Hey, Hey, Hey Goodbye

Now, on to the Homecoming Football game! this is Abbie in the 3rd quarter - she fell asleep. All that back patting at YCW came in handy!
I'm not sure about this smile. I've said before that Kenny is fascinated by all things Asian - maybe this is an attempt to get some Chinese food. I've given up on trying to match his clothing. It's a free-for-all!

Here's Abbie with Joel. Joel came to visit for Homecoming and Doc Dubose's retirement celebration. Joel was Jim's roommate in college and the Best Man at our wedding. Kenny's middle name is Joel in his honor (and the minor prophet in the Bible!)



Other Interesting Stuff From the Game -

• It's the most integrated function in Abilene. There were more black faces there than any other place I go in town. I hope that doesn't sound racist - it was interesting.
• It was packed but I didn't see a sea of purple. Any game on TV has a sea of color - not this one.
• Where were the shakers??!! Again, most college games (well, SEC) have TONS of shakers! Not so here there were just a few. Also, for future reference, shakers go back and forth, back and forth, not side to side.
• The Big Purple (band) did a spy theme ( Kenny named it) and my kids loved it. The funniest thing was the flags. On the Mission Impossible theme, the flag girls struck poses like with guns. They all ended up on the ground (except the girl in the middle - what was her story?) The funny thing is they have a guy who spins (twirl is inappropriate) a flag and he stood with his arms crossed the entire time. He looked happy when everybody else went to the ground so he could, too.
• Overheard spoken by loud girl: "He's like 80. Really old. I'm thinking 29."
• Also overheard spoken by loud girl: "My neighbor is a real cowboy. You know, with a handlebar mustache and everything. But he looks really old from riding horses and everything." She was sitting next to Joel - big mustache and Wranglers.
• ACU won. All the people around us kept talking about when they were in school and ACU never won and they never went to the games. GO CATS!

The End

I had to include this shot because I like the way the mascot (you can click on any image to see it bigger) is telling us to "GO HOME." I didn't mention that my kids got tons of candy - there were several parade participants giving it away. The cheerleaders - nada.

I'm glad someone understood the nuances surrounding the floats. Sarah put the explanations in the comments section of the previous post. Be sure to read it - you will gain invaluable insights.
Note to self: Stand by the Stirmans at next year's parade.

Be sure to come back later for the "rest of the story."

Homecoming Saturday

Yall know I LOVE parades! The ACU Homecoming parade is no exception. The students do lots of funny stuff - especially the girl's clubs. ( Clubs facinate me. There's so much there to explore.)
These girls all had on pajamas. The one on the float had on Superman pjs. I just thought they were funny!
These were my favorite. They were Dr. Suess girls - a pack of Little CindyLou Whos! Loved them! I thought they had a spiritual meaning (Oh! The Places We'll Go!) but now I'm not sure.

This is Troy driving some cool car. One of the cars in front of him had driven a circle in the intersection - we wanted Troy to do it to! He couldn't hear us telling him to.

These folks are from the Christian Village (Where ACU Retires) and I just wonder who did up their stuff for them. There were two older gentlemen carrying their sign - walking!- in front of them. Several older ladies were handing out ACU paw prints to put on your car antenna - we got three!
I didn't know what this was about but I liked all the purple. The Dr. Pepper sign was turning, too. Impressive.

This is the winning float. I didn't understand it either but, hey, I'm not an alumni.

Torn Between Two Lovers

I've been sick so I'm asking that you talk among yourselves.
Who should Lorilei end up with: Luke or Christopher? Who will she end up with?

While we're on love triangles - what about Kate? Should it be Jack or Sawyer?

Discuss.

Free Indeed

I love my church! This picture was taken 2 weeks ago at our church picnic. That's Abbie and I going down the big inflatable slide. If you're still worshiping where folks make a list and check it twice, get out while you can! Christ saved us for freedom - not checklists!

So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:36

Goodnight Ladies

Back when I had my 2nd child, I was determined to have a co-sleeper. Number 1 had slept between Jim and I for 5 months and I really didn't want to roll over on this one. I thought I would sleep better if #2 wasn't in bed with us. So we got a co-sleeper and it was cool! I could nurse her and roll, put her in her own space and not worry about smothering her! I was very happy for a (short) while.

Kenny was quiet in bed with us and moved very little. Abbie, on the other hand, made all kinds of noises! It took very little of these noises to wake me up. I believe that if the Mommy is sleeping - the baby can be anywhere. In Mommy's bed, in baby's crib, on Daddy's chest - whatever works for your family. Well, I wasn't sleeping!

It wasn't long until the sweet baby went in her own crib (across the house) and her monitor had to be turned down L-O-W. When we moved here, Abbie was 16 months and I had to put her monitor outside her door or the noise would keep me awake.

Conclusion: Abbie is a noisy sleeper.

Now come to today - Abbie is 4 and sleeps in her bed with her door closed. She is afraid of the dark and has her closet light on and the door open. It works for our family for now. But lately ( you knew this was coming) she has been coming in our room at night. She has a pallet on the floor and she can just lie down if she likes. She talks. It wakes me up. Last night, after throwing up 3 or 4 times, Jim put her on her pallet. It was fine. She went right to sleep with her dishpan (that thing they give you in the hospital along with the cheap water pitcher) by her side. About 4:30 she screamed/yelled in her sleep, I sat straight up and yelled, too. It didn't wake her up but Jim rolled over. I'm trying to accept this as a small thing.

Conclusion: Abbie isn't ready for any sleep-overs.

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Do people say "pallet" anymore? Do you say "pallet?" Did your grandma?

Baby Got Back

There's a new "Activity Fee" at Young Children's World - it pays for Stretch and Grow. It's some kind of exercise, healthy eating, naming muscle thing that I think Sarah would be interested in.

Abbie came home on Thursday telling us she was sitting on her "Booty Maximus." Not just yet, sweetheart.

Alien song

It's an oldie but a goodie! We need a little disco on a Friday!

Friday Fun Zone

I'm posting two funnys I've been sent lately. Both of these crack me up! Enjoy a smile or a grin today!


The Alabama preacher said to his congregation, "Someone in this
congregation has spread a rumor that I belong to the Ku Klux Klan. This is a horrible lie and one which a Christian community cannot tolerate. I am embarrassed and do not intend to accept this.Now, I want the party who did this to stand and ask forgiveness from God
and this Christian family." No one moved. The preacher continued, "Do you have the nerve to face me and admit this is a falsehood? Remember, you will be forgiven and in your heart you will feel glory. Now stand and confess your transgression." Again all was quiet. Then slowly, a drop-dead gorgeous blonde with a body that would stop traffic rose from the third pew. Her head was bowed and her voice quivered as she spoke, "Reverend there
has been a terrible misunderstanding. I never said you were a member of
the Ku Klux Klan. I simply told a couple of my friends that you were a wizard under the sheets." The preacher fainted, and the congregation roared!

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A man walked into a very high-tech bar. As he sat down on a stool henoticed that the bartender was a robot. The robot clicked to attentionand asked, "Sir, what will you have?"
The man thought a moment then replied? "A martini please."The robot clicked a couple of times and mixed the best martini the manhad ever had. The robot then asked, "sir, what is your IQ?
"The man answered "oh, about 164." The robot then proceeded to
discuss the 'theory of relativity', 'inter-stellar space travel', 'the latest
medical break through, etc.......

The man was most impressed. He left the bar but thought he would try adifferent tact. He returned and took a seat. Again the robot clickedand asked what he would have? "A Martini please."& Again it was superb.The robot again asked "what is your IQ sir?"
This time the man answered , "Oh about 100". So the robot starteddiscussing NASCAR racing, the latest basketball scores, and what toexpect the Dodgers to do this week end.
The guy had to try it one more time. So he left, returned and took astool.... Again a martini, and the question, "What is your IQ?"??This time the man drawled out " Uh..... bout 50".The robot clicked then leaned close and very slowly asked ,

"A-r-e y-o-u-r p-e-o-p-l-e g-o-i-n-g t-o n-o-m-i-n-a-t-e H-i-l-l-a-r-y-?????

