THE FLOYD MELTON FAMILY

This Year I Vow To.....

2012-01-05T14:44:00.008-06:00

Happy New Year 2012 to Me!! That's right!! I'm hoping that 2012 will be the year of Lisa. I will say that I have some big dreams and expectations but I really do want to make them happen.

I am a firm believer in setting goals but I do have sort of a blurred vision for an exact plan to get there. I will turn 40 this year and for me I'm hoping it's a big wake up call for me in many many ways. I think I've struggled with personal goals in the past. Maybe I've set the bar too high only to be let down when something or someone let me down. I want to start focusing on happiness and family. Those are both topics that can be truly wonderful and difficult all at the same time. I think the best advice I can give myself is to SLOW DOWN. Now that that is said...how do I make it happen? I work full time, have 2 extremely busy children and in general have a packed house life/calendar.

For as long as I can remember I have been burning the candle from both ends so I really don't know how NOT to do that. But I think slowly but surely it's cathing up with me and I'm not liking what I'm seeing. If you ask my husband he'd say I'm the perfect pessimist in that I'm always seeing the glass as "half empty". Well, I will admit that when I near the #40 year what comes to my mind is geesh....my life is half over....BUT then part of me is able to dig deep and realize that you know what.....so what...it's been one hell of an amazing, rewarding, blessed ride! I do recognize that believe me!

I do consider myself a hard worker but very rarely pat myself on the back to a flawed degree. I'm tired and kindof feel out of sorts a lot. I pretty much feel that this frantic pace is starting to affect my health. I'm beginning to embrace the quote from a friend and coworker of mine...."everyone needs a little 10 mg of something to get through the day." I took her advice thank you very much.

I've been very blessed with good health my entire life but several months ago I experienced some hip pain. When I really stop and think about it it's shocking that it hasn't happened sooner. I'm having a hard time trying to convince myself that maybe it's time I do some of the restorative and preventive things I read about and know would help me out.

My patience is pretty non existent for those that really know me so this is a big- time challenge. Yoga, perhaps, is something that I wonder would help but my flexibility is not good either thus bringing on further frustration in that area....who knows....we'll see. Our Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours just happens to be at Studio A this month. But, I have a conflict and can't go..oh well...

Did I tell you that I'm very high strung and a worrier at the same time?? Are you shocked? Has anyone noticed that before?? Haha. I think I've been in secret denial for years. I do think I'm a good, reliable/dependable, fun, and solid friend to most so maybe those qualities bear some positive weight in that aspect.

Did I mention I don't like change? I'm kinda experiencing some of that professionally. That's really a whole other topic for another post. We'll leave that alone right now thank you very much. I just keep praying for the right doors to open and the right signs of what to do will come my way or slap me in the face.

I think most importantly I want to be a better Mom. I don't think I'm a bad Mom I just want to be a better Mom and I think it all starts with ME!! Be there for myself before I can be there for others. Even if it's the ones you love the most.

Well, there ya have it folks. Just a bit of a self reminder of sorts that I have indeed set goals for myself in 2012. I expect to achieve them. Wish me luck.

Blessings and Cheers to all!

Merry Merry Everything....Kinda like this post...6 month catch up Beta Style

2011-12-09T10:49:00.053-06:00

It seems every season is a blur much as the way I feel like my life is simply flashing before my very eyes. I do have great intentions of posting more occurences and funny what not stories. Really writing the posts is what I much prefer but since this is a journal keepsake of such for my family I must post pics on occasion. Problem is....I don't. I'm not good at it, I don't like it, I don't really make the time to do it bottom line. But again that's no excuse. So today I attempt on this Decemeber day to give a beta style rundown of the past 6 months. I will try to add a few photos at the end to highlight some of the blurbs. We'll see. In the meantime, I hope everyone is busy shopping getting ready for St. Nick, enjoying parties, spending time with family as well as staying warm. It's cold here in Mississippi and I don't like the cold.

May 2011- Anne Craig turns 8 following our New York trip

June 2011- "The month of moving, shaking and campin" Football camping, soccer tournament playing, vacation Bible schooling, supper clubbing, more soccer playing this time State Game playing, Boy Scout camping, Camp Hopewell camping, book clubing, movie watching, Rodan and Fields'n, Washington DC'n

July 2011- "The month of escapin"- Fairhope lovin, family togetherin, beach timin, birthday celebratin, bar conventioning, Strong River Camp and Farm'n, more birthday'n, 15 year anniversary'n, girls trippin in Oxford

August 2011- "reality hittin" - bikes blues bayous bikin, The Help movie premiere'n, back to school'n, lots o Moon Lake'n and that is a good thing

September 2011- more Moon Lake'n, Pee Wee football'n, a lil Ole Miss football'n, 300 Road Racin', Rodan and Fields Conventioning in San Francisco, basic school routine'n

October 2011- Wedding party'n, Delta Rockers Rockin, soccer playin, Scout tripping, Fall Break'n, still Pee Wee'n, family football meetin, Halloween'n, soccer tournament playing

November 2011- weddings here and there, Holiday Open houses beginnin, Christmas decor appearin, election time nearin, more boy scout'n, chorister's singin, 3rd grade play'n "Go Fish", Thanksgiving break'n, road trippin, takin in some beach'n, let the chaos of the holidays begin.

December 2011- MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Time....Time....Time....Where the heck did it go and how do you find it??

2011-10-14T09:15:00.008-05:00

I sure can't find it!!! It continues to hide from me I guess. Maybe it's personal and I don't get it. Why is it that about every "quarter" I have a complete meltdown about TIME!! Why isn't there enough time? Time to relax, time to play boardgames with the kids, time to read a book (Yes, I'm still trying to finish the Twilight series and will do so by the time Breaking Dawn hits theaters next month...yikes!), time to learn how to cook or just cook period....the list goes on and on and on. It's exhausting just thinking about TIME. I know, there is a certain amount of procrastination, lack of time management skills, and self indulgence that does contribute to this particular frustration but can I get an AMEN that enough time DOES NOT EXIST? ....(AMEN) I have no clue where the late summer or early fall even went? MY OCD self is about to implode just due to the fact that my blog is months behind and I literally thought I'd lost it into the "blogosphere" when it would not let me sign in. I guess that may have been Bloggers way of saying "GET WITH THE PROGRAM SISTA"! I just can't get it all done in a days time. I'm not sure where the answer lies. I can't blame it on work. You can be self assured that if I were home all day I'd find something else to do somehow-somewhere. I'll try to be better! I think the best plan for me is to just post pictures and be done with it. After all, the whole point of my blog is for it to be some sort of a scrapbook for my children with a few words here and there from me. Problem is....I do like to write even if I'm not that great at it. So it makes me think that maybe that's part of my problem....maybe I'm taking this writing stuff too seriously. That's it!! Thanks for letting me rant. Have a nice weekend. Pictures to follow soon...let's hope...

New York, New York 2011

2011-08-24T13:38:00.046-05:00

Let's Take on the Big Apple Shall We!!! WE want to Be a part of IT and we certainly did...NEW YORK, NEW YORK 2011!!
For Anne Craig's birthday, Moms (aka: grandmother- Elizabeth Melton) took me, Anne Craig and Blewett to New York for a little girly getway! We stayed with our cousin, Barbara Butler, who lives in the Hamptons most of the time but also has an apartment in the city. Can you say SWEEEEET! She was such a gracious host who also came into the city to show us the ropes and be our tour guide of sorts. It was wonderful to have her with us to show us how to HAIL down the cabs and zip around on the subways....New York style.
New York City- Here we come!
on the plane ready, set....

and we're off in a NYC cab

In Grand Central Station with Moms, Blewett and Barbara

Times Square

in the biggest Toys R Us store riding the indoor ferris wheel

Lady Liberty at Radio City Music Hall - Fabulousness!!

On top of Rockefellar Center with Empire State Bldg in background

Central Park

at the Stardust Cafe where we met up with our NY/Connecticut cousins, Sarah and Patricia Wilson, who drove in for the day

Sooo much fun!

We HAD to go to The Plaza to soak it all in!!

on the subway ready for Day 2

Museum of Natural History

Love Love Love New York City!!

on the Carousel in Central Park

we became very comfortable riding the subway

It was so great to also be able to catch up for a quick visit with childhood friend, Jay Nix, who at the time was living in NYC for a work project.

dinner and dessert at Serendipity to top off Day 2 in NYC

Natalie, Matt and Anne- the Today Show cast- Day 3 in NCY

John Rich, of Big and Rich, had just won celebrity apprentice the night before we visited the Today Show

on NBC studio tour with our cute tour guides

AHHHHH...American Girl Store at last!!!

gotta get their hair done for sure

hundreds of dollars later....geesh

Could have stayed all day in the coolest Apple Store ever!

New Amsterdam Theater getting ready to see Mary Poppins

It was AMAZING!! and yes...she flew right over us!

on subway home again

on ferry headed out to Ellis Isle

great view of Manhattan and Business District

There she is!!!

on the tour...

Washington Square-where Moms and Grandaddy lived while Grandaddy was at NYU tax school.

What a great trip!

Spring and Summer Shananigans 2011 Part 1

2011-08-22T21:53:00.004-05:00

Nothing says you are behind "blogstyle" like finally blogging about summer (and well...maybe late Spring too) during the first fullblown week of school in mid August. Lordy, my kids started 5th and 3rd grade this year. How is that even possible?? Didn't I just birth to them?? Wasn't I just on maternity leave?? Seriously, back to topic please...fooooocus.....(I've developed a mild to moderate to severe case of ADD in my late 30ll's in case you are wondering)

At the end of school came the Dance Recital. This year was pretty special because Anne Craig's class actually performed a mother/daughter number. Yessss, I was in the dance recital. It was a lot of fun and something neat for the ole memories since I have memories of doing the same thing with Annie when we both took dancing from Minne Simpson back in Belzoni. Dancing Queen

with Mary Helen Brown

Me and Anne Craig

Here we are with Annie and Rick

Onward May....
What's next??? "Start Spreading The News.....We left mid May....We were a big big part of it.....NEW YORK blog post coming you way....!! Stay tuned!!

The Portrait Story

2011-08-22T14:41:00.007-05:00

Well, it all happened rather quickly. You see, our distant cousin, Equen Rhodes, is a very distinguished artist. He and Big Floyd are like 3rd cousins perhaps so that makes him like our 4th or 5th. Kinda stretching it I guess but still none the less we claim relations. Anyway, he has painted 2 portraits for my friend, Romney Brock, and around here he is just considered one of the best if not THE. One day I was discussing with Romney the idea of maybe wanting to have a portrat done of me with my children. I knew the exact spot in my house where I invisioned it hanging. I also knew at age 38 that this was the best it was gonna get so I best get on it!! Not to mention the kids were not babies anymore (we had plenty of pictures of that era)and the "gawky" years were just arond the corner. The time to strike was now!! Romney encouraged me to go ahead and call Equen because she knew he had some time and was probably ready to take on another project. So I did just that. Equen lives in Starkville so we began commuting over a few Sundays a month starting in September of last year for the few sittings and skin tone match ups. The entire experience was pretty pleasant considering I was picturing my children being very impatient as they sat motionless while someone painted them.

