Tuesday, December 9, 2014

I Like the River Side Inn

Embarking on a mini-vacation is always a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And when it comes to finding the perfect retreat, look no further than the charming River Side Inn in New Port Richey. Nestled along the serene riverside, this hidden gem offers a cozy haven for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway.

One of the standout features of the River Side Inn is its nostalgic charm. With two 1980s-style beds in each room, guests are transported back in time to an era of simplicity and comfort. The allure of snuggling up in these classic beds while watching your favorite TV shows on over 30 channels, including ESPN and HBO, is truly unbeatable. And let's not forget about the snacks – because what's a movie night without some delicious treats to munch on?

During my stay at the River Side Inn with my loved ones, I couldn't help but appreciate the homely feel of the place. Despite the occasional wear and tear on the beds and towels, there was a sense of warmth and hospitality that made our overnight stay truly memorable. And on those rainy days when venturing outside isn't an option, having access to satellite TV in every room was a lifesaver – thank you DirecTV!

Reflecting on our short but sweet stay at the River Side Inn, I can't help but feel grateful for the moments shared with my family. From cozy movie nights to late-night snack runs, every experience added to our collective memories. While there may be fancier hotels out there, there's something special about finding comfort and joy in simplicity.

So next time you're yearning for a mini-vacation that feels like home away from home, consider booking a stay at the River Side Inn. Embrace the retro vibes, indulge in some quality TV time, and savor every moment of relaxation by the riverside. After all, sometimes it's the little things that make for the most unforgettable getaways.

In conclusion, don't underestimate the power of a mini-vacation at a quaint inn like River Side Inn – it might just surprise you with its unique charm and genuine hospitality.

Here's a list of shows that we watched during the first five stays at the Inn.

First stay (2 days and 1 night; August 14-15, 2010 + the morning of August 17 of that year)
The Replacements
Fox Thirteen Magazine
When I Was 17
(various episodes of the popular MTV show)
SpongeBob SquarePants (which premiered on Nickelodeon on May 1, 1999)
Monsters vs. Aliens (Release Date: March 27, 2009)
Law & Order: Criminal Intent
(which first aired on NBC from September 30, 2001-June 26, 2011)
News Channel 8 at Eleven
10 News at Eleven
King of the Hill
(which first aired on Fox from January 12, 1997-May 6, 2010)
Live with Regis and Kelly (Note that Regis Philbin is not Live's host anymore; he had been replaced by Michael Strahan after leaving Live.)

Second stay (2 days and 1 night + the morning of May 9, 2011; May 7-9, 2011)
102 Dalmatians (Release Date: November 22, 2000)
SpongeBob SquarePants
All About Steve
(Release Date: September 4, 2009)
The Nanny (which first aired on CBS from November 3, 1993-June 24, 1999)
Judge Joe Brown (a spin-off of Judge Judy that first aired from 1998-2013)
The Jerry Springer Show
Reno 911 (which first aired on Comedy Central from July 23, 2003-July 8, 2009)

Third stay (3 days, but strangely, no night; July 29-31, 2011)
Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies (1940s, 50s, and early 60s)
Tom and Jerry
Wheel of Fortune
(The nighttime show which has been on the air since September 19, 1983, when Press Your Luck debuted on CBS)
Lifetime movies
SpongeBob SquarePants
NCIS
(which debuted on CBS on September 23, 2003; USA Network reruns)

Fourth stay (2 days and 1 night; August 25-26, 2012)
The King of Queens (which first aired on CBS from September 21, 1998-May 14, 2007)
Friends (first aired on NBC from September 22, 1994-May 6, 2004)
Seinfeld (first aired on NBC on July 5, 1989 as The Seinfeld Chronicles, then from May 31, 1990-May 14, 1998; the episode seen at the Inn during this stay was "The Apartment"; Original Air Date on NBC: April 4, 1991)
SpongeBob SquarePants
Teen Mom
(the original version that first aired on MTV from December 8, 2009-October 9, 2012)
The Big Bang Theory (which debuted on CBS on September 24, 2007)
Law and Order: Criminal Intent
For Love of the Game
(Release Date: September 17, 1999)

Fifth stay (again, 2 days and 1 night; October 5-6, 2012)
(This stay was originally set for 3 days and 2 nights, October 5-7 of that year)
Fox 13 6:00 News
CBS Evening News with Scott Pelley
Wheel of Fortune
CSI: NY
(first aired on CBS from September 22, 2004-February 22, 2013)
Full House (first aired on ABC from September 22, 1987-May 23, 1995; the episode seen at the Inn first aired in 1991)
King of the Hill
Family Guy
(which premiered on Fox on January 31, 1999)
American Dad (which premiered on Fox on February 6, 2005; new episodes aired on that network until September 2014 and are now picked up by TBS, which now airs new episodes of the show)
South Park (which premiered on Comedy Central on August 13, 1997)
Brickleberry ("Two Weeks Notice"; the original air date was actually three days earlier on October 2 of that year; it debuted on Comedy Central in September)

That's the list of shows that we watched at the Inn during the past five stays.

