The Friday's - No Longer Homeless

WOW does Time FLY when You're having fun...

2011-06-23T18:25:00.005-04:00

Has it been since August that we posted something here on our blog? I guess so. Our minds have been running at 100% for months. A whole school year has flashed by! Logan has done Very Well at McCallie in his Freshman year. Ran Cross Country in the Fall built up his Muscles in the Winter, played Lacrosse in the Spring, built up his muscles some more and went our for Spring Training with the football Team. I hop his mother doesn't find out about this. I'll be in DEEP trouble.
Enough writing. How about a few Pic's. Most all of our fun has been with the family and on the River.

Let's see... Where are we going Now... EFY?

OOOoooo... It' chilly at night on the river.. Running fast!

Life Scout... I Hope we don't stop here... His mom would be pleased.

Logan's trip to DC with TreyTrey. Colts Rule...

The Future Surgeon... Doctors DO PRACTICE...

Hmmmmm... Now, WHAT did this patient need?

Why is it that the Boys ALWAYS make fun of DAD?

The Junk Prince is 'working the crowd'...

Another Cast... I think L Likes the Glory and Attention.

Dad's turn... San Francisco - World Series.

Dad's Turn again.. Oakland Temple... How do you get in this place anyway...Oh , I found it.

Quite the self portrait... Don't you think..

AH... Butter Beer at the World of Harry Potter.. . Great Stuff.

Universal.. The props never change... they just move them around...

Yipee.... I'm getting WET!

No Doubt Dumbledore is busy...

Hogwarts at night... What a Place...

Waiting on the Great Wizard to come out..

Harrison's staying Safe...

Are you really upside down, Logan?

PaPa... You're Holding UP the RIDE ! ! !

Snow, Snow, and More SNOW....

Those are TIRES.... BIG Tires...

Our Tornado RELIEF Team.. Some where in Alabama

ARGH . . . Da Gold is Mine ! ! !

NO, I did not catch all these fish..Aren't they Tiny?

But Tanner DID catch this one.

Ok, Wake Surfing...

Our Digs for 7 months.... Thanks to the Hamilton's...

Do we have to wait in Another Line.. Thank you Jared.

How many of these do you have?..... I see them all over town... If you saw my gas bill you'd understand..

Tanner on the starting block.. BMX Champion.

You'll see...
WHAT?

A New Year - Looking at Fall 2010

2011-06-23T18:21:00.000-04:00

It's been a good fall with Travel, Sports, Travel, a New Business... Uh Two New Businesses and LOTS of ANXIETY.
Here are a few pictures from our travels and all...

Where Have We Been

2010-08-03T20:08:00.007-04:00

A few of Logan's Travels:

Lacrosse - Still Logan's Passion. A nice Goal Finished off the season. Check out the ball driving through the back of the net. Way to Go Logan.

The Great History Project

Can the Banker be Trusted?

Logan and is Buddies get together on the Tennessee River for some Fun and Excitement. What a time!

Well Protected against all those Spikie Stickie things.

Watch OUT for the KNOT at the End of the Rope!


Another Bass for Logan's Tournament.

WOW! The FIRST Friday Grand Child The Name will continue ON!

Dawn and the Twins

Cable Trail - Fall Creek Falls - It's pretty Steep!

In a Crevasse at Little Rock City

Easter Bunny Comes to Town

2010-05-10T14:33:00.001-04:00

You can't let Easter pass you by without coloring REAL EGGS, now can you . None of this plastic eggs stuff filled with sugary treats. Real perishable Hard Boiled Eggs is the only way to go at easter time. Amber, Skylar, and Quinn spent a few days with us and we really enjoyed it.

A little Catching Up to do

2010-03-18T22:34:00.000-04:00

Twenty One Years Ago - Today

2010-02-27T00:10:00.000-05:00

Twenty One years ago today, February 26, 1989, Fred and Judy were heading to Fred's house after church in Chattanooga. Not sure but 'the kids' were probably in the car too. Stopping at a traffic light at the intersection of North Moore Road and Shallowford Road, Fred turns to Judy sitting beside him in his 1989 Dodge van and says, "Judy, I really just don't know what to do. I really love you. I've never gotten to this point in a relationship before." Judy responds quickly, "We should get married then." Fred, a bit taken aback by this response said, "Oh, no, I like being single." I think the conversation became humorous at that point and little more was said about it.
Well, that response started the wheels turning. Fred really did love Judy. He enjoyed being with her all the time. She was a dream come true. A promise being kept from powers on high. I think Judy felt the same way. What wonderful feelings were shared by them both. The following day Fred was still pondering Judy's comment and wondering. Should he marry this wonderful woman? He called a dear friend and told him about her. His friend said, "Fred, this sounds like a good one. You should seriously consider whether you should marry this woman or not."
That same morning, Fred sought another 'friend' and was told almost outright that he should marry Judy and Fred knew he was right.
He made up his mind and immediately put into play the events that would take place following Friday night.
So when that day arrives we'll hear more about Fred and Judy.

