the Lowry's-- livin, lovin, laughin

Mississippi...

2009-11-29T00:36:00.001-06:00

THE RULES OF MISSISSIPPI ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. Pull your droopy pants up. You look like an idiot.

2. Let's get this straight; it's called a "gravel road." I drive a pickup truck because I want to. No matter how slow you drive, you're going to get
dust on your Lexus. Drive it or get out of the way.

3. They are cattle. That's what they smell like to you. They smell like money to us. Get over it. Don't like it? I-20 goes east and west, I-55
goes north and south. Pick one.

4. So you have a $60,000 car. We're impressed. We have $250,000 cotton strippers that are driven only 3 weeks a year.

5. So every person in every pickup waves. It's called being friendly. Try to understand the concept.

6. If that cell phone rings while a bunch of doves are coming in, we WILL shoot it out of your hand. You better hope you don't have it up to your
ear at the time.

7. Yeah, we eat catfish &; crawfish. You really want sushi & caviar? It's available at the corner bait shop.

8. The "Opener" refers to the first day of deer season. It's a religious holiday held the closest Saturday to the first of November.

9. We open doors for women. That is applied to all women,regardless of age.

10. No, there's no "vegetarian special" on the menu. Order steak. Or you can order the Chef's Salad and pick off the 2 pounds of ham & turkey.

11. When we fill out a table, there are three main dishes: meats, vegetables, and breads. We use three spices: salt, pepper, and
Picante Sauce! ! Oh, yeah.... We don't care what you folks in Cincinnati call that stuff you eat... IT AIN'T REAL CHILI!! real chili never met a tomato!

12. You bring "coke" into my house, it better be brown, wet, and served over ice. You bring "Mary Jane" into my house, she better be cute,
know how to shoot, drive a truck, and have long hair.

13. College and High School Football is as important here as the Lakers and the Knicks, and a dang site more fun to watch.

14. Yeah, we have golf courses. But don't hit the water hazards -- it spooks the fish.

15. Colleges? Try Mississippi State, University of Mississippi or University of Southern Mississippi. They come outta there with an
education plus a love for God and country, and they still wave at passing pickups when they come for the holidays.

16. We have more folks in the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines, than any other state, so don't mess with us. If you do, you will get whipped by the best.

17. Mississippi is the greatest state ever!! If you are from Mississippi you are a badass!!!

Things I'm thankful for....

2009-11-28T18:23:00.005-06:00

...I'm alittle behind on my Thanksgiving post...actually I'm behind on all posts (guess you can tell that since I haven't posted since July!!!) But if you know me then you know I'm ALWAYS late to everything so ....

Things I'm thankful for...

...wonderful parents who are always always there for me no matter the circumstances
...Slater who loves me unconditionally and who works extremely hard for all of us
... Tyler, Dallas and Victoria who bring joy to my life everyday
... Seven precious Boston Terrier Bulldogs --- their little black and white faces and stubby noses make me laugh
... Tyler's girlfriend, Dailey --- she's a sweet wonderful girl who makes him happy
... my friend Rebecca ...
... a country that is free --- yes, it sounds like a ciche' but I wouldn't want to live anywhere else
... a house, food, clothes --- some people don't have them
... a job --- many are losing theirs
... Slater's parents --- what sweet terrific people
... India --- Slater's sister --- and her family
... God and being able to worship how and when we want
... my extended family ---- aunts, uncles and cousins

There are so many more things I am thankful for but those are just a few.

I hope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving.

Robin

Baby news...

2009-07-03T22:43:00.003-05:00

...well, not 'true' baby news to some people but in our wonderful but crazy household they're babies to us... FOUR PUPPIES that are actually 2 weeks old ...three little girls and one boy.....SO, that makes us have a total of 11 (yes, 11) Boston Terrier Dogs/puppies...this is a picture is of Christine and her puppies...

We kept the other 4 Christine had (Nov 2008) but there is NO way we can keep these..much is Dallas Victoria's dislike!! We already have TERRIFIC homes for all of them (and I would agree to keep them before I let them to go to unknown or bad homes). My friend Rebecca (who found Ray-Ray for us) is getting this one...a girl... (oops! the picture to the left) the other 3 are going to family members... (oops, again the picture looks upside down) ...the boy is the one on its back--- or maybe an easier way ... girl, girl, boy, girl. Are they not the cutest things!!! My children keep reminding me how I have always said I'd have a 101 Boston Terrier Bulldogs ---which I did say --if I ever don't work I will --have more that is ... NOT 101!
Now since I haven't posted anything in FOREVER and I am already talking about my sweet bulldogs here are some updated pictures of them.... this is our 'Little Bear' and I am ashamed to admit it but my favorite of the 4 --- I mean look at him ...Does he not look like that little boy who always stays in trouble? He is so sweet but loves to chew on shoes, tv remotes, sleep on pillows and look at you like 'What me? What did I do?' Then when he is 'out' he is out...and loves to sleep on Victoria.

Now for the other sweet ones...this is Christy... the little petite girl who can take on ANY of her 3 brothers!! (below)

This is RJ: nicknamed the 'Gentle Giant because he has big paws and walks like a giant -- and is SO sweet... (ok, this is taking much longer than I thought so, I am quickly finishing this post)
And this is Rocky like a child in that he is jealous of everything... if you talk to one of the others -- you have to talk to him, if you pet one of the others you must pet him...but he is sweet too...
(And before you say anything about the fence... that fence is around 3 acres the dogs get to run and play in!)

