Tennessee/Mississippi

[MrsWilson]

How many of you are from TN or MS? What part of the state? I'm from around Memphis!

[Phen]

I live an hour south of Memphis, in Oxford. I was married in Memphis (St. Mary's on Poplar). We come to Memphis about once a month or so, for shopping, dinner (we just tried Texas de Brazil...yum), doctor's appointments, or whatever. And in October we're going to do Race for the Cure there.

~ phen

[KRM&TPS]

I live in Hernando, Mississippi. Oh Phrn isnt Texas De Brazil the best. I just tried it once a few months ago. And the Race for the Cure- I went to the website and they dont have anything about this year. How do you sign up? YOu have inspired me and I also have a best friend whos mom had breast cancer.

Mrs Wilson - thanks for starting this. I wanted to but I didnt know how many would respond. sunshineab is from Olive Branch.

[Phen]

Signup for this year's Memphis RFTC isn't yet, but it's scheduled for the last Saturday in October. See you there!! :)

~ Phen

[MrsWilson]

It is great to see everyone!!

Phen--congrats on the twins! I'm an identical twin myself, so if you have any questions, I can ask my mom about raising them! :) I remember seeing your wedding pictures. Didn't you get a group shot at Autozone Park? That inspired me to have a group shot at my wedding!


I grew up in Collierville and moved to the Germantown/Memphis border when I got a job and out of school. Now DH and I live just inside Fayette County, but close enough to Wal-Mart!

[kmtiger]

I'm checking in from Collierville!

MrsWilson if you get to Off the Grill before me, let me know what you think.

Phen I don't know if you remember me, but I used to go by babyb722 on WC. It's been a long time since I posted, but you gave me the referral to the RE at Baptist East. I've kept up with you and couldn't be more thrilled about your twins! Take care of yourself!

[MrsWilson]

MrsWilson if you get to Off the Grill before me, let me know what you think.

I've already told DH we have to check it out soon! You do the same if you get there first!

[mrstim]

Hi!! I'm from TN - about one hour west of Chattanooga in a little bitty town.

Glad to see there's others around!

[katzmeow671]

Another Memphis burb gal checking in! Hi Sarah! Hi Kim! Looking forward to having our group here!! Didn't realize there were so many local chicks around!

[KRM&TPS]

Hi everyone. I didnt realize we had so many either Betsey. By the way glad to see you hear. It will be good chatting with you all. Maybe somewhere down the road we can all get together.

[ktdelsur]

*poking my head in to say hi*

I am officially an SC girl, but I grew up in Johnson City, TN (northeast corner). :D

[MrsWilson]

ktdelsur--You are more than welcome to come by anytime!

[LILRTL]

Tennessee girl here! :-) Born and raised in Knoxville, moved to Chatt for a while, now back in Knoxville. It's good to be home! ;-) (Missed my Vols a wee bit! :p )

[ginastorm]

Went to grad school at Miss State & I loved Starkville. DH is from the MS Coast and we visit family & friends there often. Does this make me an honorary MS girl? I really live in Mobile, but I would move back to MS in a heartbeat!

[ktdelsur]

LILRTL: Go Vols!

[KRM&TPS]

Went to grad school at Miss State & I loved Starkville. DH is from the MS Coast and we visit family & friends there often. Does this make me an honorary MS girl? I really live in Mobile, but I would move back to MS in a heartbeat!

I went to State. I loved it too. Sometimes I kind of miss Starkville. My husband and his family are big time sports people so we go to all the games. And yes you can be a honorary MS girl.

[PGirl26]

I'm in Knoxville, Tennessee. Born and raised....GO VOLS!!!!

[Irish Elf]

Grew up in Chattanooga, college in Nashville moved to Memphis, moved to Texas and just recently came home to Memphis. Thank god!!!

DH and his family are big State fans - FIL, his 2 brothers, DH and a cousin all went. I'm actually wearing a State Tshirt right now, but don't tell my fellow Vandy alums.

Can I just say how glad I am to be back in the south, especially here? :D

[Phen]

This thread is really hoppin'; what a thrill!

My DH went to State...he's such a crazy fan that the groom's cake at our wedding was made to look like Bully!

~ Phen

[MrsWilson]

WOW! DH's family would be so excited to see so many State fans! My SIL graduated from there and they are in the Bulldog Club. Her husband owns his own business and takes clients to the games...he won't miss one just for a meeting. They also own a small plane, so they fly to all away football games and the big, important basketball and baseball games.

I didn't know there were this many people from the area on here! Very refreshing!! I know where to go when I need advise on resturants in the area!!

[kmtiger]

Oh no! State and Vol fans in here!! THis is gonna be one interesting football season in this thread! :p

Me, I grew up a Bama fan. But, I graduated from the University of Memphis. So I cheer for both and go to games at both places. Thank God they never play each other and are in different conferences!!

Glad to see so many of us from around here! :)

[Mentul77]

Let's see... Born in Kingsport (near Johnson City), raised in Knoxville, graduated from UTK, now live just a little South of Knoxville.

However, for all you from Memphis, you better eat at Leonards for me! (I have family there and <3 Leonards)

Can't post from K-town without a big: GO VOLS!

[Trillian]

I was just about to ask about starting local threads, and you already beat me to it! I'm just outside Memphis, in Bartlett, TN. I'm surprised to see so many from this area!

[ginastorm]

Thanks KRM&TPS!

DH & I just bought our season tickets for State's football games. Makes me wish I was still a student (student tickets were $3 a ticket). DH wants to join the Bulldog Club, but its a bit expensive! Looking forward to the Egg Bowl in Starkville. I'm glad that its not on Thanksgiving Day anymore!

[sunshineab622]

wow ! I knew that mrs. wilson, krm, kmtiger, trillain, & katz were from this area - But I never knew that Phen lived so close. I've seen you on WC forever & recently (last wk) I checked out your phenway site.

