Wednesday, December 31, 2014

55

It is New Year's Eve. I took a quick count of the titles I remembered to log into the blog, and I read 55 books in 2014. I think the actual number may be a bit higher as I'm sure I forgot to note some along the way.

I met my goal of a book a week. This new year will see me attempt that same objective as well as a new one. One page a day. I need to get back to writing, creating, and dreaming. I can manage a page a day.

This past year has been such a good one. And we already have several exciting events planned for 2015.

So, Happy New Year from me to you! Enjoy today and kick off our new chapter with a full heart.



Thursday, December 18, 2014

holiday break

This will be my last blog post until after Christmas. It is too hard to blog with company around. No quiet time in the mornings to even try and gather my thoughts. Plus, it is always nice to experience a change of pace and ditch a routine now and then.

We had our office Christmas carry in lunch yesterday. Fun! I played photojournalist for the event and gave our associate director the day off. He usually is the one snapping pics.

Today we will have our department lunch and head over to one of my fave restaurants. Do love Jim's Grille for dining. Delish.

Tomorrow the boss and I will head to hubby's office for their lunch.

Lots of food. Lots of eating. Oi Vey.

And because of that, off we go to get some walking in this morning. Drizzle or not. Walking is needed.

Cheers! Merry Christmas!

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

throwback

Okay, so here is the throwback song of the year. I got a phone call last week from an old friend. She had heard this song and thought of our party/dancing days and knew that I would enjoy the tune as much as she did. The sound is a combo of Rick James, Morris Day and the Time, and the funk of EWF.

I loved it! It is now making its way onto the radio. Makes me want to get up and dance...even at 6 in the morning. lolz. Happy Tuesday....fair warning, get your boogie shoes on.


Monday, December 15, 2014

warmish

Our weather has been warmish. Makes it nice for running errands. Nice for the morning walk. Nice for driving around to see Christmas lights. Not so nice for allergies, sniffles, coughs, colds, and the like.

The boy fought off the crud this weekend. The oldest came home with some sort of crud. The rest of us, knock on wood, are doing okay.

Lots of lemon honey tea. Lots!

Off we go, a new week is here. Happy Monday.

Thursday, December 11, 2014

clips

This morning I have watched to short video clips. One is an ad from Expedia for St. Jude. We see a lot of advertising for St. Jude in our area as they are located in our area. Always on our mind.


The other is the preview for the latest movie coming from Pixar. Amazing. Laugh out loud funny.




So, enjoy them both and Happy Thursday!!

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

wrapping

I wrapped a lot of packages yesterday. I think I have everything wrapped, and ribboned, and labeled. It was rather tiring, but the end result it pretty.

My boss has all his gift shipped to the office, so taking pity on him, I also wrapped all of his presents. It gave me something to do yesterday. The office is a quiet as a tomb and about as boring. December is our slowest month and the days drag.

No walking this morning. I overslept and couldn't get myself awake enough to even think about it today. I will walk on my lunch break.

Okay, off we go. It is Wednesday! Hubby head east to pick up the middle girl and bring her home. The countdown to London will begin in earnest!!

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

finals week

The ladies have been on radio silence this week, more or less. We are hearing a bit from the middle daughter. She will be arriving home Thursday. The oldest still has a final to take Friday morning and won't be home until later that day.

Hard to believe that the middle one will be jetting off to London in less than a month! OMG.

And it is equally hard to believe that the oldest is basically a senior in college (credit wise). OMG.

Holidays are time markers for us. We often talk about things that happened in relation to this Christmas or that Thanksgiving. This Christmas is a rather large moment for our family.

Must remember to slow down and enjoy it.

Happy Tuesday.

Monday, December 8, 2014

early winter wonderland

Due to icky weather, a lingering head cold, and other excuses, I have not taken my morning walk in about 3 weeks.

We went today! Yeah for us! Duke was so excited and I have to admit I was happy to be back out for our stroll as well. The icing on the cake was to see so many Christmas lights on houses along our route. Felt good to be out moving in the fresh air. Felt great to have those twinkling lights bring a bit of Christmas cheer to my morning.

Happy Monday!

Thursday, December 4, 2014

nothing

Zip. Zilch. Nada.

Happy Thursday!

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Our Square

http://www.colliervillephoto.com/xmas-tree-lighting-2014/index.htm : mostly people pics

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=809521849105727&set=a.103510303040222.2465.100001437576556&type=1&fref=nf&pnref=story : the actual Square are on his Facebook pages.



Here are links to a local photographer's website. He caught this year's tree lighting (really the Square lighting) on camera.

We didn't go this year. I'm still battling this head cold a bit and didn't want to be out in the damp, cold air.

Good Stuff! Excited to drive by it this morning on my way to work.

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

lists

Santa is not the only one with lists this time of year. I have made a list and am checking it daily. Well, sometimes I check it hourly. First task off the list: what sweet treats to make this year. Second task: get the Christmas cards ready to mail. Third task: inventory the gift wrapping supplies.

It is always a good feeling to cross through items on a list. The only problem with my list is that as I accomplish tasks, I create more tasks.

So now I need to make the grocery list for the treats and purchase them and then make/bake them. I need to actually get to the post office, buy stamps, and mail the cards. I need to purchase more wrapping supplies and then wrap the gifts.

Yes, I have crossed things off and created more things to do. Not the way it is supposed to work, but that is how it works for me.

But the big thing I am doing today is, barring any unexpected problems, to attend the tree lighting at the square tonight. And, starting tomorrow I can drive to work via the square and get my morning dose of holiday cheer.

It is all good stuff. Whether it is on a list or not.

Monday, December 1, 2014

countdown

And just like that, Thanksgiving is over and the countdown to Christmas is on. The house is decorated. We have many gifts already purchased and just a few things left to procure. Christmas cards will be addressed tonight and mailed this week. My goal is to have all the shopping, wrapping, sending, etc completed by December 12 so we can enjoy the remainder of the month without too much hustle and bustle.

Our visit with the girls was great. So good to see them and even better to know they will be home for almost a month in only two weeks.

Let Monday begin. I have a plan.

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

lunch date

Had a lunch date with my boss and the executive director yesterday. We went to one of our fave places and enjoyed a nice meal, some good conversation, and came back to the office for a rather lazy afternoon.

While I have to go in and clock some time today, I don't have anything major to do. We are caught up. The magazine is at the printer. I made the digital edition yesterday and it is online. The selected articles are on the website and are ready for viewing.

The GIRLS arrived home yesterday. YEAH! They both look great. The energy level in the house is now off the charts....well it was last night. They are both snoozing and may still be snoozing when I arrive home late this morning.

We are ready to start cooking and baking. Turkey Day is tomorrow. WOW.

So, Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy the day!

See you in December.

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

ick

I've been battling a sore throat for a few days and it has decided to up its game. UGH. I've done the warm salt water gargle and taken some pain medicine. Hoping for relief soon. The weird thing is that other than this throat pain, I feel okay. No real congestion. No body aches. Very strange. And my throat is sore up high, sort of like a sinus drainage sore, but more painful.

Not sure what the heck is going on, but it needs to STOP. I have too much stuff to do to be sick this week.

UGHHHHHHH.


Monday, November 24, 2014

tree is up

Our Christmas tree is up, lit, beaded, and ready for decorations. Yeah! Yes, it is early. Really early. But with Thanksgiving coming late this year and the girls not getting home for break until mid month, I wanted to have the decorating done before they went back to school after Thanksgiving. The house still needs to be decorated, but I'm thinking of some different things to do this year. Just want to use what I have in different places and in different ways.

So, we will see what I come up with.

It was a productive weekend and it will be a short work week.

Off we go! Gobble, Gobble.

Thursday, November 20, 2014

foggy

I overslept yesterday and today woke with such a foggy-headed feeling. Ugh. We need to get our humidifier going for the house. I have ordered two new 'filters' for it as the one that was in it from last season was absolutely disgusting. The air is so dry it is making my sinuses go nuts. UGH.

The boys will be gone Friday night and all day Saturday and a speech competition. Not sure what I have planned, but I'll come up with something to do.

Was chatting with my pen pal's sister this morning on Facebook. She works in the part of London where we have rented a flat for our stay in March. She is very excited to see us. Going to be an amazing visit. Hard to believe it has been almost 30 years since I first met all of them in person. Wendy was just a young girl in a school uniform who would stop by her sister's in the morning on the way to school. Now she is a mum of two and a successful business consultant! And my pen pal, Donna, is a grandmother!

Off I go! More coffee is needed.

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

good stuff

I was more than a bit excited when I found Scott Westerfeld's latest YA book available on our library's ebook site. I had picked up the hardcover version while in B&N a few weeks ago. It looked interesting.

Darcy Patel is an 18 year old debut YA author. She writes a book, sends it off, and gets the dream contract, dream agent, and moves to NYC to make good on the six figure advance they give her for a two book deal.

But we don't meet Darcy first. First off we meet Lizzie, the main character of Darcy's book. Lizzie is traveling home from NYC to California when a terrorist attack happens at an airport. Advised by 911 to play dead, she does it so well that she makes it into the "afterworld." Her talent for thinking her way into death thrusts her into a new role: psychopomp, reaper, valkyrie.

The book moves back and forth between these two characters and the lives they are creating for themselves.

Westerfeld is one of the best YA authors out there. He doesn't patronize. He's real. He taps into teenage thoughts, fears, ideas with a knack for avoiding the overblown drama so many YA books serve up as authenticity.

"Afterworlds" is good stuff.

Monday, November 17, 2014

over it

Okay, It isn't even December yet and I'm officially over this sh!tty weather we've been having. UGH. It is sleeting, icy, windy, arctic nasty outside. No walking for us today. It is just ugly. No redeeming prettiness of an actual snowfall, just icy ick.

BLERG.

On to other news....I downloaded Scott Westerfeld's latest YA book from the library's website yesterday. Wish I could stay home on the couch with my quilt and a pot of hot cocoa and just read the day away.

