just a girl and her dog

My Something

2012-01-26T17:59:00.002-05:00

Well, once again this year my resolution was "to do something". It's such a great idea because everyday you do something. It's fail proof! It could be as simple as brushing your teeth, drinking coffee, paying a bill, or it could be bigger like practicing knitting, sewing, or trying a new recipe.
By January 2nd, I already had my "big something" for 2012. I was convinced to attempt the Dupont 1/2 Marathon! So, training officially began yesterday. I rushed from school to go running in the woods with Ann and our dogs. I realized this task was upon me, so Sunday I decided it was time to kick it into high gear. This is when I realized I hadn't actually run since December! I had been walking, but not running. Oops! So, going into this run I had a few butterflies. I just knew I was going to have to stop and walk. However, as I turned the last corner and realized where we were, I knew I had made it! I completed the 5 mile run in the woods with confidence I could do it again. Now as for the 9 or 10 mile run...well, we will just have to see!
So, here's to staying busy in 2012 getting ready for an April race!

Play Time

2012-01-21T09:32:00.002-05:00

Could you say "no" to this face?!

Sole Party

2012-01-21T09:20:00.002-05:00

I participated in a sole party at church last night. We cut shoes for Sole Hope, a local organization that teaches the trade of shoe-making to African widows as well as people without homes living here in WNC, then delivers the shoes to children living in Uganda and Zambia. So we gathered for pizza first then got down to business. We had a team of tracers who traced the patterns needed for each shoe on old denim and cotton fabric. The next team gathered the material and did the cutting. The third team organized and pinned the pieces together for a shoe. We finally called it quits after 2 hours of working. There is still work to be done, so we are thinking a girls night this week just might get the job finished!
I had a great time talking with everyone and making new connections. I even discovered another family and I had breakfast together about three years ago with a mutual friend that moved. Isn't it really a small world?

Friends

2012-01-21T09:11:00.003-05:00

For the long weekend, I made my way to the Cary/Apex area. It was a coffee drinking, birthday partying, music hearing, story telling kind of weekend.

Celebrating Mom

2012-01-21T09:04:00.003-05:00

January 12th mom celebrated her birthday! I was able to spend a little time that weekend with her. Happy Birthday to my loving, inspirational, and most kind hearted mother.

Weather

2012-01-12T19:21:00.003-05:00

(These were taken with my phone, so not great quality)
This was seen outside our school as I was leaving yesterday. It was a full, double rainbow! That has to be some kind of good luck...right?!

This was my view when I pulled in the parking lot this morning. Again, these pictures don't do the sky justice.

Legal

2012-01-12T19:16:00.002-05:00

This pup turned 3 (or 21!) on the 11th!

2012 begins

2012-01-02T18:28:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year from us to you!!!

2012

2012-01-01T20:15:00.002-05:00

Here is a little reading to begin your new year.
http://www.prana.com/blog/2011/12/23/12-things-happy-people-do-differently/

May the new year bring you everything you need! It's going to be a good one!

Just a little more...

2011-12-30T18:59:00.003-05:00

Petty Christmas

2011-12-30T18:11:00.004-05:00

Those of us that were close by joined together Tuesday evening to celebrate Christmas together.

"Christmas Morning"

2011-12-30T17:59:00.005-05:00

The best Christmas present arrived when the Ohio Gribbles made it to NC Tuesday!!!

special

2011-12-26T17:06:00.004-05:00

I have fond memories of going over to MeMe and Pa's house each year to help decorate the Christmas tree. When the tree was done and fully watered, this quilt was placed underneath. This Christmas the quilt was given to me by mom and dad. As I look at it and touch the stitching, I will be reminded of my beautifully kind grandparents.

Christmas Eve

2011-12-26T17:01:00.003-05:00

We headed to Grandma Gribble's house Saturday afternoon for an evening filled with watching a super cute one year old! We were missing the Ohio Gribbles for sure. Hopefully we'll all be together again soon.

All The Way From CO

2011-12-24T13:38:00.002-05:00

I made a stop at Lake Hickory on my travels home to see my dear friend Dana. I missed her husband Trent again this year as he was flying into town that evening. Instead, I spent the afternoon with Dana and Grayson who flew all the way from CO for the holidays! I can't wait until they move back home!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T07:58:00.000-05:00

Tacky

2011-12-18T18:21:00.003-05:00

I attended Dan and Briana's 2nd annual tacky sweater party. Here are a few shots in all their tacky glory:

Decorations

2011-12-17T16:48:00.003-05:00

I was inspired one evening while playing outside with Pattie. Just as the sun was setting, I looked inside the large picture window and saw only the lights from the tree glowing. I probably took over 60 pictures trying to get it all just right. It's still not just right, but close enough I suppose.

Create your own free picture slideshow

The Nutcracker

2011-12-17T16:43:00.003-05:00

Last night, I traveled home to attend The Nutcracker ballet with mom. This was a custom mom and I shared growing up. Each year, we would attend the ballet together. Even Dad and Phillip attended one year, and I stress one year! I would watch as the ballerinas took the stage with such pose and grace as they seemed to glide in front of my eyes. Not much has changed. I was just as entranced watching last night as when I was a little girl. Now my desire to be a ballerina again has surfaced...

Feeling Festive

2011-12-17T16:38:00.002-05:00

Well, it's that time of year again. It's that time of year when teacher's start losing their minds! There is shopping to do, decorating to get done, presents to make, and many young children to entertain who are quite excited! Here's how we survive:

Mom visits

2011-12-17T16:21:00.002-05:00

Thursday afternoon mom traveled up the mountain to spend a few days. We enjoyed an evening at the Grove Park Inn searching for our favorie Gingerbread House. Friday mom had the pleasure of spending the entire day in Kindergarten! Eveyone loved GG! Together we watched a movie, had breakfast out, and did some Christmas shopping. It warms my heart to spend time with her.

