Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Learnin' from kids...it's great, ain't it!?

It goes without saying that my children are smart. I can only hope they keep up the good work throughout their educational careers. I'd like to bestow upon you a few things they've taught me recently:
Math ain't my strong suit however Southern dialect seems to be, huh?! The kids and I have this routine where we try to put how much we love each other into words. For instance, Hallie will say, "Mommy? I love you all the way to the North Pole!" (Melts my heart every time.) Hayden has learned infinity - the theory that numbers go on and on and on...and on. So, he'll throw that one out there: "Mommy? I love you infinity!" (My little number cruncher...I'm so proud!)
So, Hayden comes home from school and hits me with this:
"Mommy? Did you know there is a number bigger than infinity?
(I'm instantly nervous - like he just asked me how to solve a word problem or something!)
"No there's not! Infinity is the biggest number...even I know that!", I reply.
"Yes there is!", he answers back.
"Okay, fine! What is it?", I ask.
"Blasobian."
(Pronounced Blah-so-bee-in)
"Where'd you hear that?" I question.
"I just learned it." he informs me.
So...I think I'm right in this equation (pun intended) but I feel it necessary to confirm my correctness over a six year old. Give me a break! We're talking about math here...I'm uneasy around numbers!
So, later that night as they're all tucked away safely in bed, I ask their daddy if there is a number bigger than infinity known as blasobian. His dead serious response -
"Jenn? Are you letting Hayden trick you with math again?"
The answer - Yes.
Finally, Hallie threw one out the other day that had us all laughing. Every morning as Hallie and I are headed to school we see our neighbor, John, out walking Molly and Roxy - his two dogs - and we always wave at him. Hallie loves it when he waves back. (It's the little things, right?) Anyway, she asked me the other day why John wasn't going to work. My answer was that John was retired. She didn't question it. Simply went along.
Later in the week, her daddy had to carry her to school one morning and she asked him,
"Daddy? What's retired mean?"
(Keep in mind daddy knows nothing about how she heard the word.)
He responded, "It's someone that doesn't have to work."
"Oooohhhhhh. John and Bev are retired."
This morning...she asked me if Courtnee's daddy was retired. (Courtnee is their friend in the cul-de-sac who comes with a set of great parents.)
I said, "No. What makes you ask that?"
"Well, he doesn't go to work, so he's retired like John and Bev." she responded.
(Courtnee's daddy - Chris - works from home.) I should have told her he's only retired on Friday's when you can most often find him on the golf course!
It's funnier coming out of her mouth, but I'm hopeful the humor translates.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Seasons of Change...

It's been a while since I've posted. No reason in particular other than trying to keep up with everyday life. What's been going on with me? Well...where should I start? We're really looking forward to Turkey Day at our house! We get to travel to Atlanta to celebrate at Uncle Derek's house! It's always good to go visit them and the kids absolutely love their cousins Nick and Chris! They are just too cool for school!
I'm crazy addicted to this Swaptree site! It's a sickness...for real! I'm mailing books and getting books at least once a week and it's awesome! I wonder if it will be a fad that will fade like MySpace was for me. We'll see.
I'm trying really hard (and doing pretty good) to remember to take my new Thyroid medicine the Dr. put me on. I have noticed a difference, so that's good. Are you officially 'gettin' on up in the years' when you have to start taking maintenance medication? Oh well...like it matters. Better now than when it's too late.
The kids and I are reading Harry Potter. We read a chapter each night and Hallie is loving it! She's way more into it than Hayden, but he'll come around. The first book is a struggle to get through anyway, but you gotta read it to know what's going on! The two of them amaze me everyday with their knowledge! (Hayden did manage to stump me with some math...but that's for a different blog. I'll try to get that one up tomorrow or the day after!)
We have four puppies left from Jacee's litter! They are adorable! I have three black girls and one black boy left. Any takers? They're cuties! So sweet, huge paws and short hair like a lab. The daddy dog is quite a story too...I'll elaborate more in another blog.
And today, I went through the roughest day at work I've ever had. We went through some layoffs at work this afternoon and when I tell you it was hard, I'm not even scratching the surface on describing it. It was heart wrenching to watch your friends and co-workers pack up their stuff, walk out and know that they won't be back tomorrow. I was lucky to not be among them, but I'm one of the many left behind to make sense of it all. It's hard not to question management in situations like this because you don't have all the pieces to the puzzle. You might think you could have done a better job at this or handled things more professionally or in a better manner, but no matter how you deliver it....it's still the same bad news. I struggle like anyone else to make sense of the decisions, but I hope for everyone's sake that they were decisions made that will benefit everyone in the long run. I'm hopeful that the company will learn to be more efficient through this; I'm confident that some of these folks got a kick start into retirement and perhaps they'll learn how to relax all over again; I'm optimistic that a situation like this can throttle people into something they might never have tried otherwise; and I'm also painfully aware of the economy and how much worry and stress everyone of those individuals is feeling. I feel sad that they're gone...very sad. But, what is life if not a roller coaster, right?

Monday, November 3, 2008

Swap What Yo Mama Gave Ya...

....or something someone else might have given you! Have you heard about Swap Tree? Oh my gosh! You have to check it out! I've been a swapping fool (With books, people! Minds out of the gutter!) (It's simple...set up your account, key in the books, dvd's, cd's or video games you have that you'd be willing to trade for some you don't have and you're all set! All you do is pay the postage to get your item to the party that wants to trade. It's like crack...or at least what I think crack would be like!

Monday, October 6, 2008

The Great Debaters....

In true spirit of all the debates going on...I laughed until I cried here. Whether you're a righty or a lefty; Palin hater or despise Biden...this is funny stuff! SNL rarely disappoints, though!

Sunday, October 5, 2008

Movie Theater Etiquette...

I don't appear to be that great at it. Allow me to explain:
I love the movies. If I'm asked "What would you like to do tonight?" my response will always be (both internally and vocally) THE MOVIES!!! They are the ultimate escape. Even if a movie turns out to be a dud, it still took a lot to get it to the big screen on which you so enjoy it.
Today, I was invited to the movies with my sister-in-law and mother-in-law.
The movie of choice: Nights in Rodanthe. Stop laughing............
When I told my husband that I was going to see it, he said with his eyes rolling,
"Oh my gosh, just the name of that movie makes my stomach hurt!"
He's a guy.
The movie, in case you didn't know, is based on a book of the same name by Nicholas Sparks. It's every bit as much of a chick flick as it sounds. I love the shows on VH1 - I Love the 80's! - and the one where Steel Magnolias is highlighted is great!
Gilbert Gottfried, the comedian, actually says about that movie,
"This movie is so full of estrogen that if you watch it for 10 minutes, you'll grow a vagina!"
I love the fact that I can watch a movie like Steel Magnolias and be brought to sobbing tears everytime - even though I know Shelby dies, the graveside scene where Sally Fields loses it kills me; more so now that I'm a mother. I couldn't imagine watching it and not feeling what the actors/actresses are trying to make me feel. How empty that must be. But, I digress.
This time of year finds me well on my way to a sinus infection anyway, so breathing through my nose wasn't exactly a 'piece of cake'. But, the horrid sounds coming from my nasal cavity throughout the duration of this film were unacceptable to movie-goers everywhere, I'm guessing. You know that sound that you make when you've been crying for a while and you try to inhale through your nose and nothing happens - well, nothing except for that clogged up vacuum hose sound!? You know the one I'm referring to! It was terrible! So, after the first encounter with this noise, I decided it was best to breathe from my mouth. I won't lie...there were a few times I thought I was going to choke to death in the theater.
Another thing about me and crying...it shows. Some folks can cry all day and come away without the puffy eyes, red cheeks and fat lips. Not me. Sigh...it's terrible for my reputation as a hard ass. So, heed the warning about this film now - it had me crying about 20 minutes in. The only movie ever to have gotten me earlier would be P.S. I Love You.
As the credits started rolling, I gathered what I was sure was my composure and we exited the theater. We were joined by 30 or more attendees stopping by the potty to check our make up and overall appearance. So, as we were in line, it became a joke that we were all in rough shape from the tear jerker we just sat through. I'm looking at my SIL and MIL and they don't look too bad. I mean, watery eyes, sure, but they don't look like they've been hit by a truck or anything. So, I made mention that I bet we probably felt worse than we looked and my lovely SIL responded, "Nahhhhh...you look pretty bad."
So, to all those that were in attendance at the 2pm showing of Nights in Rodanthe at the local theater, I apologize. I will bring my humidifier and nose spray next time.
P.S. GREAT MOVIE!