Last picture before I get off the computer (it's been SO long since I wrote a post I forgot how long it takes to write one, add pictures, edit, etc...) This is the picture we just for the billboard for the CLinic (it was just put up this week).

Ok, no more time....I hope everyone has a great 4th of July...

A month without a post!?!?

2009-04-04T19:55:00.001-05:00

It's hard to believe that it has been almost a month since my last post ... I just never seem to have the time to write anything - when I do get on the computer I usually just 'jump on' to check out a couple of blogs that I follow... McMama and Jonah and Bring the Rain and Bundles of Beginnings...

This has been a very busy but enjoyable week... starting with last weekend when my sweet precious father-n-law came over from Alabama to see us... he is such an incredible man... and I love him dearly!! (My mother-n-law wasn't able to come b/c she is still in the hospital). Here is a picture of Slater and his dad...
Mr. Lowry came over so he could go with us to my Uncle's 85th birthday party on Sunday... and party we did!!! All of us went to West Point on Sunday for Uncle Tug's party ... it was amazing!!! There were more than 300 people there and lots of food and all of us 1st cousin's got to be ALL together --- the first time in years!
It was lots of fun ... we sat around and talked all day -- literally ---
Uncle Tug (the birthday boy) is married to my daddy's sister, Ruth ... (they have been married for about 55 years!!!) ... There were 4 'children' in my daddy's family--- Glynn (now deceased), Ruth, Bob (my daddy) and Harold...(here is a picture of Uncle Tug, Uncle HArold, Aunt Ruth and my daddy--taken December 2008)... they all had girls and when we were younger we spent summer's, holiday's, vacation's together and although our 'family duties' keep us from seeing each other as often as we would like we ALL know that it only takes a phone call and any one of us would be there for the other!! This is a picture of us from last Sunday...

Well, even though I have a lot more I'd like to write I have got to run --- Slater and I are about to watch some movies we rented.... I WILL do better with my posts!!!

..remembering to praise God through it all...

2009-03-06T19:53:00.000-06:00

What a week!!! It has been SO busy at the Clinic...and while I might sound like I am complaining I am NOT --- I am praising God !!! (I promise!!!)- although I will have to admit yesterday (Thursday) after about the 20th time of having a patient become angry over having to wait I wasn't praising --- I was ill!!! --- but I always remind myself that in today's economy I have NO right to complain...I have SO much more than others---

..which brings me to my next thought... one of our patients who came in this week was an elderly woman who owed a bill of less than $30 -- she was SO excited to pay her bill -I mean truly excited! Why would she be excited you ask ... because she was ABLE to pay her bill... and as she was handing me the money all she could say was 'God is so good and he takes care of me -- and I'm not worried because I know he is going to help me through this...' I guess this where I admit I am NOT usually 'happy' to pay bills in fact usually I am extemely unhappy --- so, God sent me several thoughts/messages this week... remembering to praise him while busy at work, patience during 'angry patient times', and being 'happy' to be able to pay my bills...

...the kids are gone this weekend --- my plans!?! to clean house...very much a yuk except for it really really needs to be cleaned ... but that's ok it will be nice to actually be home to clean it...

...ok, so this was a pretty dull post ... I 'write' posts in my head all the time but then when I get on my computer I spend my 'writing time' reading everyone else's blogs --- I admit it I have become a blog addict!!!

Wordless Wednesday...

2009-03-04T21:00:00.001-06:00

Prayer request....

2009-02-28T12:05:00.000-06:00

....I have a prayer request.... it is for Dr. & Mrs. Jack Zorn and family ... Dr & Mrs. Zorn were in a horrible car wreck about 2 weeks ago (yes, I am that far behind in writing) Dr. Zorn is out of the hospital but Mrs. Zorn is still in UAB (Birmingham, Ala) --- if you feel the need or would like you can follow her progress at www.caringbrige.org/visit/sarahzorn

(This was copied from the caringbridge website...)

Dr. and Mrs. Jack Zorn were in an auto accident with multiple vehicles and an 18 wheeler carrying fuel. There was one fatality. Frances' injuries are life threatening. She has received in excess of 40 units of blood and has a broken back. She was not expected to make it but because of the multitude of prayers God has had mercy on us and spared her life.

(This is the Mrs. Zorn's progress as of Sat. February 28, 2009 @ 9:22 am)

Mom rested pretty well last night although still having pain of course. They did a back x-ray at 3 A.M. and had blood drawn at about 4. The doctors will be making rounds shortly so we look forward to hearing an update from our amazing medical team. We hope to get a chest tube out today and maybe another one tomorrow if we get lucky! The staff is certainly impressed with her strong constitution! The family is greatful for the love and support our friends have given us. Thank you Jerry Jenkins from Roebuck Parkway church for offering your home to us as did Norman and Helen Oakes, Steve Cotney, Ray & Jane Skelton and many others. Mom and Dad will cherish the guestbook entries that will be printed out in a nice book. We enjoyed so much mom wiggling her toes and feet and reminding us in the middle of the night that her legs work and she is not crippled!!! Thank you in advance for the continued prayers...God is using this ordeal for his glory...that is evident.