But, instead I will bundle up and head into work to finish the December issue of the magazine. I have a list for the designer of things that need to be fixed, like making our feature story look like a feature story.

Yes, it is Monday. I'm whining. Can't be helped. Not today.

Thursday, November 13, 2014

ugh part II

UGH. Didn't oversleep. Got ready to walk. Opened the door, Arctic blast complete with icy rain and gusty winds.

Not walking today!!!!!

On the bright side, we had a great visit with my folks. Thanks for coming to see us, Mom and Dad.

On another positive note, the Boy ROCKED the ACT and beat his sisters' scores. Wowsa.
The middle girl had a great skype interview with the BHA and thinks she will get an offer. The hiring attorney is a Kappa from Georgia who is working in London on this association's efforts to lower the VAT. Kappa women are taking over the world it seems!
The older girl went shopping......yes, that is a thing to applaud as she hates shopping and she bought a skirt. WHAT?! Where is my daughter? What did you do with her?

So, all is well, other than the crappy weather.

Off to kick and stretch in the living room. After all, I'm almost 50. lolz

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trcXlTiy3Xw


Thursday, November 6, 2014

ugh

That's it. UGH! Overslept. Rainy out. Warmish. Gross. UGH.

Enjoy the weekend!

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

mixed

Well, the two aldermen candidates we backed lost. All four of the amendments passed. Wine in grocery stores passed. The last one was the only bright spot in a rather disappointing night.

UGH.

The thing that gets me is how folks don't realize that all the things they love about our town and enjoy about our town from schools, to parks, to our amazing Square are not supported by the two men they just elected. The disconnect is astounding.

Off the soapbox.


Tuesday, November 4, 2014

election day

And so it is here. Another election day. Another day for low voter turnout across the country. In our fair town, I'm not sure if the candidate I've assisted will win today or not. I think it will be a close race given the fact that only 7,000 voted early. We are a town of over 40,000. Pretty darn sad. The truth is, most folks are not engaged, informed, or interested enough to learn about local politics let alone national or state politics beyond the sound bites they are fed on the TV.

For most, I guess they feel that their vote does not matter. Even in a local election where the town governing body has direct impact on the quality of life they and their families enjoy.

The four voters in my house have already participated through early voting. So, today is a day to drive past polling places, toot the horn, and wish the candidates well.

Not just another Tuesday.

Monday, November 3, 2014

weekend recap

It was so nice to leave work at 11:30, come home, get the girly, have a light lunch, and take her shopping. Perfect Friday afternoon. We then came home, relaxed, did some reading, watched a bit of TV and enjoyed the evening. Saturday and Sunday were more of the same. Lovely. Lovely. Lovely. She went back to school yesterday after we had a big lunch. Safe and sound back in T-town.

The weather has turned cold. We had our first frost overnight for Sunday morning. This morning for our walk I will need my parka. It is 40. Brrr. And gloves!! Brrr.

I think we are going to move the treadmill from the garage to the bonus room so when it is really cold and icy I can still put my 20 minutes in.

In reading news, I finished Prince Lestat! Oh, Anne, so wonderful to have that cast of characters back on the pages of a new novel. How your readers have missed them. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The plot. The new characters. The old characters. The lush writing. Delicious.

Off into the new week we go. A week from today my folks will be here. We are looking foward to their visit!

Bye!


Thursday, October 30, 2014

returning

The oldest has returned home for her fall break! Yeah! And her bestie is also home for fall break and to celebrate her 21 birthday. Hard to believe this young ladies are 21. Yikes.

In other news, Lestat has returned. I was going to wait and buy the hardcover on Friday while we were at the mall, but my impatience got the better of me. I downloaded Prince Lestat last night and have already been reveling in Anne Rice's delicious prose and enjoying Lestat's antics, ruminations, and soul searching. Lovely. Wonderful. FUN.

Also making an appearance in our neighborhood, chilly weather. No more shorts for the morning walk. Yoga pants, sweatshirt, and a jacket will be in order today. I may need to find gloves!! Brrr. I'm ready for a good hard frost.

Off we go. Enjoy the weekend.

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

overslept

Maybe the time falling back won't be such a bad thing. I overslept this morning and don't have time to walk! Ugh.  Will walk extra at lunch and then once I get home.

Saw the library is having free yoga classes in November. I may have to check that out. Every Monday from 6-7 they will have a free class. Sounds like a deal to me.

Off I go! Enjoy the day.......the oldest comes home for her fall break this afternoon. Can't. Wait. Yeah!!

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

voting

The newspaper ran an article yesterday bemoaning the low early voting turnout. In our ville, the turnout out is less than 4,000 so far. Ugh. There are multiple races, four amendments, and the wine in grocery store issue on the ballot.

We have a population of over 44,000 people. Early voting goes on for almost two weeks. They have voting on Saturdays.

It could not be more convenient unless you could vote online from the comfort of your own living room.

Saw recently a comment about making election day a national holiday. I don't think even that would work, at least not in our area.

Pretty darn sad.

Both the girls voted when they were home for that brief period on the Friday before I left for Texas. Off they went to the polls. Of course, they are in the demographic that votes the least in our town. Granted, many of them are away at school and obtaining an absentee ballot isn't high on their priority list, but it is doable.

Guess I have always believed that unless you take the time to go pull the lever, touch the screen, bubble in the punchcard, you don't deserve the right to comment, opine, bitch, complain, or make a remark of any kind after the election is certified.

So vote, or zip it. Yep, sounds about right.

Monday, October 27, 2014

here we go

The national meeting went as well as it could possibly go. Checking in exhibitors was smoother than last year. The records were better and the system was better.

It was a long 5 days and I was so glad to come home, but I did have some good times with my coworkers, my committee people, and our editorial review board. The workshop we presented was well received and we will submit again for next year.

So, the biggest part of our year is now behind us and we can slide into the holiday season. I have a magazine to pull together for December, but the content is coming in and it will be easy to complete now that we have our part time graphic designer in house.

Things are going well!  I have selected a flat for us in London!! It will be about a 15 minute walk from where the kid is staying. Perfect. Tesco and Sainsbury are right around the corner. We won't have to eat every meal out. Nice!

Plane tickets are next.

Here we go into a new week......and come Wednesday, the oldest will arrive back in the nest for her fall break. Her bestie is home from NYC for her 21st birthday, so we will also get to visit with that young lady.

Good Stuff.

Thursday, October 16, 2014

whoop

The middle daughter came home with a different friend and was back in the nest by 7:00 last night! Yeah!!!!

She looks great and we did a lot of chatting about London, the semester, the sorority, where she will live  next year, and all things college. It was wonderful.

The oldest will be home tomorrow afternoon. What a treat to have both my girls under one roof for even one night.

I'm all ready to head to our meeting. Work has been very boring as we really have nothing to work on until after the meeting. Makes the day long and slow.

So, farewell Blog until after I return home. I'm sure I will have stories to tell.

xoxo

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

time to vote

Early voting has started in our community. Two weeks of that, then election day, then life will get back to normal.

I head out Saturday for our convention. Ugh. Need to find some umph, motivation, excitement, positive attitude...something...to help me rev up the engines a bit.

Not much else to report. The rain has stopped! The Duke and I will walk this morning. The middle kid is coming home for her Fall break. And....it looks like the oldest will be home for a quick visit too.

She's arriving Friday, will spend the night, and then both girls will head to T-town for the rest of the weekend. The middle one has a ride from there back to Knox, so she's all set.

Okay, off I go! Wednesday, yep, I see you!

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

blech

Cold. Damp. Rain. Dark. Blech.

No walking for us today. It is rather miserable outside.

More coffee is needed. The newspaper awaits. Time to enjoy a bit of relaxation before I get ready for the office.

Happy Tuesday!

Monday, October 13, 2014

lots of reading

It was the perfect weekend to do some reading. I finished off "A Wilder Rose" by Susan Witting Albert and then started and finished "Storm" by Brigid Kemmerer.

Enjoyed both! The Wittig novel is a fictionalization of the relationship between Laura Ingalls Wilder and her daughter, Rose Wilder Lane while they were writing the Little House series. The novel focuses on telling the story from Rose's point of view. It was very interesting and enlightening.

"Storm" is the first in a YA series about teens with elemental powers. Like it! The voice is fresh, the characters more believable than many YAs offer, and the plot interesting. I was engaged and stayed that way from start to finish. I grabbed this on on a BookBub deal and I will look for the other novels in this series.

And it is now Monday. We had a good weekend and enjoyed having Friday afternooon off. We had lunch and went to see Maze Runner. Nice afternoon even if the movie was so-so. I never read that YA series, but it is similar to so many YA dystopians that you can figure out exactly what is going to happen.

Off we go! A busy week ahead. Enjoy.

Thursday, October 9, 2014

thank goodness

It is Thursday! Yes. I'm taking tomorrow afternoon off. Yes. A few extra hours on the weekend will be great.

Feeling a bit burned out and not really sure why. The huge work of the national meeting is complete. I've really only been doing normal odds and ends during the day and our evenings at home have been quiet.

My work on the campaign is manageable at the moment. So, I'm not over extended there.

Guess I just feel like I need to recharge my battery. Looking forward to the weekend to do just that.

Enjoy the day.

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

half hour early

Have to go into work a half hour early today to make up time that may be spent at the dentist. Another wonky tooth that needs to be seen, especially before I head off to Texas.

Happy Wednesday!

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

nada

Nada. Nothing. Not a random thought in my head today.

Enjoy your day. It is Tuesday, right?! lol

Monday, October 6, 2014

wet

Rather wet outside this morning. The rain has moved in and brought along some thunder and lightening. No thanks. No walking for us right now. Perhaps it will have moved through by the time I get home from work.

So, it is Monday again. I did a bit of reading over the weekend, but I am not captivated by this third Deborah Harkness book. It is okay. Easy to put down and walk away from, rather disappointing.

It was a sad football weekend. Both girls' teams lost. Bummer!

The boy is on fall break this week. I hope the weather cooperates so he isn't cooped up in the house the whole time.

Okay, off we go. Monday, here I come.


