The other night, while visiting at my parent's house my mother and I were talking about the lady in the news that just had eight babies. Hannah wandered into the room and asked what we were talking about. The conversation went like this...
MeMa: "Hannah, that lady just had eight babies, what would you do if your mommy had eight babies?"
Hannah: "I'd get a big cage and put them all in it!"
Clearly, God knew what He was doing by having her become an only child!!
You can't make this stuff up, folks!
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
Flashback Friday - The First One
It's FLASHBACK FRIDAY!!I was rummaging through some photo albums at my mother's last night and found some really great pictures...some I had forgotten all about. This is one of them. I was about 6 - living in Leesville, LA and totally ga-ga over my "big brother" - Joey. He was on a high school football team at the time and somehow I got a jersey with the team name ...it was my favorite shirt.
I love this photo for several reasons, first - how cute is it?? I mean really - a little girl, dressed as a football player -- striped 70's style pants and all, complete with a football in her hand... how can anyone not like this picture! Secondly - it is pretty much a documented fact that I hate football. I mean I really dislike the sport -- but somehow, it has always found a place in my heart, back then it was because Joey played, when I was in High School it was because a Friday night football game was the PLACE TO BE! I have always been surrounded by it - but never, ever have I even bothered to find out any of the rules of the game. So - doubly funny that there is a picture in existence of me - posing as such a devoted fan of the team and game. I am sure my Georgia Bulldawg friends will be pleased to know that at least some point in my life I had a passion for the game!!
So - enjoy Flashback Friday. I hope you take some time today to "flash back" to a time in your past, or find a picture or two that reminds you of a fun and happy moment in your life.
Living Happily In The Moment!
Beverly
Thursday, January 29, 2009
The Sounds of Silence....Please Turn It Off!
I know I have written quite a few posts over the last few days about my deafness... sorry for all you bored readers out there... here is another!
I went to the doctor (again) for my "condition" and received another round of medication, sure to cure-all! I was also treated to the joy and distinction of being the worst case of ear infection the doctor has seen so far this year. She truly didn't know how I was still able to function. Apparently, lucky for me, the infection is so bad, that there is no room in my ear canal for pain. Unfortunately, the medication she has prescribed will clear that infection right up - and I was forewarned of some painful moments to come my way...OH JOY!!
The last few days have been really hard for me -- I have been thrown into a world I don't understand -- the world of silence. I have found myself in a group of people, unable to participate in the smallest conversations, I have sat with people, face to face and strained for every word, every syllable of what they are saying. I have missed my child singing in the backseat, I have not heard the phone ring for days, I have been sneaked up on by my husband on more than one occasion and I haven't enjoyed a television show all week. I miss noise, I miss the blathering of my girl, I miss the everyday sounds. I don't like to spend a lot of time "in my head!" There is stuff going on in there I do not like to delve into, but this silence that has invaded my life has given me more than one opportunity to look inward. It is not a really pretty sight. Some of the scenes are fun to think about, but most scare me and some even quake me to my toes. I will be glad for my hearing to return... if only for the bliss of noises and distractions from my brain. Ever feel that way? I didn't realize how much I didn't think - until it was all I had to do!! ;-)
I am generally a happy person - I surround myself with friends and family, music and laughter and being without the comfort of all of these things has turned me rather melancholy this week.
The medication is supposed to get to work and hopefully by the end of the weekend, I will be hearing and "seeing" things a bit more clearly! Here's hoping!
Living Happily in the Moment!
Beverly
I went to the doctor (again) for my "condition" and received another round of medication, sure to cure-all! I was also treated to the joy and distinction of being the worst case of ear infection the doctor has seen so far this year. She truly didn't know how I was still able to function. Apparently, lucky for me, the infection is so bad, that there is no room in my ear canal for pain. Unfortunately, the medication she has prescribed will clear that infection right up - and I was forewarned of some painful moments to come my way...OH JOY!!
The last few days have been really hard for me -- I have been thrown into a world I don't understand -- the world of silence. I have found myself in a group of people, unable to participate in the smallest conversations, I have sat with people, face to face and strained for every word, every syllable of what they are saying. I have missed my child singing in the backseat, I have not heard the phone ring for days, I have been sneaked up on by my husband on more than one occasion and I haven't enjoyed a television show all week. I miss noise, I miss the blathering of my girl, I miss the everyday sounds. I don't like to spend a lot of time "in my head!" There is stuff going on in there I do not like to delve into, but this silence that has invaded my life has given me more than one opportunity to look inward. It is not a really pretty sight. Some of the scenes are fun to think about, but most scare me and some even quake me to my toes. I will be glad for my hearing to return... if only for the bliss of noises and distractions from my brain. Ever feel that way? I didn't realize how much I didn't think - until it was all I had to do!! ;-)
I am generally a happy person - I surround myself with friends and family, music and laughter and being without the comfort of all of these things has turned me rather melancholy this week.
The medication is supposed to get to work and hopefully by the end of the weekend, I will be hearing and "seeing" things a bit more clearly! Here's hoping!
Living Happily in the Moment!
Beverly
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
I Like It Hot, Strong and Black!
I had one of those stressed out mornings today, but slap dab in the middle of it, I found an oasis of peace...and you will never guess where!!
The weather this morning was dreary, drizzling rain and cold - cold enough for a coat and that is rare here in the sunny South. It was one of those mornings when staying in bed sounded like a good idea, but the day and it's responsibilities wouldn't allow it.
Lucky for me, last week I had made plans to meet a friend this morning so after I dropped my child off at preschool, I hurried through a few errands and then headed to my friend's house. The weather was still yucky, even though the morning was in full gear, but thankfully this friend is a coffee drinker and the coffee was on and hot when I arrived. After pouring our cups we sat down and spent the next hour laughing and talking and having the best time. I stayed long enough for a second cup of coffee, and honestly, maybe because it wasn't my coffee at home, maybe it was the company, maybe it was the weather - but I think that coffee was the best I have had in a long time.
I usually try not to start my day with a cup of the hot, black stuff. I really even rarely use my pot at home, unless my parents are over. They are the coffee drinkers in my family. I am a social coffee drinker...I like a Starbucks now and then, but a good strong, black coffee made at church or restaurant or work (when I used to do that!!) does me just as well. There is something about slipping a hot coffee mug in between my hands and feeling the warmth before I taste it that cheers me up. I guess it makes me think of my childhood, when my parents couldn't get out of bed without a cup and had usually finished a pot by the end of breakfast. I love it, I just don't do it often enough.
This morning, I was thankful for the coffee, more than that, I was thankful for the company of a friend, and the laughter and fun that comes with sitting and sharing happy moments with someone who can read your soul.
That moment will carry me through until the next one comes along and it is nice to have it in the memory bank for when another stressful morning happens to come my way. Maybe I should determine to use my coffee pot more often around this place...perhaps if more of my mornings can start off in the peacefulness of a hot, steamy cup of coffee, more of my days will be full of the same peacefulness I am experiencing this afternoon.
Living Happily In The Moment!
Beverly
The weather this morning was dreary, drizzling rain and cold - cold enough for a coat and that is rare here in the sunny South. It was one of those mornings when staying in bed sounded like a good idea, but the day and it's responsibilities wouldn't allow it.
Lucky for me, last week I had made plans to meet a friend this morning so after I dropped my child off at preschool, I hurried through a few errands and then headed to my friend's house. The weather was still yucky, even though the morning was in full gear, but thankfully this friend is a coffee drinker and the coffee was on and hot when I arrived. After pouring our cups we sat down and spent the next hour laughing and talking and having the best time. I stayed long enough for a second cup of coffee, and honestly, maybe because it wasn't my coffee at home, maybe it was the company, maybe it was the weather - but I think that coffee was the best I have had in a long time.
I usually try not to start my day with a cup of the hot, black stuff. I really even rarely use my pot at home, unless my parents are over. They are the coffee drinkers in my family. I am a social coffee drinker...I like a Starbucks now and then, but a good strong, black coffee made at church or restaurant or work (when I used to do that!!) does me just as well. There is something about slipping a hot coffee mug in between my hands and feeling the warmth before I taste it that cheers me up. I guess it makes me think of my childhood, when my parents couldn't get out of bed without a cup and had usually finished a pot by the end of breakfast. I love it, I just don't do it often enough.
This morning, I was thankful for the coffee, more than that, I was thankful for the company of a friend, and the laughter and fun that comes with sitting and sharing happy moments with someone who can read your soul.
