08-11T12:58:00.003-05:00

The sand between your toes, the sound of the waves and the sun beaming down!!! What fun!! Our family beach trip this year was so much fun. We loaded up with 12 of us going to Gulf Shores, mostly Gillentine's and Mamaw Di. We stayed in a condo that had a water slide and lazy river in it. The kids didn't want to leave the pool, of course the men enjoyed it just as much as they did. The weather was great and we enjoyed some pretty fun beach time also. One night we went to the beach hunting crabs, but mostly got wet. We have decided that next year can not come soon enough.

Take Me out to the Ballgame!!!

2009-07-13T12:07:00.003-05:00

This past weekend we went with some friends to Memphis to watch the Redbirds play baseball. We had so much fun!! We went to eat at Huey's before the game and the kids just love that place. It is so funny to watch them try and shoot toothpicks into the ceiling, (in case you have never been that is the thing to do). My family and friend surprised me with a Happy Birthday wish on the big screen at the game!! I just loved it!! The game ended with a fireworks show, in which Mason was not very happy about---he does not like the loud noises!! We might just be planning a trip to St. Louis next year the group to watch the Cardinals play ball--now that will be FUN!!

A Date with Daddy

2009-06-30T14:28:00.003-05:00

The Father Daughter Ball was this past weekend. The girls have been every year and this year they were just as excited. They kept asking all day "Is it time to put our dresses on?" Several of the dads (Randy, Brad and Keith) surprised the girls with a limo ride. Oh how happy they were!! When we pulled up and they saw it, they couldn't believe it was for them. They even left the dance early so they could go ride some more in the limo--I guess the ride was better than dancing the night away with dad. Let's see if they expect the limo ride again next year!!!

FORE!!!

2009-06-30T14:24:00.002-05:00

David and I used to play golf alot---pre-children!! However we are trying to get back in the swing of things. We met Mike and Amy and enjoyed playing a round of golf. I was very surprised that I still played just about the same as usual. (which is not really alot to brag on) We played a scramble, so David actually did most of the playing for our team. I did realize how much I miss playing and hopefully we will continue to try and get back in the swing of things.

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-24T14:25:00.002-05:00

How blessed Bailey and Payton are to have such a godly man as their father. I thank God each and every day for placing David in our lives. He is their cheerleader, coach, listener, friend, supporter and even the one who keeps them straight at times. I couldn't make it without him raising the girls. I knew he had been wanting some new Maui Jim sunglasses so we surprised him with the money to go ahead and purchase them and stop watching the bidding on Ebay!! Yes, he was so happy!! David even goes the extra mile to make the weekend be special for me since I lost my dad. June is a very hard month for me cause my dads birthday was June 11th. We love you David and know that you are the VERY BEST DAD IN THE WORLD!!!

Hot Summer Fun!!!

2009-06-24T14:22:00.002-05:00

It has been way to hot this summer, and it is not even July yet!! The girls have really enjoyed the pool. They stay in it almost all day!! This past weekend we had a Father's Day cooking at the house and of course all the kids were in the pool. They had so much fun with chicken fights. Bailey and Anna Claire were usually the ones on the boys shoulders. What a fun way to spend the hot summer days.

Water Slide Fun!!

2009-06-05T11:56:00.003-05:00

We had Vacation Bible School this past week at church. On Saturday we had a kick-off party with some pretty big water slides. Bailey and Payton had so much fun!! It was a great way to start a busy week of Bible School.

Let the Games Begin!!

2009-06-05T11:47:00.004-05:00

Ball Season is under way!! Bailey is playing fast picth and Payton is in her first year at coach pitch, with her daddy coaching--I hope they don't kill each other on the field. When they both signed up, I told myself that I hoped they didn't have alot of games on the same night---we'll my wish came true only two games on the same night; and they follow each other at Mooreville, but we are on the ball field every night of the week, except Wednesday and we have church that night. But how fun it has been--Bailey is enjoying her first year without her daddy as her coach, even though we held her back in her age division and all her friends went up. And Payton and David have only had one incident at a practice when David called me and asked me to come and get Payton to bring her home. Summer wouldn't be the same if we didn't begin it on the ballfields.

Memorial Day MUD!!!

