Twilight Serenade

Dinner and a Movie Saturday followed by a Sunday Kind of Love

2012-01-22T07:04:00.000-08:00

Last night I enjoyed an evening of quality entertainment, including a dinner of popcorn, chocolate truffles, wine. Scent of a Woman has to be one of my top five favorite movies ever, so any evening that I can spend a little time with the antics of Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade and the sensibility of Charlie Simms is a good night indeed. Ho-ahh!

I had a sofa snuggle partner. She missed all of the quality entertainment last night because she exhausted from trying to convince me she needed some popcorn and truffles. I gave her one piece and then proceeded to finish off the bag.

I woke up ravenous this morning. After scrounging around in the fridge I managed to pull together enough ingredients for a hearty veggie omelet. Spinach, onion, and tomatoes sauteed and added to my two-egg omelet with just a tad bit of cheese. Topped off with salsa...MmmmMmmm!

Now that I am fueled for the morning, I'm off to start the laundry. Laundry stinks. It's the chore I procrastinate on the most. Everyone needs a little fuel to get through that chore.

And in honor of the great Etta James, I'll leave with you with this.

Sunday kinda love to you all,

Blogging a go go.

2012-01-20T11:25:00.001-08:00

Entering the world of mobile blogging. Watch out.

Tasty Veggies- No Kidding

2011-11-22T17:09:00.001-08:00

I wish I had a functioning camera right now. If I did, I would share the most beautiful food pictures with you. The pictures don't do the recipe justice though, so I'll just share the goods with you now.

Roasted Vegetable Enchilada Stack

1 Pablano Pepper cut in matchsticks
2 Red Bell Peppers cut in matchsticks
1/2 Head of Cauliflower
1/2 Medium Onion Slice
Olive Oil
Garlic Powder
Cumin
1 lb ground turkey
1 1/2 cups of salsa verde
1-2 cups of grated cheese
Corn tortillas
Fresh Spinach

In a casserole dish or cookie sheet place all of the chopped veggies except for the spinach. Drizzle with olive oil, garlic powder, and cumin. Stir to coat. Roast in over on 425 for about 20-30 minutes or until veggies are tender. While the veggies are roasting, brown some ground turkey and season with garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. (Or just use a taco seasoning packet).

After the veggies have roasted, layer your ingredients in a casserole dish in the following order:
Salsa Verde
Corn tortillas
Roasted Veggies
Hamburger meat
Spinach
Cheese

Repeat and top with cheese. Bake at 350 for 20-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and browning on top. Serve with sour cream.

Y'all- my kid ate cauliflower! Make this dish. You won't be sorry; I PROMISE!!!

Happy Eating,

SA Rock N Roll Race Recap

2011-11-20T06:36:00.001-08:00

Last Sunday I ran the San Antonio Rock N Roll Half Marathon. It was a fantastic experience, although my training this go 'round left much to be desired. I vowed to do my best in spite of only completing about 70% of my training. Justin wavered on actually running the race, but his last minute decision to run with me had me pumped and motivated to get through all 13.1 miles.

After hearing about the insane crowds and logistical nightmares with parking and shuttle, Justin and I set out to arrive super early in order to avoid too much stress on race morning. It was a great idea, until the alarm didn't go off and we were an hour behind schedule. So much for avoiding stress on race morning. It was just nuts from there.

We ran late, sat in traffic, stood in line for the shuttle, ate on the shuttle, walked a mile to get Griffin set up at the finish line tent, walked another mile to get back to the start line, stood in line for the port a potty FOREVER, and jumped straight into a corral to begin the race.

Mile 1- The crowds were crazy! We were running easy and I was taking in the crowds and the atmosphere of the race.
Mile 2- Justin timed our pace. Remember, there was no goal of a glamorous finish time, just to get through the miles and cross the finish line.
Mile 3- We were at a 10:00 minute pace. Faster than I would have liked for the beginning. Justin was chomping at the bits to move a little faster.
Mile 4- Justin started easing out it front of me, but would turn back and shoot me an encouraging and motivating smile and thumbs up ever now and then.
Mile 5- I spied Team Determination Coaches! One of them jumped out and ran with me for bit. She offered up all kinds of supplies, but the only thing I took was a wet wipe. Who knew that thing would be so amazing on a run?!?! It was so humid and the sweat and salt was beginning to feel cruddy on my face. Being able to wipe it off was refreshing.
Mile 6- I lost Justin by this point, but was so thankful he was feeling good enough to take off and run a little faster. We entered a historic district and one of the homes had a table set up with free beer. At the beer table I spotted a runner that was nothing but pure entertainment for the next several miles. Dressed in neon, 80's workout attire, he downed a beer and pulled off a few dance moves.
At the 10K point I was at 10:16/mile pace
Mile 7- 80's dude had been entertaining the crowds with his dance moves and even replicated the Flash Dance water scene, when he grabbed a spectators water, assumed a somewhat sultry position, and poured the water over his head. He then headed over to another crowd watcher for a little smoke time because filling your lungs up with toxins always helps when your running. Good entertainment,guys!
Mile 8- DONUTS! The sweetest girl was standing in the crowds holding a box of the most amazing, fresh, glazed donuts. Guess who headed straight in her direction? It was so sad to lose sight of 80's guy shortly after this point. The sadness was short lived because in the most perfect timing, my love showed up! My legs were feeling a little achy at this point, but otherwise I was feeling great! Justin's calf was acting up and he was really having to push through some pain.
Mile 9- Justin had to stop due to the pain, but he encouraged me to keep going. The roads got narrow and the crowds started to get a bit thicker here. The encouragement of the cheering crowd was great.
Mile 10-12- The Alamo! Bands!, Cheering crowds! But, of the lactic acid build up in calves was intense. It was so painful, but I never started cramping up and my breathing was under control and not labored at all. I kept thinking I should be moving faster, but I was only slowing down.
Mile 13- I was hurting and knew there was one last hill coming right before the finish. But, the crowds were incredible. I spotted ahead of me a lady in a pink shirt that said " I run because______!" My mental chant from here to the finish was every reason why I was running. Which is actually a good thought for another post, another day. But, to give you a hint, because I CAN is on the top of my list. We rounded the last corner and faced the hill. It was a moment where I was actually thankful for all of the hills I have encountered since moving to San Antonio. About 1/3 of the way up the hill my pink shirt stopped and doubled over to grab her leg. "Oh no you don't," I said as I grabbed her arm and forced her up. "Your shirt has gotten me through the last mile and I need you to keep going to the top of this hill." She quickly got on board and resumed her run across the finish line.

My legs were burning as I shuffled through the finishers maze. I made it back to the Team Determination tent and was immediately hit with the leg cramps. During my stretching, as soon as one muscle would stop another would start. It became quite comical for a moment.

Just as I got my legs back in order, Justin appeared with a finishers medal in hand. It was a terrific moment to know that we finished. He would probably beg to differ with you- the idea that I finished ahead of him was enough for him to commit to another half marathon in the spring. The idea of hanging up the towel on long distance running has been in the forefront of his mind pre-race day.

Here we are Race #1 in 2010 on the left and the most recent on the right. I'm 10 pounds heavier than I was the first go around, and definitely less trained than before, but even with the leg pain, I felt stronger and better post-race than my first time. I do attribute some of that to the northern terrain of San Antonio- THANK YOU neighborhood hills!

For this race, I joined Team Determination of the American Cancer Society with a group of co-workers. The experience of getting to know some new faces in the office and fundraising for a good cause gave me a different focus at this race. I wasn't just running for what I could accomplish, but for a multitude of other reasons. I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to run with such a great organization and group of people!

And you, my lovely readers, still have the opportunity to support my fund raising efforts. Although race day has come and gone, Cancer has not! We have left our fundraising open a little longer for those of you who would like to make a contribution. Please click here to make a donation! Help me meet my fundraising goal!

Off and Running,

It's that time

2011-09-18T17:52:00.000-07:00

Sun sets, a full moon rises

before each is done twilight glows

This crossing of a season into the next

begins with the crossing of day into night

Taken from a BHLDN advertisment. I have the Starburst Pleated Shift and love it.

Week 2- What's been cookin' in my kitchen?

2011-04-13T17:44:00.000-07:00

I'm a little behind schedule on getting this posted, but I've had some stuff come up the last couple of days that needed some immediate attention. I'm popular and when people need me, they need me. What can I say?

So last weeks cooking endeavors where well intended, but I took the easy way out a couple more times that I would have liked last week and dined out. But, we started off well and it's the intent that matters most, right???

Monday: Roasted Chicken Quarters, pan sauteed veggies, and mashed potatoes.

How'd ya do that? Skin-on chicken quarters were on sale this last week at the store, so I snagged up a family size package so we would have leftovers, of course. I rubbed them down with a blood-orange olive oil (but any old olive oil would do) and seasoned them with salt and pepper. Threw in a few sprigs of fresh rosemary, a quartered onion and added a bulb of garlic (which I cut the top off of and rubbed with olive oil )to the pan and roasted everything on 350 for about 30-40 minutes.

Boiled the cut washed red potatoes until soft. Drained the water and added milk, butter, salt and pepper to taste.

For the veggies, I melted a little butter in a saute pan and added some pine nuts until they were toasty and brown. To that I added the following leftover items from my fridge; steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, jar of pimentos. Just cooked until heated through and added a little salt and pepper.

Tuesday: Creamy spinach dip, chicken croissant rolls with salsa for dipping with chips and fruit salad.

How'd ya do that? Remember that left over spinach dip?? Well, it came in handy. I spread it on a package of Pillsbury Crescent Rolls and shredded up some of the leftover roasted chicken from the night before. Rolled them up and baked according to the package directions. And the fruit salad was my favorite medley of sliced bananas, strawberries, and blueberries.

Wednesday: Willie's Ice House

How'd ya do that? This is where we started to go downhill. But, it was a celebratory meal of sorts. Griffin had a tennis match that he won. He won!! This was cause for celebration and what better way to celebrate such a victory than a savory burger from Willie's.

Thursday: Homemade pizza. This started off with good intentions of being a veggie pizza, but the Italian sausage and peperoni's in the freezer caught my eye and stole my heart.

How'd ya do that? Click right here for The Pioneer Woman's easy, cheesy, pizza dough recipe. It makes plenty for a family of 5-6 or leftovers for a family of 2, like mine. Topped with some leftover jar pizza sauce hanging out in the fridge and browned Italian Sausage, Peperoni's and Kraft Pizza Cheese Mix.

P.S. I had leftover browned Italian Sausage to be used in a future meal. Love.

Friday: Boiled crawfish from Repka's. We had cause to celebrate again. It was the weekend. We live for the weekends.

Their motto is: Good food. Good friends. Good fun. I like these people and their motto. It's a hole in the wall in the middle of nowhere. And if you think I'm exaggerating, I dare you to drive there. Only be prepared to wait on a Friday night. Because a lot of other people dare to drive all the way there too. It's just that good and that fun. Pool. Crawfish. Dollar bills stapled on plywood ceilings. Juke boxes. Peackocks and guineas out back with a fire pit. Open kitchen crawfish purging and boiling. Picnic tables. And they even moved up a little last year and got a credit card machine. Whoa. You have no excuse to go.

Many Happy Times,

What's been cookin' in my kitchen?

2011-04-03T16:14:00.000-07:00

This last week's menu went a little something like this...

Monday: Cracker crusted chicken strips with mashed red potatoes and oven roasted broccoli.

How'd ya do that? Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips. Dredge them in melted butter and dredge them in a mix of crushed crackers, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Bake them in the oven on 350 degrees for about 20-30 minutes until done. I used Ritz crackers, but you can use whatever you have on hand.

Tuesday: Spicy Dr. Pepper pulled pork, leftover mashed red potatoes and roasted broccoli.

PS. I froze a lot of the leftover pork. That will surface again. I give it a two thumbs up. But, boy is it spicy!

Wednesday: Fox's Pizza with Caesar Salad.

How'd ya do that? Pick up the phone and call your nearest Fox's pizza right now. You won't be sorry. I promise. While your waiting, wash and tear up some Romain lettuce leaves. Toss them with creamy Caesar dressing, Caesar croutons, and Parmesan cheese. I bet you will eat one or two less pieces of pizza if you throw this salad together while you wait. A little roughage and fiber never hurt anyone.

Thursday: Gorton's Fish Sticks, steamed green beans, and Kraft Macaroni and Cheese.

Don't judge. Just don't. We do the quick and easy and totally processed diet from time to time. Especially when the 14 year old is in charge of dinner.

Friday: Pork Chops topped with mango, apple, habenero salsa, garlic and cheddar mashed potatoes, and oven roasted asparagus.

How'd ya do that? The pork chops were seasoned with a little salt and pepper and grilled stove top in my grill pan for about 4 minutes on each side. Then, I placed them in a casserole dish topped with the Mango Salsa and finished cooking in the oven. For the potatoes I boiled and mashed potatoes and added milk, butter, grated sharp cheddar cheese, minced garlic, salt and pepper to taste. Tossed the asparagus with olive oil and sea salt and roast on 350 degrees for about 7-10 minutes.

This weekend has left me with a large helping of leftover spinach and artichoke dip. I've got my thinking cap on and getting creative about how to use it and can't wait to share it with you. Hope you all have fabulous weeks planned!

Munching away,

What's Cookin?

2011-04-01T13:29:00.000-07:00

At Christmas I was doing a little shopping at a spice store called Penzey's in The Heights. Tucked in the bottom of my bag was a bumper sticker that says...."Love people. Cook them tasty food." I stuck it up on my fridge and it has become one of my favorite things in my kitchen. You see there are a few things in life that I really love.....like, really, really love.

One is that I love food. Not just eating lots of food. But, I love the flavors and the preparation. The magic that happens when you add the right mix of ingredients with a little heat or cold that causes a party in your mouth.

The other is that I love cooking for others. It just makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

So, the sticker is perfection on my fridge.

In an attempt to reacquaint myself with more consistent posts, I am going to attempt to introduce some regular weekly posts. One of which will be a weekly dinner menu. This is a trial basis, so don't get too attached too quickly. My life is known to get crazy on a whim and if that happens, the blog usually gets neglected. So this is my disclaimer, you could get your heart broken if you fall too fast, too soon. Remember the heart on the sidewalk lesson, people. There was truth in them thar words!

But, because I love people, I am going to cook them tasty food. I mean you. Cook YOU tasty food.

My goal is to 1. cook regularly, 2. do my shopping and cooking on a decent budget, 3. incorporate a balanced diet with occasional splurges on cupcakes and chocolate cake (because who can live without those little bits of sweetness) and 4. use my leftovers wisely.

It is simply divine to end my days with good food and good people. There isn't much that I can think of that makes it better, except maybe a great glass of wine.

So, keep an eye out for upcoming posts on my weekly menus. I'm preparing one today for this upcoming week and will get it up over the weekend.

Happy Dining Friends,

For the love of NOLA

2011-03-25T13:07:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we celebrated Spring Break in New Orleans with some friends. We walked the endless streets, ate beignets and incredible seafood, drank fruity drinks, visited the casino, caught beads while watching a parade, sang and danced our hearts out....we basically did all the things you do in New Orleans and had a downright good time!!

On Saturday night we ventured out and found this fantastic place with a nice patio, great music, and a mechanical bull. Memories were made here, folks. The ladies were infatuated with Justin and dancing skills, but one in particular decided she needed to take our picture dancing together after she had her turn dancing with him. I found this series of photos on my phone and I love them. Love. Them. There is something sort of artistic about them.

However, what I perceive as an artistic eye could also be her lack of ability to hold a camera straight while being completely inebriated. After all, it was NOLA on a Saturday night.

From the bottom of my dancing heart,

P.S. I may or may not have ridden that mechanical bull.

Lunchtime Adventure Story

2011-03-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

I ventured out for a little shopping on this absolutely gorgeous day because I just couldn't stand the thought of being couped up sweating my rear off in a spin class, which was my original plan for the day. As I crossed Main Street in downtown Houston, an apparent homeless man yells out to me,

"M'am, M'am you dropped something. You dropped something. Aren't you going to stop."

The only thing I had was my bag tucked tightly under my arm, because that is the only way to carry a bag in downtown Houston. My mind went quickly from "is he talking to me?" to "what could I have dropped?" to "is this guy a lunatic?" When I heard again...

"M'am, you dropped my heart right there on the sidewalk. Aren't you going to pick it up?"

Why no sir, I am not.

I moved along a little perplexed by that situation but thoroughly entertained.

