Road Trip...

We're headed out of town in the morning! Sunday we'll be in Destin for a friend's wedding and from there we're headed to Tallahassee for a college visit Monday at Florida State. Zack will have a full day that includes a tour of the campus AND a Marching Chiefs rehearsal. Tuesday we'll be at University of Central Florida in the morning, Full Sail in the afternoon, and then back to UCF for a Marching Knights rehearsal that evening. We'll be busy, busy, busy and I'm sure pretty tired by the time we return too!

Please pray for safety in our travels and wisdom in the decisions Zack will be making for his future college choice. Hopefully, I will take lots of pictures and will post a full report when we return.

An Emotional Week...

My heart has been so heavy lately and my mind has been so pre-occupied that I've not even considered sitting down and blogging. I was telling hubby that sometimes I feel like I need to "de-frag" my hard drive to make room for more info. because my processor is running slow! (A little techie humor at no extra charge!)

Let me back up since my last post and update you on what I've been up to. I've found it very unnerving that as I sat typing my last post at almost 4:30 in the morning, worrying over such trivial things, a mere 24 hours later, the world was going to change for one of our dear students.

Last Thursday, a little after 3:00 a.m., one of our sophomores awoke to what he thought was his alarm clock. It turned out to be the smoke alarm. His room was filled with black smoke as he quickly made his way down the hall to his mother's room where a locked door awaited him. He pounded on the door, screaming, trying to get to his mom. Finally he broke through the door, only to be pushed back by the heat and smoke. He made his way back down the hall and out the door where he banged on neighbors doors and screamed for help. No one would answer, so he stood in his front yard, throwing things through his mother's window and screaming. Finally, a neighbor came out to help him, but it was too late. His mother was found, along with their dog, in her bathroom.

Preliminary reports show it was an electrical fire that started between the wall of her bedroom and the living room. This child lost everything. His mom, his clothes, their house. His father is not in the picture and from what I understand, never has been. He has a sister who is a freshman at Univ. of Alabama and an older brother.

The first person he called, even before his grandparents, was our football coach. What struck me is that we haven't won alot of games this year, but this coach has won the hearts of our football players. He is a great example to them, and a father figure to some of them too. Isn't that the type of winning that matters most in life?

Our coach was going to forfeit this past Friday's game, but Jordan wanted to play. One day after his mom lost her life, he was on the football field, running over 230 yards with 29 carries, scoring several touchdowns, one being the winning touchdown of the game. Jordan dedicated the game to his mom. Coach said, "we had 12 players on the field that night. She was definitely looking after him."

Read more of the story (and see photos) by clicking here

You can also click this web site and watch a video with Jordan and our coach. It's about halfway down the page in the video box and you have to watch a few minutes of the sports report before they get to Jordan's interview.

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I've also been thinking so much about my Dad. We're approaching the one year anniversary of his death (October 31st). In some ways, I can't believe a year has passed and in other ways, it seems like it's been a lifetime since I saw him last. Those sad feelings keep trying to creep their way to the surface, but I'm staying busy and forcing those thoughts and emotions into the corners of my mind for another time. I can't allow myself to go there. Not right now.

Mom is having flowers in memory of Dad this Sunday at her church. I know it's awful to say this, but I'm glad we're going to be out of town on college visits with Zack. I haven't been back to Mom's church since the funeral, and just don't think I could handle it right now. If you think about it, please say an extra prayer for my mom and all of our family during this difficult time.

I wanted to post this picture my mom found. I was being a little "ham" and I love the look on my Dad's face!

Also, please continue to remember Jordan and his siblings in your prayers. And if the Lord lays it on your heart to donate to the trust fund, you can email me and I can give you instructions on how to do that.

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Thank you, sweet Kat, for my BFF award. The feelings are mutual and you picked the same chickies I would have picked! Thank you again, for the awards I've received in the last few weeks.

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My mom drove to Birmingham for the Hoover Marching Invitational that our band attended this past Saturday. You can go here to read all about it! Here's a picture of me, mom and Zack after they performed and were back at the bus ready to change!

Well, I think that about catches up on what I've been doing the past week. Hopefully, I will post a report and pictures when we return from Zack's college visits.

Various and Sundry Things

You know it's bad when you wake up at 3:30 in the morning thinking of all the things you need to do! I tossed and turned, adding more things to my "to do" list and finally just decided to get up.

I emailed a few clients, got my newspaper ad in before the noon deadline today, and typed the bus list for our away game Friday and competition in Hoover on Saturday.

Just a few more weeks of this and things will start to slow down...but for now, it's high gear and full speed ahead!

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First, I want to thank my friends for the thoughtful awards that have been passed on to me in the past couple of weeks. I promise one day soon I will get to posting on them. Right now the thought of doing all the linky-loos and passing on the awards is overwhelming---problem is, I let it go too long and I've got lots of catching up to do!

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We have a trip planned at the end of this month, which also marks the one year anniversary of my Dad's passing (October 31st). In some ways, it will be good to be "busy" and try not to think too much about it---but I'm also wishing I could be there for my mom. She's having flowers placed in the church in memory of Dad on Sunday, the 28th, and hopefully my brother and sister will be with her that day.

We are headed to Destin on the 28th for an afternoon wedding at Sandestin and then leaving from there to go on down to Tallahassee for a college visit at Florida State University on Monday, the 29th. We'll get to tour the campus and then we've arranged for Zack to attend a Marching Chiefs rehearsal from 4:00 - 6:00 that evening.

After leaving FSU, we're headed down to Orlando for a college visit on Tuesday, the 30th at University of Central Florida in the morning, Full Sail in the afternoon and then back to UCF for a Marching Knights rehearsal from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Whew! We're packing alot in during those two days...but figured we would get them all checked off the list while we were in the area. Pass the tissue please! Mama's gonna need it!

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Saturday we're headed to the Hoover Met for the Hoover Invitational Marching Competition. It's Zack's last competition. Again, pass the tissue! My mom's going to drive over from Atlanta with a friend of hers and spend the day. I know Zack's glad his nana is coming!

