Luanne @ Fifty-Four

Being Happy Where You Are

2012-01-30T19:51:00.000-06:00

I am currently spending a few days at a condo on the beach in Ft. Lauderdale. Outside on the balcony, I have a beautiful view of the ocean. If I get up early enough in the morning, I can see the cruise ships coming into port, and in the later afternoon, see them leaving. I have to admit that sometimes I'm a little wistful, wishing that I were leaving on a cruise.

But I quickly let that thought pass through my brain, because if I spend any time thinking about it, then I miss the beauty of where I am. Or, as Buddha said,

"Be where you are; otherwise you will miss your life."

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Today's blessings: zero day; contributions to the 3-Day

A Gift Named Loren

2012-01-29T06:39:00.001-06:00

Yesterday when I got up at crack-o-dawn-thirty, I wasn't in the mood to do a 5K. I wasn't feeling all that great, and I didn't want to go and do anything. But I just kept going through the motions of getting dressed, taping the ankle, eating something, and forcing myself to keep moving.

As I put on my trusty Garmin watch (thanks 4-evah to Kat and Sarah for the rec), I saw my walk/run timer. This gadget is an essential to the Galloway training method - a way of running races (and certainly an improvement over my "jog until you can't anymore and the limp to the finish" method). I've had the timer gadget for awhile, just waiting to try it out. I brought it for this race, thinking maybe I'd try it. Instead, this morning I purposely left it in the drawer.

About an hour later, I was at the start line of the 5K. I had no plan, except to finish. The race started, and I started jogging. Once I got that out of my system, I started walking. I noticed a lady in a blue shirt beside me and heard the beeping of her walk/run timer. I jogged a little and passed her, and then saw/heard her again a bit later.

I noticed she wasn't wearing ear buds, so I thought I'd get nosy. I asked her what her walk/run time was. She told me, and I asked her if she would mind if I followed her, that I wanted to try this method, but just hadn't. She said that would be fine, and I went along with her and her beeps.

It was great. The 5K went quickly, in part due to the Galloway method, but mostly because I made a new friend. I found out that she was a teacher who hoped to teach overseas. She had done the Breast Cancer Half-Marathon last year in Jacksonville, which was when she started with walk/running. We commiserated about teaching and races, and soon we were at the finish, where we "ran it in" together. The only thing I regret was that I never asked her name. It wasn't until after the race when I searched her race number that I found out her name was Loren.

I started the race out thinking it was not going to be a good one. Instead, God gave me a gift. He put Loren in my path so that I could experience the walk/run method from someone who was experienced and who was at a pace I could follow. He made sure we had things in common so we could pass the time and make the miles pass quickly. Once again He wanted me to know that He cares about every aspect of my life, and gives me wonderful gifts when I least expect them.

It was a good race, and I'm thankful to God for every step of it!

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Today's blessings: Watching the marathoners from my window; phone chat with Marilyn; brunch at Original Pancake House with Steve

A Lesson In Self-Esteem - Part Deux

2012-01-28T16:23:00.002-06:00

After this morning's 5K and the obligatory calorie-laden breakfast, Steve and I headed to the beach (it helps that the 5K ends there). I won't go into details about the difficulty of standing in the "public" beach bathroom stall, attempting to wedge my sweaty, pudgy body into my "one-piece-might-cover-some-of-you" swimsuit made by Nashville Tent and Awning. That's a tale for another time. This is a story about other people's bathing suits - or lack thereof.

Anyhow, once I had all my squidgy parts tucked into my bathing suit, I headed out to meet Steve. We found Clarence, who rents Steve chairs and an umbrella (for me - I don't like the sun. Or the beach, for that matter. Why do I go? Hello married life!). We get all set up and I settle down for my post-5K nap. At some point I hear "pssst" from Steve's chair.

Because we are fifth graders, Steve says, "Look over at the chair over there." I do, and notice Madam reclining in her chair, getting some sun. Only she's topless. Now, I've been to South Beach before, and this is not some new sight However, Madam's bazooms look like two water balloons perched on her chest - flattened. Let me say at this point, I am not trying to criticize Madam's decision to suntan her boobs (I was hoping that she did use sunscreen on her nips, as I think that would be painful later this evening). I am simply relaying this story to say that I've discovered the person that would probably appreciate the shower in yesterday's lesson, because she apparently has the self-esteem to bare it all.

And then, as if I needed further illustration on the fact that Madam is perfectly happy with her body, she sat up. And although her back was to us, it was evident that she was not concerned with stuffing her body into some sort of straight-jacket bathing suit. And yes, I took a picture - some things need photographic evidence!

Not to worry though, I'll still be squeezing into my swimsuit - even if I have to grease up to do it!!

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Today's blessings: 5K with blue shirt lady; breakfast at Big Pink and lunch at Serendipity 3 with Steve; upgrade at Marriott

A Lesson In Self Esteem

2012-01-27T17:36:00.000-06:00

I know it is important to feel good about oneself, physically and emotionally. For some people, that may be easier than other people. For me, at my age and size, feeling good about my physical appearance is a work in progress. Last night's hotel room did little to help (I won't bother to explain why we are staying in three different hotel rooms for the next three nights).

Here was the issue with last night's room - the shower. If I were to stand on the teeny-tiny balcony outside our room, I could see clear through to the toilet. And by that I mean I could see through the SHOWER, through the TOILET CLOSET DOOR, to the actual toilet. In other words, the shower has CLEAR GLASS WALLS.

Yes, I have been married 6 billion years. Yes, I have been sans clothes before. But somewhere in the last billion years, I have decided that my being nekkid needs to remain where it started - in the dark. But just in case you want to plan your next bathroom overhaul, here are some pictures to get you going:

The view from the balcony The view from the toilet

Oh, and if you need to visit the facilities in the middle of the night, bring a flashlight, because the light that enlightens the toilet also lights up the shower, WHICH HAS GLASS WALLS. In other words, you will be waking the sleeping person in the bed, which if being blinded by the sight in the see-thru shower wasn't enough, flipping the lights on in the middle of the night should do the trick!

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Today's blessings: new hotel ready upon check-in; great beach view; nice volunteer at expo; lunch at Shake Shack with Steve

Back In The Air Again

2012-01-26T18:26:00.000-06:00

In order to get to our hotel today, we chose to fly in an airplane. Mainly because it was too far to drive. Our limit is Orlando, and this was a bit past that. I haven't flown in many months, mostly by choice, and because our recent trips have been more cost-efficient to drive rather than fly (at least according to my own calculations).

I don't like flying. It's probably because I am not in control. Or because it's not the way I would choose to die. Or because I don't like thinking about what I might be thinking about as my plane plummets to wherever it might plummet to. I get extremely pre-flying nervous. And since I don't really drink that much or do the appropriate drugs, I don't have a lot of resources with which to deal with the nervousness.

It doesn't help if there is any iffy weather anywhere in our flight path. In Nashville, there were forecast showers and possible thunder. As in storms. Believe me, if I'm about to get on a plane, I suddenly become a meteorologist. This, of course, does not assuage my nervousness.

Anyhow, we made it safely to Ft. Lauderdale, with only a small amount of rain-related turbulence. The flight was fairly smooth and safe, and our flight attendant was very nice and amiable. Now I just have to contend with the flight home next week.

Wonder if Amtrack can lay down some track to Nashville before then?

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Today's blessings: smoothish, safe flight; hotel ready upon arrival; LuLu's Bait Shack with Steve; lazy afternoon in front of the television; Steve bringing dinner back to his lazy-butt wife

It's That Time Again ...

2012-01-25T20:22:00.001-06:00

I'm headed to Florida, but not Disney World - that would be in four weeks. I'm going to do a 5K, but not a half-marathon - that would be in two weeks (and two weeks after that). My plan is to pack just enough clothes so that I will probably have to wash clothes every other day - that is, if I even bother to change clothes every day.

Now all I have to do is get started packing. When does my flight leave?

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Today's blessings: Pinkberry and park time with Lindley; Maribeth's safe flight to see Mathieu; postcards coming in for breast cancer walk; Udderly Pink ladies getting great prizes for our silent auction; cruise dates change

May I Have The Envelope, Please?

2012-01-24T15:04:00.000-06:00

I have some very talented friends. Some paint, some quilt, some cook, some sew, some leap tall towers with a seemingly small jump, some sing and dance, some do a smattering of all of these, and some are just quite clever. Today I'll just show you one example.

I've already told you about Princess Half-Marathon weekend and the Karens. That weekend also happens to be the night of the Oscars, so naturally it would behoove us to have our own version of an Oscar party - especially since we already have tutus (never mind the fact that we will have wogged 13.1 miles in them earlier in the day). The Karens are sharing a room and volunteered to have our Oscar party in their room (and supply the necessary party eats and drinks).

Today, which just happened to be the day the Oscar nominees were announced, I received my official Oscar party invite from Tall Karen (not to be confused with British Karen):

It arrived in its own box addressed to Steve/Luanne "Bogie and Bacall" Davidson, and inside was my very own Oscar. I received the Best Director Award for "Wogging - On Your Ankles vs Feet." Since my award is not part of the televised awards, I thought I would go ahead and share my acceptance speech with you:

Thank you for this much deserved award. My ankles, though they are still pissed as h@## at me, also thank you. I would like to thank the manufacturers of all the ankle wraps, ankle tapes, extra-extra-extra-strength/long-lasting/rapid release/dissolving gel cap Tylenol, and big-girls socks that go over all the ankle wraps/tapes/swolled-up ankles. I would like to thank all those little people who stopped to help me all those times that I twisted my ankles (one or the other or both) and went down to the ground, to see if I needed help, especially that poor lady at Coronado Springs who looked more scared than I did. I hope that one day after they invent and install my Jaime Sommers Bionic Woman (google it) ankles, that I will be able to start the Luanne Davidson Institute for the Ankle Impaired. Lastly I would like to thank Nannie, my grandmother, for telling me a long time ago that I had weak ankles like her. If only I had inherited her boobs instead, I might have had a different career.

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Today's blessings: 4 miles with KB; Oscar invite/award in the mail; updating 3-day and race scrappys; 2 breast cancer dedication post cards; MB bringing me lunch

Divine Intervention

2012-01-23T20:25:00.000-06:00

I am so thankful that God looks after me and guides me when I am too ignorant to know any better - or at least oblivious to the obvious. Case in point:

This coming weekend we are headed to Miami where Steve will run the Miami Half Marathon. I've done this half before, but had decided a long time ago not to do it this weekend. However, today I had reason to look through my race scrapbooks and was looking at the photos of the years I had done this race. I started thinking "Well, maybe I should go ahead and do it anyway." I was thinking this even though I knew with my bum ankle that staying off this weekend would be better for the two important half-marathons that I have planned in February. But nevertheless, I kept pondering whether I should do the Miami Half.

A short time later I got on the computer to read my email. One of today's emails was from the Miami Half people announcing that the half WAS SOLD OUT!! In other words, even though God was telling me no, no, no, He knew I was not listening so well. So He just slammed that door shut!

Thank you God, for knowing me so well and taking care of me! My prayer is that I listen and act accordingly next time!

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Today's blessings: Target stalking, moving couches, and reassembling coffee tables with Maribeth; Princess Weekend planning; Udderly Pink girls working hard on fundraisers; emailing with Madeline

Best Team Ever!!

2012-01-22T21:15:00.002-06:00

We finally all made it to a meeting at the same time, with matching shirts (well, almost) and actually had a camera (even though one was had no battery left and the other was running on battery fumes). We made plans for our big fundraisers - Bingo for Boobs in March and the Boobalicious Yard Sale in April. We still have lots of room for more team members - just go here. We'd love to see you in San Fran in September!!

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Today's blessings: Six miles and Big Bad Hash Browns with KB; donuts with Steve, Sam, Lynnette, and Lindley; Udderly Pink meeting with the girls

I Got A Pedicure Today

2012-01-21T22:45:00.001-06:00

This was not it.

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Today's blessings: breakfast at Shoney's with Steve; Lindley time; Molly's Elmo cupcakes; pedis with Molly

A Preview of Things To Come

2012-01-20T21:35:00.000-06:00

My friends the Karens and Molly and I are going to do the Princess Half Marathon at Disney World at the end of February. The others have never done the Princess before, so they are pretty excited. Tall Karen has never done a Disney race, so she's super excited. In fact, we all so excited that we've decided to wear tutus for the race. Yes, you read correctly, I am going to wear a tutu in a race. Seriously.

Today I went to Jo-Ann Fabric to get tulle for the making of our tutus. While the lady was cutting my fabric, she asked what I was going to make. I told her I was going to make tutus. She replied and said that little girls like tutus. I countered back that these were going to be for adult ladies. After her eyes went back into her head and she manually closed her mouth that had gaped open, she said, "Well, ladies like tutus, too." At that point I felt an explanation was in order and told her the whole Disney World/Princess Half Marathon story.

As I was gathering up my newly cut tulle, I couldn't help but put all the pieces together. Tutus. Me. Disney. Running. And suddenly a vision of me in the future came into focus:

Oh well ... At least I gave you fair warning!!

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Today's blessings: DVD movie watching with Molly; progress at Maribeth's house; Steve's safe return home; nice fabric lady

3 Days In September In San Francisco

2012-01-19T22:37:00.000-06:00

Some of you may be getting a letter from me next week asking you to be a part of the Susan G. Komen 3-Day that I'm doing in San Francisco in September. Some of you may not get it - because I don't have your address or you've already donated (thanks Kat and Sarah!). In any case, I thought I would just go ahead and post some of the forthcoming letter (for some of you) here - just in case you want to donate or join me via the web. And if you do, and get the letter anyhow, feel free to pass it along to someone else!!

Anyhow, here goes, with a lot more information than the actual letter:

DearFriends,

Ireally didn’t think I’d ever walk another Susan G. Komen 3-Day for thecure. But breast cancer hasn’t beencured. Without a cure, one woman isdiagnosed with breast cancer every two minutes in the U.S. That statistic is too high, so the fight goeson. This year I’ll walk 60 more miles tohelp create a future without breast cancer, because everybody deserves alifetime.