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Kayden Alan Reed is Born


As the sun rose on a crisp Sunday morning, a new chapter of love and family began at Bayfront Health Spring Hill. The arrival of Kayden Alan Reed brought joy and excitement to all who had been eagerly awaiting his arrival. His parents, Lacey and Fred Reed, welcomed him into the world with open arms and hearts full of love.

For my sister Lacey, the journey to motherhood has been a beautiful and transformative one. From the moment she found out she was expecting, she embraced every moment with grace and gratitude. Her strength and resilience throughout pregnancy were nothing short of inspiring, as she navigated the ups and downs with unwavering determination.

And then there's Fred, the proud father who stood by Lacey's side every step of the way. His love for his growing family shone brightly in his eyes as he held Kayden for the first time, a moment that will forever be etched in their hearts.

With the addition of Kayden, our family has grown even more vibrant and full of life. He joins his older siblings Mackenzie Stanbery and Keith Fleming, Jr., completing a trio of love and laughter that fills our home with warmth.

As I reflect on this new chapter unfolding before us, I am reminded of the power of family bonds that transcend bloodlines. It is not just about genetics or shared last names; it is about the unconditional love that unites us all. In Kayden's innocent gaze, I see a future filled with endless possibilities and boundless potential.

So here's to Kayden Alan Reed, a beacon of hope and joy in our lives. May your days be filled with laughter, your nights be filled with peace, and your heart always know how deeply you are loved. Welcome to the world, sweet boy – we are so grateful you're here.

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Happy Thanksgiving!

As Thanksgiving break stretches out over a week this year, we find ourselves in the midst of a whirlwind of events and celebrations. It's a time for giving thanks, enjoying delicious food, and creating lasting memories with loved ones. This Thanksgiving Day is no exception, as we gather around tables laden with turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, and all the trimmings.

Traditionally, our Thanksgiving dinner takes place at my grandmother Zoe Ann Clark's house in Spring Hill. However, this year the chilly weather has prompted us to host the feast at our apartment in Hudson. Despite the change in venue, the spirit of gratitude and joy remains just as strong.

Among those invited to partake in the festivities are my grandmother, cousin Briana (who has returned from Texas), and all my dear friends who bring laughter and warmth to every gathering. As we indulge in classic dishes like apple pie and chocolate cream pie, we are reminded of the rich traditions that make Thanksgiving such a beloved holiday across America.

The day is filled with more than just food – parades, football games, and quality time spent with loved ones add layers of joy to the celebration. And even my imaginary friends are not left out; they too join us for a happy Thanksgiving at our apartment.

This year marks a special milestone as we host our first-ever Thanksgiving celebration in Hudson. The cozy setting and intimate gathering create an atmosphere of closeness and gratitude that truly embodies the essence of this holiday.

As we reflect on all that we have to be thankful for – family, friends, good food, and cherished memories – let us carry this spirit of gratitude with us throughout the rest of Thanksgiving break. There is still much fun and merriment to be had as we continue to savor each moment of this special time together.

So here's to a happy Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and countless blessings. May this holiday season bring you joy and warmth as you celebrate with those who hold a special place in your heart. Happy Thanksgiving!

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

The April 2004 Greyhound Road Trip to Delta, CO



Embarking on a cross-country road trip with my mother and sister in April 2004 was an adventure unlike any other. Packed with excitement, anticipation, and a trusty V-Tech Talking Whiz Kid Power Mouse Deluxe laptop, we set out on a Greyhound bus journey from the Tampa Bay area of Florida to Delta, Colorado.

As we traversed through various states, including Alabama, Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, and finally arriving in Colorado, the sights and experiences along the way were nothing short of captivating. From meeting family members to exploring different bus stations and catching glimpses of local TV stations, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery.

One particular highlight of the trip was the opportunity to watch and record shows from my aunt Nancy's blank tapes. These recordings included clips from USA Network dating back to November 2002, as well as newer additions from April 2004. The chance to relive these memories through television shows like Real TV and The Simpsons added an extra layer of nostalgia to our already unforgettable journey.

The sense of connection that comes with traveling on Greyhound buses is truly unique. Whether it's striking up conversations with fellow passengers or finding moments of peaceful rest during nighttime travel, each experience contributed to the rich tapestry of our adventure.