2009-05-30T06:31:00.003-05:00

RAIN! RAIN! RAIN! That seems like all we have seen for the past couple of weeks around here and boy is our back yard getting muddy. On Memorial Day we had a family cookout and what started out being a fun game of "Monkey in the Middle", turned into a fun mud bath. David, of course was the first to take a dive through the mud and then Bailey, Payton, Wesley and Mason had to follow. They had the best time. We just let them get as muddy as they could. We just took the water hose and gave them a good bath in the yard.

Splash Pad Fun

2009-05-30T06:28:00.003-05:00

Splash Pad is a new water park that Bailey and Payton love going to. It opened Memorial Day weekend and of course we had to go!! I am sure it will be the first of many trips this summer.

End of another school year

2009-05-29T14:20:00.003-05:00

Can't believe I will have a 6th grader and a 1st grader next year. Bailey ended the school year with all A's and B's and she was even elected Student of the month for May!! Payton had a great year in Kindergarten and is reading just about everything in sight!! We are so proud of our girls. They have both enjoyed school this year, but are ready for SUMMER!!!

Flip-Flop Gymnastics

2009-05-29T14:15:00.003-05:00

Payton has had so much fun doing gymnastics over the past years. She gets so excited to show us new things that she has learned. She has been at Flip-Flops for 3 years and was so happyto get her third medal from Ms. Misty this year.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-15T10:40:00.003-05:00

Mother's Day was such a very special day. I got to spend time with my mom and Bailey and Payton tried to spoil me all weekend. Which I really enjoyed!! I have been blessed to have a mom who has always supported me in every decision that I have made and been by my side in every journey. I only pray that I will be that for the two beautiful girls that God has blessed me with.

Gum Tree 5K Run

2009-05-15T10:28:00.005-05:00

David and I have really tried hard this past year to change some habits and become "Healthy!!" He joined the Wellness Center and I have been meeting a friend for the past year each morning at 5:00a.m. Nell and I started out walking every morning and then when it turned cold we would meet in the church gym and work out with BOB!! (from The Biggest Loser) She and I decided that we wanted to do the Gum Tree Run---Clay and David just laughed at us!! It turned out they decided they would join us!! It was our first time ever to partcipate in a run, much less 6.2 miles. The morning of the run it was pouring down rain, a pretty severe storm and we really thought what have we gotten ourselves in to!! But we had a blast!! We all finished the race and didn't come in last (which was our goal). Proud to say our time was 1:25:24!! We all think we might add more runs to our list in the future!! We are all going to keep working on staying healthy.

Marching into May

2009-05-14T16:02:00.005-05:00

May is almost over but boy have we been busy!! Between ballgames, end of school, Mother's Day and everything in between---we are all in need of SUMMER VACATION!!! The honeysuckle smells great at our house and I got to wondering if Bailey and Payton had ever tried it--we have now. Bailey didn't want to try it at first but she finally did and she actually liked it. It is hard being a little sister when big sister gets to go every where so we took Payton fishing one afternoon for some special one on one time--She had so much FUN!!

Meredith Mae Keith

2009-04-25T07:29:00.004-05:00

A new baby for the family!! David's sister Janelle and John welcomed Meredith into this world on Tuesday, April 21st. She weight 7 pounds and 11 ounces and 191/2 inches long. We took supper to them last night and spent some time with that sweet baby. Big Sister Annalyn was more interested in feeding Uncle D french fries than showing off her little sister. Payton wanted to go to the Mooreville baseball game with Mason so she didn't get to see her, I know I will have to go back. (That will be so hard) Seeing Janelle with her new baby reminded me of when Bailey was born and Janelle stopped by here every afternoon on her way home from school to come and see Bailey. With Meredith being cousin #8---it is hard to believe that Bailey was the first born. Congrats John and Janelle and Annalyn--we love you!!

Amory Railroad Festival

2009-04-20T12:08:00.004-05:00

Each year the girls enjoy going to the RR Festival. When we got up Saturday morning and it looked like rain, they were a little disappointed, but we headed out anyway. And the rain held off, we had a great time. We took Jordan with us, she and Bailey had already gone on Friday night so they were letting Payton know the fun rides. Of course I like to go and shop but I had fun at the carnival watching their faces light up. Payton wasn't really sure about some of the rides---they were tooo scary! (This coming from someone who said her favorite ride at Disney was the Tower of Terror!!!)

"HE IS RISEN!!!!"

