Happy New Year !!!



As I reflect over the past year, one thing that stands out in my mind is how grateful I am for the wonderful people I have met through blogging. You have enriched my life. You have helped me be a stronger, braver, kinder, better person. I have come to see that those who do not share my point of view are not dullards or fools, but people just like me who simply think differently. I have come to understand that very little is black and white, right or wrong, red or blue. There is a whole lot of gray, and purple. What may seem wrong to me, may not be so wrong to someone else. I've come to realize that all so called rich folks are not snobs or selfish jerks. When I think my life sucks, I take a stroll through the blogosphere and I realize that my life is pretty good compared to that of some others. I have much to be thankful for. Not the least of which is my wonderful, wonderful blogger friends.
As I look forward into the new year, I am looking forward to many more days and nights of blogging with you. Of getting to know all of you even better. May God bless each and everyone of you with a healthy, and happy life in the coming year!
Gosh, I LOVE you all!!!

A Tragedy of Monolith Preportions

I've noticed that almost everyone has made some mention of last weekend's earthquake-tsunami catastrophe in Southeast Asia. So much so that I feel I'd be amiss if I didn't at least acknowledge it in some small way here in my own little window to the world. The death toll continues to climb. As of 15 minutes ago on Goggle News website it's up to 114,000. That is almost unimaginable for me. SO many people. I suppose one could see this as Mother Nature's (or God's) way of showing us that terrorism comes in a kinds of ways. Even with all our modern-day, sophisticated, scientific equipment we can still be caught completely off-guard. You can talk about it, think you've planned for every contingency, when !!WHAM!! in a split second your whole world can be torn asunder. You just never know. That is why it is so important that we let those around us know how important they are to us. To take the time for a hug, a kiss, or a simple, I love you. Every day. We have an unspoken rule at my house. No one leaves without giving Mom a kiss and saying "I love you". Sometimes that's not easy. Especially if we're in the midst of a disagreement. But, that's the rule. I can't help but wonder how many families wish they'd taken the time to say " I love you" just that one last time?
On an equally sad note, I see where Jerry Orbach has died. Jerry, in the guise of Detective Lennie Brisco,has been my daily date for many years. I watch Law & Order everyday. Re-runs on weekday afternoons, and primetime on Wednesday nights. I was waiting anxiously for the premier of the new series, Law & Order, Trial By Jury, coming up in 05. Even though we weren't personally acquainted or related, he was kind of like a memeber of the family. I feel a great saddness and loss at his passing. Jerry/Lennie will be missed in my household.

Okay enough with the maudlin. New Year's eve is almost here. What are your plans? Are you gonna be celebrating out on the town or at home with movies and popcorn? This inquiring mind wants to know!

As Time Goes By

I've been reading over some of my old posts from last year. On one hand I'm disturbed by how little some things have changed, and plesantly surprised at how other things have. For instance this time last year, we had no car. Our Bonniville had given up the ghost shortly before Christmas and finacially we weren't prepared to buy a new car. Now we have a very nice Jeep that we all enjoy and are planning on getting another car of some kind after the first of the year. While both my youngest are still living at home, they are both working and contributing toward our living expenses. Kasey is no longer in the emotionally abusived relationship she was in for more than 5 years. She finally found the courage and strength to end it with Clint and much to my surprise has stayed strong in her determination not to go back. Not that he hasn't come around and tried to suck her back in, but she has stood her ground. I'm so proud of her for that. She's also working at a very good job and actually seems to enjoy it. Robby, ever the Mama's boy , has begun to cut those apron strings and is even in what appears to be a strong, healthy relationship with a wonderful young woman. They both (Rob & Andrea) have long range plans that include college and career's. Both are working toward career's in law enforcement.
Mind you that doesn't mean that all things are copasetic. There are still under-lying issues that we need to deal with, but I think I can say that we all seem to be moving in the right direction. Which is a darned sight better than where we were last year at this time . Over all I'd say improvements have been made. Now all I need to do is come up with those winning lotto numbers!!

It's that time again

Time to be reflecting over the past year. The ups the downs. Will this one go in the it was a good year, or the gawd, I'm glad this one's over column? Then there are those dreaded New Years Resolutions. I don't think I even made any last year, or rather this year. If I did I'm sure I broke them. Most likely as soon as they were made. I know I had some big dreams dashed this year. But, I won't go there. Maybe I'll take a day or two, do some reflecting and get back to you on this one.