Just 15 Days

I mentioned the other day that I always liked to have a project to work on and I'm currently without. Blog writing usually doesn't count - it's so easy. It doesn't require too much thought (you're all thinking "Yeah, I've noticed.) So when I read that my old buddy, Amy, was embarking on 15 Days of Creativity - I decided to join up!

I'm not as artsy/crafty as Amy so I've changed up my personal challenge a little. I'm committing to work on a creative project for 30 minutes daily for the next 15 days. I'm excited about picking up my sewing again. I'm ready to see something come from my hands. I'm looking forward to writing something for the Coffee Group site. Maybe I'll try something new! Take some photographs, do some bead thingies at Friendize, try a new cooking technique, plant some flowers - anything to spark some creative juices!

I challenge you to try something creative! Make your own commitment in your own way. I challenge you to post in the comment section for accountability on your commitment (were you listening to Phil yesterday?)

How Beautiful

Last night was one of the sweetest weddings EVER! Jamie and Geoff Carroll are now married and they have truly dedicated themselves to the Lord. They have both been in Israel for Hebrew school (grad school?) and the wedding itself had some interesting Hebrew traditions included in it. I won't go into those here - just ask me when we have time.

I really wanted to tell yall about the purity rings. Both dads did the ceremony and first Jamie's dad talked about the purity ring that her parents had given her. How they had taken her out and given her this ring as a symbol of her promise to purity. Then the dad gave the ring to Geoff. I was so teary. Then Geoff's dad (Mr. Donnie our children's minister) talked about he and Lisa taking Geoff out and giving him a purity ring to remind him of HIS promise to remain pure for his future wife. Then Donnie gave Jamie Geoff's ring. Such a beautiful symbol of commitment to God and their future lives.

What a powerful testimony for all of us (me first) to raise our children with God at the center of their lives. To not bow to the world's view of normal and "okay." To seek God first and to follow His path for their lives.

Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. Psm. 34:11

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This photograph was taken by my very talented friend, Tammy Marcelian and I lifted it off her Photography Blog. Maybe that wasn't nice :-)

Does Anybody Really Care About Time?

I acknowledge that I like to have a current project. I seem to always have something on the front burner that demands my attention. It may be sewing, smocking, writing, speaking, cleaning (ok, NEVER cleaning,) or something I haven't envisioned yet (but I'm excited just thinking about it.) It seems to be my pace.

Last night, while I was working at Dittos for Kiddos, one of my new friends commented that I tired HER out and made HER feel guilty with all my goings. I was surprised that someone would see me as busy. She doesn't even know about Praise Team, Sunday morning class, Beth Moore study, bunko, Abbie's dance class, Abbie's speech class, Kenny's TaeKwonDo class, etc. I'm thinking she doesn't even read my blog and yall know that makes that me sit down and compose thoughts.

If she knew everything I truly do, maybe she would lie down and take a nap.

Sometimes I feel too busy - sometimes I feel that this is the way it's supposed my life SHOULD function. I think about next year without a job (presumably) to go to 2 times a week and how that will be. I'm writing this on Saturday morning without anything to do until this evening and I'm feeling free. Well, I have a pile of laundry, messy kitchen, pile of hand-me-downs to take care of - maybe I should get busy......

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Did anybody recognize the song? Are you going to sing it all day?

Payback is H*ll

I cannot pass this by without a comment! My sweet husband has pulled a groin thingie and is on bedrest. That's not the funny part. One friend said that finally a husband has some issues with HIS private parts since it seems that all the mommies have had problems previously. That's not the funny part. Today dear hubby had to have a sonagram. It was done by a woman. Just think of it as payback for every OB/GYN that said "Scoot down a little bit more."

This post was approved by my dear hubby.

Edited to add: The sonagram showed they are HUGE and made of BRASS! And that he should be up and around soon.

I Was Drunk The Day My Mama Got Outta Prison

Monday 3:05 pm: Riding in the car with Abbie and the radio is on a country station.

First song: "She Ain't Much Fun Since I Stopped Drinking" Abbie asks "Why isn't she any fun anymore?"

Second song: "Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off" Abbie says "That's a funny song."

Monday 3:12 pm: I turn the station to Christian music.

True Confession #1

I've been outed. It's true - I'm a SciFi fanatic. It started at a young age when the original Star Trek was on and my family always watched it. I have 2 brothers and a dad that controlled the TV so it wasn't long before we all fell in love with the original Battlestar Galacticia. I've always LOVED any time travel movie (Somewhere in Time, for the girls) or book (the Outlander series) and read alot of fantasy (that would include JRR Tolkien) when I was younger. I hit the SciFi channel every day to watch Stargate SG-1 and I've printed a picture of Samantha Carter so Rosie can cut my hair like hers. Any Star Trek on the air - I will watch. Seen 'em all. I was so excited when Phil used the Phage in a sermon over the summer! That's some serious sci fi!

Last night Jim and I watched the season finale of both Stargate SC-1 and Stargate Atlantis and I can't believe they are making us wait to find out what happens in, what, 6 months? All the dedicated fans would have tuned back in anyway! Why make us wait??!! I do have to say that the time traveling Dr. Who has always left me uninterested. I watched the new one last year and it wasn't appealing - too British, maybe?

None the less, life goes on. For me it's going right to Battlestar Galactica! It begins in 2 weeks and I'm beside myself! These are not your daddy's Cylons - these are BAD guys. Or are they? They believe in a god that created them. They have more faith than the humans usually. The humans believe in multiple gods that are fashioned after the gods of Greek mythology. History has shown us that all peoples have a creation mythology - why wouldn't robots? And what happens when robots and people procreate? Because on Battlestar Galactica they are. There's also an interesting contrast between how we do government and they do government. How much is the military in command and who commands it? What about religion in the presidency?

A rather long confession, I know. The link will take me forever but feel free to follow them. I've even put Galactica's webisodes link on here because they have original little tidbits! If you follow the 2nd link it's a 3 minute re-cap so you can join me in my addiction. Have a great weekend and May the Force Be With You.

Best Week Ever

Whew, it's finally Friday! I have lived though the Best Week Ever! I must say that ACU Lectureship was great. Being on the program was great but so was the whole experience. The weather was fantastic and all the people working with the program were so helpful. Tuesday was the best banter day we had. It flowed and rocked at the same time - Donna and I flowed and rocked, too. Tammy hit a home run on Wednesday - there were fewer tears shed than last time. All in all EVERYBODY should hire us for their next Ladies Retreat - we are good! Tammy has already suggested that when we speak at next year's Lectureship (of course they'll want us back!) it will be on "Loving Our Husbands." I'll be doing the portion for people who are grown and hubandless - it will be on living God's plan. It seems to be my recurring theme.

Teaser: So many women are unsure what their guy wants or how to make themselves happy. So many women talk about thier husbands like he's an idiot! How can we make our marriages something God intended? Let's learn from over 70 years of marriage what works for these ladies.

Would you come?

See some pictures on Sarah's blog....

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Abbie's ready for dorm life. She's missing MawMaw and PawPaw and wishing they were here. She said she'd be happy if ALL our family lived in an apartment together. She mentioned Aunt Margaret and Sadie (MiMi's dog) and then all our friends! She's a social butterfly like her Mommy.

Good Day

We did it!!! We actually got up on stage and "did" Coffee Group! I can't believe the first day is in the can! Apparently we weren't loud enough, my dad didn't come because he thought he'd be the only guy, and I was sweating (or glistening, maybe.) Judy and Sarah were GREAT and my mom said she smiled the whole time.

Tommorow Donna and I will stand up and declare that God is faithful. Be in the Fulks Theatre at 9:45 for the grin to get your though your day!

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Sidenote: Kenny just completed his homework and there was NO DRAMA! This includes Bible Bowl - 10 questions! He just told me that all that screaming just made the work take longer! Then he went outside to ride his bike! Let me tell ya, that's a good day.

