The Mineers

I Ran The Rest Of The Way With My Mouth Open

2012-02-08T11:41:00.003-05:00

I was in the middle of my tempo run on the treadmill last night at the Y, ear buds in place listening to something catchy, minding my own workout business... While you get that vision in your head, I'll give you some background info that will help set the stage for this post.

I only utilize the treadmill for 3 events/reasons during my training programs: 1) for tempo runs, 2) for speed work and 3) during the winter months when it gets dark at 5:30 in the evening. Otherwise, I'll be outside if you need me.

The evenings I am at my local YMCA, there is van-load of high school-aged girls that come in around 6:00 and leave by 6:45. I don't know where they come from, if they're from a group home or just some after school program they participate in. And for the most part, they're pretty well behaved.

Last night, one of them used the treadmill next to me. When she finished her run, she hopped off, grabbed the cleaning towels and, abiding by the gym rules, came back and wiped down her machine. But then, in a flash, she reached over and thoughtfully (?) mopped up MY puddle of sweat! I thought, huh...did that just happen? Did she just do what I think she just did?

I mean, she may as well have reached over and blown my nose.

Maybe she could be the next Marvel super hero.

"Mop Girl...avenger of sweat puddles".

God people are weird.

One Is Just Like The Other

2012-01-12T09:39:00.002-05:00

Look at this...

Now look at this...

Yeah, my thoughts exactly!

Sam I Am

2012-01-10T11:12:00.003-05:00

Over the holidays, I found myself watching/listening to The Hallmark channel while decorating, cooking, wrapping - you know, doing holiday stuff. I like Hallmark; Hallmark Cards, Hallmark Christmas Tree ornaments (although I don't "use" them), Hallmark stores (they sell Vera Bradley...I DO use Vera Bradley). But this isn't a post about Hallmark. It's just that the subject of this post was seen multiple times on the Hallmark channel. This is a post about being googly. All googly. Am I too old to be googly?

I don't ever remember being googly over any movie star or rock star or anyone of any Hollywood status as a kid. And I'll have to check with my mom but I don't even remember having my walls covered in posters...hmmm, that may explain a lot about me.

But as I turn the pages on my calendar and the years go flitting by, I find myself sighing dreamily at two star-studs - Tom Selleck (have you SEEN Bluebloods????) and this guy...

Sam - then

Now, clearly, Sam Elliott was a good looking young man. And maybe, certainly my opinion of a good looking man has/is changing as I, too, age gracefully. But, regardless of the number of candles on my birthday cake or yours, it's hard to argue that today's version of Sam Elliott is not a fine specimen in deed. But I'm partial to graying hair. And I love wrinkles. They, along with our visible scars, tell our story.

Sam - now

So, if this is what I have to look forward to in the coming years with my husband, I am one lucky girl.

I'll have to ask him how he feels about my aging process.

On second thought, I'm smarter than that.

Keep up the good work, Sam.

This Shit Cracks Me Up!

2011-12-28T19:00:00.004-05:00

Like many of you, I'm sure, I am a faithful and loyal follower of The Pioneer Woman.

Everyday, sometimes a few times a day, I take a trip to Oklahoma and check in on my friend Ree and her life on the frontier. Today was no different.

I work for a general surgeon. He handles your standard hot gallbladders. The sometimes volatile, thumb-shaped appendix. Those pesky hernias that can pop up in numerous places. Cysts and boils and lipomas, oh my! And...the colon. You know, your poop shoot.

I've never been one to shy away from an uncomfortable conversation, unless it involved money. I don't like to discuss funds. Aside from that, I'll chat with you about anything. Including poop. I mean, everyone poops. There's even a book out there called "Everyone Poops", check it out at the library, I'm sure there's an available copy.

Since I've been working with this physician, I have learned a WEALTH of information on feces and the process our body goes through to expel it. I bet you have no idea the stories your poop can tell about the overall health of your plumbing system! Interested? Let's set a coffee date. I'll even bring a picture book!

So, imagine my excitement when The Pioneer Woman posted about this:

Get it? Poo Pourri!!! Bahahahahahahahaha!!!

And the tag line for the Crap Shooter is "Spray The Bowl First, Guns-A-Blazing, The Smell Is Contained, This Stuff Is Amazing!"

If we're all being honest, we've been in an embarrassing situation where we've left a little evidence behind after leaving the guest bathroom. I mean, despite pooping being a natural act of life, we get silly about it.

So, if you're that self-conscious, visit the crapshooter spray site, pick up a purse-sized bottle and let nature takes its course.

I'm glad I was here to educate you.

Know Your Body Parts

2011-12-02T19:48:00.003-05:00

A post-operative patient called in to the office this afternoon. The conversation went something like this (of course, the names have been changed to cover my ass):

Patient: Yes, this is Cornelius Dishwasher. Can I talk to Dr. Warmblood?

Me: I'm sorry but Dr. Warmblood is in surgery today. He'll be calling and checking in before the office closes. I'd be happy to take a message and get back to you once I've spoken with him.

Patient: Yeah, okay. Well he operated on me Monday and I'm out of my pain medicine. I want to get some more.

Me: What medication did Dr. Warmblood have you on Mr. Dishwasher?

Patient: Percocet.

Me: Uh huh...and what type of surgery did you have?

Patient: He took my pancreas

Me: (To myself in my head..."huh...really...well...how 'bout that...huh..."). Ok. Well, Mr. Dishwasher, I'll relay your request to the doctor and get back to you as soon as I can.

Fast forward one hour...

Dr. Warmblood: Hey Joyce. Anything going on? Got anything for me?

Me: Actually, I do...you operated on Mr. Dishwasher this past Monday?

Dr. Warmblood: Yeah. Yep, sure did.

Me: And...you...removed his pancreas?

Dr. Warmblood: (...without missing a beat)... I did and I'm amazed he's doing so well.

Me & Dr. Warmblood: ...sigh...wow...BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The moral of this story...people are stupid (and oh yeah, by the way, YOU CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT YOUR PANCREAS YOU IDGET!!!)

Why, Joyce, Why?

2011-11-17T18:29:00.006-05:00

Last Saturday, November 12, 2011, I ran the Sun Trust Richmond Marathon. I had something to prove...to no one but myself. I had to be redeemed.

I've been training for this event for the last 6 months, starting immediately after getting home from the disaster I like to refer to as Oklahoma. Training for a marathon takes a lot of time, if you do it adequately and your main goal is not only to cross the finish line upright but unharmed. I take my training - no, my health - VERY serious. As such, I followed my training plan to the letter and sprinkled in some much needed cross-training and the occasional yoga class for good measure (and much needed mind rests). I put a lot of my life (the really boring stuff like house cleaning and sleeping in) on the back burner, including my little online diary here...good way to lose what few loyal followers I had! But for good reasons, like these.

I like food. No, I like GOOD food. You know, the kind made with love, heavy cream, cheese and a side of bread...with carrot cake for dessert. It's a constant struggle for me to push these lovies away. I don't deprive myself completely and always, just ask the girls in my book club! I'm all over those sweet confections! So when I partake, I run or I reach for the dumbells or I squeeze into the last spot available at the Saturday 8:00 AM spin class (hence, the no sleeping in part of this message). I think it's an even trade and I believe in everything in moderation.

I also like to feel like a girl. Feel good about myself. Feel a little sexy. And running makes me feel strong and powerful. I am not a super model. I don't have the body of a super model - never have, never will. I don't have a Cindy Crawford mole. I don't have Christy Turlington's cheekbones. I don't have a chiseled chin, almond eyes or a roman nose. I am, however, the female version of my father. And that makes me awesome. Sure, I wish I'd come to this realization years ago. It would've saved me a lot of heartache. Better late than never. My real hope is that young women find something awesome about themselves, too. And stop comparing themselves to what is more than likely an airbrushed photo of unrealistic perfection.

Additionally, I don't mind being alone. Over the last 6 months, I have covered hundreds of miles on foot and seen backroads in Bear Creek I've never been on during the almost 10 years I've lived here. During that time, I've taken in the beauty I call home. I've watched calves grow into heifers. I've watched the trees go from barren to green to brilliant golds and reds. I've watched the farmers plant their hay and then climb in the Combine to harvest their bounty. I've watched my neighbor boys scream with excitement over the last day of school and then witness them doing their impression of "dead man walking" as they made their way to the bus stop for the first day of school this past September. I've watched time go by one quiet mile at a time. All by myself. And it's helped me get closer to me, to my surroundings, to the physical world I live in. It's afforded me ample time to breath deeply and often and when I needed it most. Running gives me time to reflect. It gives me an opportunity to look into my heart and realize just how much the people in my life mean to me, how much I love them. It also gives me an opportunity to find anger and sadness in my heart - this isn't always so good...it's hard to run and cry at the same time.

But maybe the biggest reason I took on this challenge, and will do it again, is the feeling of complete accomplishment when I cross the finish line. Because the finish, no matter how good or ugly, is the summation and culmination of so much effort.

And despite the sport being so solitary, it really is a team effort when it's all said and done. Over these last 6 months, I have had the support and encouragement of the staff at my local YMCA and the Ladies Fitness Center. I have had the doctor I work for ask me faithfully, every Monday morning, how far was my long run this weekend and how did it feel? I've had friends and acquaintenances wish me nothing but the best. I've had my mom ask me to take up baking cookies instead (which really is code for "good job, please be careful"). I've had my daughter be...well, be my daughter - my beacon of light, my golden ring, my cheerleader, my biggest fan. And I've had my husband. My husband, who signed me up for 4 races, including a half marathon, over 6 weeks - 6 weeks prior to my marathon. My husband, who wanted to know if I was going to run my next long run faster than my last. My husband, who wanted to know if I REALLY wanted that 4th piece of pizza. My husband, the toughest coach I never I asked for.

And I've had my dad. Who was just simply there. And never said a word. He just was. He just is.

And because I'm his, that makes me awesome.

The Day The Music Died

2011-08-25T13:40:00.003-04:00

For a number of weeks/posts now, I have refrained from writing about my daily walks in, around and through my neighboring memorial gardens. You know, the cemetery. I was getting hints that you, my loyal followers, were contemplating calling the local authorities because of your concern with my almost addiction to the place. So, I backed off. Which limited my story lines. Cause this place is riddled with good material!

I cannot contain myself any more. I have to share my most recent "episode" with said funerary grounds!

The other evening, BK and I were taking our customary 6:00 PM stroll. That dog sure does show up in a lot of my churchyard stories. I'm beginning to think that crazy canine is the key to these orb, gray-haze filled occurrences. Hmm. I should look into fencing an acre or two and turn that nut job out by herself! Is there such a thing as a dog exorcism?

Anyway, as we approached the A.M.E. Zion structure, we heard music. She heard it, too. She told me so. Actually, it was a great rhythm of beating drums. Not like The Black Eyed Peas kind of beat. More along the lines of a Jamie Foxx slow jam. I bobbed my head. I adjusted my stride to the beat. And as we approached the parking area for the City of the Dead, there wasn't a car to be seen. Not a car. Not a moped. Not a Vespa. Not a riding lawn mower. Not a bicycle. Not a soul - at least not a living one.

For sure, you are chuckling. You've decided that, clearly, there is an easy explanation for this. And, perhaps you're correct. Except for this. One MUST pass my house to get to the sanctuary - and, of course, again when one leaves. I never saw anyone or anything come or go.

And I'll leave you with this to ponder, too. As B and I passed the driveway entrance, the music - the beating drums - stopped. No longer a sound. Not a beat. Not a tap. Not a dropping of a drum stick.

Foolishly, we lingered, waiting to see who'd leave the building. I'm still waiting to see someone come out of that I'm-never-setting-foot-in-that-place place of worship. Yep, still waiting. And I haven't heard the drums since.

But I have picked up a few dollars in change that just randomly appears on the rarely traveled road in front of the necropolis.

I like to refer to the found money as simply pennies from heaven.

I could share that little tidbit with you, too, but I don't look good in solid white with my arms tied behind my back.

A Dark Thought

2011-08-22T16:33:00.004-04:00

I have been struggling spiritually for over a year now. My anger is directed at a select few. And I feel like I'm in a war in which I'm the only one on my team - and I'm the defense... I think I need to stop waiting for one of the select few to notice this battle I'm fighting because it's becoming a daily disappointment.

I was in the middle of my long run yesterday and "hitting the wall". I was hot, frustrated and feeling very inept. And I thought, "Why am I bothering with this? Why am I working so hard at being the healthiest I can be? Because, after all, in the end, I will be dead just like the person who abused their body with drugs and alcohol."

Wasn't that a dark thought, Internet? Wasn't that grim?

When it was all said and done, I felt ashamed for having the thought. There's no denying the inevitable - yes, we are all going to die. But I thought if I allowed that thought to linger any longer or allowed myself to dwell on it or, worse yet, allowed the thought to change my current lifestyle in any negative fashion, then I would have surely lost my war.

I pushed through yesterday's wall (and I will do the same with the one's I've yet to face) and reminded myself that it's all about the journey. And I want to enjoy my journey, no matter how long or short it will be.

Busted

2011-08-13T21:14:00.004-04:00

(Disclaimer: The names have been changed in this post to protect the innocent - that's me. The last thing I need is HIPPA man knocking on my door).

Me: "Thank you for calling Carolina Pines Surgery, this is Joyce. May I help you?"

Her: "Yes. I'd like to make an appointment with the doctor, please."

Me: "Wonderful. I can help you with that. What do you need to see the doctor about?"

Her: "My shoulder. I have tendinitis and arthritis in it. I need to see about getting some medication for the pain."

Me: "Ma'am, Dr. Smooth is a general surgeon. So unless you're at the point of surgery for your shoulder, you'll need to contact your primary care physician. Do you have a primary doctor?"

Her: "Yes I do. It's Dr. Rigid. And he referred me to Dr. Smooth."

Me: "Did he? I haven't received any of your medical information yet. Let me call over to Dr. Rigid's office and see what I can learn and I'll be back in touch with you."

Her: "That'll be fine. Thank you. Goodbye"

Me: "Hey Sally, it's Joyce over at Dr. Smooth's office. I just got off the phone with Mrs. Sneaky. She says she's a patient over there and that Dr. Rigid has referred her to us. But I don't have any paperwork on her. Can you pull her chart and send me what I need?"

Sally: "Sure. Hold on and let me just verify the basics..."

Sally: "Um, Joyce. Mrs. Sneaky is a resident at Once Here You Never Leave retirement home. We haven't seen her in months. Her care is being handled by the hospitalist at the facility. Maybe you should call over there and see what this is all about."

Me: "Hmm...okay. Thanks, Sally!"

Me: "Hi. This is Joyce. I'm calling from Carolina Pines Surgery. I need to speak with whomever is handling the care and appointments for one of your residents, Mrs. Sneaky."

Receptionist: "Certainly. Hold please and I'll get the nurse."

Mrs. DON: "Hello? This is Mrs. DON, may I help you?"

Me: "Hi Mrs. DON, this is Joyce over at Carolina Pines Surgery. I've been contacted by Mrs. Sneaky. She's attempting to make an appointment with Dr. Smooth regarding her shoulder. I've verified that she's a patient of Dr. Rigid's. I just hung up speaking with his nurse, who referred me back to you folks. I think there's some confusion regarding the care we provide here. I thought I should call and speak with you about the best course of action for Mrs. Sneaky."

Mrs. DON: "I'm sorry about this, Joyce. And I apologize for any inconvenience. The best course of action for Mrs. Sneaky is for us to go back to her room and unplug her telephone - - - AGAIN."

...BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

Do you know where your seniors are...and what they're doing? Might want to check Grandpa's checking account in the slight event he's been hookin' up with his bookie. Just sayin'...

Old people rock!

I Can't Decide

2011-08-11T12:44:00.004-04:00

I suspect this post is going to be random, at best. Just look at the title.

Random because I can't seem to pull all the thoughts and feelings I have into the order to which I'm accustomed. Bear with me.

I'm in a book club. These ladies and I have been together for, somewhere around 2 years. We meet faithfully once a month. It's a day I look forward to. It's an evening in which I get a little sad because that day now has an X through it on my calendar. And I wait for the next month. Each of these ladies is a wife, a mother, a daughter...some are aunts, sisters, grandmothers, widows. But all are first and foremost a woman.

Women fascinate me. We are extremists. We can be extremely gentle, kind and loving or we can be an extreme bitch if the situation calls for it. I find something fascinating and interesting about each of my club-mates. I'm sure they don't know it, but I pay very close attention to them when I'm with them. I watch their expressions change when they talk about their children. I notice the passion with which they speak when we're discussing politics - national or local. I watch their eyes tear when something or someone has touched their heart harmoniously or with discord. I know each ones laugh now. My life is richer with these women in it. All of this ran through my mind last night as our little entourage took a field trip.

YOU MUST GO NOW! Don't wait for the Red Box to stock it. Don't wait for Net Flix to deliver it to your mail box. Don't stream it on your PC/Laptop. Go to the theater. You deserve it.

Go see The Help. And normally, I would suggest - HIGHLY - reading the book first. But in this case, you'll be fine going in cold.

