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!

Straight out of the Honesty Pod!

You gotta appreciate the honesty, right!?

And just so you know...the honesty pod consists of Moira, my podmate, and myself at work. We're brutally honest. It's just who we are. If you don't like it, don't enter the pod. No hard feelings...just the God's honest truth!

Blog Buffet - indulge yourself!

February 2008 is just about over...how quickly time flies, huh? I thought I'd recap a couple of interesting things that were thrown at me today...just in time to call February D-O-N-E!

• I came upon this little ditty from one of my favorite blogs, List of the Day. Quite ironic that it goes hand in hand with my blog from yesterday!

• My little boy came downstairs this morning - bright eyed & bushy tailed - and told me, as I lay in the bed lookin' ruff, I'm sure that I was the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen! Then he held my arm and told me it was warm. He said it reminded him of pancakes. I'm so happy to be the best looking, most like pancake mom he's ever seen!

• "Wham! 30" happens in my pod at work everyday at 4:30pm. I was astonished to discover today that two charming, yet sheltered, individuals were not aware of who Wham! actually was. I'll save you the script of adjectives I used to describe their tortured selves and tell you that they left with a better understanding! "Wham! 30" Forever, baby! Whoo-hooo!

• My husband is into plants, as you may have read before. He's in the process of getting his tomatoes ready to go in the ground. No, it's not time yet...but he's growing his from seed. He's been catching some flak from some folks for doing it this way. He mentioned that he was going to grow them from seed just to spite the naysayers. "Like you", he said. I reminded him that I never said he couldn't grow them. I just don't understand the purpose in doing it this way. Tomato plants are very inexpensive at the nursery and your odds are better that they'll be a hearty, stable plant once placed in the ground. His response: "That's like going to the mall to get a baby! You don't have the same attachment or love for the plant!" I had nothing else to say. Here's to voluminous production of acidic fruits in our garden and yours this year!

The Heat Is On!

For those that live around here, you already know I'm not talking about the weather in Alabama. Will the cold weather ever end?

No, I'm talking about arguments. No one enjoys them. No one ever leaves feeling validated...at least not that I'm aware of. But, they're bound to happen from time to time. Not much you can do about 'em.

I did stumble upon some interesting tactics to take into battle at Men's Health on How to Fight With a Woman. They're geared toward the guys, of course. But, let's face it, they need them more than we do. Take a peek! Got any better tactics to offer?

Look What the Cat....errrr....Dog Dragged In!

WARNING!!!!!!! GRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHY FOLLOWS!!! YOU'VE BEEN WARNED!!

As most fellow petowners can attest....you get some interesting "presents" from the four legged, furry friends. My pet is no different. The picture speaks for itself, I think.

So.....that's it. I had a cat once and I was often given chipmunks, squirrels, mice, etc. But, I've been given a deer leg. I thought, at first glance, "Wow! Jacee actually caught a deer!? That's crazy!" But, I'm pretty sure that I'm neighborly with a hunter. Perhaps that hunter just isn't so thorough in their cleaning process.

Regardless, just another day in the life of having pets, right? Anyone got anything to top a deer leg?

Return to reality!

Vacation has come and gone. Now comes the crappy part - unpacking. Everyone had fun! The aquarium may very well have been the highlight of the trip. Not only did the kids enjoy it, we did too!

If you've never had the pleasure of visiting Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg, TN....you should! Soon! It's really cool. A little on the pricey side, but you get your $$ worth and you'll agree once inside. From petting Sting Ray's to the moving walkway that carries you "inside" the tank...it's a great ride!

(That's "Bruce" in the tank at the aquarium - a little eerie to have him swimming overhead, if I'm being honest. I was reminded of the scene in JAWS...yikes!)

In addition to the aquarium, the pool at our hotel was of high interest to the kids! Ober Gatlinburg didn't offer them much other than a cool ride up and back down. Next year, perhaps they'll be more interested in the ice skating (and manmade snow)!

I'm pretty sure I know every word to The Incredibles, Snow Buddies and All Dogs Go To Heaven and I discovered the following: if necessary, I can sit in my backseat for long periods of time....I love my seat warmers....sometimes kids surprise you with their good behavior.....walking is good for you - it won't kill you and dessert is fabulous - always have dessert!