My first 3-Day was in Atlanta with my friend Emily. I walked and she crewed as a nurse. I was usually passed out in the tent when she came in for the night, and I think she had already left to pop blisters and pass out band aids by the time I woke up for the next day. That year it rained one night and got below freezing the next night. But it was an incredible experience, to see the survivors walking, the many signs of encouragement along the way, and the remembrances of those who had lost their fight against this disease. I felt that this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I would never forget.

And I never did, especially the year I turned 50. I decided that I wanted to do something significant for my 50th birthday. Sure enough, there was a 3-Day that was being held on my birthday weekend that year in the Twin Cities. My daughter-in-law Lynnette said she would do it with me, so we trained all that summer for 60 miles and 3 days in Minnesota. We walked through beautiful parks and sat on Jody's couch - a couch that Jody was going to give to a niece, but died from breast cancer before she could. Jody's family carried that couch in a van and would set it out at different places during the day along the route so walkers could sit for a rest. We celebrated stories of survivors and mourned those who had been lost. Again, I was given the blessing of being a part of such a moving weekend.

I thought I was probably done with the 3-Day until my sister Marilyn mentioned that she would like to do one. Even though she is a nurse, she wanted to be a walker rather than a part of the crew. Even though she lives in Baltimore, we decided to do it together, and train (we needn't talk about how that went) on the same days. We signed up for the last walk of the year in San Diego and met up at the San Diego airport to begin our weekend. Marilyn learned about sleeping in a tiny tent, showering in a semi, and finding the port-potty in the dark. But we also saw the incredible support and love that this weekend can bring (this is the best way to show you).

This year I will be walking in my fourth 3-Day. Fivefriends (including my daughter Molly) will be walking with me and our team,Udderly Pink. It’s a first for everyoneelse, and I’m honored that they want to experience this unforgettable eventwith me. We’ll be travelling to SanFrancisco in September where we’ll walk 20 miles a day for three days, we’llsleep in tents for two nights, and we’ll shower in trucks and use porta-pottiesfor bathrooms. We’ll also hear so manyprecious stories from survivors and about others who have been lost to thisdisease. It will be an unforgettable chance to remember those we've lost and celebrate those who have won their personal fights with this disease. Every moment will be a memory that will never be forgotten. We’d love to have you join us too! Register as a walker on our team or as a volunteer – it’s a weekend like no other!

It would be great if you would support this effort in the fight to end breast cancer. Any donation will be appreciated and is tax deductible. This 60-mile walk over the course of three days raises funds for breast cancer research and community programs. All you need do to donate is click here. You can also join our team online – we’d love to have you as a member of Udderly Pink!

I do have one last request. I would be honored to walk in honor or memory of someone special in your life who has been affected by breast cancer. If you would simply leave a name or names in the comments, I will proudly display that name during the 3-Day and also during the breast cancer half-marathon I will be doing as part of the 26.2 with Donna on February 12 in Jacksonville.

Thank you so much for your support as together we raise funds in the battle to end breast cancer. You’ll be with me every step in San Francisco!

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Today's blessings: 4.4 miles with KB; Factory lunch with Maribeth; Molly visit; Maribeth's house progress

That's What Friends Are For

2012-01-18T09:57:00.001-06:00

Earlier this week, my friend Karen and I decided that we would walk this morning. As the week went on. it appeared that weather might be an issue - as in it was supposed to be really cold this morning. Once before when it was cold, we walked in the mall. Last night Karen and I decided that we would decide on our walk location this morning via text. The following is what actually transpired text-ually early this morning:

5:19am Karen: Location?
5:21am Me: My first choice would be bed. It's 30 outside so it that mall weather?

5:24am Karen: Want to wait until we can walk outside?
5:24am Me: Tomorrow will be warmer. Or we can freeze for 2 miles

5:25am Karen: Tomorrow. hehe
5:26am Me: Ok. No excuses tomorrow!

5:28am Karen: My new ratio. Oops. my new tattoo
5:29am Me: Ha! 6 miles on Saturday!

5:33am Karen: Sunday ok? out of town besides just heard rain on Saturday
5:34am Me: Yeppers

5:36am Karen: I'm open for walk before...just like this am! Ha
5:36am Me: I know. We should be going ...

5:38am Karen: Ok. do u want to go this am?
5:39am Me: We have to. 2 miles. In the cold.

5:40am Karen: Ok. Lipscomb
5:41am Me: Ok

5:42am Karen: 15 mins
5:43am Me: Got it!

So we met in the parking lot, it actually wasn't that cold, and we actually walked four miles instead of two. By not turning over and going back to sleep and instead keeping the conversation going, we talked ourselves into doing what we needed to do.

Friends - it's what Jiminy Cricket meant when he said, "A fine conscience I turned out to be!"

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Today's blessings: Getting up and walking with KB; sending out 3-Day letters; Maribeth's visit

It's Been A Good Day

2012-01-17T05:09:00.000-06:00

No ER today. With her arsenal of drugs onboard, Molly is much better.

Maribeth caught a sub gig today, so she was happy.

Steve caught a flight to Miami for some business, so he's happy to be headed for some sun.

I got started on my fundraising letter campaign, so hopefully that will result in some contributions for the 3-Day.

So it looks like everyone's had a happy day!

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Today's blessings: Molly's recovery; quick visit by Sam; Burger Up with Steve, Molly, and Maribeth; Home Depot with Molly and Maribeth

The Zero Day That Wasn't

2012-01-16T22:01:00.000-06:00

Today was supposed to be a zero day. You know, one of those days where you sleep late, get up and eat something, then go take a nap. I had a long list of movies to watch and even a few tasks complete. So much for best laid plans.

I woke up early when Steve got up at 4am to make coffee and take Mathieu and Cheline and babies to the airport. When Steve got back, he asked if I had read Molly's email where she said her throat was still painful - a 9/10 on the pain scale. She had gone to a walk-in clinic on Saturday where the doc had presumed strep and prescribed her some meds. Which apparently weren't working. She had emailed us to see if we thought she should return to the walk-in clinic or go to the ER. After some email discussion, it was decided a trip to the ER would be the better choice, and Steve said he would go with her.

Fast forward an hour. I texted Steve to get an update. By that time, Molly had been checked in, had her blood pressure checked, started IV antibiotics, and was scheduled for a CAT scan to see if her now-diagnosed abscess was going to be lanced/cut/drained. He suggested that I might want to come to the ER. Which, of course, I did.

Several hours later, after the CAT scan, a dose of morphine, another IV antibiotic round, and discussion at to whether the lancing would take place or Molly might be admitted to the hospital for the night to continue IV antibiotics, she was finally discharged with three prescriptions and a follow-up appointment with an ENT on Thursday. Oh, and she got the news that the tonsils that were removed a few years ago have apparently grown back a little. The good news is that with the morphine boost, she was finally able to eat solid food again and get it past her raw, swollen, infected throat.

Once Molly was fed and safely back at her house, I went back to mine and spent the rest of the afternoon doing this:

Tuesday is always a better zero day, anyway!!

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Today's blessings: waiting in the ER with Steve and Molly; Molly feeling better; watching "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" with Maribeth, Molly, and Steve; Steve making brownies

The Best Way To Eat Cake

2012-01-15T21:48:00.000-06:00

Fingers first!!

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Today's blessings: Lindley's birthday party with the Ogles; telephone chat with Marilyn; watching the Golden Globes

Back Home Again

2012-01-14T20:45:00.001-06:00

We made it back home today around 1:00. We unpacked the car, Steve sorted 10 days worth of mail, and I tried to figure out whose luggage we brought back and where it should go. The cats are happy we're back and Steve went out and got fresh milk and bread. Poor Molly has strep throat, but everyone else seems to be okay. Hard to believe that only a week ago I had wogged one half-marathon and was getting ready to wog another one in the morning.

Vacations - worth resting up for!!

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Today's blessings: breakfast at Truett's with Steve; beautiful day for a road trip; taking mac/cheese to sickly Molly; spaghetti dinner with Steve, Maribeth, Mathieu, Cheline and the boys

Road Trippin' - Now and Then

2012-01-13T20:24:00.002-06:00

Right now I'm in hotel room in Macon, Georgia. We left Orlando just after lunch, deciding to break the trip into two days rather than drive all day. As we drove along the highway, I couldn't help but think of the trips my family took from Mississippi to Florida when I was little. How things have changed!!

These days I have my computer, a DVD player in the car, and somebody's iPhone to find the nearest Starbucks, Redbox, or just some random trivia game to play along in the car. We look at exit signs for something to eat that we like. We have cruise control to keep our speed steady - whatever that speed may be. We keep the temperature regulated and can tell you the temperature exactly - both inside and out. If we get lost or need to figure out where to go, we just cue up various GPS devices and off we go.

Back in the day, the trip was carefully planned. My father had to milk the cows first, but we were ready to go as soon as he was finished - usually at dark-thirty in the morning. First we had to get dressed - in our "vacation clothes." We usually got two new outfits for the trip (now I just throw in whatever still fits - usually my "grass-cuttin'" clothes). Once dressed we were given our "meds." This consisted of a Dramamine tablet (little yellow tab) that my mother tried to break up in a spoon with water. To put it mildly, it was horrible. I think it would have been better if she had just rammed it in the back of my throat and then held my jaws shut until I swallowed it - like when I pill my cat. The bitter taste of Dramamine giblets still sticks with me to this day. I'm still not sure if she gave us the pills for motion sickness or so that we would go to sleep quickly in the car. The only good thing after the pill-age is the scrambled egg sandwich that was our breakfast. Hmmm - scrambled egg sandwiches after a dose of anti-nausea?

Anyhow, once our Chevy Impala was loaded, we (two parents, three kids, and an extra aunt or grandma) were off. The temperature and speed were whatever our father wished it to be. We had no radio in the car, not that there were any stations that anybody could have agreed on. The windows were probably open, probably because the ac might slow down the horsepower, and my dad needed a place to air out his cigarettes. Seat belts - those were just those things you moved over when you got in the car.

Entertainment was really exciting. Before the trip, each of us kids were treated to two magazines each - my older sister got her teenage magazines, and my brother and I each got two comic books. Two comic books to last a 12-hour drive. We had pretty much read through them by the time we left the driveway. Anyhow, by that time we were getting sleepy, so by the time we woke up in time for our packed lunch of fried chicken (at a roadside picnic area), we were ready to read the comics again. And again and again. By the way, we didn't get new comics for the trip back.

Navigation consisted of a massive map that had to be unfolded and refolded when you crossed into another state. Maps provided some entertainment for the kids, as we watched the "interaction" between the adults ("Turn back there!" "Where are we?" "No, where on the map are we?")

Anyhow, eventually we arrived in Florida to visit with my aunt, uncle, and cousins and play at the beach. After a few days, it was time for Dramamine and the trip back home. Too bad we never brought the cows any souvenirs!

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Today's blessings: Maribeth and crew's safe trip back home; safe travel to Macon; Steve bringing dinner and ice cream to hotel

Somebody's Going To Be Two Tomorrow!

2012-01-12T21:32:00.001-06:00

Top three things I've learned in the last two years:

1. All things Elmo

2. My negotiation skills in toddler food choices are abysmal

3. Being a LaLa is the best job ever!!

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Today's blessings: lunch and IKEA with Maribeth; wait staff at Olivia's

My Kind of Horse

2012-01-11T21:46:00.000-06:00

Yes, I grew up on a farm. Yes, we had horses - my grandmother even won a Shetland pony for me when I was a little girl. But my experiences with horses mostly involved the horse trying to bite me or get me off his/her back. In other words, horses and I don't mix.

But maybe I've found a horsey that works. Maybe this one won't buck me off or use his big horse teeth to crunch my knuckles.

The only drawback is the horsepower - I don't think Lupower is going to get us very far!

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Today's blessings: MK with Maribeth, Mathieu, Cheline and the boys and babysitting sweet sleeping babies; new Ugg slippers from Steve; dinner picked up by Steve

Two Half-Marathons and Two Disney Days Later ...

2012-01-10T19:37:00.001-06:00

'nuf said?

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Today's blessings: early-morning play with Lindley; Sam, Lynnette, and Lindley's safe trip home; lunch with Maribeth, Mathieu, Cheline and the boys; Steve bringing burgers for dinner

Old TV Friends

2012-01-09T21:47:00.000-06:00

After reading a friend's post on facebook, I've spent much of the afternoon watching clips of "Designing Women" on youtube. I enjoyed watching them as much as I did when they were first shown on CBS. I enjoyed them so much that I ordered the first five seasons on DVD.

I'm not sure what I loved most about the show. Maybe it was the fancy clothes (for that time period) that the ladies wore and how they were always so dressed up. Maybe it's because they dared to talk about things in public that were still only whispered. Maybe it was their friendship and all they shared. Maybe it was the strength and confidence they showed. Maybe it was just because I found it funny and touching and so enjoyable.

It was one of those shows with which I could identify and that spoke for me and to me. I understood it and wished that I could be one of the group. Maybe it's dated and ridiculous for anyone not of my generation, but for me, it's timeless and a reminder of what was.

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Today's blessings: MK-ing with Sam, Lynnette, Lindley, and Steve; Boardwalk and Epcot-ing with Steve; cast member at Outpost; Steve picking up dinner; Molly's safe return home

Things To Do On A Sunday At Disney World

2012-01-08T20:57:00.000-06:00

Sure, you could ride the rides, see the shows, or eat the food, but what fun would that be? You really need to plan your Disney World vacation months in advance. Here's how it went at my house many months ago:

Me: Oooh, look. It's the 15th anniversary of the Disney World Half Marathon, and they're going to have a special medal. We should do it this year!

Steve: Okay.

... a few days later ...

Me: Oooh, look. They're going to have a marathon relay this year at the Disney World Marathon. On that day, you can have a two-person team and each of you runs a half-marathon while the marathoners are running the full marathon. And since it's an inaugural race, we should do it this year!

Steve: Okay.