As I was finishing up my lunch time adventure in Macy's, I noticed the same guy pass me as I was coming into the store. A grin crossed my face as I replayed our previous encounter and I promptly went about my business of purchasing some socks.

When no sooner was I in the store and at the counter about to pay and I hear the same voice...

"but I didn't take this shirt. I had it on when I came in. Go look at your video tapes."

I turned around and the noticed the same man, whose heart was splattered on the sidewalk outside, sporting a brand new plaid polo and striped cardigan with tags still attached being escorted by two security gaurds.

The moral of the story here is twofold.

1. Never, never throw your heart to someone who isn't looking or who has no interest in catching it. It will end up on the sidewalk, no doubt.

and

2. If you are going to shoplift shirts from Macy's first, be smart enough to take the tags off and be confident that two men wearing black jackets with gold letters spelling S-E-C-U-R-I-T-Y will escort you straight to asset protection. Here you will probably be turned over to the police and have charges pressed against you. And then you may earn yourself at least one night in the county jail....with a bed, a meal or two, a toilet, a clean jumpsuit.

I was beginning to conclude the guy a lunatic, but I think he may be far smarter than he is given credit.

The End.

Happy Love Day

2011-02-14T19:05:00.001-08:00

iPhone Dump and a List

2011-02-12T06:42:00.000-08:00

My iPhone has 456 pictures on it and approximately 367 of those pictures are of my sweet niece. Today I am going to share a few of the latest. But, I'll hold off on sharing too many pictures of the sweetest and cutest baby ever. It's my attempt to leave you wanting more. So all three of my loyal readers will come back again one day.

1. If this does not leave a forever picture in your mind when you hear the saying "sleep like a baby" then I don't know what would?

2. Possibly something like this?

3. I'm in love with this guy. Today we are celebrating our love for each other. WHAT am I thinking?

4. Michael Jackson took Griffin and me to see a basketball game and we sat on the fourth row. It was a new perspective for me on the game. Those guys are giants. Huge. I had not idea. TV does NOT do them justice.

5. My BFF from High School decided to take a stroll down memory lane and came across this picture. We were 18 year old, college students. I won't reveal all the details about the story behind this picture, but it included a botched hair cut, a road trip, a cheap motel, and Aggie Land. Oh, and lots of hair spray...always lots of hair spray.

6. My love again. Not so much a giant on the basketball court, but amazing none the less.

7. Griffin is kicking my butt in spin class. He's been gloating in the fact that in the middle of a run to "Fat Bottom Girls" I have to sit my fat butt down for a rest, while he pedals away. He's just a little competitive. Maybe a lot. But, he gets it from his 'fat bottom' mother. We have a very odd relationship. I'll kick his butt next week. Because fat bottom girls....well, make the world go 'round.

8. This is how Ribbon pouts. I tried to call her name 10,000 times to take her picture, but she would not look at me. Who knew Beagles were so sensitive? Good thing they have super short term memories. A mention of food and she was motivated in seconds to be my best friend again.

9. Have you ever had Fox's Pizza? I have one across the street and I love. love. love. their pizza. We are on a first name basis with the peeps over there. It's a part of my weekly menu planning, which is precisely why this "fat bottom girl" is struggling in spin class.

Happy Saturday Sweets!

Dirty Talk

2011-02-08T16:59:00.000-08:00

Today I spent 45 minutes scrubbing the toilet in my 14 year old sons bathroom. And while I was scrubbing said toilet, I thought about an essay that I wrote in Mrs. Elkin's fifth grade English class. The assignment was to write in the first person from the perspective of an inanimate object. I chose a toilet. I did not stutter....you read that correctly.....a toilet.

All that I can say about that is...Thanks mom! You were one heck of a toilet cleaner because when I was in the fourth grade, I must have had no clue of the potential disgust, filth, and grossness that could accompany a toilet. I feel certain I would have never gone in that creative direction if I had any clue at all.

This essay sits somehwere in my mothers house. And, I am sure it will surface since it's mention in this blog. The details of this essay have not stuck with me over the years. Mainly just the fact that I wrote it and that it was impressionable enough for my mother to say, "be sure you get that back from your teacher after it's graded. That's one I want to hang on too. Forever." At the time, my innocence left me clueless as to her persistence on keeping this essay. In fact, her daily inquiries about whether I had received it back yet only annoyed me. And it was this persistance that made a strong enough impression on me that I vividly remember this writing assignment nearly 30 years later.

In the event that this essay does surface then I may or may not choose to share the details of that story with you. She kept it for a reason. One I am sure will make for a good laugh. But, I'm not sure I am ready to share that laugh with everyone just yet. I'm a vulnerable person, you know.

Back on topic, I have one thing to say here. Boys are disgusting.

Even cute boys like this one. D to the I to the S to the G to the U to the sS to the T to the ING!!!!!

And that's really all there is to say about that.

Warm fuzzies to you,

On Parenting...

2011-01-13T15:16:00.000-08:00

It's becoming a theme in my life. After 14 years, it's about dang time, don't you think?

Below is a pictorial representation of my philosophy of parenting. Well, an aspect of parenting. A foundational aspect of parenting.

It's simply says, that as an infant children wholly depend on their parents to be the decision makers. They have no authority or power, other than a blood curdling scream, to make decisions for themselves about what they will eat, where they will sleep, what they will wear, etc.

But, as a child grows through the stages of the toddler years on up through adolescence and the dreaded teenage years, they are given more authority to make decisions for themselves within the safety net of parental boundaries.

Let me give you an example:

When Griffin was a toddler he was given the option of 2-3 outfits to choose from when getting dressed for school. He could choose within the very limited selection he was provided.

During elementary school his instruction were that he could choose any collared shirt Monday through Thursday from his wardrobe and was free to wear T-shirts on Friday.

This was a Friday and I clearly lost the battle on tube socks vs. ankle socks. It happened a lot. But, I chose my battles wisely. Tube socks- not really a battle worth fighting.

This was a rough morning. It was a battle of the wills. Obviously, he was NOT happy with the rules and wanted to go to school in his robe, helmet, and gloves. But, I stood my parental ground and we came to an agreement.

And all was right with the world again.

We have now entered Junior High and he is allowed nearly full wardrobe creative rights. As long as he is within the school dress code policy. However, I still have the authority to veto purchases when shopping for school clothes because the majority of the time, I am paying for those clothes.

He attempted to get out of the house in this one morning, but I gently reminded him of the time that he pushed the dress code policy rules and wore my mini skirt to school under the pretense that it was no shorter than his finger tips and he ended day in after school detention. He decided to change.

It's my vision and utter hope that as he continues into High School he will have a job earning money of his own. This will lead to full authorized purchasing power in the hands of one diligent and hardworking teenage boy. Guess what? The only position that I will take is to veto anything that is completely inappropriate for the occasion. Like if he wants to wear a speedo to Uncle Bartholomew's wedding, I might take the liberty of strongly encouraging him to re-think his choice of attire lest he be completely alienated from the remainder of the family to sulk in a corner and wonder why in the world his family has left him in such a state of loneliness and despair.

This could be him one day. I'm just saying, I will do everything in my power to help prevent that, but ultimately it is HIS decision.

Let's say a prayer for him now... Amen.

Seriously though, this theory of mine applies to all decision making. How to spend/save money, what to eat/drink, how much time to spend studying and doing homework, how to use his designated free time, and the list goes on and on and on. And the hardest part is sticking with this theory. Being consistent is by far more exhausting than just deciding for him what he's going to order from the menu in a restaurant or who he is going to invite to his birthday party or what he is going to spend his allowance on this next week (or save, SAVE, SAVE that money).

Y'all- I. mess. this. up. all. the. time. Especially when I can see an epic fail in the making. Oh yea, it happens! But I have to continually remind myself its better for that epic fail to happen in my presence where I can assist with piecing his life back together than for it to happen when he's out there on his own in the cold, lonely, cruel, harsh, big, bad world of adulthood.

My heart's hope is that he leaves the nest with skills to make educated decision, has experienced some failures so he understands they aren't the end of the world when he experiences other cruel and unusual punishment dished out by the world, and that he always knows he can come back to his mama for support and encouragement in the form of a hug, cup of coffee, and a chocolate chip cookie. Because let's face it, life is better with coffee and chocolate chip cookies.

Signing off now,

Lead Me.. into 2011

2011-01-05T09:41:00.000-08:00

Whoa! I just checked the date of my last post. Falling off the blog post wagon happens to the best of us, I guess. But, just like everything else in life, I'll just pick right up and get back on.

This last weekend I was driving home from a brief weekend excursion, reflecting on 2010 and thinking about this new year and all the mysteries it has yet to unveil. Lost in the depths of some serious imagination, I suddenly found myself singing along to an amazing new song by Sanctus Real that was on the radio.

Now, what girl in her right mind doesn't want to be married to that man? No really, he is amazingly handsome, has a beautiful voice, is sensitive and insightful, loves the Lord and above all....acknowledges his screw ups. Seriously, that is the ultimate guy. Am I right ladies?

I kid. I kid. Don't get your britches all in a wad, guys.

But, as I reflected on this song I found myself thinking about the words simply from the perspective of a parent. Unfortunately, I have to admit that my kid doesn't always get my best. Fortunately, I recognize that he deserves my best. But sometimes, I am a little late in recognizing that.

That's why he is allowed to dress up like this:

Play with real toys like this:

Or this:

Oh, I think I got off track a little. Let's take a hard right and get back on course. Where were we? New year, parent issues, Lead Me, teenager with reckless abandon....oh yea, got it now.

The line of the song that reached out and grabbed my heart....

see their faces, look in their innocent eyes
They're just children from the outside
I'm working hard, I tell myself they'll be fine
They're independent

One of the most common compliments that I get about my son is that he so well behaved, mature, and independent for his age. I get a big grin on my face and thank the kind person for their sweet words and recognition and try to remember to always acknowledge that I am blessed and that the Lord was surely looking out for me when he gave me this independent, mature, well-behaved (in public- grins) kid of mine.

But inside, I reel with torment. It's a battle I have fought nearly daily from the time he could empty a garbage can. Because that is exactly what he has been doing. Helping me. As a single parent, I have thrust upon him duties well beyond his years. Don't get me wrong, I love that he can empty trash cans, wash dishes, do laundry, cook meals, put gas in the car, do the yard work, and on and on and on. I'm sure one day, he will impress the socks off a young lady like no other. And at 14 I don't believe he is doing anything more than any other 14 year old should be doing. BUT, he's been at it a heck of a lot longer than he should have had too!!

The following line of the song that moved from my heart to my throat and nearly took the breath out of me was this...

But on the inside, I can hear them saying...
“Lead me with strong hands
Stand up when I can't
Don't leave me hungry for love
Chasing dreams, but what about us?

One of my goals for 2011 is to be that parent that leads him, being faithful and true to the Lord as a steward of this precious gift of a child he has entrusted me with and always seeking His direction in my life so that I can be the leader that Griffin needs me to be...

...as long as he continues to clean his room, do his laundry, and keep up with the yard work. (You know I'm kidding, right? It's a habit I have. Well, sort of.)

Ringing in the New Year,

Near and Dear To My Heart

2010-11-24T07:46:00.000-08:00

When I was a child I wore a locket often that belonged to my Aunt Wanda. It was a tiny locket that was fit for a child. Gold inscribed with a "W," it had the slightest indentations on the back where the teeth of an indelible child left their mark. It has escaped my memory whether there were pictures or other treasures within the locket, but the mystery surrounding Aunt Wanda and her short life was my treasure.

I recall wearing it often. Standing in front of my mother's brown leather jewelry box on Sunday mornings before church, she would lean forward to fasten the necklace around my neck. Her own gold necklace would dangle in my face and as I leaned forward and swept my hair up I inhaled her sweet smell of perfume and she would fasten the treasure around my neck.

Thus began my love affair with lockets.

So, in the spirit of the Holidays which seems to be the onset of intense nostalgia for me I could not pass up the opportunity to share this with you.

Locket love = Vintage Art Lockets at Verabel on Etsy.

I have a thing for birds. The majesty of the peacock plumage is a-maz-ing!

Did you know the females were appropriately called peahens rather than peacocks? Just a little fact, ladies. Tuck that away for your next game of trivia.

Swoon. If I had this locket, I would tuck away the sweetest mementos of my very own dreamboat.

And isn't this the sweetest mother's locket? It would only be fitting to store the smallest and most precious of faces inside and wear them close to your heart always.

Maybe something like this that captures his sweetness and innocence...

...or possibly this. Oh dang, he's a cutie pie!

Merry Thanksgiving Eve to all,

Cigs No More

2010-11-18T07:29:00.000-08:00

Today, November 18, 2010, is the 35th annual Great American Smokeout! The American Cancer Society sponsors this event and asks smokers to commit to a smoke-free 24 hour day.

I was a smoker once.

I never participated in the Great American Smokeout Day.

But, I was always reamed with guilt on those days. Really. It stunk. Just like a stale cigarette. But, I just lit up and smoked away so I didn't have to think about it because smoking was my escape.

Man, smoking was fun. But golly, smoking made me feel like crap. I didn't even realize how bad I felt. At the peak of my smoking habit I was puffing away nearly two packs a day. NUTS! I can't even imagine how I had the time to do all that smoking.

Ironically time became my "excuse" to smoke. As if anyone needs an excuse. It was my 3 minute (and I could stretch it out to about 7 if I really tried) escape. You see, I could step outside of the office or the house and just look up at the sky or close my eyes and tune out all the noise around me and enjoy a few minutes of peace and quiet. And it mattered not a bit to me that those few minutes were years I could be taking off my life as I chose to prematurely decay my lungs. Hello, who does that?!

Once I realized the stronghold smoking had on my life and figured out there were other, healthier ways to escape (not to mention cheaper, like crazy cheaper, and I smell better too) I decided to say Sayonara. Au revoir. Cheerio. So long. Bu-bye.

On July 5, 2007 I ditched the habit. Well, I did it with some help. Thank you Lord. Thank you Griffin. Thank you family. Thank you Dr. Corovessis. Thank you makers of Chantix.

It wasn't easy. It's still not easy. But, the rewards are immeasurable. And I still have fun without being a smoker. Lots of fun. And since I have reversed the effects of smoking in my life, I will be able to have fun even longer.

So there Big Tobacco. Take that. One less supporter. Nah, nah, nuh-nah, nah.

Yours Sincerely,

Personal Space Request

2010-11-04T07:22:00.000-07:00

Dearest Right Inner Thigh,

You are a close friend and I enjoy your companionship immensly. However, lately you have begun to invade my personal space a little. The constant physical affection that you extend by rubbing up against me is a little uncomfortable. I would like to kindly ask that you respect our personal spaces just a little more in the near future.

Respectfully Yours,
Left Inner Thigh

Comments

2010-10-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

I love my readers.

And more than that, I love your comments.

It makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Really.

From the bottom of my heart, Thank YOU!

Happy Thursday,

The hat makes the man

2010-09-28T09:05:00.000-07:00

....or does the man, make the hat?

My little man, is growing up so quickly. Before my very eyes, he is going through daily transformations. This season of life that he is in, is a constant state of flux.

Everything from his style of dress, to his desire to snuggle up to his mom on the sofa is changing. Rapidly. Almost a little too rapidly, if you ask me. If it was up to me, we'd pull the emergency brake on all of this growing stuff. We might even shift into reverse a little. But, that's just the selfish side of me.

Or maybe it's my aching womb.
Or it could just be the side that just doesn't want my baby to be leaving so soon. Like five more years to 18, soon!
Or maybe it's the intense baby fever that I have been battling, since the cutest little girl ever entered this world.
Or possibly I'm that mom that just doesn't want to let go. Can you say control freak? (Acknowledgement is the first step in solving your problems, people. I do know that. I'm working on it. )
Or possibly, I just want to smell the top of a new baby's head and squeeze the fat, rolled wrinkles on their thighs.
Or maybe, I am beginning to recognize that another woman will soon be moving into my territory. Cooking his meals, washing his clothes, picking up his stinky socks off the floor. Come to think of it, this might not be such a bad deal after all.

Regardless of how I feel about it though, he's changing. And there is nothing that I can do to stop it. No matter how loud I yell, "STOP IT!!!" (And I do that often.)

On a recent excursion to the mall, he became adamant about findhing a hat. Something that was cool. Cooler than cool.

So, Coolio decided to try them on. Only there wasn't a mirror near every stop we made. Enter the iPhone camera. Lucky for you.

