L's Lair

Jumping back in the pool by takin' it easy

2008-12-19T21:12:00.003-05:00

Haven't blogged in forEVer (thank you VERY much, Facebook and Twitter! You stole my soul!) so I thought this would be an easy way to put my foot back in the pool. A little Christmas "meme":

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags?
LOVE the way cool wrapping paper with various danglys and doo-dads looks. Must admit though, I'm not above recycling a cute gift bag.
2. Real tree or Artificial?
Grew up with artificial trees (poor Dad had severe allergies) so having a live tree now seems SO exotic to me. I loooove the smell.
3. When do you put up the tree?
I grew up putting it up on the day after Thanksgiving. But ideally? I'm fine with putting it up when I get back from a relaxing December cruise. ;-)
4. When do you take the tree down?
David & I started the tradition of taking it down on New Year's Day. We do it slowly & methodically while watching football. This is accompanied by the smell of black eyed peas and cornbread cooking in the background.
5. Do you like eggnog?
In theory it sounds like a GREAT idea. But I never enjoy it when I take a sip. Guess I'd rather spend those calories on something else.
6. Favorite gift received as a child?
Hmmm. My sister and I got a GREAT kitchen set. It was metal (b/c it was the 70s & no one knew better). It had great food painted in the fridge and freezer. LOVED it!
8. Easiest person to buy for?
Definitely David! Actually have a hard time narrowing my choices down for him. Like it when I can get a surprise past him.
9. Do You have a nativity scene?
I have the hand me down nativity that my family used as I was growing up. Wonder if I could hire a museum curator to do some repairs. The wise men are in DESPERATE need of plastic surgery. David and I did buy a BEAUTIFUL folk art nativity by Jim Shore this year. Maybe I'll pass IT down someday.
10. Mail or email Christmas cards?
Um, gulp. Neither? I'm not very good at that. LOVE receiving them though. That's bad, huh?
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received?
I received a Clemson purse once. Was a little odd, considering I've ALWAYS been a Gamecocks fan. :-(
12. Favorite Christmas Movie?
This is NOOOOO contest...CHRISTMAS VACATION is the greatest Christmas movie ever made. It's not truuuuly the holiday season until I see it. Even had a cocker spaniel that I named Griswold.
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas?
Have made it a tradition to foolishly jump into the Black Friday fray. I know, I know. Crazy. Gets my adrenaline going though.
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?
Are you kidding me?! Who hasn't! Have probably been some of my best gifts!
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?
My Grandmother Elliott's Cheese Straws. I make them by the boat loads. The smell & texture will forever remind me of my Christmases growing up.
16. Lights on the tree?
I, personally, LOVE the clean look of white lights. Something about it is very European. However, we've started using colored lights for our youngest son. They're his favorite.
17. Favorite Christmas song?
White Christmas makes me happy, cozy & mushy.
18. Travel for Christmas or stay home?
I'd LOVE to stay home for Christmas. Unfortunately, this has NEVER been my reality...both as a child AND adult. :-(
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer?
Probably if you held a gun to my head. SURELY I've watched Rudolph enough times to fake it.
20. Angel on the tree top or a star?
Grew up with a star on the tree. Until this year, we've had a beautiful, porcelain, redheaded angel on our tree. This year we bought a gorgeous new star.
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning?
My family always opened ONE present on Christmas Eve (probably just to shut us up!) and then Santa came on Christmas morning. Santa NEVER wrapped his gifts.
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year?
Traffic. Traffic. Traffic.
23. Favorite ornament theme or color?
LOVE any ornament that Christopher Radko creates. Guess I like the Old World feel.
24. Favorite Christmas dinner?
I like the traditional turkey and dressing, etc.
25. What do you want for Christmas this year?
A nap. A veeeeeery good nap.

p.s. -- you may notice that #7 is missing. I have no good explanation for this. It was missing when it came to me! I understand why hotels leave off the 13th floor. Don't know why it would be necessary to leave #7 off a Christmas Meme though. ;-)

Would love to know the story behind it!

2008-09-09T18:18:00.004-05:00

Saw a guy wearing this shirt in the grocery story today. It made me smile.

Thank goodness this is only every four years!

2008-08-20T05:51:00.003-05:00

Help! I need rest...NOW! :-(

The Olympics have single-handedly destroyed my sleep patterns.

My passion for the summer games started back in 1984. That was the magical year of the gold medal winning men's gymnastics team. I was still a teenager who had pictures from Teen Bop and Tiger Beat on my walls, so it stands to reason that I would be smitten with the handsome fellas from that particular team.

Mitch Gaylord was BY FAR my fav (don't judge me!) -- so much so that I actually took pictures of him on the television screen! For real! I still have them in my scrapbook.

My sister and I stayed up faithfully each night during the '84 Olympics because we didn't want to miss a single flip, jump, vault or Iron Cross. Good times.

I got to spend some time with my sister last week. One of my favorite parts of the week was settling in each evening to view the Olympics.

The main difference? It was Michael Phelps instead of Mitch Gaylord this time. I didn't take a single photo of the tv screen. Guess I've grown up...

To infinity and beyoooooond!!!

2008-06-29T15:41:00.003-05:00

I love my home. It's my haven. It's where I feel safe, comfortable and accepted. However, like most people, I'm not allowed to just "hang out" indefinitely. I can't hide out here forever.

The majority of my waking hours are spent at work and church. These both play very important roles in my life. You might even say they define me. It's not unusual for someone to ask, "So...where do YOU work?" or..."And where do YOU go to church?" They're both SUCH a big part of who I am and are what get me out of the bed in the mornings. They're what FORCE me to leave this haven each day. ;-]

Ironically, I'm feeling a bit of a shake up in BOTH of those vital areas of my life. I find it interesting that both "change-ups" are occurring simultaneously. You know what I think? It's absolutely nooooo mistake -- THAT'S what I think! It's forcing me to dig deep. It gives me that sensation that you get juuuuuuuust as a roller coaster is pulling away from the gate and slowly gaining speed. You realize that you're commited and there's no turning back now.

I want to be a part of something HUGE. I want to be a part of something that folks are talkin' about. I want to be a part of something bigger than myself and something that will last LONG after I'm gone.

Right now, I'm drawn to these particular verses in the Bible
(II Corinthians 4:16-18 - The Message) :

"So we're not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace. These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There's far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can't see now will last forever."

I want to be a part of the things I CAN'T SEE. The prayer that I seem to be looping constantly in my head lately is, "Lord, help me see the big picture."

I'd imagine you can file this under FRIVOLOUS

2008-06-28T06:20:00.007-05:00

I've spoken before about my loveslashhate relationship with Rachael Ray. I watch her show daily BUT complain about her voice the ENTIRE time I'm watching! She cooks some great meals. Always has a wide variety of guests. Does some fashion-y stuff (which you KNOW I lurve!) and, best of all, Colby from Survivor is a regular correspondent/contributor to the show. (I'm a total sucker for Colby!)

Anyway, if you've ever watched her show you're familiar with the infamous garbage bowl that she keeps on her counter at all times. She doesn't believe in making multiple trips to the trash can during food prep.

Being the marketing genius that she OBVIOUSLY is, you can purchase a replica of her garbage bowl. I know, right?! What FOOL would purchase such a thing.

Um...guilty. (*insert sheepish grin*)

In my defense, it was on sale yesterday! How could I resist!!?

Sure, I COULDA just continued to keep a grocery store bag nearby to hold my vegetable peelings. But it wouldn't be NEARLY as cute and sassy...

You can PRETTY MUCH set your watch by it

2008-06-27T11:09:00.003-05:00

I'm lucky enough to have a job that uses flexible hours during the summer months. It is possible to get all of your hours in during four days and THEN have Friday off. Isn't that GREAT?! (I think more businesses should do this. Except, of course, the places where I SHOP on my Fridays off. I very much want THEM to stay open!)

I have a schedule on these days of leisure. I rarely veer from it. It goes something like this:

* Wake up early...because I'm excited that I have the day off and I can't sleep in.

* Hit the gym...because it eases a little guilt from the days that I DIDN'T hit the gym prior to that.

* Go to Target...and praaaaay that I don't run into anyone I know who will have to see me sweaty and with no make-up. It's a chance I'm willing to take.

* Go to Library...because, duuuuhhhh, that's where they keep the BOOKS! I usually check out waaaay too many 14-day books and get a condescending look from the librarian that says, "I'm sooooo sure that you're going to read alllllll of these in two weeks."

* Eat a grilled chicken salad...Zaxby's is my fav!

* Wash down grilled chicken salad with cookies...to get taste of grilled chicken salad out of my mouth.

* Take a brief nap...because, have you NOT been paying attention? I just had an exasperating morning!!!!

* Fold a load of clothes...to make myself feel (if only for a brief fleeting moment) like I'm very domestic.

* Get myself presentable for a fun Friday night...I love having a date with my hubby!

That's about it. Pretty relaxing, huh? Sometimes I get WILD and throw in a bubble bath or hair appointment. :-]

Regardless, it's my mini-vacation each week and I sooooo look forward to it! I realize that I'm VERY lucky to have this day of me time.

These Are a Few of My Fav-Oh-Rit Thiiiiiiiiings...

2008-05-28T18:02:00.003-05:00

As far as I'm concerned, it doesn't get any better than THIS! A perfect marriage of TWO of my favorite things.

Dancing With Cinderella

2008-05-22T09:07:00.002-05:00

I can't seem to get the Chapman family out of my thoughts this morning.

My stomach hurts and heart breaks...

In Which I Flat Out Break One of The Ten Commandments

2008-05-15T18:19:00.004-05:00

I know I shouldn't...but I'm lusting after these shoes. They're to DIE for! They're Christian Louboutins and cost, like, seven hundred bucks!!!

You better bet that if I ever luck up and come across them in the clearance section at Target I'm BUYIN' 'em!

You best believe it.

2008-05-02T19:52:00.002-05:00

I realize that this blog is usually full of silly, mindless ramblings. However, I've had this issue on my mind SO strongly all week -- just had to share. Take a second to check it out if you'd like. "Bite Back" is a GREAT campaign by Compassion International.

Ten bucks, folks. That's all it takes to save a life. Sobering.

http://biteback.net/bed-nets.php

I Suppose I Would Have Prefeeeerrrrrred Matt Lauer

2008-03-31T07:03:00.005-05:00

As I plopped into my seat at my gate at the Atlanta airport yesterday morning (on my way to Providence, RI) I was relieved to not have to schlep my briefcase anymore. Then, I looked in the seat beside me and had that "Hmmmm. Don't I know you?" feeling toward the distinguished man sitting to my left.

Then. It hit me! HEY! That's Harry Smith from CBS! Cool! I was on the phone with David and he said, "Introduce yourself."

No way. I'm waaaaay too cool for THAT! ;-] I continued to remain calm.

He was actually MUCH more handsome and distinguished than he appears on the CBS Early Show. Luckily, he spent most of his time on his Blackberry, so I had plenty of time to stare and confirm that he WAS Harry Smith. He even went all old school and broke out a tiny, yellow legal pad and wrote down notes. I was very tempted to sneak a peek.

He got up and walked to get something to eat and asked us all if we would watch his briefcase and backpack. (I guess we all looked honest and trustworthy???)

He made very pleasant small talk with all of us. "Is it ALWAYS this cold in Atlanta? This is CRAZY!"

THEN. The announcement was made that his flight to Meridian, MS had been cancelled. He handled it in stride but had to stop eating his lunch. He said, "Ah man. You've GOT to be kidding me! This messes me up. BIG time. How close is Jackson to Meridian?" We all told him that it would be about an hour away.

I couldn't, for the life of me, figure out why a national news anchor would be heading to charming little Meridian.

I made SURE to watch The Early Show this morning (even though I'm more of a Today Show kinda gal) and THERE he was...calmly strolling and chatting with John McCain. Wow. He didn't looked frazzled at all.

He's able to unceremoniously eat a stale, airport kiosk, ham and cheese sandwich AND re-book his own flight...oh, aaaaaaand casually interview a presidential candidate.

I guess that's why they pay him the big bucks.

I Could Eat Her With a Spoon!!!

2008-03-31T06:34:00.000-05:00

To make you smile on a Monday morning...

I'd Be Happy to Babysit for The King's Grandkids Though

2008-03-07T07:14:00.003-05:00

When I'm in the checkout line at the grocery store and the cashier says, "HEY! You know who you look like?!" I can usually predict a list of about five people that it will be.

One of them is Lisa Marie Presley. (Sometimes, it's Priscilla Presley but I PRAY they mean before her overly ambitious plastic surgeries. Know WHEN to say WHEN, baby!)

Anyway. Lisa Marie Presley and I are almost the EXACT same age. Her birthday is the first day of February and mine is the last day of February. Therefore, we both just turned 40.

It was announced today that she's having a baby!

For the record, I am NOT having a baby for my 40th birthday.

Just in case any of you were wondering. ;-]

How Does ONE Building Hold THAT Much Sugar?!

2008-03-04T20:13:00.005-05:00

If you ever find yourself in Sacramento, CA (and face it, who won't?!) RUUUUUN (don't walk) to Rick's Dessert Diner.

You WON'T regret it!

It's a great, hole-in-the-wall, old style 50s dinner that literally ONLY serves desserts. They have been open since 1986 and seem to do QUITE a business.

I don't think it would be totally fair to just call it a bakery. It seems to be so much MORE than that.

David and I went last Friday night after hitting a movie. As we stood in a long line, it was overwhelming to realize that we'd eventually have to narrow down our choices. There was plenty of time to drool over the myriad of sweetness in the glass cases.

David chose a piece of chocolate peanut butter cake that was bigger than his head! (*Ahem* I love my husband dearly but we ALL know that THAT'S sayin' a lot!) I settled on a piece of apple streusel pie.

A la mode, of course!

The New Mid-life

2008-02-29T01:12:00.003-05:00

Today was one of those milestone birthdays for me. I suppose I should have approached it with fear and dread...but I didn't. I've actually really looked forward to it for some time.

Ironically, as I got dressed to hit the town and celebrate tonight, Oprah was on the TV in the background. The timing of her topic was impeccable. The show was "The Age of Miracles: The New Mid-life" and featured several different women who have embraced this era of their life.

The term "mid-life" used to sound daunting to me. It sounded, well, old!

Now...not so much.

As I crossed this threshold today, I realize how far I've come in the past decade. I have a few fine lines on my face that probably weren't there just 10 years ago. However, I also have knowledge and experience that I KNOW I didn't have at 30. In my book, that's worth some fine lines.

I'm looking forward to my 40s. I honestly am. I'm more comfortable in my skin than I've ever been and I don't feel the need to apologize for being me.

Why Didn't Someone TEEELLLLLL Me?!

2008-02-23T20:21:00.002-05:00

I'm in Austin, Texas right now -- incredible city -- but that's not my point.

Ever watch Austin City Limits on Saturday nights? Yeah, me too. Hard to flip past it because they always feature the coolest artists.

Lo, these many decades, I've assumed that it was recorded on some beautiful hillside just outside the city, overlooking the beautiful state capitol building. I've always imagined that the gentle Texas winds were blowing through the musicians' hair as they performed for an earthy, bohemian crowd OUTDOORS.

You know what?! It's a sham! The whole thing is filmed in a studio on the campus of UT. The backrop is JUST that...a backdrop. I had no idea.

Thought you'd wanna know.

Who KNEW That Canines Had Such Good Penmanship?!

2008-02-20T20:11:00.003-05:00

My Valentine's Day card from Bama this year...

He's SUCH a thoughtful pup -- especially considering he's only three years old.

Simply Entitled "My Husband Has Too Much Time On His Hands"

2008-02-19T22:42:00.002-05:00

'Mama Say, Mama Sa, Mama Mu Sa...'

2008-02-12T19:45:00.000-05:00

Hard to believe, but today is the 25th anniversary of the release of Michael Jackson's Thriller. To this day, it's STILL the biggest selling album EVER. (104 million copies!)

It was the very first album (cassette tape, actually) that I was "allowed" to buy. I cherished it. I can still see the infamous poster on my wall now!

When the video for the song Thriller came out, I was obsessed. My sister and I tried not to miss it. MTV would run the 14-minute "mini-movie" twice an hour. There had never been anything like it.

I think we can all agree that Jacko has gone off the deep end through the years. There's still no denying that this legendary recording contained some excellent tunes though.

TRIVIA: Did you know that the song Thriller was originally titled Starlight? Somehow...it wouldn't have packed the same punch.

Is it Me?! Or is Tina Turner a Freak of Nature?!