As you can see Mrs. Zorn is making progess ... This is an incredible family who have literally dedicated their lives to the worship of HIM ... God has many wonderful things planned for her and her family...

Thank you for praying.........

Robin & Slater

Fifty things about me...

2009-02-16T19:16:00.000-06:00

Oops...I was just going to write 25 but I got carried away...sorry...

1. I was born on December 15, 1967 in Jackson, MS.
2. My parents adopted me through the Mississippi Children's Home in Jackson, MS
3. My 'name' in the Children's Home was Millie.
4. I met my birth mother when I was 25 yrs. old.
5. I have a total of 6 bioliogical siblings --- 2 sisters and 4 brothers ... only one of them (a sister) 'knows' about me.
6. I am from a really great small town in MS that I have loving 'nicknamed' God's country.
7. I am an only child.
8. I was a United States Senate Page for Senator Thad Cochran when I was a junior in high school and lived in Washington, D.C.
9. I graduated high school in 1985.
10. I graduated from Mississippi State University in 1989 with a BS in Secondary Education -- Social Studies.
11. My best friend in high school was named Lisa.
12. I taught school for 10 years.
13. My momma was a Court Reporter and my daddy taught high school Agiculture.
14. My daddy taught me how to weld, wire a 3-way switch, have a 'true' garden, etc... (he didn't want me to a helpless female).
15. My momma read to me EVERY night when I was little --- she read me Benji, Heidi, Rebecca of Sunny Brook Farm, the whole series of Little House on the Prairie and many many other books.
16. I had three dogs growing up named Mister, Maggie, and Sweet Pea.
17. My first 'car' was a 1963 Ford Farlane (this was in 1982!!!) that my friends named the 'Bat Mobile' because my name is Robin and this car had 'wings' on the back!
18. I met Slater at 'Old Venice' (Italian rest) in Starkville ... when we married he took me to Venice, Italy on our honeymoon!!
19. I am completely and totally against home-schooling (no, this is not something I will debate with you --you have your opinion I have mine).
20. I love to read --- although I NEVER have time to read any more.
21. I love to travel and have been lucky enough to have traveled many many places.
22. I was told by my ob/gyn when I pregnant with Dallas AND Victoria that they were going to have Spina Bifida (neither one do).
23. My sister-n-law, India has the prettiest skin I have ever seen.
24. My daddy was tough, hard, and unyielding to/on me growing up but it made me a very strong person.
25. My momma was loving, sweet, and one I could (still can) tell anything to.
26. My favorite food is baked potatoes with cheese, sour cream and mushrooms!
27. My Grandmother (my momma's mother) was the most devote Christian woman I ever met --- anytime I had a 'prayer request' I always sent it to my Grandmother because I knew she had a direct phone line with God.
28. Although I don't have work and would like being home a little more than I am -- I would never enjoy being a 'housewife'.
29. I did not vote for Obama and don't support him in any way.
30. I became a Christian when I was in the 3rd grade.
31. I have been to Disney World five times --- it's a place you never get tired of.
32. I don't understand the fastination with facebook and myspace.
33. My pet peeve is 'fake people' --- either be yourself or be nobody.
34. I NEVER buy clothes, shoes, etc... at full price -- either the item is on sale or it's not bought.
35. Since my daddy was a Agiculture teacher and MS allowed housing for Ag teachers I lived in a house on the high school campus until I was in the 3rd grade.
36. I was in the band in high school --- I played the flute and twirled a flag.
37. I think the South is the neatest place to live.
38. If I could meet anyone I wanted it would be Faith Hill.
39. I am from the generation of 'sun worshippers' --- everyone laid out in the sun and used anything and everything to get dark ie butter, Wesson oil, Sheen hairspray --sunscreen? What was sunscreen?
40. I will always regret that Slater and I didn't have a baby together.
41. I can't stand to see someone not be quiet and respectful when the Star Spangled Banner is being played/sung.
42. I have taught in many different schools --- my favorite was Neshoba Central High School in Philadelphia, MS.
43. I believe you 'pick and choose your battles' in life.
44. I think Slater looks like Tim McGraw.
45. I love COFFEE .... love it...love it...love it!!!!
46. Slater and I got married in Carrollton, Alabama on December 12, 2003.
47. My oldest child, Tyler was born on Oct 15, 1992 -- 2 wks early due to me developing preeclampsia -- the day he was born my blood pressure went up to 210/160--- he was born via c-section --- I was put in Investive Care.
48. All my 'boys' are October 'babys' ---- Tyler born Oct 15, 1992 (already said), Dallas born Oct 9, 1995 and Slater born Oct 21st (no year-ha!).
49. Victoria's birthday is July 2, 1997.
50. I listened to 'pop-rock' music in high school but changed to 'country' music in college which is what I still listen to.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T09:23:00.000-06:00

This post is 'dedicated' to my husband, Slater...

