My Crazy Little Mixed Up World

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2010-03-13T19:15:00.001-05:00

Ask me anything http://formspring.me/jennilu68

I'll give you a chance to answer this one yourself, how's your move to Florida going?

2010-03-13T19:14:00.001-05:00

The move hasn't been a smooth as we had hoped. The house in Tennessee still has not sold. We are renting an apartment in Lakeland and trying to go on with everyday life. The worry over the house is never far from mind, though. We are hopeful that Kaylea will get into a Magnet or Charter school for next year. If this happens then the house selling is not as urgent an issue. However, if she doesn't get into these "unzoned" schools, then we will have to reevaluate our whole rental situation. Currently, we are not zoned for the best middle school and I would not buy a home in this district knowing that Kaylea would attend its middle school.

So many things still unsettled, it makes my head spin at times. We just have to remember this is God's plan and it will work out the way He sees is best.

Ask me anything

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2010-03-07T11:42:00.001-05:00

Ask me anything http://formspring.me/jennilu68

100th Post

2010-02-10T15:42:00.002-05:00

Oh how exciting. I just realized that my Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe was the 100th post on My Crazy Little Mixed Up World. Funny, I had sorta planned out in my head what I wanted to do for my 100th post. Somehow, a recipe wasn't what I imagined. Oh well, maybe the 200th will have a little more pizzazz.

P.S. To those of you that have been around since the beginning, thanks for hanging with me. To those that are new comers, I hope you find something of interest and make me a regular stop on your tour of the blog-o-sphere.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

2010-02-09T12:17:00.002-05:00

This is a yummy dip to serve at your next get together. I took it to a Superbowl party and it was a hit. You get all the flavor of Buffalo Wings with out the mess. What could be better?

Buffalo Chicken Dip

White meat from 1 Rotisserie Chicken (Mojo flavor if you can find it)
2 - 8oz. pkg Cream Cheese, softened
1 c. Ranch Dressing
Texas Pete Wing Sauce, to taste
1 1/2 c. + 1/2 c. Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Directions:
Shred the white meat from the rotisserie chicken. Stir in the cream cheese, ranch dressing, wing sauce, and 1 1/2 c. cheddar cheese. Spoon into a 9 x 13 pan and sprinkle with remaining 1/2 c. cheddar cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Serve with tortilla chips.

Enjoy!

I'm sorry, but let the President speak......

2009-09-07T21:09:00.005-04:00

If you haven't already noticed, I really try to stay away from controversial topics on my blog. I kinda made a rule in the beginning that I wasn't going to write about religion or politics. I just didn't want to open those doors and possibly offend any of my readers. I have done a pretty good job at sticking to my original rule; however, this whole hullabaloo about President Obama's speech has really left me scratching my head. I just don't get why people are SO upset. Why are they so opposed to their children hearing a positive, motivating, and uplifting message. Do these parents and politicians NOT want their children to stay in school? Do they NOT want their children to study hard? Do they NOT want their children to have respect for teachers and principals? Or, could it be that they possess such hatred for the President of our country that they can't support anything he says even if it is positive, motivating and uplifting? I tend to believe it is the latter of these.

Now before you start to think that our household consists of a bunch of bleeding heart liberals, let me explain that our house is one divided - one Republican, one Democrat. And it's pretty interesting how we BOTH support issues on BOTH sides of the political fence. I can say, however, regardless of our political affiliation we agree that staying in school, studying hard, and having respect for teachers and principals is a message we want Kaylea to hear over and over again. Bub and I communicate these things to her and welcome any reiteration from family members, friends, clergymen, law enforcement, and especially the Commander in Chief of the U.S. You see, it doesn't matter if I support Obama or if Bub supports Obama. The President's message is not about politics. It is about Kaylea and all the other children in this country and she deserves to hear what the President has to say to her.

I wish Kaylea's school would show the speech tomorrow; however, I can not make that decision for them. I do find it quite disturbing that the outcry from other parents with opposing views HAS made the decision for the schools. None the less, I will make sure Kaylea listens to our President's words. Tomorrow afternoon, Kaylea and I are going to sit down at the computer and we are going to listen together. And because Kaylea is aware of the HUGE controversy that has surrounded this speech, I believe a wonderful follow-up activity will be to have her write an essay on what she learned from President Obama and how she feels about adults in our country trying to keep her from hearing his message.

If you are interested in looking at the effects of the speech as seen through the eyes of a 5th grader, stay tuned to Curiously Kaylea. I will post Kaylea's essay once it is complete.

P.S.
I genuinely hope I have not offended anyone. If I can be married to a wonderful man with opposing political views surely I can have friends and readers with opposing views, as well. We will just have to agree to disagree and leave it at that.

The Anatomy of a Relocation in a Crappy Economy

2009-07-31T08:01:00.005-04:00

Actually, this is a story of two relocations, both of which haven't turned out the way they were envisioned.

Our story: We were living our normal little lives and minding our own business in our quiet little town in East TN. Then in December, all hell broke loose. Bub had applied for and was chosen for a job in Tampa, FL. We were very excited about the possibilities this job held for our family. So many changes were about to happen, so many things we couldn't even imagine. The first thing on our relocation "To Do List" was to sell our house. We listed it in January with hopes that it would sell fairly quickly. We priced it below appraisal and thought it was such a great deal that anyone in their right mind would snatch it up ~ WRONG! Next, in February, Bub left Kaylea and me and the mountains of East Tennessee behind and moved to Florida to begin our new adventure. When he first moved down, his aunt and uncle were gracious enough to offer him a room at their house. We thought it would only be temporary, and gladly accepted. In the meantime, Kaylea and I were staying put in TN until the end of the school year. Bub and I agreed this would be the best thing for Kaylea. This way she wouldn't have to be uprooted in the middle of a school year. We had a plan and we were sticking to it.

Side story: My sister and brother-in-law, Mr. Bob, were living their normal little lives and minding their own business in their quiet little neighborhood in East TN. Then in February, all hell broke loose. Due to poor economic conditions, Mr. Bob, was laid off from his job. Naturally, he immediately started sending out resumes for anything and everything all over the SE. Well, it just so happens that he was offered a job with an insurance agency in Lakeland, FL (where Bub was living with his aunt and uncle). So, in February Mr. Bob left Sis and the mountains of East Tennessee behind and moved to Florida to begin their new adventure. Sis made a few trips down and began looking at real estate and rentals. Then their real estate agent told them about a great rental deal in a very upscale neighborhood in Lakeland. It was a nice 2800 s/f, 3 bed / 2 bath house and the landlord (the real estate agent's nephew) would let them do a month-to-month lease for a RIDICULOUSLY LOW amount (lower than most 2BR apartments in the area). Because they were planning on buying a house soon, the month-to-month lease was the perfect solution. So, they signed on the dotted line. Next, Sis packed their house in Tennessee and moved them (and their stuff) to Florida in May.

Our story (continued): No offers on the house in TN and the school year was coming to an end. What to do? Well, we decided that Kaylea and I should go ahead and move our little selves to Lakeland to be with Bub. Sis and Mr. Bob offered up their upstairs to our family, since it was just be sitting empty. We took them up on the offer, because we really couldn't afford to pay rent and a mortgage AND we were just sure that our house would be selling very soon. So, in June, Kaylea and I loaded up our clothes and headed south.

Side story (continued): July 10th, Sis and I were out looking at houses with our real estate agent and Sis gets a call from Mr. Bob. HE HAD JUST BEEN LAID OFF!

Our story (continued): OH CRAP!

Side story (continued): OH CRAP!

All of our story (continued): OH CRAP! Good news, though, Hubby still has his job ~ YEA! Sis, Mr. Bob and I are looking for work. Our landlord isn't having the best financial luck himself and has listed the house for sale or rent and it had a showing the other day. Needless to say we are a little worried. Remember he is renting to Sis and Mr. Bob for a RIDICULOUSLY LOW AMOUNT. If he could rent the place for more money, why wouldn't he? We really don't know how much longer we have before we will have to move. Because of the month-to-month lease EITHER party can terminate the lease by giving 30 days written notice.

So here we ALL sit - just waiting - just wondering - just hoping!

to be continued.............

Home is where the heart is????????

2009-07-21T19:55:00.003-04:00

As of my last post we were just sitting and waiting and hoping that the right person would come along and fall in love with our house and make us a phenomenal offer. Well, unfortunately we are still sitting and waiting and hoping that the right person will come along and fall in love with our house and at least make us a fair offer. The only thing that has changed is geography. You see, last month Kaylea and Angel and I packed our clothes and headed south to be with Barry.

As of right now, we (Barry, Kaylea, Angel and I) are living with Auntie M and Mr. Bob in Lakeland, FL. And for those of you that are scratching your heads, yes, Auntie M and Mr. Bob were living in Knoxville and they moved to Florida, also. It was quite coincidental, but Mr. Bob was laid-off in February and he was hired in March by a company in Lakeland (which is also our - Missy and my - hometown). So, Auntie M and Mr. Bob offered us their upstairs which was sitting empty. As you can imagine, things are pretty crazy around here at times. But we all are trying to make the best out of a not-so-ideal situation.

There have been several times that I have looked around and asked myself "what are you doing?" It feels like I am on a very long extended vacation. I am living in my sister's house, sleeping in my sister's guest room, eating off of my sister's dishes in her kitchen, washing my clothes in my sister's washer, etc.... you get the picture. All the while I am trying to keep things as normal as possible for Kaylea. The only problem is that this task is next to impossible because things aren't normal.

Kaylea has said that she feels like she is on vacation, also. I guess the finality of the move won't hit her until she starts school. For now all she knows is that she misses her BFF terribly bad and phone calls and emails just aren't the same as sleep overs and play dates. Every chance I get I try to distract her. So far this summer we have worked on Summer Bridge Activities; bought her some books to read; visited with my friend Mary and her children; taken a trip to Daytona to visit our friends from Seymour - Ms. Pam, Gram and Billy; and spent some time at Anna Maria Island at our cousin Debi's beach condo. Currently, she is attending VBS and we are planning on sending her to a summer camp for a couple of weeks.

I almost had myself fooled into thinking that Kaylea was really doing o.k. and this move was going to be a piece of cake. That was until a couple of weeks ago. Kaylea was upset because she didn't want to do a writing assignment for her tutor (that is a whole other post). I wasn't really giving her much sympathy and kept telling her she needed to just do it! Then out of nowhere she broke down into tears and told me, "I want to go home. Please mommy, just let me go home. Call Grammy and she can come and get me and take me home." Well, I tried to be strong and not let her see me crying inside. I explained to her, "This is our home now. Our family is together and your home is where your family is."

I don't think I convinced her; heck, I don't think I convinced myself either. So my question to all of you out there is this, "What makes your house a home? Is it your family being there? Is it ownership? Is it your beloved belongings?"

Any advise and/or words of wisdom are appreciated.

SOOOO - Here we sit

2009-03-23T17:44:00.003-04:00

This went up 2 months ago............

........and nothing! Come on people, it really is a nice house at a really good price in a very quiet subdivision with an ok view of the mountains. SOOOOO, what's the problem????

P.S.

To the first couple that came and took a looksee, we DO have a view of the mountains. If I could plow down the house across the street so that the view wasn't obstructed, I would. But come on, these are mountains we are talking about here. They are kinda BIG and it's not like you can't see them at all. Anyway, I don't think bulldozing Ms. Eva's house would be very neighborly.
To the second couple that came and took a looksee, why were you looking at houses in a subdivision if you didn't want neighbors behind you? Just asking......
To the third couple that came and took a looksee, I am really glad you liked the house. Hopefully, we are somewhere at the top of your massive list of home tours.

Another Kindergaten Cutie

2009-03-04T18:55:00.003-05:00

Two little boys (caucasian - I must add - so you can really see the humor in the story) were playing and talking in their Kindergarten class. The following conversation was overheard,

Boy #1 - When I grow up I want to be Chinese.

Boy #2 - Why?

Boy #1 - So I can own a Chinese restaurant and eat the food anytime I want.

Boy #2 - You can't be Chinese when you grow up; you don't know how to speak Spanish!

Hee Hee

It's about time......

2009-01-19T14:48:00.005-05:00

Yes, finally the weather man got it right. He predicted snow today and as I look out the window, I see the white stuff falling from the sky. Kaylea is so excited that she just had to go out and make a snowball. She looked pretty silly standing on the back patio in her nightgown and Crocs, scraping the snow off of the table top. I will give her credit for being a semi-quick learner, though. The next time she went outside (to walk Angel, of course) she did put on her coat.

The snow is pretty and it is sticking to the trees and grass. As long as the roads don't get slick and Bub can make it home from work safely, all will be good in our house. We are just hoping that this isn't two snows in one - first and last of the year.

Here are some snapshots from East Tennessee. Enjoy!

Finally, Mother Nature got the hint.

Now, that's a BIG East Tennessee snow! Shoot, we might not go to school for the rest of the week.

I love to see snow laying on the branches.

Even Angel was ready for the white stuff.

Another cutie from Kindergarten

2009-01-18T00:19:00.002-05:00

During grade card testing the other day, I was quizzing the children on the numbers 0 - 20. I would show them a flash card with a number on it and they were suppose to tell me what number was on the card.

I was testing one little boy and he got a little confused when I was showing him all of the number cards. As I revealed the card with the number "12" on it, he studied it intently and then said, "Oh, I know that one. It is second-teen!"

Bless his little heart!

CH - CH - CHANGES!

2009-01-06T20:43:00.005-05:00

I am not going to do the traditional New Year's Resolution blog post. All my resolutions are the same as last year (which I failed to stick to). You know the ones: eat better, exercise, kick my Coke habit (Diet Coke that is ;), stop procrastinating, etc......

Instead of looking forward to 2009 and thinking about all of the things that I HAVE TO CHANGE in my life, I am going to look forward to 2009 and think about all the things that WILL BE CHANGING in my life.

This year is going to be monumental for Bub, Kaylea and me. You see, we are moving. I don't mean down the street or to a neighboring city. We are moving to Florida. Bub applied for a different position with his company which requires the move. Our family is facing the move with mixed emotions, but I have faith that we all will benefit from this relocation in the end.

Bub is very nervous about leaving East Tennessee. This is the only home he has ever known, except for the 4 years that we lived in the Nashville area. He is a country boy and loves the mountains. I keep telling him he will adjust to Florida and learn to love it also, just in a different way. I don't know that he is totally convinced, but I think he is ready to face this new adventure.
His new job will be totally different than anything he has ever done. He will be traveling A LOT! They are telling him he will be on the road about 3 weeks a month. I think he is looking forward to the challenge of learning the new job and not being tied to his desk like he is used to. But, being away from his family is weighing heavy on his mind and heart.

Kaylea, naturally, doesn't want to leave her friends, her school, her house, her church, her art classes, her Karate studio, etc... Basically, her whole world is being turned upside down. She says she doesn't want to move, but then talks constantly about being able to wear shorts and flip-flops all year long. She loves warm weather, the beach and Disney so these things are always a topic of her conversations, also. She is excited about having a community swimming pool and level streets with sidewalks where she can ride her bike. Mostly, she is anxious to make friends and have kids living within walking distance of her house. All of these are things she does not have in our current neighborhood.

She hasn't thought about how much her dad will be gone and how much she is going to miss him. I am hopeful that she will adjust to that change - THE BIGGEST CHANGE- without too much trouble.

Then there is me. I am totally torn by the move. As you all know, I grew up in Florida. We moved there when I was three and I didn't leave until I was twenty-five. Most of my childhood memories took place in Florida. All of my school memories (Elementary, Junior High, High School, College) took place in Florida. That was home to me for most of my life. But when I moved to Tennessee in 1993 I didn't look back. I moved here to further my relationship with Bub and this was his home; therefore, this became my home, too. So for the past 15+ years I have called Tennessee my home. I have wonderful friends and family members that live here and I will miss them terribly. BUT, I also have wonderful friends that live in Florida that I can't wait to reconnect with. I am sad, but also, very excited.

As for Bub traveling, I am not looking forward to him being gone. It will be a huge adjustment for me. I am going to miss the heck out of him, but I am prayerful that our marriage will only grown stronger as a result and that I will be successful at parenting Kaylea in his absence.

For now, we are preparing for the move in many different ways. First, we have been working our tails off getting the house ready for listing. There has been a lot of cleaning, spackling, painting, packing, updating and general sprucing up. I promised several people that I would post some "Before and After" shots, so here they are:

Living Room, before. I loved my cranberry walls

Living Room, after. Nice and neutral and, hopefully, universally appealing

Kaylea's Room, before. BRIGHT tangerine walls and luau theme.

Kaylea's Room, after. Nice and neutral and, hopefully, universally appealing.

New counter tops and tile in the kitchen!

Close-up of counter tops and tile.

We have, also, prepared our family for the separation that will be involved, by equipping everyone with a webcam. Hopefully, this will make the miles apart seem a little less.

Lastly. I am trying to psych myself up to be a pillar of strength for Kaylea. You see, Bub will be reporting to his new job at the end of this month. Kaylea and I, however, will not be leaving Tennessee until the end of the school year. So, we are about to get a crash course in being a long distance family. Lucky for us, there are REALLY cheap airfares from Knoxville to St. Pete. Hopefully, we will be able to scoot down for a weekend or two, and then there will be the school holidays that we will be able to take advantage of.

I am asking that all of my blogging buddies keep my family in your prayers. Pray that our family will grow stronger and adjust to our new "home" with ease.

Oh, and by the way, if you know anyone looking for a good deal on a home with beautiful mountain views, just drop me a note. ;D

Who are these cutie-patooties?

2008-12-21T02:33:00.004-05:00

circa 1972

Gee, we almost look like we might even like each other.

Merry Christmas, ThiThi!

This year will be our 40th Christmas together.

May we be blessed with another 40 (or more) together.

Some Yummy Yumminess From Me To You

2008-12-10T12:19:00.002-05:00

Here are two SUPER simple sinful recipes that will be the hit of your goodie basket. Oh, you might want to make a double recipe because the first batch will never last long enough to make it into the baskets.

