The events in Aurora, CO last week have changed the way we view the world. One of the most ordinary (and safest) activities we can engage in was shattered in one moment of terror for the folks in Theater 9. How many of us think when we walk out the front door for work, take a phone call from a dear friend, go to the store or watch a movie that this might be the last time we will ever do that activity? That there won't be a next time?
When I heard the news on Friday morning, my heart broke for that community and those people. Another horrific current event that will be etched in our memories. An "I remember where I was when I heard about" moment in our history. What an awful a situation those people experienced while trying to enjoy the guilty pleasure of a long-anticipated action movie. We lost a bit of our innocence on Friday.
We also became hyper-alert. Hubby & I went to a matinee of The Dark Knight Rises on Sunday. I found myself looking around the theater after we sat down and tried to mentally plan for where to run or hide should someone come in and start shooting. So much so that I even turned to Hubby and said, "If someone comes in with a gun, we can jump behind our seats and hide." You know the sad part- he had the exact same thought when we sat down.
Is anywhere safe anymore? Has the world gone completely bat-shit crazy? It's stories like the one from Aurora, CO that make me ask those kinds of questions. These are questions that we will never be able to answer.
What can we do is live each moment to the fullest. We can tell our friends and family members that we love them. We can enjoy every minute of everyday. We can live in honor of the 12 from Aurora who lost their lives. No matter what happens in this crazy world, let's live.
July 23, 2012
December 23, 2011
Christmas Time is Near!
Christmas is 2 days away and I can hardly believe it. Could it be the 70 degree weather outside? Merry Christmas from SC!
It's been an interesting year, and this is always a time of reflection for me. How can time go so fast? Seems like we just celebrated Christmas and here it is again. Who knew that 2011 would be so eventful for our family? There was some sadness: Brian's house fire, saying goodbye to our friend Ana, losing both Sophie & Kira, and moving Granny into an assisted living facility. But there was a lot of joy: bringing Lucy home from the Animal Shelter, celebrating Grace's first birthday, having Granny with us for another year, Hubby starting a new job, gaining a deeper appreciation for my job & the wonderful people that I work with, and just being blessed with all that we have.
As with any blessing, I am thankful beyond words. I wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a fabulous new year.
Goodbye 2011!
Let's get ready for 2012!
It's been an interesting year, and this is always a time of reflection for me. How can time go so fast? Seems like we just celebrated Christmas and here it is again. Who knew that 2011 would be so eventful for our family? There was some sadness: Brian's house fire, saying goodbye to our friend Ana, losing both Sophie & Kira, and moving Granny into an assisted living facility. But there was a lot of joy: bringing Lucy home from the Animal Shelter, celebrating Grace's first birthday, having Granny with us for another year, Hubby starting a new job, gaining a deeper appreciation for my job & the wonderful people that I work with, and just being blessed with all that we have.
As with any blessing, I am thankful beyond words. I wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a fabulous new year.
Goodbye 2011!
Let's get ready for 2012!
September 10, 2011
Yeah for saving $$!!!
I recently went to a Southern Savers' coupon class to get some tips on how to save more on our grocery bill. I've been cutting coupons for years and trying to take advantage of weekly specials, but I wasn't saving as much as I'd like. I got lots of great tips and started trying to incorporate what I learned.
At CVS today, I saved over $11 on my purchase (thank you, ExtraCare Bucks!) and paid less than $5 for my items. Then at Bi-Lo, I was happy to note that with the Buy One Get One Free specials and my coupons, I was able to say 41% on my total purchase! We usually save 25-30% on our shopping bill.
Although I still have lots to learn in order to save more money, I am super-excited that I've been able to make small changes in our shopping habits. I'm certain these small changes will lead to bigger savings down the road.
At CVS today, I saved over $11 on my purchase (thank you, ExtraCare Bucks!) and paid less than $5 for my items. Then at Bi-Lo, I was happy to note that with the Buy One Get One Free specials and my coupons, I was able to say 41% on my total purchase! We usually save 25-30% on our shopping bill.
Although I still have lots to learn in order to save more money, I am super-excited that I've been able to make small changes in our shopping habits. I'm certain these small changes will lead to bigger savings down the road.