I will say this...and all parties in attendance agreed...the only way to go to Gatlinburg is in a cabin. That's the way we've always done it in the past, but schedule's wouldn't allow for others to come along this time, so we opted to snag a hotel room instead. It just wasn't the same. You just don't get the same 'mountainous' feeling in a hotel room - even if you are in the mountains.

All in all...good food, good company, good attractions and good attitudes made for a great trip! Now I'm off to unpack - ughhhhhh! The reality of being back at home sets in hard.

Road Trip!!!!!

The family and I are headed for a mini-vacation tomorrow! Gatlinburg is our destination. I'm looking forward to the aquarium....the kids are going to get a kick out of that. Honestly, I probably will too! I loved the aquarium in Chattanooga!

The ice skating should be fun for them too....especially now that they're old enough to give it a shot. I love Gatlinburg in the winter - and I hear they're callling for snow while we're there. That will make it even better! I remember how excited the kids were with the little bit of snow we got here in Alabama last month...and that was nothing!

My gripe has to be that I haven't packed anything. I'm a "pack the car the night before" kind of gal...and I don't have it done this time! Granted, I've been busy lately. But, this just means that I'm going to be up doing it tonight when I should be enjoying some much needed rest. Why? Because I won't be able to close these big brown eyes until I know I'm at least half way there. There is something so peaceful about knowing that all you have to do is get ready in the morning....but something is telling me that tomorrow morning won't be that relaxing. Sigh...I'll do my best to achieve premature packing, but I'm also a realist. It's 10:30 pm and I haven't even gotten our suticase down. Odds are against me, ladies and gents.

But, the pitcher of margaritas at the mexican joint this evening hashelped me be OK with the fact that tomorrow might be a bit hurried. Tomorrow morning I might be singing a different tune when I get that overwhelming feeling of not having all my ducks in a row. But, for now, I think I'm just going to call it a night. We'll get there tomorrow - one way or another - and if we forget something, I guess we'll just buy it!

Who am I kidding....that would drive me crazy! Until my return, I wish you a happy weekend! See you Monday!

Put Me In Coach!

That time of year is just around the corner! When you rush at break neck speed from work to pick up your little critters and cart them to their respective "after-school activities". It's time to gear up for fast food dinners on the run and fun times watching kids pick clovers in the outfield. Which brings me to my reason for this blog...Hayden's T-Ball pictures are back! Yep...and only about 10 months after they were made. Not bad, eh? Sigh....Ugh!!!!(and many other distraught, annoyed words) It absolutely disgusts me that people can be so unorganized! How is this possible? I really can't understand it! If organization is not your strong suit...or you simply can't handle the task of getting pictures to parents after they arrive....say, 'no thank you'. Step up and say, "That's not my strong suit...I'd rather be in charge of snacks." There is nothing wrong with that. Snacks are important - just ask the kids. That was always so funny to me last year. The kids would be into the game for about the first 7 minutes. After that it was, "Can we eat snack yet?" or "Who brought snacks this week?". It's a lot of pressure to bring 'cool snacks' too. Last April all participants in my son's athletic organization convened on one location for the photo shoot. That day, of course, was chaos. In defense, there were several teams there and each team had to have a picture in addition to each little players portrait being made. But, come on...it's not that difficult to organize something like that. My frustration comes from the fact that I've been pulled and jerked around as to the whereabouts of the pictures for which I paid $19 for over six months now. I've contacted the athletic organizations director. I've contacted the photographer to see if I could just get one wallet of my little dude in uniform! I didn't want the fancy player cards or anything...just one picture. It has taken an act of Congress nearly, but today my mailbox held a nice surprise. As I lowered the hatch, I found a lone white envelope which held part of my $19 package purchased in the Spring of 2007! I shouldn't have been so excited...because of the time lapsed and all...but I was. And now that the new season is set to kick off in less than a month, I'm ready to step up to the plate. I've thrown my name in the ring to coordinate/organize this 'event' for the organization next year. I might be sorry later, but right now I'm optimistic because I know I will rock at organizing the whole thing! Here's to making T-Ball fun and organized! Who's with me? ;)

Music to my Ears!