Oreo Truffles

1 package Oreo cookies
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 package white almond bark

Directions:
1. Crush up cookies in the food processor
2. Mix with the softened cream cheese
3. Form into balls (however big you want them) and put on a waxpaper lined cookie sheet
4. Place cookie sheets in freezer and leave until the candies are firm
5. Melt the almond bark
6. Dip the cookie balls in the melted almond bark then return them to the cookie sheet to set
7. Drizzle with brown almond bark, shaved chocolate or some reserved cookie crumbs for decoration.
8. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Red Velvet Truffles

1 package red velvet cake mix, prepared as instructed on the box
1 tub cream cheese frosting
1 package almond bark (white or brown)
Toasted coconut, opptional

Directions:
1. Make the cake according to the directions on the package and let cool.
2. Crumble the cooled cake into a large bowl
3. Stir in the cream cheese frosting
4. Form into balls (however big you want them) and put on a waxpaper lined cookie sheet
5. Place cookie sheets in freezer and leave until the candies are firm
6. Melt the almond bark
7. Dip the cake balls in the melted almond bark then return them to the cookie sheet to set
8. Sprinkle with toasted coconut or contrasting color of almond bark for decoration.
8. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

The 10th Annual Photo Christmas Card

2008-12-09T21:24:00.003-05:00

Well, drum roll, please. Here it is.............................

ENJOY!

May the Christmas season fill

your home with joy, your heart

with love and your life with

laughter!

From Our Home To Yours

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-09T16:45:00.003-05:00

Yes, I am definately in the holiday spirit. I hope you enjoy the new music and hopefully it will fill you with the spirit of the holidays, as well.

I have to say that I am kinda freaking out because I think I am almost ready for Christmas. All of the decorating is done; most of the presents have been bought AND wrapped; no Christmas baking this year so that is off the "To Do" list, as well. See what I mean; I think I am almost ready.

Whew!!!!! This is always such a crazy time of year and hopefully I can sit back and enjoy it a little more this year.

I have a few pictures of the homestead with its halls all decked. I hope you enjoy them.

No theme tree here, unless you consider ornaments with personal meaning a theme.

The stockings are hung by the chimney with care.....

Happy Turkey Day!

2008-11-27T04:42:00.004-05:00

******CAUTION, I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR TYPE-O'S, GRAMMATICAL ERRORS, AND ANYTHING ELSE THAT MIGHT NOT MAKE SENSE! IT'S TOO EARLY FOR BLOGGING******

Yes my friends, let me be the first to wish you a Happy Turkey Day. The day has started early here at our happy little home. We start sooooo early that ThiThi just spends the night so she get the turkey in the oven. So, WAKE UP! Our coffee is brewing; the bird is in the oven; and we have already started our Pre-Black Friday perusing on the Internet. By the way Angie, if you are up and about and see two grown women in their pajamas riding around our town looking for a newspaper, that will be us. Just smile and wave ;)

P.S. This was just too funny not to pass along. When I did spell check on my post I had spelled 'perusing' correctly; however, I had mispelled 'grammatical'. Go figure?

Gettin' in the mood

2008-11-22T12:17:00.003-05:00

Honestly, I try not to put too much emphasis on Christmas until after Thanksgiving. I am of the mindset that we celebrate each holiday as it comes. My official Christmas season kick-off will begin around 11:00 pm on Thanksgiving night when ThiThi and I head over to Five Oaks to start the Black Friday shop-a-thon. I won't even think of putting my Christmas tree up until after the turkey leftovers are sitting in the fridge and I recover from my 18 hour shopping trip.

Today, however, I am starting to get in the mood. I have been in the kitchen cooking the holiday (both Thanksgiving and Christmas) meal regulars. You know the ones - they appear on your table every year without fail. Today we are having Thanksgiving with my family in Dandridge and I am taking my infamous Corn Pudding and a few other goodies. I have the Chocolate Eclair cake in the fridggy; the Pumpkin Dump Cake on the counter cooling; and the Corn Pudding and Sweet Potato Casserole waiting to go into the oven. The smell of the food and the sound of Christmas carols on the XM are enough to make any person anxious for the holiday season to begin.

I feel like a little kid that is bubbling with excitement. I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday season and treasure this special time with your family.

What is in a name?

2008-10-25T10:11:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, Bub had a message to call a customer and her name was spelled Le-A. After pondering the spelling, Bub decided, as many of us would, that the girl's name was pronounced "Lee/a" (long e, short a).

When Bub called the girl and referred to her by name, he was quickly corrected on the pronunciation of her name.

She said, "My name is not 'lee/a'. It is pronounced 'le/dash/a'. The dash isn't silent!"

I just wonder what Shakespeare would think of that name?

Fall Break

2008-10-24T14:25:00.003-04:00

Ah, we had such big plans for this one day break.

First, we tossed around the idea of going to Atlanta to spend the night, go to see Wicked, and then have a shopapalooza. Unfortunately, Kaylea and I were the only two that liked the plan, so we tossed the idea.

Then, we talked about going camping. Well, that idea had to be scratched, as well. Apparently, everyone's schedules were in conflict and it just wasn't a do-able trip.

Then, Kaylea and I decided we would go to Gatlinburg and roam the streets, ride the sky lift, go to Ripley's, and take a trip into the mountains to peak at the leaves. Well, it appears that Mother Nature had different plans for us since she has decided to send in the rain, wind, and cold.

So, guess what Kaylea and I have done for our Fall Break? We slept in, watched t.v. and currently, at 2:33 pm, we are still in our jammies.

I'm thinking Mother Nature knows best. We needed this break and we needed the down time.

Crazy Daze of Autumn

2008-10-07T21:21:00.002-04:00

Around our house there are a couple of times during the year that things just get CRAZY. The first being June and the next being mid-September through January. Honestly, I was in shock when I looked back at my previous post and saw how long it had been. I use to be a daily or every other day poster. But recently, I just haven't been able to find the time. I just don't know why I have been such a slacker. Gee, could it be,

Starting a new job
Being put in the hospital for 4 days
Preparing for Kaylea's birthday party while fighting off a sinus infection
Parents visiting for a week
Camping trip last weekend
Yard sale this weekend
Preparing for another birthday party next weekend
Camping the following weekend
Halloween and costumes to create (Kaylea and me)
Volunteering at Boo-at-the-Zoo
Taste of Home Entertaining parties
Thanksgiving
Christmas (yes, there are only 78 days left)

It's enough to make a sane girl go a little crazy. I know I will make it though. I do every year, don't I?

So Much To Do, So Little Time

2008-09-23T15:22:00.003-04:00

This Saturday is Kaylea's BIG birthday soiree. This isn't the friends' party; this is the family party. I am going to have between 25 and 30 people at my house to celebrate Kaylea turning the big 1-0. Yes, this is a HUGE deal - she is finally hitting double digits.

Anyway, if you know me, then you know that I don't have people over to my house unless it has been cleaned - T H O R O U G H L Y! That means baseboards wiped; windows cleaned; carpet spots treated; ceiling fans dusted; etc. You see, I don't want people to think I live like a pig (even though my house can get a little disheveled sometimes.) So, today is Tuesday and I am still trying to get the housework done so that I can finish putting out the Fall/Halloween decorations. Then there is the grocery shopping to do - and the cake to order (note to self: call Food City to order the cake) - and the food to prepare.

Oh, and did I mention that I subbed this afternoon. I knew I had all of this stuff to do and accepted a sub assignment anyway. I guess I am a gluten for punishment. Anyway, the items are going to check themselves off my list, so I guess I better go.

But before I log-off I am going to leave you with another funny from Kindergarten. I was asking a child to tell me his/her birthday (something they are suppose to know). The child knew it was in February, but couldn't remember the day. Trying to be helpful and give a hint, I said, "It is the day after Valentine's Day." Suddenly the child's eyes brighten and a huge smile appears and he/she says, "Really, it is AGAIN this year!?!"

School Funnies

2008-09-19T13:02:00.002-04:00

I am truly loving my new job. I actually look forward to going in to work each day. The children are so sweet and innocent and they definitly keep me smiling. Here are just a few of the cuties:

1. A little girl told me, "I think my mom sent me to school in a dirty shirt. The color looks dirty, but it must be ok since mom let me wear it." (She had on a heather brown shirt - new and CLEAN!)

2. On fish nugget and hushpuppy day in the cafeteria a little girl informed me that she didn't like sushpuppies. Then a little boy told me that he eated all of his fishpuppies. :)

3. Finally, a note was sent to school from a parent that was wanting to know what lesson had been taught the day before. Her son came home and told her they had learned about "a frickin' elephant." (The class had talked about an "African elephant")

Go ahead, laugh!

So, do you understand why I love my job. I get to smile and laugh and spend time with the most amazing children every day. Life can't get much better than this!

Give Me A Break

2008-09-04T15:51:00.003-04:00

I am going to start this post the same way I started the last post. "Yes, I know I have been an absentee blogger. I am sorry...." Well, this time I had another really good reason. You see, I have been in the hospital since Sunday evening. I began wheezing really bad on Saturday while we were camping and by Sunday evening it had only gotten worse. My Bub insisted that I get in the car because he was going to take me "home." The next thing I knew we were pulling into the Sevier County Medical Center ER. After 3 breathing treatments, a steroid injection and 8 hours in the ER, I was admitted to the hospital for further treatment. And that is where I have stayed until today.

The final diagnosis is still a BIG ?.

Possibly I contracted a viral infection that really did a number on my lungs; or I might have an acute case of adult onset asthma. I am being referred on to a lung specialist for follow-up testing and diagnosis. But the reality is that I might not ever know what caused this. Oh well, I guess I will just have to make sure I keep an inhaler handy from now on so that I don't end up in the same mess again.

Obviously, I am a just a little beat so I am going to close for today. Hopefully, I will have a little more energy in a few days. Stay tuned.........

The Circle of Life

2008-08-24T20:41:00.003-04:00

Yes, I know, I have been an absentee blogger again. I am so sorry and hopefully things will return to normal someday soon. I seriously doubt it though. After all, look at the title to my little page on the internet. My world has been WAY crazy and WAY mixed up as of late, but doesn't seem quite so "little" any longer. Many things, HUGE things, happened in my life over the past week. Things that are life altering and will have a profound affect on me. These things have touched me in a way that I am compelled to tell my story to everyone that will listen.

It all began last Friday. I received a call from my father letting me know that my step-grandfather, Papaw, was not doing well. You see, Papaw had a ravenous form of cancer that had been attacking and eating its way through his body for the past several months. Daddy told me that Papaw had spiked a fever and lost consciousness Friday morning and things didn't look good. I explained that I had a commitment on Friday evening that I had to keep, but I would be up (to Dandridge) first thing Saturday morning. I was not prepared for what I saw when I walked into my grandparents' living room on Saturday morning. There lay my Papaw in a hospital bed. The man who had always been so strong and intimidating was now just a frail and weak little man. To say I was taken aback is quite an understatement. I last saw Papaw in June and he was his normal self, laughing joking and teasing. But, Saturday I could tell things were probably not going to be the same again. The hospice nurses were telling the family that Papaw was facing his final hours of life. He was pretty much none responsive. His eyes were mostly glazed over; however, occasionally we would say something to him and he would respond with a grunt or a squeeze of the hand. We all just prayed that God would let His will be done in a quick manner so that Papaw wouldn't have to suffer any longer.

Papaw came into my life when I was 8, and Daddy and Fris got married. With me growing up in Florida and Papaw being a truck driver, I only saw him in the summer when I was visiting he was not out on the road. Needless to say, we weren't as close as I was with my other grandfathers; but, I loved him nonetheless. As an adult, I didn't really do anything to grow our relationship. I would see Papaw at holiday gatherings and family functions, but never really went out of my way to go to his house for "no special reason". I invited Papaw and Mamaw to Kaylea's birthday parties every year, but they only came to the first two. Once again, we were family members and we loved each other, but we weren't actively involved in each other's daily lives.

It was strange though, when I saw him laying in that bed, all of our history seemed to be erased. I sat at his bedside and held his hand and wiped his brow. I rubbed his arms and legs and kissed his cheek. I told him I loved him and not to worry, everything was going to be ok. I sat with Papaw all day on that Saturday and didn't want to leave that night, but I did. ThiThi and I came home and cooked food to take to the family bright and early on Sunday morning. When we returned Sunday, I sat and held his hand and wiped his brow; rubbed his arms and legs and kissed his cheek. And I told him I loved him and not to worry, everything was going to be ok. Once again on Sunday evening I didn't want to leave him, but I did. ThiThi and I came home and tried to get some rest; then back we went on Monday morning. When we returned on Monday I sat and held his hand and wiped his brow; rubbed his arms and legs and kissed his cheek. And I told him I loved him and not to worry, everything was going to be ok. When it came time to go home I didn't want to leave, but I did. This time, however, ThiThi and I told Fris, Mamaw and my brother that we were going to come back and sit with Papaw through the night. At that time, we didn't know why we wanted to or felt called to come back, but we just did.

Over those three days, many times the question was asked, "Why doesn't God just end Papaw's suffering?" "Why hasn't God taken him yet?" And many times, the answer was, "God isn't through with Papaw; He is still using him to do His work." Then Papaw's preacher said, "God has great plans for Papaw, but now He is using him to touch someones life and bring them to Him." It was also suggested by the hospice nurses that Papaw wasn't ready to go and he was waiting to make sure his family would be ok. They encouraged us to talk to Papaw and tell him that we would be ok and that he could go now. All of us took our turn and we had that conversation, but Papaw was still holding on.

On Monday evening, ThiThi, Papaw's son David, Papaw's sister Mary and I sat up all night. We took turns holding his hand and talking to him. There were times when he was unconscious and at other times he was aware of our presence. He actually tried to talk to Mary and David at one point, but unfortunately we couldn't understand what he was saying. We kept telling him we were all ok and he could go Home now. But for some reason he just hung in there. About 10am Tuesday morning, ThiThi and I were getting ready to leave to come home and we were saying our goodbyes to Papaw. He mumbled, "Mom". ThiThi asked him, "Papaw, do you see your Mom?" He replied, "Uh, huh." (His Mom died about 20 years ago) Then he began squinting his eyes real tight as if the sun were shining in his eyes. ThiThi asked him, "Papaw, do you see a bright light?" He replied, "Uh, huh." We both kissed him on the forehead and told him we loved him and then we left.

Naturally, we both were exhausted. On the way home we made plans to take naps and return later in the afternoon. When I got home I glanced at my answering machine and the message light was blinking. I was almost afraid to play the message, but knew that I had to. Imagine my surprise and excitement when I played the message and heard a lady from the Sevier County Schools asking me to call her back that day to schedule an interview for a Teacher Assistant position. If you don't remember, I have been trying to get this very job, with no luck, for the last 4 years. Of course, I immediately called back and she wanted to know if I could come in for an interview at 1:30 that afternoon. Naturally, I told her I would be there. Then I hurried to shower and wake myself enough to drive to Sevierville. My interview went very well and was over within about 20-30 minutes. At its conclusion, I was offered the job. Yeah, me! I was so happy; finally the prayer that I had prayed so many times over the last 4 years had finally been answered. I left the school board office and immediately went to take my physical so that I could start to work on Wednesday morning. After my physical I called Bub with the good news.

When I called Bub, I was absolutely giddy. I finally had the job that I had pretty much given up on. As a matter of fact, my application had expired the Friday before my interview, because I hadn't renewed it at the beginning of this school year. I was telling Bub all of the oddities of getting the job offer and when I paused long enough for him to speak, he said, "Jenni, I am so happy for you. I hope this is everything you want. Now, I hate to do this to you, but I am going to have to burst your bubble. Papaw died. Missy called and said that Papaw passed away around 2:00." I almost had to pull off the road. You see Papaw died at almost the same time that I was offered my job. All I could do was cry and wonder.

All I know is I believe in prayers being answered; however, we can't set the timeline for when they will be answered. God works in His own time. For whatever reason, I wasn't meant to work at the school until now. And for whatever reason, Papaw's time to go Home wasn't until 2:00 on Tuesday. After meeting the children in my class, I know God has special plans for me, as well. We have a few children with special needs and I think God has placed me with them for a reason. And as for Papaw, I know that he is in his special place. He is happy and free from all of his pain. And I just hope he knows how much I love him and that he was a true blessing to me!

Our Life In Pictures

2008-08-12T23:48:00.008-04:00

I have written many posts this summer about different family events and special celebrations, but I couldn't seem to get the pictures included in the posts. So, here are the pictures that recap our summer. Enjoy!

SJ and Kaylea playing in the river at Family Reunion ~ June 2008

K8 and SJ at Family Reunion ~ June 2008

Mr. Bob on Father's Day ~ June 2008

The beautiful Miss C on Father's Day ~ June 2008

Pappy on Father's Day ~ June 2008

Miss C's Birthday ~ July 2008

Grammy and Pappy celebrating their 40th Anniversary - August 2008

Grammy's and Pappy's 40th Anniversary cake and cupcakes~ August 2008

The Anniversary cake ~ August 2008

Grammy and Pappy cutting their cake ~ August 2008

Grammy and Pappy feeding each other cake ~ August 2008

Bub's Birthday ~ August 2008

Bub's Birthday cake (handmade by Kaylea) ~ August 2008

Bub blowing out his candles (with a little help from Kaylea) ~ August 2008

My babies (Kaylea and Angel) and me ~ Summer 2008

Where has the summer gone? When I look back at these pictures, I can't believe that summer is now over and it is time to go back to school. It seems like all of this just happened last week. Oh well, I hope everyone out there had a great summer. Ours was a bit crazy and a little mixed up, but we wouldn't have it any other way!

The Queen of Quirks

2008-08-11T12:49:00.002-04:00

My friend and fellow blogger, Angie, tagged me for a meme. I just don't know why she tagged me for this particular meme. Just because it is about "quirks" and I happen to be the Queen of Quirks....that shouldn't make me a definite shoo in. For some reason I think I am the subject of behavioral profiling.

Well, here are the rules for this meme:
1) Link to the person who tagged you.
2) Mention the rules.
3) Tell six quirky yet boring, unspectacular details about myself.
4) Tag six other bloggers by linking to them.
5) Go to each person’s blog and leave a comment that lets them know they’ve been tagged.

OK, this sounds simple enough. I just need to list 6 quirky things that I do. What, only 6? How will I narrow them down? Well, here goes; I'll do my best.

1) The food in my pantry is sorted by categories, like a grocery store. All of the soups are together; all of the vegetables are together; all of the grains are together; all of the baking products are together; and so on and so on. Also, if I have two of a particular item, say tomato soup, the cans are stacked one on top of the other with the labels facing out - of course!

2) The spices in the spice cabinet are sorted by herbs and singular spices (oregano, tarragon, paprika, chili powder, etc.); mixed spices and seasoned salts (Lawry's, steak seasoning, chicken seasoning, Mrs. Dash, etc.); dessert spices (nutmeg, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, etc.); and so on.

3) I am freaky about any type of body hair that is not connected to the body. You know the kind that sheds off onto the floor or in the shower. And don't even get me started about my freak out when I get a hair stuck to my hands when they are wet. EWW! (Yes, I could never make it as a hair stylist)

4) I organize the clothes in my closet by style, color and season. All of the short sleeve t-shirts are sorted by color and hung together; then the short sleeve collared shirts; then the sleeveless collared shirts; then the sleeveless no collar shirts; etc.

