Merry Christmas

Wow! It has been five long weeks since I had a post! Not that my life is so exciting that people are counting. Anyways...Christmas is tomorrow. It seems just like yesterday I was in Chicago watching Dirty Dancing (and according to my blog, I was). So here is what has been going on in 5 weeks!

Work has been insane and this is an understatement. It always is this time of year. I am really trying to not become a scrooge this time of year simply because of my job. I don't ever want to be seen that way simply because I truly love Christmas. I love the decorations, the songs, the movies, and teaching my children about Jesus Christ and the true meaning of Christmas. Working retail does make it hard sometimes to enjoy the season...just because you can't wait until things settle down again and you have time to breathe. I love my job, don't get me wrong, this time of year is just tiring, and rewarding. So, it's Christmas Eve and as many times as I have said I can't wait until it's over, I can wait until it's over.

What I can't wait for is to see the smiles on my children's eyes in the morning and the excitment and joy of our family as they open the gifts that we have thought long and hard on what to get them. I love, love, love spending time with my in-laws and my family..Christmas breakfast at Memama's is a tradition and then my parent's for lunch. (My grandmother tried cancelling Thanksgiving dinner this year and I almost had a melt down.) I am really grounded in tradition and I can't imagine not doing some of these things. Mainly because it takes me back to my childhood when I had no worries and Santa Claus was real!

So I side-tracked...over the past 5 weeks I have finished this past semester of school (only 4 more classes to go), almost gotten through my 9th holiday at Bath and Body Works (I should get a reward), everyone in my house has been sick (except Chris--knock on wood), finished all my Christmas shopping, and I think that's it. A couple of family things in between, but not time for too many this time of year. We are all mainly too tired and come home and crawl up on the couch together and watch holiday movies.

That's my summation of the past few weeks. I will share some holiday pictures once Santa arrives tomorrow! Merry Christmas to all of you may God Bless you and your families in the new year!

I had the Time of my Life!

When I was 10, I saw the movie for the very first time. It changed my life forever (OK, so a little dramatic). But it definitely changed the way I walked around for at least a week. I remember wearing a blue jean skirt for 5 days straight so I could swish it around like Baby did up on that stage as she waited for Johnny to come back for her so she could do the lift. And Johnny Castle..need I say more. Patrick Swayze won my heart with his charm and his swagger. To this day, he is the one actor that I will watch a movie for just because he is in it. I bought the People magazine with him on the cover and will cherish it forever. It breaks my heart that he is so sick and we pray for him and his family.

When we were in Chicago with the girls a few weeks ago, we saw advertisements for the play. I was speechless. My favorite movie of all time (by that I mean..the one that still makes me cry, gives me chills, makes me sing, and makes me wish Chris could dance a little like Johnny) was on Broadway! How amazing! Before we left, I was using the hotel computer to see when shows were and how much plane tickets would cost. And, could it be done in one day? Where there's Dirty Dancing (and a determined Dirty Dancing fanatic) there's a way. We booked the big day a couple of weeks ago and just returned last night. It was amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The play was extremely similar to the movie...all my favorite songs, dances, kisses. When watching the movie all those 500+ times, I always thought "It would be so amazing to be that in that audience watching them do their final dance." I was in that audience yesterday..I had chills, I was singing, and I wanted to dance (and I would have, but I would have been yelled at by the theater employees). Thanks to Corneice and Cassie for going with me...I know it was a little adventuresome and out of our character to do something like this...but you only live once..and I could not go on without seeing this play. Remember...Nobody puts Baby in a corner!

To my "Dancing" companions...don't forget, if we are going down in the airplane..make sure you Blow, Blow, Blow!! And if you are flying with more than one child, pick the one with the most potential! HA!

Youth Talent Show 2008

We had such a great time at the youth talent show and chili/soup cookoff tonight. God has truly blessed us with an amazing church family. Chris and I have been involved with the youth for a few years now off and on. It is very time consuming; but so rewarding. I think what really motivates us is our love for God; but also at some point our children will be youth group members in this church. We want to play a part in the spiritual development of the people that may be leading them. Each of the youth group members means so much to both of us. Sometimes I think they teach us, more than we teach them. They are each amazing individuals and have a special part of our hearts. Our love for them is unconditional; just as if they were our own children. We appreciate their parents for allowing us to play such a critical part in their lives and love each and every one of them.


The food was amazing! Corneice won first place this year with her last minute potato soup. Of course, Chris and I were stressed that we would not have enough acts for the talent portion. We prepared an amazing skit with the youth group that they worked on for 2 weeks. It went wonderfully! The message was powerful and it gave the youth group something to really get involved in and stand behind. We had some amazing singers as well--Jamie and the Brown boys performed along with one of my friends Dawn. They all did so great! The kids played bells and we had a surprise performance from the "old" youth choir. A few of the youth members did what is called "raving." It's a slang word for a light show; it looks really cool! Thanks so much for everyone that helped with everything. There are some videos from the talent show at the bottom.