Long story short...AMAZING is how I felf about the entire process and soooo glad that I have such a TREASURE to enjoy for years and years to come. (I guess my children can fight over who will inherit it one day since they are both in it..ha. I didn't think of that predicament. Oh well!)Equen delivered it Christmas Eve of last year where the portrait still sits propped today in my dining room on the sideboard. I love it!! Now if I can only decide on the frame...hmmmmm. I am currently in that decision process now. Wish me luck!

Anne Craig's 2nd Grade Play- "Teach the World to Sing"

2011-08-22T14:40:00.014-05:00

"Break A Leg" Class of 2021!!

Papa was able to make it to the show as well. Anne Craig was a little French girl if you were wondering about the beret on her head...ha

It was nice that Blewett was home so she could come view the major entertainment!!

Clayton came to watch too

with Annie and Rick

Madison, Elizabeth and Anne Craig

With Connie Black, the Pillow Academy Elementary music teacher. Thank you for teaching our children to sing and love music!

Easter "Coolness"

2011-08-22T14:37:00.001-05:00

Look who came to visit us this Spring?? Chimneystyle!

2011-08-22T14:29:00.012-05:00

Nope, not Santa! YEP, this little feathered fellow came on down the chimney and made his way around the den. Thank goodness nothing was seriously destroyed. Have you ever??

What If?

2011-06-24T15:10:00.005-05:00

It's been 6 mos since I announced that I started a NEW business!! At the time, I was thinking....am I crazy? Do I have the time? Do I really need the money??? Many of my blog-followers have asked me over the last few months how it is going?? And now, I'm so excited to share what has happened since I started in January!!
What if we had been an initial investor with Proactiv Solution when it came out in the 1980s???? and WHAT IF I was able to profit off of just a LITTLE of their exploding skincare line??? But...back then, it wasn't even an option b/c Proactiv was "launched" only thru infomercials. That's how the company made money - thru infomercials. We've all watched it over the years and NOW celebrities like Alicia Keys, Justin Bieber, and Katy Perry are users and spokespeople for Proactiv!!!!
Rodan & Fields came out with a NEW line of skincare - for Anti-Aging and Sundamage - and it was in high-end department stores from 2001-2007...and it was the #1 selling product line in Nordstroms. In 2008, the doctors said, what if we brought dermatology to the masses???? There isn't a Nordstroms in or Greenwood, Mississippi or Fairhope, AL!! So....that's when they decided to enter Direct Sales and use consultants around the country to promote these amazing products!! The best part?? They didn't have to do ANY advertising!! Beauty Editors found them!! Allure Magazine, Lucky Magazine, the Today Show.....all FREE kudos to R&F new products!! Unsolicited advertisement!!! Isn't that the best kind??? Since R&F was launched into Direct Sales in 2008, the company has grown 800%!!!!! Think they made the right move??? So, I'm not waiting to ask myself WHAT IF I had become an initial investor in R&F this time!! I invested. I produced. I profit!!!!!
So, since January, I am LOVING this "job". I still work full time for now in the schools and still prn for local home health agencies but can still work this job in and be very successful at it I might add. I am currently a Level V consultant and have 8 Executive Consultants activley under me at this time!! And my paychecks have increased each month since I started!! AND My team is continuing to grow.

I am so proud of everyone and even my personal customers are so supportive and wonderful. I love watching my team's paychecks grow too - and help people quit their jobs that they've hated for years and stay home with their kids - or help out with household bills - or pay for a much-needed trip away with the husband!! My "job" has been everything I wanted it to be when I signed on. I don't work HARD. I work SMART. And my "work" involves having coffee/lunch/dinner with friends and catching up with old buddies. Can you even consider that work?

So.....I don't have to ask myself "What If" anymore. I'm asking "When"? And btw - our company is about to go GLOBAL/INTERNATIONAL!!! Can you imagine where my team can grow then??????? So if you are reading this and want to ask me more questions about it....I'm an open book!! Contact me!! :)

Piano recital 2011

2011-06-24T14:44:00.009-05:00

Floyd and Anne Craig take piano from Janice Shanks who is an absolutely wonderful piano teacher. They are able to take at school which is an added plus. Janice usually gets her students to basically "dress the part" of their particular pieces. Floyd's was "El Torrito" and Anne Craig's was "I've Got Music"....hense the specific costumes. We were very proud of each of them.

With Cole and Graydon

Posing

We love Mrs. Shanks

So proud

Let's get ready to TUUUUMBLE!!

2011-06-24T14:33:00.005-05:00

On our way to gym recital! Anne Craig did a great job and it's always fun to watch her do her many activites. We are very proud of you.

Deer Valley 2011

2011-06-24T12:54:00.017-05:00

We are so blessed that Dad and Jane take our family skiing each Spring! It is such a fabulous trip each year and what a wonderful way to really spend time together with siblings and cousins that you don't see but every so often. It's a great time for the Floyd Melton Family and The McLean Trotter Family to reconnect and catch up doing a sport that we have all grown up loving! Thanks again Papa and Jane for a fabulous trip! Can't wait for February 2012!! Cheers!
Let's gear up!

Mary McLean, Anne Craig and Patten

Group shot with Bubbsie!!

The big kiddos!!

Floyd looking "FLY" in his ski outfit!! (Thank you Brewer)

Flat Stanley came along too

Anne Craig ready for the slopes!

Me and Dad

Lisa D. and McLean ran into old friends, The McCraney's, out there!

Me and Floyd

Papa and the older grands!

Getting warm!

Yummy Lunch!!

Mama Toes/Daughter Toes OR aka: Old Feet/Young Feet

2011-06-24T12:31:00.004-05:00

Happy #8 Birthday Sweet Anne Craig

2011-06-23T21:41:00.005-05:00

Seriously....I can't believe my baby is EIGHT YEARS OLD! Where on this good Earth does the time go?? I must say we never waste a minute and Anne Craig always likes to go and do and have a great time. She's sooo fun and such a sweet heart. In typical birthday fashion here's what's up in her world these days!!

I AM....going to be in 3rd grade
I WAS....in New York
I HAVE.... a Barbie camper
I PLAY....soccer, tennis and basketball
I WORRY....about my family
I KNOW....how to play the piano
I WATCH....Floyd play baseball
I WANT....an Ipad
I CRAVE....chicken
I USUALLY.... do gymnastics
I REMEMBER....to be a good sport
I DISLIKE....stormy weather
I GO....to Pillow Academy
I WENT....to the beach
I CAN.... roller skate
I DON'T....get mad easily
I FEEL....cheerful
I DANCE....at Martha Geeslin's
I READ....a lot of books for book club
I WRITE....thank you notes
I BELIEVE....Santa Clause
I AM SCARED.... of robbers
I LISTEN....to my teachers and Luke Brian's "Country Girl"
I WISH....I could live at the beach
I LOVE....my family
I AM HAPPY....that we can travel
I AM THANKFUL....for God and the Earth

I took some of Anne Craig's girlfriends to Papa's house to swim in Belzoni on the afternoon on her actual birthday, May 26. We ate chicken tenders of course (Anne Craig's favorite). Everyone had a ball. Thanks to my sweet friend, Lizzie Powers, for going with me and driving some of the girls. It was a very successful birthday indeed.

I know I know.....there is really no excuse like little or no time!

2011-06-20T15:31:00.003-05:00

Seriously.....for those of you that really know me KNOW that I'm NOT a SLACKER. Nope indeed but trying to find the time to blog in the past 3 months has been tough. I do love my blog and as OCD as I am this "little or not time to blog" has been a major obstacle to overcome. I hope to take these next 6 weeks before I return to my main job and do a whirlwind catch up blog posts of sorts. Please bear with me...it probably won't be pretty but it's gonna get done dammit! Here's the breakdown of my outline in order. I list this to mainly put pressure on myself to be dang sure it get's done. Here goes: Floyd birthday (yes, it was February I know) follow up party pics, oil portrait, Mama and the Delta Rockers, 2nd grade play, Spring Break, Easter, Dance Recital, New York City trip, Anne Craig's 8th bday party, and Floyd's trip to DC/Gettysburg.
So as you can see it's not as though we've just been sitting around! And those are just the highlights. I could triple that with blog worthy events put into words but will spare my readers....this time! I hope everyone is having a splendid summer. I wish it would rain because I'm tired of watering my yard. P.S. I'm starting a savings account strictly for a future sprinkler system. LAWDY!

What have I been doing you ask??? RODAN+FIELDS Dermatology I tell you!

2011-03-13T23:43:00.028-05:00

Don't I have 2 paying jobs already and countless non paying ones to go along with it?? The answers are yes, yes and yes again....so why yet another one you ask....well let me just tell you. No, I have not stumbled into a pit of insanity and no I am no hoarding secretive free time. Actually, I saw an opportunity that I just KNEW I could do and be successful at as! Well, get back to me in a few months and I'll let you know how it all turns out! :) but seriously so far has been super good. Back in December, McLean and Lisa D came to Greenwood for Christmas and she told me what she was about to do. I was like, "What?? You are taking on a job? Why on Earth...you have 3 kids, McLean makes plenty of money and I just didn't get it." Well, I am beginning to get it now. I have partnered with Lisa D and the Drs. Rodan &Fields, the amazing dermatologists that created Proactiv years ago!! They currently have a new line of skincare products that is just TAKING OFF around the country - and this time it's in ANTI-AGING....an even bigger market than acne!! Anyway, I joined the business as an independent consultant in January for 3 reasons....1. Because the doctors are credible, fabulous, reputable, and amazing! I truly believe that everything they put out there on the market is a clinically tested product that does what it says it's gonna do - they are that outstanding! 2. The products...."they sell themselves" True Dat. They are all amazing products for every type of skin issue out there. Everyone with SKIN should be considering Rodan + Fields!! 3. The risk and investment was minimal, while the potential is phenomenal...no cap!! So why not!! I am giving it a go.

Why am I blogging about this??? Because I want to tell everyone I know that may be looking for a job opportunity. Or may be needing some extra "shoe" money at the end of each month. Or wants to have something to call their OWN to succeed in. Or wants to work but desperately wants to stay home with their kids and be a part of everyday life. Or who used to be amazing at their job, before marriage and kids lost their identity (in a good way!). Or whose husband's job is barely getting them by each month. Or might have their own 9-5 job threatened in this economy. Or is considering going back to work after kids are in school, but not sure if they would be hired. Or basically ANY scenario.....I want to share this b/c it can work. It does work. As a consultant, we sell the product (which sells itself) and we build our own team. We get to PICK who we work with. They join with us and build THEIR own team. Your team consists of your friends and family who want to ride this to the top with you. The products and the doctors are HOT right now and this roller coaster is on it's way up! It's the perfect time to join on for the ride!

I really feel blessed to be a part of the Rodan + Fields team. I love the products. I love building my team of friends. And I love doing it all while I'm working full time at the moment and have an amazing, supportive and precious husband and family. This seems to be just for me. And it might be for you!