The Road to Inner Peace

The Road to Inner Peace

I am passing this on because it definitely worked for me, and we all could use more calm in our lives. By following the simple advice I heard on a Dr. Phil show, I have finally found inner peace. Dr. Phil proclaimed "The way to achieve inner peace is to finish all the things you've started."

So I looked around my house to see all the things I started and hadn't finished, and before leaving the house this morning, I finished off a bottle of Merlot, a bottle of White Zinfandel, a bottle of Bailey's, a bottle of Kahlua, a package of Oreos, the remainder of both Prozac and Valium prescriptions, the rest of the cheesecake, some saltines and a box of chocolates. You have no idea how freaking good I feel.

Please pass this on to those you feel are in need of inner peace.....
***********

Actually I read this on someone else's blog, I forget who's, and thought, "gee I should share this with my blogger-buddies, there's more than one of us who could use such good advice...".

Baby It's Cold Outside

People, it is cold in Podunt!
The rain is falling like icy needles in the cold windy night. The trees, large and small
are shivering with frozen icicles. The ground is like a sheet of ice. There is a bone chilling
wind blowing outside my window. Santa has come and gone. Returning to the North Pole where surely
warmer climate prevails. At least dryer.
The furnace in our house hasn't shut off in hours. I'm bundled up in my jammies and warm winter robe.
My coffee is sittin here beside me keeping my insides warmed.
What can I say about Christmas with the upcountry relatives? Well, what I could say is best
left unsaid. There was lots of good food, and lots of pie. Which almost made it worthwhile.
Almost.
There are some very happy and surprised children in our neighborhood. I think even their parents
may believe in Santa this year. Little do they know it was Santa's elves that did all the work!
It's for certain they know someone ( lots of someone's) cares.

I thought this background was a perfect fit for the day. Don't you?
Well, I'm off to do a bit of visiting. See you at your place!

Happy Birthday Jesus!




(Luke 2:7) And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

{Luke 2:8} And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

(Luke 2:9) And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

{Luke 2:10} And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

{Luke 2:11} For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

{Luke 2:12} And this [shall be] a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

{Luke 2:13} And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

{Luke 2:14} Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

***********

May peace and joy be yours, today and throughout the coming year!

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS




by Clement Clarke Moore


'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads;

And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap,

Had just settled down for a long winter's nap,

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,

I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I flew like a flash,

Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow

Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below,

When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,

But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer,

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,

I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.

More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,

And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name;

"Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!

On, Comet! on Cupid! on, Donder and Blitzen!

To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!

Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,

When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky,

So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,

With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof

The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.

As I drew in my hand, and was turning around,

Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,

And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot;

A bundle of toys he had flung on his back,

And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.

His eyes -- how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!

His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!

His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,

And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow;

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,

And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath;

He had a broad face and a little round belly,

That shook, when he laughed like a bowlful of jelly.

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,

And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself;

A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,

Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread;

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,

And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,

And laying his finger aside of his nose,

And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose;

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,

And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.

But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,

"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night."
************

This classic poem is my present to everyone today. I'll be leaving here in just a bit, so I may not get by to everyone's blog to wish you a happy, safe, and peaceful Christmas, but please know that I value and love each of you who graces my blog with your visits and wonderful kind words. God bless you one and all!

Festivus

Times like this are when I love this country. When folks discover there is room for everyone, and everyones religion, or lack there of.



"Seinfeld Festivus Display vies with Nativity" .
Now, don't tell me we can't all get along.

Being Thankful on Thursday

Well, it's official. We won't be celebrating Christmas at the just breathe... chateau this Saturday. You may think that's bad/sad news but alas tis not .
You see, the only small children are the grandkids, and they will be spending this Christmas with the other grandparents. My two adult children who still live at home both have to work Christmas Eve/Day. Well they don't exactly have to work. They both volunteered to work so their co-workers, with small children could be home with their little ones. How cool is that? Since they won't be here, I may go with Robert to the upcountry relatives for the day. Which means there most likely won't be anyone here that day. Instead we will be having our celebration New Year's Eve & Day. Then all the kids, little and big can be home with Mom & Dad. After all it isn't the day that counts, it's the joy that comes from being with the ones you love.
I want to say a special thank you to those of you who have helped me out with my special project . Things are coming along nicely. It may put me in a bit of a bind, but heck I've been in a bind before and for much less good reasons. I can't explain how much it's improved my disposition. Being able to do something unexpected for someone who will never know. Dave's post for today kind of reminded me that giving unto others is what this season really is all about .
Besides you all know me by now. All I need is some pie and I'll be a happy camper!