Saturday, October 4, 2008

Won't you be....my neighbor?!

I've made reference on more than one occasion that I have some dang good neighbors. They're kind, considerate, not overbearing and a lot of fun to be around. We have some nieghbors in the cul-de-sac that are close to us in age with a little girl in between our kids. They're great! Always available to party - whether it's at our place or theirs - or maybe headed to Birmingham in a limo! They're great folks!
Right next door to us, we have some retirees (from Las Vegas) that are top notch! Not only have they been bringing my new mama dog a healthy plate of fattening food every night for the past week, they also made my kids the most adorable Trick or Treat bags for Halloween! October 31st is going to be great in my neighborhood this year!

Adorable, right? And I couldn't begin to explain my neighbors without giving you a glimpse into John and his preferred mode of transportation to the neighbors house! I call it his "drink cart"!

Friday, October 3, 2008

More pictures of the puppies!

Well...back by popular demand - more puppy pictures! There's several here! The pup with the white streak on his head has been named (appropriately so) Harry Potter! Feel free to change her name is you decide to take her. They're a week old now and still haven't opened their eyes or ears. They are grunting a lot more and requiring more food from Jacee (also pictured below)
and she's been a great mommy. The kids adore them. Not sure how that seperation is going to go when the time comes. Oh well...

Hallie holding the one we call Harry Potter!

The one we call Harry, again!

No name for this one yet, but look at that face....precious, right?

Here they are - one big happy bunch! They spend most of their day like this.

Aren't they adorable!

And their mama - Jacee!

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

New Babies In the House!!!

My dog, Jacee, had puppies on Thursday night and they just might be the most adorable creatures I've ever seen. I'm unsure of their deadbeat daddy or his whereabouts...but they are super-cute! See the picture above! I'm looking for great homes for each of them. I believe they are Lab/Golden Retriever mix. However, it's a bit too soon to tell. Soooooo....drop me a line (jmbw4au@hotmail.com) if you're interested! They were born on September 25th - so they'll be ready about six weeks from that date. I have six females and three males.

Monday, August 4, 2008

Between the Pages

Well, I've gone and done it! I've started my own book club.
I'm calling it Between the Pages.
A modest little book club...yet so much more!
I hope to read more, learn a lot & nurture some relationships along the way!
I hope you'll join me in 'discovering what's under the dustjacket'!

Friday, August 1, 2008

Guilty As Charged!

Check out this website! It's the funniest thing I've read in a while. A bit vulgar at times, so you've been warned. But, seriously the funniest thing! I'm sad to report that I'm guilty of more than one of the violations he's describing here...but I'm of the mindset that you have to laugh at yourself....everyone else will be, so you might as well join in!

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Extreme "Forclosure" Makeover

What a terrible situation. I don't know the details of it all, but it's a dang shame that so much time and effort is given by so many to have it all go to crap due to some mishandling of finances or "poor business decisions".
Extreme Makover: Home Edition is one of my favorite shows! It will reduce me to tears instantly and I'm okay with it. I love the fact that there are folks out there volunteering to do something in their community to better the area, a family in need or just to feel accomplished! Volunteering is something I do a great deal of and I am rewarded everyday for it. It makes me feel wonderful to donate time, effort, energy, manpower or even dollars to help a worthy cause.
I only hope that their efforts are not looked at as less meaningful due to the choices (right or wrong) made by those that were the beneficiaries of the kindness.

Friday, July 25, 2008

What will your Final Lecture be?

Randy Pausch, the Carnegie Mellon University computer scientist whose "last lecture" about facing terminal cancer became an Internet sensation and a best-selling book, died Friday. He was 47.
I have read this book and I can't even begin to say how much it touched me. (I've already chosen it as the first read for my upcoming book club!) I laughed and cried the whole way through!
I hope you'll all get a copy and let it touch your heart the same way it did mine.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

One Creative Mama!

So, in all my years, I had no idea that my mama could sew. Me - can't even sew a button. I knew she was capable of that...but check out this adorable dress she made for Hallie! That's a day well spent with the kids if you ask me! She's taking orders and she'd be glad to make your child one too! (I most likely just signed her up for something she didn't agree to...but isn't that what daughters do!?)
I should add that it's the extra mile she went to make it great! She sewed the edges wear the ribbon goes through the top so that it won't come out and leave you having to fish it through with a safety pin. She added the cutest pocket too!
Great job mom! Hallie loves it! She can't wait to wear it to school tomorrow!

I've been Junkin' again!

My latest finds include the following:
This Hershey's recipe box is too cute! It actually had authentic recipe cards with a 1980 copywright on them. I love it!

And this little gem! It's basically just a casserole..but I love it!

I also found a donut pan (can't wait to make donuts!) and an antique muffin tin. I'm so enjoying my new found hobby!

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Font Conference

Check out The Font Conference! I'm officially a geek now...but this had me rolling on the floor! (I would have pasted the HTML, but the video is too wide for my layout and that bothered me too much to leave it!) Enjoy either way!

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Vacation Wrap Up and other mind-numbing rants!