That moment will carry me through until the next one comes along and it is nice to have it in the memory bank for when another stressful morning happens to come my way. Maybe I should determine to use my coffee pot more often around this place...perhaps if more of my mornings can start off in the peacefulness of a hot, steamy cup of coffee, more of my days will be full of the same peacefulness I am experiencing this afternoon.
Living Happily In The Moment!
Beverly
Monday, January 26, 2009
Now, If Only I Could Hear...
WOW...I didn't know this until just now -- but yesterday's post... it was my 500th!! Good grief - I write a lot...kinda like I talk a lot and I have a few friends who will tell you that I send GINORMOUSLY long emails as well! Ah...words, how I love them!Happy 500th post to me and most of all, thank you all for reading them.
It is Monday morning, circa 5 AM and I have just been awakened by a sleepy little girl, needing to be tucked back into bed. Bless her heart, I have no idea how long she tried to wake me -- she finally resorted to banging on my head to get my attention - I am still deaf. Can't hear a thing -- and yes, I know, I will go to the doctor (I said that for my mother, who I know is thinking it as she is reading this!!)
I spent yesterday in virtual silence. We arrived in our Sunday School class and after settling in to my seat, I soon realized that I could not hear a word that was being spoken. I sat there for a few minutes and it just about drove me crazy -I could see mouths moving, but nothing - I could make out NOTHING! I excused myself, left my hubby to fend for himself and went to the church's library. I walked the book aisles, found some interesting items, like a small, big as my palm, sized edition of a Methodist Hymnal, published in 1845! WOW - it was kinda cool - it was OLD and even stranger, it was Methodist -- in a Baptist church - but it was COOL. I also found lots of books on parenting, which I skimmed for some much needed wisdom, and some devotional books that bear some more looking at as well. There were tons of novels, and although I didn't find anything yesterday to actually take home and read, I know that I will be making a return trip shortly.
After Sunday School let out, I met back up with the hubby and we wandered into the church. I figured my hearing problems would be easier to bear in the service, since the microphones would be in use. I did enjoy the music, we were led by Matt Papa, as the band had served our youth over the weekend in a retreat and it was great -- I could hear! I just couldn't sing... cause who knows how loudly I would have done it and embarrassed everyone. The speaker, Adrian Depres, an exceptional speaker and the team chaplain for the Gamecocks (see, my Carolina friends, this Ga Bulldog can speak nicely!) got up to preach. He is TALL with a commanding presence and I just knew that I would be able to hear his every word. He was excited and animated and for a bit, I could hear just about everything he said, but then he started walking around the podium and soon, the farther he got from a microphone, the less I could follow. It was perhaps the most frustrated I have been. I am sorry I didn't get to hear his whole message. My husband said it was good.
After church we picked up Hannah from her class and headed to the Mexican restaurant to meet all the grands. As I sat in the car, rummaging through my purse for, well, who knows...I realized that my husband was talking - but not to me - to my daughter, sitting right behind me in the back seat. She had obviously asked me for something, and me and all my deafness had not even heard her! I don't know how many of you reading this have actually met her, but she is LOUD - I mean a LOUD four year old. If I couldn't hear her, right behind me, I must really be deaf.
I am starting to think I will not hear again. I mean, how long can this go on...seriously? I have learned to be a bit more patient, to sit and reflect a bit more, that tv is not all I can do when I am home, but come on, lessons learned...I am really wanting to hear the simple things of life again, a door closing, a creak in the floor, clothes tumbling in the dryer, and most of all, my child, calling my name in the middle of the cold, dark night, wanting her mommy to come tuck her back in bed!
Praying for unclogged ears...
Wishing you a day filled with lots of simple sounds!
Living Happily in the Moment!
Beverly
It is Monday morning, circa 5 AM and I have just been awakened by a sleepy little girl, needing to be tucked back into bed. Bless her heart, I have no idea how long she tried to wake me -- she finally resorted to banging on my head to get my attention - I am still deaf. Can't hear a thing -- and yes, I know, I will go to the doctor (I said that for my mother, who I know is thinking it as she is reading this!!)
I spent yesterday in virtual silence. We arrived in our Sunday School class and after settling in to my seat, I soon realized that I could not hear a word that was being spoken. I sat there for a few minutes and it just about drove me crazy -I could see mouths moving, but nothing - I could make out NOTHING! I excused myself, left my hubby to fend for himself and went to the church's library. I walked the book aisles, found some interesting items, like a small, big as my palm, sized edition of a Methodist Hymnal, published in 1845! WOW - it was kinda cool - it was OLD and even stranger, it was Methodist -- in a Baptist church - but it was COOL. I also found lots of books on parenting, which I skimmed for some much needed wisdom, and some devotional books that bear some more looking at as well. There were tons of novels, and although I didn't find anything yesterday to actually take home and read, I know that I will be making a return trip shortly.
After Sunday School let out, I met back up with the hubby and we wandered into the church. I figured my hearing problems would be easier to bear in the service, since the microphones would be in use. I did enjoy the music, we were led by Matt Papa, as the band had served our youth over the weekend in a retreat and it was great -- I could hear! I just couldn't sing... cause who knows how loudly I would have done it and embarrassed everyone. The speaker, Adrian Depres, an exceptional speaker and the team chaplain for the Gamecocks (see, my Carolina friends, this Ga Bulldog can speak nicely!) got up to preach. He is TALL with a commanding presence and I just knew that I would be able to hear his every word. He was excited and animated and for a bit, I could hear just about everything he said, but then he started walking around the podium and soon, the farther he got from a microphone, the less I could follow. It was perhaps the most frustrated I have been. I am sorry I didn't get to hear his whole message. My husband said it was good.
After church we picked up Hannah from her class and headed to the Mexican restaurant to meet all the grands. As I sat in the car, rummaging through my purse for, well, who knows...I realized that my husband was talking - but not to me - to my daughter, sitting right behind me in the back seat. She had obviously asked me for something, and me and all my deafness had not even heard her! I don't know how many of you reading this have actually met her, but she is LOUD - I mean a LOUD four year old. If I couldn't hear her, right behind me, I must really be deaf.
I am starting to think I will not hear again. I mean, how long can this go on...seriously? I have learned to be a bit more patient, to sit and reflect a bit more, that tv is not all I can do when I am home, but come on, lessons learned...I am really wanting to hear the simple things of life again, a door closing, a creak in the floor, clothes tumbling in the dryer, and most of all, my child, calling my name in the middle of the cold, dark night, wanting her mommy to come tuck her back in bed!
Praying for unclogged ears...
Wishing you a day filled with lots of simple sounds!
Living Happily in the Moment!
Beverly
Sunday, January 25, 2009
A Tribute - On Many Levels!!
Had no idea what I was gonna post today, until I saw this video.
Today is my husband's 41st birthday - and while this is not the typical "Happy Birthday" tribute... it makes me think of him. He is one of the great daddies in the world. I am qualified to say this because I am surrounded by three of the greatest dads, my father, my husband and my father-in-law.
It takes someone special to be a daddy - it is not biology or proximity. The qualities that stand out are less tangible than that - they are being patient, when no one else can be, loving under the craziest of circumstances, being tired and still going outside to play, being silly, being quiet and calm, being selfless, and doling out discipline, even when it hurts you the most. In the four years that he has been a daddy, I have seen all of these qualities up close and personal as they have come pouring out of the birthday boy! These are the things that make the difference...
My husband has been changed for the better( not that he had a lot of changing that needed doing) by fatherhood. My daughter is a lucky girl!!
This video is a tribute to one daddy in particular, but the sentiment and truth stand for all daddies of the world. Enjoy!
He is OUR father.
Not the sketch in the paper or a part of a skit on tv.
Many people will think that they know him.
But they will have no idea how he felt the day you were born.
The pride he felt on your first day of school.
Or how much you both love being his daughters.
Remember who your dad really is
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
Today is my husband's 41st birthday - and while this is not the typical "Happy Birthday" tribute... it makes me think of him. He is one of the great daddies in the world. I am qualified to say this because I am surrounded by three of the greatest dads, my father, my husband and my father-in-law.
It takes someone special to be a daddy - it is not biology or proximity. The qualities that stand out are less tangible than that - they are being patient, when no one else can be, loving under the craziest of circumstances, being tired and still going outside to play, being silly, being quiet and calm, being selfless, and doling out discipline, even when it hurts you the most. In the four years that he has been a daddy, I have seen all of these qualities up close and personal as they have come pouring out of the birthday boy! These are the things that make the difference...