Our products were also recently featured on the Today Show as the "Must Have Anti-Aging Products of 2011"....WOW!! Totally unsolicited kudos!! :)
Must-have anti-aging products for 2011

Linda Wells of Allure magazine reveals which at-home anti-aging products will actually help turn you back the clock without burning a hole in your wallet.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/40925767#40925767

If you guys are interested in the products or the business, please contact me!! :) You can leave a comment on this post or visit my website(s) at
www.lisatmelton.myrandf.com (for the product information)
and www.lisatmelton.myrandf.biz (for the business information)

So far I have seen amazing results in my own skin and as I type this email I currently have 6 consultants under me who are getting started building their own teams. It's been quite a whirlwind I must say in just 2 short months. I've hosted my Big Business Launch where Elite Level V, Ali Box, came and did the business presentation as well as my sister in law, Lisa D, who got me started under her in this venture. It was a huge success and we are really taking off here in the Delta and beyond. You can keep up with me on Facebook to see where we may be heading next. Stay tuned!! I'm very excited to see what 2011 has in store for me.

Here are a few pictures from my Business Launch!

Happy 10th Birthday Sweet Baby Boy of Mine! Double Digits here we come!!! Floyd is 10!

2011-02-27T20:43:00.008-06:00

Today is Floyd's 10th birthday. Honestly, it seems like yesterday we brought him home from the hospital. I'm sure we'll blink and he'll be 15 and blink again he'll be 21! Why does time do that to us??? Floyd brings our family such joy. He's everything we could have ever asked for in a son. He's outgoing, tender hearted, and truly cares about people. Floyd is a good student, strong athlete, a good big brother and friend to many. He truly is a gift from God and for that we are so blessed. Sure, he's not perfect by any means but we are mighty blessed with health and good fortune in our children.

Here are his responses to the yearly questions I ask.

I AM....Floyd IV
I WAS....picked for Duke TIP club
I HAVE....an Eli Manning fathead on my wall
I PLAY....soccer, tennis,baseball and football
I WORRY....about my grades
I KNOW....a lot about sports
I WATCH....Sports Center
I WANT....to go to Hawaii
I CRAVE....Mexican food
I USUALLY....play sports video games
I REMEMBER....when I flew in a helicopter at Tallahatchie Flats
I DISLIKE....Chinese food
I GO....snow skiing every Spring Break
I WENT....to Ft. Knox, Kentucky last summer
I CAN.... kick corner kicks pretty well
I DON'T....want to go sky divin
I FEEL....old
I DANCE....to Just Dance 2
I READ....biography's
I WRITE....creatively
I BELIEVE....in the toothfairy, Santa, Jesus and all of the above
I AM SCARED.... of a megalodon shark
I LISTEN....to Kenny Chesney
I WISH....to go back to Disney World
I LOVE....going snow skiing
I AM HAPPY....that I am 10
I AM THANKFUL....for a nice house and family

This year Floyd and his other February birthday buddies decided they would have a camp out birthday out at the farm house. The birthday boys consisted of Floyd, Nored Hardin and John Hollis Tackett. We took about 15 boys. They had a great time celebrating together and here are a few of the pictures. They were able to ride the rhino, make a bon fire, roast marshmellows, play pool, have a dance off, eat LOTS of pizza and eventually get some shut eye. Thank goodness for that!!

Ski Mississippi??? Well, not exactly....

2011-02-22T19:52:00.030-06:00

Early 2011 has been a mega snow season here in the Mississippi Delta. This winter we had 2 pretty big snowfalls which only happens every 10 years I'd say. One was in January and then again in February. We allll had a great time. Needless to say as I blog on this post I am soooo done with Winter. Please bring on the bulbs and magic of Spring.

Anne Craig ready for the snow

Snow ball war

Neighborhood fun!

It's COLD!!

Nightime snowfall

It was coming down big time!!

A good inch I'd say

Let the fun begin

Snow Angel

Now we're talking

The builders

admirers

We hit the levee for some sledding at the Cookstons

on your mark....

Boxes work too

Floyd and Anne Craig on the levee

Wooooo Hooooo

Taking it to the real hills

Duck and Deer Hunting Season in just a few snaps

2011-02-22T19:35:00.010-06:00

Sweet Bertie girl (age 12) fetching em up!

Floyd got a nice 8 point this year

Killing deer and time.

Duck hunting with Steele and the Brown boys from Tupelo

Success!!

White Girls Can Jump!

2011-02-21T21:17:00.014-06:00

Anne Craig with Moms and Annie after her last basketball game of the season. Anne Craig received the "Rookie" award this year on her team because this was her first year to play and was really quite good. She's got some great height for her age and is a good rebounder and a natural defensive weapon. She also scored several times each game. Looks like basketball may be our sport after all. I love it!!!
DEFENSE!

Shoot it!

Yes!!!

Good Times

Hands Up Girls

Papa came by to catch a game

Coach Suresh, Gauri and Dia Chawla

with Anna Joyce and Madison Jefcoat

Group shot after one of Floyd's game

Basketball season was a lot of fun this year. It's definately one of my favorite sports!! On to soccer and tennis! Spring must be on it's way! Woo Hoo

Merry Merry Everything! Christmas 2010

2011-01-03T20:20:00.056-06:00

Anne Craig in a vintage 1950's dress that was worn by my Mom and my Aunt Craig. Gamba would be so pleased. Her preservation of their old dresses was worth it soooo much. Thank you Gamba!!!

Floyd and Anne Craig

Christmas Eve!!!

Patsy, Blewett and Floyd

Elizabeth Barnwell and Anne Butler

Boyce and Gooddaddy

Me and Gooddaddy, my sweetheart!

Kiddos!! Mary Helen, Anne Craig, Steele, Garrett and Floyd

Girls with Charlie!

Kevin!

Annie and Charlie

Anne Barnwell and Elizabeth

Elizabeth, Anne and Patsy

me, Boyce and Elizabeth

Boyce and Patsy

Boyce, Patsy, Barn and myself

Annie and Moms

Blewett, Anne Barnwell and some good ole chicken chili

Elizabeth Barnwell and Anne

The kiddie table

getting blankets laid out for the reindeer to dry off with

Charlie, Anne Craig and Mary Helen with Gooddaddy

Boyce reading "Cajun Night Before Christmas"

Ready for Santa

Merry Christmas 2010

Christmas Gleefulness!

Awesome! He came!!!

Here's the proof.

More loot

Sweeeeet!

And it WAS in fact a white Christmas!!

Xmas lunch at Moms and Grandaddy's

The full advent lighting for Christmas Dinner

Craig and Anne Craig

Anne Craig and Annie

Me, Anne Craig and Annie

Let the gift opening begin!!

Awesome!!!

Princess

Here are a few pics from the Ran Company Gathering.
Bonner, Ms Debbie and Don

Coleman, Floyd and McNeil

The girls- Mary Frances, Natalie, Weathersby and Rosie

and there's me and AC

BC and Kim

Baby Guy and Liza

And finally....after lots of family time Anne Craig was able to have a friend over to catch up with!
Julia Love and Anne Craig

Salter's First Birthday

2011-01-03T20:19:00.031-06:00

Wyatt Saia, Ainsley, Anne Craig, Salter, Floyd, Walker Saia, and Miller Calhoun

Big Boy

Warehouse Gymnastic Presents.....THE NUTCRACKER- directed by Aubrey Whittington

2011-01-03T20:19:00.026-06:00

It was pretty neat this holiday season that Anne Craig was part of the production of The Nutcracker. I guess I let the sentimental flashbacks get the best of me from time to time because I was in fact in Aubrey's first production of The Nutracker some 26 years ago in 1984 as a soldier and in 1985 King Mouse. Yes, Aubrey Bell Whittington is a legend around here in our family. Rock Star status to me. She makes all the sets, costumes, and choreographs each move of each performer. Also, keep in mind she is 72 years old. Yep, that's right. Pretty remarkable indeed!! Anne Craig played a little girl, a Spanish Dancer and a Spanish Doll. She really had a great time and did a wonderful job. We were most proud!
Mia Cole and Anne Craig

The girl dolls

Anne Craig with the boys dolls

The Spanish Dolls

Anne Craig and Madison Barlow

Anne Craig, Madison and Cail

They had such fun

Posing with King Mouse.

We had lots of fans come cheer Anne Craig on!
Ainsley and Shannon

Jane, Floyd and Papa

Moms and Daddy Floyd

Anne Craig and Ainsley

Mama and Daddy

Aubrey in action

Love her! She's an icon. Amazing lady.

The McLean Trotter Family Weekend Christmas visit 2010

2011-01-03T20:18:00.023-06:00

Floyd, McLean and Dad

Beverly and Ike

Grandmother Sally and Grandaddy Bill

Melinda and Maggie Lea

Melinda and Maggie Lea with Bryant

Grandmother Sally, Grandaddy Bill, Dad and Jane

May May loved her skates

Anne Craig and May May on skates- "Roller Derby Queens"

Patten and Floyd duck hunting

...which is really hard work!

Floyd and Patten

Milner Clan annual group shot

Gooddaddy, McLean and Stephen

Lisa D. and Craig

Annie and Lisa D.

Me and McLean

Mama and McLean

Me, McLean with Gooddaddy

McLean killed a nice deer on this trip to the Delta

really nice!!

Guess Where We Were Heading?

2011-01-03T19:57:00.006-06:00

Vemers, one Tyler, Chawlas and Meltons

Gauri, Millie and me

You guessed it? A Tacky Christmas Party. You would not believe the outfits we were amongst once we got to the actual party. I forgot to take my camera in order to showcase some of the most memorable but please let you imagination run wild for a second. Uncle Eddie was represented in full force along with several horrendous pajama examples. The creativity of people never ceases to amaze me. How about our dear Indian friends, The Chawla's. Only Suresh could pull that turban off in high holiday fashion. Not to mention that this motley crew decided to stop by our very own Greenwood Country Club Holiday Open House prior to attending the Tacky Party where we got several scowl looks from some of the elders upon entry. The general manager wasn't sure just exactly how to handle our situation at first. They were able to laugh it off once the explanations began to flow. Needless to say we had a great time. OH! Word on the street...hot off the press...the next crazy party idea....drum roll please!!!! 1980s Windsuit party!!! Or was that the 1990s...hmmmm
Until then...enjoy the tacky-ness!

75th Annual Roy D. Martin Christmas Parade

2011-01-03T19:56:00.020-06:00

Parade Food Table

our new Christmas additions....The Nutcracker Twins

Kathy Day, Cary and Gooddaddy

Will and Linda were awesome entertainment!

Yardball!!

Beverly, Millie and Gerard

Elizabeth, Dia, Madison, Lillian and Anne Craig- Friends!!

The Saia's

Councilwoman Cookston with Cavitt and other members on the City Council Float

Deshaun, Sunjay, William and Bonner

Linda, Boyce, me and Claire

The young Greenwood professional "Back to the Future" float that won first place

Dancing with Gooddaddy

Such such fun

Exhausted but still smiling

Let Us Give Thanks For Many Things This Thanksgiving

2011-01-03T19:46:00.022-06:00

(I'm playing catch up so bear with me please as I go from the past to the present)

Thanksgiving week was Heavan! For one, I got the whole week off of work in conjunction with the kids being out of school. It was fun to get ready for the upcoming Holiday season in a restful manner if that was at all possible. We hosted Thanksgiving lunch here at our house and everyone that joined us had a wonderful time.
Cole and Floyd warming up the croquet course.