Well, the vacation went just swell. I fully intended to update daily, but the sand and the sea got the best of me! My apologies! The kids had a blast, we all ate too much and after the long ride home, I got to unpack! Unpacking is like the ultimate torture, right? I would make juvenile delinquents do that...right after I made them fold my laundry...oh, and iron it. Ha! However, I returned to home sweet home to discover that it had not been so sweet during our absence. There's been a lot of crime in the area lately and it leaves me uneasy. You may have read my previous blog about how I was followed in a major discount store and how uncomfortable it made me feel. Well, upon our return, we discover that our cousin was at home with her two daughters when two gentleman came to her house and busted her front door down trying to get in. They were scared off when she screamed...but I can't imagine how terrified she must be right now. It seems like it's everyday that there is somethin on the news or in the paper about another robbery, kidnapping or attack. What is the deal? When we were in FL, there was a story about a two year old little girl that has been missing for five weeks and her mother is a suspect. Her mother! I'm astounded. However, on a brighter note, I did get to read two fabulous books while I was wasting away in Margaritaville. Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner and the follow up to that called Certain Girls. These two books are just wonderful! They'll be perfect for my book club as soon as I get it going! ;) Finally, I attended a Relay for Life Committee Wrap-Up Party tonight. The events were held at the Talladega Superspeedway and it was great! We got to take turns going around the track at 120 miles per hour! It was up there with the neatest things I've done! But, the focus of the evening was for the 'powers that be' within the American Cancer Society to thank the committee that helped raise over $600,000 toward cancer research and funding! It was very nice of them to put it all together and even nicer for them to recoginze the hard work of the members and their families that sacrifice so much to let them be a part of the organization. A few were asked to stand up and give their reasons for why they Relay. I wasn't one of them, but if I had been...here's what I might have said: For my father, whom I didn't know, that passed away with Colon Cancer; For Uncle DeWayne, whose diagnosis hit me like a ton of bricks; For PaPa Sprayberry, who had the greatest outlook right up to the end; For Mike Cooper, who was one of the last great "family men" on Earth; For Kaylie Claire Ellis, who shouldn't even be having to think about chemo and radiation at four years old; But, mostly for selfish reasons...I relay because I get to be a part of something that fills me so completetly with humility and pride that I can't stop coming back. I relay with the hope that my children will never have to think about fighting cancer. I relay because it feels so dang good to know that I'm making a difference...and being on the Committee is only icing on the cake. That's why I do it.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Vacation - Part 2

Today could not have been more perfect if I'd written it that way myself.... The weather was warm, the ocean was calm and clean and I almost finished my book. The kids splashed and played in the Gulf like they've never done before and that was great to see! We rounded out the evening with ribs at Pineapple Willy's and go carts! You can't have vacation in PC without go carts, right?! I'm pretty sure I located the guy with the worst job in the world...he's in charge of the kiddie go carts at the "go cart place" and we were all in agreement that it probably sucked more than anything else in the world...at the time, anyway. Personally, I'm ready for bed...as soon as I finish my book! To be continued...

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Vacation - Part 1

Well, we've arrived! Panama City Beach, FL is growing like crazy! We've managed to visit the pool, the beach and the Publix today and that in itself has been wonderful! I want a Publix back home! Our trip down was full of conversation - something I'm not used to because I usually sleep on the way to anywhere! Mom is along for the trip and that is going just swimmingly! I have an ample supply of books to keep me company and I plan to come back tan and refreshed! We ventured down to the beach this evening - Brent, the kids and I - and Hayden went crazy! Hallie buried him in the sand and he returned to "home base" covered in sand! They're sand free now and relaxing to Ratatouille. I'm headed to the chair with my book and my drink... more later!

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Proceed with Caution

For those in and around the local Northeast Alabama use caution! When? Always! My inbox has been overflowing lately with forwards from folks that have been emailed about being followed, questioned by strangers, attacked, robbed or just made to feel uncomfortable. The worst part is that they're all taking place right here in our hometown...in our local major discount stores. We can't be too careful! Everyday it's someone I know or a friend of someone I know that has been followed to their car and approached. My sister-in-law's friend was mugged in the parking lot of her major retail outlet in Opelika....by a woman! The lady sprayed her with mace and took everything she had! Ughhhhh! I found myself in this situation on Monday around lunchtime. Lunchtime! The middle of broad daylight! I never would have thought that anything strange would have happened at this time of day. Regardless, it did! The young gentleman followed me into the shoe department and he was unusually close to me. I had recently made the comment that I didn't think I would notice if someone were following me because I'm always so busy I don't have time to notice what's going on around me! But, this guy was noticable! He was creepy and most of all, he was all over me. It made me uncomfortable and out of sorts. Mostly, it pissed me off! I was so infuriated that someone was getting this kind of control over me and my time at the store! I mean, geez....I can't even go to the store anymore. Nothing major happened, but it could have. Had I been on the phone talking, he very well could have gotten away with my purse and I never would have known what hit me! I'm sure a lot of it has to do with the economy being so bad. Times are tough. People go to extremes. But, I'm not going to stand for it! So, my plea to all of you is to be careful out there. Take notice of your surroundings. As a mother, daughter, sister, friend...you have to take care of yourself! What are all of you doing to make sure you're paying attention more to what's going on around you?

Monday, June 30, 2008

Sunday, June 29, 2008

Raisin' little boys...it's never dull!

It's not often that I'm late to the punch...but it does happen. My saving grace here is that I never proclaimed that I'd have the latest and greatest movie news on this here blog! Have you seen the Disney movie with McDreamy, Enchanted? No? Go get it. We purchased it through the wonderful Dish on Demand tonight and I must give it two enthusiastic thumbs up! It's a great family movie! We curled up on the couch to watch this one and it got warm reviews all around. However, my little man's response got me grinnin'. I was gushing about how good the movie was (don't get all excited just to be let down about it...it is a kid sort of movie...so you should expect that when you watch it) and Hayden says, "Well, it wasn't that great." Me: "Why didn't you like it?" Hayden: "It was just too....I don't know - sweet." A part of me hopes he always thinks this way. Women will sink their claws into a sensitive man. I gotta get him out of that! ;)

Thursday, June 26, 2008

The Balancing Act

It's tough...huh!? Some days I'm left standing in my kitchen, dust cloud settling around me, wondering how I got there. It's everyday events like shuttling to and from school, ball practices, extracurricular activities, housework/maintenance, pets, laundry and add a job (for those that have one) that keep us in a constant state of motion. I wonder if we actually know what it's like to sit still anymore. Gone are the days where the kids play in the yard while the grown-ups hold their rockers in place on the front porch. Air conditioning may have had a lot to do with that, I guess. What happened to the easy breezy days? Not just during Summer time. Everyday shouldn't be a mad dash to make the next big event in our lives. Life happens around us all the time. How much are we actually missing out on by taking it all on? Everything suffers when we stretch ourselves thin. From relationships to job performance - it all takes a beating. All the more reason to evaluate what we've got on our plates and choose what we can do without. With Summer half gone, I realize that I haven't gotten to enjoy much of it. I haven't been the beneficiary to too much relaxation. What I have tried to enjoy has ended up being something that everyone involved wouldn't have chosen...so I tend to bend to the majority. Nevertheless...make the best of the opportunities you have to enjoy life, your family and yourself. This is our only chance to take it all in and I'm going to try and do just that from now on....in stride! What about you?

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Time Flies...

Eight years ago today was a Saturday. I was preparing to make the biggest decision of my life (at the time) right here in my hometown.
I've learned so much about myself since the day I said "I Do". Marriage is an ever-changing animal. There are many factors that make up a marriage and I am constantly amazed by how folks make it work. Everyone's marriage is different. Some share loads of laundry while others don't; some marriages have the woman tending to the babies while others have stay-at-home dads. Of all the things I'll list below that I've learned from my eight years I will say that #1 has to be that you can't compare your marriage to anyone else's - NO MATTER WHAT!
The following are from different scenarios that may or may not have happened in my household during the past eight years.

When in an argument with your spouse (no matter the subject) it is not a good idea to utter the words, "Well, your simple mind just can't comprehend this." Nope. No matter how you say it, it won't end up good. Trust me.