2008-02-11T06:41:00.000-05:00

Yep! Last night was one of my favorite nights of the year. (Also known as THE GRAMMY'S!) Once again, they didn't disappoint. The hits just KEPT on coming!

Some of my favorite performances of the night? Here goes...

*Morris Day and The Time WITH Rihanna? Fabulous! Never woulda come up with that pairing. But it SO worked. ("OH-ee-OH-ee-OH" meets "Ella, ella, ella") Their performance took me back to 1984.

*The Beatles/Cirque du Soleil number was AWESOME! And did you seeeee that chick's arms? Aerialism has been very, very good to them!

*Loved, loved, LOVED Kanye's Tron-esque performance. VERY cool. And the tribute to his Mama? Ugh. Yes. I cried. He is so talented. And humble. Um, I mean, talented.

*Can I just say...Fergie-Ferg is incredible. She's more than proven that she's the real deal and I'd put her chops up against any of the other divas of the day. (She looked classy too. Didn't ya think?)

*Theeeeeeeen. THEN came the ultimate Proud Mary duet performance. Beyonce AND Tina Turner! Incredible. I don't know WHAT's in the water where Miss Turner lives but I'd PAY for a bottle of it. She looked amazing. Sixty-eight years old?! For REAL?

*The Foo Fighters ROCKED. Plain and simple. The Pretender is one of my favorite songs ANYway. But I thoroughly enjoyed the drama that the live orchestra added to the performance. Dave Grohl is SUCH a good front man. Don't you agree?

*Oh my. Aretha AND Bebe Winans?! Excellent. That whole gospelrama number brought the house down. They had CHURCH up in there!

*Well whadda ya know. Amy Winehouse DID actually get to perform. I was nervous that it wouldn't happen. Love her. Hope she can get her act together because I want to hear music from her for years to come.

*Josh Groban AND Andrea Bocelli on the same stage?! AND singing The Prayer? Wow. That was almost too much tenor beautifulness for me to behold. They sounded like angels. Manly angels. I propose they go on the road together.

All in all it was a great evening. Was worth staying up for.

Maybe He's Saving a Seat For Molly Ringwald?

2008-02-06T06:34:00.001-05:00

As a child of the 80s, I was particularly proud when Noah chose THIS as his outfit for "Decades Day" during Spirit Week at his middle school.

Although his baby face isn't quiiiiiiite capable of pulling off the infamous Judd Nelson sneer from The Breakfast Club, I still think he looks pretty cool. As long as he stays out of Saturday detention...

How Would They Say "Two Thumbs Up" in Ireland?

2008-02-05T06:40:00.000-05:00

This is the time of year that I like to keep up with the Sundance Film Festival. It's my dream to actually attend someday. I realize that the experience is probably HIGHLY overrated. Ten foot snow banks aaaaaand having to park four miles from the action would probably make for some uncomfortable times. But the snow bunny outfits?! How precious would I be?!

I'm sure I have it over-glamorized in my mind.

Regardless, I always make a point to pay attention to which movies get the infamous Sundance buzz IN Utah. There are always a couple of indie gems that seem to rise to the top during the festival (I believe they call those winners). I make a mental note of those films, because I want to be able to see them when they FINALLY come out a year later (to us common folk).

One of the movies that got accolades at the '07 festival was a charming little Irish musical called Once. I know. Sounds odd. It's NOT. It's not thaaaaat kind of musical. They don't just spontaneously break out into song...like a Disney flick. It's much more subtle than that.

Trust me. This is a GREAT movie. One of the best I've seen in ages. We loved it. Was one of those films that sticks with you for a while.

And the soundtrack?!! OHMYWORD. Love it! Had to rush home from the movie and download it from iTunes ASAP. Now THAT is the sign of a good soundtrack!

It came out on DVD at Christmas and David made SURE that it was in my stocking. YAY!

Check it out when ya get a chance. Hang in there. For the first 10 minutes you might be tempted to give up on the THICK Irish brogue. However, before you know it, you'll somehow be mesmerized and you'll suddenly understand every word.

Pile O' Goodness

2008-02-04T06:50:00.000-05:00

Although we live in a charming bungalow from the 1920's, my biggest regret is that it did not come complete with built-in bookshelves. Somehow, to me, that's the true sign of a house with character. (Well, THAT, and my plaster walls. Their cracks don't bother me at all. I choose to think of it as a Tuscany look that some designers would spend hours to re-create.)

My sad, rickety little bookshelf is overflowing. I pray each day that the thin glass shelves can make it through another day and hold up under the pressure of the weight. To be honest, I don't even think it was MEANT to hold books. I think it was probably designed to hold some sweet little old lady's collection of salt and pepper shakers. Not sure.

Right now, there is a pile of books overflowing on to the floor beside the shelf. My husband curses it EVERY time he stubs his toe on it. It is the bane of his existence! He sees it as clutter. TOOOOOTAL clutter.

Does it bother me?!! Heck no! I look at that "mess" and see a beautiful pile of knowledge and adventures. Some of the books I've already read...while others are just WAITING to be cracked open! Either way, they're a thing of beauty in MY eyes!

Hmmmmmm. I have a birthday comin' up. A sturdy bookshelf would be the PERFECT nerdly gift! *hint hint* (Just seein' if my husband reads my blog.) ;-]

[Sidenote: I'm actually quite grateful that my camera phone takes HORRIBLY blurry pictures. Thiiiiiiis way, you can't "judge me" by my selection of books.]

2007-12-27T15:31:00.001-05:00

As I'm getting stuff done around the house today, I'm blasting my new fav album from my iPod. If you haven't checked her out yet, take a listen to Chrisette Michele. DIGGIN' her!

She's R&B...sort of in the vein of Alica Keys and Jill Scott...with an old school touch in her voice. Very unique and soulful.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, MON!

2007-12-20T15:13:00.000-05:00

A peek into the perfection that WAS our trip to Negril, Jamaica a couple of weeks ago.

Grab a fruity drink, put your feet up, turn your speakers up and enjoy...

I JUST CAME OUT OF A TRYPTOPHAN-INDUCED STUPOR

2007-11-22T19:54:00.000-05:00

The scene of the crime...before we threw all decorum out the window and chowed down.

We've had a wonderful, low-key holiday at home today. Nowhere to be. Nothing to do. Unless by "do" you mean eat, nap, laugh, eat some more, watch football, nap, etc.

I enjoyed putting together a traditional Thanksgiving feast for the four of us. Everything was a hit and I'm proud to report that there are ZERO leftovers. Everyone did their part in devouring the turkey and fixins.

My favorite part of the meal? A homemade pumpkin pie with streusel topping. Ummm. Ummm. GOOD!

Don't be fooled by the fact that there is half of a pie left in that picture. Trust me. That photo was taken hours ago! The pie plate of pumpkin goodness is but a memory. ;-]

I enjoyed introducing the boys to the rite of passage that isssss Christmas Vacation. Nothing can ring in the holiday like the Griswolds. We all cuddled up and watched the movie together after lunch. Chevy Chase's bumbling antics never cease to make me laugh.

Hope you've all had a great holiday with those that you love. From us to you...Happy Thanksgiving!

FOOL ME TWICE, SHAME ON ME

2007-10-26T19:06:00.000-05:00

The first five seasons of the show 24 were simply amazing. I counted the hours from Monday to Monday...waiting for my favorite show.

But season six? Now, that was an entirely different story. What a disappointment. What a letdown. What a snoozefest!!! No. LITERALLY -- I actually fell asleep during a couple of episodes. Trust me, that would have NEVER happened during the previous seasons. My speeding heart rate aloooooone kept me wide awake.

However, in the spirit of TRUE forgiveness and turning the other cheek, I've decided to take Jack Bauer back. I'll give him a second chance.

They released the trailer of season seven today & it looks like it MAY have real possibilities. Whadda ya think?

AN OPEN LETTER

2007-10-16T18:16:00.000-05:00

Dear Tony:

You may not remember me. I'm the gal who rolled up into your Norfolk, VA garage in the big black Suburban this past weekend. You remember? The one who was fighting back tears because of the unbelievable sound that was coming from under my vehicle? Yeah. That's me. The one with the look-alike sister in the car who was equally as out of sorts.

I appreciate the fact that you took the time to crawl under the car to search for the source of the horrible grinding. Sure, you were a little rough around the edges. You almost seemed to take glee in getting to tell me that I was "in big trouble" and if my wheel came off I "was toast" or would be "done for." I suppose I should be grateful that you didn't waste my time (or yours) with niceties. I don't suppose that psychology courses were part of your mechanic training. I don't fault you for that.

I appreciate you bottom-lining the situation and explaining just how important wheel bearings are. You were most helpful.

I wanted you to know that after a long and tedious drive cross-town (with my hazard lights furiously blinking the whole way) I was able to finally reach the dealership that you suggested.

They confirmed your expert diagnosis --my right front wheel was hanging on by a thread! After salivating over my bright and shiny credit card, they remedied the situation.

I don't know if you have a wife or daughters...but I hope that if you do, an anonymous "grease monkey angel" will also help them out if they're ever stranded in a strange city seven hours from home.

Thanks to you, we made it home safely and didn't end up as a tragic news story in the next day's paper. We'll always be grateful.

Sincerely,
L

GRAVEDIGGER

2007-09-22T18:18:00.000-05:00

Ladies. Please join me in watching Survivor: China this season.

Why?

James, the gravedigger from Lafayette...that's why.

LOWCOUNTRY LIVIN'

2007-09-19T17:10:00.000-05:00

We took a belated summer vacation this year and spent a long weekend at Fripp Island the weekend after Labor Day. Ahhhhhhhhh. My heart rate slows down just thinking about it.

The weather was perfection. The temperature of the pools was ideal. The "crowds" were small. The seafood was fresh. The drinks were cold. The sunrises and sunsets were breathtaking.

In preparation for a Jamaican getaway that we've booked to take in December, we brought along our snorkeling gear. Never too early to practice!

RHYMES WITH EAGLE

2007-09-18T20:21:00.000-05:00

Yep. You're right. I took the month of August as a bloggy break. Now I'm rested, refreshed and ready to share more useless trivia and mundane anecdotes. And shoes. There'll be talk of shoes.

But not tonight.

Tonight, rather, I wanna suggest a great new CD for all of you who love the Christian tunes. Today is the release date of a CD that I've been enjoying for a couple of months now. I was fortunate enough to receive a pre-release copy of the new Monk & Neagle CD "Twenty-First Time" and I've played it to death. Gooooood stuff.

I hope the CD does well because these two Texas dudes seem really neat. You'll like their music if you enjoy harmonies.

The title song, Twenty-First Time, is probably my favorite cut on the album. You can listen to it here.

Anyway, it's good to be back. More posting and pics to come this week!

ROCK ME MAMA LIKE A WAGON WHEEL

2007-07-25T18:41:00.000-05:00

"Rock me Mama like the wind and the rain

Rock me Mama like a southbound train

Hey, Mama rock me"

If you get a chance, check out Jeremy McComb's website. You'll be especially glad you did if you like country music.

Jeremy is an Austin boy (by way of Spokane, WA) and grew up in a musical family. It's in his blood!

A couple of years ago (through Marshall Tucker Band connections), Jeremy ended up here in town to record a demo. David and I were called in to sing back-up after everything else had been cut. In most regards, it was "just another studio session." At the time, Jeremy was on tour as Larry the Cable Guy's road manager. (No. I didn't make that up. Does sound kind of random though, doesn't it?!)

Jeremy then got an actual record deal and came back to Spartanburg to record his full album! We do have an unbelievable pool of musicians in this one-horse town. David and I (and our good friend Mike) were called in to do the back-ups on all of those songs. Jeremy was actually in the studio that time and we had a blast!!!! This kid is a hoot. He has piles of energy and loves to makes people laugh. We hadn't had that much fun in the studio in ages.

Jeremy came back several months later and cut a few more songs. Once again, we hung out, cut up, goofed off and laughed with him in the studio. Oh. And sang. Yeah. We did some of that too.

The wait is finally over and his first single has hit country radio (call and request if you get a chance). "Wagon Wheel" is the first song they've released. It was a blast to record. Pretty much just a rare-back-and-belt-it kinda tune.

L, Jeremy and David

L and Jeremy in the studio

PHYSICIAN, HEAL THYSELF!

2007-07-24T20:41:00.000-05:00

Most of you know that I make my living as an editor. I love it! However, if I'm in a real hurry, I don't really sweat proofreading average things in everyday life. I can turn "that" gene on and off.

When David's traveling, we tend to text rather than call. It's convenient and also allows us to send pictures and video as well. However, the "intuitive" texting feature of a cell phone isn't always so intuitive. I honestly feel like it should KNOW what I'm tryin' to say. David gets a kick out of the crazy messages he receives from me (I never proof before I hit "send").

I have the fastest thumbs in the southeast!

Tonight, he sent me a beautiful camera phone picture of the St. Louis arch as he drove past. Having recalled something I heard on the news just this week, I quickly replied.

Below is the exchange that followed (complete with translations).

DAVID: *sends pretty pic of arch*

ME: Cool! Some people got stuck go it this week.
(translation: Some people got stuck in it this week.)

DAVID: What do you mean? Did I miss something? Got stuck? Got what?

ME: Go the elevator up giggin the arch. Can you imagine?!
(translation: In the elevator high in the arch. Can you imagine?!)

What?!!!!! Half the time I can't get it to recognize "normal" words yet it can come up with GIGGIN on its own?

Odd.

THE PASSING OF THE TORCH...OR THE STILETTOS, AS IT WERE

2007-07-19T14:33:00.000-05:00

"If you love something...let it go..."

Warning for any of my male readers: Please know that you're welcome to go ahead & skip this blog. So as not to force you to roll your eyes in disgust at yet ANOTHER shoe post, I'll spare you.

My friend Julia and I share a love for pretty foot coverings! ;-) We recently went shoe shopping together in Philadelphia and did much damage. When I got back to my hotel room I lined up all EIGHT new pairs and stared at them lovingly. Julia purchased ALMOST as many as I did...don't know what she did with hers (but I suspect she may have piled them in her bed and slept with them).

She has had her eye on a particular pair of my shoes for a couple of years now. She calls them "her" shoes.

They're cute but they just don't agree with my feet. No matter what I've tried they just refuse to stay on! I feel like Daisy Duck, flapping down the halls of my office. I even stuffed toilet paper in the toes this morning!!! (Class. Puuuuuuuuure class!)

Well, this afternoon I had had eeeeeeenough! I marched down to her office and proceeded with the ceremonial handing over of the high heels. She squealed with glee and clapped like a little girl.

I'm happy they're going to a good home. She promised me visitation rights.

I appreciate the thoughtful picture (above) that she took the time to take for me.

OH, THE IRONY...

2007-07-14T19:51:00.000-05:00

To be honest, I'll splurge on many things but a professional manicure is usually not on my list of luxuries. I've always had decent nails that are strong and low maintenance. It's like they have their own internal supply of fertilizer or something.

That is...until recently. :-(

For some reason, I've been having a tough time with breaking, peeling and chipping nails. In the big scheme of things (and considering there are larger issues...like world hunger!) it's not really been that big of a deal. Just a little annoying.

I decided to take matters into my own hands (*har-har*) so today I purchased a kit to strengthen nails that are brittle and chipping. The side of the package promised nails that were, uh, "tough as nails" in NO time.

Perfect!

When I got home tonight, I excitedly tore into the kit. I was ready to slather on the various coats of armor.

However, some packaging designer who works for a nail company that shall remain NAMELESS (but it rhymes with Hally Sansen!) was a bit of an overachiever. Why must it BEEEEE so difficult to get into that crazy packaging?! The products are RIGHT THERE...safely ensconced in their hard, plastic prison. I seeeeee them. So why can't I get to them? WHY?! Oh why?!!!

You guessed it. As I impatiently ripped into the package...I broke a nail.

Perfect.

SURELY CHARLESTON'S NOT HOT IN THE SUMMER

2007-07-11T18:02:00.000-05:00

I'm proud of the boys!

They're in Charleston for a solid week, on a missions trip. They're working on home repair, painting homes, etc. Their church youth band will also have the chance to play.

I'm grateful they're experiencing the various emotions that the week will bring. I have GREAT memories of similar trips. They were life changing for me!

The group is sleeping on a gym floor in sleeping bags. Aaaaaah. Nothing solidifies the authentic mission trip experience like a sore back! ;-]

I can not WAIT to hear all about it when they get back.

THERE'S PLENTY LEFT OVER! WHEN CAN YA GET HERE?