Coolio wanted something that would capture his character. Something that would turn heads, but not draw so much attention that people gawked and gasped. Although, sometimes he likes to make people gawk and gasp when he drinks Dr. Pepper and belches in public.

"It needs to be flattering to my face, mom. You know I inherited these big cheeks from you and although they are adorable and all of the girls love them, I need something that doesn't make my face look fat."

I've got your back, kid. I would never let you purchase something unflattering.

Possibly the green would add just the right touch. A little fedora flare in green plaid? I like it. He doesn't. He says it screams "PIMP." What do you think?

All you need to go with this one is a pinstriped suit and some wing tipped shoes, big guy!

"MOM, I have to have it."

Really?

"Yes. Pretty, please with sugar on top?"

But, I said I wouldn't let you go there and get something that didn't bring out your best features.

"But, mooooommmmm! I haaaavve to haaaaave it. Please, please, please. Think of how it will help when I mow the grass to protect my skin."

Sold, to the kid with the best character and sales pitch in the world.

Keeping it cool with Coolio,

Pep Talk for Today

2010-09-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

Today is one of those days where I need a pep talk. My very own personal daily affirmation.

So, this morning after having my daily dose of caffiene, I proceeded to climb onto the bathroom counter and redmind myself that...

"I like my pajamas."

And of course, so much more.

Liking you always,

Favorite Moments

2010-09-14T07:30:00.000-07:00

It's a good day. You know the kind of good day where a smile creeps across your face effortlessly as soon as you step foot out of bed. The kind of day that can't be reckoned with. One that you wish you could bottle up and save for those days that are the exact oppposite.

In celebration of this good and happy day, I have been reflecting on some of my recent favorite moments.

A couple of weeks ago I got to snuggle almost the entire weekend with the Sweetest Pea in the world.

Being with an amazing man, enjoying an incredible dinner at The Grove.

Clapping (literally) in the dressing room when I found the. perfect. pair. of. jeans. Let's not discuss the price tag. That would just be a damper on the mood here.

Devouring a stadium hotdog with the cutest, sweetest (most of the time) pre-teen boy I know. Even if the football wasn't so great because it was the last pre-season game and all second string players. It's really all about the food, right?!

Every moment my Dreamboat stretches his hand out to grab mine without thought but with so much purpose. It's especially nice when our fingers are interlocked and I get a little squeeze. Effortless yet sincere- it sweeps me off my feet. Every. Time.

How about you? Any favorite moments in your lives recently? I'd love to share this party with you.

And if any of you know how to bottle up this good stuff to save for the not-so-good-days, please, please don't hesitate to share with us.

Happy Day,

Today's Thoughts

2010-09-02T11:43:00.000-07:00

On my mind lately...

1. Sinfully good chocolate chip cookies.

2. Ray La Montagne You Are The Best Thing

3. Love. Love. Love.

"To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken.
If you want to make sure of keeping it intact you must give it to no one, not even an animal.
Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements.
Lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket, safe, dark, motionless, airless, it will change.
It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. To love is to be vulnerable.” -C.S. Lewis

4. The sweet smell of babies.

5. Photo editing with Picnik tickles me pink.

Hope you are all getting ready for a perfect weekend!

Unfortunate Events.

2010-09-01T14:15:00.000-07:00

I wrote a blog post. A very intriguing and long blog post. One which took up quite a bit of my morning. All in the name of cousinary (is that a word?) love.

Liz posted here. And I was going to copy her. Because imitation is the finest form of flattery. Haven't you hear?

After spending at least 45 minutes carefully responding to each question and editing font to the style of my blog I accidently deleted it all.

Yup. All of it.

Except this...

The End.

Cheers,

P.S. I promise a new and improved post in the very near future.

Get a Kleenex...You have been warned

2010-08-23T07:27:00.001-07:00

Thoughts on missing you.

2010-08-11T07:35:00.000-07:00

I. Miss. You.

But, this morning I have realized that missing you means:

1. I know you. Because if I didn't know you, I wouldn't miss you.

2. I like you. Who misses the ones they don't like? That is just preposterous!

3. I enjoy your company. Your presence makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

But, please, please come home soon. Although, I am grateful to know you, like you, enjoy you, and miss you; I much prefer not missing you.

All my love,

This one is for you, CL

2010-07-24T09:25:00.000-07:00

This post is specifically put together with one person in mind in an effort to provide a brief update on our lives. However, I know those 4 or 5 loyal readers out there will appreciate the post as well. Whether you come her for my impecible photography skills, or my mad writing skillz, or the always entertianing wit, I know you will find something in here to suit all of you.

Just before school got out, Griffin and I (and I stresss the I) had to make a mad dash to creatively overcome some failing grades that just happened to pop up as he was about to be inducted into the National Junior Honors Society. By the hair of ~~his~~ our chinny, chin, chin, he scraped by and was able to take his oath the maintain honorable character, service, and GRADES for the upcoming school year.

We celebrated with family.

And ice cream.

Hi, Nana. Did you just partake of some tasty frozen custard? And watch your most adorable grandson hold his head high as he claimed his right to the National Junior Honor Society? And, also a little birdy told me you had a birthday recently? Is that true? No way.

Like mother, like daughter.

Disclaimer: Not the same ice cream celebration. I really "heart" ice cream in the summer. I try to take advantage of it every chance I get.

It was a good thing this Spring I was running so much. It helped to give me a better starting place for all those ice cream calories.

Here I am running like the wind in May. Well, there was no so much wind that day. But, lots of humidity. That smile on my face is deceiving people. My thoughts went a little something like this...

"Thank you Lord for legs to run,

Thank you Lord for helping me to survive the previous 13 miles,

Thank you Lord for letting me see the finish line in the next .1 miles,

Lord, please don't let anyone be in my way when I cross that finish line, lest they get baptized in my vomit."

After a few dry heaves, a bottle of water, and a sweet Medal I am feeling better.

Hi there boyfriend/running partner! What? You crossed the finish line about 45 minutes ago? Were you born in Kenya? No really, I am serious?

Looky here, my other favorite guy on the right. He's going to be a big, black Panther mascot this next year for Junior High. He gets to hang out with the cheerleaders and he is super stoked about that. What teenage, hormone boy wouldn't be??!

He met another Mascot friend at camp this week. It didn't take them long to bond and connect over fur, the enormous amount of sweat that they endure for the sake of their school, and who's big furry head smells worse on the inside.

Now, my boy is on the left. He's the big cat. Rooooaaarrr!

Well look who it is... Aunt Jae. So glad you could join us to watch Panther Boy peform with his new friends.

And so glad to see you brought Polly Belle along for the ride. I'm pretty sure she was glad to have the sound muffled some in the depths of your gorgeous belly. Because it was LOUD in there!

Hope you enjoyed this little presentation and glimpse into our recent lives. There will be more to come. I promise.

From the bottom of my heart,

Yes, you...

2010-07-14T09:08:00.001-07:00

Much Love,

A treasure for today

2010-07-08T08:19:00.000-07:00

It makes me a warm and fuzzy inside to come across little treasures shared by other people.

I read this blog and found this amazing video posted over there today.

It spoke beautiful things to me.

Hope it does the same for you.

Stay Beautiful,

Anniversary 5K

2010-07-06T08:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning I ran my own private celebratory 5K.

It was the morning of my smoking cessation anniversary. Sound weird? Yeah, I know. It is a little, but it's kinda a big deal to me. So, humor me and roll with it for a bit.

It's been 3 years y'all, and I can count on one hand the number of times I have picked up a ciggie since. On the other hand, I can NOT count the crazy number of times that the thought of picking up one of those little devils has crossed my mind.

When I decided the end of my love affair with smoking was near, I did like everyone does when they end a significant relationship in their life. I went in search of a replacement. Just thinking something temporary was in order to get me through the initial onset of change and loss, I thought I would conquer the ability to run a mile. So, I strapped on my tennies and set out huffing and puffing through the streets of my neighborhood.

Guess what happened?

I fell in love again.

Nope, this isn't just a rebound thing. It's the real deal. Fully committed and enduring the good times and bad.

So, in honor of my three years of virtually being smoke-free and successfully conquering and surpassing my ability to run 1 mile, I decided to head out for a run.

Please disregard the sweat ring around my visor. I'd like to tell you there is some significant attachment that I have to my dirty, stinky, yellowed hat, but it basically just boils down to being too lazy to scrub it down with some Oxiclean.

If only my relationship with laundry and cleaning was as strong and devoted as my love affair with running.

It was a toasty morning friends. See my sweat dripping on the ground? Nice.

The legs deserved a little post-run rest. I sat down and thanked them for carrying me each mile they have over the last three years and sang their praises for being strong this morning. We discussed the recent ebbs and flows of our relationship and decided that it was time to flow more than ebb. Our season of ebbing has been swell, but we are at a point where we need to experience a little growth.

And then, I threatened them from any injuries. Or else.

Happy trails,

A Hot Mess

2010-06-28T11:08:00.000-07:00

Me.

On Sunday.

A culmination of many stresses that have been stuffed down deep came spewing to the surface Sunday. I stuffed them there because I have this incredible sense of...

independence that says to me..."you will eventually figure it all out with enough time and there is no need to talk about it with anyone. Besides, you'll just end up blowing things out of proportion and unnecessarily dragging someone into drama that does not need it."

fear that says..."if you do have a valid concern then there is a possibility that you might have to face a world of hurt, honey. Are you ready for that right now?" or "what if you bring up some irrational thought or idea that was potentially hormonally induced because of this 'woman brain' you have and you end up looking like a complete idiot?"

insecurity that makes me feel like I am going to be a total disappointment to anyone I approach with my seemingly trivial stresses in this big, bad world of pain and suffering.

So guess what happened?

I couldn't hold it in anymore and I ended up a blubbering idiot about my own irrational ideas that I had blown completely out of proportion in my own mind which were in the grand scheme of things, trivial indeed!

Stinks when that happens. Downright. Nasty.

Here's to a new week with a fresh start, my friends.

Leaving the Hot Mess behind,

Friday Love

2010-06-18T09:19:00.000-07:00

Today I'm glad it's Friday because...

1. Tomorrow I do not have to wake up to an alarm. Although, I will. I just know I don't have to and that makes it so much sweeter.

2. My most handsome boy comes home today from being gone for the week to ther ultimate adventure known as Beach Retreat. You can check out some of what he's been up to here. Seriously, my summer camps were never like that. Ever. Not even my weeks at Forst Glen for GA Camp or Mt. Carmel. But, those are posts for another day. DISCLAIMER: Those websites do not do justice to the "roughing" it we did over 20 years ago. YIKES! That sounds like a loooong time ago.

3. My to do list for today isn't too long.

Yet.

4. I'm looking forward to a Sunday dinner for the Pops in honor of Father's Day and spending sweet time with family and friends. Besides, there is major food involved with these plans. How can one not hold a special place in their heart for a scrumptious meal prepared with Dad in mind? Meat, potatoes, and something sweet to top it off. Mmmmm....my mouth is watering already and my waist line is screaming!

Lovin' It,

Dear Babies,

2010-06-14T13:21:00.000-07:00

Dear Babies,

Thanks for being so adorable. Even in utero. Your sweet little black and white profile melts my heart and leaves me longing to pinch your sweet little toes soon.

(Polly Belle scheduled to make her debut in August.)

And thank you for having such an adorable little nose and fat cheeks and for being all cuddly and warm.

Brylie's debut 6/14

But, let me give you a stern warning about how you make my womb ache. Seriously. You must stop that. Now.

Much love,

2010 Summer Bucket List

2010-06-09T09:13:00.000-07:00

Catching up...again

2010-06-03T13:02:00.000-07:00

Blog neglect. That's what it is. Plain and simple. I've put you on the backburner and I need to apologize. Grovel, in fact. On. my. knees.
Oh loyal readers...my sweet community of five, can you please find a way in your heart to forgive me?

I'm feeling as if we have this conversation frequently.

Without further ado, let's just catch up a little, shall we?

This somewhat asmathic boy wasn't feeling well one day, so we made a trip to see our favorite pediatrician.

...and on the way out of the office, he spied this winged, talonned, and injured predatory bird that captured his heart. Captured. his. heart. After begging for a chance at rescuing the winged, talloned, injured creature we spent no less than an hour tracking down a rescue group, gathering supplies for subduing and transporting the bird, and attempting to lure the sweet little thing into the makeshift crate. Only to be mesmerized by his beauty and grace as he flew to the tallest branch of a nearby tree.

Apparently, as the sweet lady from the rescue explained, he may have just been a little shell shocked from flying directly into a paned window moments before we came upon him. But, rest assured he would be just fine.

It's crawfish season, y'all. Spicy, tasty, juicy mud bugs, ready for the eatin'.

And there is no better date night, than crawfish and pool with a 13 year old boy.

He's a shark. Don't ever let him fool you. He'll leave you high and dry. Except maybe when he's had a cold beer or two. Oh, wait. That's me.

This insanely good looking group made their way to a local carnival in hopes of fidning some quality entertainment on pieces of equipment that are taken down, put together, taken down and put together again, taken down; put together (you get the idea) and moved from location to location by the most qualified of all traveling carnival peoples you have ever met. Don't let the fact that they are missing a few teeth fool you. They are absolutely the most proficient ride putter-togetherers you will ever come across.

Does he meet the height requirement?

We even put our lives in their hands on this one. Call me crazy, but it was all kinds of fun. I promise.

But this. This was pure heaven. Melt in your mouth goodness. Good thing I made it through that ride without meeting my sweet Jesus so I could savor one more of these in my lifetime.

A road trip ensued that entailed much in the way of laughter, good tunes, wine, food, and navigational assistance of all sorts. Plus a little dancing in the streets. No road trip is complete without that.

Now go forth and dance in the streets. It's an exhilerating experience that you will never forget. Imagine the possibilities if everyone just stopped occasionally and danced in the street?

Cheers,

Sweet Child of Mine

2010-05-14T08:31:00.000-07:00

25 Things I want to tell you, my love.

1. Jesus loves you very much and you were created perfect in His image.

2. Be careful about the friends you chose.

3. Things will be what you make of them. We all have a choice about how to respond to our circumstances.

4. There are times for reactions and times for responses. Be sure to carefully and thoughtfully respond when it is required, rather than react.

5. Dating is for finding your wife one day.

6. Toast is just better with butter on it.

7. Chew your food with your mouth closed.

8. Never wear white socks with black or brown shoes.

9. Pray about it and then chose.

10. Always remember your restaurant manners.

11. Tomorrow is a new day.

12. Chocolate in the form of warm, gooey brownies is near to perfection.

13. Buy her flowers.

14. Learn to listen. And listen for when you should reply.

15. Part of being responsible is doing what you are expected to do even when no one is there to make sure you do it.

16. Find something your passionate about and be passionate about it.

17. Life isn't always easy, but rewards will come from your committment to perservere.

18. Sometimes you have to go to your room and find a smile and then come back.

19. We only have one body, so take care of it.

20. Read often. It's the least expensive journey you will ever take and you can do it anytime and go anywhere.

21. Please, please, please don't smack your gum.

22. Embrace your family.

23. It's like medicine for your soul to escape from the daily routine of life every now and again.

24. Gaurd your heart.

25. Be purposeful and authentic always.

With all of my heart,

A fun place to hang out

2010-05-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

I found a fun place to hang out. A blog with little post it note "thank you's."

I love "thank you's." Especially this one.

Would you like to hang out with Leah too? You can, right here.

My "thank you" for today....

Dear Co-Worker,

Thank you for being so passionate when navigating through the voice response system on your speaker phone today. You have filled my afternoon with pure delight as your "no's" escalated to "NOOOOO's" and your "Yes's" became " YESSSS's"

Best,

It's About Time

2010-04-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

Let me set the stage for you. Although the setting is of little importance, I just feel like telling you what I'm doing.

I'm propped up on some pillows at the coffee table in a hotel room, stuffed from the pizza and salad I ordered, working away on 'homework' from the training seminar I am attending, and watching One Tree Hill on the CW. Which by the way I never. ever. watch.

I'm not sure I have ever seen so much drama in one TV show. It's been a while since I've watched them, but feel certain that daytime soaps don't even roll through the intense emotional ups and downs as this show.

Take a look for yourself.

Just as I was contemplating how the CW has single handedly contributed to the escalation of emotional drama in our teenagers and young adults, thus corrupting the entire dynamics of relationships in the future and ultimately statistics such as divorce rates, single parenting, cohabitation, blah, blah, blah....the most refreshing and ironic commercial appeared.