I love music! Pretty much all kinds. My favorite tends to be less than favorable to most music fans...not purposefully....just happens that way. I love music that makes me happy! I love music that makes me wanna shake my groove thang! I love dorky music...and I've been known to love a song by an artist that basically 'blows' by all music critic standards. I'm here to say that I'm okay with that! It's okay if you love that kind of music - stand up for yourself and your music! Especially if it makes you smile :) For instance...some of my favorites - and maybe some insight as to why - are (in no particular order):

1. "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" - Wham! I don't care what anyone says about this song. It's awesome! It's probably my favorite 'morning' song. Nothing gets me up and moving like Wham! How can you control yourself from jumping up and down when this song is on? I don't hold back...even if I do look like an idiot on the way to work - snapping and popping my head!
2. "I Can Dream About You" - Dan Hartman This song always makes me dance! Granted, it's not spectacular dancing...but it makes me smile! And really, how many songs are left out there that allow you to showcase your 80's dancing? Not many, I assure you!
3. "Blinded By the Light" - Manfred Mann 'Wrapped up like a deus'....you can't not love this song! One problem - this song makes me drive really fast. That doesn't help me have a happy morning when the nice officer decides to pull me over!
4. "All I Want" - Toad the Wet Sprocket This song just makes me feel warm and fuzzy. I'll be honest that I'm not 100% sure of all the words, but the melody and harmony in the song is enough to keep me playing it!
5. "At Last" - Etta James This song always makes me think I can really sing. It's soulful, crooning and simply exquisite!
6. "Brown Eyed Girl" - Van Morrison Simply because I am one.
7. "California Girls" - The Beach Boys Made famous during my Senior Show in high school. It always makes me want to dance around on stage and head for the beach!
8. "(Can't Live Without Your) Love and Affection" - Nelson Most people hate this song and that's just fine by me. I'm completely comfortable gettin' jiggy to this...or "After the Rain"!
9. "Don't Pull Your Love Out on Me Baby" - Hamilton, Joe Frank & Reynolds You can't help but love this one! Listen to it...tell me you don't feel like dancing!
10. "Footloose" - Kenny Loggins Seriously...do I need to explain this? In a town where dancing was forbidden...he made it so! AWESOME!
11. "Gettin' Jiggy Wit It" - Will Smith Lots of folks, I'm learning, aren't fans of his. I am. This song will have my bootie going everytime...without fail!
12. "Go All the Way" - The Rasberries This one is an oldie...but a goodie! Got it from my neighbor's 70's CD! Thanks Chris!
13. "Here I Go Again" - Whitesnake For so many reasons that don't have much to do with dancing, this song is one of my favorites! It's 80's hair band! Hello!!!
14. "Hole in My Heart" - Blackhawk One of my favorites to sway to in the back seat! (And I don't mean that in a nasty way, either!)
15. "Hooked On A Feeling" - BJ Thomas Simply because my son and I will sing every word! He's my singing partner!
16. "Hustle" - Van McCoy I want to be in Saturday Night Fever dancing to this song...70's attire and all...how fabulous to have actually done the Hustle in a club back then? I bet I could go all night to this one!
17. "I Ain't No Quitter" - Shania Twain Honestly, the video is what did it for me on this one. It's on my IPOD and I reference it often for a quick pick-me-up!
18. "I Want You to Want Me" - Cheap Trick The best!!!!!!! This will actually have me singing out the windows to those passing by!
19. "Joanna" - Kool and the Gang Another one to groove to from the 70's! Pop it in when you're feelin' blue! Perks you right up!
20. "Just Friends" - Amy Winehouse She's crazier than a shit-house rat...but she can sing! And she makes me sing along!
21. "Karma Chameleon" - Culture Club You can't have dorky/dancy/ridiculous music without including Boy George! I'm a fan...and that's okay.
22. "Let's Hear it for the Boy" - Deneice Williams I have danced to this song in my best friend's kitchen with a broom. It's on video somewhere. I have to include it.
23. "Let's Stay Together" - Al Green What isn't bootie shakin' about this one? You have to smile when you hear it...even if it's just a smirk!
24. "Married Man's A Fool" - Ry Cooder If you haven't heard it...find it. It's crazy and it makes me smile everytime I hear it!
25. "Mud On the Tires" - Brad Paisley I love muddin' and I love him too...so I can't help but smile!
26. "PYT - Pretty Young Thing" - Michael Jackson Talk about some serious groovin'! And I'm not that great of a dancer...but this song so covers it up!
27. "Rock With You" - Michael Jackson Likewise...this one is just something you can't stay still during!
28. "Signed, Sealed, Delivered...I'm Yours" - Stevie Wonder How can you not bust a move to Stevie? Is something wrong with you?
29. "Smoke of a Distant Fire" - Marshall Tucker Band Just plain feel good music! Enjoy it by singing along and dancing!
30. "Strokin" - Clarence Carter You can't hear it and not laugh...try it!
31. "Uptown Girl" - Billy Joel Just so damn happy you can't contain yourself! Your head will be boppin' before you even realize it!
32. "We Built This City" - Starship A favorite for reasons only my mom and I know...we'll always dance to this one!
33. "Would You Go With Me?" - Josh Turner If he's asking, the answer is yes! Oh...and the song is just too catchy to not learn the words and sing along.
34. "You Can't Hurry Love" - Phil Collins My feet won't sit still through this one. It's a favorite for on the way to work!
35. "65 Love Affair" - Paul Davis Just about one of the best! Dorky, ridiculous on a level superceding all others and genuinely cheesy! I love it! I actually have the claps all down!