Bama MawMaw in West Texas

Bama MawMaw: "Denise, how do yall keep your hair from blowing all over the place?"

Me: (laughing) "Mom, it just blows. It just blows." (more ironic laughing)

Top Ten Memories of Harding U

So, some of you out there didn't know I was a Harding girl? I'm one of the few and far between that live in Abilene but didn't go to ACU. There's a handful of us and we look GOOD!

1. Pattie Cobb or Heritage? I did both during my time there - Pattie Cobb did have more of a smell but what can you expect? The place was 40 or 50 years old when I was there.
2. Singing in Pattie Cobb - Pattie Cobb was much looser and had talent night every once in awhile. It was actually my first public solo and my friends were (happily for me) rowdy and in front. I sang "Walking After Midnight" by Patsy Cline and it gave me the confidence to do it again.
3. Hell Week and Rough Night - Did we really call it Hell Week? I'm pretty sure. My class was one of the last to have a TRUE hazing experience. That year somebody didn't wash off the stuff they had painted him with and his parents sued HU. That's when we all learned the phrase in loco parentis. IDIOT! Ruin it everybody, will ya? I personally was sooo nasty when it was over and I continued to find feathers in my hair (from the "tar" and feathers) for weeks afterward.
4. Bible At 8:00 - I was the most naive Freshman EVER!! My first semester I had Bible 5x a week at 8 AM. There was a very strict attendence policy for Bible classes and I had to be there everyday!
5. Fall on Campus - It's the most beautiful campus! Lots of trees that turned beutiful colors in October - just lovely.
6. Spring on Campus - Then in the spring the dogwoods would bloom. They are so gorgeous! There was a huge pink one near the library that I can still see in my mind.
7. Cathcart, Stephens, and New Dorm - I lived in all three and I think I liked Stephens the best. It just fit me. The Dorm Mom was some grumpy woman that thought those rules were the Ten Commandments or something. I would say "Get a life" but it's too obvious. They did rename New Dorm while I was there so I lived in both New Dorm and Sears.
8. Bible 206, Bible207 - Okay, it's hard to believe that this makes the list but it does. My freshman year (ONLY!) two guys would advertise the campus devos during chapel by singing those 2 words over and over. It was always hysterical and we all loved to see them coming on stage. One of those guys was Monte Cox - currently on faculty at HU.
9. Playing softball - I ended up in a jock club. Harding had a very elaborate system so everyone got invited to join a social club. I was accepted into my 2nd choice and it had lots of jock girls in there. I was NEVER a jock. My junior year they put me on the field because I was early to watch the game (insert athletic supporter joke here) and they needed one more person to field a team. I'd never thrown a ball or hit a ball or been on the field - yikes! I walked one and struck out one. My boyfriend taught me to catch after that. I do want to say that I loved my club, Kappa Delta Kappa, and those were some of the best girls to hang with ever.
10. Getting my diploma - I wasn't an outstanding student and I had finally learned to study by my senior year - so I was happy to get out! Cliff Ganus handed me my diploma and my entire family was there - it was a good moment.

It's hard to believe that moment was 20 years ago but it was. This is my reunion year and they don't even have my address anymore. I usually read in alumni magazine that Pop gets (Class of '59) and see if anyone I know is listed. I've run into some people over the years that I went to school with and how can we not be friends? It's a small college and it was a wonderful experience.

Memories, light the corners of my mind Misty watercolored memories of the way we were.....

Riddle Me This.....

Why does my 8-year-old son act like a 14-year-old girl? Are there hormones involved? Why all the drama? The sad thing is I know that about the time HE outgrows this - my 4-year-old daughter will start.

I'll explain about the hole later. It's a long, sad tale. *sigh*

Where Were You?

Well, it's finally here. We are 5 years away from one of the worst days in American history. I remember someone saying that we would all know where we were on that day - just like the day Kennedy was shot. Here's where I was:

We were living in Monticello, Arkansas and Kenny was 3. I was up getting ready for my Tuesday morning Bible class. It was a large, interdenominational group and baby-sitting was provided. Both things were greatly appreciated by me let me tell ya! I had walked into the den and turned on the TV - I think Kenny had the TV on in his room at the time. I saw Katie and Matt on the Today Show talking about a plane having crashed into one of the Towers. It was tragic but it was New York City, ya know. I called Jim on his way to work and was telling him how horrible it was when the 2nd plane flew into the 2nd Tower. I'm sure you felt the same kind of shock I did. I couldn't BELIEVE it! It was just too unreal. I remember Matt's voice - his disbelief. I remember MY disbelief - How could this happen??!!!

I still went to study that day. There were probably 25 women (normal number) there and we were sitting in a large circle when someone came in and told us a plane had crashed into the pentagon. We had a special prayer for those people and went back to our study. We were all feeling a little unsettled but kept going. By the time study was over, we were all ready to be in our own houses. I was still thinking "crashed" it became "flew into" later.

After watching TV for a short time, I called my mom, then I called Mimi. I didn't know why talking to them was soooo important, but it was. They were safe in their respective cities. I tried not to think why anyone would want to bomb Abilene (Dyess Air Force Base) or Bham (large city with lots of people and planes) but I did. I was glued to the TV. I talked on the phone constantly with my friends. I wanted us all to be safe. I watched TV for 3 days and then tuened it off. It makes me cry now to think of all the suffering I didn't share in because I could turn it off. It breaks my heart that I couldn't help those hurting people, that I got to turn it off and go on with my life.

Abbie was born 9 months later.

To this day I can't believe that their are people with that much hate in their hearts. I can't believe they worship a god who encourages murder. I can't hardly think of them as humans - simply evil. I know God wants me to love them. I know God wants me to pray for them. So, pray for them today. Pray for the families of ALL the dead from that day. Pray for remembrance so we never forget. Pray for healing of hearts. Pray for Jesus to work among them. Pray for Jesus to come quickly.

Shannon is hosting a Mr. Linky so you can read more remembrances if you like.

I Love A Parade

This is Katie Saylor!!! Wow! All the contestants ride and one of these girls is crowned the Rodeo Queen! That would be so cool if she wins! My kids love knowing the Queen. Her dad was riding behind her in a carriage - not very he-man, Guy.
This man is riding a steer - that's a bottle of water. We're God-fearing folks out here, yall!
Girls on horses - it's a MUST!


All the Fair execs (yup, these are the people who run it) ride in the front in old cars and straw hats.

This is our friend, Mike Rickard, he came over to say hi!


Yall, I just had to show you some pictures from the West Texas Fair and Rodeo Parade. That's one of my favorite things about living in a small town - all the parades. I have more (including the man on the toilet) but Blogger won't cooperate! Check back by later and maybe there will be more!

Top Ten Things I Said This Week That I Haven't Said In 3 Months

1. We don't hit our friends.
2. That's having good behavior. I like your good behavior.
3. That's being a helper. Thank you for being a helper.
4. Look at _________, he/she is sitting on his/her chair!
5. Ring around the rosie.....
6. We don't push our friends. (Favorite response: "I'm sorry I did that. I won't do that again." - just turned 2!)
7. We share.
8. Let's take turns.
9. Let's use our spoon to eat our yogurt. (Seems like I have to remind my kids to use utensils sometimes, too.)
10. Somebody needs diaper change!

Tag Me, Baby

Well, I've been tagged! Just one more glimpse into my extra-exciting life! Holly, has tagged me to find tha nearest book, turn to page 123, go down 5 lines and write the next 3 sentences. After following those very specific directions, list the title and author. You all know I write at our desk. It has no books just lots of bills that never seem to be filed (not my job, mon.) I did find one located on the file cabinet NEXT to the desk (note the irony.)

"I wasn't trying to nail him," Chee said. "I was looking for information."

"And you tried to trick me?"

Sacred Clowns by Tony Hillerman

Excellent murder mysteries written by Hillerman - set in the Four Corners region on an Indian Reservation. I've read several and always enjoyed them.

I'll try to write about my week tomorrow. We had out first day at school and it went.