Everybody's Doin It

So I reckon I'll jump off the bridge too!


Three names you go by:
Wanda
Bwitch (you figure it out)
Granny

Three screen names you have:

wanda
wandabits
vagabaun

Three things you like about yourself:(I'm suppose to like myself?)

I'm compassionate
I'm open minded
I'm loyal to a fault, until you hurt or ignore me, then you are dirt to me.

Three things you hate/dislike about yourself:

I can't just get over it already .
My inability to better manage money.
My ocassional lackadaisical attitude.

Three parts of your heritage:

Daddy was a born in Greece, Greek.
Mom's part Irish (her mom), part German (her dad).
My family has always lived in the South. Except for my sister and one aunt who escaped to the Nawth in their ill-spent youth.

Three things that scare you:

car accidents
drowing
the dreaded blue screen....if you've ever experienced it you know what I mean.

Three of your everyday essentials:

coffee
blogging
lotion, I love hand lotion, body lotion, any kind of lotion

Three things you are wearing right now:

robe
pink undies (hey it's still early!)
slippers

Three of your favorite bands/artists at the moment: ( Only three?)

Barry White (Marvin Gaye,Nat King Cole)
The Temptations(Smokey Robinson & The Miracles)
Kenny G
(I told ya I couldn't do just three )

Three of your favorite songs at present:

If You Don't Know Me By Now
Me & Mrs Jones
That cute little song they sing on that commercial about "pictures of your mama, made by your papa...". I can't get that tune out of my head.

Three new things you want to try in the next 12 months:

Bungee jumping (NOT)
Getting to bed before 2 AM.
I've been thinking about getting into politics.


Three things you want in a relationship (love is a given):

Respect
Emotional support
Romance

Three physical things about the opposite sex (or same) that appeal to you:

A sense of humor
Being open minded and generous of heart (and with wallet)
Good teeth

Three things you just can't do:

Fry chicken (hello KFC)
Window shop (I AM woman)
Pass up a piece of pie

Three of your favorite hobbies:

Can pie eating be a hobby? No? Well then my next favorite is blogging, duh!
Reading
Travel, of which I do way too little

Three careers you are considering: (I'm kinda particial to Carl's professional eater, but since he already took that one I'll move on to...)

Bourgeois Philistine
Hedonistic wildwoman
President

Three places you'd like to go on vacation:
Canada
South Africa (hey Michelle got a spare sofa or floor mat)
The Cayman Islands

Three kids names:(I'm assuming this is my three favorites)

Zachary
Zoey
Chloe

Three things you want to do before you die:

meet my blogging buddies
See a democrat back in the White House (or at least John McCain).
Win the lottery (which will insure # 1)

Three people you'd like to see take this quiz now:

Mary Lou (if she hasn't already)
Sally (ditto above)
Faith (ditto ditto)

It Really IS A Small (and scary) World

I'm on a bit of a rant today. I realize that doesn't go too well with the picture above but folks I'm telling you I'm upset, so you'll have to forgive me if what I say offends you. I'll apologize in advance.
I'm sure most everyone has seen or heard about the woman from Kansas who confessed to murdering another young woman and stealing her baby. If you haven't, here's a fairly good synopsis of it... Stolen Fetus Suspect to Be Arraigned .
I am sick of hearing about these women who commit such horrific crimes (Susan Stewart, Andrea Yates,ect.), then some family member, or lawyer has the audacity to say "...she's suffering from post-partum depression..." or "...she just lost a baby...". Yada,yada, yada. I don't want to hear it. I know what depression is, even post-partum. I've been there. I've been so low that I couldn't get out of bed. I've felt like jumping off the highest bridge I could find. I've even sat and held a bottle of sleeping pills in my hands for hours battling within myself, trying to fight to find the strength not to take them all. I've had a miscarriage. I know the feeling of loss. But not once in all those times did I EVER consider hurting my children, my husband or anyone else. What this woman did is unconscionable. It was cold-blooded,pre-meditated murder. If ever there was a circumstance where the death penalty was appropriate, this is IT . She knew what she wanted and she knew what she was going to do to get it. Made all the worse by the joy she clearly displayed only hours after the ghastly crime she had commited. She went to that young womans home intending to kill her and steal her baby. There is no doubt she's guilty. She confessed. Maybe the one and only decent thing she did.
I know, being a good Christian, I am suppose to find it in my heart to forgive. To be compassionate. To try to understand. But, today, I am in no mood to exhibit any of those emotions. Maybe it's because this one has come to close to my own backdoor. You see, my daughter Kasey had been corresponding with this woman Lisa. She'd been chatting with her on the internet. She'd been to the dog breeding/selling website. She has emails from this person. They talked extensively about our dogs. Even exchanging pictures. The woman even ask Kasey if she had children. When I saw those emails my blood ran cold. She seemed so normal. While all that time this evil lurked inside her. Can I possibly express how this not only angers but frightens me? No, today I am in no mood to be understanding or sympathetic.