My husband has been changed for the better( not that he had a lot of changing that needed doing) by fatherhood. My daughter is a lucky girl!!
This video is a tribute to one daddy in particular, but the sentiment and truth stand for all daddies of the world. Enjoy!
He is OUR father.
Not the sketch in the paper or a part of a skit on tv.
Many people will think that they know him.
But they will have no idea how he felt the day you were born.
The pride he felt on your first day of school.
Or how much you both love being his daughters.
Remember who your dad really is
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
Saturday, January 24, 2009
The Sounds of Silence
Have I mentioned that I am deaf?
It started a week or so ago... a cold and then an ear infection. I have been on medicine, but here I am a week later and really, I can't hear a thing. Well, I can hear my heart beating... which is a distracting phenomena. I also have no idea how loudly or softly I am speaking and that causes me to keep quiet -- which is a stretch for me...I kinda like to talk!
I have a new appreciation for my husband, my father and various others in my world that suffer from true loss of hearing. It is quite maddening.
There are of course upsides to everything, for instance, I can NOT hear my child screaming or throwing a temper tantrum....all I have to do is close my eyes and it goes away. Same thing for the husband-it has actually been pleasant at my house this week!!
I have had some great nights of sleep -- so peaceful! And for the most part I haven't even watched television that much (well, except for the Bachelor and The Office!!) it is hard to hear and most of the time I just put on the closed caption and read the tv!! It is a whole new world. I have noticed that music is easier to hear for some reason, so my cds and the radio have been working overtime. And of course, I have logged lots of computer time on my social network, because, well, I don't have to hear to "talk" to people on there.
I realize that, yes, as much I don't want to ... I will have to go back to the doctor this week, eventually this deafness will (hopefully) go away and I will once again be returned to the world of responsibilities that I can turn a deaf ear to (HAHAHA!) now. But rest assured, I will return that hearing world with a new appreciation for those who have more permanent loss of hearing. Perhaps that is the purpose of my condition - to teach me a little patience with the ones I love.
Here's hoping you have a wonderful - sound filled day!
Living Happily In The Moment!
Beverly
It started a week or so ago... a cold and then an ear infection. I have been on medicine, but here I am a week later and really, I can't hear a thing. Well, I can hear my heart beating... which is a distracting phenomena. I also have no idea how loudly or softly I am speaking and that causes me to keep quiet -- which is a stretch for me...I kinda like to talk!
I have a new appreciation for my husband, my father and various others in my world that suffer from true loss of hearing. It is quite maddening.
There are of course upsides to everything, for instance, I can NOT hear my child screaming or throwing a temper tantrum....all I have to do is close my eyes and it goes away. Same thing for the husband-it has actually been pleasant at my house this week!!
I have had some great nights of sleep -- so peaceful! And for the most part I haven't even watched television that much (well, except for the Bachelor and The Office!!) it is hard to hear and most of the time I just put on the closed caption and read the tv!! It is a whole new world. I have noticed that music is easier to hear for some reason, so my cds and the radio have been working overtime. And of course, I have logged lots of computer time on my social network, because, well, I don't have to hear to "talk" to people on there.
I realize that, yes, as much I don't want to ... I will have to go back to the doctor this week, eventually this deafness will (hopefully) go away and I will once again be returned to the world of responsibilities that I can turn a deaf ear to (HAHAHA!) now. But rest assured, I will return that hearing world with a new appreciation for those who have more permanent loss of hearing. Perhaps that is the purpose of my condition - to teach me a little patience with the ones I love.
Here's hoping you have a wonderful - sound filled day!
Living Happily In The Moment!
Beverly
Friday, January 23, 2009
Friday's Fave Five
Haven't done Fave Fridays in a while.... thought it was about time to join back in!
1. The Office -- love, love, love the show! I look forward to Thursdays just so I can get a taste of what life in a office is like. I spent about thirteen years working in offices (some very similar to that dysfunctional place!) and it brings back fond memories. Even better is the fact that Friday rolls around and I don't actually have to go to one of those offices anymore!
2. Meatloaf. It is my favorite comfort food, especially served with my fave mac and cheese. This is a dinner combo that mother established for me early in life and I continue in my own home to this day. I love my mom's recipe, which was my grandmother's and my husband, who had sworn off meatloaf even requests this -- so in my house -- IT IS A HIT! I am about to have a meatloaf sandwich for lunch...I need to type faster.
3. Strawberry Shortcake... no, not the dessert, the girl. She is currently my child's obsession and just this morning when my dear little one woke up at 5 AM I was able to grab an extra hour of sleep by popping Strawberry Shortcake dvd in the machine! Thank heavens for Strawberry, Ginger Snap and Orange Blossom!
4. Instant Messenger. Mine is working, my friend's is not and she is freaking out. I am thankful for my laptop and the fact it has not let me down in this area -- what would I do????
5. My husband's day off.... this is a favorite because it is happening today -- and believe it or not, the Christmas decorations are actually going to back to the attic -- yipee!!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
My Summer With The Boys!
Tonight I have been sifting through old photographs, finding items to torture friends on facebook. It is fun... this trip down memory lane.I was fortunate enough in my youth to acquire some really good friends. Friends that stood by me through thick and thin, who I am thankful to say, I still count as friends, all these, ahem, years later!
But there was one summer, after a tumultuous year, that I shared with three special friends. These were three guys that I had known for a few years, and through life circumstances we all found ourselves free and single and none of us looking for a significant other. We just needed friends to get us through the summer, to laugh with, hang out with, do crazy things with and sometimes, even cry with.
It was the summer of 1987. We were in college, we were working, and we were young and crazy.
Every Friday, like clockwork, I could count on a phone call from one of these three crazy guys, firming up our plans for the night. It was always a "wild" time -- usually involving a game of miniature golf, followed by dinner somewhere and then winding down at my house, with my parents in supervision of course, watching hours of mindless television until all hours of the morning. We spent Friday nights that way, for almost the whole summer, then Saturday would be movie night or more miniature golf and more television watching. Sundays after church were usually spent together, around Charles' swimming pool - lounging and tanning. Some Sundays others were invited to attend...but my favorite times were when it was just the four of us.
We were comrades. We were four souls on four different journeys and yet, we understood each other. I was recovering from a bad breakup, the last thing I wanted or needed in life was a boyfriend. But all three of these guys played a part in my healing. They were true friends, they laughed with me and at me. They helped me see the light at the end of the tunnel, assured me that life would go on and that not everyone would hurt me. They never were disrespectful, always kind, concerned and protective. Just what this only child needed - three brothers to take care of her in her darkest time.
Now, all of these guys were chased after by all types of girls. I was often targeted that summer for stealing them away, but for various reasons of their own, none of the guys were looking for girlfriends at that time in their lives, so I just enjoyed my time with them - my summer with the boys! I wouldn't trade it for the world. It was a carefree time, a time of building friendships that have lasted longer than any romance ever would have.
The Christmas after that summer we all attended a party and for reasons unknown to me, we all four paused to have our picture taken. It became a legendary photograph. It was a great photo of all of us - rarely do you get a photo of four people and everyone looks great. I made a copy of it for each of the guys and it means the world to me that still to this day, that little photo, in that little frame is displayed in each of our homes.
Friendship - it knows no years, no boundaries, even death cannot tear it apart. You see, one of the three, Thomas, passed away ten years ago this year. He is gone, but every time I see the picture, I remember him, his smile, his laugh, his crazy antics. I am happy that my friends Glenn and Charles are still around, still available for me whenever I need them. I have often wondered if they know how they saved my life that summer, I don't know if I would have survived... I really don't. I guess this is my public thank you to them...for reaching out and holding me up - Thank you!
This picture makes me smile and I thank my Father in Heaven for them, for the memories we all share, and the summer that binds us together, still.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
A Taste Of Home!
My house is filled with the smells of home. A day or so ago, my parents returned from a trip to our home in Mississippi and they brought with them a treasure - a bag of my Aunt Nell's homemade biscuits. These biscuits are legendary. No one can make them the way she does...many of us have tried...all of us have failed.
This morning, I popped a couple in my microwave and instantly I was transported to my Aunt's kitchen, hundreds of miles away. The smell of bacon grease, the hum of family around the table, plates of bacon, eggs, and the beloved biscuits piled high, the bowl of grits, brimming with butter, syrup and jellies and jams on the laid out for a scrumptious feast. It was all brought straight into my home as the biscuits came out of the microwave, hot and mouthwatering.
