Merry "late" Christmas

Hey Guys,

I sincerely hope everyone had a great Christmas. The Granthams had a good one for sure. Dad amd I hosted the breakfast on Christmas Eve and had a terrific turnout. Then all the Stephens' gathered at Mom's that night. We went to communion and ate steaks. Christmas day was defenitely and adventure.

We stayed at Mom's and got up around six we opened presents and headed to Dennis and Jan's by eight-thirty. DeAnn had to be at her grandmother's at 11 and I was at mine at 11:30. The Young Christmas was back at Mrs. Jan's at 1:30. We finally went home at 7. I crashed very early.

Yesterday we took down the tree and put everything up. Last night we hung out with some friends. That was our weekend in a nutshell. I am swamped her at work but wanted to give you and update.

Fins Up,
Jr

Wednesday

Good Morning,

I have a some really fun news to talk about. First, Bradley and Hope brought Miss Ella Kate by the office to see me. She is so cute. She slept almost the whole time they were here and three of us just caught up. It is so strange to have such good friends live in the same small town, but never see them. We made a deal that we would hang out soon. Next, Jep and Valarie have announced she is pregnant with the latest DuBose addition. So scary to think Jeptha will soon be a proud Papa, but I'm so excited for them. It appears it's down to Jerry and I as the holdouts. I wonder what Dread will think when the spotlight isn't always on him. That will be interesting.

All my bowl picks are tanking. In the Dothan pool all the suckers are beating me. Jenni Waters is even ahead. I'm not concerned though as we have over 30 left.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Monday

Hey Guys,

I did have a good birthday. Thanks for all the messages on facebook. We ate out at DeAnn's parents on Friday night and had a great meal. Saturday morning I came to the office until lunch. Mom and I delivered buckeyes that afternoon and then we gathered up to watch the Troy game that evening.

Yesterday we went to Ham then D and I made it to Whitewater also. We had a pretty lazy day around the house.

Mrs. Melanie and all the family was on my mind constantly. Adam was one of a kind and I miss him daily.

Merry Christmas,
Jr.

Great Times

So a couple of weeks ago Uncle Daniel planned a trip to New Orleans to watch Troy's bowl game. Him and Aunt Rhonda are taking the boys and will have a great time. He invited me to go, but with everything we have going on I didn't think it would be too smart. Also, the boys and myself might have been too much for the two of them to handle.

Last night I did go to Montgomery with Daniel to meet Mary and get Evan. We had a small road trip and ate and laughed a lot. Yesterday I had the pleasure of seeing two of my uncles and laughing hard at both. Too bad Lewey and Tim weren't around. It would have been wild.

We are in the homestretch and digging towards Christmas. I hope everyone is enjoying the season and all the meanings the season is about. Have a great weekend.

Fins Up,
Jr

It's time to Celebrate!

Today my main man, John K. Stephens, Jr. has his last final in Tuscaloosa of his first semester. I hear the grades are gonna be pretty good too.

More importantly than than the schooling, though. Today is his birthday. It's wild because I remember when he was born. We are pretty tight and the conversations are mostly sarcastic. He made me feel so small in the hospital one day. As you can imagine my mouth gets me in trouble often. He came in the hospital room with a t-shirt on from the new Margaritaville in PCB. I said something to the effect of "one of those sure would be nice in a XL" he said, "Hold on". He left the room and came back me a shirt. I felt bad but he was laughing hard.

Anyway, thats my story for the day. Have a good weekend.

Happy Birthday John-John!

Fins Up,
Jr.

It's Chilly!

Hey Guys,

I'm sorry I haven't posted in over a week. Sometimes I start posted semi-regular and I say to myself "OK I'll post tomorrow" well at times tomorrow turns into 2 weeks.

I think everyone knows how big an Alabama fan I am, but I am now officially on the bandwagon. Auburn will beat Oregon just as bad as they want to. I'm guessing 55-38. The only question in my mind is whether or not Cecil with be in the desert on that January night. Cam makes Tebow look like a school girl. Simply Amazing.

The Granthams and a few friends booked a cruise that leaves on the 30th and gets back on the 2nd. Well, now DeAnn and I are flying out to Vegas on the 7th and coming home on the 11th. If anybody wants to contribute to "The poor ole Neil doesn't know how to sit at home" fund. Please contact me.

Robert Waters my good friend from Dothan who I talk about regularlyon here, had a little heart trouble after the Bama game last week. He is now resting at home after a couple of stints. Nurse John K. Stephens is taking great care of him I'm sure. Get well Bert.

Fins Up, Merry Chistmas, and Roll Tide,
Jr.

SHOCKED

Hey Guys,

I feel the exact same way this morning as I did in 2003 after Game 7 of the ALCS. The Yankees had just lost the series after being up 3-0. I was pretty devastated.

Yesterday Bama almost played 2 different games. I don't care what happens we must score more than 3 points in the 2nd half. If Ingram doesn't fumble we put them away. Anyway.

Both teams played hard and Auburn didn't quit. You must give them credit.

By the way, the sun is up in Elba this morning.

RTR and Fins Up,
Jr

Prayers

Hey Guys,

I know everyone is getting ready to be off and getting ready for the game. However, I have a prayer request. Brandon Bowers was in a motorcycle wreck yesterday morning. I talked to Bradley around lunch and he was on his way over there. He said his shoulder was broken and there was some swelling. Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers. The next few days will crucial.

Neil

Monday

Well folks it is Iron Bowl week again. The oddsmakers in Vegas think Bama is a 3.5 point favorite. I'm not sure I think that. In my opinion Alabama will have to play a near perfect game and getting off the field on 3rd down is a must. That's all I will say. Roll Tide.

We had a great weekend. Friday night we went to the Elba 3rd round play-off game. The guys played well. We just had too many penalties and a couple of costly penalties. Elba has had a bunch of injuries and lost a QB in the middle of the season and still went deep. It was a great season.

Saturday was a great day of rest, a little work, and football. Very relaxing.

Yesterday morning I went to Ham and really enjoyed. The preacher's sermon was about "Curing Complainers". His words really went along way with me during this time of Thanksgiving.

I hope each and every one of you are blessed this week and remember we all have so much to be thankful for.

Fins Up and RTR,
Jr.

Happy Birthday Alison!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good Thursday Morning,

Today is my sister-in-law's birthday. I hope the bank let's you off early. Make Zach take you to the Pub.

I am so ready for the Bama and Elba games. They should be good ones.

DeAnn is gonna hold me to the deal we made about Auburn and the NC game. If any AU fans can get there hands on tickets and can't go and want DeAnn to go please let me know.

We had our ribbon cutting with the Chamber on Tuesday. I want to thank everyone that came. I'm glad we did it so now maybe Mrs. Kaye won't be getting on me about doing it.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Sunday Night

Hey Guys,

We had a whirlwind weekend. I was up before sunrise and at the senior citizen building for the breakfast on Saturday. We hit Auburn before 11 and set up camp with all the brothers. We were all just hanging around talking and laughing. Then all the folks that had tickets started going in the game. A few of us that didn't have tickets made friends with a guy that had a satellite. We watched the game and I can honestly say the Fairley kid is as dirty a player as I've seen in college. But Auburn played a great 3 quarters anyway. We had a great time seeing everybody and meeting some fun folks. The Iron Bowl is gonna be wild. I'm very worried about the Tide. It is gonna be a large task in stopping Newton. It's gonna be fun to watch Bama on Thursday night as it hardly ever happens.

Elba is moving on to the third round and keep surprising us with the win. They are down to the 3rd QB has 1 quit and the other is hurt. Coach Rials and the rest of the coaches have done a great job and the players sure don't want to see the season end.

Have a great week and Fins Up,
Jr.

Friday Morning

Hey Guys,

I'm sorry I haven't posted this week. We have been pretty busy. We are now almost a month into our DVD machine in Headland. Rentals are a little slower than expected, but should turn as it gets colder.

