create

I've got two new creative projects going (which may end next week when classes start back). I'm writing a short novel for kids. I write one or two pages a day and Braden critiques them when he gets home from school. I'm also re-purposing some furniture to be our organizational bail-out for all our papers lying around the house.

First, I got three night stands. One I already "owned" (it was mine growing up). I bought the other two. Two of the three worked close to perfect. The idea is to stack all three on top of one another to create a part-bookcase, part-filing cabinet.

I'll post more pictures as things develop and may post my rough draft chapters if anyone is interested.

FB and art

My uncle Dargan and I created a page on Facebook to promote his artwork. It's been a great kick in the butt for me. I even worked on a new story today (with the help of Braden, my editor). It's funny how when we help one person succeed, it moves us forward as well.

braving the waters

Simon and John Adams took the boat out for some touring around the dock last week. I'm sure they'll push the limits further next time.

bumper boats and laser tag

Braden had a blast for his birthday, running and screaming in the laser tag room, splashing water on everyone on the bumper boats and going through tokens like they were Monopoly money.

The Big NINE

Braden turns nine today. Nine! Just as a snapshot to remember "these days" by here is a glimpse into Braden's day-to-day:

1. He just read The Lord of the Nutcracker Men and loved it. It's a novel set in WWI from the perspective of a 10 year old. He loved it so much that he's got me reading it now.
2. He's collecting Pokemon cards. I'm not actually sure what you're supposed to do with them, but he and Simon are big into having battles and trading them with Collin.
3. He and his brother wake up at 7 a.m. to take turns playing Animal Crossing on the Wii.
4. Last night we went out for ice cream and Braden was dying to order the Banana Split. We let him indulge, but he didn't finish it.
5. He won the Christian Character award this year at school. One student is chosen from each grade.
6. He's supposed to go to summer camp for the first time this year, but unfortunately he's on the waiting list. It's the same camp, Camp Victory, that I worked at while in high school.

So, Happy Birthday, Braden! We love you.

summer intern

I'm in my second week of my internship at Bainbridge College Library. This is my third semester of "library school," so I'm hoping the experience can give me some direction for my remaining classes. For all you locals, feel free to stop by and laugh at the lowly intern.

Jeffrey Dowdy: Final Project

hotrod

We got to see Michelle and Anselmo for about half an hour a week or so ago. Simon got to fulfill a dream of his--he rode a motorcycle! He was pretty excited. Although we were packed to the brim, he was ready to ride home with it in his lap after Michelle's dad said we could borrow it.

tale...

The Spartans stayed one punch ahead of UConn. Barely survived. Now that the underdog won the first game I'm rooting for the Tarheels to take the second.

I'm looking for Nova UNC to come out hot, but then for Lawson Nova Lawson to close out the half and never look back. Just a little editing.

And what's that on Lucas' arm (see pic): talent?

rain, rain

Seems like we are under constant tornado watch. The rain has slowed, but school is still cancelled for tomorrow. They can't take back what they said.

[stands up and pumps his fist... "Yes!"]