Monday, Monday

I've caught some little bug and I've spent most of the past 2 days in bed - not on the computer. I did sign up for BooMama's Labor Day Love Link. So, head over to BooMama and read a few of the other favorite links. She is giving everybody a chance to play - maybe you're next!

Friday Fun Zone

OK GO Treadmill Dance

I saw this one someone else's blog and had to post it. Sorry if it's old hat to you!

How do people think up this kind of thing?!

Somewhere There's A Place

Well, I'm reading another book and it set me thinking...... Annie Freeman's Traveling Funeral by Kris Radish is a tale of 4 women celebrating the life of their dead friend. The dead friend is sending them back to the places in her life that have great meaning for her. It made me think - where are my places?

Of course, Harding comes to mind. I would love to wander on campus again and sit in a Harding swing with my sweetie. He came along LONG after I left there and we never went up there while we lived in Monticello. Outside of Searcy is Camp Wyldewood - I worked there for 3 summers. That place means a lot to me and I would love for ALL my friends to go to Bee Rock. I've tried to explain the burning of the cross to people but it doesn't translate well. Lisa, tell them it isn't bad! Do they still do it? Does the guy still say, "Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani!" (Mark 15:34) I would love to back there and take all my bestest friends.

Where are your places? Places that mean so much to you. Places that made you who you are. Places that if you close your eyes - you're there.

Reading is Fundamental - Part Cinco

In some ways short term memory loss is a good thing. When Jim does something annoying, I usually forget it. Kenny missed out on an antibiotics shot because I swore last time, he'd have one this time! When you (whoever YOU are) does something hurtful to me, I usually forget it.

Aside: This does not apply to my children. I. Will. Remember. and I will hate you/pray for you.

So, I'm a little embarrassed that I can't remember the fiction book I read 3 books ago. I'm sure it was from the library - I've checked my account and only books listed are the ones checked out now. I've racked my brain - I just can't remember. So I read something that I liked (pretty sure) then I moved on to a non-fiction. It was Naked by David Sedaris and it was recommended by Amy. She called it "snort-Diet-Pespi-out-of-your-nose" funny and I thought it would make me laugh at least. It did. In the first chapter, the author talks about his tics as a child. These tics put Monk to shame! I did laugh out loud then and later in the book. It's autobiographical and the author tells about his aimless life and his hilarious mother. I must say that the mother is the most outrageous character in the book. Coming from my background - any mom who smokes, drinks, and cusses like a sailor is odd. One who raised this family is past odd. It was an interesting glimspe into Sedaris's life and he has written several other books. I would definitely try another one of his.

So we have come to the end of the summer reading season. I have read one non-fiction for every fiction book I've read. I will go back to reading whatever now that I have met that challenge. There are a few non-fictions I'm still looking forward to reading - maybe I'll write abut them.

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I've been tagged, too. There's a book meme going around and my friend, Steve, thought I should give it a try. Now because of my short term memory loss - I just can't play. I can't remember 3 books ago let alone all my reading life. I'm listing others who have played - check them out! Amy, Steve, and Dee.

Signs of the Coming Apocalypse

1. Gas is below $2.50 and I'm thrilled!! I call people on the phone and tell them where to go for cheap gas (Albertson's on Buffalo Gap)
2. It's August in West Texas and the high got all the way to 84*.
3. My power bill falls below $4oo! (Not yet but I keep hoping....)
4. Denise Crawford Waldrop in the ACU Leatureship Book (picture included)

Laughing and Crying - My Favorite Emotion

I'm catching up on my blog reading and I just finished reading PreacherMike's last 5 entries. The whole breast feeding thing just made me laugh!! Yes, I breast fed my 2 kids. I was even luckier to get to use a breast pump for 8 weeks while Kenny was in the hospital. Hey, Rabbi, try pumping, driving back and forth to the hospital, and fixing something for dinner and see if YOU wanna have sex! Ya big goober!

Even funnier than making fun of such an unattractive man is following this link. Men Who
Breastfeed and The Women Who Love Them is wrong is soooo many ways.
I even went to the video, (Milk Men!) and laughed and laughed! Just the sight of all those hairy nipples......

The Queen of Denial

It's official - I have big kids. One in 3rd grade and the other in Pre-K - they aren't babies anymore. You know, Abbie's been my baby for awhile now but she had her 4 year old shots on Friday. Her birthday was in the spring so I guess I was just in denial.

Denial that I could still pick her up. I tried to pull her in the bed with me this morning and almost pulled my back out.

Denial that I can still shop in the Toddler section. Yesterday she got a new outfit for being brave and it was from the Big Girl section. (More selection - more teen styles)

Denial that I can ignore her changing body (50th percentile in height and weight.) When she tried on her new pants, I said her heiney looked good in them. She promptly stuck it out and tried to see it over her shoulder in the the mirror. Yeah, just like we do.

It's sweet and wonderful. It makes me sad. It makes me happy. It's just being a mommy.

I used up the last of the baby wipes this week, too. It's official.

Friday Fun Zone

Slo-Mo Home Depot

I don't know if this is some kind of social commentary or what but it's interesting. I like the music, too. If you get the chance, link over to YouTube to watch the Agent Exit Interviews.

If I Would A Rich Man

I've often commented how my life would be different if I could win the lottery. We'd get a bigger house, a ranch, send our children to Abilene Christian Schools, have Starbucks everyday - you know, regular stuff. I know one of our close friends would hit us up for a donation for ACU and we'd be good with that (especially if that friend got a promotion.) We'd get an unpublished phone number and take the kids to DisneyWorld.

That's why I find this article so fascinating. I can't imagine living a depressed life when I had lots of money. I can't imagine living in a trailer either. I can't imagine not using your winnings to make MORE money. I can't imagine my husband sitting down (that's what the ranch is for - to keep him busy.) I want to reach out to this man and tell him to follow his dream! I want to tell him to move where he has some anonymity and that the world still has a place for him! I want to tell him to put himself out there in a non-financial way! It makes me sad for him.

Well, rest easy friends, our family doesn't play the lottery. We see the big signs that say "$14 million" and my son usually mentions it but we don't spend our money that way. Jim and I KNOW it's a tax on the poor - who are the target players. We KNOW it's a waste of money - even if there are commercials on TV that tell us how we're helping Texas public schools.

Maybe once......

Say A Prayer

It's just the second week of school and Kenny already has strep throat. The doctor said yesterday that in the second week it was the kids who like school. They come in with strep. In the third week, it's the kids who DON'T like school - they come in whith abdominal pain. (In an attempt to get out of school.)

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Well, tonight the Coffee Group speaks for the first time! We've talked plenty before just not in front of a crowd. Say a prayer of peace for all of us. Say a prayer that our words will be a blessing. Say a prayer that God is at the center of tonight.

I've Always Pronounced It Talledega

Well, I'm still laughing to myself. I keep thinking of how everything about that movie made me laugh! Yall, last night got me some Ricky Bobby! I know that there are people out there that don't like that kind of humor (I don't understand why ANYONE would watch the Waterboy) but Will Farrell ALWAYS MAKES ME LAUGH. That guy is so honest and becomes the crazy character he's playing! (See: Anchorman and Old School) He doesn't care how stupid he looks and he looks so stupid! One of my favorite parts last night was one of the MOST predictable - they ran. I won't explain it and ruin it for all you women out there who are dying to see what you think is a guy movie.

Most of the movie (I can't use the term"film") takes place in North Carolina and Talladega, Alabama. It was nice to see those places. The wind was blowing at Talladega - I told Jim it must have been filmed in the spring. You know, there NO air blowing in the summer in the Deep South. All those pine trees and the woods, as we always called it, were pretty.

Shake and Bake!

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Let me recommend one of the funniest blogs I read, BooMama. She has listed some of her most famous postings and this is one of my favorites! If you get the chance to read her, you'll come away laughing!

Tea Partay

Which part of this video is the MOST disturbing? White girls attempting hip-hop? Men wearing pants with whales? The word "Topsiders" in a rap song?