Rudy has taken his first chemo treatment and convinced hid bosses to let him return to work. The bad guys in T-Town don't know that superman is back on patrol, but should know soon.

In the morning I am going to help with the pancake breakfast that the Chamber is putting on. Everyone come on out for all the trimmings.

Later we are going to Auburn to the game and hang out with all the brothers. Jerry John and I will have to listen to Jep and Bub talk up the Orange and Blue. Those two are delusional about everything, but they do make me chuckle. It should be a good game and even better time.

For the last couple of days I have been reading Bradley and Hope Bowers' blog. Bradley "Buff" is a dear friend of mine that even though we both live in Elba I never see. They were married in the summer of 2008 and recently had a little girl. They are some of my favorite people. I was supposed to be in their wedding but I just didn't have the strength yet. Actually had didn't even have a leg yet. They were sweet enough to still have me in the program.

I know I have been rambling. I have just had a lot on my mind. I will try to make more sense Sunday.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Thursday

Guys,

We need a lot of prayers. Chris had all the test done in Houston and the news was not what we were looking for. He is starting chemo immediately, I believe. I also understand he will take trips to Houston frequently to stay in touch with the doctors. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. I know the Ruddocks, Hudsons, and Stephens will appreciate it.

Hang in there Rudy, we love ya big guy,
Neil

Friday Morning

Hey Guys,

Well, Elba put up a good fight last night they just couldn't get it done. Now they just need to buckle down for the play-offs. Good luck to Coach Rials, coaches, and team.

We are getting ready for the wedding of Chris and Penny. They have been good friends of ours forever and they are getting married and the country club on Sunday. I think that whole group is coming up for the big party Saturday night. It should big time.

The Ruddocks and Boltons are in Houston and Judy said on Facebook everything is going smooth. At this point I they are just running a ton of test. I will pass it along when I know more.

I talked to the beautiful Jenni Waters yesterday and she said the degenerates on the cruise are having a blast. I can't wait to hear some of those stories. Have a good weekend and be safe.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Tuesday Morning

Hey Guys,

I hope everyone had a great weekend. Homecoming by all accounts was a success. We checked on the 68-71 party and then went to them game. We left at halftime and got a table at the oyster bar. A bunch of classes were gathering up there including 2000. Since we all hung out in high school, I got a chance to catch up with a lot of people.

Saturday I worked at the office and DeAnn cooked a bunch of snacks for the Auburn game. Raeann and Taylor came for a while. In the 4th quarter Buford and I went to Dad's to get ready for the Bama game. Bama had it done by the end of the 3rd. I love when you don't have to sweat them.

Later we rode over to the 2000 reunion and had a good time. They all were whipped from the night before. Wow, they must be getting old.

Some people didn't understand my sarcasm about the cruisers. It is only a 7 day cruise not 24 or whatever I said. I have had the most comments about that. Anyway, have fun.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Homecoming in "The Big Town"

Hey Guys,

Sorry that it has been a while. Last weekend we went to Biloxi with DeAnn's sister and her boyfriend. We had a good time even though Bama looked sloppy. Auburn looked good on offense and less than sound on D. This weekend is Cam's biggest test by far. Oregon looked really scary last night. Man they can score.

Classes 68' through 71' are gathering up tonight and they all seem pretty pumped. Uncle Daniel is getting into gear. Maybe he will come out of his shell. Ya'll know he's a little shy.

The Dothan set of the Stephens' and the Waters' are headed out a 42 day cruise to the Caribbean tomorrow I believe. Safe travels guys. I hope Bert and JK don't get detained in some foreign country. Although, that would be more than amusing.

Fins Up and Go Elba,
Jr.

Tuesday Morning

Hey Guys,

I hope everyone is doing well. We had a good time in Dothan at the walk Saturday morning. Tim, Virginia, and Rebecca did a great job spear-heading the effort. The turn-out was lighter than they wanted, but for the first year I thought it was great. I hated that it went through neighborhoods because I wanted to walk alot, but it was too hilly. Afterwards we went to eat breakfast and then over to Bert's to watch a little football before we came home.

Bama looked terrible and they were never solidly in the game. Oh well, now that all the streaks are over we can get back to playing good ball with no distractions. Auburn had another win that got a little dicey at the ending. Their QB is something else. They will be a very good team as long as he is healthy.

Please keep the Ruddock's in your prayers. They are in for some tough days ahead. We love ya'll

Fins Up,
Jr.

More from Friday

I'm back from Montgomery. On a double loaner(long story). My knee is on its way to Iceland for a little work. After Dan(not Stephens) got me back rolling Mom(she was in Troy, said she would ride) and I thought we would stop by South and see if we could just hug the Brown family. We bought some candy and we went up to the 6th floor. Katrina said they had a conference room for them on 2 South. We we went on our hike. We met Officer Brown's parents and I introduced myself and told them a little about my story. 5 minutes later everybody in the room was crying. He has a long road ahead, but his parents seem like such great people. Please keep his whole family in your prayers.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Friday

Good Morning,

I am getting ready to leave for Montgomery. My leg is acting up and I really want to walk tomorrow so I am gonna make a quick trip. We have a party to go to Saturday night, but we may stay at John and Jenny's and watch some of the Bama game.

Please keep Chris "Rudy" Ruddock in your prayers. He is having some health problems. They are running some tests. I will update when I know more.

Roll Tide and Fins Up,
Jr

Wednesday

Hey Guys,

How bout the Tide? What a convincing win on Saturday night in front of a sell-out in Bryant-Denny. We didn't go because of the move. We got most everything moved Friday afternoon and night. I came early Saturday and got some of it set up. We are now pretty much up and running. I'm still trying to figure out where to put some stuff, but it will work itself out.

Saturday morning I am going to Dothan with Mom and Uncle Daniel for a walk/run to benefit Dystonia? My Uncle Tim Hornsby has this and him and Aunt Virginia have been very proactive with this and I am looking forward to being there for them as they were there the whole way with me. Aunt Virginia please post details of this in a comment. I think it starts at 8 but I'm not sure where. Also, please keep them in your prayers as Howard's father-in-law as been in hospital and they have been staying with him for a while.

I will do my best to post Friday morning.

Fins Up,
Jr

Tuesday Afternoon

Hey Guys,

Wow I took some heat over the weekend about the blog being WEAK. Well I have impressed myself that I am blogging at least once a week. However, I will try to put more effort in it.

First off, please continue to put Dave Brown in your prayers. He is the police officer from Montgomery that was in the bike wreck and then the ambulance taking him to South flipped over. Most of his injuries are really similar to mine. He has lost part of his arm and is having kidney trouble, but most of the internal injuries and the leg seems pretty familiar. He is in good hands on the 6th floor and there are thousands of prayers a day going up for him.

Bama and Elba slide by with victories Saturday while Auburn came from behind and Troy hung on again. We were going to T-town Saturday, but I am moving the office and starting getting concerned about trying to do too much. We are gonna try and get everything moved Friday afternoon and Sat. morning. I was really excited about tailgating but just don't think its too smart to try and fit all that in this weekend.

Talk Later and Fins up,
Jr.

Thursday

Hey Guys,

Thought I would drop in for a minute. After my adventure to Birmingham last week and then going to Auburn on Saturday I am really looking forward to a lazy weekend at home. All the games were entertaining except Bama's. Troy lost a heart breaker that is just unacceptable. The officials must get that call right, but Troy can't put itself in that position. Auburn looked good in the 2nd half and apparently had the man upstairs on their side according to the coach. Nonetheless they pulled out a exciting win. Elba continued to roll and continued their regular season dominance over everybody. I told ya'll I would try not to complain about the hot weather and it seems that fall is on the way. We REALLY need rain in SE AL. Gotta get to work.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Saturday Morning

Hey Guys,

I hope everyone is doing well. Sorry I haven't posted this week. I was in Birmingham at an insurance class. All I did was go to class and study. I am at the office this morning seeing what all I missed. Elba won last night to keep their record perfect.

