Jenn's Little Soapbox

"I believe in Auburn and love it!"

2011-02-17T11:42:00.008-06:00

Just to think of all the events these trees have witnessed boggles the mind. They are monsters, after all. 130+ year old trees adorning an intersection in what some might call an old “college cow town”. But, they don't understand it. Or maybe they just don't appreciate it. Either way, if you're not a part of the Auburn family, you're not expected to understand. It's okay....you're not faulted.

I've heard/read so many comments: “It's not like they poisoned the Sequoyas!” “There are greater things to worry about.” “I'm sure those over in Afghanistan fighting for our freedom don't give a hoot about those trees.” “It's not like 9-11!” “Shouldn't the Homeland Security be protecting us from terrorists...not herbicides?”

All are valid statements. For most, these trees are an emotional attachment to a thriving time in their lives. Many have made the trip to the campus to ceremoniously roll the trees in toilet paper to celebrate Auburn victories. Many have continued this tradition with their children. Many have probably consumed too much and had the misfortune of using them as a leaning post, pallet or worse...a trash can.

Just to think of the number of students passing by, near or under these massive structures of nature is overwhelming. On their way to higher education. On their way to social engagements. On their way to work. On their way to get some lemonade. :) On their way into town for the week and on their way out of town for the weekend.

There's some of us that spent countless hours beneath those tress on warm spring or cool fall days with our books spread out like a Thanksgiving feast. Many of us located just south of the trees and gazed at their beauty during a game of frizbee or football. Countless used them as shelter from the rain during our commutes to and from class...they have amazing coverage! And a select few of us were asked for our hand in marriage with those 130 year old branches towering above us. ;)

No, the trees down in Auburn, Alabama on the campus of the Loveliest Village on the Plains aren't national monuments. They do happen to be monuments to the current National Champions, though. So, with victory comes great price.

The troops are still overseas, the national debt is still out of control and there are much more important things to take precedence over “some trees that would've died one day anyway”, as one Facebook user so eloquently put it. But their place in so many individual histories has not diminished over time. In fact, this event will most likely resurrect those memories.

For the individual that thought this was a good idea. I feel sorry for you. I, as an Auburn fan, don't expect anyone to adopt my thinking. I chose Auburn long ago as my team, my school and my family. And as everyone can agree, you protect your family with fierceness (some may say...that of a Tiger).

Rivalry is great. It's great for the fans, the players, the schools and the conference. This won't be the first time it's been taken too far. I recall more than one instance of family disputes where individuals are shot, stabbed, robbed or even killed. Rest assured, the Auburn family agrees that those are all greater crimes than the poisoning of trees at a University. Nevertheless, the act itself shouldn't go unpunished. And the punishment won't replace the trees, if they do succumb to the poisonous cocktail they've been fed.

But, in due time, regardless of the outcome, the memories will still remain for those that have had the pleasure of making them. And for those that haven't...a new tradition will emerge, if necessary. It's who we are. It's what we do. War Eagle!

Look who fell off the turnip truck...

2010-02-17T21:39:00.003-06:00

It's me. I admit it. I've got a few things to get off my chest. I know I've been absent for a bit, but I feel it's time to get back to it. As time permits, of course.

Have you heard about the new gimmick by SunChips? Crazy... essentially, they've decided to get on the "green" bandwagon in the hopes that folks will ignore their 'un-nutritious-ness' and instead "BUY CHIPS WITH A DISPOSABLE BAG! - IT'S THE GREEN THING TO DO". They've created a biodegradable chip bag. That's right....over 12 weeks (as the commercial says) it becomes compost for the plants and looooovvvvvveeeely tulips will rise forth from whence said bag was tossed. Exhilirating, right?

My guess...and that's all it is, a guess...is that they haven't factored in the lazy folks that will toss this bag, just like all the rest of the stuff they toss out the window - cigarette butts, tissues, Capri-Sun straw wrappers, yogurt cup lids, etc. - and until the aforementioned 12 weeks lapses we ain't gonna have nothin' but a freakin mess out there!

Ugh...perhaps I should just give it a chance, huh? We'll see who's right in the end. This really all seems like a great story from The Onion. "Biodegradable Chip Bags Replace Roadside Flowers...Until They Bloom, Anyway".

And...if you haven't seen the new "We Are the World" video, you should. I'm intrigued to know your thoughts on it compared to the original from 25 years ago. Go ahead...talk amongst yourselves!

Tweet...Tweet

2009-08-09T13:28:00.006-05:00

Got some new babies at my house!

Not sure what type bird they are, but they currently reside in a fern hanging on my back porch! It's funny how this happened...cause we lost Pluto yesterday!

Pluto was our rowdy parakeet, but we had grown to love him! He was Hallie's, a gift from Peepaw for her 4th birthday. We're not sure what happened to him, but this nest of new birdies is right outside the window where we put his cage. So, with death came life, or so it seems.

In other news....my neighbor's are about to have a new baby at their house too. Currently taking it easy, April will be bringing the little guy into the world in the next couple of weeks! We're so excited for her, daddy ~Chris~ and big sister ~Courtnee~!

Grin and Bear It!

2009-08-07T22:27:00.003-05:00

As of last night, we have a new guest at our house!

The TOOTH FAIRY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hayden lost his first tooth last night. He's seven years old and just now losing it! The permanent tooth had already broken through and I coached him through wiggling the baby tooth until it was almost ready to break free! Finally, as he was brushing his teeth, it turned sideways and I pulled it out for him! Now Hallie has been walking around trying to figure out how to get her teeth to come out...she's never to be outdone!

I've never been bothered by teeth...they're quite fascinating, in fact. So, I was glad the tooth fell out when I was around, instead of at school or somewhere else.

The fairy delivered three gold dollar coins to Hayden under his pillow and he couldn't have been more excited! "You've got to be kidding me!", he said! "Gold coins! Three of 'em! This is awesome!" It was nothing but smiles for quite some time after that! Toothless, mind you, but smiles!

Speaking of teeth...I'll be starting a new journey next week at a local dentist office and I'm too exicted about the new adventure this will most surely become! The office staff are great folks, the doctors are both outstanding and I'll be achieving one of my goals...learning something new and challenging! So, wish me luck...and here's hoping the tooth fairy is as awesome to your kids as she was to mine! ;)

Hissssssssssssss...................

2009-08-03T08:04:00.003-05:00

What do you and your neighbors do for fun?

That's my neighbor, Chris, with the rattlesnake he took down in the neighbors yard. Unnervingly so, we're seeing more of these around our neighborhood lately, and I gotta tell ya...not too many warm and fuzzies floating around with them nearby!

I'm sure they serves a purpose in the world - eating mice, etc. - but the stamina this thing had (or possibly it's will to live) was down right scary! Talk about a tough fight! Anyway, glad neighbor Dave's dogs sounded the warning and glad neighbor Chris was able to deliver the final blow...I slept a little easier.

Hayden just went through the RAD Kids program at the Sheriff's office here and he learned how to fight off strangers. I now feel the need to go over snake safety in the yard. Ugh.....

Amy Elaine Edwards (1976-2009)

2009-06-23T12:25:00.002-05:00

EDWARDS Anniston - Memorial services for Amy Elaine Edwards, 32, will be 2 p.m. Thursday, June 25, 2009, with Rev. Dwayne Borders officiating at Chapel Hill Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Ms. Edwards passed away Sunday, June 21, 2009. Ms. Edwards is survived by her mother and stepfather, Helen and Terry Scott; sister, Wendy Blissett and children, Savannah, Ellis and Embry. She was preceded in death by her father, Eugene Edwards. Ms. Edwards was a native of Calhoun County who lived in the Saks area. She attended Jacksonville State University majoring in English and the Arts. Chapel Hill Funeral Home will be servicing the Edwards family 256-820-5151

A Fond Farewell

2009-06-21T20:49:00.007-05:00

Today is Father's Day. Happy Father's Day to the daddy's out there! I did a fair bit of planning for this year's special day for the father of my children and I'm happy to report that all went well. A day on the lake in a pontoon is good for everyone's soul!

This day has never really had a lot of meaning for me - being as I grew up without a daddy in my life - but it's all the more important that my children understand the importance of it. As my children celebrate this day each year with their daddy, I hope they are grateful for a guy that is so in love with the two of them! That's not to say that my daddy didn't love me, but his non-presence has certainly left me with several bags by the door...if you catch my drift!

I'm always in awe - and if I'm being honest, often jealous - of the relationship between my daughter and her daddy. It's one that I find foreign and unrelatable. I'm delighted that she knows that relationship all the while pining for a daddy's comfort that I was never privy to nor will I ever have. I struggle to understand the dynamic that is ‘daddy and daughter’!

