On Saturday, June 13th, we went to Doug and Emily's. It was great hearing the children call our names when we saw them and getting all the kisses and hugs. Emma's dance recital was at the Jefferson County Civic Center that night. We were pleased at how good all the dancers were. I do not think Emma missed a single step. Even her hands were pretty. She was dressed as an Eskimo and the second dance she was a tulip.

Sunday, June 14th.: Emily and Doug fixed a large breadfast. When Payton took her nap, Doug, Emma, Nicholas, Linwood and I went downstairs to see his new wii. Emma was good on the Hula Hoop fittnes program. Linwood and I did it and the ski high jump. We need more practice but it was fun. My back was sore that night from making circles from the waist down.

The joint birthday party for Emma and Nicholas was fun and noisy. All the children seemed to have a wonderful time, even some of the big ones - Douglas and Brent. Emily did a great job on Emma's 'crown' cake and Nicholas had a great cake with his picture on it. He was holding a truck. Brent, Shae, Anna Claire, and Mason came to the pary. Stacey, Bobby, Misty, and John David were also there. John David have some icing behind my back. I do not want him to love sweets too much or too soon.

We enjoyed having Staci by herself last night. Linwood loved having the opportunity to talk with her. It is always nice to have our children alone once in a while. We do also love being with the grandchildren. They are so special.

Monday, June 15th
Today is Nicholas' third birthday. He is such a joy to be around and his smile is special. We came to Gulf Shores today to visit with the Marion group. This is the 25th year they have been coming down here to share good times. I was able to meet them tonight at the Sea and Suds. The food was plentiful and very good. We walked there from the Regatta (where most of them were staying) Of course, I wanted to look as good as possible since I had not met any of them except for the McBrides. By the time I got there my hair was dripping wet and the curls were everywhere. God has a way of reminding us what is important. Several of the children from the Marion group were there and Linwood taught seven of them. As we were getting up to leave I heard a voice say "Mr. Erb, Is that you?" Linwood was very glad to see Missy Smith Waldrip. She and her husband were with his parents from Alex City. Linwood had her in the Tallassee band. Linwood said that 90% of the people there tonight had children who were in his band at Marion. They all said such nice things about him and I was so proud of him. Most of them asked about Staci and Scott and were glad to hear about them.

Tommorow our plans have changed. We are going to go to Destin tomorrow afternnon instead on going to Panama City Beach. We will keep you all informed. love you all