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?

"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!

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.)

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.

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?

Idol Love! Don't laugh...it beats the hell out of "Rock of Love"!

I'm in love - with three guys! Who are the lucky (or perhaps not-so-lucky) fellas? David Archuleta - Yeah, he's young. So. You got somethin' to say about it? I didn't think so. He's just about the cutest thing to happen to Idol. Not to mention the fact that he's got talent oozing from his pores. I'm not sure he'll win it...but his rendition of "Imagine" by John Lennon a few weeks back still sends shivers down my spine! I think mostly he might be my favorite because he reminds me (on a distant level) of a guy named Jacob Messina that I grew up with. Jacob posessed quite a set off pipes as well and the similarities are somewhat of a comfort! Jason Castro - I'll be honest here...it's the eyes. They are mesmerizing! They draw me in everytime and I just can't help but be entranced. Sigh...I'm a victim here. One of my favorite performances of his is "If I Fell". Granted it's probably not his best...and I'm sure he'll keep getting better, but it's just so nice. He's on the stool, playing his guitar and he seems so at ease with it all. I could do without the dreads...if I'm being honest. But, I think part of what intrigues me about him is how long he'll go through the competition before he cuts 'em. Care to place your bet? David Cook - Okay...my favorite! He's the Chris Daughtry of this season and WHEW!! did I love me some Daughtry! Talk about a sexy bald guy...sigh!!!!! David's a rocker - and not in a washed up, Bret Michaels kind of way...a real one. He's got a great way of taking a song and making it his own. When he performed "Hello" by Lionel Richie and it had the rock 'n' roll edge...he won me over! I'm a huge Lionel fan anyway and David's updated version sounds like something I would buy from ITunes. Nevertheless, I'm pretty sure he could sing the alphabet and I'd tune in. Maybe it's his biceps as he strums, or the half-cocked smile from the right side of his mouth he'll throw at you when he's singing. Maybe it's the whole package...whatever it is, he's got it! It won't surprise me a bit when he walks away the winner in May. So, these are my faves. Yours?

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder...

Pardon the recent absence. I was much needed on the homefront! It's good to take time to check back in with the family and all that goes on. It can get pretty hectic pretty fast. It'll knock you on your ass if you're not careful! But, I'm glad to be back. During my brief hiatus I learned a few things. I'm a big proponent that you learn something new everyday. Seriously...everyday. It may or may not be anything substantial or worth writing home about, but it's new.

1. I learned that a good friend of mine, Lori, is pregnant. This wouldn't be such overwhelmingly amazing news if it weren't for all she and her husband have gone through to get to this point. She's not too far along...only a couple of weeks probably...and she's already glowing! They're about to experience one of life's greatest miracles and I'm so excited for them!
2. My best friend Kristin just lost her daddy, Mike Cooper, to Cancer. He fought a hard fight and gave it all he could for as long as he could. The best part - he found his peace before he left this world. Read the story of how it all happened...and I suggest you get a tissue or three!
3. I learned (as I have before and will continue to do) that relationships are hard. Whether you're talking about a marriage, a best friend, a parent/child or work related, balancing the art can be tough. It takes lots of hard work, mountains of patience and understanding.
4. I was reminded of how much vacation is necessary. I'm working with a pretty tough deadline at work right now and I'm so looking forward to getting out of town and not worrying about a thing!
5. I re-learned (cause it wasn't like I didn't know!) that I have fabulous neighbors! Seriously...I'll put them up against anyone's. They're just as much fun partying as they are sitting in the driveway putting together patio furniture, or hanging out on the deck in the afternoon. "Home" is so much better with great neighbors!!
6. I learned that I have to take a break sometimes and re-group. Maybe it's just a book and a bath...but a re-group is necessary! It's easy to get caught up in making sure everyone else around you is taken care of. Easy, but not always healthy. Make time to tend to you - you're just as important!
7. I learned, unfortunately, that "Rock of Love" with Bret Michaels is quite possibly the most ridiculous thing ever to grace the small screen...yet I can't make myself change the channel. What a joke...yet I'm mesmerized!
8. I learned/realized that I haven't had my hair cut (not even trimmed) since November 2007 (over four months if you're counting) and that's way too long. I've got to make that a priority this week!
9. I was reminded that if you want something, it might just be as easy as asking. I tend to overthink/overanalyze situations until I end up making them more complicated than they ever started out being. All you have to do is ask.
10. I learned that hard work can payoff from time to time. You can work hard, save your money (or not), make at least semi-smart decisions and then.....you can reward yourself. And you should! You've only got one shot at enjoying this life....you should certainly be willing to take some chances along the way!
11. Finally...I've been reminded that my kids aren't standing still. I have a picture on my mantle of each of them and I was saying something the other day about how I needed to update the pics within each frame. It dawned on me that I was having trouble remembering my little girl that little. In the picture she's about a year old and it seems like eons ago! Add insult to injury by realizing that I'm only about a head and some change taller than my little man and you've got yourself a 'sobfest'.

All in all, the "break from the blog" was beneficial. I missed it, though. It's a great release to be able to tap, tap, tap my way into relaxation. I'm flattered that so many even give a rat's "you-know-what" about anything I have to say...but if you go away laughing I've done my part! So, I'm back on track...and thanks for reading! There's some funny stuff coming up soon!

How Sweet It Is Matters!

I love sweet tea! I don't think there is another drink out there that quenches my thrist as much or makes me feel so great as sweet tea. I happen to think mine is better than anyone's. It's ssswweeeeeeeettttttt! Seriously - diabetics should steer clear!