I'm in Olive Branch,MS .... We will have to plan a get together!

Melanie: I've ate at Leonards before! Yummmmy

[LILRTL]

All this football talk got me all excited!!! :D My uncle is the architect for a lot of the projects going on at MSU, so we are lucky enough to get to go to State games for free. ;) Although I am a die-hard Vol fan, I have to give a big GO BULLDOGS, too!!! :D

[KRM&TPS]

I never knew we had all these Bulldog fans!! Go Dawgs! Wow Lilrtl that must be nice. Do you get pretty good tickets. Ours are pretty average. DH dream is that one we can come up with the money to sit in those boxes. :rolleyes: I guess a man can dream.

[LILRTL]

Kim The first time we went, we had average seats. The last 3 years, we have been on the Club Level. The food is great, but I don't feel like I'm "part of the game", so to speak.

[KRM&TPS]

Oh wow thats nice. I would think I would feel the same. Except for the August/September 12 pm 500 degree heat games. Now that would be nice to have. Otherwise I agree with you.

[Phen]

Egg Bowl is in Starkville this year? Man am I out of touch. We went to the Egg Bowl when it was in Oxford in, uh, 2002. It was freezing!!

Y'all ever go to the Grove before games at Ole Miss?

~ phen

[Phen]

Oh! I just noticed that I overlooked some questions to me!

MrsWilson, yup, our wedding reception was at the club at Autozone (Plaza Club) and we did a group photo with our guests in the park.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b2cc27b3127cce9f21c891ffe100000016108AaOW7Zs4ZMk

kmtiger, YES! I remember you!! What is UP!??! How are you?!

~ phen

[kmtiger]

Oh! I just noticed that I overlooked some questions to me!

kmtiger, YES! I remember you!! What is UP!??! How are you?!

~ phen

I'm doing very well, thanks. I've gotten divorced since we last talked and I took a hiatus from the old board for a while. OF course, I'm no longer seeing the RE b/c my problems mysteriously all disappeared after we separated. :p

Seriously, things are great and it's great to see you around! :D

[MrsWilson]

kmtiger--Where is Off the Grill? I thought it was on Poplar, but I didn't see it today when we went out. Have you found it yet?

[kmtiger]

kmtiger--Where is Off the Grill? I thought it was on Poplar, but I didn't see it today when we went out. Have you found it
yet?

It's in the same shopping center as the new Target and Schnuck's. You can see it from Poplar if you look right behind the Taco Bell. I think it's next to Weight Watchers.

I was thinking of trying it today for lunch. If you make it there 1st, let me know how it is!

[amberfiddles]

i live in ktown :)

[MrsWilson]

It's in the same shopping center as the new Target and Schnuck's. You can see it from Poplar if you look right behind the Taco Bell. I think it's next to Weight Watchers.

Oops! I had my head turned the wrong way! I was looking at the Payless side of the street! I won't be able to make it there today. We had to take my puppy to the vet, he has allergies and an infection :( She gave us a whole list of stuff we have to do to take care of him!

amberfiddles--Welcome to our thread! We have a great group going here!

[PGirl26]

For any of you gals close to Knoxville, there's a great restaurant called Harrison's. If you take I75 to Clinton, it's right off the exit. It's kind of like Aubrey's. Only 1000x's better and the service is wonderful. They have the BEST ribs you'll ever eat! Kind of a short drive from K-Town but well worth it.

[shoegal]

I am originally from southeast TN (outside of Chattanooga) now I reside in Nashville. Football? Georgia Bulldog fan, but that's what happens when you grow up too close to GA.

[sunshineab622]

Shoegal .... Welcome ....
I have been a GA Bulldogs fan for yrs - I do not really follow them as much as I used to. That is what happens when you marry a Univ. of Memphis & TN vols fan. lol

[sunshineab622]

http://img.123greetings.com/eventsnew/ejul_fourthjuly_wishes/8265-002-29-1049.gif

Hope you have a great day!

[Irish Elf]

Phen - I was in your neck of the woods today. I start my new job tomorrow and DH wanted to just relax today. We drove to Oxford to go to Books on the Square (or whatever it's called) and then ate at the little italian place just down the block. Beautiful town, beautiful day.

I told DH if I saw someone with twins I was going to ask if it was you. He looked horrified at the thought of me accosting starngers to ask if they are on my chat board. I assured him I would use more finesse than that.

[Phen]

Oh Square Books (http://www.squarebooks.com/) is so great! And we love Old Venice (http://www.ovpc.com/default.aspx)* (or didja go to Pearl Street Pasta? Either way, you can't go wrong. Both are really great.).

Hee about accosting us. It would've been cool, I promise! DH is actually getting used to the whole internet thing. He sometimes even calls me Phen.

Glad you had a great day in Oxford! Next time, we'll go for catfish down in Taylor.

~ Phen


* hey, I just read this on the Old Venice website:
OVPC is opening soon at our new location in Memphis on Poplar and Perkins! We will be posting the opening dates here! Y'all will LOVE this place -- try the Hog Wild pizza sometime.

[Irish Elf]

DH is meeting his family for catfish in Taylor next weekend. I have to work. I'll miss the catfish, but not necessarily the inlaws. :D

[jenji]

another Knoxville girl here married to a southern middle TN farm boy :)

[ginastorm]

Hi Phen! Yep, the Egg Bowl is in Stark Vegas this year. DH went to Egg Bowl in Oxford last year. Didn't have a good time. He said that he kept dodging bottles of liquor being thrown. And it was freezing!

[Irish Elf]

Marooooon...

[ginastorm]

WWWWhhhhhiiiiitttteeee!

Only to me it sounded like they were saying "balloon" instead of "maroon"!