Now we are not as stupid as we may seem. Sure, we knew these races would be 24-hours apart. We knew this because (a) we've done these races before, and (b) we were so crazy that a few years ago we did the Inaugural Goofy Challenge, where you run the half-marathon on Saturday and the full marathon on Sunday. However, we also live sometimes in the Land of De Nial, so we thought this new plan was a good idea.

It would have been an excellent idea, had I (a) not eaten everything in sight on the three Disney cruises I took this year and missed the cruise so much that I decided to keep the resulting weight on my body, and (b) I had put a little more thought and effort into the theory of actually training for this endeavor.

Regardless, after yesterday's race, I just ignored logic and set my sights on today's race. Again, the race started at 5:30am. The difference is that in the team event, the first runner starts and the second runner (or in my case, waddler) takes over after the first 13.1 miles. Steve and I were a team, and Molly and Lynnette were a team. So Molly and I dropped the other two off at the start and drove to the Magic Kingdom to await their arrival in a few hours (and sleep in the car). Naturally, we had no idea where we were supposed to park, but after being stopped by one Disney policeman, we found a place to park. Which was not really near the switching place, but after a walk, a bus ride (from one side of the TTC to the other), and another longer walk under the bridge and across two more lots, we finally managed to get to the right place. We did get to sleep in the car for a few hours. We managed to keep from freezing by turning on the car heater every 20 minutes and sharing a tiny blanket.

Anyhow, a few hours later, Steve blazed into the relay exchange with a great time, which meant I could use all those extra minutes for my part, which were going to come in handy. I would give you a blow-by-blow, but basically this is how it went: My legs were pretty much outraged that I was going to put them through this again, so they voiced their complaints with pings and pangs. My wonky left ankle spoke up and decided to put out a distress call with a piercing arrow pain every few miles. My body decided that a 13.1 mile walk (yes, I said it - walk) in the sun with no clouds in the sky was just what it didn't want and told me that I had better pour a cup of water over my head every water stop. The balls of my feet would have gladly disintegrated if they had the slightest hope of stopping this outrage, but since they couldn't, they just kept plodding along. And while I had hoped to at least match my abysmal time from yesterday, by the last four miles I didn't care - I was just going to finish.

And eventually I did finish, and got my Chip and Dale medal. I got on the bus back to the resort and gave my aching body parts a rest.

The question is, do you think I learned anything about scheduling races from this weekend? Me neither!!

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Today's blessings: dropping off Steve and Lynnette, then going to MK with Molly; fellow woggers in today's race; volunteers and seeing Aisling; finishing the race; seeing the blind runners and the girl in the wheelchair in the race; playing with Lindley at the park; Steve picking up lunch AND dinner

The Shoes Won

2012-01-07T18:29:00.000-06:00

Today I decided to stroll around The Magic Kingdom and then Epcot's Future World. I decided to do this via the Disney World Half Marathon, certainly not the most relaxing way to do it. Since the longest "training run" I've done lately was seven miles, there was a lot of doubt on my part whether I would finish the 13.1 miles. My left wonky ankle (that I twisted and turned last fall) was giving me some problems which added to my consternation. However, I knew that nothing ventured, nothing gained, so with a little help from Steve's super-meds, I got up this morning at 3:45 in order to get to the starting line at 5:00am for the 5:45ish start (they have a wave start which meant I actually wouldn't start until around 6:15).

Anyhow, since I didn't see any of you in the crowd, I decided to share my high and lows of my "race."

First the lows:
1. Getting up at 3:45am. Actually Steve got up then, and I followed suit since the alternative was to sleep through the whole thing. I am not a morning person, unless it is to get up for a bathroom break. So getting up to do anything else is crappy.
2. Every moment between 3:45am and the actual start of the race. Why? Because during that time I am usually trying to figure what is going to kill me - the heart attack from too much flab and too little training, the brain explosion from getting it up too early, or the crash and fall when my wonky ankle decided to twist and lands me splattered on the pavement.
3. Miles 10-12 which are the only "hills" of this course. Not only do they come at the end of the course, but they are killers. At least to the overweight, aged, and under-trained.
4. Waiting for the resort bus after the race. In the sun. Where I had to stand upright in line for like 92 hours. While my feet were screaming how much they hated me.

Now for the highs:
1. Finishing! Without dying or falling down (I won't mention the almost-fall on the lumpy bridge while leaving the MK). Nothing better than finishing!
2. Running through the castle. Duh!
3. The volunteers giving out water and cheering us on.
4. The band just outside the car entrance to the MK.
5. People I chatted with during the race (if you run really fast, you don't have time to chitter-chat. Another reason I am content with the back of the pack woggers).
6. Molly getting my lunch post-race. It was either that or I would have to eat the couch cushions that I face-planted on upon my return to our room.
7. Fireworks (this is Disney) that went off at the start, and then again for each wave start.

Anyhow, that's all I remember. Maybe that's what they call "a runner's high!"

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Today's blessings: Sam taking us to the start in the car; all the race details above; blanket at the start of the race; Elaine coming by for a visit

Me. Tomorrow Morning.

2012-01-06T20:37:00.002-06:00

Tune in tomorrow to see who proclaimed victory - me or the shoes!

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Today's blessings: Maribeth, Mathieu, Cheline, Gabriel, and Dominic's safe arrival; Baby BoBo's ultrasound pics; playing with Lindley; successful last minute shirt shopping; girls dinner from OG; tix cast members

Top Ten Things That I Currently Do Not Like...Because Hate Seems Like Such A Strong Word

2012-01-05T21:59:00.000-06:00

1. Toenails that are in desparate need of (a) polish being taken off, or (b) polish being refurbished.
2. That one toe that is still hairy after you spent 3 hours and used 17 razors shaving your legs.
3. Reruns on TV on a night that you are sure you saw advertised as having new episodes.
4. Friends who post cryptic facebook statuses that you don't understand. Even after you google them.
5. News outlet that touts "This Diet" as being the #1 diet, then hear another news outlet report that old fat women are going to have a really hard time losing weight no matter what diet they use.
6. Women with black and blond hair. On the same head. It's too confusing.
7. Hotels that only provide a shampoo bottle. My frizzle-top needs a conditioner, people!!
8. Realizing that many of the words in my vocabulary now have new meanings in this day and age, most meanings which now refer to unmentionable things.
9. Bad perfume and people who use too much of it.
10. Putting off blogging until late at night and coming up with some lame list idea.

I'm not getting codgerly and old, am I?

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Today's blessings: walking around resort with Steve; getting race bib/shirt straightened out; cast member help at check-in at next resort; room ready; Sam, Lynnette, and Lindley's arrival; Molly's arrival; Steve getting delicious pizza for dinner

Eensie Weensie Steps

2012-01-04T12:20:00.000-06:00

So 2012 has begun. Again, my hopes are high that this year will be different. This year will be the year that I lose weight, become physically fit, develop a deeper faith and relationship with my Maker, and become just a generally better all-around person.

However, as is my nature, I want it all done immediately, or by tomorrow at the latest. As is the nature of this world, that just ain't a-gonna happen. But still, I tend to keep thinking two steps ahead, which often frustrates me and thwarts my efforts, thus sending me into a pity party. Today, maybe I began that slow process of changing my ways, hoping to make progress toward achieving those hopes and dreams that I want.

I am in Orlando on a sort-of vacation. Last night I slept like I hadn't in awhile. In other words there were no cats jumping around on the bed or trying to get into drawers or scratching at the window/mirror/picture glass. There was no to-do list churning about in my head fighting with my plans of sleeping. It was quiet and dark and I went to sleep. When Steve got up before 5 this morning for a business quick trip to Jacksonville and I woke up enough to tell him the light wouldn't bother me, I apparently was telling the truth, since that's the last thing I remember before waking up around 8.

So here's where the changes might have begun. I had the whole day to figure out what to do, and in my brain there were lots of possibilities - eat breakfast, walk, take a shower, shave my legs. eat lunch, go to a park, go to Downtown Disney - just to name a few. Just thinking about all of that could have scrambled my pea brain and caused me to get back in bed and turn on the TV.

Instead, I thought of just the next thing to do - get dressed and eat breakfast. I ordered a breakfast pizza, and although it might not have been the healthiest of breakfasts, I did choose not to eat it all (progress in terms of not ordering the Big Ole Breakfast with lots of jellies and syrups and such and sucking it all down).

Next, instead of trying to design my whole day, I just chose what to do next - which would be a walk around this resort (we're relocating on Thursday). I decided to walk three miles, and thanks to my handy dandy Garmin (thanks to Kat and Sarah's advice), I found that by walking around the resort three times including various little ins and outs, I actually got in four miles - slow, but four! So far, two things done with no thinking about what to do next, except I did remember to offer thanks and prayers for a few people during those laps.

Once finished, I had to decide what to do next. I knew Housekeeping was close to my room, so I decided to chill (literally, since it is a bit cool outside) on a lounger by the pool. Normally this would be my antsy-pantsy time because of everything that I would need to be doing, but I just told myself to sit in the sun for 15 minutes, and I did. Again, not thinking too much about what I need to do and how and when I'm going to do it. After 15 minutes, I walked into my clean room and thought about the next thing.

So I took a shower, shaved my legs, and washed my hair. I caught up on email/facebook/Internet and did some crunches/push ups/plank (after two months of no butt camp, I can see the road back is going to be vicious). Once that was done, I decided to blog, since I seem to be a little more on the ball during the day than later at night (shocker for you, I know!).

Now I will decide what to do next. I'm think a bite of lunch. Nothing past that for now. Just lunch.

So far, today has just been a bunch of little steps, one at a time, without worrying about the steps further down the road. I know I have a lot of stuff to do, but I'm practicing not thinking about those now. Now it's just thinking about the next thing I have to do. Because eventually, taking one step at a time, no matter how small, will get me where I want to go.

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Today's blessings: Breakfast pizza; four miles around Pop Century; seeing families with suitcases checking out; lovely soak in the tub; beautiful cool day in Orlando

We Made It

2012-01-03T19:56:00.000-06:00

Left Nashville at 5:30am CST.

Stopped a couple of times for food and gas (for us and the car, respectively).

Rolled in to the resort a little after 5pm EST.

Managed to unload the car, eat dinner, and make a Target run.

Let the vacation begin!!

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Today's blessings: safe road trip to Orlando; lunch at Truitts

First Check To See if I've Changed in 2012

2012-01-02T21:24:00.001-06:00

Issue: Packing for Vacation

2011: Put off packing until last minute on day before departure

2012: Put off packing until next-to-last minute on day before departure

That's improvement, isn't it???

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Today's blessings: Spending the day with Lindley; visits from Maribeth and Molly; Rambo coming home before search party went out

A New Year

2012-01-01T21:05:00.000-06:00

Today begins the year 2012. The first day of a new year is always a good day to start over, to do better, to change one's life. It's a day to set goals, make resolutions, and form a vision of your life for the next 12 months.

But what happens if tomorrow (or even this afternoon) you flubbed up on one of those goals. What if you blew apart that resolution, or decided your goal was too lofty, or concluded that your vision for your life was ridiculous and too hard to achieve?

As for me, I've been there and done that. That ton of weight I was going to lose quickly got delayed by the chocolate oatmeal cookies I made. That exercise routine I was going to implement quickly evaporated because my mind was so much more powerful than my desire. So all I am left is the one question - am I going to be able to do anything that I had hoped to do in 2012?

I have to believe the answer is yes. I have to believe that if I keep trying and believing, that the changes I desire will happen. I have to take every hope just one second at a time, because that's the only second that I can deal with. And if one second sends me down the wrong path there are 59 other seconds in a minute to turn it around. And there are 59 other minutes in an hour, and there are 24 of those in a day, and this year I have 366 of those.

Maybe 2012 will be my year. All I can do is try.

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Today's blessings: Lindley time at her house and at our house; passion lemonade and dinner delivered by Steve and Maribeth

New Year's Eve 2011

2011-12-31T20:23:00.002-06:00

2011 - it was a very good year. Maybe I didn't accomplish everything that I had hoped, but I received a great many blessings for which I am truly thankful. I made sweet memories with family and friends, and had a few adventures along the way. Here's hoping 2012 will be the same!

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Today's blessings: spending the day with Lindley; Container Store with Molly and Maribeth; boiled shrimp dinner for Sam's birthday

What Happens When the Granddaughter Sleeps Over

2011-12-30T22:32:00.000-06:00

1. Purple toenails and fingernails
2. Lunch/dinner consisting of whatever she will eat
3. Anything and everything getting tossed in the bathtub to encourage said granddaughter to take bath.
4. Birthday presents for 2nd birthday on January 13 get brought out early - like today.
5. As much of Sesame Street/Elmo's World as is toddler possible.
6. Lots of tramp-a-zeen time.
7. Lots more of hugs, kisses, and giggles

What could be better?

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Today's blessings: 31 years of Sam; Lindley sleep-over; Molly painting Lindley's toenails and fingernails; MSU winning bowl game; lunch/snack deliveries via Maribeth, Mathieu, and Molly; DVC ressie agents; AAA dude

It's That Time Of Year Again ...

2011-12-29T22:01:00.001-06:00

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Today's blessings: Pancake Pantry with David and friend; mattress dudes; Home Depot-ing with Mathieu; chatting with Ben Little; chatting with Karen B; Radio Shack dude; Maggie the Cat snuggling with Mathieu

Why I Am Stoo-pidd

2011-12-28T22:46:00.001-06:00

Because I am the only person in the house who cleans the bathroom.

Even those I do not use.

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Today's blessings: Warming mattress pad; 3-Day donation from Kat and Sarah; David and friend and Phil and friends coming in for MSU bowl game; progress at Mathieu and Maribeth's house and the successful hanging of the window blinds

Why I Am A Jayn-yuss

2011-12-27T21:17:00.002-06:00

1. Not only do I know how to replace the toilet paper on the toilet paper roll, I know where to buy toilet paper, when we are about out of toilet paper, and which toilet paper the family prefers.

2. Not only do I know where every item is in the house (or at least am supposed to know), I know where to return to its special place, every item that has been taken out and used (even if I wasn't the one using it).