2009-04-13T13:23:00.004-05:00

Easter Sunday---a time to remember what we have to be thankful for and know in our hearts what Jesus has done for ME!!! We had a great service at church and then went to mom's for family lunch and she even had all the grandkids stay the night with her, so David and I enjoyed a date night and enjoyed a movie.

Hunting Easter Eggs

2009-04-13T13:05:00.006-05:00

Easter weekend began with a busy start. Good Friday was spent dying eggs and took the girls to see the new "Hannah Montana Movie". They loved it. Saturday we started the morning off at our church egg hunt. To quote Bro. Clay,"It looked like the Easter Bunny had thrown up all over the softball field!!" There were eggs every where and they were gone in 5 minutes. After we finished this egg hunt we drove to Oxford for our family egg hunt. The weather was perfect and the kids had so much fun!!! After a busy day of enjoying family we made our way back home and waited on the arrival of the Easter Bunny!

SOCCER is OVER!!

2009-04-09T12:01:00.003-05:00

Payton finished her second season of soccer. This is going to be her sport. She loves it!! We have had so much fun watching her get so excited playing her game. I am going to miss watching her face light up as she scores a goal and making sure that she protects the goal so the other team doesn't make a goal. I think she maybe a future goalie. Can't wait til next fall for her game to start again.

Scavenger Hunt Party

2009-04-09T11:51:00.003-05:00

We had Bailey's birthday party for her friends a week late this year (just to much going on in our busy lives). She had a fun scavenger hunt party at the church gym. The kids had a blast looking for 15 items in the church. They wanted to do it again! We talked them into having a fun game of wiffle ball outside. That was even more fun in the mud! Bailey had a great time and is already planning her party for next year.

Present Bibles

2009-04-09T11:46:00.003-05:00

Bailey has been competing in Bible Drill this past month. She has really worked hard . We are so proud of her for learning so much about the Bible. It makes mom feel bad that I don't know as much as my 5th grader does. It has been really touching to watch her grow in her spiritual life. Our prayer is that she continues to have the thrive to excel with God being number one in her life. We are so proud of you Bailey!!!

Bailey is 11!!!!

2009-03-28T08:18:00.003-05:00

They say time goes by so fast, and each year that I celebrate a birthday of Bailey or Payton I believe that saying more and more. Where has the past 11 years gone? As I look through scrapbooks I can't believe that my first child is already 11. She has grown into so much for David and I. All the smiles, laughs and sometimes tears have brought so much happiness into our lives. Bailey is so much in a child that I can't begin to express how thankful I am that God blessed us with raising her. I can only pray that she continues to surpass all our expectations and all our prayers are answered in having her dreams and wishes granted. I only wish time would slow down just a little so I want watch the next 11 years go by in flash. Happy Birthday Bailey!! We love you!!

Spring Break Beach Trip

2009-03-23T15:19:00.002-05:00

Spring Break 2009----What a fun week. We left for Gulf Shores on Thursday morning with our great friend The Strawns. 4 kids and 4 adults ready for a great weekend in the sun! And that is what we had. We had perfect weather, great food and made some great memories. Macy and Charlie had never been to the beach so they were very excited. Of course Bailey and Payton thought they were old pros at all the beach fun, so they entertained all weekend. We went on a dolphin cruise and caught a few crabs one night. (Charlie wasn't real sure about that) It was a perfect weekend and a great way to spend spring break.

A Snow Surprise!!!

2009-03-02T13:05:00.004-06:00

What a great way to wake up Sunday morning--SNOW!! SNOW!! SNOW!! The girls popped right up out of the bed and bundled up for a morning of FUN!! Church was cancelled so we met up with some friends and off to the hill we went. We hooked the sled to the 4-wheelers and had so much fun. The bigger kids put a car hood to the back of the 4-wheeler and were a little braver. (We all laughed and said only in Mississippi can you see a car hood being used as a sled while trying to avoid the fire ant beds in a field of snow) After about 2 hours of playing in the snow, the girls feet were in need of some thawing out. We headed back home and made some hot chocolate and popcorn and the girls pilled up and watched High School Musical 3.

Goodbye Training Wheels

2009-03-02T13:00:00.003-06:00

Payton has been begging to take her training wheels of her bike for a while now. We took advantage of one of the nice afternoons and off they came. She did great, maybe a little trouble starting and stopping by herself, but her determination came out in her and she kept at it until she could ride. Daddy was a little tired, and I had to take photos so I wasn't much help in that area. Let's see if she remembers how to ride when the weather gets nice again, or will we be starting all over again.