Thursday, October 2, 2014

here we go

October is here! The month of busy weekends, my trip to San Antonio, and fall allergies. While I didn't wake with a raging headache this morning, I did wake with a drippy nose. Time to start taking the allergy pill every night.

We have so much on the calendar this month, I will be glad to see November roll around. I don't want to wish time away, but when you flip the pages on the wall and every day has something on it, all I can do is cringe a bit.

Hubby is home, so no reading happened last night as he needed to info dump everything that went on while he was away. Oh, and we had to get ready for the booster club meeting happening tonight.

Busy, busy, busy. Ugh.

Just as my work load at the office has lightened, the work load at home has increased. I guess I should be grateful both weren't heavy at the same time.

Off into Thursday we go!

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

ugh

ugh. headache. ugh.

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

merry

I have two books to return to the library today. The latest in the Outlander series and the latest in the Merry Gentry series. I'm a reading  machine right now!

While I haven't always enjoyed each and every book from Laurell K Hamilton, I did like this latest book in her Merry Gentry series. Merry is a real faerie princess, complete with magical powers and now three babies. Yes, three. Yes, by three different fathers. Faerie biology is quite different, you know.

Nothing is resolved in this novel. The political upheaval and struggles Merry faces are all still there and she is coping with some serious postpartum stuff, but the arrival of the triplets does focus things in many ways. She has a lot to protect now, as do the men in her life.

Tuesday has arrived and tonight I have a commitment to attend a Meet and Greet for the candidate I'm helping. So, I will be off to that for a few hours after I get home from work.

Enjoy the day!

Sunday, September 28, 2014

book eight

Book eight of the Outlander saga is my 43rd book for the year. Yippee! I know I will reach my reading goal and with some unexpected quiet time on my hands, may exceed it.

"Written In My Own Heart's Blood" was just as good a story as any of the other stories Diana Gabaldon has shared with us. Now that Outlander has been made into a miniseries on Starz, a new generation of Jamie and Claire fans will discover the magic these books hold. Good Stuff.

Yes, I'm writing this on Sunday afternoon instead of the wee hours on a workday morning. Doubt I will log in tomorrow.

Enjoy Monday once it arrives and here's to a good week ahead.

Thursday, September 25, 2014

pouring

I went on a hold request rampage over the weekend and it is now raining books. I have an ebook available plus another hardback on hold at the library. I'm halfway through "Written in My Own Heart's Blood."

Words. Lots of Words. lol

Oh, and I purchased the London bound kid's plane ticket yesterday. Ouch. I've been watching fares for months and there is no cheap way to fly to London in January. We didn't want her to fly via O'Hare due to weather issues in Chicago. She doesn't have time to get iced in, snowed in, or fogged in. So, she is going through Atlanta. That does provide some comfort as we know a Delta pilot and his wife who are stationed there and if something crazy happens, they will be swooping in to get her or help her in minutes.

This. Is. Really. Happening!!!

I think I'm as excited as she is.

Happy Thursday.

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

jamie and claire

Oh yes! I was finally able to borrow the latest installment in the 8 book long saga of Jamie and Claire Fraser.

I was up too late last night reading. Tired eyes this morning, but it was worth it. I love these books, the characters, the writing...all of it.

I'll be back at it after I get home from work today.

All is well. Busy at work. Kids are good. Life is chugging along.

Happy Wednesday.

Monday, September 22, 2014

gimpy

Well my foolish dog decided to scamper about like a puppy yesterday and has pulled a muscle or something in his front leg. Great. SO, my walking partner is now not as spry as he needs to be. He will get a short walk around the corner and back and then I will be off on my own. Insert frowny face here! lol

Great weekend. Super busy, but very good. Had fun at the football game on Friday night. Cleaned my dirty house and did piles of laundry on Saturday. Watched the boy head off to his first homecoming dance...with a date....very cute. Enjoyed a great carry-in potluck at our speech/debate team open house on Sunday.

Great weekend! But, now it is Monday and time to get back to reality.


Thursday, September 18, 2014

sleepy

I feel like I am ready for the time change that is coming next month. I could use that extra hour of rest right now.

So sleepy!!

But, I have a lot of things to do today and even this weekend. Need to find some energy someplace. The social media things for the campaign are working as they should, but between loading content for work and loading content for this candidate, I'm pretty tired of Twitter and Facebook.

Oh well! I'm getting it all accomplished and will appreciate the opportunity to shift gears once this work is completed.

Enjoy your Thursday and your weekend!

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Happy Birthday, Mom!

Today is my Mom's birthday!

Happy Birthday to you! Enjoy the day!!

Wish I was there to celebrate with you!!

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO



Tuesday, September 16, 2014

another campaign

What was that song Britney Spears sang? Oops, I did it again? Yes, that is the one.

If fits. I spent last night at a potential alderman's house. I'm helping on another political campaign. Social media queen of Collierville....or so they all seem to think.

Well, we did manage to take his Facebook likes from 2 to 125 in a few hours. So, that is a good start. Now to get some more pics up, write content, and get it all loaded. Oh, and set up a Twitter account.

Of course the alderman who I helped last time around is heavily involved in this new campaign and is responsible for dragging me into this election cycle.

Thirty days until early voting.  I can do this.

LOL

Monday, September 15, 2014

check

Flower beds weeded, hedges trimmed, and back patio cleaned off. CHECK
Preservation Party set up, worked, attended, cleaned up. CHECK
Collapsed on Sunday. CHECK

It was a successful weekend. I need to go to work to rest. Ha!

Today I will be heading to the library for a bit in order to be on hand when the Books from Birth RV pulls into our Town. The first lady of Tennessee will be on board and we are having a small reception for her.

Should be interesting!

Enjoy your Monday.

Thursday, September 11, 2014

looks like rain

It looks like rain. Bring it on! I need to tackle my flower beds this weekend, and the rain will help me pull those weeds.

Lots of September 11 posts on Facebook today. Facebook wasn't around when the planes hit the towers and the field and the Pentagon. So much has changed. So much is still the same.

I watched the President give his address to the nation last night. So much hate in the world. So much hate in the name of religion.

So much has changed, but so much is still the same.


Wednesday, September 10, 2014

yikes

I saw a photo/cartoon on someone's Facebook post today reminding everyone that Christmas is only 120 days away. If that is true, yikes!

Back when the kids were little and the gifts were not as expensive as they are now, I would have the majority of my shopping done before Thanksgiving. Now, as they only get a few bigger ticket items, the shopping is never done before Thanksgiving.

Thinking of gifts, what to buy, where to buy it, and all the other logistics can take the fun out of the festivities.

I am going to take time off again this year around the holidays, but not until after Christmas. I'm saving days for our trip in March. I will still have a nice stretch of time off, but I would imagine the week of the 24/25 will be pretty quiet around the office.

It is anything but quiet right now as people are starting to pack for the national meeting and the work load has increased as we try and get things ready to go to print.

It has been kind of crazy. Yikes.

Happy Wednesday.

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

struggles

After a fun weekend away, getting back into the groove at work has been a struggle. Yuck. I have four newsletters to create and load into Constant Contact this week. I have a bunch of social media posts to load. I have a program/pamphlet to finish. Lots of things to do and no energy to get it all done.

Fall doldrums? Fall fever? Not sure what is going on, but coming up with clever ways to promote the meeting, explain the new mobile app, and organize general information is not sounding like a whole lot of fun to me.

I'd rather be home trying to reclaim my flower beds. Oh my gosh. The weeds are out of control. But, that will wait for Saturday morning.

In the meantime, work it is. Happy Tuesday.

Monday, September 8, 2014

sleepy

Ugh. So sleepy! The fun of the weekend has caught up to me. The weekend was FUN. We learned quite a bit about the middle daughter's spring semester in London. We watched a fun football game. We dined out at some neat spots. We went to a movie (pretty funny in spots). Had a safe trip there and back.

Now it is back to reality.

Happy Monday!

Thursday, September 4, 2014

heading east

We will head east tomorrow for a visit, a football game, a meeting, and I'm sure lots of fun. I have things to pack and procure. A list of things was sent to me via text last night! I have already started gathering items and will be making a trip to the craft store on my lunch break.

It seems that all of the crafting that was done before she returned to school needed to be doubled. Her sorority took enough new members that each active member will have not just one "little" but two! Yes, twins. This has my daughter in quite the panic.

So, Mom to the rescue. The least I can do is make sure she has the raw materials to paint, glue, bedazzle, and modge-podge.

Enjoy the weekend!

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

the spreadsheet of doom

We have a spreadsheet of doom at the office. It contains all the items we have to create, update, edit, print, publish, and promote for the National Meeting. It is color coded. It has places for notes. It runs our lives from June until October.

I will be so glad when every line is filled in with green and I can save it one last time and put it away until we begin prepping for 2015.

We have begun promoting the new meeting app. Just a few things are out there as of now, but more will be coming this week and the weeks ahead. I look at this product as a challenge. Sort of like how I viewed the promotion of the awards. We increased awards nominations by 70% this year. We need huge download numbers for this app.

So, time to get creative. Time to get persistent. Time to reach out into social media and get our members to click.

Happy Wednesday.

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

short week

We had a great weekend. The kitchen cabinet frames are painted as are the bathroom cabinet frames. Everything matched up well and we are happy with the results. I was able to meet my friend at B&N for a cuppa and a chat. Fun! We did a bit of shopping, a bit of cooking, and a bit of laundry. Busy weekend, but a great one.

Now, off we go into a short week. Lots to do before we leave on Friday for UT, parents weekend, and a football game! Never been in Neyland Stadium before, so that will be exciting. Procured some new orange things for the guys, and I'm all set on my orange ensemble.

Still reading the 4th of the Chicagoland Vampire series.

September is HERE! Enjoy.

Thursday, August 28, 2014

three day weekend

Yeah, we get a three day weekend! Nice. Hubby and I have some painting to do. I'm going to meet a friend at B&N for a cuppa and a chat. We have a Boston Butt to pick up from church for dinner on Monday. Looks like a full weekend!

