Wordless Wednesday

Looks like an ordinary front door wreath doesn't?

But look...it is actually the home to these three sweet little birds!

They sing sweetly day and night, they are precious, but I think my front door might need a paint job when they spread their wings and fly!!

Happy "Wordless" Wednesday!
Beverly

Psuedo American Idol Live Blogging!

Okay -- it is 8:15 -- I was gonna do American Idol live blogging, but who are we kidding here folks, there is no real contest in my mind. David Cook has just finished singing his first song and honestly as far as I am concerned - he stole the show, he is the best, he is a winner, no matter what happens with this show. I am just looking forward to the day he will be in concert somewhere nearby and I can go and enjoy a whole hour of his music.

Now, I am going to shut off the computer, put my feet up and wait patiently for him to sing again.

Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

I've Been Tagged...

Thanks to my friend Krissy, I have been tagged.... so here goes:

Tag-- I am It!
Now that you know this much about me...tell me something about you!

Four Things You Might/Might Not Want To Know About Me!

Four jobs I've held:
1. Selling Tuxedos at Simon's Formal Wear
2. Customer Service Rep for a medical device company
3. Human Resouces Assistant
4. Mommy!!!

Four movies I could watch over and over:
1. Pretty Woman
2. Legends of the Fall
3. The Godfather (I,II, or III)
4. Ya'll know this one.....Message In A Bottle

Places I've lived (in order):
1. Mississippi
2. Louisana
3. New York
4. Hawaii

Four TV shows I like:
1. The Office
2. CSI - any of them
3. Sopranos
4. Intervention

Four favorite foods:
1. Mac and Cheese
2. My mom's potato salad
3. French Fries with Mustard
4. Chocolate - anything

Where I would rather be:
1. At the beach, Edisto - I'm coming in three weeks!!
2. In Pigeon Forge TN
3. Anywhere in Italy
4. Wherever my daughter and hubby are!

Four people I'm tagging:
- Actually, I will just leave this open, cause if you read this blog, I want to know all about you too. Just leave your answers in the comment section or if you have your own blog, do a post and link it back to me.

Thanks for the fun, Krissy!

Lest I Fall...Into the Random Bliss!

So this weekend and so far this week has been pretty blog boring. Not much going on, no profound thoughts so far, just a regular weekend, fun and happy.

Lest I fall into my old habit of NOT writing a post for awhile, I decided to just jot down some random thoughts, perhaps it will provide a brief glimpse of my life on this Tuesday morning.

1. I love cheese. I mean really, who doesn't like it - and if you are one of those strangeos who does not enjoy the stringy, melty goodness of a piece of cheese - well, I am sorry for you. Right now I am enjoying my favorite breakfast, a recipe I invented many years ago - plain blueberry poptart, topped with cheddar cheese, broiled for a few minutes to get it all good and yummy. It is the height of breakfast tart pastry perfection.

2. My three year old has mastered the game of Frogger - Thank you to whoever invented this game and playstation. So fun to watch her play this with her Daddy. It was a great way to start my day.

3. American Idol is on tonight -- it is Neil Diamond night - I am thinking it will not excite me too much --

4. I had my first "real" conversation with my munchkin about adoption last night. She asked some questions and before I knew it we were in the middle of a topic which I have had no idea how to really bring up to a three year old. I have struggled with when was the right time, how to broach the subject, etc. The conversation went well, her questions easily satisfied. Later, at bedtime I asked her what made her ask that first question - she said "God told me to ask you." How can you argue with that answer.


Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

The Painting

There is a painting in a frame, hanging on a wall, over a couch, in someone else’s home.

I haven’t thought about this painting, other than to remember it every now and then and perhaps look for a copy of it as I have come across the artist’s work through the years. It is a simple painting, by a well known artist and I think the simplicity of it is what I have always loved most. It used to soothe me just to gaze at it. Just a simple landscape, a rural image, and the kind of scene that one can easily see riding around the South. How fondly I remember staring at the painting and thinking forward in time, to when it might someday hang on a wall in my home and all the memories that would be contained in its frame, from that time to the future. The life and times of a family that would have been witnessed by this painting in a frame, hanging on a wall, over a couch.

The painting is not mine, and as life has turned out, it never will be mine and up until yesterday, I had not thought of it or pined for it in a long time. I was reminded of it and just the thought of it gave me chills. It is probably the only thing, at least materially; that I have ever really wanted that belonged to someone else. I am not really interested in material possessions, but objects that mean something to people I love or know, mean the world to me. I love antiques for that reason as well, whether they belong to members of our family, or someone I will never know. If the object has meant something to someone, it seems their imprint is forever visible, making it even more special, alive, and beautiful.

It seems silly to me to think about a painting so much, so much so that I actually dreamed about it last night. Except in the dream, I was caught inside the actual painting, trapped in the frame, trying to escape.

Maybe the painting signifies something larger, perhaps the past is a trap I am trying to escape from, maybe the painting is a piece of a puzzle that will never be complete. Maybe I am just realizing that even though I love that painting, it was never mine and never meant to be mine. I have to let the painting go, let it hang on the wall, where it has been for so long now.

I can only hope that whoever eventually comes to own that painting, and hangs it in a new place, on a new wall, will realize how much it was loved. That it is more than just a painting in a frame, hanging on a wall, over a couch. It is well loved, and along with a family's memories, it is filled with a few of my own hopes and dreams from long ago, and the image was forever imprinted on a young girl’s impressionable mind and heart.

Living Happily Ever After,

Beverly

Take You Back Thursday

So, there was no idea floating in my head for a post for this Take You Back Thursday, until this morning around 4:30 AM. I was up (again) getting my daughter some water and tucked back into bed, and of course then I was wide awake. I checked my email and found an email from my girlfriend, written as she was listening to '80's music, and particularly this song. She mentioned that she has never once listened to it without it sticking in her head all day. At this point, ya'll know what happened, it immediately stuck in my head - and after going back to bed, tossing and turning, and then finally getting up this morning - guess what - IT IS STILL THERE!

So Stop THE MADNESS people! Here it is for you to "enjoy" -- just try not to hear it all day long - go ahead - just try it.




Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

Wordless Wednesday

I know, it is supposed to be WORDLESS Wednesday, but I just had to comment on this picture. It is of course my parents, and my daughter. Taken in Helen, GA last fall. I LOVE the look my mom is giving the camera and after we developed the film, we noticed that centered in the pic is a shop window, and in that window are two t-shirts, one says I heart Oma, and one says I heart Pa - which are the German terms for grandparents... isn't that just the neatest thing - I couldn't have set that up if I had tried.