Slideshow customized with Smilebox

Book Club...

2011-12-17T16:14:00.002-05:00

with a circus theme! Our book this month was Night Circus so Brenna served food with a circus theme. There were individual containers of gourmet popcorn, veggie hotdogs, bacon wrapped chicken, pasta salad, and candy apples to take home!

Proud

2011-12-06T18:30:00.001-05:00

I knew I looked up to my big brother for a reason:

click here to watch Phillip on TV!

For the record

2011-11-29T20:26:00.002-05:00

Today is Tuesday, November 29th and we had our first snow today. Now, it didn't stick to the ground but it was just pretty enough to wish you were at home in your pajamas with a hot cup of cocoa. Or just pretty enough to get the kids super duper excited while we went outside to "play" in it. Or just pretty enough to watch it fall and forget it was time for teaching. Either way, it was pretty and actually nice to share with the kids. When we got back inside one of the kids said, "Do you think we can build a snowman today?!"

Thankful

2011-11-29T19:47:00.002-05:00

As I continue to hear heartbreaking tales of challenges that children at my school must endure, I am ever grateful for a loving family. I thank each one of you for loving me.

Another photo slideshow by Smilebox

Pre-Thanksgiving

2011-11-29T19:39:00.003-05:00

Tuesday evening we all made it safely home and Wednesday we traveled to see Grandma Gribble. We spent some time playing outside, helping get her Christmas stuff down from the attic, and letting Phillip fill his veins with some might tasty Bojangles grease!

Holiday Parade

2011-11-20T20:55:00.004-05:00

Saturday I had the opportunity to walk in the local parade with some friends. We helped decorate and showed our holiday spirit for Window World. Halfway through the parade I decided I'm not cut out to be a beauty princess!

Funny

2011-11-18T15:14:00.001-05:00

Just a funny this morning during group time:
Ms. Gribble: "What day of the week is it today?
Helper: "Saturday!"
Ms. G: "Well, that's close. Let's look again at the calendar"
Helper: "Oh, Friday!" (he says this with wide eyes)
Ms. G: "Yes! Now do you remember what month it is?
Helper: "Noctember!" (he says with even wider eyes!)

So, Happy "Noctember" Everyone! Enjoy your weekend!

It's a "super" weekend!

2011-11-13T21:11:00.003-05:00

Saturday afternoon I participated in the Superhero 5K. It began (and ended) at a local pizza and brewing company where the real prize was a slice of pizza and a beer! I found these great socks that came complete with their own cape which I'm pretty sure helped me run faster! ;)

Sunday after church I made my way over to Jon and Caitlin's house to meet sweet baby girl Marlo! She was a great snuggler!

Turn It Up!

2011-11-11T07:02:00.003-05:00

You're gonna want to turn up the volume! Rockin' out!

humbled

2011-11-06T18:07:00.002-05:00

This morning I met the church I have been attending to help feed the homeless breakfast and share in communion. Since May, I have been attending this church with my friends Maggie, Justin, and their three children. It has become part of my "auntie" time. I drive to their house by 8:45 Sunday morning, jump in the van, and we all ride together for the 9:15 service. I have felt welcomed since the moment I stepped foot in the sanctuary. This church gives true meaning to "love thy neighbor". I have been challenged to step out of my box since I began attending. I grew up in a church where you sat down in your pew, didn't talk during the service, didn't really get to draw during the service, and was expected to pay close attention. The first few times I attended, there were numerous children out and about in the aisle or playing in the "rocks" under the windows. It was quite a distraction and I felt myself thinking this is not how we worship! Once I focused back on the service, I looked around and noticed several same sex couples. This only distracted me temporarily as I do live near Asheville! As I have continued to attend, I have grown to enjoy seeing the many cute children who mostly just occupy the pews these days. Many of the members participate in the service through scripture readings, taking of the offering, or helping prepare the food for the gathering time after each service. I do miss having a choir to hear but the messages delivered each week are well worth attending. After my first month of attending I already had a name tag and I'm not even an official member!
Maggie and Justin were unable to attend today and I haven't been ready to attend without them...until today. I woke this morning right on time (except it was 6:00 instead of 7:00) and knew I had to go help. Again, I was stepping out of my box. Not only was attending without my friends nerve racking, but going to feed the homeless is something I had never done before. I have always wanted to, but never made the effort. I arrived, spoke to a few people, and breakfast serving began. We met in the park where the drum circle is held and the homeless lined up for biscuits, hard boiled eggs, fruit, yogurt, coffee, and juices. We made hygiene kits back in the summer and they were sitting out for the taking. I saw people heading that way, so I walked over and began speaking to each person that arrived. I gave them my biggest smile and perkiest good morning. I realized after the third or fourth person that my nervousness had disappeared. No one wanted to share stories, but each one greeted me back with a smile and good morning. I'm not real sure if anyone's life was truly affected today, but I know it made me really stop and think. Each one of those people that came today for breakfast and to share in communion is simply that, a person. Not matter how they got there or where their life is taking them next, they are each children of God.

Parkway

2011-11-06T17:33:00.002-05:00

After meeting Ann for a "short" run, we headed up the parkway to cheer on Brenna. She was running the shut-in race which is an incredibly steep 17+ mile trail run which I'm pretty sure I will NEVER participate in! The other girls in the cheering section are thinking about running it next year. I told them I would be there with my camera, some posters, noisemakers, and champagne for the finish line!
Here are a few pictures from the race and as we climbed the parkway...in the car!