Behold a moment of truth. One that is so full of truth and honesty that I can hardly stand it. This commerical is quite possibly the best thing I've seen on TV in my lifetime.

Thank you, Kotex. From the bottom of my heart. Thank you.

Cheers,

Dance Party Anyone?

2010-04-20T12:57:00.001-07:00

Thinking 'Bout Somethin'

HANSON | MySpace Music Videos

Monday on a Friday....

2010-04-16T08:26:00.000-07:00

...is it possible?

I arrived downtown this morning and parked my car in the garage on the seventh floor. Took the elevator down and walked across the street to the tunnel access that leads me to my office building. Jumped on the elevator and rode up to the 21st floor.

Settling in my desk, I realize I forgot my glasses in my car. So, I hop the elevator back down the 21 floors to the tunnel. Which I follow to the street that crosses to the parking garage. Walk to the garage and get on the elevator to the 7th floor where I parked.

Breathe a sigh of relief that the glasses were actually in the car. Lock up and return. Down the elevator to the first floor. Back out of the garage, across the street, and to the tunnel. Up the elevator I treck to the 21st floor where I enter my office and proceed to move on with my day.

By the time, no less than 35 minutes have elapsed. All to just settled in at work and logged into the computer.

Outlook opens and up pops a message from a co-worker.

Subject:: Ur car

Message: Inside lights are on

Back to the elevator for the ride down 21 floors to the tunnel. Through the tunnel to the street access to cross and enter the parking garage. Up the garage elevator to the 7th floor where my car is glowing in the dark of the garage.

Turn the light out.

Proceed to the nearest elevator to go back down the 7 floors to the garage exit and cross the street to enter the tunnel which takes me to the building elevators where I head back up to the 21st floor.

Time elapsed now nearly 1 hour. Are you tired yet? I'm exhausted.

So glad I chose to wear the heels over the flats today.

Graphic from someecards.com.

Happy Friday,

In This Moment

2010-03-27T06:02:00.000-07:00

What am I doing right now? Sitting in a hospital waiting room while a sweet friend has gone to the serene side of dreamland so doctors can work some kinks out in her neck.

Top five things to do in hospital waiting rooms:

1. People watch and eavesdrop.
Nearby a mom and her twenty-something daughter exchanged the most sincere and deepest of silent exchanges as the daughter was swept off to pre-op with no explanation of the events to come. Both of them distressed and unsure of when they would see each other again. Eyes glossy with tears seem to subside as another waiting room attendee re-assured her she would see her daughter again before the procedure commenced.

Another couple of older gentleman bonded over their similar plights as radio men on fighter planes in WWII.
2. Catch up on blog reading.
Laughing out loud at this post. (Guess someone else is being entertained in their own waiting room by watching me!)
Mopping up my melted heart after reading this post. I don't have a daughter, but I am one. And- Oh, how I dream of a man with heart of gold like this.

3. Checking up on my overflowing inbox.

4. Reading- I know, I know. Don't judge a book by it's cover. But, how can you resist a book with this title?

Pulling back the cover on this treasure to explore how I can get on board with being a Tramp For the Lord, because who wouldn't want that?

Sucked in by Chapter 1.

5. Glancing at the itenerary board more oft' than I should to check on the status of my sweet friends surgery and having to remind myself that I am not looking up a flight number in an airport each time I look up there.

Happy Waiting Days Friends,

Holy Cow- Another Follower!

2010-03-25T12:10:00.000-07:00

Look at that! After having this blog for nearly three years, my loyal "followers" list has jumped to 2! I can't thank you enough sweet friend for clicking that little button over on the right there that says "Follow."

So, if you are a regular reader out there just click it. That button doesn't bite. I'm pretty sure you can even be an anonymous fan. No information required. Unless of course you want too share your lovely face. I'd love that. I really would.

What? What's that you say? What's a follower? I'll let Google explain that for you.

What is Following? Do you have a favorite blog and want to let the author and readers know that you are a fan? Well now you can do that and more with the Blogger Following feature! You can even keep track of the blogs you follow via your Reading List on the Blogger dashboard.

But, no pressure. Be a silent lurker if thats what suits you. It's ok. No judgement here. It doesn't hurt my feelings at all. We are all guilty of it at one time or another. Even me.

Just know, that I know you've been here. And deep inside, I know you are a fan whether you click that little button to the right or not.

Loyally Yours,

Capturing A Growing Family

2010-03-24T08:57:00.000-07:00

These pictures, albiet precious and momentous are a little out of date. But, really only my family readers will recognize that, so the rest of you read on and pay no attention to the fact that there are a few missing offspring in this generational photo.

And to those family members reading, please, please send me any updated group photos of all of our cutie pies together. If any exist. If not, well its high time we arrange a get together. If only for the oppurtunity to force our kids to squish together in a picture on the fireplace harth or porch swing.

Because I have countless memories being posed with all of you stinkers as kids on hammocks, swings, front porches, etc. Slackers is what we are; slackers of the worse kidn. We must carry on the fmaily traidition with this new generation. Its just unfair that they escape the experience of being planted together for family photos at least once a year.

Down right wrong if you ask me.

But I have no hard feelings about about our own forced poses. Nope. None. Not even the time the hammock fell and knockerd the ever-livin' wind out of every last one of us. Or the frightening sparks of fireplace harths that would jump out and attach themselves to our clothes and hair leaving a smoldering smell of burnt polyester lingering in the air.

But back to the precious and momentous stuff.

Cute bunch of kids, huh?

Amazingly these were not forced group pictures.Smiles like that don't come in forced settings.

They were candidly caught one Happy Holiday when we were actually all in the same place at the same time.

Well, I'm happy to say that even though these pictures are missing, oh... somewhere between 4 or 5 birthed children since it was taken. We have new ones on the way. (YES- that's plural) Two more to add to this gnarley crew.

But one in particular belongs to my sister. A nice or nephew of my very own.

September can't get here fast enough!

The morrow was a bright September morn;

The earth was beautiful as if new-born;

There was that nameless splendor everywhere,

That wild exhilaration in the air,

Which makes the passers in the city street

Congratulate each other as they meet.

~Henry Wadswaorth Longfellow

Dear God,

2010-03-16T06:04:00.000-07:00

"...and thank you for the time mom and I got to pull weeds in the backyard today and have some bonding time..."

Just a snippet from one of Griffin's prayers this weekend. It's the small things, you know?

How easily we forget to give thanks for even the mundane and not-so-fun things.

How funny it is that the Lord uses the smallest of creatures to gently remind us of those moments.

16Be joyful always; 17pray continually; 18give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus
1 Thesselonians 5:16-18

Thankfully yours,

Snacking Well

2010-03-10T14:14:00.000-08:00

Dearest Friends and ocassional stranger that passes this way,

This little bit of heaven...

Just rocked my world!! I picked a couple the other day while checking out at Target. Luna Bars can frequently be found in my snack selection but, this flavor is new and hands down, my absolute fave.

I feel as if I should shout it from the mountain tops!! Really. It's. that. good.

Happy Snacking,

Running from crazy

2010-02-25T14:41:00.000-08:00

I run. I'm not sure I consider myself a "runner," but I run. And, I'm pretty sure anyone other than the novice runner would classify the category of a jog.

Never the less, over the last couple of years, I have learned to love something that I once hated. Always, athletic I knew the joy received from a good workout and the exhilaration of accomplishing goals set for myself, but I never found any happiness in running. It was merely a conditioning exercise used to enhance my other athletic performances.

And when I decided to embark on the adventure of running a few years ago, it was exactly that. A means to an end. An endurance exercise to help me reach a goal. A distractor of sorts.

But, now. Now, it is something entirely different.

I run for many different reasons:

to stay heart healthy,

to counter the calorie consumption in my favorite pasta dishes and chocolate,

to chat with the Lord,

to chat with myself,

to let the Lord chat with me,

to listen to good music like New Edition's Candy Girl,

to dance...you lookin' kinda cute in that polka dot bikini giiiiiirl,

to get out my anger and frustration,

to mourn,

to be thankful,

to feel (because sometimes I just get in a rut and cannot feel things),

to get away from crazy,
because I am crazy!

My love-hate relationship has turned a corner. How do I know? Because...

1. I look forward to an almost daily run.
2. My morning routine involves determining exactly when I am going to fit that run into my schedule.
3. My evening routine includes updating a mileage and training schedule.
4. I've committed to running a distance longer than a 5K.
5. As much as I abhor the treadmill, I have learned to tolerate it when it's cold or rainy. Which has been a LOT lately.
6. I am now doing an extra load of laundry mid-week to accomodate my shortage of sports bras. Sad, but true.

As addressed in numero cinco above, I have committed to running this innaugural event held in my hometown on May 1st.

I'm a sucker for sentimentality. Is that a word? It was the hometown thing that clenched the deal for me here, but the focus of the non-profit hosting the event is raising funds and awareness for children's health and fitness. There is nothing that pierces my soul more than sickly and unhealthy children. It was a winning combination from the start!

Have you ever seen this program? Oh the possibilities of teaching young girls the importance of healthy living and self respect! My heart melts every time I come across this organization. No offense to you boys out there. You're very much appreciated too, just in a different sort of way.

I stumbled across it on the web about a year ago and it has come up in no less that 2,456,789 searches that I have done since then. You think it could be a subtle hint? I'm praying about it.

After heading down several rabbit trails, I better escape this blog world and get back to reality.

Happy Runnning my friends or whatever your activity of choice is (even if that is just chasing after kids all day long),

Twilight Zone

2010-02-10T05:32:00.000-08:00

Morning Dialogue.

G: Mom, I want to see if we can make a deal. Are you up for that this morning? Making a deal?

M: Ummm...whatdayawant?

G: Never mind. (Slowly turns and shrugs his shoulders to walk away)

M: (Overwhelmed by guilt from cutting him off before he could even get his request out. Discouraged because this ultimately will impact future communications down the road. Quickly and humbly grovel and conceed to hear the terms of the deal, knowing full well the answer will be "no.") Ohhh, come back here. What is this "deal" you want to make?

G: (Ever so enthusiastically) If I could just get right on all my chores for the week since I am up and already dressed, can I play Hookie from school today? Please?

M: Really? Really? Did you just ask me to skip school? Nah, I don't think it's a good idea. No deal, little friend.

G: But..

M: I said, N-O. (And launch into some long, boring monologue that only a parent can deliver about how education is a priviledge and there are children all over the world who can only dream of going to school because in stead they have to work in the fields and factories all day so their families can eat. You know that speech that is supposed to instill guilt but only comes across as mwah, mwah, mwah.)

Parenting-by-guilt? What the heck is that? After scooting him out the door to catch the bus and heading out to the much dreaded office, I began to rethink this whole encounter. Especially the part about having a clean house. That is a fairly tempting deal.

I'm fairly certain the next time he wants to make a deal; I'll take it as an opportunity to practice his negotiation skills. Heck, I could possibly get a clean house, clean laundry, cleaned garage, clean attick, mowed yard and who knows what else out of the deal. A person can get a lot of work done in an 8 hour day. Especially a young, spry lad as himself.

Happy Mid-Week Friends!

A Public Service Announcement

2010-01-19T10:56:00.000-08:00

Well...it should be.

Endless Needs

2010-01-15T13:03:00.000-08:00

"The sun is about to come up. The aftershocks continue. Some more noticeable than others. There is no way to even begin to share the things we’ve heard and seen since 5pm yesterday. To do so would take hours that we don’t have to give right now. Some of them feel wrong to tell. Like only God should know these personal horrible tragedies. "

From a missionary family serving in Haiti. Read more here.

These days are full of needs beyond most of our comprehension. The horrific situation over in Haiti weighs heavily on my heart right now. As help has begun to trickle in the last 24 hours, more and more images are flooding the media. Splashed across television, the internet, newspapers, and everywhere in between Haiti's desperation is being forced into our living rooms.

This one brings tears to my eyes of both joy and sadness. What appears to be a rescued child, may now be an orphan.

I'm praying for this community. The people. The rescue workers and first responders. The physicians and politicians. The children and their teachers. The parents, siblings, sons, and daughters. The family's of those lost and those found.

Please join me in these prayers.

Remember this little bit of adorableness.

Well, she needs your prayers too. She is a little sick right now. Well, actually she is a little sick all of the time, but she is a LOT sick right now. She may be heading back into the hospital this weekend. She has visited the hospital more times in her short little four years of life than any of us would care to even think about.

Yet, she still smiles like this on her good days.

Her Mommy could use some prayers too. She fulfills the role of the brave, nurturing, and patient mommy better than anyone I have ever seen. She calmly administers painful treatments to her daughter while trying to re-direct her attention with songs and happy faces. Bravely, she packs her three children into the car and faces trepid weather and cantankerous kids to visit the doctor on a more than frequent basis. Patiently, she faces many sleepless nights with the sick one.

Routinely, like most mothers she
visits the grocery store,
washes the clothes,
cleans the house,
changes diapers,
cooks dinner,
pays bills,
irons clothes,
gives baths,
washes hair,
packs bags,
unpacks bags,

and then, as if she needs more to do she

runs a business,
answering emails,
fielding phone calls,
managing people,
manageing events,
hiring and firing,
and all of the other responsibilities that come along with that.

My guess is....she's exhausted. She's broken on the inside from putting on the brave face while watching the agony of her own offspring crying in pain and desperation. She's desperate for her daughter to just have a run of the mill cold that goes away in 3-5 days. She's in need of a kid-less day for a pedicure and a haircut, but she'd probably settle for a 2 hour nap and a day with no Dr. appointments or phone calls.

Please join me in praying for this little one and her mommy and the rest of their family.

Blessings to all,

Hope

2010-01-12T20:11:00.000-08:00

Hope is a powerful thing.

Bernice, Bernice, Bernice knows a little about it. She watched her mom hit that skunk named Justine Mattisse over the head with a club.

I'm sure that left her hoping for a new little, cute and cuddly puppy for a pet with a normal name like Spot or Rover.

Possibly, Justine Mattisse was hoping that Bernice, Bernice, Bernice would vanish into thin air at that moment.

Here is the thing about hope. Hope never disappoints us. It's always there as a light shining in the distance to get us through from one stagnant, stressfull or perilous moment to the next.

One of my favorite passages in the Bible is found in Romans 5:3-5.

3Not only so, but we[c] also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

copied from http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans%205&version=NIV

What strikes me about this passage is the idea that sufferings exist. Pain is real and the fact that trials will be in our life to produce suffering doesn't go unnoticed by the Lord. Life just ain't always a bowl full of cherries and God gets that!

According to Ramona Calvert, you just get a little stink on you sometimes. But how exectly do you go about blowin' it off?

"Sufferings produce perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope"

Here is a hint. It's what's sandwiched in between: perseverance and character building. Boy, aren't those things music to your ears?! Want to know what Mr. Webster has to say about perserving? No? Too bad because I'm going to tell you anyway.

"to persist in a state, enterprise, or undertaking in spite of counterinfluences, opposition, or discouragement"

Oh dang! This is hitting home for me. Probably for many of you too. All four of you that stop by here.

Keep in mind though that hope follows perseverance and character building. I mean, I might have a bad day and find myself comfortably perched on my haunches on the sofa hoping a big, fat bowl of chocolate ice cream would make its way into my hands, but that my friends is a vain hope. Selfish ambition at it's finest.

Hope that follows perseverance; that's the good stuff. The genu-ine, real thing. Guess I'll persistently wade through the sea of obstacals to the fridge and fix my own bowl of chocolate ice cream now.
But, here is the key to it all friends. Don't miss this. It's big. Really Big!

"hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts"

That part makes all the difference in the world. Without that love, that stink...well, it just ain't goin' no where and I'd be willing to bet it just gets worse.

Daily Blowin' Off Stink,

The Back Burner

2010-01-11T08:42:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder what a blog on the back burner looks like?

Well, if you have stumbled across this site once or twice recently, then your getting a first hand look my friends. It's sad really because there is so much to share.

Hopefully, you won't hold it against me that I am a bit neglectful. Please? Pretty please? I'm on my knees here.

This stint will probably last a couple of months, but I'll do my best to get in a quick post every now and again. Regular post (well as "regular" as they ever are) should resume March 1.

So, stay with me. Please? Pretty please? With sugar on top? I'll throw in a cherry too?