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Lastly, it was great meeting new friends that de-lurked in the previous post. I've stopped by and welcomed you to our bloggy circle, but there was one that I couldn't contact---so just know I tried and thanks for stopping by!

Hope you all have a wonderful rest of the week!

De-Lurking! Come on out of the closet!!!

I have seen this recently on a few blogs (Kat & Tonja) and I have to say, I'm with Tonja and not sure if I missed the day---but nonetheless, I thought I would post about it too!

I have made the sweetest friends by "delurking"! Last year, I delurked on Kat's blog and have developed a great friendship and even went to visit her. I have met so many wonderful people thru this bloggy little world and if you happen to stop by here on occasion for a looky-loo, then I would love to meet ya!

Go ahead...leave a comment! Just click that little button below and get to commentin' (that's how we say it here in the South). Come on---share the comment love!

Teaching an old 'dawg' new tricks!

This past Saturday, Zack and I went to the Auburn game with some good friends (she's also the Guidance Counselor that I work with at the school). I wasn't sure I wanted to go, cause, you know, it's Auburn and all, plus I would be missing the Georgia vs. Tennessee game. But that didn't turn out to be much of a game after all.

I digress.

So when we get there, they inform me that my orange shirt was more of a "Tennessee" orange than an "Auburn" orange. Are you kidding me people? It was the only orange shirt I had in my closet! Be glad I wore it! I could have worn one of my many Georgia shirts to remind all you Auburn fans how Georgia put the smack-down on you last year!!!

And plus, I'm not thrilled about wearing an orange t-shirt. People might mistake me for the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! Ahhh, just in time for halloween! How fitting.

Anyway, we had a really great time. It was so much fun to be in that environment that I even caught myself screaming along with the thousands of fans, "Waaaaaaaaaar Eagle! Hey!"

But, I told them I had to draw the line when the band played the tune "Glory, Glory to Old Georgia" replacing it with "A-U-B-U-R-N"

... oh no, you dih-ent!

This was taken from our seats. We were so close to the field! And yes, it was very, VERY hot and humid! It does wonders for my hair! I promise one day I'll post a picture when I'm having a good hair day---except it's been so long since I've had a good hair day! Maybe I should go to Miss Daisy's groomer!!!

(See videos from Saturday posted below)

Gonna need a bucket for all these tears...

I have felt in control most of my life. Well, except in the area of eating right and my weight, which is a whole other topic for another day.

Or another decade.

But what I am facing is beyond anything that I can control. My sweet, little, blue-eyed baby boy is entering into a new chapter in his life and is ready to spread his wings and fly. But this mama is not ready for him to leave the nest.

From the time he was a baby, until he was 9 years old it was just the two of us. My ex had an affair and left when Zack was 18 months old (that's a whole other story for another day too!)---so needless to say, Zack and I have been very close the entire time he was growing up.

My life has revolved around raising a sweet son to eventually turn into a fine young man and now I'm feeling a little apprehensive about letting him fly. Each day that passes is one day closer to him flying the coop!

Y'all, I cried the first day I took him to Kindergarten and I cried as I watched him drive out of the driveway the first day of this, his Senior year. Everything this year has been a "last time" and although I could not be more proud of him, I'm feeling so sad because it seems like he's grown up so fast. When I say I blinked and he was grown, that is exactly how it feels. Cherish each moment, you young mothers.

He has received several college acceptance letters (University of Alabama, Troy University, etc.), but his top three choices are Florida State, University of Central Florida and then Auburn.

When I got home yesterday evening, there was a letter from Auburn. The first line read "Congratulations" and the last line said "War Eagle". Everything in the middle was a blur due to the buckets of tears I was crying. Somehow, at that moment, it just seemed more real to me than ever before and I could not. stop. crying.

When he got home from practice, I had the letter sitting at his place at the table. He was happy, but informed me that his first choices are still in Florida.......which was quickly followed by a "Good grief! You need to get a grip, mom!"

...and for a brief moment, I thought I might give him a little 'ole nudge right outta the "nest"!

It's Monday...can I rest now?

What a weekend! As I mentioned in my previous post, Zack had a band competition in Gadsden on Saturday (Mid-South Marching Competition). For you newbies, he's the Drum Major for our school's 85+ member marching band. 2nd year in a row. Yeah, I'm a proud mama!

Anyway, we left on Saturday morning for the day-long event...performed at 6:00 p.m., awards ceremony was supposed to start at 9:00 p.m., but actually was more like 9:45 p.m. and we left Gadsden at 11:15 p.m. By the way, the band won an all SUPERIOR rating!

It seems our bus drivers, or should I say the lead bus driver, decided he didn't want to go the way we came (up 65 to 459 and so on), he decided he would take a "short cut" home. Coming, it took us 2 and a half hours. Going home, it took us almost 4 hours. Yep. You heard right. We pulled in the school parking lot at 3:15 a.m.!!! Parents that left the stadium and went home the way we came, got back to Montgomery around 1:30 a.m.

When Gary called the bus company this morning to "complain"...the gentleman said he found that hard to believe because said bus driver was the VP of the company and had been there 40+ years and has a "great sense of direction".

If you're a moron.

Hey VP--stick to navigating your way around the office!

And for your viewing pleasure...I'll leave you with a picture of me and the son. Yes, I was working like a dog all day and was hot and sweaty...he's the cute one on the left! For more pics, go to the Band Blog from the linky to the right...but don't comment there...I want to remain "anonymous" on this WORLD WIDE WEB!!! ha ha!

(Okay, I have to add that when I first posted this, I posted it on the WRONG blog!!! I posted it on the band blog!!! TOO FUNNY! So much for anonymity!)

Just checking in...

Yes, I'm still around---but have been unbelievably busy. Things at work (both places) are hectic, football season and the band are in full swing, Band Boosters opened a Coffee Shop at school and I've been covered up with that, I've been sick with sinus problems and a sore throat, Zack hurt his shoulder at Field Day at the school and has been going to therapy all this week, and today we are headed to Gadsden for a band competition.