Jude Harris Clark is Blessed by his Dad

2010-02-16T16:31:00.003-05:00

Logan and Dad traveled to Valpo to participate in Jude's blessing.

Well, Logan and Dad took off on yet another LONG road trip. Very Short but Very Long. We arrived at 4 am and were awakened at 8:00AM for the Snow Field Football Bowl. Great Fun. Nothing more fun than diving into the snow to avoid a pursuing opponent.

Brooklyn and PaPa enjoyed some Elmo and then we enjoyed more Elmo and to finish off the morning we watched Elmo. There seems like the love of Elmo runs in the family.

Off to a birthday party, home for nap and then to bed... Up on Sunday morning to head for the church. Snow and all. Great Blessing, Great Lasagna prepared by Trey-the-Man topping the meal off with Papa's favorite Ice cream. And to send us off with all we needed to survive a box of Cheezits.

What a trip. Snow followed us much of the return 9 hour trip as we drove at Warp Speed to the farthest reaches of the midwestern and southern states....

As a final stop on the trip, we stopped in Hayti, Missouri. A remarkable place to stop. But not a place to stay.

If you really want to see more of Jude and Brooklyn, to to http://treyandpaige.blogspot.com

No more traveling until we head for the tropics.

Congratulations Skylar - The Last for a Few Years . .

2010-02-08T10:13:00.001-05:00

Skylar was baptized Saturday by her Dad Clay Lockhart as we all looked on with delight.

It was a wonderful time to attend Skylar's baptism Saturday in Signal Mountain. Lots of good friends there to share in the good times including her two grandmothers and 2 granddads.
No more baptisms until Brooklyn turns 8 in 2015. Wow, that's a long time. Hey, Logan will be 19 by then! Probably on a mission somewhere in the world. And Dawn will be really old then as will Jeff and Clay, who will both be REALLY OLD. ME? Hey, I'll still be 39. Trey will be 32 And Phil will be Over 40! Yeee Owww... That hurts.

Congratulations - Paige & Trey

2010-01-31T19:13:00.004-05:00

We now have Grandchild number 13! !
Jude Harris Clark
Born Today January 31, 2010
8 lbs 7 oz

Paige 'did it Her way' and proudly brought into our world a wonderful little boy!

The Clark Name will live on! I know Dee Daddy will be Pleased.
We are so happy that Jude and Paige are doing well.

Looks a Lot Like Papa Friday, don't you think!

Logan Makes the School News

2010-01-30T01:48:00.003-05:00

Life Returns to uh... Normal? NOT!

2010-01-05T23:29:00.018-05:00

It's still pretty BLURY but, We're getting there. We'll never Be There but we'll try to get close. We had some real fun over the holidays although it was really tough at times. We are so thankful for our family. We are so thankful for our friends. And so thankful for our neighbors who we haven't even met. So Thankful!

I've only got a bit of time and I'm tired after a long day but here's a picture of how we're all doing...

Smile... What you start on the outside will soon become part of the inside. Really. It works.

The Friday Extended Family, minus a few grandchildren and one son...

Our Great Trip to See the Grizzlies. Trey has 'Learned How to Act' during his First Time to a Grizzlies game. Thanks to First Tennessee Bank, Collierville.

A Sad Time for Us All

2009-12-10T12:52:00.004-05:00

Judy Friday

Judith M. Friday, of Signal Mountain, passed away suddenly, Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009, in a local hospital.
She was an outstanding, loving and caring mother, wife, grandmother, and was a beacon of kindness to all that knew her.
She is survived by her husband, Fred L. Friday; two sons, Trey Clark, Logan Friday; four stepchildren, Dawn Birkeland, Phillip Friday, Amber Lockhart, Beth Wright, and 12 grandchildren. She also is survived by a brother, Jack Aydelotte; and three sisters, Joy Lynn, Jill Connelly and Jane Mahon, all of the Philadelphia area.
Funeral services were held 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Signal Mountain.
Interment followed in Forest Hills Cemetery.
The family will received friends from 6-8 p.m. Friday at the church.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Hospital, www.StJude.org.
Please share your thoughts and memories online at www.mem.com.

Logan, Trey and I and surely others love and will miss Judy more than you can know. She would want us to be cheerful after a short time of sadness. She knows the challenges we will face but looks upon them now from an Eternal Perspective and recognizes the shortness of our time here on earth. We too will try to have that Eternal Perspective while we patiently but actively wait for our return to her. There is much to do here and there. Much to prepare for, much to look forward to, much to find joy in. much to find laughfter in. We will find and do all these things.

We felt such an outpouring of love, caring, and friendship during this terribly sad time. The Spirit was so very strong testifying to us of the Savior's love for us and His comforting presence through the Holy Ghost.
We appreciate all who helped us through with all the prayers and physical effort to ease our pain. I cannot put into words how appreciative we are. Especially my children, Trey, Dawn, Phil, Amber, &; Beth and their spouses. I cannot imagine being in this world without my children. They are my joy. I love them so very much.