Neither of the ladies will be home. The oldest is headed to the gulf shore with a friend who lives down at the beach. The middle one is staying put as we will be over that way the following weekend.

Okay, off we go into Thursday. Enjoy the long weekend.

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

very early morning randomness

Very early. Oh so very early. I woke at 4! Ugh! After tossing and turning and trying to get comfortable enough to fall back to sleep, I just went ahead and got moving. I'm dressed and ready for the morning walk. I have biscuits in the oven for breakfast. One cup of coffee has been downed and I'm ready to start the second one.

It is going to be a long day.

On the front page today: wine sales in grocery stores will get their chance in the voting booth, social media may stifle discussion, James Jones worked on "From Here to Eternity" in a local trailer court.

Quite the assortment!

Happy Wednesday.

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

awake, or not

I'm not so awake this morning! Ugh! Feeling a bit fuzzy-headed.

But, it is time to take Duke for a walk and get on with our morning. I hear the boy starting to move around upstairs and while it is still pitch dark outside, the sun is going to come up soon.

Off we go.

Monday, August 25, 2014

ready, set, watch

In order for a book to arrive in time for the boy to take it to school today (Richard Wright's, Native Son) I had to either pay for expedited shipping or give Amazon Prime a free 30 day trial. I hate those 30 day trial things as I often forget to cancel and wind up paying for a full year's service. Ugh.

The book was delivered as promised on Saturday, and I saved $13 in the process. Plus, we watched three movies through the instant video aspect of Prime. This weekend we enjoyed the latest Star Trek with Benedict Cumberbatch as Khan, we watched The Avengers (he missed it when we went to see it in the theater), and we watched Tom Cruise in Jack Reacher. Star Trek was awesome, The Avengers was great, even the second time around, and Jack Reacher was okay. Tom Cruise is not Jack Reacher. But, Robert Duvall steals the movie in the final quarter of the show.

I'm not sure if we will keep Prime after our 30 days is up or cancel it, but considering this weekend was so hot that they told folks to stay inside, it gave us something to do after all of our chores/housework were done.

I also finished and started another Chicagoland Vampire novel. I cleaned closets and cabinets. I did laundry and cooked. Busy weekend....and we have next weekend planned! Three day weekend dead ahead.

But first, a busy week. Enjoy. Happy Monday.


Thursday, August 21, 2014

good things

It has taken a couple of weeks, but the new normal is becoming, well, normal. At home and at work, the oddness is wearing off and we are starting to find our way. That is a good thing.

I received three text messages and an email from our library letting me know that books 2-4 of the Chloe Neill Chicagoland Vampire series had been delivered and were ready for pick up. Yeah! So, after work I went to the library and checked them out and popped in the back to talk with the director. It seems that my phone call along with some pointed questions and comments from others may actually get the ball rolling in regards to how the library is managed/run. That is a good thing.

The hubby was able to come home early from Arkansas. That is always a good thing.

So, Thursday is here and the week is winding down and, yes, that is a good thing too. Enjoy the good things in your day!


Wednesday, August 20, 2014

clear

We have a slice of moon shining this morning and start all around. Usually when it is this clear, the air does not feel like pea soup. Ugh. Hot, humid, sticky, nasty, messy weather has settled in for the week. We have been quite fortunate that our summer has been as cool and comfortable as it has been. My electric bill has been reasonable this summer. That will come to a crashing halt with the next envelope from the utility company!

Oh well. This too shall pass.

In other news, I purchased and read a former critique partner's debut novel. Now, I met the protagonist of this romance story about 9 years ago. The author and I were in our local RWA chapter and were in the same crit group until the military moved her hubby to another base. She is a hoot and I'm so happy for her. She has had quite the journey. She is now a mama to two little ones, an officer's wife, and is still writing! I am going to do a review and get it posted online soon. Her book is called, "The Girl He Knows" and is available from Lyrical Press, a Kensington imprint. Way to go, Kristi Rose! So glad that Paisley and Hank are now available on bookstore shelves everywhere.


Tuesday, August 19, 2014

making it happen

We are going to make it happen this week. Loads of things to do at work. Really cleaning my house, room by room, after work. Taking care of paperwork, filing, and miscellaneous stuff here and there.

Great day yesterday as the town had a celebration in honor of being named the Best Main Street in America by Parade magazine. Very fun to see so many people excited about this wonderful honor. It was also super nice to run into so many folks the middle kid worked with over the summer and hear them compliment her.

I had to take an hour of PTO to attend, but it was worth it.

So, off into Tuesday I go. Let's make it happen.


Monday, August 18, 2014

scenes

The weekend was filled with scenes.

We watched "Guardians of the Galaxy"! Fun stuff. We also watched "Saving Mr. Banks." No space-intergalatic action there, but still a nice movie. We went out to dinner (Carraba's) and we ordered in (Pizza Cafe). We went to church, we went to Target.  We watched the second episode of Outlander (I like this show, the slower pace is refreshing.) We watched the next the last episode of True Blood (ready for this one to end). I made a big Sunday breakfast complete with oven baked French Toast. I began to deep clean the house.

And we helped the oldest pack her things to move back to school. After she left on Sunday, the house seemed so much bigger. More empty. And cleaner! lol

She arrived back in T-town in good shape and sent us a video of her room, all put together and ready for the new semester.

The other daughter has been on radio silence as sorority recruitment is in full swing.

I miss them. A lot. We will adjust to our new normal and things will move along, but for right now, this Mommy is a bit sad this morning.




Thursday, August 14, 2014

legends

I've always enjoyed watching Sean Bean. He's just one of those actors who intrigues me, but the characters he plays have a bad habit. They always die! Even knowing that Ned Stark meets a horrible end didn't stop me from being distraught while watching that episode of Game of Thrones.

I have high hopes that TNT will not kill off Sean Bean's latest character, Martin Odom.  Shout out to my folks....watch this show. The oldest and I loved it.

In other news. I went and had my hair cut off yesterday. I'm too old to try and grow it out. Too much gray. Too little patience. Too much crazy curling going on. So, it is back to the layered short cut that I've worn for too many years to count.

Today is the going away lunch for the third person to depart the association. So, the day will be a short one. And, my boss should be back. And, M is going to stop in for a visit.

BANNER DAY!

Enjoy.

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

latest

A couple of weeks ago my girls kidnapped me for a date night. We went to B&N and out to dinner. It was lovely. They bought me a book that night, a book of my choice. I selected Neil Gaiman's "The Ocean at the End of the Lane."  Although the novel clocks in at under 200 pages, it has taken me a while to read. I found myself savoring each page.

It is beautiful and scary and haunting. It deserves to be called one of the best reads of the year.

Off into Wednesday I go. Not sure if my boss will be in today or not as they all come back from their convention.

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

why

Robin Williams is gone, and it seems from all reports that he took his own life. Why do those people that many of us label as geniuses seem to fall victim to addiction, depression, and other mental illnesses?

He was only 63, but had struggled his adult life with so many issues. He had the resources to get the best help. One would think he had a support system in place. But, it wasn't enough.

It is very sad. It is very tragic. It is such a waste. Like so many before him, Robin is now gone and his bright light and amazing talent will be reduced to what we can watch on film. No more creativity flowing from that brilliant mind.


Monday, August 11, 2014

back

Well, we went there and are now back. Delivered the middle child to her sorority house over the weekend and returned home yesterday. Lots of road in 48 hours, but a good trip. We had a great time visiting with some friends on Saturday night and the move in on Sunday was quick and easy. Couldn't ask for a better weekend.

This week starts my new adventure at the office. Friday was M's last day.

Lots of change. Lots of change.

One day at a time.

Thursday, August 7, 2014

another day

Another day. And then another. The first week of school is zooming by and the weekend will be here soon. We are hoping to leave by 9 on Saturday morning. It would be nice to arrive and have some time to relax before we meet friends for dinner. Still not sure of the timing of the move-in on Sunday. I'm hoping we can be done quickly and get back on the road to be home Sunday night. I'd rather not take Monday off from work. Still trying to save PTO for next year's trip to England!

No reading updates. I have started a new Neil Gaiman book, but haven't had the time to really focus on it.

Enjoy Thursday!

Wednesday, August 6, 2014

midweek meltdown

Ooooh, the hot and sticky has returned. Ugh. We have had such a comfortable summer, it would figure that the first week back to school would be uncomfortable!

Not much else to report. The week is flying by and before I know it, we will be packing the minivan and heading east to take the middle one back to college. She is busy packing and reorganizing her things. She is attempting to travel light as moving out in December to come home and then head to London will be a bit of a task.

Off we go. Wednesday, be nice!

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

dropping like flies

Three departures in three consecutive weeks. Last week it was my friend, M. This week it will be my other friend, M. Next week it will be T from our IT department. Will that be it for a while? Or are more folks looking to leave? Rumors are swirling.

And in the meantime, those of us staying put are absorbing their workload. Makes for strange days.

The first day of school went well for the boy. He likes all of his teachers and enjoyed seeing some friends in his classes.

The ladies are starting to sort, clean, pack and get ready to head back.

Tuesday. Good to see you.


Monday, August 4, 2014

here we go

The boy will be getting on the bus in a little over an hour and heading off into his sophomore year of high school. Wow.

The packing will start for the girls' return to college.

The weekend went by and while we did get some things accomplished, I also had plenty of time to enjoy some R&R.

I finished two books. Don't bother with "The Registry." Blech. Poorly written, cardboard characters, ugh. I did enjoy "Some Girls Bite." Think I will see about finding the rest of the titles in that series.

And off we go!

Thursday, July 31, 2014

zoom

Running late...zoom, zoom, zoom.

Happy Thursday!

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

schedule acquired

We picked up the boy's schedule and bus stop assignment. Completed both tasks in record time and were back home early enough for me to relax a bit before my board meeting.

He has his Latin teacher from last year: good.
He has the famous Algebra II Honors teacher: Awesome
He has the famous Dr. C for English II Honors: Awesome

The rest of them, while the girls knew of them, they never had them. I was hoping for the Chem I Honors teacher we have known since we moved here, but she is teaching different Chem classes now.