Bobbie Jo Stinnet
I can imagine what her family is going through.

Sunday's Sermon

Or rather Philosophically Speaking .
I know most of you don't read my politcal blog. Should you be so inclined to do so today, you may come away feeling you know a lot more about me. Some of you will be (I hope) pleasantly surprised.
Now, lets have Sunday dinner. I hope there's YUMMY!!

Christmas City

Here in Dixie we have a place called Christmas City. It's an area set aside by the city of Arrington, for an amazing display of Christmas lights.



You can drive through acres (miles?) of beautiful and stunning multi-colored christmas lights.


They are so beautiful it will almost take your breath away.


Some are religious oriented, others are all about Santa.

Ever since we moved back here in '92', it's been an annual tradition for us to make the trek over the river, through the woods, to Arrington and Christmas City. We'd pile as many in the car as safely possible. Sometimes it was necessary to take a second, even a third car. We'd sing Christmas songs, giggle and whisper about what we wanted for Christmas along the way. Even in the tough times, we made that trip.
You'd have to sit in a line that seemed to be a mile long waiting to get in. More than once there's been a potty break on the side of the road (thank God for the woods). But then we'd drive through those gates and the oooo's and ahhh's would begin. Every year it seemed to get bigger and better. At the end of the drive you'd park and walk down into Santa's Villiage. All decorated up like the North Pole. There was free coffee, hot cocoa and cookies for everyone. The only thing more wonderful than the lights was the looks of joy on the faces all around you. Because you see, everyone, no matter how broke or poor you were could enjoy this. It was free. I'm not sure who footed the bill, but their generosity was simply amazing.
I'd been anxiously awaiting this years trip, when I found out last night...there will be no Christmas City this year. I don't know why, maybe the city couldn't afford it anymore. It makes me sad. Not just for myself and my family, because after all we will always have our memories, but for all the families that will never be able to share this wonderful sight. Even so, I am ever so grateful for having been able to witness and share, this beautiful display of not only the christmas lights but of the generosity of the people who provided it. They have given so much to so many.


I don't know why it is, maybe because we don't have snow, but here in the South we really do get into the spirit of the christmas lights display.


Some way more than others!
No, before you ask, that's not my house.

The Friday Five

Does anybody do the Friday Five anymore? I haven't seen it around in awhile, so I thought I'd give it a whirl today. Here without further ado.....

1. What is a fond holiday tradition from your childhood?
It was a Christmas tradition in my family that on Christmas Eve, we'd all pile in the car and ride around town to see the lights. Santa would always come while we were gone, so we kids knew what to expect when we got home. There would be presents, hot cocoa and cookies for everyone. I wanted to pass this tradition on to my children but my husband insisted we could not open presents until Christmas morning. So, on Christmas Eve, we'd load up, go for our ride come home and have the cocoa and cookies, but Santa would wait until we (they) went to bed to make his appearance.

2. If you could start a new holiday tradition, what would it be?
Every person would receive only one gift. I think people spend way too much money at Christmas.

3. What is your favorite Christmas song and who sings it?
Oh boy, I love them all. I guess The Christmas Song (chestnuts roasting on an open fire) would be my secular favorite. With Silent Night my religious favorite.

4. Is there a certain event, food, television program, etc. that makes your Christmastime complete?
Christmas dinner. When it's done, I not only feel complete but completely full!