Happy Valentine's Day my sweet handsome man... you are absolutely the BEST and I LOVE YOU with all my heart!!! You are terrific person and I appreciate ALL you do for the children and me.... you love me unconditionally --which is NOT always an easy task!! ... you NEVER fail to tell me EVERYDAY that you think I am beautiful and that I look good --- even on my no make-up, sweats, t-shirt days... you ignore the house on days when I just can't (or don't!) find the time to 'get it picked/cleaned up' -- which here lately have been alot days... you love Tyler, Dallas and Victoria as your own and ALWAYS are doing and/or saying things to 'build them up' ---not to mention ALL the many other things: ie helping them with their homework, playing ball with them, taking them places, just spending time with them, etc... you work VERY VERY hard for us and put in long days and never complain --- that doesn't go unnoticed... you love our THREE dogs and FOUR puppies ... you overlook my many many faults ... you defend me when people are critical of me ... you 'forgive' me when I forget to pay a bill and we get over gas turned-off making us have no hot water and having to go to the Clinic to take showers -- all 5 of us!!!(remember that? -- from Friday to Monday yuk!)...you go with me grocery shopping even though you know you will be 'stopped' by 20 patients asking Medical advice ... you don't complain when I don't have time to cook and KFC becomes our cook for that night ... you praise me even when I don't always deserve it....

....I could go on and on telling you ALL the wonderful things you do --- but list is endless .... and you add to it everyday with your kindness and thoughtfulness...

...so let me finish by saying thank you.... thank you for being my 'bestest' friend, the love of my life, the one who makes my life complete....thank you for not giving up on us and not allowing me to give up either --even though there were some really tough times -- those times only made us stronger... thank you for holding me each night...thank you for loving COFFEE as much as I do!!!...thank you for protecting our children and me .... thank you, Slater for just being YOU!!!!!!!!!!!
Happy Valentine's Day!!! from your wife, Robin

January 25th---1968

2009-01-25T14:24:00.000-06:00

Yes, I know I have the wrong year but something VERY VERY special 'happened' to me on January 25, 1968.... my wonderful parents 'got' me!!! This was the date in 1968 that I was picked up by my parents at the Mississippi Children's Home -- I was one month and ten days old!!! Obivously, I was too young to know what I terrific life I was about to have -- too young to realize that God was giving me two parents who would love me through thick and thin and would raise me to be tough, strong and to believe in Him --- too young to see that not only was I getting two great parents but also a wonderful extended family which included grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins -- too young to know that on this day in 1968 my 'new' (for lack of a better word) daddy got a speeding ticket on the way to the MCH because he was so ready to get me --- too young to know that my 'new' (again for lack of a better word) mother already loved me more than anything --- too young to know that I was loved so much by a woman who heart was torn out because she had 'given up' her little girl (...oh, how I wish she would have known what I great life she had given me)---but that little girl is know 'grown up' and I am no longer too young to know all those things --- and being a mother/parent myself I see how hard my parents my worked, the sacrifices they made, their unconditional for me... so, this date is special to me because this is the day I was GIVEN the best gift I could have ever been given --- Bonnie and Bob Gary --- MY wonderful parents!!!!

**** I don't have any pictures on this computer of my parents and me so I am just putting a picture of them each individually ....

me, the grouch!!

2009-01-19T00:01:00.001-06:00

Ever heard of 'the grouch' well, that's me!!! I have turned into the biggest grouch!!--don't ask me why or how or even when but I have and I don't like it --- my kids don't like it --- Slater doesn't like it --- even our dogs don't like it!! I know me so I realize I have always been moody and liked my 'alone' time but now I have become a real grouch!! I was a gouch last weekend and have been one on and off this weekend...of course, I would like to say it's because I do all the work around here (home) but that isn't true the kids and Slater do alot -- at times much more than me... my other 'excuse' would be the weather -- it's been yukky --- it's either raining or freezing outside or raining and cold combined ...or I could say it's because I sometimes feel like all do is work at the Clinic ...or that I never seem to be able to complete a task at the Clinic because since the two yougest kids started to a different school last fall (a whole'nother story) I have to pick them up at 2:30 so by the time I get them bring them home then go back to work at least an hour has gone by and it's hard to get myself refocused on my work --sometimes I think it would be better if I just stayed at home instead of going back but then I feel guilty... ok so, just sign me up for the nearest psyhic ward... No, seriously all this 'grouchiness' (if that is a word) has made me look deep into myself--- Am I just unhappy? Do I not like my life? Who have I become?
But you know if I look at the world around me I see SO many terrible, tragic, sad things going on ... people losing there jobs, businesses going under (Goodys -- one of my favorites!), the spending of $150 MILLION dollars on Obama's inaugaration when our country is in debt, debt and more debt, Obama becoming our President day after tomorrow (no, this is NOT something I will debate with you-- I don't like him don't believe in him or his goals--and if HE believed in HIS goals he would stop the spending of that money on HIS fanfare!!!!--- do you realize what $450 MILLION dollars could do to help our Nation --- ok, I'll save that soap box for Tuesday or later; to cont, one of my dear friends' mother deep with cancer, a former employee dead because her husband shot her in the face and now 2 precious little girls are without a mother, people who are losing their homes because they have no money to make their house note --- I could go on and on but it would make me extremely depressed ---
Once again I ask myself who have I become? Am I just unhappy? Do I just not like my life? So,as I look at my life this is what I see ... I see I have a handsome sexy husband who loves me -- and thinks I am great, terrifc, beautiful and adores me (don't ask me why he thinks all that with all my faults); I see three wonderful children who are happy, healthy, and who are my joys; I see my parents who are alive and who are both in good health...there's --- my mother --- who by the way is the bestest momma in the WHOLE wide world loves me and loves her grandchildren and comes over EVERY Tuesday to help me out around the house (I have ALWAYS said if I were half the momma to my children that she has been / is to me I will be great --- problem is right not I am not even on the same ruler as her) -- my daddy-- he is just my daddy --- the guff, tough, hardworking man that he always has been BUT he loves me would do anything I needed him to do; my in-laws 'Grandma Bee' and 'Grandpa Ken' --- sweet, loving people whom had I not met Slater would have missed the true joy of knowing, loving and calling them my family; my precious dogs/puppies --- while 2 of them live at our 'lakehouse' I still love them and think they are such incredibly sweet things and I am so happy we have 7 of them; and My God while I don't always live the right way, or say the right things, or have the Godly joy in my heart for people as I should -- I know who I am, I know whom I believe in and I know on my days of trouble there are only one set of footprints in the sand b/c Jesus is carrying me and I am so thankful to him for that and for ALL he doing for everyone in my family because I know he is watching, guiding, loving us through our hard times... so, you know I will take my Sunday afternoon naps and/or my 'yuk' moments --- but I will never forget that I have a TERRIFIC life and that all the 'side streets' are just for detours that the devil sends to throw me off balance--- problem is up to now I have let him do just that but NO more!!! Watch out devil get out of my way.... we want God to be our leader....because he has given us so very much to be grateful for and to praise him for and from now on the last thing I will do before I go to sleep is Thank God for his goodness, gracious, and mercy (esp where I am concerned) and the first thing I will do in the morning is thank him for another day ---one which I intend to walk with him as my guide.
Thanks for listening! I feel oh so much better.....