July 19, 2011
Breaking Bread Can Break Barriers
What is it about food that brings people together? If you feed them, they will come. At least that is what we usually say in jest. But it seems to be true. On Friday, we had a staff covered dish luncheon. I figured that the usual suspects would participate, we'd have a few laughs while enjoying good food and go back to the business of serving our clients. Well that is partially true. The usual suspects did come, but a lot of others joined in the fun, too. It was a great event!
People who didn't know each other very well broke bread together and shared some laughs. People made new friends at the office and just had a brief time to forget all the stress of our jobs. We had an opportunity to mingle, share stories, and just get to know one another. It was truly a time of fellowship.
You know- sometimes it's the little things that can make the biggest difference. You work with people every single day or pass them in the hallway and say a brief hello. But do we ever take the time to get to know them? Do we stop and take a time out from the daily grind to learn more about these people? Usually we get so busy and wrapped up in our list of To Do's that we miss out on these golden opportunities of fellowship.
I highly recommend taking a break in your day and asking a co-worker about their family, hobbies, likes/dislikes, etc. You might find you have more in common than your place of employment. You never know- you might just make a new friend. And couldn't we all use good friends?
Want to get the conversation started? Offer them something to eat!
People who didn't know each other very well broke bread together and shared some laughs. People made new friends at the office and just had a brief time to forget all the stress of our jobs. We had an opportunity to mingle, share stories, and just get to know one another. It was truly a time of fellowship.
You know- sometimes it's the little things that can make the biggest difference. You work with people every single day or pass them in the hallway and say a brief hello. But do we ever take the time to get to know them? Do we stop and take a time out from the daily grind to learn more about these people? Usually we get so busy and wrapped up in our list of To Do's that we miss out on these golden opportunities of fellowship.
I highly recommend taking a break in your day and asking a co-worker about their family, hobbies, likes/dislikes, etc. You might find you have more in common than your place of employment. You never know- you might just make a new friend. And couldn't we all use good friends?
Want to get the conversation started? Offer them something to eat!
July 4, 2011
Let's Celebrate Our Independence!
Happy 4th of July! A day of independence and remembrance. Last year, I blogged about my heroes and their sacrifice to ensure our freedom. This year, I'd like to reflect upon what personal freedom means to me.
I have the freedom to choose where I live, where I worship, who I love and what I choose to do with my life. I come and go as I please, have a good job that I enjoy, and can get together with friends whenever I want. I was blessed to be able to get an education and advanced degree at the university of my choosing. My parents didn't choose my husband for me, and he is now a part of our family and I am a part of his. I don't have to hide my Christianity for fear of persecution. We can travel freely throughout this great land in exploration of new destinations. I can surf the internet and put my personal thoughts out there on this blog for others to read without someone knocking on my front door and hauling me to jail for my opinions.
These are just a few simple pleasures in life. Simple pleasures that I can enjoy because I was fortunate enough to be born in the United States. I'm fortunate enough to live in a country where men (like my brother) and women choose to serve in our Armed Forces and defend these simple freedoms. For that choice and their sacrifice, I am forever grateful.
Celebrate your independence in whatever way you choose. That is one of your freedoms!
I have the freedom to choose where I live, where I worship, who I love and what I choose to do with my life. I come and go as I please, have a good job that I enjoy, and can get together with friends whenever I want. I was blessed to be able to get an education and advanced degree at the university of my choosing. My parents didn't choose my husband for me, and he is now a part of our family and I am a part of his. I don't have to hide my Christianity for fear of persecution. We can travel freely throughout this great land in exploration of new destinations. I can surf the internet and put my personal thoughts out there on this blog for others to read without someone knocking on my front door and hauling me to jail for my opinions.
These are just a few simple pleasures in life. Simple pleasures that I can enjoy because I was fortunate enough to be born in the United States. I'm fortunate enough to live in a country where men (like my brother) and women choose to serve in our Armed Forces and defend these simple freedoms. For that choice and their sacrifice, I am forever grateful.
Celebrate your independence in whatever way you choose. That is one of your freedoms!
May 23, 2011
Missing Sophie
Note to Blog followers: there won't be any sarcasm in this post. I'm writing it as a sort of therapy.