3. Not only do I know how to load a dishwasher, I also know how to unload the dishwasher and ... (wait for it) ... put the dishes away.

4. Not only do I understand that if you turn on vacuum cleaner and roll it over a surface that it will suck stuff up, but I also know how to empty the container that holds the sucked-up particles. And I can tell when the sucked-up particle container is full and needs to be emptied.

5. Not only do I know where the Christmas decorations are stored, I also can put up and decorate a Christmas tree and then un-decorate and take down said Christmas tree before anybody even realizes that Christmas tree decorating is being done.

Mensa, I'm waiting for your call!

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Today's blessings: shopping with Maribeth and Mathieu; waiting for Molly's maid man; crock pot chili on a cold rainy night; picking up Sam, Lynnette, and Lindley at the airport

And Then It Was The Day After Christmas

2011-12-26T21:58:00.001-06:00

... now when does that diet start again?

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Today's blessings: movie with Steve, Molly, and Mathieu; turkey casserole dinner with Steve, Maribeth, and Mathieu; Molly's fudge;

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T22:06:00.000-06:00

... from what seems not-so-long ago!

May this Christmas be filled with many happy memories!!

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Today's blessings: Christmas Day and all that it represents; movie with Steve, Mathieu, Maribeth, and Molly

I Couldn't Tell It Better Than This!!

2011-12-24T20:34:00.001-06:00

From a few of my friends ...

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Today's blessings: time with GDizzle; safe road trip back home

24-Hour Travel

2011-12-23T10:15:00.004-06:00

In a few hours, Steve, Maribeth, Mathieu, Molly, and I will be headed south to Columbus, Mississippi, to spend the night with Steve's dad, GDizzle. It will be a quick trip, just enough time to say "Merry Christmas" and to head back home on Christmas Eve. While it's nice to visit with family at Christmas, it's also nice to wake up on Christmas morning in your own bed - especially when you no longer have little ones waking up early to inspect their Santa goodies!

If you're travelling this Christmas, I wish you safe travels and many happy memories!!

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Today's blessings: reading books to Lindley before taking her and her parents to the airport; road trip with the rest of the family to Columbus, MS

Davidson Crock Pot Christmas 2011

2011-12-22T21:35:00.001-06:00

Tonight we celebrated our family Christmas. Sam, Lynnette, and Lindley will leave tomorrow to spend Christmas with the Ogles, so tonight was our big night.

We had decided months ago to have Crock Pot Christmas. Past Christmases have included Cereal Christmas, Magic Bullet Christmas, and Disney Christmas, just to name a few. This year, everyone was to bring their part of the meal that was prepared in the crock pot. Apparently, this could include contributing to Molly's 3-Day fund if she would prepare yours. Anyhow, we ended up with turkey breast, boiled peanuts, hash brown casserole, macaroni and cheese, spinach dip, mulled wine, and chocolate cake (yes, chocolate cake in the crock pot, and it was quite good!). Because we are such high-class people, we just took the crocks out of the pots and placed them on the table. We also used the Thanksgiving plates, which if you have a discerning eye, you might be able to figure out where they came from.

Now for the part you've all been waiting for - Make-It Christmas presents. I would like to say at this point that the recipients were not drunk at the taking of these pictures, nor do their expressions convey their feelings about their gift. At least I don't think so. Anyhoo, on to the gifts:

Sam's gift was an original painting of the track at the ESPN Wide World of Sports at Disney World. On it are cutouts of him and Lindley at her kids' race in October. As you can see, he was dumbfounded at my artistic talent.

Molly, who is not possessed by the way, got a pink piggy bank for her desk at work in which to receive donations for the 3-Day. On the pig is original artwork depicting the walk. It's a wonder what one can do with a plastic pig and sharpies.

Lynnette gets the acting award for most enthusiastic. She got a lap blankie made from squares of Lindley's baby clothes. Lucky for Lynnette, she has skinny legs, otherwise the blankie would barely be large enough to cover her feet.

Steve got a "Fudge-O-Meter" for the frig to let the candy makers in the house know when he is out of homemade fudge and is in need of some more. Of course, it would have been nice if there had been some fudge to accompany the fudge-o-meter ...

Maribeth got 3 hospital gowns for her upcoming days in March when Baby BoBo decides to arrive. Maribeth decided to demonstrate the Velchro tabs on the shoulder. She also decided to demonstrate her labor-day game face.

Mathieu got a blankie for the hospital made from the leftover bits of Maribeth's hospital togs so that he will know which laboring woman is his. He's hopeful he will get a little shut-eye in the hospital We'll let him live in his little fantasy world for now.

Lindley got Elmo/Abby Cadabby pajamas and blankie. She was far more interested in the play money Uncle Mati gave her than any boring clothes, so we have no picture of her. Hmmmm - money over homemade clothes. The girl has her priorities straight already!

So there you have it - another Davidson Christmas in the books. And we didn't even have to order from Papa Johns!

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Today's blessings: Davidson Family Christmas and all that it entailed!!

Four More Days!!!

2011-12-21T22:15:00.002-06:00

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Today's blessings: J Alex with Steve and Maribeth; moving furniture, Home Depot, and Sonic with Mathieu

My Twelve Days of Make-It Christmas

2011-12-20T21:36:00.000-06:00

On the first day of Christmas, I got out my Christmas list. (Dang it! Why did I choose to make everybody's Christmas gifts again?)

On the second day of Christmas, I got out my sewing machine. (And watched it drop a stitch, break the thread, get all jammed up. Where's the decoupage stuff?)

On the third day of Christmas, I got out my sole cookbook. (And burned the brownies, forgot to add the sugar, turned the oven on too high. Who called the Health Department?)

On the fourth day of Christmas, I got out some paints and canvas. (Forget the paint-by-numbers - won't just painting the entire canvas one color lend more to the imagination?)

On the fifth day of Christmas, I got out some knitting needles. (And started the blanket which turned into a scarf which turned into a hotpad which quickly unraveled all by itself when I took a bathroom break.)

On the sixth day of Christmas, I bought some silk flowers and a vase. (The vase broke when the cat knocked it over and the cat was so scared it took off through the front door, trailing the silk flowers behind her. While the scaredy-cat didn't seem to mind the thunderstorm, the silk flowers did!)

On the seventh day of Christmas, I decided to write a poem. (Which turned into Haiku since I only had to come up with three lines, which sounds easy until you have to factor in the syllable count. Poetry is not poetry if a calculator is involved).

On the eighth day of Christmas, I decided to make a CD mix. (Really? As if I (a) knew how to make one, and (b) knew where a blank CD might be in my house!)

On the ninth day of Christmas, I decided to create a powerpoint presentation of our family. (Yep, right after I do that CD mix thing.)

On the tenth day of Christmas, I decided to make my own candles. (Until I found out I could get a gross of them at Dollar Tree for a dollar. Time, particularly mine, is money!)

On the eleventh day of Christmas, I decided to make everyone matching Christmas sweatshirts. (Yeah, that should go over well - can't wait to see the family picture of that! Why don't I just bang my head against the wall now?)

On the twelfth day of Christmas, I got on my computer and ordered gifts the easy way. After all, I picked it out, ordered it, and paid for it - all by myself - isn't that making it?!

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Today's blessings: 4 miles with Karen B; Mathieu and Maribeth's new bedroom and bath finished!; moving furniture at Maribeth and Mathieu's; Lindley-sitting (albeit late)

Buddy Bear II's Lesson

2011-12-19T22:43:00.000-06:00

This is Buddy Bear. Technically, it's Buddy Bear II, but that's part of his story. Here's how it goes:

I bought Buddy Bear I in New York a while ago for Lindley. Eventually Buddy Bear I ended up in Lindley's crib for bedtime snuggling purposes.

When Lindley started her new school this fall, she was asked to bring a blanket and snuggle friend for naptime. Rather than run the risk of forgetting Buddy Bear I at school and having bedtime drama, Lynnette decided to arrange for Buddy Bear II to arrive and accompany Lindley to school.

However, even though Buddy Bear II was from the exact same company as Buddy Bear I, he was not made of the same quality fabric as Buddy Bear I. In short, his paws shredded at the seams, and his ears soon followed. With one paw completely off, he was also losing weight, via losing his stuffing. So, Buddy Bear II was brought home from school and a steady stream of replacements were sent to school as substitutes.

Today Sam brought Buddy Bear II over in the hopes that something might be done to help Buddy Bear II. I found some leftover flannel and stitched some new paws, ears, and feet. He also received some replacement stuffing for his limp little arms. Although it wasn't done with the expert stitching of his original maker, he seems quite pleased with the results.

In fact, that's the lesson of Buddy Bear II. Even though I was sticking him with a needle and sewing him up somewhat sloppily, he kept his smile. Maybe it was because he was happy to be whole again. Maybe it was because he has hopes of returning to school with Lindley. Maybe it was because he is thankful that so many people cared enough to help him out.

I'm not sure, since he really doesn't have a voice to tell me. I just hope that the next time somebody gives me a helping hand, even though it might hurt a little bit, I have a smile on my face. Why wouldn't I, if somebody cares enough to make me whole again?

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Today's blessings: Steve bringing McCabe's Pub for lunch; finishing a last-minute idea Christmas present; repairing Buddy Bear II; seeing pictures of old classmates

In The Spirit of Christmas

2011-12-18T21:09:00.000-06:00

Minnie the Cat and Minnie the Mouse

Christmas buddies -

In Lindley's chair ...

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Today's blessings: 6 miles with the Karens and Molly; Starbucks via Karen P; Shoney's with Steve and Molly; Shoney's family and Steve's gift card; Lindley time

A Little Love

2011-12-17T22:09:00.001-06:00

Today I passed a fresh Christmas tree lot. There were many beautiful trees - green ones. And then at the front, I saw them - one white and one turquoise Christmas tree, flocked to every inch with the offending colors.

Sure, maybe somebody will think the flocked trees are beautiful and just what they want. Maybe somebody will go to the lot searching for that perfect turquoise flocked tree. Maybe turquoise trees are all the rage this year, and somebody forgot to tell me.

I guess I probably shouldn't have an opinion, since my tree is the same one I've had for years. I take it out of its box and put it up every year. It looks about as real as a plastic tree can look, perhaps even more than the turquoise one. At least I know my tree was never alive. But there's something about that turquoise tree that has stayed with me. It's almost like I saw it cringe as I went past - as though it were embarrassed about what it had become.

I just hope there's a Charlie Brown out there somewhere who will buy that tree and take it home. And I hope there's a Linus to remind us all with his words:

"I never thought it was such a bad little tree. It's not bad at all really. Maybe it just needs a little love."

Words to remember, not just about trees, but about everything that somebody else may not deem important. After all, maybe all it needs is just a little love.

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Today's blessings: Lunch at Fido with the Karens, Molly, and Pallu, with Gloria and her family stopping by to say hello; Lindley time; barbecue and veggies for dinner with Steve, Sam, Lynnette, Maribeth, and Mathieu; mall-ing with Sam

When Great Loves Collide

2011-12-16T20:46:00.003-06:00

My great love: Lindley M

Lindley's great loves: trampoline jumping and Elmo

A perfect day: when it all comes together at my house!!

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Today's blessings: Catching up race scrappy; Mathieu's successful Lasix; Lindley time; pizza with Steve, Sam, Maribeth, and Mathieu; Marilyn's sewing class certificate; watching bad movies with Steve, Maribeth and Mathieu

I Admit It - I'm Confused

2011-12-15T09:23:00.008-06:00

Today in the Tennessean, I read a story about Lifeway recalling pink Bibles. The Bible in question is called the "Here's Hope Breast Cancer Bible" and LifeWay donated a dollar for each copy to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation, an organization whose sole purpose is to fight breast cancer.

Apparently LifeWay decided to recall the Bibles after some people complained that Komen donates some of the breast cancer funds to Planned Parenthood. Although Komen assured LifeWay that the donated funds are used only for breast cancer screening and awareness, LifeWay's president said that "it is not in keeping with LifeWay's core values to have to have even an indirect relationship with Planned Parenthood."

So here's where I get confused. I thought LifeWay was all about spreading the good news about Jesus Christ and God's love. Instead, here's what I know:

1. Recalling the Bibles means that some people won't get to read the Bible. Is that Lifeway's goal?

2. According to Komen, Lifeway had pledged $25,000 to the organization. According to LifeWay, about three dozen complaints had been filed. So, 36 people helped decide the fate of potential Bible readers and mammogram receivers. Could we say that those 36 people have a God complex, if they are so powerful as to make those choices.

3. LifeWay does not want to indirectly associate with Planned Parenthood. I've read the Bible. Jesus, the ultimate LifeWay CEO, directly associated with Mary Magdalene, a prostitute and who was possessed by demons. Yet Jesus loved her and accepted her and her life was changed. Is Jesus' example not the one to follow, instead of judging two organizations whose goals are to help women?

4. I am a Christian and believe that Christianity is about love. Period. Otherwise, with my many mistakes, sins, and bad actions, I would be completely banned from the presence of God. I believe that my purpose in this life is to spread that unconditional love to others - regardless of what tags or labels humans may choose to place. Maybe a Bible verse will help: 1 John 4:7-8 "Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love."

So LifeWay - what is it? Do you love, or do you judge?
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Today's blessings: good medical news from friends with serious illnesses; curtain shopping with Maribeth; seeing Nan at Target

For Those Who Appreciated Yesterday's Holiday House Lights ...

2011-12-14T21:44:00.003-06:00

... here is your answer to the Christmas tree decision ...

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Today's blessings: Four miles with KB; closet and key shopping with Maribeth; Red Lobster lunch with Maribeth and Molly

Why My House Isn't Lit For Christmas

2011-12-13T21:30:00.004-06:00

... because this is what it would look like!

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Today's blessings: successful shopping; picking up Lindley from day care and going to Pinkberry

And ... I'm Done!!!