I have several friends that are having a tough time this father's day adjusting to life without their daddy's. I'm so sad for the loss that they feel and that I'll never quite understand. It's not comparable to the loss of a friend, pet or any other loved one. It's different. While I have experienced losing my father, I never knew him as my daddy. Therefore, this was just a passing in my family to adjust to and go on about my life with. This too, makes me sad.

Today, I was delivered the unfortunate news that my cousin (pictured above - as I like to recall her best) was killed in a car accident early this morning. I wasn't close to her; I had seen her recently. What makes my heart ache for this accident - aside from the unimaginable feeling her mother had to endure in hearing that her daughter was killed - is her life.

Growing up, this girl was everything I wanted to be. I idolized her - inasmuch as you can someone 4 years older than you. I would go out of my way to make sure I was around her. She fascinated me on so many levels. She was gorgeous, outgoing, edgy and pleasant. She had her wild side, but my mom and hers did their fair share of shielding me from that...so as not to taint my perception of her, I'm sure.

I remember staying with her for a few days and she taught me how to feed, saddle and ride a horse. I recall her dressing me up in the most insanely cool clothes, make-up and accessories during this particular stay. I was probably around 8 years old. I still have pictures she took of me once I was all dolled up! (I'll have to dig those up!)

I remember the first time I bumped into her in our high school. I was in the 8th grade and she was a senior. I remember her saying, as we passed each other in the hallway, "Jenny! I can't believe you're in high school now! I am just beside myself!" 'Beside myself'...that was pretty cool! I remember laying next to her in her room while she was studying and straining to read the information in her chemistry book. I would grow tired of trying to understand all that information and I would jump to her yearbook. I can remember running my hands over the signatures and summer well-wishes in that book and longing for a time when I was like her.

I remember when she announced to everyone that she was going to play football. We all thought she was insane...football! She went out for the team. They allowed her to go through spring practice with them. I remember the bruises. They were bad. Who does that? I remember thinking...God, she's crazy and wonderful all at the same time!

When I was 5 years old, I remember her running through our grandmother's house with me on her back. She was tossing me onto pillows in the back bedroom of the house. The last time she did, I bounced from the pillow and hit my face on the window sill. As I came up from wall with the blinding pain in my lip, I hadn't quite processed the sequence of events. All four of my top teeth were now either on the floor or dangling from my gums! She was staring at me with a look of horror. I put my hand to my mouth and saw blood and that's when the terror struck! I remember that night like it was yesterday. My mom rushed me to the hospital where my pediatrician (who is my children's pediatrician today) jerked me from my mother's arms and whisked me away to assess the damage. Imagine a 5 year old with a face covered in blood. There were no questions asked...it was a matter of figuring out what the hell happened!!! After a long evening in the ER, I told my mom that I would like to go by and show Amy so she would know I was okay. She was at her friend, Lori Howell's house and I remember her coming out to the car and I smiled my toothless grin to her! Even then, at that young age, I didn't want her to think I was upset with her.

Later on, she would find herself in a bit of trouble. She'd been in a car accident in Auburn (where I would soon find myself stomping around) and was in the hospital. The details of the accident as well as the other parties involved were about as bad as it could get. I remember my mom and I traveling down to the hospital to visit her and when we arrived, the nurses went to tell her we were there. She informed them that she didn't want to see us. I was confused, devastated and, if I'm honest, a little pissed off. I mean, we drove all the way down to see her. But, my young, teenage mind couldn't have comprehended the massive trauma (both physical and emotional) that she was dealing with at that time.

Her father (my uncle) left this world a few years back. She was unable to attend the funeral due to the fact that she was in prison. I remember her voice on the phone to her daddy and how heart wrenching it was. I remember the letter her sister read at the funeral that she had written. I remember how well versed she was in that letter and how impressed I was by her then. Even though she was in prison, I was still her biggest fan. Wow...that's amazing to me.

Her life has been no picnic. She's made some rough decisions. Decisions I don't agree with now and didn't know to disagree with then. She was my girl...the one that could do no wrong! I took heart in the fact that she adored me and I absolutely loved her!

And now she's gone. Some would say that she's at peace now. If I look back now, her life did seem to be this wrecking ball at times. She always seemed to be heading somewhere too quickly or hurriedly. She was a force to be reckoned with and for that I adored her! So, the life she lived, however tragic it may have seemed to some, was filled with nothing but adoration from me for quite some time. She was an original and my heart aches for her that she may never have felt as though she found her place.

Rest, sweet child. You're right where you can feel safe. You're with your daddy today.

(Your earthly one and your eternal one.)

Amy Edwards

1976-2009

My Horizontal Life...pales in comparison!

2009-06-17T22:37:00.003-05:00

Woah!

This book was a breath of fresh air! It was super funny and if you love anything about Chelsea Handler it's her quick wit and sarcasm! She's got it going on and I kid you not when I tell you this one kept me laughing all the way through!

It's like the juiciest parts of everyone one of your favorite books all put together in one!

Pick up a copy for yourself! You'll enjoy it and either feel really good or really bad about your sex life...depending on the circumstances! ;)

Enjoy!

Learnin' from kids - Part II

2009-06-17T21:56:00.004-05:00

I thoroughly enjoy nights like tonight.

After supper, it was decided that ice cream was in order. So, it's off to Sonic for some frozen treats.

On the way home we were canvassing some lesser travelled roads and telling the kids that they were haunted. You know the drill: going over a bridge you turn the lights off and tell them that you might hear screams, etc. So, once we'd moved on, the discussion turned into the fact that ghosts weren't real. Hallie inquired about aliens.

Hallie: "What about aliens, Hayden? Are they real?"

Hayden: "Yeah, they're real. But, they only live on Uranus."

..............An established silence before the two grown-ups in the car started snickering...............

Hayden: "What are you laughing at? They do live on Uranus!! ALIENS LIVE ON URANUS!!!!"

.............Laughing louder...............

Hayden: "It's the seventh planet."

I swear...he never amazes me at how smart he is. I had to go through the helpful sentence (My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Nine Pizzas) before I knew it was the seventh planet! But, that's not saying much, is it? After all, he did stump me with that Blasobian bit last year.

I still can't believe we were both reduced to laughter by something so juvenile.

I mean, geez...it's not like someone pooted.

Looking For Something Stronger Than Calgon?

2009-06-16T17:19:00.005-05:00

Then pick up this one! Well, maybe it won't take you away....in fact, it might just immerse you directly in it!

If you are a mom, you've gotta read this one! I picked up my copy at BAM. It's available online there and through Amazon as well. It's derived from truemomconfessions.com and it's a keeper! If you're familiar with the website, then you'll be getting approximately the same thing only in book form. It's an eye opening look into the world of motherhood and what moms feel. The website offers women the opportunity to divulge their deepest, darkest secrets regarding motherhood anonomously! There is no worry of backlash from other readers. Or, like on mommy boards, the sad "looks" and demeaning lectures on why you are or aren't breast feeding. It's an all too true look at what real moms think, feel and say (or don't say)! If you're a mom, you will identify with more than one of the quotes found in this book! And if you're not a mom, then at least you'll have stepped away learning something about the "joys of motherhood"! I read this one out of the deck today and I'm eager to hear your thoughts on it!

29 Down...and Many More to Go!

2009-06-07T19:22:00.005-05:00

Today is my 29th birthday! It's hard to believe...mainly because of all that has taken place in that time. I look at my two precious angels (7 and 4 years old) and try to imagine their 29th birthdays...and it's going to be here before I know it. The past few months since I've blogged have been quite a ride...but that's not my excuse for not blogging. I admit that I forgot my login and password and just never got around to figuring it out until a few days ago. Now that I have it, I'll be back on the blogging bandwagon, I suppose! There's much to tell, that's for sure! But, for today, I'll simply leave it at this: birthdays, after a certain point, don't bear a whole lot of excitement. I make a huge deal out of my kids' parties...more than some would, I suppose...but you only get excited about them for a short period (maybe only a 1/4 of your lifespan) so you better live 'em up, right!? But, over the past few months I've had my share of humbling experiences. My best friend's daughter has leukemia...every birthday to her (and her family and friends) is like the breath of life. A local name here, Megan Brittain, died this past week. She was a bright, vibrant, beautiful 12 year old girl that died from a form of Cancer. Her mother died only six months prior to her diagnoses..also from Cancer. That family knows all to well the importance of birthdays and what they represent. A young woman was in a car accident the other day and is now in critical condition with the possibility that she won't make it...won't make it home to her family! That seems so inconceivable! I don't mean to rain on the birthday parade, but just a little bit of info. to let you in on a little secret - I don't take my days for granted anymore! They aren't guaranteed to me for any specific length of time, so I'm choosing to spend them more wisely, more humbly, EVEN MORE HONESTLY and FREE of any undo stress that should arise! It's good to be back in the blogging world...see you soon!