Three out of four is not bad.

The bus stop is in a weird location, but that can be changed if needed. Have to see how the bus comes into the neighborhood.

In other news, I am now the Chair of the Library Board.

The girly made it home from DC in fine shape and had stories to tell of her adventures.

Happy Wednesday!!

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

home again

The oldest just texted me from the airport. She is on the plane and getting ready to fly home from her mini vacation in Washington D.C. She had a great time sightseeing and visiting with her best friend. Anxious to see her and hear all about it.

She will be out of town next weekend as well as she heads out to a wedding. Lots of little trips before she goes back to school.

It is always fun when they come home for a visit once school has started. The oldest can drive home in only 3.5 hours, but the middle one has a good 6 hour trip to make. We don't get to see her as often during the school year. And come spring, when she's in London, we will only see her when we hop the pond and visit.

Tonight I have a library board meeting and we have registration at the high school for the boy. Time to get his schedule and the bus assignment.

Fun stuff all around. Happy Tuesday.

Monday, July 28, 2014

new

Another new week is here. I imagine that it will be a quick one. I have a library board meeting Tuesday and the boy has registration at the high school Tuesday as well. We have a farewell lunch at the office for the two Melissas on Friday.

So, this is really our last week of summer. That is hard to believe.

We stopped by Target after church yesterday to pick up the first round of school supplies. While the grade schools and middle schools give out lists well before the first day, the high school never has. The kids have to wait to see what the teachers will require. At this point, after have two finish high school, we have a pretty good idea of what they will want. So, instead of joining the hordes next Monday night, I have already shopped for the boy. I'm sure there will be some odd ball things we need to pick up, but we can wait until the frenzy subsides before we try and procure those items.

Off we go into the week. Summer's farewell tour. Think we need to make it special.


Thursday, July 24, 2014

new computer

My old HP laptop finally kicked the bucket. I now have a new to me laptop! Very excited, but reminded of how comfortable I was with my well used computer. While hubby did the major moving of files and programs, I had to set up the desktop and make things feel like home.

I'm sort of finished with that process, but want to do a few other things before I say all is well.

Change is hard. Even changing computers is hard. As we slide into the start of a new school year, I've been reminded of that fact every day. Makes for some melancholy moments. But, we keep on trudging along and doing the best we can. New things, new people in our circles, new opportunities....it is what keeps life interesting if we don't focus on what used to be and focus instead on what is going on right now.

The oldest jets off to see her best friend for a long weekend. The middle one is winding up her internship at town hall today. The youngest is completing his AP World History summer work. Hubby and I are mired in work at our offices.

The dog days of summer, while not over on the calendar, are coming to a close for our household.

Change is afoot. School is about to begin. University move in dates loom. Life is going to change, yet again.

It is good.

Monday, July 21, 2014

resolved

The work drama resolved itself after some tough negotiations. Bottom line, we don't have to worry about the journals, too much, for the next year. Yeah! Still no graphic designer, but they did put another advert online. Yeah.

So, things made progress. I finished "American Gods" and "Shattered."  Not sure what I will read next. The weekend was fun and we had decent weather.

Time to start a new week.

Thursday, July 17, 2014

is it friday yet?

The work drama continues in regards to the transition we are currently in the middle of experiencing. Still no graphic designer. Still no signed contract for the gal who is leaving. She wants to continue on as a 'free-lancer' for a bit in regards to her journal work.

I keep plugging away in my cubicle. Working on what I can work on and keeping my head down. The lack of movement on these two issues is making me a bit nuts.

And they are working on the budget right now. So, everyone is on edge.

I will be glad to see 3:30 on Friday.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

midweek cool down

No meltdown today. The air is cool and the humidity is gone! Wow. That polar vortex thing is working some real magic for a midsouth July. Beautiful.

And, I'm finally seeing why "American Gods" is such a well regarded novel. It was hard to put it down last night. I'm now about half way through.

The InDesign work went well yesterday. More of the same today.

Off we go!

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

slow going

So, I've been reading American Gods. Slow going with this one. The writing is great, the story is interesting, but this is not a quick read. I'm determined to finish it!

Other slow going things are the 2015 media kit I'm working on for the office. Today is going to be all about the images in the kit. Lots of pics to select and size and place. My days, for the foreseeable future, will be consumed with InDesign projects.

Oh and putting the media kit into the CMS and getting the thing on the website. Joy.

Makes the day zip by and right now that is a good thing.

Off into Tuesday we go!

Monday, July 14, 2014

keeping track

I'm not sure how many more weeks we have until the girls head back to school. It seems that in the summer, I have a much more difficult time keeping track of time. It is mid-July already and that seems very unreal to me.

Perhaps because we only took one vacation this year, and it was so very early in the summer, I am feeling a bit out of sorts.

For example, recall how I was complaining about the lack of a newspaper? After some phone calls and an internet check I realized that the last time I paid for the newspaper was back in March. It is now July. I usually only pay for 3 months at time. So, the subscription had run out and I had forgotten to pay the new bill. Oi Vey.  I went back online and set up a new subscription, paid for six months, and let them autocharge my account. There. Fixed.

Hubby got a good laugh out of that one.

I guess we all have moments when we aren't tracking things well and time slips away from us. We get in a hurry and don't pay attention to the details. Or, we are so 'off duty' that stuff goes unnoticed.

Here's to the remainder of the summer! Happy Monday. I'm off to read my paper.


Thursday, July 10, 2014

lack

I'm suffering from a lack of the newspaper this morning! Ugh. It has not been delivered yet. Yesterday it was a lack of coffee. Our coffee maker died.

One thing I haven't lacked is reading material. I finished the sixth book in the Kevin Hearne Iron Druid Chronicles.  And, I've enjoyed every single one of them. Time to take a break, however, and read something different.

I have noticed a big gap in my reading history that could be labeled with a large "G." I've never read anything from Neil Gaiman.  It's true. That is soon to be corrected as I picked up "American Gods" while we were in Oxford last weekend.

Off into Thursday we go. The weekend is within sight.


Wednesday, July 9, 2014

ouch

That game yesterday. One word summary: ouch.

I'm going to have one very unhappy Brazilian at work today.

Hey, we are interviewing someone for the graphic designer job! Out of 15 applicants, one has been selected to come in for a chat. They are going to run the ad again.

Wednesday!!

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

blur

Yesterday went by in a blur. I did so many things I had been putting off, trying to describe what was actually accomplished would be difficult. Nothing big, but several small chores that needed doing.

Short week now. I also get to go on Thursday and have a tooth fixed.

It was a great 4 day weekend!!

Off into Tuesday we go.

Monday, July 7, 2014

bonus day

Woot! The bonus day is today! The final day of my four day weekend has arrived. Let the rest and relaxation begin, right after the laundry, a Costco run, the banking, and a few other chores.

lol

Enjoy the day.

Thursday, July 3, 2014

long weekend ahead

So excited for our long weekend to begin. But, first to get through the day ahead. Found out that one of our four lunch bunch group is going to move away! So, in the next month, our group of four will be cut in half. My coworker is off to the university to finish her PhD and our friend from another department is off to another state to start a new job.

Sigh.

My office dynamic is about to undergo a big change. Excited for them, but I'm a bit sad. Having fun coworkers is what keeps me going on those days when the work is a grind.

Until next week, Happy Independence Day!

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

beast

Even though the US didn't win the match yesterday against Belgium, our local guy, Tim Howard, turned in a beastly performance in the goal. It was a clinic on how to be a goal keeper. Amazing.

So proud of our team!

The week is winding down and I'm looking forward to a 4 day weekend. Yeah!

The weather is going to cool down, the kids have lots of plans for gatherings with friends, and our midway through summer point is upon us.

Enjoy Wednesday!

Tuesday, July 1, 2014

slippery slopes

And so it goes. The so called win for religious freedom, or also known as sticking it to Obama is really a blow to women.

Yet again.

A bunch of men decided that a corporation, because it is a person, is entitled to exclude medications due to their religious beliefs.

Wow. Just wow. Money. Power. Corruption. CONTROL.

Sickening. I will never darken the doors of Hobby Lobby again. The store that imports everything from China (hmmm, no problem with their birth control policies I guess since it impacts their bottom line). Oh, and they also have investments in the companies that produce the birth control they object to. Again, the almighty dollar wins out.

Convenient to be able to pick and choose your moral objections.

And the divide in this country grows larger and larger. We are on a very slippery slope.




Monday, June 30, 2014

too soon

With working Saturday, of course Monday is here much too soon. But, it is only a 4 day week. Followed by a long weekend with a comp day attached to the end. So, four days at work, four days off, then four days at work.

I can do this!

We had some mega rain fall over the weekend. Enough to break records. No flooding in our part of the neighborhood, but we the paper is reporting 5.87 inches of rain yesterday. Yikes. The combined total for Saturday and Sunday was 7.09 inches.

We are a bit waterlogged!!

Here is too a dry and sunny Monday!

Thursday, June 26, 2014

world cup woes

The US faces off against super soccer power Germany later this morning. While I'm at work. But, the US head coach has written an excused absence note for the entire country. I shared it on Facebook, along with several thousand other soccer fans, and tagged my Brazilian coworker and our department head.

Funny. Now, I just need to figure out how to listen to the match while I work on the September issue's layout.


Wednesday, June 25, 2014

three strikes

Pretty  much as soon as it happened, the soccer community went nuts. Heck, even those who aren't enthralled with the World Cup went nuts.

The bite. He did it again. No oops in front of that statement as those bites are not mistakes.

Suarez needs to be given the boot. No excuse. No reprieve. Biting on the pitch is not acceptable. This is the third time, by some counts, that he has bitten an opponent.

Ugly play and ugly tactics should not be tolerated in what fans call the "Beautiful Game."

Off the soapbox.