I'm not sure why....but it just always tastes better than anyone else's. I never make it in the coffee pot...that just seems wrong. Maybe it's because I boil half the sugar into the tea....maybe it's the amount of sugar I use - 2 cups in a gallon.....maybe it's just that it reminds me of growing up and my mama's sweet tea! I'm certain that has a lot to do with it! She makes great tea too! What are the odds that it's hereditary?

Sigh.....I shall share with you my method of tea making....you decide for yourself!

"Sweet Tea" (for one gallon pitcher)

• 2 Family size Lipton Tea bags
• 2 generous cups of sugar (separated into one cup each)
• water

Place the teabags, water and one cup of sugar in a pot on the stove (on high) and bring to a boil. Once the mixture makes it to a rolling boil, you can turn it off. Leave it on the stove for a few minutes while you tend to something else - anything....TV, kids, book, movie, laundry...the list can go on and on!

Dump (should you use dump in a recipe?) the other cup of sugar in the pitcher and stir vigorously as you add the freshly made tea/sugar mixture (this mixture should be hot, not boiling, to dissolve the sugar). Continue to fill your pitcher by adding cool water to the pot with the teabags and pouring it into the tea pitcher. Maybe it's just my OCD mind, but I always feel like I get more out of the teabags this way. You know, really make 'em work for it!

So that's my "recipe", if you will! I hope you enjoy it as much as I have!

Where were you.....?

Do you remember where you were 15 years ago tonight? Were you getting ready for a great weekend in March? Were you headed for a vacation? Were you grounded and stuck at home? Were you getting married? If you were in the state of Alabama, you were in the midst of the "storm of the century" or the Blizzard of '93!

As mentioned many times before, my husband is a bit of a weather geek. It's okay...we've come to accept it now. So, he's been all over the 15th anniversary weather blogs out there!

I remember where I was....on Friday, March 12th I was at good ol' Skate Country. I was ticked off that mom had my ride show up early and ruin my evening! Ahhh....the good old days! My BFF Nichole and I were dragged, almost literally, from the roller rink and carted home. Once it was made clear that we couldn't top the hill to get to her house, we took it back to my house.

The next morning introduced us to more snow than we had seen in Alabama - EVER. We went to Vermont the Christmas before to visit Nichole's family and the amount of snow there was amazing. More amazing was the fact that the entire town operated 'business as usual'. Anniston was shut down for days when the blizzard of '93 hit.

As Saturday morning turned into Saturday afternoon, we lost power at my house. This sucked because now we were going to be forced to entertain ourselves...without TV. We'd finally had all we could stand. So we bundled up, stepped outside and began our journey to meet Nichole's parents at a halfway point (that seemed like 8 miles but was actually probably only about 2-3). We spent the rest of the "vacation" at her house cooking in the fireplace, keeping milk cold on the deck in the snow, sledding down the hill and listening to folks call in to the radio stations complaining that they didn't have cable TV. There were folks without power, heat or water and folks were upset about missing their soaps! We went so far as to start using furniture as firewood to stay warm because we had used all the firewood.

It was an exhilarating experience....and one I'm sure I'll tell my kids stories about when they're old enough to roll their eyes!

Where were you when the white stuff started sticking in Calhoun County?

Tears in Flight!

My job doesn't require much travel for me outside the northeast region of the state. Recently however, an opportunity presented itself for me to tour a printing company that we use and I jumped at it. My trip consisted of two days (one night) of making my way through airports and I must confess: the sense of pride that consumed me as I swiftly maneuvered my way through the countless terminals was a nice surprise. I was more surprised that I ever doubted myself, really. But, after the numerous takeoffs, landings, shuttles and baggage claims I must admit that my book was probably the best part of my trip. What book? Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah. As a mother of two/wife of one and full time employee, reading often falls to the bottom of my To-Do. But, one day last week, my mother-in-law gave me this book that she'd just finished and she couldn't stop singing its praises. I'm a jacket reader. If the cover is enticing I'll want to read the book. I'm a huge believer that catching the reader's eye is the first step in drawing them in. Everything from the design to the font used inside - it must have a seamless flow in order to leave the reader satisfied. Your written words might not be enough. I work in advertising - what can I say? Nevertheless, this book held me captive from the very first line. It follows Tully & Kate through their mostly wonderful, sometimes painful, always truthful friendship. I won't turn this into a book review for fear of spoiling it, but I will say this...don't forget to bring your tissues. The tears started on my first flight - from Atlanta, GA to Grand Rapids, MI. The two flights home - Grand Rapids to Cincinnati and Cincinnati to Birmingham - were no better. Overall, I had three flight attendants, four passengers, two ticket takers and one server ask me if I was okay! That's doing some serious crying, right? But, as I said before...it's wonderful. I already have a list of folks in mind to purchase this one for. I can't wait to hear their embarrassing stories of where they were when they got to chapter 20!! I'm always encouraged when I get lost in the characters of a book - reminds me that I can still dream. Here's to hoping you never forget that either!

Farewell, Mr. Healey.

One of my favorite musicians, Jeff Healey, has died from Cancer. His battle with Cancer began at the age of one with Retinoblastoma and continued throughout most of his life.

He was 41 years old. He leaves behind a wife, 13 yr. old daughter and 3 yr. old son.

Rest in peace, Mr. Healey. You and your guitar prowess will truly be missed!