Who Knew?

2009-01-10T17:37:00.013-06:00

The cows are depleting the ozone. Who knew? I mean, cows have only been on the planet for how many years?

Now, folks want to tax those farmers tending thier herds for....what? What's the motive here? What will the money from the tax on superfluous cows go toward? Will it be earmarked for education? Global warming research funding? Will it go to improve roads? WHAT? I'm just not buying the fact that it's all to save the world. Sorry.

This seems so absurd to me. I mean, these farmers are making a living providing the public with the items they need to have strong healthy bones and teeth. Holy cow!!!! How is this going to affect the "Got Milk" campaigns if the farmers are forced to "off" part of their herd for affordability? I'll tell you how...the price of products derived from moo-cows is going to skyrocket! Milk will go up. Cheese. Butter. Meat. The list goes on, I'm sure. I imagine goats aren't polluting the ozone with their gaseous nature, so we should all switch to goat cheese and milk. Or maybe, someone will come up with a milk product that looks, tastes and drinks like milk with the same nutritional value that isn't actually milk. Ha! Doubtful.

I wonder how this happens. How does it come that we blame cows and their farts and belches for the depleting ozone? I feel certain we as a people are doing a pretty good job of depleting the ozone on our own. Cows are just defenseless and easy to blame I guess.

It just seems so nonsensical...especially when the world is going to end December 21, 2012 anyway - according to Nostradamus.

(What? If you believe cows are the reason we're all going to die from the ozone opening up then you probably believe that too.)

Me, personally, I'm not sure what to believe about it all. I just know that I'm not buying into the cow theory just yet. I feel certain there are greater factors at risk here and the farmers out there shouldn't be penalized for owning livestock that may be contributing to the deterioration of the Earth's ozone with their flatulence.

Try this theory on for size: There are certainly more people on the planet than cows, right? Therefore, the amount of gaseous effect depleting the ozone would be larger coming from humans than cows, right? So, on your next income tax return don't forget to check the box marked 'Human'. That way, the federal government can hit you with a "Flatulence Tax". They'll probably base it on the size of your household. The more folks in your house, the more gas being emitted from said house. Oh...but wait! For those with acid reflux present in the confines of your home, you'll be taxed additionally for you being more likely to introduce these toxins into the air - due to your condition and all.

I foresee there being some contraption designed that we can wear over our faces (and posteriors) that will catch the erroneous odors emitted and change them into plant thriving elements. (Something like a water filter for your faucet.) There will have to be different designs for animals and humans alike. Maybe, someone else could design cool covers or faceplates to allow you to personalize your very own ozone replenishing mask! I can hear Billy Mays now - "Make your Fart Filter the envy of all your friends with these crazy covers! They'll be saying Wow! Call now and get not one, not two but three covers! One for church, one for work and one for the night on the town with that special someone. And if you call within the next ten minutes, you’ll get a set of our matching covers for your Fart Filter! One for you and one to gift to a friend!”

Crazy! What are your thoughts?

The Wonderfully Written Word...

2009-01-08T20:28:00.003-06:00

Oh my I'm a new found reader! Whoo-hoo! I started a book club - online at www.betweenthepages.ning.com - and we've only had one meeting....but I have plans to change the way we were going to do it. Here's my new philosophy on the thing: You come to the meetings, if you're in the vicinity and you bring along a book with you. It should be a book that you're okay parting with. In exchange, you will take home a book that someone else brings to swap. I have also joined SwapTree, which is what gave me the idea for changing the way we do it! This way, everyone takes home a book that haven't read!! Whatta ya think? Neat, huh? Additionally, I'm interested in feedback on what works best for everyone as far as meeting dates, times, etc. Anyway, I'm hoping to beef up our member list and get lots of books! Some of the one's I've read recently are A Million Little Pieces by James Frey, The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold, Marley and Me by John Grogan and Among the Heroes - The Passengers and Crew of Flight 93 by Jere Longman. I recommend them all for good reads and I have a drawer full of books waiting on me...so I better get busy!

Pocket Change...

2009-01-08T20:13:00.006-06:00

I've written about change on more than one occasion on my blog. Shoot, probably more than ten occasions. I'm okay with change. "It suits me just fine - in fact, it's my idea of heaven!" (Name the movie that line is from. Bonus points if you can name the actor or actress being quoted!) I took steps to make another change in my life today. I turned in my two week notice with my employers to mixed reviews. I'm optimistic about my decision and I feel, deep down (in the gut), that I'm making the right decision for me, my family and my future. Why? Because it's an opportunity to learn something new. I might fall flat on my face...but at least I'll have learned soemthing in the process. And who knows about the interesting folk I might meet on the way, huh? How can one not be excited!? So, in two weeks, I'll be headed down a different road, in a different city with a different role to play and I can't wait! I've been with my current employer for eight years (minus a brief stint as a bank teller that could not have ended sooner) and I've learned so much in that time. I have grown up a lot in those eight years there and I feel lucky to have been given the opportunities I have. My only rant here is....why are folks so gossipy? I mean, if you've already heard from somewhere else that I've taken another job, don't pretend you haven't. Especially if you're not a good liar. I mean, c'mon! What's it to ya? Anyway, here's to change and all it inspires us to be!

Idle Time....

2009-01-06T22:51:00.004-06:00

Happy New Year everybody!

Whew.....2009 blew in like a blustery day! I can't believe it's already here. My resolution: to not blink and miss '09 like I feel like I did '08. Geez...it seems like just the other day we were in Disney World...and that was Summer of 2007. I don't know how it happens, but Father Time is always zipping past me!

Seriously, as for resolutions, I learned not to make 'em. Saves me the disappointment. As I take a look back at New Year's for 2008 I see what all I didn't get done that I had secretly hoped to do and I'm a bit disappointed. (I didn't learn Spanish fluently.) But there is always 2009. What I did love about 2008 was the number of challenges I faced head on. I may not have succeeded by "industry standards" but I learned so much experiencing it all.

My main objective here is to get back into the swing of things on this blog! From my (way too nice to me) loyal readers, I'm getting hate mail about my absence. While not an excuse, I'd like to mention that there have been a lot of things up in the air on my end. I vow, here and now, to do better.

Lastly, before I dive back into my book, I'd like to draw your attention to a new blog I'm following. Check out Weather Droppings for your complete guide to local weather going on in NE Alabama.

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

2008-12-02T22:19:00.004-06:00

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.

Seasons of Change...

2008-11-19T20:24:00.006-06:00

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?

Swap What Yo Mama Gave Ya...

2008-11-03T20:32:00.003-06:00

....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!

The Great Debaters....

2008-10-06T19:14:00.003-05:00

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!

Movie Theater Etiquette...

2008-10-05T21:08:00.007-05:00

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!

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

2008-10-04T11:43:00.007-05:00

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"!

More pictures of the puppies!

2008-10-03T18:07:00.006-05:00

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!

New Babies In the House!!!

2008-09-30T19:57:00.004-05:00

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.

Between the Pages

2008-08-04T14:16:00.007-05:00

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'!

http://www.betweenthepages.ning.com/

Guilty As Charged!

2008-08-01T14:05:00.002-05:00

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!

Extreme "Forclosure" Makeover

2008-07-29T15:13:00.004-05:00

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.

What will your Final Lecture be?

2008-07-25T11:57:00.004-05:00

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.

One Creative Mama!

2008-07-24T22:39:00.004-05:00

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!

2008-07-24T11:51:00.004-05:00

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!

Font Conference

2008-07-23T09:36:00.003-05:00

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!

Vacation Wrap Up and other mind-numbing rants!

2008-07-22T23:14:00.003-05:00

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.

Vacation - Part 2

2008-07-17T22:55:00.003-05:00

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...

Vacation - Part 1

2008-07-16T21:33:00.003-05:00

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!

Proceed with Caution

2008-07-09T22:15:00.002-05:00

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?

Wordle...Sudoku for dummies!?

2008-06-30T09:59:00.001-05:00

I LOVE Wordle! It's so much fun!

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

2008-06-29T22:46:00.006-05:00

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! ;)

The Balancing Act

2008-06-26T11:33:00.000-05:00

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?

Time Flies...

2008-06-24T20:58:00.005-05:00

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!