2011-12-12T22:17:00.002-06:00

With my "make-it" Christmas presents, that is. I finished the last one today and wrapped it along with the consolation present that each make-it will include. This means that I am finished with Christmas shopping and all of the gifts have been wrapped and put on top of the chifferobe in the living room next to the Christmas tree. We can't put them under the tree yet, since Lindley has figured out that presents are made to be opened immediately as soon as they are located. Also, since they are all wrapped and put in one location, there will be none of that, "Wait, did you not open the (insert gift name here)?" and the resulting search under the bed, in the closet, up in the attic, for the missing gift (which may not be found until next July). All I have left to do is pick up a few things to help Santa out with the stockings.

Oh, and in case next fall I blog about how I chose another "make-it" Christmas, PLEASE STOP ME!! That is, if the recipients of these gifts doesn't retire the category this year!

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Today's blessings: Watching "Love Actually" and "Elizabeth I" while finishing the last gifts; picking up Maribeth at the airport; Steve picking up Applebees for dinner; Omaha Steak delivery from the Graves

Thoughts to Think On

2011-12-11T21:48:00.004-06:00

What very mysterious things days were.

Sometimes they fly by,

and other times they seem to last forever,

yet they are all exactly twenty-four hours.

There's quite a lot we don't know about them.

Melanie Benjamin, Alice I Have Been, 2010

[M]aybe the most any of us can expect of ourselves isn't perfection

but progress.

Michelle Burford, O Magazine, 2003

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Today's blessings: Picking up Sam at the airport; furniture moving; Steve's Bubba burgers for lunch with Sam, Lynnette, Steve, and Molly; Lindley time

A Good Saturday And Lessons Learned

2011-12-10T20:50:00.005-06:00

It started with the Snowflake 5K. Actually, it started earlier than that when Karen texted me, saying, "Are we going to be snowflakes this am?" Lesson #1: Always have a jogging partner, because generally nobody wants to be the loser and say, "Naw, we ain't wogging - we're staying in bed!" This morning I was not the one who texted hoping for an out. Instead, I was the one who said, "Yes. We be dumb." So we went to the 5K where it was cold and wogged our way to a finish.

Along the way we had our picture with Santa. Lesson #2: If it's Christmas and you agreed to be Santa, please try to generate a little enthusiasm. Even senior citizens still believe in you!!

After we got home from the race, it was time to shower and clean up, since the Karens, Dawn, and I were going to lunch and the "The Nutcracker." Even though I had just logged 3.1 miles, I decided that I didn't need a coat. I thought wrong. Lesson #3: If it's cold and it's December and it's Nashville, carry a coat. It's better to shed than shiver.

Since the cafe we had chosen was only a few blocks from TPAC, we decided to park midway in-between the two locations. We passed one parking lot next to the cafe, rounded the block, and ended up in the parking lost we passed. Lesson #4: Save gas and choose the first parking lot. You're going to end up parking there anyway.

Although we did have a rather long wait for our food, it was delicious. I had a pimento cheese grilled cheese sandwich with a fried green tomato inside. I did say this was a Southern comfort food cafe and not a healthy-for-you cafe, didn't I? Since time was getting tight, we told our waiter we needed our four checks quickly. Karen also told him that she wanted a piece of cherry cobbler, and to put it on her check. Luckily Dawn was the brains of our party and suggested that perhaps he not only going to bring four checks, but also four pieces of cherry cobbler and put it all on Karen's check. Karen jumped up and ran to Mr. Waiter, who confirmed Dawn's suspicions and rectified the situation. Four checks, one piece of cherry cobbler, four spoons. Lesson #5: Always bring one smart person when eating comfort food, since the comfort of the food tends to numb brain cells.

We had time to walk the two blocks (shivering a bit for me) to TPAC, visit the restrooms, and find our seats. We barely managed to stay awake during the first act, get beverages to awaken us during intermission, and settle down for the second act - until Karen said, (as the house lights were going down), "I think I left the candles burning in my house when I left." Needless to say, the Sugarplum Fairy could not dance quickly enough for Karen. Lesson #6: Eating comfort food before a performance in a dark, warm room will induce drowsiness; make sure Red Bull is the beverage of choice. Also, blow out any candles when you leave the house, lest you remember that you didn't blow them out and remember nothing of what conspired during the second act.

Once the play was over, we headed back to Karen's, whose house was still standing and not on fire. We parted ways and made plans to walk for the upcoming week. Lesson #7: Spending time with good friends is a gift in any season - but during this season of peace and goodwill, it's even better!

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Today's lessons: Snowflake 5K with Steve and Karen and race swag; Lindley time; lunch and Nutcracker with Karen B, Karen P, and Dawn; planning to use Groupon for dinner with Steve and arriving at restaurant only to find it closed (as in out of business)

Friday Facts

2011-12-09T20:54:00.004-06:00

1. Baby, it's cold outside. Which means, in our 50+ year old house it's also a bit chilly inside, so the heat gets pumped up. Which also means I want to get in the bed and snuggle under the blankie. Which means I don't get much done, except watch Law and Order - The Early Years.

2. Did not get out to wog any, although we walked in the mall yesterday and have a 5k in the morning. When it's going to be really cold. Which means I will have to layer, which means probably sweating, which means cold again when I stop sweating when the 5k is over and the cold hits the sweat.

3. Got almost all the Christmas presents done and wrapped, except for one last make-it. Which is still in the sorta-planning, sorta-designing stage. Hopefully the idea will come quickly to fruition. One can dream ...

4. Realized how much I have to do in the days, weeks, months, and year ahead, and how much I had planned to do during the past year but haven't gotten done. Wonder if this time next year, I'll be realizing anything differently. Decided that I was thinking and realizing too much and need to go to bed.

So that's it for today. I also ordered one of my favorite Christmas movies, "The Gathering" with Ed Asner. I hope to have all my Christmas stuff done by the time it comes in, so I can snuggle in the bed and watch it. Christmas is coming!!

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Today's blessings: Airport run with Sam; Otters dinner and race bib pickup with Steve and Molly; almost finishing Christmas shopping; Steve's safe trip back home; pecans from Ms Wilson; chatting with Matt B; Christmas lights on houses as we went to dinner

Me. Today.

2011-12-08T23:29:00.006-06:00

Something about going to the mall to walk at 6am gets the day moving.

Especially if it gets you in the mood to finish up the Christmas shopping.

Thanks goodness for caffeine!

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Today's blessings: Mall-walking with the Karens and Molly; taking Maribeth and Mathieu to the airport; Krogering and peeling taters with Molly; successful Christmas shopping; dinner at Molly's with Karen, Karen, Sharon, and Molly

When Being Judgmental Bites You In The Butt

2011-12-07T22:44:00.003-06:00

This morning I decided to get out and walk a few miles. Even though it was cold. And dark. And I wore dark clothes, the very thing I fuss at walkers for wearing when they walk when it's dark. So I became the very person I think is stupid.

I hate when that happens, being that person that I railed against the day before, which happens more often that I would like to admit.

Tolerance, anyone?

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Today's blessings: Two miles in the early morning; switching desks and organizing; one more present delivered and wrapped; Steve's safe travel to Columbus

Make-It Update

2011-12-06T22:25:00.006-06:00

As of today, I have four out of six make-it gifts done. I still have one to make and one to come up with the idea so I can make it. I have consolation presents to go with the make-it present so that the recipient at least has something that might be usable. The four finished make-its (and their consolation accompaniments) have been wrapped, so I am really ahead of the game.

Now if I could just learn to paint/quilt/sculpt/and~or whittle, I might get that last make-it made!!

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Today's blessings: Free hot fudge cake and lunch at Shoney's and shopping with Steve; chicken dinner with Sam, Lindley, Steve, Molly, Maribeth, Mathieu, and Adam at Molly's; texting with Marilyn during Biggest Loser; Nigel the dog's health improvement; more Christmas presents delivered

Just a Little Seasonal Help ...

2011-12-05T21:51:00.002-06:00

I admit it. I've been busy making stuff and picking up stuff and procrastinating stuff. But I have been busy enough to help you with your holiday photos this year - at least on what NOT to do. Just click here and be amused - unless one of the photos is your family (I especially love little Claire)!

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Today's blessings: outlet shopping with Steve; picking up Lindley at day care; Steve's hot dogs for dinner; Christmas present deliveries

Giving Thanks for Unexpected Gifts

2011-12-04T20:23:00.003-06:00

So here's my Sunday School lesson, except that I got it on Saturday:

Maribeth and Matheiu have been on a cruise (Disney, of course). While they were gone, it seemed like it was the best time to have the floors in their house stripped and re-stained. Of course, that meant that all the furniture had to be moved to the part of the house that doesn't have the icky floors in question. This included moving the bed, which happened to be a Sleep Number bed, which doesn't have your everyday mattress and box springs. Basically, the mattress is two air mattresses and the box spring is a bunch of over-sized Lego's that you put together (however it sounds, mine has given me the best nights of sleep ever).

Anyhow, after M/M left for the cruise, Sam and I managed to take apart the bed and shove the two parts of the bed into the bathroom and kitchen. The floors got refinished and yesterday morning I went over to meet Carpenter Bill who is doing the remodeling of the house and the painters who are going to paint the inside. C-Bill offered to help me re-assemble the bed in M/M's bedroom, which we did. We both left and I went to purchase a few supplies, including a temp shade for their bedroom, since all the curtains/rods were down for the impeding painting.

I stood on the bed to put up the aforementioned shade, and some of the Lego box spring decided to unattach. I surveyed the damage, and decided that the three puny slats that were holding up the box spring were insufficient, and I would replace them - in the three hours before M/M would be back in Nashville.

I pushed the two parts of the bed up and leaned them on the wall so I could get one of the inferior bed slats for measurement for my Home Depot bed slat run. I brought it home, measured it, and saw that it was about 5 feet. I go to Home Depot and look at the lumber. I see 1x6 pieces, remember that I measured 5 feet and think, "Perfect! Six feet is the exact length I need!" Don't ask me why I thought 5 feet and 6 feet are the same measurement. It was just one of those moments that seemed to make sense.

Of course, when I got back to M/M's, I realized my mistake and that I was going to have to cut the boards. This meant returning to my house and getting my jigsaw and coming back. I was now down to two hours before return, and I still hadn't been to the grocery store to get milk and bread.

Upon my return to my house, Sam was about to arrive with lunch for Lynnette and me. I had a lunch break and said to Lynnette that I was about to leave to cut the boards and reassemble the bed. Here's where the God part comes in. Just as I was getting up to find my jigsaw, my phone rings and it's Carpenter Bill. He says, "Luanne, did you put these wooden boards in here?" I affirmed the news and told him of the predicament. To make this long story short, he cut the planks precisely to the bed and help me reassemble the entire thing. Not only was the bed fixed, but it was fixed far beyond my feeble attempts could make it.

So what's the lesson here? That if we will just realize it, God is a part of our every day lives. He knows what we need and when we need it. He hears us when we pray and even when we don't. Sometimes we don't get the answer we think we want, and sometimes we get an answer that we didn't even ask for. We just need to stop and realize that there is something greater than us in this world, and that we are loved far more than we can ever fathom. We just need to recognize it and give thanks for it.

After all, why else would Carpenter Bill be at the house on a Saturday afternoon after he had already left? Why would he even bother to ask about the boards and then take the time to cut them to exactly the perfect length? Why? Because Somebody knew I needed help and provided it for me.

Thank you God, for looking after me every moment of my life. But most of all, thank for all the gifts and blessings you give, especially the unexpected ones.

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Today's blessings: Lindley time; brunch with Lynnette, Maribeth, Mathieu, and Molly; Maribeth and Mathieu's official announcement that it's a girl!

And They're Back

2011-12-03T22:08:00.004-06:00

Maribeth, Mathieu, Molly, and Steve came home after a week of cruising/golf (you figure out who did what). Molly came home to find a clean house (thanks to her housesitter) and that Rambo had not run away. Maribeth and Mathieu came home to a finished deck and refinished floors. Steve came home in time to pack a bag and leave with Sam for a golf outing in Alabama.

Meanwhile, I had purchased bread and milk, set up Maribeth and Mathieu's bed, filled Steve's car up with gas, and picked up the major messes in the house.

Home, sweet home!

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Today's blessings: Lindley time; Factory for lunch with Sam and Lynnette and cheesecake for Lynnette's birthday celebration with the family; Bill Cox help with Maribeth and Mathieu's bed; safe travels for the family; cruise prizes from the cruisers

Clean Up Day

2011-12-02T00:21:00.004-06:00

With everyone gone for the week, the house has fallen into a mess. It would seem that with everyone gone, wouldn't the house stay clean? In a word, no.

Here's what happens: I get the time to work on projects uninterrupted. The best thing is that I can leave unfinished projects exactly where I want to, along with the accompanying mess that the project entails. In the case of sewing, that means fabric scraps, discarded thread, and all the other paraphernalia that I need in order to do my version of sewing. The side messes of the week include mail in various parts of the house (wherever I happened to be when I decided to put the mail down), trash cans that need emptying, and recycling that needs to be collected. Because it's Christmastime, it means that there are rolls and scraps of wrapping paper on the bed and on the floor and on my desk. I won't even get into the whole food/eating thing, since it might prompt a call to the health department.

Anyhoo, the family is returning tomorrow, and since I did complete several of my big projects, I could put stuff away. In other words, it was time to clean up the house. After 8 hours, I have one room done. The funny thing is that I don't think anyone will even notice, as long as there is milk in the fridge and bread in the pantry.

So I guess I'd better get to the grocery store ..

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Today's blessings: completing major sewing projects; 5k-ish with Gloria; sleeping Lindley babysitting; beautiful sunny day

Happy Birthday Lynnette!

2011-12-01T23:57:00.003-06:00

Today is Lynnette's birthday. To celebrate her, I thought I would list what I consider to be the Top Ten Moments since she joined our family:

1. First time I met her - in St. Louis - where she was working at the same summer youth camp as Sam (and where they met). Maribeth and I drove up in my (at the time) car - a Volkswagon Cabrio (small convertible). Sam, his friend Bugg, Maribeth, Lynnette, and I all went out to dinner in that car -boys in front and girls in back. Luckily Lynnette is tiny, which made up for all the space I was taking up in the back seat. However, since she is tiny, I also thought she was still in high school (I think she was in grad school).