Bama shouldn't have much trouble with Dook(I know how its spelled). I guess it will be the Battle of the cats on the plains this evening. AU QB has been getting a lot of good press lately. He as been looking good, but let's I will wait to pass judgement after Dabo(Bama Boy) and the boys come through tonight. The Bama/AU is looking like it could be a good one. I know its early, but I would love to decide the west in BDS.

I only have two more weeks in this building. I am excited about moving, but just a little fearful of the unknown.

Please pray for the Bozemans. I can remember Mr. and Mrs, Bozeman being at there when Ham Church had tile floors and wall heaters and I was 4 or 5. Nobody sat and fought to get close to the heaters. She was such a sweet, sweet lady. She will be missed.


Fins Up,
Jr.

Sunday Night

Hey Guys,

Man what a weekend! We left Friday afternoon headed to Tuscaloosa. We stopped in Montgomery and picked up DeAnn. It was a lot later than we wanted to get there so we went to eat and went back to Reese's.

Dad and Reese got up early to hit campus for Gameday. It was the first time she has been for that. After they got back we got ready to tailgate. It was so hot and humid. We went to Brian Waters' house to see that crew and watch som games. Around 2 we went back to campus and saw the Ruddocks and Boltons.

We were walking to the quad and it started raining. Dad and I decided to stay at the stadium and go on inside.

The folks at National Security had offered me two tickets to the game and to sit in their box. I want to thank Mr. Bill, Mr. Jack, Mr. Eddie and Skin for the hospitality and say Dad and I couldn't have had a better time. We had a great time and the atmosphere was awesome even though Penn State didn't put up much of a fight. Bama looked good but showed area where we could improve. It was a big win nonetheless.

We got back to Elba around lunch and have spent the afternoon washing clothes and cleaning the house. We are pretty tired but had a great time.


Later and Fins Up,
Jr.

Wednesday

Hey Guys,

I have been so busy since I last posted. Thursday night D and I went to the Chamber banquet here in Elba. I have been put on the board for this year. Thanks Book. I stayed up way too late on Thursday night watching the first games. I really got my fix this weekend. Man I Love football. We had a great time at the beach and my new beach chair worked great. Thanks Dusty and Reese. Dusty Smith and his students did all the fab work on it and Reese supplied the chair. All the teams that I pull for won this weekend. Bama looked great and got serious PT for some guys guys. Elba and Troy both squeaked out a win. A win is a win.

Gotta Work. I will blog later in the week.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Wednesday

Hey Guys,

This afternoon Mom and I went to Dothan for our good friend Kathy Waters dads funeral. It was a very loving funeral. I never met Mr. McKnight but Uncle John always has a good story about both of Kathy's parents. You could tell he was loved and respected.

Speaking of the Waters. They have been friend of John and Jenny for years and I used to see them a lot growing up. We watched a ton of football games in John and Jenny's backyard in my early teens. Brian, Jenni, and I were always messing with John-John. As I got older I didn't go over there as much. I guess the year before my wreck they started coming to the beach with J & J again. It was like old times. Now not a week go by when I don't talk to somebody in that family. They are just really great friends and I love them dearly.

Ms Kathy I am really thinking of you.

Neil

Game Week

Hey Guys,

I am just wondering if everybody is as excited as I am about football season? We listened to the Elba game at DeAnn's parents Friday night. We had a good time and ate very good. Elba beat Opp for the fifth time in a row.

I didn't get to post anything about last weekend because of birthdays and anniversaries. However, D and I went to the beach. Uncle John, Aunt Jenny and The Waters were down the street. Saturday we stayed at the pool due to the water being pretty nasty. We had a good time lounging around, playing cards, and listening to music. Saturday night we went to Margaritaville. That was the first time I've been to that one. We sat upstairs on the patio and had a great time.

I have a busy week this coming up as its the first of the month and the chamber banquet Thursday night so I won't be able to call "The Guys" in Dothan until later.

Please keep Mrs. Debbie Stockwell and family in your prayers.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Happy Anniversary DeAnn!!!!

What more can I say. I love you more everyday. Thank you so much for sticking with me through all of this. I hope I would have been this strong if the shoe was on the other foot. You are absolutely amazing.

I Love You!
Neil




Also, Happy Birthday Daddy Neil.

Happy Birthday Dad!

Hey Guys,

Today is Dad's 60th Birthday. I know I do not need to tell any of you what my old man means to me. I have been kind of down all week because I really wanted us to spend this milestone in the Keys. However, with him building the house and me buying the agency it just wasn't feasible. We did get our Daniel Moore prints from the championship game in this weekend so we definitely have those memories. Wow what a week.

Anyway, Happy Birthday Pop. I love ya.

Jr

Thursday

Hey Guys,

I am so ready for football season. I'm just counting the days. We will be beach bound opening weekend. This has been the hottest summer I can remember, but I'm not absolutely ready for it to be over. Although fall is one of my favorite times of year.

I have been going downtown lately in the afternoon and walking. Man its been tough but I HAVE to get some weight off. It will also help with my endurance for walking around t-town this year.

I want to tell Ms. Kathy Piland congrats on the addition. Man that makes me feel old. I love you.

Later guys.
Fins Up,
Jr.

Good Monday Morning

Hello All,

I hope everybody had a great weekend. We had a busy Saturday that is for sure. I came to the office that morning and closed around lunch. We then went to Gantt for Ollie's Poker Run. This is John DuBose's daughter that has CF. This was the 2nd annual run, but the first one DeAnn and I got to attend. We had a great time with 1 minor boating episode. It was so great seeing all the brothers, wives, and the kids. Heather and Dusty, too. It is pretty rare that we all get together these days so when we do its special. John and Lynz do a great job and Ollie's is just fantastic. This is a very worthwhile cause and CF kids are going to need help for many, many years. Although a single donation is very much appreciated, multiple gifts are needed to fight this disease.

I haven't spoken with John and Jenny but they moved John-John to T-Town this weekend. I can only imagine feeling what they are experiencing. The air has to be filled with excitement and dread.

We are inside of 3 weeks until football season. I am so excited and I don't think I have every been this pumped up. It has been just dragging for weeks. Later.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Tuesday

Hey Guys,

I hope everyone is doing well. We had a great time at the club this past weekend. this tournament is so fun because so many people come out that you don't see all the time. Dad, Robert, and Uncle John had a good time even though they didn't cash. Saturday afternoon a bunch of us hung around dads listened to music and relaxed in the hot tub that was about 65 degrees thanks to ice and shade from the awning. Mom and a group were at the beach and they said they had a good time except there was a ton of sea weed that made the beach look pretty bad.

I will try my best to drop a line later on in the week

Fins Up,
Jr.

Hot Hot Hot

Wow,

I know I said in the winter that if it didn't warm up I may have to move to the keys. Well, I might have to move down there now just to cool down. We had a nice quiet weekend. I tried to stay inside as much as possible.

I do want to send my condolences to Jennifer Young on the loss of her mother. That is D's cousin Tommy's wife.

We are gearing up for the big "Ticket Tournament" and raffle at the club this weekend. This is the last significant tournament on the tour of the year and its Elba's biggest one. Since I am still on the golf "DL", Dad and Uncle J are bringing in a ringer from Dothan. I will be shocked if Bert doesn't have them in A going off #1 Sunday afternoon. This should be an awesome weekend and if you are around with no plans come on out.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Trip Report

Hey Gang,

So over the 4th of July weekend, Aunt Jenny and I talked about taking a trip to Tunica. The more we talked, the more it all came together. Dad and I would be joining the whole "Hudson clan" on the trip. It is so cool that we can hang with "the other side of he family" and have such a great time. Anyway, Dad and I met Aunt Jenny and Rachel "the Atlas" Ruddock in Tuscaloosa Saturday. The only way we have ever been was go to B'ham and hit 78 until Memphis. Well now we were going 82 until just past Starkville and hit 55 going north. Well as soon as we got on 55 we started a friendly discussion about where we might turn off. Rachel was adament it was Hernando. Knowing what I know now I would have bet the farm on her being right. If for some reason any of you need to know about pig trails in the southeastern states please call Mrs. Ruddock, she is automatic.