Most nights I don't even have time to get online, but I do check on my friends when I have a minute or two. Hopefully things will start to settle down and I can get back to blogging. I know they will once football season is over!

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

The smallest member

How can something so small hurt so bad? You would think all 98 pounds of me (okay, you can stop laughing--a girl can dream!), something so tiny, wouldn't have that much affect! Way back in April, I fell while meeting a repairman at one of my listings and cracked my wrist and broke my toe! The wrist is fine, it's the toe I'm still having trouble with.

Each time I think it's healed, something all of the sudden will feel like bubble wrap popping and then I'm hobbling like a little 'ol lady! I'm sure it doesn't help that I wear flip-flops or heels every day.

Ouch, ouch and triple ouch! Any advice for my little 'ol toe? I feel like such a baby, but it sure does hurt! Hmmmm...maybe I'll ask my chiropractor today--I already think of him as my general practitioner!

...and this little piggy cried waaa! waaa! waaa! all the way home!

Good Intentions...

I can't believe another week has slipped by since I last posted! I keep thinking that "next week" my schedule will ease up some, but it fails to do so. I know everyone is busy, but sometimes I feel like I can't seem to get ahead.

I'm currently working with a client who is in the military and is relocating out west. I'm working with a relocation company that requires so many reports and extra documents that sometimes I wonder if it's worth it! Last Wednesday, the relo company emailed me a 25 page document that I had to fill out and supply reports to back up my documentation. Oh, and by the way, "we need this back in 24 hours!" I got home from working at the school, made Zack some dinner and started working on the paperwork a little after 6:00 p.m. Just before 9:00 p.m., I was finished and scanned and emailed them the report. Then the next day, they emailed another 3 page document that they inadvertently failed to send the first time. That one is still sitting on my desk!

I didn't realize how adding a day to my work schedule at the school was going to affect my entire week. Right now I'm working at the school on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Tuesdays I attend sales meeting for the real estate company for which I work. At the school, I'm the assistant to the Guidance Counselor and also full time "sub". Any time a teacher is out, I'm the "go to" girl. Let me tell ya...I have a new respect for teachers! That is some hard work! (Especially the younger grades) It seems like I've been filling in alot for middle school English, Bible and Science. Woah! It's been a long looooooooooooong time since I was in middle school! Anyway, "kuddos" to all you teachers out there---you all deserve a raise!

In the midst of real estate and my school schedule, Gary and I are Booster Presidents again for the band. That in itself is a full time job. When I take the time to get on the computer, it's usually to update the band blog with announcements and then I'm too tired to update my personal blog! We're taking the band to Orlando in the Spring, so I'm knee-deep in planning that trip, plus we have to run the concessions stand for football games, so any "free" time I have is usually spent in purchasing supplies and begging for volunteers to work!

Zack and I are also busy with college applications, essays, transcripts, etc. (Pass the tissue, please!) About two weeks ago his first acceptance letter came in the mail. I called him downstairs to open it with me (as I was all teary) and it was from Alabama. His words were, "big deal mom! Call me only if it's to a school I'm really interested in!" So far, he's been accepted to Univ. of Alabama and Troy University. His top three choices are University of Central Florida, Florida State University and Auburn University. Since I am a die-hard Georgia fan, I'm not really "rooting" for him to attend any of those particular colleges. Of course, mama would like to have him as close as Auburn (which is just 40 minutes up the road), but I want him to go where he really wants to attend. Pretty soon we'll be scheduling some college visits.

Well, it seems as though I've updated you on way more than you ever cared to know...but just know this...I'm not staying away from blogville for any reason other than lack of time. I miss you, my friends, and look forward to the weekends when I can "catch up" with all of y'all!

Restful Saturday

Today I've done absolutely nothing (well, maybe a load or two of laundry)...but other than that, I've laid around and watched football all day. Alabama beat Vandy, my beloved DAWGS lost to South Carolina (ouch!) and now Auburn just went ahead against USF. It's been a very restful day following an extremely busy week! It's nice to have a day to recoup.

Recently there was a story on the news about some tainted cat food. They interviewed a lady who was very upset saying, "I think my cats are sick from the food I just bought that was on a recall list, but still on the store shelves. Look at them! They are just laying around and lethargic!"

To which I turned to Gary and said, "...and that's different from any other cat?!"

This is how I find my cats all the time (see below). You would think that they are just worn slap out from having to clean the house, do laundry, cook dinner, etc.

Aubbie...

Zoe...

Zoe asleep again in her favorite Xerox paper box lid...

Zoe saying "mommy, please stop taking pictures and let me sleep!

Wonder if I should call the Vet and tell him my cats are lethargic?!

I love doing these things!

I saw this on Kat's blog and I love doing these to see how "accurate" they are! Isn't it funny that a few posts below my "color" was purple...and now my "aura" is Violet! Try it and let me know your results!

Your Aura is Violet

Idealistic and thoughtful, you have the mind and ideas to change the world.And you have the charisma of a great leader, even if you don't always use it! The purpose of your life: saying truths that other people dare not say Famous purples include: Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Jr., Susan B. Anthony Careers for you to try: Political Activist, Inventor, Life Coach

What color is your Aura?

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Appointment Television for me is rare...BUT I LOVE this show!
Countdown to new season premiere of Dancing with the Stars...
T minus 19 days!

Fall, Come Quickly!

I'm really looking forward to some cooler weather. I decided to usher in September by putting away all my "beachy" decor and bringing in the harvest! One of my greater weaknesses are dishes and my mom bought me a beautiful set of caramel colored dishes for Christmas that I haven't had the opportunity to use until now. I just received the wall hanging for my birthday from a dear friend of mine at church, and took some birthday money to purchase a few more knick-knacks at the incredible sale they are currently having at Hobby Lobby! So if you haven't done so yet, take the time to add a few "fallish" touches to your decor...even if it's in the triple digits outside, it will make you think fall is just around the corner!

