Jacksonville

We went to Jacksonville last weekend for our annual Florida vs. Georgia trip. It's rather funny that neither Danny or I really care which team wins this game, but it is our 4th year in a row to attend the "South's largest cocktail party." But even more importantly than the cocktail party, it's a great bonding time with our friends. Pam's parents have hosted the event since her first year at UF. Typically the crowd ranges in size from the low to high 20's, and it's always a memory making weekend.

After kickball on Thursday a big group of us caravaned down to Jacksonville. Friday morning we went to the beach. It was too cold to swim, but perfect for laying out. After a yummy dinner of baked ziti Mr. and Mrs. H shuttled us to The Landing, a mingling spot for all those in town for the big game. Just like usual, Saturday morning started off with a heavy breakfast, "to soak it all in" as Mrs. H says, and then we packed up and all headed to the tailgate. The afternoon was spent playing the game of "murder" and hanging out. Last year Mr. H had the brilliant idea of renting a private Porto Potty, and again this year we cherished the fact that we didn't have to waste half the day standing in a line with everyone else.

A small group of us usually head back to the Hendersons at gametime, as Danny and I did last weekend. They have a pool, hot tub, snacks, and a big screen, and selfishly Auburn is usually on tv during that time, so I enjoy that as well as the chance for a nap. When everyone returned from the game it was time for pulled pork (as you can see she really feeds us well all weekend) and then late night flip cup. This weekend was no exception to the run of amazing weekends in Jacksonville. The Hendersons are so generous to provide such a carefree and enjoyable weekend for us all.

I heard extremely unfortunate news yesterday. My favorite teacher of all times, Mrs. Bayrd from Brentwood High, was killed in an auto accident while vacationing in Greece. There are not enough kind words to say about this lady. She gave every class and every student 100%. She taught me AP History, of which I struggled immensely, but looked forward to the hour with her every day. She was entertaining, caring, and truly enthusiastic. A real legend of a teacher. I will always remember our trip to the Biltmore and her story telling us how hot dogs are made. You will be missed by many, Mrs. Bayrd. Thanks for serving the Brentwood community so well for so many years. http://http//www.brentwoodhomepage.com/obituary-sarah-bayrd-instilled-love-of-past-to-thousands-by-her-presence-cms-3664