Anne Craig and her yummy Thanksgiving lunch of deli turkey and rolls. She wanted nothing to do with the smoked yummy turkey that the rest of us were having. She made the Thanksgiving meal placecards for everyone out of seashells into turkey goblers.

Salter and Ainsley at the kiddie table

The grown up table

The other side....

All done! It was yummy

View of the table decor

More decor

The deer hunters had some big time luck this hunting season thus far and it was just getting started. Grandaddy had some major luck and monster slays. That's a BIG buck Big Floyd!

The day after Thanksgiving all of the Melton/Butler family girls and cousins attended a "Lunch and Learn" at the Viking Cooking School. You basically go and attend a class type setting and watch as their wonderful chef's prepare your meal and serve your courses. They talk you through what they are doing and then give you the recipes when you leave. The cook that I am NOT really did in fact enjoy this. This was a first for us but may in fact have to be an annual tradition. It was a good opportunity to get together before everyone split off as rivals for the Ole Miss/State Game. Yes, I had my red on!
The girls at a cooking demo at the Viking Cooking School. Blewett, Shannon and Beth Purifoy, our leader

Elizabeth, Merlyn, Lyn and Blewett

Learning lots! Audrey, Leigh, Donna and Anne

Allison, me and Audrey

Group Shot

Merry Christmas 2010 from the Melton Family

2010-12-24T17:05:00.010-06:00

Well considering my prior post was well over a month ago and it had to do with an event that happened even a month prior to that I guess it's safe to say that I am BEHIND in the blog world but that is ok. I'm coming to terms with my OCDness of days gone by. That is no longer reality in my world and I'm slowly coming to terms. I have about 10 posts to blog on from the rest of the Fall/Holiday Season and I have set an extreme goal next week to try to accomplish just that while I am off. We shall see.... I have though in fact blogged their titles so that at least they would be in accordance of 2010 not 2011. Top that with the fact that my camera died 4 days prior to Christmas. Nice. I was able to replace it quickly thank goodness with 1 of the 2 that were under the Christmas tree for my children. Just call me a re/de gifter I guess. I realize this sounds like something from a Seinfeld episode and that's ok too. Well, considering Anne Craig was the only one of my two children officially asking for a camera for Christmas I feel sure my son, Floyd, will totally understand the dire need of this situation. All in all I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and remember the reason for the season amidst the chaos and scramble. Here are a few shots from our crazy gleefullness holiday spirit. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!!

Ole Miss Homecoming; New Orleans trip-Ole Miss/LSU game 2010

2010-12-17T22:42:00.027-06:00

Ok so Little Floyd travels a lot. Thanks to his Papa right. He's a very lucky little man. His Papa takes him on a lot of Ole Miss football trips. The 2 of them have some serious Ole Miss spirit running through their veins. One trip this fall included a trip to Oxford for the Ole Miss Homecoming game. This wasn't just any regular Ole Miss Homecoming....see the story goes like this... Floyd has become pretty good friends with Tim Walsh, the current Ole Miss Alumni Director. Floyd has been from Dallas to New Orleans on some trips organized by Tim himself. Floyd just recently realized that Tim was indeed a pretty important person to the Ole Miss family and not just the guy in charge of the buses. However, Tim thought that was a pretty insightful job description. So this year at the Tulane game down in New Orleans Tim invited Floyd to be his guest on the field prior to the Homecoming game in Oxford. Floyd had a ball and I'm sure it is a memory he's not too likely to forget anytime soon.
Papa and Floyd

pre game sideline shot in Vaught Hemingway

posing with the Varsity Cheerleaders

a little piece of Heavan

On their way out!!

With Nutt

No comment needed here! Awesome!!!

Yes, I've died and gone to Heavan

So! We go to New Orleans for the Ole Miss/LSU game. This was a couples trip and we had such a good time. We stayed at The Provential Hotel which was a quaint little hotel in the Quarter that had such a New Orleansy feel. Our room opened up to a central courtyard filled with tropical greenery complete with a fountain and neat ambiance. (Not sure what I was thinking but didn't take any pics here)

There's a blog I follow called the Visual Vamp. The Visual Vamp's real name is Valerie Hart and she works at Perch, a fabulous, eclectic store on Magazine Street. Lisa Lisa and I are big fans of her decor style. We were able to make a quick trip over to Magazine to check out Perch in person but unfortunately the Visual Vamp's husband has had some health problems so we were not able to see her in person. We had a good time none the less.

Lil Floyd was lucky enough to be invited by Cham and Jane to join them in New Orleans for the weekend trip. They had a great time and we happen to stumble upon them in the antique gun store on Royal and then they joined us for drinks at the Napoleon House bar.
The Floyds! Sweet sweet boys!

Dad and Jane

Steven and Lisa Cookston

me, Floyd and Floyd

Group shot at afternoon bar stop

Floyd and I met Dad, Jane and Floyd at a great Italian restaurant called The Italian Barrell for a wonderful meal. We hit Bourbon Street pretty hard after that Friday night and everyone had a great time. No no silly...those aren't all for us!

Our group chartered a took a bus to Baton Rouge which was a wonderful way to travel to Death Valley. We found the Tiger fans not quite as obnoxious as we were anticipating and even though the Rebels didn't pull out the victory it was a really great game.
Reese and Allison in Death Valley

Jody and Kim

There we are in the nose bleeds!!

Kevin and Patsy

Great game!!

Halloween Tricks or Treats

2010-12-17T22:38:00.019-06:00

We had several fun Halloween outings this year. The first one started with Mark Boggan's 40th surprise party. The costumes were outstanding if you can't tell!!
Gauri, Kim Rustom, Elizabeth Hardin and me aka: Greta

The Hardins aka: pot o gold and lucky charm

Mark and Kim Boggan

Hans and Greta

Merritt and Hank Reicle- "Bubbette and Bubba"

Floyd dressed up as a captain of the oil driller vessel who defects to Save the Gulf and Anne Craig was a Disco Diva

Elizabeth Powers and Anne Craig

Floyd and Anne Craig's Jack O Lantern made with Rick and Annie

Anne Craig, Ainsley (Minnie), Floyd and Salter

Indywood Trick or Treating with Mac and Grace

Visiting with Gooddaddy at Indywood

With Moms visiting Indywood

Floyd, Garrett Brown, Christian Belk, Mary Helen Brown and Anne Craig

Fall/Oxford Visit with The McLean Trotter Family

2010-12-17T22:37:00.019-06:00

Lisa and McLean came to Mississippi in late October for a little family fun thrown in with some Ole Miss Football in Oxford. We had a great time catching up and the kids had a ball as usual. Here are a few pictures that capture the weekend.
Anne Craig and Mary McLean

Addie, Papa and Stephen

Papa, Stephen and Jane

Floyd, Patten and Stephen

Me and Lisa D.

The Cousins!!

Cousins and Mamas!

May May, Rebelette from Fairhope and Anne Craig

on the stage in the grove

A visit with Margie and Alan!

There's Mary Frances and Natalie!!! More Cousins!! Fun!!!

Let's show off our Halloween attire!!! Yes, Twinkie Hippies! and that was NOT planned believe it or not!!

There's Bubsie!

and Addie!

Floral Design 101 by Anne Craig and May May

Chi Omega State Day- Greenwood, MS

2010-12-17T22:33:00.012-06:00

Greenwood was the location for the Chi Omega Statewide Convention this past October 2010. I hosted the early arrivals cocktail party at our house. We all worked very hard to make this event really special for those Chi Omega's old and young that came from near and far to enjoy and want to come back to the Delta. I think we succeeded even with torrential rain a few hours prior to party time. We had a wonderful crowd and everyone had a great time.

Stacy Falls and Ashley Farmer

Me and Lulu

Registration Desk

Bar/set ups

The Organizers- me, Stacy, Ashley and Shawna

desserts!

Lost and Found!!! Great Grandmother Craig's portrait

2010-11-18T15:31:00.010-06:00

On the evening of October 9, 2010 something pretty incredible happened. Let me set the stage here. October 9 was a Saturday night. One in which the Floyd’s had gone to Hattiesburg to watch cousin Matt play football at USM and I was home alone. I was looking forward to an early night to bed and maybe a night of relaxation or a movie with my daughter. Anne Craig decided to spend the night out at the last minute leaving me in the dust. Just then the text messages come flashing through reminding me of the Cottonlandia auction that starts at 5. Don’t get me wrong, I love to support Cottonlandia when I can but I just didn’t feel like getting all dressed up to go socialize at a function. Well, sure enough peer pressure applied by Boyce Robbins, Lisa Cookston and Kim Simcox took the reigns and ultimately prevailed.
We get to Cottonlandia and there is a great crowd on hand for a rainy fall night. We get a glass of wine and start mingling about checking out the items . There was quite a selection of items ranging from gift certificates from local merchants and restaurants to pottery to fine arts. As I stood in the foyer, having yet to get very far, someone came up to me saying that some of Mary Norman’s (my Great Aunt) pieces were in the auction. This came to no surprise as I knew Mary Norman was a proud supporter of Cottonlandia for many years and I was sure her family was more than willing to donate some of her things for such a great cause.
As I rounded the corner of the next room several ladies I knew were all standing in front of one of her pieces. It was a portrait of a beautiful young lady with sparkling blue eyes, gorgeous skin and hair. She was wearing a ivory lace dress.

You could tell the portrait was "unfinished" but Boyce was insistent that this made the portrait very unique. Unfinished yet beautiful in it's own way. The ladies asked, "Do you think it is a self portrait of Mary Norman?" I thought to myself I seriously doubted that could be the case but it did favor her slightly. Several bids had been made on this piece so I decided what the heck...I'll place a bid and see where it takes us.
We continue to mingle and check out tons of great items. There was another Mary Norman Brown piece that several women were vying over. It was a painting of the old Crystal Ice House that used to be on the way out of town heading south on Main. It was pretty and the colors were good but something about that female portrait kept drawing me back. I proceeded to go back and check on my bid to see if I still held the lead when another lady I knew walked up and we began to discuss. She proceeded to tell me that her husband was Mary Norman's Godson and that she thought she had a wonderful place she could put it in her house. She proceeds to outbid me and at that point I was ok with that....or was I? I mean I had no idea who the picture was of. Sure it was pretty and Mary Norman did paint it and all...but.....There began to be discussion about how there was a possibility that the portrait may in fact be of Walter Anderson's daughter. Mary Norman used to go down to South Mississippi to the art colonies down there to work and paint. So I then thought well cool, it'd be neat to just have some sort of art that Mary Norman had done hanging in my house. I was becoming more intrigued and determined as the night went on. I'm sure the wine going down edged me on some as well. By this time Boyce was telling me, "Lisa, this is a dern good piece of art. You need to get this piece!" But I felt bad to bid against someone else that I had just spoken to like I understood her need to have it. That's when Boyce made an executive decision and said, "Well, I will bid on it and if I get it it's hanging in your house!" OK OK I said...whatever...
So we then go sit a while in the live auction and help stir up the bids on all of those items which were mostly being bid on by local doctors. It was fun to run their prices up though! All for a good cause right???
Well, the silent auction closed and guess what??? Boyce won the painting or I guess you could say...I just won a new piece of art to hang on my walls that will belong to Boyce.
We proceed home and the next morning I tell Mama about my Saturday night ventures. I tell her I (or rather Boyce) bought a piece of Mary Normans that was a portrait of a female lady. I tell Mama to come see it and she proceeds. She comes over and sees the portrait and says, "Hang on I have seen that picture before...let me run home and I'll be right back". Mama returns shortly with a 3x5 sepia toned photograph of Grandmother Craig that was from my Grandmother's house.