On May 16, Jamie and I had to do the unthinkable. We had to put our beloved Sophie Pug to sleep. I say unthinkable because I always hoped that I would not have to make such a decision- not where Sophie was concerned. I wanted her to just go to sleep on her own and not wake up- just like all my pets did when I was growing up. Unfortunately, God and Sophie had other plans.
In March of 2004, my brother called me to ask if I wanted a dog. He knew someone who was trying to find a home for her daughter's Pug. I was hesitant to give her a home b/c I knew with my work schedule that I wouldn't be home with her a lot. I'd also never had my own dog. I grew up with dogs but my Mama fed them and took care of them. All I did was play with them. When Brian said that she was housebroken, I figured why not? So on March 27, 2004, I drove home to meet my new "roommate". Sophie was recovering from bring spayed and wasn't feeling too great. I remember meeting her, and she didn't pay me any attention. I stayed at my parents' house all day, and she had NOTHING to do with me. Then, I got up after supper and said, "OK- I'm leaving. See y'all later." I was completely prepared to leave her with Brian b/c she was so attached to him. Yet the strangest thing happened when I said goodbye and headed for the door. Sophie got off the floor and followed me to the door. She was ready to leave with me! It was crazy how she knew that she was supposed to leave with me. So I loaded her, a bag of dog food, a blanket and toy into the car for the drive back home.
I remember her just laying on the passenger seat and looking up at me. She was like "who are you?" I knew that she had been through a lot in her 4 years. Her previous owner was not a good dog mommy. She would take Sophie places and just leave her with friends or family and take off. If you know anything about Pugs, then you know that they are companion animals. They were bred to be companions for Chinese royalty, and they live to make their master happy. So when she left Sophie with her mom and took off to parts unknown to not return for a long time, her mom found Sophie a new home. A home with me.
Sophie brought me so much happiness. She was content to sleep and explore the house while I was at work. She would greet me at the door when I came home and was super-excited to see me everyday. Things went great until the day I came home to find that Sophie had a bit too much fun. She'd knocked the TV onto the floor and broken some of my stuff. To this day I have no idea how she got the TV on the floor and she never would say. I'll never forgot driving into the carport one afternoon and looking through the window to see her standing on the end table. I started yelling at her through the window to get off the table. I felt like such white trash. From that day forward, she became a crate dog.
She hated thunderstorms and would hide under the covers when thunder crashed. She snored like a person and would take over the pillow beside me. She was a snuggler- on the bed, the couch, the recliner, wherever. She didn't like to be alone in a room. She had to be wherever you were in the house or yard. She lived to make you smile. If you were sad, she would just lay beside you in an effort to offer comfort. She loved to go for car rides. All you had to say was "Car car bye bye" and she was running for the door. At our old house, she would squeeze out the gate and explore the front yard if I didn't watch her. Once I started to miss her and found her sitting in the front yard near the street. A carload of teenagers were calling her to their car. She didn't have her collar on and they thought she was lost. If I'd been 1 minute later, she would have gotten in their car. Little hussy!
Sophie met Jamie and loved him instantly. I figured that if Sophie thought he was a good guy then maybe I should give him a chance. She was an excellent judge of character! She enjoyed mingling with other Pugs each October at Pugfest in Atlanta. She enjoyed the car ride there and staying in a hotel. On our first trip, we came back from dinner one evening to find that she had escaped her crate and was sitting on the AC unit looking out the window at the interstate. She had the most innocent look on her face when we caught her. Once we discovered my co-worker was willing to make her costumes, Sophie began placing in the Homemade Costume Contest. She made a lovely Lucy van Pelt and a most holy nun.
I had 7 wonderful years with Sophie. I was her mommy for most of her life and the only mommy that she'll remember. She'll remember me b/c I loved her and took care of her when her first mommy couldn't and wouldn't. She brought so much joy and happiness into our lives. I am a better person for having spent the last 7 years with her. Not a day goes by that I don't think about her and miss her terribly. Yet I know that she is in a better place. She can walk and run, has all her teeth and is enjoying her time in the sun. If you believe in the Rainbow Bridge concept, then you believe that one day you'll be reunited with your beloved pets and cross into Heaven together. I believe. On how I believe.
Sophie Henson Sanders
March 16, 2000- May 16, 2011
Found her forever home on March 27, 2004 and stayed there until the end.
