Fred and Renee's Place

Lee's Birthday

2009-03-30T04:28:00.000-07:00

Clayton loves his Pawpaw! The feeling is mutual.

Landon ( Lee's nephew) wanted some cake!

Party crowd!

Jack wanted to make Uncle Lee's cake.

Jack loves to help with the cooking!

Fred and Jennifer came down on Thursday to spend the last bit if Clayton's spring break with us. Thursday was also Lee's birthday. We watched Memphis play ball ( very sad) Thursday night, visited friends Friday night, and on Saturday we had a party for Lee at his mom and dad's house. It was a great weekend!

Spring Break in Istanbul

2009-03-22T05:11:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time this week visiting with our family in Istanbul. The grandkids have grown so much, and it was fun seeing all the "new" things they are doing. Kaiyah is crawling. Zeke is talking more and loves to play blocks. One of his favorite things to build is an aqueduct. We had fun hanging out with Dan and Tami. The first few days we were there, Tori and Lee were there also. It was fun being together for a couple of days before they left. The only thing about following Aunt Tori is that by the time Kaiyah got over her ( she loved her Aunt Tori) and warmed up to me, it was almost time for us to come home. We are taking it easy today, trying to get over the jetlag before going back to the real world tomorrow ( also known as work). Thanks Dan and Tami for a wonderful week. We miss you already and are looking forward to our next visit.

Birthdays and Snow Days

2009-03-01T10:36:00.001-08:00

There was a surprise end of winter snow storm in Memphis yesterday. When it snows in Memphis everybody gets into a holiday spirit. I love it! Fred and I got up this morning, found out that church had been canceled, and decided that we didn't need small children to have fun in the snow. We had a snowball fight, made a snowman ( he is reclining since the snow wasn't wet enough to make a tall one) , and of course we had to have snow angels. This made for a perfect ending to a wonderful weekend!

We had fun celebrating Pawpaw's ( AKA Fred) birthday this weekend. There was a lot of Wii playing and we were even visited by a stormtrooper or two. Fred got a lot of nice gifts, but the best one of all is the knowledge that Fred and Jennifer are expecting us another grandchild. Will it be another stormtrooper or a Princess Leah?

Visit with Tami and Dan

2009-01-06T19:59:00.000-08:00

I have somewhat recovered from jetlag and thought I would put a few pictures from my trip on the blog. I don't have many pictures because my picture card got eaten by Dan's computer when I tried to download pictures and we couldn't get it out. So I only have the pictures that Dan put on a CD for me. But they are cute ones.

Kaiyah has really grown. She is making real progress toward crawling. I love her smiles!

Zeke is talking more and better. He is doing well on his potty training and loves getting " pee pee treats". Before I left he said, "Mawmaw go home now. Bring Pawpaw here. " So I am going to do that. We are going to make a trip during spring break in March. We decided to do that instead of this summer when we found out that the tickets are half the price in March that they are in the summer. It was a great trip and I look forward to seeing them again soon.

Such a Cute Wiseman!

2008-12-23T07:18:00.001-08:00

Last Sunday night we went to Paris, TN to see Clayton in the children's Christmas program at their church. He was such a cute little wiseman. He told me that the wisemen wore lots of bling bling. But I was also assured that he knows what role they played in the story of Jesus. I love that kid! Jack was proud of his brother. After the show he said, " Good job, Cotten ( Jack talk for Clayton)" and gave him a big hug. Jack really enjoyed the program, especially when Mimi ( his other grandmother ) broke out the fruit snacks. I loved watching all the children remind us in such a precious way that we are celebrating the most valuable gift ever given - our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Merry Christmas to all!

He's not a dog?

2008-12-02T19:40:00.000-08:00

Well, this is a post about Poco who is a member of our family. Poco is a yorkshire terrior who has been around for nearly 5 years. Clayton and Jack love him and the feeling is mutual. Clayton once introduced him to my dad with, " Grandad, have you met my friend Poco?" The other day a dog ran too close to Jack and he said ( in his cute 2 year old voice) " I not like dogs." His dad ( my son, Fred) said," Yes, you do. You like Poco. He's a dog." Jack looked at him like he was the silliest person alive and said ( again in his cute voice), " No he not. He not a dog." Fred asked him what Poco was if he wasn't a dog. Jack said, " He's Poco." It just goes to show that when you really love someone, it doesn't matter what they are or what they look like - you won't notice how different they are. They will just be Poco - or whoever that is to you.