It was an honor to have all of Judy's sisters and brother and their family with us as well. (Jack, Jill, Jane, Joy, & Judy)

The flowers were beautiful, visitation was remarkable. Sorry I slowed it down so much. But I just HAD to talk with all those people who came to comfort us and be with us that night. The service was wonderful. Trey and Mark spoke so wonderfully about Judy and about our beliefs. The music was so beautiful that Irene sang. I could not have asked for a more beautiful song sung by a more beautiful person or a more beautiful voice. And even the old Hymn Amazing Grace hopefully connected us all with the saving grace of our Savior.

There is not enough room to list all the wonderful people who were "there for us" last week and I hope that you will not be offended or not feel appreciated because I haven't listed your name. We love you and we appreciate all that you have done.

I could write lots more but, hey you've got more to do and so do we. Take care and please comment if you feel to do so.

Fred and Logan Friday
December 10, 2009

Broken Thumb Update

2009-11-24T11:46:00.003-05:00

Cast is now off. Protective removable brace in place.

Now to Chattanooga to visit a few more Medical Facilities.

WHAT ARE they looking at?

Football and It's Benefits . . .

2009-10-21T14:19:00.024-04:00

As one of MUS's 8th grade running backs, he was given a hand off and headed right through the middle making over 10 yards before being taken down by boys 100lbs his better. As Logan was slammed to the ground his left hand unfortunately got between his face mask and the ground. Snap. The old thumb gave way. He also gave his helmet the ultimate test as his head tried to keep going after his helmet stopped at the ground. Ugh.. Getting your bell rung I think they call it.
Good thing it was the 3rd Quarter of the last game of the season. This will give him 6 weeks to rest up for Indoor Lacrosse.

Football has it's benefits no doubt. And those benefits go to the player and a host of others. In particular, the medical profession as we experienced last night....

Yes we made a visit to the EMERGENCY ROOM

As you can see, the Brave Grid Iron Champion made the best of a challenging situation.

He SURVIVED.... Now on to the Orthopedic Professionals.

Another benefactor of the great game of football. Sports medicine.

Their moto: Play as hard as you can, we'll always be there to Glue you back together . . . For a Oh yeah... He broke his thumb. Nice clean break.
Quite the wrapping for a broken thumb. Too bad it couldn't have gone all the way over his mouth. . . :-)

And there were no Drugs to get this face out of him.....Amazing what humors these fellas isn't it......

Here he is with the official cast and collection of signatures.

You know, this blog thing has a mind of its own. It doesn't look anything like I layed it out.. Oh well. It's FREE.

Cool October Weekend

2009-10-19T06:45:00.001-04:00

The weather has turned really cool here in Collierville. Nice. We headed to the Memphis Zoo again today to check our all the neat things. A new exhibit opened only a few days ago. The Tetons with Grizzley Bears and All. Since we're not big readers here are a bunch of photos. Enjoy.

Fundraising for St Jude - TN Lacrosse Chapter

2009-10-14T21:28:00.002-04:00

Logan is featured on the TN Lacrosse website for his efforts to raise money for St. Jude Children's Hospital.

A friend of Logan, Quinten Walker asked if he would join him in 1/2 Marathon to be run this December to raise money for St Jude Hospital here in Memphis. They've run a few times getting ready for the big race. Then Logan decided instead of just paying the $35 to run the race he'd see how much money he could raise for a great cause. Our friend pictured above and on Logan's fund raising website recently received a bone marrow at Saint Jude Childrens Hospital. To read more about Lindey's experience with leukemia check out her blog . http://www.lindseyatstjude.blogspot.com/

In any case, check out Logan's website at . And make a donation.

Name That Person !

2009-10-07T23:10:00.001-04:00

Ok, here are a series of photos taken some years ago.

Can You identify each of the people in these pictures.

Isn't this great!

Our Temporary Home In West Tennessee

2009-10-04T00:01:00.017-04:00

Logan's AREA. . . This is the kitchen area as part of the 'living area' below.

We have been keeping our true location a secret here in west Tennessee because we live in a different ward than we are attending... You LDS followers know that's a No-No.... But we've now signed a contract on a new home in Collierville, within the boundaries of the ward (congregation) we have been attending. We have been living in Germantown, Tennessee since August.
This hasn't really been much of a secret around here but we were trying to keep a low profile.
Judy has been working ever so hard to find a home that would suit our needs and desires AND be in the right location. Just last week she announced that we're going to have to look elsewhere. So we attended the Germantown ward. There we met and formally introduced ourselves to the stake president who knew all about our dilemma.
Well, low and behold we agreed upon a price and closing date for our new home,Today.
(This is really boring isn't it?)
If you want to see a few pictures, just email me and I'll give you a link.
Anyhow here are a few of pictures of where we now live. NO, not the large house with the USA flag but in the cottage behind.
Beth and John Mullis have been wonderful 'landlords' helping us with stuff and just being nice friends. We're especially appreciative of their son's dog Bell who loves to play with Logan and Fred. She loves to play 'fetch'. I have never seen a dog with so much energy no matter what time of day.
We'll be here until the end of October then on to our new home... Of which is a picture of the back - right there.....