When you're trying to get your point across, be sure you've at least pictured a response before you open your mouth. At least then you'll know what to expect. For instance...If you and your spouse are discussing marriage with somone that isn't (married), saying the following is most likely not throwing down your best card: "What you need to do is just find you the ugliest nice person you can find and settle; that's what I did." (Are those crickets I hear in the background?)

Should your spouse lose something of value that just happens to represent the very sanctity of marriage, it might not be in anyone's best interest to inquire as to whether or not they pawned the item in question. Especially if it's during a frantic search of air conditioning vents and sink drains. Not smart - at all.

I have found that raising children is hard work...but it doesn't come close to raising a marriage. It's so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and even easier to lose sight of how you got there.

I planned a trip for my significant other and I for a spa getaway this past weekend to celebrate eight years of putting up with each other. After a while you get comfortable. There's something to be said for comfort, I think. I mean, ladies, you can wander around in no make up and rollers in your hair and not worry...cause you're married. Guys, you can.....well, we all know what you do when you get comfy...and not worry, cause you're married. That being said, I think nurturing that "first date" feeling could go a long way.

We were "sight-seeing" around the venue and got off the beaten path a bit. My significant other proceeded to do that thing guys do when they're comfy around you....my eyes rolled. "Now if this were our first date, you wouldn't have done that!", I said. (My point here was that after eight years I hope I still give you that "first date" feeling of nervousness.) "If you're looking for first date antics, you're in the wrong place!", he replied. "That's why you get married - so you can be comfortable!" There's truth in both statements, I think. While the comfortable feeling that comes with it is grand, first date feelings are not overrated! It all takes nurturing and it's so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and forget how you got there. You forget who was with you along the way. And sadly, you can forget who you were when you started the journey.

Appreciation is often the first thing to go. I got news for ya'...that ain't good! Keep it out front and use the words, "Thank you! I appreciate that!", as often as you can. We don't think twice about saying something that could hurt the other's feelings...but for some reason we'll go months (or longer) without uttering these words. Think about this...if you're having a party and a guest offers to carry the trash downstairs for you, you wouldn't dare let it happen without a thank you to that person, right? But, on your average Monday evening when supper is going, kids are hollering and dogs are barking it's easy be miffed when your significant other might not think to take it out when it's full. You might ask and they comply...but how easy it is to forget to say "Thanks" when they do. There's the element of expectation there. Don't get me wrong...some expectation is good. But, what if simple thank you's along the way helped make them more frequent. Would that hurt? Not at all. And the beauty of it is that it goes for the guys and dolls!

Learn "I'm sorry". Learn when to insert it into the conversation. Timing is everything. It will only be beneficial to you - I promise.

Make it your goal each day to brighten that person's day somehow. In today's techno savvy world, a "thinking of you" is just a text or email away. Make it happen.

Bottom line...you have to laugh. Everyone else will be, anyway. Life is funny...don't think God sits up there watching documentaries and dramas all day! A little comedy is good for the soul.

Now...go; nurture; act like it's your first date...let me know how it goes!

Monday, June 2, 2008

Happy Birthday, Hayden!

My little man is six years old! May 23, 2002 he made me the happiest person on Earth by making me a mommy! It's the greatest job I've ever had and I couldn't have asked for a better little guy to be mommy to.
As I approached the hospital around 6AM that morning, I was eerily calm. It was as if this was the job I had been waiting for all my life. My labor was mild, didn't last very long and the end result was more than I ever could have hoped for. I can't remember what it was like before I was called mommy...but I'm sure it was boring!
Hayden is my thinker. He's articulate and precise with every move he makes. He wants nothing more than to please others so that they're proud of him and that's exactly what I am! I thank God each day for allowing me the privelege of being mother to such an amazing little guy.
My mom tells me how lucky my kids are to have me as their mommy and my husband for their daddy. In some ways, she's right and I know that.
Truth be told, I'm the lucky one....by far!

Thursday, May 22, 2008

A little Friday humor for ya!

Remember "Voices That Care"? I do!
This is a pretty hysterical twist on it...
but in case you were wondering what those that
participated have been up to, here you go!
(Click on the mulletard below to see the video - thanks LOTD!)
Happy Friday, everybody!

Snakes, Snails and Puppy Dog Tails!

The following is an email I received from Hayden's teacher yesterday:
"Today during PE Hayden was running behind someone and a rock flew up. Hayden says that it went into his mouth and he swallowed it. I told him that it would come out later when he sat down on the toilet. Hayden was worried but seems to be fine now. He is playing and doing math centers. I am not sure what he swallowed. I wanted you to know what happened at PE. Please send a reply so that I know you read this email."
When I stopped laughing, I composed myself enough to email her back and let her know that she had made my day with this story! I'm reminded of a day (way back when today's fashions were first in style) and I was playing outside in my neighbors yard. Yeah, we used to play outside all day long. You weren't allowed in the house unless you were eating or sleeping. Nevertheless, I happened upon a patch of wild mushrooms in the yard and joked with my friends about eating them. I didn't...but for some bizarre reason unbeknownst to myself, I went back to the house and announced that I had consumed the wild mushrooms in the yard. Sigh...perhaps it was a cry for attention; perhaps I was just bored and wanted to see how much she would believe. Regardless, I'm sorry I did it. No sooner did the words leave my mouth, my mom was administering Ipecac syrup by the spoonfuls and I was in misery in no time!
If she weren’t so concerned about the possibly poisonous mushrooms that I didn’t eat, she might could have been concerned about the eating disorder I could have developed from it all…but I guess she was smarter than that, huh? I learned my lesson…I never lied about eating potentially poisonous mushrooms again…ever!

Saturday, May 17, 2008

The Losing Game!