Zoo Lights

2008-12-01T19:08:00.000-08:00

Friday night we went to Zoo Lights. It was so much fun. There were cookies to decorate, a train to ride, animals to see, and the most beautiful Christmas lights. We met Lee's family there and had a lot of fun hanging out with the Smithermans.

Clayton loves his Uncle Zach!

Tori and Lee

Liz and Zach

Tori and Jennifer

Fred and Renee

Fred and Zach

Clayton

Jack loves his Uncle Lee and was not happy about the

fact that Lee's other nephew ( his brother's son , Landon)

was getting Uncle Lee's attention.

Fred, Jennifer, Clayton, and Jack

October Birthdays

2008-10-12T19:35:00.001-07:00

We celebrated October birthdays Saturday. Jennifer's birthday was on the 10th., Liz's is on the 20th, and our friend Christy Brawner's was today - the 12th. It was a lot of fun having everyone over for roast, mashed potatoes, corn and biscuits. Of course there was strawberry pizza and a new recipe that Liz found for pumpkin crunch for dessert. I love hanging out with my family.

Beulah ( aka Grandma) and her "friend" Ray. It was his
first Shackelford get together. Hopefully we didn't scare
him off.

Birthday girls Jennifer and Liz.

More birthday girls.

The other birthday girl ( Christy ) and Jeff.

Lee and Zach

Tori and Lizzie

Run, Jennifer, Run!

2008-10-11T09:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Jennifer's 30th birthday and she celebrated by running in a splash and dash here in Memphis. Fred and her good friends Cory and Melody ran with her. We all went to watch. I was very impressed with all four of them. After the race we all went to eat some yummy barbeque.

And on a side note, this morning Zach and Liz had a birthday party to go to for a friend of theirs. It was an 80's skating party and they dressed for the occasion. They were really funny! Jack was actually scared of them--with good reason!

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2008-10-05T11:00:00.001-07:00

Friday was my dad's birthday. He is 75 years young. I tried to tell him that he was 76 because he was 19 when I was born and I am 56. But after doing the math I realized that not only is he 75, but I am only 55. That was a nice present to me. But it did make me wonder - who is getting old and senile? It appears that it isn't dad!

Soccer!!!

2008-09-14T15:05:00.001-07:00

Friday night I went to Paris to spend the night with Fred and Jennifer. Liz and Tori went too. Liz had 5 photo shoots in Paris on Saturday, and Tori went to help. We had a good road trip up. Saturday morning Fred and Lee came up ( Zach came after work). We went to watch Clayton's first soccer game of the season. They won and Clayton scored a goal. Who knew that soccer could be so exciting! Better than the Olympics!

Clayton enjoyed having his aunts spend the night. He woke them up Saturday morning for some snuggle time.

Jack enjoyed the game. Well, the dirt at the game anyway.

Go, Clayton ,Go!!

Soccer is great fun!

2008-08-17T20:17:00.000-07:00

You don't hear from me (Fred) on this site very often. I starteded this blog about a year ago, but it's been Renee that's kept it up and running. But tomorrow is a very special day for us, so Honey, I WANT TO THANK YOU FOR OUR 35 YEARS TOGETHER. I love you sweetie. I hope you have a GREAT day. I'm looking forward to our weekend away together next week.

August Birthdays

2008-08-16T12:08:00.000-07:00

Last night we had a birthday party for Fred and Tori. They both have birthdays in August. Fred grilled burgers; Lesa made her famous " cowboy beans" and peach salad; I made the favorite desserts for the birthday honorees - chocolate cheesecake for Fred and hot fudge cake for Tori. We had a good time visiting and playing on the Wii. We were very pleased that mom and dad ( aka Nana and Grandad) got to come and that she got a good report from the doctor this week. All the siblings ( except Dan and Tami ) spent the night and this morning Beulah fixed breakfast for everyone. It was such a wonderful evening and morning. I am so humbled that God has blessed me so much with my family. They are all the greatest - the parents. the mother-in-law, the kids and kids in laws, the grandkids - not to mention the best husband ever! I get choked up just thinking about them. Here are some pictures from the night.

Jack is having a good time!

Stephanie trying to do the Dance, Dance Revolution steps.

The birthday people getting ready to open presents.