This book/movie is, ultimately, about women. About the relationships women form. Relationships with the men in their lives - fathers, brothers, lovers, co-workers - and relationships with other women. I believe to my core that there is no other love like that from a woman.

This book/movie is also about race and prejudice and the unjust treatment of humans toward other humans.

This book/movie is about determination in so many forms. About our responsibilities to one another as mankind. About courage and doing what's "right".

This book/movie is about love.

"You is kind, you is smart, you is important."

Each and everyone of you.

Wearing White Was A Mistake

2011-08-10T10:12:00.008-04:00

It was on sale. It was in my size. And I needed it.

A few weeks ago, my husband and I stopped in Old Navy to see what killer bargains they had. There were plenty. We stocked up. One of the best finds I came across was their workout gear; running shorts, yoga pants and sports bras. I grabbed a white one...sports bra, that is. I didn't try it on. I should have.

Fast forward to last week. I was on the treadmill at the gym. The machines face a huge glass window. People can see in. I can see my reflection. I started to sweat. A lot...

"Your whole life you go through painstaking efforts to hide your nipples and then...BOOM! Suddenly 100s of people get their own personal shot of them!!!"

Some Damn Good Advice

2011-07-11T19:02:00.003-04:00

My father is a man of VERY few words. He's more of a lead-by-example kinda guy. But it's up to you to take heed and pay attention because he's surely not going to say, "Hey, pay attention here. You're gonna need to know how to do this one day".

So imagine my surprise when he approached me while my husband and I were packing in preparation for our move to NC. "Missy" (Yes, that's right. He called/calls me Missy. Yes, my Dad knows my birth name. He gave it to me. But for my entire life, he's called me Missy). "Missy, promise me this when you leave here. Promise me you will never put a second mortgage on the house - for ANY reason. And find a good mechanic". Funny little pieces of advice, huh? But that's what was on his mind at the time. And that's what he thought I needed to hear and to know before I left him...again. I've heeded this advice. I think he'd be proud.

So over the years, I've learned to watch closely at what my Dad is doing. Doing with his hands, with his tools, with whatever gadget he comes in contact with. Think McGyver and you've got Papa! If I were stranded on an island, my Dad would be one of the three things I would want to have with me. And trust me when I tell you this. If my Dad had've been on the Titanic and he could've found a roll of duct tape in the tool box in the belly of the ship, Leonardo would not have made the millions he did and Kate would've had to settle for Captain Jack Sparrow.

When I went to the lean-to yesterday afternoon to get out the rider to mow the yard, I was met as an unwanted, unwelcome guest by a nest of wasps. After the shock of the threat of attack wore off, I went back in my memory bank of Papa-isms. Hmm...what is it that I've seen Daddy do when met with an angry mob of bees? Hmm...what is it...

OH YEAH!!! I REMEMBER NOW!!!! BRAKLEEN!!!

I told you - McGyver! Don't ask me why but there is always Brakleen in my shed. Probably because my Dad uses it for everything from, well, cleaning breaks to killing wasps. So I grabbed said product, tested the spray's distance factor and headed back to the combat zone.

One, long, steady stream later, I coated the determined little insects in the acid and saturated they're dream home, too.

My yard looks awesome.

And I'm taking reservations for anyone who wants to join my Dad and me on a deserted island if we ever get stranded on one.

"Crotch Parasites"

2011-07-06T13:26:00.004-04:00

I had dinner - out - with my husband this past Sunday. This may not seem like a big deal to you, Internet, but it is a rarity and SUPER special for us. And better yet, my husband was on duty and in uniform and, let's face it, a man in uniform is more sexy than a naked one! I love the way people try not to look at him while they're looking at him. And I feel especially safe sitting next to the heat he's packing on his right hip...for it's much bigger and more powerful than what I pack in my little purse. What? You didn't know that about me? You thought I was kidding about that comment in my last post, didn't you? Mmm hmmm.

So, we're in a decent-enough restaurant with plenty of seating available throughout the whole place when this guy selects the table just behind us for his family of 4; him, his wife and his two "crotch parasites". Okay, in his defense, the little boy was a gem. But that little winch of a girl child...all I could think of was Aunt Becky and her totally inappropriate term for offspring. "Crotch Parasites" (saying it just makes me giggle). Sorry, but sometimes it is necessary and more than appropriate! If you have a strong stomach for vulgarity, but the kind that will make you laugh, I encourage you to visit Aunt Becky at "Mommy Wants Vodka". Don't say I didn't warn you.

So my RARE evening out with my always-working husband was all but screwed because of a whiny 5 year old with parents obviously stuck on "reasoning with their children". Sorry, sometimes hand-to-ass is warranted.

Hey, kids are great. I have one myself. But it kills me to watch adults allow their spawn to behave like feral dogs, ESPECIALLY in public.

Do us empty nesters and DINKs a favor; keep 'em at home until you teach them how to behave.

A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Gym

2011-07-02T12:21:00.003-04:00

My husband "won me over" by sitting on my back porch with me, drinking the best wine EVER and telling me I had beautiful legs. Yeah, he was good...

The "dog wines" hold a very special place in my heart and memory and on my taste buds, too. But since moving to North Carolina, finding "Our Dog Blue" and his buddies is like trying to find a twenty in the bottom of my purse - usually never. So imagine my excitement when, of all frickin' places, I totally stumble on the stuff in the damn Mobil frickin' gas station in Pittsboro, NC!! I know, I've said frickin' too many times but it's the only way I can think to express my glee!! And what's even more freakish is that I NEVER go into this place! I've lived here 9 years and I can count on one hand the number of times I've been in this place.

But on this particular morning, I needed change and I needed a bottle of water for my tri-fecta of workouts I was facing at Ladies Fitness. The Mobil station was the closest, hence my quick stop in. As I made my way to the check out counter, the dogs barked out to me... what's that? I looked at Habeeb, the clerk at the register, and said, "I can't believe you SELL this stuff?!" (look at Habeeb, look at the rack of dogs, look at Habeeb - all while donning a grin from ear to ear). Habeeb obviously isn't getting it. But he's being polite and smiling at me just to amuse me because I'm sure he's thinking this is a deterant and I'm really packing heat in the yoga bag slung over my shoulder.

"Our Dog Blue! From Chateau Morrisette! In Virginina! I can't believe you SELL this stuff!! Do you know what you have here, man? Do you know how special this stuff is to me!? This stuff is equivilent to a diamond engagement ring to me (which, by the way Internet, I never received). I can't believe it..."

I could see that Habeeb was now jumping on this bandwagon with me. I could detect a little gleam in his eye. Yep. Then Habeeb leaned over the counter and said, "That'll be $1.32 for the water m'am."

Now that I'm aware of this little gem keeping residence at that frickin' Mobil station in Pittsboro, NC , Habeeb's gonna' be seeing a lot of this "it really takes very little to make me happy" chick!

"WOOF" - which is dog for "Cheers"

Twenty Interesting Things About...ME

2011-06-22T15:37:00.004-04:00

I have a handful of blogs that I read daily. I am a loyal follower, or stalker depending on your perspective.

One that especially tickles my fancy is this one. I suggest you visit immediately and often. Ree is funny, honest and sincere in her writing and when I read her daily posts, it's almost as if I'm on the ranch with her.

The Pioneer Woman has many facets to her blog, including Homeschooling. Because I have no real interest in this subject, I often times just skim through that section and move on. But recently on the sidebar of the Homeschooling section, I found where a mom did a project with her students where they had to research certain public figures and learn twenty interesting things about them. I took the time to go through a few and found myself amused much and saying, "huh" countless times.

So, because nothing else has come to the forefront of my gray matter, I thought I'd do the same about me! Sign out now if your expectations are too great.

This is me and here we go...

1) I had my daughter when I was 16 years old. I only missed two weeks of school.

2) I am the female version of my father...no, really.

3) I went to college on a full scholarship. No place fancy. Extremely local. But I got that degree, nonetheless.

4) I bought myself a Ford F-150 pick up truck as a gift to me when I graduated from college. I still have it.

5) I don't ever remember spending the night with either set of grandparents. I'll have to confirm this with Mom, but I'm pretty sure this is a factoid.

6) I hate to watch sports on television but will attend any event live and in person.

7) I have lived in California. Hated it...for a number of reasons.

8) I've been horseback riding in Estes Park, CO. LOVED IT!

9) I have a small collection of cowboy boots.

10) I would rather shop for anything but clothes.

11) My favorite sound is my daughter laughing.

12) My favorite smell was the smell of my horse...

13) I will avoid confrontation at any cost.

14) While I am an avid runner now, and love it, I only started 3 years ago.

15) I treasure my family.

16) My mom had me in organ lessons when I was about 7 or 8. I had a German instructor named Jean Letzenheizer. I could only play by ear. She was determined I was going to read my music. We fought. I cried. She did not encourage this "natural talent". I quit. It's the one grudge I still carry and the one person I will never be able to forgive.

17) Truly and honestly, the smallest of things make me very happy.

18) Time, and how and why we measure everything by it, freaks me out.

19) I am terrified of growing old and feeble.

20) I love to people watch.

I thought I was going to have some trouble finding 20 things to write about myself. Turns out, that was pretty easy. And I wouldn't have to try real hard to find 20 more. But you're probably not that interested, right? Of course, my 7 loyal followers are all family and close friends so I've probably not told you anything you don't already know!

But thanks for entertaining me anyway.

Bragging Rights

2011-06-17T11:01:00.003-04:00

I am a mom. I've been a mom for awhile now and have loved, and continue to love, the journey this role takes me. I am only a mom once-over, meaning I've only birthed one child - naturally, I might add. Natural childbirth, not "naturally, I've birthed only one child". Because I did it right and so well the first time, there was no need to mess with perfection and have any more offspring.

I am not an only child but my daughter has always said it's great! Of course, her opinion is jaded because 1) she was the first and only grandchild for years, 2) she never had to share any of her personal belongings, 3) she was never compared to a brother or sister, 4) although she rarely did, she could watch whatever she wanted on the television, 5) she never had to share a bathroom, 5) she was, is and will always be the center of our universe and...she doesn't like other children.

Because my wee one throws up a little in her mouth whenever she's around other wee, WEE ones, she's opted not to have children of her own. Smart move. Don't go birthin' no babies if you don't like 'em!

As a result, obviously, we will never be grandparents - in the real sense/meaning of the role. We do, however, have three beautiful grandcats. I couldn't be more proud. I could be a little happier if one in particular at least LIKED his grandmother but I have to take what I can get.

Our three, 4-legged grands went for their annual check up today, a trip I'm sure I could write a book about. More on that later.

Our oldest, "Little Bean, Junior"/"Bean"/"Beanie"/"LBJ", got a glowing review. You see, Little Bean suffers with...well, it's his weight...he has a lot of it...and it brings him down...and it worries his physician and family. He's aware of it but, like we all know, the struggle with our waist lines and hips is an ongoing, frustrating one. But this day, we have much to celebrate! You see, Bean is down from 30 lbs to 27.76. That's right, Internet! This cat weighs just less than HALF of my Labrador Retriever!!!

And this is how he's decided to celebrate his recent achievement...

How The Hell Does HE Rate?

2011-06-16T15:51:00.003-04:00

I tried to copy and paste the entire email that the hubs forwarded to me. Seeing the entire message would've made this post that much better.

You know the commercial for that bank (yeah, I have no idea what bank they're advertising but the premise stays embedded in my mind) where they have the owner of some dog getting their dog to say "I Love My Bank"? My rendition of said commercial would be "I Love My Vet".

We've been taking our herd of critters to Cole Park Veterinary Clinic for...ever. If I had the money back that we've given this awesome facility, I'd be driving a Mercedes. A Mercedes SUV. A Mercedes SUV with a lifetime subscription to OnStar. A Mercedes SUV with a lifetime subscription to OnStar and one that could self-parallel park. A Mercedes...you get the picture.

All kidding aside and with as much seriousness as this zit on the side of my face, the docs and staff ARE moving into their BRAND NEW, STATE-OF-THE-ART facility this weekend. They've invited us to the ribbon cutting ceremony for the wing they've named The Mineers - Suckers.

I love my vet. They take care of those I love. They love them as much as we do.

Even Munchie.

So much so, he got an e-card via my husband's email account wishing him a happy, frickin' birthday! Okay, I'm his human mother and I don't even know when the tree-fearer, freak-of-nature was born! I should be a little ashamed but, instead, I am now even more impressed with these people!

MUNCHIE!!!

I'll tell you this for free, people...if the staff at Cole Park sends an eb-day card to us for every creature on my place, I'm contacting the media...or anyone left at Dorothea Dix!!

If I Lived in the World of Make Believe

2011-06-12T21:07:00.005-04:00

I wouldn't mind spending some time in Underland. I would want to be Iracebeth, aka "Queen of Hearts". Every time someone pissed me off, I'd point my crown-topped saber at them and yell "off with their heads!!!!". I'd start with the women, females, chicks, bitches who refuse to move over when I'm running along the shoulder of the road. Yes, I'd be running in my witch boots and ankle-length, crinoline-lined, corset-tied, accessorized with my crown, gown and I'd quickly turn to the Dodge mini van that narrowly escaped me, point my crown-topped saber at the winch and yell "off with her head"...and it would happen.

(This would be me.)

My husband would be the mad hatter and he'd be trapped in Underland with me at a never-ending tea party because, when he tried to sing for me, I sentenced him to this hell for murdering the time. And, although he can't sing a lick, he does a mean Futterwacken!

(This would be the hubs.)

And then I'd have these two little beeotches at my disposal ALWAYS. If I wanted my lawn mowed, I'd simply holler "Oh fat boys!". My wine glass refilled? "Oh fat boys!". My running shoes laced up? "Oh fat boys!" My car filled with gas? You guessed it..."Oh fat boys!" My dinner cooked? Yep..."Oh fat boys!" It would be like having had twin sons!

(These would be my fat boys.)

But perhaps best of all, my cats could vaporize themselves! Now how frickin' cool would that be? Think "I Dream of Jeannie". They would literally melt into mist while in my bed and then, "poof", reappear whole in the cat pan! Or...they'd dissolve into a fog from the front porch and then, "poof", show up in 3-D in the front yard stalking snakes!

"A dog's not mad, you'd agree? You see, a dog growls when it's angry and wags its tail when it's pleased. Now, I growl when I'm pleased and wag my tail when I'm angry. Therefore, I'm mad!" Now this little piece of Chessur philosophy explains a WHOLE lot around here!

(This would be an example of my kitties.)

Yeah, Underland would be some real awesomesauce.

My (Last) Weekend

2011-06-08T16:30:00.005-04:00

My weekends tend to be typical. That's cool. But this past weekend was exceptional for me. Not for any particular reason but it just seemed all the stars were aligned, to include beautiful NC weather - for which I am so grateful for.

The kickoff was dinner with the hubs - a RARITY people!! Talk about being grateful!! I simply enjoy being in his presence...I hope he feels the same! We hit the bird - the robin - the nest! Yummers!

Saturday morning met with an early spin class. I was spinning, in more ways than one, at 8:30. I'd resisted this new class being offered at the gym for over 3 months because of a bad experience I had over 20 years ago. No, I don't hold grudges.

I went in with a new attitude and an open mind and the intention to ask the instructor to get me set up adequately so that this experience was a positive one. Check, check and check... And as good as the experience was, it hurt my ego. I am not in as good a shape as I thought, at least not for this type of workout. There were "moves" I could not complete (ouch, that hurt). I'd have to back off and sit and just pedal until I collected myself. Now I'm determined. I'm going back again and again until I reach the spinning sumit.

Then I hit the gym for a round of weight lifting. I am not intimated to "pump some iron" (ha!) at the YMCA on a Saturday morning at 9:00. The teens are sleeping in and the seniors are sipping coffee and reading the paper at McDonalds. I practically have the place to myself!

(Disclaimer: I do not wear unitards to the gym. Just needed to make that clear.)

After all that, it was my turn to drink coffee and read a few lines. This I thouroughly enjoyed at the little coffee house next to our Carolina Brewery in town, whose name escapes me. But it was deelish! And because the weather was purfect, I sat outside and watched the comings and goings of the folks enjoying the farmer's market that was being held in the parking lot (fresh bread and eggs anyone?...I did pick up 2 bars of goats' soap with lavendar. The smell sucked me in. And I'm loving it).

Then, it was back to the ranch where there was work to be done. Time to mow the yard, the acres, the field. I like to mow the yard. Gives me time to think and ponder. And I like the way my kitties lay scattered throughout the place in the cool, freshly cut green stuff. They're silly. I'm easily entertained. I love my kitties.

(Disclaimer: I do not wear a straw hat when I mow the yard.)

And finally on Sunday, after a quick run through town, I met up with a friend and her two girls and we hit the lake. It was glorious. Not only am I fortunate enough to live a few short hours away from the prestine Carolina beaches, I am but a mere 15 mintues away from Jordan Lake. I encourage you to visit the next time you're in town.

I sat. I soaked up the rays, under a layer of sunscreen of course. I was warm to the core. I put my feet in sand, in mud. I floated. I swam. I did the frog move with my legs. I wore my new bathing suit. I ate grapes.

I had an awesome weekend. It really takes very little for me.

Looking forward to the start of another good one beginning at 5:00 Friday!