It's hard to decide.....

Wages of Sin

Does anybody else want to put this guy in front of a wall and shoot him?

Related info: We have been notified by mail of a s*x offender living in our neighborhood. YUCK! Now I really have to keep my child on MY block.

Now the LORD observed the extent of the people's wickedness, and he saw that all their thoughts were consistently and totally evil. Genesis 6:5

I Enjoy Being .....

CAUTION: GIRLY POST AHEAD!

I've never considered myself a girly-girl. I always leaned that way but rejected the title because I thought me would make me lose IQ points. I've been trying to keep the ones I have. I was in a jock sorority in college. I couldn't even throw a ball. They made me play one softball game - the girls told me that our sorority would have to forfeit all sports if someone didn't take the field. Now, I'm pretty sure that wasn't true.

Since I've moved to Abilene, my life has changed. I got my first pedicure 18 months ago. I've never looked back! I can't go out of the house without painted toenails. And, please, let them have some kind of cutesy design on them! Jim has put dots on them and I've had flowers, so far. Next month the toenail guru of South 27th is putting coffee mugs on them! I can't wait.

Yesterday I reached another milestone - eyebrow waxing. NEVER done it before. They look great and the pain is gone this morning! It felt like a bandaid - that's on there REALLY good. I'm sure I'll continue to do it every so often. Just to keep the shape.

Eyebrow waxing - $10
Pedicure - $22
Turning into a Girly-Girly - Priceless

Did He Just Say It's Time?

It's finally here! School's in session for my 3rd grader! He'll be gone for 8 hours a day! Oh yeah, he's getting a quality education. The best in Abilene or at Thomas Elementary.

Kenny reports a great first day and said he's thinking of spending the night up there. Our new teacher is young and unmarried and Kenny likes her already. Abbie wants her to meet Uncle Billy. Abbie doesn't realize how her life would change if Uncle Billy were to get married.

There are lots of papers to fill out and Kenny says he may even eat lunch there sometimes! This would make my life easier - no lunches EVERY morning. He's psyched to earn tickets for special privileges. He loved all the books in the room (many of which he'd already read.) Hurray for Ms. Kaufman!

The entire household has exhaled.

School Days

16 hours and counting......

Serenity Now!!

You Make Me Wanna Shout

I feel like I need a shout-out to my sister-in-law, Ann. For years she has sent us some of the funniest stuff out there in www. land and she is sending me all my good stuff. She has one of those jobs that keep her at a desk all day and she gets the great jokes and downloads.

So, thanks Annie and keep 'em coming!

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We went to the Frontier Texas yesterday and the kids really loved it. I've promised all summer that we would go in August - so we went. This is the coolest museum and everyone who lives here should go. It made me proud to be a Texan (by marriage and residentency.)

Friday Fun Zone

Quick Change Artists on America's Got Talent

I love Bandy's face....

Trees

Check out the winners of Dee's Photo Contest! West Texas is represented!

That beautiful tree (or dying tree depending on your level of tree knowledge) is the one we sit under at the pool. Only 5 more full time days left.

Thanks, Dee, for making me a winner!

Reading is Fundemental, Part Quatro

Yes, I've finished two more books. They were both very quick reads.

Violets are Blue by James Patterson was first. I've read James Patterson before - in fact, most of the books in the Alex Delaware series. I like Alex and he's the main reason I would pick up another Patterson mystery novel. I love mystery novels. They move so quickly, the bad guy gets caught, they usually follow a formula - I just devour them. BUT James Patterson writes about some VERY bad guys. I can't read his work when Jim is working nights - it was difficult with Jim in the next room. These bad guys were vampires. (Does it seem that vampires are a trend?) I do enjoy Alex Delaware (that's Morgan Freeman in Kiss the Girls - the movie.) He's a good dad who struggles with his life. You've been warned. Read at your own risk.

Unlocking the Meaning of Lost: An Unauthorized Guide by Lynette Porter and David Lavery was my foray into non-fiction. I was trying to find something that wasn't a biography that I could finish. I kept expecting to put this one down but the writing was simplistic and I was expecting something wonderful on the next page. It read like a magazine article so it was soooo easy. It did make me go to the library and check out the DVD to watch again. It didn't give any great secrets. If you're a Lost fan, it had it's moments. Basically, read this stuff online.

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In the pop culture mode, I must tell you about the best show you aren't watching. The Closer on TNT. This is a wonderful waste of 1 hour on Monday nights. Kyra Sedwick plays Brenda Leigh Johnson, a Southerner (Georgia?) who works in LA as a homicide investigator. LOVE HER. She's funny, quirky, smart, and the bad guys always get theirs. It isn't always pretty but the bad guys get it in the end.

Gratitude is an Attitude

Gratitude leads to contentment

Contentment leads to happiness

Willard Tate said this yesterday during our Sunday School class and it set me thinking. I've noticed how ungrateful my children seem to be. I'm sure this is an immaturity thing but it makes me so sad. I'm sure this is because I lack contentment but this post is about them.

Kenny, especially, seems to be envious or jealous of other people's good fortune. The show Extreme Home Makeover drives him crazy. He has figured out (with our help) that we don't want something horrible to happen to our family so we can be on that show but still.... He wants to have fun but he doesn't want YOU to have some other kind of fun that he might miss out on. Yesterday he mentioned one of the kids in his Bible Class had an IPod. He knew I would disapprove but he still wanted me to know. Abbie is already starting, too. She wants everything she sees on TV. Even the things that she (and Kenny tells her) I don't like. (Any teenagy type thing including Bratz.)

What's a mama to do? I'm thinking of a gratitude journal for Kenny - yes, I'll be doing one, too. We'll be listing 5 things a day we are grateful for. Maybe Abbie should draw pictures? Do yall have any other suggestions?

Friday Fun Zone

Reading is Fundamental, Part Tres

Time for another book report.....

First the fiction - Acts of Faith by Philip Caputo an interesting read to say the least. In case I've never mentioned this before, I love reading about other cultures. This includes other places in the world, other eras all over the world and other worlds. This book is set in Sudan, Central Africa during the 1990's and is mainly concerned with the war that took place there then. (FYI: Darfur, that George Clooney was so vocal about a few months ago is in Sudan.) We follow the main characters over several years (with a satisfying epilogue) and how being in Sudan changes their lives.

there is no difference between God and the Devil in Africa. Whoever understands that in his blood and bones and guts, where true understanding resides, will swim in its treacherous currents; whoever doesn't will drown.

The book explores that opinion though aid workers, pilots who fly aid, missionaries, and soldiers. One of the characters goes to Africa as a Christian who buys back slaves. Her transformation into a person who does what's "necessary" was very interesting to me. As a person of faith, what did this "believer" do?

Now the non-fiction: I tried to read The Devil is a Gentleman Exploring America's Religious Fringe by J.C. Hallman. This sounds like something I would like, right? Crazy religious people? No. I really didn't want to read about Satanists and Druids. No.
So I picked up of a You'll Never Nanny in This Town Again The True Adventures Hollywood Nanny by Suzanne Hansen. Doesn't everybody love a good tell-all? The author worked when she was 19 as a nanny in Hollywood and this poor girl was taken advance of every day. I saw myself as that young woman who couldn't confront or stand up for herself. Funny, quick read.

Sorry, I've given up on Blogger letting me upload the book covers! Serenity Now!

Wordless Wednesday - 1956 Truly a Good Year!

Judy and Thurman Crawford





Avis and Don Waldrop













See more Wordless Wednesday

Abbie's Hair Present

Well, it finally happened. Abbie took scissors to her hair. Mom didn't have a cow but it was close. She always tells me she wants hair like Keaton (on the right in the picture) and I even had it cut once. I always wanted her to have LONG hair. You know, like all the other girls I envied growing up.

Here she is getting just what she wanted..... A haircut.

This is the cute cut now. It looks adorable. She doesn't look like a boy and they didn't have to layer everything. On her right side, there's still a weird chunk out of it but, she can have hairbows and barrettes.