5. Does is traditionally snow where you live at Christmastime? If not, do you wish that it did?
I haven't seen snow in years. Yes, I'd love to see snow. There is just something about snow that makes everything look fresh and clean. At least until everyone gets out and drives in it and it turns to slush.
***********

Here's wishing everyone a happy and safe weekend!

Thursday Thinking

According to the list today is National Chocolate Covered Anything Day! Can you just imagine? I had some chocolate covered cherries that Robert brought me when he returned from his monthly sojourn with the up country relatives. I greatly enjoyed them with a spot of coffee. I have recently re-discovered coffee. I've never been much of a coffee drinker, but in an effort to cut back on my sugar intake (soda, tea and koolaid are full of it) I've decided to give coffee another shot. Maybe I've aged but it's not so bad anymore. For now I'm drinking Sanka, because it's decafinated. Of course I have to have extra, (as in a little coffee with my milk) cream. No sugar though. What kind of coffee do you drink? Do you drink it only in the morning or off and on all day?
Let me tell you it was COLD outside last night. I decided it was time to get out the electric blanket and guess what? Mine doesn't work anymore. Now my tootsies will be cold. I hate cold tootsies. I think I am going to have to put an electric blanket on my wish list .
Yes, that's MY home county that your hearing about in the news. I know both those 'good ole boys' and I'm bettin the odds are they planned this whole thing out together. Over a couple of bourbons at the country club. I think Ashley just wanted to get in on some of the attention that Roy Moore had been getting. If you don't know what I'm talking about you can read all about it HERE.
Now, I have no problem with having the Ten Commandments in the courtroom, but I can think of better places than on the judges robe. Some day's I think people are just looking for a reason to squabble. Why can't we all just get along ?

A Day Late (and a dollar short)

Monday's Meme's from Otto's . Yes I know it's a day late, but hey, I'm peddling as fast as I can!

1. What's your favorite TV show and why?
Where do I start? Desperate Housewives, Boston Legal, Lost, CSI Miami, Law & Order Criminal Intent, and Special Victims Unit. Just to name a few. Yes, I am addictided to cable news too. I click over to MSNBC and FOX during commercials.

2. What's your sign? Aquarius, with a Cancer rising.

3. Why is common sense so uncommon? I think I'll have to go with Otto's theory... "I'd have to say because people tend to 'go with the flow' rather than thinking things out for themselves. I wish there were more people with common sense AND brains! =)"

4.What are 5 (or 10) great things about your life partner? This one must have been thrown in for the torture value.;-)
Lets see, for one, he can be (1)generous, and (2)considerate. He has always done his best to (3)provide for our family. Even with less hair, he's still a fairly (4)attractive fellow. (5)He know's when it's wisest to leave me the pluck alone.

5. Why do you blog? Are you a writer at heart? Is it a passion? Or because it's en vogue?
Sug, I do it because I can. It's my window to the world.

6. How much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?
A whole bunch!

7. Fiction or nonfiction? Fiction, hands down. Except that I do love to read blogs and most of them are not fiction.

8. If you were an animal, which animal would you like to be, and why?
Oh I don't know, maybe a lion, or a tiger, or maybe even a bear. Oh my! Because they are brave and strong. Qualities I admire.

Okay, your turn!

Reruns

I posted this back a year or so ago. I got it from somebody but I don't remember who. I thought it described me to a T, so I shamelessly stole it.


I loathe cooking, therefore any time I am forced to assemble a meal it will be done as loudly, profanely, and grudgingly as possible.
I equally hate cleaning. I will do everything in my power to guilt you into doing as much of it as I can.
I hate carrying anything heavier than my purse. If I have something in my hands, I will attempt trick you into carrying it for me.
I am not a good listener, although I might appear to be. Sure, I may be nodding and saying, "uhuh, mmm, and yeah", but really I am trying to think of a way to steer the conversation back to being about me.
I complain. A lot. Be particularly cautious of me if I am hungry, hot, or tired. God have mercy on your soul if I am all three.
I am not a moody person, except for certian times of the month. When I am, you'd be wise to steer clear. I can be lethal.
Some of my friends are cuter and thinner than I am. You are not allowed to notice this.
I change my mind all the time and for no good reason.
I believe in pouting to get my way. Temper tantrums have been known to be employed as well.
There will be occasions when you breathe too loud for my liking. Ditto on chewing.
I will hate your music. Especially if we are in the car together.
I detest being late. I will be ready and waiting to go at least 30 minutes before you are. So get off your arse and get ready NOW.
I am a shameless comments whore. If you visit my blog and don't leave a comment, I am liable to hunt you down and squeeze one out of you.