[isign]

I didn't know this area was here. I'm in Gulfport and find it hard to belive I'm the ONLY person from the coast. :)

[MrsWilson]

Ok, Ladies! I need some help from the people that live near me--that's y'all! DH and I will be celebrating our 1st year of marriage in October. We are starting to think about what we want to do. We were hoping to drive somewhere, but don't know where. Right now, we are trying to pay off debt and save up for a house, so we can't afford a big trip. Anyone have any ideas? So far I've thought about going to Hot Springs, Arkansas or Nashville, TN, or St. Louis, Missouri. He mentioned Tunica, but I don't think there is much there and wouldn't be very fun. We both thought of going to the Gulf Coast (that is where he propsed to me), but hurricanes were very rampid around the time of our wedding and it looks like it will be the same this year. I've also thought about staying somewhere in Memphis and going to a show at the Orpheum or somthing. We are planning on doing something on October 8-9 (anniversary is the 10th.) Nothing is set in stone. Do you know any good B&B's in the area? I'm sure there are lots to do, but I can't think of much!

[sunshineab622]

hey Isign
I remember chatting with you over on the "other" site. lol how ya been? you getting prepared for "Dennis" ?

Mrs Wilson: Hot Springs would be a good idea. Not too expensive & yall could get massages at a b&b. St Louis is always fun also.

[KRM&TPS]

Mrs Wilson: Hot Springs is a good idea. I just got back there today with some friends and we really enjoyed it. Lots of things to do. And I was surprised at how big it was. Memphis is also a great idea. There are lots of good b&b around. We stayed at Bonne Terre the night we got married.

[sunshineab622]

Where is everyone ?

This board has gotten quiet ....

Thought I would check in to see if anything was going on here

Have a good weekend!

[zannli]

Well it has taken me a while but I just noticed this section of these boards.
I'm a northeast TN girl now (Johnson City/Gray are) but was raised in Southern Middle TN - 50 miles south of Nashville -Jenji where's your husband from?

I claim no football affiliation :P

[PGirl26]

Jenji, I'm in Knoxville too...what part do you live in? Im in north Knoxville...Halls/Powell area

[Phen]

Mrs. Wilson, "quick" (maybe) question for you: did you go to nursing school in Memphis, and if so, where? I'm thinking about nursing as a new career possibility and have been looking at different area programs.

Thanks for any feedback you can give me!

~ Phen

[MrsWilson]

I went to the U of Memphis for nursing school. It was tough and a couple of the teachers are harder than they need to be, but I did learn and it is a good school. I chose that school because I want to have experience in all the hospitals in the area. It was a good decision. I had clinicals in Methodist, Baptist, St. Francis, Lebohoner, and Lakeside. Some people also went to The Med, but I didn't. Do you have any specific questions? It is a 2.5 year program that most people get through in 2 years by taking classes during the summer. I trippled up on classes/clinicals and got out in 1.5 years, but I think they have stopped giving students that option (plus, with the twins I wouldn't suggest it--you would never see them!) I haven't had to pay back any of my student loans, my employer always has! I'll answer any questions I can!

[Phen]

I was thinking about an associates' program (there's one in Senatobia, which is fairly close-ish). I know a couple girls who went to that program and they all had a bunch of job offers at the end. But I guess with nursing, the last thing you have to worry about is finding a job, eh? :)

My big worry is that I never took any science higher than Biology. I guess I will have to take some prereqs. I couldn't start school for at least a year, though (too late to start this fall's program), so that might work out.

~ Phen

[katzmeow671]

Just buttin in to say, Sarah, you would be such an awesome nurse!! :D

[KRM&TPS]

Just wanted to say I took all the prereq classes for an associates nursing. The sciences beyond Biology were not that bad. For me I took A&P I &II and then Microbiology. It was not that bad at all. I was actually in the program and did really well with the classes and clinicals. I just could not get the 80 on the dosage test. I tried 3 times but I was just so nervous. I am not good at math and if you dont pass you have to withdraw for the semester. So I had to withdraw and just could not make myself go back. Sometimes I get really upset that I did not. I really enjoyed the clinicals and classes. Lately I have been thinking about going back. Sorry for blabbing on.. guess I just realized what I would like to do now. Sorry to monopolize the conversation.

Anyway did not mean to butt into the conversation but I think you would like it Phen. I also think you would do well. You seem very determined. YOu should go for it.

[MrsWilson]

Phen,
I agree with everything everyone else wrote. I have heard good things about the associate degree at Northwest. I haven't talked to many people who have gone there at length. I don't think there is a "bad" school in the area. As far as science classes, I am not a "science person" at all! I love math! So, I surprised myself when I decided to be a nurse. I actually enjoyed Biology II, Chemistry I and II, Microbiology (except it was an 8am class and it stunk--literally!), and LOVED, LOVED, LOVED Anatomy and Physiology. I had an awsome teacher who got down on our level. Lab was fun; we disected deer hearts and a fetal pig. Now I was thinking about going to med school, so I took Organic Chemistry and hated it. If you want to do it, you will be just fine! I tell everyone that Nursing School sucks for everyone, just stick it out and you'll love your career! And take this next year to get those pre-recs out of the way, you'll be happy you did when you start going to clinicals and taking nursing classes!

[Irish Elf]

May I request a monent of silence for a recent loss please? ysterday we had torrential rains and the ditch near us overflowed. As DH was standing at the kitchen window he saw our garbage can floating away. He actually got in the car and drove the neighborhood looking for it. :p We've looked everywhere for it but it has disappeared. If anyone sees a green City of Memphis garbage can, please tell it we miss it and it can come home, no questions ask.