2007-07-09T19:28:00.000-05:00

Tonight's menu:

* Sun Dried Tomato Salmon with Avocados

* Lemon Basil Tomato Bow Tie Pasta

*Sauteed Squash and Zucchini

Yum.

THE CRADLE AND THE GRAVE COULD NOT CONTAIN YOUR DIVINITY

2007-06-25T19:56:00.000-05:00

"Tremble"
by Nichole Nordeman

A great reminder. Nuff said......

DOES YOUR CHEWING GUM LOSE ITS FLAVOR ON THE MIC STAND OVERNIGHT?

2007-06-24T21:47:00.000-05:00

David and I sang at church this morning. When we pulled out our mic stands for sound check we were HORRIFIED to find someones old, chewed (and might I add NASTY!) gum stuck on the microphone.

*eye roll* Obviously, Emily Post would say it's HIGHLY improper to store your gum on a microphone while you're leading worship at church.

Everyone knows your supposed to stick it behind your ear!!!

SURE. IT'S A LITTLE UNSETTLING.

2007-06-21T18:54:00.001-05:00

There's not much in the world that can make me happier than chilling out with a good, mindless magazine. It's a nice break from my typical fare of "War and Peace" ya know? (kidding)

I can't say that I ever reeeaaallllly get to enjoy my magazines in total tranquility and solitude. Bama is NOT a very patient pet.

This is what I see as I attempt to fill my brain with frivolous fashion tips and celebrity gossip...an intense gaze perched just above my magazine.

Guess he's trying to wear me down so I'll finally set aside my magazine and throw his tennis ball.

I'll admit. Sometimes it works.........

WHAT I'M READING

2007-06-15T16:50:00.000-05:00

The Lovely Bones
by Alice Sebold

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Although the subject matter was somewhat heavy (it involves rape and a gruesome murder), it wasn't necessarily alllllll dark. It had a sweetness about it.

The book is narrated from the perspective of a young teenage girl, Susie, who was murdered in the 70s. She watches from heaven and observes how her death affects her various family members.

I've read that they're making a movie of this book. I think it'll translate easily to the big screen.

Pilate's Wife
(A Novel of the Roman Empire)
by Antoinette May

I enjoyed this book so much more than I thought I would. It wasn't necessarily a quick and easy read (took me a few weeks to read it bit by bit) ... but it was worth it. I find the time period of this novel to be fascinating.

You have to know going into this read that Ms. May took extreme liberties with her writing (after all, it is fiction). When I got past a few (major) Biblical aspects that were embellished, it was a great story.

Claudia is the wife of Pilate. She has dreams that allow her to see parts of the future. She's only briefly referenced in the book of Matthew but this is an interesting account of what her life might have been like.

Warning: This is good storytelling but not a factual account of the life of Christ!

**********************************************************

I find it interesting that I just read two books that:
a) featured 14 year old girls as their heroines
and
b) were the first fictional offerings from both authors.

Total coincidence!

LIKE ONLY A MOTHER CAN

2007-05-17T17:30:00.000-05:00

My sister and I took our mom out for a belated Mother's Day breakfast this morning. Nothin' like a little girl talk over a Rooty Tooty Fresh and Fruity on a Thursday morning!

The card I bought for Mom this year says it all . . .

It wasn't until I got to college that I realized how important her daily encouragement was to my life. I'll admit, it was an adjustment to not wake up to a wonderful pep talk each day. She was theeeee best at building me up.

My mom truly made me feel like I was the smartest, most capable girl she knew (still does). Her constant vote of confidence went a long way toward helping me believe in myself.

I've been able to succeed in several areas of life. Thanks "Jude" . . . I owe that to you!

sniff SO LONG, STARS HOLLOW

2007-05-16T17:02:00.000-05:00

Please pass the tissue.

Sadly, last night marked the end of an era. I can't bear the thought BUT they actually aired the final episode of Gilmore Girls. This has consistently been one of my favorite shows from the beginning. I don't remember how I first happened upon this WB (CW) offering but I do know that, at first, I assumed that it was some fluffy, mindless, "teen" series.

I was wrong.

This show had some of theeeeee most clever, break-neck-speed dialogue on prime time TV. The characters were colorful and fun. I'll miss the quirkiness of this mythical Connecticut town. (Can't tell you how often the "Pollyanna" in me has wished that I lived there.)

I'll hate not being able to follow the entertaining exploits of the various odd characters...Paris, Sookie, Kirk, Lane, Miss Patty and Michele.

I'll even miss the love/hate relationship that I've had with the yuppie Logan Huntzberger! He's actually grown on me through the years.

I can't belieeeeeeve that I'll have to miss out on the deliciously uncomfortable Friday night dinners with the Gilmores . (In my opinion, the character of Emily Gilmore was the greatest on the show!)

It goes without saying that I'll miss Luke and Lorelai MOST of all. Let's face it, they belong together. Always have. Always will. We could see it all along. Why couldn't they?! THE END. :-[

MIGHTY HONCHO 'STACHE

2007-05-14T18:51:00.000-05:00

We had a fun Mother's Day weekend together. The highlight of our Saturday was when we experimented with a package of fake mustaches. Best six bucks we've spent in a while.

Needless to say, there was MUCH laughter.

Ian's expressions frighten me the most. I almost hear banjo music in the background when I look at him!

JUST BECAUSE . . .

2007-05-04T18:49:00.000-05:00

I mentioned in an earlier post that I'm not necessarily fond of receiving flowers on "predictable" holidays (read here). However...duh...I'm a girl...of course I love flowers!

I had a wonderful surprise on a very ordinary, ho-hum Friday afternoon today.

David had TWO DOZEN ROSES delivered to me.

No reason -- just love.

(Trust me--the camera phone picture in NO way does them justice.
They're gorgeous.)

REMEMBER TRYING TO CATCH THE BEGINNING OF A SONG AND HOPING THE DJ WOULDN'T TALK OVER IT?!

2007-05-02T18:11:00.000-05:00

I'm reading a witty book right now -- Love Is a Mix Tape: Life and Loss, One Song at a Time by Rob Sheffield (a well-known rock critic and journalist). The book is basically a clever memoir of sorts. He looks back on his relationship with his "one special love" by reminiscing about 15 different mix tapes that they shared throughout various stages of their relationship.

I think most of us (especially children of the 80s and 90s) can relate to the mix tape phenomenon. Often times, a really good mix tape was better than any love letter. Mix tapes also came in handy when trying to handle the angst of a teenage break-up...the ultimate in tragedy!

I'll admit, I've not compiled or listened to a "love" mix tape in years and years. However, I suppose that my iTunes playlists are the ultimate modern form of a mix tape, huh?!

I mostly throw together upbeat playlists to serve as my background, inspiration and distraction while working out. Tonight, as I pushed through 30 minutes of strong (albeit it much resented!) cardio, I enjoyed this eclectic mix of butt-kickin' tunage:

There and Back Again -- Daughtry

(Gets my blood goin'. The cd is worth it for this song alone!)

Fully Alive -- Flyleaf

(A group that I'm really into right now. Hard music but delivered by a sweet, female voice.)

I Am -- Johnny Lang

(An old tune from one of my favorites. I have to sing out loud to this one.)

What Goes Around Comes Around -- Justin Timberlake

(Great songwriting. Infectious and hooky.)

Bones -- Little Big Town

(Love this song. Reminds me of an old Fleetwood Mac tune. Haunting.)

Home -- Marc Broussard

(I never get tired of this one! Makes me wish I was on a bus, headin' to the Bayou.)

The Kill -- 30 Seconds to Mars

(intense, intense song. perfect for workin' out)

Never Alone -- Barlow Girl

(Reminds me a lot of an Evanescence song. I'm also forced to huff and puff and sing along with this one.)

I'M OBVIOUSLY GETTING MY MONEY'S WORTH FROM MY CAMERA PHONE!

2007-04-23T19:10:00.000-05:00

Is that a banana on your sidewalk or are you just happy to see me?!

(please excuse the sophomoric, Beavis and Butthead-esque caption for this picture. couldn't help myself. after all, this blog is simply here for MY amusement really.)

I took this picture of a banana on the sidewalk outside of my house this week. What you need to know is that it sat there for THREE SOLID days before I picked it up. I'll admit, I was a little puzzled when I first came out in the morning and saw it there. Kinda baffling.

I thought I should pick it up but then thought, "Hmmmm. What if terrorists have some new, sinister plot? What if they are randomly throwing arsenic-laced, seemingly harmless pieces of fruit in front of people's homes...just waiting for them to pick them up?!" (Um, yes. I do watch too much television. I admit.)

I walked past the banana several times over the course of three days. (Maybe I was waiting on the fruit fairy to pick it up???? I don't know.) Finally, I decided that the neighbors may start talkin' about the crazy lady up the street who allows food products to fade in the sun in her front yard. It's a historic neighborhood. Trust me. They have rules!

I finally chose to discard the banana--but of course I took a picture first.

Later that same day, David returned home from a three day business trip. He looked on the computer...

HIM: "Uhhhh. L? Why do you have a picture of my banana on the computer?"

ME: "What do you mean your banana?! That's been laying on the sidewalk."

HIM: "Yeah. Because I dropped it on my way outta town but didn't realize it until I got down the road."

*sigh* I guess there was no elaborate terrorist plot.

Life is never as exciting as it is on TV . . . . .

WORDS FAIL ME

2007-04-18T17:53:00.000-05:00

I'm not enough of a wordsmith, philosopher, scholar or counselor to attempt a blog entry on the events of this week. Everything that I could type about the horrible occurrence at Virginia Tech would seem, quite simply, trite.

I've been like you this week...transfixed, yet repulsed, by all of the news coverage of the killings that took place on that beautiful, sleepy, college campus. The whole situation sickens me and makes my stomach churn.

Today, I came across a great article by a college professor (Dr. Tony Beam) at my alma mater. In an article entitled Can We Just Shut Up and Mourn? he said it beautifully . . .

"I was interviewed on a nationally syndicated radio program a few hours after the shooting. One of the questions I was asked was, 'Where was God in all of this?' My answer was simple... God was huddled in the hallways with frightened students as they waited to see if they would be next in the line of fire. God was riding with wounded students to the hospitals, comforting them as they fought for their lives. God was strengthening the hands of the surgeons and nurses who worked feverously over the wounded trying to save their lives. God was comforting the distraught parents who were receiving word that their son or daughter wouldn’t be coming home again."

But do I REEEAAALLLLY mean it?

2007-04-03T19:10:00.000-05:00

This is HUGE for me.

I'm a self-confessed reality show junkie. People, I even watched My Big Fat Obnoxious Boss a couple of years ago.

If that doesn't scream, "I need help. Someone please stage an intervention", I don't know WHAT does!!

I've proudly and enthusiastically watched American Idol from episode ONE. I couldn't begin to recount the ohmygosh-can-you-believe-what-she-was-wearing and is-it-just-me-or-is-he-totally-tone-deaf conversations I've had around the watercooler on the "mornings after."

Chris Daughtry? Oh yeah. It was pretty much love at first sight.

I sat around a table of NOTHING but guys recently and the entire conversation (approximately one hour) revolved around American Idol.

It's truly a cultural phenomenon. You have to agree!

This season, however, has been somewhat of a disappointment. I'm especially saddened that my absolute favorite resident mop top (Chris Sligh) is now gone. TOTAL injustice!!! I'm bitter.

This whole Sanjaya situation must be resolved. AND quickly!

In general, I'm not much on boycotting. Personally (don't care if you agree or not) I don't think it actually does much good in the long run.

However, I'm seriously considering foregoing the remainder of this season of AI if Sanjaya doesn't go home this week.

That being said, take a second to watch this video. You'll find that the anthem is both annoying annnnnd catchy. You'll find yourself humming it under your breath in NO time!

Don't say I didn't warn you . . .

MAKE NEW FRIENDS, BUT KEEP THE OLD . . .

2007-03-07T18:54:00.000-05:00

I just returned from a trip (for my job) to Ft. Worth. Flying in bad weather (during last week's tornado-fest) wasn't much fun. I'm quite certain I left my stomach somewhere over Mississippi!

However, the trip was TOTALLY worth it.

Friday night I was able to spend a laughter-filled evening with friends who traveled a couple of hours to take me to dinner. Margaritas annnnnd Tex Mex?! Yes please.

Roy is an ollllllllddddd friend. Okay. He's not really so old (I say that because we're virtually the same age). What I mean is . . . we go way back. Our families were both stationed in Germany in the 80s when we were teenagers. We went to school and church together.

Army brats live a different kind of life. I suppose it's a fraternity of sorts. Those kinds of bonds can stand the test of time. It's a little more of a challenge to stay in contact with school friends because everyone scatters from one end of the globe to the other. It takes more effort but is worth it.

I'm grateful to have been able to get to know Roy as an adult. He's "evolved" from a typical, smart-mouth teenage boy into a wise man. That's been great to see.

The bonus? Roy married pretty much the coolest chick ever. ;-) I kid him that he DEFINITELY married outta his league. I'm sure he knows that I'm, well, NOT kidding! ;-)

Toni's wonderful. She's funny, "smart as all get out" and has a huge heart for God.

As a couple, they each desire to live out their faith every day . . . in very real ways. I gotta say, their lives challenge me. I like that.

I'D LIKE TO THANK THE ACADEMY

2007-02-27T19:18:00.000-05:00

Nerd alert! Nerd alert!

It's become tradition in the past few years that we go up to a cabin in the Tennessee mountains this time of year. Our birthdays fall just a couple of days apart so we celebrate by chillin' in a hot tub in Sevierville. (February is always the perfect time for that.) No place I'd rather be!

Another reason for this special annual trip is the Academy Awards. I love them! (I admit, I doooo have an awards show problem). Boring or not, I watch them every year.

I have a very patient & indulgent husband who is willing to watch the Oscars with me. (Is there any doubt that he loves me?!) In the months leading up to the award show, I usually drag him to obscure "art house" theaters to see as many of the nominated films as we can. (I think he'll get an extra ruby in his crown one day in heaven. Ya know, for putting up with all of this potentially emasculating activity.)

Our exclusive Oscar party comes complete with ballots. Predictions must be made before the show starts & we keep score throughout the broadcast. In all honesty? It's not that we're really that competitive, it's just that it seems to help keep us awake.

I'm happy to report that, this year, I was 5 for 6 when it came to the top 6 "biggee" awards. (I missed the picture of the year award . . . figured Babel would win . . . wanted Little Miss Sunshine to win.)

Unfortunately, there are never any monetary bets placed. Maybe we need to make that part of the tradition.

I was happy with most of the choices this year. I thought Ellen did a great job. She's so adorable and easy.

Watching the Oscars is a bit like a marathon. I do tend to "hit the wall" around the third hour. That's when supplies come into play. This years supplies included cookies and Doritos. And caffeine. Plenty of caffeine.

OHMYGOSH Y'ALL! IT'S NOT FUNNY! I COULDA DIED!

2007-02-21T20:27:00.000-05:00

Okay. Maybe my title's a bit melodramatic. But still!

I adore peanut butter. I literally eat it every day. But, oh no. I don't eat just any peanut butter. My sister turned me on to a heavenly product about a year ago called Naturally More. It's oh-so-much more than just peanut butter! It's natural peanut butter with honey, egg white and flax seed added to it! (Gagging yet?)

I promise. It may sound disgusting -- but it's not. It's deeeeeee-lightful. And yes, as you can imagine, these added ingredients definitely do jack up the cost substantially. The price tag on Naturally More is not for the faint of heart. But that's okay. We're fine with taking out a third mortgage to keep up with my daily peanut butter habit. Really we are.

I don't share my peanut butter with anyone. It's not the family jar of peanut butter. Nope. "Get your own!" I say.

I do keep a "reserve" jar of peanut butter in the pantry. You know, in case anyone gets a hankerin' for it. I can't say that the jar gets used all that often these days. I can't throw a pb&j at my two teenage boys and call it dinner (you know, the way I could when they were five). They seem to actually prefer meals that involve meat and salad, etc. these days.

The "back-up" peanut butter is Great Value brand. You realize what that means! It cost like 25 cents at Wal-Marks! (Gotta pinch pennies somewhere -- you know -- considering what I pay for my peanut butter.)

I was out of work for a couple of days last week . . . sick. As my tummy rumbled while I was on my death bed, um, er, uh, couch, I decided that only comfort food would do. I was craving a good old fashioned pb&j.

I broke into the "stand-by" jar of peanut butter to make my comfort sandwich. It satisfied my craving.

The next day, when I saw the news report (for the umpteenth time!) about the contaminated supply of peanut butter being recalled, I thought to myself, "Enough already. Why do they keep running that story? We're not idiots. We get it!"