American Idol Live Bloggin' - April 22nd

Final Six tonight and it is Andrew Lloyd Webber night -- I am a little scared.

First up - Syesha Mercardo
She is looking very pretty, love the hair and dress, but I do not know this song -no surprise as I am not a Broadway kinda girl - but everyone seems to like it. Judges all think it is her best performance so far.

Jason Castro up next - Singing "Memory" from Cats-- a little scared for him....I am afraid it will be a bland night for him. He seems a little laid back for Broadway.
He is singing it just fine -- I don't think this is a winning night for him though... let's see what the judges think..'cause although I LOVE Jason Castro - I am a bit bored. I think the judges are right on... Simon and his analogies - just crack me up. Poor Jason.

Brooke White up next. Now, I really like Brooke - I am thinking she will do just fine tonight --
Singing "You Must Love Me." I am not really diggin her hair or dress.. oh no - she had to start over - bless her heart! I feel so sorry and so proud of people that are brave enough to do that. I am scared the judges (especially Simon) are gonna slam her. This is not really a great performance -- she seems a little in pain. And her go the judges...they must like her - they are being nice to her, gentle even.

David Archuletta - up next - I am sure he will shine tonight ... okay - I missed it because my child was injured. I will have to catch up later on youtube.

Carly Smithson - Superstar - I love her accent too. Gotta love a Irish rocker chick. Love the dress. So far, I like this the best -- love that performance - the only one I have really liked of hers so far. Judges...Randy liked it, Paula said it was unexpected, Simon, actually liked it and it was one of his favorites of the night. Love that t-shirt- so cute.

David Cook - The Music of The Night - I hope he does well -- I just love him. I is nothing like last weeks - but it is good - really good for Broadway. If you are a talent like David Cook - you can handle anything. Here we go - judges...hey - Randy just said what I just said --yipee. He is gonna win - he is gonna win - he is gonna win!

Hating to say it but I think either Brooke or Jason will be bye bye tonight. And I am really guessing it will be Brooke, since she was in the bottom two last week and all. Sad to see anyone go at this point.

Okay - goodnight folks - gotta put the baby to bed.
Share with me your comments, in the comment section - PLEASE!

Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

Live Blogging American Idol tonight..... come on back after 10!

It's 5 o'clock in the morning, do you know where your blogger is?

It's 5 AM. Yes, that means that it is dark outside, the house is quiet, and now that my daughter is tucked back into bed with a sip of water and hug, I am free to do whatever I please. I believe I should be headed back to bed...no school for munchkin today, hubby is off from work, house is relatively clean (okay,that is a stretch, let's just say there are no toys on the living room floor!) and the dishes from last night are drying happily in the dishwasher. I should be in bed. But where am I? I am in the kitchen, at my table, blogging.


Hello, My Name is Beverly and I Have A Blogging Addiction.

Well, first I checked out some "friends" of mine in the blog world, like BooMama and Krissy, who, crazy enough are both in Nashville at the awards show -- so that makes me feel like - "Hey! Why am I NOT in Nashville at the awards show? Everyone is living exciting lives but me!" but then I remember that I have an exciting life, I mean who else gets to watch a caterpillar turn into a cocoon in a jar or chase the lizard who tried to escape from his jar, or get up at 5 AM to tuck a child in bed - life around here is just as exciting as oh say, meeting Steven Curtis Chapman or David Crowder. The closest we have gotten to celebrity around here is watching "Dancing With The Stars" and ohing and ahing over the pretty dresses.

I then checked out a few more of my usual blogs and found BigMama recovering from the weekend fiesta and then read about Carlos and his "unfortunate" Enterprise RentaCar experience.

All in all, it has been a great morning so far. I have traveled the blogsphere, been inspired, been excited for my "friends," commiserated about poor customer service and it is only 5:15 AM.

Looking at my blog reader, I still have about eight more bloggers to read about before the day really begins for me. I might better pace myself.

I Love BLOGGING! Not only for the experience it creates for me. The creative outlet, the forum where I can speak to the five people or so that read me on a daily basis,or the opportunities that can and hopefully with arise from writing in a public place, but also the experience of getting to read other bloggers. To see snippets of their lives and to again, fully appreciate, that we all have the same wants, desires and needs, we are all alike, even through our vast differences. Sometimes it is so comforting to read another mommyblog and find that a three year old in London is doing exactly what my American three year old is doing, both developmentally and behaviorally! It is so neat to see that there are other women, wives and mothers out there who like the same music as I do, watch the same television shows, and cook the same recipes. Makes being a stay at home mommy so much less isolating. I guess blogging as become like the old quiting bees, now, we all stay home and log on to feel connected, rather than hitching up the wagon, bringing our quilting paraphernalia and sitting around all day quiting.

So - here's a shout-out to all my "friends" in the blog world. Thanks for making my day - every day!

Now, this blogging addict is off to bed to catch a few more winks before the sun comes up!

Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

For You, From Me

Today's post is of a different sort - it is intended ONLY to make a friend of mine smile.

She and I share a really good friendship, although we seldom are actually in each other's presence - usually we do all our communicating through email. I would not get through life without her sage advice, kind words and daily prayers. Recently, she and I have been emailing back and forth on a more regular basis and it does my heart good to see her name pop up in my email "in" box.

Because of our long history together, we have loads of secrets and private jokes and understandings that need no words. The shorthand language of friendship. The following clip, from the movie "The Talented Mr. Ripley" will mean NOTHING to anyone but the one friend whom I know will eventually see this post sometime today or tomorrow in the middle of her really busy weekend.

I apologize to the rest of you - but you can just enjoy the clip if you like, or skip it and have a great day.

As an outsider to our world of friendship, you could try and figure it out, the meaning, or the private joke, but I GUARANTEE you almost 100% that you cannot. Could it be the boat, something in the boat, Matt Damon's glasses, Gwenoyth's outfit, the water, the wind, the boys playing in the ocean, what could it be? As a woman,if you have ever had a close girlfriend, you know that even the smallest detail about something can cause a giggle or laughter, that something with no meaning to anyone else on the planet, can have a tremendously funny, or poignant meaning to you as friends. That is what this is - just our little slice of life, that only we understand. I will go to my grave with the secret. And if you are having a boring Saturday and nothing to do but sit and analyze us and the clip and do figure it out, you must keep it to yourself - that is how secrets and private jokes work, my friends!