Sure enough....the exact pose, dress, jewelry, hair, etc.... I mean uncanny! It was such fun to find out that I indeed had such a treasure. I called my friends who were with me the night before and they all came over to see in wonderous disbelief and amazement. What a neat find and mystery solved. Mary Norman's family, who donated the painting, was thrilled that I ended up with it and couldn't have been happier.
She now hangs in our hall outside Anne Craig's bedroom and we are very proud to have her. What a beautiful treasure. Thank you Mary Norman for painting such a pretty piece and I'm grateful to have ended up with it. OH! And I did reimburse Boyce for her purchase so it is officially mine.

It's Out!! Delta Magazine Holiday Edition

2010-11-18T15:10:00.006-06:00

The Holiday issue of Delta Magazine is out on newstands and it features our home!! No no...heavan's no...I didn't decorate for Christmas back in September or October just in time for the Nov/Dec issue to come out silly. The photographs were actually taken last year after Christmas but before everything was put away. Melissa and her staff do such an outstanding job with each and every issue and we feel truly honored to have been asked to be a part of this one. Since we are very good friends and go wayyyy back to early family ski trips perhaps in the late 1970's range....I can say that Melissa does in fact have my dream job and I'm so glad that she does b/c I know I could not do it nearly as well as she does!! No way. Anyway...it was fun to be a part of such an amazing experience and for those who haven't seen the new issue check it out! It's a good one! Happy Holidays....Almost! (I'm not there mentally or physically yet and THAT'S OK!)
I've attached some pictures of the pages in Delta magazine that our house was featured in just in case my children lose any extra copies floating around that I am currently saving for them.

Family Football Fun With The Milners

2010-11-11T21:31:00.023-06:00

Our cousins from Cary, North Carolina came to visit in early October. Gooddaddy's brother's son, Andy Milner and his wife Anne, and their daughter McKenzie came to Mississippi to watch their oldest son, Matt, who plays football for East Carolina University play at Southern Miss. How convenient for a quick weekend family visit right? Right. No seriously, we haven't seen them in about 9 or 10 years...Wayyyy to long we all agreed. The time just wasn't long enough but we had a great time catching up. Andy's Dad, Emil (Gooddaddy's younger brother), passed away earlier this year. He was such fun. I loved seeing him with is big jolly smile and dimples. I also love hearing old stories about when he'd come surprise my grandparents and their kids when he was in the Navy and would be on leave from say Pensacola base and drive up to Greenwood unannounced and sleep on their front porch so that when Mama, Craig and Uncle Johnny would wake up the following morning it would be like Santa had come with Emil asleep on the porch chaise lounge. This was all pre marriage for Uncle Em of course but he was a great man and again, I wish we had spent more time together. I think that's a great lesson learned to NOT REPEAT. Here are some great pix from the weekend.
Group shot at our house before dinner at Lusco's

Andy and Gooddaddy at Lusco's

Mackenzie and Anne Craig

Craig, me, Anne Craig and Ann

group shot all in purple- Go Pirates!!

Floyd and Floyd at the Southern Miss Stadium

Floyd and Andy

Here come the Pirates- with coach Ruffin McNeill

on the field

Craig and Cary, Andy and Floyd

group shot in the stands

Matt and Floyd

after the game

group shot

Floyd with ECU's offensive coordinator who happens to be the youngest offensive coordinator in the NCAA. His name is Lincoln Riley and he's 26 years old.

Dwayne Harris, a great receiver for ECU who we for sure will see in the NFL at some point, pictured here with Floyd and Matt

Remember a Veteran Today

2010-11-10T21:35:00.011-06:00

I feel confident most of you agree with me here. I sure am proud to be an American and to stop, reflect and realize what our forfathers and even a few current family members sacrificed in order for us to have the lives that we do. I would encourage you to take a moment today and remember all of our veterans. Each and every one has sacrificed more than we will ever know. We are blessed to live in a country that is rooted in freedom and bravery.

I have been saving this post on Floyd IV's trip this past June with Moms and Grandaddy to Ft. Knox, Kentucky, where Big Floyd had his Vietnam Batallion 26th Infantry Reunion. It was a very special time indeed and quite a learning experience for Little Floyd. They drove from Greenwood to Nashville where they were able to get a visit in with Aunt Blewett. Here is a pic taken at the Pancake Pantry on their way! Yummy.

While at Ft. Knox, Floyd was able to tour the barracks and attend some banquets for the honorees and meet a FOUR star General. Impressive!! All in all it was a very moving experience. The tour of the General Patton Museum was pretty awesome so I hear. I'm just so glad he got to experience a wonderful trip like this and we are proud of you Grandaddy Big Floyd for all you did for our country while serving in Vietnam!
Floyd and Big Floyd with one of his "Blue Spaders" buddies.

With Rudy Egersdorfer, Big Floyd's commanding officer while in Vietnam. A wonderful man who has been to Mississippi to visit several times.

Floyd trying out a rapid fire grenade launcher that can supposedly shoot for miles.....

So take time out and thank a Veteran today. We are mighty blessed indeed!!

Labor Day Gathering in honor of Great Grandaddy

2010-11-04T18:33:00.011-05:00

All of the Butler/Melton/Dodson clan gathered at Moon Lake this Labor Day to celebrate Great Grandaddy's birthday. This has been a yearly tradition that we cousins come near and far to gather, play, eat/drink, sun, ski and visit.

Moon Lake fun!! Anne Craig and cousin Kathryn Butler enjoying some goldfish on the lake.

Sadly, Great Grandaddy wasn't able to make his final birthday gathering. He was not well during this time at all. This year was his 97th birthday celebration. He would have been 97 October 15 and he died 9 days shy of his special day. He took great pride in being around all of his children, grandchildren and great grands! I personally have never known a kinder soul in all of my life. He was always willing to lend a hand and had the most laid back disposition. I really don't think I have ever heard him say one bad thing about any human being. He was a wonderful Southern Gentleman and he will be surely missed. We are greatful for the 97 years he blessed this world with. He left it a better place that is for sure and we are honored to call him Grandaddy. This is a precious picture of some of the great grands at the graveside services in Jonestown.

300 Oaks 2010...On your mark....get set....GO!!

2010-11-03T19:09:00.021-05:00

We had a great time at the 300 Oaks Road Race which the Chamber of Commerce puts on each year here in Greenwood. It's one of the biggest sanctioned 10K's in the State and the MS Track Club plays an integral part. For the second year in a row, the starting line was across the street from us and then the last mile comes down Grand to cross the Yazoo River finish line. The weather was perfect for the middle of September. I ran the 10K along with Anna, Lulu, and Scott. Floyd, Floyd IV and Walker Pedigo ran the 5k run(which was a new addition to the race this year). Anne Craig and Elizabeth ran the one mile fun run. Here are a few pics from the weekend!
me, Anna, Boyce and Lulu

with Gooddaddy

The running crew

Mile 2...passing Rick's condo

Floyd and Floyd- 5K home stretch

Elizabeth Pedigo, Anne Craig, Anna Taylor Hutson, Elizabeth Powers, and John Heston Powers

Fun Run

Floyd, Walker, Hess and Steele

Floyd and me

enjoying the music

Me and Lulu

3rd place in my age group!!! uh huh!!

Winner!!

Continue Care Home Health team pic

Are we getting close to Halloween perhaps??

2010-10-27T12:32:00.028-05:00

October has been an action packed month!? Well, what month isn't right? There have been Friday football themes where the kids dress up in various themes to show their school spirit. Go Mustangs! Here are Floyd and Anne Craig for Super Hero Day!! There has also been the 4th grade play which was the cutest dog gone play I've ever seen. The play was called ROCK which was basically a take on how Rock and Roll evolved. The talent was amazing and by the end of the show I had tears rolling down my face from laughing so hard. Floyd was one of the Beatles and they sang "Help" and did a fantastic job. I was hoping to upload a video to this blog post but I was unsuccessful. It was really good. Floyd's grade is pretty special in my opinion. They are all very close and the kids in his class are really talented, smart, athletic and musical. I predict big things to come for this group of kiddos! Pillow Academy Class of 2019! The Fab Four! Ringo, Paul, John, and George or aka: Porter, Cole, Floyd and Hardy Let the "photo op" begin!!! with Papa and Jane with Annie and Rick with Moms and Grandaddy with Mama and Daddy with Craig and Cary

Soooo this year Floyd decided to get kinda "ingenious" with his costume. He's "the oil spill" and it's various forms (captain of clean up ship, the oil itself in all black, and the clean up save the gulf crew. Pretty cool huh?? Anne Craig is a dancing disco fever diva! Thanks to Deren Meek and her wonderful hand me down costumes! Don't know what we'd do without them!
My oil spill boy and disco diva

And speaking of borrowing costumes....many thanks to the Pedigo's for letting us borrow their German getups so we could attend a suprise 40th Bday/Halloween Bash at Mark and Kim Boggan's.
Hans and Inga

Leoprechan and Pot O Gold Hardin

King Tut and Cleopatra Boggan

Bubba and Bubbette Reichle

Hollywood Came a Callin'

2010-10-25T14:29:00.019-05:00

I think most of my blog followers are pretty much aware that a little ole movie called, The Help, filmed here in Greenwood this past summer and several of the Floyd Melton family members were extras. Actually, Salter (Moss and Shannon's son), had a pretty important roll of Mae Mobley's little brother. It was a wonderful ride for Greenwood as the town buzzed with excitement and glitz. The actors rolled in and out of town and blended with the locals who made them feel right at home. The locals really loved the economic boost that could not have come at a better time than during a so called "recession". We were sorry it had to come to an end this month. As I walked across the street to where the director was living during his time here in filming, I told him to not be a stranger to Greenwood and to come back soon and visit. His response was, "But of course I'll be back...I plan to make more movies here in Greenwood." Now that's exciting!!! Here are a few pics.

Hilly's "gawking neighbors"

We look like we escapted from the set of Mad Men.

From this!

To this!!

and From this....

To this!

"in holding"

Floyd and Anne Craig were kids in the bus stop scene! I just love these vintage looks for the kids!!

Steele and "Skeeter". Steele was in a different bus stop scene too!

Wade Litton aka: Bert, the reporter. Wade was in the toilet scene with us. But he actually had a name.