Let it Snow!!

2009-01-18T14:34:00.004-06:00

Yes--we had some fun in the snow! A parent at the Day School spent all Thursday night planning a surprise for the children at school. They arrived at school Friday morning to a playground full of snow. David brought Bailey and Payton to enjoy in on the fun as soon as they got out of school on Friday. And FUN they had. I don't think I have seen smiles that big on their faces since we got home from Disney!!

Basketball Season

2009-01-17T07:06:00.010-06:00

Basketball season is here!! Bailey and Payton both are playing through the school. This is Bailey's 5th year to play and Payton's first. Bailey and the other 5th graders know the game, but Payton and the other Kindergarten players are such a blast to watch. Payton only has 5 kids on her team (she is the only girl) and for those kids to have to play the whole game is very tiring for them, but they all hung in there and did the best they could. David is coaching and around the end of the 3rd quarter, Payton was begging Daddy to let her rest for a little while. For the next 5 Saturday mornings we will be at the basketball court cheering the girls on.

Welcome 2009!!!!

2009-01-02T17:28:00.003-06:00

What a great start for 2009. We have spent the past few days with family and friends. We have ate, watched football (GO REBS!!!!), ate, played games, ate again and shot fireworks. It has been some fun relaxing days. The year 2008 has been a blessed year for my family and I pray that 2009 is filled with blessings from above. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Bambi

2008-12-30T14:48:00.004-06:00

The day after Christmas I woke up early and went on a shopping trip with some friends. We were in search of some good bargains. Found a few, but not many. David and the girls stayed home and started taking down the Christmas decorations. When I got home a little after lunch, the girls were begging to go mud riding on the 4-wheeler. So around 3:00 we got dressed in some old clothes and headed out to the fields. David grabs his gun and said,"I just know we are going to see a deer." I thought "Yeah, as excited as Bailey and Payton are, you really think they are going to be quiet enough to see a deer." At around almost dark we pulled into a little spot and about 2 minutes of sitting there, we see a deer, and it just happened to be Bambi. She was looking straight at us, so of course David couldn't wait for the "big one" to come out, cause the girls were a little tired of being quiet!! It was a fun ride home with an extra passenger. But we sure are going to have some good meals in the weeks to come.

Christmas Fun!!!!

2008-12-30T14:36:00.003-06:00

Such a busy Christmas week. Santa of course was way to good to the girls, but Christmas morning was such much fun!!! We then were off to my mom's and had Christmas with my family. The afternoon ended with a family trip to Oxford with cousins. We have so many things to be thankful for this holiday season and I have been so blessed with family and friends to spend the holidays with. I must admit I am ready to get back to a little routine in my life. I do enjoy the busy times, but I really love the routine life.

Christmas at Nanny and Papaw Richs'

2008-12-29T21:14:00.003-06:00

Oh, how fun was Christmas Eve-Eve!!! Each year on the 23rd (which is David's birthday also) we have Christmas with David's family. Each year it seems to get bigger, next year we will add one more. The kids are in full swing and having a ball. We grilled steaks out and even had a birthday cake for David. The adults played dirty santa and the kids opened several gifts. Then we spend about 30 minutes making sure that we get all the photos taken that we need to.

Here Comes Santa!!!

2008-12-23T12:08:00.005-06:00

May your Christmas Holiday be filled with Blessings from Above!!! Hope Santa is good to you and your family!!!

Ready for Christmas

2008-12-23T11:45:00.004-06:00

Singing at the Christmas Program at Church

Bailey and Tristan at the bowling alley

Bailey and Payton with Papaw Jay

David and Chris and their dad

Christmas has been BUSY,BUSY, BUSY!!!! Between parties, shopping, baking and wrapping presents---I am ready for some quiet time!!! Do you think I will get that anytime soon? We have been in full Christmas mode this past week. Bailey had a dirty santa ornament swap with several of her friends the other night, we took Bailey and her 'boyfriend' Tristan to eat and bowling. They exchanged presents and had so much fun, of course Payton tagged along with us. We had the children's Christmas program Sunday night at church. They did GREAT and even had a visit from Santa. We had David's dad over for supper last night and spent some time with him. The girls are waiting for Santa and the excitement is building at our house---YOU BETTER WATCH OUT!!!!