March 16, 2000- May 16, 2011
Found her forever home on March 27, 2004 and stayed there until the end.
April 25, 2011
Some Changes Have Been Taking Place
Wow- it has been a crazy 2 months since my last blog post. I've felt that life has been pretty boring and that I did not have much exciting news to share. In an effort to get back on track, I'll just share a few things that have changed with me.
I blogged a while back about starting Weight Watchers. After many months of working the program and losing little by little, I have achieved Lifetime status!! I'm 35 pounds smaller than when I started with the program in August. I've had to shop for new clothes- awesomeness!! And I feel like a brand new woman! Hubby has even joined WW and is doing great!! He's already down 22 pounds. I'm so proud of him!!!
I must confess that I still suffer from an addiction to books. However, my addiction is about to take a new form. After much contemplation and doing research on the various options, I've asked Hubby to give me a Kindle for my birthday (which is fast approaching). I've already been adding Kindle editions to my Amazon wish list. I have explained to Hubby that I will still need to purchase the occasional book- like Stephen King or Anne Rule. I cannot give up owning new editions by my favorite authors.
Another change I anticipate is paying more attention to my blog. I'll even start sharing the boring details of my life in order to stay on track if I have to. I know, you can hardly wait for those exciting posts. Thanks for hanging with me!
I blogged a while back about starting Weight Watchers. After many months of working the program and losing little by little, I have achieved Lifetime status!! I'm 35 pounds smaller than when I started with the program in August. I've had to shop for new clothes- awesomeness!! And I feel like a brand new woman! Hubby has even joined WW and is doing great!! He's already down 22 pounds. I'm so proud of him!!!
I must confess that I still suffer from an addiction to books. However, my addiction is about to take a new form. After much contemplation and doing research on the various options, I've asked Hubby to give me a Kindle for my birthday (which is fast approaching). I've already been adding Kindle editions to my Amazon wish list. I have explained to Hubby that I will still need to purchase the occasional book- like Stephen King or Anne Rule. I cannot give up owning new editions by my favorite authors.
Another change I anticipate is paying more attention to my blog. I'll even start sharing the boring details of my life in order to stay on track if I have to. I know, you can hardly wait for those exciting posts. Thanks for hanging with me!
February 28, 2011
Losing is the Hardest Part
No one likes to lose. Whether it's a bet, a board game, a college/pro football game or whatever, losing sucks. What sucks even more than any one of those things is the loss of someone too soon. On Sunday, Hubby got a message from his mom that a dear friend was in the hospital and the outlook wasn't good. We went to the hospital to be with her husband, neighbors and friends to see if we could do anything. Unfortunately, no one was able to do anything except offer love & support when the doctors gave us the bad news that she was gone.
Ana Todd was an amazing woman. I'd only known her for a few years, but she treated everyone like they were a lifelong friend. She loved reading Danielle Steele novels, camping with her husband and Bischon baby, shopping at JC Penney, anything chocolate and feeding everyone. She was a phenomenal cook and made chicken salad that was like a bit of Heaven on Earth. She was a caretaker. She was always looking out for guests and was a world-class hostess. No one could throw a party like Ana & AW. If you left their house hungry, it was your own fault.
We had dinner with them a week before she died. As we drove home from the hospital in shock, Hubby said, "Who would have thought that last Sunday would be our last supper together?" We certainly didn't think it then and can hardly believe it now. It's been more than 24 hours, and I still can't believe that she is gone from us. It's hard to comprehend & even more difficult to understand.
Yet, it is not for us to question God's will. I guess He needed Ana with Him more than we needed her. Whatever the reason, it hurts a lot, and I'll miss her. She had a heart of gold that few people in this day & age possess. What I do know is that this world is a better place for having had Ana in it, and we are better people for having known her-no matter how brief a period of time.
We'll miss you, Ana. Godspeed!
Ana Todd was an amazing woman. I'd only known her for a few years, but she treated everyone like they were a lifelong friend. She loved reading Danielle Steele novels, camping with her husband and Bischon baby, shopping at JC Penney, anything chocolate and feeding everyone. She was a phenomenal cook and made chicken salad that was like a bit of Heaven on Earth. She was a caretaker. She was always looking out for guests and was a world-class hostess. No one could throw a party like Ana & AW. If you left their house hungry, it was your own fault.