Friday Night Entertainment

2011-06-03T22:16:00.003-04:00

Because there's not much else to do in the country and, well, we make 'em earn their keep here in deep Chatham...

Yes, that's an onion ring on her snout.

She's a little gullible and we're easily entertained. It's making for a wonderful relationship.

"...MMM...Tasted Like Chicken"

2011-06-02T22:03:00.002-04:00

Me: "Bailey? This morning I fed 5 indoor cats."

The Dog: "Yes. That's correct. I would agree."

Me: "Tonight, only 4 indoor cats appeared for dinner. Would you happen to know where Munchie is?"

The Dog: "You see, there was a slight altercation. And in the shuffle, the fat, scraggly, long-haired, smelly, black one... Well, let's just say there's no need to fill my bowl this evening."

"Pardon me, but do I have anything in my teeth?...Bahahahahahaha!"

(Disclaimer: No cats were harmed in the creation of this post...at least that I'm aware of.)

Role Reversal

2011-05-30T16:33:00.002-04:00

I support and welcome change. Whether it's forced upon me or I seek it out myself, I try to look at it with a positive attitude.

Because of the increased gas prices (that's the forced part of this recent change), I'm finding it hard to justify traveling to Carrboro just to attend a yoga class one or two days per week - - at an average cost of $10 per class (that, and my car has over 300,000 miles on it so I really only ask it to get me back and forth to work anymore! This is the voluntary change part).

I figured I'd give this place a chance. It's MUCH closer to the house.

I've only taken two classes there so far (one at $14, the other at $15). Given the price hike compared to MYCYCO, I'm not sure I'm coming out ahead, aside from the wear and tear on my old car... and I'm not sure I'm getting the most out of the "workouts" or that I'm overly enamored with the teachers.

But none of this has anything to do with this post. It's really just filler to share what I'm really writing about.

What I love about this facility is the room. The expanse of it. The warmth of it. And the bank/wall of windows on the back side. The front wall is all glass and the door is there where we enter and exit. And there's a hallway out there that really only gets the studio traffic. This past Saturday, the instructor had the students facing the glass wall.

He came bounding down the hall. He was jovial. He was smiling. He was super hairy. He was HUGE. He was very well disciplined. And he belonged to the woman who was joining our class - almost ten minutes late. She came in, her wolf of a dog waited outside...he laid there, watching our every move. It was as if I/we were the animals on display at the zoo and he was the spectator, enthralled at the tricks we were doing. I couldn't take my eyes off him. And I couldn't have been more impressed that he just...waited.

Forget the yin/yen balance of THAT class. I was no more interested in alternate nostril breathing than who's going to replace Charlie Sheen on Two and a Half Men.

I wish I got the number for that tiger-like canine. I'd be sure to bring my whack-nut, head-like-a-brick, "I'll swoon you with my big brown eyes" dog for private lessons on good behavior.

How Does Your Garden Grow

2011-05-27T20:41:00.003-04:00

When you're driving half-way across the country you'd be surprised at some of the conversations you can have.

As we drove through Knoxville, TN en route to OK, we passed the signs for and outskirts of The University of Tennessee. I mentioned to my husband how beautiful the structures and grounds were and asked if Knoxville was known for anything else important.

In my left ear I heard, "Yeah. They plant dead people there, water and fertilize the earth and come back a few years later to see what they've produced. Better known as The Body Farm."

Huh.

UT Knoxville - Forensic Anthropology

So for the next hour or so we discussed the pros and cons of turning ones body over for the purpose of medical science.

We decided we wouldn't make good subjects. The students would only learn that I am indecisive, have a warped sense of humor and color the gray in my hair desperately and regularly.

And my husband...he said they'd have to shut the place down because they would've found perfection in him and there would be no reason for any further research.

Then we pulled to the shoulder of the road so I could vomit...(perfection? really? wretch, wretch...)

"What...WHAT?"

2011-05-26T21:35:00.003-04:00

Earlier this week I received a text from my husband. The conversation went something like this:

Hubs: (Text #1)..."Day's been productive. Cut grass, redid flower bed by road and ran to the grocery."

Me: (Text #1)..."Sounds like a good day."

Hubs: (Text #2)..."Afraid one of the cats caught a Cardinal. Left it on the porch at the front door. Found it when I got home. Wonder which one is killing the birds?!"

Me: (Text #2)..."Well, based on his history, the results of his last trial and unquestionable evidence used against him...I say it's Ralphie May"

Guilty

A Blank Space

2011-05-16T18:54:00.003-04:00

I need to stay out of the cemetery.

My dog, who I am convinced sees dead people, and I took our daily evening stroll tonight and, like on many of our outings, we ended up in the memorial gardens.

On this trip, I noticed the larger tombstones, the "double bed" version if you will. These are the gravesites built for two, where you can lie eternally next to your spouse (or special someone). On a number of these, I noticed that only one of the two loved ones had died. The other was alive and kicking and their concrete pillow was just waiting for an expiration date to be inscribed.

I spent way too much time thinking about this and ultimately freaked myself out. I mean, it's a proactive action on the part of those left behind. But, friends, loved-ones... don't do me this favor.

I know me and I'd be periodically visiting my pending eternal bedroom just to check and see if I had been date-stamped expired yet.

RIP

Old News Now

2011-05-11T15:47:00.007-04:00

For no other reason other than life issues has it taken me two weeks to post about an event that was supposed to be one of the most memorable to me and my husband. Unfortunately, our first marathon WAS a most memorable one but, for me anyway, for so many other reasons than the obvious.

We left NC on schedule after a quick, early morning good bye to my folks who had arrived the night before to hold down our fort. That was a Thursday morning. As we drove west, the weather improved and we settled into our seats for the long drive. Our first stop for the night was Memphis where Michael had lovingly made reservations for us for dinner at BB King's and wanted to stroll the famous Beale Street. And this is where it all began...

I'm gonna give the short version and then simply share the pictures below.

I had a headache. Not just a "wow, my head hurts" headache. A pain in my head I can't begin to explain. I didn't tell my husband. I try to enjoy the evening - I wasn't successful. Friday we drive some more and make it to Oklahoma. I've popped pain relievers the entire way every 4 hours. He notices and asks me what's up? I simply say I have a headache. I go through the motions all afternoon/evening Friday and dress for dinner at Toby Keith's where my husband has made reservations. I am in excruciating pain. I don't tell my husband. We hit the first of many stops my husband has on his list of places to see. I am literally falling asleep at the table because my head has simply worn me out. We cancel a show my husband has purchased tickets for earlier so that I can go to the hotel and lay down. I am now popping sudafed and zyrtec - maybe it's allergies/sinuses? Saturday comes and we have an exciting day planned. Expect I wake up to my husband telling me my grandmother (in Maryland) has had a major stroke that morning. Do I get on a plane and head home? Do I stay? After a heart wrenching conversation with my mom, we all agree that I stay and see my trip and adventure through. I try with all I have to get through the day but by 4:00 I simply can't go on...I ask him to take me to an emergency room. I can no longer stand the pain. I was given fluids and Toradol for the pain and the cat scan showed nothing concerning. Maybe stress and worry for the upcoming race? Don't know, don't care, just don't happen again!

We wake up Sunday, race day, to pouring rain, thunder, lightening, wind gusts and my head eased but not feeling well at all! A dull pain still pounding. I run. I am miserable. I am sad. I am worrying about my grandmother. I am guilt-ridden thinking I should've gotten on a plane home. My head is killing me. I am cold. I am soaked to the bone. And then I get the shakes. By mile 20 or 22, can't remember, the shakes are uncontrollable. I slow to a shuffle and finally a complete walk. What a complete disappointment my body has become to me at this point. A big fat let down...I was ready for this. I was prepared. And now I can't run any further. I walk across the finish line completely humiliated and heart broken. It was not the event I had envisioned in my head. Oh, I was glad I finished! I was proud of that I suppose. But I had other plans...my husband, on the other hand, did a beautiful job and I am so proud of him!

Oddly enough, by the end of the day Sunday, my head is feeling much better. But then this funny feeling starts in my gut. Oh joy. Don't pay much attention to it....until...

We make it home Tuesday evening uneventfully and thankfully. I go back to work that Wednesday and my belly is "not right". Friday morning at 4:30 I wake up with a fever of 101. What the hell??? The pain in my gut is unrelentless. Not a belly-ache, not even a feeling like labor pains. More like a knife - stick, stick, stick...oh my lord make it stop. Things moved/happened Sunday morning about 6:30 and by noon that day I was feeling much better.

Monday at work, I shared my experience with the doc I work for. He told me it makes no sense at all but what I described was exactly what a diverticulitis attack sounds like! I don't fit the bill - too young, too good of a diet, too healthy...BUT, it happens!! Too late now, but if it happens again, I'll have a CAT Scan done of my abdomen to see what's going on in there. Really body? Really?? I've taken such good care of you!! And you turn on me!! Ugh!!

I'm feeling much better now and I think I'm back on track. Oklahoma will forever be an experience I won't forget but I've convinced my husband to run another marathon in hopes that one will be the event I still have pictured in my mind!

And the main reason we selected the Run to Remember...see below.

Love him! Club on Beale St. in Memphis

Mural in the gift shop at BB King's Restaurant

Some of the night life

We made it!!

The OK City skyline as we are driving in.

My first time ever being in this line...I was pretty proud.

Toby Keith's Restaurant in OK City. Awesome. Great food!

The OK City National Museum. We toured it Monday morning before leaving.

In case you'd forgotten. The Murah building post bombing.

The wall of victims...notice the box of tissues...Mike and I both needed several...

A cabinet with caps representing all of the rescue teams that came to help.

A photo of one of the search and rescue dogs. Notice his protective booties.

Eventually, the reality of it all does set in.

I sobbed in front of this photo. This officer is overwhelmed, overcome...and he could've been my husband...

I have only vague memories of this horrific event in our history. Unfortunately, I remember more about the trials and conviction than the event. Touring this tastefully mastered museum brought it all to the forefront of my mind and memory. More than anything, the facility focused on how the people of Oklahoma came together during a time of need. Really, how people around the country came together during a time of need. But that's what we do best, right? We rally. We rise to the occasion when we have to.

Because, after all, when it comes right down to it, we really have only each other...

The survivors' tree.

Michael and me.

The field of chairs. One for each victim. The smaller ones are for the children who were murdered. 19 of them. 19.

One end of the reflecting pool. Note the time on the wall - 9:01. It was still quiet then. At the other end of the pool is the same wall, only 9:03 is etched on it. The time the bomb exploded and life as we all knew it changed.

Would You Vote Me Off?

2011-04-22T10:43:00.003-04:00

This is my sister-in-law's husband, Mike Rowe. The entire Mineer family calls him "Mike Rowe". Just like they call the other brother-in-law "Mike Leet". And even though my husband is Mike Mineer, he's just called "Bub"...that's how they do it in the south...or at least in Kentucky. There's at least one "Bub" in every family. There had to be a "Bub" in this family because, well, every brother or in-law is Mike!

I digress...Where was I? Oh yeah, this is my sister-in-law's husband, Mike Rowe. He's a preacher. He is hysterical. He cracks me up. And he really says very little but when he does, you'll want to tune in. Trust me on this.

Mike Rowe is the youngest of 5 children. There is a huge span of years between him and his closest sibling. He was an accident. What? It's no secret. He brags about it, even. Says it was great because by the time he came around, his mom was exhausted and could care less if he washed behind his ears or ate his vegetables. I'm hopeful that, as an adult, Mike Rowe does wash behind his ears. But I swear to you, he's never put anything green or vegetable-like in his mouth.

One of Mike Rowe's brothers has 4 or 5 children - I lost count. And from what he tells us, this family, much like Mike Rowe's growing up, is a bit out of control. How could it not be with 4+ kids in the house? I mean, there's probably a child temporarily missing at any given time. And god help you if you were late for dinner 'cause the chances are pretty slim there are any leftovers.

Mike Rowe recently shared with me that his nieces and nephews belonging to this particular brother aren't that crazy about one of their siblings. So much so, they've tried to "vote him off" their family island! Poor little fella! Could you imagine being that kid? Ha! He probably doesn't even care! And he'll probably grow up to be someone famous in some strange way - not stalker like- and will turn to each of them and say "suck it"!!

Mike Rowe tells this story far better than I but it's been at the forefront of my thoughts lately.

Wouldn't it be great if your little piece of the world were an island of sorts and as people got on your nerves you'd just vote them off? Ban them? "Alas, be gone. I'm done with you." Oh, where would I START??? I'm so excited at the thought of it, I can't even think of who'd go first! Oh wait...I know! The entire congress! Yep, that's where'd I'd start...WITH MY GOVERNMENT!!

I can find a way to deal with and handle hurt and loss and even disappointment but frustration sends me to the edge. And we Americans are in a pile of it right now. And I don't know what the answer is. But I know working (if you're lucky enough to be employed) your ass off just to be able to BARELY keep your family afloat is not the American dream. And sorry, but I lay full blame on the government for running this country and its people into the ground.

Think of me what you will but this little blog is my forum, my island of sorts.

Ahh, I think I feel a little better now.

"Oh pool boy...there's sand on my towel."

My Shoulder-Of-The-Road Findings

2011-04-14T13:21:00.003-04:00

*Advisory: You may not want to read this after just have eaten or preparing to eat.

I am easily entertained. Nope, it doesn't take much to make me giggle or start to wonder why or how. And recently, I have had to find creative ways to focus my attention on something other than the blue-hundred miles I am running at the time.

So, I've turned to observing road-side "treasures". And here are a few of my recent observations:

* A single leg of Barbie's. It was shoeless. And I didn't get a close enough look to see if it were the left or right leg, not that it matters. When you lose a leg, it's a major piece of your anatomy no longer there. Of course I wondered, "where's the rest of the buxom blond? How'd she meet with such an unfortunate accident? Was Ken involved somehow? Was there domestic violence in Barbie's life that the public was kept safe from? Did Mattel step in and make a wheelchair especially built for the starlet? Or, better yet, does she have a prosthetic now?" My prayers are with Barbie and her family.

* A used pregnancy test. Again, I didn't get close enough to see if it were positive or negative but I'm guessing that, whatever the result, given the thermometer-like probe was carelessly discarded on the side of the road, the result was NOT what the woman was hoping for!

* A used condom. I forbid myself to create a story about THAT little treasure. But it was in close proximity to the above-mentioned prego test. So...

* Countless animal carcass-es (car-ki?). This, of course, just made me sad. Although many times I'd run by and think, "Hmm...wonder what THAT was." And that if my whack-nut dog were with me, she'd give it a quick lick then turn those eyes at me as if to say "mmm, tasty". She's special. That's becoming abundantly clear. Pray for us one and all.

I'm still waiting to stumble across a wallet.

Full of money.

With no forms of identification inside.

And you won't hear about my discovery on the 6:00 news, either, because, well, I won't be taking my findings to the nearest police department to perform any sort of good deed. Think of me what you will.

And don't lie. You'd do the same thing.

Yep, I Believe

2011-04-11T14:19:00.002-04:00

At the bend on the little country road we live on is a church. Attached to it is a cemetery. A very old cemetery.

Every morning, Bailey and I take our walk and spend a quiet 15 or 20 minutes together. Every morning we at least walk past this final resting place for many. On some mornings, we venture deep into the plot of land dotted with moss-covered headstones and knotted century-old oaks...

We like it here. There are flowers and wreaths for B to sniff and some easy reading for me to do. And mornings like today or this past Saturday are especially chilling because of the fog and drizzle.

I try to envision those buried deep beneath the earth's surface; make a story up about them based on the epitaph engraved on their "pillow". I can get fully engaged in this morbid little game I play and think myself a little strange for making it up but just laugh it off...UNTIL...

That crazy dog stops dead in her tracks and looks at absolutely nothing...standing there paralyzingly still...then whips her head around and looks at me as if to say, "You saw that right?"

Then we both run like hell!

Maybe A Little Premature Since I haven't Even Run It Yet

2011-04-10T08:27:00.003-04:00

Outside of work, I spend the majority of my time alone. Which affords me much opportunity to think...a double-edged sword at best! I've been thinking a lot lately of all the people, mostly unknowing, that have had a helpful hand in my marathon training. Just confirmation that it truly does "take a village"...

A quick thank you to the following:

* The folks at Runner's World who developed the online training program.

* Saucony shoes. * The makers of Glide - God Bless You!

* The thoughtful drivers that give me a little extra room along the shoulder of the road.

* My friends, family and co-workers for all the "atta boys", "keep up the good work", "you can do it"...you have no clue what these little words of encouragement mean to me.

* The folks sitting on their front porch or working in their yards that smile and wave.

* The makers of Tylenol. * The YMCA * My Garmin watch * My iPod...oh my iPod!

* The muscians who make the music for my iPod! *My body and my overall health

My point is simply that I'm grateful...for so much. And I just wanted to "say" it out loud.

Thank you world - thank you.