5) I always wash the loads of laundry in the same order. First the whites; then the light colors; then Barry's work clothes; then the jeans; and finally the sheets and towels. Don't know why - just do.

6) I have this thing about checking out people's feet - not a foot fetish - I just find myself looking at people's feet and toes. Men, women, kids, old and young, it doesn't matter. And in case you have never noticed, there are some really pretty people out there that have some pretty ugly toes. I'm just sayin'.

Oh gosh, that was my 6 quirky things quota. Honestly, I have so many more quirks; I could go on and on and on. But I would prefer you think of my as "Quirky" instead of "Freakish".

So now it's your turn. Enquiring minds are dieing to hear from you:

Missy
Paula
Anna
Mary
Abby
VegMom

Disappointment At Savelli's

2008-08-10T10:17:00.004-04:00

Friday evening our family (Memommy, Mr. Jimmy, Auntie M., Mr. Bob, Bub, Kaylea and I) went out for what we thought was going to be a nice dinner at one of our favorite little Italian restaurants. We all had eaten at Savelli's in the past and it was the first choice when we planned our outing. As a matter of fact, Memommy had been looking forward to going there for over a week. You see, Memommy and Mr. Jimmy are from Macon and they don't have the opportunity to visit Savelli's like the rest of us "locals" do.

Well, all I can say is we did not have a good experience Friday evening, and the manner in which our complaints were handled will most likely prevent us from returning to the restaurant. If you are familiar with Savelli's, then you know it is very intimate and it can tend to get very crowded. Of course, expect this on a Friday evening; therefore, we made reservations for our party of 7.

When we arrived, we were seated immediately and our drink orders were taken. Then we sat for quite a while before we were approached again. By this time everyone was very hungry and ready to order. Unfortunate for us though, our waiter only wanted to take our appetizer order. This was apparent by the way he rushed away from the table as soon as we ordered the antipasto salad and fried cheese. We sat and waited for him to return and take our meal order, but he didn't return. Finally, our appetizers were brought to the table by a young lady (not our waiter), and we dove into them like a swarm of locust. The fried cheese was very good, but the antipasto salad was lacking a little, in my opinion. Don't get me wrong, the meats and provolone, along with the peppers and olives were delicious, but the lettuce looked old and had started to turn brown around the edges. It had the appearance of lettuce that had been chopped for a day or so and had been stored in the refrigerator.

After we finished our appetizers we continued to sit and wait for our meal order to be taken. Finally, our waiter returned to the table to take the orders. Guess what we did after that? You guessed it; sat and sat and sat and waited for our meals to be prepared. Unfortunately, things just careened downhill from this point forward. When our meals finally arrived - minus Mr. Jimmy's (the pizza cooks were backed up and his was going to take about 7 minute longer - which was actually about 10 min, but who's counting) - there were a few problems. First Mr. Bob's Chicken Parmesan was burnt and he ordered Angel Hair pasta and received spaghetti. All things we would deal with; however, we could not deal with what we discovered next. After Memommy, Auntie M and I doused our meals with Parmesan Cheese we smelled a horrific odor that resembled something along the lines of a men's locker room and dirty sweaty socks. I picked up the shaker of Parmesan Cheese and took a big whiff and about fell out of my chair. Let's just say, I found the originating point of the odor. It smelled more like Limburger Cheese instead of Parmesan Cheese. We immediately flagged our waiter and told him of the problem and that we now had three meals that were covered in rancid cheese, to which his only action was to remove the cheese shaker from the table and walk into the kitchen. After waiting on a few tables he returned and removed our plates and then waited on a few more tables. Then finally, he returned again and asked us what we wanted to replace our original orders. We told him we wanted the same meals, just not with rotten cheese this time.

When our meals were finally brought back to the table (Auntie M's about 5 minutes after Memommy's and mine) I began to eat, being careful to stay away from the cheese shaker. Imagine my shock when I put the first bite of a stuffed shell into my mouth and tasted spoiled ricotta cheese. I promptly spit it out and gave up on eating Italian for the evening. For some odd reason I had lost my appetite.

As of yet, there has been no response to our complaint. The waiter brought the bill, with no accommodation for the poor service and poor food quality we received. When Auntie M called back to the restaurant she was told they were too busy to talk to her and she would have to call back on Saturday. We are still waiting for an apology, at the very least! Unfortunately, regardless of how, or if, they resolve this matter, I don't think I will be returning. So so sad! I guess I will have to get my Italian fix at Altruda's from now on.

Ludicrousness

2008-08-08T07:35:00.003-04:00

Each year when getting Kaylea ready to start back to school, I just shake my head in wonder at the rules that have been set forth by the Sevier County Schools. The one that really gets me is the requirement of all students to carry clear or mesh backpacks to school. I know many of you might think that this is a good rule because it prevents students from carrying drugs, weapons, and all other types of harmful things to school. Well, this is my beef with the rule.

One of all (as Kaylea would say), is this rule necessary in Primary school? I haven't heard of too many kindergartners packin' heat.

Second, why does the rule fly out the window if the parents choose to buy their little kindergartners the cute canvas bookbag that is sold by the parent support group? Does the school treat their canvas bags with some type of special agent that will dissolve the bookbag if anything harmful were to be carried in it? I think not!

Third, if the school is trying to remain safe and secure, why aren't the students required to carry acrylic instrument cases. If you ask me, little Johnny could get Daddy's shotgun into his trombone case a whole lot easier than into his backpack. I'm just sayin'.

Fourth, why are students allowed to bring their lunch to school? I'm quite sure all sorts of weapons could be concealed inside a Hannah Montana lunchbox.

I guess my gripe is the inconsistency of the policy. If the school system wants to protect our children, which they should, then they need to examine all of their policies and evaluate all possibilities. Make changes that will really have an affect on the behavior they are trying to deter. Until such time comes, I guess I will just be leery of all the lunchbox totin' - trombone playin' - bookbag carryin' kindergarteners.

Rough Week

2008-08-07T09:47:00.002-04:00

As I have written before, I have issues. Well, this week has been a rough one for me. You see, brilliant me let my prescription for Cymbalta run out. Oh, I don't mean the one little bottle of "keep Momma happy and pain-free pills" I get each month; oh no - the entire prescription. I noticed last week while I was in Macon that I had enough medication to make it through until I got home, but then I would have to call in a refill. Then, I looked closely at the bottle and noticed that I didn't have anymore refills. I remained hopeful that once I got home I would be able to get in to see the Doctor quickly; therefore, averting any crisis that might me lurking around the corner. Well, with the excitement and craziness of returning home and planning/preparing for the in-laws anniversary party, I forgot to call the doctor's office on Friday. I didn't panic, yet, because I had enough medication to last through Saturday and I figured a call to the doctor on Monday would take care of everything. Well, guess what? I was wrong, again. When I called the doctor on Monday, I was informed that they couldn't get me in until Thursday (today).

I have to be honest, I was a little concerned about waiting that long to get the prescription refilled - not because I thought I would end up collapsing in a heap in the living floor - but basically because I know you are not suppose to quit any type of anti-depressant cold turkey. Well, since the doctor's office obviously wasn't concerned about this, I convinced myself that it must be ok.

Today all I can say is that probably the doctor's office should re-prioritize working in patients that need a prescription refill. I have had a terrible week. And of course it is the same stuff I went through before being prescribed the Cymbalta. I have had absolutely NO energy and my head has felt totally disconnected from my body. I haven't been able to concentrate or even think straight which has culminated in a splitting headache for the past two days. With all of this going on, I haven't wanted to do anything other than sleep, which means I have stayed on the couch or in bed. Now this morning I awoke with severe pain in my back, hips and legs; oh and the headache has yet to subside.

All I can say is come on 2:00, so I can get my medicine back. And to think, I had begun to think that I didn't really need that stuff anymore. Well, I have changed my mind on that one.

Drugs are good; drugs are my friend.

Yes, I am alive...

2008-08-01T21:40:00.004-04:00

I know that it has been awhile since I last posted anything, but I just haven't had the time. Somehow, life has gotten in the way:)

Last week, Kaylea was attending art camp in the morning and then we had VBS in the evening. I worked in the kitchen at VBS and when we got home, I was just too tired to do anything. Then Sunday, Kaylea and I went to Macon, GA, to meet up with ThiThi and visit with Memommy and Mr. Jimmy. While we were in GA, mom had a Taste of Home party (yea MOM!) and we did some shopping(yea MOM, again!). Finally, we drove home yesterday (Thursday) and now I am preparing for Barry's parents 40th wedding anniversary party (yea Pappy and Grammy!)

Maybe next week will get back to normal. I hope so, anyway, because I need some downtime so I can catch my breath. WHEW.

Thank you to all my loyal followers. I see you guys haven't given up on me. That is a great feeling!

If your going to do Dollywood...

2008-07-20T21:11:00.002-04:00

...you must have the following things:

One Gold Season Pass per family
A refillable mug for each member of the family

We went to Dollywood today and it became clear to me that those two things were the best deals Dollywood is offering. The reason I say this is, the Gold Season Pass saves you from having to pay for parking, PLUS it saves you 20% on ALL purchases inside the park. We love getting a 20% discount on all of our food and drinks, plus it is nice getting that same discount in all of the shops. Did you know that Dolly's Closet has a wide selection of Vera Bradley items? With the Gold Pass they are always 20% cheaper than anywhere else. Also, did you know that The Emporium is now carrying Life Is Good merchandise? These items, which are hard to find on sale at other shops, are always discounted for Gold Pass holders, as well.

Now, as for the refillable mugs, yes, they are a little on the expensive side when you first purchase them (but again, save 20% with your Gold Pass). The good thing is you can reuse those mugs year after year. Dollywood doesn't have a policy that the mugs are only good for one season. We are still using mugs from 4 years ago. I don't know about you, but I think we have definitely gotten our moneys worth out of them. Also, you can ask that your mug be filled with water and there is no charge - at all. Today, we were thirsty and got an Icee in one mug and ice water in the other and it only cost, $1.71. Sure beats, the menu prices of $3.79 for an Icee (in a non-refillable cup) and $2.89 for a bottled water. See what I mean - what a bargain!

We also found a bargain for lunch. At Victoria's Parlor they have a family special on Sundays; you get a large pizza, 1 bowl of salad, 4 breadsticks, and 4 large drinks for $28.99. This was so much food. And honestly, I don't know of any other amusement park where you can feed a family of 4 for a little over $23 (remember, the 20% Gold Pass savings).

With the economy in the tank the way it is, I think a lot of families are opting not to go on vacation this year. They just don't feel they can afford the gas, hotel and entertainment. I know in our house, we are making some adjustments too, as a result of the rising gas prices. But it was nice to see that we could go to Dollywood today and it didn't break the bank. A good time was had by all; and we ate until we were stuffed and walked away leaving food behind that we couldn't finish (we were nice and offered our untouched 5 pieces of pizza, still in the box, to a large family sitting behind us).

We will definitely go back again before the summer is over and, of course, we will have to attend the Harvest Celebration and Smokey Mountain Christmas. Sometimes I forget how lucky we are to have Dollywood as a neighbor. Today, however, I was reminded of what a good neighbor it is.

BUNCO Night - Whoopee!

2008-07-18T13:58:00.002-04:00

Tonight's Bunco game is going to be a little different that usual. Normally, one person will host the game at their home and they are responsible for providing the food and drinks. Unfortunately, this was our friend E's month to host the soiree and, for obvious reasons, she is not really in the hostess frame of mind. So, tonight we are helping her out and we are doing a pot-luck Bunco. Everyone is suppose to bring a yummy dish to share but I have had a few reservations about this plan since it was suggested. As with all groups, we have a few people that will try to do the easiest, quickest and cheapest thing, which usually means showing up with a bag of chips and a jar of salsa. Well, needless to say, that is not how my brain works. I have worried that we won't have a meat or main course of any type. Or, we won't have enough food to feed our group of 12. Or, we will only have desserts, chips and drinks. For these reasons, I am probably doing more than my fair share, just to make sure that we have enough to make a meal. After all, like many of the other girls, I wait to eat my dinner at the game, and the last thing I want is to leave hungry at the end of the evening.

So, my contribution to tonight's meal is Mini-BBQ Sandwiches and Georgia Cracker Salad. And yes, my contribution is quick and easy, but unfortunately for me, not too cheap. Oh well, that is the price I am willing to pay for convenience.

Here are my recipes:

Missy's Mini BBQ Sandwiches Makes 60 sandwiches

4 pkg frozen Parker House Yeast Rolls (like Sister Schubert)
2-18 oz containers of Lloyd's Original BBQ Pork
BBQ Sauce (your favorite brand)

Heat the BBQ pork in a pan on the stove top. Add additional BBQ sauce if you want your meat a little juicier.

Bake the rolls according to package directions.

When the rolls are done, remove them from the aluminum pan and split. Fill with the BBQ and then return them to the pan. Cover with foil until time to serve.

(My sister made these for a party and they were delicious. Super easy and super fast!)

Georgia Cracker Salad

I posted this recipe earlier, so I won't bother retyping it - just click the link if you didn't get it the first time (Anna).

Friends

2008-07-14T21:07:00.003-04:00

My word for today is "friends". I have crossed paths with many today and each one has touched my heart in a different way.

First, I was finally able to meet (face to face) my friend Angie and her handsome son, Edison, and her adorable daughter, Caroline. Angie and I have been Blogging Buddies for a few months now. I can't really remember how we found each other, but we did. It didn't take long to realize that we lived in the same small town. We both have been on the look-out for each other for awhile now, but amazingly enough hadn't managed to bump into each other. Well, today I was picking up Kaylea from Arts and Craft camp (at Angie's church - where she also works) and I decided to go upstairs and introduce myself. It was nice to finally meet the person behind the words and pictures that I look at daily. Hopefully, we will see each other again very soon and very often.

Second, I went to a funeral this evening to support my friend, E. Her father passed away very unexpectedly. He was in his 80's and lived with E. She found him Saturday morning sitting in his recliner, but he had already passed. E said that she feels he went quickly and peacefully and she is getting comfort in him knowing that he wasn't alone. Nonetheless, this was a very hard thing to watch a friend go through. My heart goes out to E because she doesn't have any other family to speak of. She has never been married; therefore, we, her friends, are her support system.

Lastly, at the funeral I was able to see a lot of friends I have made through my years as a substitute teacher. You see, E is a teacher from Kaylea's old school and a lot of faculty members were there to support E, as well. It was a little strange for me being the only "non-staff' member standing in our large group. The Principal, Assistant Principal, Secretaries, Teachers and Assistants were all there and I felt like I actually fit in. Even though I have had my difficulties in accepting many things that have happened to me at that school; I really felt like they were a family, of sorts, to me.

So, whether you are making new friends, offering support and love to existing friends or just laughing and sharing stories with old friends, your life is a happier place because they are in it.

Date Night in the Old City

2008-07-13T12:35:00.004-04:00

Last night Bub and I had another one of our "Date Nights". These are always so nice. We actually get to spend a few hours alone and have dinner where WE want to and have an uninterrupted adult conversation. We were kinda late getting started, it was 7:00 when we left the house. WOW, I can't believe that I just said that. Back in the day, we wouldn't even think about going out until at least 9 or 10. Anyway, we had the usual discussion about where we would go. Bub saying, "I don't care." And me saying, "It doesn't matter." Finally, Bub came up with an idea and just started driving. He does this sometimes; I never can tell where the car will stop. Honestly, I really like the surprise of it all.

Well, last night he drove down to the Old City. After parking the car, we just walked the street trying to decide where to eat. I will admit, there aren't that many choices down there anymore; so with our limited selections, we decided on Patrick Sullivan's. When we went into the restaurant, there were several people seated at tables and the bar, but it was not overly crowded. Our meal was very good. Actually, I was quite surprised. I had a French Dip sandwich and the roast beef actually melted in my mouth. I, also, had the Creamed Spinach as a side; it was as good as any I have ever had. Bub tried the Prime Rib sandwich and he said his was excellent, as well. He didn't get too adventurous with his side, just had the steak fries. Though they were the traditional choice, their rosemary seasoning made them better than the norm.

It is sad that the Old City isn't the wild and crazy street party that is was back in the 90's, but it is still a nice area to go to for dinner. (Heck, I guess if it was still a crazy street party, old farts like Bub and I wouldn't go near the place). As we were leaving the restaurant around 9:30ish, the streets were getting a little more crowded. It would be nice if that area of downtown could experience a rebirth like Market Square. Let's go back to the days of the funky little eclectic shops, the art galleries, the outdoor dining, and coffee and dessert at Java or JFG. Those were the days! Actually, those were the date nights that Bub and I had when we were actually dating. Long before marriage, family, mortgages, etc. What a great place to go back to last night! Thanks Bub, for taking me on a trip down memory lane!

Home Sweet Home

2008-07-09T12:58:00.003-04:00

Yes, we made it home from the trek to the great white north. I was really looking forward to going to Wisconsin and exploring new territory. I have to be honest, though. It didn't look much different than Indiana or Illinois to me. Lots of corn fields and dairy farms, but not much more. Of course, you have to remember, I live at the foothills of the Great Smokey Mountains (which we kindly refer to as 'God's Country') so it is hard to compete with my everyday surroundings.

The trip north was excruciating. We followed ThiThi who was being guided by the misguided Magellan. I think I have figured out what "GPS" REALLY stands for, something along the lines of "Goshdarned Piece of Scheist". (Ya know I have to keep things clean around here). That stupid Magellan and its wonderful services turned a 13 1/2 hour trip into a 17 1/2 hour trip. All I can say is, at least I was in good company.

My cousin, Cizzy, and her two girls, K8 and SJ, joined Kaylea and me. We had a lot of fun, some at ThiThi's expense (sorry, sis!). There was a lot of laughing and quality time spent with them. Heck, what other choice did we have. The girls watched lots of movies and Cizzy and I listened to lots of movies. Once we reached the 14 hour mark, we all were ready for the ride to be over, but we managed to endure the remainder of the trip.

Before making the return trip, I invested in this really neat navigational device - it's called an ATLAS. Wow, imagine my surprise and joy when I was able to drive home without having to change interstates 14 times and encountering hardly any traffic. Yes, the return trip was still a long one, but it was sooooooooo much easier. Cizzy made a profound statement. She said she believes the GPS makers are in cahoots with the oil companies and getting kickbacks for the extra gas people are buying by following the GPS' directions (i.e. - going the long way). Ya know, she might be onto something. Makes ya think, don't it?