These biscuits are hardy, they are not flaky, fluffy concoctions, they are sturdy and dense. They are perfect for holding butter and syrup, keeping bacon and egg in for a great breakfast sandwich or smothered with homemade jam. They are country biscuits, they are strong, full of character and filling.
This morning, I popped a couple in my microwave and instantly I was transported to my Aunt's kitchen, hundreds of miles away. The smell of bacon grease, the hum of family around the table, plates of bacon, eggs, and the beloved biscuits piled high, the bowl of grits, brimming with butter, syrup and jellies and jams on the laid out for a scrumptious feast. It was all brought straight into my home as the biscuits came out of the microwave, hot and mouthwatering.
These biscuits are hardy, they are not flaky, fluffy concoctions, they are sturdy and dense. They are perfect for holding butter and syrup, keeping bacon and egg in for a great breakfast sandwich or smothered with homemade jam. They are country biscuits, they are strong, full of character and filling.
My Aunt makes them from scratch, she mixes the dough by hand, then pats each one in the shape of her palm, places in the pan and bakes them to perfection. The bottoms are crusty, the tops are buttery and soft. It is a culinary miracle.
These biscuits symbolize my life in Mississippi. For all of my life, every morning we have spent there, these biscuits have been on the table. It is a constant, a thread that always lets me know I am home, all is well. I am grateful for modern technology that allows me to experience home, even when I can't make the journey.
I am enjoying just one more biscuit and then I am putting the rest in the deep freezer... to enjoy "home" another day!
Living Happily In The Moment!
Beverly
Friday, January 16, 2009
Santa, The Man With A Great Plan!
It pains me to write again about my sickness and ailments this week, I was so hopeful that by this time I would be well and these posts would be all cheery and funny and light-hearted.
I am still sick...and as of last night, the cold that has attacked my head and chest has now bombarded my ears, which are both so stopped up I have to put the tv on mute and read the closed caption. Seriously, can't hear a thing! Of course, this is a tiny blessing, in a household with a four year old, but I do need to get my hearing back...at some point.
Last night because of my lack o'hearing, I opted for no tv and my sweet child had taken a rare nap and was not looking for early bedtime. After dinner we settled in the living room like an old married couple, me on the couch with the laptop and she on the floor with her new dollhouse.
Yes, this dollhouse has been a lifesaver for me this week. It ranks right up there with my mother, mother-in-law and husband for keeping my child busy and happy while mommy recuperates from the Illness Attack of 2009.
Last night as I lay on the couch with every zap of energy I had nearly gone, she played and played with the furniture, the people, various other animals that she decided needed to live in the house. Hours, literally she played. It was heaven to this mommy.
I am looking forward to this weekend when maybe, just maybe I feel well enough to crawl on the floor with her and enter into the dollhouse world, but for now, here is a shout out to Santa - for knowing the perfect gift to bring this year. Yay, Santa!!
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
I am still sick...and as of last night, the cold that has attacked my head and chest has now bombarded my ears, which are both so stopped up I have to put the tv on mute and read the closed caption. Seriously, can't hear a thing! Of course, this is a tiny blessing, in a household with a four year old, but I do need to get my hearing back...at some point.
Last night because of my lack o'hearing, I opted for no tv and my sweet child had taken a rare nap and was not looking for early bedtime. After dinner we settled in the living room like an old married couple, me on the couch with the laptop and she on the floor with her new dollhouse.
Yes, this dollhouse has been a lifesaver for me this week. It ranks right up there with my mother, mother-in-law and husband for keeping my child busy and happy while mommy recuperates from the Illness Attack of 2009.
Last night as I lay on the couch with every zap of energy I had nearly gone, she played and played with the furniture, the people, various other animals that she decided needed to live in the house. Hours, literally she played. It was heaven to this mommy.
I am looking forward to this weekend when maybe, just maybe I feel well enough to crawl on the floor with her and enter into the dollhouse world, but for now, here is a shout out to Santa - for knowing the perfect gift to bring this year. Yay, Santa!!
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Musings from a Muddied Brain!
Nothing special in my brain today -- other than a few really random thoughts.
My dogs look really pretty in the wintertime. That extra layer of fur they grow makes them really, really pretty.
I had no idea that I would be dealing with teenage type tantrums from my four year old. Seriously, when did she learn to stomp, toss the hair, roll the eyes and slam the door?
This season of American Idol seems to be stacking up as a great one...I have already picked a few "favorites!!"
I watched "The Bachelor" the other night (I know, I know, don't be a hater!) - I actually got interested in it this time...what has my world come to???
My tree is down, but the decorations are all still in the dining room. Does this make me a bad person?
I have to go to Walmart tomorrow...the thought just paralyzes me!
Is there a paint specialist that will come to my house and give me some honest opinions on my choices...this man of mine is not much help!
My dogs look really pretty in the wintertime. That extra layer of fur they grow makes them really, really pretty.
I had no idea that I would be dealing with teenage type tantrums from my four year old. Seriously, when did she learn to stomp, toss the hair, roll the eyes and slam the door?
This season of American Idol seems to be stacking up as a great one...I have already picked a few "favorites!!"
I watched "The Bachelor" the other night (I know, I know, don't be a hater!) - I actually got interested in it this time...what has my world come to???
My tree is down, but the decorations are all still in the dining room. Does this make me a bad person?
I have to go to Walmart tomorrow...the thought just paralyzes me!
Is there a paint specialist that will come to my house and give me some honest opinions on my choices...this man of mine is not much help!
I checked my cell phone for missed calls or messages at 10:55 AM, I had neither. I checked it again at 4:00 PM and found two important calls came in - both before 10 AM and left messages. WHY OH WHY -- my cell phone is a tad unreliable I fear!
I am eating a piece of toast for dinner...the height of culinary skill.
Apparently I did not sleep well last night. How do I know this? Well, aside from the bags under my eyes this morning which could have held a month's worth of clothing for a tour around the world, four people, including my husband noticed that I "looked tired" today. That, folks, I believe is code for "GOSH - you look AWFUL this morning!!"
Oh and now, the aforementioned bags have become concave and purple, so now I look ever more like a boxer on a bad fight night! Attractive!!
We are now just using our dryer as another chest of drawers...apparently this is easier than actually folding the underwear and socks, we just reach in the dryer and pull out what we need...life is so much simpler without the added burden of folding!!
I took a good dose of NyQuil before starting this post, I think you can clearly see that it is taking effect...
Living Happily in the Moment!
Beverly
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Wordless Wednesday!
It's Wordless Wednesday and I am feeling the need for the sandy beach, the roll of ocean tide and seagulls squawking overhead. I want to put my feet in the sand and walk up and down the beach, finding shells, sea glass and maybe even a message in a bottle. But for today, this is all I could manage, just a memory of last year and my sweet child listening to the ocean through a shell!!Living Happily In The Moment!
Beverly
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Lost Spice!
Our family has lost a little bit of spice. My in-laws lost their fifteen year old black Labrador yesterday. Her name was Pepper and she was always a joy, such a sweet dog.
Pepper was the last born of our dog Sandy. Sandy delivered her second litter of puppies (most of them under our bed!!) in May, 1994. My in laws had requested a puppy from the litter, but wanted a black female. As the day ended, we counted all the puppies and not one black female was in the bunch. Black males and yellow females were all that were in the basket. We made the call to my in-laws and tried to get them thinking in another direction. In the morning, we awoke to find a black female. The runt of the litter, obviously born during the night!
She was ordered up and created for my in-laws, no doubt about that!
They were leaving for a trip around the time that the puppy would be ready to go home, so we agreed to keep her for a few extra weeks. During that time, I came up with her name...Pepper just seemed to fit - she was feisty, tiny and spicy and black as night. Many nights after work, I would take her with me and ride to Dairy Queen, she loved eating the blizzards and licking it straight from the cup!
Soon she went to live in her new home and we would gladly visit with her often. She always knew our car, barked loudly and even grinned at us. She continued to be little, at least for Labradors, and always a bit on the hyper side, I ca, even now, see her little front feet just jumping up and down with energy and excitement.
Pepper hated rain and thunderstorms, she was known for disappearing for days if one happened.. often taking refuge in neighbor's garages.
Pepper was the half sister to our beloved Jake, she was the last puppy of their mother, our first dog, Sandy. She was an extraordinary playmate to all the young kids she encountered through the last fifteen years, but no more so than our Hannah. Hannah loved to play with her, chase her, throw her sticks and run from her as Pepper tried to shake water on Hannah.