Happy Late New Year!

2009-01-11T17:17:00.000-06:00

It's a little late to be wishing everyone a Happy New Year but January has flown by-- it's acary to think that this month is almost half-way over-- may be that should make me realize that I need to slow down! ....

...2009 started off fun ...Slater, Victoria and me went to New Orleans and rang in the NEW YEAR in the French Quarter --- we actually went to New Orleans for the Alabama vs. Utah Sugar Bowl game but since the outcome was SO BAD I won't talk about the game...I'll just say we had a terrific time in New Orleans! We had reservations at the Sheraton Hotel (one block from the French Quarter) but when we finally got to check-in there were no more rooms (I know what's the use of having reservations -I asked that question too) but due to the fact we did have reservations they gave us the only thing room that was left which was a suite on the 49th floor!!! It was SO cool--- Victoria thought it was incredible-- we all did! Slater and I had been to New Orleans before (Slater use to live there he did his residency at Tulane and worked at the now closed Charity Hospital) but Victoria had not; so the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, the stores, Beinets, etc... she totally took in and loved! We promised her we would take her back soon!
Now on a sadder note -- our precious Boston Terrier Bulldogs got into a TERRIBLE fight last week and our older male got badly hurt...our female, Christine is 4 yrs old; one of our males, Ray Ray we aren't sure his age (he was found battered and dehydrated by a friend of ours) we've had him about a year and a half; and our other male, Bear is about 1 yr old --anyway, they all got along until about 4 mths ago then just out of the blue Bear started 'jumping-on' Ray-Ray --(usually when someone was around -- we could watch them play in the backyard from the windows but if someone walked outside Bear would start) ---anyway, the pool men came to the house Thursday to check on our hot tub and they all three got into it... apparently Bear and Christine jumped on Ray Ray --- they called me at work and came home to find two dogs who looked SO bad! (the pool men not only separated them they also held Bear and stayed here until I could get home!) Anyway, Slater and the kids took Bear and Christine to our lakehouse today to live --- and while this may sound cruel let me say our lakehouse is only a mile from the house we actually live in and they have a huge fenced in area to roam and play and shelter --- I had actually found 3 different people to take Bear but Slater and the kids wouldn't hear of it.... the vet promised the fighting would continue and would only get worse. Of course, I haven't even mention the fact that we still have 4 puppies. Ok, I am not sure all that made any sense but it sure has made us have a bad weekend --- we love our dogs!
Tomorrow starts another week... so, I am hoping all will go better!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T17:12:00.000-06:00

Well, it's the afternoon of Christmas Day and I am just now getting around to writing something...but I guess better late than never, huh!? It's hard to believe I haven't written anything since early December--- this month has flown by... which it actually quite scary ... so, for updates........ this has been a busy month (as it is for everyone)-- Dec 12th is our anniversary (5 years!!) the 15th is my birthday (I am not giving my age) and then of course, the 25th is Christmas... we went to Birmingham for the weekend of our anniversary just as a little get away --- and had a good time it was nice. My mother-in-law got out of the hospital and is now back home in Montgomery. My daddy is recovering nicely from his hip replacement surgery-- he is home but still taking physical therapy. Our puppies are growing like crazy and are SO adorable... Slater told the kids they could keep ALL of them so that make us have SEVEN dogs/puppies!!! We had a great Christmas --- the kids got all sorts 'stuff' from Guitar Hero to IPod's to clothes... Slater and I gave each other tickets to the SUGAR BOWL...Alabama vs. Utah ---ROLL TIDE!!! and we are going to stay where Alabama is staying the Sheraton in the French Quarter --- and we will be in New Orleans for New Year's Eve... we are excited ... And the new Clinic is doing well we are enjoying it --- it is SO nice to have enough room and everything to be 'new'. It's just been a month to be thankful for EVERYTHING--- I realize we are lucky we have our kids, our parents, each other, our dogs/puppies --- also, we live in a free country where God is still worshipped.
...Ok, now that I have written one long paragraph I am going to go --- kitchen to clean .......