Nana and Clayton

Liz, Zach and Jennifer enjoying their dinner.

Landon ( Lee and Tori's nephew) trying on my reading glasses. Too Cute!!

Lee and Adam with some Mario Cart.

Colley /Sellers Wedding

2008-07-26T21:25:00.000-07:00

Tonight we attended the wedding of Lindsay Colley and Kyle Sellers. Lindsay is the daughter of our good friends Dennis and Lainie Colley. We had a great time. There was good food and lots of fun dancing. Brad Colley designed the layout and decor for the wedding and reception. It was gorgeous! We wish the newlyweds a long and happy life together.

Kay and I had a good time on the dance floor. Fred even danced with me too.

The flower girls were the hit of the dance floor.

Lindsay and Boppa ( her grandfather) had a special dance.

Michael, Sharaze and Autumn

The entrance to the reception hall.

The reception hall. Brad did a good job.

Lainie and Lauren

The beautiful bride!

Dennis and Alex Sanders having their dance.

Gorgeous Sharaze and precious Autumn.

Mightymite Triathlon

2008-07-20T15:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Fred IV and Lee participated in a triathlon in Forest City, AR. They had a 500 m swim, a 15 mile bike ride, and a 5K run. They both did great. It was a good time of bonding as well for Fred and Lee. After the race the whole family went to Grandma Beulah's where she fixed a good lunch of fried chicken, fresh vegetables and blackberry cobbler.

Incredible Pizza

2008-07-18T03:26:00.000-07:00

Last night was the last night that we are going to have the boys all to ourselves. Fred and Jennifer are coming today and spend the night with us tonight. We wanted to do something special. We had never been to Incredible Pizza, but had heard good things about it. We knew that the boys loved Chuck E. Cheese so we gave Clayton the choice of which one to go to. He chose Incredible Pizza. I think it was the go - carts and the bowling that won him over. We had a great time. It was a lot like Chuck E. Cheese in that there were about a million kids there, but it was bigger and had lots more stuff to do. When we got back in the car, Jack said in his sweet baby voice ( with no prompting) , " Thank you Pawpaw". It was precious! Clayton said that they call it Incredible Pizza because it is incredible. I know that Pawpaw and I were incredibly tired. It was a fun ending to a fun week.

Fun with the Boys

2008-07-16T08:06:00.000-07:00

I have some very special company this week. We are keeping Clayton and Jack until Saturday when their daddy ( Fred IV) and Lee do a triathelon in Forest City. We have been having a lot of fun. There has been swimming, photo shoots ( Liz took their pictures last night at Howard McVay Park), and of course lots of Wii. I really think that Pawpaw MIGHT be able to beat Clayton once before the week is out. Or at least that is his goal. He really wants to beat the 4 year old. I think it is a matter of pride. But Clayton told Fred, " I'm pretty good ,Pawpaw. " And he is. We went to Target yesterday and I found some really cute rain boots on sale . As you can see, Jack really likes his.

SNAC

2008-07-14T04:13:00.000-07:00

Last night we had SNAC ( Sunday Night After Church) at our house. Fred grilled burgers; we had " Shackelford dip" ( cream cheese and rotel), brownies, and Turkish Delight ( I have lots left if anyone is interested). It was a lot of fun. However, nobody swam. Not even a toe got wet. I don't know if it was too cold ( I think not), or if swimming has lost its lure since we are in the middle of July. But we did have a lot of fun playing with the Wii. Tori and Lee brought Jack and Clayton home from Paris with them to spend a week with us. Clayton came right in and told everyone that he had brought Mario Cart. They hooked it up and he challenged several guys in the game. Quite a few got beat by the 4 year old.

Grandma' Beulah's Birthday

2008-07-07T20:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Grandma Beulah! Today is Beulah's ( Fred's mother) 76th birthday.Beu;ah is one of those people that I look at and think, " I hope I can be like that when I am her age." She is loving, kind, has a positive attitude and lots of energy. What am I saying - I want to be like her NOW. She is the best mother-in-law and I try to pattern my inlawing after her. We had dinner for her here tonight. Fred did most of the cooking since I was out of town until last night and spent the day getting the house in order.We had shrimp pasta and chocolate cheesecake. Both were very yummy. I brought Beulah a Turkish teapot and teaset from Istanbul. She seemed to really like it. When we were shopping for it Dan, Tami and I agreed that it looked like something that she would like but not something she needed. If you have ever been to her house you will probably agree. :-)

Happy 4th of July!!