[sunshineab622]

we just came back from vacation late last night & I can not believe all the rain & flooding memphis & desoto co. got while we were gone. Our garage ceiling leaked but did not fall in. our yard holds water soooo bad - I can really tell it hit us hard there is still about 2-3 inches of standing water in some areas of our back yard.

sorry to hear about your garbage can - If you call the city & report it missing they will probably charge you for a replacement can .... lol

[Phen]

Thanks for the replies about my nursing school thoughts; I'm really starting to think it might be what I'll be doing in a year or two, when the boys are ready to go to nursery school and I'm done with all this cancer jazz. :)

We were in Memphis yesterday; did y'all see me? :p One of my sons had a doctor's appointment up in Germantown, so we went to that and then took both boys over to Picture People to do their one-year birthday photos. They turned out pretty good, even though the photographer wasn't the best we've had there. We left town just as the storm was coming y'all's way (we drove through it in Holly Springs -- gah, rough driving).

Oh and we thought it was totally weird that we'd witness TWO car accidents at the same intersection (on Germantown Parkway, south of Wolfchase)....one as we drove north on Germantown, and one a few hours later as we drove south on Germantown. But today we mentioned that to some Memphis friends who laughed and said, no, that's not unusual. What a total PITA for y'all

Hey, and be nice to the twinmamas in town for their convention this weekend at the Peabody. They might be a bit wild, being away from their kids and all. :D

~ phen

[Irish Elf]

i was at work when the storm hit and it was a mess. I think I know the accidents you are referring to. Every ti,me I went outside i saw blue lights. Even as slow as the police are, I know it wasn't the same accident the whole time.

Just found out that in addition to our garbage can we also lost a hose. A hose!!!! DH is so excited he gets to go to Lowes this weekend.

Phen - next time you are in the Wolfchase area you should stop by and say hi. Just flash the CC secret signal and I'll know who you are. :)

[Trillian]

Hey everybody! Glad to see that there's some action in here again. I am going to visit a friend in Murfreesboro this weekend. Any suggestions for places to go and things to do?

[MrsWilson]

May I request a monent of silence for a recent loss please? ysterday we had torrential rains and the ditch near us overflowed. As DH was standing at the kitchen window he saw our garbage can floating away. He actually got in the car and drove the neighborhood looking for it. :p We've looked everywhere for it but it has disappeared. If anyone sees a green City of Memphis garbage can, please tell it we miss it and it can come home, no questions ask.

If it makes it to Fayette County, I'll tell you! :p

[MrsWilson]

I was on my home from work in that awful storm yesterday and just as I was driving through the intersection at Humphry's Blvd and G'twon Pkwy, lightning his one of the telephone poles near the intersection. Scared me to death! I've never seen lightening his anything, and I was afraid the poles (or the live wires) were going to come down on my car! I made it safely, but I heard it knocked the electricity out!

Phen--Love your new avatar. Such cuties! The twinmamas chose a great place to meet! Hope ya'll have a great weekend! Oh, and 2 wrecks in 1 intersection is a little unusual, but wrecks in general aren't. Those Memphis drivers are CRAZY! (Hate to admit is, but sometimes I join them!)

Hope everyone is having a great week! Only one more day til Friday!

[zannli]

trillian I can't hardly remember anything in Murfreesboro that doesn't happen in May... so about all I can suggest is Don Pablos for tastey Tex-Mex, it's the only thing coming to mind LOL, you might check MTSU's website and see if they have any free concerts or movies going on. Those were always fun.

[craftyT]

Are transplants welcome on the TN boards? ;)

I'm a California girl, born and raised, but have lived in TN for almost 5 years now...

We recently bought a house in Germantown but prior to that we lived downtown and in midtown... I never thought I was meant for the burbs, but it's been great so far.

I do have one gripe though... this humidity!!! I can't take it! :(

I'm counting the days until Fall and football season! Absolutely the best time of the year in the South!

War Eagle!

eta corrections to my poor grammar skills ;)

[sunshineab622]

teresa2mike: Welcome!
The humidity here is sooo bad. I can not believe this weather we are having - They are saying a cool front is on the way & the high is gonna be around 90 thursday I believe. Fall is my favorite time of year.

[kmtiger]

Welcome Teresa! We're practically neighbors (I'm in Collierville). What brought you to TN 5 years ago?

Oh, and the humidty is killing me, too! We scheduled a trip to the zoo for Thursday since the "cold front" is coming thru and it's ONLY gonna be about 90. :rolleyes:

Hi to everyone else!

[LILRTL]

Thursday since the "cold front" is coming thru and it's ONLY gonna be about 90. :rolleyes:


Yeah, what is up with that?! Since when do weathermen think 90 is cold?! Maybe a "cooler" front...or a "dip in temperatures"...but a cold front? They're driving me nuts! :p

[katzmeow671]

zannli Do you live close to Murfreesboro?? My in laws live there! We'll have to hook up for dinner/ lunch sometime! :) I'd love to meet you after hanging out with you in Nikki's journal for the last few years!


I'm shocked at all the Memphis gals.. where were you guys hiding on the WC? We'll have to plan a get together soon!!!

[craftyT]

Welcome Teresa! We're practically neighbors (I'm in Collierville). What brought you to TN 5 years ago?

Thanks :) We moved to Memphis (from Las Vegas) when our company merged with another - they decided the office space in Memphis was much nicer than what we had in Vegas :rolleyes: I was very nervous about moving (DH... BF at the time... was totally excited though b/c he's orig. from Alabama) but I loved it since the day we arrived. I think that had a lot to do with the fact that I moved in the Fall too - had it been weather like this... I might have had a harder time adjusting! :p

Yeah, what is up with that?! Since when do weathermen think 90 is cold?! Maybe a "cooler" front...or a "dip in temperatures"...but a cold front? They're driving me nuts!

ITA!!! The weathermen here are terrible!

[zannli]

katzmeow671 I don't live in or near Murfresboro anymore. I grew up a little just south of there (about a 30 min drive) and my sister lived there for a while. I live in East TN up near the VA/NC borders now. But I'm down there fairly often to visit my family in Columbia. Maybe we can corrolate visits sometime :)

[Irish Elf]

Ok, wish us luck, We just sent in an application to adopt a German Sheperd from a local rescue group. We've been wanting a dog forever, but waited until we had a house and yard. Now we just need approval from the group - and the dog.