Stuck In The Middle

2011-04-03T14:58:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, I bought a pair of boots. "Biker Chick" boots to be exact. They're hot. I kept the receipt. "I'm too old to be young and too young to be old". (What movie is that line from?). That's exactly the thought I had as I was trying on these super-hot boots. I even went so far as to send a photo of me trying on said hot boots to my niece and daughter - I respect their opinions even though I think they're jaded because, well, they love me. But both said, "Go for it! They're hot!" Being 45, middle-aged, is hard. I feel like I don't really belong anywhere. I'm not sure how you're supposed to feel half-way through your life but I don't think I feel any differently - physically anyway - than I did 20 years ago. Actually, truth be told, I'm more fit today than I was 20 years ago. But I shouldn't be shopping in the Juniors section anymore (right) but I CANNOT stand the clothes in the "Women's Department" and please don't ask me to step foot in Coldwater Creek (sorry if I'm offending any of my friends...). I think for now I'll continue to use Vera Wang and The Desperate Housewives as good role models - - fashion role models. And I think I'll hit Old Navy for a new pair of skinny jeans to go with those biker boots.

Bailey's Day Out

2011-02-26T20:26:00.007-05:00

I realized that, although she has lived here for 4 months now, BK had not "been to town". So we packed the leash, a bottle of water, potty bags (what, TMI?) and the camera and off to Pittsboro we went.

A walking tour from Bailey's perspective...

Rosemary & Thyme Bed & Breakfast

(The Inn keeper was kind enough to give BK a tour. She wanted to get some remodel ideas for our front room. I appreciated the gesture.)

Pittsboro Methodist Church

(Under consideration given the countless potluck dinners they sponsor.)

Pittboro Episcopal
(At the bottom of the list; a little staunch.)

Pittsboro Baptist Church
(At the top of her list. She liked the casualness here.)

The General Store Cafe

(This landmark impressed her. Probably because they had free for all doggie water bowls out front.)

Pittsboro Episcopal Church Cemetery

(I told her she didn't have worry about this. All necessary arrangements were already in place.)

Chatham County Courthouse Circa February 2011

(I wiped a tear from her eye when I told her the story of how our beloved, on the historic registry courthouse burned to a shell.)

Original Homestead

(She put this one on her list of possibilities. She thinks she can sell her current kennel for a profit and move up a few hundred square feet.)

Suntrust Bank

(This is where she wanted to open a savings account in anticipation of said profit mentioned above.)

Straight Up Realty

(We went into this establishment to discuss the possible sale of her current kennel and purchase of the above "dream home".)

Bailey K

(She was over come with excitement when we came upon this...)

Angelina's Kitchen

(She was totally bumbed when she learned Angelina only offered Gyro's and Baklava and not Busy Bonz and Pupparoni Sticks.)

For a new perspective on your town, take your dog for a walk.

Woof.

Virtual Running Partner

2011-02-18T21:13:00.003-05:00

I run alone. I go to the gym alone. I attend my Pilates, Yoga and Zumba classes - you guessed it - ALONE. But I'm okay with it this way. While it's not entirely by choice, I think I'd still go solo even if I had the option of participating in all these events with a buddy. Definitely the running.

I would feel compelled to start/have a conversation and quite frankly, I'm not conditioned enough to do that comfortably. Also, I enjoy this time alone. It affords me time to pay close attention to my surroundings, to nature watch, to plan, to push forward on my own thru that wall I've hit...to think of things to write about on my blog :)

So I was surprised at how I welcomed this virtual running buddy (of sorts)...when I finally noticed her just a few paces ahead of me. I made a game of it. I pretended she was the reason I'd come in second if I couldn't pass her. I "chased" her. I tried to keep pace with her. And I stayed right with her for the first half of my run. But when I made a u-turn at mile 5 to make my way back to my starting point, Virtual Buddy was gone! What the...???

Well how 'bout that! Now I held pole position and Virtual Buddy was in position number 2! And when it was all said and done, I beat that winch!

Not Much To Work With

2011-02-12T18:06:00.002-05:00

I had to have my boobies squished this morning. I know - it's Saturday! But this place is open every other Saturday of the month! How cool and helpful is that? They make it easy for you to flatten your breasts to the size of flour tortillas! (I went to the satellite location in Chapel Hill, the closest to me).

And because I had to have this done - and I was in the hood - I went here:

Where I treated myself to these!!!!!!!

Honestly, truthfully and legally, we can no longer promote this alcoholic treat as "Two Buck Chuck", as it was originally and affectionately called, because it now retails for $2.99 per bottle.
But despite the price increase, it's still a heck of a bargain! And regardless of what the rules are, it'll always be "Two Buck Chuck" to us loyalists. Oh, and lest I forget, Mom, if you're reading this, I'd like to add a variety case of this kicked up grape juice to my Valentine's Day gift list. Hey, you asked!!!

Cheers!

Who Do You Think You Are?

2011-02-11T21:12:00.003-05:00

I like Fridays. For obvious reasons but also because of "Medium" and this show.

Being famous has its benefits, not the least of which is the check book that comes with it. It can afford you all the sparkle and bling one could ever want but it also brings perks like specialized, one-on-one ancestory research and personal access to places like The Library of Congress.

"Ancestory.com" is available to us average folk but you can only go so far before the site is asking for your credit card. In other words, it's gonna cost us to go back much further than a generation or two. As curious and fascinated as I am to learn about my own heritage, I'm not ready to shell out any greenbacks for it...not yet.

If time and money weren't an issue for me, I think I'd dive right into this site, this venture just like Tim McGraw did tonight. I'd go into it with a guarded heart and little expectation in order to protect myself from disappointment.

I guess in the scheme of the big picture what matters most is the here and now, what we're doing with our lives and what contributions we're making to humanity. But wouldn't it be great to know just how we arrived?

I'd also like to know just who exactly is responsible for this rather wide nose of mine.

Shhhhhh....Listen......

2011-02-10T20:18:00.004-05:00

LOOK WHO'S HOME????

And obviously very happy about it, too.

Red has a clean bill of health, thanks to Dr. Sergio. He's as quiet as a mouse; no hiss, no hum, no whirl, not a peep. Evidently, it was his fan parts. They were stuck. And it's hard for a computer to operate with non-functioning fan parts.

The Latest on "Red"

2011-02-03T14:54:00.002-05:00

Test results are in...

It's "relatively minor" and the procedure won't take long at all. It's just the fan - thank you laptop god!

The part's been ordered and we have an appointment with Dr. Sergio next Tuesday.

I've missed Red this week...I have photos to share with him and only him. Oh, I could download them to Desktop Girl but why crawl down there to find the USB port? No, I'll be patient and wait for my friend to recoup.

I'm off to the gift shop to buy a "Get Well Soon" balloon - - he'd like that.

"Red's" Inpatient Tonight

2011-01-31T18:54:00.002-05:00

I'm not sure I've ever introduced you... This is Red.

Original, I know. But those of you who know me know that there are few other colors in my personal rainbow so it really makes perfect sense.

A few years ago, my mom treated me to Red (of course she did). We bonded immediately. We've been on many trips together...including to the bedroom.

Recently, Red came down with a cough of sorts. At first it was sporadic and I simply attributed it to the freezing temps and recent snowfall here in Carolina. But things progressed and the "cough" turned into an almost constant wheezing, grinding, bringing up my guts-type noise. The other evening while chatting with my mom on the phone, she said, "what on earth is that noise?" That was it. I knew it was serious.

I took Red to the office with me today and made an appointment with Dr. "Sergio" of CCH. Sergio can work miracles. After explaining the ongoing symptoms, Dr. Sergio suggested an immediate PC intervention. Not to worry. Red was out of ear shot during this conversation and safely packed in his (red) laptop carrier. A few short minutes later, and on his way back to work from lunch at Bojangles, Dr. Sergio made a house call. Yep, he stopped by CCS and carefully and lovingly picked up Red and took him to the facility where he can get the best care possible.

Based on what I've described, Dr. Sergio thinks it's a simple bearing in the fan but he won't know for sure until he gets in there. He didn't seem overly concerned and assured me, with the right amount of antibiotics, Red will be up and running again in no time. This, of course, brought me comfort and I gave a huge sigh of relief. For as much as I love my ancient and never breaks desktop, I'd look pretty funny carrying it under my arm into Open Eye Cafe.

I'm expecting a call tomorrow with the lab results.

The Day of His Birth

2011-01-29T20:22:00.002-05:00

Today is my DH's birthday! Happy Birthday, Michael!

My family loves to recognize and celebrate birthdays in a BIG way. I mean, after all, it's the anniversary of the day you came into this world! What better reason to have a celebration!

I am so thankful J & B Mineer were born, that they met, fell in love, married and brought this guy into the world. Because if none of that had ever happened, where oh where would I be?

A few facts about my lovey...

1) Did you know that he is 26 months YOUNGER than me? Yep. And that makes us both very smart people.
2) He hails from the great state of Kentucky and is VERY loyal to UK...go Cats!!
3) He served in the Army and witnessed events he will never share with me.
4) He knows more about me than I know about him.
5) He is a major competitor in EVERYTHING he does. He absolutely must be the best.
6) He is a cell phone junkie.
7) He does the laundry and the grocery shopping (note item #1...I am a smart person).
8) He is romantic, regardless of how he seems "on the outside".
9) He takes every opportunity to further his education.
10) He protects me...and my heart.
11) He can show Brandi Lee tougher love than I can.
12) He hates to "tinker".
13) He likes my cooking and really prefers I don't bake too often - for obvious reasons.
14) He'll shop in Victoria Secret alone for me and always tells the sales associate "no thanks, I'm good" when she asks if he needs any help (again, note item #1).
15) I married him because he makes me laugh every day. Little did I know how important that would be as we've moved through this life together.

Me sweet works an extremely dangerous job...I don't dwell on this fact but I never forget it as I kiss him goodbye and tell him I love him as he leaves for the night. So to be able to celebrate another year with him, either by our birthdays or anniversaries, is a true blessing for me.

Happy Birthday, honey...I do love you so

xoxo

"Same As It Never Was"

2011-01-25T22:51:00.003-05:00

It's my favorite Tuesday of the month. The last Tuesday of the month. The Tuesday I meet with 6, 8, 10 - however many can make it - of the most unique, beautiful women I know. It was book club night.

This month's selection was a read regarding aging, becoming forgetful and having the opportunity to right wrongs and finish unfinished business. All of this, however, comes at a grave cost; death. Would you pay the price? Of course, it prompted great discussion and, of course, we veered off course...which got me to thinking...

Are you a different person today than you were twenty years ago? Do you hold the same opinions today as you did when you turned 21? Are you the same wife to the husband you married "x" number of years ago? Do you love your children differently today than you did the day they were born? Have you gained more respect - or pity - for your aging parents? Have you started or stopped a habit over the last decade? Have you experienced a death in your lifetime that affected you so much that the process, or "end", has taken up a small residence in your brain? If you're a grandparent, are you a different, better grandparent than you were a parent? Have you grown bitter? Has your opinion of your country changed? Your opinion of the world? As you are aging, are you paying closer attention to the more simpler things in life - the stars in the sky at night, the brightness of the moon, the color of the sky on a crystal clear day? Do you eat better and/or exercise now that you're post-menopausal? Are you fighting the "aging process" all together? I told you, my favorite Tuesday of the month!!!

I'd like to think I'm getting better. I'm not sure what that means, exactly, and I think it's a relative term considering at what point I'm coming from. But I think we are supposed to wise up as we age. I think we're supposed to "get it". I think we're supposed to...care more. Appreciate more. Give more. Love more. And I don't think we're supposed to stay who we are at any given time. I'm not the same person I was as a teen, or in my twenties, or in my thirties...I'm really not even the same person I was a few weeks ago.

I refuse to live in the past. I work hard to stop asking myself "why" when something hurtful happens in my life. I'm not sure anymore that I was "put here for a reason" or that I owe "anyone" anything for my life but I do believe in humanity. I care for and about people and I expect the same in return. I expect you to take care of yourself so that I don't have to pay the price via my health insurance. I expect you to do your part in keeping my community safe. I expect you to contribute to society in some way.

I expect us all to be grateful for each day we're given, don't assume we have 80+ years to handle our business. Take note of the trees, a puppy, the lake, someone holding someone elses hand, how a cat stretches, how your spouse smiles at you across the dinner table during a lull in the conversation. Do this because more than likely, you won't be the same person tomorrow and it will never be the "same as it never was".

I Am Easily Moved

2011-01-18T19:53:00.004-05:00

No, I'm not talking about my bowels...

I wear my heart on my sleeve. I cry at the typical, sad stuff but I can also cry at the beautiful, blue Carolina sky, at the steam flowing from the nostrils of horses grazing in a field, at a young person obviously enjoying being in the company of an elder, at hearing my daughter's laugh on the other end of the phone when it's been months since I've seen her in person, at some unprompted gesture or compliment from my husband, when my dad leaves me a voice mail message of ANY kind, when a patient hugs me and tells me thank you, when the blue birds leave the big bird house in the front yard, when I get the call that my folks have arrived home safely after leaving NC, when I receive an unexpected treat in the mail from someone I love to the depths of my heart...you get the idea. I am a sap and I cry.

I have a very special friend who lives in NY City. Right in the midst of all the hub-bub. Can walk to anything and everything. I recently asked a favor of her and she went above and beyond my request which is not the point of this post but still bears noting. I received my little treat in the mail today from my city friend and included in the package was an article written by New York Times correspondent Jim Axelrod. My friend thought of me when she copied this and included it with my surcee, which was enough to make me cry. But the article itself caused me to bring my hands to my heart...

I am training for a marathon that will take place in May. I am focused and dedicated to my routine and working hard at staying fit and healthy so that I do this correctly and without injury. I am working toward this for my own personal achievement and success. I'm not doing it for anyone else. I'm not doing it to prove a point but, instead, for the satisfaction of settling my soul. I expect this will be one of the most important, memorable days of my life.

I don't expect anyone to understand the lunacy of it all. I don't expect non-runners to understand what a good time for a first marathoner might be and as such, I hope they won't ask me or concern themselves with my time if I decide to even answer the question. That's personal and intrusive and misses the point.

So please, if you will, heed the advice of Mr. Axelrod and "on the Monday after Marathon Sunday, when you see me in whatever condition I may be in, leave it at "congratulations, that's some kind of achievement". If you really need to add something, how about "have fun?"

I will be in touch with my friend to let her know I received my goody in perfect condition and that I will giggle every time I wear it and, of course, think of her. But maybe more importantly, I will make sure she knows how much her "second thought" of including that article touched my heart and soul even more and how it will be at the forefront of my thoughts as I cross that finish line...because it will be some kind of achievement and I will have had fun.

Sniff, sniff...

Oh No She Didn't!!!!!!

2011-01-18T09:24:00.003-05:00

Some things are just OFF LIMITS!

Don't touch the food on my plate. I'm sorry if you forgot your toothbrush, but please don't ask to "borrow" mine. Um, it's MY kitchen thank you very much. And if I ask you to hand me my wallet, what I really mean is hand me my ENTIRE purse - no need for you to go rifling thru it! But, most importantly, don't ever, ever walk on my yoga mat. EVER.

When class was over and everyone was putting away their "tools" and picking up their things making ready to exit last night, some newbie carelessly and obliviously WALKED ACROSS MY PERSONAL YOGA MAT!! I stood there with my mouth gaping open and my hands on my hips - typical, I know. My immediate reaction was to bitch-slap this little heathen. I thought better of that. I thought, wow-I've something to blog about! Ha!

Seriously, some things are just sacred and my yoga mat is one of them. Hell, I'm not crazy about the fact that my own sweaty body and dirty feet are on the sucker. I surely don't want the germ soaked soles of some stranger's feet touching it!

Get a clue, chicka. And learn some Bikram Yoga manners!

Namaste. I feel much better now.

Gahhhh...This is KILLING Me!

2011-01-15T20:49:00.002-05:00

Crank this baby up, won't 'cha?! Until it hits 86 in this place, I'm just gonna lay here and wait 'till you get it right...or until that stupid canine you let in here gets a sniff of "all this" and mistakes me for a chew toy - in which case I'm outside with the rest of the degenerates.

Oh Summer...I Heart You...

2011-01-11T09:58:00.002-05:00

"Be patient, Joyce...soon, very soon"

Can't Cats Smell Smoke?

2011-01-05T20:55:00.002-05:00

My Dad and I are saps. Me for and about most everything, especially if it's living, breathing and has a moist nose. My Dad is a sap for me. This is a lethal combination.

We have 13 outside barn cats. They've all been spayed and neutered, we're responsible that way. Okay, it took awhile to get them all spayed and neutered which is how we ended up with 13 outside barn cats but eventually, we got the job done! It gets pretty cold outside, even here in Central North Carolina. I couldn't stand the thought of my kitties being outside, FREEZING in their winter coats. My Dad couldn't stand me not standing the thought of my kitties being outside FREEZING in their winter coats.

So, he built this:

Yep, it's a cat house...with electricity inside. Well, basic electricity. Enough to hang a naked light bulb to provide some additional warmth that the 10 blankets and comforters may NOT be providing (my mom provided most of those for the record). That's a little history to prep you for the real story here...