2. Doing her first "big" race - the now defunct Minnie 15K. I kept sight of her jogging ahead of me until I finally caught up with her and we finished together. I think that was the last time we finished a race (that wasn't a fun run) together!

3. Her first Davidson Disney trip - she roomed with Molly and got the full Davidson Disney drama - tears, hurt feelings, dining ressies, late night at the parks - and we didn't even stay on property!

4. The "all girls" Disney trip when she, Marilyn, and I all got to the airport at the same time and got the rental car and headed out to Wilderness Lodge - after midnight. We couldn't work the GPS thingy (a first-gen GPS) on the car and ended up driving around and around past the MK, looking for the road to to to Wilderness Lodge. The good news was that there were no lines at check in!

5. Her first (to date, anyway) marathon where Maribeth and I were her race crew, meeting her at every two miles to provide drinks and support. Which was handy, since she was a little preggers (unknown to anyone) and feeling the need to toss her cookies (or crackers or whatever) every now and then on the course. Luckily Sam (who did the half marathon) joined the support team when Maribeth had to go to work and could ascertain whether she needed to quit (she didn't!).

6. Any road trip with the family, which usually involves made-up games, arguments about trivial nothingness, and surveys about ridiculous things.. Luckily she travels with an Ipod and not a gun, because I'm not sure whom she would shoot first!

7. Her willingness to travel with Maribeth for a special mission, which mostly involved Lynnette spending time in her room at a Microtel (which will also hopefully be her last time in a Microtel).

8. Her tenure with the Cabrio and the various car situations it presented.

9. The family Thanksgiving trip to New York City which involved dead batteries on planes and crashing private parade parties.

10. Lindley's first diaper dash - when she couldn't crawl - and Lynnette getting her to the finish line!

These are just a few of the fun times we've had, and there are many more to come - Happy Birthday Lynnette!!

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Today's blessings: 2 miles with the Karens in the cold; floor dudes at M&M's house; getting projects complete; actually figuring out the DVD player and watching 3 movies

Christmas is Coming!

2011-11-30T23:06:00.004-06:00

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Today's blessings: a bit of Christmas shopping and making stuff; picking up Lindley at day care and watching Elmo; floor progress at M&M's

Tuesday Highlights

2011-11-29T23:35:00.002-06:00

1. Walked 4 miles at 6am in cold weather with four friends - even though we didn't stop for breakfast. It beat snoozing in the bed for an extra hour or two. At least that's what I keep telling myself.

2. Decided to go to McDonald's for breakfast, since I burned at least 31 calories ambling down the sidewalk for four miles. Opted out of the drive-through because of the long lines and pulled around the parking lot, feeling quite please that there was a parking spot close to the door - only to find out that it had a McDonald's "reserved" sign. Who was it reserved for and why that particular spot? Since nobody was around for me to ask, I left and ended up at Sonic.

3. Ordered a breakfast sandwich and drink at Sonic and paid with my credit card, even though I had been to the bank and had $20. Instead of using cash, I credit carded and then tipped 75 cents, the only change I had. I think the carhop was thrilled with the tip and plans to open a savings account.

4. Came home, ate breakfast, took a shower, and started the laundry process. Went over to check on the progress of Maribeth and Mathieu's house remodel and made some executive decisions. Maybe the green polka-dots won't be so bad ...

5. Went to fabric store to look for a pattern and fabric and ended up getting both. Found out a few hours later that I had left the pattern on the store counter. Luckily they held it and I was able to go by and pick it up. When I got home, I decided to start work on sewing project, which was hampered by cats who like to (1) hear the rustle of patterns when they paw them, and (b) prefer to sit on top of uncut fabric when I get the scissors in my hand. Sewing project delayed.

6. Cleaned out litter box and wish cats would take care of their business when they are outside. Cats laughed and went to scratch on chairs.

7. Decided to balance checkbook and could not figure why computer said I was broke while online banking said I was solvent. Found that I had entered a $113 debit as $11,300. Decimals suck sometimes.

8. Decided to restart sewing project. "Secretariat" was on television, so I had something to distract me, until sewing machine decided to act up. Decided to give it a rest and threw cats outside for some total peace and quiet.

So I guess it's time for bed - it's been a busy day and the cats are out, so the prospects are good for a decent night's sleep!

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Today's blessings: Chatting with the girls for 4 miles; getting projects started; more Christmas presents delivered and wrapped; nice sales people

Hoping For Some Zzzzzzz

2011-11-28T22:34:00.004-06:00

So last night I think I got about two hours sleep. This resulted in 800 catnaps today, none of which made up for last night. So the cats and I will try to do better tonight.

And yes, the cats will probably sleep in these positions (as will I)!

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Today's blessings: Progress on M/M's house; another make-it present in the works

Yikers! Let The Christmas Present-ing Begin!!

2011-11-27T00:43:00.002-06:00

Every year, our family has tried to come up with some "great" idea for Christmas gift giving. We've given gift cards and drawn names and given to charity. Last year we decided that everyone would have a "theme" for their gift giving. For instance, for this year, Sam's theme is "air." He will be giving every person in the family a gift that has to do with "air." Would it help to tell you that Steve's theme is "feet?"

Anyhow, I had a weak moment and decided to go with my theme from last year - "make it." The only person who has actually kept my gift from last year is Lindley - whom everyone agreed got the best make it present (a homemade A-B-C scrapbook made from family pictures). So one would think that everyone might discourage me from repeating that theme. One would be wrong.

So, instead of going to Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales, I am searching the internet for great make-it gift ideas. Since I don't knit, quilt, macrame, or paint, one might think my ideas are limited. Again, one would be wrong. I don't seem to let my lack of talent impede my gift giving. And as usual, I have great ideas for Lindley's present. The others - well, not so much. When I tried to google gifts, here's one of the few non-obscene ideas I came across:

Fortunately, I don't knit.

Anyhow, I shall continue to research in hopes of finding that perfect project for the family. I'll try to sandwich it in between my research for my part of the family Christmas meal. This year, in the tradition of Cereal Christmas and Fast Food Christmas and Disney Christmas, it's Crock Pot Christmas. So far, Maribeth's doing boiled peanuts and Sam is doing cheese dip.

Just another Christmas at the Davidsons!

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Today's blessings: picking up Molly's CSA; First Watch with Sam, Lynnette, and Lindley; chatting with the cruisers; new Christmas tree skirt; Lindley time

The Best Job In The World

2011-11-26T22:44:00.004-06:00

Perfect love sometimes does not come until the first grandchild. ~Welsh Proverb

Our grandchildren accept us for ourselves, without rebuke or effort to change us, as no one in our entire lives has ever done, not our parents, siblings, spouses, friends - and hardly ever our own grown children. ~Ruth Goode

A mother becomes a true grandmother the day she stops noticing the terrible things her children do because she is so enchanted with the wonderful things her grandchildren do. ~Lois Wyse

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Today's blessings: Finishing the carpet pulling-up at Prescott; Lindley time; more Christmas present deliveries; chatting with Maribeth and Molly before their cruise; Sharon joining Udderly Pink

White Friday

2011-11-25T23:57:00.004-06:00

I did not stand in line at the stores today to buy stuff at super incredible prices. Instead, I pulled up some nasty carpet in Maribeth and Mathieu's bedroom (they are off to Florida for a cruise). Apparently when one (in this case, the former owner) chooses to clean carpets with the powdery-type carpet cleaner, the powdery cleaner is not picked up by one's vacuum cleaner. Instead, it sifts through the carpet and pad and ends up on the floor underneath. After I had pulled up the carpet and pad, there was a ton of white powder all over the floor. Luckily I had remembered to wear a mask (lesson learned when we pulled up the carpet in the other bedroom), so I was spared the inhalation of the gunk (which I couldn't help but wonder had it been an illegal white powder, how that might change my work speed). It took two dustpans full to clean up the floor enough to start pulling up the tack strips. The only part of this job left is to pull up the sixty jillion staples all over the floor, which I decided to put off until tomorrow.

I guess we all have our versions of fun for the day after Thanksgiving ...

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Today's blessings: Taking Maribeth and Mathieu to the airport; carpet project 90% complete; burrito lunch with Sam and Lynnette; Lindley time; getting started on Christmas gifts

A Day To Be Grateful

2011-11-24T21:24:00.009-06:00

For my family both near and far;

For my friends both old and new;

For all things in my life with which I have been blessed,

I thank God.

It is indeed a wonderful life!

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Today's blessings: 5 miles in the Boulevard Bolt with Sam, Jo, Josh, and my personal wogging party - Karen, Karen, and Sharon; lunch at Pucketts with Sam, Lynnette, Lindley, Maribeth, and Mathieu; Steve and Molly's safe arrival in Florida; take-out dinner from Cracker Barrel with Maribeth and Mathieu; watching Lindley on her trampoline

The Times They Are a-Changin'

2011-11-23T21:16:00.005-06:00

Me, mid-1980s, to my kids: "Quit jumping on the bed! You're going to break it! Quit jumping on the couch! You're going to fall and break your neck!"

Me, today, to Lindley: "Let's go jump on Lala's bed!! Running up and down on the couch is a great idea!! What the heck - Lala and Pawpaw will buy you a Lindley trampoline to put in the sun room!"

And so we did! Of course, we have no pictures or videos of Lindley jumping in her trampoline - we all were having too much fun!!

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Today's blessings: Lindley's trampoline delivery and Mathieu spearheading its assembly; picking up Lindley at daycare; Molly and her cook staff preparing Thanksgiving dinner; being thankful at dinner with Steve, Sam, Lynnette, Lindley, Mathieu, Maribeth, Molly, and Adam

Watch Your Panty Waddage

2011-11-22T23:56:00.002-06:00

This evening I was on my way to pick up Steve from the airport. Due to a number of errands, I went the back route, which happened to have a train crossing included in the route. Of course, I thought I might be running a bit late, since my errand running was not panning out as I had planned. Just as I turned onto the road with the train crossing, of course the warning lights started blinking and the safety gates went down. I started getting all nervous and could feel my panties getting in a wad. I settled myself down, since there was really not a great spot to turn around, and decided I would just spend the time counting the cars. And I did - one, .... two, .... three .... Yep - there were three cars in all, hardly worth knotting my britches up.

Today's lesson: your panties will last much longer if you just hang loose and chill out - and save all that bundling for the big stuff!

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Today's blessings: Getting some of the house picked up; putting up and decorating the Christmas tree while watching "Elf" on tv; pedis with Molly and sparkly nail polish; picking up Steve at the airport; picking up Maribeth and Mathieu at the airport; more Christmas gift deliveries

Lost and Found ... Eventually

2011-11-21T01:56:00.002-06:00

Molly called around 6 pm, asking if I had seen her shiny metallic wallet, the one that held her credit cards and driver's license. I told her I hadn't, but I would look at my house. I found nothing, except maybe how gross it was under my sectional couch.

I called her back and we retraced her steps. The last time she remembered seeing it was yesterday when she and I had gone Krogering. Although she remembered stuffing it in an outer pocket of her purse after checking out, she hadn't seen it since. She noticed it was missing when she went to get lunch today. We retraced every step she made after the grocery store. I went to her house and we went through her couch (underneath which was a yucky as mine), her bedroom (slightly cleaner but with bags of stuff from her car and baskets of clean/dirty laundry), and her car (clean only because she had hauled everything out to look for her keys there). We even drove to Kroger, just in case it was on the ground where we parked (sure - 24 hours later - but at that point we were getting desperate - Thanksgiving is in two days and she leaves for a cruise in four days. Things were going to be interesting if she had to cancel/reissue her credit cards and driver's license).

The good news was that we knew the wallet hadn't been stolen because none of the credit cards had been used (Molly had been checking constantly since she realized they were missing). It would seem that the wallet was somewhere in her personal territory - but where?

She called her friend who had come over for dinner, her cousin who had visited her this weekend, and her boyfriend who was one of the last people at her house. But still, no wallet. Two hours later, we decided to go check her office - just in case it had fallen out of her purse.

And there it was, in a box behind her desk. She had put her purse there and apparently the wallet had fallen out, not to be missed until she needed to pay for lunch. We had spent two hours searching, only to find it in the first place we probably should have looked.

What's the moral of this story? Get a big wallet and put a tracking device on it? Start looking for a missing item from the point when and where you realize it's first missing? Get a video camera and start making a video daily diary?

Maybe, but I like this moral of the story better: no matter how, no matter when, no matter why, it's always a blessing to have and be with family - especially when things turn out happily!

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Today's blessings: Steve's safe travel to Florida; first Christmas songs on radio; nice dudes helping with boxes at UHaul; getting Christmas order packages in the mail; picking up Boulevard Bolt bibs and tshirts; looking for wallet with Molly

It's What's Inside That Counts

2011-11-20T20:32:00.008-06:00

I'm not sure which is worse - the fact that the brand name of this product is B&M, or the way that the product looks when it comes out of its container. And I won't even get into the interpretation of the raisins in this particular rendition of this product. I will mention that this company also produces baked beans (a no-brainer there). From all appearances, it looks like something I would never approach with the thought of trying it.

However, according to reviews, it's the best thing since, well, sliced bread. Guess it goes to show that you can't judge a book by its cover. Or in this case, a loaf of bread by its can.

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Today's blessings: 4 miles and Bongo Java with Karen and Molly; McAllister's takeout with Steve, Sam, Lynnette, Lindley, Molly, and David; Krogering with Molly; helpful Michael's clerk; two new sweaters via Molly

One and Done

2011-11-19T21:07:00.003-06:00

No matter what you say, I know what season it is - the season of whack-a-doodle shopping. You know, Black Friday and all. Molly and Steve are the masters of this phenomenon. I'm the exact opposite, which makes me wonder why in the heck I was in Old Navy with 8 bazillion other people this morning.