Aren't we all striving for our children to have the things we never had. LONG hair isn't such a big thing, right? I want her to throw a ball, too.

My Hair Past

Who is this little girl in the homemade dress? Did she know that the hair needed something?!? Did she cut her hair herself? Did she see braces in her future?

Yeah, that's me in about 1st grade. I'm not sure why my mom kept my hair so short. I didn't feel weird or ugly - so I guess it was okay. Later when people would tell me their childhood tales of LONG hair - I was envious. One of my college friends had hair down to her hiney. Her name was on her shorts because it it was covered on the back of her shirt. I always found this fascinating.

I think the haircut was called a pixie. When I was old enough to choose, I had a shag. Does that tell you anything?

Big Doins!

I've been waiting for awhile to give this announcement - there's a new speaking ministry in town! Yep, that's my Coffee Group. Some of us have been led to put ourselves "out there" and we're freaked out about it! We have booked Southern Hills for a Sneak Perk and we'll be speaking at ACU Lectureship in September!

Check out the site and come to either event. This is your personal invitation for Southern Hills on Tuesday, August 22. We'll have de-cafe at 6:45 and begin at 7:00.

Please feel free to ask any questions - I'm too excited to put everything in this post! Please pray for us and this ministry!

Friendly Advice

Mom: Abbie, I have to go to the bathroom. Do you need to go?

Abbie: Just go in the pool. I do it all the time.

Mom: Abbie, we tinkle in the potty! Not in the pool!

Abbie: But I have on my swimsuit. (Apparently her swimsuit has magical properties.) It's not poopy. (Thank goodness)

Mom: We DON'T potty in the pool! Not pee-pee or poopy. Do you need to go now?

Abbie: No.

Always keep your mouth shut in the pool.

In The Good Ole Summertime

Oh. My. Stars. Has anyone else opened a power bill and had a heart attack? Last month when our bill was over $400 I was initially embarrassed. I just KNEW people would think we were "running that air all the time!" My sweet hubby told me we were losing air somewhere in the house. For his birthday, my in-laws gave us storm doors. (They are lovely, thank you for asking.)

Well, I'm letting the secret out! TXU has raised the standard rate over 24 percent since last summer. In Texas that means that our "price to beat" has gone up over 24 percent! We haven't done anything wrong - the powerful energy providers have simply made it cost more to cool our homes. My friend, Tom, has been saying for months that in August people will have to choose to turn off their air or eat. I'm including a link for you to compare rates if you like.

Yes, we've switched providers. Yes, we have turned to air up to 77 all the time. It's down right warm in the kitchen at supper time. Yes, I've given up a wonderful pedicure. We haven't chosen air over food, yet, but I see lots of beans in our future.

Note to self: Buy Beano.

Lordy, Lordy, Look Who's Forty!

Well, it's finally happened - Jim is turning 40! That's the thing about marrying a younger man - you have to wait for him to catch up sometimes. Now my mother-in-law can't claim to be 39 anymore. Happy Birthday, Honey!

Interesting Tidbit: Jim is getting TP out of the tree that my Christian sisters put up there. This is an ongoing ministry for several of them to show love for one another....

1956, A Very Good Year

Here are some of the cousins from my parent's 50th Anniversary Party. This is Steven, Abbie and Robert.
Here's Candace (behind the centerpiece,) Steven, Abbie, Robert, David and Kenny.

My parents celebrated 50 years on July 14 and we had a party on July 15. The grandkids dressed up in 50's style clothes and Kenny even got a flat-top. Both of the girls had on poodle skirts and looked so cute! You can't tell much from the pictures but the room was decorated nicely, too. We had mounted old pictures on the trellis and that was the most fun for us - talking about all the old pictures. One of the church members had created a CD-ROM with pictures that ran continuously and there was 50's music (but no dancing, of course!) I think my parents really enjoyed it - that made it all worthwhile.

Home Again, Home Again

Well, we're finally home from Alabama!! I hadn't told EVERYONE we were going just for safety. So..... if you've been checking here wondering "Where is Denise?!" I'm back. I shamelessly passed out my blog address in an attempt to increase my readership so maybe I'll have some new comments! There is so much to tell and write about it will take me several posts - be prepared or be afraid.

Promises

seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining
to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by
His own glory and excellence.
2 Peter 1:3

I love this promise. Our Father has already given us everything for life and godliness. Glory!

I Been Tagged!

Nicole has tagged me! Yall know I'm like a little kid with her hand in the air saying "Pick me, pick me." My sweet friend did! We are now BFF!

3 things that scare me:
horror movies
my kids becoming teens
brussel sprouts

3 people that make me laugh:
Jim
Sarah
Judy

3 things that I love:
the wind
dark chocolate
sleeping under lots of covers

3 things I don't understand:
un-funny people
why I'm ALWAYS broke
how a computer works

3 things on my desk: (technically it's Jim's desk - I don't have a desk)
my water bottle
a sweet Beanie Baby that was in the crib with Kenny during his time in NICU It even has tape residue that was used to keep in an IV (click to see)
stacks of paper that needs to be filed!!

3 things I'm doing right now:
typing
thinking that I should go potty
laundry

3 things I want to do before I die:
go hiking in Big Bend country and New Mexico, too
see my grandchildren become God's people
learn to speak Spanish

3 things I can do:
smock - it takes away alot of tension for me
hang a spoon from my nose
sing songs from any era

3 things that describe my personality:
vivacious - I've heard this for YEARS
funny
over the top

3 things I can't do:
stay up all night - not even in college
sleep late
open the power bill - it's too painful

3 things I think that I should listen to:
the Father
my kids
birds singing

3 things I should NEVER listen to:
Howard Stern
the Devil (is that Howard Stern again?)
Entertainment Tonight - I want to get over these celebrity people

3 of my ABSOLUTE favorite foods:
fresh grilled salmon
tamales
fried green tomatoes

3 things that I 'd like to learn:
Spanish
quilting
all the minor prophets names and stories

3 beverages that I drink regularly:
coffee
water
Diet Coke with Lime

3 shows I watched as a kid:
Star Trek - I think he's dead, Jim
The Partridge Family - Keith was hot
Happy Days - the Fonz was too cool

I won't tag anyone else but several of you need a meme to entertain the rest of us! Jump in the water's fine!

Reading is Fundamental, Part Dios

Big Mama says "Thanks for the blog love." She needs to know there are at least 15 people out there who really care!

I have been confronted with the idea that no one cares what happens in my life. On CBS's Sunday Morning they did a report on blogging. No one wants to read about your cat - so they say. Well, I don't have a cat but I do have a rather boring life. Maybe you're reading because you just can't look away....

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I've read my fiction and non-fiction in my continuing effort to improve myself. First, I read The Devil Wears Prada. This was a re-read for me - I wanted to read it again before the movie came out. This is really a funny book and if makes me laugh out loud in places. I've read a few reviews since the movie came out and it's not well-liked. Yes, the main character has no spine but I felt she was brain-washed into believing it was the only way to get along at her job. I know there have been jobs (and bosses) that I have suffered though thinking, "it's only a little bit longer." The book does have some adult language and drinking. Our main character doesn't have any time for any other inappropriate behaviors. Enjoyable read.

I then did see the movie ( with other chicks) and it's definitely a chick flick. The clothes are great and the main character actually gets a little something from her boss at the end.

Non-fiction. Tough one. I tried to make it though spme other book and, no, it didn't happen. The language was just too difficult. So, Singular Intimacies Becoming a Doctor at Bellevue by Danielle Ofri. This was recommended by a RN and the bloodiness didn't seem to bother her. There were parts that made me a little queasy.

"It was the only object in the room that wasn't stainless steel. When he pressed
a lever, there was a low buzzing sound and a trail of smoke wormed its way up
out of her belly. The acrid smell of singed flesh seeped into the air and the bleeding ceased."