Catching Up

2009-09-20T19:02:00.006-04:00

Going back a few months..... One of the most wonderful days I can recall was the day Judy and family surprised me with a visit and a happy birthday. Yes, it was 7 months ago and and why haven't I already posted about it? Don't forget, I'm the Procrastinating Laurette of all time. but the photo is now ready. Pictures take a long time to develop you know. Here's the entire first generation clan with their wonderful spouses. We're so lucky to have added such wonderful men and women to our family. We're so fortunate.
Thanks again to all. I only wish we could have done it for more time, more days. Some day, when I retire, my goal is to have another 'multi-day' reunion with Every One there! Some where Away from where we are now. Like, Hilton Head. Or even better, a cruise. Could we handle a cruise? The money ain't there no more but if everyone paid their own way with all the kids... we could handle our own way.... Just think about it. Where do we go? Doesn't really matter. The ship itself is a destination.
Love to all.
Papa, Dad, Fred

Ok, So we were ahead 28 points . . .

2009-09-09T22:54:00.003-04:00

Another Foot ball opportunity presented itself on Tuesday. No practice since the last game. But the boys did great. Final Score 40-12. The other team only had 15 boys! They were real champions. And boy, could the little tail back run!
This time around Logan got to play some serious Defense. It's another New Ballgame.

Long Road to the River

2009-09-07T21:37:00.006-04:00

We took a Long Road to the Tennessee River today. We're no longer in a 'boating community'. Yes the "Big Muddy", Mississippi River is only 20 miles from us, but it's no place for casual boating. And from what I've been told it's no place to take a dip in either. So, the closest place we can go boating, wake boarding, or tubing is about 100 miles to the Tennessee River! Actually we set out heading for Pickwick Lake on the Tennessee River but ended up downstream from Pickwick Dam. Don't ask. But we had fun. Logan said, "This is weird. There are no mountains around the river only high banks of sand and dirt". There were actually small sandy beaches along some parts of the river where people settled to enjoy the sun and water.

We took along a few 'fellas' who also had fun, Quintin and Nick. Both the guys got a taste of the Friday Wicked Tube Ride. But we went easy on them, at first. Nick did a great job driving the boat too. Logan was back in heaven on the tube and the wake board as you can see by the pictures.

There are times when you've just had enough for the day and decide to go out with a splash.

Don't know when we'll make this trek again. But it was a first. The first time I spent more gas getting to the water than I did at the water. We're trying to be positive here. . . Really.
Judy enjoyed the day without 'the boys' looking at neighborhoods, beginning to form her plan of action for a new home. She's tired of our Cozy Cottage. Logan and I love it.

The 4th Quarter - Nothing More Fun . . . Nothing

2009-09-03T22:02:00.017-04:00

MUS 8th grade football team faced Colonial Middle School where the Owls out ran, out passed and out scored the Colonial Buccaneers.

Attached video of our favorite player.Logan is #37 the tail back or running back-the guy with the ball.

You can see the Buccaneers out weighed the Owls by a far stretch. But that didn't stop the drive for yardage of the whole Second String 8th grade Owls.
This video comes with very unusual sound effects.
Now for another:

A little ahead of plan....

This is Logan's first year to ever play tackle football. He played Flag Football way back when Dad coached his team's 1-5 winning season. Logan's Mom suggested that Dad retire from football coaching, so he did.

Back to today.... We were surprised when Logan said he was going out for football. He's never had many positive things to say about football, being a avid fan and player of lacrosse. But here we are. He insisted he would practice, but no way he was going to get into any games. Hey, he didn't have a clue what to do. Well, the last couple of games have proven him wrong. His success surely comes from Dad's Football advice mentioned in the previous blog. Check it out. What a guy Dad is! We've got a few more videos but not enough time or bandwidth to get them all to this blog. If you really want to see more, send me a comment through the blog and Ill see what I can do.

Wait a minute, this formation doesn't look anything like what we've watched the starting team line up do. We better check this out first.... "Hey coach! This doesn't look right." Sometimes the coach doesn't communicate clearly. If that happens, hey... stop the game and get clarification. We don't want to have a blunder in front of all those people, do we?

There's nothing more FUN than watching your child or your grandchild play a sport or participate in a play, Nothing!

Good Night . . . 9:59 PM CST..