Last night as we sadly told Hannah that Pepper would not be at Grandma and Poppy's next time she went to visit, she asked if she was in heaven? We of course, said yes, that she was with Jake and Sawyer and our hamster Charlie. Then Hannah said "I bet Uncle Nate is there throwing sticks for all of them to catch, don't you think?" It was the sweetest thought, all our loved ones, and all those sweet companions, playing and waiting on us all in heaven. I am so glad that our little one has already caught the concept of Heaven and the peace that awaits us all one day.
We will miss Pepper. It won't hardly seem the same without her grin on this earth!
Pepper was the last born of our dog Sandy. Sandy delivered her second litter of puppies (most of them under our bed!!) in May, 1994. My in laws had requested a puppy from the litter, but wanted a black female. As the day ended, we counted all the puppies and not one black female was in the bunch. Black males and yellow females were all that were in the basket. We made the call to my in-laws and tried to get them thinking in another direction. In the morning, we awoke to find a black female. The runt of the litter, obviously born during the night!
She was ordered up and created for my in-laws, no doubt about that!
They were leaving for a trip around the time that the puppy would be ready to go home, so we agreed to keep her for a few extra weeks. During that time, I came up with her name...Pepper just seemed to fit - she was feisty, tiny and spicy and black as night. Many nights after work, I would take her with me and ride to Dairy Queen, she loved eating the blizzards and licking it straight from the cup!
Soon she went to live in her new home and we would gladly visit with her often. She always knew our car, barked loudly and even grinned at us. She continued to be little, at least for Labradors, and always a bit on the hyper side, I ca, even now, see her little front feet just jumping up and down with energy and excitement.
Pepper hated rain and thunderstorms, she was known for disappearing for days if one happened.. often taking refuge in neighbor's garages.
Pepper was the half sister to our beloved Jake, she was the last puppy of their mother, our first dog, Sandy. She was an extraordinary playmate to all the young kids she encountered through the last fifteen years, but no more so than our Hannah. Hannah loved to play with her, chase her, throw her sticks and run from her as Pepper tried to shake water on Hannah.
Last night as we sadly told Hannah that Pepper would not be at Grandma and Poppy's next time she went to visit, she asked if she was in heaven? We of course, said yes, that she was with Jake and Sawyer and our hamster Charlie. Then Hannah said "I bet Uncle Nate is there throwing sticks for all of them to catch, don't you think?" It was the sweetest thought, all our loved ones, and all those sweet companions, playing and waiting on us all in heaven. I am so glad that our little one has already caught the concept of Heaven and the peace that awaits us all one day.
We will miss Pepper. It won't hardly seem the same without her grin on this earth!
2009-The Year We Redecorate!!
I have declared 2009 as the Year of Redecoration (still trying to decide if I need to hyphenate that or not, thoughts?...Anyone?) at my home.
November of 2009 will be the tenth anniversary of our home. I so clearly remember the building process, picking out all the fixtures, the paint, the furniture....seems just like yesterday, only it was ten years ago and we have lived here - truly LIVED here-- it is time for some sprucing up!
My husband had a free morning and I convinced him to come shopping with me (okay -I drug him, kicking and screaming - but still!!) around Lowe's looking at light fixtures, paint swatches and closet organizers. I think he was hoping for a more exciting trip to the tool department, but nonetheless, we have officially embarked on the redecoration process.
I love looking at paint swatches. The names of the colors are so much fun - "Boston Fudge" or "Carolina Inn Lobby" "November," "Country Villa," or "Goose Gray" - they conjure up such intriguing images, don't they?
I finally narrowed my search and have selected a paint swatch for the main rooms of the house and another for the master bedroom...both have caused my husband to roll his eyes -- I think more at the thought of painting than the colors, but still, he was so exhausted from the trip he had to take a little nap when we got home.
On the other hand, I am so excited about the thought of fresh paint that I have already taped the swatches to the walls to make sure I like the way the light plays on them during different times of the day - thank you HGTV for your painting tips!
November of 2009 will be the tenth anniversary of our home. I so clearly remember the building process, picking out all the fixtures, the paint, the furniture....seems just like yesterday, only it was ten years ago and we have lived here - truly LIVED here-- it is time for some sprucing up!
My husband had a free morning and I convinced him to come shopping with me (okay -I drug him, kicking and screaming - but still!!) around Lowe's looking at light fixtures, paint swatches and closet organizers. I think he was hoping for a more exciting trip to the tool department, but nonetheless, we have officially embarked on the redecoration process.
I love looking at paint swatches. The names of the colors are so much fun - "Boston Fudge" or "Carolina Inn Lobby" "November," "Country Villa," or "Goose Gray" - they conjure up such intriguing images, don't they?
I finally narrowed my search and have selected a paint swatch for the main rooms of the house and another for the master bedroom...both have caused my husband to roll his eyes -- I think more at the thought of painting than the colors, but still, he was so exhausted from the trip he had to take a little nap when we got home.
On the other hand, I am so excited about the thought of fresh paint that I have already taped the swatches to the walls to make sure I like the way the light plays on them during different times of the day - thank you HGTV for your painting tips!
In the days and weeks ahead, I will post some before and after pictures. I hope you are as excited as I am -- and pray for my husband, I don't think he has quite caught up with me and my enthusiasm !!
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
Monday, January 12, 2009
Just like Arnold..."I'll Be Back!"
Don't get too excited....this isn't really a post -- just a note to say that I will be back...probably later tonight with an actual post -- been dealing with sickness - both me and the child! We are both better - so don't give up!
Living Happily In the Moment! (even if that moment has been a sick one here lately!!)
Beverly
Living Happily In the Moment! (even if that moment has been a sick one here lately!!)
Beverly
Friday, January 9, 2009
A List of 99 Things!
The things I've done are in bold.
1. Started your own blog September 2007
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii – and I lived there for three years!
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world – just two weeks ago!!
8. Climbed a mountain – climbed Diamond Head in Hawaii
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo – when I was in 1st grade
11. Bungee jumped-
12. Visited Paris – well at least the airport – twice!
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea – last year at the Beach – it was WILD!
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child - my baby girl!
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight – one of my favorite things!
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping – Mom and Daddy – I am just teasing…maybe!!
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language –how about some basic words in Italian!
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar – YUCK!
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job.
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book – NOT YET!!!
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
And now...how about you?
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
1. Started your own blog September 2007
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii – and I lived there for three years!
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland/world – just two weeks ago!!
8. Climbed a mountain – climbed Diamond Head in Hawaii
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo – when I was in 1st grade
11. Bungee jumped-
12. Visited Paris – well at least the airport – twice!
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea – last year at the Beach – it was WILD!
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child - my baby girl!
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight – one of my favorite things!
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping – Mom and Daddy – I am just teasing…maybe!!
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language –how about some basic words in Italian!
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar – YUCK!
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job.
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book – NOT YET!!!
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
And now...how about you?
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Don't You Think It Is Time for Another Pork Chop Recipe?
Famous Pork Chops
INGREDIENTS
1 cup crushed butter crackers
garlic salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste
3 eggs, beaten
4 pork chops
1/2 cup butter
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a shallow bowl combine crushed crackers, garlic salt and pepper; mix well. In a separate bowl beat eggs.
3. Dip your pork chops in the egg batter and then in the cracker mixture. Place the pork chops in a casserole dish. Place chunks of the butter around the pork chops. Cover and bake for 45 minutes.
1 cup crushed butter crackers
garlic salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste
3 eggs, beaten
4 pork chops
1/2 cup butter
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a shallow bowl combine crushed crackers, garlic salt and pepper; mix well. In a separate bowl beat eggs.
3. Dip your pork chops in the egg batter and then in the cracker mixture. Place the pork chops in a casserole dish. Place chunks of the butter around the pork chops. Cover and bake for 45 minutes.
Thanks to http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Famous-Pork-Chops/Detail.aspx
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
My Love of a Former Sweathog
I fell in love for the first time when I was seven years old. I remember the moment completely. I was playing with some girls outside and one of them suggested we go to her house and watch a movie. We turned on the television and what to my wondering eyes should appear --Elvis Presley. I fell head over heels -- I don't even know the movie, I just know that from that moment on I have always had a spot in the heart for him.