Anyone who knows me, knows that's a pretty good description of me. As Popeye would say, I yam what I yam.

It's A Game, Stupid

And the winner is Chris ! Talk about your dark horse. I wasn't expecting this one. I was sure it would be Eliza. Mostly because she was the one person I didn't want to win. Of course my first choice was Scout, followed by Twila. But, Chris will do. He played the game well.
Speaking of playing the game . Clearly the women in this game forgot that they were on a game show and not embroiled in some high school popularity contest. How stupid is it to say "You lied to me"? Well duh! How the devil else can you scheme and backstab your way into the final two if you don't lie occasionally? Not like they didn't tell a lie or two (or more) themselves. It's always the women who do this. The men seem to get it. Maybe it's the whole it's nothing personal, it's business mindset that men seem to handle better than women. Get a clue girls, life is not fair, and people tell lies to get to the top. How pathetic is it to stand up there and cry big crocodile tears because someone fed you a line of bs while stroking your hair? Give me a freaking break already.
The only woman who showed any class or maturity was Scout. She complimented both Chris and Twila on their ability to out play and out smart the others. I of course expected nothing less of her. A lady to the end.
I am glad that Twila will at least get $100K. She deserves it. Twila, was, well, Twila -- loud, outspoken, and unwilling to tell people what they wanted to hear. I say congratulations to both Twila and winner Chris!

Everyday Hero's

I had another post planned for today (Otto's Monday Madness),then I came across this beautiful poem on a site I found through Houston's comments. I'm sure you'll understand.
Everyday Heros

Those special everyday heroes
There are seldom headlines
for special everyday heroes
no there is not even a ticker tape parade
or no standing ovation for
those special everyday heroes

sometimes it’s all they can do
even to set their feet on the floor
in the morning or evening
they go through their days
the best they know how

no rainbow arch in the sky is needed
to inspire them for they have a special courage
those special everyday heroes
go through their days
the best they know how

Victoria Smith
December 11,2004

Sunday's Sermon

The Paradoxical Commandments
by Dr. Kent M. Keith


People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centered.
Love them anyway.

If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Do good anyway.

If you are successful, you win false friends and true enemies.
Succeed anyway.

The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow.
Do good anyway.

Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.
Be honest and frank anyway.

The biggest men and women with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest men and women with the smallest minds.
Think big anyway.

People favor underdogs but follow only top dogs.
Fight for a few underdogs anyway.

What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build anyway.

People really need help but may attack you if you do help them.
Help people anyway.

Give the world the best you have and you'll get kicked in the teeth.
Give the world the best you have anyway.
*********

Here's wishing everyone a happy, productive, and stress free week ahead!

She's baccccccckkk
yet again!

Took Ms Computer into the puter doctor today and he couldn't fix her. We don't know for sure what happened. It froze up on me about midnight last night. I know it had something to do with the Spy Sweeper program, because the trial period on it expired at midnight and after that I couldn't get the computer to do anything. It would just sit there showing the busy icon. At any rate, puter doctor was such a nice guy he gave me a whole new one! And didn't charge me a penny! Is that awesome or what?
I've just got to tell you all about and encounter I had today. While standing in the bank (today was cutomer appreciation day and I was there visiting with a friend). We're all standing around chatting about this and that, when someone brought up the incident with Rumsfield and one of the soldiers at the so called "pep rally", with the troops, that got a bit out of control a couple of days ago. Anyway, everyone is talking about how good it was that the soldier ask the particular question he did, when this old geezer, (well maybe not that old, but he was a grumpy old fella anyway), up and says, "I'm about sick of hearing all this whinning about the troops having it so bad. Hell they ought to have to do it like we did in Nam. We didn't have no special equipment and they paid us crap too." You could have heard a pin drop. No one wanted to say anything to him, but you know me, and my big mouth, I just couldn't resist. I turned around and looked at him and said, "Well, you would think some 30 or so years later we'd have learned how to do this war business right. Of course since since this war is so darned much like Vietnam there's little wonder the government and the military are still screwing it up. Some people never learn." He grumbled something under his breath and walked away.
I shouldn't have been surprised, considering how often I have heard that sentiment from other veterans. More than once I've overheard one of them make a comment about this volunteer army being a bunch of whiney babies who joined for the college money and are now belly aching about having to live up to their end of the deal. I don't know if this is going on in other places, but I can sense a shift of attitude around Podunt. Folks dont' want to talk about the war , or the election. I guess they are trying the old bury your head in sand and sooner or later it will go away, approach. It's as if they have more important things to do. Maybe they do. Funny thing is, most everyone still has those little magnetic yellow ribbons plastered on their cars and trucks.
Oh well, I'm just thankful to have my window(s) to the world back.
So, what's new in your world?