Update from Collierville

2009-09-01T13:10:00.010-04:00

Hello, Hello, Hello - - Thanks for stopping by our Blog.
A few quick Updates:
QUICK UPDATE - Logan made his debut as a running back for the MUS 8th grade team Tuesday night, in a real Game! The QB handed off to Logan on a running play over the right tackle following a big fullback. Thank goodness for the big fullback. More Thursday afternoon.

We decided to pull up roots and move to Collierville so we could be together again. (or is it so Fred could be with Logan and Judy?)
Judy said, "OK Fred, you finally made up your mind. Do it we will. Are you Sure?!"
We moved some of our stuff into storage to make the house look bigger. We lost our microwave somewhere in there.
Logan attended a few Lacrosse games this summer in Memphis and got a lot of attention from the coaches.
Logan went to Kia Kima scout camp in Arkansas with the Collierville Troop of 12 Deacons. Hot it was.
Fred drove 27 round trips to Chattanooga this year at 620 miles each. Wow that's a lot of driving. He now knows everyone who lives and drives on Hwy 72 in Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee. And has been successful surviving big trucks, crazy cars, and loose cows. No deer though.
Logan attended the all LDS scout camp at Buck Tom in northern Tennessee where over 700 LDS boys enjoyed a week of scouting. Fred went for a few days too and really enjoyed the spirit of the gathering. The napping too.
Judy worked tirelessly getting the house in "like new" condition before putting it on the market.
We Sold Our House in Signal Mountain just 6 days after it was put on the market.
Judy did an OUTSTANDING job of 'getting it ready' like a PRO... Cause she IS a Pro! You can see it on the internet by going to http://rockydelllanehome.shutterfly.com/.
We moved almost all of our stuff into storage.
We moved the rest of our stuff, cars, & Boat to Collierville.
We met lots of really nice people at church. Really friendly and helpful.
Judy attended the closing and brought this Huge Check back with her. She was threatening to leave the country with it and leave me with Logan. Fred said whoever got Logan Got the Check. So she came home with the check. Fred was glad.
Logan started football practice and found he was as tough as any other guy on the field. Only problem, many of them (the other 8th graders that is) out weigh him by 100 or more pounds! What are they feeding these boys here?! He said it's a lot easier than lacrosse because you stand a round a lot. Especially when you're not one or the starters, or even a starters' back, backup. He's learning though.
Fred gave Logan valuable football playing advice: a. If you have the ball, run as if your life depended on it, because it just might. b. If the other team has the ball, run after the guy with the bal l and do what ever you have to do to make him fall down. Even try to make him loose the ball and if he does drop it, you pick it up and get ready to be pounced on.
We joined a fitness club in Collierville with all kinds of fancy stuff to ride on, pull on, push on, run or walk on, swim in, climb on, play on, play in, and to relax and cook in. And.. If we use some of this stuff, we'll be healthier for it.
Logan started school where he is known as the Lacrosse Player from McCallie who's playing football for the first time. He's found the teaching methods/philosophy 'a little different' than at McCallie. No further comment on this topic for fear of writing assignments.
Matty has disappeared. We've placed signs all around but have not heard anything. Could have something to do with the friendly lab that lives in the house in front of ours.
Logan played in his first scrimmage with another team. He plays defensive back, wide receiver, and tail back. He always uses the valuable football advice given by his dad in Item 15 above. That's all you need to know says his dad.
As we mentioned, our neighbor has a black lab that has a tireless desire to go after what ever you will throw for her. She meets Logan at the door every afternoon with her slobber covered ball ready to play catch. Logan tried to outsmart her one evening by turning off the porch light just as he threw the ball. It took Bell a few minutes, but after running 15 miles around the yard, she finally found the ball. She did this over and over. What fun. Logan tried to run and keep up with Bell but gave up after the first few miles.
Judy is wondering what to do with her time in our new home. She attends the health club regularly trying out all the fancy stuff you can ride on, pull on, push on, run or walk on, swim in, climb on, play on, play in, and to relax and cook in. She has even taken a Yoga class where you learn to turn your body into a pretzel. Not without pain though. I think water aerobics is her favorite class so far. Oh yeah, she also likes the lounge chair reading exercise machine too. It's by the pool with the two huge water slides. She doesn't do that though.
Fred gave a 25 minute talk in church last week which lasted 6 minutes. Lucky Fred. You never know what to expect as the concluding speaker.
Judy is going to give a talk next week.
We tried to store our boat at an airport hanger but the FAA, FBI, CIA, Homeland Security Agency, and who knows who else would require a complete background check , finger prints and all and a witness every time we got the boat out so we settled for a local storage facility in Collierville. We had fun flying around with our neighbor anyway.

Enough for now don't you think? To night we're off to yet another 8th grade football game that looks like a high school varsity game.