2008-07-04T10:58:00.000-07:00

Even though I am not in my country today, I still celebrated Independence Day. Some Americans who live in this part of the world got together today at a park/resort area about one hour outside of Istanbul. We left the apartment at 7:20 this morning; took the tram, then the boat to Asia, then an hour bus ride to the resort. There was lots of swimming, hamburgers ( with BACON), visiting and playing. We had a good time.

Parent's Night Out

2008-07-02T12:40:00.000-07:00

Today I went with Tami and Dan to a furniture/housewares store called IKEA. It was a very nice place with a restaurant and play area for kids. Tonight Tami and Dan went out on a date while I stayed with the kids. I hope they had a good time, because I sure did. Zeke wasn't too crazy about the idea as you can see in the picture taken right before his mama and daddy left. But it didn't take long for him to start having a good time. We played with bubbles and he got to see his cousin Jack on the computer and those things always make him happy. Kaiyah didn't seem to care.

Doctor Visits

2008-07-01T12:16:00.000-07:00

Today Kaiyah and Zeke both had doctor visits scheduled so Tami and I took a taxi to the doctor's office this morning while Dan was at his language tutor's. While waiting for Kaiyah to complete her hearing test ( which she passed by the way - we were glad because she failed it last week) Zeke once again made friends with the people in the waiting room. Especially the person who had pretzels in her purse. We then took both of the kids to the pediatrician's office for checkups and immunizations. Neither of them seemed to think it was a fun experience. Zeke screamed from the time he was put on the examining table until after the shot was over : reminds me of me. When the doctor was about to give Kaiyah her shot he said that I could hold her while he gave it. He said that it would hurt. I did what any good grandmother would do. I gave her to her mom - I didn't want her mad at me.

After the doctor ordeal we went to the mall and got ice cream, rode rides ( Zeke did) and looked around the toy store. OK so I bought him a toy fish - he did have to get a shot today.Then it was a taxi ride home.

I took off on the tram this afternoon ( by myself I might add - I was very proud). I met Dan at the area where the Blue Mosque, etc is and we were going to go to the Sultan's palace. We got sandwiches at a stand and ate in the park. After making the trek to the Sultan's palace, we found out that it was closed on Tues. But we had a nice time anyway. I think that I have gotten the hang of the tram. The only problem is that if I get 20 feet away from the tram I am lost. But I could find my way back home as long as I can find the tram. Here are some pictures of the doctor's visit, the place we would have gone into if only there weren't 2 guards with automatic rifles at the entrance, and Zeke being silly tonight.

We Miss Pawpaw!

2008-06-30T09:38:00.000-07:00

Fred got home Saturday night after a long flight. Zeke has been asking about him ever since. He saw a bald man from the back in church Sunday morning and got really excited because he thought it was Pawpaw. We have been just mostly hanging out around here. Yesterday was church and today Tami and I went back to the Grand Bazaar for some more shopping. I have just been enjoying hanging around the house with my grandchildren. Here are some cute pictures.

Fred has to leave

2008-06-27T23:16:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was Fred's last day here. He left to go to the airport at 3:00 AM this morning. He should be flying over the Atlantic Ocean as we speak. I am going to stay until next Sunday morning. I hope I can find my way home and don't end up in China or somewhere - although that would make for another interesting experience. Yesterday Dan and Tami took Kaiyah to the doctor at the hospital where she was born. That hospital is connected to a very nice mall. While they were at the doctor, Fred and I hung out with Zeke. He wanted to ride some kiddie rides there and while he was doing that he made friends with a little girl who was also riding. We shared tokens and the kids got to ride twice as many times. I enjoyed talking to the little girl's mom.She spoke a little English and I spoke less Turkish, and we had a lot of laughs trying to communicate. The people here are so friendly!

Hagia Sophia

2008-06-27T04:08:00.001-07:00

Yesterday Dan had a meeting so Tami played tour guide and took us to the Hagia Sophia. It is a building that was a church in the 1300's and was turned into a mosque . It was amazing to think of how a building could be built that was as spectacular as this one 700 years ago. After that we met some of Dan and Tami's friends. Then it was home for Taco Salad and learning a new card game called "nine holes of golf" . It was lots of fun even if I did get beat really badly.