We had a wonderful trip that was filled with 3 days of laughter that won't be soon forgotten. We all are trying to get re-adjusted to the real world. I know understand that to not be a slacker I must blog twice a week to satisfy some people. I am going to try to do that. It might get boring.
Until next time.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Good Afternoon

Hey Guys,

Man it sure has been hot in "The Big Town" lately. At least we have been getting some rain to steam everything up. As some of you may know Mom, Dad, D and I have bought a DVD kiosk and we have it in Opp at the Grocery Outlet. We finally got it up and running on Friday and we are still learning it. We are excited about this deal and DeAnn really likes checking the new movies out. Gotta run. More Later.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Happy Birthday Buddy!!!!!!!!

Hey Guys,

Tomorrow is my best friend Jerry DuBose's 28th birthday. My first memory of J was our first day of kindergarten. I was having a pretty rough day and he was sitting behind me. He has had my back ever since. We talk almost daily and try to keep each other in check. He was the last person I talked to before my wreck and one of the first I saw when I woke up.

They say a good friend will bail you out of jail, but a great friend will be sitting beside you in the cell laughing. Well, Jerry definitely falls in the latter. We have been to Augusta to LA and have already made enough memories to last a lifetime.

Happy Birthday Brother. Love ya.

NG

I guess I'm back from the 4th of July weekend

Hey Guys,

Since we last convened I have been to the beach with the family, worked, and watched some golf. We had our annual Grantham-Stephens 4th of July tribunal at the beach. We had a great time and the water was just awesome. There is no doubt that some beaches are being effected by the spill, but the beaches at PCB are absolutely amazing.

My agency is doing well. I am still picking up policies and have just about gotten everything down where I feel comfortable running it by myself. Hopefully in the next few weeks I will really be able to get out and call on some folks.

This weekend there was the 2-person in Elba. Dad and Reese played together. They sandbagged so Dad could put some more down on his mortgage I guess. I'm kidding, they just played a lot better on Sunday. Saturday DeAnn and I went to a party for a friend and I was as hot as I have ever been. Man it was brutal. Just obscene.

I want to wish my father-in-law Dennis and Robyn Reaves a Happy Birthday!

Fins Up,
Jr.

Monday

Hey Guys,

Sorry for the lack of post. I have been very busy. I'm not sure how many people read this now so I could be just talking to myself.

Anyway, Wynn got out of the hospital and is doing very well. I think he is planning on playing golf this weekend. He has been sidelined due to the sun and the effects of some medicine.

The Elba-Troy club had a successful 2 days. I would like to thank Coach Blakeney and all the sponsors and golfers. We couldn't have had a tournament without you. I know things are tight with everyone and being a recipient of a scholarship myself, I know how helpful they are.

We are going to the beach this weekend for our 4th trip. We always go and it is truly a time to celebrate our independence and be with family.

Thanks for reading and fins up!
Jr.

P.S. Somebody tell the governor Buffett concerts always sell-out that quick and normally tickets are in the hundred dollar range. What a genius!

Update

Hey Guys,

I wrote the post about Wynn's birthday on Monday and he hasn't been feeling well for the last week. So please keep him in your prayers.

I wrote a blog a few weeks ago about trying to lose weight. Well, I am down a few pounds and I am going to the gym regularly, but I just don't want to eat like I should. If I would do better on the weekends I might be able to catch Uncle Daniel.

The Elba-Troy Club is having our membership meeting on Friday night with Coach Blakeney as our guest speaker. Also, on Saturday we are having our Scholarship golf tournament, The Rann King Memorial. We would love for everybody that is a Troy fan to come out and join us. In fact DeAnn made a Troy fan Page on facebook last night. I kinda hate those things, but they seem to be a necessary evil these days. Got to get page to work.

Oh yea. This is the 500th blog on here. Kinda cool I thought.

Fins Up and Get well Wynn,
Jr.

Go Fight WYNN!!!

That was a quote from a sign we put up at a pep rally in the 7th grade. I really thought "The Good Coach" would kill us all.

My good friend Wynn Grimes has turned 40. It is definitely the end of an era. We have a strange friendship as he is a good bit older than me, but he is absolutely one of my best friends. We have seen and experienced some of the funniest things together. (Thanks for hitting driver man). He was the one that helped me look green the day of my wedding.

I heard a saying once, a good friend will bail you out of jail, but a great friend will be sitting beside you laughing. Well, I sort of hate to admit it, but there have been a few times I thought that might be us.

Anyway, before I incriminate us too bad.

Happy Birthday Coach!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I hope it was a good one.

NG

Saturday after BamaJam

Hey Guys,

I meant to post this Saturday, but I was busy. Friday afternoon we went back over to Enterprise. The Main Stage line-up was pretty good. It consisted of Randy Houser(decent), Jamey Johnson(love his music,but terrible live), Travis Tritt(great show), Hank(you know). We had a very good time except for that Gilley fella and his propaganda. We didn't stay for Train on B after Jr. I was shot after Thursday night.

I got up and came to work on Saturday, we have been busy. Saturday afternoon we had a wedding in Montgomery for some of D's co-workers. The wedding was nice and we went out with some friends afterwards and got back to Elba around midnight. Sunday we went to clean my room at Mom's because Dad is getting my old bed, it's his dad's bed, for his new house. Last night we took it pretty easy because we have been on the go.

I am going to give a memorial day trip report I promise.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Friday after BamaJam

Good Morning,

I will have to do an extra spell check as I'm a tad bit blurry-eyed. Zac Brown didn't quit until after 2. Miranda and Robert Earl Keen were great, but Zac Brown definitely showed out. Wow that boy can pick. All in all it was great once we got in. It's a little tough for the sweet folks in my life that push me around in the chair. I am so glad I didn't try to walk, I really under estimated the hills.

Ronnie Gilley is a huge JOKE. He did a political speech and that stupid hick quoted Patrick Henry's "Liberty and Death" quote, pertaining to Alabama politics. I'm all for gambling but I know that before I invest millions I would pay the right folks off. Anyway, Mom's is probably going to scold me, so I will hush. Have a good Friday.

Waiting on Jr.

Fins Up,
Jr.

June 2nd

Happy Birthday Mom!!!!!!!!!!!!

Today is my wonderful, sweet, awesome mother's birthday.

I will probably say the same thing I said last year. She meant so much to me before my accident, but what she has done for DeAnn and myself since has been astonishing.

I have probably spent more time with her than anyone except D and we always have such a great time. The sacrifices she has made for Reese and are are evident everywhere, but the beach house might be the biggest. It is a place we all love and enjoy being together and this past weekend was no exception. We had a blast.

Thanks Mom for everything you do. I love you.

Neil

Tuesday

Hey Guys,

Sorry tomorrow turned into a week. I have been busy. This past weekend I got up to go to work on Saturday while D cleaned up the house. She was having a food party for Reese. Since she was busy, Jerry, Buford and myself went swimming at the club. It was the first time I have been in the pool. We had a great time. Later that night we went to Mellow Mushroom and ate.

We are going to the beach this weekend. Before we hit the sand we are going to"The Man-Child's" graduation. That is the nickname Uncle Daniel gave John-John before he was born. The fact that he is 18 and graduating is pretty wild to me. Anyway, I think we will have a great time even though it could be long night if history repeats itself.

I hope everyone has a great weekend and come by and let me quote your insurance. DeAnn is making me pay all the bills now.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Kathy Piland-Please call me 897-2981

Good Afternoon

Hey Guys,



I know it has been too long. I will try to catch you up but it may take a few post. I told Mr. Waters that something would be on here when he got to work this morning and lied. I'm sure I will hear about it.