My friend, Khalilah Tate, who I work with, was also an extra in the movie. She was a church goer!

Salter and Moss

Salter in his pram

Salter and Sissy Spacek

Funny things the kids say.....

2010-10-25T08:59:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday! (well, I guess)
At some point over the weekend Anne Craig proceeded to form an opinion on the Ole Miss Rebels...Her quote of the day was this..."I liked the old Ole Miss....what's wrong with the big guy?" Now, you may wonder....is she refering to the big guy as Colonel Rebel? Or is she referring to the big guy as one of our defensive or offensive linemen that have been struggling here of late?? Hmmmmmm thoughts to ponder.

Happy Birtday today to my dear Gamba. I miss her so. Today she would have been 88 years old and she will always reflect a timeless sense of style and fashion in my mind. She was the best Grandmother ever who taught me so much about life and I miss her terribly. If only we could have one more conversation or I could seek some advice from her. Interestingly enough, I still do this in my mind from time to time anyway. Happy Birthday Gamba!!!

Ole Miss vs Tulane- New Orleans- Sept. 10-12

2010-10-05T12:59:00.015-05:00

Papa and Jane took Floyd to New Orleans to watch the Ole Miss Rebels take on Tulane in the Superdome. McLean and Patten drove over from Fairhope to join in the fun. I think Floyd had a ball as usual when he's with Papa and Jane and being in New Orleans with Patten and McLean was no exception. It goes without mention that he ate really good. If you are with Dad and Jane you know you will be eating good. Floyd really enjoys Ole Miss football and Dad is super sweet to always invite Floyd to go with them when we are not all able to get away for ballgame weekends. It's always entertainment in the Big Easy and as you can see New Orleans is still mighty proud of their Saints. I think Floyd saw a lot of eye opening sights but he was nice enough to tell his Mama that he just shut his eyes walking down Bourbon Street....
New Orleans is still mighty proud of it's Saints!

Pizza with Papa from the balcony of the condo they were staying in on Royal.

Floyd and Patten with Pete Boone, Ole Miss Athletic Director

Floyd, Papa, Patten and McLean

Patten and Floyd...first bead toss! (bet it's not the last)

Floyd's favorite dessert at his new favorite Italian restaurant

Trotter men finally get to the Superdome

At the game

Floyd with his pal, Judge DeWayne Thomas

Girls Trip 2010- Perdido!

2010-10-05T12:25:00.011-05:00

(Me, Lulu, Kitt, Sara Beth and Avery.....Liza behind the camera)
My annual girl's trip with my high school peeps was its usual late July occurence. However, since July had 5 weekends this year several gals were unable to attend and we missed them terribly. But we had a great time and it was nice to be at the beach. There were very little reminents of the oil spill and we had a great time going to see The Steve Miller Band and Peter Crampton at the Wharf. Those were the songs that we listened to as we were piled into cars riding up and down Park Avenue in High School so it was very appropriate that we were all together singing them again. We frequented the Flora Bama a few times and for sure we were the most "hit on" group of gals in the joint. It was truly hysterical fending off the guys as we displayed our total disinterest in them. We danced amongst ourselves and had a ball!!
Here we are before going to dinner and after our very own "wine tasting competition". Everyone brought their favorite wine, red or white, in a paper bag to disguise the label and we sampled each to determine the winner! I seriously could not tell you which one won (no, not because I couldn't remember after drining all the wine....I personally am not a wine snob and thought all were good.)

Liza, Kitt, Lulu, Sara, Lisa (Avery behind the camera this time)
We are so blessed with our wonderful friendships and the times we are able to sit, visit, relect and relax with one another. We always look forward to our next gathering....July 2011....there's discussion of maybe a cruise to Mexico!! We shall see!!!

Trotter Family Delta Tour

2010-09-28T14:10:00.049-05:00

In late July, the McLean Trotter family came to Greenwood in what began as a tour of the Delta to see family in several towns (Greenwood, Greenville and Belzoni) and for Sweet Boy Stephen to do some meet'n and greet'n and take a little bit of Delta life in while he was at it. Unfortunately when Lisa, McLean, Patten, May May and Stephen come to visit it's usually pretty scheduled and not much down time. But we were able to have a good time regardless and lots of good family time was had.

Annie and the boys

Papa and his namesake, Stephen Chamberlain

4 generations of Trotter men (Floyd, McLean, Stephen, Grandaddy Bill, Papa and Patten)

group shot with Grandmother and Granddad

Anne Craig, Jane and Stephen

Stephen meeting Aunt Beverly with McLean

Mary McLean, Grandmother Sally and Anne Craig

From visiting with the Trotter's we then joined the Karlson/Milner clan at Doe's. That was McLean's restaurant request this trip and Lisa D had never been so Doe's it was. We had a great meal.

Cary, Rick and Annie

kiddos

The rest of us...bring on the HOT TAMALES!!

yummy green salad

There's Bubbsie!

Stephen, McLean and Gooddaddy

Annie and Mary McLean

Floyd and Rick

Rick and Annie with Stephen

Floyd, Stephen and Craig. Stephen did lots of meetn and greetn today and got some great visits in with everyone

The next day was filled with lots of activities. While Lisa and McLean took Stephen to get his pictures taken at Rumfelt's, we loaded up the kiddos and headed up Money Road out to the Tallahatchie Flats where the Duck's Unlimited State Convention activities were taking place that morning.

Anne Craig, Charlie Robbins, Jack Pittman, Floyd, Steele, Mary McLean and Patten in the back watching the dog retrieving and obstacle course demonstration

Mike Stewart, of Wildrose Kennels, whom Floyd trained Belle (our first lab from our college days) with in Oxford and learned most of what he knows about dogs and training from Mike's father, Bobby Stewart

Patten about to do a demonstration

Group Shot

Now inside for the falcon demo

Good times

Their tour concluded in Belzoni with a trip to Dad and Jane's house. We had a wonderful time being all together and doing things we rarely get to do....like from going and knocking on the door of the house we grew up in asking if we can come in and take a peak....to visiting friends' gravesites, to playing in the park area where I used to play as an infant and toddler. It was all very surreal and nice at the same time. Of course, the kids loved swimming and playing in the pool. Here are a few pics from our day and final destination of the weekend with the Trotters.

Mary McLean, Stephen and Lisa D.

The Boys

Pool Fun!

group shot at Papa and Jane's

visiting our old friend, Finny Shelton's, grave in Belzoni cemetary

At Indian Mound across from the first house I ever lived in. We have lots of memories of this spot and playground.

kids running up and down

301 Jackson Street Belzoni, MS. The house we grew up in (1973-1985)

Mine and McLean's first mini tennis court- lots of time spent here in this driveway growing up. Can't you see the service and base lines??? We sure could!

We finished up the evening with an awesome cookout at Dad and Jane's. The food just kept on coming! It was amazing.
Dad and Jane- working on crab claws

night time pool stunts with Mary McLean

and With Anne Craig

Moonlake Spinners

Future Ole Miss Cheerleader!!??!!

Tuck and Roll!

Tired girls at Papa's

We love yall and had a great time with the McLean Trotters! Come back to the Delta again soon!!!

MONTAGE MARKETPLACE

2010-09-22T15:11:00.009-05:00

My Aunt and Uncle, Craig and Cary Karlson, have opened a new exciting business in Greenville called Montage Marketplace! It's definately the new IT shop over there. They have 28 booths featuring antiques, gift items, jewelry and Mississippi food products. Stop by and check it out when you can. I promise you will not be disappointed. It's located almost on the corner of HWY 82W and Raceway Road so it's a great location indeed. Each time I talk to Craig she fills me on the great stuff they are continuing to get in and the vendors in the booths are adding exciting items each week! Check it out for sure this fall and holiday season! Here are some pictures from their Grand Opening back in August.

The fountain that used to be at Gamba's house that Craig and Cary had refurbished. It looks amazing!

Floyd's pero boat that was used for the drinks display with an amazing arrangement in it that I wish I had taken a better shot of.

The ribbon cutting out front

(funny thing Anne Craig said..."When I grow up I am going to work at Montage Marketplace so I can get paid.")

Posh Princesses and Hair Galore

2010-09-22T12:35:00.018-05:00

Anne Craig attended several fun "girlie" things this summer. One was the Delta School of Etiquette's "Posh Princess Camp" and the other was her good friend, Dia Chawla's, birthday party. Both involved a lot of dress up, make-up and hairspray. Her etiquette class was led by Michelle Coppage and they focused on manners both at the dinner table and beyond. The princess theme was a big hit and thanks to cousin May May, whom we borrowed most of our outfits from, we were dressed to the nine's each day. Here are a few pics of the fun week!
Off to Posh Princess Camp

Michelle with all the girls

Fairy Princess with Georgia

Modern Princess

The Final Bow

Dia and Elizabeth Powers

Dia, Anne Craig and Allison Kubiak

Doing hair and make up

Dia and her Divas!

Go Girl

Anne Craig and Dia

Check out our hair!

Pretty

Avery gettin' pretty

Ready for Stage and Stardom

Strong River Camp and Farm

2010-09-17T13:27:00.014-05:00

STRONG RIVER CAMP AND FARM- Pinola, Mississippi

As I sit and blog this post today we can only hope we are in the process of saying goodbye to Summer. The thermometer says it's a balmy 95 here on this day, the 17th of September. Will this heat not end? I guess it makes my summer recollection series seem not too far behind after all. Shall we continue??? STRONG RIVER CAMP AND FARM....."Oh Strong River you are great...In the win-ter I can haaaardly wait....for you to open UP those orange gates...OH Strong River HERE WE ARE!!" This was one of the jingles I learned at Strong River when I went there in the Summers of the early 80's. It was a little slice of Heavan to me. I looked forward to that rustic camp (except for the fact that I did bring my nightmares along from all the Friday the 13th's I'd seen by the lowly age of TEN....geesh...not sure where my parents were in the tv filtering department). Anyway...back to the woods of Pinola, MS. Each June this one glorious week meant the break from the rigorous junior tennis tournament circuit life I led in the summers. Well except when your parents had to come pick you up EARLY FROM CAMP (who does that???) to head to the Southern Sectionals tennis playoffs is a neighboring state. As I type this entry the memories come flooding back in soooo many ways. OH...and the gate is not orange anymore.....

We anxiously awaited to see if Floyd was going to get into the camp session of his choosing for most of the Spring. Yes, like a fool, I decided that it was not of utmost importance to rush my money down to Strong River Camp and Farm and that we had pleeeenty of time.....oh how wrong was I! We barely got in and I mean barely. I knew with this being Floyd's first real camp experience of 7 whole days that this was a big deal. He had a great time with buddies, Walker Pedigo and John Raines of Jackson. I think next year Anne Craig wants to go. I better start saving my money now so I can send it in EARLY!!

John Raines, Walker Pedigo and Floyd with their 2 counselors. Byron was from South Africa and the other one, whose name I have forgotten....was from Denmark. He did say that his mother was a counselor back in the day. Seems like I did have a counselor from Denmark once.....I wish I could put my hands on those old pics...they are in the attic somewhere I think.

