Always Do the Right Thing!

In 1997, I started a scholarship program at VeryVera to recognize those outstanding high school students that demonstrate maturity, responsibility and true VeryVera spirit in their daily duties in our operation.  I am so proud this year to recognize Chris Jackson, a senior at Greenbrier High School that will be attending Georgia College and State University in the Fall.  Chris has been part of VeryVera since he was 14 and many, many times I’ve said to him, “Chris, you always do the right thing.”  This statement has been used so much over the course of these last four years, that I had to represent the presentation made at his school for the award by using that clause as the title.  Chris is by far one of the most outstanding young people I’ve ever known.  I’ve learned so much just getting to know him better.  I know I’m a better person because Chris is my friend.  I look for greater days ahead as he continues to make all of us proud.

 

 

Cooking with the Stars!

I had the greatest pleasure and honor to work with Tyler Florence during Masters Week here in Augusta.  Like old friends by week’s end, his passion for perfection was obvious from the first moment.  My highest compliments on his teaching skills and how much time he spent with each member of our staff to educate and define his methology and skills.  Until we meet again, Tyler, thanks for everything!!

New HSN fan!

Baby Jane couldn’t wait to watch Granny V on HSN Monday afternoon!  As you can see, she was all eyes on that Peach Pound cake.  She is so excited that America loved it and that VeryVera SOLD OUT!  Thanks Jane for your undivided attention!!!

We all NEED helpers!

I could probably post a picture of Jane every day.  Her Dad is studying for the Boards and I’m sure his favorite part is having Jane help by holding his highlighter.  It would certainly be a lot more fun to have her hold it than just have it “cold” on the table beside him not to mention how much more comfortable he probably is with Jane in his lap.  Great idea…I should bring Jane with me to VeryVera every day!!!

“You Did WHAT???”

Okay…so my sons said, “Mom, you have no business with a gun in your hand!”  Oh well…I couldn’t help myself when I got challenged to just try it by my hostess, Amelia Kilpatrick at Davant Plantation this past Saturday.  A few targets both still and moving successfully hit, I was on to my first bird.  Lucky for me and unlucky for that sweet bird I have in my hand, I was able to manage a tree shot after several attempts.  I have the photo, the video, the empty shell casing and the bruised hand to prove all of this if you want to know more!

Celebration!

We have made up for our anxiety and fear last year when Jane was born by going a bit over- the- top in celebration this year.  Mallory put together the cutest party with everything PINK and the greatest HAPPY BIRTHDAY sign that will become the family heirloom.  We celebrated what Jane has accomplished and have forgotten what she can’t.    Thank you all for the heartfelt prayers that have been lifted up for Jane.  She is truly our Gift from God!

ARRRRRRGGGGHHHHHHH

Friends from Oregon

My NEW friends from Oregon, the Brock Family, thought they were coming to the sunny south and ended up in our Snowflake Wonderland at VeryVera today.  Mom & Dad Brock brought 3 sons, a daughter and son-in-law and most importantly 2 precious granddaughters to enjoy lunch in our Cafe.  I teased them about “what do folks do in Oregon…climb mountains?  Do you have the Internet there?”  The quick response was “yes, we climb mountains, drink coffee, beer and we found YOU on the Internet!!  I love 2012!!!

Family Traditions

Set your watch…it’s not Christmas at our house without Breakfast Casserole and Pluck It Cake.  As I keep guard on the oven as these two dishes bake on Christmas morning, I’m reminded of the couple of times it didn’t work, the time I forgot to buy the ingredients and Daniel and John were off on Christmas Eve night looking for these items at the 7-11 stores.  It didn’t taste the same that year but at least we had one.  This year, I think….IT WAS THE BEST ONE EVER!!!  But then again, I’m reminded I say that almost every year.

Quite the Tradition

VeryVera was recently in the home of Dr. and Mrs. Logan Nalley for a spectacular Holiday Party.  Upon entering the front grounds and walking onto the porch, you knew immediately that “Christmas was Coming!”  Every detail of a traditional Christmas was present from the aroma in their home to the beautiful appointments of Christmas Past and Present in every room.  Their home is just gorgeous and so truly representative of what an old-fashioned Christmas would be all about.  I left there that night excited about the season and proud of the work that VeryVera did as well.