April Round Up

 

 

Tuesday, April 1     Cleaning up after the big snow turned into quite the adventure, messy and poky are definitely the words of the day. I get to break out my trusty sleeves, my armor against scratches and scrapes. I love them… until the heat kicks in and they start feeling like a second skin. Poor palms look battered and sad for now, but give it time, new prongs will soon burst forth, fresh and green, ready to take on whatever comes next.

Wednesday, April 2    Quick update on the broken wrist: I thought I might dodge the follow-up, but nope — the doctor got me before I even left the office. So, another month of taking it easy and no heavy lifting. After that, hopefully, I’m back in the game.

Thursday, April 3      The little garden is waking up! Nine tomato plants are stretching toward the sun, and radishes are popping up like tiny surprises. Soon enough, the green beans and squash will make their grand entrance—can’t wait for the leafy curtain call!

Friday, April 4     This young lady has graced my fridge since the very moment she made her debut into this world. Each day, I have lifted her in prayer, asking for God's guidance, protection, and blessings over her life. Now, as she stands on the threshold of graduation, ready to step into a new chapter, I can't help but reflect on the incredible journey she’s about to embark on. What an honor it’s been to witness her growth, and what a joy it will be to see where God leads her next. Kati Ann Allen you were created for such a time as this!

Saturday, April 5     The prettiest post in the spring!

Sunday, April 6    The weather tried to rain on our parade, but Mother Nature showed us some grace! Despite the looming forecast, our Easter Egg Hunt on April 6 was an absolute blast! We lucked out with a perfectly timed dry window that held strong for most of the event and we made the most of every moment!

 Monday, April 7      The stage of A Midsummer Night’s Dream stands silent now, its magic packed away and headed for the shadows of the storage building. The forest of fairies and mischief sleeps once more. But already, the air tingles with the first notes of a new dream - The Sound of Music is on the horizon. Auditions loom like the Alps, and one young hopeful stands at the edge of the spotlight, rehearsing his moment. But what song will carry him forward? The bold swell of the National Anthem? A spirited tune from The Music Man? Or perhaps something twangy and heartfelt from the country charts? The hills are alive and so is the anticipation.

Tuesday, April 8    The dance recital is just around the corner, and that can only mean one thing, it's time to bring the Mayor of Munchkinland to life. The fabric is chosen, the pattern awaits, and the sewing machine, long silent, hums back to life with a familiar rhythm. It’s been a while, but as the first stitches fall into place, it all comes rushing back. The whirr of the needle, the scent of fresh fabric - yes, this feels like home.

Wednesday, April 9   At last a day without wind. The air is still, the sky wide and waiting. Time to strike the match and send the towering pile of broken limbs and pinecones crackling into flame. Nature’s leftovers, now dancing embers, rising like memories into the calm spring sky.

Thursday, April 10    Barrett’s little buddies, those six-legged menaces I’d love to toss straight into the burn pile. Grasshoppers! Tiny, leaf-munching rebels plotting a backyard takeover. They’re everywhere, eyeing my garden like it’s an all-you-can-eat buffet. But of course, the kid adores them. Gives them names. Builds them bug hotels. So for now… they get a free pass. Ugh.

Friday, April 11    Memories on Main Street—an unforgettable evening with the Back Roads Touring Club. As the sun dipped low, the classic cars rolled into downtown Lucedale, MS, their polished chrome catching the glow of streetlights and neon signs. The night air buzzed with conversation, the hum of engines, and the smell of good food from our potluck tailgate. We shared stories under the stars, surrounded by a shining lineup of vintage beauties stretching down the heart of town. So many cars, so much laughter—and a perfect Southern night to remember it all.

Saturday, April 12    Easter Egg Hunts at Bethel Baptist Church—pure springtime joy! The lawn was buzzing with excitement as little ones dashed through the grass, baskets in hand and eyes wide with anticipation. The hunt was divided into two age groups, each on a mission to find the prized golden egg. Barrett struck gold early and then raced off in search of 23 more colorful treasures. Laughter, squeals, and happy chaos filled the air. And when the last egg was found? We wrapped it all up with burgers sizzling on the grill and sweet fellowship shared under the warm sun. A perfect day of celebration, community, and childhood wonder.