Make your own free photo slideshow

Worth Sharing...

2011-11-05T08:05:00.003-05:00

Click here

If that one doesn't work, try this one:
click here

Maya meets Book Club

2011-10-29T19:09:00.003-05:00

Maya was born to Amanda and Jeremiah the end of September. We have all been over to meet Maya and take food; but Maya had never met Book Club. So, Thursday was her lucky night. Or maybe it was our lucky night.

" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tJUAzbE_zoA/TqyW5kcB4SI/AAAAAAAACdk/clsF99HzBaM/s320/116.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669071946730561826" />

Fall Is In The Air

2011-10-29T18:50:00.002-05:00

Shower

2011-10-29T18:40:00.003-05:00

So, he is my cousin:

And this girl wearing "a hat", what we call in the south the practice bouquet, is going to be my cousin:
And these are all the gifts they received, which at an extremely rapid pace still took over an hour to open!:

**Thanks to Laura and Maggie for being such gracious hostess! From the knitting lesson, to the shrimp n' grits dinner, to the fireworks, to the hot tub time I'm thinking you might should never stay at my house. It will never compare!

Tazapawlooza...take 2

2011-10-19T18:08:00.002-05:00

For the 2nd year in a row, I participated in a day full of trail running, "mountain biking", bb gun shooting (which I was 2nd overall in for guys and girls combined!), axe throwing, obstacle course, and closest to the pin. We began our adventure at 9:00Saturday morning and wrapped up with the awards ceremony around 10:30 that evening. This year Eugene made medals for 1st-3rd places for both guys and girls. I won 2nd for the girls only trailing by 10 points from 1st place! Whew...what a day!

Create your own slideshow design

Charleston continued...

2011-10-03T20:27:00.004-05:00

The rest of the long weekend was devoted to hanging with my dear friends Anna and Blair. Our friend Jen rode down with me, so we enjoyed some much needed girl time while Blair was working. He was able to join us for evening festivities.

It's a Charleston Wedding!

2011-10-03T20:08:00.002-05:00

Thursday evening I went down for Mandi and Ryan's beautiful wedding! After dating for 11 years, they finally decided to make it official. Since they were getting married on a Friday at 4:30 I was going to have to take the day off from work to make it in time. So, I offered to help if needed on Friday. Well, I became the wedding decorator! I met at 10 that morning to begin the transformation; then went back to meet the florist at 3:00. By the time I made it back, the flowers were all set and the cake was no where to be found! By this time it was 30 minutes late. After the bride arrived and had her pictures taken, I got a little worried. I got the number and my most direct voice ready and demanded the cake be delivered since it was now an hour late. I informed them I would be calling back in 15 minutes if it had not arrivied. Lucky for them, the cake arrived with 2 minutes to spare. Of course, the florist had to leave for another event so I became the cake decorator placing flowers on the cake as directed. For awhile there I felt like Martha Gribble, the wedding director. Maybe we should get together. We could be on to something here!

Customize your own free slideshow design

Fall Is Here

2011-09-25T18:30:00.002-05:00

flower

2011-09-25T10:01:00.002-05:00

words to live by

2011-09-20T18:58:00.000-05:00

saw this on someone's page today and thought it was worth sharing:

Brewgrass

2011-09-18T17:44:00.004-05:00

Brewgrass is just that: brews and bluegrass all wrapped up into 7 hours of Saturday fun! Since we're older now, we only spent 5 hours in the sun but enjoyed every second. We sampled beers from breweries across NC, SC, and GA while enjoying some tasty food from local restaurants. Hanging out with friends was just what I needed.

Wedding Shower

2011-09-18T17:41:00.003-05:00

Last weekend, we gathered for Mandi and Ryan's wedding shower. It's hard to believe that after 11 years of dating they will finally tie the knot on September 30th!!!

Labor Day

2011-09-05T09:08:00.003-05:00

Spending time in the Cary/Apex area with friends was a great way to enjoy the weekend. The Hogg family drove down from Michigan and we were all able to visit. Our small group of 7 has now grown to 15! My visit was cut a little short when I learned Saturday that my Pattie girl decided to take a little tour of Rural Hall. The leash came loose and chased her through the streets until she was found wrapped around a tree. Thanks to mom, dad, and Uncle Dave who helped on the rescue. Especially dad who left the golf course just as he was teeing off on the 17th hole. So, now we know Pattie is spooked by trash bags, balloons, mirrors, and retractable leashes chasing her! Sorry to mom who practically had a heart attack. Hopefully they will still keep Pattie again one day! I left Sunday to come check on my girl. The good news is she got enough exercise to last for the upcoming week and I won't have to clip her toenails for a long time! It's all good!

This slideshow design created with Smilebox

And so it begins...

2011-08-29T18:14:00.002-05:00

As I begin my 11th year of teaching, there are a few things I am reminded of:
1. The first days of Kindergarten are much like herding cats. Have you ever tried herding cats? I don't think it's possible!
2. Days of long, relaxing summer lunches are quickly replaced with quick 10 minute stuff your face lunches while giving "the look" to avoid having to get up
3. 5:45 is just plain early
4. It's okay to be tired and ready for bed by 8:00 for the first few days
5. If you thought I talked a lot before, you should hear me talking during the school days
6. No matter how much they drive you crazy they are only five and just need some guidance
7. 23 "little ducklings" following you makes for a long line
8. Take 2 steps, stop, check line, repeat. No wonder it takes us five minutes to walk down one short hallway
9. You're guaranteed to laugh by what you learn from children. You just never know what is going to come out of those mouths.
10. Remember these days now because they will grow in so many ways by December and especially by June.