Asia!!

2008-06-24T22:24:00.000-07:00

I have now officially been to 4 of the 7 continents. North America, South America, Europe ( that is the side of Istanbul that Dan and Tami live on), and today we went to Asia. The day started with Fred and Dan going to the Asia side of Istanbul to register Kaiyah's birth. Tami, Zeke, Kaiyah and I met them for lunch. We took the tram to the boat, then the boat to the taxi, and the taxi to the highest point in Istanbul for lunch at a very nice restaurant with a great view. While we were waiting at the boat dock, Zeke was walking around visiting with people ( they love children here). He came running up to us with a piece of Simit ( Turkish bread) in his hand that he had gotten from someone. Then later while we were waiting for our table at the restaurant Zeke managed to get crackers from some nice people from Jordan. One thing for sure - he never meets a stranger and will never go hungry - as long as he has his pretty blue eyes and sweet smile. :-)

We Are Tourists

2008-06-23T08:40:00.001-07:00

This morning Dan and Tami took Kaiyah to the doctor while we stayed here with Zeke. After they got home we spent a large part of the day being tourists. We went to the Blue Mosque. It is one of the most beautiful buildings that I have ever seen. After that we ate lunch at the Blue House Restaurant and sat on the roof with the most fascinating view. Then it was on to the Grand Bazaar where we bought a few souvenirs ( but I am not telling:-). We came back home after that - it was hot and we were tired, but pleasantly so. I am about to eat some homemade pizza. It was another good day!

We're Here!!!

2008-06-22T05:13:00.000-07:00

After a lot of flying ( 12 hours worth), we are finally in Istanbul, Turkey visiting Dan, Tami, Zeke and our newest grandchild, Kaiyah. Kaiyah is now 3 1/2 weeks old and we thought it was about time that we met her in person. I can't tell you how wonderful it was to see this wonderful family standing ,waiting for us at the airport. We spent last night at home - Tami opened all of her baby gifts and birthday gifts. Fred and Dan went to one of the local markets and got roasted chicken and Tami fixed vegetables to go with it. Fred also scouted out the best baklava that I have ever tasted - Jennifer, you would love it!! Zeke was a little uneasy when he first saw us but it didn't take long for him to warm up to us. We slept well last night - even the call to prayer at 4:30 AM didn't wake us up for long.

This morning we went to church at the international church. It is in such an interesting part of town. The building where they meet is 150 years old and beautiful. After church, we ate at a Turkish restaurant. The food was fantastic. Now we are back home and the kids ( and Fred) are napping.

Jack's Birthday

2008-06-19T20:20:00.000-07:00

Jack is two years old! These two years have flown by. Jack's party was tonight at Tim and Dale's. Tim and Dale are Jennifer's parents and are also known as Mimi and Tee. There were several guests including Nana and Grandad ( my parents), Janice and Munn( Jennifer's aunt and grandmother), Aunt Liz and Uncle Zach, Aunt Tori and Uncle Lee, Erica and Billy along with Noah and Luke ( our friends from Gulf Shores last week). A good time was had by all. Jack got a lot of good presents and made sure that Noah, Luke and Clayton knew that they were his when they wanted to borrow them to play with. Clayton showed us how he can swim without floaties or a life jacket - Go Clayton!! We are leaving town tomorrow ( our next post will be from Central Asia !!) and Poco went to stay with Clayton and Jack for a week. The boys were very excited about that. We started to leave and Jack picked Poco's kennel and tried to carry it to the house just to make sure we didn't forget that he was taking Poco home with him. I know that Poco will have a great time. He probably will not want to come back home.

Gulf Shores

2008-06-13T21:20:00.000-07:00

I spent the past five days at the beach with Fred, Jennifer, Clayton, Jack and their friends, Billy and Erica Mauldin and their sons, Noah and Luke. It was a blast. The weather was beautiful and the company a lot of fun. The boys were so good and kept me entertained. Thanks for letting me tag along guys! On the way home we stopped at the USS Alabama battleship in Mobile. There were veterans who had actually served on the submarine there for a reunion and we got to meet them and thank them for their service to our country. Clayton had his picture made with them. Jack loved the helicopters.

Lindsay Colley's Shower

2008-06-13T21:15:00.000-07:00

The daughter of one of our good friends, Lindsay Colley is getting married at the end of July. I helped give a shower for her last weekend. It was a lot of fun - I am always amazed at how good the other ladies who helped are at decorating. I just show up and try to follow directions. They should go into business!