Sunday, April 13    Dinner with friends - there’s nothing better. Gathered together at The Mariner, we soaked in the perfect backdrop: boats gliding lazily up and down Dog River, pelicans plunging gracefully into the water in search of their evening meal, and the steady hum of cars crossing the Dog River Bridge. Laughter mingled with the breeze, and time seemed to slow, just enough to savor the company, the view, and the simple joy of being together.

Monday, April 14     Audition night—nerves, excitement, and a spotlight waiting. And yes, he made his choice: God’s Country by Blake Shelton. From the first note, he owned it. Strong, steady, and full of heart. He nailed every word, and with his 30 seconds of fame complete, the room was alive with applause and smiles. The audience loved it, and so did he. A moment to remember, loud and proud.

Tuesday, April 15     The beauty of the morning is something sacred. The water lies still, like glass, untouched and perfectly calm. An orange glow stretches across the horizon as the sun rises, painting the world in warmth and promise. Birds greet the day with cheerful songs, while a soft, solitary hoot from the resident owls lingers in the trees. In the distance, the mournful whistle of a morning train echoes through the valley—a low, lonesome sound that stirs something deep. The air is crisp now, fresh and clean, but soon the cool hush will yield to the heat of the coming day. For a moment, though, everything is perfectly still—peaceful, and full of quiet wonder.

Wednesday, April 16    Magnolias in bloom remind me of Grandma Twamley. She loved them and wanted to visit Mobile while they were in bloom. Years ago Grandma traveled with us to Mobile. On the way we watched The Incredibles. Grandma had never seen the movie and never watched a move in a moving vehicle. What a treat to hear her laugh at the ridiculous thing happening in the movie

Thursday, April 17  Dinner out with the Back Roads Touring Club. Great people, great food at Judy’s Place and David got to show off his new ride. The 1967 Pontiac Grand Prix Convertible was a big hit!

Friday, April 18    The long weekend in Nashville. We rented Zach new Airbnb. This house is set up for lots of fun! Sleeps 21 people. On the first night Tory and Nicole came and hung out with us. We sat at the firepit just talking. It was nice to just relax.

Saturday, April 19   David and his crew made their way to the Airbnb. The kids all choose different rooms and then switched them up later. The day involved going to a car show to see Grandma and Grandpa 2. Where we all had $78 worth of ice cream. Then we went on to see the Marathon Factory Museum.  Haven was fascinated in the machinery that was still on display and working in the Shop area. The 6 Marathons on display in the Museum were just fascinating!

Sunday, April 20    Easter morning we all hunted eggs. The kids all dressed in their Easter clothes look so cute. The Golden egg was the last one to be found. Of course, Barrett found it but Hunter sure did try hard.

Monday, April 21   Plant hunting. Finding something for the front of the house to set the front entrance up. Just not sure what I want. On a quest for the perfect plant. Something that will elevate the front entrance and give the house that just-right welcome—but I haven’t quite figured out what it is yet. The search continues.

Tuesday, April 22      Early morning walks on Dog River. Just quiet time until Cooper sees a squirl

Wednesday, April 23 – Optimist Club Day. Always sweeter with the candy

Thursday, April 24     Back Roads Touring Club Dinner out! Great time with friends and fellow enthusiasts

Friday, April     Work—it’s a four-letter word for a reason! Thankfully, I’m armed with a battalion of screens to make it all feel slightly more glamorous.

Saturday, April 26     Prepping the Model T and Model A for the car show—hours of washing, vacuuming, polishing glass, and detailing every inch. Vintage pride takes elbow grease, but they’re going to shine like history on wheels.

Sunday, April 27     Post-show lineup! We brought a few classics to a local church car show—great turnout, beautiful weather, and plenty of chrome shining in the sun. A perfect day to share a little automotive history.

Monday, April 28   Taking the toys back to the garage for storage

Wednesday, April 30  Nothing like ending the month on an Optimistic note!

 

March in the Books!

Monday, March 24      Spring has officially made its grand entrance. The azaleas are bursting into color, painting the landscape with vibrant pinks and purples. Of course, that also means a yellow haze of pollen hangs in the air like a seasonal curse. With summer's heat and humidity just around the corner, outdoor projects are in full swing — it's a race against the Southern sun..