Here's to patience, patience, and more patience! Oh and being able to learn with the children.

Ohio

2011-08-16T18:22:00.002-05:00

I headed up to Ohio to help celebrate Sawyer's 6th birthday. Seriously 6?! I remember heading back to school armed with a huge smile and stack of pictures showing my brand new nephew. Wasn't that just last year?!

Picture slideshow generated with Smilebox

It's growing...

2011-08-16T18:17:00.004-05:00

or at least it was! I swear each morning I walked outside there was some sort of change to the garden. It was such an enjoyable way to start the day. When I got back from my week long trip to Bryson City and then on to Ohio the garden wasn't looking so good. I believe a rabbit must have enjoyed some tasty greens and tomatoes while I was gone. At least the beans are growing, the lettuce is growing, the carrots are sprouting, and there are still a few tomatoes left.

.

Saying Goodbye

2011-08-16T18:10:00.003-05:00

My dear friends Anna and Blair are off to Charleston, SC for a 6-8 year adventure. Although it is heartbreaking to see them go, it is such a wonderful opportunity for Blair. He will be working at the National Weather Service down there going from measuring snow to measuring water levels from hurricanes I suppose. At least I know it's only a "until we see each other again". Charleston is only a quick trip down the road and what a great place to visit

!

Woo Hoo!!!

2011-08-05T07:04:00.003-05:00

I am proud to be a Clear Creek Club and work with such amazing teachers!!!
http://www.blueridgenow.com/article/20110804/WIRE/110809873/1151?p=1&tc=pg

Camp Gribble

2011-07-24T17:59:00.002-05:00

Thursday afternoon the Ohio Gribbles made their way to "camp" at my house for the long weekend. After naps, I took them into the Pisgah where we hiked to a waterfall you can walk behind. Mom came late Thursday night to join us for the Friday festivities. Friday morning we headed over to Bryson City so everyone could meet Bradley and hear him play. We had a picnic at Deep Creek then went tubing down the river. Sawyer loved it! Friday evening, I exposed them to the drum circle downtown. We hung around the house Saturday and let the kids play in the water. We had a cook-out with some friends before calling it an evening to finish packing things up. They got away around 5:15 this morning and have made it safely home to Ohio. Hopefully they will make a reservation again at Camp Beauty!

Create your own free photo slideshow

Growing a Garden

2011-07-24T17:55:00.003-05:00

Last week, Bradley came over and helped plant the garden or "our garden" as he says. We planted 3 tomato plants, 2 different kinds of lettuce, greens, and we are trying carrots. This weekend I finished another bed and planted two types of green beans. We are hoping to add all this to the peppers, tomatoes, corn, beans, and squash he is already growing at his house. So far, the greens are poking through!

3 year old Princess

2011-07-19T08:10:00.003-05:00

Thursday, July 14th Caroline turned 3. We celebrated her special day with everything pink, princess, and pretty! She will have her real princess party when she gets home.

Another picture slideshow by Smilebox

N. Topsail Week

2011-07-19T07:48:00.002-05:00

Saturday morning, the Gribble family headed to N. Topsail for a week of sun, surf, and sand! We stopped in the Chapel Hill area for lunch at Armadillo Grill, a walk to the old well, and t-shirt shopping on Franklin Street. From there it was on to the beach for a week of relaxation!

Make a slideshow design

Dash

2011-07-19T07:40:00.003-05:00

Friday before the beach, Dad, Phillip, Jammie, Sawyer, and I headed downtown to check out a Dash baseball game. Thanks to a friend from church, our tickets allowed us to the club area where food and drinks were a plenty! We stayed in our seats until the end of the 7th when we moved up to the covered area for the 8th inning. It was here rain poured along with thunder and lightening. We waited out the strong storm and finally made a run for it when the rain slacked off a bit. The opposing team was the entertainment creating their own slip n slide on the field!

Dinner with the Newlyweds

2011-07-19T07:31:00.002-05:00

Before heading to the beach, Kathryn and Tom had the local family over for dinner. We checked out the fabulous new house! They are working on unpacking and getting things just right, but it has such great space and a beautiful view out back. What a comfortable way to spend the evening.

Recap

2011-07-05T18:09:00.002-05:00

Here are some pictues from my few day stay in Bryson City:

Book Club

2011-06-25T07:32:00.003-05:00

I missed the May book club so was anxious to see everyone for the June "wine club"! We met at Rachel's house and celebrated her 30th bday as well! After discussing Shanghai Girls, it was decided we would read The Hunger Games for July book club.

Father's Day

2011-06-21T18:01:00.002-05:00

Thanks to my dad for helping me grow into the woman I have become. I will always be your little girl. Love, Priss Pot

Visiting Friends

2011-06-21T17:52:00.003-05:00

Thursday morning I headed to the Cary/Apex area for a long weekend. Luckily the weather was warm, but not miserable. We enjoyed days filled with hours at the pool, hanging out listening to music, and relaxing while catching up. I was also able to welcome baby Appie Bryant to "the family".

Customize your own slideshow design

33??!!!

2011-06-12T19:57:00.002-05:00

I think I said this last year, but I really think this year topped last year's celebration. I had all intentions of getting people together for dinner on my birthday out somewhere. Sunday morning, I woke and decided a cook-out here at my house would be the more intimate atmosphere I was looking for. So, Thursday evening we gathered here for dinner, cake, party glasses, and good laughs. It made my heart happy.