Tuesday, June 24, 2014

the hippie look

Our dress code at work is business casual. Hmm. That can be defined in many different ways, but around the office the weather dictates how casual we get. Since the powers that be have decided to control costs with the thermostat, business casual in the winter means cords and turtlenecks and heavy sweaters for me. In the summer it usually means a skirt and a sleeveless or short sleeve top. We either freeze or roast. No such thing as being comfortable.

Our receptionist, a young mother of two, adopts a more hippie look. Flowing skirts, bohemian tops, mismatched leggings and tunics are not unusual attire for her. Until yesterday. She chopped 9 inches of hair off and actually had truly business casual clothes on.

The rumors in our department began to swirl. She's looking for another job. She's finally growing up. She's been possessed by an alien.

Whatever it takes to keep us entertained!

Monday, June 23, 2014

so close

That tie about killed me. Ugh. So close. Seconds away from advancing. Ugh.

The weekend was about soccer, reading, cooking, and resting. Nothing big happened, but it was really nice to relax and spend time with the family.

I finished the second Iron Druid book and have started the third. I made a yummy baked corn dish (pinterest recipe). I watched the USA come within 30 seconds of making it to the knock-out round. Darn you, Christiano!! Really, darn you USA midfield, why didn't you pass back?? UGH.

Off into Monday we go. Looks like rain, and we could actually use it.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

meeting time

I have my first library expansion committee meeting today. I believe I know everyone who is serving on the committee except for one person. I'll be leaving work a tad bit early to get there on time and have already told the kids that the frozen pizzas are what's for dinner.

Not sure if the meeting will last that long, but given the opportunity to go out after the meeting with some of these folks, I want to be able to do that.

I managed to wake on time today and the Dukie-dog knows it. He is patiently waiting for his leash and our morning stroll. I had wanted to walk him last night, but it was so humid, I just couldn't work up the energy to go back out. I didn't walk at lunch yesterday either. I did run errands with my boss and made a quick stop at the grocery store to buy fruit. We were out of the basics.

And that is it for me! Last post of the week. The weekend is coming up, thank goodness!! We were just talking the other day how hard it is to work during the summer. I miss those summers when the kids were home and we could have fun more days than not.

Enjoy your Thursday.

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

new to me

I've read two authors who are new to me. Over the weekend I plowed through two of D.L. McDermott's urban fantasy/romance novels and then late Sunday I started Kevin Hearne's Iron Druid series.

The McDermott books (Cold Iron and Silver Skin) feature cross over characters who become involved with the fae. These are more heavy on the romance than the urban grit that characterizes other books in this genre, but they are quick and easy to read. No new territory here, but entertaining and good for a Saturday afternoon when it is too hot and humid to work in the yard!

Now, the Iron Druid series by Kevin Hearne is another cup of tea. I'm falling in love with this series and I'm only half way through the first book. Already ordered book number 2 and was happy to learn that there are enough in this series to keep me happy for most of the summer! How did I miss this?? Oh well, just so happy I found them. Atticus is a druid. A druid who has lived over 2100 years and is trying to live a 'quiet' life in Tempe, Arizona. Well, the gods and goddesses don't want him to be that out of the loop. Oh, and that sword he stole a while back? Yeah, they want it back. Clever, engaging, witty, and he has an Irish Wolfhoud to boot. What is not to love.

So, that is what is new to me this week. I overslept this morning, so no walking for the moment. Ugh. My fault, or should I say it was Atticus' fault since I stayed up too late reading. It has been a very long time since I did that!!

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

goal

Okay, so before my girls started playing soccer I wasn't a World Cup fan. They played soccer for the majority of their lives, at this point, so I've been watching World Cup for over a decade now. Good Stuff. So exciting to see the countries come together, to see the sport played out on an international stage, to see the Americans try hard.

Last night they tried hard and they beat arch nemesis, Ghana. Yep, Ghana. Super quick, super athletic, and our Achilles' heel. The first goal was amazing. Only 34 seconds into the game. Wowsa. Perfect. Inspired.

They we had 90 minutes plus to play. Of course Ghana tied it up, but not until the 86 minute. Then came the chance. A corner kick. A header from a 22 year old sub; his first time at a Cup.

Goal.

We win 2-1. Amazing. Next up, Portugal. Christiano Ronaldo, the Portugal soccer phenom whose skills are almost matched by his good looks, will head a team that is down a player, or two, and was just thrashed by Germany.

This is exciting stuff!

But,  yeah USA! We won our first game and earned the coveted 3 points in our group!


Monday, June 16, 2014

soccer and reading

This was a nice weekend. Lots of soccer on the tellie and lots of fun, easy, summer reading. Yep. We also had some nice meals, spent some time just hanging out, no big agenda or to-do list.

This is the stuff summer is made of!

Off for my morning walk with the Dukie-dog. We could both use the stretch.

Happy Monday.

Thursday, June 12, 2014

world cup

Time for the World Cup! The sound of vuvuzelas will fill the stadiums in Brazil as teams take the pitch and futbol is played.

Love it! And although I'm sad that the bracket the U.S. drew is loaded against them, it will be fun to see them play on the world stage again. It will be more fun to watch some matches with the family!

And today is Thursday.....I'm very ready for the weekend. Feel a big procurement trip to Costco might be in order. Seems we are running out of everything, again.

Enjoy the day!

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

limbo

The vibe at work has a bit of a limbo quality to it of late. With my coworker leaving mid August to finish her PhD work (Early Modern English) and the impending hiring of a true graphic designer, things are a bit odd. We know she is leaving. We know we are going to 'try' and hire a designer. We know we have a ton of work to do for the national meeting.

But, things don't feel like they are progressing. And it is all making me a bit nuts. I don't like this uncertainty about who will be doing what come August 11.

I would feel better if they had posted the job opening. I would feel better if the contract for the journal work was drafted and signed.

August is usually a rough month for me with the kids heading back to school and this August will be a bit topsy-turvy at work to top it all off.

Not looking forward to it.

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

whoa

Whoa. That was a gully washer. Lots of water. Lots.

I usually sleep through storms and rain, but the amount of water that came down last night woke me. It is quite dark out this morning and it is still sprinkling a bit, so  no walking the Dukie-dog today. Have to see if it is better outside when I get home from work this afternoon.

Very glad the boy had the yard mowed and edged last week. He will only have a small jungle to tackle once everything dries out.

I'm plowing through a new Arthurian novel. Well, new to me. So far, so good. The boy has finished one book for his summer reading, and has started two more. One daughter is reading for fun and one is reading for her summer class. The hubby, well, he reads specs for buildings.

That is our summer reading update! Happy Tuesday!

Monday, June 9, 2014

good stuff

First up, the boy has been released from his allergy shots! He was on the max dose for 3 of his 4 years, so the benefits he can gain have reached the plateau. So, no more shots. Yeah!

Second, hubby and I spent 2 hours in Lowe's looking at flooring. I think we have made some selections. The overhaul won't happen until the Fall, but new carpet and tile is in the works.

Third, I finally received my review, raise, and even a small bonus on Friday. Yippee!

Fourth, the hubby helped with the flower beds and we whacked, pulled, dug, replanted, and sprayed for a few hours. The next step will be some new mulch, but we will wait until that is on sale.

Fifth, we went to dinner with our neighbors and caught up with them and what is going on with their kids and family. Good to see them and had a good meal too. Went to a new place for me, delicious!!

Sixth, finally saw the latest Thor movie. YUMMY goodness all around.

It is raining, and it is Monday, but that is okay. It was a great weekend. Let's go!

Thursday, June 5, 2014

weekend plans

Yes, it is only Thursday, but I have weekend plans. Weeding the front beds will become the number one priority. I never got to them yesterday and I know for a fact it won't happen today either. The rain is moving in and we look to have wet weather for the next 48 hours.

Leaving work early today to come home and get the boy and take him to his annual allergist visit. He should have only another year of allergy shots to endure.

Enjoy Thursday!

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

mid week meltdown

Weeding did take place yesterday, but my long sleeve tee-shirt about caused a meltdown. So hot, humid, and sticky. But, I did manage to get the backyard beds weeded. I really need to do some thinning next spring before things get out of control. One of the hostas is about 3 foot across. It is taking over!

I also took a 15 minute walk on my lunch break. Hot, but manageable at 11 a.m. I think I will try that again today. It felt good to get away from the desk and the computer. That is the hardest part of going back to work after vacation; having to sit and type and stare at a screen. Ugh. The new website is still on my plate and awaits me yet again today.

Off we go. Thank goodness it is Wednesday.

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

weeds

Several years ago I was exposed to a bit of poison ivy in one of our flower beds and broke out in a rather nasty, but localized rash. Ever since that happened I'm prone to getting 'rashy' when I weed. Yesterday I began reclaiming the beds as they are very weedy and a bit overgrown. I guess while we were gone the area received quite a bit of rain and the plant growth went nuts.

My first step was to cut back all the daffodil stems around the two front yard trees and then to weed those beds. I also did the bed on the east side of the house. By the time I finished, my right arm was starting to break out. Lovely.

I came inside and washed it twice and put on some anti-itch cream. It didn't help right away, so I took my afternoon allergy pill and then wound up taking half a Benedryl for good measure. Those little pink pills knock me on my fanny, but they always stop the rash!

It was an early night for me.

Good news, the rash is gone. Bad news, I still have four huge flower beds to wrestle into submission.
I think I will be wearing long sleeves and gloves from now on.

Happy Tuesday!

Monday, June 2, 2014

home again

We had a wonderful vacation and arrived back home Friday afternoon. New Orleans was everything and I thought it would be and more. I loved wandering the streets of the French Quarter and we even explored the Warehouse District a bit on our way back from the WWII museum. The museum is a must see experience. All five of us learned something new and came away with new thoughts, memories, and gratitude.

The 'book-end' visits to family before and after our visit to The Big Easy were fun as well.

So, today, we all head off to work. The boy even has his list of chores to accomplish before I arrive home.

The week sure went fast, but it was a great week!

Thursday, May 22, 2014

bye

I am off on vacation beginning tomorrow at 1:00 p.m. Yippee!! Excited to see family and a city I've never visited before.