I also wanted to thank my bloggy friends for their birthday wishes. My mom came in town Friday and brought my nephew (my brother's son), and my sister came in town and brought my niece (her daughter). We had our first home football game and Gary and I worked the concessions stand almost the entire game--but we did get to watch the half time show and Zack did a great job! Then we had a great weekend with family, playing games and eating too much!

I hate that I missed the first "B" club meeting! I hear Kat, Tonja and Jean had a wonderful time and I can't wait to see more pictures. Dianne and I promise to make the next event and certainly don't want to relinquish any voting rights! So glad you girls had fun! It was great getting to talk to all of you, but next time, let's bring in an interpreter for us Southern gals for our yankee friend Jean! (Just kidding! I LOVE your accent!)

Wishing all of you a wonderful, restful week!

Overloaded and Overwhelmed

I know that we're supposed to be the "stronger" sex ...not physically, but able to multi-task and manage and execute flawlessly our many responsibilities. Sometimes, like a circus act, I feel as though I'm trying to keep so many plates spinning on various wooden dowels. I run back and forth to each one, spinning, trying to prevent them from all coming crashing down on me!

There have been several nights where I've awakened in a panic remembering something I forgot to do and I quickly add it to my "to do" list. Last night I was looking forward to sleeping in a little longer this morning(7:00 a.m.), but awoke at 5:15 with the many things I need to do today running through my head. I ended up emailing band parents with announcements for the week and answering an "in box" full of questions from said band parents.

As my list grew longer, I realized that something had to give and so I eliminated attending sales meeting this morning. Sometimes, I feel I'm so involved in other "stuff" that I have to put my "real" job on the back-burner. Working 4 days a week at the school and taking care of all the little details that go along with being Band Booster President leaves little time for anything else.

A "must do" today is stopping by my Chiropractor's office to take care of my aching back. I think stress camps out between L5 and S1---(anyone with back trouble can relate to that terminology!)

Plus, my heart is heavy with another "plate" we're considering adding to the spinning mix. Please pray for us regarding some decisions we will be making in the near future. I will elaborate more in upcoming posts.

Love you, bloggy friends--hope you have a wonderful day!

The Big Boo Cast

Y'all, if you haven't stopped by Boomama's or Big Mama's today,

you are missing out!

They did their first Pod Cast together

and it is too funny. Go check it out!

Have a great weekend!

Need your opinion, Internets!

We've been in our current house for a little over 4 years. The walls are all still the same neutral tan color throughout the entire house as they were when we purchased it. We've furnished it and hung pictures, etc., but have not changed any colors. I know, being a Realtor, that "neutrals sell" and lots of colors translate into lots of work for a potential buyer.

But here's the deal...we're not selling and we don't have plans to sell in the near future. It's time to add some color and interest back into our surroundings. So, I've been thinking for some time now that the Dining Room is where I want to start. All of our furnishings and accessories are dark neutral colors--olives, tans, browns, plums, etc.

I want to do this mural in the dining room with maybe the additional walls being a dark olive or a gold-ish color...

(Here's the entire mural)



(Here's a sample of how it looks in a room)



Now, be honest! Tell me what you think of this Tuscan countryside mural. I've told hubby it's all I want for my birthday---to have the dining room done!

Worth the read...

I kept hassling Antique Mommy about creating a link on her sidebar that featured her latest series of posts about "The Box". I wanted to direct readers to her site to read them in order beginning with Part I. I know some of you already frequent her blog, but if you're don't, you must go grab a box of tissue and begin reading here. Her eloquent and descriptive words will transport you to another day and time. She is definitely worth the read and will leave you wanting to turn the page...

Thanks T, for providing the link. I think you are amazingly gifted!

A Colorful Monday

School started back for us on August 8th and I've been busy busy! I remember the days when school started after Labor Day. What ever happened to that?!

One of my favorite things as a child was getting new school supplies. I have always been the QUEEN of organization and it was so exciting to me to have a new organized binder, freshly sharpened pencils and a huge box of brand new crayons. Open up that box and take a whiff! Ahhh! I love it!

I was very particular about my crayons. They absolutely, positively had to stay in gradating order. Don't you dare borrow one of my crayons and put it back in the wrong spot! I was also very particular about my coloring books. My two absolute favorites were The Brady Bunch and Dennis the Menace. Those were the ones my little brother was NOT allowed to color in. And I'm sure you can imagine that I was NOT one of those kids that colored outside the lines!

So, in honor of back to school and my wish for a brand new box of crayons, I decided to do this fun little quiz. It asks some pretty random questions and the weird thing is, it picked my FAVORITE crayon color!!! Now that's some spooky Crayola voo-doo right there!!!

You do it too and let me know what color you are...

You are most like: You are Purple
You are vibrant and strong, and often associated with royalty. Your power may cause other a little discomfort at time, but only because they are weaker than you.
Take this quiz: Which Crayola Box of 8 Color Are You?
Visit Toys For Your Blog.com for more blog quizzes

Worth Sharing...

For the third time in a week this quote crossed my path -- I thought I would share it with y'all. Have a blessed Sunday!

Terrible Two's...sure, I'll play along!

Since I'm TOO tired to post about my terribly busy week, I think I'll just take the cue from my TWO friends, Kat and Dianne and post about all these interesting things you've always wanted to know, but were TOO afraid to ask.......

1. Two Names You Go By: Tracey and Mom

2. Two Things You Are Wearing Right Now: nightgown and t-shirt

3. Two Things You Want In A Relationship: honesty and security

4. Two of Your Favorite Things to Do: lay out on the beach and listen to the waves, kick back in my recliner and read my latest issue of "Coastal Living" or "Southern Breeze" and wish I was laying out on the beach listening to the waves!

5. Two Things You Want Very badly At the Moment: my house to be cleaned by the twitch of my nose and a personal assistant

6. Two Pets You Had/Have: my sweet kitty, Zoe and my other two cats, Sylvester and Aubbie

7. Two People Who Will Fill This out First: I'm not sure. I'm not usually very good about participating in things like this, but I sure do like to read other people's!