Happy Birthday, Hayden!

2008-06-02T21:22:00.002-05:00

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!

A little Friday humor for ya!

2008-05-22T23:31:00.005-05:00

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!

2008-05-22T09:07:00.005-05:00

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!

The Losing Game!

2008-05-17T23:57:00.002-05:00

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?

2008-05-17T18:59:00.002-05:00

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?

The Unsung Heroes!

2008-05-10T12:19:00.001-05:00

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.

Happy Birthday, Hallie!

2008-05-01T23:31:00.005-05:00

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!

Potty Business!

2008-04-24T21:37:00.008-05:00

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.....

It's the littlest things....

2008-04-22T23:18:00.004-05:00

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!

April ramblings for your reading pleasure!

2008-04-17T21:40:00.006-05:00

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.

Time - It's not always on your side!

2008-04-10T20:04:00.003-05:00

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.

Out of the Mouths of Babes!

2008-04-08T22:08:00.004-05:00

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.

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

2008-04-07T20:25:00.004-05:00

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.

Ahoy!

2008-04-05T18:59:00.006-05:00

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!

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

2008-04-03T21:31:00.004-05:00

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:

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!
Boogie Wonderland by Earth, Wind & Fire - Always makes me wanna dance! Can't wait to get down to this little number!
How You Remind Me by Nickelback - Good song; great band!
You Can't Hurry Love by Phil Collins - Always puts me in a good mood...is a morning ritual at least twice a week.
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.
Survive by Jimmy Buffett - It's Jimmy...what can I say? I love the man.
September by Earth, Wind & Fire - You would think I'm some radical fan of theirs...maybe I am. Another song to get jiggy to.
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.
Victim of Love by The Eagles - The Eagles, man. Does it get any smoother?
Last Cigarette by Bon Jovi - Not my favorite Bon Jovi song, but can you really go wrong with this band? Heck no!
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.
Get the Party Started by Pink - You gotta have Pink on your IPOD. She's a straight up rocker!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Peaceful Easy Feeling by The Eagles - See #9.
California Dreamin' by The Mamas & Papas - I hate this song. I will delete it as soon as I get a chance.
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?

Just another peeve, perhaps.

2008-03-27T22:42:00.002-05:00

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!

2008-03-26T22:09:00.005-05:00

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...

2008-03-25T22:21:00.004-05:00

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.

2008-03-24T19:26:00.009-05:00

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...

2008-03-19T20:53:00.005-05:00

....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"!

2008-03-18T22:01:00.003-05:00

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...

2008-03-17T21:37:00.003-05:00

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.

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!
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!
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.
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!
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!!
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!
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!

2008-03-13T18:03:00.004-05:00

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.....?

2008-03-12T21:38:00.007-05:00

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!

2008-03-06T18:19:00.008-06:00

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.

2008-03-03T18:52:00.003-06:00

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!

2008-02-29T22:25:00.006-06:00

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!

2008-02-28T21:42:00.010-06:00

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!

2008-02-27T21:44:00.007-06:00

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!

2008-02-26T22:09:00.009-06:00

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!

2008-02-25T19:57:00.010-06:00

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!!!!!

2008-02-22T22:26:00.004-06:00

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!

2008-02-21T22:54:00.004-06:00

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!

2008-02-20T21:22:00.008-06:00

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):

"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!
"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!
"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!
"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!
"At Last" - Etta James This song always makes me think I can really sing. It's soulful, crooning and simply exquisite!
"Brown Eyed Girl" - Van Morrison Simply because I am one.
"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!
"(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"!
"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!
"Footloose" - Kenny Loggins Seriously...do I need to explain this? In a town where dancing was forbidden...he made it so! AWESOME!
"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!
"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!
"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!!!
"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!)
"Hooked On A Feeling" - BJ Thomas Simply because my son and I will sing every word! He's my singing partner!
"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!
"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!
"I Want You to Want Me" - Cheap Trick The best!!!!!!! This will actually have me singing out the windows to those passing by!
"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!
"Just Friends" - Amy Winehouse She's crazier than a shit-house rat...but she can sing! And she makes me sing along!
"Karma Chameleon" - Culture Club You can't have dorky/dancy/ridiculous music without including Boy George! I'm a fan...and that's okay.
"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.
"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!
"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!
"Mud On the Tires" - Brad Paisley I love muddin' and I love him too...so I can't help but smile!
"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!
"Rock With You" - Michael Jackson Likewise...this one is just something you can't stay still during!
"Signed, Sealed, Delivered...I'm Yours" - Stevie Wonder How can you not bust a move to Stevie? Is something wrong with you?
"Smoke of a Distant Fire" - Marshall Tucker Band Just plain feel good music! Enjoy it by singing along and dancing!
"Strokin" - Clarence Carter You can't hear it and not laugh...try it!
"Uptown Girl" - Billy Joel Just so damn happy you can't contain yourself! Your head will be boppin' before you even realize it!
"We Built This City" - Starship A favorite for reasons only my mom and I know...we'll always dance to this one!
"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.
"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!
"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!

2008-02-19T21:54:00.006-06:00

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!!!!!!!)

Wastin' Away...

2008-02-17T20:55:00.003-06:00

I apologize for the ever-so-brief hiatus. I've been sick. Turns out, my flu shot worked after all because that's not what got me down. After four days, several drugs, one double roll of Angel Soft (we never have Kleenex in the house) and two shots...I was deemed to have a bacterial infection - not the flu. That's a win, if you ask me. Another win - that neither of the kids came down with it! Whooo - hoooo! It all started on Thursday and the only time I got out of the bed from then until Sunday afternoon was to shower and use the facilities. Friday morning was so bad that I was bargaining with my mom for a catheter...getting up was that bad! Whatever this was, started out and set up in my lungs and eeeewwwww....it just got worse! So, I ventured out (for the first time in four days) today and headed to the doctor. The wait wasn't bad...they gave me two shots - which induced vomiting due to the fact that I hadn't eaten and my weakened state - and two prescriptions. So, we're good to go! I'll be 100% in no time. I'm tired of fever...I'm tired of the quarantine....I'm tired of Mucinex...I'm tired of boring TV...I miss my kids...and mostly, I'm tired of feeling like I'm putting everyone else in a bind. I'm ready to be me again. Tomorrow can't get here soon enough!

Retraction...my style.

2008-02-17T20:43:00.004-06:00

So, my husband got a kick out of the blog I posted about sick, needy husbands. So much so that he took a picture of me (at a very weak moment, by the way) while I was laid up over the weekend. Here it is:

So we, at Jenn's Little Soapbox, regret any inconvenience our previous blog may have caused.

Sincerely,

Jenn ;)

From the heart...

2008-02-13T21:06:00.002-06:00

My best friend's dad, Mike Cooper, is not doing well. I don't have details and they aren't important anyway. He has Cancer. He's been surviving it for some time now and I just got word that he's approached a pretty tough 'hill' in this battle.

Bottom line: This man and his family need to be lifted up right now. They are going through something no family should ever have to endure. They help my mission with the American Cancer Society ring true! Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back!

Keep them in your thoughts...they're the most wonderful family and their strength is truly being tested.

A struggle for normalcy amongst the flu!

2008-02-12T21:51:00.011-06:00

It's flu season. I'm not worried about me. I got the flu shot. Even if "they" are saying that the strain out this year isn't the same as the one I was innoculated against, I'm not worried. My husband has the flu. He's on night two of coughing, aching, stuffy head and fever and I gotta tell you...no one is more ready for this to be over than ME! I'm the type that wants to be left alone when I'm sick. I don't want anyone around me. I want a phone, a remote, a thermometer and a drink nearby. That's all. It's all because I am a perky, upbeat person 90% of the time. When I'm sick, I'm not that person. I don't want to burden anyone with my unhappy attitude. Nevertheless, I recognize that not everyone is like that. Case in point - my husband. Like most men, it's the end of the world when he's sick. Am I right ladies? For the most part, if a lady gets the flu it's business as usual...just with a little more attitude. Kids still have to be carted around, houses still have to be kept up, contacts still have to be made & pets still have to be cared for. The family unit (as a whole) still has to operate. But, heaven forbid a man catch a cold or, worse, the flu. The entire operation might as well shut down! Needs are at an all time high and you're #1 on the demand list. The upside...at least you're needed, right? I find it most humorous that the phrase, "Ugh...I feel like crap!" is uttered repititiously. No shit, you feel like crap. YOU HAVE THE FLU!!!!!! Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do about it. You can go to the doctor only to have him send you home on fluids and rest. But, you're probably already doing that before you head up there, right?