Uhhhh -- I just checked my "cheap" peanut butter. Yep. You guessed it. Code 2111 right there on the lid!

The good news is that I escaped unscathed. Not so much as a burp! I willlll be getting my money back though. (I'll put it toward my Naturally More fund.)

"LAISSEZ LES BON TEMPS ROULER!"*

2007-02-20T19:24:00.000-05:00

*"Let the good times roll!"

At the end of January, we took a cruise to Mexico for our tenth anniversary. Although we've cruised often, we took a ship out of the Port of New Orleans for the first time.

Our vacation ended up being two vacations in one because we chose to spend a little time in N'Awlins before and after our cruise.

We got an amazing deal on a quaint hotel room right in the middle of the French Quarter. I lived in New Orleans for a few years in high school but David had never been. I was so anxious to show him around one of the coolest cities I've ever experienced.

We threw our luggage in our room and walked (okay, trotted very quickly!) about a block away to Cafe du Monde for beignets and coffee. I had no doubt that my husband would thoroughly enjoy the tempting pile of dough, grease and powdered sugar that isssss the little french doughnut called a beignet. He was not disappointed. He quickly devoured them like an old Cajun pro!

I'd be lying if I said that was our one and only trip to Cafe du Monde. It was not.

We woke up VERY early the next (rainy) morning and began our day with beignets.

The minute we got off the ship after returning from our cruise the following week, we (you guessed it) went for beignets.

(Ahem. Okay. Okay. We went to eat beignets again -- one last time -- before we departed for home the following morning. If you're keeping track, that's a total of 4 visits for an overall grand total of 12 doughnuts each! Enough confession, already!)

We've already talked about the fact that we can't wait to return to N'awlins for another visit. The locals were SO grateful to have folks back in their city. They truly are a proud and resilient people and we were treated very well by everyone we encountered.

I got home from work this evening to find that my husband had beat me home. As I entered the house, he was wearing a Mardi Gras crown and beads. In honor of Fat Tuesday, he had already prepared red beans and rice for our dinner. (They were great!)

Well, it wouldn't be TRUE debauchery without dessert, so to top off our own little personal Mardi Gras celebration, he actually made beignets.

Can you believe that?! Did his research and actually maaaaaade beignets.

And ya know what? They were fabulous!!!!!

Okay . . . now penance truly begins tomorrow . . . after all, it is Ash Wednesday. Think I'll "give up" french doughnuts for Lent.

ME AND EFFIE? OH YEAH. WE SLUNG A RING.

2007-02-19T19:06:00.000-05:00

Today is Presidents Day.

To some, this is a day to reflect on past leaders of our grand country. To others, it's a day to hit the great sales at the mall. To me . . . it was a day off from work!

Nothing can remind you that you're footloose and fancy-free better than attending a matinee movie during a typical work day.

David and I finally got around to seeing Dreamgirls this afternoon -- it's been on our list for a while.

Wow. Wow. Wow-wow-WOW.

I totally get why Jennifer Hudson is quickly filling her bookshelves with various awards for her convincing portrayal as Effie. I'm a believer. It's a given that she's an unbelievable singer but I think she has a future as an actress as well. It's worth seeing this movie for her performance alone.

We were lucky enough to have the theater allllll to ourselves. Not another soul was around.

I couldn't help it . . . when the long awaited movie crescendo finally arrived (and I'm referring, of course, to the infamous And I Am Telling You solo) I just had to do it. I just had to stand to my feet and join in the moment.

Don't worry. I didn't actually sing with her. (Ohhhhh. I wanted to. Just thought it would be disrespectful to intrude on such a moment.) However, I did "act out" the song along with her. I swayed. I pumped my arms all Mariah-Cary-like. I threw my head back with abandon. I even pointed deliberately around the theater when she got to the infamous "and you, and you and YOU" section. (Hush. You're just jealous that you didn't get to do it.)

Needless to say, I had fun. In case you're wondering . . . no, I wouldn't have done this if anyone had been in the theater. Was just meant to be I guess!

At some point, during my, um, performance, one of my favorite rings flew off my pointer finger. Ever the professional, I didn't let it slow me down. I finished my big number. (David was kind enough to search the theater once the lights had come up. I was happy when he found my missing jewelry.)

Too bad that that my performance won't be able to be considered by "the academy" this year. Maybe next year's MY year.

WELL. THEY HAVE FEWER CALORIES THAN TRUFFLES

2007-02-14T19:11:00.000-05:00

I wanna say up front, I have absolutely nothing against traditional flowers, candy, etc. when it comes to Valentine's Day. However, my husband has always been of the mindset that he'd prefer to save those particular gifts for other days of the year. You know, more ordinary/regular days.

We like to keep it practical. We give gifts that are more utilitarian in nature. We're just smart that way. Yeah. That's us. Smart and practical. (cough cough)

What did he give me this year, you ask?

Why . . . 4 inch heels of course!
Does it GET any more practical than that?!!! ;-}

MUSIC, MUSIC EVERYWHERE!

2007-02-12T16:45:00.000-05:00

For as long as I can remember, I've always anticipated watching the Grammy's. It's an event that I, quite honestly, can't remember ever missing. It has often fallen on my birthday and I've been content to spend my "big day" watching the spectacle on TV in lieu of a party or celebration.

I'll admit, some years are better than others. I do enjoy the fact that they pack the show fuuullllll of performances from many genres of music.

On my 30th birthday, David and I were in New York City, staying one block from Radio City Music Hall. The Grammy's were held in NYC that year. Of course, we weren't lucky enough to have tickets to the show but it was pretty cool to watch it in our room and realize that it alllllll was goin' down just a few yards from us. We watched out our window as limos dropped off celebrities at a huge white tent (one of the many after-Grammy parties, no doubt). Sadly, we were 20+ floors up so the people looked like sparkly specs. We couldn't make out any faces.
(Sidenote: for you other Grammy nerds, um, aficionados . . . that was the year that the guy painted SOY BOMB on his chest and interrupted Bob Dylan's performance. Priceless!)

I totally enjoyed the Grammy Awards last night. LOTS of great music. It was a good night.

How could a show go wrong when it starts with a reunion of The Police? Hellooooo!!!! It was fabulous. I found myself smiling like a big ole dope during their whole performance. They rocked. (For the record, Sting is the only man that I'll allow to wear a vest with nothing underneath. Normally, his fashion choice would be considered a MAJOR faux pas in my book. However, yoga has been very, very good to that man. Admit it!)

Thought the Dixie Chicks were great. Their performance was dead on. Natalie's new brunette "do" was to die for. Was really glad they had a big night. I honestly don't care if you agree with their politics or not . . . that CD is incredible.

Justin Timberlake was the consummate performer, as usual. That boy is sooooo comfortable on a stage. He sang my favorite song from his CD. (No matter how many times he denies it, we all know that song is about Britney!!)

Loved, loved, loved the combined performance of Corinne Bailey Rae, John Legend, and John Mayer. Excellent ode to the singer/songwriter trend!

Mary J. is true R&B royalty. A diva. Was thrilled that she had such a big night.

Christina Aguilera made my jaw drop with her unbelievably genius version of James Brown's It's a Man's World. That little cotton-candy-haired pixie can flat wail!!! How does all of that sound come outta that petite body?!

Luckily, there were no real lulls this year. You know, the kind where they bring the broadcast to a screeching halt by doing a 30-minute tribute to polka players from the Middle East or some such nonsense. (*head scratch* I don't know. ARE there polka players in the Middle East? You've got me!)

WHAT I'M READING AND LISTENING TO

2007-02-07T19:09:00.000-05:00

Just got back from vacation. Not just any vacation -- a great vacation -- a 10th anniversary getaway!

I'll blog about the trip later. However, one of my favorite parts of not having to deal with the everyday routine was the fact that there was more time to read and listen to my favorite music.

Here's what I had with me on my trip . . .

Water For Elephants
by Sara Gruen

This novel came highly recommended. Have to admit, I had absolutely no idea what it was about. If you had told me its premise, I'm still not sure it's anything I would have been interested in reading.

I was very pleasantly surprised. Really, really enjoyed this book.

It takes place on a traveling circus train (circa 1932). The author does a beautiful job of painting a colorful picture of the myriad misfits that were drawn to that particular lifestyle.

(The book also featured a beautiful love story--always a bonus.)

Little Children
by Tom Perrotta

Haven't finished this book yet (started it while laying out on a beach in Mexico!) but so far, I'm enthralled. It was a New York Times Bestseller and a movie based on the book came out recently. I'll be sure to see it once I've finished the book!

Imogen Heap
Speak For Yourself

This has literally been one of my favorite CDs since it came out last year. I listen to it constantly! I adore this Brit's voice. She literally uses it like an instrument. It's mesmerizing and ethereal . . . yet bombastic and intense at the same time.

I guess you'd classify it as pop/techno? Not sure.

She's my hero. I'd LOVE to be able to emulate her vocals. *sigh* A singer can dream.

I WOULDN'T HAVE IT ANY OTHER WAY

2007-01-19T19:06:00.000-05:00

I had planned on having a quiet evening. I purchased some new books today--was all set to curl up and read in silence.

The best laid plans . . .

Right now, there's music coming from 2 different directions in our house. Loud music.

In one room, there's Noah, practicing his trumpet for a competition that he's chosen to participate in tomorrow.

In yet another room, there's Ian, proudly playing the latest recording of his band's "butt-whup" music (as he refers to it).

Heaven knows they came by it honestly, huh?

I can read another time. This is music to my ears.

CLOSE THE BLINDS AND TAKE THE PHONE OFF THE HOOK--IT'S 4 GLORIOUS HOURS OF "24"

2007-01-16T17:14:00.000-05:00

I'm a simple woman, with simple needs . . . and one of my needs is my weekly Jack Bauer fix!!! It's been toooooo long. I've missed the creepy, hazy blue lighting of the CTU headquarters. It seems like ages since I've heard that unmistakably ominous countdown clock.

Great show. Great characters. Great plot. Great suspense.

Kiefer simply makes MacGyver look like a pathetic cartoon character. It's true.

We were out of town for the weekend (more bloggy details to follow in a later post) so we had to record BOTH nights of the 24 premiere. I was hoping and praying that all would go well with our DVR. Someone was gonna have some MAJOR heck to pay if my show didn't record. Heads woulda rolled. I'm just sayin' . . .

David and I have our evening planned (yes. we're party animals.) We're gonna sit down and enjoy a 24 marathon tonight. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200.

I was successful in steering clear of any Jack-Bauer-CTU-Chloe-nuclear-bombs-corrupt-president type conversations today. I didn't want ANY details to slip from anyone else. I simply must experience the premiere for myself!

Something tells me it won't disappoint.

THE INEVITABLE RESULT IF MINNIE PEARL AND MARTHA STEWART HAD A LOVE CHILD

2007-01-12T17:52:00.000-05:00

As I unlocked my front door when I got home today, I looked up and HAD to laugh! There it was . . . all bright and shiny and predominant . . . the tag from Pottery Barn still hanging from my rustic, holiday swag.

Now mind you, the decoration has been hanging there for a solid month. How could I not have noticed?! And I pride myself in being a "detail" person . . .

Makes me wonder. Did any of the 25+ people who visited my home over the Christmas season spot my faux pas as they passed over the threshold?

I choose to believe that they were all soooo overwhelmed by the warmth, love and good cheer emanating from our home that they didn't even notice. ;-]

BUT I'M A HIT WITH THE 10-YEAR-OLD CROWD!

2007-01-11T18:48:00.000-05:00

My sister (who has 4 kids--Joseph being the oldest) e-mailed me a couple of days ago. It simply said this:

"Hey, Sis! Joe just informed me that you're cooler than I am. He says you say things like 'That is SOOOO yesterday.' "

It made me smile. ;-]

(Oh . . . and for the record, sis, IIIIII think you're very cool!)

THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

2007-01-10T20:02:00.000-05:00

Santa Claus came early this year! At least to our house anyway.

My thoughtful husband showed enough forethought to realize that the gift I wanted most would actually come in handy before the holidays (he's smart like that). Sooooo, he snuck downstairs one night while I was asleep (yep--totally unbeknownst to me) and ordered my present online. It was delivered to my office a couple of weeks before Christmas. Clever boy.

I love to cook. Not saying I'm great at it but I do love it . . . Especially baking. My specialty has become my Grandmother Elliott's Cheese Straws. They remind me of Christmas because that was the time of year that she always had an endless supply of canisters filled w/ those buttery, cheesy, pecan-laden, pastry-like cookies. Yum. I never grew tired of them. Still don't!

Grandmother also cooked them for wedding receptions, showers, etc. but Christmas . . . now thaaaat was when she churned them out.

The Cheese Straws are a labor of love. Over the years, I've learned what works best and have my whole system down. I bake them by the dozens.

This Christmas, the process was so much smoother! David ordered a KitchenAid Mixer for me. Yep. The heavy-duty stand mixer that takes up any spare counter space you might have had and weighs roughly 120 pounds.

Everyone oooohs and aaaaahs when I mention that I got one for Christmas (and by everyone, of course I mean women). The first question they ask is always, "What color did you get?" (Chrome, by the way.)

As I baked my Christmas cookies this year I couldn't help but think about just how much my Grandmother Elliott woulda enjoyed this mechanical wonder.

I'm guessin' I'll pass it on to my granddaughter some day . . .

"HI. MY NAME IS L. I'M A PISCES. I LIKE LONG WALKS IN THE RAIN, AND . . ."

2007-01-08T17:51:00.000-05:00

Allow me to re-introduce myself!

Sorry. It wasn't intentional to neglect my blog during the holidays. I'm confident in saying that this past December just maaaaaay have been our busiest on record. For real! It was great though--truly wouldn't trade a minute of it. Was full of family, fun, friends and frivolity. ;-]

I plan on filling you in on the month's festivies over the next few days so stay tuned.

I'd love to stay and chat but I must go. Need to get geared up for the national championship game later. It's a raaaare event for me to pull for Florida BUT it's necessary tonight. (Gotta stay true to the SEC, ya understand.)

YA THINK IT HAS A HEART AND LUNGS?

2006-12-18T21:17:00.000-05:00

Okay, I'm asking for the "cone of safety" to descend (in other words, try not to judge me) . . .

For whatever reason, I keep a tub of Play-Doh at my desk. Yep. You read that right. Now mind you, I don't keep it sitting front and center beside the stapler, business cards and stack of invoices. It doesn't garner an actual place of honor on my desk. However, it's tucked safely away, just out of sight, and it's there for one reason only--stress relief.

It's a mental thing. The smell of Play-Doh takes me back to a simpler time and place. That unique and pungent aroma reminds me of bein' a child . . . ya know, when all I had to worry about was making sure that my roller skates were tied tight enough.

I don't break it out often. When I do, it's only long enough to take the cap off and catch a whiff. (Don't worry. I'm a long way from having to attend regular "Huffers Anonymous" meetings or anything!)

I've had the same can of Play-Doh at my desk for years and years. It's a neon shade of hot pink and is unmarred by human hands. That's right. No rolling, playing, molding and shaping for me. Just interested in sniffing it periodically.

[Remember. Cone of safety, okay? Stop looking at me that way.]

This afternoon, I took the cap off the can for the first time in months and months. This is what I saw.

GROSS!!!! Who knew that Play-Doh could develop such cotton-candy-like mold?!

In case you're wondering . . . no, I didn't sniff it. :-(

SAD STATE OF AFFAIRS INDEED

2006-12-07T20:29:00.000-05:00

Did you know that Vatican archaeologists have unearthed the sarcophagus believed to contain the remains of the Apostle Paul? I KNOW!!!! ME EITHER!

Ya wanna know WHY I didn't know? It's 'cause I'm too busy stuffin' my head full of useless crap . . . you know, like Entertainment Tonight. Not gonna be a true newsworthy report on THAT little slice of highbrow journalism. No Siree Bob. Not gonna be bothered with THAT as long as Mary Hart's around.

And ya wanna know WHY won't'you hear about it? Well it's because Britney Spears is runnin' loose sans underwear . . . THAT'S why. Surely THAT "news story" must take precedence.

*disapproving head nod* tsk, tsk, tsk . . . sad state of affairs indeed. :-[

Veni, Vidi, Vice OR Why Black Friday is Not for the Faint of Heart

2006-11-24T20:27:00.000-05:00

I submit that the following schedule is a surefire recipe for certain insanity (and exhaustion).

TUESDAY
I sat down and typed out a thorough Christmas gift list--complete with columns and everything. Very official.