Lots to do between now and then, but it is all good. Hey, even the new website looks like it will launch on time Friday morning.

Enjoy the day and see you in June.

Let the good times roll.

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

thankful

Looks like the votes are in and a county to the west of us has approved funding a large construction project that will keep hubby and his colleagues busy for the next 18  months. This is good news on many levels and gives us a reason to do a small happy dance.

After the big recession, construction projects were shelved, funding was hard to get, and things ground to a halt. In the last year, however, everything has started to turn around. This latest vote is a huge step in the right direction.

So, I'm very thankful today for the business getting back on track. I'm also thankful my work review seems to finally be complete and they are working on rewriting my job description in order to change my job title.

I may actually return from vacation to a raise and some new words to plop after my name.

It. Is. All. Good.

Happy Wednesday!

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

rachel

I seem to have a theme going on. I am now reading "The Undead Pool" which is the second to last in the Rachel Morgan series. My beloved series are coming to an end.

I picked up my first novel in this series based on the title, then realized I had actually started the series with the second book. Oh well! I was hooked. Each novel uses a Clint Eastwood movie as inspiration for its title. Fun stuff!

Rachel and Trent have mended fences in this latest installment and are taking on some force that is leaking wild magic from Rachel's ley line and using it to knock out all the undead vampires in Cincy. The living vampires are in a panic as their masters slumber away. Throw in some elven politics and some crazy demon magic and you have chaos in the Hallows.

While we had a cold and damp weekend, the week has been warm and dry. Work is still nuts and the website may now launch midweek. We are starting to work on the National Meeting program info and spent the day editing descriptions and reloading them into the abstract central portal. Lots of steps. Lots of &s to turn into "and."

And so it goes. Happy Tuesday.

Monday, May 19, 2014

flavia

I read the latest and perhaps the final Flavia de Luce mystery over the weekend. Alan Bradley did amateur sleuthing a big favor when he created Flavia.

While these books are often found in the adult section of the library, they are wonderful reads for YA and perhaps some more advanced 5th grade students. Set in post WWII England, Flavia, age 10, lives with her sisters, her father, and assorted 'staff' in an old manor house. Her mother has been missing for 10 years and the family is carrying on without her. The plot of the final book hinges on Flavia's relationship with her mother, a mother she truly doesn't remember.

I hope that this is not the final time we get to enjoy Flavia. I really hope that Bradley will continue on with this dynamic girl.

Monday has arrived and one week from today I will be waking up in New Orleans! This will be my first trip to a city I've read so much about.

Guess over the weekend some local brews were being tossed from balcony to balcony down there in the French Quarter by two of the world's most handsome men. Wonder if we will get to see any famous mugs while we are exploring the city?

Happy Monday!

Thursday, May 15, 2014

learning

We have been working on our new website all week. It launches Saturday. Moving content, checking links, checking style, and then rechecking it all has made for short days and stiff necks.

I wasn't able to walk yesterday due to the rainy weather we had, but I'm already dressed and ready to go this morning, Just need the sun to come up a bit. The birds are singing and Duke is giving me the look.

I've learned a lot through this website project. I feel pretty comfortable now using the content management system. I've even dabble, a bit, with the code. I don't like coding. I had to do some a while back when I was building courses for the learning library on behalf of the Foundation. Ick.

Through all of this, I have a new appreciation for computer geeks. To sit all day and just check code, and write code, and load code...I think that is borderline hellish.

We also worked on creating the carousel images for the home page. While a bit more creative, that too became a bit old after the tenth one. I did learn that I can't use all of our color palette for the overlays as the yellow is the same yellow as the directional command widget on the page. So, I have to ditch four images and rework them.

Trial and error. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Yep.

Glad tomorrow is Friday! I know on Monday we will have pages of things to fix, but at least the lion's share of the work will be behind us.

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

name changer

It was time to change the blog's name, so I did. I've never intended this blog to be a huge traffic magnet. It truly is just a way for me to journal. I like to get my thoughts together, keep track of my reading for the year, and sometimes spout off a bit on things going in my world.

I guess the spouting off was read by someone who took my earned, educated, 6 years in the making, opinion on certain matters and construed them as 'bashing' a local group I once belonged to.

Oh well. Don't need the lurkers. Don't need the drama. So I've made it a bit more difficult for them to find me, in case they were tempted to keep lurking.

I could make the blog private and shut down access. But, I do have some people in my life who enjoy reading my short, off the cuff comments each day.

So, welcome to the new blog, or at least the new name.

Happy Wednesday!

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

just the two of us

The department is now down to just two. We have plenty of work to keep us busy. The magazine needs to be sent to print and the website launches Saturday. Oi Vey. My coworker will be back June 2 and then she leaves us for good the beginning of August.

Never a dull moment. It was a long day yesterday. Going to be a long one today even though I'm leaving early to take the boy to the orthodontist for yet another retainer.

Hot and sticky weather has moved into the area, but I did manage to walk for 20 minutes at lunch yesterday. It got up to 90. Crazy!! What happened to Spring?

Off I go. The dog is waiting by his leash.

Monday, May 12, 2014

great weekend

It was a great weekend! Makes it even more difficult to get up and moving today. My coworker leaves Tuesday for Brazil. We'll see her again June 2. She goes to visit every 2 years. Hard to believe I've been in the department that long now.

The weather has turned rather warm and sticky. Yesterday we had a nice breeze and were able to sit outside and enjoy the patio. Always nice to be able to eat outside.

The week has me going in early every morning in order to leave early Tuesday and Thursday to take the boy to the orthodontist and the dentist. Ugh.

Okay, better get moving! Enjoy the day.

Thursday, May 8, 2014

off to college

I've seen quite a few Facebook comments from friends who are watching their oldest child graduate high school. One even shared a link to an excerpt from Rob Lowe's book. Lowe wrote sending his oldest off to college and the struggle he had with the whole experience. One dad posted a comment about watching his final soccer game with his daughter on the pitch. I remember that feeling so well.

I talked with the middle kid for a while yesterday afternoon about her freshman year. How quickly it went. Had she been homesick? Things she learned. People she met. All of the reflective questions that normally come up in such a conversation.

It is such a neat time in life. The whole college experience is wonderful in many ways. The confidence and independence it can foster. The broader world view that can result. The knowledge, both book and life, that can be gained.

Later last night, the oldest finally received notice that her Thermodynamic II grade had posted. She had told us she would be ecstatic with a B-. It is one of the toughest classes and on the advice of her research professor,she took it with the toughest teacher. She finished with a B+. She was beyond thrilled. But one of her comments stuck with me. "If I can get a B+ from Puzi's class, I know I can do anything! Other teachers ask how you did in Thermo II, who you had, your final grade. Getting a B+  from Puzi is like getting a golden ticket."

So happy for her, but even more happy and pleased at how immersed she is in her major, her college, her university life.

Both of the girls have embraced the whole college experience in a way, that if I could do it over again, I would try to do. They are way more confident and outgoing than I ever was at that age.

So, for the folks I know who are watching their children get ready to graduate from high school, it will be okay. Those young people are about to start a great journey, a grand adventure, a wonderful opportunity.

Watch them soar.

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

bone scan day

Today I get to have my bones scanned! I've had this done once before and I guess I'm due for another round today. See what is going on with my skeleton.

It seems like the topic of aging has been in the news a lot. From old mice being injected with young mouse blood to a show on the 'oldest of the old,' aging and what they are learning about it is a hot topic right now. I watched a report on 60 Minutes about studies they are doing in California with a group of folks who are over 90 and what they are learning is rather interesting.

A social drink is okay. Being a bit overweight, but not obese, is okay. Moderate exercise, 15 minutes a day, is good for you. Learning new things is good for you. Being social, that is good for you too.

But the real science is coming to play after the study participants pass away. Many of them have donated their brains to the study, and what they are learning is casting doubt on the whole brain plaque-Alzheimer's link.

Memory, cognition, higher thought processes.....to me that is interesting stuff. We don't truly understand our own brains and the research going on continues to show us how little we actually know.

What sort of exciting science and medicine will come along in the next 20, 30, 40, 50 years?

The boy told us that most likely, the first person to live to 150 is already been born. Fascinating stuff.

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

nice

I took the Duke for a stroll in the morning, we walked on our lunch break, and I sat outside until the sun set after work. It was so nice yesterday! Gorgeous weather, no humidity, clear skies, a light breeze. Perfection.

This is truly my favorite time of the year. Spring rocks. Allergies and all.

My cold seems to be gone. My nose still hurts a bit, but it is getting better. The ladies cleaned the house for me while I was at work. That is my mother's day gift from them. They did a deep clean and it looks awesome.

I started reading a new Nook book and was pulled in from the start. Exciting!

Things are pretty good. Happy Tuesday!

Monday, May 5, 2014

and they're home

The ladies are home from college. Their rooms are filled with boxes, bags, bins, and assorted other storage containers in various stages of unpacking.

We spent Saturday, the middle kid's birthday, down at our town square. The Fair on the Square enjoyed some amazing weather this weekend. It was great to be out walking around and seeing all the neat arts and crafts. We did notice that several of our favorite food vendors, however, were not there. Either we missed them or they changed location. I fear that the last 3 years of bad weather on this weekend may have prevented them from participating.

But, we weren't really down there to eat since we took the girl and her beau out to dinner for her celebration. Fabulous meal at one of the famous restaurants in the big city next to us. We had cake and strawberries at home for dessert.

Yesterday we puttered around the house. Hubby and the boy worked on the lawn, I worked on laundry, the birthday girl worked on a paper, and the oldest worked on watching Star Wars movies.

Yes, it was May the 4th be With You day.

Happy Monday!

Thursday, May 1, 2014

quiet

It might be very quiet at work today. The boss was out sick yesterday. He either celebrated too much after the Grizzlies' overtime win or he has the crud I brought in the office.

My coworker took the day off to attend a luncheon at the university. She was awarded a fellowship to begin her PhD work.

So, I might be alone! I already made a list of things I need to do. The day will go by quickly and tonight we have the high school theater-communications department banquet. Fun times.