Just stay in bed.
Rest.
Drink lots of fluids so you don't get dehydrated.
Take Tylenol regularly - or change it up by switching between that and Motrin. Always works for the babies.
Take something for congestion if it happens to accompany your fever.

Your body is going to ache - a lot. You're doing more harm than good by trying to do anything more than recover. Perhaps the flu is the body's way of saying, "Slow down, damn it! I'm tired!"...just a thought.

Is it over yet?

2008-02-11T21:44:00.000-06:00

I'm starving for new television! I hear the writers may have finally come to an agreement on terms of whatever they are ironing out with what they deserve and all...and I couldn't be happier! My Tivo has been out of practice so long I'm afraid it won't work when it all does turn around! I hope they come to an agreement that lets them all get back to work soon. They're certainly not helping the slumping economy if they're not working and earning money, are they? Mostly, my reasons are selfish...but I'm okay with it! I miss my Grey's Anatomy! What is McDreamy thinking with Rose? Meredith needs him even though she can't express that to him! I NEED to know what is going on. Ain't it gonna be a pain in the ass of television viewers everywhere if the writer's start back to work and all of a sudden find themselves without humor, intellect or captivating material? Sssshhhhhhhhhh....we won't even think about that! Hurry back writer's - we need you!

What's a degree?

2008-02-10T21:54:00.000-06:00

A conversation over dinner this evening:

Hayden: "Daddy, why are you in college?"

Daddy: "Well, I'm trying to get my degree."

Hayden: "What's a degree?" (It's always the easy questions for him. I get questions like, "What makes a rock hard?")

Daddy: "A degree is something you get after you finish school that makes you an expert in that subject. Like, if you're going to be a teacher or a lawyer, you become an expert in that by learning all you can about it."

Hayden: "What are you going to expert in?"

Daddy: "Finance and Business."

Hayden: "Hmmmm....okay."

About five minutes later:

Hayden: "I'm gonna expert in superhero."

I love his ambition!

Reasoning...from a 5 year old!

2008-02-08T22:45:00.000-06:00

So, most of you are aware of the new 'lady friend' in my little boy's life. Her name is Gabrielle and, from what I hear, she's "all that and a bag of chips!" Still not having met this little chickie, I'm understandably skiddish. I mean, what are her intentions, exactly? Shouldn't this be discussed?

I'm kidding....partly. So, after the inaugural drawing came home introducing Miss Gabby to me, I was surprised to find out that the following week he was comtemplating a "break-up". HE'S FIVE!!!!!!!!!! I arrived to pick him up from school and the teacher tells him to "think about it before he makes any rash decisions." "What's she talking about?", I asked. "Oh, nothing.", he replied. "I'm just thinking about breaking up with Gabrielle.", he finished.

Turns out, after much poking and prodding, that his reasoning happened to be because she cheers for the wrong team. That's right...apparently, she's an Alabama fan. At our household, we pull for the Auburn Tigers (WAR EAGLE!!!!) and he saw this as reason enough that it just wasn't going to work out. He actually told the teachers at his school that his "family won't put up with that!" How hilarious is that? How's that for die hard?

Needless to say, he decided to give her another shot when she converted for him. I just might like this girl after all ;) I had to laugh at this...and I did - out loud, in fact. If only all life's decisions were that simple, huh?

Co-sleeping...it ain't for everyone!

2008-02-06T22:16:00.000-06:00

Hayden as a wee little man!

(Definitely an alternative to co-sleeping!)

In the blogosperic world we live in today, it's easy to find a chat room, message board or blog telling you all about how to raise happy healthy humans. My advice (not that anyone has asked) is to do your own thing. You were raised by someone...you are guaranteed to have picked something up from it. The hard part is deciphering the good from the bad and going from there. I bring up Co-sleeping because it's something foreign to me. I don't do this. I never have. I can count on one hand the number of times my son has ever been in the bed with me to sleep - and he was sick all three times. Now, that's not talking about the very young infancy age when he was in the same room right next to the bed and might as well have been in it with me. Those teenie babies need to be near you...heck, they've been inside you for nine months. You can't expect them to let go immediately. But, then your second one will come along - like my little princess - and letting go is exactly what they'll do. From the day she came home from the hospital, she slept in her own bed...for eight hours or more each night. I'm not making that up. She was independent from the moment my water broke. I struggle with issues like this, as we all do. I feel guilty sometimes when my kids (one or both at he same time) come all the way down the 17 stairs in the middle of the night for whatever reason (bad dream, wet bed or daddy's loud snoring) and I march them right back up to get in their own bed. I feel very guilty. I want so badly to throw them in the bed with me and cuddle next to them and hear their little hearts beating. But, the independent/determined side of me wins almost every time. I want them to be independent. I want them to be strong. I want them to be self-sufficient. I expect too much from them, I fear. Now, don't get me wrong. It's not like I can't go back to sleep once they're tucked safely back to sleep. I'm out once I'm back in the bed. It's afterwards...the next morning. I think to myself, "Would it have been so bad to let them crash for just one evening?" "What's it going to hurt to let them fight over who sleeps next to me...so close I can smell their lotion?" Nothing, that's what. It wouldn't hurt one thing. I can speak from both sides of this, I think. I was a co-sleeper with my mom for a long time. I was probably 10 or older before I started taking ownership of my own bed. Different circumstances, however. It was just she and I. No one else to consider, really. If I examine how it all affected me, I must say it was minimal. I am a very independent person...not because my mom didn't let me sleep in her bed, but because of the many other qualities, morals and values that she instilled in me. What it all boils down to, I think, is that there are different choices for different folks. For those that choose to co-sleep with one or more of their kids, they will most likely have to deal with separation issues later in life. For me - one that chooses not to - I'll have to deal with the troubling issue of "maybe if I had let them crash with me, they'd be closer to me." I'm curious about your opinions on this...don't take it as controversial. I'm just interested to know. There's certainly no worry of a right or wrong opinion here. Tell me your thoughts!

Everyone needs a Swear Jar!

2008-02-06T21:08:00.000-06:00

Click for more Funny Videos Funny Jokes This is my office! Although not very proud of this, we could probably afford to buy a keg every other day with the money we would raise! I will start a swear jar tomorrow! We will put the money toward our Relay for Life goal...who's with me?

Party in the Stomach!

2008-02-05T15:25:00.000-06:00

I hope you find this as hilarious as I did! I can't stop laughing!

The Astonishing Mrs. Henchy!

2008-02-04T19:17:00.000-06:00

Is anyone else as big a fan of Brooke Shields as I am? I love her! I remember watching Blue Lagoon as a young girl and being totally mesmerized. In high school, I was friends with a girl whose older sister (named Bonnie) looked just like Brooke. She was beautiful too! Not only is Brooke a photogenic icon, she's Princeton educated as well (Class of 1987). In my book, beauty and brains = AWESOME! I think my admiration for Mrs. Shields really came to fruition upon her book release of "Down Came the Rain". After the birth of my first child, I experienced postpartum depression and it was very refreshing to finally read something so direct and real about what I had experienced. It took a great deal of courage for her to publicly admit she wasn't that crazy about parenthood when it finally came around. It's all about chemistry, I assure you. Hormones can be a bitch! Brooke was premiered in the Feb. 3rd issue of Parade. She is moving into a new phase in her life with the premiere of Lipstick Jungle and everything else she's got going. She says, "I keep thinking I'm younger than I am." That's something I not only look forward to, but will strive toward!

What was I thinking?

2008-02-03T14:01:00.000-06:00

Why is it that going out to eat can be so traumatic for me? If it's just me, the kids and my husband, no problems. I never have issues that I can't deal with. But, throw someone else and their child in the mix and all hell is probably going to break loose!

Not all kids, mind you, but certain ones. Why do I keep agreeing to go eat with them? And it's not the kids fault. It's the parents. (Note: If the adults you're dining with are disciplining your child more than you, you should probably pay more attention.) What makes you think anyone wants to continue the evening if your kid screams bloody murder because they can't hold the "buzzer" while we wait for our table? What makes you think that my idea of a perfect evening hasn't been ruined when I have to tell your kid, not once but three times, to put their ass in the seat and stop acting like their on an episode of Romper Room? What makes you think that I don't want to call it a night after bread and appetizers when I'm stuck sitting next to my kids and your child because you "don't mind if they sit over there"? Are you completely ignorant? Never mind...I should answer my own question.