That part was a little rough. This is a book of essays about the author's internship and residentacy and how it turned her into a doctor. It's nice to know that there are Drs. out there that struggle to learn their way. It was also good to learn to NEVER got to a teaching hospital in the month of July. I found the essays regarding death very compelling. I'll be writing more about that later. We all need to consider how we want to go onto be with the Lord. The writing is very good - read it!

Friday Fun Zone

Your Hillbilly Name Is...

Big Mama Rambler

Hillbilly Name Generator

In honor of my 100th post, let's play hillbilly name! Just follow the link to get your own hillbilly name then come back and post your name in the comments! If you haven't commented before - I'm looking for you!! You are a lurker and I wanna know you're there......

Wordless Wednesday - Before & After

to see more go to 5 minutes for mom

Burn, Baby, Burn

Yes, it's the 4th of July and I'm at home. For many years the 4th was a day of work. We spent time in the heat, saw lots of money and talked some fireworks! My parents run a firework stand in Birmingham. Not in Bham but the county - firework stands are illegal in Bham. Of course, everyone shoots fireworks in Bham so they drive outta town to get them. Then again most everyone lives outta town in Bham so it's not a problem.

My family has had at least one stand for about 15 years. Some years there were 2 and as many as 4 - one year I even ran one! Let's just say - there's an entire culture there that our family chooses to exploit. We have trailers that have been cleaned out and lots of fireworks put into them. My dad always said that you can't sell from an empty cart so we had lots of fireworks. (He's getting more right now I'm sure!)

My parents consider it worth their time; although, I'm pretty sure my mom is about ready to hand in her Crazy Bill's t-shirt.

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Okay, one story. A few years ago, Jim and I were both working with mom and dad on the 4th. It's customary to shoot a few at the end of the evening and Jim usually does the honors. We had shot a few and Jim left them out to make sure they wouldn't burn. My husband grew up in West Texas so outdoor fire safety is second nature to him. Someone else threw them into the dumpster (full of broken boxes) and they began to smolder. Jim's truck was parked right next to the dumpster and so was my car. We jumped in and moved those babies and here came the fire department (good news - the fire department is about 200 yards away.) No flames, just some smoke and lots of water.

Shoo, Fly

We have lots of flies at our house. Nothing to do about it - they come in every time the doors open. Now, I have a knack for killing flies, if I do say so myself! I can usually kill them with one whack of the swatter. My children are so impressed with my swatting talent! Practice, practice, practice.

Needless to say, they attempt to emulate their insect-murdering mom. Kenny will carry around the swatter - he watches and swats but rarely makes his mark. Abbie hasn't requested the hot pink swatter. She seems content to allow me to do the job for her. But this morning we had a change in the Waldrop household. Abbie killed one on her own!! My daughter has never been so proud of herself! It was flying around her donut (yes, I bought donuts this morning) and she was tired of it! She got the little bugger! She's told us a few times like a guy reliving his favorite football play. Perhaps it's a girl thing.....

Friday Fun Zone

Wal-Mart announced that they will soon be offering customers a new discount item: Wal-Mart's own brand of wine. "There is a market for inexpensive wine", said Kathy Micken, professor of marketing. She went on to say: "But the right name and presentation is important."

Customer surveys have been conducted to determine the most attractive name for the Wal-Mart brand.

The top 10 surveyed names in order of popularity are:
10. Chateau Traileur Parc
9. White Trashfindel
8. Big Red Gulp
7. World Championship Riesling
6. NASCARbernet
5. Chef Boyardeaux
4. Peanut Noir
3. I Can't Believe It's Not Vinegar!
2. Grape Expectations
1. Nasti Spumante

The beauty of Wal-Mart wine is that it can be served with either white meat (Possum) or red meat (Squirrel). It will also be available in convenient 6-packs (aluminum cans or plastic bottles) or in 24-can cases. It will be presented in the same coolers and next to the beverages of choice that Wal-Mart's customers are already familiar with.

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This was sent to me and I loved it! Most of you know how much I HATE WAL-MART! I usually end up going there and I wanna kick myself every time....

Bout Blogging

I often have people ask me about my blogging. I thought it was time to share some of my secrets.

1. I use Bloglines! I started Bloglines awhile back and it has made blogging so much easier and quicker! I list all the blogs I'm currently reading and they are highlighted when the blog as a new post. I don't have to open a blog page only to discover that the same post is there from last week. You can read the post on bloglines page or open up the blog page. I usually open the page - I like to read off of people's own templates. This also allows me to comment if I want to. It's free (Karene) and yall should all subscribe. I've included a bloglines button on the right side of my template so you can link it from there whenever you're ready.
2. I don't comment all the time. That's right - I'm one of those people. I may read a blog all the time and never comment. I may read yours and never write a comment. I love yall more than my luggage but time isn't always on my side.
3. I write first. On the days that I know I'm writing a post - I write first. If an email has to go out, I write first. If I start with my blogs, then I may not have time to write. Write first.
4. I blog early. Now, during the summer, I usually blog about 7:00 before the kids get up. I have a cup of coffee and I get up to refill and go potty. Yes, I do come back here to read during the day and the children generally follow me (I'm the Pipe Piper, follow me.) These I try to keep to snatches. Don't ask my kids if I'm on the computer all the time - I'm sure they think I am.
5. I consider this a hobby. I happens to be a hobby that I share with lots of people and talk about alot but a hobby none the less. It puts a different perspective on it for me - I don't know how to explain it.
6. I edit. This is important! I always reread my posts and edit. Add here, take away there, put in the word I forgot earlier, clarify sentences and attempt to have some grammatical structure. I check the spelling with spell check and go to Dictionary.com if I need to. I have read some non-editors and it can get to be too had to understand - take too long to read. I know it takes time but I know it makes a difference.

Those are my little tips. Please feel free to comment and add your own. None of us want our hobby to over take our lives!! Or do we? (cue scary laugh)

Wordless Wednesday - Ahoy, Mateys!

For more Wordless Wednesday 5 minutes for mom

Mama, Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Tacky

Ahhh, the chicken story. I think that mama's have a responiblity to teach their children manners. Yes, even boys need to learn how to act in public. I taught one old boyfriend to cut his meat - he held the fork like he was jabbing the meat. It was sooo unattractive. I'm thinking he learned something from our time together.

So, we had the college kids over to our house on Sunday night for their weekly devo. I know a couple of the kids and it just seemed like the right thing to do. It did allow me to talk to the kids about how our house is just one more thing that God has entrusted to us. I made dessert pizza and lemonade. Very low-key.

During the serving of the homemade dessert, one guy asked for a fork. There were forks on the table (of course) but for some reason he needed one from the drawer. He proceeded to open a can of chicken and pour it into a plastic cup. This was taking place next to me so I questioned him regarding the gross chicken. He offered no apology why he would come into my home and not partake of my homemade dessert. Or that he would bring his own food. He gave no explanation of his (I guessed) health issues. Where I come from we call this no "home trainin." Apparently this is a normal occurrence for this guy - he even does this in Bible Class. That's just wrong....

A Book, A Wedding and Some Cars

Sorry I haven't written is sooo long but life is moving faster than I am! I have finished the book, Better Off Flipping the Switch on Technology. It was interesting. One of the author's main ideas is that our technology doesn't make our lives easier. We become slaves to the technology. The cost of it, the upkeep, the time it uses (as I sit at a computer and write it anyone who will read.) He also wrote about the fact that we have to run, walk, work out, to get the physical reward that plugging in takes away. It doesn't come from working outside so we have to use our "leisure" time to exercise. Some of us just get fat - he wrote about that, too. One of the most interesting observations (he thought) was the ability to think and converse while doing physical labor. He and his wife were in a small Amish community and the neighbors were share work. There were often times to think and share ideas while working on the farm.

Interesting, huh? Pretty good non-fiction read. Now on to a fiction!

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I also worked a wedding this weekend. There was plenty of bare skin but no tattoos. The weirdest thing (ok, one weird thing) were the carbon copy bridesmaids. They almost matched physically. There was one poor girl who didn't get the message about her toenails. Her's were red and everyone else's were French tip. HORROR!!! Do you think it showed in the pictures??!! Robot bridesmaids, scary.