Guilty Pleasures

If ever there was a place to raise a happy, healthy family, veiled from persistent crime and the constant din of the city. If ever there was an idyllic or bucolic place with sparkling windows, freshly mowed lawns, and lively children running amongst the rows of pristine, tree-lined streets of immaculate and majestic new homes- it would not be Wisteria Lane . Home of more than one Desperate Housewiveswife .



With over 20 million viewers I know, I can't be the only one hooked on this show. By far Susan (supermans ex-leading lady, Terry Hatcher) is my favorite, although I can more closely identify with Lynette (Felicity Huffman). Of course we've all know a few Edie's (Nicolette Sheridan) and there's always a Bree (Marcia Cross) in every neighborhood. Now that we all know who wrote the famous note that sent Mary Alice (Brenda Strong)off the deep end into suicide city, I can't wait to see what it was that Mary Alice did and what exactly was in that box that her distraught hubby Paul (Mark Moses) dug out from underneath their backyard swimming pool.
You can just imagine how ticked off I was when I discovered ABC had canceled it Sunday night for some ridiculous Christmasy type show. I actually resorted to violence, yep, I threw a book at my tv! Talk about bahhh humbug.
Can you guess how pissed I was when I realized they'd also canceled Boston Legal , with that hunky, James Spader, and delightfully funny William Shantner.
I am really going to have have a talk with these people. Either that or get a life. Then again it was Sunday night (after church time) what else is there to do?

By their works ye shall know them



A man was being tailgated by a stressed-out woman on a busy boulevard. Suddenly, the light turned yellow, just in front of him. He did the right thing and stopped at the crosswalk, even though he could have beaten the red light by accelerating through the intersection.

The tailgating woman hit the horn, screaming in frustration as she missed her chance to get through the intersection with him.

As she was still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and looked up into the face of a very serious police officer. The officer ordered her to exit her car with her hands up. He took her to the police station where she was searched, fingerprinted, photographed, and placed in a cell. After a couple of hours, a policeman approached the cell and opened the door.

She was escorted back to the booking desk where the arresting officer was waiting with her personal effects.He said, "I'm very sorry for this mistake. You see, I pulled up behind your car while you were blowing your horn, flipping off the guy in front of you, and cussing a blue streak at him, then I noticed the Choose Life license plate holder, the What Would Jesus Do? bumper sticker, the Follow Me to Sunday School bumper sticker, and the chrome-plated Christian fish emblem on the trunk........Naturally, I assumed you had stolen the car."
***********

What you want to bet she'd been Christmas shopping?

Thanks to Travis over at Rainstorm for this chuckle.

Yes, Margaret, There Is A Jesus

Am I the only one who wonders why it is that we will spend countless hours assuring our children/grandchildren there really is a Santa , yet we spend very little, if any, time assuring them there really is a Jesus?
We all talk about wanting to put Christ back in Christmas, but how much time and effort do we really put into it?
You don't have to take them to church. You can teach them right at home, which really is the best place for them to learn anyway.
I think we could all do better.