Send good thoughts our way.

[craftyT]

Good luck!!! It's wonderful that you are willing to adopt a rescue dog!

[Irish Elf]

I heard back from the rescue group. Our new pet is in Maryland and should be down here next week. I'm waiting on his foster mom to call so we can get more details.

At first I was worried about the difference in temps but since he's going to be an indoor dog and we have airconditioning I'm not as worried. And fall is coming up. I wonder if he's a fan of the SEC? Maybe I'll make him a Vandy fan after all. :)

[sunshineab622]

Congrats on the adoption of the dog.

[PGirl26]

Seems to be alot of Memphis girls around here....Any other East Tennessean's? Besides Melanie and Lora? Surely we aren't the only VOL FANs in Knoxville...

[Irish Elf]

Well, if you liook at it that I spent most of my life in Chatt then you could say i was an East TN girl, but I have never been a vols fan. ;)

[Phen]

I know there's a bunch of Memphis girls here, so for all the mamas wanting to get ready for school or fall, the Memphis Area Mothers of Multiples Club is hosting their Fall/Winter "Everything for Kids" sale on Saturday, August 20, 2005, at the Agricenter International - Cordova, TN, from 7 am - 3 pm (with a Red Tag 1/2 price sale 1 pm - 3 pm). When I say everything is for sale, I mean pretty much everything: clothes, furniture, toys, books, high chairs, car seats, maternity clothes, and all sizes of kids' clothes. Great deals and you don't have to be a twinmama to take advantage of the deals!

I'll be working the sale, so come say hi!

~ Phen

[Trillian]

Hey Memphis ladies, I just heard today that we're getting a Cost Plus World Market in the Wolfchase area. It's going to be where Just For Feet used to be. Now if we could just get an Ikea... :)

[isign]

hey girls
be safe when the storm comes your way!

[sunshineab622]

Julie : You be careful .... are yall staying there or moving further north?

[Phen]

Well, we had a little flooding in our playroom (very minor) and our butterfly bushes snapped off at the roots, but that's about it in terms of damage from Katrina down here in Oxford for us. How'd the rest of y'all do?

~ phen

[sunshineab622]

Our yard is a mud hole! About 3 inches of standing water - No damage or roof leaks - Thank God! I saw plenty of trees,branches & signs down on my way to work. Power is out in different spots around town. Andrews school is closed.

[sunshineab622]

Please remember ISIGN (julie & brian) in your thoughts & prayers. She lives in gulfport. They are staying with relatives I believe 4 hours north of Gulfport. She is ok - here is an update from her journal ...
I'm alive! I'm worried about New Orleans but they got mostly flooding, we were devestated. The casinos are in the city now, not just on the road in front but IN the city. Most everything on the coast, meaning the water, is gone. If ya'll can find any pics of the following cities I'd appreciate it. Bay St Louis, Pass Christian, Long beach, Gulfport, Biloxi, Ocean Springs, Pascagoula & Moss Point. I'll be able to check in for now,but we'll try to head back tomorrow. We've heard that I10 is under 10 ft of water, but we can go back tomorrow. Powers out here so we're not getting much news, except for local. If anyone can post anything I'm going to try to check again tonight. Can someone post in the Coupon thread that I am out of commission for minimum 2 weeks. If anyone needs me, or wants to get my cell number then email me BJN1227@aol.com. It changed for those of you who need it.

also please keep Betsey's (katzmeow671) sister M-E & Linda in youre thoughts & prayers they are here from New Orleans.

[sunshineab622]

Here is an email I received today ... please help if you can ... Thanks

Hello.

I am writing to inform you that Longview Heights will begin to host hurricane victims tonight. We are in need of sleeping bags, pillows, cots, bedding, etc. If you are willing to help donate any of these items, or if you would be willing to host a family in your home, please contact the church office at 662-895-1900.

Thank you!


Church address:
Longview Heights Baptist Church
4501 Goodman Road East
Olive Branch, Ms 38654

[Kristi32302]

Just thought I'd jump in and say hey. Trillian it's great to see ya. Nice to see a big group of local gals. We'll have to plan a get together soon.

[Elenna]

Can I join? DH and I live in Nashville.

It is nice to see other people here from TN. It seems this thread died after Katrina hit. I hope everyone is doing ok.

[sunshineab622]

Hey elenna: Welcome! Hey kristi good to see ya

yep, it looks like after hurricane katrina this journal just faded away .... come out come out where you are ....lol

[zannli]

I'm really late with this.. Apparently I wasn't getting notifications about updates. But saw this and wanted to post a link for her
I'm alive! I'm worried about New Orleans but they got mostly flooding, we were devestated. The casinos are in the city now, not just on the road in front but IN the city. Most everything on the coast, meaning the water, is gone. If ya'll can find any pics of the following cities I'd appreciate it. Bay St Louis, Pass Christian , Long beach, Gulfport, Biloxi, Ocean Springs, Pascagoula & Moss Point. I'll be able to check in for now,but we'll try to head back tomorrow. We've heard that I10 is under 10 ft of water, but we can go back tomorrow. Powers out here so we're not getting much news, except for local. If anyone can post anything I'm going to try to check again tonight. Can someone post in the Coupon thread that I am out of commission for minimum 2 weeks. If anyone needs me, or wants to get my cell number then email me BJN1227@aol.com. It changed for those of you who need it.

Pics of Pass Christian's devastation can be found here: http://www.arloandjanis.com.
http://www.comics.com/comics/arlonjanis/archive/images/arlonjanis2002441951005.gif
Jimmy Johnson creator of the comic strip Arlo and Janis lives in Pass Christian and has been posting pictures on his website. Just scroll down the page to find them and click on the picture to advance.
**************************

Glad to see this thread is still active though :)
z

[akacharlotte]

Hi ladies. I'm Stacey. I'm not official yet but I am moving to Nashville Nov. 25th. Can't wait to move although I am dreading the 10 hour drive in a car without cruise control! :eek:

Nice to meet y'all!