WEDNESDAY
I ran a recon mission to Target (you know, to scope out the items on aforementioned list). May sound crazy to have found the presents but not actually purchase them while I was there. (That would have stolen the fun from the whole event, silly!) I thought of it as a dry run-through. Besides, I'm no fool. I knew that SC would have no sales tax on the day after Thanksgiving. Made perfect sense to me to spend $5 in gas to make the trip to Target in order to save .30 on Friday. Duh.

THURSDAY
Before lapsing into tryptophan-induced stoopers on Thanksgiving, we spent quite a while pouring through the myriad sales inserts in the paper. We made mental notes of the best deals, etc. Went to bed early in order to be prepared for the next day's competetive shopping event.

FRIDAY
3:00 a.m. -- the alarm went off (No, that wasn't a typo!)
4:00 a.m. -- we arrived at the mall to find a very full parking lot. People had already been shopping for 3 hours.
5:15 a.m. -- we left the mall to head to Target. Although it wasn't scheduled to open for another 45 minutes, the parking lot was full and the line of people (supervised by police) wrapped around the building. Sure. Any sane person woulda turned around and left. Yeah. Not us. No sir. We went to the back of the line and grumbled with the rest of the crowd. (You know, as if someone was actually holding a gun to our head to make us stand in this line.)
6:00 a.m. -- the madness began. We entered the store (along with hundreds of other red- bullseye-worshippin' fools!) and ventured into the belly of the beast (a.k.a. the electronics department).
6:20 a.m. -- we exited the store (victorious!) and purchased caffeine to keep us going.
6:30 a.m. -- we entered a surprisingly peaceful Sam's Club. We were glad to have a little respite from the craziness. We took this opportunity to stock up on essentials for upcoming parties and entertaining. (Nothing says holiday like buying cheese in bulk.)
7:30 a.m. -- we visited Best Buy to pick up another planned purchase. Although the place was nuts, I'm sure it was MUCH worse a few hours earlier. We heard tales of folks grilling in the parking lot in the middle of the night as they waited in line.
8:30 a.m. -- our final stop was at the local Christian bookstore to pick up a couple more gifts.
9:30 a.m. -- we unloaded our bags and bags of "finds" and collapsed in a heap on the couch. There was a great football game on. Needless to say, we missed it, you know, with the snoring and all. Sheer exhaustion.

Can't say we'll do the same thing next year. At least we can say we did it once though.

THANKSGIVING DAY CONTENTMENT

2006-11-23T20:00:00.000-05:00

I'm sitting here with a full belly and a full heart and four walls providing warmth around me. The space heater is glowing, Bama is sleeping at my feet, football is on the television. I spent the day with family. David is "puttering" about in another room. *sigh* All is right with my world.

The big things (for which I can be grateful) are pretty obvious--the health and well-being of my family, etc. However, in the hustle and bustle of life, I may not always take the time to notice the not-so-big or obvious things.

I'm grateful for . . .

**the fact that our older home has "quirks" and aggravations that make it unique.
**the Sunday paper.
**a one minute commute to work each day.
**an unbelievably considerate and attentive husband
who loves to find ways to surprise and delight me.
**two sons who make me laugh constantly.
**a knack for finding "fierce" shoes on the clearance rack.
**my DVR, which allows me to watch copious amounts of television
(at my convenience, of course).
**a love for books and the fact that I always have a stack waiting in the wings.
**a "slew" of nieces and nephews...of all ages.
**the smell of lavender.
**that first fizzy cup of diet coke each morning.
**blue jeans that fit and don't have to be altered to fit my nubby legs.
**my new mattress topper (heavenly!).
**the fact that olive oil is actually good for you.
**spotting that magical red sticker on "end cap" items at Target
**an endless supply of Extra Polar Ice gum in my purse.
**music that makes me dance. think. cry.
**coming home and putting on my Ugg boots each evening.
**the ability to watch hours and hours of the Food Network from time to time.
**those rare occasions when we get to smoke cigars and laugh on the back deck
with my sister and brother-in-law.
**a clear day here in the foothills--the Blue Ridge Mountains are visible in the distance.
**the fact that my iPod is never far away because it's always in my purse.
**parents who love each other and who have done so for over forty years.
**a wireless internet connection which allows me to blog from the comfort of my couch.

Sure, these may seem pretty superficial. Maybe. But they're simply the little things that make me smile each day.

WHAT I'M READING AND LISTENING TO

2006-11-20T18:10:00.000-05:00

Jesus in The Margins:
Finding God in the Places We Ignore
by Rick McKinley

I ordered this book last year but only picked it up recently. I really enjoyed it--was an easy read. The book explores the fact that when Jesus came to earth, he purposefully landed "in the margins" because that's where the outcasts were...that's where broken lives were mended.

Rick McKinley is a cool guy. He's pastor of a very cool church in Portland, OR (Imago Dei). I hope to visit someday!

Once Again
by John Legend

My favorite current R&B singer,by far! Mmmmm.Mmmmm.MMMMMM! In a word...smooth. Very soulful CD.

MY OLD KENTUCKY HOME

2006-11-13T20:21:00.000-05:00

David and I took a wonderful (and always much-needed!) escape this weekend. I won a door prize (a two-night stay at a nice hotel) at my office Christmas party last year. It was "use it or lose it" time so off we went! The Galt House is an amazing hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. Although the drive was quite long, we both decided it was worth it.

The drive alone was beautiful. The rolling landscape and beauty of the Bluegrass State wasn't lost on either of us. We enjoyed soaking up horse country on our drive to and from.

[Side note: As a child, I used to visit the state often. "My people" are originally from Kentucky. The charming area they called home rested somewhere between Booger Branch and Snot Creek. Nope. Not making it up, y'all. Do you honestly think I'm that clever?!]

Um, I'm sorry. What was I saying? Oh yeah...

We especially had fun Friday night. Got dolled up and hit the town! For the past three months, we've been seriously watching what we eat--that includes making fewer trips to the various troughs around town. Therefore, going to a restaurant was a major treat (although it used to be something we did almost nightly).

Grinnin' L, ready to hit the town
(Why yes, yes those are new red heels. Thanks for asking!)

Suave David, ready to wear his new "skinny" duds.
(Isn't he handsome?!)

HANNAH'S HOPE

2006-11-09T20:33:00.000-05:00

I don't know Hannah. I never met her. Although we had many, many mutual friends, we never officially crossed paths.

How, then, could this 18-year-old girl have such a profound impact on my life? I mean REALLY profound. Because of her life, I feel like things in my life have been brought back to center. I've talked to many others who feel the same way.

This should have been Hannah's senior year of high school. She should have been on top of the world. Instead, Hannah spent this school year waging an unbelievable battle against a rare and nasty form of cancer. She courageously endured not one but six rounds of chemotherapy. Despite taking extremely aggressive measures, the cancer stubbornly grew larger and larger. (I venture to say, not the way that any of us would choose to spend our senior year of high school.)

I, like thousands of other people, have followed Hannah's highs and lows daily via her website. (Since May, I've logged on first thing every morning!) Our entire city seemed to adopt her. It wasn't unusual to read articles about her in the newspaper or to see large billboards asking the town to pray for her. "Hannah's Hope" bracelets even became the fashion accesory of the season!

Hannah was an attractive young girl. She was never as beautiful as she was just a few weeks ago when she walked across the football field to be crowned homecoming queen of her very large high school. There wasn't a dry eye in the stadium. Her doctor released her from the cancer center just long enough to accept her much-deserved honor that evening. The crown looked beautiful perched on top of her long, brunette wig. Although she was weak, her smile was strong.

Despite much prayer for healing, Hannah passed away this afternoon. She was lovingly surrounded by 50+ friends and family.

I venture to say that the crown she received this afternoon, at 4:30 p.m., was much more brillant than anything she could have imagined on earth.

II Timothy 4:7&8 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day..."

"IT'S THE MOOOOOOOST WONDERFUL TIIIIME OF THE YEAR!"

2006-11-02T16:46:00.000-05:00

Okay, now that we've gotten through the Luciferian Festival of Death (a.k.a. Halloween!) let's move on to something more important. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against Halloween. As a child I LOVED it. It was always a great excuse to wear waaaaay too much make-up and jewelry and call myself a gypsy. And the cool bandana. Gotta have the headwear.

As I've gotten older, I've really, really, reeeeeaaalllly grown to like Thanksgiving. It provides a lot of the warm fuzzies of Christmas...only with a lot less stress.

Fall is by far my favorite season. The weather. The sights. The sounds. The smells. The anticipation. I love it!!!!

I've even learned to cook a fairly decent Thanksgiving feast. Okay, I must give credit. David and I have learned to cook it together. (We're a GREAT team in the kitchen.) Okay. Okay. Get off my back. I also cheat a little by pre-ordering a few of my sides from Wade's Restaurant. But still, it ends up in MY Correlware. That's gotta count for something, right?

I like pumpkins on the front porch. (Pumpkins...not jack-o-lanterns. Pumpkins don't sneer at you. I find that comforting.) I adore the smell of burning leaves. I like sweaters, boots and corduroys. A fire in a wood-burning fireplace makes me wanna curl up in the fetal position and suck my thumb.

Have I mentioned that I like Fall and Thanksgiving? ;-)

Today, as I drove home for lunch, I took a moment to soak up my sweet little neighborhood. The trees are gorgeous. They've created a canopy that says "welcome" every time we drive home. Nice.

Thought I'd share my pics from lunch . . .

PARKING PERFECTION

2006-10-30T20:38:00.000-05:00

You can file this one under too much time on our hands! ;-]

The other day, my friend Julia from work decided to purposefully do a poor job of parking. (Don't ask. Some days it's just necessary to amuse ourselves at the office.)

Here was her effort.

Not to be outdone...my friend Amy gave it her best attempt. She got "inspired" with her angle. Not bad.

There was noooo way I was lettin' these two chicks outdo me! Here was my whack at creative parking.

Personally, I think I won. Whadda you think? ;-)

JACK BAUER FOR PRESIDENT '08

2006-10-26T18:43:00.000-05:00

It's just a matter of time, folks! They released the trailer for the upcoming season of 24 yesterday. Incredible.

This has me "jonesin'" for January to hurry up and get here. ;-)

Check it out if you're a fan of 24.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDBD7_U3uSE

"ROOTS" IS MORE THAN A BEST-SELLING NOVEL BY ALEX HALEY

2006-10-25T10:46:00.000-05:00

Exactly 24 hours and counting...whew!!! I'm sooooo excited!

No, I'll not be making a big announcement tomorrow (I'm NOT pregnant).

No, I'll not be walking out of my current job (OR walking into a fabulous new one for that matter!).

No, it's not the day I'll announce that I've discovered the cure for all manner of diseases.

No, it's not the day that I'll try anchovies or skydiving for the first time.

Oh no, y'all! Tomorrow's event is MUCH bigger than any of that!

Tomorrow is the day that I get my "hair did" (queue the angel chorus in the background). Not a moment too soon, might I add. I'm looking rough..."white trash" might not be too strong a term at this point.

Because I, admittedly, pay a pretty penny for the upkeep of my tresses, I try to stretch out the time between appointments much more than most of my friends. It somehow eases my guilt when I write that check.

As I looked in the mirror this morning (and tried to figure out a creative way to "hide" what my stylist lovingly refers to as new growth) I was reminded of a priceless story.

When our youngest (Noah) was about 3 or 4, we were eating at a Taco Bell that was fully decked out for the upcoming holiday. The windows were covered with the usual cling-on symbols of Halloween--witches, cats, etc.

Being the clever step-mom that I attempt to be, I thought I'd make good use of our time. I began quizzing little Noah about his colors. In my best, patronizing voice I asked, "Noah, can you point out some things in here that are black?"

He paused for only a couple of seconds, lifted his plump, toddler finger to the window and said, "That caaaaaat......that wiiiiiitch....(and then he pointed at my head)...that front part of your haaaaaiiiiir......."

Ahhhh...from the mouths of babes. ;-)

WHAT I'M READING AND LISTENING TO

2006-10-17T17:07:00.000-05:00

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
by Augusten Burroughs

Some of you may be familiar with this humorous author--he wrote the best seller Running With Scissors. His memoirs crack me up. I love his clever observations about everyday life.

Fun read. Very amusing.

JONNY LANG
Turn Around

I've adored Jonny Lang since he first hit the scene as a teen prodigy in the 90s. I've always been amazed that this white guy from North Dakota (and who, incidentally, looks like he should be one of the Hanson brothers...you know, of Mmmmbop fame? Don't act like you didn't used to sing along to that song!) oh, um, what was I saying? Oh yes. He sounds much more like an 80-year-old, black, blues man.

This CD is excellent. He's very up front about his faith on this project. Very. Sounds like he's hit a few bumps on his road to fame and (at age 25) was willing to write about his realizations.

We listened to it non-stop on our road trip this past weekend. Not tired of it yet!

ROOOOOOOOOLLLLLLL TIDE...ROLL!

2006-10-16T18:57:00.000-05:00

We had a GREAT time this past Saturday with our friends John and Cindy. We all went to Tuscaloosa and initiated them into the Saturday madness that IS Crimson Tide Football! They were naturals and caught on quickly. (Not baaaaad for a couple of Floridians!)

We all had fun cheering on Bama. It was a gorgeous day. Our seats were excellent. The crowd was pumped. All was right with the world. ;-)

The best part of the day? Bama beat Ole Miss (in overtime!) 26-23.

THE IMPORTANCE OF STAYING IN TOUCH

2006-10-11T17:44:00.000-05:00

To the average observer, I probably appear to be a social butterfly. I enjoy being with people. I'm always up for a party. I especially enjoy laughing. I feel like I can fit in most anywhere...with various types of people.

That being said, I'm actually kind of private. I'm a homebody. Although I have many friends, my close circle of friends is always extremely small. I don't tend to let too many people get too close. I don't think I purposefully keep people at arm's length -- I've just always been wired that way.

Okay, before this starts to sound like a counseling couch session, let me back up to 1992.

I moved to Montgomery, AL with my first husband "T" (well, we'll call him "T" in lieu of some OTHER choice names we COULD call him. cough. cough.) But I digress...

We quickly became involved in a great church. We wasted no time jumping right in. We hit it off with another young couple. It was apparent almost immediately that we had loads in common with Chris and Leah. They were close to our age, came from similar backgrounds and were newlyweds like us. We originally bonded over our brand new puppies. As fate would have it, they had a cocker spaniel puppy the same age as the one that we had recently purchased. Silly as it may sound, we got together for play dates, much the way young couples bring their preschool kids together so the "grown folk" can have a few minutes of peace.

You couldn't not love Chris and Leah. They were funny and vivacious. Talented. Caring. Unselfish. Full of life.

Leah and I felt like "soul sisters" because we had grown up with fathers in the military. We had even lived in some of the same places and each had a younger sister named Jennifer.

Chris, Leah, "T" and I all sang together on the praise team at our church. They were both SO talented. Leah had a beautiful voice. Chris was a great drummer. We spent countless hours listening to music together. It was always the topic of conversation whenever we got together.

We took numerous road trips together. When "T" and I bought a brand new tiny convertible, we even found a way to cram all four of us into that miniature roller-skate-of-a-car to tool around Montgomery.

As flat broke newlyweds, we found pleasure in the little things. It wasn't unusual for us to rush to McDonald's whenever we would find out they were bringin' back the McRib!

Chris and Leah were especially good to me when "T" decided to make a quick exit from our marriage. They took me under their wing. I moved in with them. They wept with me. They prayed with me. They were truly like a brother and sister. There was nothing that I couldn't talk with them about. I allowed myself to become close to the two of them in a way that I wouldn't normally do. They never made me feel like a pathetic third wheel.

I'll never forget when I first chose to move back here to SC to get away from the scene of the crime (aka-the divorce). I missed them terribly. My mom called them and asked if they'd be willing to come make a surprise visit and lift my spirits. Lift my spirits they did! That sweet couple literally scraped together rolls of dimes--just enough to buy gas for the six hour drive here--and showed up on my doorstep. No questions asked. True friends.

Life began to normalize again. I got remarried and busy (they immediately loved and accepted David). They moved to Nashville, had a couple of babies, started their own business and got busy. As is the case with so many friends, we all but lost touch.

LEAH AND MALLORY

CHRIS AND MILLER

Luckily, Leah and I got back in contact at the beginning of this year. It was great!!! (Frankly, it was as if we'd never been apart.) We enjoyed catching up via e-mail. We both agreed that we wouldn't let so much time lapse with no contact again. They had recently moved to the Phoenix area and were happy. They both had carefree sprits and were always up for an adventure. Their gorgeous children were now 6 and 4.