Pajama Fun

2008-12-06T19:59:00.004-06:00

Each Christmas I buy Bailey and Payton new Christmas Pajamas to take pictures in front of our tree for Christmas Cards. Of course this year we used Disney pictures for our family Christmas cards. But I still had to take some photos of Bailey and Payton in their PJ's. Bailey is getting a little too old for these photos, but she went ahead and did them, only because they weren't being used for Christmas Cards. I guess next year I will have to think of something different for our cards, I did use a beach photo one year, maybe that will work for next year.

Christmas Parade Fun

2008-12-06T19:48:00.007-06:00

The church put a float in the Christmas Parade this year, and we have a great time. We even had a Jesus with an Ole Miss ear wrap. I asked the girls after the parade if the liked watching the parade or being in the parade better. Of course the Yelled---BEING IN THE PARADE!!! It was really cold this morning but we bundled up and by the end of the day, we were shedding some clothes. Bailey was Mary and Payton was a shepard. We saw alot of friends along the parade route and the girls made a great memory of the Christmas season. Thanks Ms. B for all your hard work in getting the float together, it looked great!!!

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas

2008-12-03T22:13:00.005-06:00

The girls have been begging to put up our Christmas tree. We always put it up the day after Thanksgiving, but since I was in Atlanta it took a little while longer. We started Sunday when I got home and finally finished. I decided to let the girls have their own trees in their room this year--instead of putting their ornaments on a tree in the sunroom. They were so excited!! Each year they get to pick out an ornament they like, this year they got ornaments from Disney--Payton had Mickey playing soccer and Bailey had Minnie as a cheerleader. They were hardly concerned with decorating our big tree, but they finally decided to help just a little. Since I shopped in Atlanta this past weekend, we even have presents under the tree!! The Christmas spirit is in the air at our home.

Operation Christmas Child

2008-12-01T21:59:00.005-06:00

What a great way to start off the holiday season. I went to Atlanta this past weekend with 8 girls from my church to work at the Operation Christmas Child warehouse. We worked on the shoeboxes that different groups had sent in to send to children in different countries. In Atlanta the shoeboxes are going to India and two countries in Africia. Having a part in knowing that your hands have helped in making a child's Christmas is such a rewarding blessing. It really makes you realize just how blessed you are. My girls have more than they can imagine. We are just trying to think of things to get them for Christmas and these children in these countries are excited over toothpaste and a bar of soap. We also spent the weekend Christmas shopping and went to see the movie "Four Christmases"----GREAT movie. We laughed until we cried. We all enjoyed the weekend and received such a blessing in what we did.

Another Thanksgivng Meal

2008-11-27T21:30:00.003-06:00

We ended Thanksgiving with another meal. My family came to my house and we had a great night. The kids played outside and then were made to come in when we realized around 8:00 they were still outside and one had no shoes on. They even calmed down for a little while and watched some of Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. Memories! Memories! Memories! The meal was great and the famiy time was even better. Now we get in Christmas mode.

Memories of Turkey Day

2008-11-27T09:10:00.006-06:00

The girls woke up early this morning excited that it was Turkey Day. Growing up I can remember every year my grandfather "Pappy", calling bright and early and reminding us to get up and watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. So my girls were in full swing to watch the parade. As they are getting ready for the parade to begin, David and I are preparing our family Thanksgiving meal, around 5:00 my house will be full with around 25 people. My mom and Aunt San prepared our Thanksgiving meal for years. They would stay up all night, ALL night-- and have a great meal prepared around 11:30 each Thanksgiving. A couple of years ago, my cousins and I decided it was time for us to take over the duties of cooking Thanksgiving dinner after Aunt San fell in the kitchen while taking the dressing out of the oven. So this is my year. We are having supper instead of dinner, since my newlywed brother is in Jackson with his new family; for lunch and will arrive here around 5:00. Looking forward to a great night.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T08:30:00.004-06:00

We started Thanksgiving meals last night. We had dinner with David's family. I was blessed to marry someone who our families do not do holiday celebrations on the same day. That way we never had to decide where we were going. We had so much food! Of course everyone was sitting around wondering why they ate so much, knowing we were all going to do the same thing again on Thanksgiving Day. The kids played in their new playroom they have added in a spare room at Nanny's this week. Thanksgiving Blessings are all around our family.