Tuesday, March 25   Dewberry Season Has Arrived! The vines are loaded, and that means one thing: sweet, tangy goodness is on the way. Pies are definitely in the plans (the kind that barely make it to the table before being devoured), and with such a bumper crop this year, I’m thinking it’s time to break out the canning pot. Jelly, not jam, is on the agenda. Smooth, clear, and packed with that unmistakable wild berry flavor without the seeds. Can’t wait!

Wednesday, March 26 Some days, the most extraordinary moment is the sunrise — golden light spilling across the sky, gently waking the world. And that’s more than enough for me. Life hums along in its quiet cadence: the steady call of work, the fellowship of the Optimist Club, the warmth of home. There’s a certain beauty in the ordinary, where stillness speaks and simple things shine.

Thursday, March 27 Easter Egg Hunt plans are coming together, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the amazing team at BRTC. These folks are the heart of our community — always showing up, always pitching in. Our “conference room” might be a garage, but it’s filled with laughter, teamwork, and the kind of energy that makes things happen. There’s something special about planning events that bring joy to our club, side by side with people who truly care.

Friday, March 28. From real blossoms to artificial blooms, I have to admit—the Lego version steals my heart right now. There’s something magical about tiny bricks capturing the beauty of flowers, holding their color and charm all year long. If only we could have a garden that never fades, where spring lives forever.

Saturday, March 29   Carter’s birthday party at Dave & Busters was a blast. Barret sometimes struggles to make friends—he tries a little too hard, and it shows. But every now and then, someone like Carter comes along: a kid who just wants to be a kid, laughing at all the silly, goofy stuff. Those moments remind you how simple and pure friendship can be.

Sunday, March 30     It’s humbling to think of all the quiet efforts that bring a Sunday morning to life. Hands of every age, gifts of every kind, from the gentle welcome of a greeter to the steady guidance of worship leaders, from the unseen work behind the lens to the smiles exchanged in passing. Each piece, small yet essential, weaving together a shared moment of faith and community.

Monday, March 31    It rained and rained, soaking everything through. Of course, that was the very day I scattered seeds across the flower beds. I like to imagine those tiny travelers carried away by the rushing river, finding new homes along distant banks, where they’ll take root and grow in unexpected places.

 

Oh the Adventure

 

Monday, March 17    Well now, would you look at that — the azaleas have decided to put on a real Southern belle debutante show this year! Normally, they make a quick appearance like a shy guest at the garden party — pretty as a picture for a few days, then gone with the wind. But not this spring, no ma’am. This time, they’re struttin’ their stuff like they’ve got all the time in the world, blooming big and bold for over a week now!

Seems like every flower in town got the memo that spring's in full swing. The dogwoods are dancing, the wisteria’s whisperin’ sweet nothings, and those azaleas? They’re stealing the spotlight.

But bless your heart if you’ve got allergies, 'cause that pollen is out here thicker than sweet tea on a summer porch. It’s so heavy you’d think Mother Nature spilled her powdered sugar shaker all over the South!

Tuesday, March 18    Barrett was out doing what kids do best—playing with heart and a head full of ideas. He turned the driveway into his own homemade racetrack, complete with a flag stand made just right for the occasion. With a few strips of duct tape and a lot of imagination, he mapped out a perfect track.

He and his friend Alex spent the afternoon racing their bikes, lap after lap, around their creation. They laughed, competed, and soaked in the kind of spring day that feels endless when you're a kid.

Wednesday, March 19   This little treasure came from Happy Girl a few years back, and it’s been sittin’ right here on my desk at work ever since. That tiny charm may not look like much to some folks, but to me, it’s a gentle reminder of who I truly work for.

We just packed up and moved offices this past week, and let me tell you—change can rattle the nerves, even on the best of days. When the chaos starts to stir up that anxious little storm inside me, I stop for a moment and picture myself right there in that frame. I try to see me the way the Lord does—loved, chosen, and held together by grace.

And wouldn’t you know, the peace starts to settle in. I gather myself, take a deep breath, and keep pressing on. 'Cause until the day I see Jesus face to face, I know He’s placed His Holy Spirit right inside me.

And truly—what more could a girl want than that?

Thursday, March 20      It’s here, y’all! The ‘55 made it to print in the AACA National Magazine, Antique Automobile—how cool is that? Seeing her right there on the page just fills my heart up. This car isn’t just chrome and curves, she’s part of our family’s story, a rolling piece of our history.