Leah and I e-mailed every day during American Idol season...we couldn't wait to compare notes. She would list each of their favorites each week:
CHRIS liked Chris (because he was the rocker)
LEAH liked Chris (because he was the rocker. Oh, and, um, CUTE!!)
MILLER liked Bucky (so thaaaat was Bucky's one fan!)
MALLORY liked...anyone who wasn't a boy. (In true 4-year-old fashion, she only wanted a non-cootie-carrying girl to win.)

Leah and I both shared a love for clothes and shopping. We immediately compared notes when the newest issue of Lucky magazine arrived. As children of the 80s, we both took a bold stand that we would NOT fall for the fact that designers are now calling leggings "footless tights" and trying to get away with it. We wondered what was next...bad spiral perms and "mall bangs" coated with a can of Aqua Net?!!

I found it odd that I couldn't get a response from Leah recently. It just wasn't like her to not respond to my e-mails. As fate would have it, out of curiosity I Googled her name last Tuesday morning.

That's when it appeared. THE article. The article that made the blood drain from my face. FAMILY KILLED IN FIERY CRASH REMEMBERED.

There's no way to describe the feeling that surged through my body. Absolute nausea. I couldn't get the words out when I called David--only sobs.

How could a family of four be instantly wiped out?!!!

As they sat at a red light in their minivan (on the way to church) a car (going 70 mph) rammed them from behind. They were thrown into a concrete wall and the car burned.

I still can't say I've digested the news. Although this actually happened a few months ago, it feels as fresh (to me) as if it were last week.

Chris and Leah only lived to be 36 and 34...but man...what they did with those few short years was priceless. They loved. They gave. They laughed. They created art. They lived.

I'll never regret "opening up" and allowing them into my life and heart.

WHAT I'M READING AND LISTENING TO

2006-10-04T19:08:00.000-05:00

SECRET SOCIETY GIRL: AN IVY LEAGUE NOVEL
by Diana Peterfreund

This has been a quick and easy read--I'm almost finished. This is the author's first book and I've enjoyed it. A female, college co-ed (who is editor of her newspaper) is tapped into a secret society at her Ivy League school. I think this is intended to be the first book in a series. Although it's not a young adult book, something about it reminds me of something I might have read when I was younger.

THE OPEN DOOR
Evanescence

This CD was just released yesterday and I only purchased it today. I've listened to it several times already. Amazing. Amy Lee's voice is TO DIE FOR!! She's so intense...yet ethereal. The music is very ominous and gothic...yet sweepingly beautiful. VERY good stuff.

Crouching Redneck, Hidden Blizzard

2006-09-26T10:56:00.000-05:00

You can file this under random (but funny).

On the way back from their infamous camping trip (aka The Great Flood of '06!), David and the boys stopped at Dairy Queen.

They were amused when they saw this man crouching and smoking a cigarette outside the restaurant. (They found it equally as funny that he was basically blocking the entrance and made no effort to budge!)

In true mocking fashion, Ian felt it necessary to see what all the "fuss" was about. He chose to eat his Blizzard following this man's example.

I don't know whooooo is raising such smarty children....

WHITE TRASH SALAD SPINNER

2006-09-24T07:05:00.000-05:00

I refuse to watch the Rachel Ray Show anymore!!! Well, at least until she agrees to bring her chainsaw voice down at least a couple of decibel levels. It's simply tooooo much! Must she holler?

That being said, I must admit that I picked up a great tip from her very first show that aired this week. I can't believe I actually tried it...but it did work.

David and I aren't big spinach eaters. Have nothing against it (uhhh, I guess until this whole e coli debacle) but we just usually don't buy it. However, we do eat LOTS of leafy green lettuce (no iceberg for us, y'all. We's uptown!) ;-)

Recently, we grew frustrated with throwing away bagged, pre-cut lettuce that always seemed to "expire" five minutes after we placed it in our fridge. You pay dearly for the convenience and then it turns to goopy mush!

We went old school recently...started buying actual whole heads of lettuce!! (Can you imagine?) It does taste better -- fresher. However, the washing and drying part can be a bit of a pain. I never received a high tech salad spinner as a wedding gift and heaven knows I can't be bothered with a making a trip to Big Lots to purchase a knock-off for $5.99.

One of Rachel Ray's guests suggested placing your lettuce in the washing machine (stick with me here) and putting in on the spin cycle for 30 seconds. No, really! I'm aware that this helpful hint can elicit one of two possible reactions:
1) Wow! What a fabulous suggestion! I think I'll add it to my domestic repertoire!
OR
2) Note to self...never accept dinner invitation to David and Lori's!!!

My promise to you is this--if you do come over for a meal, I won't use the White Trash Salad Spinner. You have my word.

SNAKES, SNAILS AND PUPPY DOG TAILS...OH YEAH, AND DEODORIZER

2006-09-23T11:26:00.000-05:00

I'm an island.

It's true. I live in a house full of guys. A husband, two teenage boys, a rambunctious male dog...then there's me. Most times I don't mind. Face it, the set-up often lends itself to ME getting to play the princess card. ;-)

I've never been referred to as a tomboy. Ever. I have been called a "guys' girl" before. (Not sure, but I think this just means that I try not to make it a habit of bashing the male species. Well, that and the fact that I don't back down to men very often. Oh, and football. Gotta have my football.)

Aaaaaanyway, David and the boys left for an overnight camping trip this morning. They plan on spending the day boating, then they'll scratch themselves and burp while staring pensively into a campfire sometime later tonight. (Um, you can probably see why I begged off at this point.) I imagine that all of the world's problems will be solved by midnight. When those three get together, you can always count on "smack talk" happening. There'll be much laughter.

Did I mention that the forecast calls for rain today and tonight?

They didn't care. This is their chance to bond. With each other. With nature. They all agreed that the rain will only add to the ambiance. Whatever.

I helped David gather EVERYTHING they needed for their ONE night of roughin' it. Was quite a pile of necessities by the door this morning. He was amused at me as I asked uninformed "girl" questions while attempting to help him leave.

ME: So, do guys take toothbrushes on camping trips?
DAVID: No. We'll be fine. It's just one night.

ME: Do you want plates?
DAVID: No. We'll just eat out of the wrappers. Like real men.

ME: I've gathered up some beach towels. I hope they're enough. Do you want to take my Hello Kitty towel too?
DAVID: Uhhhh, yeah, you can leave that one out of the pile.

ME: Do you want to take pillows?
DAVID: *exasperated sigh* I guess.

So, I lovingly gathered up pillows. What he doesn't know is that I sprayed them each with Febreze before packing them. ;-)

I mean...what are we...savages?

*********************************************************************

SUNDAY MORNING UPDATE

I text messaged David first thing this morning to see if they slept well. His text reply is below:
Day 12. No food in over a week. The voices say to eat the others but still I am hesitant.

20 BROCK STREET

2006-09-20T15:51:00.000-05:00

Last Monday was an important day to me. Yes, it was September 11th...no doubt an important day in the life of every American. However, 9/11/06 was important to the entire Elliott family because we buried my grandmother.

Before you say, "Oh. I'm so sorry," please realize that it was a day of celebration. In my mind, it was the day my grandmother was set free. She's no longer trapped in a body rendered immobile by a major stroke nine years ago. How can I NOT be happy about that?! It would be selfish of me to wish otherwise for her. Trite as it could possibly sound, she really did experience ultimate healing last week.

There's not enough space here to eulogize my grandmother and hope to do her justice--I won't even try.

She was an amazing woman. A strong woman. A true steel magnolia.

I could reminisce about all of the ways that she cared for me and the other grandchildren. I could tell stories about what a supportive wife she was. I could write paragraph after paragraph about her unbelievable cooking. I could list pages of selfless acts that she performed throughout her 86 years in this world.

When I think of my grandmother, I think of stability. Plain and simple.

You see, my family moved quite often as I grew up. Between stints as an Army brat, a seminary kid, and then a preacher's kid, I'd be hard-pressed to rattle off all of my addresses through the years. Some I remember, others I don't. Sure, I could probably scrounge up a street name for you, but a number? Are you kidding? Too many to remember.

However, one thing always stayed consistent in my life. Grandmother was always going to be safely ensconced in her humble house at 20 Brock Street. It wasn't just a house. It was a home...my home.

I spent countless hours, days, months there. I can honestly say that the majority of my Christmas memories are of waking up (in my sleeping bag) at her home. I remember meals at the kids' table. I remember the exhilaration of finally earning a spot at the adults' table. I remember bringing my friends to her house. (Naturally, she fed us all!) I remember "courting" *ahem* several different boyfriends at her house. (Please note that alllll potential boyfriends had to pass the grandmother test!)

Throughout my college years, whenever I had to fill out any forms, I (without hesitation) always listed her address as my "permanent" address. I knew that it was always possible that my parents may move...but I could always rely on 20 Brock Street being my permanent address.

Always....

SO, IT REALLY ISSSS THE LITTLE THINGS . . .

2006-09-19T16:31:00.000-05:00

I majored in psychology in college and enjoyed (almost) every minute of it. Despite my fascination with the human psyche, I'm not normally drawn to the self-help section of Barnes and Noble. I enjoy occasionally reading about the powerful gray matter that sublets the space between our ears...however, I couldn't live on a steady diet of I'm-okay-you're-okay literary material. (Can be kind of a downer. Don't you agree?)

Yesterday, I listened to a fascinating psychology professor on TV (from fancy-schmancy Harvard, no less). He's been schlepping his new book, Stumbling on Happiness, from talk show to talk show.

He listed what he believes to be the four main "ingredients" to happiness. Actually? They seem pretty simple. Pretty intuitive. I guess we do tend to get too busy to notice the obvious at times, huh? (at least I know I do!)

In my own words, here are the things he said were pertinent to general happiness . . .
* Relationships with family and friends are vital. (no doubt!)
* Small moments count. It's the number of things that bring us happiness throughout our day - not how huge the events are. (Yeah. I think I agree.)
* We need to value experiences over objects. (Amen. Amen. Aaaaaamen! Give me a great trip somewhere, as opposed to a shiny, new car, any day!)
* Don't sweat every decision so much. People end up fairly happy either way. Decisions can seem much bigger in the moment. (I'm pretty sure that I have wasted much energy sweating the small stuff.)

So, what made me happy today, you ask?

*sigh* I paid $2.01 a gallon for gas today. That's what made me happy. ;-)

It really is the little things. Doesn't take a Harvard professor to figure that one out.

CONTINUUM

2006-09-14T19:10:00.000-05:00

Although I like to blog about what CDs are in my player at any given point, I don't normally presume to outright recommend music. I don't feel fully comfortable endorsing any particular CD -- or style of music for that matter!

Just because all of you guys are my friends, I realize that doesn't necessarily mean that you share my (sometimes) obscure and (often) schizophrenic taste in all things music. ;-)

Howeeeeeeevvver, I've gotta say -- RUN, don't walk, to buy the new John Mayer CD (Continuum). You won't regret it.

I've been a fan for years. LOVED his pop albums, really enjoyed his straight-ahead blues CD last year...heck, I even own a few obscure mp3 downloads from his live days in seedy venues in the ATL. I've gotta say, this maaaaaay just be my favorite project of his YET. It's a great blend of his pop AND blues stuff.

Smooth vocals. Intelligent lyrics. And that guitar playing??!!! I swear sometimes he's channeling Stevie Ray Vaughn.

Um, and did I mention he's kinda easy on the eyes, y'all? ;-)

WHAT I'M READING AND LISTENING TO

2006-09-13T18:07:00.000-05:00

THE RACONTEURS
Broken Boy Soldiers

Have really been listening to this CD a lot lately. SOOO good. They sound like a raw, garage band. The production is gritty & not super-polished. I've always been a fan of Jack White (really dig the White Stripes) -- this is some of his best work ever.

[Side note: Wow. Jack could REALLY use some vitamin D. What DOES the boy have against a little sun?! And I thought IIIIII was pale....)

BLUE LIKE JAZZ
by Donald Miller

This was my favorite book of the past couple of years. I actually started re-reading it a few weeks ago. There was so much to digest the first go 'round...thought I might be able to glean different "driblets" on the second read through. Donald Miller's transparency is unbelievably refreshing. This is by NO means a nice, neat, tidy Christian book. He doesn't claim to have all of the answers. I sincerely wish that I could have been exposed to writing like this years ago. (Although, I suppose it's possible that I wouldn't have been as open to his ideas 20 years ago).

I admire the way that he doesn't paint Christianity with the typical brush -- on the predictable canvas. No doubt, this book has probably raised many eyebrows in the ultra-conservative Christian community. (Hey, that can't be all bad, huh?)

I plan on blogging at a later date about this book with more detail. There's so much there. I don't know where to begin right now. :-)

WALK A MILE IN MY SHOES

2006-09-04T11:16:00.000-05:00

"When people wear shoes that don't fit them, it says something about their soul. Generally, I think it means they are good people."
--Billy Bob Thornton

I realize that the primary purpose of shoes is to protect your feet. However, like many, many women, my shoes are more than functional--they say a lot about me. It's no secret that I adore high heels. I'm drawn to them like a moth to a flame! I'm sure part of the attraction stems from the fact that I'm so short. But face it, they're also girlie and I'm nothing if not girlie!

I had a woman admit to me that she sits up front at our church whenever she can. She wants to have a "clear shot" of the stage. She told her husband, "I have to sit down front. I want to see what shoes Lori will have on today." (Glad to know I'm making a serious difference in people's lives!)

Although I own several pairs of shoes, I take great pride and joy in spending a minimal amount of my hard-earned funds on them. My philosophy? The less I pay for shoes, the more I can buy!!!! (Am I right, ladies?)

I'll admit, I'm not always practical when it comes to my choice of zapatos. Sadly, I think my feet are beginning to pay the price. They ache. They ache often. My first few steps in the morning aren't exactly full of vim and vigor...it's more like a tentative hobble. :-(

David returned home from one of his trips last weekend. He had a gift in hand (as he often does). Rather than some feminine perfume or piece of jewelry, he produced a pair of CROCS. Not normally considered a romantic gift, I'll admit.
Let me just say...I'm in love. There's no turning back, I fear. I had no idea that such an ugly shoe could produce such joy!!!!! I tried them on immediately and haven't taken them off very often this week.

CROCS are a huge phenomenon right now. However, as much as I enjoy a good trend, I SWORE I wouldn't give in to this particular trend. Have you SEEN them? They're horribly unattractive. In my opinion, they actually succeed in making Birkenstocks look sexy...no easy feat! ;-)

David did show enough forethought to at least purchase a pair of sassy gold CROCS. At least I can feel somewhat fashionable while trying to avoid a trip to the podiatrist.

Before anyone panics and assumes that I've gone soft and practical, let me make something VERY clear. I shan't be wearing these CROCS out-and-about. You won't see me in them at work. I won't sport them at church. I suppose it's possible that I'll wear them in a dark movie theater. Maybe no one will see.

Is is possibly that this is a sign of growth? Could I be *gulp* growing up??!!

COMMENT AWAY!!!

2006-08-29T19:23:00.000-05:00

Wanted to mention . . .

several of you have e-mailed that you had taken the time to write me clever, insightful comments on my blog ONLY to find that you had to be a member to actually be able to leave them.

I've now changed that. All smarty comments are more than welcome.
;-)

-L

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL

2006-08-25T21:33:00.000-05:00

It is a fact that some things simply have to be blogged about immediately; this is just such an instance.......

I am in Atlanta right now (David is traveling with his job, in Indy). I am visiting my friends Mark and Robert. They're always fabulous hosts. Mark threw a great little dinner party tonight. His German heritage made an appearance in the form of corned beef and cabbage and potatoes. Deeeee-lish. (His mom woulda been proud!)

After dinner the three of us went to see a show -- not just ANY show -- we saw Menopause the Musical (yes, you read that correctly). Oh.My.Gosh. Hysterical! I'm not exaggerating when I say that the muscles in my cheeks are still aching from overuse. I'm hoarse from boisterous laughter.

The four women who starred in the show were brilliant. The concept was clever. The music was funny.