Anyway - this is for YOU. Enjoy! I cherish you and our friendship in my life!




Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

Towels, Now Who Wouldn't Want That?

I was given the scoop on a great giveaway being held over at http://www.microcotton.com/. You can win a linen closet makeover - so go, go now and tell them you want those yummy towels.


Is your linen closet a disaster area? Are your towels threadbare and from the 20th century? MicroCotton is here to make your nightmare closet a dream come true! Fifty (50) lucky people will win a luxurious linen closet makeover worth $250 each, courtesy of MicroCotton. All you have to do is log on to www.microcotton.com and tell them in 100 words or less why you deserve to win. MicroCotton will take care of the rest. Just imagine yourself with a closet filled with brand new, soft, fluffy white towels. So throw out those ratty, faded towels from 1960 and click to snag some FREE eco-friendly towels from MicroCotton!

MicroCotton was conceived by a passion to continually evolve and expand the concept of luxury and design for the complete bath experience. MicroCotton cotton towels are superabsorbent and twice as bulky as regular towels but are also 30% lighter, helping to conserve water, detergent and energy. A typical wash and dry cycle can fit 30 MicroCotton towels rather than about 20 regular towels. Additionally, the manufacturing process uses modern materials and procedures that conserve resources and are gentle on the environment. MicroCotton towels, robes, rugs, and mats can be found at Macy’s, Bed Bath & Beyond, Belk, Dillard’s and other stores. For more information, visit www.microcotton.com.


Please leave me a comment, if you decide to participate and I would really appreciate a link back to this post as well.

Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

The Days of Whine and Tuxes!

Well, maybe there is a post in me yet today.

I was watching the noon hour news and a segment was introduced, all about upcoming Prom and Wedding season. The man being interviewed was one I know of very well. His store used to be competition for the formal wear store I worked at for almost five years of my young adult life.

The interview took place in his store, the same one he has always been in - and even now, twenty something years later it still looks the same. It made me rather nostalgic. As if this week has not had enough of that for me - now I am thinking back fondly on my earliest working days, as a "slave" in the formal wear industry. Now, I use the word "slave" lightly, because, really slaves do not receive a paycheck, and although I worked day and night, stood on a hard concrete floor, spent hours sewing, washing, ironing and steaming formal wear and at times felt very slavish, I did get paid, and I did enjoy the job. But this time of year - it was truly the worst.
'
The doomsday clock usually started striking around the end of March, when all the kids who took social dance class would need to be fitted for their tuxedos. This would usually require one or more nights of showing up at their lessons to fit them all, usually about 300 kids. Then of course all through April, the store was a buzz with teenagers, either in packs of boys, or the lone boy with his usually controlling girlfriend come to make sure the bow tie matched her dress. During this time, most often on Saturdays, the store became wedding central, with lots of couples coming in to pick out formal wear and set up fittings for their wedding party. It could be an exciting time,but most often, it meant late nights, early mornings and lots of tired employees.

Looking back, some of the greatest memories of my young adulthood came from this store. Our store owner was a very likable,big brother type of guy with a young family to feed. He hired us college folks to basically run the business for him. Myself and another girl usually worked with the customers, took orders and then prepped the suits, while the three guys employed there, drove our van, helped us out and keep the place in order. It was fun. Imagine if all the characters on Friends (the tv show) worked in the same retail store. That was us -- lots of fun, high emotion, some young love thrown in the mix - quite a memory making hub.

The days of tuxedos ended for me after almost six years, everyone else scattered as well, all except the owner, who heralded our flight into the "real" world. Some of us left with degrees, some with marriage, some with just a new, more adult position in corporate America. But we all left a piece of ourselves with him and that store.

The building we all inhabited was torn down years ago, the store is still owned and operated by our old boss, although now it is a different, more modern location. I am sure there today, another gang of college kids are sitting around, trying to eat a hurried lunch as customer, after customer comes ringing through the front door. I hope they treasure this time, I hope they keep all the memories and realize how great they have it, its a great time of life, and I know that is a great place to work.

Most days like today, a Friday during prom and wedding season, I can remember that I would be complaining about right now, lunch would always be interrupted, always busy, but right now, as I sit and reminisce, I kinda long for those days again. Not the work, maybe just the people. I really could use a great game of "Try to ring the garment bar with a hanger" about now.

If you are one of the gang from the old Simon's Store, circa 1985 - 1990, drop me a line, let me know where you are - you are missed and forever hold a place in my heart.

Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

It's Friday!!!

Friday morning has brought me nothing but grief today. I had a bad night of little sleep, combined with some sort of stomach bug - I will stop and spare you any more details.

I am exhausted, but bored at the same time. I wanted desperately to provide a really fun post this morning, and unfortunately that is just not in me today. I am instead doing a meme entitled
All About Me. I don't really tag people, but if you are a blogger and would like to participate, consider yourself tagged and blog away. I would love to have a link to your answers (if you participate) so please leave a comment and a url for me to view. Maybe it will make this long day go by a little faster. (Did I mention I am home alone, sick, tired and grumpy with a three year old that wants nothing more than to run, jump and scream this morning???)

ALL ABOUT ME!

What time did you get up this morning? 4:30 AM, then again at 7:00 AM

Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds

Last movie you saw in the theater? I have no idea - it was so long ago...but I watch them at home all the time - last one at home - FRACTURE.

What is your favorite TV show? Can't pick just one.... The Office, American Idol, CSI-NY

What did you eat for Breakfast? A piece of toast - exciting isn't it!

What is your middle name? June....given middle name at birth....now my former maiden name - much to my parental's chagrin! But who wants that as a middle name-- not me!!! :-)

What food do you dislike? Cauliflower, Liver, Yucky stuff like that.

What is your favorite CD at the moment? Bon Jovi, Lost Highway

What kind of car do you drive? Chrysler Pacifica

Favorite sandwich? Grilled Cheese, or homemade Pimento Cheese and Smoked Turkey

What characteristics do you despise? Rudeness

Favorite item of clothing? My "Kiss Me I'm Irish" Sleep Pants and matching shirt!

If you could go anywhere in the world for a vacation, where would you go? Italy - hands down, don't even need to think about that very long at all.

What color is your bathroom? green

Favorite brand of clothing? Fresh Produce - My friend Kim turned me onto it! Love it!

Where would you retire? Edisto Beach, SC

Most memorable birthday? 39th - I was a mommy for the first time.