I want to make a deal with you. You add the substance for the blog today. I'd love to hear how you spent your weekend. Bundled by a fire during this acrtic blast? Or cooking something to warm your soul in the kitchen? Or did you do something crazy like go outdoors and risk turning into a popsicle? Tell me all the details in a comment. Please? Pretty please?

Hoping you all had swell weekends,

Manic Monday

2009-12-28T07:34:00.000-08:00

Last night I went to bed with an overwhelming sense of panic. A list of 1,000 things ran through my head that I wanted to do before Monday morning, but alas I did not get them done. Nor did I want those things to keep me from my beauty rest. So I closed my eyes and fell promtply into a carb induced coma from everything consumed the previous week.

Now, it's Monday morning and the mental list has returned along with the panic. And the list is even longer and the panic even stronger.

So, I've decided the best thing to do is have one more cup of coffee and go over it mentally one more time before I get up and get started on it.

Off to refill my coffee cup.

Make yours a less manic Monday friends.

Peace out,

Winter Snow

2009-12-21T08:02:00.000-08:00

The blog challenge dates may have officially ended, but I believe I owe at least one more Christmas Song post. Besides, I know the title will catch your eye, Kathy.

If you don't know Kathy. Check her out by here. Besides being a fantastic writer, she has a way of bringing you right into the midst of some rather entertaining stories. I promise you won't be sorry for popping in and visiting her every now and then.

Here is a little teaser for you. Her most recent release is about her intense dislike for wearing winter coats and the delimna she faces living in Maryland.

We’re snowed in today. Like, 20 inches of snow. It’s lovely being forced inside with your family and not having the option to leave the house for anything. I’m not being sarcastic. I really think it’s been fantastic. The snow is beautiful and as long as I don’t have to touch it, I love it. Which brings me to the point of this post. I’m usually not forced to pull out my coat until January.

I have a personal anti-coat policy. I dislike them.

This is the view from her window this last week. Hellloooo! Who wouldn't have a disdain for coats in weather like that?

To get back to the task at hand, I have to share a song with you that I heard this week. Chris Tomlin instriduced a new artist on his most recent Christmas CD. Audrey Assad has captured beautifully the gentleness of the season in her lyrics to Winter Snow. I couldn't resist sharing them with you. Just click the words Winter Snow and it will take you to her playlist where you can listen.

Enjoy!

POST EDIT: I found a video of the song. It's not the best, but it's easier than chasing it down on myspace.

Go Tell It On The Mountain

2009-12-18T13:35:00.000-08:00

....Jesus Christ is born!

Luke 2

The Birth of Jesus

1In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2(This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3And everyone went to his own town to register.

4So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
The Shepherds and the Angels

8And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ[a] the Lord. 12This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

13Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

14"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."
15When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
16So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

copied from www.biblegateway.com

Inspiration from this post came from Bebo Norman's version of the song, but I'm leaving you with a different version.

In your spare time, I suggest you check out Bebo's version because it's wonderful and totally different than this one. You can do that at http://www.pandora.com/. It's a great link to have on your favorites, if you don't already.

Now- Go and tell! That's a directive people.

Happy Telling,

Making Spirits Bright

2009-12-16T11:39:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, my spirits were made bright when I spied an ad tucked nicely in the corner of my facebook page with an advertisement for this.

Many years ago. Long before the movie was made, I read The Time Traveler's Wife and discovered my passion for a new genre of writing. I like to call it fantasy or fairy tale, but I choose not to include it in the category of science fiction. I'll reserve that for those who choose to embark on the adventures of Captain Kirk and the Enterprise crew.

Speaking of adventures in flight, I'm outta here. About to hop on a jet plane and retturn home. Sure wish I had a good read for the flight.

I guess I'll survive with a nap.

Sweet Dreams 'Yall,

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree

2009-12-14T20:07:00.000-08:00

Your branches green delight us.

This is the story of our Christmas tree. Our Christmas tree that was thoughtfully and carefully selected and set and turned and twisted until it was nestled just right into its new home inside of our home.

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree,

How lovely are your branches

This year we opted to retire the artificial giant we have used in the past and replace it with the sweet aroma of a fresh cut tree. Let the trimming of the tree begin.

How many sparkling little white lights can go on one's Christmas tree? I'll tell you this tree is half the size of our old faithful and I used one less string of lights. I lost the exact count of how many are on there, but I'll tell you that you should come armed with a good pair of shades when you enter my house.

Notice the denim knee peeking out in the left corner of this photo. That's the photographer.

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree

Much pleasure dost thou bring me

Oh wait. What's happening here. Mom's doing all of the work and the photographer is relaxing on the sofa. Get to work child 'o mine. Get to work now!

For every year the Christmas tree

Brings to us both joy and glee

Somewhere around string number eight I finally got that boy to work. And work him hard I did.

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree

Much pleasure dost thou bring me

....almost as much as a hard working child

Almost to the fun part. Lights on. Check.

Preliminary clean up done. Check,

If your not familar with this step of the tree deocrating process, you must know it's crucial. Otherwise, tiny little green needles prick the devil out of little bare feet as they tip toe back and forth to hang the ornaments.

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree

Thy candles shine out brightly

Is there anything sweeter?

Each bough doth hold its tiny light,

That makes each toy to sparkle bright

Especially knowing he does not have a sticky pine needle crippling him as he walks back and forth to the tree to hang the ornaments one at a time.

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree

Thy candles shine out brightly!

Oh what a sight?! It's my favorite thing to see first thing in the morning. I stumble to the tree and turn the lights on before making my way to the coffee pot. That's a lotta love right there, friends.

And it's the last light I turn off before going to bed at night.

Speaking of bed. I think I hear it calling my name.

'Night all,

The Twelve Days of Christmas and a Little More

2009-12-14T08:41:00.000-08:00

HELLO!?!?!? Guess who ran a 5:34 mile today?

Nope. Not this kid who gave me a terrible time during the 5K a few weeks ago. The one who complained all the way except for the few seconds he saw the camera taking his picture. He couldn't have done that. Could he?!

Nope. I'm pretty sure some aliens abducted my child just before the race start today and replaced him with a complete stranger. A stranger who can run a mile in 5:34. Yep. I'm pretty sure that was what happened.

Back to the regularly scheduled blog at hand.....The Twelve Days of Christmas

Last Christmas, I gave you my heart. But, the very next day, you gave it away.

Oh no. I got side tracked. We're not talking about Wham on this post. Do over.

Last Christmas, I spied an interesting Christmas card displayed in the office with all of the other company exchanged hooplah that comes through. By hooplah, I mean all of the best, simply generic, and politically correct, 'Happy Holidays' and 'Wishing you the Best New Year' cards that money can buy.

Typically I pass by the array of cards without a second glance. But, this one was different. The guilded Merry Christmas displayed proudly atop the card caught my eye at once. Beneath were 12 cut out circles and behind each was a pictoral representation of the 12 Days of Christmas.

And on the back of the card, I found a story similar to the following.

The twelve days of Christmas are the twelve days between Christmas Day, Dec. 25th, the birth of Jesus, and the Epiphany, Jan. 6th, the day Christians celebrate the arrival of the Magi (Wise Men) and the revelation of Christ as the light of the world.

The Christmas song, "The Twelve Days of Christmas" may sound silly and contrived to many of us. But it actually had its origins in religious symbolism - and with a serious purpose.

It dates from a time of religious persecution. The song, "The Twelve Days of Christmas," was written as a kind of secret catechism that could sing in public without fear of arrest - a learning or memory aid to Christians in fact.

The song can be taken at two levels of interpretation - the surface meaning, or the hidden meaning known only to the Christians involved. Each element is a code word for a religious truth.

The "true love" mentioned in the song is not an earthly suitor, but refers to God Himself. The "me" who receives the presents refers to every baptized person who is part of the Christian Faith. Each of the "days" represents some aspect of the Christian Faith that was important for children to learn.

1. The partridge in a pear tree is Jesus.

2. The two turtledoves are the Old and New Testaments.

3. Three French hens stand for faith, hope and love.

4. The four calling birds are the four Gospels.

5. The five gold rings recall the Hebrew Torah (Law), or the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Old Testament.

6. The six geese a-laying stand for the six days of creation.

7. The seven swans a-swimming represent the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit.

8. The eight maids a-milking are the eight Beatitudes.

9. Nine ladies dancing are the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit.

10. The ten lords a-leaping are the Ten Commandments.

11. Eleven pipers piping represent the eleven faithful Apostles.

12. Twelve drummers drumming symbolize the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles Creed.
The song is long. I get that. But, I listen to it differently now. I'll leave you with the best version of the song I could find on YouTube and I'll apologize in advance for what I am about to put you through.

Remember your true love, friends and have a Merry Christmas!

Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle All the Way

2009-12-12T07:27:00.000-08:00

This Sunday, Griffin, Jori and I will be Jingling All the Way down the streets of downtown Houston. It's the Chevron YMCA annuual Jingle Bell Run and Walk.

We are stoked. Well, I am. But, Griffin- not so much. He will be great though. He's doing the Kid's 1 mile Fun Run. I know he's got it in him and he's been working hard to get ready.

Just a few weeks ago he crossed the finish line of the Katy Turkey Trot 5K and look how excited he was when he made that home stretch.

This run should be quite fun. There will be reindeer antlers, jingle bells, and lots of costumes.

I'm not quite sure how people can gallop down the streets for 5 miles in costumes, but apparently it's a regular part of this event.

How do you think she managed that pink tutu for the entire run? She's a stronger lady than me. That's for sure.

However, I am looking forward to heading up to the DFW area to dress up with by BFF for The Great Urban Adventure later next year.

We'll look something like this and have the time of our lives! I really can't wait.

Hope you all are having a Jingling kind of weekend.

Joy To The World

2009-12-11T08:13:00.000-08:00

Recently I was reading about feelings.Feelings are like our relational compass. Indicators of the direction that our relationships are going. Signals that something is good or something is bad.

Joy is a feeling. It's a gooooood feeling. A reallly good feeling.

That being said, I want to share with you all a few glimpses into a day that filled my heart with joy and my house with laughter, shouting and good food. Incidentally, did you know that nearly every use of the word joy or one of its derivatives in the Bible is used in conjunction with singing, shouting or feasting?

We feasted, shouted, giggled, sang and shared the Joy, Joy, Joy we had deep in our hearts.

Let me show you what I mean.

There's joy in them thar eyes, I tell ya.

Brown-eyed Lacy Lou. She's got it. Joy. And best of all, she shares it. Just look at that grin.

Us girls, we decided to hang out and play a board game and watch some Disney TV.

Because nothing brings joy to your heart quite like the music and dance of Hannah Montanna and the sweet giggles of your opponent failing to get the Clue's worked out just right and knowing your going to whip her tail.

But, those boys. Well, they decided to fill the house with loud shouts of joy and jubilation like "Smoked ya!'" and "Oh Snap!" and "Dude!" and "Imma let you have that one!"

along with deep belly laughs, grunts, and other bodily noises that I won't mention on here. Because they are just gross.

After a little game and song and dance time, us girls headed to the kitchen. A place we love to go.

Don't let these faces fool you. They have not lost their joy. Just perplexed at the fact that I don't just buy cookie dough at the store, but make it.

They are starting to recognize the dough now. Joy at the thought of warm, chocolate cookies starts to enter their little minds and smiles creep across their faces soon.

Or it could be that she has the equivalent of one of her dad's power tools in her hand right there. Well, almost the equivalent. Mines a little old and weak. But, you know what I mean. Using an electric mixer can make you feel powerful and joyful all at the same time.

By the time the cookies went in the oven, it was time for this old lady to find some joy in a little quiet time. What to do? Oh, I know. Banish the kids to the outdoors. Yes!

In my quiet time I cleaned the cookie mess and made a new mess cooking dinner. I find it pure joy to cook and clean. I'm just weird like that.

It wasn't long before the call of electronics lured the kids back inside and my quiet time came to an end. But, dinner was ready. Hip, hip horray for a feast!

Boys. Boys! BOYS!! Griffin?! Ty?! Gabe?! Hey- is anyone listening? ANYONE?!

Dinner is ready PEOPLE! Come to the table. Now.

That did it. The mention of food and their focus of joy in electronics shifted rapidly to the joy that growing pre-teen boys find in food.

Notice the nearly clean plates and empty glasses. Boys are so much better at being adventerous eaters than girls. I speak from personal experience.

Griffin, still hungry? Would you like a little salt and pepper on those fingers? Don't forget we have cookies for dessert.

Not so much on the clean plates here. But, full of joy none the less.

Look at that gopher smile. We have a song that goes with that smile and it goes like this.

We are the gopher-girls.

We really go-for guys.

But, they don't go-for us.

We wonder why?

Phhh-Phhh, Phhh-Phhh

(sound made by using that exact face above)

Guys really won't have any trouble going for these girls one day. Even if they eat like birds. Because they are full of joy and share it freely!

This last Sunday at church, Gary Thomas was in and talked about Pure Pleasure, which happens to be the title of a new book he has out. It was a great message and I can't wait to read the book. What stuck with me most is that sometimes we get so hell-bent (yes, I said that) on filtering our lives as Christians that miss oppurtunities to take pleasure and find joy in our lives.

What pure pleasures have you enjoyed lately? How have you experienced joy in your relationships? Share with me, because I'd really like to hear. It would make my day.

All I Want For Christmas...

2009-12-09T20:58:00.000-08:00

...is my fwo fronf feeph. My fwo fronf feeph.....

Really, I need just one. But, I'm putting it off until after Christmas. It's hardly noticable and it's been months since that granola bar got the best of me. Yes, you heard that right. A granola bar and I went to battle and it won. Chipped a chunk off my already partially artificial front tooth. I'm feeling a little vulnerable right now after revealing that. Please be gentle with me.

Back to the topic at hand.

All I want for Christmas is....

1. Nike + iPod because I want to Rock and Run. Doesn't everybody?

2. Empty Bottle Moments because they are my favorite. And if you find a little time to throw in with that, I'd really appreciate it.

3. Road ID because if I was to be flattened out like a pancake by some speed demon car one night when I was out after dark, at least I'd look fashionable. Especially with the green, purple or red band.

4. Dutch Oven and Iron Skillet because no girl's kitchen is complete without them.

5. MK's Bold Berry Mineral Blush because my cheeks have just been sad since I ran out.

6. Chi Jumbo Round Brush because mine broke in two pieces a year ago and we battle every morning. I used to win, but more often than not that dang brush is winning these days.

7. Dainty little earrings just because I love them so. There are many things on this site I love, but I love the idea of adorning my ears with dangling little mother of pearl pieces. It's the simple things, you know? Too bad they wouldn't be in in time for Christmas.

8. Ruffled Slippers because we've had snow already this winter and it's bound to be the coldest winter yet. My toes just want to stay warm. But, looking cute is a bonus.

9. A little pampering for the feet because I can count on two fingers the number of pedicures I've had this year. Some sweet nail tech really has their work cut out for them when I walk through the door next.

10. Movies, movies, movies because a person can never have a large enough collection of shows worthy of replaying over and over.

I'm calling it quits here. Not because I'm out of items on my wish list. Don't we all have a bit of a running list of wants and desires? But, because I'm ehausted from spending the last two nights staying up late doing domestic chores. Chores I've been putting off since last week until after Griffin went to bed because we were having so much fun going to Christmas parties, concerts, working on a puzzle, cooking together, and just spending some quality time together.

THAT is the number one thing on my list. Making memories with my kiddo this Holiday season. As much as possible, I'm keeping the stress to a minimum. Sometimes that means spending a little more time with him and his infectious smile. Other times, it means taking a break from him to re-group so that I can be in a better place when we do spend quality time together. All you parents of pre-teens know what I'm talking about.

What about you? Tell me what's on your wish list for this season?

Off I go now to dream sweet dreams of sugar plum fairies.

'Night all,

Silent Night

2009-12-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow

2009-12-07T21:27:00.000-08:00

Apparently there is this annual blog Christmas tradition of challenging bloggers to write posts December 7-20 titled with the name of a song each day. I've heard It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year.
But, here is the deal. We have get one thing straight first. I'm not promising anything. Nope. There is no commitment here. But, I'll o my best to keep up with the others participating in the challenge. Especially since my friend here was the one I heard about the challenge from and she is willing to embark and hasn't posted in 5 months. But, she's been a little busy. I'll forgive her. This time.

On with the challenge.

A snowstorm hit Houston on Friday and the whole city came to a screeching hault.

It was like a white wonderland. Or as close as this part of the South will ever see.