Oh wait - Molly said that coats would be 75% off and fleeces were $14. Or $16. Except that fleeces on the website were $7, but you could print out a coupon and get them for that price in the store. But since I did not need/want a coat, and the fleece situation was confusing, again - why was I in the store? Especially since the check-out line was from the register to the back of the store, and the registers weren't all open yet, because the un-needed/wanted coat sale didn't start until noon, and it was 11:45 am, yet I was standing in line with no coat and no fleece - in fact no clothing at all. I was just there as a placeholder. I guess I was there to balance out the two women in front of me in line - with their 97 coats apiece. Their massive coat haul was only trumped by the conversation they were having with their BFF across the store in another check-out line, as each one regaled and tried to one-up the other about not only this coat bonanza, but last year's and the year before that.

All I can surmise is that this was my contribution for the Black Friday madness. Even if they were going to give away coats with a fleece bonus for standing in line, I will not be there. My Black Friday shopping is done, and I saved a fortune - mainly because I did not spend one cent. Sure, I will have to wear my old coat and fleece - if I need a coat or fleece at all. After all, isn't that one of the perks of hot flashes?

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Today's blessings: Walking 4+ miles and breakfasting with Molly, Karen, and Jo; purchasing 4 milk bottles at yard sale on the walk home; Old Navy and Five Guys with Molly and David; Ragtime with David; Steve's Bubba Burgers for dinner with Sam, Lynnette, Lindley, Molly, Adam, Steve, and David

Now What Was I Going To Blog About?

2011-11-18T22:35:00.004-06:00

I had a really good topic - really, I did. I thought about it earlier today, and had it all planned out. I think it was going to be an Andy Rooney (may he rest in peace) rant about something or the other. I'm sure it was quite witty. Or maybe not. I guess it does't matter, since at this point I have no idea what it was about.

Which brings me to another point, a habit that Maribeth and I decided we should start. Since we can't remember what we did, or whom we did it with (like something will trigger in my brain and I will ask her why is that triggering - what/where/when did we see/do/eat that) and neither of us can remember until we think really hard and eventually can put the pieces together, we decided that we should carry around a video camera and have a video diary of our day. Which of course is ridiculous, since our days are barely a smidge above boring. But at least we would be able to put the pieces together without taxing the teensy memory parts of our brains.

All that sounds well and good, until we remembered that we don't have a video camera anymore, and if we did, the battery would be dead, and if it was charged, then it wouldn't save anything because the memory disk would still be in my computer, where the memory disks are usually stored when I am ready to take a picture with my regular camera. That is, when my regular camera (a) can be found, and (b) has a charged battery.

So, to put this blog post in perspective, I had a brilliant idea, but since the video camera plan had not been put into action, you have been put through this rambling explanation of why you are not reading about it. The brilliant idea, that is.

Ain't modern technology great?

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Today's blessings: Wal-Mart-ing with Steve; K-Mart-ing and Taco Bell-ing and clean-sheeting with Molly; phone chatting with Maribeth; seeing Marilyn in the audience at the MSU game in NYC; Lucy's wedding pics; cleaning up dead plants in front yard; getting Nutcracker and Ragtime tix

Grandmaw's Here

2011-11-17T21:39:00.003-06:00

Tonight I went out with the girls to celebrate Jo's birthday. The food was delicious, the company was amazing, and a fun time was had by all. Of course we had to take a few pictures. Upon looking at the finished result, I came up with with the following question - why are pictures so much worse than when I look in the mirror (where I at least look semi-normal)?

In other words, in the group picture I look like I'm ready for the nursing home. One could only hope the picture will inspire me to do something - like lose 100 pounds and go buy some Clairol. We'll see how that works out.

Technically I am a grandmaw. I just didn't expect to look like one so soon ....

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Today's blessings: 4 miles down Belmont with the Karens; finally finding the car fixup place and Steve; celebrating Jo's birthday with Karen, Karen, and Molly; 3 day planning

Memphis in Nashville

2011-11-16T22:48:00.004-06:00

It. Was. Excellent!!

HOCKADOO!!

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Today's blessings: new dishwasher delivery and installation and dude that did both; Memphis with Karen; Lindley pickup and Pinkberry with Steve; JibJab fun

Tuesday Therapy

2011-11-15T21:35:00.006-06:00

I think the increase in the water/gas bill is still cheaper than seeing Dr. Phil ..

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Today's blessings: taking Maribeth to the airport and her safe travel to Wyoming; lazy day of doing nothing much; long soak in the tub

So What Is This Udderly Pink???

2011-11-14T21:25:00.004-06:00

It's the name of our team. So far, it's me and my girls to the left - Molly and the Karens. We're still hoping that Jo and Gloria sign up, and that many more (from all over the country) will join the team. So, the question remains - WHAT IS UDDERLY PINK??

I guess the best way to answer this question is just to answer a lot of questions.

1. What kind of team have you formed and what qualifications do you need to join the team?

This team formed for the The Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure^®. This event will take place in San Francisco on September 7-9, 2012. To qualify, you must be breathing and have a heartbeat.

2. What happens during this event?

You walk approximately 20 miles a day for 3 days. And by walk I mean walk. You start in the morning and take as long as you need. There are lunch breaks and snack breaks scheduled along the way. When you get back to camp, you get a hot meal (breakfast and dinner), you get a hot shower in a semi-truck, you get to do the necessary in a porta-potty, and you get to sleep in a 2-person tent. It's amazing.

3. What if I can't walk the whole thing?

You can get picked up by a sweeper van, who will take you to the next snack stop or lunch or back to camp if it's late in the afternoon. If you don't want to walk, you can sign up as a crew volunteer and still be part of the team.

4. How much does it cost?

Registration is $90, although there is a coupon CURE2012 that saves a bit on that (it expires on December 1). To participate in the walk, each person has to raise $2300. I know that sounds like a lot of money, but it can be done, especially if we all work together. Crew members are exempt from the fundraiser part.

5. Now let me get this straight - I'm supposed to raise $2300, walk 60 miles over 3 days, sleep in a tent, shower in a truck, and peepoop in a porta-potty. And I'm doing this why?

Because you probably know somebody who has been affected by breast cancer. Because breast cancer needs to be cured. Because this is an experience that is so special, it's hard to put into words. So maybe this video of the my walk in San Diego will help.

So now you know. Fundraising on my part starts after the holidays, unless you need your car washed before then. Meanwhile, don't you want to join us?

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Today's blessings: Steve bringing me lunch; chili dinner at Molly's with the family

Udderly Pink Is Coming

2011-11-13T21:55:00.005-06:00

Just wanted to let you know - stay tuned!!

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Today's blessings: Olive Garden lunch with Sam, Lynnette, Lindley, Maribeth, and Molly; playing with Lindley; afternoon nap; Steve's safe return home from visiting GDizzle; Mathieu being home from Cuba

Yard Art

2011-11-12T19:46:00.006-06:00

Today Molly, Lynnette, and I went to Christmas Village at the Fairgrounds. There was a lot to see (and eat and get personalized and buy). We went in, thinking we would buy nothing. We came out with a puzzle, some fudge, a burp cloth, and some pajamas, just to name a few things. And then there was this, who just begged to come home with me.

I mean, doesn't everyone need a metal peacock in the yard?

(especially if you already have two mouse-eared pink flamingos?)

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Today's blessings: Maribeth finding her passport; Christmas Village with Molly and Lynnette; Lindley time; pizza with Sam, Lynnette, and Maribeth

McRib Me Not

2011-11-11T21:38:00.006-06:00

I've never had one, but continued to be intrigued by it. However, I don't think I'll be trying one. Ever. Here's why. I mean really, gym mats and soles of shoes?

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Today's blessings: pulling up carpet at Maribeth's house; lunch and dinner with the Ms

When Your Boobs Deserve the Very Best ...

2011-11-10T21:14:00.007-06:00

Model Miranda Kerr walks the runway in a $2.5 million bra during the 2011 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show at the Lexington Avenue Armory on November 9, 2011 in New York City. The lingerie features approximately 3,400 hand-placed gems, including 142 carats of diamonds in addition to pearls, citrines, and aqua marines.

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Today's blessings: working on Maribeth's house; picking up Lindley at day care and then to Pinkberry with L and Steve

Tonight, Blogwise ....

2011-11-09T22:11:00.002-06:00

Some days are like that ...

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Today's blessings: Lunch with Maribeth; safe travel home for Steve; getting a few tasks completed

My Brain is Numb

2011-11-08T22:03:00.002-06:00

I watched too much television tonight. First I watched "Biggest Loser." I dvr it so I can fast forward through the whining and the weekly segment where they make Jennie-O chicken sandwiches and act like it's the most genius thing on earth, except the weeks where they also put them in plastic baggies. I also hate the part where they vote someone off, because host Allison had to review the rules each time someone votes - "Lamar, you have 1 vote. Six votes will get you off the show." "Lamar, you have 2 votes. Six votes will get you off the show. Four more votes and your butt is toast" Really? You mean the rules didn't change in the last sixty seconds? Let me get out my calculator and figure up them numbers. But before I can start punching in the numbers, Allison is back saying, "Lamar, you have 3 votes. Three more votes and your light goes off, because six votes mean you lost." Whew - I was worried that Lamar was still confused about his status.

Next I watched "Property Virgins" or "First Time Homebuyers" or whatever it was. It should be called "I Am Too Stupid To Be Owning Property." The couple buying the real estate tonight were so dumb they probably couldn't even follow Allison's remarks to Lamar. In fact, they would probably be saying the same thing after every vote - "Lamar got another vote. Wonder how many more he needs?" The property couple decided to buy a house because their apartment lease was about to be up - in two months. I think they thought they would just run out and buy a house at KMart and be done with it. They also had a 200-pound dog that drooled a lot. I'm thinking they didn't get their pet deposit back at their apartment. They finally got to close on the house, after Mr. Dufus sat around the lending company for hours, waiting for paperwork. Guess he doesn't own a cell phone. Or the dog ate it.

Finally, I watched "Duggars Vs Birth Control." In case you haven't heard, Mama Duggar is preggers again - with #20. Tonight the Duggars answered a bunch of questions that people apparently want to know. I must have wanted to know too, because I sat and listened to every answer. The most appalling thing I learned is that they do 10 loads of laundry a day. There were lots of more questions and answers, but I was still trying to figure out if Lamar was going home or not.

Anyhow, now my brain is sufficiently asleep so that I can go to bed. Unless I can squeeze in an episode of "Hoarders"!

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Today's blessings: Two laps around Maribeth's neighborhood; Steve's safe travel to Florida; picking up Lindley at day care and playing at her house; chicken tortilla soup and goat cheese salad at Molly's house

Monday

2011-11-07T20:48:00.002-06:00

Today I:

1. Walked 3 miles in the neighborhood. It was s-l-o-w, but I managed not to trip on anything and re-twist my already wounded ankle.

2. Gave a pint of blood at Red Cross and got my 2-gallon pin. Although today's visit yielded no tangible rewards (last time I got a free coupon for Edible Arrangement) and there were no Nutter Butter cookies, everybody was nice and experienced (unlike the time I went and the technician was practically following a checklist).

3. Got my hair trimmed up. As usual, I was hoping for a miracle, but at this point, anything would be an improvement. Basically just got a few inches cut off the length. Boring!!

4. Made mashed potatoes to go with the Costco roast that Steve bought. It was all good.

Yep, I think that's about it for today!

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Today's blessings: beautiful day for a walk; Red Cross personnel; home cooked dinner; hairstylist Ashley

Daylight Savings Time ... Or Not

2011-11-06T20:37:00.004-06:00

I think I'm going to go take that extra hour of sleep now ....

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Today's blessings: Factory lunch with Sam, Lynnette, and Molly; Lindley time; safe trip back home for Steve and Maribeth

Yard Sale - Check!!

2011-11-05T22:15:00.003-05:00

We came, we sold, we boxed up the leftovers. We did all this while waiting for the 30 degree weather to warm up to the promised 60 degree weather (which it did about an hour after the close of the sale). While we didn't have to file a tax return on our proceeds, we at least made some money for our breast cancer walk.

Karen made chocolate oatmeal cookies and was in charge of pricing (she wasn't so impressed with my "everything's a quarter" pricing policy). Molly brought breakfast from McDonald's and was in charge of the money box (apparently my adding up the purchases on my abacus was taking too long). Sam helped by marketing the junk and selling it (and taking stuff to old lady's cars and then picking up lunch). Lynnette and Lindley came by for entertainment value (and give me an excuse to go inside). My job was to organize stuff last night, put ridiculous prices on stuff, and decide to have the yard sale at the last minute (too much planning ahead also results in too much time to change your mind and cancel the whole thing).

Our butt camp pal Michelle came by and got a little bag of junk for a lot of money (although that's not why we like her so much, it was really nice of her to put in quite a nice donation). We also had the usual yard salers - like the early bird old dude who came by before we opened because he has insomnia (and apparently had no intention of buying anything). Another old dude came buy and left without parting with a cent (but not before he asked if we had any tin toys). A lot of people bought the baby clothes and stuff (thanks to Lindley for growing and shedding stuff). And of course, we had the people who basically wanted to load up their cars and only spend $3. They left empty-handed.

We got rid of the big stuff we wanted to unload. We still had a few boxes of stuff leftover, but decided to keep it until next summer's garage sale (even though I still hate them - I mean REALLY hate them).

Maybe then we'll have some tin toys.

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Today's blessings: yard sale and lunch with Molly, Karen, Sam, Lynnette, and Lindley; Michelle coming by and visiting during the yard sale; afternoon nap with the kitties; Olive Garden and Target with Molly

And Then There Was One

2011-11-04T21:46:00.004-05:00

I started wogging races in 2000. It started because I was walking in an effort to lose weight, and somehow came up with the idea to do a marathon. I searched and found the Air Force Marathon at Wright-Patterson AFB in Ohio. This marathon appealed to me because (1) it was far enough away so that nobody I knew would know about it or see me in it, and (2) it had an 8-hour time limit.

When I first told my family about my plan, they looked at me as if I had told them I was going in for a sex-change operation and changing my name to Larry. I'm not sure if they knew what a marathon was, but they certainly knew me, and somehow me and 26.2 miles just didn't seem to go together. Nevertheless, I trained and that September, Sam went with me as I set out to do my first marathon. I managed to finish and receive my medal. It was a totally awesome event.