It's a GIRL!!

2008-06-02T20:34:00.000-07:00

We have a granddaughter! Thursday around 3:55 pm our time Tami gave birth to our first granddaughter. Her name is Kaiyah Michelle Shackelford and she is beautiful. The only problem is that she lives in Central Asia with her parents, and I haven't gotten to hold her yet. However we will remedy that problem in 2 weeks and 4 days when we go visit. Can you tell that I am rather excited?

School's Out!!

2008-05-28T04:53:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about being a schoolteacher ( other than the obvious 2 months off in the summer) is that each year there is a definite end and a fresh beginning. The end of each year is exciting and kind of sad at the same time. Every year at the beginning of a new school year I don't think I will like the new class as much as I did the old, but before you know it I have once again fallen in love with the children that God has placed in my room for me to spend 180 days with. So it is always bittersweet to say goodbye to my kids ( at least most of them) :-), but I am excited that I now have time to spend with my own friends and family. Here are some pictures of my teacher friends packing up their rooms. Elementary schools really look strange in the summer.

Memorial Day

2008-05-26T19:38:00.000-07:00

Today our Sunday School class had a cookout at Billy and Christy Becker's house. There was swimming, bocci ball, washer toss and a rousing game of dominoes. Fred smoked ribs and chicken. We had green beans, macaroni and cheese, pecan bars and banana pudding. But the best part about the party was Rheagan. She is now 2 1/2 weeks old and precious. We took turns holding her all day. It was a good day.

Dr. Fred!!

2008-05-16T20:16:00.000-07:00

Today our oldest son, Fred IV, graduated from Southern Seminary with his Doctor of Ministry degree. We drove to Louisville yesterday and met Fred and Jennifer and Jennifer's family. We all had a great time visiting and eating. The graduation was good - cold, but good. Congratulations go to Fred for all of the hard work that he has done over the past few years and to Jennifer for supporting him through it all. We love you and are proud of you!

My Little Brother is 50??!!

2008-04-14T18:21:00.001-07:00

Yesterday my sister-in-law Carolyn gave my brother Lee a surprise 50th birthday. He is an avid fisherman so naturally there were fish everywhere. Carolyn had decorated with fishing lures, poles, etc. On each table was a fishbowl with goldfish in it. For dinner we had catfish with all of the trimmings. There were goldfish crackers, gummy fish, and gummy worms. My favorite were the cute fish cookies - fish shaped, not fish flavored. We had a great time, but we missed Mom and Dad ( Mom is at home recovering form her surgery). Happy Birthday, Lee! Thanks for a great day!

Mom's Surgery

2008-04-09T17:49:00.000-07:00

This past week has been an emotional roller coaster. Last Wednesday my mother was taken to the hospital in extreme pain and losing a lot of blood through her bladder. The tests that followed revealed that she had a cancerous tumor in her left kidney. She had surgery Monday to remove the kidney and all attached tubes, etc. The doctors say that the cancer was contained in the kidney and she should be ok. We all praise God for a successful surgery, and are praying for a speedy recovery. Times like this are a reminder as to how quickly life can take a turn. We should live everyday making sure that the people in our lives know how much we love them.

Welcome Baby Rheagan

2008-03-29T20:55:00.000-07:00

Tonight we had a combination Sunday School gettogether and baby shower for Kevin and Kimberly. We played games - in one the guys had to eat baby food and then guess what it was. Kevin said that he wasn't going to make Rheagan eat that nasty stuff. They were all pretty much in agreement. We grilled out and watched basketball ( what else). It was a fun relaxing time with good friends. Rheagan got some pretty cool stuff too.

Happy Birthday Lee

2008-03-29T20:43:00.000-07:00

Friday night we gave a surprise party for Lee's 27th birthday. Both families and several friends were here to share in the fun. He says that he is now a little worried at how easily and how well Tori ( and everyone else) seems to lie. I think everyone had a good time - I know that I did!

Fun at Preschool

2008-03-25T18:49:00.000-07:00

Sunday night Poco and I went to Paris, TN and spent the night with Fred, Jennifer, Clayton, and Jack. Monday I went to preschool with Clayton and met his teacher and friends. The highlight of the morning was when he earned a pin by quoting the 23rd Psalm. I was so impressed. We went to Walmart, and Jennifer bought Clayton a helmet for Tball. I hope he can get it off of Jack long enough to play. :-) Lunch was at McDonald's. A few of his school friends were also there, and they had a good time in the play area. It was one of those days that makes me especially thankful to be a grandmother.