The grand finale was the old Patti Labelle tune I've got a new attitude. They pulled all the women in the audience on to the stage to high kick with them. Naturally, my pride made me assume that they probably only wanted the, um, shall we say "mid-life" ladies to join them. Guess I was wrong. One of the cast members pulled me up on the stage too...front and center! I decided to laugh and sing and high kick with gusto. Hey, why not get a head start? I mean, it's inevitable...menopause will hit me some day, right? Guess it's never too early to start celebrating. :-)

The person on stage beside me grabbed my hand as we formed our amateurish attempt at a Rockettes line. As I glanced down at the Teva sandals and Bermuda shorts, then up at the closely cropped gray, spiky hairdo, I was JUST getting ready to ask, "Hey! How did YOU get up here?!" to this man who was obviously intruding on our female bonding moment. Luckily, I caught myself just as the words were forming in my mouth. It was then that I realized, "Hmmm. That's no man! That's a lesbian!" (quite a manly one at that!)

Never a dull moment....

BEAUTIFUL AWAKENING

2006-08-19T17:51:00.000-05:00

Unlike some people, I don't think I'm really afraid to be alone with my thoughts. I actually enjoy a few periodic hours of solitude. I find that I have genuine "a-ha" moments when I'm alone, quiet and still...much more than when I'm flappin' my gums.

I experienced a simple "a-ha" moment recently while working out by myself.

The man who owns our gym is a Christian. He has a simple dry erase board stuck in the corner. It's not very flashy but it always has an encouraging scripture verse written on it. I'll admit, I often pass by the board without even acknowledging what he's taken the time to write. I'm usually more consumed with wiping the sweat from my brow than stopping for a moment to read the board. (Sad, but true.)

Last week, for some reason, the verse jumped out at me as if it had been written in neon ink. The passage came from Isaiah 58:11. It said:

"I will always show you where to go,
I'll give you a full life in the emptiest of places--
firm muscles, strong bones.
You'll be like a well-watered garden,
a gurgling spring that never runs dry."

At the same time that I read the verse, I was listening to one of my favorite songs by Evanescence called Bring Me To Life. It was amazing how a couple of sentences from God's word and a hard-driving rock song could fit so well together.

"Wake me up inside, wake me up inside
Call my name and save me from the dark"

I don't think there's a soul alive who hasn't had those periods when you feel like you're dead inside, merely existing. Your daily routine happens with or without you -- almost as if it's on auto-pilot. It can be a lonely and frustrating time. Things can even progress so far that you ultimately feel hopeless. You can sometimes resolve yourself to the fact that this must be your "new normal" -- you'll simply never feel alive again.

I'm grateful that I (as a "believer") can hang on to those words from Isaiah 58:11. What an unbelievable comfort to be able to rest on the fact that we will, in fact, come out on the other side of these dry spells like a well-watered garden. The drought won't last forever.

When that beautiful awakening finally does come, and we begin to feel like we're "back on track" we'll be stronger (and more grateful) than before.

WHAT I'M READING AND LISTENING TO

2006-08-18T12:28:00.000-05:00

AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH by Al Gore
This book is fascinating and depressing at the same time. I'm not necessarily a science fanatic -- can't really be classified as a "tree hugger" either. However, I'm very interesting in global warming and its effects.

PATSY CLINE SINGS SONGS OF LOVE
You can NOT beat this lady's voice. It literally drips like butter. The richness of her voice has always reminded me of my friend Kim B's voice. There's that little cry in it that just tugs at your heart.

THEY SAY IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY!!!

2006-08-14T18:26:00.000-05:00

David and I dated almost a year before I was introduced to his two sons. We just felt strongly that we needed to take that slowly.

I'll never forget the first day I met them. Naturally, I felt like I knew them already. After all, I had heard their dad talk (in detail) about Ian and Noah for months and months. I was really nervous when that day finally came.

We decided to meet up at WestGate Mall in a very casual manner. It was December and, naturally, the place was bustling! We met at McDonald's in the food court. (Little did I realize that this would be the first of many Happy Meals that we'd all share together! I had no idea that the famous "meal in a box" would become a way of life. Ugh.) David stood in the long line as I sat there with two little boys; they were seven and almost three. David kept looking back over his shoulder, making sure that everything was okay. Luckily, the boys were precocious and talkative. Ian took great pride in interpreting everything that Noah was trying to say to me. The whole experience was kind of surreal. I couldn't believe that I was actually finally meeting the little men who were so important to the man that I loved.

After our delicious meal of fat and sodium, we ventured to the center of the mall to make the all-important visit to Santa. Little Noah was wide-eyed. Ian, however, was not. He had just discovered "the truth" about Santa and was not happy about it. I stayed with him while David and Noah stood in line. I can remember little Ian's face as he watched his brother in line. On one hand, he seemed envious, but on the other hand, he had an expression of "Poor sucker. He has no idea."

The day went successfully. It was a relief to finally cross that hurdle.

I absolutely adore the boys equally -- always have. In some regards, I may relate to Ian in a different way...simply because he's the firstborn (like myself). I understand some of the issues and pressures that come with that role.

We're now ten years down the road. I can honestly say that he's grown into a fine young man. He's intelligent, thoughtful, talented, witty...oh how witty! ;-)

Recently, David looked at Ian's scruffy face and quickly declared that the facial hair had to go. He took off on an obligatory, parental, fifteen minute soliloquy about the evils of not shaving, blah, blah, blah. (Ironically, David was sent home from school at 14 for sporting a full beard. Go figure.)

Later that evening, Ian came to me and asked if I'd try to talk his dad out of making him shave. Funny. He'd never done that before. Honestly, I think he learned long ago not to play any of the parents (or step-parents!) against each other. ;-)

The next morning, I very casually said to David, "Honey. Would you do me a small favor? Don't sweat the issue of Ian shaving. There's no need for him to shave. It's summer. He's not in school. We're not heading to church or to see anyone. Can't we just let it be and not sweat the small stuff?" He, somewhat reluctantly, agreed that it probably really wasn't that big of a deal.

Later, when Ian awoke, David said, "Listen son. I've given it some thought and I'm not gonna make you shave." Before he could finish his sentence, Ian RAN over to me and gave me a big bear hug and kiss. I LOVED the look on David's face. He caught on quickly. He exclaimed, "Hey! Wait a minute! You two are in cahoots! I've been 'had' haven't I?! I don't think I like this!" ;-) (heh-heh)

I don't know what the future holds for sweet Ian but I do know that his ability to disarm people (or should I say charm people) with his humor will serve him well. Works on me all of the time.

Happy 17th birthday, Ian. I honestly couldn't be more proud!

Love,
Lo-Lo

WHAT I'M LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW

2006-08-11T18:43:00.000-05:00

CORINNE BAILEY RAE
I love this girl. SO talented. She's a young singer & songwriter from England. It's a great, laid back CD. Her voice has the soul of Billie Holiday. Beautiful. Perfect for summer.

GNARLS BARKLEY
These two guys crack me up. I'm not exactly sure what to think about them. It's obvious that they take great pride in being bizarre. I don't really know how to classify their music...it's in a genre all its own! I've played this CD a lot lately -- is particularly good in the background. Cee-Lo and Danger Mouse (hmmm, I'm thinkin' those probably aren't the names their mamas gave them!) are brilliant. Quirky, but brilliant. There's something kind of retro about their music.

I love the fact that they'll only have publicity shots taken as famous duos in history. Clever. ;-)

REAL MEN LISTEN TO THE MUSIC OF ABBA

2006-08-10T19:14:00.000-05:00

Two years ago, ALL I wanted for my birthday were tickets to the Broadway show, Mamma Mia! For those of you who aren't familiar with that particular show, it's based on TWENTY of uber-cheesy, 1970s supergroup Abba's hit songs.

Believe it or not, I've been a fan of Abba's music since I was a little girl. I feel like there may be others of you out there, I just assume you're in some sort of witness protection program. Seems like I never meet a fellow Abba lover. I've grown accustomed to the ridicule at this point. I stand proud. I stand alone.

Anyway, my birthday came and went and my usually VERY-on-top-of-things husband apologized that he didn't get the tickets. David felt bad and gave me a consolation present of the soundtrack. Although it was a sweet gesture, I (of course) subjected him to ALL 20 songs...Immediately. I considered it his punishment. ;-)

Last night, David surprised me with tickets to see Mamma Mia! at the beautiful Peace Center in Greenville. Good save! He definitely scored points! ;-)

We had a wonderful evening. We got "dolled up" after work and went to an amazing dinner at Bistro Europa. We used a coupon. (Hey, we're a married couple. It can't ALL be glamorous!)

The show was great. David, who wasn't really looking forward to it, even had to admit afterwards that it was really good. He was relieved to see that the whole thing was campy, tongue in cheek and over the top -- almost satirical. It was VERY funny and high energy. Really witty. Believe it or not, it had an interesting storyline.

The big finale number was the best. At that point, the stage was full of every cast member, in horrific, gaudy costumes, dancing on every square inch of the stage. Just so you know, by the end of the show, I'm pretty sure I saw grown men dancing (to ABBA!) in the aisles.

"...see that girl, watch that scene, diggin' the Dancing Queen"

SUMMERTIME AND THE LIVIN' IS EASY

2006-08-08T19:24:00.000-05:00

I guess it's safe to say that we've become official "down-towners" over the past 3 1/2 years. We like living in the historic district and like being close to all that's happening in the downtown area.

Last Saturday, after my morning work-out (at a gym downtown!) I made the quick trip to the Magnolia Street Train Depot. They now have a great farmers' market each Saturday morning.

It was fun to stroll through the stands and smell the fresh produce. We've consumed my purchases all week in fresh salads. Very summer-y, no?

As I purchased these grape tomatoes from a vendor, he inquired, "So, whattaya have in that paper bag?" When I told him that I had just purchased some fresh mint from another stand, he (quickly...and without asking!) stuck his hand in my paper bag, pulled out a mint leaf and popped it in his mouth. He said, "Hmmm. Nah. That's not spearmint. I grow spearmint. I know spearmint. That must just be plain mint."

I coulda told him that if he'd only asked! Could you imagine the cashier at a national chain grocery store taking it upon himself to taste the produce you had just purchased?! Funny. You've gotta love the South....

If you're in the area, you really should check out the market. LOTS of great produce, eggs, plants, etc. -- much of it organic. Great way to kill a little time on a Saturday morning and to support the local farmers.

HANG IN THERE LIKE A RUSTY FISH HOOK!

2006-08-07T19:10:00.000-05:00

I mentioned in my earlier post that I grew up afraid of dogs. Well, the only thing that struck fear in my heart worse than dogs had to be water...namely, wide open, deep water. Unfortunately, I missed out on many years of fun as the kid sitting on the side of the pool watching the other kids jump and dive in the deep end. I'm so grateful that, later in life, I actually learned to swim.

Now, I am able to relax and enjoy myself in water. I knew that David and I were off to a great start when he was able to coax me into snorkeling on our honeymoon in the Bahamas. I trusted him (he's a very trained and capable SCUBA diver) and boy was I glad I did. It opened up a whole new world to me!

We purchased a boat about a month ago. It wasn't anything we planned on doing -- an irresistible deal simply fell into our laps. David grew up around boats but never owned one himself. He's thrilled! Although it's by no means a new, super-fancy boat it is his pride and joy -- no doubt. The boat was named by the boys. They wanted to name it after their grandfather, who passed away last year. John had a favorite saying -- Hang in there like a rusty fish hook! We all agreed that The Rusty Fish Hook was more than appropriate for its name.

The past month has been a busy one regarding the boat. There was much to do to get it sea, uh, lake-worthy. David and the boys scrubbed it till it sparkled. All the necessary extra accoutrement was purchased. David even tried to get me intrigued with the whole concept of boating by appealing to my natural sense of accesorizing (of course, I'm referring to a hot pink life jacket). ;-)

The final hurdle was met and tackled successfully last week. Despite numerous lengthy phone calls to the Dept. of Natural Resources in our state's capitol, and an unsuccessful attempt to register the boat by mail...David took it upon himself to make the two hour drive to Columbia to obtain the necessary paperwork. Surely they wouldn't turn him down if he showed up in person! (Oh yes. You would be wrong in that assumption.) Apparently, the staff at the DNR must undergo the same customer service training that the DMV folks go through. After going round and round and asking to see a supervisor, the necessary paperwork was secured. (Personally, I was grateful and proud that there was no actual bloodletting.)

David and I left out yesterday morning, ready to finally put the boat in the water. I've never seen him so excited -- like a little kid! We made the beautiful one hour drive to Lake Jocassee. The weather was overcast and not quite as oppressive as it has been. What could possibly go wrong with this perfect day?! (heh-heh. Let's call this foreshadowing, shall we?)

We were both proud when we successfully backed the trailer into the water. Getting the actual boat into the water even went fairly smoothly. We both got in. David laughed at me as I frantically donned my life jacket. We pushed away from the shore and THEN (and only then) it hit David...our boat key was in the car...parked far away. He vigourously paddled us back to shore & I maneuvered up a steep hill of rocks to go get the key.

The heat? Yeah. It was starting to escalate.

Once I returned with the key, David matter-of-factly attempted to start the motor. He's done it several times in the back yard with no problem. ("You hear that? Doesn't that sound beautiful?") Well, no such luck when the important time finally came. UGH!!! We tried and tried and tried -- to no avail. The battery was only getting weaker with each attempt.

He rowed us to shore again and I maneuvered the rocky pile once more. I had to walk a "far piece" to find a phone number of someone who could help. (David, of course, needed to stay with the boat.)

A nice man came, checked it out and let us borrow a rental battery. There. Problem solved. Time to take on the day! The motor started like a charm. We took off quickly and David hollered out with excitement. He kept exclaiming about how quickly it "planed" (this is a term I was not familiar with). I was too busy trying to hold on to my cute hat. ;-)

Sadly, this excitement was short-lived. It lasted all of fifteen seconds. The boat came to an abrupt halt. I quickly asked, "Why'd you do THAT for?!" David explained that he didn't do anything.

So there we sat, dead in the water. :-( I'm embarrassed to admit that my childhood fears of water came flooding back. I felt small and vulnerable as we sat out in the middle of deep water. I wanted to holler at the other boaters who went rushing by, causing the wake to toss us to and fro. Quite simply, I had a mini-breakdown right then and there. The heat and frustration (not to mention hunger) of the day had finally caught up to me!

David was able to flag down a couple of trout fisherman who took mercy upon us. They towed us back to shore.

Not exactly the carefree, wind-in-our-hair kinda day that we had planned on having.

The vessel is now in the hospital -- feel free to send all Get Well cards to Holden's Marine Center. I'm sure she'd be glad to know that you're thinking of her. I'm certain she'll make a speedy recovery -- she's a tough old broad. ;-)

David--trying to smile through the pain

Instead of the beautiful, picturesque pics that I planned on getting while on the boat, this is the only view I had...the other boat towing us to shore.

WHAT THE HECK IS A SNORKIE?!

2006-08-03T18:48:00.000-05:00

I suppose some folks are dog people and others, well, they're not. It doesn't make you a bad person if you don't care for canines (unless you inflict bodily harm, of course). Anyone who knows me would probably not consider me a "dog person" -- that is until last year. Frankly, I grew up running from anything that resembled a dog, big or small. Never been a huge fan.

David and I have a busy life. Sometimes it feels like we're gone more than we're here. A pet just doesn't seem practical for us...at all! We've killed more than one goldfish by sheer neglect. I had a pair of goldfish, Manolo and Blahnik -- let's just say that they are no longer a matching set. (Oh my dear Blahnik, may you rest in peace. We hardly knew ye.)

My brother-in-law's family (in AL) have a miniature schnauzer that snuck out of the house and "flirted" with the neighbor's tiny yorkie. The rest is history. We asked if we could have one of the puppies (what WERE we thinkin', huh?) You'd think that a mixed breed like that would simply be some kind of fluffy mutt. Oh no. Not true. It's a "designer breed" with a name and everything! People pay big bucks for them. (Please don't tell my bro-in-law. We got it for free!)

This little "toy" breed is called a SNORKIE. Yep. Sometimes it's downright embarassing to say out loud when someone inquires about his breed. David feels that it's especially tough to sound manly while saying the word SNORKIE. Yeah. He's right. Frankly, it's hard to say the word without chuckling. Go ahead -- try it!

BAMA (and if you know us and our extreme affinity for The Crimson Tide, you're not surprised by his nomenclature) has been quite an addition to our home this year. I have grown to adore him. I like the life and energy that he brings to our house. He's cuddly and quirky and looks like a cross between an ewok and a gremlin (Ooooh. Nice. Not one but two 1980s movie references in ONE sentence!)

David? Well, let's just say that he and BAMA have a love/hate relationship. (Must be a guy/testosterone thing. I'm not sure.)

BAMA lives a good life. He is played with regularly. Eats well. Snacks well. Never has to endure the heat. He's, no doubt, an inside dog. He likes it that way. He is self-important in every way.