My history with restaurants is mostly pleasant. I tend to pick them apart when I arrive. No one is safe - least of all, management. I will go through the operations with a fine tooth comb. I should be a health inspector/mystery shopper. I've been reduced to cleaning the bathroom in an Olive Garden before. Don't worry; I'm not embarrassed by it. If it had been up to par when I walked in, I wouldn't have had to do it. That's just my take. Yep, owning and managing my very own restaurant would make me as giddy as a school girl. Not only am I certain that I could do it, but I'm positive that I'd do it with skill, poise and professionalism. If nothing else, you could feel comfy about eating off the bathroom floor...if you wanted to. I base my standards on what I expect. But, I digress.

As for the company with which I have chosen to dine with recently, it may have been a mistake. I can no longer take the ridiculous behavior that comes with this particular human being's parents. They take every opportunity with others as a "break" from their child...a child that is starving for attention. It is this child that makes me realize how special child care providers really are. I always knew that particular profession wouldn't suit me...but never has it been more evident than when I'm exposed to this little ankle biter. Then there comes the awkward situation when the "Dad" talks about how sorry "Mom" is at the whole parenting thing and the only reason they aren't having anymore (Hallelujah!) is because he already feels like he has two kids with Mom and child. (While I totally agree with his statement, still awkward for the rest of us.)

Perhaps it's pity that makes me agree to this once in a blue moon. But, when I can't make it through dinner without downing several Blue Moons, I think it's time to reconsider present company.

Who's That Girl?

2008-02-01T18:24:00.000-06:00

My son comes home with a plethora of information in his backpack everyday of the week! I'm overwhelmed each afternoon with junk information, lunch money requests, vocabulary words, drawings, lunchroom menus and weekly agendas. It demands a good portion of my time to pilfer through it all and determine what gets my attention and what goes into the trash file! The drawings always get my attention. From carefully crafted silhouettes of Spider-Man and Super-Man to rockets and football fields...my fridge looks like a mini Louvre (of sorts) and that's fine by me! When else will I have the joy of covering my Frigidaire?

I might have known this one was on its way...the illustrious "girlfriend" picture. So, her name is Gabrielle. I've never met her - not sure I want to, to be perfectly honest. He proceeded to tell me that she gave him a hug when they parted this afternoon. With tears streaming down my face, I expressed interest in this "special friend" - don't give me any grief...it's been a crazy day today! I'll do my best to adjust and accept this new little philly into my world...for as long as she's here, anyway.

Lipstick Jungle!!!

2008-01-31T21:05:00.000-06:00

I went to my first "screening" tonight! It was fun! The pilot episode of Lipstick Jungle was worth the energy I exerted to get there!

This show is gonna be great! I urge you all to tune in when it airs February 3rd on NBC. Starring Brooke Shields, Kim Raver and Lindsay Price, this show is coming in on the coattails of Sex and the City and it's getting off to a great start. They all three play very successful women that deal with having to answer for their decisions when their male counterparts don't! They are all dealing with their own issues and insecurities, families and fashion.

I think what I love most is Brooke Shields...of course, Lindsay Price - who you may remember from Beverly Hills 90210 as Steve's girlfriend (and later his wife) and the surprise was Andrew McCarthy! I know everyone remembers Mannequin and Weekend at Bernie's.

So, tune in and let me know what you think!

Multi-tasking home decor...

2008-01-30T21:49:00.000-06:00

Back around the holidays, my husband (bless his heart) got a novel idea. Create something to anchor into the walls of our living room to help absorb the sound, thereby decreasing the echo in the room.

Our living room has 18 foot ceilings, so noise does bounce around. The only way I take notice is that I can never enjoy watching TV in the living room because I can't ever get the volume right. I'll have it loud enough to hear while I'm in the recliner, but it's way too loud to those entering the room. So, I retreat to the bedroom for TV 99% of the time...you know, for arguments sake. Sigh...anyway, so being the engineer he is, he came up with something we could "build".

Basically, it consists of a 4'x4' piece of plywood, foam backer board, lots of glue, quilt batting and material. Now, multiply that by four...cause that's how many we made. Sounds simple enough, right? Well, hanging them was a whole nother issue. I suck at math. So, I was automatically on the manual labor side of this endeavor. Nothing like perching yourself atop a 12 foot ladder and trying to "muscle" a 4x4 material covered piece of plywood up over your head and try to ring the anchor in the wall with the hanger on the back of the "creation"! Just ask my sister-in-law. She and I were the lucky birds doing the perching!

Nevertheless, they are up. I don't gather that they muffle much noise, but they certainly add something to the blank wall they now adorn. My neighbor refers to them as "Sound Barriers". He said anyone that lives with me would have to come up with something to absorb all the noise I create. Great...now I'm paranoid that he's seen me at my redneck-iest (screaming at the kiddies in the yard!) No worries, though. I am loud. Always have been and most likely always will be. I hate to say this, but it's just the way I'm wired. :)

I wanna be cool!

2008-01-29T21:51:00.000-06:00

Every night as the kids go down for the night, I lay their clothes out for the following day. I've developed this as a habit, not only from my mom as I was growing up, but out of necessity for the morning routine. They're climbing into bed and I'm placing their clothes strategically at the foot of the bed. It really speeds things up in the morning and it helps stave off arguements about who wants to wear what when we should be heading out the door.

Tonight, as I was performing the ritual, I laid out Hayden's jeans. I checked with the "weather man" for the next day's forecast and chose a long sleeved shirt to accompany those jeans. I approached the head of the bed for a kiss and hug and he stopped me short.

Hayden: "What shirt did you get for me?"

Me: "Your red one with the sports balls on it."

Hayden: "Well, can you please let me wear a cool shirt?"

Me: "A cool shirt? I thought that one was cool. What's wrong with that one?"

Hayden: "Nothing, I just really wanted to wear a cool one."

Me: "Well, which one is cool?"

Hayden: "Well, is my Bains Gap one clean? It's a cool one."

He was referring to a shirt he has with 'GAP' on the front. Already he's enamored by the brand name items and he's only five years old. The funny thing is, he called it his 'Bains Gap' shirt. 'Bains Gap' is the name of a road near our house. We take this road often because it's a quick shot to Anniston over the old Ft. McClellan. My little man is more aware of his surroundings than I take notice, huh?

Ode to the Grocer!

2008-01-28T23:04:00.000-06:00

Please allow me these few precious moments to thank you…and I mean really thank you.

As a little girl (like many at a young age) I wanted so badly to be a cashier. I loved the idea of scanning the items, taking the money, using the register and bagging the groceries. (So strange that nowadays I desire a profession in the hospitality industry…but that’s for another blog!)

So, I thank you, local grocer - which shall go unnamed to protect the innocent – for making my dream come true this evening. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for employing young, ignorant teenagers who scan my items with such disdain even I no longer love life. And, also for teaching them the thing to do when they see a young mother of two struggling to weave her ridiculously overloaded buggy down the isle is to not even move their cart of ‘items being returned to the shelf’. No, no…please, finish your phone call first, “Bret”. I’ll just stand here and age.

(Sidenote: As my children grow up and get jobs of their own, I hope that society doesn’t alter so much so that being on your cell phone while stocking groceries is acceptable. Seriously, the only person important enough to call you at work when you’re sixteen is your mama…and then, by God, you better answer. Am I right?)

In addition, I’d like to personally thank you for allowing me the privilege to bag my own groceries. I was certainly feeling sub par in the challenge department (seeing as how all I did was get out in the cold and brave your supermarket in heels with two kids in tow). Bagging groceries was just what I needed to relieve my stress. Perhaps I’ll work it into my routine on a weekly basis? It was also a nice touch to have 10+ trainees standing at register 3 (me at register 4) and witness this tacky, yet somewhat comical, display of errors as I tried to bag my items correctly and according to placement. I mean, you can’t bag hamburger meat and grapes together, right? I feel that they may have picked up on some pretty important customer service skills while standing there popping their gum, texting their friends and rolling their eyes. Say it with me now, “That’s not my job!” Goooooooood! And if that wasn’t enough for them, they can just tune into my cashier “Tiphany’s” grand attitude about it all. She’ll have you perky in no time! I might have had sympathy for their acne ridden selves if I didn’t stand before them with my “bindi” in place.

So, again, I thank you. Thank you for helping me see the error of my ways. Thank you for proving that my decision to come to you and avoid the long lines at my local discount store that sells tires and groceries was WRONG!!! At least there I can do self checkout and get the real rush from playing cashier! You know…minus the money and all.

Up yours….truly!

It's all about making her laugh...

2008-01-26T22:27:00.000-06:00

So, I recently visited one of my favorite blogspots, List of the Day, to find that he had comprised a list of top female celebrities over 40. It's great! I'm inspired to put a twist on it and get your opinion!