A few years later, we lived in Staten Island, NY. The hottest television show at the time was Welcome Back, Kotter. I am not sure if it was the fact that my elementary school looked like theirs, or if for some reason I thought that being a Sweathog was just really cool, but my third grade self fell head over heels again - for John Travolta. Who cared that he barely spoke an intelligible word on that show... I was a goner. I got his record album for a Christmas present, I watched every move he made on the show, was crazy for "The Boy In The Plastic Bubble," his first made for tv movie, and I think I started buying Tigerbeat around that time, so I could paper my bedroom walls with his face! I was smitten.
A few years later, we lived in Staten Island, NY. The hottest television show at the time was Welcome Back, Kotter. I am not sure if it was the fact that my elementary school looked like theirs, or if for some reason I thought that being a Sweathog was just really cool, but my third grade self fell head over heels again - for John Travolta. Who cared that he barely spoke an intelligible word on that show... I was a goner. I got his record album for a Christmas present, I watched every move he made on the show, was crazy for "The Boy In The Plastic Bubble," his first made for tv movie, and I think I started buying Tigerbeat around that time, so I could paper my bedroom walls with his face! I was smitten.
Through the years, I fell for others of the celebrity nature - Shaun Cassidy, Brad Pitt, George Clooney -- but all have a place in my celebrity crush heart of hearts - not one has ever replaced the other. That being said, I think my favorite has always been Mr. Travolta.
Maybe because he is a seemingly unaffected guy. He is a star, yet, I see him in interviews and feel like if I saw him on the street, he would be the same "nice" guy he is on screen. He seems sweet and charming and sincere. I only wish that he was a Christian and not a Scientologist. That whole movement is kinda crazy if you ask me, but nonetheless, I enjoy his work, his love of his friends and family and he will always be one of my favorite stars.
All that said, I am just so sad that he and his family have experienced such a terrible loss this past week. I cannot even imagine losing a child, much less, having to watch as medics perform life-saving procedures on him, and ultimately having to face the death anyway. Imagine having to go through that and then also have to deal with the public scrutiny. It just saddens me to see headlines on the Internet like "John Travolta, heartbroken over death of son." Well, of course, is that even newsworthy -- why wouldn't he be heartbroken? To have the world speculate on the circumstances of the death of this young boy, to have to see pictures splashed all over the Internet, must be heartbreaking too.
I am sad to think of one of the people who has brought great joy and happiness and laughter to my household having to go through such a sad time. I don't know him personally, but for at least the last 33 years, he has been part of my life. Here is my public expression of sympathy to the whole Travolta family. I wish you peace and healing at this time. I hope that through this time, you might experience the true source of ultimate comfort, the love of Jesus Christ and his saving grace.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
The Kohl's Conspiracy!
I am a victim of some sort of conspiracy.
My favorite store is Kohl's. On most any given Tuesday morning, you will find me there, meandering the aisles for the latest in cute clothes, jewelry must haves and household items I cannot do without. I love Tuesdays. I get up, get dressed and usher my child out the door. We drive the twenty minutes to her preschool, and honestly I try not to break into a run as we head for the door. After she is safely ensconced in her class, I book it toward the door and out into the parking lot, hoping to beat the other moms trying to maneuver out of the parking spaces.
Some mornings I meet a friend for breakfast at the Chick-fil-a, and some mornings, I head straight for the racks!
I love everything about the store, the clothes are just my style and the prices are really reasonable - honest! They have cool earrings and fun shoes and I don't think I have ever worn anything I bought from there without getting at least two compliments through out the day.
Given my love of all things Kohl's, I was super excited to receive not one, but two gift cards for the store this Christmas. People must have been paying attention when I was ever so slyly hint, hint, hinting!! I could not wait for life to return to normal and my favorite day of the week to appear -- and today was the day!
I was giddy with excitement after I met my friend for breakfast. I jumped in the car and scooted across the parking lot, bolted for the door and took a deep breath as I grabbed a shopping cart and headed off toward my favorite clothing section. I was armed with two gift cards, AND the checkbook, just in case I had a bit more in the cart than the cards allowed.
I searched the sale racks, searched the new spring arrivals, tried on a few items and decided against them. I wandered to the purses, the scarves, the jewelry. I traveled to the sportswear section (yea, like I really thought there would be something there for me!! -ha ha!) I checked out the housewares and even the little girl section, just in case I wanted to be selfless and get something for the little one. NOTHING. Not one single thing caught my eye. Lots of cute stuff, just nothing that was worth using my cards to purchase. I was a sad shopper. I did eventually find two sweaters that will do for the interval between winter and spring...so the day was not a total loss. But I was so disappointed.
Why is it that you can find all the cute stuff in the world when you have no money to buy, and when you have the resources, nothing is cute enough. It is a shopping conspiracy!
I guess I will just be obligated to continue to go there every Tuesday from now on, until something is gift card worthy. Just be forced to shop, at my favorite store, indefinitely! What a pity!!
Hope you are having a great day - shopping, working or playing! Thanks for stopping by!
Living Happily In The Moment!
Beverly
My favorite store is Kohl's. On most any given Tuesday morning, you will find me there, meandering the aisles for the latest in cute clothes, jewelry must haves and household items I cannot do without. I love Tuesdays. I get up, get dressed and usher my child out the door. We drive the twenty minutes to her preschool, and honestly I try not to break into a run as we head for the door. After she is safely ensconced in her class, I book it toward the door and out into the parking lot, hoping to beat the other moms trying to maneuver out of the parking spaces.
Some mornings I meet a friend for breakfast at the Chick-fil-a, and some mornings, I head straight for the racks!
I love everything about the store, the clothes are just my style and the prices are really reasonable - honest! They have cool earrings and fun shoes and I don't think I have ever worn anything I bought from there without getting at least two compliments through out the day.
Given my love of all things Kohl's, I was super excited to receive not one, but two gift cards for the store this Christmas. People must have been paying attention when I was ever so slyly hint, hint, hinting!! I could not wait for life to return to normal and my favorite day of the week to appear -- and today was the day!
I was giddy with excitement after I met my friend for breakfast. I jumped in the car and scooted across the parking lot, bolted for the door and took a deep breath as I grabbed a shopping cart and headed off toward my favorite clothing section. I was armed with two gift cards, AND the checkbook, just in case I had a bit more in the cart than the cards allowed.
I searched the sale racks, searched the new spring arrivals, tried on a few items and decided against them. I wandered to the purses, the scarves, the jewelry. I traveled to the sportswear section (yea, like I really thought there would be something there for me!! -ha ha!) I checked out the housewares and even the little girl section, just in case I wanted to be selfless and get something for the little one. NOTHING. Not one single thing caught my eye. Lots of cute stuff, just nothing that was worth using my cards to purchase. I was a sad shopper. I did eventually find two sweaters that will do for the interval between winter and spring...so the day was not a total loss. But I was so disappointed.
Why is it that you can find all the cute stuff in the world when you have no money to buy, and when you have the resources, nothing is cute enough. It is a shopping conspiracy!
I guess I will just be obligated to continue to go there every Tuesday from now on, until something is gift card worthy. Just be forced to shop, at my favorite store, indefinitely! What a pity!!
Hope you are having a great day - shopping, working or playing! Thanks for stopping by!
Living Happily In The Moment!
Beverly
Monday, January 5, 2009
Routine - How I Have Missed You!
Today was the first day back in the routine. I have to say I was looking forward to it and it did not disappoint. I don't know about your household, but mine kinda thrives on some sort of routine. We have been sorely lacking in the routine area for the past two weeks and thank goodness it is back.
Now, don't get crazy, my Christmas decorations are still up - they will eventually come down, maybe this week while my husband is home, and my laundry is still full to overflowing and the floors still need moping, but I have high hopes for my house. I am hopeful that the next week will bring some much needed organization and de-clutterization to my home. I am hoping the routine of early bedtime for my little Strawberry Shortcake, will give me some much needed rest and the energy to tackle the tough spots of this home.
Oh - and did I mention that I have declared 2009 as the Year of Re-Decoration. Big plans are forming in my mind, plans for paint, a new curtain or two, a few furniture re-dos and some new lighting fixtures. Been living here almost 10 years - definitely time to update!
My day was crazy, being back at work, getting child back at school and then grocery shopping and cooking dinner. In the middle of it all, I caught up on emails, chatted with friends, feed and watered the dogs, cleaned up the backyard, got hubby off to work, got child bathed and put to bed and now I am enjoying a few minutes of free time before the chores start up again.