When I come home every night, there are typically 4 kitties that come and meet me at the car. One of these is Vivvy, the stray that showed up 2 years ago and has never left. She's an outsider on every level but it's really evident because Vivvy is a long haired, creamsicle color and the rest of my herd is simply black or black and white. Last night, as I would have expected, Vivvy and the others met me at the car. I noticed a discoloration on her fur where her tail connects to her body. I bent down and got a closer look...hmm, that looks like it's been scorched. The only thing I could come up with is that some cruel ass got a hold of my cat and burned her with something! I was furious...and confused because we really are fairly secluded out here, know our neighbors (who are acres away) very well and are confident not one of them would bring any animal any harm. It was at about this time I noticed a smell. At first I simply thought someone was burning leaves or had a fire going or...MY HOUSE WAS ON FIRE! THAT WOULD EXPLAIN THE SINGED HAIR ON THE CAT'S BACK!!!

I went tearing down the driveway and leapt on the front porch...sniff, sniff...I could smell it but couldn't see anything. Then, out of the corner of my eye, I see smoke billowing inside my beloved cat house! What the hell????

I flip open the roof (why my father had the foresight to hinge the roof is beyond me but he did and I am SO grateful) and smoke comes pouring from the kitty condo! And laying in there, comfy cozy, looking at me as if I'd just walked in on him sitting on the pot reading "Cat Fancy" was Beau! Just laying there. Amidst all that smoke. Billowing all around him. A purple haze if you will. Like something from a Cheech and Chong movie. "Beau! Get the hell outta' here, man! Your house is on fire!"

I pulled smoldering blankets from the abode and threw them out in the yard. I lifted the naked light bulb that had somehow fallen from the ceiling and landed on the blankets up and off (which was the source of the soon-to-be fire, according to fire marshall J. Mineer), unplugged it from the electrical outlet and, when it was cool enough, unscrewed it from the socket and threw it in the yard. And before I went in my house, I made sure there were no "hot spots" left and, of course, called my mom (why do we always call mom...).

I've had time to collect myself over this mishap. I haven't taken it lightly because if I'd just been a few minutes later or decided to make a stop on the way home or, worse yet, gone to the gym and been HOURS later coming home, our own house would've burned to the ground.

But tonight, I can't help but laugh! Because I tell you this for free people...there is ALWAYS a story in Bear Creek! Always!!

...really, really grateful we dodged that big, hot bullet!!!!

My Balls Sucked

2011-01-02T21:45:00.002-05:00

I pride myself on a few things: 1) getting the Thank-you note/email out in a timely fashion, 2) always saying please and thank you, 3) never arriving at a gathering that I've been invited to empty handed, 4) being a good hostess and 5) being a self-proclaimed good cook.

Early in December I attended my book club's annual Christmas party. Karen was our hostess this year and she really outdid herself; fruitcake, peanut butter sammy cookies, fresh fruit, a tasty assortment of wines and Bourbon Balls!

I can't remember if I've ever had Bourbon Balls. I'm inclined to say "no" because, well, I don't like bourbon. But I was in the spirit of the season and am less likely at this point in my life to miss out on something new. So, two balls made their way to my plate...then two more...and, although I can't swear to it but I'm sure had a breath-a-lizer been available, it could've been proven that I ingested 2 or 4 MORE balls. I LOVED these things. So much so, I asked Karen to share the recipe.

I followed it verbatim - I swear I did. And, no, there was no sipping of the ingredients to make sure everything was fresh. I didn't miss a teaspoon, a cup, a pinch. I did break my spatula while stirring and stirring and stirring. Should that have been a hint?

My family were real troopers - Brandi graciously spit her's out into a napkin as her face contorted into a shape I'm certain was painful and my dad, well, he was steadily putting a dent in the bowl full (this from the same man who gave me UGGS for Christmas) out of nothing but love I'm sure.

There's still a tupperware container full of the powdered-sugar little orbs in the refrigerator and two gallon-sized bags of the "batter" in the freezer. They all need to be thrown out but because of the cost, I simply can't bring myself to do it.

Had I thought of it sooner, I would have rung in the new year with these potent spheres and saved my money on the champagne.

Oh The Festivities!

2010-12-10T14:31:00.002-05:00

Isn't December great?

On top of our every day chaos, let's throw in the stress of Christmas! Yes!

Another busy weekend on tap; it's Bunco Christmas Party Night tonight, the annual Reindeer Run in Pittsboro tomorrow morning at o'dark thirty, shopping/strolling Friendly Center in Greensboro tomorrow afternoon, annual Chapel Hill PD SWAT party tomorrow night and to wrap up the weekend nicely in a pretty bow...Flow Yoga at Carrboro Yoga Company Sunday morning. And all this with my favorite Little Bitty.

Feels like 12/25/10 already!!

*pics may follow...

It's All In The Packaging

2010-11-14T21:44:00.003-05:00

My husband has always said I'm a sucker for anything packaged "cute". I hate it when he's right!

The first of the month I was wandering through GNC looking for a particular vitamin I had read about in Runner's World. I couldn't find what I was looking for but this caught my eye:

It's a simple box with pre-packaged vitamin packs tucked neatly inside. But more importantly, the product is called "be hot-exercise enhancing turbo pak".

Seriously? Call me a sucker but I was all over this like a pair of Lululemon Groove Pants!

Mama Got A New Pair Of Shoes...errr Boots!

2010-11-12T21:43:00.003-05:00

If these had been any cuter, we would've been at the courthouse exchanging wedding bands!

And they are RAIN BOOTS, people! YES, rubber rain boots!!! Oh God, let the heavens open up soon. You know what, it doesn't matter because I have every intention of sporting these beauties rain, shine, sleet or snow.

Current Events

2010-11-11T15:56:00.003-05:00

My life has once again been turned upside down and shaken. But I (we) brought it on ourselves and couldn't be happier because of it. Don't be misled, my schedule and freedom have been affected, my indoor cats have retreated and now live solely upstairs in MY bedroom, I dance with the vacuum cleaner nightly and there are poop bags in my jacket pocket.

What was I thinking?

I was thinking how lonely I could allow myself to be in the evenings when my DH was at work. How I missed the sound of a very content, deep-breathing canine at my feet. How I missed having a buddy that really wanted to be with me and was glad to see me when I came home (20 cats and, really, all I'm good for is tuna).

Bailey's been with us a month now and we've worked hard to fall into a routine that works best for us all. We're getting there. And we're working through the puppy stage - the jumping, the chewing, the nipping. But I can be patient...because once we get the go-ahead that it's okay for her to start running with us, this dog will truly regret the day she violated my Longaberger recipe box and it's treasured contents.

It will soon "be on", Bailey K...it will soon "be on" (said her loving "One Bad Mother Runner")!

I'll Call It Karma

2010-10-13T15:27:00.002-04:00

There have been times in my life where I am at a place or an event and something happens or someone says something that moves me to my core and I think, "this is exactly where I'm supposed to be" or "I was supposed to hear that, that's why I'm here today". You get the idea. Karma. Coincidence. Intervention of some kind.

The funeral, or as I prefer to refer to it, the celebration of life, was simply beautiful last Sunday. Of course, the brilliant Fall sunshine, my adjusted attitude, the company of my parents and daughter and friends may have had something to do with it and, if so, for that I am grateful. We celebrated our friend's life. The family reflected on her incredible sense of humor, her devout loyalty to Virginia Tech, her recent conversion to Coke from Pepsi and her undying love for animals. I wish the world could have known this amazing, whack-nut woman. It was a better place with her in it...

I ended up staying the night with my daughter and had the great pleasure of spending a few hours with her at the clinic (her place of employment) Monday morning before heading home...

If I had not altered my travel plans for last weekend and opted not to attend the funeral and not decided to stay with Bran overnight and not gone to work with her the next day, the change that is getting ready to happen in my life would/will not have taken place.

Every single thing for a reason. Coincidence. Karma. Maybe it was all just part of her plan. But I am certain I was where I was supposed to be when I was supposed to be there.

Scars And Working On A Change Of Attitude

2010-10-08T22:23:00.002-04:00

I have a few select television shows that I watch/record (is that still an appropriate technological term?) each week. Recently, I watched an episode of one of them in which a character said "scars tell our story of where we've been, they don't dictate our future". I've thought a lot about this lately, especially since I've been nursing my own physical scars from a recent fall back to healthy tissue - to say nothing of a broken heart, which carries the biggest scars of all. I've thought how I'll laugh (hopefully) a year from now over my scraped up palms, banged up elbow and torn-open knees. How the cop that helped me that afternoon looked at me as I was down on all fours and said, "Yeah. it was REAL pretty" when I asked him if he saw the entire event.

That character was right. The scars on my body and the ones on my heart tell my story, tell all about who I am and where I've been. They aren't, however, dictating where I'm headed. They'll be there for me years from now. They may be the reason a conversation is started with a stranger and, as a result, I make a new friend. And when I look at them, they may make me cry at the memory they carry. But there's the possibility that they'll make me smile warmly because they've brought a sweet thought of someone I love to the forefront of my mind. And then I will try and remind myself that it's all worth it.

My family will be traveling soon in order to attend a funeral, a funeral that none of us were expecting to ever have to attend - at least not for many, many years. A funeral that most of us agree didn't have to be. A funeral that is going to leave a deep scar in our hearts.

I've decided that I need to change my attitude before I head out. I need to be a better example for my daughter. I need to accept the things I cannot change and work harder at moving forward and take comfort in sweet memories.

I need to realize that I will always be able to read my story simply by looking in the mirror.

I have to go now. It's time to change my bandages!

Breaking Points

2010-10-01T19:40:00.002-04:00

We all have them.

But I thought good was supposed to prevail over evil.

I thought love conquered all.

And I thought having faith in "God" could see us through anything.

If I haven't been in doubt these last 6 months, I most certainly am tonight.

Afternoon Delight

2010-08-15T08:39:00.003-04:00

First, he made a slight adjustment to my hips...pushing them a little more forward.

Then he had me turn my entire torso a little more to the left.

And finally, he helped lift me into a full and complete backbend.

Lower your brows, readers. It was just my afternoon with Blake, one of my favorites at Carborro Yogo Company.

Now I Know...

2010-07-25T17:34:00.003-04:00

Clearly this is the reason none of the others wants to associate with him...(yep, that's kitty litter caked on his nose)

I mean, he may as well have come out of the bathroom trailing toilet paper from the bottom of his shoe.

Dork.

A Small Observation

2010-07-24T20:01:00.003-04:00

I've been attending yoga classes fairly regularly now for about 2 1/2 months. I'm happy to report that I can see the physical changes the workouts are having on my body. And I'm certain the breathing exercises I've learned help me to remain calm and collected during times I would have otherwise gone nuts (like tonight when my car started acting up and the "check engine" light came on. Guess I'll be dealing with that this week while breathing deeply).

But today I realized I've gained an added, unexpected benefit...

After class this afternoon, I hit the ladies room before the 20+ mile drive home. As I was taking care of business it occurred to me... I was hovering effortlessly!! You know what I'm talking about, ladies!

Utkatasana, or "chair pose", REALLY has its perks!

Is It Too Late To Save My Own Neck?

2010-06-30T19:06:00.003-04:00

For as long as I can remember, this baby pink moisturizing potion has had a comfortable place in my mother's make-up bag. And every morning at about 4:45 my mom would slather it all over her face just prior to applying her blush and concealer, making ready for her day. This routine and the soft scent of the lotion is a fond memory of mine regarding my mom.

So, it comes as no surprise to me that for at least the last 20 years I, too, have rubbed and massaged this creamy concoction all over my face. I've never used another product, never saw a need. If it ain't broke, don't fix it - right? But it's recently occurred to me that, until the last month or so, I NEVER APPLIED IT TO MY NECK!!! Oh my God! The panic I'm in!

Every woman knows that your real age shows in your hands and your neck! Will I ever be able to catch up? Can this stuff work magic?

My favorite Uncle Les calls it "Oil of Delay".

God I hope he's right!

Knock Knock

2010-06-27T15:45:00.004-04:00

I am convinced that the older I get, the cooler I am becoming. And while the aging process really seems to bother most people, it doesn't seem to be affecting me. However, what does tick me off is that I'm learning so much and trying different things and stepping out of my comfort zone more easily and frequently but only recently! Why haven't I been doing these things all along? Why do we "grow wise". Why do we finally "get it" when it really doesn't matter any more?!

Because I'm acutely aware of this now, I'm making an all out effort to really pay attention to my surroundings. To really watch and listen to people. To really mean it when I say to someone I pass in the hall, "How are you doing today?" And to take the time to listen to their response, because I care.

I took up yoga about 2 months ago in an effort to kick start my new weight loss/body change program. I was expecting physical changes. I was not expecting changes in the way I think, the way I move, who/what I pay homage to, why I eat the food I eat, how much I enjoy something good (a latte, a homemade cupcake, a good night's sleep...) and good music.

This "practice" has opened me up to many new and wonderful things. I'm a little sad to be going through this experience alone but I'm getting sort of used to that now... During yesterday's class, while I should've had empty thoughts during savasana (deep relaxation), I instead was in awe of the music we were listening to. So much so that I cornered the instructor and asked who or what was in the CD player. She smiled and said, "oh, that's Bill Callahan. But you may know him from his band Smog." Um...no...Jasmine, I am not familiar with this Smog you speak of. Can I get him at Target?!

15 minutes later I find myself in what I would call a dank, non-air conditioned hole in the wall with a hookah bar on one side and waifs of incense coming from the "retailer" on the other side. I think I went underground, people...

And while I didn't find the CD that had that incredible song on it I relaxed to in class, I did come home with this little gem:

If there's some "alternative" music you're looking for or coffeehouse-type melodies, might I suggest CD Alley on Franklin Street in Chapel Hill? Oh, and you'd feel most comfortable there after having not shaved your underarms or legs for weeks and a bra is not required either.

Yep, I'm officially cool.

My Glads Are Blooming, My Glads Are Blooming!

2010-06-21T21:14:00.002-04:00

And I'm SOOOOO glad! Aren't they pretty... other colors on the way, too!

But then there are these... My mums are blooming, too. Are the mums confused or am I? Shouldn't they be "sleeping" during this time of year and not showing their colors until the Fall?

And when it's this hot outside, there's really nothing better to do than...well...this...

Stay cool blog buddies!

My Bathroom Smells...

2010-06-14T22:52:00.002-04:00

DELICIOUS!!!!

My Gardenia bush is in full bloom - the best year yet! So I clipped off a bloom or two and set them in the bathroom window and every time I go in there, it's like a little whiff of heaven.

Of course, these little guys do full battle when you-know-who is in there with them.

Just sayin'

My Pre-Memorial Day

2010-05-30T19:55:00.006-04:00

I had to work yesterday and I have to work tomorrow which meant today was my Memorial Day. And this is how I spent it...

Victoria Bowden at Carrboro Yoga Company hosted a fabulous Flow Yoga class here in the Paper Lantern Room this morning. If you click on her link, you can actually witness me in action (that's me in the blue). She just happened to have a fellow student videoing the class in order to offer a snippet of how she works on her page of MYCYCOs website! Who knew I'd be just a little famous!

The Paper Lantern Room courtesy Carrboro Yoga Company

Next, I headed here. To The American Tobacco Trail. I love running along this tree lined trail.
It's soft, packed sand and is so peaceful. And the nature...it sounds just as beautiful as it looks. I especially like to run here when I have a "long" run to do. I can lose myself in my surroundings and pass the miles easier.

The American Tobacco Trail

The start of the trail is just off of the parking area. There's a pretty good hill leading down to mile marker 1.

Beginning of the trail

Of course, before starting out you'll want to make a pit stop. Being eco-friendly, think of these bathrooms as permanent porta-johns. Yep, no flushing and no running water to wash your hands. They want to conserve the environment. And, well, yes...those are "smoke" stacks, where the odors are supposed to escape. Overall, the concept works very well.

Environmentally friendly bathrooms

Inside the bathrooms are information sheets, explaining the benefit of waterless restroom facilities. I especially like the bullet informing us about the "sweet smelling toilets". Um, sorry but there is NO SUCH THING!!

Explanation of benefits

As I take off, this is my view as long as I looked up. My favorite thing about living in NC? The sky...the Carolina blue sky. It really does exist, people. And it's breathtaking, no matter how many times you see it.

The beauty along the trail

And this is what I see for miles and miles. I only wish I could embed the sounds along this breathtaking pathway. The birds and the frogs and the crickets and the kids and the bike tires along the sand and the other runners. All of this was here today although it doesn't look like it below. There were many periods of complete solitude along my way.

My view at mile marker 1

All good things must come to an end. And this is the end of my run. Back up the hill to where I started from.

A great hill to sprint if you've got anything left

Sometimes I even take time to smell the flowers...

I had a good day. I hope you did, too.

Happy Memorial Day blog buddies...Happy Memorial Day

The Guineas Are Coming! The Guineas Are Coming!

2010-05-29T07:32:00.003-04:00

I've never considered myself a "city" girl even though I was born and raised in Northern Virginia, just 12 short miles from Washington, DC. I mean, we lived in the suburbs. We had beautiful trees and flowers and shrubs and narrow, two-lane roads and a yard to mow. But after moving to Bear Creek, NC...well, let's just say I may be a little more citified than I thought.