Oh, the Braveness of Youth

2009-07-10T11:37:00.005-04:00

On the 4th of July what's more fitting than to demonstrate your braveness. After all many men & women have given their lives to obtain and secure Freedom for the people of the United States... and elsewhere around the world.
But this event of bravery is no where close to those kinds of sacrifices.
Well, I thought that, until I walked to the peak and looked down. After very brief thought, I turned around and walked back down to a place where I felt safe again.
The young men found this exhilarating and kept climbing up and jumping down.... I was exhausted (or was it Fear?) just watching...
You can watch now. Have fun..

Preparing for The Easter Bunny

2009-04-11T22:45:00.002-04:00

Sea World

2009-04-05T23:52:00.002-04:00

Sea World was everything we had been told about it. Wonderful experience seeing the 'connection' the trainers had with the animals. Amazing how these huge fish can be so acrobatic.
Take care to all.

Where Was This ?

2009-01-03T17:29:00.008-05:00

Christmas Season for the Fridays

2009-01-03T15:12:00.013-05:00

We had Christmas at our house on Signal Mountain. Just us 3.....
Judy got her favorite fragrance and something to help her relax, Logan got a new tool for his 'creative side', and Fred got a new pair of shoes. (His old ones are very comfortable, but smell and have holes in them.)

Who knows where we'll spend next Christmas . . . But I'm sure we'll celebrate where ever we end up. By the way, check out these websites:
You'll find me there.
Fundcraft.com
FamilyMemories.com
InstantPublisher.com
YourBook.com
SchoolPlanners.com
SchoolMemories.com
CookUpFunds.com
More about these later.

The Fridays made a quick Pre Christmas, 'pre-09' visit to the Birkelands
in Orlando the week of Christmas and spend out time doing little more than day to day activities. No "vacation land". We had a wonderful time visiting and watching the comings and goings at the Birkland home with a college student, a senior in high school, two 16 year olds, a 13 year old and an 11 year old. A busy house to say the least. It was delightful to have a relaxing visit. A gracious neighbor allowed us to stay at their home while they were away to "the north". The 52" HD TV with surround sound wasn't bad either. We all enjoyed the 'theater experience' on a few occasions.
Our trip to the spring was delightful too. Although I wouldn't say the water was 'warm' a few of the Brave boys went for a lengthy swim and seemed to do fine. Not for me, oh no. It was a fun day of enjoying the crystal clear water, the beautiful scenery and just waiting for an Aligator to attack any minute. We didn't see any though and unfortunate, we didn't even take the camera. Well, I wasn't exactly truthful about one of our activities... we did go to Downtown Disney the last night we were there... We just couldnt' resist. What are they all watching? You Guess.

Happy New Year to all.

The Maze is Difficult, But there may be something out there . . .

2008-11-05T21:40:00.003-05:00

OH! Wait a minute!

I Smell CHEESE !

(-: GOOD CHEESE :-)
YES ! It IS CHEESE and We're going after it!

2008-10-22T21:25:00.002-04:00

Good Bye.
There's no where else to go . . .

Who Moved My Cheese ?

2008-08-12T17:11:00.005-04:00

Have you ever read the book, "Who Moved My Cheese"? It's about a few rats and some other dorks who are hanging around "Cheese Station C" when the cheese just dried up. It quit coming. So these mice and dorks began wandering around this maze. Some are willing to explore the maze. Others are STILL stuck at "Cheese Station C" hoping that the cheese supply will miraculously return. Well in my life, Cheese Station C has run out of cheese and it's time to explore the maze with Vigor . . . With lots of new and better Cheese Hunting tools in our tool kit, it won't be long before a just as 'cheezie' cheese station is discovered.

Stay Tuned for More . . . . .
flf

A New Kid by Friday

2008-07-21T13:25:00.008-04:00

OK, Here's the SOLUTION.... Just Click on the TITLE Above " A New Kid IN Just Five Days" and you'll see an interview that will explain it all.
Dad

Scout Camp Bonanza

2008-06-23T16:58:00.009-04:00

Logan Attends his first scout camp ever.
Click on the link below to see ALL the photos....

Well, I can't figure out how to do that one...
Maybe Later...

Jenn and Phil Marry near Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

2008-06-16T07:51:00.013-04:00

What a beautiful wedding and a FUN week in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Beautiful weather and a gathering together of our families and friends.

It's so great to add ONE MORE Friday to the Clan!
The Fridays.....

We all traveled many miles to bask in the sun, enjoy the beautiful blue sea, and to be with Jenn and Phil for their wonderful wedding by the sea. It was so much fun! Our experience brought tears to our eyes as we saw these two in love and taking this final step in commitment to one another . . . . You know, When Phil told us about He and Jenn's wedding plans, I asked Phil, "Cabo What? Where the heck is that?" I won't share his response but it was a typical 'logical' Friday answer to such a question . . . We even thought, hey, we'll just send money . . . But we're SO Glad we came! ! ! It was an experience I will cherish and remember as one of sharing in our family. Our three boys, each about 12 years apart were there together. Not a frequent occurrence. The Older boys are married now. Only Logan is yet to go and I hope that will wait at least a decade or so away . . . By then I probably won't 'give a hoot' about much of anything except where my next meal comes from . . either Judy will be wheeling me around or I'll be wheeling her around (actually we hope not, hey I KNOW NOT! Not Me Buddy!). But we'll be happy every time we get a chance to spend time with any of our children and growing clan of grandchildren. We're especially looking forward to when we won't have to pay rent any more. Yeah, when I retire we're planning to spend 6 months with each of our children and just keep 'all that we own' in our trunk. Hey it won't be bad!... with six of you, you won't have to put up with us but every 3 years or so. Of course who ever has the most toys will be where I'm going to spend my time . . . We won't eat that much, and I'll watch almost anything on TV with ya. And yes . . . I'll bring my blower along so everyone can sleep.