I hope your day back from holidaying was a good one. Holidays are great, but I am glad they are over. Give me routine and monotony any day!
Now, don't get crazy, my Christmas decorations are still up - they will eventually come down, maybe this week while my husband is home, and my laundry is still full to overflowing and the floors still need moping, but I have high hopes for my house. I am hopeful that the next week will bring some much needed organization and de-clutterization to my home. I am hoping the routine of early bedtime for my little Strawberry Shortcake, will give me some much needed rest and the energy to tackle the tough spots of this home.
Oh - and did I mention that I have declared 2009 as the Year of Re-Decoration. Big plans are forming in my mind, plans for paint, a new curtain or two, a few furniture re-dos and some new lighting fixtures. Been living here almost 10 years - definitely time to update!
My day was crazy, being back at work, getting child back at school and then grocery shopping and cooking dinner. In the middle of it all, I caught up on emails, chatted with friends, feed and watered the dogs, cleaned up the backyard, got hubby off to work, got child bathed and put to bed and now I am enjoying a few minutes of free time before the chores start up again.
I hope your day back from holidaying was a good one. Holidays are great, but I am glad they are over. Give me routine and monotony any day!
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Life With A Four Year Old!! Part 1
Curses upon Strawberry Shortcake and all her striped shirt goodness!!
I am just thankful Hannah isn't into hats!!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Randomness...
My head is a little foggy with the beginning stages of a headache...but I did want to take a minute and recap my day.
Up at 7 AM - no rest for the wicked.
Entertained, feed and clothed the girl - who, by the way, wants to be referred to as Strawberry Shortcake from now on and only wants to dress in stripes with blue jeans and a shirt tied around her waist! I can only imagine trying to dress her for church in the morning....ya'll need to be praying for me around 8:30 on Sunday!!
Got us out the door for our friends birthday party -- naturally, the theme was Strawberry Shortcake --- fun was had by all.
Home after a brief visit with my parents this afternoon.
Dinner with the husband before he trudged out the door to work
Early, early bedtime for the tired out Strawberry Shortcake!
I have been enjoying movies tonight on television, great selection on just about every channel and chatting with friends on facebook.
The only frustration has been watching my blog statistics and trying to guess who is on and who is reading the blog. I am such a nosey Nellie -- I would love to know who you all are, how you came here and what keeps you coming back. Would love to see a comment from you or a URL back to your blog...I love making new friends in the blogsphere!!
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
Up at 7 AM - no rest for the wicked.
Entertained, feed and clothed the girl - who, by the way, wants to be referred to as Strawberry Shortcake from now on and only wants to dress in stripes with blue jeans and a shirt tied around her waist! I can only imagine trying to dress her for church in the morning....ya'll need to be praying for me around 8:30 on Sunday!!
Got us out the door for our friends birthday party -- naturally, the theme was Strawberry Shortcake --- fun was had by all.
Home after a brief visit with my parents this afternoon.
Dinner with the husband before he trudged out the door to work
Early, early bedtime for the tired out Strawberry Shortcake!
I have been enjoying movies tonight on television, great selection on just about every channel and chatting with friends on facebook.
The only frustration has been watching my blog statistics and trying to guess who is on and who is reading the blog. I am such a nosey Nellie -- I would love to know who you all are, how you came here and what keeps you coming back. Would love to see a comment from you or a URL back to your blog...I love making new friends in the blogsphere!!
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
Friday, January 2, 2009
Say, Say Oh Playmate, Come Out and Play With Me!
“You meet people who forget you. You forget people you meet. But sometimes you meet those people you can't forget. Those are your 'friends.'” - Anonymous
Today I met up with two friends of mine from WAY BACK! I mean WAY BACK WHEN!
We have all reconnected through the online community of blogging and social networking and today I was lucky enough to be able to meet them for lunch. Not only were we at my all time favorite meeting place - The Macaroni Grill, but although I hadn't seen them in too many years to mention - we immediately fell into comfortable conversation and laughter. In fact, we laughed so much the waitress even commented on the fun we were having. And we did have fun. At least, I know I did.
It always amazes me how we women can be apart for years and yet, immediately we can reconnect and establish avenues for heartfelt conversations in a matter of minutes. We are blessed as women to be able to do this. I fear that the two or three menfolk who read this blog will never be able to relate to this point. I think the men in my life when reconnected with friends would just sit around and talk about cars, or the weather or the economy...and I can honestly say that none of those three subjects even remotely came up today!
I am an only child, ya'll know that by now, and these two girls were the first examples of older sisters I had encountered in my life. For a split second in time, it was possible that they might become sisters to me. How I would have loved to have had them in my life that way...life would for certain never have been dull. I always got along with them, they were and are easy to talk to, laugh with and we are of similar backgrounds, personalities and senses of humor. Sitting with them today was a bit bittersweet...they are the sisters I never got to have, but it thrilled me to realize that our hearts had somehow stayed connected.
I am so blessed to have wonderful women friends in my life. I have a purse full of friends to carry me through rough times, to laugh with me, to share life's experiences with and today, I was reminded once again how wonderful and essential it is to have these kinds of people in my life. It felt good to just sit and laugh, to learn about their lives, to share my life, to revisit long ago memories and share common thoughts and prayers for the future. I have always been one that treasures friendship, the friends I have collected along my life's way are my siblings, they are family to me. I have often felt that I was much more of a giver in the ways of friendship, that many times I was left feeling under appreciated and unrequited in the ways of friendship. It seems in the last few months, I have been able to appreciate a change, I have been able to lean on friends a bit more and see the concern and love I have always given out come flooding back to me...what a blessing to my heart, you who have reached out - will never know how much it has meant...never know!
My day was topped off after such a wonderful lunch with an email from a girlfriend from my elementary school days saying she wants to reconnect this year and meet up after all this time. How fun will that be???
My heart is full tonight, thankful for all my girlfriends. I don't think I could get through this road of life without each and every one of you. You all bring something different and special to the mix, thank you, thank you, thank you for being my friend. You will NEVER know what it means to me. NEVER!
Living Happily In The Moment,
Beverly
Today I met up with two friends of mine from WAY BACK! I mean WAY BACK WHEN!
We have all reconnected through the online community of blogging and social networking and today I was lucky enough to be able to meet them for lunch. Not only were we at my all time favorite meeting place - The Macaroni Grill, but although I hadn't seen them in too many years to mention - we immediately fell into comfortable conversation and laughter. In fact, we laughed so much the waitress even commented on the fun we were having. And we did have fun. At least, I know I did.
It always amazes me how we women can be apart for years and yet, immediately we can reconnect and establish avenues for heartfelt conversations in a matter of minutes. We are blessed as women to be able to do this. I fear that the two or three menfolk who read this blog will never be able to relate to this point. I think the men in my life when reconnected with friends would just sit around and talk about cars, or the weather or the economy...and I can honestly say that none of those three subjects even remotely came up today!
I am an only child, ya'll know that by now, and these two girls were the first examples of older sisters I had encountered in my life. For a split second in time, it was possible that they might become sisters to me. How I would have loved to have had them in my life that way...life would for certain never have been dull. I always got along with them, they were and are easy to talk to, laugh with and we are of similar backgrounds, personalities and senses of humor. Sitting with them today was a bit bittersweet...they are the sisters I never got to have, but it thrilled me to realize that our hearts had somehow stayed connected.
I am so blessed to have wonderful women friends in my life. I have a purse full of friends to carry me through rough times, to laugh with me, to share life's experiences with and today, I was reminded once again how wonderful and essential it is to have these kinds of people in my life. It felt good to just sit and laugh, to learn about their lives, to share my life, to revisit long ago memories and share common thoughts and prayers for the future. I have always been one that treasures friendship, the friends I have collected along my life's way are my siblings, they are family to me. I have often felt that I was much more of a giver in the ways of friendship, that many times I was left feeling under appreciated and unrequited in the ways of friendship. It seems in the last few months, I have been able to appreciate a change, I have been able to lean on friends a bit more and see the concern and love I have always given out come flooding back to me...what a blessing to my heart, you who have reached out - will never know how much it has meant...never know!
My day was topped off after such a wonderful lunch with an email from a girlfriend from my elementary school days saying she wants to reconnect this year and meet up after all this time. How fun will that be???
My heart is full tonight, thankful for all my girlfriends. I don't think I could get through this road of life without each and every one of you. You all bring something different and special to the mix, thank you, thank you, thank you for being my friend. You will NEVER know what it means to me. NEVER!