Anyway, what I didn't tell you all was when Chuck got sick "Miss" Tracy called me and amid telling me about him she said she had some Buffett Tickets that she needed to get rid of. I figured Uncle Daniel would buy them and give them to a customer. So we talked and he said "Why don't we just go", well I thought we had swore the man off, but I said ok. I was in the middle of starting a new job(will explain later) and really didn't need to go, but Tracy really wanted someone she knew to go and she also wanted to at least get Chuck a t-shirt. After Chuck didn't make it I tried to get her to take one of the girls, but she said no. At that point I really felt like I needed to go, but I also wasn't going to turn down the tickets after she said she wasn't going. The tickets were awesome and Jimmy had one of his better shows. He did "Woman goin' crazy" and "Son of a son" two songs I haven't heard live in a while. Also, Zac Brown showed up. Really cool addition. Thanks for the tickets Mrs. Tracy, I thought of you guys often. Come Monday was extra special that night.

Some of you and most of Elba know that I have purchased Marsh Insurance Agency in Elba. It has been known, I just didn't want to put it on here just in case something happened. So as of May 1 I am back to work. I had really thought I would go back to SanBuck in some capacity, but it just didn't happen. I want to thank everyone there for all the support over the last 2 years. I am very excited about this opportunity and hope I can make a living doing it.

I am going to take a pause here and will try to pick up tomorrow.

Fins Up,
Jr.

I know, I know, I Know,

....It has been forever since I last posted. I am going to beat out a post in a few days detailing the last week. I have been soooooooooooo busy, but I promise to get this caught up before the end of the week

Fins Up,
Jr.

Monday

Hey Guys,

Sorry about the long absence of a post. I was in Birmingham from Tuesday through Friday and then we slid to the beach over the weekend. I hope you all had a good week.

I was in B'ham for an insurance class. It was pretty stressful but I made it through it. We had a great time at the beach even though it was raining and the wind was blowing like crazy.

I think I told you guys about Chuck in a previous blog. Well, he died last Thursday night. The funeral was this morning. Its still just real hard to believe. He was only 52. I'm just asking you guys to keep Mrs. Tracy, Lauren, and Emily in your thoughts and prayers. The old professor was one of a kind and boy did he love Jimmy Buffett. They had it playing in the funeral home last night and today. Chuckles whereever you are "Fins Up" my man.

Jr

Thursday

Hey Guys,

Even though Bean is on the mend I still have a prayer request. My old professor and golfing buddy Chuck Thompson is in Baptist with complications from a hernia surgery. He is having a little trouble breathing. I talked to Miss Tracy last night and she said he is in the unit. Daly is the one who did the surgery and I told her he was actually the one who saved my life. Please keep ol' Chuckles in your thoughts.

I am going with the gang in the morning to Foley to check on Bean. I might need a few prayers myself. I will try to give an update when I get back.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Tuesday

Hey Guys,

Wow! What a weekend. The Masters was absolutely amazing. Moving day definitely lived up to the name. Mickelson sure made the most of the easier holes on the second nine. Dad, Jerry, and I watched every minute on the weekend. I just can never get enough of that tournament or place. Beautiful, just beautiful.

Greg is being released from in-patient today. They really wanted to keep him a few more days but insurance said no. He will be going to Foley and stay with Mrs. Mary Ann and Mr. Jim for the time being and then we will see what happens. He is still having trouble seeing, but the Docs are confident as the blood absorbs all of that will get better.

We have a golf tournament in Elba this weekend. It should be fun with great weather staying through the weekend.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Wednesday

Hey Guys,

A quick update on Bean: Mrs. Mary Ann emailed yesterday and said things are improving everyday and they are hoping BCBS will approve another week of in-patient if not he will go to Mrs. Mary Ann's while he goes to out-patient before coming home. She said everyday is an improvement. Our prayers continue to work.

Today is the calm before the storm over in Augusta. Everyone that comes in contact with me knows my infatuation for this course and tournament. Today is the last practice round and the par 3 tournament. Also, this year is super special because the legendary Jack Nicklaus will team with Arnold Palmer as a honorary starter. I am so excited I can't hardly stand it.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Good Monday Morning

Hello Folks,

I sure hope everybody had a great Easter. I know we did. This weekend was very cool. It seemed like it lasted forever which is very unusual. We had a few friends that were in town so Friday night we went to Enterprise to eat. Saturday we cleaned the house and watched the final four games before we went to eat at DeAnn's parents. We were home early Saturday night because we knew we had an early morning coming.

We got up Sunday morning and headed to Whitewater for sunrise and breakfast. After that we hurried to Ham to make that 8:45 service. After church we went home to change before making the rounds at lunch.

We finally got home around 2 and I decided to go to the gym before my date Sunday night. Last night my Yankees opened the season against the sox from Beantown. Dad and Jerry came over and the Yanks were in control before Dad and Jerry left. We subsequently lost the game. I'm very superstitous and they both knew it and left anyway. They are both on my list.

As DeAnn and I were dozing last night she started talking about the sermons of the day and I could not believe that they were this morning. The day seemed to last a week.

(Bean Update)

Mrs. Mary Ann is very encouraged by Greg's progress and his future. All signs point to a full recovery and that is nothing short of a miracle. He is brushing is own teeth and eating. She said they are working him hard and that is exactly what he needs. I know from experience he might as well take advantage of it while he's got it. I am hoping to get down there this week and scope it all out. I will try to keep you all posted on his progress.

Fins Up and Go Bombers,
Jr.

Big News

Hey Guys,

I just got an email from Lisa and Bean walk to the door and back which was a requirement for him to do before he is moved to a rehab facility. I talked to him on the phone yesterday and we actually had a pretty good conversation. I was pleasantly surprised. I will try to keep you updated on that. I think the plans are for him initially to go close to Mobile to be close to his mother.

Update on D and myself. We had a good weekend. We just kind of hung out with Jerry. We should have a busy weekend coming up with Easter and everyone coming home.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Thursday

Hey Guys,

Sorry I didn't post yesterday. I got up early and went to Montgomery with Uncle Daniel. We went by AAL so they could adjust "the loaner". We got that taken care of and went to check on Bean. We were there for the 10 AM visit. He was awake the whole time and talked to Teddy, Dan, and myself. I was very encouraged on what I saw and heard. The MRI that was done Monday showed no new bleeding or swelling. Great News. At lunch all of us including Greg's mom and step dad went to eat in old cloverdale and had a great lunch.

I am back in the gym and Dan is killing me. No rest for the weary I guess.

More Later,

Fins Up,
Jr.

Morning visit with Bean

At 10 AM he was more alert than usual for the early visits. He drank some water and moved his arms and legs. Lisa said he closed his eyes, but didn't go into a sound sleep like he normally does. All of this is a great improvement. Prayers are working.

Jr.

Good News

Morning Folks,

Bean had a great evening last night. I hear he was very talkative with his mother and he had his personality and attitude. They are still waiting to do the MRI, hopefully that can get done soon. The docs are still amazed at how well he is doing with what all has happened. I will let you know how visits go later today.

Fins way up,
Jr.

Monday

Hey Guys,

I hope everyone had a good weekend. Dad and I went to Montgomery after Ham yesterday to check on Bean. Some of "the river crowd" was there when we got there. His blood pressure was up yesterday morning, but by the afternoon it was where they wanted it. They are trying to get him him to UAB, but the Doc wants his BP stable for 12 hours. They will do an MRI this AM to check on the bleeding. He is still very sick and prayers are still needed.

Last night D and I went to "The Bounty Hunter". It was ok, just very predictable. Saturday the weather was just great and I went to the club to ride with Mom as her and Janice played golf. Man it was nice out there.

I am now almost over my sickness and I really need to hit the gym. I plan on doing that this afternoon. I am so pumped to get back.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Update on Greg

Hey guys,

Ok it was not a stroke or an aneurysm. It was a vessel in his brain that burst on the back side of his head. I'm not sure I understand the difference, but that is what it is. He is recognizing people, but is still a little confused about other things. They are talking about a move to UAB, but are encountering hurdles there. That is kind of where we stand right now and I will post as we learn more.