2008-11-24T15:05:00.001-06:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

Fun in the Leaves

2008-11-23T19:55:00.004-06:00

After being inside all day Saturday---I had to pick Bailey up from school early on Friday and she had strep; the girls were ready to get out of the house after church on Sunday. Every fall we enjoy playing in the leaves, Sunday afternoon was the perfect day. David pilled a huge pile of leaves in the back yard and the FUN began. We buried each other in the pile and Bailey and Payton had fun jumping in the leaf pile. What a great way to start Thanksgiving week off, spending a fun afternoon with one of the things that I am so thankful for----MY FAMILY!!!!

Happy Birthday Payton!!!!

2008-11-14T21:29:00.003-06:00

I can't believe Payton is already 6 years old. Boy, where did all those years go? It just seems like yesterday that I was holding you in my arms and singing "You are my sunshine", to rock you to sleep. You have grown way toooo fast for me. I can't keep up with how fast the years are going. We had a great afternoon today, we went and surprised Payton with a big girl bike. Now we have the fun task of teaching her to ride it---Get ready Daddy. Then we had a family supper at The Grill (Payton's choice). If I blink my eyes Payton's sixth year will be over before I know it. Happy Birthday Payton--I love you, sunshine!!!!

A Flip-Flopping Birthday Party!!!!

2008-11-10T20:20:00.005-06:00

Payton had her 6th birthday party a week early this year. It was at Flip-Flop Gymnastic's: and we all had a flip-flopping GOOD time!! Payton woke up Saturday morning so excited and we stayed in that gear all day. She got some nice gifts and I think I need to borrow some money from her. She kept asking all day what mom and dad were giving her, we have to save something for her actually birthday, the 14th, so it will be a surprise until then. I think we will be in party mode all week at our house. We ended Saturday night at the movies with Aunt Lorlee, Mason and Wesley, seeing Madagascar 2.

Hayride Fun

2008-11-06T15:22:00.003-06:00

We went on a hayride with some friends and family on Saturday night. We all had a great time. It wasn't real cold (by looking at the photo of David you would think it was snowing) and the girls roasted hot dogs and marshmellows. This has been a busy fall season, but we have made some great memories with the girls. The holiday season is all about being with friends and family. I know that we are so blessed to have both that we can enjoy being around. As I sit and type this; I am listening to Natalie Grant "Live 4 Today", such words of truth---count every single blessing, follow it in your way, live like there is no tomorrow, my future is in tact, my crazy life has got me spinning round and round---but holding His hand all the way. In this busy life that we lead those are words to remember.

Pumpkins and Treats!!!

2008-11-01T11:10:00.007-05:00

What a fun night of Halloween! The girls wore their costumes to school for the AR parade. Luckily both of their costumes were people in books. Bailey was the scarecrow from 'The Wizard of Oz' and Payton was the Pirate from 'How I Became a Pirate'. We started the afternoon out by finally carving our pumpkins. For weeks the girls have been begging to carve their pumpkins. We have just been so busy that we waited until the last minutes. But the girls were glad that we finally got to carve their pumpkins. We started the night off by going to the church for 'Trunk or Treat'. It was so much fun and the girls got so much candy, hopefully I can get rid of some of it, before we are all on a sugar high around here. We ended the night with a hayride to Ms. Maxine's park for a hot dog roast and just some great time with friends. The girls finally crashed around 10:30 and David and I enjoyed watching a movie to put and end to Halloween 2008.

Gatlinbug Gang

2008-10-26T16:17:00.007-05:00

What a great weekend!! For the past 4 years we have enjoyed great friendship and fun times in Gatlinburg. We couples enjoy just relaxing, shopping, eating and spending time with friends and our spouses. Every year around this time of year we find sitters for our children and head out to the beautiful scenery of Gatlinburg. This year was perfect. The leaves were at their peak and we couldn't have asked for a better cabin. We enjoyed a home entertainment room, pool table, air hockey and some great grillin from the guys. The guys enjoyed some Saturday football games and the girls went and cried at the movie "Night in Rodanthe." We took some photos in Cades Cove--Brad/Melissa, Chris/Lorrie,Keith/Molly, David and I/ Rodney/Amy. Can't wait til same time next year.