8. Two Things You Did Last Night: went out to dinner with some friends at a great new steakhouse called "Ox Yoke" and then went to see all the remodeling they just did on their house.

9. Two People That Live In Your House: my hubby, Gary and my son, Zack

10. Two People You Talked To Last: my hubby, Gary and my son, Zack

11. Two Things You're Doing Tomorrow: going to church and then putting a friend's house on the market that's being transferred within the military.

12. Two Longest Car Rides: Georgia to Washington DC, Georgia to West Palm Beach, FL

13. Name 2 of Your Favorite Holidays: Christmas, Thanksgiving

14.Two Favorite Beverages: sweet tea and Coke Zero

Hope you'll do this too..and if you do, let me know so I can stop by and read your list!

Not the EYEBROWS too!!!

Thank the good Lord for hair color! Okay, well in a round-a-bout way... thank the Lord for creating such geniuses to invent hair color!

Since I inherited my Dad's jet black hair and also the added benefit of having some serious gray hairs invading my head since my early 30's, I've been having to color my hair on a regular basis, cause goodness knows I don't want to look older than I am! I've tried various hair colors and having worked in a hair salon for several years in Atlanta, knew that I could quickly and easily do this at home.

My recent favorite is L'Oreal Natural Match. I mean, if it's good enough for Penelope Cruz, then surely it's good enough for me. {Except my encouraging sister informed me that "I'm sure L'Oreal Natural Match has NEVER graced the locks of Penelope Cruz's hair!"} Well, thank you, sister, for that spreading of sunshine!

I'll have to say I really liked it and I'm pleased with the results---just like Penelope Cruz's... except without that illustrious shine, light reflecting body and manageability, no sign of split ends anywhere, healthy bounce, not to mention the flawless skin, perfect teeth and dimpled chin. Other than that, it was just like hers! {Sarcasm mixed with dellusion, people!}

But what I'm not happy about is the white hair I had to pluck from my eyebrows this morning. WHITE eyebrow hair people, not just graying! So, do I dare put this home color kit on my eyebrows too? It's either that or continue to pluck and then I'll eventually have to draw them on just like the "big hair channel". I don't think I could pull off that constant "surprised" look!

Or, I could let it go and look like "Doc" from Back to the Future.

Lab coat anyone?

Hurry by Jill's today!

Jill at Who Could Ask for Anything More is shutting down comments first thing in the morning. If you want to win this cool bag and choice of books, stop by today!

Queen of the Back Roads!

My mom has always had a wonderful sense of direction. One of her favorite things to do is to read a map (nerdy, I know!). You could drop her in the middle of no-man's land and she could find her way back to civilization. She has this inner compass that points her to her true North, which enables her to always have her bearings.

She was the one to guide our family in the right direction. My father was constantly traveling and preaching, sometimes for several weeks at a time, which left her to raise the kids. And whether we were going on a family vacation or just across town, she always had to tell my Dad which way to go. She continued to demonstrate her exceptional navigational skills as she traveled the journey with my Dad to his final resting place where the Lord took the wheel and ushered him into heaven.

This past weekend we went to Atlanta as a 'last hoorah' before school started today. The guys were busy all weekend with Braves events, which left mom and I doing what we do best... shopping, eating, running errands, etc. Now, I lived in Atlanta from the time I was 10 until 7 years ago (age 33) when hubby moved us to Alabama. I tend to think I know my way around Atlanta, but with the growth and construction and never-ending roadwork, sometimes I find that things can change quickly.

Without fail, we would get in the car and my mom would take a turn on a road that I had no idea where we were headed. I would say something like, "but I thought we were going here..." to which she would reply, "I know" and that road would lead us to exactly where we were going--just not the direction I would have gone, but usually a quicker way to get there. I even told her, "Mom, you are QUEEN of the BACK ROADS!"

It got me thinking about how many times I've taken the driver's seat in my own life--knowing exactly where I want to go and choosing and directing my own paths. If I would only surrender that control to the Lord, He could take the driver's seat and lead me down a road that might have less 'traffic' or fewer obstacles. But I tend to want to take the wheel, especially if I think the route He is taking me is altering my destination--when in fact, the route He would take me would bring more blessing.

How about you? Do you have trouble taking the back seat?

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.

Lord, I pray that I would daily surrender the driver's seat of my life over to You.

Caught sinning on the way to church with John Tesh

About a week or two ago, my hubby was talking about how fast I drive, especially on this one area called the Northern Boulevard, which is a road we take to connect us up with the Interstate to get to church. It tends to be a heavily patroled area and my hubby made the remark that if I didn't slow down, one of these days, I was going to get a ticket. To which I replied, "No way! I'm very careful and I am always on the look out!"

Well, as the saying goes, "pride goeth before a fall."

On Sunday mornings, John Tesh does his radio show and it's just full of interesting little tid-bits of information, that frankly, I'm usually wondering how I've made it almost 41 years without knowing! This morning I was in a bit of a rush (my hubby would say like every Sunday morning) and I was putting on lipstick and just entranced in some information Tesh was dishing out when I rounded the corner and my heart sank! There sat Mr. Police Officer who quickly flipped his lights on as I was already getting over into the emergency lane--knowing I had been caught.

Mr. Buff comes up to my window and wants to know where I'm going in such a hurry as he politely asks for my DL and Insurance card. To which I sheepishly replied, "well, CHURCH if you can believe that?!?!"

After a few minutes I was once again on my way to church, with ticket in hand... 72 in a 55.

When hubby came down off the platform, I whispered, "how much do you love me?" In answer to his puzzled look, I flashed him the ticket.

His response? ..."I told you so!"

.88 cents well spent!

We've still been "knee-deep" in Band Booster things, getting ready for school to start back next week, and our church is moving this week to a new building.