[Elenna]

akaCharlotte: Welcome! I live in Nashville. If you need any info just let me know. I'll try to answer any questions you have.

[sunshineab622]

welcome akacharlotte :)

[nolagirl]

Hi ladies,

My husband and I are from New Orleans, and are probably going to relocate somewhere in the South. I have a whole list of cities I'm looking into, and a couple of Mississippi towns were on my list. I'm especially interested in Jackson, and possibly Hattiesburg or Vicksburg as well. If there is anyone from those areas that wouldn't mind me asking a couple questions, would you PM me?

Thanks so much - I will definitely appreciate any info you can give!

Abby

[nolagirl]

I think I need to throw Oxford in there - can't rule old Ole Miss territory! Thanks again - and sorry for hijacking your thread!

Abby

[Phen]

My SIL and her family live in Jackson (she's not too thrilled with it, though) and I, of course, live in Oxford and would be happy to help however I can. Bring on the questions!

~ phen

[nolagirl]

Thank you! I really appreciate it. Here are my main questions - any info you can give me in regards to either Jackson or Oxford would be great.

1. What is it like to live there - would you recommend it?

2. How is it as a place to raise a family - how are the schools, crime rate, etc.

3. Is there a lot to do?

4. Is housing affordable?

Those are the main ones - I'm sure I'll have more, if you don't mind. Thanks again.

[Phen]

Jackson (based on my SIL's experience, as well as that of some friends):

1. What is it like to live there - would you recommend it?
I know our friends in Brandon (outside of Jackson) love it; pretty reasonable cost of living and decent jobs. But Jackson itself might be a different story--my DH has always said it's a nice place to visit, but he wouldn't want to live there (he lived there for a year or two while co-op'ing during college). So I guess that's a thumbs up on Brandon but not so much on Jackson.

2. How is it as a place to raise a family - how are the schools, crime rate, etc.
Our friends in Brandon like the schools, and we loved their public playgrounds when we visit. I think the crime rate in Brandon is dramatically lower than that in Jackson itself. My SIL (who lives in Jackson proper) is in a nice neighborhood but only a few blocks away is a less nice neighborhood. There's been carjackings at a gas station just a mile away. She and her family will be moving in a year or two (she's finishing her residency), so her kids won't be going to school in Jackson. That said, she's always said that if they were going to stay in Jackson, her kids would be going to private school--I take that to mean the public schools aren't great.

3. Is there a lot to do?
Lots of restaurants and shopping, some concerts, and of course the Sweet Potato Queen parade on St. Patrick's Day (http://www.sweetpotatoqueens.com/spq/).

4. Is housing affordable?
It ranges, but in general, yes.


Oxford:

1. What is it like to live there - would you recommend it?
It's small-town, but because of the University, it's constantly growing. I love it here, and would recommend it, but I lived in the Washington DC area for 7 years and was tired of the crowds, traffic, and insane prices, so Oxford has been a huge relief to me in a way! A big drawback, though, is that most of the professional-level jobs in town are through either the University or the hospital/medical community--and it's not easy to "break into" these communities if you don't have an in. Several of my friends with master's degrees are working basically secretarial jobs because that's the best they could find.

2. How is it as a place to raise a family - how are the schools, crime rate, etc.
Crime rate is pretty low. This city profile website of Oxford (http://www.monstermoving.monster.com/find_a_place/cityprofile/results.asp?Zip=38655) says Oxford's crime rate is half that of the state's average. The schools are really good--both city and county. There's several parks and, with the University here, there's no shortage of babysitters.

3. Is there a lot to do?
Oxford has great restaurants (only a few are chains). When we first moved here, we hardly ate at home because we kept finding new favorite places to eat! Going out on the Square is fun. Square Books often has authors in to do book readings/signings, and Thacker Mountain Radio does a weekly broadcast from here (I think it's open to the public to attend?). There's art galleries (some on campus, some not affiliated with Ole Miss), concerts and plays at The Ford Center (http://www.olemiss.edu/fordcenter/) on campus, and of course, if you're a college sports fan, there's always a game to go watch. Each spring, they have the Double Decker Festival (http://www.doubledeckerfestival.com/) with artists and music and "fun for all." There's some nice shopping, but for better selection, we generally go to either Tupelo or Memphis (an hour's drive). Right now, the movie theatre we have is pitiful, but they are building a 10-screen theatre that is supposed to show some art-house type movies; I think the new theatre will open in early 2006. You'll find some good links to other city information at the Oxford newspaper's site (http://www.oxfordeagle.com/).

4. Is housing affordable?
There are a ton and a half of apartments--really modern and nice ones--in town because of all the students. We've been living here since 2001 and the building has never stopped! There's a lot of starter homes here, too. The only problem is that if you want to live near the Square, you're going to be competing with Ole Miss alums who buy houses here just for football weekends--and they don't mind jacking up the prices. Oxford does have the highest housing costs in the state (well, before Katrina, anyhow), though.

:)

~ phen

[nolagirl]

Thanks Phen - very, very helpful! Oxford sounds like a great place - definitely smaller than I am used to, but I think it would be worth a visit. Do you feel like you know everyone in town?
I'm a teacher, so I was also wondering if you knew anything about how easy/difficult it is to get a teaching job?

Thanks again,

Abby

[Phen]

No, we don't feel like we know everyone in town, although we very often meet people who know/work with/go to church with/etc. friends of ours. And while I'm always surprised at What a Small World the parenting community is here, I shouldn't really be surprised...there's only two pediatric practices in town, so you run into half the kids/parents in town just taking your kids for a check-up.