Favorite sport to watch? Tennis

Are you a morning or a night person? Morning most of the time

What is your shoe size? 7

What did you want to be when you were little? a mommy, married to Shaun Cassidy

What are you today? wife (uh,although sadly,NOT to Shaun Cassidy!!), mommy, suedo writer

What is your favorite candy? Kit Kat, chilled from at least three hours in the fridge!

Your favorite flower? Sterling Roses

What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to?May 17th - Headed to the beach for a week!

What are you listening to right now? Sting and the Police - Every Breath You Take!

What was the last thing you ate? Toast

Do you wish on stars? Yes

If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Purple Passion (is that a color, I just made that up!)

What is your pet peeve? When the cashier at the grocery store ignores you and talks to the bag boy the WHOLE TIME! ARGHHHH

Last person you spoke to on the phone? a friend

Favorite soft drink? Coke over crushed ice!

Favorite restaurant? Macaroni Grill

Hair Color? Brown and blonde highlights -- I am sure underneath it all it is grey!

Favorite day of the year? my daughter's birthday, truly - it makes me and the hubby giddy to plan and participate!

What was your favorite toy as a child? My Fisher Price Little People and BOOKS

Summer or winter? Winter

Hugs or kisses? Like 'em both, but a good hugger is hard to find -- so HUGS from a good hugger!

Chocolate or vanilla? Chocolate, is there even a contest on this one?

When was the last time you cried? Wednesday

What is under your bed? Too scared to look, but I am thinking it is the extra leaf from our dining room table and probably lots of other stuff too embarrassing to mention!

Who is the friend you’ve had the longest? S, K, and M

What did you do last night? Cooked dinner, cleaned kitchen, put child to bed, watched The Office, read and spent time IMing on the computer.

Favorite smell? Clean laundry, especially after using Downey and Escada Moon Sparkle

What are you afraid of? losing my family

How many keys on your key ring? 6

Favorite day of the week? Friday

How many states have you lived in? 6, MS, AL, GA, LA, NY, HI

Do you make friends easily? Yes


Happy Friday Ya'll - I am looking forward to seeing your answers!
Living Happily Ever After (even with a stomach bug!)
Beverly

It's Pink, It's Yummy and It's Crunchy!!!

Last year I found and fell in love with Multi-grain Chex cereal. It was wonderful - tasty, crunchy and really satisfying! Since I don't eat cereal with milk, I have to really love the cereal to eat it or even use it as a snack - this one passed the test with flying colors. Then, for some reason, my local stores stopped selling it - or maybe the Chex people did - I don't know - but it was just suddenly gone. I have been in mourning ever since.

That is until today...

This is what I found on the aisle today

STRAWBERRY CHEX! Yipee! I bought it and even now I am munching away -- yummy, yummy, yummy. GO GET YOU SOME! (and I am not even being paid by the Chex people -- of course I would be glad to take any compensation they want me to take!!)

Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

Hi, My Name is Beverly, and I am a Television Addict!

I am irritated this morning!

I do NOT like Darma and Gregg - never did and the re-runs are horrendously horrible for me - I think I have the shakes.
I do NOT like Spin City - never did, ditto the above!
I do NOT like Fresh Prince of Belair - ditto ditto ditto
I do NOT like anything on tv at 9:00 AM in the morning! Can someone please tell my why the Food Network is not on at this time - -why am I looking at an infomerical? Aren't people up cooking breakfast at this time... don't they think we need some inspiration?

There is just nothing I want to watch on tv and quite frankly I am in the mood to just veg out for a minute or two while I eat my toast. My child has the main tv locked down on Noggin and although I enjoy Pinky Dinky Doo - it is not my craving satisfier this morning! I guess I will just turn it back to the Today show and grin and bear that -- but really, MR. TV EXECUTIVE - can you work on the morning lineup please!!!

Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

I Got A Ticket To Ride!

Have you had a good day, my dear blogger friends?

Well, I have. What started out as a regular Wednesday, turned into a great afternoon of fun and celebration of friendship. I talk often here about my friends, I love them. I cherish them. I am an only child and my friends are my family, especially those who have been in or around my life for twenty or more years. I am loyal and I love deep -I have spent a lifetime "collecting" some really good people to be in my "friendship tree". Sometimes these friends climb on up that tree and exceed my grasp for awhile, so I am always happy to see them climb back down and spend time again.

The details of my day are not important, except to say that I had a great time with two old friends today, and hearing from them both again this afternoon, we all felt the same way - like we were teenagers again - not a care in the world, having fun just hanging out.

I am so thankful that time has not completely severed some really important friendships in my life. The girls I met when I was a toddler, or a young teen are still in my life. Some guys that I knew in my high school life are still around as really good friends, to both me and now my husband. I am so glad that mistakes made during all of our early years have not filtered into our grown up world. So glad that we can all just enjoy each other's company and families now, and treasure our collective pasts.

Time is a funny thing, it can break people apart and bring them back together - and the great thing about true friendship and the love that connects friends is that no matter when you re-connect, you can pick right back up, like no time had passed at all.

Today I was taken back to years gone by through the time machine of old friends - Thanks for the ticket to ride.

One of my friends lent me her cd of this song... it reminded her of today and it does me as well. The song speaks of spending time with an old friend, making a memory, marking time together, remembering the sweet old times. I wish I had written it - but alas, the credit goes to Bon Jovi.

Hello again, it's you and me
Kinda always like it used to be
Sippin' wine, killing time
Trying to solve life's mysteries

How's your life, it's been awhile?
God it's good to see you smile
I see you reaching for your keys
Looking for a reason not to leave

If you don't know if you should stay
If you don't say what's on your mind
Baby just breathe
there's nowhere else tonight we should be

You wanna make a memory?

I took up this old photograph
look at all that hair we had
it's bittersweet to hear you laugh
your phone is ringing I don't wanna ask

If you go now I'll understand
If you stay Hey I've got a plan
We're gonna make a memory
You wanna steal a piece of time?
You can sing the melody to me
And I can write a couple of lines

You wanna make a memory?

If you don't know if you should stay
And you don't say what's on your mind
Baby just breathe
there's nowhere else tonight we should be (we should be)

You wanna make a memory?
You wanna steal a piece of time?
You can sing the melody to me
And I can write a couple of lines

You wanna make a memory?




Living Happily Ever After
Beverly

Wordless Wednesday

HOME!