In anticipation of the church move, Gary was instructed to go purchase a set of electronic drums since the new "temporary" building is not as large as our current church building, and also the acoustics would not be able to handle his "real" drum set. After much shopping and comparing prices, getting checks cut, etc., he came home last night with these...

Except they didn't look like this--it was all in a million pieces in a huge box! His plans were to go to the church later today (after band camp) and take the new electronic drums and get them hooked up to the sound system and all that other electrical, wirey, messy stuff very intricate and complicated work that guys like to do.

After a late dinner with friends, we came back home and this 8 year old kid in a grown man's body could not wait a moment longer! It was like Christmas! He had to tear into those things and put them together just to "try them out". Around 11:30 p.m., I threw in the towel from the spectator's box and went to bed, reminding him that all good boys and girls would be trying to get some sleep and he dare not wake them!

At 12:30 a.m. I sat straight up in bed to what sounded like the entire team from Extreme Home Makeover hammering and pounding and hammering and pounding. And did I mention hammering? I thought to myself, "you've GOT to be kidding me?!"

I got up, looked down into the great room from the balcony and saw him with the headphones on just going to town on those drums! I marched back into the bedroom and scanned each square inch for my weapon of choice--reminding myself that whatever I chose would be falling from 15 feet, so I'd better choose wisely.

This was my first option...

...although I would have liked to have sent him on a trip at that very moment, I thought the falling suitcase might dismember this very annoying expensive drum set that belonged to the church.

still scanning the room...

...how about this?

...I wanted to get his attention, not kill him! Plus, he had on a very nice wrinkle free polo, which saw no use for the iron.

oh yes! This will work...

...not only will it get his attention, but if it happens to bust open, it could freshen my great room with the loveliest of scents---kills two birds with one stone! Hmmm, but on second thought, maybe this liquid and the "electronic" part won't mix.

Desperate times call for desperate measures. Precious minutes are slipping by that I could be curled up in bed getting some much needed rest.

And then my eyes landed on this...

Yes, boys and girls, it's not just for fun balloon making anymore. Hurled from the corner of the balcony (see exhibit "A" below) at 12:40 in the morning, multiplying the speed times the velocity is quite effective in whacking the culprit in the back! Stunned he takes the headphones off, puts the drumsticks down and says "can you hear this?"

No, Captain Obvious! It's just my sweet way of calling you to bed.

Shhh...don't tell anyone!

...cause the more people you tell, the less chance I have to win this...

Isn't this great? I promise I'll invite y'all over to watch MY Georgia 'Dawgs whoop up on...well, just about anyone they play! Or we can pop in a really good chick flick and make us lots of popcorn with tons of melted butter and Lawry's seasoning salt! Yummy!

...but since you're in my close circle of friends, I'll let you in on this opportunity too! Go here to enter! ...and if you win, I know you'll invite me over too, right?!

I would not, could not!

After a full day of (still) working on Band Booster things, I decided I would make Pepper Steak over rice for dinner. Last week, a friend gave me some vegetables from her garden that included two big squash. I thought I would saute' some beautiful yellow squash to go along with our colorful pepper steak that included red and green peppers. It smelled wonderful!

When we sat down to dinner, neither one of my "boys" would even try the squash!!!

You do not like them,

So you say,

Try them! Try them!

And you may.

Try them and you may, I say.

With heads turned away and lips clenched tight,

they both refused to even take a bite!

(Now that was an unintentional rhyme that made me laugh out loud!)

Oh well...I ate it and it was delicious! I think I've just come to the realization that finicky little boys grow up to be finicky old men!

The Journey...

As I sit and reflect on this past year of blogging, never did I think I would make such wonderful friends on this journey. I started this blog to keep up with friends in Georgia (all but one [Dianne] have stopped blogging) and also to post pictures and things for family. I never dreamed that my circle of blogging friends would grow as much as it has, which has caused my "cup to run over"! So many of you have grown to mean so much to me. I look forward to checking in on you, seeing how your day went, what's going on in your life, things I can pray with you and for you about, and some to even meet face-to-face beyond this computer screen and the images we share.

We've passed around blogging awards between our circle of friends which reminds me to thank Dianne for the Reflection award, Lynne for the Creative and Thoughtful award, and Melodye for the Thinking award. The thing is, I would give each of these girls these awards right back, cause they mean so much to me!

But what's been on my heart and in my thoughts and prayers so much lately is the award (gift) that is the most important in life. If there is one thing I would hope to accomplish through this blog is that I somehow reflect the love of God and the immeasurable gift He gave each one of us by sending His only Son to die on the cross for our sins, which paved the way for us to have eternal life with Him in heaven.

My heart has been so burdened lately by all those that cross my path each and every day that are lost. Here is something I read recently that has remained as a big lump in my throat and a burden on my heart...

"If you saw a blind man walking straight toward the edge of a cliff, what would you do?"

Well, my answer was that I would immediately run and try to stop him from walking off the edge.

Yet, each and every day, I wave to my neighbors and never wonder if a tragedy will occur in their lives that day and they won't return home...and I have failed to share the Good News of the Gospel with them. And I think of my blogging friends, and how I'm sure I've failed to communicate the grace and mercy of our Lord and this precious gift He has given to any and all out there that might be reading this.

So now, I want to pass on to you the greatest "award" you can ever receive and that is to be welcomed into the family as a child of God and to have a firm and assured hope of spending eternity with Him. Please go here to read how you can say a simple sinner's prayer and receive Christ into your heart and life. There is also a wonderful web site here with more information on receiving Christ or for those who are Christians that want to learn how to share their faith more effectively.

I love you my friends, and I plead with you, if you have never heard the Good News and/or have never accepted Christ into your heart, please don't wait another moment...for we have not been promised tomorrow.

Checking in...