Free picture slideshow generated with Smilebox

Pretty

2011-06-12T19:54:00.003-05:00

I walked out one evening to see these blooming in the yard. It just brings a smile to my face.

The Girlies!

2011-05-30T16:48:00.002-05:00

Friday evening, Jessica and her girls arrived for a fun filled girls only weekend! Arriving after dark, we played in the yard for a bit with Pattie before calling it a night. Saturday morning, Jess and I enjoyed drinking our coffee outside while Pattie chased the girls who chased a white squirrel! The girls had never seen a white squirrel before and were quite impressed. We went on a picnic lunch in the woods before heading downtown to check out the splash pad. That evening, I made dinner here and we played outside with bubbles, sidewalk chalk, and Pattie. Sunday morning, we enjoyed our coffee outside while the girls played and Pattie tried to "bite" the bubbles! We had a picnic lunch in the Pisgah after checking out a waterfall. We took one last walk around the block before the girls headed down the mountain. What a wonderful weekend to have guests!

This free digital slideshow generated with Smilebox

Baptism

2011-05-24T21:09:00.003-05:00

Sunday I was the stand-in auntie while Liam and Ellie were baptized. It was an honor to be asked by Maggie and Justin to attend the service. We never got pictures of ourselves afterwards, so enjoy these pictures that were taken with Maggie's camera!

Girls on the Run...

2011-05-22T13:08:00.002-05:00

is so much fun! For the 3rd year in a row, I helped coach 3rd-5th graders at my school in the GOTR program. For 12 weeks, we met with the girls two afternoons per week incorporating running into lessons on self image, how to deal with bullies, eating healthy, and loving your body to name a few. Sometimes I think the lessons were written for adults to hear as well! Saturday the girls completed the 5K; some for the first time and others for their 2nd year in a row. I ran with Anna who I taught in Kindergarten and is now a 3rd grader. She gave me a run for my money!

Free picture slideshow made with Smilebox

Remembering...

2011-05-17T16:45:00.002-05:00

Remembering Sweet Grandmother Gen who is rejoicing in heaven with her husband Ken, her son-in-law Marty, and her best friends my own MeMe and Pa.

Merlefest

2011-05-03T18:23:00.002-05:00

On my way to school Thursday morning, I found out from the Lewis' there were two free tickets to Merlefest with my name on them! How could I resist?! Friday afternoon, I dropped off Pattie with her sister and headed to West Jefferson to meet everyone. We stayed at Jessica's family cabin which was about 45 minutes from the venue. I enjoyed over 12 hours of music Saturday after a relaxing morning with coffee and listening to the river. Sunday morning I hung around the cabin with the girls exploring the property before heading out for an afternoon of music. My only question now is "Why have I never been before?!!!!"

Create a free slideshow design

Another Family Gathering

2011-05-03T18:14:00.003-05:00

Saturday evening, we hosted the Petty family that was in town. We were missing many, but enjoyed being with those that were around. Mom made a wonderful chicken pie meal complete with too many delicious sides followed up by the 3 desserts that were brought! We had to venture outside for some baseball to work off the meal!

Extended Family

2011-05-03T18:11:00.003-05:00

The entire Gribble family gathered at Grandma Gribble's house the Friday before Easter. We haven't all been together in 4 years! Since our last gathering, Caroline and Mali have both been born! We celebrated Grandma Gribble's 84th birthday early with her.

Easter Fun

2011-05-03T17:57:00.003-05:00

I traveled home the Thursday before Easter to spend time with the family. We played outside, hung out with family, put flowers on the graves, dyed eggs, rode bikes, read books, and waited for the Easter bunny to arrive!

Slideshow customized with Smilebox

Spring Break!

2011-04-18T16:23:00.004-05:00

To begin my Spring break, I headed down to Edisto Island to help celebrate the marriage of Briana and Dan! Thankfully the terrible storms that were heading our way turned more north. The wedding went as planned outside and during the reception the srong winds calmed. We enjoyed a little pool time Saturday afternoon and a quick trip to the beach Sunday before leaving town. Now it's on to some relaxing before heading home for a long Easter weekend.

Tickled Pink!

2011-04-12T17:30:00.004-05:00

Friday afternoon I headed to Cary/Apex after dropping Pattie off with my parents. I arrived in time for dinner with the whole crowd...a table for 10 with one on the way please! (well, minus The Hoggs and then we would need a table for 14 plus one on the way!) Saturday morning, Jessica and I headed over to help shower Heather in pink. She has 3 boys and is expecting a baby girl in May!!!! The afternoon was spent shopping before spending the evening relaxing with everyone plus neighbors while listening to music. There were guitars, singers, maracas, one 1st grader on a drum, and one 6th grader on a flute. It was the Apex band!

Zoo

2011-04-12T17:25:00.004-05:00

On Saturday, April 2nd we had another workday to make up for a missed day due to snow. Afterwards, I rushed to a wedding shower before hitting up dinner with friends. So, Sunday I made a spur of the moment decision to head down to Greenville with Maggie and her kids. We headed to the small Greenville Zoo and a trip to Trader Joe's before heading back up the mountain. Since Saturday was taken I decided to enjoy Sunday and enjoy it I did!