She’s been with us since 1967, and what a life she’s lived! Back in the day, she even had pink carpet—thanks to her time with Mom and Dad. Stylish, wasn’t she? And she’s still got stories to tell. She was our getaway car on our wedding day, 25 years ago, carrying us off into the start of forever.

Now she’s in our care, and we’re taking her back to her roots—restoring her to her original glory, one loving detail at a time. The journey isn’t over for our sweet ‘55… she’s still cruisin’ through the years, with memories in her rearview and plenty of road ahead.

Friday, March 21  Out with the old... and hopefully in with the new before the neighborhood kids start showing up with inner tubes and asking if the “Slip ’N Slide River” is open for business.

Now listen, cleaning up that poor, rusted-out pool has been about as fun as herding cats in a rainstorm. But spring is here, and hope—along with pollen and mosquitoes—is in the air. Still, let’s not gloss over the moment. Oh no.

The day those pool walls gave up the ghost? Legendary. I wasn’t there, but I imagine it sounded like a cannonball fight between Noah’s Ark and a water park. One minute: peaceful backyard. The next: bricks flying like popcorn and water rushing across the lawn like it was late for church. I hear it even relocated a few lawn chairs—and maybe a squirrel or two.

She didn’t go quietly, that pool. She made sure everyone knew her time had come. But now it’s time for a fresh start—preferably one that doesn't involve flash flooding or unplanned backyard lakes.

Saturday, March 22  While With Darin out of town, Barrett and I saw an open weekend and thought—why not turn it into a little adventure of our own? So we packed up our curiosity and headed downtown for the Cajun Cook-Off, tagging along with our good friend David Ladnier.

Let me tell you, it was a feast for the senses! Barrett was absolutely enchanted by the live band—his little feet couldn’t stop moving to the beat. Meanwhile, David and I were on a mission to taste every Cajun creation in sight. Gumbo, étouffée, jambalaya—if it had spice and soul, we tried it.

And how did we arrive? Oh, just casually cruising in David’s 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 convertible—top down, wind in our hair, feeling like movie stars from another era.

But the day didn’t stop there. On our way home, we made a quick detour to visit the legendary SS United States, docked right there in Mobile. She’s soon to become the world’s largest man-made reef off the coast of Florida—a grand old lady finding her second life beneath the sea. It felt like standing in the shadow of history.

Later, we met up with Wendy and Clay for dinner at Briquettes—good food, better company. But the real surprise? Barrett and Wendy discovered a trail behind the restaurant, and wouldn’t you know it, that boy turned it into his own personal stage. He just had to show off his dance moves, spinning and grooving like nobody was watching (but of course, we all were, with big grins on our faces).

A day full of flavor, music, ships, stories, and a little sparkle of spontaneity. Just the kind of day that reminds you how grand the simple moments can be when you lean into the adventure.

Sunday, March 23       SS United States: The Great Boat Chase. It all started like any ordinary outing—sunshine, good spirits, and a plan. But as any seasoned adventurer knows, the best stories never go exactly as planned…

We were ready for a river cruise, hearts set on seeing the legendary SS United States up close. But somehow, in the flurry of excitement and the buzz of the waterfront, we found ourselves standing in line… at the wrong boat. Smiling folks boarding, ropes being adjusted, and us—cheerfully oblivious.

That is, until the realization hit like a cannonball to the hull: Wrong boat!

And then—cue the dramatic music—we were off! Sprinting down the dock like a scene from a movie, dodging tourists and waving frantically at the crew of the right boat. Just as they were pulling in the ropes, we arrived—breathless, laughing, and just in time to hop aboard. Talk about cutting it close!

Once we were safely aboard, the river revealed her treasures. We cruised past the SS United States not once, but seven times, as if she wanted to make sure we got every possible angle of her beauty. Towering and proud, she stood like a ghost from America’s grand maritime past, her next journey not across the Atlantic, but to rest as the world’s largest man-made reef.

But the ride didn’t end there. The boat carried us up the Mobile River to the iconic Cochran Bridge, also known as the Africatown Bridge—steeped in history and standing tall in tribute to a community with stories worth telling. Along the way, we watched the mighty bar boats work their magic, spinning a massive ship around in the narrow river like it was a toy in a bathtub. Absolutely awe-inspiring.