Making up the beds!

Floyd's "new" cabin, Cypress Swamp. When I say new...these cabins didn't exist in the 80's. We only had one long row of cabins starting with the names of numbers 0-13. Cabins 0-13 are still there by the way but now there is a second rows of cabins behind them. I believe the girls stay in the older ones. It was all very nostalgic just being there dropping him off and picking him up.

Anne Craig, Me, and Tay Gillespie (the owner and founder of Strong River Camp and Farm) at the age of 90). Her daughter, Sarah Dabney now runs it.

Me and Steve Flemming, who was a counselor when I was there and he's still there helping run the place.

Postcard from camp

Fairhope-Perdido-Sandestin Summer 2010

2010-09-14T12:14:00.049-05:00

Our summers are never complete without our annual trip to the Alabama/Florida Gulf Coast. When I say Coast I mean Fairhope, Perdido and on to Sandestin for the Bar Convention. We always have a great time at The Grand and appreciate Lisa and McLean and their hospitality while we are down there. Their pools are so fun and it's a treat just to go indeed.
Anne Craig and May May at the Grand Colony Pool

Anne Craig and Floyd

"Pile it On"

Look at that Lump of Love would ya!

May May really does see you Bubba.

We went to watch fireworks during the 4th of July celebration on the grounds of The Grand Hotel. The weather was perfect!

Anne Craig and Daddy

Anne Craig

Sweet Stephen

Yes! I can putt!

Anne Craig, May May and her sweet sitter Anna Grace Claunch

The Boyz

The Mamas: me, Ann Claunch and Lisa

Anne Craig and Floyd- sweet siblings most of the time

We also went to see the fireworks show over Mobile Bay from Downtown Fairhope area.

Why can't my hanging baskets look like this??

Visiting with Mama and Rick back at Lisa and McLean's

From Fairhope we ventured to Perdido where Mama and Rick were staying at the condo and enjoyed some time on Rick's boat and at the beach. Honestly, the oil wasn't bad at all and it didn't change our plans in any way.
Taking Rick's boat to lunch at the Oyster Bar

Is this legal?

No oil here! (That we could see!)

From Perdido we headed East to Sandestin to join Papa and Jane at the Mississippi Bar Convention. This has become a yearly tradition and we always have a wonderful time. We get to spend quality time with friends and family and we are blessed in each of those departments that's for sure.
Dinner at Poppy's- Anne Craig and Sykes Connell

The Floyds

Baby Stephen with Aunt Lisa and Mama Lisa

Stephen and McLean

Friends and Cousins

Floyd and McLean

With the Connells

Silly Faces

the 18th floor condo with Papa

Legal Fun Run- 5K

Beach Time!

Floyd and Mary McLean

Stephen and McLean

chillin'

Anne Craig and Mary McLean

Lisa and Stephen with Addie and Jane

Fun with Papa

Tasty Waves!!!

The Grands shot

We're lovin' it!

Family Shot

Super Cute!

Papa and Jane with the kiddos

Alllll of us! Good times!!

From Baseball to Tennis- Sports Fun- Summer 2010

2010-09-10T13:02:00.017-05:00

Summer 2010 was a whirlwind to say the least. After recovering from our Class Reunion we found ourselves in baseball season full force. This was our first year in kid pitch and boy was it fun. Speaking of pitch...Floyd proved himself to be a pretty dog gone good pitcher. He played second base when he wasn't pitching but I believed he loved the pressure of the mound. Our dear friend, Suresh Chawla, who was like a surrogate father to Floyd partly this summer while his own family summered in India with his wife's family. Needless to say he was wonderful to spend the time he did with us and the interest of our kids. I mean seriously, who does that kind of stuff? An amazing person and friend that's who! I digress...back to the ballpark. At least 2-3 nights per week in the month of June you could find us at Stribling Park. I wish I could remember the field number b/c we played on the same field each time....I know it was sponsored by Lucas-Bowden surgical group. Anyway....Here are a few pics from more than likely our last game when we finally realized we needed to bring a camera! We played for Kittle Insurance company. The downfall....Maroon and White were our colors. That took some adjustment. Floyd caught hell from his Bulldog buddies who know he's a raving Rebel fan. It was all in good fun.

"What do you mean that was a strike?"

Hit that ball boy!

Group Shots!!

Floyd also made the Greenwood 9 year old All Star team which played in its tournament July 4th weekend in Winona, Ms. (Who does that?? I mean seriously. Who schedules a baseball tournament for a holiday family weekend?) Needless to say, I don't think we are going to college on a baseball scholarship. This is for FUN people....let it go....There are wayyyy to many serious suspects out there in the world of baseball. One good thing of the all star weekend...our uniforms were an awesome bright green for "Greenwood" I suppose. That made Floyd smile. Another thing that made Floyd smile was his good buddy, Sunjay, who got back from India in time to be able to play in the All Star game. How cute are they!!

We were also able to play in a tennis tourney this summer. We played in the Greenville Jr. Cotton Classic. Floyd played singles and doubles. He lost in the consolation finals but had a great time and learned some valuable tennis lessons. Here is a double match with Walt Pillow, James McClemore, Floyd and Cole Tyler.

NOT MUCH HAS CHANGED IN 20 YEARS!

2010-09-03T14:38:00.066-05:00

This past summer Floyd and I had our high school 20 year reunion (Pillow Academy Class of 1990) Yes, Floyd and I finished High School together and were even in the same carpool starting in 7th grade. However, we didn't start "dating" until our Senior year. Our class was a pretty special class and the friendships still remain strong to this day. We were unusual in the fact that we were the smallest class in the history of Pillow Academy. Many of our high school friends went to the same colleges and believe it or not when Floyd and I got married, July 1996, several of our high school classmates were in our wedding because we all stayed the best of friends. So there's a lot of history and it's pretty special. The reunion kicked off with a Friday night gathering at Webster's with Will Pleasants (one of our classmates)and his wife, Linda, playing for us. Saturday we had a picnic at Pillow so folks could tour the campus and see all of the wonderful new facilities Pillow has since built since we left. Most everyone was amazed. Especially those who haven't been back in 20 years. Saturday night we hosted everyone at our house for a cocktail buffet and we had the Sofa Kings from Jackson, MS play for us and they were awesome. The weather couldn't have been any better and for that we were grateful. We had 25 out of 36 classmates show up. Not too bad in my opinion and everyone had a great time. Here are some pictures of our weekend and maybe it'll tell the story of the reunion better than I can put it into words. WARNING!! LOTS OF PICTURES. Enjoy!

Me and Lulu

Me, Kim and Sara

Barn, Boyce, Kimberly Self and Kitt

David, Marty, Scott and Byron

Kelly, Sara, Jason Bailey, Lance Bryant and Floyd

Lulu and Floyd

Amber, me, Sara Elizabeth, Tom and Ted

Tom, Ted and Floyd

Kim, Boyce, and Barn

Linda, Tammy, and Kitt

Chris, Brian Waddell, and Marty

Linda and Will singing at Webster's

small group shot!

Kim, Boyce and Kathy Whicker

Melissa, Kelly, Marty, and Susan

Sara and Lance

Class of 1990!

Not too shabby!

Dave and Kim

Melissa, Beau, Frank and kiddos

The Lee's

Connell's with Barn and Anne Craig

Bailey's and Burnham's

Will and Linda chillin in the yard getting ready for Saturday night

yard shot! Perfect weather

Welcome Pillow Academy Class of 1990

me and Floyd

Cheers!

Byron and Will....the Meistros!

Lu, Me, B, Ave and Kitt

Ted, Floyd and Steele

Lance, Kelly and Sara

John and Sara Elizabeth Burnham

Barn and Tarina

The Sofa Kings

Melissa, Floyd, Bernard and Beau

Lu and Liza

Kimberly, Marty, and Dave

B, Kevin, Tammy, and Steele

Trouble!

Angie, Lulu and Barn

Large group shot with spouses/dates

Tom, Chris and Floyd

Yep...the COPS came

It's alllll good

Party On!

Dance the Night Away

Hey Look! There's Dougie Ferguson!!! Gotta love the crashers!!

Douglas, Chris and Claire

Liza and Bernard

Lulu and John

Eewwww Weeee

Even the dog passed smooth out.

Bring on the karaoke please

Lots O Fun was had by all!

I have 3 words for you people...SANFORD AND SON

2010-08-26T11:47:00.004-05:00

Yes friends and family, this is our riding lawnmower that I finally documented in action. It comes complete with 2 bungies to hold the collectable cover on super tight and all Melton family households are able to share it. Kidding aside this is a great machine and I think the hoodless look says it all. I admit that I actually enjoy driving it and mowing my own grass from time to time. It's very relaxing and therapeutic if you can get past the occasional honks and bizarre stares that passers by make. I hope everyone has had a delightful week and the routine of life and schoolwork is treating you well. Peace!

Moon Lake Fun Continues

2010-08-12T11:59:00.026-05:00

In June, we went back to Moon Lake and took some friends with us to enjoy the lake activities. Those that were able to make it were our neighbors Patsy and Kevin Brown and their children, Garrett and Mary Helen; Allison and McLeod Meek and their kiddos, Deren and Wilkes, Lisa Cookston and her babies, Lucy and Cavitt; Margie and Alan Barger; and Cyndi and Tony Saia who were down the way at their place so it was wonderful to be able to all get together at such a fun location. The kids had a ball and played really well together. This adult crew can always have a good time so it was indeed a fun gathering. Floyd IV was on his trip with Moms and Grandaddy to Ft. Knox, Kentucky to Big Floyd's Vietnam Batallion's reunion. We missed him indeed but he was able to get back in time to enjoy some of the lake.

Allison and Cyndi

Wilkes takes the plunge off the pier.

Anne Craig's turn

Gooooooo Mary Helen!!

McLeod and Allison's new ride!

Margie and Alan

me and Floyd

Mary Helen and Anne Craig "captaining" the boat

Cavitt and his Mama, Lisa Lisa

Cyndi and Tony

Patsy and me

McLeod strikes a pose

Lucy and Lisa Lisa

McLeod and Deren

Cyndi, Anne Craig and Tony

Afternoon snack time

Garrett, Deren, Lucy and Anne Craig

Here comes Wilkes!

Sushi Time!!! prepared by Tony and was delicious

Moon Lake Late May

2010-08-09T14:26:00.030-05:00

The Melton family kicked our summer off with a birthday trip of sorts to Moon Lake. May was a big birthday month for us. I celebrated mine on May 7th in Memphis as my dear friend Elizabeth Barnwell took me to see Nora Jones at the Orpheum. Anne Craig's birthday was May 26 and two of her dear friends also share May birthdays. Chloe Tyner and Elizabeth Pedigo are all May girls. May girls are very special!
Here are a few pictures from the weekend. The Meltons, Tyners, Pedigos and Connells all gathered for a good time.

Chloe and Anne Craig

Floyd IV and Scott

Floyd III and Anna

Anne Craig, Anna Carson, Chloe and Elizabeth

Anna, Lulu and Lisa

Lulu and Scott

Connell Clan

Melton Clan minus Anne Craig

Walker and Floyd

Pedigo Clan minus Walker

Sykes, Anne Craig and Elizabeth

Elizabeth modeling her birthday gift, a leopard Snuggie! Because nothing says summer like a fleece snuggie right??