Do you remember something you lost that was really valuable to you? Loved ones aside, of course. Do you remember how attached you were to this particular ‘thing’? Do you recall what it represented to you? Do you think back to it often?
I lost my wedding ring. Actually my wedding set. My engagement ring and the jacket were connected together to prevent wear and tear on the prongs holding the solitaire in place. Accompany me on the journey I’ve been on since Wednesday, May 14th, 2008.
I’m a creature of habit. I operate by routine. You can usually set your clock by me. I have a pattern in place for getting ready in the morning and a similar (yet reversed) pattern for when I get off work and get home. So, Wednesday afternoon consisted of wrapping up some loose ends followed by dinner, bathing the kids and bedtime. Whoo-hoo! Another evening wrapped up nicely. If only I’d known what the next three days would hold….sigh.
Thursday, May 15th, 2008 I awoke Thursday morning to find that my ring was missing. I was pretty sure I remembered returning it to its hiding place the night before, but it wasn’t there…immediately, my mind started racing, trying to rehash my steps throughout the day and all I could come up with was removing it in the car to put lotion on, laying it in my lap, forgetting to put it back on and then getting out of the car. That means, it could be in only about 30 places. Great!
So, most of my day Thursday was spent in tears…while searching frantically and understanding that everyday that went by was going to make it harder to find. I took Thursday evening to dissect the house and car (again) to ensure that I hadn’t left any stone un-turned.
Friday, May 16th, 2008 After much searching of my house, car, desk at work & numerous parking lots within a 30 mile radius I determined that the time had come for me to place an ad in the paper. I live in Anniston, AL and I spend most of my days in Gadsden, AL because it’s my territory. It’s only about 30 miles North of Anniston, but when you’re searching for your lost wedding ring, it’s heartbreaking to know that your coverage area is that large. So, I decided to place the ad in The Anniston Star (where I work) and I opted to include The Gadsden Times as well because they can reach an audience that The Star cannot. It’s a shot in the dark because the odds of someone finding it are slim…then banking on their honesty in today’s society….not good odds, huh?
I had all kinds of folks convey their sympathies to me in the form of “Good luck! I hope someone honest finds it or you’ll never see it again” or “I’m sorry you lost something so valuable to you – I know it was pretty expensive.” Anyone with sense knows that it’s not about the dollar amount that the ring appraised for. It’s about all that the ring represents. It represented the fussin’ and the fightin’; the wailin’ and the cryin’; the laughing and the babies! All of it seemed to be erasing with the disappearance of my ring like the picture of Marty McFly’s family in Back to the Future!
Saturday, May 17th, 2008 Saturday proved to be a busy day before I even got out of bed! We headed off to the hubby’s company “fun day” at the local Nascar racetrack where the kids had an absolute blast. After that, we had to be at the T-Ball party by 4:00 pm. We made it to Party Central and as we were entertained by the kids playing I mentioned to my husband that I’d been absentmindedly adjusting my ring with my pinky finger all day…out of habit. I received that look from him. You know, that look that is so sorrowful and says, “I know, Jenn. But, I’m afraid we’re probably never going to see that ring again.” It broke my heart a little. I don’t like to disappoint and by losing the ring in the first place, I had already managed to do so. Accidental as it was, I was absolutely sick over it.
Saturday night, upon our return home, I received a phone call on my cell phone from a gentleman that claimed to have found a ring that may match my description in the ad placed in the paper. After I finished screaming into the phone, I gave the gentleman an in-depth description of my ring and he followed it with the sweetest words I’ve heard in a while, “Yes, ma’am. I’m pretty sure this is your ring here.”
On the drive up, the hubby and I discussed the odds of someone finding the ring and being honest enough not to pawn it! Or the odds of that person actually picking up the paper to try and locate a lost and found ad. We were both betting that all odds were against me finding it. Upon arriving at the gentleman’s home, I was greeted not only with my ring, but by the most wonderful man. His name is Darryl Brown and he is the pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Gadsden. But, that’s not the weird part. By my calculations (based on where he found the ring) I lost it around lunchtime on Wednesday in a strip mall parking lot. Included in this strip mall is a Subway. He and his wife eat at Subway every Wednesday afternoon. So, my ring only laid in the parking lot a couple of hours. He told us how he was planning to run a “Found” ad in the paper to see if someone might see it. I forced him $100 for his honesty and he begrudgingly accepted and indicated that he’d use it as a sermon piece.
I was so blown away by all these circumstances. It’s just too hard to accept as coincidental. You just can’t write this stuff. I’m still having a little trouble wrapping my head around it all. Nevertheless, my ring is back – a little battered and bruised – but back. I’m grateful that someone of good moral fiber happened upon my lost ring and not someone that would have skipped Subway and gone next door to the Jewelry and Pawn Shop. I recognize how lucky I am to have been reunited with my it – loose diamonds and all. My faith has been restored…which may have been just what the Dr. was ordering for me.
Eerie, huh?

Sanity...Who Decides?

Most are probably familiar with the case of Lauren Burk - the 18 year old freshman at Auburn University that was killed in March. Her body, found on Hwy. 147 was suffering from a gunshot wound that she later died from. As an Auburn alumni, I'm more than familiar with Hwy. 147. It's a rural "cow-town" road that is adapting to change as each incoming freshman class approaches "the lovliest village on the plains".
When this story broke it hit a little too close to home.
Now that Courtney Lockhart has been indicted on three capital murder charges, you would think that the family of Lauren Burk might be able to finally take a breath. The loss of a child is something no one ever asks for...nor should they have to encounter. This bright young girl was headed toward great things in her life. Maybe she was into art, athletics, music or reading. I bet she was a great friend. Mostly, I bet her parents were proud to call her their daughter...and this senseless act took that right away from them.
I have to ask myself how I might handle something like this and of course I'm left speechless. I don't think anyone can answer how they would respond. However, I am intrigued by the report that Lockhart's defense attorneys are preparing an insanity defense. WHAT?!!!!!!!! Why? I'm no judge here...or a jury for that matter...but I'd be willing to bet my stimulus check on the fact that he knew full well what he was doing. He forced her to remove her clothes before he robbed her; he was also indicted on a charge of robbing a business in his hometown of Smiths Station. Sorry, but this doesn't scream insane to me...it screams repeat offender. Lock his butt up before he does it again!!!!!! Please!!!!!
This does make me question the whole 'insanity plea' thing. My opinion (not that anyone asked): If you murder someone, you belong behind bars. If the reason you did it is because you're INSANE, that's just one more reason for you to be locked up. You are a danger to others and a detriment to society. It's common sense, folks. I understand due process, blah, blah, blah. But, I challenge anyone to bear the loss of a child to a cold-blooded killer and try to find it in themselves to be okay with that person wandering around FREE all because their attorneys came up with a dang good "insanity defense".
I'm all for forgiveness and I would trust in God to help me with that, but there has to be a line drawn. Your thoughts?

Saturday, May 10, 2008

The Unsung Heroes!

Leukemia – a word that no mother should ever have to hear. Yet, this Mother’s Day weekend thousands of moms will be dealing with the effects that chemo, steroids and countless other medications have on a little body. And they’ll be most grateful for the day with their angels. I’m amazed at the strength it takes…absolutely amazed. The trials and tribulations that a child with Leukemia goes through are hard to imagine. But, more unimaginable has to be the love of a mother to that child. They have to be the silent warrior for their little one. They have to be the rock of the family. They have to be the one painting the rosy pictures while they quietly fall apart inside. Calhoun County held its 2008 Relay for Life event last night (into this morning) and we were once again able to boast success! We entered into this fundraising year with our sights set on $600,000 going toward Cancer funding and research! As of press time last night, we were sitting at $615,000 with donations still rolling in! I sit in awe of how it all comes together and I love the enthusiasm from all the teams that show up, camp out and raise money non-stop. It truly is a sight to behold! As great as all that is, however, the reason we’re there is for the survivors. The survivors are what it’s all about. To witness countless survivors approach the microphone and rattle off the number of years they have been a survivor is the most moving of experiences. And it drives home the fact that cancer funding and research are winning! Slowly but surely, we’re winning the battle against cancer! My best friends daughter is battling Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia right now and there is nothing easy about it. I was honored to meet so many caregivers to the survivors who were so willing to share their story of how they never expected to hear the words Cancer or Leukemia, yet they mustered the strength to be strong and supportive to those loved ones in need. As a mother myself, my heart goes out to those mommies dealing with these mountainous issues. I hope for them a restful Mother’s Day filled with warm feelings and happy thoughts.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Happy Birthday, Hallie!