American Idol Live Bloggin

Okay - I seriously wrote down the whole show -- I mean, I have every comment, every thought I had during the entire hour -- which was hard for me - cause I am not a big Mariah fan -- sorry world, just never joined that bandwagon. But as I sit here to blog it all - there is really only one thing I want to say --- are you ready.....

DAVID COOK ROCKS! HE IS AWESOME! I THINK ONE OF, IF NOT THE BEST,MOST TALENTED CONTESTANTS ON AMERICAN IDOL - EVER!

I mean, totally, people - he totally blew me away last night. I actually HATE the song he sang - always have - every time I ever heard it I changed the station - faster, than fast. BUT his version of Always Be My Baby - I would totally buy the album, buy the ringtone, program it into my computer to play automatically when I log on - whatever - it was awesome, he was awesome and there really is nothing to be said about the show last night other than that!

Oh, and Syesha - Bye, Bye!

Thanks for reading, ya'll!

Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

Questions and Answers for BooMama!

Thank you BooMama! I have been struggling with what to write about this morning and your post got me out of that awful dilemma. For those of you not familiar with BooMama and my hero worship of her blog - click here to learn what all the fuss is about. Let's just say that I came across her blog almost a year ago, I lurked on it and learned and then in September, I became brave enough to start blogging on my own.

BooMama and her blogging friend BigMama (another favorite of mine) have been invited to speak at a conference and are asking their readers for some help in answering bloggity type questions. I will link this back to BooMama and I hope it will be insightful to you, my readers, as well as to my blog hero, BooMama.


1. What part of blogging brings you the most joy and satisfaction? Relationships? Having an outlet for writing? Reading? Commenting? Building your traffic? Something else?

Definitely the outlet for writing. Reading other blogs and developing relationships with other bloggers and my readers rank right up there too. Nothing thrills me more than picking up a new reader! I have "met" so many people through this blogworld. I enjoy reading other blogs, it is a form of inspiration for me and also helps to make me feel that I am not alone in this life... motherhood, parenthood, desperate writerhood! I do it for the joy of it, but seeing my readership increases is a great "high" for me. I'm like everyone else, I still want to be popular, even though high school was years ago!

2. What is the most frustrating part of blogging for you?

Wow, I don't think I have ever thought of any part as "frustrating" but there have been times that I really want to write about something and just could not get the words right - or days like today when I really just wanted to sit and write and no idea was forming. I use blogging as my creative outlet and hobby these days, so it is never frustrating for me, at least not yet!

3. If you had to give someone one piece of advice about blogging, what would it be?
I have given this advice over and over - JUST START! I have several friends who like my blog and often comment on how they wish they could do it too - that is what I tell them. Just Start! Some days you will have a great post and some days it will be awful - but after you have been doing it awhile and can look back on all the posts as a whole, you will see that they all add up to slices of your daily life that you can never get back or replace.

4. What do you know about blogging now that you WISH you had known when you started your blog?

I have learned the hard way that I don't have to blog about every feeling I have or every thought. Some things are better left unsaid, or unblogged about. Earlier this year I was hurt by some circumstances and I used my blog as a way to work out my feelings on the matter - I ended up having to defend that post and put up with a horribly mean commenter, who although tried to be anonymous, was actually a friend and as a result, our relationship is very strained. If I could have known then, I would have never used the post to air such intimate thoughts. I now try to limit it to more happy, positive, uplifting thoughts and stories.

5. What draws you to the blogs you read regularly? What elevates a blog to “daily read” status?
I like to read blogs that are written really well, have humor, are thought provoking, and usually find that they are written by moms in a similar circumstance as myself; home, with a preschooler and just striving to live a godly life. These types make the "daily read" status... always!

Good Luck BooMama and BigMama! I would give anything to be able to be at the conference!!

Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

4000

I just logged onto my sitemeter and discovered that a few minutes ago, I received the 4000th visitor to this old blog! WOW - it was exciting -just the thought of it. Just wanted to say thank you to everyone that visits and then comes back for more.I enjoy creating the blog and hope you enjoy reading it as well.

Living Happily Ever After!
Beverly

BigMama's Fashion Fiesta

So, I am accepting the challege BigMama has thrown at us to show off our "fashion." Whether good or bad, I am opening up my closet and showing you a few of my favorite things.

Caution: Please bear in mind that I am a stay at home mom with a 3 year old... fashion and cute outfits are not always my first grab when I open the closet -- usually it is what is clean, what is comfortable, and won't make my mother cringe with regret everytime she sees me.

I am fortunate to have a birthday that comes around Easter and Springtime each year, so ususally I find myself getting a few new spring things to add to my wardrobe. This year is no different - I have hit Target, Marshalls and Ross as well as JCPenny this year and found some really cute things...

I have learned that I have a bit of shoe obsession this Spring, or maybe it is just that there are so many cute shoes on the market this year - whatever the reason, I found these two pair and just had to have them...aren't they adorable - an so flexible - can be worn with so much!

I also have developed a love of blouses and tops to go with cute pants and skirts this Spring... I found these at Ross - so cute and so easy on the husband's pocketbook! I usually wear them with black pants or my cute white skirt, or even my trouser jeans that I dearly love -- so comfortable and yet a little dressy!

These two skirts are favorties of mine - I lucked up at Target one day and found them on the clearance rack - I have had more compliments on these than anything else in the past year! I pair them with a brown shirt (on the tangerine one) and a black, aqua or white shirt on the other -- so cute!
Springtime is all about skirts and dresses for me -- they are not only comfortable, they are forgiving as well... I have these three dresses that I know I will practically live in this Spring and Summer...
Now here comes the part of the post that will make my mother cringe and while I don't go out in any of these clothes (well, maybe just to the mailbox) I do tend to wear these things more than any other in my closet. After a day of errands, a night on the town(ha - I never have those - just dreaming a bit!) or just a day at home doing household chores - if you came to the door you would most likely see me in one of these shirts and depending on the time - possible paired with the yoga pants or the sleep pants. Sorry, Mom - close your eyes.

Before I close, I think you should all notice that I might have a bit of an obsession with shirts that are about Ireland?? What is that about -- I am 1/2 Irish and I guess it is coming out in my wardrobe choices.... perhaps I need to see someone about this strange phenomena.

Well, there you have if folks, my closet - opened for you to persue! I hope you enjoyed it - I am just excited to be participating in this fun blog festival.

Living Happily Ever After! (apparently in Irish Pride attire!!)
Beverly

The World Can't Be This Insane.... DREAM ON!