We had dinner with them a week before she died. As we drove home from the hospital in shock, Hubby said, "Who would have thought that last Sunday would be our last supper together?" We certainly didn't think it then and can hardly believe it now. It's been more than 24 hours, and I still can't believe that she is gone from us. It's hard to comprehend & even more difficult to understand.
Yet, it is not for us to question God's will. I guess He needed Ana with Him more than we needed her. Whatever the reason, it hurts a lot, and I'll miss her. She had a heart of gold that few people in this day & age possess. What I do know is that this world is a better place for having had Ana in it, and we are better people for having known her-no matter how brief a period of time.
We'll miss you, Ana. Godspeed!
February 6, 2011
I'm Back (for a select few)!
Since I've apparently causes chaos & drama with a recent blog post, I've decided to limit access to my blog as much as possible. However, I recognize that some "anonymous" followers may have slipped through the cracks and may still be watching. So if any of them decide to take offense to what I post, I'd suggest you follow someone else who will write about sunshine & lollipops all the time. This isn't that kind of blog.
For the record, I have accomplished a lot in my life, and I've made mistakes along the way. Who hasn't? There has only been one perfect individual, and He alone can cast judgement on me. I don't need anyone to remind me of my past and use it to cause heartache for anyone, including those who have already been hurt. All you have succeeded in doing is opening old wounds and bringing up a flood of very unpleasant memories for all parties involved. Here's some advice- grow up and stop causing drama! This isn't middle school.
Do I regret my past decisions? No because all those experiences have made me the person I am today. Is that a person that everyone loves? Not likely but I can't control that. I can only control how I treat others and how I respond to life situations. I haven't always treated people the way they deserved to be treated, and I can own up to that. I've done my best to apologize to those individuals and make amends as best I can. I even respect those who don't wish to accept my apology.
So with that being said, please note- if I offend you, have the guts to tell me. Don't feel the need to tell everyone but me. Or just stop reading my blog and move on with your life. Heaven knows the rest of us have!
For the record, I have accomplished a lot in my life, and I've made mistakes along the way. Who hasn't? There has only been one perfect individual, and He alone can cast judgement on me. I don't need anyone to remind me of my past and use it to cause heartache for anyone, including those who have already been hurt. All you have succeeded in doing is opening old wounds and bringing up a flood of very unpleasant memories for all parties involved. Here's some advice- grow up and stop causing drama! This isn't middle school.
Do I regret my past decisions? No because all those experiences have made me the person I am today. Is that a person that everyone loves? Not likely but I can't control that. I can only control how I treat others and how I respond to life situations. I haven't always treated people the way they deserved to be treated, and I can own up to that. I've done my best to apologize to those individuals and make amends as best I can. I even respect those who don't wish to accept my apology.
So with that being said, please note- if I offend you, have the guts to tell me. Don't feel the need to tell everyone but me. Or just stop reading my blog and move on with your life. Heaven knows the rest of us have!
An Apology
It has been brought to my attention that some people were upset by my most recent post. I've since removed the "offensive" material. I would like to remind those following me- publicly or anonymously- what a blog is. It is a person's thoughts and feelings at any given point in time. Sometimes I may use examples from my past to make a point. In using a specific example, that does not automatically mean that I continue to spend hours upon hours reflecting on that experience from my past. We live, we learn, we move on. Sometimes we even learn a lesson.
Since I apparently have some anonymous followers who like to stir the pot, I'll make sure to watch my Ps and Qs in the future. For those who were truly upset by what I posted, I am sorry.
Peace Out!
Since I apparently have some anonymous followers who like to stir the pot, I'll make sure to watch my Ps and Qs in the future. For those who were truly upset by what I posted, I am sorry.
Peace Out!
January 6, 2011
I've created a monster!
Happy New Year! 2010 has come and gone. 2011 is here in all its glory. Here's to a great year for all of us!
I've been quite open about own personal addiction to books. I've said it before and I'll say it again- books are my version of crack. I love browsing through bookstores and libraries. While I only got one book among my Christmas presents, I made up for that by buying several books after the holidays. Thank you, Christmas money; and kudos to Anne Rule & Stephen King for publishing new books before the holidays!!