My little princess is 3 years old today! Her party will take place on Sunday and she can't stop talking about princesses. She's so excited.
It seems like only yesterday that my baby girl came into this world. May 1, 2005 wasn't that long ago...and then again, it is. I think back to May 1, 2004 when my little Hallie bug was nothing but a thought in the far reaching corners of my mind. I can't imagine my life without her. She has such a zest for life and she truly will keep me young...if she doesn't kill me first, that is! I always said that I didn't want a little girl. I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to relate to her...that I wouldn't be girly enough for her....that I wouldn't have a relationship with her like I do my little man. I was wrong and I'll be the very first one to say it. She is the fuel for the fire around this house and I wouldn't have it any other way. She's just girly enough to be picky yet she loves frogs, dogs, sports and rolling down a hill as much (if not more) than any little boy out there. She loves dressing up and painting her toenails. She hates hairbows and vegetables. She loves dessert and Mexican food. She hates when her shoes won't cooperate or her hair is messed up. She's outspoken and softhearted...and my favorite little girl!
She loves to learn new things...and will most assuredly insist on trying them herself on the first attempt. She's determined, independent, stubborn and persistent in everything she does. But, when it comes time to relax, she's the first one in my lap or curled up beside me watching a movie! She's my little princess and I'm so proud to be her mommy!
Happy Birthday, Hallie!

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Potty Business!

My schedule lately has been work and T-ball. It is what it is.
Today, our game was to take place at my old stomping grounds at 5:30pm (we won 22 - 15, if you're intererested). Just so you're aware, it's a modern day scheduling marvel that I get each of my children from opposite sides of town and end up in the desired location by 5:30pm on any day...let alone a game day. My workday doesn't end until 5pm, so I'm still not sure how I do it. I guess I'm glad neither of my kids get carsick. That could certainly throw a wrench into my schedule.
I managed to get back to work by 4:15pm with my son in tow and we immediately stopped in the restroom to change into his uniform. As he was wrapping up his utilization of the facilities, a co-worker of mine and fellow BamaMom came in to do the same. He happened to be in her stall. "Her stall?" you might be asking yourself. Allow me to clarify: she breastfeeds her baby girl. She uses the large (handicap) stall because there is a chair available to her to make it a more comfortable situation. As soon as I saw her coming, I set Hayden's wheels in motion. We can set the clocks at work by Lauren and her breastfeeding schedule, so I knew she was ready to get going.
So, I got him dressed (mostly) and told him to put his cleats on and head for my desk when he was done. He nodded in compliance and off I went to get some paperwork done before I had to book it to daycare and the ball field. He appeared shortly afterward. But, not before he got an important lesson in the ladies room. Lauren had taken her seat in the 'big stall' and the rhythmic hum of her breast pump began to fill the tiled lavatory. Of course Hayden's curiosity was sparked. He proceeded to hit the floor and stick his head up under the stall! He's a very inquisitive little guy...so he's not alarmed by much luckily. He asked her what she was doing, and her response: "Well, I'm making supper for my little girl."
His response: "In the bathroom?"
He's witty too.....

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

It's the littlest things....

The afternoons during T-ball season can be quite a whirlwind. Today was no different. I picked him up, got home and sent the two of them outside to play while I got dinner ready. I'm a huge advocate of outside. I think the fresh air, sunshine and room to run and scream does them (and me) a lot of good. I'm actually able to get a load of laundry done in the midst of their playing and I'm constantly reminding them that they better be glad the sun is still out....otherwise they wouldn't be able to play out there anyway.
While I was filling my kitchen sink with dishwater, I heard a disturbing sound from the outdoors. It wasn't terror, mind you, just disturbing. Anytime they're outdoors, it opens my mind up to endless possibilities as to what may or may not be happening. Is it the dog jumping all over them; bike crash, maybe; sibling antics, perhaps? The guessing is the beauty of it all, I'm sure. No, the noise turned out to be Hallie. I went to the laundry room and peeked out into the driveway...and this is what I saw:

I'm so proud that they remembered to put a helmet on her that I can't be mad!

Here's to the littlest things!

Thursday, April 17, 2008

April ramblings for your reading pleasure!

I wrapped up session two of two on Time Management training today. Bo-ring. Seriously, my time could have been so much more well spent...on my own....sleeping, even. I was really looking forward to taking something away from the course...regardless of my previous venting on the subject.
I'm heavily inclined to believe that the small time frame had a lot to do with it. One hour per week for two weeks just doesn't seem to be enough to scratch the surface of how to manage time.
My blog I brought up about whether or not men and women can be friends garnered a few responses. I don't necessarily think that there were enough to be blown away, but perhaps I'll revisit in a few months and see if I can get some different responses. For the most part, however it appears that most share my sentiment. I feel that men and women can be friends. I tend to lean toward the thinking that it's not that mature adults can't be friends. No, what sours relationships, in my opinion, is the "media" that it can often garner from onlookers. Everyone knows those folks that just aren't happy unless drama is present. If there's nothing going on to keep them occupied they just might be inclined to make something up. Whatever it takes to keep them entertained. That's just my opinion, however.
So, I've mentioned my neighbors here before and I wish I could talk about them all the time. But, the last thing I need is them thinking they're the center of attention or something! (Just kidding, guys!) At a most recent gathering at their home I was fortunate to make the accquaintance of a friend of theirs that shares my affection for the most exquisite Orlando Bloom! It was so refreshing! I miss drooling over him!
Finally, allow me to introduce to you (by words only) Martha & June's Chocolates. I've recently accquired this business as my account through my occupation and I have fallen madly in love. They are not helping my "Weight Watchers" cause in the least! My favorite thing thus far has to be their caramel apples. They make the caramel in house. They start with huge green apples, roll them in caramel and they finish them off with just about anything you can imagine. Seriously...I picked one up the other day that was a White Chocolate Cheesecake covered Caramel Apple. Believe me when I say, it was every bit as good as it sounds. They have them rolled in toppings ranging from crushed Oreos to Butterfinger; pecans to toffee...you dream it up, they'll make it. They are wonderful - the apples and the ladies! Pay Shelia, Martha, June and the rest of the girls a visit if you're ever near Gadsden.

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Time - It's not always on your side!

As my "loyal following" is aware, I've recently made a transition at work into a sales position. It's something that I initiated and have been fortunate thus far with my sales and contacts. Nevertheless, the hardest part for me has been adjusting to the disorganization that I've recently adopted.
I'm so close to OCD about being organized, it just ain't funny! So, this is hard. I went from the person that had her "you know what" together to someone that is lucky if she remembers her purse on the way out the door. Luckily, that hasn't overflowed into my personal life....yet. I'm afraid that it's on its way.
Enter the "Time Management" class. I'm forever loving change. I'm in the minority of those that crave it. That's what brought on the career change most recently. I get bored easily. It's not bad...just helps me keep things interesting. It's the reason I have trouble listening to songs on my IPOD all the way through. It's the reason I have to purge my closets once every three months or so. It's the reason I can't pick a beer and stick with it. I'm always afraid something really good (not necessarily better) is out there that I haven't tried.
Today, I attended day one of two in a Time Management class. I'm a pretty happy-go-lucky person. I give just about everybody ample time to get their act together and show me what they've got. I'm no easy judge...but I'm fair. I went in expecting to learn ways to assist myself on managing my time better and I fear that I've been let down. I still have one class to go, but I'm discouraged by what I didn't take away from today - besides the homework. Pardon me, but if I'm in a time management course, odds are that I have plenty to do. I doubt very seriously that I need additional work added - more than likely it's assistance with the current balancing act of life, love and the pursuit!
I'll keep a positive attitude for session two. I'll remain in my "self-help" mode so that I continue to believe that I won't continue down this road of disorganization that most certainly leads straight to the gates of hell!
Pray for me.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Out of the Mouths of Babes!