One of the more unique things about BAMA is his myriad of clothes. He truly owns something for every occassion. I know what you're thinking. "Why would Lori force that poor dog to wear clothes? She's not one of thooooose people, is she?" [followed by an eye roll]

Surprise. You'd be wrong. David (my big, burly, manly husband) is responsible for all of the puppy's attire. For real. He sees them in the store and just can't resist. Go figure. ;-)

Besides, BAMA likes it. When you take one of his shirts off, he becomes very agitated and follows you to the washer/dryer. He's not happy when he's naked. Guess he must feel vulnerable. ;-)

[This was taken the moment we decided he was "the one"]

[You've gotta admit ... that's one cute face!]

[He loves to sport his tough guy Harley Davidson
shirt and bully the other neighborhood dogs]

[No. Your eyes are not deceiving you. He issss, in fact, sitting on his back knees. It's both humorous and sad, I think. In MY mind, I imagine him speaking in an English accent when he wears that argyle sweater. TOOO funny!]

[He would make Parrot Heads everywhere proud. He enjoys wearing his Hawaiian shirt while smoking his Cuban cigar. Really he does.]

WE DON'T NEED EARPLUGS ANYMORE

2006-08-01T18:53:00.000-05:00

Many of you know that David and I are fanatical band parents. Ian, our oldest (16) has been in the band for 5+ years now. (Whew. Only 5? Seems longer.) We take great joy in watching the pride that being a part of something great brings to him.

When Ian was in the seventh grade, he jumped at the opportunity to (basically) be a place-filler in the high school band. He (get this) marched with a clarinet. Did he actually PLAY said clarinet? HECK NO! He literally lip synched. He held it up high with great pride though. Even though I knew that my son was basically the Milli Vanilli of the woodwinds circuit, I was still proud. I'm embarrassed to say that I actually cried the first time I saw him march. Remember ... he wasn't even playing!!! What a softie.

Well, several years have passed. Ian fills out his uniform much better than the awkward little middle school boy who first joined the marching band. He stands taller and prouder now -- he's heading into that all-important senior year of high school. He's developed into a fine musician. He takes his leadership role (as drumline captain) very seriously. I predict it'll be a great year for him.

Five years ago, he joined a band that was a group of Bad News Bears (at best). After much hard work and determination, they can now proudly declare that they are state champions. WHAT an accomplishment! (We won't even talk about how much I cried when THAT event actually happened!) They earned it.

Now, our youngest, Noah (12) has been asked to join the band. He knew this was an honor. He's only a seventh-grader but gets to roll with the big dogs. :-) (Oh, uh, and for the record, he actually gets to play his trumpet!!!)

Believe it or not, Ian's not the least bit embarrassed to have his kid brother around. He's actually thrilled. (Go figure!)

I admire their determination. Despite extremely humid days in the high 90s, they are in the midst of 9 am to 9 pm practices for two weeks straight. They don't care. They know that they are a part of something great. Who doesn't want that?!

IAN -- as a "big dog" -- with his fellow band friends
(he's in the Adidas shirt)

NOAH -- as a "newbie" -- playing his little heart out
in the noon day sun
(he's the one in the black shorts and grey shirt)

DAVID -- as the proud papa in the stands

. . . and MY job? Why to sit in the stands and try to look cute, of course!

[SMACK!!!] Hmm? Huh? What? Oh? I missed it?

2006-07-30T17:49:00.000-05:00

A couple of months ago, David and I were lucky enough to get to catch a Seattle Mariners game ... live ... in person ... IN Seattle. It was a great night. The weather was mild and the food was greasy. Perfect.

Believe it or not, this was actually my first Major League game. I really do like baseball - really I do - just have never had the good fortune of attending a game. I enjoyed the whole experience. Soaked it all up. (My husband says I was a natural.)

We were with a group of David's co-workers. At one point, the sweet wife (Alyssa) of one of David's co-workers (Travis) said, "Hey. Guys. Look this way" and asked us to pose for a quick picture.

The second we smiled and said "cheese" we heard a loud SMACK in the background. Yep. There it was. My first Major League home run and I missed it. :-(

That's okay. Makes me smile when I look at the picture. I'll always be able to hear the sound of the bat in the background.

Fun....

THE OTHER GUY'S FACE

2006-07-29T18:53:00.000-05:00

Today, while my iPod was in shuffle mode, I heard a song that I’ve not taken the time to listen to in ages. It’s a mellow but driving song by Chris Rice called The Face of Christ. The lyrics are haunting & really make you sit up and take notice.

A few years ago, we had a very memorable service at our church. The sermon itself was good but the most powerful part of the service actually took place well before the pastor stepped on to the stage. With the assistance of a couple of women in the church, our pastor disguised himself as what can only be described as an indigent bum. Frankly, he looked horrible and was totally unrecognizable. His hair was long, ratty and dirty. His clothes were tattered. He looked as if he hadn’t showered in weeks. He even sported an unkempt beard.

The catch? None of us knew that it was our pastor. He didn’t tell anyone! As a matter of fact, David and I were leading worship that particular Sunday and I remember panicking a little bit as I looked down into the audience. Why wasn’t Hub in his normal seat? Doesn’t he know it’s almost time to preach?!

While in his disguise, he made sure that he was visible as people arrived in our parking lot that Sunday. Despite a horribly rainy day, he wandered the parking lot while pushing a shopping cart. I’m certain that most people hurried past him in order to get out of the rain.

As the service started, David and I sang the Chris Rice song that I heard this morning. It said:

He shares a room outside with a dozen other guys
And the only roof he knows is that sometimes starry sky
A tattered sleeping bag on a concrete slab is his bed
And it’s too cold to talk tonight
So I just sit with him instead and think

How did I find myself in a better place
I can’t look down on the frown on the other guy’s face
‘Cause when I stoop down low, look him square in the eye
I get a funny feeling, I just might be dealing
With the face of Christ

After sixteen years in a cold, gray prison yard
Somehow his heart is soft, but keeping simple faith is hard
He lays his Bible open on the table next to me
And as I hear his humble prayer
I feel his longing to be free someday

How did I find myself in a better place
I can’t look down on the frown on the other guy’s face
‘Cause when I stoop down low, look him square in the eye
I get a funny feeling, I just might be dealing
With the face of Christ

See you had no choice which day you would be born
Or the color of your skin, or what planet you’d be on
Would your mind be strong, would your eyes be blue or brown
Whether daddy would be rich, or if momma stuck around at all

So if you find yourself in a better place
You can’t look down on the frown on the other guy’s face
You gotta stoop down low, look him square in the eye
And get a funny feeling, ‘cause you might be dealing ...

During the song, it was actually a little distracting as one of the ushers brought the homeless guy down front to be seated on the second row. It’s possible that women around him may have actually clutched their purses. When we stepped off stage, our bass player even said, “Man! Did you see that dude they just brought in?! He was lookin’ ROUGH!”

The next thing we knew, our pastor Hub (aka homeless guy) stepped up on to the stage. It was quite a moment when he first opened his mouth and we realized who it was. We knew that we had been “had.” I can’t recall every point that he made that day. I DO remember the lesson that it seared into my brain, though.

We were all forced to examine (in a very vivid way!) how we automatically make assumptions about others … how we look down on them. Sadly, it’s human nature.

This morning, as I listened to the song, I starting clicking off a list in my brain. Why me? Why did I have the good fortune of being born into the family that I was born into? Why was I afforded a good education? Why was I allowed to see many parts of the world? Why did God bless me with good health and a strong mind?

Some may call it luck. Some may call it good fortune. We, as Christians, can even throw around the over-used word “blessed.” Regardless, one thing I’m certain of -- I absolutely did nothing to deserve my life!

This morning, as I took time to pull weeds in my yard, I even found myself being grateful for the weeds. Isn’t that odd?!!! I kept thinking, “Wow. These weeds are in MY yard. The yard that’s attached to the home that I own. How many people wish that they owned a home.”

The song was just a good reminder. How DID I find myself in this place?! I hope I’ll be strong enough, compassionate enough to “stoop down low” and look the “other guy” square in the eye before making judgment calls. God has blessed me … I don’t want to take ANY of it for granted. Why me?

HAVE YOU BEEN TO SPARTANBURG LATELY?

2006-07-28T17:07:00.000-05:00

I've always enjoyed watching beauty pageants. Go ahead. Judge me if you will BUT I admit it ... "My name is L and I'm a beauty pageant-holic." Sure, when I was little, I had dreams of wearing the Miss America crown. I was equally as drawn to that regal velvet cape and ominous scepter. (I usually had to settle for a beach towel tied around my neck and a five-and-dime baton firmly placed in both hands.)

In recent years, I've probably become a little more jaded and, quite frankly, my opinion of pageants may have changed a bit. However, I still enjoy watching them -- now, I simply watch them for the entertainment value. I'm content to piously sit on my couch, while munching popcorn and chocolate chip cookies, and make fun of the skinny, pretty chicks. ;-) (Horrible, I realize.)

Annnnnyway ... last year, about this time, I was in the gym, minding my business, working out. I was at the end of a 30-minute cardio session and, well, I wasn't looking my freshest. Due to the July heat and my elevated heart rate, my rosy cheeks and glistening forehead were in full effect. My once perky ponytail had become wilted, skewed and lifeless. I had paid my dues, done my penance -- I was ready to go home!!

A camera crew entered the gym. The "official looking leader" of the crew (I assumed he was official because he was carrying a clipboard ... duh.) took a look around the gym & immediately walked over to the treadmills. He asked if anyone would be willing to let him get a little footage of their feet walking on the treadmill. Hmmmm. Seems harmless enough. "Sure. No problem" I agreed. (I'm proud of my pink tennis shoes! How often do you get to show them off?!)

Mr. Leader theeeeen asked if he could get a shot of my actual face while I walked on the treadmill. I reluctantly agreed and before you could say "clogged arteries" I was asked to sign a release form. I signed -- all the while never stopping the treadmill! ;-)

After getting a few seconds of footage, Mr. Leader then asked if I'd be willing to say something on camera. What?! You've gotta be kidding? Well, um, okay. Next thing I knew, I was being rigged up with a mic. It was then that Mr. Leader asked me to enthusiastically pump my arms and say (with glee and conviction) "Have YOU been to Spartanburg LATELY?" I followed his directions and, after about three takes, we had it.

As soon as I got into my car, I called David and excitedly exclaimed, "Hey, listen. I'm going to Hollywood!" I recounted the experience to him. Naturally, his first logical question was, "So, what exactly was this for?" (Hmmm. What a good question.) I had to sheepishly admit that I had no idea! ;-) Now, I realize that similar scenarios happen in seedy Hollywood everyday and young girls often find themselves in quite a bind as a result. However, I suppose that when I saw the local TV station's logo in the top corner of the release form, I assumed it was for some sort of promotion -- you know, one that no one would see.

Two days later, as I was home alone on a summer, Saturday night, watching the oh-so-entertaining Miss South Carolina Pageant ... THERE it was! Myyyyy commercial. My big ole face, in all of its close up glory, beaming with that chipper expression. "Have YOU been to Spartanburg LATELY?" Ugh. My heart sunk. Oh well. Maybe no one saw it!

No such luck.

I had numerous comments from family and friends over the next few days. "I saw you on the Miss SC Pageant the other night! Barely recognized you!" (I'm assuming this is because I make it a habit of never going out in public while sweating profusely.)

I waited for the talent scouts to call. Alas, it was not meant to be. :-(

Last week, David and I sat down to watch this year's pageant. (Sure, it took a little convincing to talk him into watching with me. However, he quickly saw that making snarky comments really could be a sport!)He graciously endured the experience.

Then ... there it was ... again ... catching me off guard. My close up shot! "Have YOU been to Spartanburg LATELY?" David said what ANY wise husband should say, "You've lost weight." (I love him.)

The moral of this story? Girls, always get a little more information before you allow yourself to be filmed by a stranger. These, I'm quite certain, are words to live by.

L's Lair

Jumping back in the pool by takin' it easy

Would love to know the story behind it!

Thank goodness this is only every four years!

To infinity and beyoooooond!!!

I'd imagine you can file this under FRIVOLOUS

You can PRETTY MUCH set your watch by it

These Are a Few of My Fav-Oh-Rit Thiiiiiiiiings...

Dancing With Cinderella

In Which I Flat Out Break One of The Ten Commandments

I Suppose I Would Have Prefeeeerrrrrred Matt Lauer

I Could Eat Her With a Spoon!!!

I'd Be Happy to Babysit for The King's Grandkids Though

How Does ONE Building Hold THAT Much Sugar?!

The New Mid-life

Why Didn't Someone TEEELLLLLL Me?!

Who KNEW That Canines Had Such Good Penmanship?!

Simply Entitled "My Husband Has Too Much Time On His Hands"

'Mama Say, Mama Sa, Mama Mu Sa...'

Is it Me?! Or is Tina Turner a Freak of Nature?!

Maybe He's Saving a Seat For Molly Ringwald?

How Would They Say "Two Thumbs Up" in Ireland?

Pile O' Goodness

MERRY CHRISTMAS, MON!

I JUST CAME OUT OF A TRYPTOPHAN-INDUCED STUPOR

FOOL ME TWICE, SHAME ON ME

AN OPEN LETTER

GRAVEDIGGER

LOWCOUNTRY LIVIN'

RHYMES WITH EAGLE

ROCK ME MAMA LIKE A WAGON WHEEL

PHYSICIAN, HEAL THYSELF!

THE PASSING OF THE TORCH...OR THE STILETTOS, AS IT WERE

OH, THE IRONY...

SURELY CHARLESTON'S NOT HOT IN THE SUMMER

THERE'S PLENTY LEFT OVER! WHEN CAN YA GET HERE?

THE CRADLE AND THE GRAVE COULD NOT CONTAIN YOUR DIVINITY

DOES YOUR CHEWING GUM LOSE ITS FLAVOR ON THE MIC STAND OVERNIGHT?

SURE. IT'S A LITTLE UNSETTLING.

WHAT I'M READING

LIKE ONLY A MOTHER CAN

*sniff* SO LONG, STARS HOLLOW

MIGHTY HONCHO 'STACHE

JUST BECAUSE . . .

REMEMBER TRYING TO CATCH THE BEGINNING OF A SONG AND HOPING THE DJ WOULDN'T TALK OVER IT?!

I'M OBVIOUSLY GETTING MY MONEY'S WORTH FROM MY CAMERA PHONE!

WORDS FAIL ME

But do I REEEAAALLLLY mean it?

MAKE NEW FRIENDS, BUT KEEP THE OLD . . .

I'D LIKE TO THANK THE ACADEMY

OHMYGOSH Y'ALL! IT'S NOT FUNNY! I COULDA DIED!

"LAISSEZ LES BON TEMPS ROULER!"*

ME AND EFFIE? OH YEAH. WE SLUNG A RING.

WELL. THEY HAVE FEWER CALORIES THAN TRUFFLES

MUSIC, MUSIC EVERYWHERE!

WHAT I'M READING AND LISTENING TO

I WOULDN'T HAVE IT ANY OTHER WAY

CLOSE THE BLINDS AND TAKE THE PHONE OFF THE HOOK--IT'S 4 GLORIOUS HOURS OF "24"

THE INEVITABLE RESULT IF MINNIE PEARL AND MARTHA STEWART HAD A LOVE CHILD

BUT I'M A HIT WITH THE 10-YEAR-OLD CROWD!

THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

"HI. MY NAME IS L. I'M A PISCES. I LIKE LONG WALKS IN THE RAIN, AND . . ."

YA THINK IT HAS A HEART AND LUNGS?

SAD STATE OF AFFAIRS INDEED

Veni, Vidi, Vice OR Why Black Friday is Not for the Faint of Heart

THANKSGIVING DAY CONTENTMENT

WHAT I'M READING AND LISTENING TO

MY OLD KENTUCKY HOME

HANNAH'S HOPE

"IT'S THE MOOOOOOOST WONDERFUL TIIIIME OF THE YEAR!"

PARKING PERFECTION

JACK BAUER FOR PRESIDENT '08

"ROOTS" IS MORE THAN A BEST-SELLING NOVEL BY ALEX HALEY

WHAT I'M READING AND LISTENING TO

ROOOOOOOOOLLLLLLL TIDE...ROLL!

THE IMPORTANCE OF STAYING IN TOUCH

WHAT I'M READING AND LISTENING TO

Crouching Redneck, Hidden Blizzard

WHITE TRASH SALAD SPINNER

SNAKES, SNAILS AND PUPPY DOG TAILS...OH YEAH, AND DEODORIZER

sniff SO LONG, STARS HOLLOW