Living Happily In The Moment,
Beverly
The New Year's Day Art Project
Happy 2nd day of 2009. I hope everyone had a marvy holiday and that you are all now ready to move on from all this holidaying and get back to a regular routine. I know I am.
I spent New Year's day with a four year old that was mad. Mad at me for waking her up, mad at the television because it wouldn't let her watch the Grinch, made at her clothes because "none of them look like something Strawberry Shortcake would wear!" Mad at our food selection in the pantry and the fridge, mad at the dogs for playing too rough, mad at me again for not heeding her every command... it was a rough morning!
I had high hopes for the afternoon, because we were set to go to my parent's for dinner, so an afternoon nap was surely in order! I feed her lunch, read her a story, tucked her in and closed the door. The house was quiet and I decided to treat myself to a little nap as well. It was a good nap too...lounging on the couch, under my favorite quilt, ah... so relaxing. Relaxing until I awoke to the pungent smell of fingernail polish. I jumped up, yes, literally, only to discover my child in the midst of an "art project" using a bottle of pink and purple nail polish that Santa brought her. She had swirls and curlicues galore all over the bathroom sink, counter and floor. It was a masterpiece. I am only wish I had been coherent enough to grab a camera, but I was just so upset, I ordered her to her room and began the thirty minute clean up required to remove the polish from the surfaces.
It was her lucky day -- the polish came off. She did take a nap and eventually the evening was saved and we all had a great evening at my parent's home.
If what you do on New Year's Day is an indication of how and what you will be doing the rest of the year...I am in for a banger of a year!! Pray for me....pray even harder for my daughter!
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
I spent New Year's day with a four year old that was mad. Mad at me for waking her up, mad at the television because it wouldn't let her watch the Grinch, made at her clothes because "none of them look like something Strawberry Shortcake would wear!" Mad at our food selection in the pantry and the fridge, mad at the dogs for playing too rough, mad at me again for not heeding her every command... it was a rough morning!
I had high hopes for the afternoon, because we were set to go to my parent's for dinner, so an afternoon nap was surely in order! I feed her lunch, read her a story, tucked her in and closed the door. The house was quiet and I decided to treat myself to a little nap as well. It was a good nap too...lounging on the couch, under my favorite quilt, ah... so relaxing. Relaxing until I awoke to the pungent smell of fingernail polish. I jumped up, yes, literally, only to discover my child in the midst of an "art project" using a bottle of pink and purple nail polish that Santa brought her. She had swirls and curlicues galore all over the bathroom sink, counter and floor. It was a masterpiece. I am only wish I had been coherent enough to grab a camera, but I was just so upset, I ordered her to her room and began the thirty minute clean up required to remove the polish from the surfaces.
It was her lucky day -- the polish came off. She did take a nap and eventually the evening was saved and we all had a great evening at my parent's home.
If what you do on New Year's Day is an indication of how and what you will be doing the rest of the year...I am in for a banger of a year!! Pray for me....pray even harder for my daughter!
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Just An Ordinary Night!
I have never really been a big fan of New Year’s eve. Just an ordinary night – like Barry Manilow sings it – nothing special or magical about it - not like Christmas eve. Just a night for people who party to have an excuse to do just that – and those of us who don’t, well, it is just a night we can sit home and feel badly for ourselves.
There are a few New Year’s eves that stand out in my memory though, I hope you will allow me to wax nostaglic for a moment.
For many years while my father was pastor of a local church, we held a Watch night service, with communion at midnight. For several of those years I dated a boy that went to that church. New Year’s Eve and that service were always a big thing for us – we always celebrated it together. I took it for granted until several years after we had broken up, met other people and moved on with our lives. My daddy was not even the pastor anymore, but one New Year’s Eve, I found myself at that church, at that service. I will never forget the feeling of home I felt when that guy, came walking into the church, sat down beside by me, held my hand and celebrated New Year’s Eve as we had many times and many years before. He was in the middle of a “wild” time in his life, church and things of any spiritual consequence were far from his everyday life and yet, he told me afterwards, that he wanted to be no where else that night, but at that service, remembering what it had meant to us. It was sweet. Just like him. He was and is a sweet friend. I am thankful for that memory, I can’t think of New Year’s Eve without it popping into my mind.
I remember New Year’s Eve, 1999. Y2K – anyone remember that??? Remember stocking up on canned goods, water, toilet paper, all the necessities of life – just in case! Pulling money out of the bank, stockpiling for at least three months in case all the computers of the world went crazy and we were all stuck without money?
It was the first New Year’s in our newly built home, I was home alone, with my dear dog for company as my husband worked the night shift. I remember sitting up, waiting to see if something, anything happened at 12:01 AM!! I watched tons of tv, saw fireworks displayed over all the major cities and watched the ball drop in Times Square. And then, NOTHING! Nothing happened. Time rolled on, computers snapped into gear, no food shortage, no money crunch, just a pantry full of canned goods to carry us through the new year and a the anti-climax of a year of waiting on the “end” of things as we knew them to come!
I remember the first New Year’s Eve as a mom, 2004, sitting under my tree thinking of all the blessings of that year. Reliving each moment over and over in my head.
And tonight, my husband is working again. No big parties, no pops of champagne corks, no kisses at midnight. Just me and my daughter, making cakes and cookies in her new Easy Bake oven, playing on the computer, decorating cupcakes with her new Cupcake Gourmet maker and finally tucking her in, reading two bedtime stories and listening to her snore, even as the neighbors are shooting off fireworks.
All my New Year Eves have been fun – probably not the fun a lot of people would enjoy on this festive of festive nights, no loud music, no wild drinking binges, no lampshades on this head – ever. Just nights filled with memories, reflecting on life and the new opportunities ahead and time spent with loved ones. I am pretty certain I would not have it any other way.
Hope you and yours have a very Happy New Year!
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
There are a few New Year’s eves that stand out in my memory though, I hope you will allow me to wax nostaglic for a moment.
For many years while my father was pastor of a local church, we held a Watch night service, with communion at midnight. For several of those years I dated a boy that went to that church. New Year’s Eve and that service were always a big thing for us – we always celebrated it together. I took it for granted until several years after we had broken up, met other people and moved on with our lives. My daddy was not even the pastor anymore, but one New Year’s Eve, I found myself at that church, at that service. I will never forget the feeling of home I felt when that guy, came walking into the church, sat down beside by me, held my hand and celebrated New Year’s Eve as we had many times and many years before. He was in the middle of a “wild” time in his life, church and things of any spiritual consequence were far from his everyday life and yet, he told me afterwards, that he wanted to be no where else that night, but at that service, remembering what it had meant to us. It was sweet. Just like him. He was and is a sweet friend. I am thankful for that memory, I can’t think of New Year’s Eve without it popping into my mind.
I remember New Year’s Eve, 1999. Y2K – anyone remember that??? Remember stocking up on canned goods, water, toilet paper, all the necessities of life – just in case! Pulling money out of the bank, stockpiling for at least three months in case all the computers of the world went crazy and we were all stuck without money?
It was the first New Year’s in our newly built home, I was home alone, with my dear dog for company as my husband worked the night shift. I remember sitting up, waiting to see if something, anything happened at 12:01 AM!! I watched tons of tv, saw fireworks displayed over all the major cities and watched the ball drop in Times Square. And then, NOTHING! Nothing happened. Time rolled on, computers snapped into gear, no food shortage, no money crunch, just a pantry full of canned goods to carry us through the new year and a the anti-climax of a year of waiting on the “end” of things as we knew them to come!
I remember the first New Year’s Eve as a mom, 2004, sitting under my tree thinking of all the blessings of that year. Reliving each moment over and over in my head.
And tonight, my husband is working again. No big parties, no pops of champagne corks, no kisses at midnight. Just me and my daughter, making cakes and cookies in her new Easy Bake oven, playing on the computer, decorating cupcakes with her new Cupcake Gourmet maker and finally tucking her in, reading two bedtime stories and listening to her snore, even as the neighbors are shooting off fireworks.
All my New Year Eves have been fun – probably not the fun a lot of people would enjoy on this festive of festive nights, no loud music, no wild drinking binges, no lampshades on this head – ever. Just nights filled with memories, reflecting on life and the new opportunities ahead and time spent with loved ones. I am pretty certain I would not have it any other way.
Hope you and yours have a very Happy New Year!
Living Happily In the Moment!
Beverly
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