Devotion

2011-03-30T19:40:00.002-05:00

The church I have been attending puts together a book for Lent. Each day of Lent is a scripture, devotion written by someone from the congregation, and a prayer. A few weeks ago, they were in need of a few more writers. I went home and e-mailed the person in charge expressing my willingness to write if needed. What was I thinking?! Well, here is what I submitted (minus the prayer. I forgot to originally write it so I sent it as a separate e-mail and didn't save it I guess):
Revelation 10: 1-10
After hearing there was a need for eight more devotion writers I decided to step up and answer the call. It wasn’t until after I sent the e-mail volunteering that I actually came to my senses and realized what I was really doing! This week I received the scripture, read the passages, read them again, and waited. I was waiting for those right words to enter. Below are the words that found me. The explanation or connection might not be clear to you, but like I said these are the words that found me.
I am one to believe there are angels all around us. Those angels might be loved ones that have passed before us or simply unknown angels that were sent to watch and protect over us. After reading about the angel and the little scroll, this angel reminded me of a teacher. At first, I thought of this angel as a teacher in a classroom. This was probably my first instinct because I am a teacher myself of young children. However, the more times I read the passage this week, I began to think of this angel as anyone in my life that I have learned from. My grandparents were influential people in helping me become the person that I am today. So, maybe this angel could be my MeMe and Pa. In the first verse, the angel is descending “wrapped in a cloud, with a rainbow over his head; his face was like the sun”. All those are signs of peace and bring a smile to my face. So, this angel was a sign of peace and comfort. When I think of a scroll it brings to mind great teachings. The angel told of this scroll as being “bitter to your stomach, but sweet as honey in your mouth”. Was the angel saying it is best to keep unkind words hidden down below and only let sweet words leave the mouth? Or was the angel saying if you swallow the scroll the teachings will be bitter in the stomach because they are kept hidden? If you read back over “the mystery of God will be fulfilled, as he announced to his servants” this is telling us to share the good teachings. We need to share the good news, the kind words, and the important teachings of God. This can be done by sharing the lessons that we have learned through the years.
As the children leave my classroom, I tell them to “be sweet. Remember who you are and where you came from” just as was told to me each time I left my grandparents house for college. This was always my last stop out of town. MeMe would say, “be sweet. Remember who you are” and Pa would chime in with “and where you came from. We love you.” So, even those children I know are going home to troubling situations, they at least know they left a classroom where they were loved and cared for. Isn’t it better to share the good in life and let kind words leave our mouths tasting like sweet honey?

Miles visits Kindergarten

2011-03-30T19:22:00.002-05:00

Two weeks ago I was planning my dinosaur unit. We haven't done this unit in a few years but we had an extra week the way the calendar fell so we put it back in. Most of our boys love learning about dinosaurs. We make dinosaurs out of pasta, "excavate" chips out of chocolate chip cookies, measure the real length, see how many of our feet fit into one large dino foot, etc. Well, my friends Maggie and Justin have one smart boy who LOVES dinosaurs! So, as I was planning I had this brilliant idea to invite him to the classroom! Miles will be going to Kindergarten in the Fall so this was helpful to me since I have a hard time pronouncing the names and helpful for him to see what Kindergarten might be about. He arrived around 9 and left before our lunch at 11. He helped read us two books, "wrote" a story about taking a dinosaur to school, made a pasta dinosaur, played in the blocks with the dinos, and made a dinosaur in the Art center. Here are a few pictures from his trip and a video if it will upload. He reads an entire A-Z dino book so it is kind of long.

This free photo slideshow customized with Smilebox

Spring Day

2011-03-26T15:35:00.001-05:00

It was beautiful at the beginning of this week with the start of Spring. After a trying day at work, I came home and relaxed outside with Pattie. I decided to see what pictures I could take from sitting in the chair. Here is what I discovered:

Free digital slideshow customized with Smilebox

Max Patch and Hot Springs

2011-03-26T15:17:00.002-05:00

Last Saturday I went with some friends up to Max Patch. I searched on the internet before going and thought we were going on a 9 mile hike for the day. Turns out it was more of a stroll, but I was certainly prepared in case we got stranded for a few days! One of the girls had a dear friend who was hit by a car earlier in the week. He was a fellow camper so once we settled at the top she lit a candle in his memory. The candle holder she made at camp with him.
After leaving the beautiful views, we headed over to Hot Springs. I have wanted to go since college and last week was the day! After a delicious mexican dinner on the way home we all crashed. I haven't seen views like that in awhile and they were long overdue.

Customize your own photo slideshow

In Bloom

2011-03-14T19:25:00.004-05:00

While at home this past weekend, I was in my old room and happend to peer out the window to see my camellia bush blooming. As my memory serves me, which might be different from the true story, I chose this bush to plant under my bedroom window in middle school. It could have been late elementary school. Nevertheless, I remember making the choice. (So, mom and dad if that's not true just let me go on believing it to be.) Here are a few shots from the ever growing, ever blooming memory.

Rah, Rah Car'lina-'lina!

2011-03-14T18:17:00.005-05:00

Pattie helped cheer on the Tarheels with us Saturday. She must have been worn out Sunday to help pull them through. That's okay, she has until Friday to rest up!
(this was from the ACC tournament...I am having trouble getting the video uploaded....)
Continuing on with the cheering: I have stayed busying cheering on the Tarheels. These pictures are dark because they were taken with my cell phone. I just couldn't pass up taking a capturing a night of fried pickles, beer, friends, and Carolina making it to the Elite 8!