The other particularly interesting (for my readers) was the groom's cake. It was a huge red and brown tomahawk - or so I thought. The lady putting the greenery around it told me was an axe. She says "They're lumberjacks." Oh, well that explains everything I wanted to say. The bride and groom didn't look like lumberjacks to me but what do I know. After staring at her for an entire minute she told me they went to Stephen Austin State University and that makes them lumberjacks. Finally I got it.

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Last night we went to see Cars. Yes, we're the last people you know to see the movie. We loved it. It was funny and I may finally "get" Nascar. I knew it was about waiting for a wreck but it seems there's something about the passing, too. One friend told us she was a little bored toward the end but we spent so much time going to the bathroom that it was broken up for us a little. Kenny, four times and Abbie, three - Jim counted.

Friday Fun Zone

It's raining here in Abilene and that doesn't happen very often. This is a strip that always made me laugh when we were in Bham.

Reading is Fundamental

I'm trying to work into my reading some non-fiction. I've said previously that I'm a Fiction Girl - I love to get lost in a story. This summer I'm committing to read one non-fiction for every fiction book I read.

Sooooo.......
I read The Camel Club by David Baldacci and had trouble stopping to host Bunco. It's very topical fiction with conspiracy theories and international bad guys. The bad guys were both Middle Eastern and North Korean. It was a great read and I'm trying to get Jim to read it, too.


Now I'm in Better Off: Turning the Switch on Technology by Eric Brende. I found a blog site that is only book reviews. The blog writer's favorite books are some of my favorites, too, so I thought I could trust her opinions. I'm providing a link but bear in mind - they are HER opinions. In Better Off, the author is exploring the world without technology. He and his wife have moved to a small Amish (sort of) community to see how they could make it without modern tech. Good one.

Next is a fiction - I don't know what yet but I can't wait.

Wordless Wednesday - A Little West Texas Beauty

other Wordless Wednesday participants @ 5 minutes for mom

I Love Being A Girl

Actual conversation:

Me: Why are your pajamas wet? Did you pee-pee on them?

4-year-old: Noooooo. They are okay (loves her new pjs)

Me: But they're wet. Are you sure you didn't pee-pee on them?

4-year-old: (coyly) I fell in.

Me: What's rule #1?

4-year-old: But somtimes Bubba forgets to put the seat down.

Me: That's why we always check first.

Daddies

I've had two great daddies in my life, Thurman and Jim. One took the time and effort to raise me. He trained me in Bible knowledge and people knowledge. He loved me even when I was unlovable - kinda like our Father. The other is taking time and effort to raise my two rug rats (as he affectionately calls them.) He's training them in ways I can't. He can talk Kenny out of a tantrum and carry Abbie on his shoulders.

They both love their wives and provide for their families. They both walk with God. Happy Father's Day, daddies!

Friday Fun Zone

My Mom (MM) sent this to me. He must be a yankee - no one would hire this guy in Birmingham. Who would want this tacky truck in their driveway?

Speaking of white trash - did anyone see Brittney
Spears on TV last night? Bless her. She's pregnant and well-endowed and choose to show everyone of us! She was even chomping on gum! She really needs to hire me to help her get a clue.

M-O-U-S-E

Ewwww! We have a mouse in our backyard. I spotted it on Tuesday night while I was eating dinner and almost came out of my chair. (Yes, it was outside.) I tried to remain calm enough to tell Jim about it but my kids immediately were looking for whatever it was. Let me interject right here that I hate mice. Some people are freaky about snakes - I can walk around them and discuss them without any hesitation. I've know people who are weird about spiders - I say let them live, they eat mosquitoes. But mice are another story.......

Last night the horrible rodent walked (it ain't running) across our patio and then sat calmly deciding where to go next! I was horrified! After church, Jim got a gun and tried to kill it (Praise God) but the children kept walking out the door. Jim gave up. Now I can't go in my backyard and I look for it every time I walk by the windows. My sweet hubby keeps telling me that it can't come in our house and I'm choosing to believe him!

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I was blessed during my time at Homewood church of Christ to be around several missionaries. Homewood's policy is have their missionaries live and work there for 6 months to 1 year to get to know the members. Of course, it also allowed the members to know them! Anthony Parker was one of those missionaries and his blog tells of another. Cyndi Chowning spent many years in Africa and has died there. Please link over to read Anthony's tribute.

Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted.

It's Me!

Oh my stars! My picture finally appeared on my blog!!! I hope everyone can see it! Tammy took this as a publicity shot for our new speaking ministry. I'll have more on that later. Not only does this look like me - you can't see the fat!

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I'll be posting Wordless Wednesday regularly. Go to 5 Minutes for Mom for other postings. There's lots of good stuff over there.

Wordless Wednesday

She's A Rebel

To not long for and strive to be what Jesus calls us to be is to choose hypocrisy in the name of grace and cheapen the cost of that grace. -Phil Ware

Phil has been writing about obedience on his Heartlight and on his blog. Obedience is a hard word for me. I'm fine saying it to my children but applying to myself "feels" icky. I'm a child of the 70's. I remember Women's Lib, the fall of Saigon, and disco. That entire time was about rebellion. It was hip to be against the establishment. Establishment = uncool. These were media lessons. These were the messages that surrounded us daily. My home and church lessons were definitely about obedience and rule following. I was cool - I rebelled.

True obedience is not driven by a frantic fear of being lost, but is an obedience propelled by our love for what the Lord has done for us and rooted in our confidence in our relationship with him. - Phil Ware

I'm grown up now and know the truth about God's grace and love. I respond to that grace and love with obedience to His word. It's not about rule following to be "allowed" into heaven - it's about thankfulness. It's about bringing glory to Him though our actions. It's the same way with our kids. We all long for the day that our kids obey us because they love us. So is my knee-jerk answer to obedience my "real" belief system? Is part of being real and authentic, obedience?

Maybe I do need a Harley.

lion sleep tonight

In my continuing effort to entertain yall on Fridays - I bring you another video!

Actions Speak Louder....

Abbie sings all the time! It's so sweet to overhear her singing a praise song and when I try to join in she usually tells me "I'm singing!" As in "I don't need your help." But yesterday was an eye-opener. Here's the lyrics to her made up song:

If you wanna be like Mommy, you have to act like her,
If you wanna be like Mommy, you have to act like her,
Come on, come on, you have to act like her....

I know I have alot of influence over my children but, this is down right scary. I wanna say "Don't act like me, act like Christ!" I know better than anybody what a sinful, horrible person I am and I want my kids to be better than that! I must accept the gift that God has given me (and I asked for) and I also must accept the responsibility.

Prayers for Bill

This is a special amaryllis given to me by Margaret's dad. It was one of his dad's that Bill (Margaret's dad) had moved from place to place. He had some that he had dug out of the yard in Vermont and I was fortunate enough to get one of my own. (Margaret told me he didn't share very often.)

I'm asking prayers for Bill - he's having lots of tests run and probably even surgery later in the month. He and Jean (Margaret's mom) are staying in Birmingham and he's being treated there.

Going to the Chapel

Yet another wedding:

This one was at 11:30 so you know everybody had to be there super early. I don't even know what time the florist got there. I guess she was happy to be able to do another wedding in the afternoon - I know that the photographer shot another wedding later. They had a hairdresser there doing hair at 7:30 AM. The bride and groom saw each other in "private" before the ceremony - no pictures, nothing. They weren't in there that long so maybe it wasn't too gross. Lots of live music which means lots of microphones, a long receiving line which means lots of people complaining, and a tent outside that means someone had to wait around for the tent guys to come pick it up! One tatoo, on a bridesmaid's ankle.

It was a beautiful wedding. They were very much in love and very committed to each other. I think the vows stuck. The preacher, J Wayne Kilpatrick, said when he tied a knot it stayed tied. It's lasted 11 years so far! Happy anniversary, sweetie.

The evolution of dance

Two different people sent this to me because they knew it would crack me up. I hope it makes you laugh, too!