Survivors

In her comment on my glee at seeing Ami voted off the island on Survivor , Faith ask "Who do you want to see win". It was then that I realized I hadn't really decided who I wanted to see make it to the end. Up to now I've been focused on hoping the people I disliked would be voted off (woohoo Ami's gone, Sarge is gone...). I decided I needed to know a little more about the remaining players in order to decide whom I'd like to see win. So I hopped right over to the "Survivor Vanuatu" website and started checking out the remaining survivors . It was there that I found the following information on one of the lady's. As I read her bio, I was shocked and impressed. This is one awesome woman. She doesn't need to win, because she is already a winner, in every way that counts. Still I think I'd like to see her be the last (wo)man standing!
"
Among her many accomplishments, Scout was voted Outstanding Teacher of the Year
at Oklahoma State University in 1980, and Oklahoma's Outstanding Young Woman in
American in 1980. In 2002, Lee was honored to carry the Olympic torch,
exemplifying the theme of "Light the Fire Within."

Scout has survived cancer, bankruptcy, divorce, car wrecks and horse bucks. In the 1990s, Scout was diagnosed with a fatal form of cancer, melanoma. She
managed to beat the odds and is going strong 14 years later

In my opinion Scout is already the winning Survivor. If she and the millions of people like her, who have fought (and are still fighting) cancer aren't true survivors then I don't know what is.




Go read more about Dr. Scout Cloud Lee .

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...and to all a good night...

Well, the little man has gone home. It's been a wonderful weekend with him. It's only been a few months since I've seen him, yet he seems to have grown so much. I know before I can turn around he will be a teenager. We got to have a nice long talk this morning and I reminded him that no matter what anyone says or does, I love him so very much. He said "I know Granny".
Maybe now that his Mother is over her mad spell, she will let him come for the school Christmas holidays. Tonight I'll sleep hugging the pillow he slept on. It still has that sweet little boy smell.
Nite all...

ps: If you want the music to stop playing, just click on the comments link.

Opps I Did It Again

You know how embarrasing it is when you have to fess up to your mistakes? Well, I'm here to tell you I did it. I got things all crossed up. Yesterday was not Santa's List Day, or Wear Brown Shoes Day. Yesterday was National Roof Over Your Head Day and National Fritters Day . Today is actually Santa's List Day and Wear Brown Shoes Day . So, if you didn't get to wear those brown shoes yesterday, you now have another chance to do so today. I promise I will try to keep things straight from here on out.

File this under say it ain't so!!!

"Will Chris Noth’s guest shot on Law & Order: Criminal Intent become a permanent engagement? Noth is set for a January episode reprising the Det. Mike Logan character he played from 1990-95 on the original Law &Order. Since leaving the show, he’s gained star power as Sex and the City’s swoon-inducing Mr. Big. The New York Post’s Page Six column has chronicled Vincent D’Onofrio’s instability, reporting that he passed out on the set, was starting fistfights and was an overall nightmare to work with."
For anyone who doesn't already know Vincent baby is one of my all time favs. He's one sexy dude. I watch L&O Criminal Intent, for HIM not the content. On the other hand I am quite fond of the lusty, sexy Mr. Noth as well. So, why can't they dump the chick, (what is her name anyway) and just have the two hot dudes?



mmmm good!

ps: Did I forget to mention Ami got voted off the island? Can you tell how pleased I am?

A Season of Changes

Well, as you can see I've been a busy little beaver. I wanted something simple and you can't much more plain and simple than this. There should be music but I don't know how to upload my own music onto the net. If anyone knows more about this than I do, please email me.
According to Cassie's list, today is Santa's List Day (hope your on the 'good' list), and Wear Brown Shoes Day . So, everybody needs to wear brown shoes, and be especially nice today.
Tomorrow is .....



Yep, it's Zach's coming to Granny's house, day!

National Pie Day!!!

People! According to Cassie's list today is National Pie Day. Now you all know how much I love my pie. So, you should all rush right out, buy some pie, and send it my way! Tomorrow is National Fritters Day. I'm rather fond of apple fritters too.
Pie, pie and more pie!

Good News/Bad News

It's been one of those days.
The bad news is our Cherokee is giving us some problems. It's begining to shift hard between 2nd and 3rd gears. Only when it's cold, but still that's not a good sign. We do have a warrenty which should cover any repair cost, but, we could end up being without a vehicle for a week or more depending on what the problem is. That sucks.
The good news is, Zach's coming this weekend!! Got a text message from him tonight asking if I could come and get him Friday. Bet you can guess how long it took me to answer back with a big YES. Yep about a nanosecond. So I will be enjoying his company this weekend. Woohooo!
While out paying bills today I even picked up a few Christmas presents.
Yep, it's been one of thoses days.
But the good news out weighs the bad. At least in my mind.