Please keep him in your prayers.

Neil

Prayer

Hey Guys,

Most of you around Elba have probably already heard, but some maybe haven't. Greg "Bean" Gibson is in Montgomery at Jackson in ICU. I do not know all the details but he has blood on his brain and I would assume it is an aneurysm.

For those of you that do not know him. you will not find a better person or friend. Please keep Bean and his family in your prayers as tonight is very important for him.

Neil

Tuesday

Hey Guys,

I just got back from the Doc. I got a shot this time plus more meds. I have NEVER in my life been to the doctor twice in one week because of the same illness. I can't shake this thing. I am hoping that this new round of drugs will cure me. Anyway, just wanted to give you guys an update.

Jr.

Monday

Hey Guys,

I hope everyone is doing well. I am still a little sick, but just enough I don't feel good, but not sick enough to lay in bed. This weekend we had DeAnn's grandad a birthday BBQ. Well actually he BBQ'd on his 80th Birthday. It was was a great time and we got to see a lot of friends and family that aren't always around. I just hate I didn't feel great.

Sunday I fought the time change bug and went to Ham. I am so glad I did, because Bro. Stanley's sermon was great. After church we had lunch at Mom's and then I went home for a nap. Last night we went to Troy to eat supper with Alison and Zach. DeAnn really wanted to go to the late movie, but she settled for going by a redbox.

That is really all we have done lately. I know the blog has gotten pretty stale, but summer is coming up so maybe things will lighten up.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Sick

Hey Guys,

I apologize for not posting this week, but I have been sick. I went to the doc yesterday. I don't have th flu, but I have had a fever most of the time. I will try to put out another post on Friday.

Jr.

Thursday

Hey Guys,

Thanks for reading my thoughts on March 1st. Hopefully when the appeal comes up in front of the Supreme Court later this month everything will fall into place.

I'm going to back track a little and recap our weekend. Dad, Jerry, and I left Elba last Friday afternoon going to Montgomery. We went by Healthsouth to see all the folks. I have been telling them we would get by there and I finally did. They were all doing well and it was great so see them. After we left there, we picked up Teddy and Lisa and headed downtown. We met Reese and DeAnn because we were going to see Rodney Carrington. He is a very funny comedian. We all enjoyed the show and the company. Jerry, DeAnn and I stayed at the Hampton Inn across from the Renaissance. We have stayed at both and the Hampton is cheaper and just as nice. Saturday morning we got up and got breakfast and went to Costco to do a little shopping. We had to get back because we had a wedding to attend.

My good friend and old roommate Clint Cowen got married at Ino. The wedding was nice and we had a great time catching up with everybody at the reception. Congrats Clint and Sarah!

Sunday we tried to act like hockey fans and watched the gold medal game. It was a very good game but the US just came up a little short. After the game we went to the gym to try to work off the food from Friday and Saturday.

Fins Up,
Jr.

31 Years

I have written a full blog about March 1st but I decided not to post it. In that blog I wrote about how I believe this tragic event has almost been commercialized by some people. However, I scratched that blog because in the end it probably would have made things worse and wouldn't have made me feel that much better.

I really just want to tell my Dad and my great aunts how much I love them, and I don't and hope I never have to understand the extent of their pain. You must feel like you have been let down by the process. I do know that Billy Joe Magwood has set on death row way to long and wasted to much of our judicial system's time, money, and energy. Why can't the sentence just be carried out or be commuted to life to give my family closure.

I have seen the grief in my father's eyes and can't help but think that his spirit has been broken by the snails pace of this appeal process.

I am getting off my rant because I fear that my words are jumbled and not making sense.

Dad-I love you so much. Although you will never forget Daddy Neil or his legacy I hope one day soon you will see that justice was served and he did not die in vain.

Two Years

Well today marks the two year anniversary of my accident. It has been a pretty long journey, but I believe we are coming out on the other side finally. I would appreciate if you would all still put the Andress and Goodson families in your prayers today I know that today is difficult for them.

I know in the beginning that they asked Mom not to put names in the blog for privacy reason while I was in the unit. However, I think it has been long enough so I am going to name names. Of course all of you have heard my never-ending plugs for Dr. Vermillion, I still can't say enough about him. His P.A.'s Kendal and Patrick definitely made things easier when the big man was detained. It's amazing the patience I have now when I go to Dr.'s offices or the hospital. I just sit and wait with minimal aggravation because I know that the Dr. could be in surgery. I would say I am about 90% sure I bumped somebody that Tuesday that had a general surgery with Dr. Daly. Dr. Daly is the one that shored me up until Vermillion could get there as I have been told. Also, Dr. Fletcher, the orthopedist, put all the metal in my leg that first night but wasn't optimistic about my chances. We all later learned that was his true opinion because he doesn't sugar coat much.

While I was in SICU, the unit, I had the absolute best care. I think everybody told my nurses I was a better guy than I really am because when I woke up they all expected big things from me. Karen was my day nurse almost everyday for a month after I woke up. She is probably who to thank for me coming out of this with such a great attitude because it is impossible to sulk when she is around. Later on in my stay "Perky" Becky would join the crew on days and she definitely livened up the party. Also on days there was Matt that was never my nurse but he would come and talk because we are about the same age. John was a day nurse that I probably have to thank the most for helping Dad through the ordeal. He is also the nurse who's wife had the baby while I was in the unit. At night we had a whole other crew. The folks I had the most and grew closest to was Joseph, Michael, and Thomas. They were all around my age and would sit and chat about current events and watch March Madness with me. Thank you all for everything. I wouldn't be here today without you.

Once I got on the floor all the rumors I had heard turned out to be so wrong. I really didn't think I would like my nurses as much but there were some I grew just as close to starting with Ms. Lois. She was so sweet and caring. There were just so many more nurse especially on days. For whatever I was drawn to the techs more than the nurses. Sherika, Devina, Ms. Liz, and who could forget Fallon. Fallon kept DeAnn straight just as much as she did me. All of those ladies kept the mood around 619 so light. "Miss Rosie" was in housekeeping and after she got used to us became my in-house spiritual advisor. At night on the floor there was a whole different cast of characters. There was Gena, sisters Leslie and Christy among others that kept me company while I was am insomniac.

Michael, Kay, and Ramona who comprised the wound care crew probably spent more time in my room than anybody. They start out working on the medium pizza sized hole in my gut, but in the end worked so hard in trying to save me leg. We couldn't spend that much time with each other and not learn about their families. We celebrated when Kay's daughter was close to graduating and Michael daughter was getting married. We also tried to keep Kay on task so Michael could get home on Pizza Fridays.

I know I am forgetting people, but the good thing about it is they probably don't read the blog so maybe they won't be upset. In any case, if I have left anybody out specifically I am truly sorry, I am already over an hour into this thing. I wrote this blog because my friends and family are thank alot while this list of people have gone largely unnoticed.

See one person I know I have forgotten was Bev she was a tech, I think, in the unit. She definitely was there when I needed someone early on in the process.

To everyone that is mentioned above and those I left off, thank you ssssssssssssssoooooooooooooooo much for contributing to my recovery. I certainly wouldn't be here today without your hard work and kindness

Fins Up,
Jr.

Happy Monday

Hey Guys,

I know that I didn't have a lot to post last week. But that's how it is for a poor ole boy that's on disability and didn't get out of Elba all week.

Well Saturday afternoon D and I went to Dothan to eat and while we were there we stopped at the playhouse to check on the gang. While we were there "Uncle" Robert scolded me for lack of blogs. I told him I would try to do better. We also talked about the beach and were putting some trips together. After being thoroughly entertained for a few hours we met Ann and Jan for supper at Logan's. On the way home I caught the end of Jimmy's first show of the year on XM.