Since then I've completed 125 races of varying distances from 2 miles to 26.2. My pace has always been pretty slow, but I've managed to finish each race. Along the way I've collected a pretty cool set of medals and displayed them on my wall. Recently it was time to add some new ones to the wall, and I was mulling over different ideas of how I was going to do that.

Before I came to a decision, I came across a post on a running forum where a runner brought up a organization called Medals4Mettle. To quote the website,

Medals4Mettle (M4M) is a non-profit organization that facilitates the gifting of marathon, half marathon, and triathlon finishers’ medals. Runners from around the world give their hard earned medals to Medals4Mettle. Our worldwide network of physicians and volunteers then awards these medals attached to a Medals4Mettle ribbon to children and adults fighting debilitating illnesses who might not be able to run a race, but are in a race of their own just to continue to live their life. It is in honor of this mettle and courage in bravely facing these challenges that they are awarded a medal.

All of a sudden, I knew what I wanted to do with my medals - I wanted to donate them. But did I want to donate them all? I have several that are unique and special. In the end, I decided to keep one and mailed 91 medals to the local branch, hoping they will bring a smile and encouragement to someone who needs it.

Do I think everyone should do this? Certainly not - every medal earned is an accomplishment and a reminder of achieving a personal goal. Just looking at a medal reminds us of how hard it was to get to that finish line, and all those memories of getting there. Sometimes I think we should wear them over and over, just so we can be congratulated on what we did. But for now, for me, it was time to send my medals forward.

And which medal did I keep? The first one, because it represents something nobody thought I could do, but I did. It represents a personal goal that I worked for and the beginning of shared family experiences. It reminds me of Sam's support and his belief in me during that first marathon. It encourages me to get back to what I know to do and keep at it.

Sure, in some way I miss those medals. But at the end of the day, I know what they meant. And if somehow those medals can now mean something to someone who is battling to win the race for his or her life, then that medal had found true meaning - because it has found its way to a true champion.

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Today's blessings: U-Haul dude; seeing Sam's office; hauling yard sale stuff and setting up with Molly and Karen

Thursday Good Times

2011-11-03T22:56:00.003-05:00

*Checking on the progress of Maribeth's house, then making family trip to Home Depot for purchase of bathroom cabinet. Good times.

*Slightly twisting my right ankle (not the badly twisted/turned/wrenched left ankle from a few weeks ago that is still sore) when going into the house, causing my bad ankle to bang into the concrete step - actually it was my big left toe, which is now purple. Yes, I have the grace of a bull.

*Nearly finishing my apron project for Karen's birthday, but giving it to her anyway. It's not like it was going to get any better ...

*Celebrating Karen's birthday at Monell's with Karen B, Gloria, Jo, and Molly. Good southern cooking around the family table with four complete strangers - even more good times!!

*Deciding to have yard sale on Saturday but did nothing to get ready for it. Except recruit dinner companions (the ones I know) to help out. I hate yard sales. Purple toe must be affecting my decision making.

Anyhow, that's about it for today. Apparently I am having a yard sale this weekend, so there will be much to do tomorrow. I think I still have an extremity or two that is still uninjured ...

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Today's blessings: All of the above, plus Steve and Maribeth's safe road trip to GDizzle's; watching "Secretariat" for the zillionth time

Now THAT Was Wicked Good!

2011-11-02T23:21:00.002-05:00

When I was little, "The Wizard of Oz" came on every Easter (highly appropriate movie for that holiday, don't you think - yeah, me neither). I hate the movie. It was scary and there was a mean, ugly witch, and there was a dog that a mean lady took away, and there were lots of scary things. To this day, I do not watch the movie, except the part where Judy Garland sings "Somewhere Over the Rainbow."

So, even though "Wicked" is on everybody's Best Musical lists, I hadn't seen it. I knew it was about Glinda the Good Witch and the Wicked Witch, but since I scary-hated the Wicked Witch, I had very little motivation to see it. Except for the fact that it was on everybody's Best Musical lists.

Tonight I saw it with Lynnette, Maribeth, and Karen. And I thought it was great. Maybe it's because I kept imagining Kristen Chenoweth an Idina Menzel in the lead roles. Maybe it's because the songs were fabulous. Maybe it's because the costumes and set designs were totally awesome. Maybe it's because I saw it with people I really like.

But I really think it's because it showed another side of a story that I hated. It showed me how things could look differently, if I knew the whole story. It showed me that happy endings can exist and things may not always be as they seem.

I still hate the movie and won't watch it. But that's okay, because I know the other side of the story - and it's a good one!!

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Today's blessings: taking care of medals; Wal-mart shopping; Wicked with the girls; Steve's safe travel home; two slow miles in the neighborhood

No Excuses November

2011-11-01T20:06:00.003-05:00

Welcome to November. For the next two months, I have decided to stay in town (even though possibilities abound to go places). For the first time in several years, I am spending the holidays in town, watching all the specials and actually putting up a decoration. Maybe even baking cookies (I know - I'm out of control). I'm also going to try to establish good habits and get stuff done that has been put off for awhile. Yesterday I Joan Crawford-ed the rose bushes.

Today I decided to hack the IKEA table that I got for Lindley. Basically the hack involved the little desk, the IKEA paper roller thingy, some wood letters from Michaels, three cans of spray paint, and my trusty drill. Here is the finished product:

I still have some stickers to apply (after I purchase some) and to see if The Boss likes it (her Halloween Elmo costume didn't go over so well, so you never know).

At this rate, if I really get a project done a day, I may even get the floor mopped before 2012! A girl can dream, can't she?

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Today's blessings: Seeing the progress on Maribeth's house and going with her to pick out tile; finishing Lindley's desk

And To Think, I Grew Up On A Farm!!

2011-10-31T22:14:00.003-05:00

One of the things that has always signified the onset of winter is my cutting down my knockout rose bushes. Today, since the weather was nice and it's about the time that the brush collectors come on our street, I decided to get the job done.

At first, I was going to do this job in stages, since I have six different areas of rosebushes (for a total of about 24 rosebushes). After I got the first area done, I took a break and then decided to finish up the entire job, resulting in about 15 bags of clippings. It was long and tedious, but I was glad to get it all finished. The results of my hard work were also evident when I took a shower and noticed my stomach looked like I had been in a knife fight - scratches all over.

Anyhow, I was feeling pretty good about my day's work, until I (for some insane reason) decided to read a bit on a knockout rose website. According to the information I read, one should prune the bushes in the spring - never in the fall and never in the winter. Of course, then I read another website that said to prune them in the later winter and early spring. It also said to prune them to six inches - about three inches more than I lopped them off. So, in other words, check back next spring to see if my knockout roses will return.

And, in case you were still considering it, don't ask me for gardening advice!!

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Today's blessings: Taking Steve to airport and his safe travel south; finishing yardwork (and possibly the roses); trick-or-treating with Elmo Lindley, Abby Lynnette, Mr. Noodles Sam, Molly, and Maribeth; little (and not-so-little) trick-or-treaters

Dear White Rhino (aka Steve's Sequoia) ...

2011-10-30T21:09:00.003-05:00

I think it's time we spent some time apart. I mean, we've been to Orlando, Florida three times since Labor Day, and just got back from Lynchburg, Virginia. I'm sure you're as worn out as I am. Therefore, I think it's time we let our dogs rest a bit. It's time we stayed home awhile and watched the leaves turn colors and fall to the ground.

Sure, it was great to listen to 6000 episodes of "Friends" as we wound down the miles. It was fun to attempt to scrape off the bug goo at every gas stop. It woke me up as I watched the dollar amount on the gas pump race upwards as the gasoline amount slowly ticked by. I appreciate the snooze time on the passenger door and the way you kept all our belongings inside the car, no matter how much stuff we bought from IKEA in Orlando.

But for now, let's just limit our trips to Kroger and Target - the local ones. Let's let a tank of gas last awhile. In fact, let's just have a day where neither of us leaves the premises. I think we could use a rest.

At least until January, when the Southern sun will be beckoning us again to the Happiest Place on Earth. And probably an IKEA run as well.

I'll bring "The Office" episodes - you bring the gas!!

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Today's blessings: safe travels back home for the Graves, Lewis, and Davidson families; taking Jill to the Roanoke airport; sleeping in my own bed

And They Were Married!!

2011-10-29T16:31:00.005-05:00

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Today's blessings: Lucy and Jonathan's wedding and all that it involved!!

What's She Thinking?

2011-10-28T22:47:00.002-05:00

Maybe she's thinking about what she's going to order for lunch. Maybe she's thinking about all the gifts she's about to open. Maybe she's thinking about what the people at the next table are thinking about her flowery crown. Maybe she's thinking about the weather and if that prediction of snow is going to happen. Maybe she's thinking about last night's episode of "The Office."

But maybe she's thinking about the man she's about to marry, about how tomorrow her life will change forever, and about how much love this weekend is all about. No wonder her smile is so big!!

Congratulations Lucy - may all your hopes and dreams come true, and may God's blessings follow you everywhere you go. And most of all, may all the love you feel this weekend stay with you forever.

Best wishes to Lucy and Jonathan!!

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Today's blessings: Ladies luncheon at the Tea Room; safe arrival of Sam, Lynnette, Lindley, and Molly; decorating reception tables with Marilyn, Maribeth, and Molly; Wal-Mart run with Sam, Lynnette, Molly, and Maribeth

On The Road Again ...

2011-10-27T21:04:00.004-05:00

We left Nashville this morning on our way to Lynchburg, Virginia. I saw way too many Confederate flags flapping in the breeze along the interstate - has there been another secession that I didn't know about? We stopped in Knoxville to eat lunch at a place supposedly famous for its hamburgers, only we didn't eat the hamburgers. We checked into our rooms at Sweet Briar College and were given real keys for the rooms, in case you didn't know inns still did that. Now I'm watching "Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders," my favorite reality (?) show.

In other words, it's been a good day. Now if somebody could just tell me if I need to get out my hoop skirts ...

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Today's blessings: safe road trip, lunch, and Olive Garden with Steve and Maribeth; seeing all the Graves Family, including new little Madison

Packing. Again.

2011-10-26T22:16:00.003-05:00

This time, we're headed to Virginia for my niece Lucy's wedding. (I know - I just hope the car doesn't get confused and head South.) No bathing suits or raggedy clothes this trip - gotta find and pack the good stuff.

Of course, I've waited until the last minute to pack. It doesn't help that the weather will be a hodge-podge, so I'm packing a little of this and a little of that. Sam, Lynnette, Lindley, and Molly will be flying in Friday night, so we're taking their suitcases with us. We're also taking a porta-crib because the hotel we're staying at only had one, and the bride's niece gets first call for that.

But it will be a lovely weekend, full of fun and family. There will be no mouse ears or Mickey bars.

But there will be wedding cake!!

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Today's blessings: Pinkberry and park time with Lindley and Steve; Halloween cookies from Karen B (which are long gone by now)

Fall is Here

2011-10-25T22:54:00.004-05:00

Leaves are turning and falling. Flowers are wilting and in need of trimming. The air is getting cooler and the HVAC has been turned to "heat" instead of "cool." The windows are open and closed, depending on the temperature. Warmer clothes from last year are reassessed and blankets are added to the bed.

In other words, summer is over and fall has arrived. As a person who needs the change of seasons, I welcome fall. I like that the hot weather is gone and a cool crispness is in the air. It's time to wind down bit from all the summer fun and think about finishing out 2011.

The only question is, how am I going to lose (in two months) all that weight that I had as a goal on January 1?

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Today's blessings: quiet day doing very little

Spilled Milk

2011-10-24T20:35:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I got in my car for the first time in about ten days. As soon as I sat down, I smelled it - the smell of sour milk (having grown up on a dairy farm, I know that smell). Since it's not unusual for me to have a sippy cup of milk for my trips with Lindley, I figured there was a loose cup in the car somewhere. I also remembered that the last time Lindley was in the car, she spilled some of the milk in her car seat, due to faulty cup. So I figured that perhaps the car seat cover had some spillage that had dried into a smelly stain.

I forgot about it until today, when I got back in my car to run errands. The smell was bearable while I was out and about. But when I returned home, I decided to investigate the source of the smell. I sniffed out the inside of the car, and zoned in on the car seat, which was indeed the culprit. Figuring it was the car seat cover, I began removing it - only to have to complete unlatch the 20 or so buckles, belts, latches, and hooks. Eventually I got it off and put it for a run in the washing machine, not realizing that the best was yet to come.

I returned to the now-freed-from-restraints car seat to discover that the aforementioned spilled milk had not, in fact, been stopped by the cushiony car seat cover. Instead, the milk had found a canal to run through, and been stopped only by the hard plastic crevices of the actual car seat. In other words, I had about four tablespoons of milk in two different places that had been curdling and coagulating and stagnating during the week that I been gone. In other words, ewwww and ewwwwwer.

Fortified with Lysol wipes, paper towels, hot water, Q-tips, and Febreeze, I hauled the car seat into the house and proceeded to clean, disinfect, and deodorize. It was an icky job, but Red Pepper (my car's name), Lindley, and I will be much happier and breathe much easier.

So what did I learn from this experience?

1 - If something seems nasty, it is nasty. You just may have to search a little harder to find it.

2 - You may indeed be the only person who perceives of something nasty, and therefore will be the only person to search for the nasty. Unfortunately, there are no awards for "Nasty Finder Of The Year," so you will have to be content with your own self-worth.

3 - Q-Tips. No home should be without them.

4 - Unspillable sippy cups are not to be trusted.

And finally number 5 - Why cry over spilled milk - it's just gonna sit there until you clean it up, and the sooner you clean it up, the better!!

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Today's blessings: getting a start on getting caught up; shower shopping; telephone chat with Ann; Sportsman's Grille dinner with John, Mark, Steve, and Molly

The Cats Are Glad We're Back

2011-10-23T20:47:00.002-05:00

Thanks to my friend Emily, who shared this video - this gives you an idea of what our first night back home is like!!

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Today's blessings: Steve's burgers for lunch with the family; watching Lindley tackle the trampoline