All these cars and me were headed home. Due to the fact that schools and business closed across the city. Weather reports called for 1-4 inches of snow and a night of freezing temperatures.

But the kids were thrilled. Filled with joy. Full of laughter. And wet from head to toe. My laundry this week tripled in size due to the number of times Griffin changed clothes in the span of about 4 hours the snow was available for play.

Lucky for me, I got home just in time to see the blue skies again. But, I'm not complaining. An afternoon off with a fireplace, laughing wet kids running around, and a tasty glass of red wine made for a perfect ending to the week.

I was thrilled the next morning to still find a little of the white stuff hanging around.

Is it too much to ask for two snows in one winter season? I mean, we have now had two in two years. Since it was a balmy, muggy 67 degrees today, I guess it might be pushing it. Just a little.

Hope you all get to enjoy a little (or a lot for you true Northerner's) of snow in your neck of the woods this season.

The Dontwannas

2009-12-04T08:35:00.000-08:00

I'm coming down with a bad case of the dontwannas. They are coming on because of this.

It may not look like much to you. But there is snow in them there clouds my friends. Little specs of pink mixed in that orange and a whole lotta white and pink coming behind it. Check it out.

Now, all yous guys from them Northern parts known as Canada that might be visiting on this site and think that's nothing more than a drop in the bucket. But, we folks here in Texas. Well, we beg to differ.

Check out some of the excitement going on in town here.

Just this morning I heard on the news that in the history of recorded weather patters, this is the 34th snowfall to ever bless the Houston area! And, this makes two years in a row of snow in December. What's all this noise I keep hearing about Global Warming? Somebody must be confused about something.

For now, I'm stuck indoors. Itchin' to get out and home to take some pictures of Griffin in the snow. Hopefully, it won't all be melted before that happens and I can share some of the joy with you all.

In the mean time my dontwannas are kickin' up a notch. My feet are ancy and I have a hard time sitting in my chair for more than 5 minutes without moving around a little. I'm totally distracted by the nearby window. Tunes of Let It Snow and White Christmas keep playing over and over in my head.

Alright. Enough of the whining. I'm heading back to the land of cubicles and spreadsheets. Hopefully, my dontwannas will subside enough to have a couple of productive hours today.

Have fun friends. Stay safe and warm.

Easy Cheesy

2009-12-01T20:35:00.000-08:00

Hellooooo friends.

I've got a tasty treat for you. So tasty in fact, it gets two thumbs up.

Cheesy? Nahh...just wait until you see what's coming up.

Now, this is cheesy. Cheesy, easy, and a crowd pleasing. You just can't go wrong.

Smoked Gouda Sausage Bell Pepper Breakfast Casserole

1/4 to 1/2 loaf of dried french bread

6 eggs

2 cups of milk

1 tsp dry mustard

1/2-1 lb breakfast sausage

1/4 cup chopped onion

1/4 cup of chopped red bell pepper

1 1/2 cups of grated smoked gouda cheese

Mmm... my mouth is watering already. Let me hurry and tell you how to throw this thing together so we can get on with dinner. Or breakfast. Or lunch. Or brunch. Or just whatever meal works best for you.

Tear up the bread into small pieces and layer in a casserole dish. Brown the sausage, onions and bell pepper. I added the veggies toward the end of the browning process because I like them a little crispier in this dish for the texture. I am a texture girl. Too much mush is not a good thing for me.

Add the sausage and veggies on top of the bread. Mix the remaining ingredients, saving 1/2 cup of cheese to top the dish. Pour the egg mixture over the bread and sausage. Top with the remaining cheese.

Bake at 350 for about 35 minutes.

One more look. These pictures really don't do it justice. The Gouda makes it mouth watering good. You could use boring old cheddar. And normally, I would. But, I threw my frugal caution to the wind when I was shopping and standing over the cheese case. And I am so thankful that I did. My tastebuds thanked me too.

Be prepared for clean plates and big hugs after this meal.

Who doesn't love breakfast meals? Even Ribbon enjoyed the leftovers.

Christmas Glee

2009-12-01T09:31:00.000-08:00

Oh how I wish there was a great choreographed routine to watch. But alas, you'll just have to settle for some fab voices and an awsome Christmas tune.

Enjoy,

Thankgiving Introduction

2009-11-25T09:53:00.000-08:00

Another introduction.

Meet Jori. She's 30. Bet you couldn't have guessed that.

She will probably kill me for putting that on here. But, she will love seeing herself on here more so I am pretty sure I'll be in the clear.

She's foxy. Don't you think? And smart. This was at her graduation party to celebrate finishing her Master's. It's not in math. BUT she loves math. I mean really, really loves math. She's not just good at it, but she has a passion for it like I can't even describe. It baffles me. But seriously, how cool is a girl who is foxy and loves math? Cool to the millionth degree, my friends.

She has a sweet tooth. No, I am NOT kidding! I wouldn't do that to you. Rarely will you find her without a stash of M&M's or Reese's cups tucked in her purse, car console, pockets, dresser drawers, kitchen cabinets, or pretty much any little crevice she can find to stash a little chocolate goodness.

Hello. You say you are a Tech fan? Nope. Not even close. Jori is Tech. No Phoenix here. Only Tech. It runs in her veins.

Know what else she loves. Dancing. She has a special fondness for synchronized dancing. So much so that she became a certified Jazzercize instructor this summer.

Unfortunately, my picture library doesn't have any of her dancing moments captured. But here we are after a night of dancing. We don't get to play often, but we play hard when we do. Can you tell?

Along with her fondness for dancing she has an unwavering love of music. This might be the one thing that took me most by surprise when getting to know this sweet friend of mine. She tends to lean toward the left a little on her selection of music. Her most current playlist probably includes a little Jay-Z, Rhianna, Lil' Wayne, Kanye, 50 Cent...shocked much? I was.

Other things that are important to know about her:

Her heart belongs to Jesus. She LOVES Christmas. There is a soft spot in her for mission work in Russia. She adores shopping. Sometimes she thinks her mom can't hear her, but she can. She has excellent taste in friends.She loves to make up Limericks!

This is the exact reason I wanted you to meet her. She has a talent, I tell you. It's amazing what she can do with a few rhyming words. So without further ado, I'll let the words speak for themselves.

A Thanksgiving Limerick

Oh wow, look around--what a blessing!

The turkey, the pie and the dressing

We'll give so much thanks

We'll have to buy spanx

The holidays are here, but who's stressing??

Do you love it? Let her know and leave a note. Possibly we could get her started as a regular part of this blog. Limerick's just make this world a better place.

From deep down in both of our hearts, we wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Child of Another Mother

2009-11-22T21:17:00.000-08:00

Hello. I'd like to introduce you to Ribbon.

She is my other child. And she really, really loves me.

She loves me almost as much as she loves food. Or anything that resembles food. Or pretty much anything that will fit in her mouth. Whether is resembles food or not doesn't really matter much to her.

Her next favorite thing, besides the food and me, is basking in the warm sunshine. It's the only time she sits still. Unless she is sleeping, of course. There is some medicinal and calming effect in the sunshine that works similar to Ritalin on a person with Attention Deficit Disorder. By the way, I'm pretty sure she has the dog version of ADD. They have that, don't they?

Look at that irrisistible face. Cute, huh? I don't get to tell her very often. Mostly because I tend to loose my status as the Alpha when I use that sweet, tender voice. And, we are constantly vying for that position. Beagles are stong willed dogs, yall. Who knew?! Snoopy never gave us a hint of that at all.

I've lost this battle though. Mostly because I've resolved to choose my battles carefully and she has no interest in the clean dishes. Phew!

But, here you see. I am in charge. Just call me Alpha. Alpha with a fun-kee callus on my foot. Please, excuse that.

Oh, those ears. They are killing me. And those wrinkles on her chin. There is nothing softer in this world. Well, maybe my love handles. But, not much else.

Time to sign off now and go get a handful of that softness before hitting the hay.

'Night all.

Belated or Not?

2009-11-13T11:51:00.000-08:00

This post is in honor of all those who serve and have served our country. Because of you giving heart and your courage and bravery, I get to embrace freedom every day!
Let me show you what I mean.

Embracing Freedom Picture #1
I wake up and go through the same routine of dragging myself out of bed every morning and stumbling to the coffee pot. Sometimes, I am really good and get up early to have a quiet time and read my Bible. But, sometimes I walk around kicking myself because I don't. I'm just too tired to get up an extra 30 minutes early.

Those exhaustive mornings are usually because I stayed up too late the night before watching television, or going to a movie or dinner with a friend, or going to church with my kiddo and hanging around to visit with friends afterward. Bummer!

Embracing Freedom Picture #2
And then weekends roll around and I squeeze a million things into a 48 hour window, like shopping, haircuts, studying for my education and professional development, church activities, hanging out with friends, cooking delicious meals, blogging, taking Griffin to the gun range for skeet shooting (but first stopping by Academy to pick up some more ammunition because we are running low), running by the polls to cast a vote....you get the picture.

Embracing Freedom Picture #3
Before I know it, it is the dead of night and I am lying in my bed flipping through the channels and come across an infomercial with starving babies in a 3rd world country that can be fed for $34.00 a month. It crosses my mind for a brief moment, that I just dropped $200.00 at the grocery store for my son and I to eat for two weeks. I conveniently skip over the fact that we will probably eat out at least 3 meals during those two weeks. And then I roll over in the bed and just can't get comfortable. I blame it on the extra softness around my middle because I just didn't have time to get a workout in today. Of course, I start to ponder how nothing in my closet fits because of all of the stress eating I have been doing recently.

The portfolio is so large, there is no way I could fit it all in here. But, I bet you get the picture? My guess is that it's a familiar picture. It's the American way, after all!

On Veteran's Day, I caught glimpses of other people's blog posts, status updates, news stories, and the like about Veteran's Day. It's touching to hear personal stories of those who have served and given their lives for our country and freedom.

But something crossed my mind, "how is that we get so busy in our lives doing all of the things that are explicitly due to the liberty's we have, that we end up losing sight of the fact that they are, in fact, freedoms?" Even bigger than that, "how can I show my gratitude for the opportunities afforded to me in freedoms?"

"I thank my God every time I remember you." - Philippians 1:3

Exercising our rights is paramount to keeping our freedom. I'm pretty sure I have that part down, but here is the part I could use some work on. We absolutely must do our part to fight for those rights as citizen's of this great country. Not being in the military doesn't mean that we sit back and take on a spectator role. We must participate- standing up for the things we believe in and finding ways to take action.

When liberty is taken away by force it can be restored by force. When it is relinquished voluntarily by default it can never be recovered.- Dorothy Thompson

As I have gotten older, I have begun to grasp the concept of the price that has been paid for our freedom. Noone better understands that price like our Veteran's. But, the glimpse of that price has allowed me to more fully appreciate the land in which I live and the great and fortunate oppurtunities that are available to me.

What about you? How do you show your gratitude? What do you do to keep from sitting complacently in the spectator's role? What keeps the cost of freedom in the forefront of your mind?

Watching the wrong movies.

2009-11-05T07:42:00.000-08:00

I needed this reminder today. I need this reminder everyday.

Watching the wrong movies.

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The Three Amigos and The Bevil Oaks Bandit

2009-11-03T21:28:00.000-08:00

There is a bit of delay in getting this post up. You know how sometimes, life just gets in the way of blog posting. Just like when you have a really great series of spooky posts for Halloween which was to be topped off with the spookiest of spooky stories on the twilight of such a ghoulish evening and it just vanished into thin air. Almost as quickly as that ghost next to you will vanish.

Gotcha!

Luckily, the ghosts and goblins stayed away this year and I was left with a peaceful and fun evening with a friend, a good hearty bowl of chili, and lemon bars to sweeten the deal. Besides a few stray supermen, ladybugs, and baseball players that made their way to my neck of the woods, the evening was fairly uneventful.

Oh, and did I mention the three amigos made an appearance?

OK, so it's just one amigo and his compadres. I'm fairly certain that it was the imminent danger that these three presented that put an inexplicable fear into the eyes of any ghosts and goblins that had their sight set on our home for the evening.

You can see it, can't you? Almost feel the way it penetrates deep into your soul. Just eerie. Downright fearful, I tell you.

Now that I have you headed toward the frightened side of life a little, let me tell you a little story. A story, true in nature and that to this day gives me more heebee-jeebee's than any Halloween trick or treat I could imainge. Well, almost.

Once upon a time, many, many, many, many years ago when I was young and full of life I lived through a horrific nightmare of my own. The day before was a comfortable, sunny, summer day and as any 16 year old was happy to do, I headed out to mow the grass. The obligatory duty of any allowance receiving teenage daughter who needed to use the family mini-van for a night out with friends and a little extra for gas money.

I was strutting my stuff around the yard in my perfectly permed, teased and hair-sprayed hair, electric blue eye-lined eyes, sporty Bodyglove bathing suit top, and Dirty Dancing cutoff shorts atop the riding lawn mower lifting my wayfarer sunglasses emphatically in search of any head that I might turn. Who could drive by without acknowledging such brazen beauty on such a glorious day?

When suddenly, my sweet, darling sister came barreling out of the front door with telephone to let me know I had a call. The details of the call, I do not recall, but I specifically remember handing her the phone back and scooting her on her way back into the house, so as not to distort the grandiose view of any interested party who might be swept away by my loveliness that day.

Later that night, I slept soundly in my twin, trundle bed. When in an instant, my eyes opened widely and I was paralyzed by a fear like I had never known. At the foot of my bed, stood a man holding a flashlight which seemed to dimly light the outer features of his face. In that moment, every ounce of me wanted to let out a blood curdling scream, but all I could do was stare. My mouth would not open, my arms would not move and I could not find my voice.

All that I could do was close my eyes.

And so I did.

What felt like an eternity, was probably only mere seconds. My thoughts were something like this..."please be a dream, please be a dream. I'm going to open my eyes again in a second and realize that all of this is a very bad dream."

But, as these thoughts raced through my mind I felt a deepening sense of fear creep over me. Chills shivered down my neck and I bravely opened my eyes again and was blinded by the immediate light that was inches from my nose. He was there. Next to me at the side of my bed. I gasped and tried to muster up a scream for my father but again, my vocal cords were frozen. Paralyzed and still, I lay there and felt helpless. All I could do was close my eyes.

As I did, I heard the shuffle of footsteps on the parquet floor away from bed and down the hall. They moved right out the front door and crossed the yard. The sound of leaves crunched just outside my bedroom window and I lay still until I could hear the footsteps no more. Hoping still that all of this was a dream, I squeezed my eyes shut for what felt like an eternity.

After sometime, I finally regained some control of my limp and exhausted body, opened my eyes and dragged myself out of the bed. It took all I had to re-trace the footsteps of this night-time visitor down the hall and around the corner to see the front door standing wide open. And then I screamed and simultaneously realized my sister did not lock the door after she brought the phone in earlier in the day.

Somewhat of a delayed reaction, I know. But, I found my voice and ran to my father's bed as fast as I could.

To everyone's surprise, we found the next day that several other young ladies in our community experienced similar situations the same night. All encounters of a man with a flashlight. No harm done or words spoken. Just intense moments of fear.

Stories have been told about similar events in prior years but I know of none since that time. The Bevil Oaks Bandit is still at large and I have since inherited a compulsive habit of checking for locked doors each night.

Now, go check your doors. Crawl in bed and have a peaceful night's sleep. I dare you too!

'Legend'ary Memories

2009-10-31T12:19:00.000-07:00

Apparently Galveston Island has a host of Ghost stories and haunted houses. I grew up making frequent summer visits Bishops Palace, which is thought to be the most haunted home on the Island. Stories of ghosts that protect the mansion have been passed down from generation to generation. But, my own Galveston Island story is about the The Face on Ewing Hall (cue the spooky tunes).

The land and building now belongs to UTMB and can be seen from the harbor, but is off limits to the public. The story goes that the face of a fisherman who originally owned the land in the 1920's peers eerily from the harbor side wall of the building. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes.

Apparently, he had sternly instructed his family not to sell the land prior to his death, but the money-hungry family went against all of his wishes. One the building was erected, his face showed up on one of the top panels of the backside of the building. His face has been painted over and sandblasted off several times and each time it reappers in a new place.

Currently the face resides in a panel just above the back door. There are three panels directly above the back door and it first appeared in the top one. Once sandblasted from that spot, it moved to the next lower panel. Sandblasted again, it reappeared in the panel just above the door. Legend holds that the University opted not to sandblast again in fear of moving the ghost into the door.