I have seen and experienced things here in the South that I never have before in my life. For example; breaded, deep-fried green beans. Really? Aren't the green things supposed to be the stuff that's good for us? Doesn't breading it and deep-frying it sort of defeat the purpose? And why oh why can't I get a pizza delivered to my house? And Internet service...don't even get me started on Internet service.

But I recently witnessed something that caused me to rub my eyes, squint, and take a closer look. I heard them first. I can't even describe the noise...sort of like a turkey with his waddle caught in a vice. And the shape...much like a plum poised atop a watermelon. Quite frankly people, this was the damnedest looking fowl I'd ever seen in my life! I even said out loud, "What the hell is that?"

Fortunately, my husband is a country boy - born and bred in Kentucky. He laughed and said, "those are guineas". Yeah, that immediately cleared things up for me. My response? "What the hell is a guinea, where'd they come from and why are they in MY yard?"

Apparently, our closest neighbor is the proud owner of these ground fowl. And apparently they wander, looking to gobble up insects that live on the ground or fly just at knee level (my knee level, not the guineas). Evidently, they are great at keeping the tick count down and having mosquitoes for dessert - both of which I'm more than okay with!

But why must they be so odd looking? Of course, they could be thinking the same thing about me, huh?

The thing that cracks me up the most...when I start the riding mower, it's only a matter of minutes before I am surrounded by these barnyard fowl. You'd think I'd just opened a flavorful packet of breaded, deep-fried ticks.

A New Man In My Life

2010-05-21T10:32:00.003-04:00

For some time now, I've felt out of control of my life. Floundering. Not living the plan I made for myself so long ago.

My family has been surrounded by sickness and death. The economy has devastated many of my loved ones. And for the last 9 months, my husband and I have had to communicate via text messaging and notes left on the kitchen counter because he works the 12 hour night shift and I work the 12 hour day shift.

While I can't control much of what is happening around me, I decided that I can work on how I deal with these obstacles. I've always tried to take good care of myself physically but never paid much attention to the overall well-being of my mental health.

In a recent conversation with my daughter, I was complaining to her how frustrated I was with the fact that I was running an average of 15 miles per week yet my body wasn't changing at all; the shape or the weight. She brilliantly said, "Mom, your body is used to doing what you've been asking it to do for so long now. You've got to give it a shock. Ask it to do something different." I thought about this profound statement and wondered what could I do to elongate my muscles and stretch out my soreness...

About four weeks ago, I started attending yoga classes on a regular basis. Since then, I have lost 10.5 pounds and over an inch off my hips. And while I'm ecstatic about those results, what's made me even more happy is the calmness this practice brings me.

For an hour and fifteen minutes a few times a week, I am at complete peace. My mind is free of worry and concern and heartbreak and sadness and critical thinking of my own body (my hips are too wide, my hair is too dry, my nose is too big, my arms are too long...). For those 75 glorious minutes, I am okay. I am quiet. I am satisfied.

Last Thursday night, on a whim, I went to a class that I was sure going to help me unwind from another hectic day. I double checked the schedule I had here at the house and noted the instructor, a female, was one I had not had before. When I arrived at the facility and walked into the Paper Lantern Room, I met Blake. Far from the female instructor listed on my schedule. Immediately I had reservations. Not sure why...not at ALL sure why.

Blake's class was one of the best I've ever taken. His deep, monotoned voice was music to my ears, which had heard nothing but the beeping of IVs and the moaning of people in pain all day. He was strong, forceful in his teaching. He would get us in a position and then read to us - READ TO US, people. He read the resounding words from a yogi expert I am clueless about but am now grateful to. He read to us about love, about loving ourselves and our earth and one another. He brought me solitude and comfort that evening. And he helped us to understand that we had the power within ourselves to go to a peaceful place whenever we needed to - i.e. when we're surrounded by death and sadness and feeling out of control of our lives.

It's my desire to continue to practice yoga. And while it started out for me as a way to change my body - which is has, does and will - it's become a way for me to change my mind. Not necessarily the way I think of things, but how I use it. It has the power to take me to my grounded place.

And while my schedule won't always allow me to attend every class Blake teaches, I plan on spending as many evenings with him as I can.

All the Paper Lantern Room needs now is a bistro table and a bottle of Pinot Grigio.

Namaste, Blake. Namaste.

Cause That's How She Rolls

2010-05-05T16:39:00.002-04:00

Sweetie Big Girl

No, really. That's how she rolls...

Mission Accomplished

2010-05-02T20:59:00.002-04:00

You remember the "before" shot, right? Why there was a portal window in a century-old farmhouse is the million dollar question. This eyesore couldn't be removed fast enough for me.

So after a prayer or two to the rain gods, Contractor Dad got to work. I was at work that particular day so I missed all of the grunt work and real mess. But I did make it home in time to find the new little window in and CD painstakingly replacing siding and tacking up trim.

His attention to detail is remarkable...and frustrating at times. Like when I want the project to be over!

But it all pays off and is more than worth it. Look how pretty! He even made a deep window sill so I have a place to sit something pretty (like a cat...who won't keep her face out of the window screen).

And after a few coats of bright white paint...VOILA! A much more time-suited, attractive window! I love it!

Now, to dress it or not? It's high enough off the ground that you can't see in from the outside so curtains/sheers/mini blinds aren't really necessary. But I think it needs a little something, huh?

I'm open to suggestions blog buddies.

Good News

2010-04-22T21:09:00.002-04:00

Contractor Dad is en route to Bear Creek.

This could mean that possibly - JUST POSSIBLY - the new window will be installed in the bathroom and I'll be able to cross that project completely off my list.

Big things happen when Contractor Dad (and Foreman Mom) are in the house!

Stay tuned for pics to ewwwww and ahhhhhh over.

What's Next?

2010-04-18T21:34:00.002-04:00

The 3rd Annual Philosopher's Way Trail Run.

Yeah. A 15k run (that's a little more than 9 miles) through...that.

I'm afraid. I'm very afraid.

It takes place Mother's Day Weekend. Bran, you may want to go ahead and make a reservation for me on the 2nd floor at UNC hospital! I can't think of a more perfect gift.

It's Been Awhile

2010-04-14T10:21:00.003-04:00

I've made numerous attempts to post something new and fresh. But I've failed miserably.

Failed because 1), I fall to pieces everytime I open this blog and see that last entry and 2), well, there simply hasn't been anything new and fresh to blog about and, quite frankly, I'm having an exceptionally hard time moving forward.

It seems that I, my family really, have a "death cloud" looming over us from which we can't seem to escape. We've been personally affected practically on a monthly basis since November. It's to the point that I don't want to answer the phone anymore, I don't want my family members to travel and I now find myself wishing my husband were in another line of work (something I have NEVER questioned or been concerned about). The anger in my heart and the fear are overwhelming...and my faith is waining and in question - which should be my greatest fear, right? It's during these difficult times I should be turning to Him but, instead, I am furious and feeling betrayed and foresaken and undeserving of all the heartache. Selfish? Yep...

My husband says I need to "redirect my feelings into something positive". My mom is famous for telling us "this, too, shall pass". And a beloved great uncle would always tell us to "pull yourself up by your boot straps and move on". All of this is great advice, which I should put into action. And I will, eventually.

In the meantime, I have these guys. And I am grateful.

What Saying Goodbye Looks Like

2010-03-29T17:06:00.003-04:00

I didn't even have time to brush him clean...

He made me smile like the sun...

He was afraid of the wind and blowing tall grass.

He loved carrots and apples, of course, but he also had a taste for Doritos...

It wasn't his back end you had to stay clear of, it was his mouth - Jess was a biter...

He did not make a good first impression on my family - he tried to bite Bran's face off...

I financed him...did you know you could do that...

He and a buddy escaped from the farm one day and took a joy run through the neighborhood, with Brandi and I running after them (picture that - it's good for a laugh)...

He never had to befriend another horse or dog, they always came to him...

If I could've bottled his smell, I would have done it a long time ago...

Everything he wore was black and/or red...even my truck and his trailer...

In the summer, he never went out until the sun went down...

When we first started riding together, I spent more time on the ground than I did on his back - which made me often question the investment I'd made...

In our younger days, we were excellent jumpers - I have ribbons to prove it...

His barn name was "Jesse" as in James; he was a registered Appaloosa with the name "High Hat Blue"...

Jess, Bran and I grew up together...I had Jess for 21 years...21 years

He brought me complete joy...complete happiness...

He would literally and gladly open his mouth to accept his bit...

He had a custom made tack box and storage trunk - because Jess and I were both loved that much...

He hated having his face washed and broke countless cross ties whenever I attempted to do it...

He loved having his belly brushed...

He was my buddy and I loved him dearly and today I don't know what to do to fill this life-sized whole in my heart...

And What A Beautiful Day It Was

2010-03-20T20:09:00.007-04:00

It had been way too long since the Gal Pals had been together. Boy, did we hit pay dirt today when we met for lunch at Fearrington Village.

Here's some of how we spent the afternoon...

Ain't that the truth!

Cathy and me :)

There was no choice but to model the $198 Chapeau!

Linda and me :)

Everyone can use a little David Yurman, huh?

Can you believe his naturally curly hair?!

And how sweet is this little fella?

A lovely gift shop in Fearrington, "The Dovecote"

"The Granery", where we had lunch - al fresco!

Where Cathy had shrimp & grits, a southern "delicacy" (I'll pass, thank you)!

Linda had a delicious omelet and I dined on the ice berg lettuce wedge - YUMMO!

The view from The Granery.

McIntyre's Books (one of my favorite places in Chatham County) where us girls met today.

More shops, including Vietri, the overpriced custom pottery maker.

I couldn't think of a better way to spend the first day of Spring!!!

Thanks girls!!! See you in May!!

My Butt Jiggles When I Run

2010-03-08T21:00:00.003-05:00

And if you've ever had the misfortune of driving behind me, you're already aware of this little known fact. But I'm okay with it (usually and most of the time).

I'm sharing this because recently, I worked with a nurse whom I'd never met before. In making general chit-chat and exchanging pleasantries, the subject of children came up. I knew what was coming when I shared with her that I had one daughter. "How old", she asks. I pause in order to put on my "Go ahead...I know what's coming next" face and softly and proudly say "27". She, in turn, gives me the perfunctory pause as I can see her attempting the math in her head. "How old ARE you?!". "What, were you twelve when you had her?!". I share my age with my new co-worker and suddenly our conversation shifts.

Apparently, "Monica" will be turning 40 in a few short weeks and is stressing terribly over it. She asked me my opinion on being in my 40's. Wanted to know if I suffered any deep depression when I hit the big 4-0. As I thought carefully about my response, I looked her squarely in the face and said, "I am finally happy with being me. I'm a little like some others. But mostly I'm just me".

I'm okay with my crooked smile and slightly too-large nose. I mean, when I look in the mirror I see the female version of my father and what could be better than that? And while my hips are a little larger than I'd like, I'm not willing to take on an eating disorder or hope for a terminal illness in order to slim myself down.

And as I set off 3 days a week for a rejuvenating run, yeah, I feel my butt jiggle. But only in the beginning. After a few hundred yards, I picture myself long, lean and sculpted and press on and never give my cellulite another thought.

...until I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror as I'm getting ready for bed...

Will 50 bring absolute certainty?

I Had No Idea!

2010-03-07T21:47:00.000-05:00

A few months ago (January, I think), Mom, Brandi and I went to see "Lovely Bones".

How did I miss it??? I am a HUGE fan of his after witnessing his performance in "Julie & Julia".

I can't remember if I heard on the radio, read it on the Internet or saw it on Good Morning America but early last week I learned the weird neighbor and murderer in "Lovely Bones" was, in fact, played by Stanley Tucci!

I must pay closer attention.

Back to the Oscars!

49 Years

2010-02-27T20:13:00.000-05:00

Forty Nine years. What does that mean to you? Have you even been alive for 49 years? Think back to what's happened in the last 49 years. Think what our world will be like 49 years from now. Have you had a friend for 49 years? Have you been going through your same routine every morning for the last 49 years? Have you had the same job/career for 49 years?

Forty Nine Years...that's how long my mom and dad have been married. They celebrated forty nine years of marriage on Thursday February 25. And I told everyone who would listen to me. I bragged. I gloated. I was proud and prejudiced!

I've never asked my folks what their "secret" is. I don't have to. I don't think there is a secret to their successful marriage other than they respect the sanctity of it. They made a commitment to one another and it was just that simple. They've lived up to the expectation of the union they made so long ago. And they have been ideal role models for our entire family.

Please share in my excitement for these two. They are my world, my comfort zone and just what I want to be like when I grow up!

Happy Anniversary Mom & Daddy (aka Mema & Papa)!!

Part Deux Of My V-day Weekend

2010-02-20T08:13:00.006-05:00

I don't know that I've ever shared with you, Internet, that my son-in-law is a vegan and my daughter is a vegetarian. And while it's extremely difficult for me to cook for these two, I respect the way they've chosen to live their dietary lives. It's also a challenge when I visit them because, well, let's be honest...I'm not a fan of Tofu and bean sprouts! However, after seeing myself in those running tights in the photogs on the last post, I may want to rethink that relationship!

After a strenuous day last Saturday morning, Brandi and I headed out on a mission to find that wonderful Lavender spray that our hot yoga instructor used after our class Friday night. We thought it would soothe our souls and make her house smell good! The most obvious place to look was The Heritage. The Heritage is located near the oceanfront and offers everything you need to be naturally healthy. This is JC's favorite place to shop. Think "Chatham Market Place" and you'll have a good idea - only on a much grander scale.

It did not disappoint. Brandi hit pay dirt with the Lavender spray and I came home with some intoxicating-smelling "display only" bath soaps and a Burt's Bees lip stain that I've been trying to replace for months! And while browsing each and every aisle, we came upon this display...

"Zum Mist" and "Yum Mist". The Yum Mist is doggie spritzer...

...which will "kung fu the pew"! Bran and I were hysterical. On the floor laughing. I don't know what kept the staff from asking us to leave other than the fact that our reaction was typical to this display!

We also stumbled upon candles. I thought, oh, look at those pretty candles. They'd be nice as part of a pretty table setting. And then I heard Brandi say, "oh Mama...these are great! JC and I have used these before. They're for cleaning the wax out of your ears." Huh? What? Wouldn't pouring hot wax down you ear defeat the purpose AND hurt a little - I thought... About that time, a 50+ year old, average, "normal" looking (you know, not vegan and someone who shaves under their arms) woman opened the jar of candles and took out at least 6! She assured me that the candles worked, she used them frequently and I should give them a try. I smiled nicely, said thank you and whispered under my breath, "wow, I never would've suspected you were one of them".

Needless to say, I was talked into it and we went home with a pair of candles for each of us. Picture this...

Yes, that's my daughter with a taper in her ear. It was here that I had a flash back...I was pretty sure I remembered telling her "never stick anything in your ears or up your nose".

And if that weren't enough...

I stood by and watched and allowed her husband to light the thing! What kind of mother am I???

Then I took a turn!

This holistic stuff's kinda' cool! Hey, if you don't want to beat them and you're not really interested in joining them, just hang out with them once in awhile - you'll do things, smell stuff and taste oddities you'd NEVER thought you would!

Those crazy kids...oh how I adore them!

Grab A Snack...You May Be Here Awhile

2010-02-14T21:37:00.000-05:00

Remember me mentioning this event a few weeks ago? It finally came to pass.

First, a little background info. I travel to Virginia frequently; about every 6 weeks. Specifically, Northern Virginia. About 12 miles outside of DC. I also occasionally travel to Virginia Beach to visit my daughter. And to run in the many foot races this fun city hosts, which is what took me to VA Beach this weekend. And while I have a very comfortable, reliable vehicle, she is carrying close to 350,000 miles on her back. Yes Internet, my American made, 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis is an anomaly. And I couldn't be more proud.

But I don't like to ask too much of her these days. So, I rent a car for my long weekend excursions. This week, I hit pay dirt!!! Just look at this little beauty...(it was almost a sexual experience! ha!!)

A black, 2010 Dodge Charger

I arrived in VA Beach violation free late in the afternoon on Thursday. A quick stop at Holland Oaks Veterinary clinic to visit my daughter at her place of employment and then I was off to a hair appointment that Brandi thought was much needed! I left there with my locks a good 4 inches shorter and blown dry straight. You'll have to get your own visual of this my friends because the chances are pretty good that you'll never see it in real life!
Then it was home for evening where I finally got to hug, rub and kiss my grandcats...

Beannie

Free

and Baby Bebe

Friday was a treat. All day with Bran all to myself. We ran a quick 3 miles together in order to get ready for my big day Saturday. Then it was off to downtown where we hit a mall, Cheesecake Factory for lunch, Dick's Sporting Goods and finally the Sadler Center for Performing Arts for race packet pick up. It's at these packet pick ups that the butterflies set in for me. Being handed that bib and official race number just makes me feel there's no turning back! We ran back to the apartment to change and then we were off again. This time to a hot yoga class! Words cannot explain the pure bliss of this experience. I don't know what I liked best, the warm heat on my body after so much cold these last few months, the soothing scent of lavender in the facility, the 125 tea light candles that surrounded the circumference of the room or the mesmerizing tone of the instructors voice. Regardless, I left there limber and completely relaxed and anxiously awaiting my next visit.