Luckily for Kaylea and me, we were able to stay at Cizzy's house Sunday night. That enabled me to rest and catch my second wind for the remaining 4 1/2 hour drive to K'town. Needless to say, we were in no big hurry to leave Indiana on Monday. If Kaylea had her way, we would still be there. I had to explain to her that we just couldn't move in with SJ. I guess we finally made it home about 7:30 Monday evening.

We are still trying to recuperate. Both of us are tired and our butts are dragging. Kaylea slept until 10:30 this morning and we're still in our PJs. I have a feeling this will just be one of those lazy days.

Kilroy was here!

2008-07-02T16:51:00.003-04:00

Yeah, defacing this one too! See, this is what happens when you put me in charge of your comments... I make comments too! Guest blogging is so much fun... for realz!

Anyway, you've heard the scoop... they're speeding north, apparently one potty break at a time. From the sounds of things, outhouse tours are now a family specialty. Who knew? Anyway, if you want some sound advice, avoid the Steak & Shake. I'm just sayin'.

Apparently Angel is over St. Vitus' Dance with the flea treatment, and her cousins are doing better after their bath this AM too. So far Sargeant's is studiously avoiding calling me back, which is beyond shocking, I know. But I did get in touch of the Store Manager at PetSmart and I let him know in detail what I thought of the product in question. You know, the toxic snake oil that they are selling as a Flea and Tick preventative. Tricky bunch of weasels!

Okay, so that's enough ranting about the dog stuff. The proprietress will be back with tales of wonder and delight soon enough. Until then... l8ter g8ter!

DOG OWNERS -- BEWARE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-07-02T07:45:00.004-04:00

I have just completed one of the scariest nights of my life and I feel responsible to share it with everyone that will listen (or read as the case may be). Yesterday we gave Angel, our 9 lb Schnoodle, a bath so she would be nice and clean for her visit to Mamaw's house. Since it is summer and we live in Tennessee, I needed to give her a flea treatment. Normally, I give her K-9 Advantix which we purchase at our veterinarian's office. This time, I decided to try a new flea treatment and purchased Sentry Pro XFC at PetSmart. For every reader out there that has a dog, please heed my warning and DO NOT PURCHASE THIS PRODUCT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I put the flea treatment on Angel around 10 pm last night. I followed the package directions and applied it in a straight line down the back of her neck to mid-point on her back. By about Midnight I noticed that Angel was obsessively licking at the air. She acted as if she had something stuck in her mouth that she couldn't get loose. I looked in her mouth and ran my finger around inside but found nothing. So I just chalked this up to another one of Angel's oddities, but I also started keeping a closer eye on her. She would sit on the couch and then spring up like something had bit her. Then she would turn around and try to lay down again. Within seconds, she would spring up again. You have to understand this is very unusual for Angel. Normally, by 9 pm she has already curled up next to one of us and has settled in for the evening.

After watching our Schnoodle-in-a-box for about 15 minutes or so, I gave her another check. She was still doing the licking thing and her muzzle was totally wet. I decided to lay down on the couch and try to get her to settle down and lay with me. She got under the blanket and curled up like normal, but she couldn't lay still. She was twitching and jerking and it sounded like she was gagging a little. When I pulled her out from under the blanket she was drooling a little.

At this point I woke Barry and he looked her over. We couldn't figure out what was wrong with her. I wondered if it could be the flea treatment, but thought there is no way she could have a reaction like this to something that "harmless". I then did a search of the house to see if Angel might have gotten into something that would be causing this. I found nothing. The only thing that she had been exposed to was the flea treatment.

Because Angel is a 9 lb dog and I had bought the SentryPro XFC for 9 lb - 20 lb dogs, I began to think maybe I had accidentally overdosed her. That was when I turned to my dear friends at Google and did a search on "SentryPro XFC Overdose". Imagine my shock when I found link after link about people that had used this product and their dogs had the same symptoms as Angel. Actually, many people had dogs with worse symptoms. Here is a list of side effects or reactions your dog can have to this product: vomiting, muscle tremors, seizures, foaming at the mouth, wobbly walk, etc. Basically, the ingredients in this, and most other flea treatments, is a combination of pesticides. One vet told an owner, by giving a monthly flea treatment such as this they are doing the equivalent of giving their dog a teaspoonful of Raid each month.

I am very angry right now. How can these products be on the market? How can PetSmart sell something like this to its customers? How can Sergeant's 'Pet Care' Products package this product without including a specific list of side effects that may occur? The only statement concerning the possible reaction is, "Sensitivities may occur after using.........If signs of sensitivity occur, bathe your dog with mild soap and rinse with large amounts of water." SENSITIVITIES? HELLO? COULD YOU BE A LITTLE MORE SPECIFIC?

After doing my research and giving Angel two baths, the first in her normal dog shampoo and the second in Dawn dishwashing liquid. We laid down for the last time. She was still very jumpy but I rubbed and petted her until she settled down and finally fell asleep. This was about 2 am. This morning she is tired, of course; but she is no longer licking. It appears that I got the stuff washed off of her soon enough. She is occasionally scratching herself, but from what I read this should subside today. I will just have Mamaw watch her for any other "sensitivities".

If you have a dog, or know someone that owns a dog, please pass this post to them. I feel like we were lucky, as scary as it was. Apparently it could have been a whole lot worse. I am thankful that we still have our little Angel this morning. Some people were not so fortunate.

Here are some links to top four results that I found in my Google search. This is scary stuff!

One
Two
Three
Four

Roadtrip

2008-07-01T14:13:00.004-04:00

Normally, I would be excited about a summer roadtrip. But for some reason it doesn't seem right to get excited about taking a roadtrip to a funeral. Don't get me wrong, I am looking forward to seeing my Aunts, Uncles and Cousins that I don't get to see very often. It is just the reason for this mini family reunion that really sucks.

Tomorrow, Kaylea and I will be heading up to Indiana to pick up my cousin, Cizzy and her two daughters, K8 and SJ. (you all remember Kaylea's favorite cousin, SJ from the Hilton Head trip?) Needless to say, Kaylea is beside herself with excitement because she gets to play with SJ for another 5 days, or so.

Thursday morning, Cizzy, the girls and I will meet up with ThiThi, Mr. Bob and Ethel and Chris, the two Hens (you know from our Annual Hens and Chicks Trip) they are bringing. I'm sure the intercept destination will be a Cracker Barrel somewhere in Indiana. Afterall, you can't have a roadtrip without at least one stop at a Craker Barrel. After stuffing our guts, we will do our reenactment of Speed Racer to get to Stevens Point, WI by that evening.

I never would have guessed that I would be spending the 4th of July in Wisconsin, but I suppose there could be worse places to be. Actually, in addition to seeing family members, I am looking forward to touring this part of the country. I have never been to Wisconsin, so this will be new territory for me.

Luckily, we will have a couple of days to spend with Auntie H's family. My cousin Thom and his wife are having all of us over to their house on Friday. The kids will get to swim while the adults get to take the every-so-familiar walks down Memory Lane. What is a family gathering without a little bit of "Remember When...?" I'm certain that there will be a lot of laughter and a few tears that day, but we all will go home that evening with a smile on our face and pleasant memories from days gone by.

The caravan of vehicles will be heading back home on Sunday. It will be too soon; but, Auntie H would want it that way. She would expect us to get on with our lives and stop blubbering over her. She was just that type of person.

So, my friends, until we return.............

WRONG - On So Many Levels!

2008-06-29T09:15:00.002-04:00

As I was drinking my cup of coffee and reading the Sunday paper (online of course), I came upon this story on the News Sentinel's website: "Back in 'mama's arms': 2-year-old boy found in cornfield".

Ya know, I have several problems with this story. The first being, why wasn't Little Cody's grandmother watching him a little closer? I know when Kaylea was 2 years old we wouldn't even let her play in her room unless one of us was in there with her. I don't understand how the grandmother could have had any kind of level of comfort in not watching him constantly. Especially considering the fact that their family's home is surrounded by a 50-acre cornfield which is surrounded by ponds. Oh yeah, I would be totally comfortable with Kaylea running around out there - NOT!!!!

Something else that just hits me as wrong is that the grandmother called to report Cody missing at 9:44 PM (yes, PM) and he had been missing for about 30 minutes at that time. Let me reiterate - the child is TWO! Why on earth is a two year old playing (1) alone (2) alone outside (3) alone outside at 9:15 PM?

Finally, I have to ask, why didn't the local or surrounding police/sheriff departments/TBI use helicopters to look for this child. We hear about authorities using helicopters to find marijuana fields and moonshine stills, but could they not bring them out to look for a missing child? This blows my mind. For some reason someone, somewhere thought that a 200 person search team was a better idea. Well, that better idea resulted in the child spending the night alone, wet, hungry and scared to death in a cornfield.

I guess we all need to be thankful that Cody had a guardian angel with him that night. He was found unharmed and was very happy to be reunited with his "mama". I can only imagine the relief his mom and grandmother must have felt when the officials emerged from that cornfield with Cody in their arms. I'm sure it was a relief to the officials, as well.

Now, I just have one final question to ask everyone involved in this story (Grandmother, Mom, Officials). Did you learn anything from this????????????

Strong Country Women

2008-06-29T06:49:00.003-04:00

That is what my family is made of. The Doctors removed Auntie H's breathing tube yesterday at 2:10 pm. As of now, she is still breathing on her own. This is something that the Doctors were sure she could not do. She, also, has pneumonia and a temp, but she is still hanging in there.

We have joked that Auntie H is going to die in the same manner she lived her life - ON HER OWN TERMS! No one is going to pull a plug and tell her when she will die; only she, and her Maker, can make that decision.

God bless those strong country women! Hopefully, I was blessed with just a smidgen of their strength and will.

Good-Bye, For Now

2008-06-28T18:14:00.005-04:00

Auntie H,

Thank you for being such a great Aunt;
You have given me many happy memories that I will cherish.
A star in my life has burned out;
My skies will no longer be as bright.
I will not mourn for you, though;
I will mourn for myself instead.
You have reached your destination;
Your Heavenly Life will now begin.
I will not say good-bye, forever;
I will merely say good-bye, for now.

I love you,
Jenni

Prayers, Again

2008-06-28T09:30:00.004-04:00

We received a phone call Thursday afternoon from our Mom telling us that her sister, Auntie H, had collapsed of a heart attack. Since then, we have been waiting by the phone for instructions on when to leave to travel north. My Aunt has a bad heart and has had several surgeries in the past. This time it doesn't appear that a surgery is going to fix things, though. When she collapsed Thursday, CPR was started immediately then the Paramedics hit her with the paddles three times before transporting her to the hospital. She is currently attached to a breathing machine and it non-responsive to all of the brain wave tests. My Uncle and cousins were to meet with the Doctor this morning for him to advise them on how to proceed. Auntie H. has a living will; however, there is a MI state law that requires the family to wait for a certain amount of time before disconnecting life support. At this point, we do not know when the life support will be disconnected or how long Auntie H will survive without it. So, we are just waiting.

This is all too scary for me. Auntie H isn't that much older than my mom or Bub's parents. I try real hard not to think about the reality that they won't be with us forever. The logical part of me knows that all of us will pass on and we have no control over when this will happen. But the non-logical part of me hopes we can stay together on this earth forever.

I am feeling comforted right now by knowing that Auntie H will soon be in a better place, if she isn't already. She will be filled with love and happiness and all of her pain will go away. I should not wish for her to stay here with me; that is selfish. I need to find joy in the fact that she is going to be reunited with all of her loved ones that have passed before her. She will be able to hug Papaw, Mamaw, Uncle John, Aunt Bonnie, Granny, Pop, Carol, Frank and all the other people that meant so much to her throughout her life.

I guess the prayer that I would ask all of you to make, would be one for strength and comfort for Uncle C, Thom and Beth, Bindy and Bob, Dawn and Scott, Will and Casey, Dylan and Laura, Mom and Aunt Shash, and the rest of us that love Auntie H.

Hi-Ho, Hi-Ho, It's Off To Camp We Go!

2008-06-25T09:25:00.003-04:00

I can't wait. We are heading to the mountains this weekend to relax and commune with nature. Now this is a totally different kind of camping than what Kaylea and I were doing with my Mom and JimBob a few weeks back. There will be no campers with air conditioning or TVs with cable on this trip - OH HELL NO!!!!. We are going to Elkmont. For those of you that aren't local, Elkmont is a campground in the National Park and there is NO electric or running water on the sites. As a matter of fact, they don't even have bath houses to get all of your unmentionables, mentionable again.

So these kinds of camping trips require a lot of planning. The list making and shoping begins well in advance. So far, ThiThi and I have made one Wally run, but there will be at least one more - heck maybe two more - before Friday.

Now, here are just a few of the things that we bring along for a weekend in the woods.

Ceiling fan for the tent - Hey, it's gonna be hot AND I can't sleep if I'm hot AND I get grumpy(er) when I can't sleep AND if I get grumpy, a good time will be had by none. That's why Bub didn't blink at the well invested $20 for a ceiling fan for the tent.
Extra batteries - For the ceiling fan, of course.
Broom Handle - aka Bear Whackin' Stick. This is a story in itself. Read here.
Kaylea's Bike - so she can entertain herself and won't drive all of us crazy.
Margerator - I guess if I run out of batteries for my ceiling fan, I will just drink enough Margaritas to help me sleep. Ha Ha and you thought we were roughing it.
Feminine Cleansing Cloths - I don't think I really need to explain this one; especially since I have already told you there are no bath houses, hhhhhmmmmmmmmmm. And besides, Wet Ones really stink!
Baby Powder - I am going to try out RimaRama's trick.
Baseball Caps - In case RimaRama's trick doesn't work.
Our NEW lawn chairs - For kicking back and relaxing. Oh, and here's a shoutout to the ass holes that stole our old lawn chairs off the front porch. Heck, I would have let you borrow them; because I'm nice and all that. But now, you have just ticked me off. Stealing lawn chairs?????? I'm confused, could you not do any better?????? Ya know we had a garden hose out front, too????? (Sorry, I needed to get that off my chest.)

So, if anyone wants to come on up and join us for Margaritas and S'mores on Saturday night, just come on. If you pass out, I ain't sharing my ceiling fan, though.

Tales From The Dressing Room

2008-06-24T09:20:00.003-04:00

Yes, my friends, after going to Splash Country the other day I actually got inspired to go swimsuit shopping. It's kinda funny how spending a day looking at other women with unfortunate bodies, such as myself, could inspire me to do the one thing I hate most in this world. I don't really get it either; but, for some reason I thought it was a good idea to go skirtini shopping.

So yesterday ThiThi, Kaylea and I hit the Mall and began the torture. Well, I was being tortured; I believe ThiThi and Kaylea went along for the amusement of it all.

Here are just a few of the incidents and comments that came from inside our dressing room:

After trying on a loser of a suit I was removing the bottoms and realized the hygienic liner was stuck to my - uh - upper inner thigh (if you get the picture). I tried to gently peel it off but found, though it wouldn't stick to the crotch of the bathing suit any longer, it had appeared to have permanently affixed itself to me. What was I to do but to give it one quick pull and presto, I gave myself a wax job, also. (I always knew there was a reason I hadn't gone to see the little Vietnamese ladies about a "wass job."

ThiThi critiquing one suit, "So what flavor of muffin is that?"

Me, while looking at my ass in a skirtini in a 3-way mirror, "There must be something wrong with this suit. The back is shorter than the front!" (Wouldn't have anything to do with the hump and bump giving the skirt a little lift on the backside, ya think?)

ThiThi to the sales associate that asked if we had a preference on dressing rooms, "We just need a big one. There will be a lot of wrastling going on in there."

Me, while browsing the Miracle Suits, "For some reason I just don't think that one will be quite 'Miraculous' enough for me."

Me, "Those draws ain't quite deep enough. You know I like me some deep'ins!"

ThiThi to me after a full day of fun, "You know this is the worst time of the month for you to be doing this, don't you?"

And finally, the award for Funniest Comment of the Day goes to................................KAYLEA! She, so innocently said, "Ya know, Aunt Missy, I think that tag that says, 'Look 10 lbs slimmer in 10 seconds' is just a lie." Out of the mouths of babes. What can I say?

Oh, and for those of you wondering if I walked away from the Mall with a suit. Well, yes, I did. Here is the one I got. Unfortunately, I have a little more fluff than the invisi-model the company used for the picture. But, overall, it covered what needed to be covered and wasn't too appauling.

So, see all you gals and Splash Country this summer!

Splash Country - The Best Ego Boost In The South

2008-06-22T09:22:00.003-04:00

Ya know, if you look over to the right side of my little Blog page you will find The Ever Growing List of Random Things I Hate. Well, about two-thirds of the way down the list I have mentioned my distaste for "Big Women in Bikinis." After spending a day a Splash Country yesterday, I do believe that I need to revise this dislike AND give it a little higher billing on my list. How about I change the dislike to, "Women Who Wear Bikinis And SHOULDN'T."

Now, let me start out by saying that I am NO frail flower. I have a little extra meat on my bones and could benefit by going back to Weight Watchers for, oh say, a year or two. It is because of my cottage cheese thighs and muffin top that I absolutely hate the idea of going out in public in a swimsuit. If I could find a fashionable Berka, that would be the beach/pool clothing of choice for me. However, since the Taliban has yet to get into the swimsuit business, I continue to settle for my girdlish Carol Wior suits that keep the bulging stuff, stuffed in, and the sagging stuff, lifted up. You see, I am brutally honest with myself and I use these things called MIRRORS when I try on a bathing suit. And yes, I have even looked in the ----- THREE-WAY MIRROR ----- in the fitting room before making my final bathing suit selection. Yes, I know that is a scary thought for some women out there. Looking in that mean ole three-way mirror that lets us get the view of everything comin' and goin', but as scary as the sight is, I always choose to take a look. The way I figure it is, I would rather have a private dressing room viewing of how bad things look so that I can opt out of the tankini that makes my trunk look a little to junky; as oppose to, oh say, several thousand people having a public viewing at a water theme park.

Now, back to Splash Country yesterday. I am convinced that the majority of the females that were there either (a) looked at themselves in a carnival mirror before leaving home, or (b) not only didn't own a mirror - they hadn't even heard of one, or (c) had way too much self confidence for their own good.

Now, I must say, it isn't just the big women/girls that I am referring to. Yes, there was a fair share of large women in all sorts of disastrous swimwear. Like, the very large woman in a bikini whose belly hung soooooo low that her bottoms (swimsuit, that is) were barely visible (oh, her other "bottoms" were VERY visible and, yes, she appeared to have more than one!) And then, there were the many young girls that had the unfortunate "dunlap" disease. And then there were the women that had WAY too much confidence in the strength of those little plastic bathing suit closures. We were one wrong stretch away from some major wardrobe malfunctions.