Very Busy Week...

2008-12-06T21:40:00.000-06:00

Well, in my last post I told how Monday, Dec 1st was our first day in our NEW Medical Clinic... ok, lets just say it was a very interesting day... to start off although I had call AT & T weeks BEFORE the move and had a confirmation number stating the move was 'ordered' we still started off the day with just ONE phone line instead of 4! Since we didn't have a sign up patients seemed to have trouble finding us (even though we are only about 2 miles straight down the road from our old one)so our one phone line was ringing constantly. Then, in the middle of the first day I left going to Birmingham, Ala to take my daddy for his hip replacement surgery. So, I was gone Monday afternoon, all day Tuesday, all day Wednesday...with my phone ringing every 5 minutes wanting to know where something was or what I thought of this or that... but I was back on Thursday and Friday and things seemed to have settled down ---anyway, we finished out our first week in our NEW Clinic...and it was GREAT!!!!
My daddy did great with his hip replacement surgery... he is now back home. Slater's momma who was in the same hospital is still there now recovering from her surgery.
Today (Saturday) was my day to do nothing!!! It was like my body finally said I am done I can't go or do anything else! So, I just was lazy today. Except for the Alabama vs Florida game---which of course everyone knows by now that Alabama lost! :(
It was as always a very nerve racking game. I was disappointed but actually thought more about the ALabama players and coaches and how they had come SO far and no it was over. I imagine they are heart-broken -but I hope they will remember just how far they have come and all the great things they have accomplished.

Update finally....

2008-11-30T18:26:00.000-06:00

I looked at my blog earlier and realized I haven't posted anything since Nov 19th (except for tagged post I wrote a little bit ago). We have been SO busy I haven't done anything but jump on the computer and check my email and look at the blogs I like and jump off. Where do I start with ALL the happenings of the past week....

Well, here goes....We have 3 precious Boston Terriors--- and our female has been expecting puppies for a while now -- we didn't know the exact due date but we could tell last weekend she was in labor --- so, I decided last Monday I would take her to the vet because she looked SO miserable and he had to do a
c-section --- we now have 4 little sweet Boston Terrier Puppies born November 25th! Here are some pictures taken the day they were born (bottom 2) and today (top)... the one with the solid white head is a female the rest are males.

My husband, Slater is a Medical Doctor in private practive and we have been building a new clinic for about 6 months now ... well, last week was our move in date! I have always hated moving but moving a Medical Clinic is the worst!!! We started moving last Tuesday and moved and moved and moved!!! (this is where I am going to say thank you to my daddy and Slater's daddy for coming to help us move--we would have NEVER made it without you!!!) And of course, nothing ever goes as planned... I won't go into ALL the problems -- (no more than usual for moving a business I am sure) but it's been quite a challenge!! I have a picture of the NEW clinic--- as you can see we don't have a sign or landscaping yet (everytime we were going to get either/both it rained) but we have a beautiful clinic and tomorrow, December 1st, is our very first day to use it!!!

Slater's daddy stayed with us for a few days last week (while he helped us move) and we had such a terrific time!! We didn't make him work the whole time --- we got to listen to him play the piano (he is a GREAT piano player), we went out to eat, we got together with my parents for Thanksgiving, and of course, we watched the Alabama vs. Auburn football game. My father-n-law is a really sweet southern gentleman and I am very lucky to know him!! I wish I would have taken pictures but I never had my camera when I needed it!! But here is a picture of Slater and his daddy Nov 2007.

To continue, Slater's sweet momma had to be put in the hospital -- and had surgery today (obivously not planned)... and my daddy is having hip replacement surgery on Tuesday. They are both going to be in same hospital --- kinda ironic considering we live in MS and them in AL and one was planned and one wasn't.

I've got to run now--I know I am leaving something out... but I am out of time... TOO much to do to get ready for tomorrow.

Tagged.........

2008-11-30T17:41:00.000-06:00

Ok, I am going to try this... I got 'tagged' by Kim at And She Lived... (wonderful blog!!!) so, I am going to try to respond---although I don't know how to pass it on and link it back .....

Here are the rules:

List six things that make you happy
Pass the award on to 5 other bloggers
Link back to the person who gave you the award
Link to the people you’ve passed it on to and comment to let them know

1. My husband, Slater and our 3 children, Tyler, Dallas and Victoria

2. taking Sunday afternoon naps (silly I know but I enjoy naps)

3. long phone conversations with my momma (although it doesn't happen much lately-- I always seem to be too busy :( )

4. reading--- I love reading at night before going to bed!

5. Coffee, coffee, and more coffee!!!! (I am not telling how many cups I drink a day)

6. A clean house --- which is rare since I seem to never be at home!

Ok, I tag Teara (the parkers), Tonya (Safe in His Arms) and Wife to a Rockstar (Storing Up Treasures in Heaven) but since I don't know how to officially tag them I guess I am stuck ------- oh well, thanks Kim, for tagging me!!! (When I have more time I will do some research and see how to really tag them!!!)