Easter Eggs!

2008-03-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

Last night Jennifer brought the boys and they spent the night. Lee and Tori spent the night also. Liz and Zach came over for dinner and stayed for a good while. We had a blast dying eggs. Everyone got in on the act, and the eggs were beautiful.

Our Friends the Witts

2008-03-08T20:10:00.000-08:00

Tonight we went to visit with our good friends Mike and Kathy Witt. We have been friends with the Witts for close to 30 years. They were keeping 2 of their grandchildren, so we had a good time playing with Shelby and Reid. It just seems like yesterday that our kids were playing together. What fun times they had - clubhouses, weddings (Bride - Liz; Groom - Daniel; Preacher: Jeff; Best Man - Fred and Dan made a real cute flower girl), shows put on by Daniel, Liz and Tori ( I believe the group was called God's Choice - or something like that) Where did the years go? I am so thankful for friendships like ours and the memories we share. And now we can share our grandchildren. God is so wonderful to bring such special people into our lives - it is one of those extraordinary bonds that will last forever.

Let it Snow,Let it Snow, Let it Snow!!!!

2008-03-07T20:05:00.000-08:00

We have snow in Memphis! The last time there was a significant snowfall in Memphis was two years ago, and it started snowing that year just as our plane took off for Florida. It melted before we got home. If you are from the South you know that a snow day is an official holiday. Everybody goes to the grocery store and stocks up on junk food. You then go home and make soup and cookies. It is the perfect time to stay home and curl up with a movie, and that is just what we did. We rented " The Game Plan " on pay per view and enjoyed being couch potatoes for the evening. It was a wonderful, relaxing evening. Here are a few pictures of the snow. They don't rival the pictures of snow in Central Asia on Dan and Tami's blog, but the snow is still pretty.

2008-03-07T03:29:00.000-08:00

I was a bad kid.. When I was little, I remember telling people that I was born two days before my mom and dad got married. Of course that mortified my mom. She was quick to point out that their anniversary was two days after my birthday and they were actually married three years before.

Anyway, I guess I'm still kinda bad. You see, the anniversy of just about the best marriage I've ever seen, almost past before I remembered it. Luckily I remebered Late Wednesday and called Mom to wish her a happy one. As most, of you who read this blog know, Dad passed awayalmost 5 years ago, but the he left a lasting legacy of love to Mom. He loved her faithfully for fifty four years before he died and I know he loves her still, as she does him. Happy Anniversary Mom!

Go Diego Go

2008-03-02T17:13:00.000-08:00

This weekend Tori and I took Clayton to see Go Diego Go Live at the Orpheum. It was the coolest show. We were entertained by Diego, Dora, Baby Jaguar, and the Bobo Monkey's. It really was a good show and Clayton really enjoyed it. Tori and I were talking about how things always seem bigger and better when you are a little kid ( like the Enchanted Forest). We were wondering just how awesome the show yesterday was to Clayton, because it was really cool to us grownups. After the show we met up with Fred, Lee, Liz and Zach for dinner and visited at our house afterwards. It was a really fun day.

Memphis vs. Tennessee

2008-02-24T10:39:00.000-08:00

For anyone who follows college basketball, you know that this weekend there was an exciting game in Memphis. The number 1 University of Memphis Tigers played the number 2 Tennessee Vols. We had our Sunday School class over to watch the game. There was lots of cheering and lots of food. Then when the game was over, there was lots of crying. Even though the game did not end like we wanted, a good time was had by all. Note the redneck door decor that Fred created. He thought that he would make Dan proud with that one. :-)

Fred's Birthday

2008-02-24T10:23:00.001-08:00

We had a little get together on Friday night for Fred's birthday. The party was a week and a half early because that was when everyone ( except Dan, Tami and Zeke) could be here. We had a good dinner of roast, mashed potatoes, corn, biscuits, and hot fudge cake. If you are a Shackelford, or have ever eaten at a Shackelford birthday dinner, you are probably acquainted with the menu. It was a fun evening and Fred got lots of good presents. Dan sent him a book and we got a picture of him opening it. Dan, Tami, and Zeke - you were very missed.