All you skinny ladies weren't immune to the unfortunate swimwear choices, either. Like the grandma in her bikini wearing a suit that really needed a good ironing (no, not a "bathing" suit that needed ironing. The "body/birthday" suit of the skin colored variety that she had on under the bathing suit). Then there was the pretty young soccer mom, with three kids in tow. She was wearing the skimpy little tiny weeny bikini and had stretch marks on her belly that resembled a road map of NYC.

In summary, I guess I learned a few important things yesterday.

Everyone should own a full length mirror. Believe it or not, they are good, very good; mirrors are my friend. Keep them around - and lots of them; they will save me from unnecessary humiliation
Just because you are a size 4 and you CAN wear a bikini, it doesn't necessarily mean you SHOULD wear a bikini.
I don't look as bad as I could.
And finally, whenever I start beating myself up about my weight, I will just pick myself up by my bathing suit straps and head on over to Splash Country. This will give me a new found confidence and I will leave the park feelin' pretty darned svelte!

Just A Little Redecorating

2008-06-20T17:04:00.002-04:00

Yes, I got tired of the layout on this Blog, as well. So, I decided to get out the wallpaper hanging supplies and spruce things up around here. Everything is still here, it just got the ole spit-shine. I hope you like it. Don't fret though; I am sure I will get tired of this design eventually and it will change, too.

Prayers, Blessings and Gratefulness

2008-06-19T19:47:00.005-04:00

This morning started like all others have this summer. Kaylea and I slept in and once awake, I meandered to the computer to fire it up and check the e-mail. Little did I know that I was about to read something that would be heart breaking and scary for both Kaylea and me.

You see, Sunday evening one of Kaylea's friends from Girl Scouts was involved in a head-on collision here in town. She and her mother were transported to UT Hospital where they are still recovering. Kaylea's friend received a broken wrist, a broken pelvis, a lacerated liver and a laceration across her abdomen that required 20 stitches. This little girl is only 9, the same age as my little girl.

The mother has undergone 2 surgeries since being admitted, one for her broken ankle/heel/leg and the other to put a metal plate in her broken arm. Oh, and she has a broken pelvis, also.

When I told Kaylea about the accident she immediately asked if we could go to the hospital to visit her friend. Kaylea was very concerned for her friend and asked many questions about her injuries. I emphasized that the little girl was recovering, but Kaylea was so concerned that while I was in the shower, she got on the computer to look at the e-mail herself. Afterwards she copied the web address for our local newspaper, which was included in the e-mail we received, and went to that web page to read more about the accident. I guess she was afraid I might be trying to "sugar-coat" the details for her.

We went to the hospital this afternoon and took her friend a balloon, magazines and a book. I don't think either of us were prepared for what we saw when we entered the room. The little girl was laying there hooked up to a lot of machines with a feeding tube in her nose. She was whimpering and moaning from the pain she was enduring. As she breathed, a rattle was coming from her chest, due to the fluids that were collecting. Her father was at her bedside holding her hand and trying his best to comfort her.

My heart broke at that moment. You see, not only is she Kaylea's friend, but she is probably one of the sweetest girls I have ever had in one of my classes at school. She always has a smile on her face and a bounce in her step. A truly kind hearted little angel that would do anything for anyone. Today, though, she was not herself, naturally.

Kaylea was very quiet while we were in the hospital room. Her friend did ask her to hold her hand though. I think Kaylea was very apprehensive because she was afraid of causing her any more pain. The little girl's father repeatedly thanked us for coming to see his daughter. He looked very tired and I could see the worry in his face. I can't imagine what he is going through. His wife undergoing 2 surgeries and his little girl in critical condition. I'm quite sure he hasn't slept much, if at all, since Sunday.

I couldn't help but think about this family's tragedy and realize that it could have just as easily been my family. Me going through the 2 surgeries; Kaylea in critical condition; and Barry trying to keep things together. I travel the same road where the accident happened. Kaylea and I are always together in the car, and normally Barry is not with us. It is hard to believe how our life could be changed in mere seconds. I think everyone likes to believe that they are invincible and nothing bad will ever happen to them. Accidents such as this really slap you back into reality.

Kaylea and I have both been a little quiet today, which is definitely not normal for us. There has, also been a whole lot more cuddling and one-on-one time. We cooked dinner together and played cards while things were finishing up. The TV wasn't on and we really got to enjoy each others' company. Then when we sat down for dinner, Kaylea said our normal blessing and then added a little prayer for her friend and her parents.

Please say a prayer for this family. They are hurting in so many ways right now and they need all the support they can get. Also, please take a moment to thank God for your happy, healthy and safe children. I know I have and will continue to do so.

******Since this has affected Kaylea and me in such a profound way, this post will be placed on both our blogs, My Crazy Little Mixed Up World and Curiously Kaylea. Sorry for the duplication, but I felt it was worthy of repeating.******

Love Is More Than A Hallmark Card

2008-06-15T19:59:00.006-04:00

Today we had a Father's Day feast at our house and invited many of the Fathers in our life over to partake. The menu was grilled pork tenderloin, baked beans, corn, slaw, and three different kinds of dessert. We had fun visiting with and celebrating the awesome Daddy's in our presence. There was one person missing, though. A very important person - my Daddy! And yes, I know I am 40 years old and I just referred to my father as "Daddy". Well, that's what he has always been and what I have called him all 40 years of my life. So why change things now?

Though I was in a good mood and happy to have Bub, Pappy, Mr. Jimmy and Mr. Bob over for the afternoon, I couldn't help but be a little sad, also. You see, I have always made a big deal about Father's Day for Bub. Kaylea and I have gone shopping for his cards and gifts. Then there has always been some sort of special meal prepared in his honor. I guess I was a little sad because I don't remember ever doing those things for my Daddy when I was younger. I know we were always with him on Father's Day because it falls in the middle of June and we were always at his house for the summer by then. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure Nana took us out to buy him a card, but other than that (and maybe some homemade ice cream) I don't think much of a whoop-di-doo was made. And that is sad, for me.

I am hopeful that Daddy wasn't too disappointed with the celebrations - or lack there of - from the past. And I hope that he knows that just because I only gave him a card, it didn't mean I loved him any less than those kids that gave their father's the nice expensive gifts.

Daddy, I love you and I will always be your little girl!

Jenni

Happy Birthday To You! Happy Birthday To You!

2008-06-11T09:00:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday to ThiThi, Happy Birthday to you!!!!!!!

Yes, 44 years ago today this world was graced with the presence of my sister Missy. Of course I was nothing more than a twinkle in my Daddy's eye when she was born, but I'm sure the day was one of celebration for the family.

I have been very lucky to have her as a sister, though I would have argued with you had you told me that when I was a child. You see, our relationship hasn't always been what it is today. With each year that has passed, our relationship has grown and matured with us.

When I was born, I don't think Missy liked me too much. This is more than natural, since she had been an only child and an only grandchild for the almost 4 whole years of her existence. She was the center of attention and wasn't going to relinquish the spotlight without a fight. Rumor has it that she tried to snatch the little bow from my bald little head after Mom and Dad brought me home from the hospital. From that point forward (for many years anyways) the gloves were off.

Don't get me wrong, we didn't fight all of the time. Afterall, we did have to sleep ya know. But our house was always filled with its fair share of, "Mom, make her stop!" "Mom, she's bugging me!" "I'm telling!" and "You just wait until Mom gets home."

I know I was a pesty little sister (and probably still am) but I always wanted to do what Missy did. I begged her to play baby dolls and Barbies with me. When she got a 10-speed bike, I wanted one. When she got a skateboard, I had to have one. When she cut off her jeans and rolled them REALLY short, I had to wear mine the same way. When she started wearing make-up, I would watch her put it on and then paint my face the same way.

As teenagers and young adults, a distance was put between us. This distance was caused by us having different priorities and taking different paths in our life. Though we weren't living with each other any longer and we were living totally different lives, we still had that bond of sisterhood that could not be broken.

Once Missy and I both were married, our paths rejoined and our relationship entered a different phase. We shared everything, from weddings to the birth of Kaylea. Yes, Missy was one of my labor coaches during Kaylea's delivery. She has been a part of all of the most important days of my life: my birth, my marriage, and the birth of my daughter. She is truly the best friend I have in this world.

So sis, here's to you on your day. Today is a day for us to celebrate you and all the wonderful things that you are. I love you and will never forget all of the things you have done for me throughout my life.

Your sister and friend,
Jenni

Summertime, Summertime, Summ Summ Summertime

2008-06-10T17:39:00.003-04:00

Every year Kaylea's and my summer begin the same way. This year was a little different because we had the week at the beach (which you can read all about on Kaylea's blog at http://curiously-kaylea.blogspot.com ), but now we are right back to the same ole same ole.

You see, my mom's family reunion is always the second Sunday in June and all of the family that comes in from out of state camps in Townsend. Mom and Jim-Bob normally stay through Father's Day, so we get a nice long visit with them. Kaylea and I always go over to Townsend and spend several nights with them while they are here. It is nice being able to sit by the river and watch the tubers ride by. Plus, we get to swim and play cards and RELAX! The relaxation is always welcome after the craziness of the end of the school year.

Though summer started off a little different this year, things are now back to normal now. We are chillin' in Townsend and catching up with some family members we haven't seen in a year. It's amazing to see the children each year. They always look so much more mature and it really makes me realize how fast they are growing up. Of course I can't avoid the realization that Kaylea looks a lot older to them, as well. And she is growing up, too. I know the year will come that she will not be interested in continuing our summer tradition. I can hear her now, "Mom, I don't want to go over there. It is boring." I guess I will have to decide at that time whether to make her come because "This is what we always do!" I just think it would neat if we continued this until she had children of her own; so she could bring our grandkids to camp with Bub and me. I know that I am looking way too far into the future, but I am just like that. I am always thinking about creating happy memories and traditions for our family. I want Kaylea to be able to tell stories to her kids that begin with, "I remember every ___________ we would go/do __________________."

For now, we are all comfortable with our traditional start to summer and I will am happy with that. I hope all of you have fun making your own traditions, as well.

Just Checking In

2008-06-01T08:20:00.002-04:00

We are at the beach. I don't know how many posts I will be putting on my Blog this week; however, if you want to see what is going on with us on vacation just watch Kaylea's blog. I will be posting photos and giving updates over there.

Per Your Request

2008-05-26T14:31:00.003-04:00

These recipes have been requested, so here they are:

Georgia Cracker Salad

1 Sleeve Saltine Crackers, crushed
1 Large Tomato, finely chopped
3 Green Onions, finely chopped
1 1/2 c. Mayonnaise
Lawry's Season Salt, to taste

Mix all ingredients together and serve immediately. Easy and very yummy!

Chocolate Eclair Cake

1 Box Graham Crackers
2 Small Boxed French Vanilla Instant Pudding
3 c. Milk
8 oz. Cool Whip
1 Tub Milk Chocolate Frosting

Mix together pudding and milk until thick, then fold in the Cool Whip. Line the bottom of a 9 x 13 pan with graham crackers. Top with a thick layer of pudding mixture. Continue to alternate layers, ending with graham crackers.

Remove lid from frosting and microwave at 30% power for 15 - 20 seconds. Remove and stir. Continue microwaving, if needed, until frosting is just thin enough to pour. Don't totally melt, you still want it a little thick. Pour frosting over top of the cake and spread to make it smooth. Put the cake in the refrigerator and leave overnight.

It's A Small World Afterall

2008-05-26T12:13:00.005-04:00

And yesterday I found out just how small.

You see, Bub, Kaylea and I were invited to Meatfest '08 over at Overtly Trite's casa. ---If you will recall, I met Overtly Trite for the first time (so I thought) at our Bloggher Girl's lunch a few weeks back, which included ThiThi (missybw from The House of Flying Monkeys), Anna (from Life with the Retro Moderns) and Paula (from Overtly Trite).

After we arrived yesterday, we did the standard introductions and then I retreated to the kitchen to talk with Paula and sis. After a while another guest, Vic, arrived and he looked very familiar to me. Imagine my surprise when I recognized him as a long lost friend and co-worker from my United States Cellular "USC" days in the early 90's. Vic and I began to talk about the good 'ole days while Paula and sis were standing there amazed at the cowinkydinkyness of the whole situation. Vic was filling me in on the status of the people we used to work with, then I told him that the only person from USC that I had kept contact with was "Doug". At that point Paula about lost it. You see, Paula use to be Doug's roommate. After a lot of reminiscing we figured out that Paula and I had met back in the early 90's at a Halloween party at Doug's house. And, as a matter of fact, Paula's husband "D" had worked at USC with me and she had met D through Doug and Vic. Suddenly all the pieces to the puzzle fell into place. So here is a little chart showing how we all know each other:

So, yesterday I felt like two worlds were colliding. My past and my present slammed into each other and left my head spinning - in a cool way. The only thing that could have made the whole situation any better would have been for Doug to have walked through the door. Unfortunately, I found out that he has moved to Arizona, which would explain why my Christmas card was returned. Now, I just have to get his e-mail address from Paula and re-connect with him, also.

Weekend Update

2008-05-24T20:29:00.004-04:00

The jury is still out on my new haircut. I will have to see how it looks after I style it. It might have to be cut again, just not sure, yet.
Cooking, cooking, cooking. I am getting ready for Meatfest 2008. My culinary contributions will be Hurry Curry Celery Sticks, Cracker Salad, Corn Pudding and Chocolate Eclair Cake. When I can't make up my mind, I just bring it all.
The shopping and gathering has began. I am starting to get the stuff together for the big beach trip. It is official, this time next week, we will be on HHI.

I hope everyone is enjoying their Memorial Day weekend.

I Want My Mommy!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-23T11:23:00.003-04:00

O.K. so here I go.
I can do this!
I shouldn't be so nervous.
Everyone does it.
Why am I so freaked out?
There's nothing to it.
It'll be o.k.
NO, I can't do it.
I'll just wait.
I know, I have to do it now!
But, what if it is terrible?
I'll be fine.
Oh, I'm so scared.
I don't want to look silly.

Yes, I am totally freaked out. Why, you ask? Well, because I am going to get my hair cut tomorrow. You're probably wondering why I would get so up tight about a haircut. Well, it's like this. My mom, my grandmother and my step-mom were all hairdressers and they were the only people that cut my hair up until I was in my mid-20s. Had it not been for logistical problems, I would have never changed our little arrangement.

All I can say is that in the past, for the most part, my experiences with non-relative hairstylists have gone really BAD. I will give credit where credit is due, though. When I lived in Nashville, I had a great stylist, but again, the whole logistics thing prevents me from continuing the love/love relationship we had.

Since moving back to East TN, I haven't been able to find a stylist that can work with my "challenging" head of hair. You see, I was cursed with the hair genes (or lack there of) of both my parents. Dad's been sporting a comb-over since he was in high school and Mom has the transparent variety of hair. We kindly refer to it as "frog fur". Our hair is VERY thin and VERY fine. If I don't go to someone that is acustomed to working with my type of hair, things go very wrong.

For the last 5 years, I have been trying to time my haircuts around my trips to Mom's in Georgia, or her trips to Tennessee. Or, I have used Mom's stylist in Macon; she is good and knows how to work with my hair-type, since she does my Mom's hair, also. Unfortunately, this time my (our) timing is a little off. Mom isn't coming up this way until the first week of June. AND, as you all know, I will be at the beach then. So, I am being forced to go to a complete stranger and entrust my unfortunate head of hair to him. The stylist does good work (on other people) so I am keeping my fingers crossed that he will do the same for me.

If everyone could just pause for a minute and say a little prayer for my new do and send me lots of good karma, I would be most appreciative.

P.S. If I am wearing a hat in, or missingfrom, all of the pictures that are taken at the beach, you will know that things didn't go well.

Ah, Where Did Dolly Go?

2008-05-20T16:53:00.003-04:00

Well, I figured all of you were getting a little tired of listening to her every time you hit my Blog. (I could just see all 5 of you hitting the mute button on your computer at the same time.) So, I decided to give you a little variety. I linked up my entire play list to keep things interesting. If you don't like the particular song that is playing, instead of hitting mute just scroll through the list until you find a song you do like. Hopefully, I will have at least one song you like. If not then just go back to muting my Blog. Poor thing, it just wants a voice, too, ya know. It told me so.

I Have Found My New Career Choice

2008-05-20T11:54:00.003-04:00

When I grow up I want to work for the county. Yes, I said the country. You see, I think it fits my job criteria to a tee:

Good Pay

Not too strenuous

Promotes social interaction

Encourages physical activity

I came to this conclusion after watching the paving crew that was working(?) in our neighborhood on Friday. Take a look for yourself:

As you can see from the gentlemen on the left, they are mastering the art of social interaction. Heck, I bet they were Employees of the Year because not only can they talk, but they can walk at the same time. Now that is muli-tasking at its finest.

Then, we have the two hunky fellas on the right. They are getting their physical activity while they are working (o.k. so maybe the word "working" is a little bit of a stretch. How about I say, while they are getting paid to work). You know they must have burned at least 50 calories walking behind that paver at less than 1 miler per hour.

Finally, we have the gentleman in the back of the paver. (Notice I am protecting his identity so his wife won't find out how hard his job REALLY is.) After observing him, I think I would be able to handle the stress level of the job.

I hope you all will be supportive of me as I transition into my new career. I just hope I am qualified for the job. hmmmmmmm??????????

Mother's Day: Part Deux

2008-05-20T11:32:00.005-04:00

Here are a few pictures from Mother's Day. Enjoy!

Moi - I guess I was really enjoying that card!

Kaylea had to help me read that one!

Pappy must have been bored; I think he fell asleep. That's o.k., we'll remember this come Father's Day!

I don't even want to know what Grammy did to wake him up. It doesn't look too good.

I think she liked it. Thank goodness for Phaltzgraff. Too bad we all bought her new dishes before I started this TOHE stuff.

Thi-Thi opening her Mother's Day presents from Lulu and Mabel. They are such sweet dogs, but I'm quite sure Lulu was the designated driver when they went to the Mall. We all know she is the responsible one of the two.

I'm not sure what was so funny, but this is a frequent expression when we all are together. Belly laughs for everyone!

Where Have You Been All Of My Life????