My list shall be comprised of those that bust my gut!! They might not be hotties by the standards of Tinsel Town but they make me laugh...and that wins my heart over looks anyday of the week! In no particular order, we have....

Vince Vaughn

You've seen him in Dodgeball, Wedding Crashers and Old School. He's not your textbook hottie...but his dry humor and quick wit get me everytime. I wouldn't kick him out of bed. ;)

Drew Carey

He has the best laugh...the kind that makes you start laughing - even if what he's laughing about isn't funny. His standup is my favorite! And I bet he'd keep you warm too!

Adam Sandler

He is awesome in The Wedding Singer. So cute...you just want to squeeze him! And doesn't he have a great smile?

Tyler Perry

AKA Madea...he's great!

David Spade

Two words x 3 - Joe Dirt, Tommy Boy, Black Sheep. Don't you just want to love him?

Steve Carrell

To date, no one has made me laugh or cry harder than this man in The 40 Year Old Virgin! He is wonderful!

Will Ferrell

From Ricky Bobby to Ron Burgandy...Janet Reno to Alex Trebec. Either you love him or you hate him...I love him. He's not afraid to look like an idiot...and that's sexy!

Rob Schneider

My favorite to date has to be The Benchwarmers...but he's great all-around. And I bet his laugh is great too!

Wayne Brady

Whose Line is it Anyway? One of my favorite shows...also starring Drew Carey.

I know there are some great one's I've left off...who are your favorites?

Inspiration for the young & determined!

2008-01-25T23:26:00.000-06:00

I am a huge Napoleon fan…Dynamite not Bonaparte. When this movie came out I was blown away. It was artistic, stupid, funny and charming. One of my very faves! I have a new fave! If you haven’t seen this, please do. I won’t spoil anything by discussing the details of it….just see it. It’s on Pay Per View and Dish on Demand right now. Seriously…it’s two hours of utter hilarity! I want to know what you think!

My tribute!

2008-01-24T21:29:00.000-06:00

In honor of the passing of Mr. Ledger, I thought I’d compile a list of peeves. I shall call it, 10 Things I Hate About You. YOU will refer to the action that is being done, not the person doing it. So, take no offense if you’re guilty.

I hate panty lines. HATE!!!!! It drives me absolutely crazy to see them. With all the modern options out there for feminine undergarments, find something that is seamless, barely there or thong-ish. If none of these options suit you, wear larger britches or go commando.
I can’t stand lipstick on a cup. Coffee cup, mug, glass…whatever. It seems tacky to me.
I hate unpainted toenails. I do not make exceptions on this. Please, please, please people. Paint those babies. It’s the decent thing to do.
I can’t stand it when the toilet paper is replaced incorrectly on the roll. It should always roll over, not under. ALWAYS!
I can’t stand it when someone’s pants leg is not over their shoe. If they’re walking around with it tucked into their shoe and they don’t even realize it, I have to ask how aware they are of their surroundings.
I hate for my side of the bed to be warm before I get in it. If someone has been sitting on my side of the bed, I can’t go to bed until it cools off. Same goes for my pillow.
I hate when someone borrows my chapstick/lipgloss and gets their own lipstick all over it. I will throw it away every time.
I hate to hear individuals misuse words in sentences. For instance, your boss tells you that you “unconsciously” do something when they really mean you “subconsciously” do it. You don’t do anything when you’re unconscious. DUH!
I can’t stand people that make excuses. I would rather hear a screaming child than excuses. Excuses do nothing but make me mad….they coincide with a negative attitude and the two hand-in-hand are insufferable.
Finally…those folks that walk around feeling important when their cell phone rings and then stick around to talk (loudly) to the person on the other end. Odds are, no one in the room is on the phone with you. So, we don’t want to hear what you’re saying.

These are just a few of mine. I have plenty more where those came from. Perhaps for another blog. Anyone got anything stranger?

Moments of Truth, huh?

2008-01-23T22:19:00.000-06:00

Teambuilding activities are a fun thing for me. You know what I’m talking about…fall back and trust that your ‘crew’ will catch you. Or, pass the orange under your chin to the person next to you – no hands allowed. I love this sort of thing! Call me a dork if you’d like…I’m fine with it. The cheesier the game the better, in my opinion. Bottom line, I want everyone to walk away learning something new about the folks they work with and even learn to appreciate the intricacies. The last time we did this at my office it was my groups turn to come up with a ‘teambuilding’ strategy, I took the approach of getting to know each other a little better. I felt certain that everyone in the office could agree that we take each other for granted because we don’t really know each other away from work. It went well. Learned a little about folks I didn’t know. For instance, there were three folks out of twenty-five in the office that were only children. The twist was that these three were also the only to have tattoos. Perplexing, huh? I thought so. So, tonight this show debuted – The Moment of Truth. It aired after American Idol on Fox. The format is: Lucky guy/girl sits down in front of an audience. They are asked 21 questions (of the 50 questions they previously answered while attached to a lie detector) in front of a few friends and an audience of strangers. They answer these and if their answer on air matches what the lie detector test said they answered previously, they can win money. Neat, huh? It all made me wonder, how many of us would be honest when asked? I mean, if you’re asked a question like, “Have you ever gone through someone’s personal items at work without their knowledge?” I’m pretty sure that everyone would have to say yes and shouldn’t feel uncomfortable about that. It’s human nature…and it’s not like they’re going to ask you specifically who. So, technically you’re safe. Right? But, when the question arises, “Is the reason you haven’t had children because you don’t see yourself with your spouse in five years?” it’s a bit tougher. Especially when he/she is sitting in the studio staring back at you. It poses the question – “Are we honest?” I’m a pretty open book. There isn’t a whole lot that folks can’t ask me. And if it happens to be one of those few things….I’ll elect not to answer you. No hard feelings. I just probably don’t trust you to respect me, my information or my decision. I try not to make it a habit of judging folks. I’ve never been in their shoes. Likewise, I don’t make it a habit of conversing with those that are choosing to judge me. It’s nothing personal…I just don’t have to deal with it. I put enough pressure on myself so I don’t feel like I need anyone else’s. Or, are we honest to a degree? Are we honest to keep from hurting someone’s feelings? Do we lie out of convenience? Do we lie just because we’re pretty sure we won’t get caught? All sorts of interesting questions arise out of this. This show isn’t groundbreaking. It’s been played, in theory, at slumber parties across the world for many years – that’s right! Truth or Dare. The only difference…you have a choice to pick dare and risk having to run around the house naked. Sometimes that might be the better choice…depending on who’s at the sleepover!

A little office humor to brighten your day!

2008-01-22T15:18:00.000-06:00

glumbert - Bad Day at the Office

The techno world in which we live!

2008-01-21T21:13:00.001-06:00

Tonight, my husband and I had an evening to wine and dine ourselves. On the agenda for the evening was dinner and a movie – boring, maybe. But, that’s enough for me.

We made it to dinner, but not the movie. It was decided that we would catch a film through Dish on Demand (Technology extraordinaire). We headed to dinner and took our time. We weren’t rushed. I didn’t have to take anyone to the potty. No one spilled their drink…wait, Brent did. But, only a little. There was no whining about crayons or the lack thereof. Nope…Granny had the kids. I took comfort in the fact that they were safe and sound with her at home, bathed and in PJ’s.

We were halfway through the appetizer when I got the call…all of you with parents of the baby boomer generation know the one I’m talking about!

Me: Hello?

Mom: Hey! We need help.

Me: Oh. What’s wrong?

Mom: We can’t get the DVD to work in your room.

Me: Why don’t you watch it in Hayden’s room or the living room?

Mom: We want to watch it in your room – it’s more fun. Your bed is bigger!

Me: Well, here’s what you have to do…

I proceeded to explain the process of switching the receiver to the correct setting, changing the channel on the TV to AV2 and making sure the DVD player was on, not the VCR. Shortly after that, Ratatouille was in surround sound!

You can’t help but laugh at all this! Heck, I’m even guilty of being technologically illiterate. Once it’s all setup in my house, we have to have a run-through of how things operate and what buttons on which remotes get me to Grey’s Anatomy on Thursday nights. DVR was a whole nother demon I’m proud to say I tackled! But, it wasn’t so long ago that I remember the only thing you had to do to get a movie going in my house was turn the VCR on. Moving a TV from one room to another didn’t take an act of Congress and it was so simple an 8 year old could do it.

Not anymore. This Hi-def world we live in today provides us with clearer pictures, better sound and wider screens. But, unless you have an electrical engineering degree from Auburn University, you probably can’t get any of it to work!