Alabama vs MSU game

2008-11-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

I thought I'd sit down and write a few lines quickly before getting ready for work....don't tell...because I am suppose to be in the shower but I am late so often I don't think anyone will notice if today is like every other (in fact, if I was early they would probably all go into shock)!!
I wanted to post some pictures from this past Saturday's football game --- Alabama vs. MSU........ it was quite a COLD game!!! I knew it was going to be chilly but I didn't realize it was going to be cold --- so, of course, we didn't have enough clothes on -- we did run in Target before the game and buy some gloves... although I'm not sure if they really made that much of a difference!!! Anyway, remember me saying Dallas was our big MSU fan --- well, he did as he said he was and wore his MSU shirt--BUT we went to eat at the Mellow Mushroom (GREAT pizza place) in Tuscaloosa before the game and of course, there were nothing but Bama fans there and before I knew it he had put on his Alabama sweatshirt on top of the MSU shirt (good MSU fan, huh!?)
Ok, the game.......we stayed in Barnes and Noble too long (we love going to bookstores esp B&N)....so, we were late getting out to the game --- not late to the game just traveling to the game which made us sit in traffic FOREVER which then made us have to park in the 'back forty'......thank goodness for University buses that take you from the parking lot to the stadium.....we get to the stadium and our seats are way way at the top which meant walking up flights and flights of stairs (ever heard of being out of shape --- that's me!!) ....we finally get to our seats and realize it's going to be a very long very cold game. The game itself was good --- what I watched of it b/c most of it I sat in the restroom with about 5 other women who were freezing also (there wasn't any heat in the rr --just blockage from the wind).
...now, happenings at the game....... first off, we had lots of State fans around us and talking about feeling sorry for them it was sad.... some Bama fans really gave them a hard time....then, when State's players ran out the Bama fans 'boo-d' them (Dallas and I were good- we clapped REALLY loud -- well, as loud as could)...then, some of the State fans had brought 'cow bells' and rang them when State did something good and the obnixous Tuscaloosa police came up and took them away (you know that saying about 'you give someone alittle power' well, that was the Tuscaloosa police --- they acted like complete and total jerks!!!) then, Slater, Victoria and Dallas always toss a football back and forth while walking to the stadium and we put it under our seats during the game and someone stole it (yes, a $10 football!!)....but it was fun b/c it was Alabama football!!!! .........
ok, needless to say I am way late for that shower so I better run fast.......

Lowell Lowry

2008-11-17T20:17:00.000-06:00

Well, today would have been Slater's brother, Lowell 48th birthday. He was born November 17, 1960 and died June 18, 2005. I didn't get the honor of knowing him for a very long time--- just a few years but the time I did know was most unforgetable! He was Slater's greatest bud, pal, and best friend and losing him has left a huge void in Slater's life. I don't have any siblings so I can't honestly say I know or understand all the 'things' he has gone through but I have watched him as he has dealt w/ the grief quite often on a daily basis. I know that there will always be that 'lost look' in Slater's eyes and he will always think of him and wonder what Lowell would be doing today. And as a parent I can't not talk about my wonderful sweet in-laws---Slater's parents-- Ken and Bee Lowry they lost a son and I would think that no matter what age you are losing a child would be one of the greatest hurts ever! Now there is just Slater and his sister, India and I know it feels strange to them knowing that their brother is no longer with them. To Lowell--- Happy Birthday --- May you rest in peace!!!

University of Alabama-yet again!

2008-11-13T06:26:00.000-06:00

Yes, I am about to talk about the University of Alabama once again!! I just wanted to download this really neat picture we had taken on the quad before the Ala vs Ark gameday...there is a story behind it MAYBE I can get it right (I will have Slater read the post and edit it if I am wrong)...the were all kinds of booths set up in the quad on gameday and one of them was support 'The Bear Bryant Museum' --- what you did was give a donation to the museum and you could have you picture made w/ the last trophy 'the Bear's' team won, the hat he was wearing at the game and a blown-up picture of him in the background...needless to say we had the picture made and I wanted to post it! So, here it is!!!!
I also wanted to share a conversation I had earlier in the week... a coworker and I were talking about how Slater is a 'die-heart' Alabama fan and how I have become a fan --I did say though how I would have to cheer alittle of MSU since that's where I went to school...a patient ONLY overheard me say the part of 'cheering for MSU' and his response was 'How can you cheer against the number 1 team in the Nation?' I laughed and tried to explain the simple facts of how I attended MSU, both my parents attended MSU and how they had given MSU a small fortune ( meaning tuition)...no deal... that 'line' didn't work he just looked at me like was crazy mumbled under his breath something about me not being for Alabama and walked away shaking his head...I thought ok Alabama --- Roll Tide Roll b/c even in a Medical Clinic you are being defended!

Veteran's day

2008-11-11T19:12:00.000-06:00

Saluting all men and women who have and are serving in our Armed Forces... thank you! God Bless the USA!

Roll tide Roll

2008-11-08T22:57:00.000-06:00

Alabama WON!!!! Roll Tide Roll!!! Since football season has started we have spent every Saturday either at an Alabama football game or watching it on tv... obivously you can tell we are HUGE Crimson tide fans! Well, Saturday's game just about got the 'best of us' ...meaning the Alabama vs. LSU game--- it was a heart-stopper...at one point I thought I was going to have to leave the room it was so nerve-racking!!! And you know what the ironic thing is? Slater is the one who went to University of Alabama for his undergraduate degree before going on to UAB Medical School to become a Medical Doctor. I went to Mississippi State University got my degree in education so I am in a sense I am a traitor...but I have developed a geniune love for 'Bama' and love going to and watching them play on tv. This Saturday we have tickets to the Alabama vs MSU game -- it will be interesting to say the least. Two (Tyler and Victoria) of our three children are for the Alabama -the other one (Dallas) is for MSU---and he firmly states he is going to wear a MSU shirt to the game -- and of course, we will be sitting right in the middle of 'Bama' land. He states he doesn't care. Victoria states she is ONLY for Alabama because of John Parker Wilson --- Alabama's quarterback--- according to her he is 'hot'. Slater and I on the other hand are just wanting to see Alabama play----every game is SO incredible!!!!