2008-05-20T09:30:00.006-04:00

OH MY GOODNESS, this stuff is sinful! I cannot believe that no one thought of this before. I am normally a creamer and 1 Sweet n Low and 1 Equal in my coffee girl, but not anymore. With the Coffee-mate Italian Sweet Creme Creamer everything is taken care of in this one little jug from heaven. Oh, and the best part is that it makes your coffee taste like it has melted whipped cream in it. YUMMO! I do believe that this is going to have to be added to The Ever Growing List of Things I Love! And, yes, Life is Good with my new found friend.

Oh, and by the way, when I dumped my photos from the camera I found lots of others that were suppose to be posted on Blog entries, long ago. So, today will be catch up day on both this blog and Curiously Kaylea. Sorry, I have been a slacker.

Drum Roll Please..........

2008-05-13T23:21:00.003-04:00

I know everyone has been sitting on the edge of their seats to hear the outcome of my first party.......well............. it was a HUGE success. I am proud to say that with my first party I was able to make enough commission to pay for my start-up kit and still have a little somin somin in my pocket. Because I love to have my friends over and cook for them, this was me in my element. Miraculously, I wasn't even that nervous.

I still have so much to learn about the products, but luckily I had Lara here to guide me through, and take over the presentation when I needed her.

Thank you to everyone for their well wishes. It means a lot to me to know that I have so many family members and friends that are supporting my decision. I love you guys!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T10:06:00.004-04:00

I just want to say Happy Mother's Day to all of the mothers in my world. God has blessed me with not just one mother - but four.

First, I have my Mom. She gave birth to me and has loved me and watched me grown for 40 years now. She was a single hard working mom for many years. Looking back on those years, I see how Mom struggled to make ends meet. To put it very simply, we were poor. The amazing part, though, is that sis and I didn't know that we were. Mom made sure that we always had a comfortable home; had food on the table; and basically had most all things that we desired. Mom knew how to budget and stretch a dollar, which she inherently passed on to me. Thank you, mom, for all that you did, and continue to do, for me. I'm not quite sure how you did it. I love you, Mom!

Second, I have my Mom, Fris. God bless, Friss. She married Dad at such a young age and inherited his two kids, one twelve and one eight. I love Fris with all of my heart. She has been a role model to me in kindness, forgiving and acceptance. Fris instinctively knew not to try to be my "Mother". She felt her way around and found what was a comfortable balance for both of us. Through this respect for me and my feelings our relationship has grown through the years. Today, I am proud to say that she is one of my Mom's. I love you, Fris!

Third, I have my Mom, Wanda. This poem best describes our relationship:

You are the mother I received the day I wed your son.

And I just want to thank you, Mom, for all the things you've done.

You have given me a gracious man with whom I share my life.

You are his lovely mother and I his lucky wife.

You used to pat his little head and now I hold his hand.

You raised in love a little boy then gave to me a man.

Wanda has become another Mom in my life over the past 11+ years. I know that she is there for me anytime I want to talk or need advise. She is a blessing to me. I love you, Wanda!

Last, but certainly not least, I have my Mom, Sis. You see, my sister is a Mom to me. We are only separated by 4 years; however, she played the Mommy role to me most of my life. Because we were home alone while Mom was working, Sis was left in charge. She was responsible for keeping me safe; helping me with my homework; cooking my meals; and basically just being the boss of me. There were many things that I confided to my Sis that any other child would have shared with their Mom. Sissy gave me relationship advise; taught me how to cook; taught me how to drive and many other important things that kids learn as the grow into adulthood. I'm sure I was a huge burden to my sister when she was a teen and I don't know how she can help but resent me today. With all of this said, I hope you understand why I can't let Mother's Day pass without acknowledging my Sissy. I am doubly blessed that she is a Mom and Sister to me. I love you, Sissy!

Another Crazy Week

2008-05-10T22:46:00.003-04:00

Wow, where has my week gone? So much to do, but so little time!

Monday, sis and I went to Dollywood so she could visit the International Festival. She had never been and wanted to see what all the hoopla was about. I tried to warn her that it wasn't the be-all end-all of International Festivals, but she wanted to take a looksee for herself. Well, needless to say, she was totally underwhelmed. For a girl that is a regular at Epcot's World Showcase, she had mighty high expectations. Upon leaving, she was quite sure that Disney was not worried about Dolly putting them out of business.

Tuesday, I subbed at Kaylea's school. I am certain that I chose the wrong major in college. Instead of Elementary Education, I should have majored in Physical Education. What a life! You get to play dodge ball or kickball all day and you get paid a pretty good salary. Once again in my adult life I find myself saying, "Hind sight is 20/20."

Wednesday, I had a blast. Sis and I met Paula from Overtly Trite and Anna from Life with the Retro Moderns for lunch. When I say, "met", I am speaking in the literal since of the word. We have been reading their blogs for awhile and thought it would be fun to finally meet face to face. We all shared stories, had many laughs, and got to know one another better. I'm quite sure this will become a regular lunch date for us.

Thursday, was just LONG. I subbed all day and then stayed after school to help hand out cookie dough with the Parent Support Group. Kaylea and I didn't get home until almost 7:00. WHEW!

Friday and today, I have working in the house and trying to get it ready for my launch party on Monday evening. I am still working on the laundry (is it any surprise that I have left that chore for last?)

Hopefully, I will be able to watch my training DVD and get the grocery shopping done, tomorrow. We'll just keep our fingers crossed on that one. Don't give up on me, hopefully I will be able to write a little more frequently once the whirlwind passes.

Let Me Entertain You

2008-05-05T18:24:00.005-04:00

I want to share with everyone a decision I have made to better myself and my family. I have signed on as an Independent Consultant for Taste of Home Entertaining ("TOHE").

Last month, I attended a TOHE party at a friend's house and was blown away by the product offering. I love to cook, and I love to entertain friends and family in my home. This company offers products that cater to both. I am so excited and can't wait to serve as both hostess and consultant at my first party.

For a while now, I have been soul searching and trying to figure out what I want to do with all of my free time. I really think this is the answer for me. I will still be able to substitute teach; volunteer in Kaylea's classroom; and be home with Kaylea in the afternoon. All while making a little extra spending money.

Please keep me in your thoughts as I begin this new adventure. Also, if you would like to attend a party, just let me know. I will be having a couple of launch parties and I would love to have you attend :) Here is the link to my webpage.

Just A Question

2008-05-04T21:04:00.003-04:00

Why do Schnoodles' breath smell like a**??????????????? No matter how many doggie mints or teeth cleaning chews Angel gnaws on, her breath still smells like she just got through eating a turd sandwich.

Now, Angel, don't get your feelings hurt. You know your Mommy loves you, but dang dog, layoff the skunk poopsicles.

It's All or Nothing

2008-05-03T18:10:00.003-04:00

Do you ever feel like your life either runs at full speed or stays at a standstill? Well, that seems to be the norm for me lately. Most days, I have nothing much to do. Of course there is always housework, laundry and running Kaylea around, but I am talking about stuff that is majorly time consuming. Those type things just don't happen that often. However, when I have things to do, they all seem to come at once. This week has been one of those weeks.

A few weeks back, I decided to put my name on the sub list at Kaylea's school since I had requested that her old school remove me from their list for the remainder of the year (another story for another post). Well, apparently her school is in need of subs and appreciates my education and training, because they booked me for three days this past week. In addition to my sub days, I chaperoned Kaylea's class field trip on Tuesday and Barry was out of town on business Thursday and Friday. With all of this going on, I was also on the hunt for Bub and myself a new car.

Unfortunately, Bub's car, the Malibu (kindly referred to as the "Bubbabu") decided to get a little temperamental last week and we weren't sure just how much longer it was going to decide to play nice with us. We knew this day was coming, but had hoped that we could make it through the summer before having to put the Bubbabu out to pasture. Well, I guess the car had other plans. Every evening I was scouring the Internet looking for a decent used car that didn't have 100k+ miles on it AND was priced within our price range. This was not an easy task seeing as we weren't wanting to spend a ton of money on the car. Tuesday evening I thought I had found the perfect car, but when Bub called about it on Wednesday he was told that it was no longer available. DRATS!!!!! So the search continued. Eventually, we had to face the facts and admit that we were going to have to spend a little more money than we had originally anticipated.

After expanding our search, I located a few possibilities and we were off to the car dealership last night to look around and do some test driving. Lucky for us we liked the first car we drove and we were able to work out a deal that was agreeable to us and the dealership. So, as of 10:00 pm last night, we were the proud owners of a new car (well, new to us anyway).

So, for those of you that thought I had quit this whole blogging thing, have no fear. It just seems that life gets in the way of me being able to post sometimes.

P.S. Yea for me - I also have two days booked to sub this coming week. I love making extra money!!!!! Life is good :)

Gidgets and Gadgets and Gizmos Galore

2008-04-27T15:05:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, I spent a lot of time building a playlist for my Myspace page and thought, "Wow, I wish there was someway to put music on my Blog." So, I began thinking about it and figured out a way. Now, I will have a song playing on my Blog. I guess the song will change with my moods or if I hear something new that I want to share. Right now, I am playing "Jesus and Gravity" by Dolly Parton. This is her new single and when I heard it on the radio yesterday, I thought it was a keeper. I hope you like it, as well. If not, just turn the volume down on your speakers and watch for the tune to change. :)

P.S. I am going to be adding a Beach playlist to Curiously Kaylea to go along with our vacation countdown clock. Yes, we are just a little excited!!!!!! Woo Hoo!

Just Call Me Cra-Z

2008-04-23T20:21:00.002-04:00

I have a secret. I am Cra-z! Well, that's the rumor, anyway. But, that's no secret. You see, I discovered the most awesome product for getting stains out of clothes. It is Cra-Z Soap. This stuff works miracles on my stain filled laundry. It is the only thing I have found that successfully gets red clay mud out of clothes. I just wish I would have known about this back when Bub played softball. He might have looked like we actually washed his uniform. It is also useful for cleaning any type of greasy mess. You can even wash your dirty hands with it and it won't irritate your skin. If you have a baby with spit-up issues, a messy child that always finds the dirt (like Kaylea), or a husband that likes to go to the garage and get real greasy, you need this stuff. Here is a link to there website.

Spring Has Sprung

2008-04-23T15:48:00.012-04:00

Today Kaylea and I were taking a nature walk through the front yard and I couldn't resist taking pictures of our Spring flowers. You see in Florida, I didn't have bulbs that bloomed in the Spring. That is probably why Spring is one of my favorite seasons. I hope you enjoy their beauty as much as I do.

My Little Chickadee!

2008-04-21T21:07:00.002-04:00

Occasionally there are such monumental things happening around our house that they deserve being mentioned on both Blogs, Kaylea's and mine. Most of the time, I try to keep the Kaylea stories isolated to her Blog, but this one deserves a look see by all of our readers. Check out the latest goings on in my crazy little mixed up world at this post on Curiously Kaylea.

Basically, I guess I am just being lazy because it is a really long story and I don't feel like retelling it.

Gotta go - my little chickadee and her Calamine Lotion are calling me.

Young At Heart Chorus - I Feel Good!

2008-04-17T16:36:00.004-04:00

Today, I was watching the Ellen Degeneres show and saw the cutest segment. If you want to laugh until your sides hurt, just check this out (just bear with the commercial in the beginning) !!!!

How funny! I bet your smiling now, aren't you?

Smile Through The Pain

2008-04-16T10:33:00.002-04:00

Some of you are not aware that I have been suffering from chronic pain and fatigue for several years, now. I have seen many doctors concerning my problems. With each visit I am hopeful that I will finally get an answer; however, that has yet to happen.

The pain can be unbearable at times, usually when I am on my feet too long or over exert myself. For example, yesterday I worked at the Duck-Duck-Goose sale sorting clothes for donation and/or pick-up. I was on my feet for 4 hours; subsequently, when I left my hips were aching and the pain was radiating around my midsection and shooting down my legs through my knees and into my feet. The pain is not always triggered by standing or walking, though. Sometimes it is brought on if I get too cold; if the weather changes; if I sit too long; or for no identifiably reason. When the pain gets this bad, the only way I can get relief is by taking medication and going to sleep.

Since, I also suffer from chronic fatigue, sleeping is always welcome to me. Unfortunately, if I were in bed everytime I was hurting or felt sleepy, I would sleep my life away. You see, it takes very little for me to get exhausted. I can push myself by getting up and staying up without taking any naps during the day. But, usually, I will have a BIG crash after several days of this. When I crash it is not uncommon for me to sleep 18 - 20 hours a day for a couple of days at a time.

I have undergone various tests; however, we currently do not have a medical diagnosis. The doctors have said that I appear to have arthritis; however the rheumatoid arthritis test came back negative. I have also had every type of blood and hormone test run; underwent a Dexa Scan of my spine (since I shrunk 2" in a little over a year); and consulted with a Chiropractor. All to no avail.

About a year ago, my current Doctor prescribed Cymbalta to try and alleviate the pain. He also thought it might help with the chronic fatigue I was experiencing. He was unsure if the pain was causing the fatigue or if the fatigue was causing the pain. (You know, which came first - the chicken or the egg?) Cymbalta is an anti-depressent that is also useful in treating the pain and fatigue associated with depression. He asked me if I was depressed and I wasn't really sure. I told him that hurting and being tired all of the time didn't make me feel that great (emotionally), so I was willing to give it a try. Basically, my Doctor thought this would be a good place to start in trying to break the cycle of pain =sleep=pain.

I can say, on a positive note, that the medicine does help with the day to day pain that I use to experience. I am feeling a lot better than before; however, I do still experience the fatigue. I am o.k. with being fatigued as long as the pain isn't as bad. I would hate for it to be the other way around.

I know that my condition affects my whole family. Bub is wonderful and always supportive of me. When I get "down" (in both definitions of the word), he is always there to pick me up. I feel guilty that he has to deal with all of this at our "young" age. This is the type of thing you expect to experience later in life. I also worry about the affects on Kaylea. I am hopeful that when she gets older, she will remember all of the fun we have together and not that I was always tired and/or sick.

My inner voice can get pretty brutal at times. I will catch myself thinking, "I am just lazy!" and asking, "What is wrong with me?" But then the rational part of my brain provides comfort by acknowledging that I am not laying around watching TV day in and day out, like someone who is "lazy" would do. I don't think a "lazy" person would be able to sleep 20 hours at a clip for 2 days straight. Maybe I am wrong; maybe they can. It's just that I have never known anyone that can sleep as much as me and I have known many a lazy bum in my life.

I wish I knew all of the answers to my questions, but I may never get them. I guess I will have to just smile through the pain and take lots of cat naps!

Another Yummy Recipe

2008-04-16T10:11:00.004-04:00

If you like asparagus, you will love this recipe. Heck, you might even like it if you don't like asparagus - it is that good!

Asparagus Casserole

1 1/2 c. Ritz Crackers, crushed
1 stick Butter, melted
2 cans Asparagus Spears, drained
1/2 c. Slivered Almonds, toasted
4 tsp. Butter
3 tsp. Flour
1 1/2 c. Milk
1 jar Old English Cheese
1/2 tsp. Salt

Melt 4 tsp. butter in saucepan over medium heat, then stir in flour. Briskly whisk in the milk and jar cheese. Add salt and cook, whisking constantly, until slightly thickened. Remove from burner and set aside.

In a separate saucepan, melt 1 stick of butter. In a bowl combine the melted butter and crushed Ritz crackers. Put the buttered crackers in the bottom of a 9 x 13 pan, but reserve 1/2 cup of the cracker mixture for a topping.

Drain the asparagus and then layer it on top of the crackers. Top the asparagus with the toasted almonds.

Pour the cheese sauce over the almonds and sprinkle the reserved cracker crumbs over the top.

Bake at 375 degrees for 35 - 45 minutes.

YUMMO!

Just Doin' My Part

2008-04-13T22:53:00.002-04:00

Well, friends, let's all say a little prayer for Kaylea today. She is very nervous about the TCAP testing that starts tomorrow. I have given her the only advise I can:

Take your time
Read carefully
Pay attention
Check your answers
Don't race to be the first one finished

I really don't know what else to tell her. I wish she didn't have such anxiety over these tests; I'm sure she will do just fine!

In addition to cheering on my daughter, I volunteered to supply her class with morning snacks for each of the testing days. I know it is important for the children to eat a good breakfast in order to concentrate; unfortunately, some of the kids might not get one at home. So, I am preparing the snacks for Ms. W. Here is the menu:

Monday - Bacon, Egg and Cheese Cups with Orange Juice
Tuesday - Cereal with Milk
Wednesday - Ham and Cheese Biscuits with Orange Juice
Thursday - Doughnuts with Milk

Hopefully, this will fill their bellies and help them concentrate on the important stuff.

Ms. W.'s Class ROCKS!!!!!!!!

Another Happy Day

2008-04-12T11:45:00.004-04:00

Thursday my birthday present was delivered and here it is:

I am still waiting on two additional chairs, but they are scheduled to be delivered on April 24th. I guess my birthday will last all month long. Yeah Me!

Once the other chairs arrive, I will be ready for my BUNCO girls and all of the holiday meals. Now, I have seating for 14 that doesn't involve TV trays or sitting on the floor. Woo Hoo, lets have a party!

I'm So Happy - Oh, So Happy!

2008-04-11T12:13:00.004-04:00

Earlier in the week I posted about our participation in the Duck-Duck Goose Consignment Sale over at Curiously Kaylea. Guess What????? After the private sale on Wednesday, and the first day of the public sale on Thursday, I have made enough money to pay the remainder of the balance for the condo we have rented for vacation in Hilton Head. I AM SO HAPPY!!!!

I will definitely participate in this sale again. It was a lot of work to get the clothes ready for the sale, but the payoff is way better than a normal consignment store or eBay.

I am forever a Duck-Duck-Goose girl!

They Got Me!!!!!!!!

2008-04-08T08:05:00.003-04:00

WOW, what a weekend. As you all know, last Tuesday was my birthday. Well, Sunday was Mr. Bob's and TrickyVicky's Birthday, as well. Sis decided to have a party for all of the April Birthdays (so I thought) at her house on Saturday evening. So Saturday, Mom, Sis and I spent the morning preparing food for the big birthday party. Sis finally sent Mom and me home about 3:00 so that we could get ready and return at 8:00 for the party. Imagine my surprise when I returned for the party and found that I was the guest of honor. Sis and Mom had organized a surprise birthday party for me! This was the first surprise party I had ever had. I couldn't believe how they had fooled me.

The guests included: Sis, Mr. Bob and Miss C; Mom, JimBob, Dad, Grammy and Pappy; Jill, Charles and TrickyVicky; and my Bunco Girls - Pam, Ellen, Emily, Sarah, Lisa, Linda and her husband Warren. I want to thank all of them for coming to the party. It felt so good to see all of them there. I often feel like I don't have that many friends, but Saturday night I realized that I have a lot of people that care about me.