This time it was a cold and wintry night that I stood outside with wind whipping at my back and peered around the corner of a great friend to see that eery face on Ewing Hall. It was there, just as predicted. The hair stood on my arms and chills ran down my spine. And again, I jumped in the car and was ready to go!

Next time your out on Galveston Island, be sure to take a quick trip around the building and take a peek for yourself.

The Light on Bragg Road

2009-10-30T07:05:00.000-07:00

Between 1901 and 1934, there lay a stretch of Santa Fe railway in the Piney Woods of Southeast Texas. It was a 9-mile spur from Bragg to Saratoga that cut through the deep, dark, dense piney woods now known as the Big Thicket. The line was built to haul oil for locomotives, the weary traveler, merchandise and lumber and promised to bring a newfound life to the community. However, the profitability was short lived and runs dwindled until Santa Fe finally opted to pull up the tracks.

Today, Bragg Road as its known is a two-lane dirt road that was stripped of its tracks in 1934. It cuts through some of the densest forestry of the Big Thicket today.

It was a steamy, summer night in 1992 when I found myself standing in the pitch black of night looking down this very road. Chills ran over my body and the hair stood on my arms as I timidly peeked around the corner of the friend I was standing behind.

And there in the distance, we spotted the low, swaying glow. The glow of a hand held lantern being carried by the weary soul of an old railman decapitated in a train wreck years before in search of his long lost head.

It took me less than half a second to get back into the car. It took a little longer to convince my friend that we needed to get the heck out of dodge as quick as possible.

So many theories surround the Saratoga lights, but the headless man is by far, the most popular one. Some believe that the lights are produced by gasses in the area or some sort of chemical reaction.

However, there are several other idealized theories including a guilded glow of burried treasure by a Spanish Conquistador, or souls of lost lives in a fire set by Confederate Captain John Kaiser to flush out a group of refugees that had broken freee from a wooden shack in Woodville where they were held hostage. Tails of a wandering ghost of a hunter claim that he was lost and still searches for his way home. Another holds that a crew of disgruntled Mexicans hired to cut the right of way haunt the ground that cost them their lives when their foreman killed them all on site. Then again, there is the farmer who gave up his entire life to work for Santa Fe and become a brakeman on the rail. Only to loose his job within a few short years. He wanders the road in search of the life that left him behind.

Still the locals hold to the eeriest of all theories, that there is no true explanation other than some type of paranormal activity. Stories have been passed down from generations well before the rail was ever laid about the mysterious light on Saratoga road.

Whatever the explanation, it creeps me out, but in a strange way intrigues me. I'm not afraid to admit that I am a scaredy-cat! Afraid of any little thing. I stay away from haunted houses, scary movies and anything remotely eery. What about you? Any fears that really get you worked up? What creeps you out and makes the hair on your arms stand on end?

Hope you all are preparing for a perfectly Spooktacular weekend!

pictures compliments of http://www.texasescapes.com/AllThingsHistorical/Big-Thicket-Light-AM107.htm

More chick, chick, chicken

2009-10-28T06:35:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I petitioned you, dear readers, for suggestions on new restaurant ideas in the Houston area. Not one suggestion posted from you. Tsk, Tsk. But, that's ok. I'm guessing your dining experiences are limited to the familiar. So, I'm going to share some of our choices with you.

Honestly, (don't you just hate it when people begin a sentence like that? I do.) I had one suggestion, but it wasn't posted. And guess what? That's where we went.

Maybe the adventure bug will bite you and you can get out too and enjoy (or luckily avoid) some of the cuisine Griffin and I happen upon.

We visited Pronto Cucinino.

Isn't that fun to say? It just sort of rolls of the tongue. Pron-TO Cu-ci-ni-no.

I like to say Pronto. Prrrron-to. Sort of roll the r's. You like it too, huh?

It reminds me of my dad beckoning me for the car on Sunday mornings for church. "Let's GO girls! Get in the car. PronTO!"

It's Italian cuisine. Italian cuisine on the cheap. Delicious, inexpensive, Italian goodness.

And little did I know, it was part of the Mandola family's restaurants. No wonder the food was so good. If you aren't familiar with the Mandola family, you should be. They have these great little places close to downtown called Nino's, Vincent's, and Grappino's di Nino. Those are Italian goodness too. Not so much on the thrifty side. But, worth every cent you spend there.

Back to Pronto's. Pronto.

It's a little like a deli on the inside. You pass all kinds of baked goods, beautiful wine racks and Rotisserie chickens in an open-brick Rotisserie as you walk up to place your order.

Make your way through the crowd on a Friday night and choose a table to wait for your food to be served. Pronto!

Basically, you get chicken when you order. Any way you can imagine it prepared. Italian style of course. But, it's all about the chicken. And boy, is it good bird. Probably slightly better than mine.

The chicken marsala with garlic mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus were a treat for the pallet. One great thing that I absolutely loved was the portion sizes were spot on. Nothing extravagant like you get in most places. This was fairly healthy, scrumptious cooking, served in the right proportions.

So, get your butts on over to your nearest Prontot Cucinino and enjoy the heck out of some chicken, my friends. Pronto!

PS. Don't forget to leave suggestions anytime. Griff and I have many more date nights ahead and need suggestions.

What's been cooking in your kitchen?

2009-10-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

Last week I roasted a chicken.

The result: Utterly delicious. Subtly simple. Very versatile.

The reactions:

Griffin thinks it ranks right up there with his favorite meal; Gorton's Fish Sticks and Kraft Macaroni and Cheese.

I think...why the H-E-Double-Hockey-Sticks haven't I done that before?!?! It was so delicious, easy and inexpensive. The trifecta of a working mom's dinner planning!

So here's how it goes.

Buy yourself a whole chicken. I know, it's a little scary, but you can handle it. I promise. It's funny though how easily we all become boneless, skinless, chicken breast snobs. Isn't it?

Here are the rest of the players in this story:

4 Tbsp of butter
1 lemon
1 bulb of garlic
salt and pepper
2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary

Now, here's how it's done.

Pull out anything stuffed inside the chickens' cavity. You may want to set these items to the side in case you have the urge to throw together a gravy similar to the one you see your grandmother prepare at Thanksgiving, but I tossed mine. Please don't get mad at me for wasting perfectly good chicken parts. But, baby steps. I'm still working to overcome my skinless, boneless, snobbery. Remember?

Wash your chicken inside and out thoroughly and then pat dry. The dryer the better.

Generously season the chicken inside and out.

Slice up a couple tablespoons of butter and slide it under the skin of the chicken. Try to get it as evenly as possible around the chicken. This helps create a nice, brown crispy layer of fattening deliciousness out of the skin.

Slice up the remainder of the butter and shove inside the chickens cavity along with the lemon cut in half.
Then, lop off the top of that bulb of garlic and shove it inside their too.

Room for one more thing? Sure there is. It wouldn't be complete without the rosemary sprigs.

Now, truss the chicken with kitchen twine. What? What's that you say? If you're like me you may better understand the concept if we call it hog-tying. Only it's a chicken. Chicken-tying? Doesn't quite have the same ring, does it? Basically, you get the twine and tie the legs together so it roasts more evenly. But, more formal directions are here.

But, now that you have seen that beautiful process I'll share my little secret. No trussing for my bird. Just shoved its little legs right under its body and it stayed put pretty well. My bird was really small though, so this may be a bit more helpful with larger birds.

Put that bad boy in the oven at 350 degrees for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until juices run clear.

The things I loved about this, besides how simple and tasty it turned out, is that it can be so versatile. I mean swap up the seasonings, add some different herbs and you have a totally different chicken. My next experiment is to try and replicate the honey roasted jalapeno one that I have picked up at the grocery store before. I'll keep you posted on how that one turns out.

A Lesson to All

2009-10-23T09:41:00.000-07:00

Here is my child. Ain't he cute?

I know. I know. I should be protecting him from the likes of the many distrubed strangers that may stumble across this blog who would want to risk their lives to take on the challenge of abducting and raising this gnarley thing as their own. But, I'd rather share him with you. All five of you who read this thing and the ocassional stranger who wanders across this site. I'm sharing him with you because I promise he will light up your life almost as much as he does mine. And, if you (yes, I'm talking directly to you, crazed internet stranger) get any ideas that you might want to try something funny with this guy, let this post be fair warning that there will be consequences. Consequences that you will not want to face. I promise.

On with the story.

Griffin attended the girls volleyball game last night at school. This is becoming a new routine for him and I am beginning to wonder about his newfound interest in volleyball. Or do you think it could be the girls? Hmmm...I'm sticking with the volleyball because that is more comforting to me. Anyway, who wouldn't be interested in such a great, competitive and exciting sport?! I mean really.

I arrived just a little after 7:30pm to pick him up and to my surprise I found him wandering the school grounds with a friend. It's dark outside y'all. Dark with danger lurking around every corner. Besides what happeneded to sitting on the bleachers in the gym showing your school pride and cheering on your schools team to an exciting vitory?

Needless to say, my parental concerns kicked into high gear. So, things went like this. He got in the car and the ramblings began. To save some time and spare some of the meaningless detail my arguments in list form sounded something like this:

1. Something bad could happen to you out there alone.
2. You weren't where you told me you would be.
3. Do you know that something bad could happen to you out there?
4. The girls on that volleyball team needed your support.
5. Do you know that some football players were threatened with pellet guns by a bunch of vagrant kids after school the other day and something bad could happen to you out there alone in the dark?
6. How do you even know how the volleyball team played?
7. What happens if a group of 15, crazed, gang members come and jump you out there in the dark? Something really bad could happen to you.
8. The cheerleaders just can't keep up the entire school spirit on their own. They need audience partipation. That means they need an audience.
9. How do you plan to protect yourself, young man if someone approached you out there in the dark?
10. Your friends on the volleyball team were counting on you being there.

Get the idea?

We return home and I promptly ordered a pizza for dinner because of course, I was famished from all of the worrying and ranting and Griffin was really, ready for me to shove something in my mouth so I would just shut up already. As Griffin was on his way out of the door to walk into the dark night across the street to pick up the pizza he turns and says...

"oh and mom, don't worry about me getting jumped by a group of 15 boys while I am gone. I have my pocket knife with me for protection."

Don't say you haven't been warned, internet stalker.

Sailing the Ocean Blue in 1492

2009-10-12T10:34:00.000-07:00

Oh, Chris. My dear, Italian born friend. Thank you for setting out on that crazed expedition so many years ago, only to stumble across this undiscovered land which I now call home.

I truly want to thank you for this extra long weekend, as well. In fact, in your honor I am thinking that an Italian treat may be necessary to pay proper respect to your Italian heritage. Tiramisu anyone?

I'mm Baacckk!

2009-10-09T12:20:00.000-07:00

I'm back. You knew I wouldn't stay away forever did you. Did you?

Maybe you did. But, oh well.

I guess I should start with sincere apologies for dropping off the face of the earth like that. Forgive me? Good. Glad we got that squared away.

Now, on to the fun stuff...

Click here (I really hate it when that embed feature is disabled. Sorry for the diversion from this page, but please don't forget to come back after you have laughed at yourself a little. Yes, you will laugh at yourself. I promise.) and watch this. Please, please, please watch this. And laugh, friends. Because it is downright funny.

Now that your done with that bit of humor, you have to laugh a little more at this one.

Seriously, I know you have better things to do with your time than watch these silly videos. But, I also know that Bacon is good for this kid. Bacon is also good for me. Believe it or not, bacon is good for you too.

Just needed to get that off my chest.

Now, for the real fun.

Tonight is date night with the boy. Every other Friday night, also known as PaaaAAYYyy- DaaayyYY (imagine a little Jame Brown edge on those words there and also note that this refers to his $12.00 bi-weekly allowance), we hit the town in search of an adventure. We have vowed to not go to the same place twice and to always find a place we haven't been before. Good thing we live in a place the size of a small universe with an outstanding number of places to eat! Only, that's the bad thing too. It makes it so hard to decide which one to try next. So, I need your advice. Any fun places in H-town you like to eat? Something culinarily delicious, preferrably.

Conversations with "G"

2009-10-01T06:39:00.000-07:00

I should rename this blog to Conversations With "G." They are the highlight of my days. I'm sure they would be the highlight of yours too. In fact, let's try it out today and see how it works.

Scene: Driving in the car at 9pm at night to CVS to purchase throat lozenges for the sore throat he has had all day and not informed me about until now.

Mom: (after taking in a whiff of one very rank odor) "G," did you fart?

G: Yes.

Mom: Thank you.

G: It was my pleasure.

When Life Gives You Lemons Make Lemonade

2009-09-15T06:39:00.000-07:00

So, my son's chief complaint these days revolves around his height. Or lack of it. Unfortunately, the kids gene pool isn't working for him in this area, but ain't no thing. He's working it out. Making lemonade out of lemons just like mama said.

Today he told me the best thing about his height are the "hugging benefits."

"Huh? What's that?" says the oh so naive mom.

Well, G's much taller friend from the back agreed that when it comes to girls, G has all the advantage because he is the perfect height when it comes to hugging girls.

Oh. Oh my. Oh my aching ears.

I'm just not sure how much more of this I can take.

And we haven't even made it to 13 yet.

YIKES!

Let Us Never Forget

2009-09-11T06:39:00.000-07:00

Today, we celebrate life and those who serve our country. We mourn the lost and remember the families that carry on without their loved ones.

It is so easy for the events of that day to become a fading memory. Something surreal and movie like. Beyond the grasps of comprehension.

This video is difficult to watch. Emotions that I can not describe well up inside of me. Yet, even though I sit here with a lump in my throat and my fists balled tightly watching this nightmare unfold again I am reminded of the reality of those events on September 11, 2001. A fresh perspective renews my appreciation for the liberties that we have in this great country and those who have served and fought for our freedoms.

A Story in the Funny Category

2009-09-09T06:39:00.000-07:00

I have this story from an event that happened last week. I've shared it with a few friends. They are still laughing. So am I. So I thought I would spread some laughter and share the story with you too. Because laughter is just good for the soul.

As you may or may not know, I have been struggling for over a year now with a hip injury that just won't seem to leave me alone. I began a running program almost 2 years ago and six months into it, my lame hip appeared. Well, I have attempted to resume a normal running program over and over and over again since that time. Unfortunately, I have been unsuccessful in my attempts to get back to a normal, pain free running routine. Which leads me to the funny story.

I decided it was time for another opinion with a different doctor. After reviewing my films from the MRI a year before, he informed me that I had a labral tear and wanted a repeat MRI of the entire pelvic region to rule out any other issues that might be contributing to the pain.

Off I go to the imaging center where I meet this weaselly looking little fellow that was sporting a shady looking mustache and smelled of a stale cigarette. He was just that kind of person that invaded your personal space and creeped you just a little more than a horror film.

As I lie in the ceramic tube listening to what sounds like clambering hammers with birds chirping in the background, I began to recount the previous conversation with said weaselly man. I'll just have you know in advance, that it caused me to laugh uncontrollably right in the middle of the second set of images. Guess what happened next? Repeat that set of images. Fifteen more minutes stuck in the tube. But, oh the laugh was so worth the extra time.

Your dying to know now aren't you?

Ok, ok. Here you go.

Weaselly man: (in my personal space. big time) Here is the dressing room. Just get down to your panties and slip that gown on. When you come out, lock the door behind you. By the way, how did you tear your labia?

Me: (annoyed and preoccupied with this guys invasion of my personal space and the fact that he just used the word panties. i've never had a problem with the word 'panties' until just in that moment. it just seemed a little creepy then) Jogging.

Weaselly man: Really?!!? How long have you had a torn labia?

Me: (still annoyed with this guy and concerned about his awful body odor of stale cigarettes and how long I would have to endure that in this confined room) over a year now.

So, are you laughing yet? I still can't believe it did not dawn on me until half way through the MRI what he said. Does this guy know what he said? Does he really think I tore my labia? Was this some kind of Freudian slip? (Is that what you call it?)
Regardless, it's funny. Darn funny.Besides that, is it even possible to have that type of injury? Ouch. Again, I say OUCH!

Oooooo.....IIIII Caaaaannnn't Wwwaaaaiiiitttt!!!

2009-08-27T04:14:00.000-07:00

I read somewhere the other day that using multiple letters is today's way of exaggerating what your saying. I'm not sure I can exaggerate enough how excited I am about this movie.