The big day finally arrived...with winds averaging a steady 30 mph and - SNOW SHOWERS! Yep, that's right, snow showers. With early morning temps barely reaching 30. These are not optimum running conditions to say the least. But there was no turning back.

We headed out early and made our way to the Sports Complex and Verizon Center where the race would start and end.

Oh yeah, it was all happiness and giggles in the beginning...

...especially in the heated event tent!

My biggest fan...my little bitty

My cheerleading team..I'd be completely unmotivated if not for these little people. My cup runneth over.

I slowly made my way to the start line...it takes awhile to push 3,000 people through an arch.

8.70 miles and 1:32:50 later, I ran through that arch again!

It made it a little easier to finish knowing there was a medal, a flower, a bean burrito and a cold glass of Yuengling waiting for me!

Stay tuned for part deux of my fun-filled weekend. I don't want to overload you tonight.

Happy Valentine's Day, my blog buddies! Happy Valentine's Day

I'm In The Hospital

2010-01-31T21:12:00.005-05:00

Yep, that's right. In the hospital. Outpatient, Room 3.

Why? STUPID SNOW!!!!!!

I received a call today about noon from my immediate supervisor reminding me that I was on the schedule to work tomorrow, Monday, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. She felt the need to remind me of that given the trecherous road conditions. She wanted to gently remind me that if I didn't make it in to fulfill my shift, I'd receive an unexcused absence (I'm confused...is this elementary school...). She suggested that I might want to consider coming in this evening and spending the night so I'd be sure to be here bright and early and ready to go at 6:45 AM. After some deliberation and pouting and nagging from my husband how what's melted today would be a sheet of ice at 6:00 AM tomorrow, I packed my bags, slugged my way to the car and got here about 5:30 this evening.

My room for the night looks something like this, minus the window of course.

And I can't find the remote to the TV. The woman staying in the room a few doors down from me relunctantly let me borrow hers. Well, actually, she walked in my room, turned the TV on, asked me what channel I wanted to watch and proceeded to push the buttons herself. I asked if she minded if I just held onto the remote for a short 3 mintues to surf through the channels myself? After I assured her I'd return the thing and gave her the name and address of my first born, she slapped the clicker in my hand and huffed back down the hall. Looks like I'll be watching something called "Snapped" all night because I'm a little afraid to approach that woman again!

Oh my God, will it ever be hot and humid again here???

Stupid snow!

Stupid Snow

2010-01-30T16:48:00.000-05:00

Yeah, it's pretty and all and, THANKFULLY, I'm off Friday (yesterday) through tomorrow but the white stuff's really thrown a kinker in the long weekend plans.

My personal contractors, aka Mom & Daddy, arrived late Thursday evening. The plan was this; hook up the sink on Friday and install the new window on Saturday. We've taken one step forward and two steps back. The sink did get connected and I'm happy to report that I have running water, both hot and cold. But the idea of replacing a window during a snow and sleet storm in below freezing temperatures just didn't appeal to Contractor Dad.

I tried to bribe, eh, I mean convince, him with a platter full of homemade Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars but I wasn't successful. Oh, he ate them and said "thank you" and then took a comfy seat on the couch...

But while resting and recharging, he did commit to realigning the sink, mirror and overhead lighting. Maybe I should make that 3 steps back... So my once almost done bath has been torn apart again. But this is a "minor" project according to Contractor Dad. The electrical box for the light fixture was removed from it's original location, and too far to the right of the sink, and relocated a few inches to the left where it will hold the lightfixture perfectly aligned over the mirror AND sink!

I'm just holding my breath that it won't be TOO far to the left now and not allow enough room for the edge/trim of the window.

Stupid snow...

I May Be Sorry

2010-01-13T21:04:00.005-05:00

I got caught up in the moment. Caught up in another opportunity to spend a long weekend (and Valentine's weekend at that) with my daughter at the beach. I'm not letting the fact that I've only been running sporadically over the last two months keep me from this event.

But I'm focused and determined now and have my work schedule set so that I have three good days per week set aside for training. And I'm registered so there's no turning back now!

I'm sure I'll run passionately - ugly but passionately. And I will finish - slowly but I will finish!

So think of me while you're enjoying the champagne and chocolates that I know your significant others will be treating you to.

And I have my fingers crossed that they'll at least have a bag of stinking Hershey Kisses for us at the finish line!

Do They Resemble One Another?

2010-01-06T17:36:00.007-05:00

Late last summer/early Fall, my husband was involved in a "case" that had a happily-ever-after ending. While he was in the family's home writing the report, he commented excitedly about the real German Nutcrackers the homeowners had on display. I've shared with you before Michael's slight obsession with the wooden figurines. Personally, I don't get it but every one's got a "thing"... I suppose his comes from his military stint in Germany. I should be happy his obsession is Nutcrackers and not Hefe Weizen or pub winches!

Imagine his surprise when an anonymous gift was left for him just a week before Christmas. There was nothing but a short note saying "thank you for the daily risks you take in order to keep our community safe." He brought the box home and we opened it together. He was thrilled and was convinced the treat had to come from the family he assisted earlier in the year.

In the box was a genuine German Nutcracker Geppetto and Nutcracker Pinocchio, complete with a nose that grows (you have to replace the short one with the long one...cute, huh?). Much to my chagrin, he found a careful place to display the dolls.

Today I was taking down the rest of my Christmas decor, to include the new Nutcrackers. As I was dusting them off, it occurred to me...Geppetto looks an awful lot like my dad...

What do you think?

Will I Be Crooked When I'm 135?

2010-01-03T22:05:00.000-05:00

My mom and dad left this afternoon after a 10 day stay. They combined spending Christmas with us with the last bathroom renovation. And while the project is not complete, the potty and shower are now functioning and for that I am grateful!

As many of you know, my home has been a work in progress for the last 8 years. One room at a time we (may dad) have "updated" it and made it our own (within our very limited budget!). During the last ten days, Daddy has painstakingly tried to update our downstairs bathroom.

Layne-Lynn Farm (circa Janaury '09)

This is our little house (above) in the woods. According to what we've heard and researched, our house is in the neighborhood of 135 years old. Not only that, it was relocated to where it sits today from the little town of Gulf, about twelce miles from us. I'm sure you get where I'm going with this...my house is crooked. The walls are crooked, the floors are warped, no two doorways or windows are the same size and not a room in the entire house is "square". Herein lies the challenge for any carpentry, plumbing, cosmetic work.

My dad does what he can to make each room beautiful, in my eyes. But in EVERY project, there's had to be compromise. I either had to have the picture on the wall hang level or have it hang so it looked straight to the naked eye but was really as crooked as a dog's hind leg! The crown moulding bows in the middle and the baseboards look "wavy" because the floor is warped.

The downstairs bath has been no exception. Notice the cardboard I had to place under the legs of my new little linen cabinet. It had to be raised at least a good inch in the front in order to stand level (there's that word again). This is only a temporary fix until leg extenders can be made/purchased. And then there's the pedastal sink. It doesn't line up with the overhead light fixture. So, that meant I had to decide...do I line up the mirror with the overhead lights or with the sink - I couldn't have it both ways.

Yep, I've learned a lot about compromise living in this old house. And it's given me pause for consideration as I, too, grow older. One day, I may have to compromise as I get out of bed - do I push myself up and bear the weight of my body on my achy knees or do I lay in bed a little longer and allow my back to get a little stiffer. Do I concern myself about my knotted little fingers from arthritis that's set in or do I count myself blessed that I still have all ten fingers and they work, albeit a little slower.

Our entire lives are a compromise. Choices. Remember that if you come to visit one day. Remember that, while my baseboards may be wavy, my house is solid as a rock. I know this because my dad compromised - - - he used bolts instead of screws!

2009 Book Club Wrap Up

2009-12-13T10:16:00.010-05:00

A year in books...

I like to give credit where credit's due, even if I'm part of the GREAT idea! Little did I know that I would be surrounding myself with warm, funny, intelligent, caring, talented women when Karen and I put out the invitation to start this little Chatham-ite book club. What a year it's been - thanks ladies!

I'd be fibbing if I said all of our selections were slam-dunk winners. They weren't. But that's okay because we still learned something from the read, even if it was the fact we simply didn't care for the book! And I know, personally, I've read books I never would have considered as a result, which has only broadened my mind and knowledge.

Our meetings prompted debate, laughter and sometimes even memories from our pasts. Many times I was content to simply sit and listen and learn and say a quiet prayer of "thank you...thank you for bringing these women into my life". And let's not forget the wine - oh, the wine! Keep your eyes open for "Sandytoes" on the shelves, you won't be disappointed! (Thank you Marianne!).

I've mentioned in past posts how in awe I am of this place I call home. And this small circle of new friends that I had no idea literally lived just down the road from me solidifies my continued amazement of this little community. We are rich in culture, the arts, small-town politics and grass roots concern. In my own selfish way, I hope we're never discovered...

Let me share a little of our Christmas party with you -

Our group (starting from the lower left corner and going around the room): Carol, Charlee, Lindy, Gretchen, Luann, Marianne, Karen and Diane. Cathy, we missed you!

Carol was our gracious hostess. How sweet is her Christmas tree all adorned in purple?

And Carol's Santas gave us a warm reception as we came into the house.

We played the Chinese gift-giving game; in other words, don't get attached to that gift because it may be ripped from your hands at any moment. Carol LOVED her Fiesta ware-looking stacking mugs and, fortunately, was able to keep them for herself!

And remarkably, no one tried to steal Marianne's Russell Stover chocolate box! I think we all agreed she deserved it after completing that Half in November! My runner girlfriend - you rock like the star you are!!! I'm so proud of you!

And this is Miss Charlee's second gift as, like I mentioned above, her first selection was lovingly taken from her earlier in the game. Ironically enough, it was a deliciously scented candle which I know she would have loved to have lit shortly after she opened it. You had to have been there...as one of Carol's beagles causually strolled through the room!

Oh look how in awe I am of this beautiful hanging tea-light red star! I had big plans for this baby as my entire kitchen and family room is red - no, I mean RED (have you been to my house???). My excitement was short lived as I knew it would be. This was too pretty to stay in one set of hands through the night! (note to self - get to Pier One ASAP before they're sold out!)

Not to worry, I didn't go home empty handed. Nope, I received a gift card from our local Chatham Marketplace, another secret we have here in Chatham county! My plans? Lattes for me and my dad! What better gift could there be?!

And Gretchen got beautiful oil and vinegar bottles in a pretty wrought iron holder to sit atop her kitchen counter. Almost too pretty to use!

Sorry I missed the other ladies opening their gifts but trust us when we say it was a beautiful night of friendship, gifts and fellowship.

I'm looking forward to another year of books and literature.

"To sit alone in the lamplight with a book spread out before you and hold intimate converse with men of unseen generations - such is a pleasure beyond compare." - Kenko Yoshida

A Breath Of Fresh Air

2009-12-03T18:58:00.000-05:00

It's been a time where we all just needed to be together. Brandi made it home last weekend and the stars were aligned and our moods were lifted and I was reminded that life goes on.

Bran was on a bit of a mission this trip so we headed out to Dale's on US1 in Tramway (Sanford). What a beautiful day to stroll through Frazier Furs, live wreaths and rows and rows of Pointsettias.

Inside Dale's was a fabulous assortment of tree ornaments, outside "yard art" and unique gifts for that hard-to-buy for loved one.

Nutcrackers are a favorite of my husband's. I've allowed, yes allowed, him to have a tree of his own to do with as he sees fit. He calls it his "old timey tree", which he covers in mini nutcrackers, real candy canes (that the cats think were hung specifically for their entertainment) and those big bulbs that get dangerously hot that we had on our tree when I was a kid. It makes him happy and I have to admit, it adds a nostalgic feel to the otherwise "don't touch my tree" that I have downstairs.

I love the detail in this "carved" Santa crescent moon. Maybe I need to make room for a third tree so I can hang beauties like these and not feel guilty about altering the theme...(I think I sound a little neurotic here).

These little guys were just cute and said to me as I passed by, "Hey, snap us! Snap us!" So I did.

Little did we know that the "big guy" was due to arrive! What a surprise that was!

Even "Max" had a wish list he needed to share with Santa!

This was just one of the many beautifully decorated trees in "Dale's, Too". "Dale's, Too" is an extension of the greenhouse and is always my go-to shop when I need something extra special.

And just look at the Pointsettias we had to choose from! Two came home with us and they've kick-started my Christmas decorating.

Yep, it was a much needed together weekend...

Third Time's The Charm

2009-11-26T10:30:00.005-05:00

Today, Michael and I took our first step at trying to get back into the swing of things.

As has become our new Thanksgiving Day tradition, we headed out early this morning, in fog so thick you couldn't see your hand in front of your face, to the Gallop & Gorge T'giving day 8k run. This is the third in the tri-fecta of races that Fleet Feet Sports hosts. It was another record-breaking race with more runners today than last year!

It was cold (in a transplanted southerner's opinion) and I was relunctant to take off my cozies...

And Michael was simply thrilled at the idea of being vertical during daylight...

But when it was all over, we were pretty pleased with ourselves :)

I even managed to find a smile, if only for a photo op...

I am prayerful that everyone is somewhere today where they are loved and told so. And as my heart and Michael's heart continue to mend, we are still filled with gratitude and appreciation for all that we have, for all the wonderful people in our lives and for our families.

Have a beautiful day today, my friends, and may God continue to bless each of you.

I love you...and I mean that...

Happy Thanksgiving -

And To All A Good Night

2009-11-23T22:27:00.000-05:00

We lost our Little Bea, one of our barn kitties, Saturday November 14...

And in the early morning hours of Friday November 20, we lost Simba...

And if we weren't grieving enough, our beloved Sadie was taken from us on Saturday November 21.

Someone...ANYONE...Please... remind me that God is, in fact, good...

To try and share the heartbreak and complete emptiness in our hearts and our home would be a complete waste of time.

Oh, how they touch our lives. I'm prayerful that we will find a "new normal" in Bear Creek.

The Cat's Meow

2009-11-02T00:03:00.000-05:00

Saturday was the big day -

I've run in a fair share of little races, both locally and out-of-state. But this one will be fondly stored in my long term memory as one of the best. Not only did I have the company of these little bitties...

...but the majority of the 5,000 runners were in costume. We saw everything from Dorothy and her entourage to a pair of pink dice (attached just like you'd find to toss over your rear view mirror back in the day) to pirates, Richard Simmons and two girls dressed as pigs - one was H1 and the other, you guessed it, N1. I don't care what you say, that was freakin' funny!! Because all of us ran the race and we didn't have any family there as cheerleaders and bag holders, we weren't able to get any "during race" photogs! You'll simply have to trust me when I tell you it was an adventure. And you'll have to settle for our own little montage of pics...here we go!

Two little kitties ready to roll!

JC giving his finisher's medal a little smoochy!

Little Bran proudly sporting her finisher's medal!

And I'm pretty happy with mine, too!

...I think I'll call her "Princess"...

What a wonderful weekend for this "Mom Cat"!!!

It Was A Tough Day...

2009-10-24T09:23:00.000-04:00

"I am not alone, I thought. I was never alone at all. And that, of course, is the message. We are never alone. Not when the night is darkest, the wind coldest, the world seemingly most indifferent. For this is still the time God chooses". - Taylor Caldwell

The hardest part for me to wrap my mind around is that just one short hour before, she was talking to me. We laughed together. And before I left her room she said to me, "sweet thing, I just want to die and go to heaven. It's so hard here for me anymore. Will you pray for me?". And I did. And one short hour later her prayer was answered and His will was done.

Love the ones you're with...because in just one short hour...things can change.

Yep, it was a tough day. And I think I need to accept that I'll have many more. But that also means having the opportunity to meet some great people - people like Miss Ruby.

A Special Moment

2009-10-10T20:37:00.004-04:00

There's a story here, Internet, but one that's too personal for even me to share...

Just know, that in this minute, that in this captured moment, I've never adored my daughter more or swelled with such pride.

I am your biggest fan Little Bitty, your biggest fan....

A Murder

2009-10-08T14:56:00.000-04:00

Ha! Bet that got your attention!

Did you know that a group of crows is called a murder? Not a flock or a herd - nope, a murder.
I was reminded of "a murder" the other day when those nasty, eye-pecking, black, shiny birds had my Yodie surrounded. I know there was a plan - a devious, harm-seeking plan to take out my Yodie. But I'm sure, after closer inspection, they decided against it...I mean, just look at him...

The leader of the group probably surmised that "this is bad meat"...

Two Down, One To Go

2009-10-03T14:35:00.001-04:00

Hello Internet! I'm just going to post here as if weeks haven't gone by without me giving my little online diary any attention...

I mentioned here that I planned on participating in this Tri-fecta of races again this year. Today was race #2, "Le Tour De Carrboro 10k". And here I am...

What a beautiful day for a run!! A little chill in the air when we started out and then perfect just a few minutes into it. I was solo, again. But that's okay... (Marianne, if you're reading this, jump on this wayward bandwagon with me! I get lonely out there and could use a running buddy!!). There's always another runner girl to snap a photog or two for you! Thanks unknown runner girl!!