Thanks to all of you; you're the BEST!!!!!!!! (And you made the BIG 4-0 a lot of fun!)

Home Alone?

2008-04-04T07:45:00.002-04:00

I was watching the Today Show yesterday and they reported on a mom in NYC that let her 9 year old son travel via subway and bus across the city by himself. It was a thought provoking story for me.

When is a child old enough to travel alone or be left alone at home?

Over the past few months, I have been thinking quite a bit about the latter of those. Kaylea will be 10 in September and I am wondering if she is old enough to be left at home alone while I run little errands. So far, I am just not comfortable enough to leave her. Now, I have to confess, when Kaylea was sick last winter I left her at the house while I made a 10 minute trip to Walgreens to get her medicine. All the while, I was feeling like I was doing something wrong. Of course Kaylea thought that she was BIG stuff and now she is always asking me to leave her at home again.

This whole issue is quite a conundrum for me. You see when my sister and I were little, our parents divorced and we became "latch key kids" at the ages of 10 and 6. Mom worked her butt off just to be able to keep food on the table and a roof over our head; there was no money for afterschool childcare. Not only were we alone in the afternoons, we had to walk home from school because we were JUST inside the 2 mile boundary; therefore, the buses didn't come to our neighborhood. (At that time, if you lived within 2 miles of the school, you were either a car rider, bike rider or walker). Our route home was a 4 lane divided road, similar to Kingston Pike. ThiThi was just a little older than Kaylea and she was responsible for herself AND a little sister. The big difference between ThiThi and me and Kaylea is that ThiThi and I were a lot more mature than Kaylea. Of course, we didn't have much choice other than to be mature; whereas, Kaylea has no reason or need to grow up.

So, do I let Kaylea stay home alone to teach her responsibility and encourage maturity? Or do I wait for her to become responsible and mature before I give her the priviledge of being home alone? Let me know your thoughts.

MeMeMeMeMeMeMeeeeeeeeee

2008-04-03T09:36:00.003-04:00

O.K. I got tagged by my ThiThi, you know her as Missy over at the Monkey House, to participate in the spreading of the MeMe joy. So, here I go. I hope you all enjoy it.

Name one thing you do every day:

Tell Bub and Kaylea that I love them

Name 5 things / people that make you feel good:

My family - all of them
Stinky puppy kisses from Angel
Listening to the laughter of children
Laughing until I cry
Cymbalta

Name 4 things you love to eat but rarely do:

Chocolate Eclairs
Fresh seafood
Jimbo's Barbeque with a side of hushpuppies to dip in the sauce (Lakeland, FL)
Mr. Fish cheeseburger and onion rings (Lakeland, FL)

Name 3 things that remind you of childhood:

Driving through Dandridge, TN
Holidays - Easter, Halloween, and Christmas
Smells - Norrell, Charlie, Old Spice, Right Guard, Perm Solution mixed with AquaNet, aroma from sewage treatment facility, and orange blossoms

Name 2 things you wish you could learn:

How to get Kaylea to stop arguing
How to sew

Now, that you know more about me than you probably wanted to, I am going give everyone an open tag. Please share your secrets with us, as well. We are dieing to hear them!

The Many Sides of Jennilu's Do

2008-03-31T22:02:00.017-04:00

Well friends, here I sit on the eve of my 40th birthday pondering what type of post would be appropriate for my little blog. I finally decided it would be fun to copy Rimarama and her Coiff-o-Rama post and provide you with a retrospective of the Jennilu Do's over the years.

Try not to laugh too hard and just remember - I was a child of the 70's and 80's. Just sit back and have a little chuckle at my expense (everyone else is).

This is the known as the "Cupie Do". I am about 4 weeks old and this is the FIRST picture that was taken of me. Mom said I was such an ugly baby that she wouldn't take my picture when I came home from the hospital. She has been known to compare me to a plucked bird. I just said I was the ugly duckling that was going to grow into a beautiful Swan(n).

Here we have the "Tupperware Do". I'm not quite sure where Mom found the bowl she used to create this lovely style, but she surely passed it on to her family and friends. I have seen many a hillbilly girl with the same exact cut. Bless their heart ;)

And here we have the lovely 70's "Shag". I guess Mom had watched a little too much Brady Bunch and was trying to recreate Mrs. Brady's haircut. She was a little closer to the desired result on ThiThi. Weren't we cute with our matching cuts? Come to think of it, Mom had her hair styled the same way. It really was a trend!

This is probably the most normal haircut I had as a young child. Nothing fancy - nothing special. Why couldn't Mom have stuck with this all the time??????????

Here we have my attempt at the "Dorothy Hamill" cut. Too bad I ended up with those sausage looking things on either side of my head. Oh, and check out my stick pin. I was stylin!!

Another "Shag". Man weren't the 70's the BEST!!!!!!!! I believe I was dreaming of Shawn Cassidy when this was taken.

AH - love those "Feathers". Unfortunately, thin/fine hair doesn't like to feather. DRATS! And yes, I am wearing an Add-a-Bead necklace. 80's all the way, baby!

Now, if this isn't classy, I don't know what is. The totally overdone "Prom Do". I am amazed my date didn't have a matching cummerbund and bow tie. I was really slipping.

Check out the vertical hold on those bangs. There was some serious teasing and spraying taking place to get those things up that high. But let's not talk about my hair for a second. Let's look as ThiThi's - WTF? I'm totally lovin your bi-level do!!!!!!!!

Can you say, "too much bleach and too much perm?" What was I thinking????? Mary, if you were a real friend, you would have done a "Bob" intervention.

Step away from the bleach and the teasing comb. I'm surprised my "Bob" didn't put an eye out. And, yes, I know that Bub's bow tie doesn't match my outfit. He was in a wedding and I was just attending. So, all you haters out there can stop hating :)

My "Bob" was about as tired as I was. Kaylea was two weeks old.

ThiThi always referred to this as my "helmet hair". Whenever I wanted to change teams, I would just change the color of my helmet.

And now, I am sporting the "Beckham Bob". Who knows how long this will last. But as you can see, another "Bob" will surely be in my future. I am kinda stuck on him - I mean it.

Yes, I'm Still Alive

2008-03-26T09:30:00.004-04:00

No, the flu didn't kill me, though I thought it was going to for awhile. Things have just been a little crazy around Casa Jennilu. There was the whole volunteering at Kaylea's school thing AND the whole getting ready for Easter thing AND then the whole getting the house ready for Easter company thing AND then the whole getting ready for our spring break trip thing AND so on....... I know, you get the message.

Anywho, ThiThi, Kaylea and I are in Macon at Mom's and Jim Bob's enjoying the semi-warm weather and our little break. There has been lots of shopping and I am happy to say that Kaylea will not have run the streets nakey this spring/summer. She once again has clothes THAT FIT! Boocoodles of thanks from Kaylea (and Bub and me) to Memommy and Auntie M for the wardrobe intervention! Kaylea likes to complain about the "shopping, shopping, shopping" but secretly she loves it!

Today, we are off to get our haircuts. My Beckham Bob is starting to look a little shabby and it needs a trim. After getting beautified who knows where we will end up, but I am quite certain it will involve some food and some more shopping. Yes, we are so predictable, but we don't care; we're just having fun Franklin girl style.

I hope everyone it enjoying their spring. I promise to write more regularly.

The Test Came Back Positive

2008-03-10T13:04:00.004-04:00

...and no it wasn't a pregnancy test. Bub, who is feeling much better, drug my sorry butt to the Doctor this morning and they gave me a flu test. Well, SURPRISE SURPRISE! It came back positive for "Strand B." And to quote my doctor, "There are two strands, A & B, with B being the worst. Naturally, you have strand B." Ya know, this is just my luck. I can't even catch a break and get the lesser of the two flu bugs.

Hopefully, the Tamiflu with kick in soon. I can't take another night like last night. No sleep! High Fever! The sweats! The chills! Aches and aches and aches!

Bah humbug to the flu!!!!!!!!!!

If You See Us Coming, RUN!

2008-03-09T10:21:00.005-04:00

Just call us Mr. and Mrs. Sickly McSickle. On Thursday night, we ate dinner at ThiThi's and when we got home Bub was chilling and running a fever. Through the night his fever continued to climb and got up to 103. He actually argued with me about going to work on Friday, but finally conceded to staying home after he took his shower and realized that his head might actually explode if he didn't lay back down. Bub is one that never complains or misses work, so when he agreed to call in , I knew he was REALLY sick! In his typical gentlemanly style, he kept a good distance between himself and me and Kaylea so as not to pass his crud on to us.

I'm not too sure that his plan was successful, though, because Friday when I woke up I felt like crap. I wasn't running a fever, but I was chilling and totally exhausted. I slept from 10:00 pm Thursday night until about 10:00 am Saturday morning. All the while, I was chilling and just feeling terrible. Bub's fever broke during the night Friday and he was feeling a little better by Saturday afternoon. I, on the other hand, started feeling really nauseous and got sick to my stomach. We managed to go to the Ron White (i.e. Tater Salad) show last night, against my better judgement. The tickets were a Christmas gift to Bub from ThiThi and Mr. Bob and we had been planning on making a big "date night." Kaylea spent the night with her Auntie M and Uncle Bob, so we had the whole night to ourselves. Whoo Hoo!!!!

The show was really good. Ron White was a hoot; I laughed so hard at the show that I managed to upset my stomach even more. By the time we left, I felt like I was going to puke. (Boy, that's an endorsement for Mr. White's show if I've ever seen one). After making a pit stop at ThiThi's for a bathroom break, Bub and I made it home by about 10:00 pm. Yes, our "date night" was over by 10:00 pm; we are just too exciting.

When we got home I drank some Diet Coke and managed to get my stomach settled and then we each made our respective nests, one on the love seat and one on the couch, and off to sleep we went. Well, Bub did, at least. I couldn't sleep because I started sneezing which in return made my head start pounding.

As of this morning Bub is feeling great and I feel like doo-doo. My head is stopped up tighter than a drum; my nose is running; and I can't stop sneezing. Oh, and I still feel nauseous. So pardon me for signing off, but my Zicam, Mucinex and Motrin await. After all, I have to get to feeling better because I am scheduled to sub tomorrow. (The first day in a month, wouldn't you know it!)

Oh, by the way, so far (KNOCK ON WOOD), Kaylea is still healthy. Let's all say a little prayer that she stays that way!

Another Quick and Easy Recipe

2008-03-05T16:23:00.002-05:00

As I was trying to figure out what to fix for dinner tonight, I remembered a recipe that I use to make a long time ago. I saw it years ago on the back of a Bisquick box. Here it is, I hope you enjoy it!

Impossible Cheeseburger Pie

1lb Lean Ground Beef
1 1/2 c. Onion, chopped
1/2 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Pepper
1 c. Cheese, shredded
1 1/2 c. Milk
3/4 c. Bisquick
3 Eggs

Brown the ground beef in skillet and then drain, well. Put onions in skillet and saute until soft. In a blender or food processor blend together the salt, pepper, milk, Bisquick and eggs. Sprinkle the beef and onions into a 9 x 11 casserole that has been sprayed with Pam. Top beef with shredded cheese. Pour Bisquick mixture over top of cheese. Bake at 400 degrees for 40 - 45 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean.

Serve with a green vegetable and salad. Pronto, your dinner is done! Now, wasn't that easy?

***Variations***
Lite version: Use low fat cheese, skim milk and Reduced Fat Bisquick (I'm sure you could even substitute Egg Beaters for the eggs)
Others: I have made this for breakfast substituting with bacon and cheddar or ham and Swiss. Basically, use your imagination. You can substitute any kind of meat and cheese for hundreds of possibilities.

Let me know if you like it.........

I'm Washing and Drying and Folding, OH MY!!!!

2008-03-04T11:03:00.005-05:00

I HATE LAUNDRY!!! I HATE LAUNDRY!!! I HATE LAUNDRY!!! Oh and have I ever mentioned that I HATE LAUNDRY!!!

As I am working on getting my ELEVEN, yes that's 1-1, as in the number after 10 and before 12, loads of laundry done I can feel my blood beginning to boil. And no, I haven't put it off too long, this is my weekly chore. I keep asking myself, "Why do I hate this chore so much?" There are just soooooo many reasons, running through my head right now, let me share a few:

1. This is a chore that is never complete. When I finish load eleven, there will still be dirty clothes to wash, because I don't strip down the family and make everyone run around naked while I'm doing laundry.

2. My loving daughter doesn't know how to take socks off without turning them inside out. This results in me either having to turn them as I sort them, or if I miss one, it gets washed that way and doesn't get very clean. Thus I have to wash it again which adds to the whole thought, "the chore is never complete."

3. Since we're talking about socks, why do I always have mismatches????? Where do they go?

4. Neither my hubby nor my daughter put their dirty clothes in the hamper. This turns laundry day into a sort of scavenger hunt. I - DON'T - LIKE - SCAVENGER - HUNTS!!!!!

5. When I sort the laundry, I typically find all of Kaylea's jeans with one leg inside out and a pair of panties still attached. I'm quite sure the stores don't sell little girls jeans with built-in underwear, so it has to be the way she undresses, ya think?

6. This is MY chore. Goodness knows we don't want Bub to help out with this one. I love him and his effort, but normally it just makes more work for me (i.e. he washes everything together, red/black/white, it doesn't matter; he washes a load and forgets to dry it, thus creating a soured mildewy surprise for me when I open the washer; he puts my clothes away in the strangest places, then I can't find anything for months) I'm sure you get the picture.

7. Kaylea is of the mindset that if she tries something on but decides not to wear it, well, it's dirty and must go in the hamper. Therefore, I am constantly washing clean clothes. Really, she is just too lazy to hang the things back up or fold them and put them back away. It's a lot easier to throw them in the hamper!!! (Easier for WHO, I ask?????)

8. It's the one chore that no one can tell you have done. How many times has someone come into your home and complemented you on how nice your laundry looks? Yea, me neither and everyone knows that I am a complement freak!!!!!

I guess, if I did a load every day or so, it wouldn't be so overwhelming; but damn, why would I want to put myself through this angst on a daily basis? I am still trying to figure out where the hatred comes from. All I can figure is it's Mom's fault. You see my ThiThi hates laundry, as well. So it has to be something that happened during our childhood. Maybe Mom chained us to the washer and dryer or banished us to the utility room for time out. Of course neither of us have any memories of these horrible things being done, but MAYBE we have just blocked them from our minds. Yes, yes, yes, this must be it. I knew there was a reason.

Well, my friends, I must go; my dryer buzzer is calling me!!!!!!!!!!

UPDATE:
It is now 24 hours later and load 11 has come out of the dryer. Of course there are more clothes waiting for me, already.

Sephora, Knoxville Welcomes You!

2008-02-29T10:34:00.015-05:00

Whoot Whoot! We finally have a Sephora in Knoxville. Today is the Grand Opening of their store at West Town. I can't tell you how many times I have wished for this day to come.

I'm sure you are asking yourself, "What's the big deal?"

Well, if you look on The Ever Growing List of Random Things I Love, # 13 is bareMinerals make-up.

Up until now my only choices for acquiring my MUST HAVE make-up were to either drive to a small natural/health herbal remedy type store way out in Farragut or order my stuff on the Internet. Both options were a real pain in my a*%.

Now, FINALLY, I can get my make-up fix at the mall, like everyone else. I am sooooo happy!

My Mamaw

2008-02-26T17:03:00.004-05:00

I get sad when I realize that I have lost all of my grandparents. Each one of them had a special place in my heart. Luckily, I did not lose any of them until I was an adult. I am grateful for all of the happy memories I have with them.

My Mamaw Franklin was my mother's mother. She was a country women from the mountains of East Tennessee. She lived a hard tough life which occasionally showed through in her personality. Nonetheless, she was my grandmother and I loved her.

We lost Mamaw in the Fall of 2006. Each of the grandchildren that attended her funeral prepared a eulogy. Here is mine:

"Everyone here today had a unique relationship with Iva Franklin. Some of you knew her as Mother, some as Mother-in-law, some as friend, and others of us knew her as Mamaw. All of us grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren had a special and different relationship with our grandmother. I am Jenni and I was only 4 months shy of being the 'baby' among Mamaw's grand kids. I want to share with you what my memories are of my Mamaw.

My earliest memories are of Mamaw and Papaw living at the farm in Walland, Tennessee. Mamaw was a hard working - no frills - no fuss kind of woman. I remember her making cheese, butter and cream from the cows she milked every day; tending the farm;
and not having a lot of time for playing with us kids. She made our time at the farm fun, though. We helped mold butter; played in the barn; named the pigs; fished in the lake; and made lightning bug night lights in old mason jars.

When Mamaw and Papaw moved to Lakeland, I was about nine. At that time, I developed a different type of relationship with Mamaw. We shared meals every weekend. We spent Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter and Birthdays together (hers and ours). She made her crafts and taught me a few of her tricks along the way. Mamaw was quite a seamstress and made my Halloween costumes for many years. They were always sure to win the costume contest! As I grew up so did our relationship. She was present for my Proms, Homecomings, Graduations and Wedding.

Mamaw was a kind, gentle and loving person. As a matter of fact for many years I thought she would let me get away with anything. Boy, was I wrong! This was a lesson I learned the hard way when she found out my friends and I decided to TP houses and 'egg' a few cars. She was very adamant that either I tell my mom or she would! I learned real quick that the wrath of Mamaw could be swift and fierce and she was NO pushover, as I had previously suspected. Trust me, I made sure that I never saw that side of my Mamaw again.

In the end Mamaw didn't know who I was. That was very hard for me, but I tried to always keep my memories in the front of my mind. Mamaw wasn't the same person I knew my whole life, but once again I was growing up and our relationship was changing.

Though all of us had a unique relationship with Iva Franklin, 'My Mamaw', we all have one thing in common - we all loved her dearly."

~Be at peace, sweet lady!

It's Love - TRUE love!

2008-02-24T10:05:00.003-05:00

How does your husband show his love for you?

Is it with a soft kiss on the back of your neck when you least expect it?
Is it with a beautiful bouquet of flowers for no reason at all?
Is it by him planning childcare and surprising you with a romantic date night?

Yes, all of these things are wonderful and a great affirmation of the love he feels for you. My Bub has done all of these at one point or another; but just yesterday, he showed his love in the most unexpected way of all.