WRT teaching in town, there's three school "systems": Oxford City schools, Lafayette County schools, and then the private school (Oxford University School). A friend of mine here in town taught third grade in Batesville (about 20 minutes away); I asked her why she didn't teach in Oxford and she said they weren't taking brand-new teachers (she'd just finished her early education degree). On the other hand, I've heard recently that the schools here have been needing more teachers because of all the Katrina evacuees who stayed.

Come for a visit, at least! :)

~ phen

[nolagirl]

Thanks Phen - I hope to soon. My husband is working in Mobile, so I'm hoping to go visit him and do a little MS/AL exploring. I might PM you for restaurant recommendations!

Abby

[sunshineab622]

wow this board has slowed down .... just thought I would bump us back up

[Irish Elf]

I grew up in Chattanooga, still have family there and visit as often as I can. DH and I would love to be able to move back so our future kids could go to school there. I might be coming home for a weekend soon. Wave if you see me.:D

[shoegal]

I grew up in Cleveland and spent as much time as I could in Chattanooga. I liked it but it was too small for me. I ended up in Murfreesboro for school and moved to Nashville after I graduated. I still have family back there and visit when I can. Work is kind of crazy, so poping in for the weekend makes life a bit more hectic. I am proud of downtown and wish Nashville had their downtown. Plus, I really, really miss Riverbend. Oh the days of underage drinking at Riverbend. . .of course as soon as I was legal, they clamped down on it.

[shaqangel]

shoegal you grew up in cleveland? wow....thats where i am now (came to attend college)...hate it though cos its so small:( i come from a big city so this was major culture shock for me.
we go to to chatt alot too - more stuff going on there!

[akacharlotte]

Anybody have a recommendation for the best place to buy a Christmas tree in Nashville? I want a live tree and well I want to cut it down. I know it's a little early to be asking....

[Jess71903]

Hi girls! It seems like this thread has been pretty quiet for a while, but I thought I would say hi! I am technically not in TN anymore, but I grew up in Bartlett, where my mom still lives. My dad lives in Pulaski (just north of Huntsville, AL) and I have family in Mempho and scattered in Middle TN. My BIL lives in Chatt, (I love it there). I am now living in AR and love it here, but TN will always be home. I had no idea there were so many of us from that region! So, anyway, HI!

[sunshineab622]

hey Jess: welcome to our group! Yep, it is really quiet around here now. Not sure why. Central AR ? you are not that far from us.

[mrstim]

Jessica - I grew up in Huntsville :D My uncles had a farm in Pulaski that I visited very often! It's a small world!

[sunshineab622]

Congrat mrs. tim :) I read your news on another forum a few mins ago

[Phen]

Memphis girls, I heard the tail end of a conversation yesterday about a new outdoor mall for kids somewhere around Nonconnah (near a car dealer with an enormous flag, a Home Depot, Target, etc.)....it sounded really great. Life-size statues that kids can climb on, tons of great stores, etc. etc. Where exactly is it? And are the shops really great? Anyone know what I'm talking about? ;)

~ Phen

[craftyT]

Memphis girls, I heard the tail end of a conversation yesterday about a new outdoor mall for kids somewhere around Nonconnah (near a car dealer with an enormous flag, a Home Depot, Target, etc.)....it sounded really great. Life-size statues that kids can climb on, tons of great stores, etc. etc. Where exactly is it? And are the shops really great? Anyone know what I'm talking about? ;)

~ Phen

I think you heard about the new Avenue Crossing (http://www.theavenuealist.com/tn_acc/avenue_carriage_crossing.asp)mall (Houston Levee exit off of Nonconnah)... but they don't have a new Target and Home Depot (that is off of Poplar and Byhalia - not too far from Houston Levee though). Anyway, the new mall is AWESOME! It's outdoors - with lots of great stores (the basics Ann Taylor, Gap, Talbots, Barnes & Noble etc. with some not-so-basic like Hollister, World Market, Linens n Things, etc.). The anchor stores are Dillards and Parisians. The Parisians is a concept store for this brand and is very nice. They sell a lot of upscale brands (Juicy Couture, etc.), but still have midscale brands as well. The mall also has a few restaurants - Bonefish Grill, Carrabas, Stix - then Starbucks, Le Creperie, West Coast Burrito, etc.

Anyway, as you can see I think it's great! I terrific mix of Saddlecreek Style and Wolfchase selection :D

[Phen]

Wow, that *does* look great! We already have an appointment at Picture People at Wolfchase for tomorrow, otherwise I'd be scrapping plans for Wolfchase and heading to Avenue Crossing instead! It's so much closer to the side of town I drive in on.

Does this mean that Hickory Ridge Mall is not doing well? Or am I misunderstanding and this isn't near HRM at all?

Oh, and we just got tickets to a Grizzlies game for next week. We haven't been to the FedEx Forum yet and don't know Thing One about parking there. Is there parking there or will we need to find our own parking? Anyone have any super-secret Forum parking tips to share?

~ Phen

[sunshineab622]

the HRM is not doing well (IMO) the Dillards store is closing or might have already closed (I went there at lunch back in Oct., they had major clearance sales & the lady said they are closing to move to the new mall). The target store that was right beside HRM closed down & they built a new one at Nonconnah & Winchester. I do not know where the new home depot is but I know there is a Lowes close to the new Target.

The new mall is in Collierville off of Nonconnah. I have not been there yet, but I've heard it is really nice.

There is also a new mall in Southaven off of interstate 55 go down goodman - turn right on airways & it is on the right - I have been to this mall it is nice. Here is there website/listing of the stores http://www.southaventownecenter.net/life/south.nsf


Both the collierville & southaven malls are the outside type malls

Phen: We went to a Grizzlies game last year & got there kinda late/after the game had started & parking was a mess! We had to walk a good little ways there are several parking lots by the Forum and Peabody place (which is like 2 blocks away) but you should just try to get there early.

[Phen]

Oh I didn't realize the Forum was so close to PP! We always park in PP's covered garage whenever we go Downtown. We'll just do that then. Thanks!