Wellingtons

2011-03-14T18:08:00.003-05:00

I went to church last weekend in the pouring rain wearing leggings, a skirt, and my rain boots. Looking like a five year old I might add, but hey, it was pouring rain and at least I made the effort to attend church. Anyways, I sit down next to some friends I have made. The wife is also a Kindergarten teacher in the county so we are always swapping stories. Well, she is also from England. As the service is beginning she looks at me and says, "I love your Wellingtons". Well, I'd love to thank her but I'm not sure what she is talking about. So, of course I asked. This is probably a term I should know, but well I didn't. So, I went to church and learned a new word all in the same day!
(I did not make Pattie put her paws near my wellingtons for the picture. I was just snapping pictures and she wanted to be close.)

Has Spring Sprung?!

2011-02-27T09:56:00.002-05:00

Saturday night

2011-02-27T09:53:00.004-05:00

My friend Hollie came into town for work again, so a few of us met up for dinner. It was a great way to end another Saturday night!

Shower with Friends

2011-02-27T09:49:00.003-05:00

I helped shower Abby (in the green scarf) for her upcoming wedding. We met at a cute tea room for scones, tiny sandwiches, and 3 different desserts. Marian was one of the hostess and it was wonderful to see her again! Retirement is treating her well!!!! Only 20 more to go until people can say that about me!

Downtown Evening

2011-02-20T09:41:00.002-05:00

We had to celebrate Jenn's birthday! So, we met for a "peace, love, and noodles" kind of evening. After finally letting the stress of work go, we were able to enjoy a friendly dinner followed by some inspiring fortunes. Walking around downtown and popping into unique stores was followed by dessert at a little bakery. This whole evening was just what we three needed!

Book Club

2011-02-20T09:33:00.003-05:00

We met last Tuesday for our February book club. Brenna was the gracious host for the evening. After eating, discussing the book, and talking about our lives we decided on the next meeting day. For March, we will be reading Love in the Time of Cholera.

100 days!

2011-02-13T08:28:00.005-05:00

WHAT?! We have to celebrate 100 days of school on a Satuday?!

YEAH! There are only 80 more to go!!!

Parade

2011-02-13T08:24:00.003-05:00

Our Kindergartners were in the letter parade this past Wednesday. Each child took home a letter of the alphabet, decorated it something that starts with that letter, then paraded around the school to show off the creations. This year, I convinced my team we should dress up too! Some of us were decked out from head to toe in things that begin with our letter and others were just one thing. I had bunny ears, butterfly wings, a bee body, beads, bandana, and boots on. The things you do for your children!

Missing?!

2011-02-10T16:53:00.003-05:00

I catch crap all the time about posting on my blog too much or posting pictures right away. Truth is, people love it. They can't deny it any longer. So, where are all the pictures? the posts? Last weekend, my friend Lauren turned 32. There was a little gathering Friday night to help her kick off the birthday weekend. Well, instead of taking myself and the camera to the party I sat my happy butt on the couch with a low grade fever and slept for 12 hours. I received several comments about missing me and most importantly my camera. See?!
Saturday I awoke with the fever still hanging around and took a morning nap. It was then I decided sleeping was not going to cure my ails. I showered, took myself to the grocery store and got items to make some homemade baked potato soup. Sunday I was pretty a-okay. Monday morning hit and with it some more germs. That day we sent home two children with 102 fevers adding to the already five other children that were out. I was trying to catch some chills during the day so it was decided I would take myself to kick boxing that night to kick the germs away. Not so sure it worked, but Tuesday I took myself back to the gym to attempt running. Again, still coughing but thankfully no chills. Surely sweating was the way to rid my body of the nasty germs floating around my classroom. Wednesday, my voice was trying to disappear. Funny because in 32 years I have only lost my voice once. Wednesday night I went to yoga and really focused on my moves when she said it helps the immune system. As I came out of yoga, it was spitting snow. Awoke today, Thursday, to school cancelled. That's right. It looked like sugar had been sprinkled over my yard but school was not in session; not even for teachers. Instead, we all get to gather on Saturday for school until 1:00. My thoughts on this are: if we can't handle driving in only a dusting to an ince of snow then maybe we shouldn't live in the mountains right?! Of course, if we hadn't already missed too much school I would probably be feeling differently.
However, here is how it's going down. I am working on being Balanced Bethany remember? So, I enjoyed my "Saturday" by sleeping in which is what I think my body needs. Sipping coffee in my pajamas was enjoyed before having lunch and a Goodwill trip before heading home. Now it's off to read and hopefully send these chills and cough germs packing for good! I would like to feel 100% again soon!

Giving Back

2011-02-06T08:06:00.002-05:00

A friend of mine posted this on facebook. I thought it was good enough to share.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kevin-salwen/the-slightly-absurd-thing_b_817480.html?ref=fb&src=sp

Cheating...

2011-01-31T19:05:00.003-05:00

We cheated mother nature out of two winter days. With temperatures in the low 60s here Saturday and Sunday moods were refreshed. Sunday after church, I enjoyed my lunch while soaking up some vitamin D. Later on, we joined Ann and her pup Chloe for a run in the woods. I tell you what, running in the woods does a mind good!
Now it's on to Monday when mother nature reminded us that winter is not through. It's okay, just that taste did the body good.
Two muddy girls:

A Friend In Town

2011-01-30T13:31:00.002-05:00

Hollie came back into town to work this weekend and a few of us meet for dinner and drinks. The "negative Nelly" part of Saturday was we had a workday. The "positive Polly" part of the day was we could leave by 2 so I was home to watch the Tarheels play! Also, it was a beautifully warm afternoon so Pattie and I enjoyed soaking up some rays while playing in the yard. As the sun was setting, I headed downtown to meet the girls. Put all this together and you have the new me. Meet Balanced Bethany! When I went for "hairapy" (I get my hair cut and therapy from my gay hairdresser for the same price!) Friday afternoon this is what I discovered. I have been struggling with a few parts of my life this past week and I told him I was trying to be more positive polly. His response was only being positive denies reality. I need to find a balance. To this I responded with "I have it! I'm going to be Balanced Bethany!" So, here's to being more balanced.