Enough of this gibberish. We love you Jenn and Phil and want to get to know you (You especially Phil) better.

Fred L and Judy M,
Logan too.

The Eagles - Atlanta, Georgia 2008

2008-05-19T21:54:00.032-04:00

It all started with a rough ride through high winds, thunder and lightning, and hail slamming into our windshield heading south on I-75 to see the 'infamous' Eagles band, the greatest band in America according to Advertising Age.

Active signs along the way up GA 400 warned of impending Tornadoes! We arrived to face a mud covered parking area with the rain still coming down. Umbrellas? Yeah our friends had a few. We brought none. We trudged our way through 1/2 to 1" water to get to the Verizon Amphatheatre near Alpharetta, GA. Luckily we had seats 'under the pavilion' and were able to fold up our umbrellas and just walk through water covered concrete walkways and streams of water flowing down the steps and aisles.

LET THERE BE LIGHT ! ! and there it was. Shortly after 8:20 PM the clouds cleared and the show began. Who are those old men dressed in suits walking onto the stage? Is this a business meeting or maybe a revival? WHO? The Eagles? Yeah! I can tell by the songs they're singing... DUH.... This was not a business meeting, but it was
One Heck of a Revival of OLD TIMES ! ! !

You may not be old enough to remember the beginning ... But you're surely old enough to remember the middle and now the end... Well the latter part of the middle.
The Eagles haven't lost their touch or their rhythm.

WOW. . A Fabulous night of entertainment!

Happy Mothers Day Judy & Paige & Dawn & Beth & Amber - To All the Girls I Loved Before and Still DO !

2008-05-13T17:07:00.013-04:00

Congratulations to Paige for being the honored guest this Mothers Day. She go the "You Are Special Today" plate. The "You Are Special Today" plate is reserved for Only the Very Special. All of you deserve the "You Are Special Today". But you weren't here...

This is a Special Mothers Day for Paige. It is her FIRST!

Congratulations Go to ALL "MY GIRLS":
Judy - the Queen Mom
Dawn - the Old Pro with 6 wonderful children.
Amber - the Semi Pro with 2 great guys.
Beth - the Ultra Pro with 2 little ones and one big one to care for.
Paige - the Nu-Bee

We Love You All and Admire your Mothering work. Remember, MOM'S make a Difference in every child's life. Children tell mom things we'd tell NO ONE else.

Note the Mothers day 'get ready for snow gifts'. I heard northern Indiana is Very Cold in the winter.

Judy and Paige spent a relaxing day in our home this Mothers' day. We (Fred, Trey, & Logan) tried to give them the Royal Treatment. Dinner was prepared soley by the boys. Fresh frozen Salmon, asparagus fresh from the Jolly Green Giant, and Creamed Corn Right out of Libby's the can. Oh, yes and the Broccoli. It no doubt had a very unique flavor and texture after spending the last 3 years in the freezer and a couple of hours in the microwave oven. But with enough spray butter and a hungry pallet it worked out just fine. And to top it all off we had Strawberry Shortcake. The strawberries were Really Fresh and the shortcake was fresh out of the cellophane wrapper (Actually we think they might have expired about a year ago). Trey did a wonderful job of seasoning and cooking the salmon while Logan set the "ambiance" for the day with his table setting. Fred backed it all up with healthy vegetables.

We promised to keep all the Electronic Toys TURNED OFF. Mom Judy thought that might drive us boys Crazy. And I am aware of some CHEATING going on upstairs while the ladies visited in the family room. We played a game and created one of the most emotionally charged endings to Mothers' Day I have ever experienced. Trey is such a competitor. Wow.

I must now tell a story. You've probably already heard me tell this story but I can't help myself on this Mothers Day blog. When Judy and I were in Italy about 14 years ago, we were touring St Peters Basilica in Rome, actually Vatican City. We happened up on a tour group standing in front of Michael Angelo' Piata. The tour guide explained that Michael Angelo's mother had died when he was around 10 years old. Michael Angelo was commissioned to sculpt Mary holding the body of Jesus. When he presented the sculpture to the pope the pope was very displeased. He asked Michael Angelo why he had "sculpted Mary as such a young woman?" Michael Angelo answered that "she represented all mothers, and mothers have no age". Think about that. Mothers are Mothers, Period.
Mothers have the most important and most sacred role in the world, caring for and teaching ALL the children of the world. What you do lives on for Generations. You are given gifts from God to do your job of nurturing Heavenly Father's children. Men do not receive this special gift, only women with children.
Thank you Mom, from the bottom of my heart, you made me who I am.