I'm always amazed at the mind of my little man. He always thinks of others. He's always worried that someone around him or associated with him won't be happy. He has a heart of gold. Tonight was no different. We had finished up dinner and he was getting his snacks ready for tomorrow. As he was buried up to his elbows in the pantry, he spun around quickly to inform me of this: Hayden: "Mommy, I'm going to take three snacks so that I have one to give to someone that doesn't have a snack at my school." Me: "I think that's just about the nicest thing I've ever heard. You just might be the sweetest thing! I'm very proud of you for that." Hayden: "Thanks...can I take four?" I laughed out loud. I wondered if I was snowed into believing there was some pitiful kid with no snack at all sitting among the many snackers in his class. Or perhaps his plan is to break the bank by feeding the many hungry five year olds at WPES. I have to keep reminding myself, he's still your typical male...whether he's mine or not! Either way...his heart was in the right place.

Monday, April 7, 2008

Screw the kids....PARENTS say the darnedest things!

I guess maybe I should start a "Stupid Thing Of The Day Said During T-Ball" section for my blog. It happens so often, I'd never be short on stories...that's for sure! Allow me to set the stage for you: Game is in progress. Parents and grandparents alike adorn the ever so slight excuse for "bleachers". Smaller, stickier, louder siblings of those on the field are circling the legs of their respective parental unit. Nachos with cheese are hitting the ground faster than the clovers being picked in the outfield. It's a typical 5:30 game. Yesiree...we're in full swing (no pun intended) of T-Ball season now. Directly to my right sits...well, we'll call her "Mom O' the Year" who is clearly entertaining some visitors of the grandparent age and thereby ignoring her youngest child....who is where....you guessed it, UNDERNEATH THE BLEACHERS! Maybe I'm too much of a hard ass...but I just can't stand it. This child is like an accident waiting to happen ALL THE TIME! If your child is accident prone wouldn't you want to pay extra attention? Sigh...I digress. On to the actual transpiration of events. Long story short, something happens to the child. Who knows what it was...someone took his toy, someone stomped his toe, he wanted something that he was told (God forbid it) no to. It doesn't really matter at this point. So, after several agonizing moments of the blood curdling, glass shattering scream, the paternal parental unit steps in to "save the day". He fails, by the way. So, he makes an executive decision to head toward the house. He says to "Mom O' the Year": I'm going to take him home. (Sighs of relief all around were most assuredly audible.) "Mom O' the Year's" response: Whhhhhhyyyyyyyy? Can't you just make him behave? I don't want mama to have to take us home. I'm speechless.

Saturday, April 5, 2008

Ahoy!

What's your most desired profession?
What I mean by that is....what would you like to do (either for a living or not) for the rest of your life if you had no other obligations? No kids to worry with. No significant other to depend on you. No pets to tend to. No strings, whatsoever. What would you do?
Maybe you'd stay right where you are doing exactly what you're doing. If that's the case, I applaud you for doing what you MUST love. For me...that's not the case. I was thinking about this today as I was on my way home from the birthday party of a friends child. My IPOD was on shuffle and several Jimmy Buffett songs were played in a row. It got me thinking...if I could sever ties with my community, house, schools, work, etc. I'm almost certain that I'd like to travel the world by sea. Essentially, It'd be a pirates life for me! Don't laugh...not a pilfering one, I'd be nice. But, to have a life that is free from worry or want....to wander the seas aimlessly....to take in more sunrises and sunsets than my eyes care to see.....to drink myself silly on Captain Morgan's Rum.....what a wonderful experience. I imagine a life of sea salt and spray; a life that is completely uninhibited and lead only by impulse and desire. Where do I want to go today? What do I want to do today? Who do I want to be around today? What would I like to eat today?
All that and I haven't even touched on the amazement found in scouring the many islands in search of the greatest places to eat and dives to visit. Can you just imagine? Close your eyes and think about the adventures at sea that would await! It entices me more and more every time I think about it!
Then, my wonderful kids laughing upstairs remind me that I'm tethered to this role...for now. I'm a landlubber, like it or not! At least until they head off to college. Do you think they'll be embarrassed to introduce me to their friends?
"Hi John...this is my mom, Lola...Capt. of the Hemisphere Dancer." (Several Jimmy references)
Neveryoumind...it's not like I'd give a hoot at that point, right?!
Oh well, there's always retirement. May your seas be calm and your rum plentiful!

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Do the Shuffle...do, do, do, do, do-do-do-do-do...;)

That's right...the IPOD shuffle! I totally robbed this idea from my friend Misty's blog!
Hit shuffle on your IPOD and list the songs as they appear. Then explain why they're on your pod. How did they make their way into your life. I'm gonna do the first twenty:
  1. Jive Talkin' by The Bee Gees - This song reminds me of Kasey Perritt and her neice, Katy. Katy used to do the claps performed in the song perfectly at age 3! Other than that, I'm just a fan of disco!
  2. Boogie Wonderland by Earth, Wind & Fire - Always makes me wanna dance! Can't wait to get down to this little number!
  3. How You Remind Me by Nickelback - Good song; great band!
  4. You Can't Hurry Love by Phil Collins - Always puts me in a good mood...is a morning ritual at least twice a week.
  5. Can't Get Enough of Your Love by Barry White - This one was resurrected for me with the Teen movie "Down To You" (Freddie Prinze Jr.). It's soulful, deep and another dance song for me.
  6. Survive by Jimmy Buffett - It's Jimmy...what can I say? I love the man.
  7. September by Earth, Wind & Fire - You would think I'm some radical fan of theirs...maybe I am. Another song to get jiggy to.
  8. Let's Get It On by Marvin Gaye - Always reminds me of Gary Vaughan at Auburn. If you can wear out a theme song, he did.
  9. Victim of Love by The Eagles - The Eagles, man. Does it get any smoother?
  10. Last Cigarette by Bon Jovi - Not my favorite Bon Jovi song, but can you really go wrong with this band? Heck no!
  11. Shake It Up by The Cars - This song - and anything by The Cars really - always takes me back to my senior year of high school. I'm riding shotgun with Kristin in David Bentley's version of K.I.T.T.
  12. Get the Party Started by Pink - You gotta have Pink on your IPOD. She's a straight up rocker!
  13. When the Sun Goes Down by Kenny Chesney and Uncle Kracker - This one is catchy...that's for sure. You can't help but sing it when it comes on. And Kenny is hot knee deep in the water.
  14. Welcome to the Family by Little Big Town - Again, not one of my favorite songs, but a great group. I'd probably skip this one.
  15. Ill Wind by Frank Sinatra - Ol' Blue Eyes himself. He's so suave. I won't always listen to Frank. I have to be in the mood to do so.
  16. To Come of Age by The Doors - I love Jim Morrison and I'll listen to The Doors anytime. I'm always mesmerized by them.
  17. Burn This Disco Out by Michael Jackson - Old school Michael from his Off the Wall album. Reminds me of Amy because she gave me the disc.
  18. Peaceful Easy Feeling by The Eagles - See #9.
  19. California Dreamin' by The Mamas & Papas - I hate this song. I will delete it as soon as I get a chance.
  20. Amazed by Lonestar - Another one that I could do without. It was most likely loaded by someone else.