Reading it over and over and over and over as a kid, I dreamed about food pouring down from the sky. It's still a dream of mine. To hear a rumble in the sky, look up and be hit in the face with a couple of pancakes followed by raining syrup. (Mmmm...licks her lips, mouth watering)

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs in HD

Four score and seven years ago

2009-08-23T19:22:00.000-07:00

...not really. But close. Very, very close.

How about twenty three years ago. That's a little better. I stepped into the halls of Austin Middle School to embark on a journey through the best two years of school I would ever have known. In my seventh grade year alone, I got my first perm tragedy, I know but it was so cool then started wearing bras and makeup, got my period and I can hear you saying "TMI, TMI, Amy!" but stick with me. It won't be that bad. I promise! and my first boyfriend which also came with my first breakup. I Became real BFF's with a girl that lived just a few houses down from me, was introduced to Sweet Valley High and got my first pair of "high heeled" shoes which if I remember correctly, were no more than a pair of grandma like Hush Puppy 1/4" pumps. But they were "heels" none the less.

It was most definitely the best of times.

Tomorrow I send my son off to his first day of seventh grade. The same year that was so monumental in my own life. This year is going to bring so many adventures for G and part of me can't wait to see how it all unfolds, while another part of me would just like to stop time. Rewind a few years and do it all again.

But wait, that might mean diapers and midnight feedings again. Hold that thought!

It's funny how the first day of school becomes a time of reflection for so many people. As the first day of school nears, I keep my ears tuned because people start to reminisce and this can get quite entertaining. In the sheer joy of reliving experiences and adventures of years past, people tend to let some juicy details slip.

The odd thing is that when we celebrate G's birthday's every year I tend to think about this day as a moment in time; the actual day of birth; a series of events within a certain day that brought this beautiful child into my life. When the celebration really seems to point in the direction of the life lived up to that moment and what the future holds. But, I loose sight of that because of the sheer magnitude of joy that came into my life on that one day.

But to me the first day of school has become that celebration. Reflections of all that was accomplished the prior year flood my mind and my imagination runs wild with the adventures the new year will hold. This is mostly because I do a lot of comparing to my own experiences, which seemed to get bolder and more adventurous through the years. And that really scares the pants off me.

Happy First Day of School, G! Hope it's as full of fun and good times for you as it was for me.

Confessions of a Snooping Mom

2009-08-17T14:27:00.001-07:00

Time for a confession. I really need to get something off my chest.

I hacked my sons email account.

It all started so harmlessly. Just a few days ago he was still needing assistance logging into his account and I knew his password because, of course, I was the one who set it up.

But, one girlfriend and a weekend with his aunt later, he has secured his email account from his old mom. Changed his password. Without my knowledge. What is this world coming too? Who does he think he is?

This old mom won't be outsmarted though.

Know what I did?

Yep. Changed the password again.

I've never been a fan of IT folk. Not so great experiences with their kind in my lifetime. But, today more than any other time in my life I truly appreciate the power of the administrator role and have a healthy (if only temporary) respect for that role.

Want to know what I found? I know your dying to know.

Here it is..

GF: Hi baby I miss u VERY much:( 2 quick questions,,,, What makes u brake up with a girl? What makes u love a girl? I would brake up with a guy if I found he was cheating on me or if he wasn't a Christian. I would love a guy if he was funny, sweat, nice to me an my friends, and CARES for me and my feelings!! That is a good thing baby that u r all of those things to me!!!!! Luv u,, try to plz check u email more often plz baby!!!!

BF: what makes me brake up wid a girl is if she is a deadbeat (wich ur not) and a total female dog. What makes me love a girl is her smile and how she wont hide her feelings and if she is nice, funny , and cares for me.luv u lots.reply SOOOOON lol

Let me just interject here that although their English teachers for the last 7 years would be mortified at the spelling and grammar skills displayed throughout their exchanges, I am particularly proud here of G's creative use of descriptive words in order to avoid using profanity. Did you catch that? If not, please re-read. I promise you will get a chuckle.

GF: awsome u rock
BF: u no it babe
Is it just me, or do you think she might be coming on a little strong?

GF: (tiger roar u know like the sexy way)
BF: ? idk
GF: nvm i will tell u later sexy
BF: by sexy
YES! YES! YES! He didn't get the tiger roar comment! There is some preservation of innocence still there.

Guess I have some explaining to do before GF takes that education responsibility on herself. I'm a little concerned about where she might go with that.

It's on my calendar for later in the week. Time for another of our mom/son dates at Chili's for some birds and bees discussion over Chicken Crispers, endless Dr. Pepper and molten chocolate cake. As much as I would really prefer to throw back a couple shots of whiskey before embarking on this little convo, I guess giving G his favorite meal will make ease the pain some...at least he will be less grumpy about the whole thing.

I'm sure there are some real critics out there who would like to tie me to a pole and give me a thousand lashes for even thinking of invading my child's privacy and, on top of that, posting it for the world to see. But, the great thing is when your a parent, you can do that. And not really care what everyone in the world thinks.

Besides, G doesn't read this. Neither does the GF. So, I think I'm in the clear. At least for now.

A Heart of Gold

2009-08-12T06:07:00.000-07:00

When I was in the ninth grade, I began to spend some time with this crazy girl I met on the bus. I had no idea then the treasure of a friend she would be to me through out my life. At least until this point...so, let's be careful not to screw anything up now D.

I could write a book about what this girl means to me and all of the things she has taught me and a few of the things that I have taught her (wink, wink). But, today I find myself reminiscing about her sweet, precious mother.

Good memories of an endless supply of Little Debbie powdered donuts, sweet tea, antique pictures and sweet lullaby's of children's music being hummed or tinkering on the piano warm my heart when I think of her.

In what seemed like the wee hours of the morning to a teenage girl trying to get her beauty sleep and recover from the adventures of the night before, there would be the aroma of coffee in the air and a plop on the bed and a familiar voice saying..."girls. girls. wake up and talk to me." She would gently rouse us to somewhat of a conscience state and we would rehash our adventures as best we could and nearly always with limited details because she was a parent, of course. We discussed everything from our friends and boyfriends, church, our choice of hairspray and lipstick colors (which happen to be Rave and Coral Rust or Wild Berry lip pencil plus from Merle Norman) and the happenings of the neighborhood pool where we both lifegaurded, calculus homework and when the next occasion would be to hit Casa Ole for our fix of chips and salsa.

Doesn't she look like she has a heart of gold? and be an early riser? and want company to rise with her? Just wait Blake, your day is coming too. (Photo compliments of your facebook page Kathy...thanks for sharing.)
As I was saying though...Words really can not express how important these chats have become to me. Priceless is about the closest thing I could ever say to describe how I feel about them. Of course when I was 16, priceless was not the thought that crossed my mind.

So priceless in fact, that my own child gets the pleasure of early morning wake up calls and chats of his own. Too bad I don't keep the endless supply of Little Debbie powdered donuts to ease the pain of those early mornings. No matter to me, I cherish this time with him and I know one day he will too.

Today marks the beginning of a new journey for Martha Ladd. At this moment, she is in a hospital in Maryland about to undergo a most significant, open heart surgery. She has had a sick heart for as long as I have known her and had gradually been deteriorating over the years. Her case has been through countless diagnosis, treatments and even lack of treatments because Dr.'s have been at a complete and utter loss for her condition is so rare.

Please keep her in your prayers today and her family. They are hopeful that the Dr.'s will be able to repair and restore her heart to a condition that she has not known in a very long time.

You can keep up with updates on Martha's status and post messages for her and the family here.

Bacon with those Waffles?

2009-08-05T07:44:00.000-07:00

Monday night about 9:30pm I am driving west on I-10 out of Beaumont.

It always seems somewhat bittersweet to leave my hometown, as visits are typically short and being the sentimental person that I am, every corner brings back a memory. Each short trip makes for a lot of re-living, which can get to be a little exhausting at times. But, before the exhaustion fully sets in this time I look into my rear view mirror and take one last glance at the glowing lights of hotels, restaurants, the new Ford park and baseball fields where used to stand nothing but a lonely hotel on the outskirts of town and a bunch of empty fields. As I have watched the changing landscape of this town I once called home over the years, I am ever amazed at how quickly and drastically things can be transformed.

I am deep in thought about the complexities of changes and the evolution of our lives when suddenly I hear my offspring in the backseat pipe up with a little of his own insight.

"Mom...you know how I know when we are in Beaumont? There is a Waffle House on every corner."

So true. So very, very true.

And as I raise my head to catch his eye in my rear view mirror and to catch a quick glimpse of the pride on his face as he realizes he has just made one huge observation, I see notne other than the soft yellow glow of the Waffle House sign.
In the town of Beaumont and the small surrounding communities, there are EIGHT Waffle House restaurants. Beaumont, population 110,000 needs 5 Waffle House alone to accommodate all those breakfast eatin' folks.
Dang, that's a lot of waffles and bacon. Because you can't hardly enjoy waffles without the side of bacon.

JORI!!!!

2009-07-23T10:55:00.000-07:00

I know you like seeing your name up there. Can't imagine how excited you are to see it in all caps!

This post is especially for you. Enjoy!

And you are required to leave a comment.

Gotta Love that Guy...I Think?

2009-07-22T14:11:00.001-07:00

Last night I watched as the media interviewed Lance Berkman about his latest injury; a type 2 calf strain. When asked how it felt he responded "it feels like a charlie horse...a perpetual charlie horse. For those of you who did not attend Rice, that means 'ongoing.'"

All right wise guy...I'm not sure whether to be entertained by your wit or offended. Was that comment directed at the idiot that asked the question or those of us watching the idiot that asked the question?

Scent of a Woman- Hoo Ah!

2009-07-18T08:29:00.000-07:00

I love this movie.

I love Al Pacino.

I love the Tango.

I love sweet smells.

I love the complete elation on the Lieutenant's face in this clip as he whisks her around the dance floor. It's sensual and provocative and sexy.

All those things that happen to be missing in my life. I'm wondering if I should try a new fragrance.

One that draws a man in like this, preferably. Hoo-ah!

What's your favorite fragrance? How does it make you feel or what kind of response do you get from others when you are wearing your fragrance?

Share with me your thoughts and ideas, please.

How I Roll

2009-07-14T06:52:00.000-07:00

For seven years you have been one my truest and most faithful companions. You have served to protect me, carry me and support me in many endeavors. You were a huge risk and investment and have proved to be absolutely worth every bit of blood, sweat and tears that I have poured into you. Your gentleness at times can be compared to none other and then...at times... it has been nearly obsolete which by all merits was completely warranted for my sheer stupidity and negligence. I have entrusted you with my most valuable possessions and I am not just talking about that gorgeous black dress or my favorite lamp, but my dearest friends and family. Together we have traveled many miles cross land and sea (I recall some unbelievable ferry trips) and made memories that will last an eternity. You have held me when I cried and when I have laughed. You listened to my disastrous renditions of everything from Merle Haggard to Madonna to Amy Grant. We have shared every Holiday for the last seven years together. Late nights and early morning, sunsets and sunrises, shopping trips, road trips, weddings, funerals.

Oh, my sweet, sweet truck....I am so glad to have you home!

Thanks to all of the hard work of the angels over at Circle D Transmission, I have been reunited with my truest of all loves.

And I vow never to complain about that rattle in the back or the window that has a mind of its own and only operates when the conditions are perfect or the CD player that eats my CD's. I will forever or at least for the next 12 months because we all know my track record with long term relationships or anything remotely close to the word "forever" love and cherish you, in the good times and the bad, and vow to have the tranny serviced as regularly as I get my hair cut and colored.

So, I'll crank up the tunes, roll down one window, position that object in the rear that rattles so loudly exactly right and keep on keepin' on in the Explorer. Because that's just how I roll.

Do you see what I see?

2009-07-07T06:07:00.000-07:00

Guess what? I think those are rain clouds. OK, so they aren't the actual clouds I saw this morning as I rode in to downtown on the bus, but they pretty much looked like that (and much thanks to khou.com for the image). What a welcome sight?! Since I have cracks in the yard surrounding my house that look as if we have had some catastrophic earthquake that shook the ground open enough to swallow us all up, I would think everyone would be jumping for joy at this beautiful sight this morning.

I tell you, I was doing a happy dance right there in my seat on the bus. The thoughts crossing my mind were something along the lines of... "I might actually be able to go get my hair done now and stop throwing hundreds of dollars at the local MUD in effort to thwart off any ugly letters from the homeowners association declaring I was an unfit resident of the neighborhood because my grass had the least bit of a yellow tint." Because those cracks in the yard big enough to swallow us whole are really in my neighbors yard, but stretching pretty close to mine.

But, as I was deep in thought about coloring the gray roots that are nearly two inches long on my head right now, my bus seat companion leans across and with an exasperated sigh says, "uh...look at those clouds. (another exasperated sigh) I sure hope the bus gets into downtown before the sky opens up and we get all wet." Followed by many more exasperated sighs ever three minutes for the remainder of our ride into downtown.

Who are you lady? What planet have you been sent here from? How can you even be the least bit bothered by a few raindrops from the sky when we are all about to dry up, wither away or be swallowed up by the cracks in our yards?

There is something refreshing, renewing and cleansing about a good rain shower. In times when we are getting a plethora of rain, I think we loose sight of this and take for granted the sheer magnificence of cleansing our earth and environment.

Personally, I would forgo a good hair day for a little rain. In fact, I have forgone good hair days for a couple of months now in an effort to ward off the evil homeowners association.
After taking a moment to stare at this lady next to me as if she was dropped here from another planet this morning, I am pretty sure she has forgone good hair days for a while and a little sprinkle on her hair won't really hurt anything.

Holy Moly!

2009-06-23T08:11:00.000-07:00

Holy Moly this week is tough:

1. I have a house full of twelve year old boys round the clock (imagine the decibel level, grocery bill and surmounting cleanup duty)
2. I am two weeks out from a HUGE exam and I am severely behind on my study time,
3. I have three projects due in the next couple of weeks for work and my work environment ain't so good, folks
4. My vacation plans just don't seem to be working out
5. I've been told I was "weird"
6. I have not sat down for 5 minutes with nothing to do since I returned to town last Friday afternoon
7. My backdoor project is still not completely done and is requiring way more time and funds that I truly want to give it
8. My water heater pilot went out for some unknown reason last night and my own imagination has run off down the road of some extraordinarily expensive endeavor to correct this problem that will take as long as the backdoor project which will require me to have to take cold baths and showers for the next 3 months (good thing it's a hundred and fifty degrees outside and I'm still working on sticking to my energy savings plan)
9. My son came home from his incredible week at beach retreat running 103 degree temps with a bad case of strep
10. One of my dearest friends is going through one of the toughest times in her life

But Holy Moly there is so much to be thankful for,

1. Griffin made a decision last week to reconnect with God and was baptized again while at beach retreat and came home with incredible stories about all of the fun he had and all of the friends he made
2. My sweet, hard-woring friend worked diligently while I was out of town last week to get the better part of the back door installation work done and I do have a door in that has an incredible seal around which will keep the rain waters out and the small amounts of cool air I am allowing myself inside
3. Griffin and his friends want to hang out at our house (I like to think this is because I am such a cool mom)
4. Out of nowhere, that friend who is working on the back door appeared at the grocery store last night just in time to help me deal with the hot water heater issue and I got a hot bath last night even though I was selfish and made the boys go to bed stinky
5. My co-worker brought in the new Jimmy Needham CD today to the office and listening to it while I work is sort of like Snow White's rendition of "Whistle While You Work"
6. When I talked to my dear friends last night she told me the greatest story about a career success, and who doesn't love a happy ending story?
7. And of course, I'm weird! (Totally a compliment, don't you think?) Who wants to be plain, ordinary and boring? Not me!

Recently, I have been accused of putting too positive of a spin on my life. My blog apparently doesn't bring to light all the depressing, dark and disgusting issues that pop up every now and again. Well, it's one of those times now that 'bad times' is rearing it's ugly head in full force. I am choosing to not dwell on it all too much. It's encouraging to me to find joy in the good and pleasant things and it helps keep everything else in perspective.

My encouragement also comes from a short passage in Romans 5-
1Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we[a]have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we[b] rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3Not only so, but we[c] also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

and Proverbs 17
22 A cheerful heart is good medicine,
but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

Holy Moly, that's good stuff!

BOOM, BOOM, BOOM in my dreams...

2009-06-18T09:50:00.000-07:00

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Doesn't that look like fun? I am still standing by my idea for an Adult Beach Retreat '10!