That was pretty much my weekend.

Fins Up,
Jr.

A New Post

Hey Folks, its me the long lost blogger,

I hope everyone enjoyed the snow last week. I honestly didn't. I had enough snow in March 93' in Sylacauga(sp?). We were up there for a basketball tournament and got snowed in. I was glad for all the young folks that had never seen snow in Elba. The pictures I have seen are very pretty and neat. The ones of the club are amazing. I really don't have any other big news.

Have a great weekend.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Oh, speaking of Jimmy. He will be in Atlanta and Nashville this year on his tour. I recommend going to see him if you have never been. But make sure to rob a bank first as the tickets are fairly pricey.

Heading to the Weekend

Hey Guys,

Hope everybody is having a great week. We had a great time in Daphne for the festivities. Thanks Carol Ann for letting us crash at your house, it was great to see you. D and I had a blast at the Brad Paisley show. That boy can dang sure play a guitar. Also, all the performers kept the spirits up of the crowd by talking the saints up. It was a great show and we both thoroughly enjoyed it. Before the show we had dinner at Ruths' Chris at the Hard Rock. It was wonderful as always. It was an early Valentine's if you were wondering. We were supposed to go to Montgomery Sunday but DeAnn wasn't feeling well and we were both exhausted, so we came on to Elba.

Wow, what about those Saints. Sean Payton made such a huge call coming out of the half. Recovering the kick was half the battle, they had score to make it a success. What a game.

We will be laying low this weekend and watching the 500. This used to be my favorite time of year, but my love of racing as diminished with the terrible product NASCAR as put on the track in the last few years. Anyway, stay warm and have a great weekend.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Signing Day and Mardi Gras

Hey Guys,

I'm just going to give you a quick update on everything. Yesterday I had an appointment with the pain management guy. He is such a joy to be around, just a great person.(Sarcasm) I got what I wanted and now we are good to go if the pain on my incision lines comes back. After that I jumped in the truck with Dad, Wynn, and Billy for the ride to T-town. Saban started the State of the Union around 5 and it lasted close to an hour with Q and A. He spoke of Healthcare(Hightower's rehab is coming along nicely), economy(the athletic department made close to 40 million last year) and his approval rating is off the charts. On a serious note it was fun and our class seems to be pretty good. The one thing Bama fans have to realize is we can only stay at the top for a limited time and some losses are inevitable. But all in all it was a great trip.

We are leaving in the morning for our long weekend. The ball is tomorrow night and we are all excited. It should be so much fun. Then on Saturday D and I are going to the concert. It promises to be a LONG weekend but a memorable one.

Who Dat and Fins Up,
Jr.

Another Monday

Good Morning,

I hope everybody had a nice weekend. The only thing of substance I did was go to the gym twice. Uncle Daniel put me through the ringer like something awful yesterday afternoon. I didn't want to get on the scales yesterday because I cheated pretty bad over the weekend but was very shocked to see it read 222 and a half. Only 37 pounds to go. Since getting in the routine of going to the gym I have started enjoying it for the most part.

In other news. This weekend we will be traveling to Daphne on Friday for the ball and parade. Saturday we are easing over to Biloxi for a Brad Paisley concert and then Sunday we are going to Montgomery for a Super Bowl party at Glenn and Jennifer's. It should be a great weekend but I know by Monday we will be exhausted.

Also, Wednesday is my cousin Elizabeth's birthday. For those of you that don't know her the month of February is not Black history month or the Chinese New Year it is Mater's birthday month. So I ask you all to observe this and for the next 28 days tell her Happy Birthday every time you see her. I don't know how this will go over in 70 years when we are in the nursing home. That might get old pretty quick.

Anyway, have a good week.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Wednesday

Hey Guys,

Wow. I want to thank you all. As we are are cleaning up the house and going through boxes I found a box with letters and notes from when I was in the hospital. Last night I was going through them and had to stop several times as I started choking up. The love and support you all showed and continue to show us constantly reminds me how lucky I am. We tried to send thank you notes to all of you for all the things that were sent. I hope we did but if for some reason you didn't get a note thank you from the bottom of my heart.

On a totally different note. As most of you have seen since I got out of the hospital my weight as gone one way, UP. The day I had my wreck I weighed 220 when I left in late June 2008 I was at 164 pounds. The Monday we got back from LA I got on the scale I weighed a whopping 234 pounds. That is just simply unacceptable. I have since joined weight watchers and been going to the gym 3-4 times a week. In the recent past when my lardness as been brought up people say "yeah but look what you have been through". Well that is one of the many excuses and I am tired of telling myself that. I currently weigh 226 and my goal is 185. I hope to be at 210 by my first beach trip. I really just wanted to put this out there so it would be in writing and I can look at it when I need motivation.

So after all this big weight talk and cold weather, I need to here "One Particular Harbour" and be on the beach some where.

Fins Up,
Jr.

What a weekend

Good Monday morning,

I hope everybody had a good weekend. We sure did. Friday evening we went to the oyster bar in Elba and ate. After that we went back to the house and listened to music with Jerry and stayed lazy. The next morning I got up early and was on a mission to get Reese's old room cleaned up. We have been using it as storage pretty much. First, I got Dad to help me put up a new light fixture. After that D was rolling out of bed and we were moving and shaking. I called Jerry to see if I could get some cheap labor. He came over and it was done in no time. We went to eat at the Mexican restaurant and I made him eat off the kids menu. I told you it was cheap labor. When we got back to the house we hooked up the Wii. As it got later in the night it became obvious to J and DeAnn that they could not handle my expertise.

Sunday was football day in America. I was pulling for the colts in the first game. As a kid I liked the Jets. I guess because of Joe Willie, but now their new coach is so arrogant and if the Colts would have played hard all year the Jets wouldn't have made the playoffs, but anyway. The Colts won easily after playing around in the first half. The second game was the Saints versus Brett Favre. The Saints won and the first person I called was Uncle Daniel. He was still up and laughing about how far they had come since "The Aints" and the old days. It was pretty neat for the city and the fans of probably the coolest franchise n the league. After that it was bed time to start the new week.

Fins up,
Jr.

Wednesday

Good Morning,

Before I say anything else I must send my thoughts, prayers, and love to big Roland, little Roland and the whole Jones family on the loss of Mrs. June. She was diagnosed while I was in South in the summer of 2008. It was a long fight, but I have to think she is resting so much easier in a better place. Please keep them in your prayers.

I hope you all enjoyed looking at the pictures. I now know why there weren't more pictures on the blog while I was in the hospital.

We are trying to gear up for the big Mardi Gras ball in Daphne. I don't know if I can go back down there and just be part of the common folk. We will see.

Have a great rest of the week.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Monday

Hey Guys,

I hope you all had a good weekend. We sure did i was kind of lazy but nice. I am going to post a few pictures of our Vegas trip. The pictures in this post are from "The Game" trip. I will try to post the pix from our October trip later in the week.

The first picture is one from the airport when Jerry and John got to town.

This picture is "the ONE". It is the picture that we flew 2000 miles for. The one I did 14 months of physical therapy for.

Our first view of the Rose Bowl. I told Dad while we were waiting for the game all we needed was Keith Jackson. Little did I know he was flipping the coin. How cool.

A sight that still blows my mind and to think we were there. Wow.

The picture to end a perfect trip. We actually got the picture on the way to the airport. Roll Tide everybody.

I have a little footage from the camera of the crowd and the Million Dollar band doing "Rammer Jammer". I am going to try to get that uploaded for you guys. Thanks for reading and checking out the memories.

Fins Up,

Jr.

Hump Day

Hey Guys,

I know, I know, what did you do to deserve a post 2 days in a row? I just had some more to say and yesterday that was so long. Anyway, Aunt Gin I do have some pictures, but you know I don't have a clue how to get them on here. Reese is coming home this weekend so I will ask here to help. I also have some pictures from our last Vegas trip to show. I will do what I can to get those up.