All Day Racing

2011-01-24T19:06:00.002-05:00

Awaking at 6:30 to 20 degree weather is not an ideal way to start your Saturday morning. However, I needed to get myself ready for another year of running in the Issac Dickson Hot Chocolate 10K. Yep, that's right. Again this year I signed up for the race in hopes I would keep myself motivated through the holidays. Turns out, January 1st hit and I realized there had been little to no training much as the past years have proved. So, last Monday I joined a gym, visited it 4 times and ran the race. Well, let's just say I finished the race. I actually felt much better about the race running more and faster than past years until I hit the beast of an end...the dreaded hill! Again, I finished.
It was home to quickly shower, eat, grab Pattie and head back to W. Asheville for the second event on the agenda. We were attending the Winter Warmer Beer Fest that afternoon. Little did I know a few firsts were coming my way. I rode the public bus for the first time (not buses that run through a college campus, I have been on those). I tasted a few beers for the first time. After the fest, we grabbed pizza before heading home. I ordered pepperoni and pineapple. There is no pineapple at this place, but they offered banana. I said what the heck, I would try it. It wasn't so bad. I still enjoy pineapple better, but now I can say I've tried banana pizza...have you?!

This free picture slideshow customized with Smilebox

Mom's turn!

2011-01-17T15:02:00.003-05:00

Friday evening, dad and mom traveled up the mountain to celebrate. They arrived just in time for a lasagna dinner prepared by yours truly! After dinner, we enjoyed warm chocolate chip cookies before playing 12 rounds of Scattegories! I think this is just what mom wanted to do for her birthday!
Saturday morning after making breakfast here, we headed out for some shoe shopping. No one was successful, but we enjoyed the company. Before heading out of town, a late lunch was enjoyed at Blue Sky Cafe! It was a short visit, but so nice to have guests in the house!

Book Club and Birthday

2011-01-17T14:44:00.002-05:00

We met this month at Amanda's for two important reasons. One, we needed to drink wine I mean discuss the book, and two we wanted to celebrate Amanda's 30th birthday! She and my mom both celebrate their birthdays on January 12th. So, we gathered to discuss The Glass Castle and choose the book for next month. We also went out Saturday night to dinner to help her end the week long celebration! Now on to read A Confederacy of Dunces.

A free digital slideshow by Smilebox

And so it happens...

2011-01-11T16:10:00.002-05:00

It snows 7.5 inches, even though this is supposed to be a mild winter, and Pattie turns 2 aka sassy teenager! I woke Monday morning to 7 inches of snow and it continued to fall all day. There was an annual leave day Monday and today. Tomorrow is an optional day for teachers. Before Monday, we had 5 more days to play with until we start messing with Spring Break. I better enjoy my days now!
For Pattie's birthday I made her snowcream and a snowman...I think it was just what she wanted!

Another free picture slideshow by Smilebox

Last of the Holidays

2011-01-10T08:48:00.003-05:00

Here are the last of the videos and pictures from my holidays. For some reason, my old computer was not recognizing and playing the videos?! So, now that it crashed and I'm using a new laptop it's amazing how much faster everything is moving!
I would also like to add I am updating this on Monday morning as I watch the snow fall. I woke to 7 inches of snow and it's still heavily falling outside. It is a beautiful sight even though I might be snowed in for a few days!

Free slideshow created with Smilebox

The New Year

2011-01-09T09:31:00.002-05:00

As I said to my family before the new year struck, my resolution this year is...to accomplish something. Yep, that's right. Accomplish something. So far I've been pretty successful. For instance, New Year's day I took a shower. Sunday when I returned, I took down Christmas. Monday morning, I awoke to the alarm, made it to school, and actually taught something that day. See how easy it is to accomplish something? I think this might be my best resolution yet!

Children's Museum

2011-01-03T19:17:00.003-05:00

New Year's Eve Day morning went a little something like this:
*Phillip and Dad are in kitchen trying to finish the floor
*Mom, Jammie, and I decide to take the kids to the museum to get them out of the house
*Kids are outside waiting for GG to get back, everyone else is in the kitchen talking
*We are about to leave when Phillip cuts his thumb.
Change of plans!
*Mom and I rush the kids off to the museum so they won't worry and won't catch glimpse of the thumb
*Jammie rushes Phillip off to urgent care where apparently if you walk in bleeding you are ensured fast attention!
Everyone returns in the afternoon happy and tired!

Another picture slideshow by Smilebox

It's A Petty Family Christmas

2011-01-03T18:48:00.002-05:00

The snow postponed our Christmas plans until Thursday but luckily this meant the Ohio Gribbles could join us. We left Thursday afternoon and headed down to Raleigh for the evening. Laura and Grant hosted the event providing tasty pizzas made in their brick oven. There was the gift exchange which seemed a little calmer this year. I did end up with some beautiful hand knit gloves by Maggie even though it wasn't my original present. Thanks to Maggie for making them and Marie/Kyle for sharing them! I'm sure your new pairs will be just as beautiful!

Slideshow design created with Smilebox

Hanging Out

2010-12-31T16:31:00.002-05:00

Tuesday morning we headed down to visit Grandma Gribble. We enjoyed playing a few rounds of UNO before enjoying lunch and heading back home. The rest of the day and all day Wednesday were spent soaking in the moments of being a family.

This free photo slideshow generated with Smilebox