We came for a boat ride, but what we got was a chase, a history lesson, and a front-row seat to the dance of giants on the water. An adventure we almost missed—but will never forget.

 

Change is good..

 

Monday, March 10       Monday dawned shrouded in a thick, ghostly fog, draping the world in a quiet, eerie stillness. The damp air clung to my skin as I ventured out, my footsteps muffled on the wet ground. The distant wail of the lighthouse foghorn echoed across the mist, its mournful sound weaving through the silence like a forgotten melody. Meanwhile, the lonely whistle of a distant train pierced the fog, its sharp, nostalgic cry evoking a sense of time slipping away, as if the world was stuck in a forgotten era.

The day passed uneventfully, wrapped in a haze of calm. But as evening fell, it brought with it the gathering at the Pharaoh’s Alabama meeting. It was a long, drawn-out affair, filled with discussions that seemed endless, each topic more intricate than the last. Despite having been a member for years, this was my first time attending, and I couldn't help but feel the weight of tradition pressing in as I sat among familiar faces, each one wrapped in their own thoughts as we navigated the evening’s deliberations.

Tuesday, March 11     "Freedom" was the word of the day—well, maybe not quite. The cast is finally off, but now I’m sporting a splint for the next few weeks. It’s a small step, but it feels like progress. No more doctor visits for a while—at least, that’s the hope. Here’s to a little more freedom, even if it’s just the tiniest bit!

Wednesday, March 12     Ah, Irish Week! Such a quirky little holiday, always sneaking up on you, never quite sure which day it'll land on. It’s a delightful mix of chasing leprechauns and nibbling on foods that are, well, a bit odd—who knows what you’ll end up with! Every mushroom or four-leaf clover feels like a mystery, hiding secrets and surprises just waiting to be uncovered. And to top it off, the moon was shining brighter and bigger than ever, casting a magical glow over it all. It felt like the perfect touch to an already enchanted week.

Thursday, March 13      Moving—well, at least offices. It’s time to say goodbye to the familiar Waker Lane location, and with it, a chapter closes. Moving always feels like a mix of uncertainty and possibility. There’s excitement for what lies ahead, but the path can also be rocky and filled with challenges. I can’t help but let the anticipation build, dreaming of something more, something better, just around the corner.

For now, though, the first step is working from home for a few days. With a broken wrist, I wouldn’t be much help anyway. But maybe this brief pause will give me the time I need to reset and prepare for whatever comes next.

Friday, March 14      Photos with the Bull – definitely the highlight of the day. Mapping out the Easter Egg Hunt with Darrin was next on the agenda, and I kept up with most of it, though there were a lot of moving pieces. This little event is shaping up to be a blast, full of surprises, prizes, and an egg hunt scattered all over Mobile. It’s been such a fun challenge to imagine how an Easter Egg Hunt in your car could actually work—turns out, it’s a bit more adventurous than I thought!
But the true cherry on top of the day? Stopping by Bama Bob’s to snap that classic photo with the bull. It’s one of those little things that just makes everything feel right, a perfect end to a day full of planning and dreaming.

Saturday, March 15     Strawberry season—thankfully, I didn’t miss it this year, despite the broken wrist. I wasn’t sure I’d be able to get in on the action, but I bought a flat of those sweet, ruby-red berries anyway. Thankfully, all I had to do was slice them up and toss them in a bowl to chill in the fridge for a day. The real magic happened when I drained the juice into one bag and the pulp into another, both ready for the freezer. Later, they’ll turn into delicious jelly and jam, a perfect way to preserve the taste of spring for months to come. Even with a broken wrist, I found a way to make it happen—and I’m so glad I did!

Sunday, March 16    The Ice Cream Tour with the car club, held right after church, was an absolute blast! We had an amazing turnout, and our newest member, Rob, took the lead, guiding us all the way to Whitt Ice Cream in Daphne. 35 people showed up for some free ice cream, and the vibe was perfect. I treated myself to Almond Joy ice cream in a chocolate-dipped waffle cone—pure bliss! There’s just something about hanging out with fellow car enthusiasts that makes everything more fun. The old-school car hobby crowd knows how to enjoy the little things, and today was a sweet reminder of why I love being a part of this community.