Ready for Halloween

2008-10-20T15:08:00.007-05:00

We went with our church to the Circle Y Pumpkin Patch Saturday morning. The girls had so much fun. They did everything from playing putt-putt golf, feeding the catfish, went to the petting zoo and picked out a pumpkin. The weather was PERFECT and the night got topped off with Bailey going to a friend's Halloween Costume Party. She won the costume contest. I was glad since she really didn't want to go as a scarecrow--"Mom I look so silly." those were her words before she left and then she was so excited when I picked her up. "Mom I won the costume contest, thanks for letting me go as a scarecrow!!!!" Boy how that attitude changed.

Halloween Time!!!!

2008-10-16T15:52:00.001-05:00

This past Saturday my cousin Tracie has her annual Halloween Party in Oxford. The kids went on a haunted trail, heard a ghost story and roasted marshmellows and hot dogs. They had so much fun. All of Mamaw Di's grandkids had their picture made with the "Eli Scarecrow."

Bailey's New Style

2008-10-11T15:30:00.004-05:00

Bailey has been "BEGGING" me for months to get her hair cut short. I never gave in because it was so easy for those days when you needed a pony tail hair style. I finally gave in. This morning we went to see Ms. Angela and Bailey wanted almost 6 inches cut off her hair---I must say I love it!!! She is so proud of it.

Walking for a Cause!!!!!

2008-10-06T16:35:00.003-05:00

Saturday October 4th was the 4th annual Cystic Fibrosis Walking for a cure. It was a perfect day to raise money for a great cause. Some dear friends of ours, Clay and Lanell Anthony have a son, Haddon who has CF. Haddon is the most outgoing, funloving child you could ever ask to be around. We spent 8 days with The Anthony's in Disney. They are more than friends; they are family. The final total is not yet in, but we believe it will be around $32,000. WOW!!!!! This year the walk had a little more meaning to me, I lost a great friend of mine from college to CF just this past month. Missy Sappington was 40 years old and lived life to the fullest!!!! Miss ya Sapp!!! Make sure to remember the CF walk will be around October 2009 and the more awareness we have out there about the walk the better it will be.

Busy! Busy! Busy!

2008-10-02T15:14:00.004-05:00

It's that time of year, AGAIN!! The busy schedule of two girls involved in extra activites. Payton has started soccer on Tuesday and Thursday. She is going to be a great player. She likes the idea of going after something and trying to get it without someone telling her she has to share. Right up her game plan. Bailey has started cheering for the 5th and 6th grade football team at Mooreville. She cheers on Thursday and Saturday. This is right up her game plan, being loud and showing off. Even though life seems very busy right now, we are enjoying seeing Bailey and Payton enjoy what they love doing. I hope you enjoy a few captured moments of their recent games.

A great date

2008-09-29T10:59:00.002-05:00

Everyone needs to check out the movie "Fireproof". David and I enjoyed a Sunday afternoon date and went to see this great movie. You will laugh, cry and enjoy some time needed with your spouse. I could have sat through the movie for a second time. You can see about the movie at www.fireproofthemovie.com. It will be a movie you will enjoy and want to see again.

Making Memories

2008-09-25T15:15:00.002-05:00

Home Sweet Home!!! The week at Disney as my girls put it was "AWESOME!!!!!" It was a trip of a lifetime. The weather, friends, food and memories will be cherished for a lifetime. We still are in recovery mode around here and haven't caught up on lack of rest, but it was worth it. Yes, at the end of the day there was a few tears shed from Bailey and Payton, and mom and dad's nerves were a little short, but we all crashed for the night and started again the next day. I am sharing a few of the 2000 pictures that were taken and I hope you enjoy them as much as we enjoyed making them.

DISNEY BOUND!!!!!

2008-09-12T14:33:00.005-05:00

We are on Disney countdown this weekend at The Gillentine House!!! Bailey and Payton are so excited. And I guess you could say that David and I are pretty excited also. We will leave early, early Monday morning to catch our plane in Memphis and should be in Orlando and at Epcot by 1:00pm. Pray that we have a safe flight, (it will be Payton and Mamaw Di's first time in an airplane) and the weather holds off any hurricanes that might come our way. We will enjoy a full 8 days in the Happiest Place on earth. I will add pictures for everyone to enjoy and soon as we return. I hope each of you have a good week.

Welcome!

2008-09-08T17:44:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the new blog of the Gillentine Family! Please check back soon for updates...