I almost forgot the comedian of the night...the youth got bored after we practiced their skit in the afternoon. They prepped Caleb for a "Bill Cosby" type performance. They asked him random questions and he definitely gave random answers. Enjoy!


Continue praying for our youth group. Pray for their continued devotion to Jesus Christ and our church. Please pray for their guidance through the tough decisions in life and pray that Satan doesn't stand in the way of their relationship with Jesus Christ. It is the most important one they will ever have.

Fall is Here!

It has been eventful few weeks..sorry haven't had time for updates. We have been so busy with Fall Festivals, Halloween, youth group activities, and family events (not to mention work is getting crazy because of the busy Christmas season and I have four more weeks left of school). I have lots of pictures of Halloween and some from the Fall Festival at East Montgomery. We also got to see Reed for his first birthday down at Gramma's house. Everyone had so much fun just watching the kids spend time with each other.

For Halloween, Kaelyn was a Pink Lady and Caleb was a lion. They both had such a great time trick-or-treating. This was really the first year they could walk around well with us with minimal complaining. It was definitely a fun night. Fall is my favorite time of the year so I hope kids have some fond memories of all the activities we have done over the past few months.

The Pumpkin Patch Part Deux

Today I went with Kaelyn's kindergarten class to Honeysuckle Hills in Coopertown. Needless to say, this was an adventure. There were about 80 five and six year olds running around. It was such a great time to spend with Kaelyn and her friends. I loved watching her interact with the other kids and her teacher. These are the things I hope she remembers most about her childhood.

With that said..this next part is specifically for my mom....



As I was waiting for the buses to pull out this morning, everything felt so unorganized and I had no idea where to go. I thought for a moment, I don't know where to go..it would just be easier to go home and have a day to get things done around the house. Then I thought of my mom..and all the times things must have been really hard on my mom and she did them anyways. When we were in Chicago, we were having fun and talking about our favorite childhood memories based on some conversation starters at American Girl Place. Today, I remembered quite a few of them. I remember the time my mom would work in my elementary school library when she was working part time. It was great to have my mom with me at school (I know what it feels like for Kaelyn to have me there). In high school, I particpated in a community service organization called Interact. During a meeting, we were responsible for leading it with a guest speaker. I had arranged for a friend of Chris' to come speak..he had just started college and I thought he could talk to us about the transition. About 2 hours before the meeting started, he had to cancel. I had no idea what I was going to do. My meeting turned in to women in the workforce and my mom was the guest speaker. Wtih about 30 minutes notice, she dressed up to the hilt and gave a great presentation in front of all my friends. She really came to my rescue. Two days before my senior prom, I went to pick up my prom dress. The store had altered the dress incorrectly and it didn't fit. Once again, my mom fixed everything. She went and bought fabric and got someone to make a new dress for me in 48 hours. WOW! These are just a few things..I didn't even mention all the softball trips, movie dates in which she drove, and all the field trips she attended.

So, I know it took 28 years to hear, but thank you. Thank you for always being the mom who threw herself into her kids and taught me great lessons along the way. I know being a single mother how much you sacrificed for us. (I can't even imagine being a single mother with my two kids.) You have made me the mother I am today and I understand more and more everyday alot of the feelings you had when we were growing up.


We are grown up..take care of yourself..make yourself happy...enjoy watching your children and grandchildren and what you have helped create. I love you.

The Bell Choir

Tonight the kids performed at church for Laity Club. They did such a great job! Kaelyn is veteraned, but Caleb just sits up there and rings away when someone else is shaking their bells. We also were blessed to hear the Brown brothers sing. They did an amazing job! It's a great blessing to have these kids in our church and to watch them grow spiritually. Here's a clip and some pictures. God Bless the little children.

The Pumpkin Patch

We visited the pumpkin patch on Sunday after we got back from Chicago. This is definitely a country version of an amusement park. They had some really neat things for the kids to do..but they were filthy by the time we left. Oh well...they had a great time. Here are some pics...

This is Keith..Grumpy's brother..his family was at the

Pumpkin Patch...had to include this one!