I was pretty happy with my time. A 10k is approximately 6.25 miles and I completed my run in 1:04:54. And if you know anything about Carrboro...it's not flat. So, my goal is to finish the Wicked 10k in Virginia Beach on Halloween in an hour or less (insert prayers here).

I came to the conclusion this morning that I am only and will always only be a pleasure runner - I run so that I can eat dessert almost guiltlessly. My conclusion was drawn because it occured to me, as they were handing out the awards to the fastest runners, that I would have to shave 15 minutes off my total time in order to even be CONSIDERED for a prize. Yeah, those lovely aluminum baubles aren't THAT important to me!

Look out Gallop & Gorge (Thanksgiving morning), here I come!!

Fins To The Left, Fins To The Right

2009-09-07T10:49:00.004-04:00

It's been awhile, huh Internet? To say that I've been overwhelmed these last few weeks would be quite the understatement. The new "career" at the hospital is moving along nicely. I've never worked these sort of hours before (work a few days, have a few days off... work 12 hour shifts, which really mean 13... work until 11:30 at night and get in bed around 1:30 AM...). Thankfully, I've wrapped up the classroom work at the hospital and just am continuing my orientation on the different floors. This has been, and will continue to be, an eye-opening experience.

At the same time, I'm enrolled in two online college courses; Computer Literacy and Psychology. I am struggling! I am not the virtual student type! Nope, I need a classroom to go to, an instructor to listen to, classmates to interact with, a whiteboard to take notes from and a STRICT schedule to follow!!! I will do my best to see through these two classes but after that, I'm fairly certain I'll be heading back to the campus next semester. Sorry Internet, but as much as I love you and the ease with which you bring me information, I can't trust myself to continue my education through you.

Of course, my little book club is chugging right along but I'm afraid I've made that the caboose on my little train of priorities. Between working these nutty hours that I'm not used to, stumbling through those classes on the computer and trying to maintain some sort of normalcy in the upkeep of my house and marriage, I'm lucky to read a few paragraphs of our monthly book (and, quite honestly, that happens when I'm in the bathroom!!!) every few days! I used to read faithfully everyday during my lunch break in the past but these days during lunch, I simply want to enjoy my meal and look out a window and watch the healthy people go by! I'll fumble along, however, and do my best to read as much as I can. And regardless if I finish the book or not, I will NOT miss the meeting because that would mean missing out on the fun and fellowship with my gal pals and, well, the wine! Oh the wine!!

I took a reprieve from this mess I call life this weekend. I went home to visit my family. I needed it. I also spent some time with Jess, although not enough, and tried to take in some deep breaths so as to remember his "horsey smell" that fills my heart with true contentment. It was an exceptionally good weekend because we didn't really have anywhere we had to be (except Saturday night) so we simply "hung out" with one another. Friday night was dinner out, Saturday morning was leisurely coffee and a little shopping and Sunday Brandi and I got in a 5 mile run with the traditional bacon and eggs breakfast my dad is so famous for making waiting for us when we were done!

The only place we had to be this weekend was at Nissan Pavilion - for Jimmy Buffet! Because JC (my son-in-law) couldn't make it, I got to be Bran's date! This was an experience. If it's a long time before I see a grown man with a beer gut wearing a grass skirt and coconut bra, I'll be okay with that. Really, I love my husband enough to tell him, "honey, that's just not a good look for you".

Here are a few shots of our evening - enjoy! We did!

Jimmy on the jumbo-tron

Bran and Me ♥

A better, close up of Jimmy on the jumbo-tron

The band on the tropical stage

More Jimmy (he really was very good)

Bon Appetit!

2009-08-13T11:28:00.001-04:00

I am fortunate to be the type of person who requires very little to be happy, content, entertained, moved or amused. As such, yesterday will go down as one of my favorite days - for a variety of reasons.

I am between jobs right now. I wrapped up my career, albeit a short one, with the radio station last Friday and won't start at the hospital before next Thursday. This has afforded me this entire week off. And it's been a productive one.

Yesterday, I spent the entire day, 11:00 until 6:30, with my buddies Cathy & Linda. I couldn't think of a better way to spend a day...

We met for an early lunch here:

There was eating and chatting and catching up on what we'd been up to... frustrations with life in general were shared, rejoicing in accomplishments brought about ohhhss and ahhss and laughter, always a lot of laughter. I love these women to the deepest core of my soul - truly...

And after lunch, we hit this:

Where we saw this:

(Cathy and Linda)

(Cathy and Me)

I LOVED this movie - loved it. I had a grin on my face the entire time - except for maybe a total of 5 minutes where there were some "soft spots" that made me a little sad (i.e. a tender moment between "Julia" (Meryl) and "Paul" (Stanley) where they were sorely reminded of their inability to have children - which I didn't know about them). While I suppose this was literally a film about cooking, I thought it was more about relationships, specifically the marriage between a man and woman. And if Paul Child were like this in real life - - - WOW, what a guy. I think he truly adored Julia...I wonder what that feels like...

After the movie, we were ready for dessert...take a look at these little beauties...

That's a turtle cheesecake on the right (full size) and one of the little mini desserts Johnny Carinos offers for $2.00 on the left (Chocolate Moulten Cake)! A perfect way to top off a super sweet movie...CHOCOLATE!

None of us knows what the future holds and I don't doubt that that's a good thing. But I have to say that I can't help but hold out some hope that my life's path will take me to Eurpoe one day. As much as I want to see different cultures and architecture and people in general, I want to eat the food! Really good food. And food brings fellowship, it brings conversation, it brings contentment - at least when it's served at a table with everyone participating (hello American families eating from a sack).

So please let me know when you're coming to visit. Because I promise you this, friends, we will eat and we will eat well and we will enjoy dessert and we will chat and we will laugh and maybe even exchange a recipe or two - and we will have made a memory around my table.

I applaude all involved in the making of this film. It just goes to prove that special effects aren't needed, there doesn't need to be gore and terror at the turn of every corner and their certainly doesn't need to be nudity and groping going on...

All you need is bread, good wine, a frying pan and butter...lots of butter.

Bon Appetit!

It Was Good While It Lasted

2009-08-10T08:39:00.000-04:00

He's gone again..."Big G".

He wasn't among the herd yesterday morning for breakfast.

I can only figure he's headed west for Asheville where it's sure to be a few degrees cooler.

Safe travels my friend. I'll be here waiting for you...

Chapter...Well, I Don't Know. I've Lost Count

2009-08-08T21:39:00.000-04:00

In about two weeks, I will be starting yet another new chapter in my little life. I don't know what chapter I'm on...I lost count a LONG time ago.

I've been hired by Central Carolina Hospital in Sanford, will be finishing up my orientation on August 19th and hope to be on a floor on the 20th. I am petrified. I am excited. I am feeling like I did as a kid when the first day of school got closer and closer! Yikes!

So, to help get ready, I went here today:

Where I took advantage of the tax free weekend and picked up these:

And I wore these while shopping, my new Ed Hardy flip flops:

...which I think makes me pretty cool...(if you don't believe me, just verify it with your kids!).

I won't know what the hell I'm doing but I'll look cute doing it!!!

I'm holding on tight for this ride, people!

To Everything A Season

2009-07-30T14:53:00.005-04:00

My local newspaper only comes out every Wednesday. What can I say, it's a peaceful place and there's not much to report - and for that, I'm thankful. I read my paper front to back, EVERY section (there's only 2). When I first moved here and we subscribed to the paper, I would often read it with a red pen in hand and work diligently at correcting all the grammatical errors I came across. That's a post for another day.

Romeo (1991-2009)

On the back/last page of Section B of yesterday's paper, I came across the article "Carnivore Preservation Trust Grieves Loss of Romeo". I was sick. Remember me telling you about that fabulous place, CPT, here? And my experience with "Raj"? What a great day that was. My heart is heavy today for the good people at CPT for I know they are truly mouring the loss of a loved one.

Apparently, Romeo's health had been declining over the last several months as a result of a progressive neurological disease, which made it very difficult, and ultimately impossible, for Romeo to control his hind legs. During the last two weeks, his condition spiraled downward and the difficult decision was made to euthanize Romeo. He was surrounded by all of his caregivers, his "CPT Family" and adoptive "parents" when he passed away peacefully yesterday.

Romeo grew to be twelve feet long and weighed as much as 800 pounds at his heaviest. And he'd gained "celebrity status" according to CPT's executive director.

Celebrity status... Romeo, Romeo - Oh, Romeo... I'd say he "made it" and went out on top, wouldn't you??

Well, It Wasn't On My "Bucket List"

2009-07-27T13:23:00.000-04:00

...but I SURE am glad I went!!

My husband has, and often does, told/tell me that I am "wound too tight", that I need to "loosen up some". I typcially take great offense to that and think to myself..."I'm not wound too tight...I know how to have a good time...I just don't need to act like an idiot in order to have fun and I certainly don't need alchohol to help me along".

So imagine his thinking and prepping when he approached me about the Lynard Skynard/Kid Rock concert! I can just visualize him talking to himself..."well, I'll ask her but I'm sure she'll say no way...". But agreeing to this concert meant a weekend with my daughter and, well, I'll do just about anything to have a few days with Bran!

IT WAS AMAZING! IT WAS AWESOME! AND WE HAD A GREAT TIME!

True, there were a few songs in which the lyrics made me cringe and say "really? Is it necessary to say it like THAT?" But overall, this was a more than pleasant surprise.

Skynard simply brought back many high school memories. Those guys were pretty laid back and played all the old favorites. Kid Rock, however, was all over the music board. At times I felt like I was at a head banger concert and others, a church retreat - so much so, I looked at Brandi and said, "the offering plate should be around any moment now"! This guy was such an extremist! And truly multi-talented. He played the electric guitar, the bass guitar, the drums and the piano beautifully. I mean, WHO KNEW? We certainly didn't. He was talkative and seriously entertaining!

The event reinforced to me that I absolutely must not judge a book by its cover. Never, ever. Because had I never stepped out of my musical comfort zone, 1) I never would've experienced such a treat and 2) I would've missed a fabulous evening with my Little Bitty - and I'll NEVER let that happen!

Share my photogs, below, won't you?

Our self, family portrait

Great backdrop

The band

Kid Rock

Michael & Brandi Lee ♥♥

Oh, The Places You Have Been

2009-07-22T08:21:00.002-04:00

Honestly, I lost count. But I'm positive it's been at least 3 months since "Big G" went missing.

I didn't begin to worry until after about the 3rd week. It's not uncommon at all for him to wander off and stay gone for that long. But then I noticed, daily, that he wasn't among the herd. After 6 or 7 weeks I had resigned myself to the fact that "G" was gone and not coming back. I was hopeful that he'd simply gotten off track and some kind family had taken him in and was caring for and loving him like I did (do). And that's what I continued to believe becasue there was no other "evidence" to the contrary.

I've thought of "G" every day since his departure, especially when walking Sadie (our dog) because "G" always tagged along. And for awhile, while Sadie and I were strolling, I'd call out "G's" name hoping one day he'd hear me and come running. That never happened...

So, imagine my delight when Sadie and I went outside "to handle the business" for the last time Monday night and standing on my front porch was "Big G" - in perfect condition? I was confused by his presence at first, thinking he was one of the other cats. Then I looked closer and he said, in his very distinctive voice "hello" - and I knew it was him. It was a loving reunion for us all! He was welcomed home with hugs and kisses and a can of wet food, which he much appreciated and needed! And as of this morning, he's still here.

I can only attribute his absence to a long, much needed vacation. There must be a kitty time-share somewhere on the coast that I'm not aware.

Welcome home, "G" - welcome home...

"That's OK. You Can Just Pay Me Later"

2009-07-17T09:41:00.007-04:00

This past Wednesday was a canvass day for me. That's a fancy way of saying I was out in the community knocking on doors trying to drum up some business. Because it was too hot to have a packed lunch tooling around with me in the car and it didn't make any sense to drive back to Bear Creek to the house to have lunch at home when I had an appointment right in town where I was (Pittsboro), I decided I would treat myself to eating out. This is a HUGE treat. I NEVER eat lunch out. I am a dedicated packer. I don't get the concept of going to the grocery store and spending all that money on food only to leave it at home and spend more money for lunch in a restaurant. To say nothing about the lack of healthy choices out there...

ANYWAY, my restaurant of choice was S&T Soda Shop. If you've never been, you need to go. And you need to eat, if nothing else, a Haw River. 'Nuff said 'bout that!

Photo courtesy of google images
(While this is not an actual photo of S&T, it is a VERY close replica.)

I refrained from the dreamy concoction and, instead, got the BLT on whole wheat w/a pickle and some ice water. I enjoyed my lunch while reading a book and being just slightly aware of the other office workers around me taking their break. After wrapping up the chapter I was reading and being inducted as a member into the clean plate club, I made my way to the check out counter. I should mention here that I NEVER have cash with me. I'm one of those people in the quick mart buying a bottle of water and a pack of gum with my credit/debit card. And it's not because I'm trying to earn frequent flyer miles, either. I just never carry cash on me. And I never eat lunch out.

As soon as I approached Vicky, the owner of S&T (along with her hubs Gene), at the counter, I remembered...they have a $5.00 limit on their debit/credit card purchases...and my total was $4.80. Really? Seriously? Vicky saw the look of horror on my face and said "That's alright honey, don't worry about it! Just pay the next time you come in. I never have any cash with me. It's no problem at all." It then occurred to me that I squandered some change from a recent bank deposit; change that was supposed to make its way to my secret hiding place at home. But, thankfully, I forgot about it and found the $20 bill tucked safe and sound in my checkbook! Whew! Vicky giggled at that, too! She said she' s always amazed at the women who can almost always find some change hanging out in the crook of her purse somewhere!

So, I happily paid for my lunch and made my way to my next appointment with time to spare.

I've thought about this episode for the last two days. And I can't help but go back to my thoughts on this place I call home... I am CONTINUALLY reminded of what it's like to live in a tiny community where, at the very least, people recognize you and are sincerely willing to help. I wish everyone had the opportunity to experience such humanity as I have and do...

I love this place I call home...even if I have to be reminded of that every now and then...

Natural Childbirth

2009-07-14T10:08:00.003-04:00

I am a big fan of this website. A huge fan, as a matter of fact. I check it every day - really for the "daily chuck" photo more than anything else. But today's post really just made me chuckle a little.

The reading, the researching, the planning, the meeting of the childbirth committee members... I can't wrap my head around it. I mean, you get pregnant and you give birth - the most natural event in any female species.

It's not like "I don't know nothin' 'bout birthin' no babies"...

Almost twenty seven years ago, I was a kid having a kid. And in my kid-like mind, I knew my baby was coming and I had no control over that WHATSOEVER. What I did have control over was that 10 inch needle going into my back - NO THANK YOU!! I'll take a little hit of oxygen every now and then and leave me to my heavy breathing. It'll be over soon enough...10, 15, 20 hours...but it will end. And it will all have been worth it and you come out of it with a clear mind and not having to wait for any numbness to wear off.

Hey, I respect every woman's decision on her method of childbirth - it's a personal one and one she has to make in order to be comfortable and retain her health and that of her child. But birth...it is natural after all.

Way to go, Heather! Way to go! You rocked this one!

Trace, Toby & Me Make Three

2009-07-13T12:45:00.003-04:00

Just indulge me, won't you? (And I encourage you to click on the photos to make them larger).

I'm a fan of numerous musical artists - from all genres of music. But regardless of how big a fan I am, I draw the limit on the amount of money I'm willing to spend on a ticket to any of these artists' shows. These tickets - 6th row from the stage - literally fell into Michael's lap. No charge. Free. No gimmicks. No "I'll do this for you if you do this for me". Nothing. Free and clear. Tickets in the 6th row to Trace and Toby - free. I enjoyed the show that much more because of it!

I'd like to say that my close up and personal experience Saturday night with these two gentlemen has changed my way of thinking and that, from now on, I will mortgage my home in order to pay for tickets this good. But nope. I'll still monitor my purse closely and be happy with the nose-bleed section if that's I'll I can afford. But I sure did enjoy, and appreciate, the treat we had last weekend...

Our traditional self-portrait (wow, I have big cheeks and a big nose...guess that's just me, huh?!)

Sorry, but I don't have a PG-13 rated comment I can leave here. Let's just say Trace has his game on!

See, up close and personal.

A rare, quiet moment from Toby.

The grand finale with both boys. A perfect closing performance.

(*Edited to add...hey, Toby sort of has big cheeks and a big nose like me!)

SPOOOOOOKKKKKKYYYYYYY

2009-07-10T12:32:00.006-04:00

My Halloween plans have been laid!

I'll be in VA Beach running the Blue Moon Wicked 10k with my Little Bitty (barring any unforeseen road block in my life)!! I am psyched!!! I think this is going to be hysterical, people!

I've never run in costume before and Brandi's never run 6 miles! This is going to be a great memory in the making!

We're taking suggestions on what to wear and may need the services of a local seamstress - so don't be bashful about bragging on your talents!

You will want to stay posted for pics from this event!

**Edited to note: Hey! I just realized! My last post (below) was #200!!! I think that's some sort of milestone!!!! Who knew I had so much to talk about?! Thanks for following!!