Go Tigers Go

2008-02-03T06:09:00.000-08:00

Yesterday FredIII, Fred IV, Tori, and Clayton went to a tigers game. It was Clayton's first college game. He really enjoyed it, especially after they added the M&M game to it. This involved him getting a certain number of M&Ms for each type of point that the tigers scored. Afterward they ( along with Jennifer, Jack, and Lee) came over and we grilled burgers. It was a fun evening. I was not ready for them to leave. I did not get enough Clayton and Jack time. But then, I don't think I ever could.

Sabrina's Shower

2008-01-27T14:44:00.001-08:00

This afternoon I went to a baby shower for Sabrina Kelly. Sabrina is having twins sometime in the next 6 weeks. She is having 2 boys which will bring her total of boys to 4. FOUR BOYS!!! WE WILL BE PRAYING FOR YOU!! :-) Seriously, we wish you guys the best and can't wait to see the precious babies.

puppysitting

2008-01-26T20:23:00.000-08:00

This weekend we kept our granddogs, Bear and Bryant, while Liz and Zach went to Nashville for the News Emmys. Liz was nominated for an emmy for best daytime news program. The dogs have been a lot of fun. They are really cute, as these pictures will prove.

Dinner Group

2008-01-26T19:57:00.000-08:00

Last night we met with our dinner group at the Littlefield's. We meet with these same people once a month at each other's houses for dinner. We have a lot of fun. Last night we had a great Mexican dinner - thanks David and Cindy.

Dinner

2008-01-21T20:42:00.000-08:00

Tonight we went to American Cafe to eat with my brother and sister-in-law, Lee and Carolyn Danley. We had a great time. We got there at 6:30 and did not leave until after 8:30. My niece ( and Lee's daughter) Leah waited on us, so that was a real treat. We had a good visit. Who knew when we were kids and he was such a pain that I would enjoy spending time with him as much as I do. Love you brother!! And love you Carolyn!!

Kaiyah

2008-01-10T19:42:00.000-08:00

Just in case anyone actually reads this who doesn't already know, my really cool name for Dan and Tami's baby ( Froneeta) apparently is a no go. I thought that it was a really neat way to get all 4 grandparents ' names in on the deal. However, they came up with a name that I guess is a tad prettier - Kaiyah. This means "full of grace". The name is perfect - God's grace has brought me so many blessings in my life and Kaiyah is just the latest. I can't wait to see her.

Go TigersGo!

2008-01-09T20:04:00.000-08:00

Fred and I went to a Memphis game tonight. We were playing East Carolina. Of course the tigers won ( by 41 points no less). This was my first experience of going to a ballgame and having seats in a box at the club level of the stadium. Wow - I didn't know a ballgame could be so relaxing. The box is actually a room with about 16 theater seats, a bar, a couch, flat screen tv, refrigerator, coffee tables and just about anything else you would need to be comfortable. I just kept thinking how Dan and Fred would enjoy it. I intended on taking pictures but left my camera in the car. It was a fun night, and I am rooting for the tigers to go all the way!

Bowling

2008-01-06T05:41:00.004-08:00

Last night we took Jack and Clayton bowling. It was a lot of fun. Tori and Lee met us there. Clayton was pretty good. He beat me (Mawmaw) in the first game. Fred and Lee were not sure whether a strike really counts as a strike if it hits the bumpers on the gutter. I said that if I get a strike, it counts no matter what!

First Posting

2008-01-05T11:07:00.000-08:00

I ( Renee) just realized that Fred had set up this blog last summer. I was talking to Dan about starting, one and he told me that we already had one. I am going to start keeping it mainly because it is a great way to share pictures and the details of day to day life with family who live far away - that would be Dan, Tami , Zeke, and the yet to be named baby girl. ( I call her Froneeta - after Fred, Ron, Renee. and Anita.) Somehow I don't think it will stick.

Anyway, we had a great Christmas ( except for missing the above named people) After Christmas Fred and I went to Gulf Shores, AL and had a few days to rest and relas. It is a good thing we did because we have been keeping Clayton and Jack for a few days so that Fred and Jennifer could have a few days away themselves. It has been fun - days filled with Power Ranger movies, Chuck E Cheese, and various " boy " fun. We had a new grandog join the family Christmas Eve. Jack really likes him.