American Girls in Chicago

We just returned for what was probably the most eventful weekend of Kaelyn's life...so far! We took a trip to Chicago over the weekend with Gramma, Nana, Cindy, and Kassandra. And it was amazing! I caught myself just watching everyone a few times..wondering if they would have the same great memories I have from this trip. I hope Kaelyn looks back at this weekend and understands that it wasn't just about going to Chicago; it was about girls spending time together..talking girl talk, eating because it's good, and enjoying great times with family! (yes..Cindy and Kassandra are definitely part of the family)

Kaelyn and Kassandra are absolutely the two cutest kids ever..they get along so great (and fight so great). They are just like sisters and I know they will be best friends forever. Thank you to my mom, Corneice, and Cindy for going with us. I had such a great time with all of you and am so glad we did this. It's great spending time with all of you..talking about the past and great times we have had and enjoying the moments we are in now. I learn something from each of you all of the time. Although I'm a mom now, I still learn "mom things" from you guys . I hope I leave things with you as well.

We did so many things in Chicago...I don't know where to start. In true form, there are lots of pictures in the slideshow! We checked out American Girl Place and had a brunch there on the second day. This was a great experience for all of us. We walked. We saw Milennium Park; the girls wanted swing sets, but there were none. We walked. We saw the Chicago theater..no one had seen this in movies, except me! We walked. We went to Navy Pier and rode the Ferris Wheel on Friday night. We also watched the fireworks. We walked. We saw lots of Dirty Dancing advertisements for the broadway production (don't worry..the next trip is in the works). And we walked..and all those times we walked...we ate!

I can't wait to do another trip like this again somewhere else with everyone..these are some of the greatest memories I will treasure and hope all of you do too! Love you all!

Nay Nay's Special Picture

I promised her this would definitely be on here. And I thought it deserved its own post. Here she is ladies and gentleman..Sha Nay Nay Barger..on Kaelyn's bike and she posed for the picture. How pretty is she! Hope you like it Nay Nay..and hope everybody gets a smile. We love you Nay Nay!!!

Kaelyn's 6th Birthday

Wow! She is 6! (almost) We celebrated a couple of days early; she really turns 6 on the 8th of October! So almost 6 years ago I was being induced to have my first child. The doctor accidentally cut her head as they were delivering her; she didn't really cry though. She has been just as tough and hard headed ever since; not sure where she gets that..probably from Grumpy. We had a very low key birthday party at the house..just close family and a few friends from the neighborhood. She loved playing with all the kids; but mainly chasing Eric around..she loves him so much and he runs because he likes the attention. We had a great time with all the family. Thanks to everyone who came and Kaelyn really appreciates all the gifts!

We leave for Chicago on the 16th to go to the American Girl Place. I can't wait! Mainly for two big reasons--this will be an amazing experience for Kaelyn and I to share together; but also the two most important women in my life are going with us--my mom and my mother-in-law. These are the most special people to me and I am so glad Kaelyn gets to see all of us together as a family. We are also traveling with Cindy and Kassandra--the other most important people in our lives. Kaelyn can't wait to hang out with Kassandra! I'm sure we will have lots of memories to share from this trip. Check out the pictures on the side!

10 Year Reunion

Saturday night Chris and I attended my 10 year high school reunion! It doesn't seem like it's been that long; but 2 kids and 8 years of marriage later..and there you have it! We met at Coy Lacy park during the day..and everybody has been having babies!! There were kids galore..the people you could never have imagined as parents..were now parents. Everybody grew up..it was nice to take a moment and just sit back and watch. Saturday night we went to Blackhorse and lots of people were there! It's so nice to see people still connected after all these years. Although we have all gone on different paths, married people (some divorced), had babies (some not)..we all have something in common. We attended Clarksville High School. We made lasting memories through sporting events, favorite classes, pep rallies, and after school clubs. And although I haven't seen some of these people in 10 years and don't talk to some of them near as much as I should, these are people that will always be there. I would like to think our class was different from your typical high school class...we all had our clicks and popular people..but we all knew we could count on each other. I am so glad that I can call of these people my friends. Thanks to the organizers and everyone who came! We made lasting memories and can't wait to see everyone in another 10. Below are some pictures of our night! To Michael..everyone asked about you and missed seeing you..hopefully you can come to the next one..everyone would love to see you!

Time with Caleb and Lane

I had the privilege of picking up the boys on Tuesday from school. Memama wasn't feeling well; I was off from work anyways and Caleb loves playing with Lane. Amazingly enough, they were both really good. They play very well together and are so silly. You never know what they will do or say. As Lane was leaving, Caleb wanted hugs. Lane refused, so Brent said oh just give him kisses Caleb. Caleb responded with "That's gross!" Here are some fun pictures and a little video of the boys just being boys. Love you bunches boys!

Disney on Ice

After Caleb's birthday party, we headed to Nashville for Disney on Ice. Cindy got us some of the best seats..and of course the kids loved to see Kassandra. We are definitely going to have to get some more boys in on this action..poor Caleb always ends up with all the girls..but he doesn't seem to mind. Everyone had a great time and really enjoyed themselves. There are some pictures in the slideshow on the right!