WHAT????
Has the world gone mad????
Not since the Chris Daughtry debacle two years ago have I been so horrified.... kicking off Michael Johns is ludicrous - on the flip side - I guess it will just propel him even faster to superstar status like it did Daughtry - but GOOD GRIEF - the world stopped spinning for me just a minute there.

Horrified, just horrified!
Beverly

I Had The Power All Along

Wednesday was a day of discovery for me. The day started out as any other, laundry, cooking and cleaning and then when my child was bouncing off the wall from boredom, I decided that we should get in the car and drive to McDonald's for lunch and playground play. So, we did.

We drove up the highway to avoid the Masters traffic and tourists and found ourselves quickly obtaining our food and sitting in the sweet sunlight on the playground. It was a beautiful day and Hannah had such a good time eating her burger and fries in between running, jumping, and sliding among the other five or so children.

After about an hour of me soaking in the sun, catching up on my reading and she playing, she decided she was hot and wanted to go home. So, we packed it all in and made our way to the parking lot and our trusty explorer.

I am going to divert here for a minute and praise my Ford Explorer. I love that car. Or SUV -whatever- I love it! We bought it basically on a whim in 1998 and it is a great vehicle. We brought Hannah home from the hospital in it, and it was the ambulance that carried my sweet Jake on his last ride two years ago. It is sentimental and just a good driving machine. I have nothing bad to say about that sweet, teal green piece of metal. But yesterday...

After strapping Hannah in her seat and settling into mine, I put the key into the ignition in that hot McDonald's parking lot and heard this..._______! That's right! NOTHING! No comforting engine turning over, nothing but silence. Of course, that means only one thing - dead battery! So, I did what every Southern girl knows how to do - I called my Daddy! Luckily I got him and he and my mother agreed to come and rescue us. So, we disembarked from our trusty vehicle and re-entered the McDonald's playground for what would be another thirty minutes of unbridled fun. I will say this, if you find yourself stranded with no vehicle and a three year old, make sure you are at a McDonald's - food, drink, bathroom and playground -- no better place.

My parents arrived and picked us up and we started going home. We decided that we would stop on the way and see if my father-in-law was home and could help "jump" the car. Luck was on our side, he was home and soon, Hannah was safely ensconced on her way to my parents and my father in law and I were on our way back to McDonald's to hopefully rescue my car.

Once we got there, it was discovered that in the back of the explorer my dear hubby had placed a booster - a handy device that has jumper cables and a neat little switch and will resurrect a dead battery - at least enough to get a stranded mommy and child home. So, in a matter of minutes, my car was purring like a kitten and I was headed down the highway back home.

As I drove along, I couldn't help but think how much like Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz I was. You remember, she had those red shoes and all along her path, her greatest desire was to go home, and all along, she had the power to do JUST that on her feet - she had the power all along.
Just like me - yesterday, all we wanted to do was go home, and all we had to do was hook up that booster that was sitting there all along - we had the power all along too.

And that my friends, is called a full-circle moment!

Living Happily Ever After!
Beverly

Well,It's Springtime in the valley, on Magnolia Lane

If you are a golf fan, have ever watched the Masters on television,or just grew up here in my hometown, you will recognize the title as the opening line of a song, written by Dave Loggins (of Loggins and Messina fame) in the 80's about the feeling in Augusta during Masters Week.

I will confess here in the beginning that I am NOT a golf fan. Never have been, never will be. It makes my eyes glaze over when anyone starts talking "golf" and quite frankly I have never understood the level of passion that propels people to my town the first week in April every year from all over the globe, just to watch men walk and hit golf balls. Maybe it is because I have never really gotten to celebrate my birthday on my birthday since it usually falls during the tournament and any one with any sense knows not to go to restaurants or anywhere near anything during this week. Maybe it is because I used to live in the neighborhood across from the National and lived with the traffic drama for many years in that area of town.Whatever the reason, golf is just not my sport. The only excitement of the Masters for me is the thought of the celebrities in town, or the feeling that the entire nation's eye is on Augusta on Sunday afternoon as the golfer who will soon wear the coveted green jacket makes his way to the 18th hole for what is sure to be an emotional moment.

Putt-Putt on the other hand, is my kinda sport.

As a teenager and young adult, I spent many wonderful hours after church on Sunday nights for fellowship, or on Friday and Saturday nights for lack of anywhere else wholesome to go at one of the two Putt-Putt locations here in town. One has since closed down, so we are sadly only left with one of these fun oasis' of green turf, towering fountains, arcade games, expensive pizza and pepsi!

There was a time in my life, in the summer following a bad breakup, that I spent time with three other people who were going through similar events and we all sought solace together in our weekly putt-putt adventures. We also were known to stay up late at my house and watch QVC -but that is a post for another time.

I have digressed down memory lane, but I will reign it in and just go on with the here and now and the fact that yesterday, on Tuesday of Masters week, I was privileged to take my daughter putt-putting for the very first time. We went with our friends Kim and Adaire and oh, did the girls have a blast! Because it was a cloudy day, hello- it is Masters week -you have to expect that - we went inside to the arcade first. My Hannah had a blast with all the bells and lights going on around her - we got our tokens and soon she and Adaire discovered the Skee-Ball set-up. I think we have champion skee-ballers, those girls racked up the tickets. After playing for awhile, we managed to wrangle them down for a slice of pizza and drink and then it was outside for the main event - and what fun we had.

Hannah teed off first, and for a three year old, I must say, she did really well. At least she had the idea of the sport and although it took her more that then traditionally allowed 5 putts to get that green ball in the first hole, she did it! I was so proud! Then it was Adaire's turn, she had never putt-putted either, and as a soon to be five year old, she stood right there and by golly, she got a hole in one - A HOLE IN ONE, people! We shouted and cheered and cheered some more! It was amazing. Maybe this is what those people out on the main course are feeling when Tiger or Gary or Stewart or Jack do something incredible, I don't know - I just know it was a great moment. Some day when Adaire is a golf champ, we can look back fondly on the day and know we were there when it all started!! Oh - and guess what, she did it again on the 8th hole -- she is a star, watch out for her in years to come.

We had a ton of fun, lots to see and do and putt-putt never disappoints. I am so glad that my girl liked it, I have secretly loved the place all my life, just not too many reasons to play when you are older and married for a long time and Friday and Saturday nights are spent doing other things.

Here's a parting shot of the two new golfers... and that big ol' giraffe that is a Washington Road landmark and beckons all to come and play!

Living Happily Ever After,

Beverly

Live American Idol Blogging!