So, that's my list! What about you? What does your IPOD have to offer by way of melodic therapy?

Thursday, March 27, 2008

Just another peeve, perhaps.

I'm riddled with them...peeves, I mean.
  • I can't stand lipstick on a cup.
  • I hate when someone uses my chapstick and covers it in their lipstick.
  • I hate panty lines.

You've heard them all before from me. I stumbled across a new one this evening. It was a wonderful Spring afternoon perfect for T-ball practice. It's a new year; a new team. That means new folks to get to know. That's new parents...new styles of parenting...new little siblings tagging along to the games.

I came across something this evening at practice that absolutely drives me crazy. There happened to be a sibling of one of the players climbing the HUGE pile of red dirt adjacent to the field. It was cute...in a "Joe Dirt" kind of way. ;) He was jumping, playing, throwing, sliding...you name it, he was doing it. The problem, however, came as mama was trying to get "Jr." to listen to her as she told him to "git down" and "git over here" followed by "don't make me have to spank you". She didn't appear to want to exert the energy necessary to make the child mind, so she summons dad over (away from assisting the team in practice) to take care of the child on the dirt mound. What?!!! I'm dumbstruck by this. One of your kids is on the field practicing. Your significant other is putting themselves out there to assist the coaches and little guys in practice. All you have to do is entertain the young one for approx. one hour. That's it! After that, you can dump them both on your partner. What's so hard about that?

Does this drive anyone else crazy?

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

"ME" time - Don't you dare threaten it!

Recently, a fellow blogger, Daniel, posted about his (yes HIS!) pedicure experience. As I commented to him, I have to applaud the fact that he decided to willingly partake in the bliss of a pedicure. I know a ton of guys that would call it "sissy stuff" but go home and demand that their significant other rub their feet.
But, as a female, I had to admit that I'm a little territorial of the whole pedicure scene. I mentioned in my comments that it probably had a lot to do with the fact that it's often the only solice I find. I don't want anyone treading on my "ME" time. The next thing you know, it will be expected of me to entertain 'small sticky people' while I'm in the midst of my pedi! (Scoff!) Don't get me wrong, I'm not above that...it's just that I really enjoy that time - ever so seldom as it may be!
I guess I attribute guys infiltrating the pedicure scene to women showing up at the guys poker night...or a day on the links for a man and his buddies...or guys night out....(insert your example here). I'm not saying they aren't welcome because I assure you, no one notices feet more than me! I will provide a standing ovation to anyone of the male gender that goes the extra mile to keep them dogs presentable...it shows attention to detail. Just don't follow other male trends like joining the mani/pedi world, taking it over and trying to change it. It's fine the way it is - relaxing, therapeutic, consoling and good for the soul.
Nope...don't mess with it. Just roll up your pants legs, sit back in the massage chair and open your book (or crank up your IPOD)! Let them do the rest! Maybe I'm worrying for nothing...that's happened before, believe it or not. How many of you guys out there are in on this trend? Ladies, do you agree or disagree?
Whatever the case, you gotta check out Anjelah Johnson! Prepare to laugh your tushie off! If you've ever set foot inside a nail salon, you just might pee your pants!

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

You gotta hate a double standard...

I'll keep this one pretty short and sweet:
"When Harry Met Sally" (1989) is one of my favorite movies of all time. If you're one of the few on the planet that may not have seen it....go buy it. NOW! It's the best! I love Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan as "Sally Albright" is perfect. The way she's so guarded and protective of herself (especially where "Harry" is concerned) is so endearing. Allow me to pose this question to you:
Can men and women be just friends? Why or why not?
I have my own thoughts on the subject but I'm interested to see what the rest of you think. Mostly, I'm interested to see the difference in responses from men vs. women. I think I have a good idea of which direction the pendulum will be swinging, but I've been surprised before! Once all the opinions are in...say, in a few days....I'll revisit the question posed and provide you with my "professional opinion" on the subject.
(I know you're on the edge of your seat for this one...sigh.)

Monday, March 24, 2008

Speechless...it's not good for me.

What do you say?
Two weeks ago she was so excited. Two weeks ago she was on cloud 9! Two weeks ago she was so full of hope.
One week ago she was eating for two when she wasn't nauseated. One week ago she was dealing with big(ger) boobs! One week ago she was tired, but glowing.
Three days ago she was crying. Three days ago she was put to sleep. Three days ago she had her hopes stomped on...again.
Today she is tired. Today she is empty! Today she is sad...
....and I don't know what to say to her.
There are the same old words she's probably hearing from everyone - "It's in God's hands", It's going to get better...just wait", It's better that it happened now rather than later", "It just wasn't meant to be". Or maybe those are just some of the off-colored comments that I've heard. I'm often appalled at the type things that fall out of people's mouths during a time like this. I say fall, because I have to believe they are accidental. I just have to.
My heart aches for her. And I don't dare forget her husband who's been along for this journey the entire time. What a journey it's been, too. They're two of the most precious people I know who deserve nothing more than happiness...in whatever form they choose to desire it. I struggle with understanding why myself...and I'm not even the one directly affected.
Nevertheless, I will push forward. I will do my best to let her know that I'm here - for whatever. I will make sure she knows where I am. My efforts will be limitless. I will be a friend because I can think of nothing else to do or anything else she needs more from me than that.
Take a deep breath, Lori. I'm here if you need me.

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Change...

....it should be self-starting.
We are all aware that it happens whether you like it or not. We are all aware that you better expect it. Everything changes. You best prepare yourself. However, I'm a believer that you should be the one to set the wheels in motion for change. Perhaps it's my desire to retain some control in situations. Or maybe it's the thinking that you should always be of a proactive mind. Either way, I think it just feels better if you're the one making the decision to get the (change) ball rolling.
I'm on several committees within my community. American Cancer Society's Relay for Life Committee, Business Expo (Chamber of Commerce affiliated), Salute to Industry (also Chamber affiliated), CCAF and Junior League is coming up. I was making mention just the other day that something was going to have to give because I was feeling stretched pretty thin. I'm beginning to feel like a professional committee member. Honestly, it's something I enjoy. I get to participate in several different events and showcase my talents in organization and communication. I'm not too shabby at planning either! Nevertheless, it can become overwhelming if you don't keep a watch on it.
Well, before I even had a chance to make the change and forego my seat on one or more of the committees, the decision was made for me. My boss feels that it no longer behooves me or the company to serve on several of these committees because my "job" has changed and my focus has shifted. I'm not saying I don't agree with that angle...just that I'm disappointed that I wasn't quick enough to the draw. I strive to stay a step ahead...of just about everything! I fell short in this instance.
Oh well...time to regroup! Get back in the game, so to speak and kick tail with my new responsibilities. It might be nice to relenquish some of the current ones for something fresh and new. Time for me to go make a difference somewhere else....at least that's what I'm going to tell myself.
Anyone else feel this way?