Caleb's 3rd Birthday

Wow! This weekend was jammed packed full of exciting things. We had Caleb's 3rd birthday at Coy Lacy Park. It was hot, but at least it wasn't raining. The kids had lots of fun playing on the playground. Caleb enjoyed all of his wonderful presents..of course time with family and friends was priceless. Thanks so much to everyone that came! We love you! View the slide show to the right to see our memories!

Grandparent's Day at East Montgomery

East Montgomery recently hosted Grandparent's Day! Kaelyn was so lucky to be able to have almost all of her grandparents there. Grumpy was working out of town so he was unable to attend..but still there in spirit. I'm so glad Kaelyn has lots of people around her that love and support her. My grandparents were a driving force in my development and helped me become who I am today. We are so blessed to have all of you around her and Caleb. We could not ask for a better family. So thank you to Hiny, Nana, Gramma, Grumpy, Memama, Grandaddy, and Ann (although she is not a grandmother, my kids love her to death and she thinks the world of them). We love you all and thank you for all you do for us! Here are few pictures to commemorate the special day. Thanks to Gramma for remembering the camera!

Preschool Days

Caleb and Lane started preschool together today. Caleb has been going to Madison Street United Methodist, but this was Lane's first time. Their teachers are so nice, as well as the director. We are so excited to have them in the same class too!!! No crying..Caleb, Lane, or Nay Nay. Everyone did very well. I was so proud! Look forward to this year..I'm sure there will be lots of surprises for us!! Here are some pictures...

Family Reunion 2008

What an eventful weekend...Labor Day weekend is known for the traditional Hollis Family Reunion. On Saturday, everyone gathered at Hollis Park (behind Memama's house) for a cookout. The kids had a blast!! There was four wheeler riding and a paddle boat for the pond! (A couple of snakes were seen slithering around as well.) Sorry, I don't have pictures of this..I wasn't feeling very well that night so I came home early. On Sunday everyone came to Cheatham Dam under the pavilion. This used to be the traditional site of the reunion. (Just a little side note...when Chris and I first started dating--Labor Day 1995--my mom decided to take me and my sister down to Cheatham Dam for a little family time...Chris was there for his family reunion..of course I was having that teenage love...butterflies and excitement because I got to see him outside of school..I don't think I actually came over and met the family at this point though) Here are some pictures of the kids playing..you'll have to check out Corneice's blog for the family photo!

This is Cody...Chris' cousin..and although 18..still a kid!!

Baby Reed and Cichael...we miss you!!

Silly Lane Barger...looks just like his daddy..he'll

grow out of it!! (Love ya Brent!!)

Chris loves to act younger than he really is..almost 31!!

Dirty Dirty kids...Caleb, Lane Barger, and KK

Caleb's Talent Show

Nothing really going on..Caleb put on a little talent show for us tonight so we thought we would share. He sang his favorite song that his Grumpy taught him..."Amy" This is Grumpy's ring tone so he gets to sing it when Grumpy gets a phone call. He also wanted to sing something for his Hiny (long story for those who don't know us), Nana, and Ann. Enjoy!

I started school yesterday and work is getting insane (already preparing for Christmas). My posts may be sporadic and senseless..sleep deprivation causes this I think. I'm sure we will have lots of pictures from the Family Reunion this weekend to share. Will also update again when Lane and Caleb start their first day of preschool together...it should be interesting. I wonder who will cry the most..Lane or Nay Nay (love ya Nay Nay). Either way, Caleb and I will be there to support the both of them. Grandaddy will be there "to take him home if he cries." Have a great week everyone!!

First Day of Kindergarten

We have had an eventful couple of weeks. Kaelyn has started Kindergarten at East Montgomery Elementary (Chris' old stomping ground)! So far she has really liked it and has made an easy transition. Mommy on the other hand, was a blubbering mess as they announced on her first day that this is the class of 2021. I can't imagine sending her to kindergarten every day..I don't even want to think about graduating from high school. Here are a couple of pictures of her first school bus ride. She was a trooper and really enjoyed it!

I HAVE FINALLY GIVEN IN!!

Everybody in my life is technologically more advanced than me...so I thought I would keep up with the times and finally be a "blogger." I don't really have a major purpose in my blog..except showing off my family; plus since we now have family in other places, this will help us stay better connected to what's going on each other's lives. Above is a picture of Chris and me, below our beautiful children..without whom our lives would be totally uneventful and we would have to find something to actually talk about with each other...lol!!! (Just kidding, Chris.)