Walmart cake with a few grammatical errors but still good.

"Happy Birthday dear Anne Craig and Elizabeth.....Happy Birthday to you"

Make a Wish!!

SUMMER RECOLLECTION......it may take a while because the summer was slammed packed!

2010-08-06T15:06:00.002-05:00

Well, playtime is over! Back in the saddle again for me as I enter another delightful school year. There is much to blog about from the Melton summer of 2010 so I will just have to take it in stride and do what I can when I can. First up....Moon Lake trips...stay tuned!

"Summer Summer Summertime....Time to sit back and unwind..."...yeah right!

2010-06-23T21:53:00.009-05:00

Ha! What a joke! Those might be the words of Will Smith back in his studio recordin days post DJ Jazzy Jeff but that sho ain't the way the Floyd Melton family is rolling these days. Geez....I only wish I could sit back and unwind...This summertime business is serious stuff. I mean BUSYness. I really am optimistic here when I say I'd like to find time to recap what on Earth we have been up to since the school bell rang for the last time in May but I'm afraid it ain't happnin anytime soon. I guess a brief run down goes something like this:
2-3 nights a week of kid pitch baseball games at Stribling Park...(the season has ended but All Star Game still lingers....NEXT weekend)......
Sports Camps: tennis, baseball, football and golf.....
Swim stroke lessons....
Mine and Anne Craig's birthday celebrations....
A few trips to Moon Lake which is always great fun....
A couple of trips to the movie theater here and there....
Mine and Floyd's 20 YEAR class reunion (one event at our house I might ad)....
Bible Schools....
Floyd IV's trip to Fort Knox, Kentucky with Moms and Grandad for Big Floyd's Vietnam Batillion Reunion....
Craig and Cary's opening of their new venture Montage Marketplace in Gville which is totally fabulous I might ad....
Tennis tennis and more tennis....I for one am playing again and Lil Floyd played in his first tennis tournament and continues to play in 2 junior leagues locally....

SHWEW....and that's just end of May/June....July is slammed as well with trips to Fairhope and the beach, the Bar Convention at Sandestin, Floyd IV's venture to Strong River Camp and Farm, a visit from the McLean Trotter family to Greenwood, CATS at the Orpheum, soccer camp, Etiquette Classes, Greenwood Little Theater Summer Workshop, and maybe just maybe one more Bible school...As I sit and type this insanity into words maybe just maybe we are TOOOO busy. Ya think? Honestly, sad to admit...we know no differenty and that's ok (I guess)

Well, in case you have been living under a rock, the movie The Help is about to begin filming here and it's been so fun seeing a lot of Dreamworks folks descend upon our little town. One of the directors is living across the street from us. He is actually an old fraternity brother of Floyd's who is originally from Jackson, MS. Needless to say Greenwood is buzzing with excitement. Like my friend Keetha says, "...everyone seems to have some sort of story about The Movie People" http://www.keetha.com/ And she's right!

Well, that about sums things up at the moment I suppose....Bring on July which is guaranteed to be just as eventful but maybe with a little less pace...ha! I do hope to blog post on each exciting event we have encountered this summer since this is actually my "scrapbook of sorts". It may be August when I'm back at work and have more "desk" time that that actually takes place and that's ok. Right? Right!

It's hot! and I do mean hot! I think we are watering the yard at some point 24 hours a day just to keep it from turning brown.

Smile....life is good! Peace out! Oh and enjoy the SUMMERTIME

Let's Go Get Lost in the Delta With Some Lost Dog Pizza how bout it!

2010-05-27T11:29:00.023-05:00

For Anne Craig's birthday party this year we loaded up a group of girls, rented a limo from John Stewart et company and headed West on Hwy 82 into the sunset. Destination....Lost Dog Pizza Company in Indianola, MS. The girls had a blast and it was a fun "last minute" idea. With Anne Craig's birthday being late May and after school is out it's hard to find a time to really do that much. We've done the pool party, the yard party and a few others here and there. So when I asked her what she wanted to do this year she mentions something about wanting to go on a limo ride. Soooo limo ride it was! She has some sweet, cute friends who were still in town and just happen to be available for a fun party. We missed those who were not able to be with us too for sure! Here are a few pics to detail the adventure.

Waiting on everyone to arrive for departure.

Caroline Brock, Anne Craig and Havee Johnson

Anne Craig and her friend, Isabella Vasquez, who is about to move to Hawaii! Aloha Isabella we will miss you!! Keep in touch with us!!

Ready to pile into the limo

Inside views of limo

rolling their own dough

We were sure we adults were around at ALLLLL times!

Yummy Pizza!!!

"Happy Birthday dear Anne Craig....Happy Birthday to you" Make a Wish!

We had a great time at the Lost Dog Pizza Co.

Anne Craig and Madeline Kelly

HAPPY 7TH BIRTHDAY ANNE CRAIG

2010-05-26T10:26:00.007-05:00

I seriously don't see how it's been 7 years since Anne Craig was born. I remember the day like it was yesterday! I remember pacing the floors of Greenwood Leflore Hospital in hopes to speed her arrival along after Dr. McNair said that it may be a bit....she's not quite ready. She did arrive after a few laps pretty quickly even before the noon hour. Not bad....not bad indeed! Each year brings change and surprise that is for sure but in typical birthday fashion I sat her down and interviewed her for our yearly "fill in the response please". Here's what we got!
I AM....Anne Craig
I WAS.....six
I HAVE...my friends spend the night with me
I PLAY...tennis
I WORRY...about everybody (Milner trait I guess....)
I KNOW...my family
I WATCH...Spongebob
I WANT...a new bike
I CRAVE...chocolate
I USUALLY...am nice
I REMEMBER...when I was a baby
I DISLIKE...broccoli
I GO...to Moon Lake
I CAN...ride a bike and run very fast
I DON'T...play softball
I FEEL...very good
I DANCE...in my gym class
I READ...my books every night
I WRITE...my name neatly sometimes
I BELIEVE...in God
I AM SCARED...of the dark
I LISTEN...to my Mama and Daddy
I WISH...my brother would be nicer to me
I LOVE...my brother
I AM HAPPY...that I am 7 years old
I AM THANKFUL...for my family.

Happy Birthday sweet girl! We love you and are so very proud of all that you do!

Kentucky Derby Supper Club 2010 "Southern Fare and Mint Juleps"

2010-05-21T09:18:00.003-05:00

And they're off!!!! Hats off that is to our friends and fellow supper clubians for the outstanding showing of attire and spirit for our 1st Annual Kentucky Derby party. I can not say enough about how much fun it was. The weather started out a little shakey with some thunderstorms but by race time the weather was great! Not that it mattered quite so much anyway... we did everything inside. I will have to say that the Billups family would be proud that we acutally used the ballroom for it's original purpose.... A PARTY! Everyone came in their Derby attire. Silks casual for men and Hats for the ladies. It was fun to be able to use one of Gamba's hats that I found out at her house stuffed away in a closet. With a little help from Danny at Bella Flora, it was resurrected into some fine Derby fashion. This was a different party route for our supper club to take by having the party begin at 3:30 in the afternoon so it was a full day affair no doubt. We had to get folks there to place their bets in plenty of time, sip on their mint juleps and be ready to watch the race too! Steven Cookston did a great job handling the feat of organized wage placements and we had the giant big screen projector display the race upstairs with amazing sound system effects. The Derby contenders were all written out beautifully with their odds and stats on display labeled and all. (Thanks Lisa Lisa!) If you left the party hungry...well...let's just say it was your own fault. The food was delicious! We peeled, boiled and then marinated 900 (or aka 25 pounds of) shrimp the night before!!! Thank goodness for good friends and neighbors (Patsy, Kevin and Tony) who stayed up with us til 2am working on the shrimpies. The party hosts were Melton's, Simcox's and Brock's. The Brocks had a soccer tournament pop up after the party had been planned and set so they were unfortunately absent for the event not to mention Jody Simcox who was also summoned to the soccer tourney in Gulfport I might add. So basically it was me, Floyd and Kim left to carry on. I have to say....we pulled it off in great strides. It was really an awesome party. We even had fantastic bluegrass music piped into the sound system all over the house to add to the effect. I will let the pictures speak for themselves! And it's not a party unless it ends with karaoke right???

Piano Man

2010-05-17T14:55:00.008-05:00

Floyd had his piano recital a few weeks ago and they "dress the part" to fit the title of their piece. What was Floyd's title you ask? Shave and A Haircut....of course. See him in his cape? (Thank you Legend's Salon and Spa for letting us borrow.) He did an outstanding job! We are very proud of our Piano Man! Here are a few pics from the big night.
Warming up before we head to the Craig Performing Arts Center where the recital was held.

Cole Tyler, Conner Hutson and Floyd

Piano Man

The Fam!

Easy Breezy Beautiful Cover Girl!

2010-05-06T10:19:00.005-05:00

Yep, that's right! Anne Craig is on the cover of the latest issue of Leflore Illustrated Magazine. She is autographing copies if anyone is interested. No, in all seriousness....Johnny Jennings snapped this cute pic when the girls were coming out of art class one day downtown and I guess decided it was a fit for the cover. All snaggle toothed! Pictured above are Mia Cole, Madison Barlow and Anne Craig holding their Mother's Day paintings that I think were supposed to be a surprise! Oh well! Gotta love it!

"A Day In The Country"- Anne Craig's First Grade Play

2010-04-21T14:10:00.010-05:00

Anne Craig posing before school in her costume.

saying her part

Anne Craig and her teacher, Linda Burgess

with Mama and Floyd

Mia Cole, Anne Craig and Elizabeth Powers

Happy Easter!!

2010-04-21T13:53:00.008-05:00

Happy Easter!

Wow, look what the Easter Bunny brought us! He must have known we are growing out of nearly everything we own clotheswise!

Cool! That new Ole Miss book I've been wanting! Thanks Easter Bunny!

Easter Egg Hunts

2010-04-21T13:06:00.014-05:00

Our home/yard was the location for several Easter egg hunts this season. We had the Pillow Academy 3rd grade hunt followed by the First Presbyterian Church's Easter egg hunt on Good Friday. Thankfully April has not brought many showers thus far so the weather has been quite remarkable. Here are a few pics from each:
unloading and assessing

Mr. Frank Warren, the bus driver

Sunjay, Abbie and Floyd

Assessing the LOOT

Third Grade Teachers at Pillow...Dot Miller, Mrs. Pittman, and Gayle Porter who was substituting that day for Vivian Calhoun

Lining up for the church hunt

And they're off!

Jeannie brought Gooddaddy by for a visit during the hunt.

Hardy, Anne Craig and Floyd

Palm Sunday

2010-04-21T12:55:00.004-05:00

On Palm Sunday Floyd and Anne Craig sang with their chorister's group in church. They did really really well and I think they both really like to sing so we'll see where that takes us! Right? Anne Craig is front and center and Floyd is far right.