November: National Adoption Month

2008-11-06T21:39:00.000-06:00

I just realized that November is National Adoption month--- I have always known that but I guess I have just been too busy to stop and remember!! Adoption is an 'issue' I feel strongly about--- had it not been for the Mississippi Children's Home and adoption I wouldn't have gotten the wonderful parents and family I have!! I couldn't have asked for a better parents! --- of course, I was like every teenager and thought they didn't know anything or they were totally wrong about everything but now that I am a adult I realize just what all they gave up for me and appreciate everything they did for me! If I am half the mother to my children my mother was/is to me I must be TERRIFIC!!!! (Because she was/is!!! I know I can talk to her about ANYTHING and she will love me unconditionally!!!) And my daddy --- that's a whole 'nother story .... he is gruff, tough acting, controlling, etc... but he is the best daddy ever and I wouldnt't trade him for anything!!! The story goes that my daddy was so excited about getting me that he was speeding on the way to the Mississippi Children's Home and got a ticket...then when they got home that day (January 25, 1968) from getting me my momma opened the oven to begin cooking supper and found the previous night's supper ---the supper she/they had totally forgotten about after the Children's Home called to tell them there was a baby girl ready to be picked up the next day!!! Yes, there may be hundreds, thousands, millions of children who say they were wanted but I can say without a doubt I was a very wanted and loved child!!!! Most mothers keep the outfit they come home from the hospital in --- my momma has the outfit I came home from the Children's home in!!! Yes, I have the BEST parents in the world --- and I thank God everyday for them!!! --- Of course, I couldn't say ALL that without saying something about my birth mother.... she is a wonderful, sweet woman.... she did something incredible on December 15, 1967... she gave birth to me then gave me 'up' so that I would have a life she wasn't able to give me--- that takes a special unselfish type of love --- and I will ALWAYS be thankful and grateful to her that she chose to give me up for adoption.... what a wonderful gift she gave me!!! So, yes, I will admit I know I am special --- I was adopted!!!

My second post!!! Hoorah!!

2008-11-05T20:00:00.000-06:00

Well, it's taken me days and days to figure out blogging --- and I promise I still don't have it down! I will change a picture, a background, or try to add something only to come back and have 'lost' something else! I almost said forget it but now I see it as a challenge and I am determined to at least try it for a few more times!

As I was searching for pictures I seemed to be able to find lots of everyone except our oldest child, Tyler--- his is 16 and doesn't seem to like to be around the rest of us --- you remember those teenage years ---parents don't understand or know anything and younger siblings are just 'pains'! Anyway, I have lots of Slater, Dallas, Victoria and myself but not many w/ Tyler ...makes me sad...these precious years only come around once...also makes me aware to take more pictures of him!!!

The pictures above are from last weekend ---- we went to the Alabama vs Arkansas homecoming game (all of us except Tyler) ... we had a blast!!! We left Friday afternoon when the kids got out of school and drove to Tuscaloosa-- ate at one of our favorite places : 'Steamers' (best seafood ever!!) then went to the University of Alabama campus for the Homecoming Pep Rally--- we were suppose to stay for the bonfire but Hank Williams, Jr was in concert on campus and Slater wanted to go see him--- NOT something I cared to do--- especially with Dallas and Victoria along--- I've always heard his concerts are 'bad' --- but we went anyway...AND .... it wasn't bad at all...he actually had a decent, nice, clean performance! I was quite impressed! Of course, the kids weren't very interested at all--- he is alittle TOO old for their taste! Anyway, to cont we spent the night in T-town got up the next morning and tailgated to the game --- went to the game --- watched Alabama WIN (of course!!! Roll Tide!!) Went back to eat at 'Steamers' (told you it was our favorite place!!!) then came home! It was an exhausting but wonderful weekend!

Being thankful for my husband!

2008-11-03T20:56:00.000-06:00

Slater, I love and appreciate you more everyday! Thank you for ALL you do for our family!!

www.rglowry.blogspot.com

2008-11-02T15:06:00.001-06:00

Blogging--new to me...

2008-10-30T23:34:00.000-05:00

This whole idea of blogging is new to me and something I don't fully understand ---
the same goes with facebook and myspace --- I not only don't understand the whole concept but don't understand how people have time to actually sit down and type out their thoughts and search for long lost friends....but I thought I would give in to the modern day 'peer' pressure and try it --- all I have accomplished so far is having my husband now upset with me for spending the past hour + on the computer --something I very rarely do usually I get on look for what I want then get off. And I have spent all this time and don't have graphic one, picture one, thought one, posted.... amazing--- WHO has time for this!?!? But I am NOT going to give up after only one night I am going to try really hard to see if I can do this............wish me luck because so far if it's suppose to be fun ---it's NOT!!!!