I laugh at my mom. My in-laws are the same way. They’ll go out of town and call my husband with, “Your mom can’t get the satellite working! Tell her what she’s supposed to be doing!” But, because it’s the latest and greatest, we want it. Nevermind that we don't know how to use it!

I can only imagine the horror that awaits me as my son rolls his eyes and says, “Give it here, mom! I’ll do it.” He’ll probably walk away annoyed and laugh at me with his friends. They’ll all joke about how they can’t figure out how we’ve raised them this far. They’ll throw in that they can’t imagine cassettes and having to listen to an entire set just for the one song and God knows computers will have far surpassed us by then…but that’s part of it, right? Living, learning, growing and being made fun of. Yep, that day when I no longer know more than them is just around the corner. I don’t look forward to that!

Until then, I’ll continue to bask in the glow of being the one that was on the other end of the phone that got Ratatouille working! Because right now, I’m still the hero…and that’s good enough for me!

Tragedy in your own backyard.

2008-01-20T13:17:00.000-06:00

I awoke this morning to hear some news from my husband that I found most disturbing. He’s into weather. Way into weather. He’s part of a weather blog that James Spann is associated with. I won’t get into the details because honestly, I don’t know what they are. He’s always joking that someday “there’s gonna be something interesting on that blog” that I’m going to want to know about. Unfortunately, he was right today. The lead into the information on the blog was James Spann saying he was finding it hard to concentrate on weather because of the news of Rick Burgess’ son drowning. I’m just beside myself. For those that don’t know, Rick Burgess is one half of Rick & Bubba…popular radio personalities here in Alabama. They are syndicated all over the Southeast, however. (I used to be an avid listener before I got my IPOD. Now, I rarely turn the dial at all.) From reports I’ve read this morning, this was a tragic accident in their own backyard. Bronner Burgess was two years old and full of life! It was an accidental drowning and there was a phone call to 911. I can’t even begin to imagine the horrible feelings that they are all dealing with now. I was at my neighbor’s house last night and they have contractors coming in February to get started on their pool. We were discussing cost, maintenance, etc. and someone brought up a fence. My husband posed the question, “Why do you need a fence?” and I quickly retorted with the fact that I wouldn’t want kids falling in - my own or anyone else’s. How very bizarre that while we were discussing this topic, the very reason for discussion was taking place less than 200 miles from me. My heart aches for the Burgess family. They are local celebrities. At this time they need privacy and prayer to try and make sense of all that has happened. I hope they find themselves showered with both. As a mother, I’m speechless. Sherri, Rick and their four other children have all the sympathy I can muster.

Just when you think you're different....

2008-01-19T16:20:00.000-06:00

It’s been one of those great days…where I’ve played with the kids, watched interesting things on TV, made plans for dinner and now getting to watch my favorite movie of all time – Hope Floats. It snowed today…so that was fun. My miniature Mr. Snowman Potatohead was awesome! My roast will be divine this evening and I’ve already hit on the fabulousness of my movie! But, let me tell you about the interesting things on TV today. I’m a fan of searching the guide to find out what's coming on. I was browsing and saw that “My Big Redneck Wedding” was on CMT. The title alone was enough to reel me in. So, I watched it and laughed. But, what came next was so worth the wait! I love countdowns! There is just something about the anticipation that builds as you wait to discover the lucky individual/place/record that makes it to #1! So, after the Redneck Wedding show was a Top 20 Redneck Moments! Honestly…I’ve never laughed so hard and felt so at home in all my life! One of the moments was the song "Convoy" by C.W. McCall. I have this song on my IPOD. My little boy loves it and knows just about every word! Another member of the countdown was Hee Haw. My grandmother and I used to watch Hee Haw every week! One of CBS’ finest hours, if you ask me! Gretchen Wilson’s Redneck Woman song was also on there. I have her album on the pod as well. The Dukesfest, that was started in 2001 was paid a tribute on the countdown, of course. And, not to spoil the ending for anyone that might be planning to tune in for the next airing, Jeff Foxworthy was recognized with the #1 spot! I’ve seen him in action at the Amphitheatre in Birmingham. (Used to be Oak Mountain – now Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre). Enjoy…if you decide to tune in. It’s a good one. And as a bonus there were several folks from Alabama cited throughout the show. One was from Oxford and one from Alexandria. I don’t know them…but pretty dang cool that they made the show!

Changes in Attitudes!

2008-01-18T21:30:00.000-06:00

May 1st, 2005 was a monumental day for me. That’s the day my daughter was born. Now, that’s not to say that May 23rd, 2002 (the day my son was born) wasn’t life changing…it was different. I look at it this way: the day my son was born was a whirlwind of activity. I was unsure as a new mommy. I was suffering from the baby blues. I was extremely emotional and scared to death. On top of all that, I was trying like hell to make sure no one saw any of that. I wanted to be that happy-go-lucky person. I wasn’t. Eventually, I was….but not at first. In the early morning hours of May 1st, my water broke and she was on her way. Everything changed then. Labor and delivery were a piece of cake and there she was. What changed, you might be asking: I became a morning person. Has this ever happened to anyone else? I mean, I’ve never been a morning person. Ask my friend Kristin about me in high school – she’ll tell you stories of me spending the night with her. The morning would go something like this: Her - up at the butt crack of dawn getting ready, checking email, making breakfast, etc. Me - still asleep. I would have my lazy butt in bed until the last minute. With 20 minutes to go before we were to depart from home, I would jump in the shower, and we would be headed to school – Kristin in perfect hair, matching wardrobe and full tummy and me with wet hair, half dressed and eating a toaster waffle on the way. I know this drove Kristin crazy - so I'm sorry! I was usually ready for school by third period. And it would probably be wise to not speak to me until then either. Sigh…this was me. I went to Auburn…same scenario. Forget those 8am classes. Wasn’t gonna make it. Didn’t make it. I got married….still the same - not very friendly in the AM. I’ve always been this way. My mom used to have to drag me from the bed and put my feet on the floor to get me moving – which infuriated me, by the way! I would stroll into work and it was just commonly known that Jenn didn’t have much to say until about 10AM. Nothing personal…just not awake yet. Now, once 10:30 rolled around and I had a biscuit in me, look out! Boisterous Jenn would be all over the place. I had my son and that didn’t change. The only difference was, I wasn’t getting any sleep! But, when she came along, it changed. I can’t explain it. I’m still known to sleep WAY in on weekends or when the opportunity is there, but the difference is, if I’m awakened early, I’m not that pissed off anymore. Perplexing, huh? Don’t get me wrong, it’s a change I’m glad took place in me. But, how? Did my age have something to do with it? Was it the awareness that my three year old little boy would be curious about his new baby sister? What was it? Perhaps I’ll never know exactly why. But, I can say that it’s glaring evidence that folks change - happens everyday!

Changes in Latitudes, right?

2008-01-17T20:52:00.000-06:00

Change is hard. It’s inevitable. It happens to everyone. Change is probably the most difficult thing to manage. But, it happens. There’s not a whole lot you can do about it. You have to know yourself well enough to know how you deal with change. Do you welcome it? Do you embrace the idea of change and look at it as an opportunity to try or learn something new? I embrace change. I got married at 20 years old. In fact, I had only been 20 for 17 days when I said ‘I do’. I look back on that now and wonder what on Earth made me think I knew who I was at 20. I had my first child at 21 and my second at 24. All of these milestones in my life helped me learn about myself. Not only that, but they changed me. I’ve heard people say that they are happy to report, at 30+, that they’re the exact same person they were 10 years prior. It would make me sad to say that. It would break my heart to think that I hadn’t grown or learned or broadened my horizons or perspective from the challenges I’ve faced. In fact, I’d be a little ticked off, to tell you the truth! What did I go through it all for, if not to learn something? Change is in the air. I can feel it. In fact, it’s been lingering for a while now. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but it’s just around the corner. I’m excited to see what change has to offer. I’m intrigued to find out how it’s going to introduce itself. I feel mostly that this change is going to occur in my work life. Perhaps partly I’m longing for change in my work life. Who knows? Regardless, I’m ready. I recently came across two different articles having to do with business that included statements I found to be profound. One was, “You can’t expect your employees to get excited about selling your product if you don’t show interest in what they get excited about.” Great, right? Basically, if your only interest in your employees is whether they do their job and make their numbers, you won’t have very motivated employees. Think about it! The other statement was, “People don’t leave good companies. They leave bad managers.” Truer words have never been written. All that aside, change is gonna happen. I encourage you to approach it head on with a positive attitude. Maybe, just maybe, you’ll take something away when all is said and done.