You see, my unwanted friend, Aunt Flo, was making her monthly visit and I found myself in a horrible predicament. I used my last "harpoon" during BUNCO Friday night and really needed more supplies. Since Bub had to go into work yesterday morning I asked him if he would mind picking up a box on his way home. I knew for sure he was going to look at me like I was crazy and tell me to go to the store myself. See, Bub is a guy's guy; he don't each no quiche and he don't wear no damned pink shirts (or any shade that is closely related to it). Anyway, to my shock, he said he would pick some up for me and then asked what kind I needed. Well, since this was his "first time" I made sure to give him lots of details. I told him the Brand, size, color of the box and all other specifics; hell, I even considered taking a picture of the box with his cell phone for reference purposes. You know, that stuff can get real confusing, even if you have been buying them for 25 years. Thus the reason, women are always standing in that section of store just staring at all of the products or reading, researching and comparing the labels.

As he left for work, I felt like I was sending my child off on a mission where he was doomed for failure. But, I was determined to praise his efforts when he returned, no matter what he carried through the door. Imagine my surprise when he called me on his way home from work and asked if I need anything else form Walmart. Walmart? On a Saturday? Was he crazy? I had expected he would stop at Kroger where he could be a little more inconspicuous; but NO, not Bub. He decided to learn to swim in the BIG pool!

So, to all of you ladies out there, my husband REALLY does love me. And now I know that he will do anything for me. His love has no limits (except the whole pink shirt thing). Yes, you can be jealous; it's ok. And if you happened to be in the feminine product aisle at Walmart yesterday morning, you probably encountered Bub and didn't even know it. He was the one on his cell phone asking his wife, "Did you want the ones with the gentle glide applicator?"

I love you, too, Bubby!!!!!!!!!!!!

Who'd A Thunk It

2008-02-20T21:00:00.003-05:00

I am a newcomer to this whole blogging thing and can't believe that I have been given an award. Of course, this really doesn't count because it came from my ThiThi. (But we don't have to tell anyone, now do we?)

I am glad that she enjoys my ramblings, and hopefully a few others might, also. I am truly honored to put this award on my blog. Thanks to all of you that stop by.

Because I am so new to the whole blogging thing, I don't have 10 people to pass this on to. Actually, almost all of the blogs I follow have already received the award from my sis. I do have one person to pass this along to, though.

Mary and her Three Miracles brighten my day. I am so happy that her journey has led her to such happiness and love. Mary writes about her family life and her three blessings, James, Riley and Madeline. Keep up the good work.

Just A Little FYI

2008-02-20T16:10:00.003-05:00

When you have a stopped up garbage disposal don't get fooled when the water starts to recede. You see, if you turn on the disposal at this point anything that is in the pipes will get blown out of the other sink drain.

In my efforts to clean the house for BUNCO, I was feverishly working in the kitchen. I had some turkey soup that needed to be thrown out, so I put it down the disposal. Well, I guess the disposal didn't like the soup because it got all choked up on it. Since we didn't have any Drain-O I decided to try the plunger instead. As I used the plunger, first on the disposal side, then on the sink side, the water started going down. I thought I had conquered the stoppage without having to let Bub know anything about it (he get's pissed every time I put a lot of stuff in the disposal). As the water was almost down, I decided to turn on the disposal to clear that side a little faster. Well, I'm no plumber but what happened next just seems a little wrong. As I know it, the function of a sink is to let water drain downward through the pipes. However, apparently when there is a blockage the force from the disposal makes everything work backwards because I created a volcano in the sink and it was blowing turkey lava all over my kitchen. I can now say that I have pieces of turkey and sludge and broth all over the cabinets, the walls and the floor. (So much for not having to let Bub know.) Now I am waiting for my sweet hubby to get home from work so that he can unstop the sink and I can begin the decontamination of the kitchen. If I don't post anything for a while, you will know that I am trying to recover from salmonella poisoning.

We're Back.....

2008-02-20T14:30:00.003-05:00

Yes, we made it home from our trip without any major occurences. Of course, we all had a blast and it was nice getting to see everyone again.

I would recommend St. Simon's Island if you are wanting to vacation in a quiet and laid back ocean front community. The town is very quaint and non-commercialized. (I think we only saw one Putt Putt course on the island.) I wish we could have stayed longer so that we could wander around and see more of the island's treasures. It seems that vacations always end too soon.

Now that I am home I am gearing up for a big BUNCO game at my house this Friday. Yes, I play BUNCO. The girls I play with are a hoot and normally there is just a little bit of silliness going on. Since I am hostessing this month, I get to choose the theme. Well, I decided to have a pajama party; so, everyone is coming in their p.j.'s and I am serving them brunch. (since it's breakfast at dinner, I guess it would be brinner?) This should be another fun evening. Keep your fingers crossed that I win the big jackpot!

A Valentine To Remember

2008-02-14T08:57:00.005-05:00

I want to start by wishing everyone a very loverly Valentine's Day. I hope all of you get a smooch from someone you love, today!

As for me, I am spending Valentine's Day with Kaylea, ThiThi, Mom and Jim Bob. We have already enjoyed the traditional Dove Chocolate breakfast. Oh, you mean everyone doesn't eat Dove Chocolates for breakfast on Valentine's Day? Wow, I thought that was a given.

I was reading ThiThi's blog entry the other day about her first Valentine's gift and it got me thinking. I really don't remember the first boy that I bought a Valentine's for. Though, I'm sure it was probably in 4th grade when Dinky Smith was my boyfriend, but I'm not real sure (sorry, Dinky). I will, however, share my first Valentine's memory with everyone.

I guess it was Valentine's Day 1971. I remember my Poppy roaring up in front of the house in his old red Jeep. He came inside carrying two cards and a BIG pink heart. I was so excited when he presented the cards and that beautiful heart to ThiThi and me. My excitement only grew when we opened the box and found that it was filled with chocolates. I am assuming that ThiThi was pretty excited as well, since Mom took a picture of us with the Chocolates. Those were probably the best cream filled chocolates I have ever eaten, because they were from my Poppy.

He always knew how to make me feel special, even when I was two. I love you, Poppy!

2008 Annual Hen and Chick Trip

2008-02-13T14:23:00.004-05:00

Well, all of you that read ThiThi's blog know that we are getting ready to leave for our annual President's Day weekend trip. The really neat part is that only girls go on this outing. We kindly refer to the trip as our "Hen and Chick" gathering. The participants are usually the same each year, with only a few new comers and/or absences. The gang, this year, consists of:

Aunt Shashan (Mom's oldest sister)
Aunt Witch (Mom's older sister)
Dawn and Laura (Aunt Witch's daughter and grand daughter)
Mom
ThiThi, Me and Kaylea (Mom's daughters and grand daughter, duh)
Ethel (Mom's 1st cousin)
Manda, Gracie Mae and Em (Ethel's daughter and two grand daughters)
Chris (Ethel's Sister-in-law)

We range in age from 70(ish) down to 2(ish). You might wonder if we really have fun since there is such a drastic age difference in our Hens and Chicks. Well, I speak for Kaylea and myself in saying, we always have a blast. The weekend normally includes lots of shopping, eating, touring and then some more shopping, eating and touring. There are a few other traditions associated with the trip, like going on a ghost tour; visiting a lighthouse; and adding a charm to our Hen and Chick charm bracelets.

In years past we have gone to Savannah, Charleston, then back to Savannah again. Last year, the group went to St. Augustine, but Mom, ThiThi, Kaylea and I could not make the trip. You see, we had this little thing called "ThiThi's wedding" the following weekend. I think we had a good enough excuse for being absent.

The excitement is building and we can't wait for Friday; however, luckily we are hitting the road today and leaving East TN and all of its ice and flurries behind. (Thank you to Sevier County for adding 2 sick days to our 4 day winter break. Kudos to Jackie!) We are getting ready to head south to Mom's where we will be staying until Friday morning. Then Mom and all of her "girls" will mosey on over to St. Simon's Island. The warm weather will be a welcome change, but it did make packing a little challenging. It is hard to pack for warm weather when you are looking out the window and watching snowflakes the size of chicken feathers falling from the heavens. Another challenge was the fact that my child has outgrown all of her summer clothes and shoes. Oh well, hopefully she won't melt into a little puddle on the beach in her turtleneck and snow boots (just kidding). Things weren't quite that bad, but she will be wearing jeans the whole trip because that's all that fits.

I'm sure either ThiThi or I will make some sort of post over the weekend. And if Kaylea does anything "blonde and Kaylea-ish" I'm sure I will post that, also. I hope everyone has a nice holiday weekend. Stay safe and have fun.

Date Night

2008-02-08T17:31:00.000-05:00

I always look forward to having Date Night with Bub. I guess we are very lucky in the respect that his parents live very close and love to have Kaylea come to their house on Friday nights. She usually spends the night with them about twice a month.

I'm not sure what we will do tonight. I know it will involve going out to eat, but other than that, who knows!!! We have been known to go get take-out and rent a movie. I guess a "date" for us doesn't have the same meaning as it did in the early days. Nowadays anytime that we are alone it is a "date".

Whatever the evening brings, I'm sure it will be enjoyed by both of us.

P.S. Please, no phone calls after 9:00 pm (just kiddin!!!)

Predators Don't Always Fit The Stereotype!

2008-02-02T13:30:00.000-05:00

Let's just call me shocked and angry today. This morning a friend from High School sent me a link to a story in todays Tampa Tribune. It just so happens that a fellow classmate of mine was arrested yesterday and charged with producing child pornography. Apparently he is facing eight counts of using a child in a sexual performance. The real kicker is that he worked for the state of Florida in DCF (Department of Child and Family). You can read all of the ugly details here.

This is very shocking because the guy was really popular in High School and was NOT the type of person you would ever imagine doing something as horrific as this. He was involved in the school newspaper, an editor on the school's literary publication, an officer in the Pep Club and active in the school orchestra. He was always very outgoing and charming; a very pleasant person to be around.

I guess all of his accolades are the reason I am so angry. I can't believe a person can have such an amazing outward appearance and be so evil/sick inside. People like him scare the hell out of me. I have always tried to warn my daughter of the dangers in this world. But a person such as this would raise no warning flags, until it was too late.

For everyone out there that thinks this could never happen to their family......BEWARE. A predator doesn't always look or act scary.

Why Tennessee?

2008-02-01T20:02:00.000-05:00

Well, this was the sight from my front porch yesterday morning. Who can argue with this?

A G.R.I.T.S. - And Damn Proud Of It!

2008-01-31T19:35:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, ThiThi and I took a roadtrip to Dandridge to visit with Dad and Fris. (Just call us Thelma and Louise). Actually, ThiThi had to work on their computer and I tagged along, but we ended up having a really nice afternoon. Everytime I go to Dandridge I am taken back to the summers of my childhood and filled with nostalgia.

You see, I was born in Jefferson Memorial Hospital on April 1, 1968. We lived in Dandridge from the time I was born until I was 3. Then we moved to Lakeland, Florida, where I lived until I was 22. After we moved to Florida, we could always count on seeing Nana and Poppy's Volkswagon sitting in our driveway on the last day of school. They would drive south to pick us up and bring us home, to Dandridge, for the summer. For the most part our summers were spent just killing time and trying to stay out of our Nana's hair. I remember we would always pester Nana for a dollar and when she would give in we would walk downtown to Tinsley Bible to get a coke at the fountain. Then we would wander around downtown, going to the library, rummaging through Gass's 5 & 10, climbing to the top of the dike, or walking through the Civil War cemetary. You would think we would have gotten tired of this ritual but we did it almost daily.

Oh, but that wasn't all we did during the summer. We would play dress up in the old clothes in Nana's basement; sit under the apple tree in the front yard listening for the buzz of dirtbikes (that meant the boys were coming ~ Poppy said their dirtbikes sounded like a bumblebee in a fruit jar); watch our stories (soap operas) with Nana; go to the Maury ball field at night; catch fireflies and put them in a mason jar for a nightlight; and plunder through the old timey dresser in our room, looking at its jewels like they were treasures we had never seen.

The most memorable thing we did in the summers, though, was going to church. Probably because it was the only time we were able to interact with kids that weren't cousins. We went to First Baptist, but not the new one - oh no - the old one. I can still remember the smell of the old Sunday School building. It was a musty anticeptic smell. Kinda like a moldly hospital, I guess. Nonetheless, I loved that old church. We went every Sunday for Sunday School and Church. There was no such thing as "Children's Church" back then. We sat in the sanctuary with Nana, Dad and Fris and listened to Preacher McCray recite his sermon. I, also, loved Bible School; it was always so much fun. We would play games on the hillside and have our kool-aid and cookies for snack. I guess it is no surprise that I was baptised in that old church and have never moved my membership. Every church I go to just doesn't feel like home, even First Baptist in Dandridge. Since they moved to the new building, it just isn't the same.

Well, back to yesterday, when ThiThi finished working on the computer Dad, Fris, ThiThi and I went to Tinsley Bible for lunch. Dad and ThiThi had slaw dogs (a tradition) and Fris and I had the Bible burgers. Then we all had fried apple pies with ice cream for dessert. It was strange sitting in the old drug store eating the familiar food. We told stories and reminisced about summers and Nana and Poppy and "the good 'ole days". Daddy told stories about his childhood and Fris had a few of her own. Then we walked down the block and went through an antique store (I swear Nana had most of that crap in her house). It was nice walking the streets of downtown again. As we passed the courthouse, I could almost see my Poppy sitting on the bench out back talking to all of his old buddies (all of which are no longer with us). I felt like I had come home again.

I'm Really Not A Bum!

2008-01-28T16:15:00.001-05:00

You have to understand, when Kaylea started Kindergarten I thought it would be great if I could get a job working at her school. You know, I could be close if she needed me, we would be on the same schedule and it would get me out of the house during the day while she was at school. I immediately thought that a Teacher Assistant (TA) position would be a perfect fit. So, I went to the county offices and filled out an application and asked how I should proceed from there. The nice lady told me that all of the TAs were hired by the Principals at the school, so I would need to go to all of the schools that was interested in and talk to the Principals. Well, that was easy enough (so I thought) since I was only interested in working at Kaylea's school. So, I went to the office at her school and gave the Principal a copy of my resume and spoke with her about my interest. She told me that she hired her TAs from her parent volunteers and substitute teachers. She then advised me to get on the county's sub list and volunteer whenever possible. Well, I took this advise to heart and went back down to the county offices and submitted my application to substitute teach. I, also, became a regular fixture in Kaylea's Kindergarten classroom. The whole subbing thing didn't really take off during Kindergarten, though. You see, the teachers were responsible for acquiring their own subs and none of them knew me, thus they didn't call me. About half way through the year, Kaylea's teacher let me in a little secret. He told me that the substitutes made business cards and passed them out to the teachers so that the teachers would have their phone number. So, I decided I can play their little game and I designed my own business cards and put them in the teachers' mailboxes. Still no calls. Apparently, teachers will not call a sub that they do not know. Talk about a catch 22.

At the beginning of 1st grade I made more business cards and put them in the teachers' mailboxes, again. Then things really started to take off (I put my picture on these business cards so the teachers would recognize my face - see I'm smart!). I was volunteering and substituting all the time. I didn't want to sub at any other schools, though. You see this would defeat my purpose. Remember, I wanted to be seen subbing and volunteering by the Principal at Kaylea's school. You know, so that I would be considered for a TA position should one become available. Imagine my dismay when I found out that the Principal was retiring at the end of Kaylea's 1st grade year. Now, imagine my disappointment when I didn't get a job offer before she left. Basically, I was going to be starting over with the new Principal.

At the beginning of 2nd grade I made more business cards with magnets attached to the backs (so the teachers could stick them to a file cabinet or desk and easily see them when needed). I, also, made chocolate lollipops shaped like apples that I attached to the business cards (hey, I'm not above schmoozing) and put these in the mailboxes, once again. I went into the office with my resume in hand and introduced myself to the new Principal and discussed my interest with her. I was in shock when she told me she didn't have anything to do with the hiring, it was handled by the Central Office. So, here I was, feeling very frustrated and confused. I decided I wasn't going to let it bother me and I would just sub. After all, this way I could set my own hours and I didn't have to work if I didn't want to. Well, I stayed pretty busy subbing and volunteering, but nothing like the previous school year. You see, the new Principal put the responsibility of acquiring subs on one of the secretaries, so it didn't matter what kind of relationship I had managed to build with the teachers. I did have a good rapport with the secretary, so she would call me frequently; however, she tried to keep things fair for all of the subs so the work wasn't as abundant as in the past.

Now, this year, Kaylea has moved up from the Primary School to the Intermediate School where there are no TAs (except in SPED). So I am left still trying to get a TA job at the Primary School; however, I am hardly there anymore. The responsibility of acquiring subs has been given to a new secretary this year and I just don't get the calls. Also, since Kaylea doesn't go to school there anymore, I am not in the building volunteering. When I am at the school subbing I see all these new subs wandering the hallways, all of which have kids at the school. I have really been made a firm believer in "out of sight, out of mind." So, you can see, I'm really not a Bum. I really want to work; the phone just isn't ringing.

Oh, and did I forget to mention, I have a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education? I know you are probably thinking, "Why is a degreed teacher not able to get a Teacher's Assistant position?" Well, I have asked myself the same question many many times. But, oh yeah, I also forgot to tell you what county we live in. You see we are in Sevier County and unfortunately my last name is not Parton, Reagan or Ogle. I have been told many times over that in this county it isn't what you know, but who you know. Too bad for me that I am from Florida and my husband's family is from Pennsylvania; I guess we just don't run in the right circles. You just gotta love the Good 'ole Boy Network, don't cha!

My ThiThi

2008-01-26T11:26:00.000-05:00

Yes, many of you probably think that Missbw and I are a little weird because we call each other ThiThi. Well, let me tell you the cute little story behind it (don't worry Fris, I will try not to embarrass you too bad ;)

You see, many years ago, our stepmom, Fris, told us this story and it has just kinda stuck with us. Well, once upon a time Fris was on a car trip and began to have a really bad stomach ache. She made my dad stop at a gas station and she quickly made her way to the bathroom. Once inside, she made herself comfortable and proceeded to take care of the stomach pains. (How am I doing so far, Fris?) Then she heard some little girls come into the bathroom. From the sounds of their voices they were about 8 and 4. Together, they went into the stall next to Fris to use the bathroom. As they were using the bathroom, Fris had an uncontrollable gas pain which was rather noisy when it was released (We still ok, Fris?) Then she hears this little voice from the other stall say, "Hee Hee Hee! You tho thilly ThiThi, you faaw-ted." (Now, see Fris, that wasn't so bad, was it?)

So, if you are ever at the mall or WalMart or Target and you hear two grown women saying, "You tho thilly, ThiThi!" You will know that it is Missybw and me. Please come over and say, "Hi!"