Boat For Sale

2008-05-10T22:38:00.016-04:00

Boat For Sale

Well, I guess there comes a time when boating becomes more 'challenging' than it's worth. Well that day came today! EEEEK...
You may recall that at the end of the season last year, we enjoyed a wonderful day on the river with the Ward family and their yacht. It ended in a tragedy, well a tragedy for the boat. After hitting a log broad side going about 20mph, we realized we had a serious 'issue' with steering and found the problem to be a broken gimbel ring. I'm not going to spend the time to explain what a gimble ring is. If you're interested look on A9.com or Google.

Well we got that repaired, thanks a lot to our boat insurance. Still not cheap though. The repairs were done. The engine was winterized by a team of professionals who did everything possible to prevent any water from freezing and causing engine or out-drive damage. We got all the hoses and plugs put back together to find the battery DEAD. Well, that's not too serious so we jumped it off and got the engine running just fine. We even had Darren, our next door neighbor's 'quick starter' with us to insure that we got the engine started once we got to the ramp.

Well, Judy likes the downtown area to boat, and the Chattanooga Ducks have a nice boat ramp down under the Ojeotte Bridge. So, after some serious debate, Logan and I decided to try the 'Duck' ramp.

We got the boat to the water and could not get the motor started. We took the battery out to charged it for 15 minutes. Then much to our surprise, a Big Duck shows up and toots his horn. He was loaded with Duck Riders ready for a thrill ride down the ramp into the Tennessee River. Yipee! So, we had to pull the boat out and let the Ducks roll. Hey, this ramp is about 2 miles long! Trey, the muscle man carried the battery to the new location of the boat. Then ANOTHER Duck shows up... Well, we connected the battery and UGH... It wouldn't crank the engine. By this time, I had HAD IT. I was ready to uh... Do what ever you do when you've had it..

I headed for the mountain to dump the boat while Judy, Trey, Logan, Paige and Brooklyn headed to McCallie for a nice swim and tower jumping contest...
Well, we ended the day with a nice Hamburger Challenge where Logan, Trey, and Brooklyn came out BIG winners. And here are the results.
P.S. We're not really selling the boat.. We're going to BURN IT if it doesn't behave!

Philadelphia with the Aydelotte's

2008-04-28T21:59:00.010-04:00

Judy, Paige, Brooklyn, & Trey traveled to Philadelphia to John Mahon's wedding. John is Jane's son. All the "J's" were there, Judy, Jill, Jane, Joy, & Jack. They had a wonderful time visiting with family and catching up on what's been going on. This was Paige's first visit to the birthplace of our constitution and really enjoyed it. Brooklyn was a 'real trooper' through all the visiting, sight seeing, and festivities. Trey was there. More later when I can think.

Amber Wins Flickr Photography Contest

2008-04-24T00:26:00.001-04:00

WOW, Amber is following in her dad's footsteps in her love for photography and I do believe she has surely passed him up with her creativity. Just click on the Amber Wins . . . title and it will take you to the competition page. She has many wonderful images that depict her children and family's life in a very creative and engaging way. Congratulations there Amber ole' girl.. A chip off the old man's block... And a good chip at that.

The Real Friday Lifestyle Exposed

2008-04-14T01:05:00.000-04:00

What you see here are The Three Fridays bravely preparing for a long boat ride. They LOVE long boat rides. All avid swimmers, prepared for the worst. Determined to survive even the worst of the perfect storms if such a disaster should befall them . . . . . .
If it weren't for the strength of Loge Dog One - Password Funny, we'd be at serious risk. But He IS here and we're safe afterall. Just look what he can do...

And More of the Extraordinary Lifestyle of the Fridays

2008-04-13T22:33:00.000-04:00

The Friday's not only ride courageously on BIG boats they also risk their lives on the dry land. Here you'll see the activities of their land adventures . . . . Papa is a real Risk Taker. Look at that photo of a license plate! He's been warned, "that's illegal, don't do it!" But Papa the 'real Risk Taker' did it any way. AND he even took a picture of a Policeman's Car in Puerto Rico, YIKES! Good thing he ran for the Big Boat before the Cop could get back around the corner to pursue him. Risk Taking is his game and he likes to bring along his beautiful grandchildren for the thrill . . . .

Papa passes on his genes too. Look at these wonderful grandchildren. All looking a lot like Papa behind their very own 'coke bottle glasses'.

More Later... I just may get hooked on this Blog thing... But who's going to read it.. Well, I guess I will and Dawn will.. I love Dawn, she'll laugh at anything . . . . .