My cold is finally going away! My nose is less sore, but more discolored. The girls will be home in the next 48 hours!

Today is May Day.

Enjoy.

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

in which I bruise my nose

I have a big bruise across the bridge of my nose. Lovely.

Yesterday, after I got home from work and errands, I thought I'd run a quick load of laundry. I was also making dinner, checking the storm path (3 years ago UA was hit with a killer tornado and I wanted to make sure this system wasn't headed for Ttown), and doing other typical afternoon chores.

The sheets I had in the washer were finished and as I went in the laundry room to throw them into the dryer, I noted to myself that all the clothes hanging over the two appliances needed to be taken to the appropriate closets.

I lifted the lid of the washer, forgot to move the shirts aside hanging over the lid, and as I bent down to get the sheets, WHACK. The lid came back down, pushed by the shirts, and my nose bore the brunt of the impact.

I let out a screech. The boy came running. I let go of some choice cuss words, and the sheets.

Only. Me.

I immediately grabbed some ice cubes and started to ice down my nose. Then came the ibuprofen. Then came witch hazel compresses.

Yikes. Klutz. Klutz. Klutz.

Washing Machine: 1
Liz: 0




Monday, April 28, 2014

end of the semester

The ladies begin finals week today. Wow. The year zipped by and they will both be back home on Friday. Hubby is heading east to get the middle kid and the oldest one took a car back with her after spring break, so she will be moving out on her own this time.

We are very excited to have them with us for the summer and can't wait to see them!!

I stayed home all weekend. Truly. I got home Friday at 3:45 and haven't left the house. The cold/sinus nastiness seems to be abating and I don't think, at this point, that it will morph into a sinus infection. I feel pretty good this morning. A bit better each day, so by Wednesday, I should be almost back to normal. I did quite a bit of reading and need to recap the books I finished. Perhaps tomorrow.

I have a library board meeting this week and we have the end of the year banquet for the Theater-Debate department.

It is going to be a busy one and with the spring storms we are having, a bit of a wet one.

Looks like we dodged the worst of it yesterday, but Arkansas and Oklahoma got hit.

Off into Monday I go. Enjoy your day.

Thursday, April 24, 2014

uhtred

I wound up staying home yesterday. My throat was killing me, I was exhausted, and I felt a major head cold coming on. Today I'm up and moving, sort of, after sleeping most of the day yesterday.

I need to go to work as I don't have any more PTO to burn. I so wish we had 3 sick days a year that we could use. People come to work sick all the time so they don't have to use their vacation time...and then we all get sick. UGH.  Vicious cycle.

But, I'm not feverish. Just have a major sinus headache and the stuffy nose and tiredness of a cold. So, I'm going in and going to see if I can last all day.

While I was awake yesterday, I did finish reading "The Pagan Lord" by Bernard Cornwell. He's such a good writer and I love his books. This one was another great addition to Uhtred's story. Our warrior is nearing 50 years old in this story, but he is still up for a good battle or two or three.

Glad it is Thursday.

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

sore throat

Ugh! Sore throat time. I'm not sure if it is allergies or a cold, or both. Yuck.

Wishing it was Friday.

Off I go.

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

mercy and uhtred

Among my favorite urban fantasy heroines, Mercy Thompson Hauptman is one of my faves. Patricia Briggs writes the Mercy books and I'm never disappointed with her storytelling. I believe "Night Broken" is the 8th book featuring the shapeshifting female mechanic. She turns into a coyote, by the way...her father is Coyote. Yep, the native American trickster god.

This time Mercy and her pack (werewolves...she is married to the alpha) take on a volcano deity. Don't try and dive into this world with book 8. Start at the beginning. Briggs has created a complex world and each book reveals new layers, new supernatural creatures, and new aspects of Mercy's personality.

Always a good read.

Up next is the latest book from Bernard Cornwell. I love his Saxon Tales featuring Uhtred. It opens with Uhtred causing a major ruckus when his oldest son becomes a priest. Always entertaining and always well written.

I have some 'new to me' authors to check out once I finish the Cornwell book. I'll keep you posted.

Happy Tuesday!

Thursday, April 17, 2014

london calling

The middle kid got the email yesterday. She has been accepted into the global leaders program and will spend next spring semester in London!!!!!

She was still in a state of shock when she called me. I wonder if it has sunk in yet? This is so exciting! What an amazing opportunity. She will not only take a semester's worth of classes, she will also intern with a company based in London, or she will work in Parliament!! OMG!!

Another super neat thing is that my best friend's daughter will be in Paris at the same time and that young lady's cousin will be in Austria. Road Trip!!

Plus, one of her sorority sisters who got in has family in Germany! Road Trip!

Studying abroad was something the hubby and I didn't do, so yes, we are totally living vicariously. I own that right now.

We are thrilled for her and so happy that we can help her take this opportunity.

AND, the oldest called and said her grades are looking spectacular for this semester. She is quite pleased with herself and is in really good shape GPA-wise going into the final exams.

AND, both ladies will be home soon for Easter!!

Yes, I'm still stoked, excited, floating, crazy-happy.  Wow. Wowsa.


Tuesday, April 15, 2014

at least it isn't snow

It is cold, windy, and damp. At least it isn't snowing like it did in some places. Brrrr. I don't believe it got to freezing, but it is only 39 outside. Looks like I can wear my cords one more time before I put them away for the season.

The website work went well yesterday. We are back on track, I hope. I will be working on another section today.

In other news, our department will be changing at the end of the summer. My coworker was able to secure a teacher assistant gig at the university. She has started her PhD work, and the gig will provide a stipend, cover her tuition, and get her in a classroom. So, off she goes! She is hoping to continue to be the copy editor for the journals, but it would be contract work and that has to be approved. Not sure how the Director is going to feel about this proposal. Either way, the boss and I will have some changes to deal with in a few months.

Right in time for our National Meeting work to really hit full speed. Lovely.

I'm excited for her, but not looking forward to this transition.

Happy Tuesday!

Monday, April 14, 2014

short week

It's going to be a short week. Yeah!

The boy and I have Good Friday off. The girls will be home from school to enjoy Easter weekend with us. Looks like hubby's sister and her hubby will drive down for the weekend. So, I've already started to figure out what we are eating and when. Let the procurement begin!

Had a nice weekend. Managed to get quite a few things done while the hubby and the boy were over in Nashville for the speech and debate state championships. The boy did really well! He had never competed in the Congress category before, but he was a finalist in the Senate portion!! His coach and his former coach were thrilled with his results. Several of our seniors earned first places in their competitions. So, all in all, I think we had 7 of the 18 students earn recognition.

Hubby was also able to meet the teacher the boy 'works' for as an assistant during his study hall period. She supervised the learning lab and he works as a tutor. She was very complimentary of him and said she is hoping she can have him back as her helper next year!

Always good to hear nice things about your children.

We have two final things to do for the speech team: vote in next year's officers and attend the banquet. Then the plans for next year will begin!

Okay, off we go. Lots to do in the next 4 days. Better start making my list. Enjoy Monday.


Thursday, April 10, 2014

nada

Drawing a major blank today. Nothing comes to mind for comment, concern, complaint, compliment or any other 'c' word I can think of right now!

All is well. Looks like it will be a pretty day here. Typical stuff on the front page of the paper.

So, enjoy today and catch you next week! Happy Thursday.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

royals

First article to hit my line of sight this morning was one informing us that the granddaughter of a major hotel chain founder is coming home to marry a London nightclub owner and several royal guests are expected to attend. Home would be the big city next door.

Are Wills, Kate, Harry, Beatrice, Eugenie and Harry's gal pal, Cressida descending upon the "Buckle of the Bible Belt"? Will they really land a royal jet in the home of slow cooked, wet/dry barbecue? The home of the Rock-n-Roll and American royalty, Elvis?

Who knows! But it is sort of fun to think about it.

Happy Wednesday. Hump Day is here. Thank Goodness.

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

cooking bacon

We had some bacon left from the weekend, the yummy, applewood smoked, thick cut bacon. So, I'm frying it up for a morning treat!

I can't count the times we've had cooking discussions at work when the use of bacon grease comes up. The southern contingent, of course, keeps containers filled with the drippings in their fridges. They are always a bit stunned when I say I have always done the same. Then when I follow it up with how great it is with green beans, corn bread, and even popcorn, well, it is fun to watch the look of confusion cross their faces. How can the Yankee, with the Chicago accent, know anything about bacon grease???

Folks like to think they are original and that their region is so unique that no one else in the country can cook, garden, sew, craft, party (whatever) like they do. Many of them just don't understand how people move, relocate, travel, and are open to taking their traditions with them. Or, perhaps they are open to learning new things.

Hubby is over in the eastern part of the state today. So, no bacon for him, but the drippings will be waiting in an old mug in the fridge for some amazing cooking later on.

Good Morning! Happy Tuesday!!

Monday, April 7, 2014

anniversary

The hubby and I celebrated 23 years of marriage on Sunday! Whoop!! We had a really good weekend. Had fun, worked on some projects, enjoyed a great meal (or two), and heard from the girls and our parents. Perfect!

I finished reading "The Paladin Prophecy" by Mark Frost. Frost is not only a novelist, he is also a screenwriter. He worked on shows like Twin Peaks back in the day. He also worked on the Fantastic Four movie(s). "Paladin Prophecy" was a decent read. A  major plus for the novel is that the main character is a boy. In YA having a boy protagonist is sort of rare. This is the first in a series and the second novel is already out. I don't think I will be reading the new one, but I may suggest them to my son.

In other news, we finished the cleaning out the flower beds! Well, at least round one is finished. I need to move, thin, reallocate, and prune some things. That will have to wait until later this week. It rained again yesterday afternoon and all night. Mucky, mushy, muddy mess out there this morning. Poor Duke. He is constantly getting his paws wiped off.

Well, it is Monday and we are still loading/building website pages! The March 2014 issue needs to go up today.

As they say in the south...Git'r done.....

Happy Monday.