Y'all, I'm here, I'm just covered up! Gary and I are Band Booster Presidents again this year and I have been so busy with that! Last week we had Rookie Camp and this next week is full band camp. I have so much to do still before Monday that I'm wondering how I can get it all done! I will have to force myself to stay away from Blogville, but just know that when I can get my chin above water, I will post about my quick trip to Atlanta to surprise my mom for her birthday, and I will return all the "meme's" and Blogger "reflection" and "thinking blogger" and "creative blogger" awards given by all my friends! Oh! and yeah, I'll post pictures of the pies I've been making lately too! I've been stressed and I needed some chocolate and I've also practiced a little hospitality and took a pie to our new military neighbors!

See you in a few...

Happy Birthday, Mom!

Today is my mom's birthday. She's turning 69 years old, if you can believe that! She recently lost my Dad to cancer after almost 50 years of marriage. She's served on the Mission Field both out of the country when we were missionaries in Brazil and as a minister's wife when my dad traveled as an Evangelist after we returned to the U.S. She's raised 4 children and keeps grandkids too! She continues to serve faithfully by teaching Sunday School and also serves as one of the church accompanists. She has more energy than I do at 40 39ish.

Happy Birthday, Mom! I hope you have a wonderful day!

The Choreography of Friendship

Today I had lunch with my dear friend, Jackie. She is one of the few people in my life that from the onset we "clicked" and became fast friends. Jackie has a heart of gold. She is a genuine person. She is beautiful inside and out. When she listens, she really listens, not only with her ears, but with her heart. My hurts become her hurts and my joys, her joys.

It's been about two months since we've had lunch together...something we tried to do once a week or once every other week when school was in session. She has had a full plate this summer since one of her daughter's just graduated high school and is preparing to go to college, the other daughter is getting married in October at the beach, and her son is currently out of the country on an International Study Program. I, too, have been busy with work and things at the school and just life in general.

But today we made time to visit for lunch at our favorite "girly" place. It's a beautiful dance when these two kindred spirits get together! One will "lead" and talk, talk, talk, catching up on everything, while the other eats a while, and then the "lead" will shift while the other eats, and talks, and eats and talks. And it seems like only an hour or so has passed when she glances up at the clock and says, "oh my! guess what time it is?!" Ummm, I don't know...1:30ish? Y'all, we met a few minutes after 11:30 a.m. to beat the lunch rush and sat and talked until almost 3:30!

When we parted, my tummy was full and my heart was "full-er" (okay, I know that's not really a word, all you grammar experts!). But I thanked God for my dear friend, and promised myself I would not allow two months to pass before we met again for a girly "session".

True friendships are to be treasured and I treasure you, my sweet Jackie Sue!

Friend or Foe?

Tonight our pastor preached a very powerful sermon on blasphemy. Webster's defines blasphemy as this:

1: the act of insulting or showing contempt or lack of reverence for God; the act of claiming the attributes of deity

2: irreverence toward something considered sacred or inviolable

The scripture he referenced was Ephesians chapter 5 with special emphasis on verse 4, which reads, "Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving." He played a video which was incredibly thought provoking and I will add the link at the bottom of this post. But what struck home with me is how complacent and almost "immune" we've become to Hollywood, through films and television, using the Lord's name in vain. I'm guilty of watching movies (renting, cause we rarely, if ever, go to the movie theatre) that contain foul language and when I hear them use the Lord's name in vain, I might shutter and say "I hate that" but do I turn the movie off? No. And if I don't take a stand against things like this, am I a friend of the world or a foe? The Bible says in James 4:4 (paraphrasing)to be a friend of the world is to be an enemy of God.

I want you to watch the video clip on this web site and then leave me your thoughts. You can also add the link to your sidebar.

Always an adventure!

Being a mom is one of the hardest, but most rewarding jobs in the world. There is nothing that has given me more joy than to watch my son grow and mature. I think, as parents, we're never really prepared for what's around the corner. When I took that bundle of joy home 17 years ago, the hospital didn't give me a "how to" manual.

It has continued to be one great adventure after another! I knew, as he was growing, I would have to tell him to not put Cheerios up his nose, or run with scissors, and quit giggling with that little girl during the Pledge of Allegiance, and no, we can't fill the bathtub with Jello Jigglers, and stop bouncing the ball in the house, and no, you cannot tie a rope to the back of the car and skateboard! The list could go on and on!

But never in a million years, did I ever think I was going to utter the words I said last night...

"You are NOT getting a monkey!"

All's well that 'ends' well!

Pun intended.

Thank you, my dear friends, for saying a prayer for hubby the other morning. Everything was fine with his tests and he won't have to go through that for another 10 years! Those of you that have been through that were right in saying that drinking the stuff was the roughest part. Woah! He struggled with drinking the whole jug and then boy, did it ever kick in! Bless his, ummm, heart.

His appointment the next morning was at 8:30 a.m. and we didn't leave there until 12:30 p.m.! They finally took him back at 10:00 a.m., then he said they gave him the "happy juice" around 11:00 a.m. and that was the last thing he remembered! They called me back a little after 12 noon as they were trying to wake him up.

Now, that, my friends, was a site! This is a man that has never had a drop of alcohol in his life and he was muttering and slurring his words like he had gone to sleep with a bottle of Vodka! It was hilarious. I couldn't help it---I was doubled over laughing, at the side of his bed, while they were shaking him and calling his name. They must have thought, "hmm, some loving, compassionate wife he's got!"

Those big green eyes finally opened and he didn't have a clue what had just transpired! I was glad he was okay, but could not quit giggling at how "out of it" he was.

Sidenote: I finally got back to sleep the other night by the honking like a gaggle of geese gentle, soothing sounds of my hubby's snoring. Then I slept until 11:00 a.m. The guys are at the Biscuits vs. the Mississippi Braves game tonight and I just woke up from a power nap. I had my jammies on at 5:15 p.m. and was in la-la land by 6:oo and slept almost two hours. I'm sure I've messed up now! Maybe I need to get someone to come and flip me upside down by my heels like that old wives' tale about babies who have their days and nights mixed up. Oh well...guess I'll just check in on all my blogger friends and catch up on what ya'll are doing!