I know exactly the old Target next to HRM you mean. It was too tiny anyway. That is too bad about HRM, though.

Is the Southaven one different from the new shops behind the Walmart at Goodman/55? A friend told us last week that there's some really great new shops behind that, but she didn't describe it as an outdoor mall.

~ phen

[sunshineab622]

Here is a parking map for you ... the 2nd one shows the distance between the peabody place & fedex forum it is alittle further than I thought but still not terrible far. The fedex forum is only a block away from Beale St.

A friend of mine parks at the MLGW parking on game nights - they have 1000 spaces it is on page #2 of the maps #14

Good Luck & have a great time at the game

http://www.fedexforum.com/media/parking_directions_maps.pdf

http://www.fedexforum.com/pages/directions_and_parking/default.aspx

Your friend was probably talking about the new mall it is kinda behind the Walmart in Southaven

[Jess71903]

Wow, glad i seemed to have sparked something. I will be in town over the holidays and I would love to check out the new mall. Sounds really neat!
Mrs. Tim- It is a small world! When I tell people where my dad lives, I usually just say Middle TN or "just N of Huntsville" because nobody knows where it is! I will be going there over the break too. Anyway, it's good to meet some local girls!
I am in AR about 45 minutes NW of Little Rock in a little town called Greenbrier. I love it here and don't think I could move back to the city after living here, but Bartlett is still "home".

[Irish Elf]

You forgot to mention the new "Mall" has a great Barnes and Noble;)

[KRM&TPS]

Just bumping this up. Wondering how all the Tennessee and Mississippi girls are doing.

[MrsWilson]

I watching the news, hoping they say the snow will be here in the morning so I don't have to work. Not looking good...

[akacharlotte]

Doing well. Enjoying life in Nashville. I still haven't seen much of the town but once the weather turns warmer I hope to get out and see the sites. :)

[Elenna]

Doing ok here. Not much going on.

Akacharlotte: I think I completely forgot you were in Nashville. It is good to know I'm not the only one in Nashville on CC.

[sunshineab622]

It is good to see yall are trying to revive this CC MS/TN board.

It was pretty active at first now hardly anyone comes here :(

[beetle]

Hmmmm, doesn’t look like this board is seeing much activity lately, but I’ll check in anyway. I’m new to these boards, but used to hang out on the WC.

I'm a Nashville girl since 2003, went to school and lived in the Chattanooga area before that. I do love Tennessee!

[Elenna]

Welcome, Beetle.

[akacharlotte]

I'm bumping this thread back up once again!

Elenna Thank you! I think I've come across 4 other Nashville ladies on CC. :)

Hope both you and Beetle made it through those vicious storms/tornados we had a couple of weeks ago.

[beetle]

Hey, akacharlotte. We made it through the storms with just some minor damage. The hail punch 3-4 dozen holes in our vinyl siding, which are currently duct taped until we can get an adjuster out to inspect! I feel very fortunate to have come through so easily. My parents live in Gallatin and came through fine, as well. So many other people lost so much. :( I hope everyone here on these boards came through okay.

[mrstim]

We made it fine through the storms too! :D

As for what's up in my life - getting ready for baby (only 3.5 months to go!) and getting my garden planted/beds remulched, yard looking good, etc. :rolleyes:

Glad all of ya'll are ok!

[KRM&TPS]

Just wondering how all the Tenn./Miss. girls are doing. Its been raining here all day. Hope it isnt this weekend. I would like to work in my yard.

[sunshineab622]

Thought I would bump us back up .....

How is everyone doing ?

[akacharlotte]

Nashville ladies-Anyone have a good travel agent they like to recommend? I need one ASAP!

[d4est]

Hey girls! I was just wondering if there was a thread for TN. Any of you in East TN? I just moved here in January. Tell me what you like to do around here- I just had a baby a few months ago so things that I can do with baby are a plus! I live right outside of Knoxville in the secret city! LOL!!:)

[jenji]

d4est - I live in Knoxville and have for about 14 years. I haven't had my baby yet, but one resource I've recently discovered that seems to be pretty good is www.knoxmoms.com There are lots of moms from the greater knoxville/ET area and ideas of stuff to do, etc.
Welcome to East TN! I hope you love being here!

[meatpie]

Can anyone tell me about Jackson? My sister was offered a HUGE job there and we are trying to gather as much information as possible on the town, schools, economy, etc.

Thanks!

[isign]

Don't know much about Jackson except it's the state capital. The only time I've been there was for hurricane evacuations and maybe a school field trip. Sorry, can't help much.

[Phen]

Can anyone tell me about Jackson? My sister was offered a HUGE job there and we are trying to gather as much information as possible on the town, schools, economy, etc.

Thanks!

Well, as with pretty much any city, there's nicer/safer spots than others. My SIL and her family lived there while she was in residency at UMC (University Medical Center); she was a few miles north of UMC. Her neighborhood was very nice when they moved in, but some scary crime things happened nearby after a couple of years (carjacking from the gas station a few blocks away, that sort of thing). Her kids went to private school, so I can't comment on the school system. But there's lots of great hospitals there, several colleges (public and private), and shopping. And the Nissan plant just north of Jackson brought a bunch of jobs to the area.

If I were to pick an area of Jackson to look at, I'd look at the southern side, Brandon, Flowood, basically Rankin County. It's a growing area, with lots of new housing, schools, hospitals, shopping, etc. We have friends who live in Brandon and they've taken us to some really nice public parks where the kids had total blasts. Several of my doctors were based in Flowood and it also seems like a pretty nice area.

BTW, ever hear of the Sweet Potato Queens (http://www.sweetpotatoqueens.com/)? They originated in Jackson and still do their traditional St. Patrick's Day parade (http://www.sweetpotatoqueens.com/parade/) there.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/6/7265596_3111a48247.jpg?v=0

oh and the paper in Jackson is the Clarion-Ledger (http://www.clarionledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/frontpage).