One memorable aspect of our road trip was encountering TNM&O buses in Dallas as we made our way towards Colorado. The thrill of discovering new modes of transportation only added to the overall sense of exploration and discovery that defined our journey.

As our time in Colorado came to a close, we boarded TNM&O and Greyhound buses once more for the return trip home. And while the physical journey may have ended upon reaching Tampa Bay again, the memories and experiences lived on through reruns of The Simpsons on local TV stations like WTOG channel 44 and WTVT channel 13.

Reflecting on this extraordinary road trip fills me with a deep appreciation for the power of travel to bring people together and create lasting memories. From the joyous reunions with family members to the simple pleasures found in watching beloved TV shows during downtime – every moment held its own special significance.

In hindsight, this cross-country adventure stands as a testament to the transformative nature of travel. It's not just about reaching a destination; it's about embracing every step of the journey – both literally and figuratively – that shapes us along the way.

So here's to those Greyhound bus rides filled with laughter, conversation, quiet moments under starlit skies, and all the unexpected wonders that make traveling an enriching experience unlike any other. And here's to finding inspiration in even the smallest details – whether it's a familiar TV show or a chance encounter with fellow travelers – because sometimes it's those little things that leave an indelible mark on our hearts.

May we always be open to new adventures that broaden our horizons and remind us that life itself is one grand journey waiting to be explored.

Saturday, November 15, 2014

Florida stays Ebola-free

As the world grappled with the devastating Ebola virus outbreak that swept through several US cities this fall, one state stood strong against the tide of fear and uncertainty. Florida, known for its vibrant culture and sunny beaches, managed to remain Ebola-free amidst the chaos that engulfed other parts of the country.

While New York City and Dallas, TX became hotspots for the deadly virus, Florida emerged as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. The Sunshine State's ability to ward off Ebola serves as a testament to its preparedness and vigilance in times of crisis.

But how did Florida manage to stay Ebola-free while other states struggled to contain the outbreak? The answer lies in a combination of factors, including proactive measures taken by local health authorities, stringent screening protocols at airports and ports, and a strong sense of community awareness and cooperation.

Despite the looming threat of Ebola, Floridians remained united in their efforts to protect themselves and their loved ones from the virus. From healthcare workers on the front lines to everyday citizens practicing good hygiene habits, everyone played a crucial role in preventing the spread of Ebola within the state.

As news outlets like CNN reported on the gradual containment of the US Ebola outbreak, Florida's success story served as a ray of hope for those still grappling with the aftermath of the crisis. While other states may have been affected by the virus, Florida's resilience stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when communities come together in times of need.

So as we reflect on the challenges faced during the 2014 US Ebola outbreak, let us also celebrate Florida's triumph over adversity. In a world filled with uncertainty and fear, it is heartening to see that unity and preparedness can lead us towards a brighter future free from infectious diseases like Ebola.

In conclusion, Florida's ability to remain Ebola-free during a time of global crisis is not just a testament to its strength and resilience but also a reminder that we are stronger together. Let us continue to support one another and work towards building a safer and healthier world for all.

All About Me

I was born Justin Wain Floyd on July 3, 1994, at Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg, Florida. Growing up in Spring Hill with my mother Lana Stanbery, I developed a deep love for Home Shopping Network (HSN) and all things entertainment-related.

From a young age, I immersed myself in collecting VHS tapes, DVDs, and video games for the classic PlayStation 2 console. Despite facing challenges due to being autistic and having hydrocephalus, I never let anything hold me back from pursuing my passions.

As I grew older, my love for HSN only intensified. I became the ultimate fan, dreaming of one day being a part of the network that had brought me so much joy over the years. Alongside my family members - including my father Jerry Floyd Jr., sister Lacey Stanbery, grandmother Zoe Ann Clark - I found solace in watching TV shows like WWF Smack Down and sports events like NFL football and NBA basketball.

In 2014, at the age of 20, I decided to share my story with the world by creating a blog about my life experiences. Through this platform, I have been able to connect with others who share similar interests and struggles. Additionally, I have ventured into creating videos on YouTube to further express myself creatively.

Despite facing loss with the passing of my grandfather Keith Clark and brother Keith Fleming, I have persevered through life's challenges with the unwavering support of my family. Their love and encouragement have fueled my determination to pursue my dreams and make a mark in the world of entertainment.

If you want to learn more about my journey or simply connect with me online, feel free to watch my videos on YouTube, find me on Facebook, and follow me on X. Thank you for joining me on this incredible adventure through life's ups and downs - together we can inspire others to never give up on their dreams.

Like My Page on Facebook
Follow Me on X
Check Out My YouTube Channel