I would rather listen to this "playlist" anyday than some of the other crap out there today! I was never into the grunge scene and the music had a lot to do with that. I just can't get into music that depresses me. Some might say that I just don't want to take the time to listen to the lyrics and understand the artist...and that's fine. Mostly, from music, I look to be entertained! Wham! does it for me! Always has...always will - well, mostly! ;)

I'd love to hear about your "On the Go" playlist! What do you use to get perked up?

You just can't go anywhere anymore!

What is up with not being able to go anywhere and not bump into anyone anymore? As most are aware, due to my absence of late, I've been under the weather. Well, on Sunday, I gave in to the pressure and finally made the trip to the doctor. Now, I had been in the bed (only removing myself to shower and, well, you know) so you can imagine I wasn't lookin' my finest! No makeup, hair wet, etc. Am I alone in the group of folks that just wander into the doctors office in whatever you could find in the floor? I can't be. I mean, you're going to the doctor...not a job interview. Those doctors can't be expecting you to show up in pageant attire, so be comfortable with the fact that they are used to seeing folks at their absolute worst and deal with it. You showing up bra-less and not matching is no surprise to them and they could care less...I assure you.

But, back to my original question: I show up on Sunday night at the facility to be "examined". I am (as previously stated) 'unsupported', un-matching and once my husband left - alone. My hair was atrocious, my face looked like a Krispy Kreme doughnut and I'm pretty certain the stems should've seen a razor - and that was just upon arrival. Well, you can't just go in, sit down, close your eyes and wait to hear your name called. Noooooooooooo....you have to bump into someone you know.

Now, it'd be different if it's like your best friend that you bumped into and ya'll can sit and chat. That's cool - odds are they've seen you at your worst anyway, right? You can catch up on family, school, whatever. Nope - you're going to bump into your County Commissioner. Someone who was married to a woman that you used to work with. Someone that you see on a weekly basis for things to do with your job. Ugh....why!?

Then, you're put in the position to force that polite, "Hey! How are you?" Obviously, you know the answer - you're both in the doctor's office. But, that's how it goes, right? The only saving grace you have is that they must feel as shitty as you to have gotten out of the house and show up. I hope you encounter those that don't care much for chit-chat...I hope they accept a simple, "Howdayado?" and move on. Otherwise, it tends to make your wait in that room a heckuva lot longer! (Sigh!!!!!!!)