By the way, a very special thank you to the word "gaggle". It's a funny word that I don't get to use often and so I was determined to work it in. And an even bigger thanks to my "grasshopper" friend, Melodye, over at MorningSong...without you, I wouldn't know how to strike through words which is going to become my new favorite bloggy tool!

P.S. I have not forgotten the restaurant meme tag by Sandi at Whistlestop Cafe. I'm working on it!

Definitely Not Prime Time

Did you know there's nothing good on t.v. at 4:00 a.m.?! I just don't know how I've lived 40 years without the pill that relieves crankiness; or that wonderful iron that presses so beautifully and steams your clothes and drapes in half the time all while you cook an entire chicken at the press of a button! And to think of the treasures I'm missing out on while at the beach! Crazy me usually just lays there and tries to sun myself to a golden brown, but I could be using a metal detector to search for buried treasure and lose weight all at the same time! And all the money I've wasted on doctors over the years when I could have been self-diagnosing and self-treating with that wonderful cure-all book. And my poor back, luggin' my Eureka vacuum around instead of carrying that feather lite one. And the horrors thinking of what's in the air I breathe! I'm calling right now to get on the waiting list for my motorized wheelchair. A girl can never plan too far ahead! Now here's something I can use, dial-a-number sleep system...

...seems I've been calling the wrong number lately!

Ahhh, yes, miles to go before I sleep.

The O.C.D. kicks in...

I spent all day today cleaning and organizing the home office. My desk had gotten way out of control and my bookshelves were just piled high! Zack even got in on the action and decided to clean his desk and computer area and organize all his computer cords (without any prompting from me!).

Hubby spent the day drinking some nasty clear liquid for his colonoscopy (sp?) tomorrow morning. Bless his heart! Say a prayer for him in the morning. He is NOT looking forward to this appointment!

Now, I'm exhausted and going to bed...but it feels so good to be organized again!

Reflecting...

This beautifully written post by Antique Mommy reminded me so much of my Dad. So, I thought I would go back in my archives and find this post I wrote about his dementia before he passed away October 2006.

Wednesday, July 19, 2006 (original post date)

Man in the Mirror

Man in the Mirror
This is my Dad. He is merely a reflection of the man he used to be. I wonder what he sees when he looks in the mirror. I wonder who he sees when he looks in the mirror. Does he see the "tough guy" Italian boxer he used to be? Does he see the officer that served in the Army and the Navy? Does he see the missionary that selflessly gave of his life to serve on the mission field in Brazil? Does he still see the preacher that said he will only retire the day he dies? Could it be that he sees the invalid whose body is giving out only second to his mind that dementia is stealing from him every day? I wonder, as he looks at himself in the mirror, which one of these men is staring back at him?

You see, my 78 year old father had a stroke several years ago, suffers with prostate cancer, diabetes and dementia. I believe the physical things would be easier to handle, it’s the mental that breaks my heart. He often speaks of his days in the military, and can recall names of those he fought and triumphed over in the boxing ring, but tell him of a family vacation, a special occasion, something as simple as what he just had for dinner and there is nothing but emptiness. Emptiness in the eyes that used to twinkle with mischief. Emptiness in the eyes that could change just as quickly from anger to love and forgiveness as the direction of the wind. My dad has always been the "go to" guy when it came to questions about the Bible. He could recall and quote more Scripture than anyone I’ve ever known. How could it be that all of that is lost? Is it not hidden in his heart? I choose to believe it is locked away in some corner of his mind in which he no longer has the key.

For to me, he is still my Dad, the tough Italian boxer, the selfless missionary, the "go to" guy. Even though he is empty, those things live on in his children. Thank you, Dad, I love you.

Who do we see when we look in the mirror? Do we see a reflection of our Heavenly Father? Or is the image staring back filled with self-centeredness and pride? Do we mirror our Father’s example by practicing the Fruits of the Spirit? Sometimes I wonder what my Heavenly Father thinks when He looks at my reflection. I am so thankful His eyes are filled with unconditional love and immeasurable grace. Lord, help me to reflect You to a lost world. Let me be Your hands and feet.

Not as young as we used to be...

and that's why it takes two days to recover!

We had a great 4th at the beach. We were scheduled to leave by 7:00 a.m. with a carload of teenagers, but ended up having to wait until 7:45 a.m. for two of them to arrive. But all was good...we had our toes in the sand by 10:30!

We went back down to Perdido Key and spent the day on the beach. The sun was in and out behind some serious clouds and we did have off and on rain, but we still had a great time. The kids all went to Bahama Bob's (in Gulf Shores) for dinner because they wanted to eat on ther own, while Gary and I headed to Lambert's, but ended up at Mellow Mushroom because Lambert's was closed!

Then we went right out onto the beach in front of Bahama Bob's to watch the 9:00 p.m. fireworks show off the pier in Gulf Shores. It was great! I have to say that there is no better place to spend the 4th and watch fireworks than on the beach!

Then the guys put on their own fireworks show for us with the almost $200 worth of fireworks they bought. They were also entertaining others on the beach that hung around to watch! It was so much fun and I the kids really enjoyed themselves.

We left the beach much later than intended (about 11:15 p.m.) and got home at 2:00 a.m.!!! That was rough! It has taken me and hubby two days to recover!

Click here if you're interested in seeing pictures, but fair warning...there are ALOT of pictures and there were a few times the kids had the camera and were just clicking away!

Hope all my friends out there had a great 4th! I will be catching up with y'all in the next day or two! (By the way, for all who may not know, that is NOT us in the picture...it's just an old couple that made me laugh, but isn't it sweet that they are still holding hands---check out her purse too!)

Celebrate America!

Happy 4th to all my friends. I hope you have a wonderful day celebrating America's freedom and don't forget to breathe a prayer for those continuing to fight to defend our freedom. May we never take it for granted.

We're heading back down to Perdido with Zack and 5 of his friends. Have a happy and safe 4th and we'll see you when we return!

(P.S. please say a prayer for my mom who is home suffering with a pinched sciatic (sp?) nerve and in alot of pain)