There is one more large thank you I must send out for the trip. My Sweet wife DeAnn gave her blessing on this trip before it ever got started. I have no idea what it took for that Auburn girl to let me go. I hope one day I can return the favor. Also, she won't admit it but early Monday morning as she was leaving for work and we were hugging goodbye, I said Roll Tide and she returned the same. I was so shocked. Later in the day I ask her about it and she told me I was still asleep and dreaming. I know what I heard no matter what she says. Thanks D I believe you know what it meant to me for the opportunity.

One more quick thing. People in Elba have seen me in the chair for the last 3 weeks or so. Well I was having a ton of pain in my abdomen. I have been to see Dr. Vermillion twice and after a CT we found no damage and a shot has calmed everything down. As much as me hurting for a month bothered me, when I think what my average pain level is it makes me appreciate my normal life more.

Until we meet again.

Fins Up,
Jr.

Wow, Wow, Wow

Hey Guys,

I know it has been a while,but I have finally made it back to the blog. I want to thank Reese for doing some sub duty while we were gone.


This will be a long one. I plan on starting with the trip and then I will digress.

First and foremost I need to thank my Dad. We first started talking about doing this late in the 3rd quarter of the Florida game. It was really just talk. I never dreamed it would actually happen. I think you all know by now that everyday life is not as easy for me as it once was and traveling is certainly more difficult, but Dad never wavered and everything was perfect. When I was in the hospital, on the floor, Dad told everybody in the family that when WE got out we were going to do the things we wanted to do. We weren't going to let things stop us except money. I really think that's why he was so understanding about this trip. If anyone would have told me in June of 2008 that in January of 2010 I would be in Pasadena watching Bama play for it all I would have said I had a better chance of growing another leg. On to the trip. Thanks Dad I love you more than you will ever know.

On Monday Jan.4 we left Elba a little before 12 to go to Montgomery. Our flight wasn't til 4 but we had some things to do and we were getting pretty excited. I must say this. As tough as it is to travel these days the airports and Delta have been nothing short of amazing in helping me. We got to the airport got checked and waited for the first leg to begin. The flight to Atlanta wasn't bad at all and we had an hour or so there before we left for sin city. We didn't check any bags so our carry ons were a hassle, but when I thought about why we were doing all this it calmed me down. Our flight to Vegas was ok except the kid crying and kicking the back of my seat the whole way. The larger planes have individual TV and around 20 stations to keep you occupied. I was trying to keep tabs on the Boise/TCU game and could easily do so watching ESPN at 35,000 feet. We landed at McCarron around 9 left coast time. We jumped in a cab grinning because neither one of us thought we would be in town again so quickly. We got checked in and when we opened the door to our room the smell of BBQ was thick in the air. We later figured out that an exhaust fan to a restaurant was outside our window. After dropping of our stuff went down stairs to check out the Rio.

The next morning I slept in and got up around 9. I guess I was exhausted from the day before. On Tuesday we really just hung around the Hotel until the afternoon. Later we went to the Strip to check on Bert Crowe, Dale's brother, he took care of us on the last trip and we wanted to thank him one more time. He wasn't at the Flamingo, they said he would be there Wednesday. After that we caught the Bellagio water show because we heard the opening to "Viva Las Vegas". Later we went downtown to Fremont "old Vegas" to show Dad the Golden Nugget and Binions. We looked around and had our picture taken with a million dollars. Dad was very impressed because I told him it was a dump, but they have done alot since I was there in 2006. We were nearly exhausted and hit the sack.

Wednesday morning I woke to Dad laughing and having a good ole time. The running joke with Jerry and John DuBose was when they got off the plane Wednesday if they saw a sign with their name on it at the airport then the trip was on us. Well Dad and I didn't strike gold on Tuesday but he hatched a plan to meet them at the airport with a homemade sign. They came down the escalator saw us and started laughing. We got them to the hotel dropped off their luggage and tried to show John as much off Vegas as we could in half a day.

Thursday morning we all woke up fairly early and got ready. After all it was "Game Day". I don't think this trip would have been as important to me if it hadn't been at the Rose Bowl and our opponent wasn't Texas. Bama/Texas/Rose Bowl =History. All we needed was Keith Jackson and he even was there flipping the coin. We left Vegas crossing the desert around 7:45. The scenery was beautiful but didn't change for hours. We made it to Pasadena around 12:30 after a long breakfast stop and traffic jam on I15. We pulled up to the front door of the famous Rose Bowl with help from a handicap pass. The must pictures of us in front of the sign were taken and now we could settle in a while before going in the stadium. Before we went in we saw Ms. Mary Sue Cain and saw Mr. Steve Holley and his family. Around 3 we started to make our move for a 5:38 kick. Dad and I had the option of swapping two tickets for accessible seats. I wanted to sit with Jerry and John so Dad and I made the trek up 30 rows to our normal seats. This turned out to be a MAJOR mistake because once the game started you had to stand to see. John and Dad were worn out after the game because it was up and down for 4 hours and when I was standing I was holding on to them. I'm not going in to the game because you all know how it turned out. I will say it was a roller coaster. Nausea, elation, nausea again and the finally shocked that I had just seen Bama win the 2009 National Championship game. After the game we waited and hour or so to head down the steps. We made it, found my wheelchair, and after thousands of Roll Tide's headed back across the desert.

Friday morning we all slept in and then packed our stuff to leave. We were in no hurry since our flight didn't leave until 1:40. We hit the famous Vegas sign for one last photo op before the airport. When we checked in the lady at the counter moved all 4 of us up to the first row behind first class which gave us all more leg room. The flight was uneventful and we got to Atlanta around 8. Instead of flying on to Montgomery Dad I decided to ride with Jerry and avoid the layover. This probably took longer but we didn't have to fly anymore and we could relax as Jerry drove to Montgomery. We picked up Dad's truck in Montgomery and made it to Elba around 2. It capped a very memorable trip. One for the ages. I really want to thank Gator one more time for letting me hang on him the entire game. Thanks man, sitting with you and Jerry made it that much better. I hope I wasn't to much of a hassle. RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE.


Fins Up,
Jr.

P.S. I just read over this and it is not grammatically sound. I hope no harm comes to Mrs. Amison, Mrs. Padgett,or Mrs. Tucker from reading this post. ng

Game Day!

Well, it's Reese-again!

Those Troy Trojans sure put up an amazing fight last night! Mom, Uncle Daniel, and Mobile and Fairhope friends and family were there in the thick and cold of it trying to help them pull it out. But in the end Central Michigan took home the trophy. Good game Trojans, you made us alumni proud!

Neil called about 30 min ago and they were 5 minutes outside of Pasadena. He's "excited but nervous excited!" I sure do hope Neil's "Mojo" helps the Tide pull this one out!

We had some snow this morning in Tuscaloosa and now I think everything is going to turn to ice. Mom and I are game ready: ribs, Diet Coke, and Bama t-shirts and pom poms!

ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!

RG

Pasadena

So...I like your style people---call Reese when Neil hasn't posted?! Listen I know I started this thing but it has been turned over to him! HA just joking just joking!

Anyway on to the news...we all had a WONDERFUL Christmas and New Year's. Time with all the families, communion with everyone, food and presents. Contrary to popular belief Neil got more than coal in his stocking-he also got a few tickets to the National Championship game!

Dad and Neil flew out to Vegas yesterday and from what I heard this morning they seemed to "be up." Dad called about an hour ago and they had just seen the water show at the Bellagio and the song playing was of course "Viva Las Vegas"...they were then headed down to Fremont. Tomorrow they meet up with Jerry D and John and then Thursday they are all driving out to Pasadena together. I know they are going to have a great time and Neil said he will be sure to get some pictures up!

I am snuggled in to my new house in Tuscaloosa getting ready for some Dreamland ribs on Thursday and of course some great football! They are even sending us some snow from what I hear...we shall see!

ROLL TIDE ROLL and Fins Up,
RG