Okay - tonight I am going to just blog while watching the show --- BooMama does it - and I want to participate in her Mr.Linky, so here goes.


The Show is going to be highlighting inspirational songs tonight -- oh - up first my favorite ....

Michael Johns - Dream On, Aerosmith - I love it - I love him, go Michael Johns. Randy and I are in complete disagreement on this one - I am with Paula and even Simon liked it so it couldn't have been that bad.
Syesha Mercado - I Believe, Fantasia. First of all, I don't remember the song, oh well, now they are saying it was her signature "I Won American Idol and Now This Is My Hit Song." song, unmemorable to me. I hated the song, the performance seemed over sung,but she looked cute and she does have a great voice - I just wasn't "feeling" the song. I think the judges all agree with me on this one.
Jason Castro - Somewhere over the Rainbow, Brother Izzy. This guy hits it everytime. Judges loved it, and so did I! Jason is awesome, original and unique!
Kristy Lee Cook -Anyway, Martina McBride. Actually, I love this song, and I think she really did well tonight, this is her element and she was shining in it tonight. Judges agree... yeah
David Cook Innocent by Our Lady of Peace - Okay, I am a David Cook fan, truly, but this week I was left lacking. First, I have NEVER heard of the song, have ya'll? I am sure my music buddy will know it - but it was just "aight" with me - didn't knock my socks off and apparently the judges felt the same way. Loved his cool message on this palm though --
Carly Smithson - Show Must Go On - Queen - hated it -but she is singing it well. She is not my favorite though, so what do I know. I am in agreement with Randy - just okay with me too. Paula didn't feel connection, Simon thought she looked good, thought it was unusual choice, oversang and lost control of the song - I totally agree.
David Archuletta is next....singing Angels (?) I don't know this one... let's hear it..
okay, loving the live piano - still don't know the song, but it might have potential. Okay - I am certain I have heard this before - just don't know who sings it... he is doing a good job, although I am not really hip on the whole "angel worship" implication. I admire anyone that can play and sing - gotta have talent. Randy loved the performance, thought it was his hottest of all season, Paula says ditto, Simon, best song choice of the night, nit picking, but happy with the performance, I liked it - but he is just so young isn't he?
Brooke White after the break with Carole King... oh -- looking forward to that - truly. You've Got a Friend. Love the song - my favorite is the JT version. My friend and I used to sing it to each other --- ah, the memories. Oh - she is singing great tonight folks - I love the dress too. She reminds me of Faith Hill tonight for some reason. Okay, the song is not striking me as one of her best -it is "safe" but she is executing it well. I am having a hard time connecting with the emotion of the song. Let's hear from Randy - I agree with Randy - just okay. Paula, memories from her, definitive ? - Simon says it was a pleasant walk in the park. I think he summed it up correctly.

Predictions from the Sofa...
Bottom three: Syesha Mercado , Carly Smithson, Brooke White
Who should go? Syesha
Who will go? Syesha - just don't think she is as strong as the rest of the group. I think she will be rooming with Ramiele again very soon, on the "I Was Kicked Off American Idol" morning talk show tour.

edited to add: I had forgotten it was Idol Give Back night on Wednesday - so obviously no one will got home this week. Lucky for Syesha - I still think she would have been gone.

My True North And Other Musings on a Movie

What is it exactly about the movie Message In A Bottle that intrigues me so? I find that I can watch that movie over and over again - in fact this week alone I have watched it already three times. It is currently on the rotation on our tv listings and every time I see that it is on... there I flip - just to watch either the whole movie or a small snippet of whatever is left. I own the video, the soundtrack and after all the years it has been out - I must have seen it at least fifty times, probably more.

This is even my second post in this blog about the movie -- I think I am a little obsessed.

I just find the whole story fascinating -- the premise, the execution of the script and the editing of the movie is just beautiful - I lose myself in it each time. Oddly enough, as much as I love to read I have never read the book - I think I will definitely have to put in on my beach reading list this year.

Perhaps I like the movie because of its obvious beach theme, this time of year my thoughts turn to the beach and the glorious week we will be spending there in a little over a month. Of course this naturally makes me think of the bathing suit and shorts that I will need to put on this body and that makes me ill - so I just try to skip that thought and go straight back to the lovely movie.

I love the characters of Teresa, Garrett and that sweet old curmugdeon Dodge. They are real to me - so well written and so well played out by Robin Wright Penn,Kevin Costner and Paul Newman that I forget they are not real - and I am touched by real emotions watching them on my screen. I seem to relate to each of the characters; Teresa, as a woman with a lost love, longing for love, I see myself in my early twenties, Garrett, as a widower, not quite sure of embarking on the love journey again, I see myself as I was when I met my husband, hesitate to fall for anyone for fear of getting hurt. And now as a mother, wanting the best for my child, I can relate to Dodge as he pleads with Garrett to find happiness and is sorely upset when Garrett, his child, wants to push away from his parental advice.

I love the pure romance of the movie, the finding of a message in a bottle, the research and time put into finding the author and the thought that the author of such a beautiful love letter could one day write such a letter to the finder of the bottle - so endearing, so touching, so pure.

I just love the movie. I thought maybe if I wrote about this obsession, that some how, some way, I could cure myself of this craze, unfortunately, after writing this, I have made myself want to watch the movie even more - thank goodness for on demand - I don't even have to get up to go find the video.

Living happily ever after,
Beverly

My New "Cleaning Lady" or Where is Hazel When You Need Her?

Here's how NOT to awakened by your three year old on Monday morning of Spring Break...

H: "Mommy," I need to get a towel.
Me: "Why?"
H: "I need to clean up the mess."
Me: "What mess?"
H: "The mess in the bathroom. I turned over the basket and water splashed out."

Now -- at this point, sleep still keeping me from opening my eyes, I am calculating in my head just how bad of a "splash" she is talking about and what type of "basket" could have splashed out and is any of this worth me getting out of bed at 6:30 AM to find out. Turns out, she answered all my questions and more...

Me: "What did you turn over?"
H:"The bucket with the brush, after I cleaned the potty... and now POOP water is spilled out all over!"

Yes, good morning blogger friends.... my three year old wonder decided that cleaning the potty after a #2 visit was totally appropriate.. and since she of course has never cleaned a toilet, knew exactly how --- needless to say, I sprang out of bed and rushed to the potty--- it wasn't too bad - but it wasn't pleasant, especially pre-dawn! I sanitized Hannah and the potty and after a load of laundry, I am confident the towels, bathmat and the rug will all be as good as new... Poop Water -- oh help us all!!

Hope you have a great Spring Break -- we are going to have so much fun...you might need to check back more than once a day this week - there is no telling what adventures we are fixing to embark upon in this Little House on the Lane.

Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

They Say It's Your Birthday...Well, It's My Birthday Too!

The day has arrived and thankfully it is passing with little fanfare. Although our Sunday School teacher did make a point to discuss when exactly is middle age and I have now been given confirmation that I am definitely in my "Middle Ages." Some how after that comment, I never did quite get back to paying attention to the lesson - great way to greet your birthday -- Thanks Lonnie!!

Last evening I was treated to dinner at Macaroni Grill with my family and good friend Kim (aka Band Girl) and her daughter Adaire. We even managed to get a picture of the four of us -- a rare occurrence, especially with our two wiggly girls!

The food was fantastic, as always and the evening was topped off by a personal serenade from a waitress - nothing says Happy Birthday, like being sung Happy Birthday in Italian! My daughter was fascinated!

After Mac Grill, we went to my parent's house for some mighty fine Strawberry Cake and ice cream and oodles of presents and a more traditional rendition of the Happy Birthday song.

It was a great evening - and if I have to celebrate a birthday - I can't think of a better way to do it.

Thanks everyone!

Living Happily Ever After,
Birthday Girl

A Saturday Meme!

Well, I wasn't tagged for a meme - but I found one on another site and decided to tag myself. If you feel like playing, feel free - put your answers in the comment section.

Five Things

Five Things I was Doing Ten Years Ago(1998)
- Living in an apartment
- Working in Human Resources
- Dreaming of having a child
- Anticipating a move to Maryland for hubby's job
- Enjoying life with my sweet dog Jake

Five Things on My To-Do List Today
- Get Dressed
- Finish laundry
- Clean bathrooms - ick!
- Watch Rock of Love 2 at noon
- Get ready to go out and celebrate my birthday

Five Snacks I Enjoy
- Popcorn
- Ruffles with Ridges and French Onion Dip
- Blueberry pop tarts with melted cheese
- Key Lime Yogurt
- Anything chocolate

Five Things I Would Do If I Were a Billionaire
- Tithe really well
- Pay off our debts, our parents debt
- Provide for my child's future financial stability
- Renovate my home
- Buy a beach house at Edisto Beach and spend a lot of time there!!

Five Bad Habits
- Watching too much television
- Too much blogging time
- putting off doing the dishes
- Forgetting to clean out the fridge
- Leaving clothes in the dryer -and having to tumble 'em again

Five Places I Have Lived
- Louisiana
- New York
- Hawaii
- Augusta, GA
- Mississippi

Five Jobs I Have Had
- My first job was clothing assistant at a 2nd Hand store -I had to make sure the hangers were all in the right order!
- Working at a formal wear shop - measuring, tailoring, ironing, tuxedos for grooms, groomsmen, and party-goers
- Secretary for a Construction Company
- Customer Service Rep at a medical device company
- Mommy - the BEST JOB SO FAR!


Living Happily Ever After,
Beverly

Exciting Day on the Blogsphere!

I am so excited -- I have been officially added to the blogroll over at 5 Minutes for Mom. Click here and here for my debut and interview. Yipee. This is a great site, tons of great blogs and ideas for moms. Check it out!

Only the Nose Knows!

Thank goodness I don't play the lottery. Or, maybe I should. (which is exactly why I don't, I know nothing about odds and gambling and such!!)

What are the odds that Monday morning, I made a comment to another preschooler's mom that although Hannah has been in preschool now for 8 weeks, we have had no cold or other toddler malady arrive at our home and then Wednesday afternoon she exited the preschool hall with a gigantic sneeze? Just one.

One sneeze that has now turned into a full-fledged stuffy nose, fever, coughing, aching so you can't sleep cold! Just in time for Spring Break.

Did I mention that it is 5 am and I have been up vapor-rubbing and medicine dispensing since 2 am? Sure am glad I discovered my mentholathum cure for saggy eyes this week - at least I was prepared.

If anyone needs me this afternoon, I will be the one sleeping on the couch.........zzzzzzzzzzz!

Living happily ever after (yes, even with sickness in our house!)
Beverly

Excitement, American Idol and Jesus on TV!

I think my friend and I are going to be working on a project. I am so excited about just the thought of this one, my dear blogger friends. We have been emailing and texting about this for a few weeks now and I think we are going to step out and GO FOR IT!

Is this vague enough for all of you.... sorry -- I am just overflowing with excitement tonight and needed to share this with someone and you guys are the lucky ones that I turned to.

On a side note - I am watching American Idol and go ahead and consider this a live blog because goodness gracious - but the CLARK BROTHERS are rocking!! Singing about Jesus on primetime tv - hollywood may not be such a lost cause. I think they just revitalized "This Little Light of Mine!!"

Go Michael Johns and David Cook!!

Living happily ever after,
Beverly

What Did We Do Before?

Just sitting here at my old, worn out kitchen table - folding laundry, contemplating what to make for dinner, watching my daughter play with our dog and of course on-line.

I wonder what we did before being so "ONLINE" all the time?

In the last few minutes I have checked my email, received an update on a sick friend, moderated comments on my blog from as far away as Canada, checked the two forums I am somewhat addicted to, read two of my favorite bloggers, played a game of scrabble with an "online" buddy on my new favorite gathering site, read the local and national news updates, traded jokes and banter with a friend through texting, and looked up a recipe to consider for dinner tonight!

ALL ONLINE! It is truly amazing, and a wonderful option to have in this life. Here I am a stay at home mom, and yet I am connected through this laptop to friends, family and strangers, up to the minute news from the national to the entertaining, new tips, creative writing, games, the WHOLE WORLD!

Such fun - do you think the folks a hundred years ago could have even imagined it?

Living happily ever after,
Beverly

The Eyes Have It!

Update on my puffy, baggy, sad eyes ---

THEY ARE CURED! Healed! Miraculously Saved!

I applied my new found love in a tub (Mentholathum) last night before bed and awoke to much improved, less puffier eyes this morning.... even my hubby said he could tell - okay let's be honest, he wouldn't notice either way -- but he was kind enough to humor.

So - although this is a quick post this morning - it is packed with lots of punch ( and menthol and camphor!!) -- USE THE MENTHOLATHUM -- it works!!

Living happily ever after,
Beverly