I've also been open about Hubby's feelings about my addiction. He is tired of me bringing more books into the house. He would sign me up for a 12-step program if one existed for book obsessed people like myself. He also makes a running joke that he can't read. Anytime someone suggests that he read a book about a subject that might interest him (can you say Bigfoot?), he says that he can't read. I think he does this more or less to annoy his mom because she is annoying in her own varied ways and is a retired teacher.
So imagine my surprise at what has transpired in our home since Christmas. Being the wonderful wife that I am, I decided to give Hubby a gift that he has been eyeing for months- an iPad. Hubby is a computer person and loves his technical gadgets. I just assumed that he would surf the web and what-not on the iPad. Little did I know that you can download and read books on his gift. I just buy these things- I don't get closely acquainted with them.
One evening, I notice that he appears to be staring at something intently on the screen. When I ask what he's looking at, he says that he is reading a book he downloaded. Reading? My husband? Same sentence? Really???????????????? Several nights in a row, he gets off the couch about an hour before our usual bedtime and says that he is going to bed to read. I can hardly believe it! Hubby can actually read!!! When I ask him why the change, he says that it must be the iPad b/c he sure couldn't read before. Smart ass!! But then again, so am I so that's one reason we work so well together.
It seems that my addiction may be rubbing off onto Hubby. He just has the electronic variety which he loves to remind me doesn't take up an entire room of our house. Again- sarcasm is a keystone in our marriage and the name of this blog. Now, will his new love of e-reading rub off on me?? I'm not 100% in love with the thought, but I am considering it. Stay tuned!
I've been quite open about own personal addiction to books. I've said it before and I'll say it again- books are my version of crack. I love browsing through bookstores and libraries. While I only got one book among my Christmas presents, I made up for that by buying several books after the holidays. Thank you, Christmas money; and kudos to Anne Rule & Stephen King for publishing new books before the holidays!!
I've also been open about Hubby's feelings about my addiction. He is tired of me bringing more books into the house. He would sign me up for a 12-step program if one existed for book obsessed people like myself. He also makes a running joke that he can't read. Anytime someone suggests that he read a book about a subject that might interest him (can you say Bigfoot?), he says that he can't read. I think he does this more or less to annoy his mom because she is annoying in her own varied ways and is a retired teacher.
So imagine my surprise at what has transpired in our home since Christmas. Being the wonderful wife that I am, I decided to give Hubby a gift that he has been eyeing for months- an iPad. Hubby is a computer person and loves his technical gadgets. I just assumed that he would surf the web and what-not on the iPad. Little did I know that you can download and read books on his gift. I just buy these things- I don't get closely acquainted with them.
One evening, I notice that he appears to be staring at something intently on the screen. When I ask what he's looking at, he says that he is reading a book he downloaded. Reading? My husband? Same sentence? Really???????????????? Several nights in a row, he gets off the couch about an hour before our usual bedtime and says that he is going to bed to read. I can hardly believe it! Hubby can actually read!!! When I ask him why the change, he says that it must be the iPad b/c he sure couldn't read before. Smart ass!! But then again, so am I so that's one reason we work so well together.
It seems that my addiction may be rubbing off onto Hubby. He just has the electronic variety which he loves to remind me doesn't take up an entire room of our house. Again- sarcasm is a keystone in our marriage and the name of this blog. Now, will his new love of e-reading rub off on me?? I'm not 100% in love with the thought, but I am considering it. Stay tuned!
December 24, 2010
Merry Christmas!!
So from the Sanders home to your home- have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Stay tuned for more mis-adventures and random musings in 2011!
November 15, 2010
My Brother, My Hero
I've never really considered anyone my hero. I admire lots of people and aspire to emulate them in various ways. However, I'd never classify any of them as a hero. Then sometimes various life situations really show you what people are made of and a hero is born.
As a member of the SC Army National Guard since 2001, my brother Brian has readily given a weekend every month and 2 weeks a year to perform his job as a citizen soldier. Often times, he was giving much more time than that for various trainings. In 2004 just as Brian was announcing his engagement and the impending birth of his first child, he also announced that his unit was being deployed. He was off to Kuwait for a year. While he was away, his son (my nephew) Keith was born. Brian came home when Keith was 9 months old and went back to his job. He continued to stay in the Guard because he truly loves it.
Fast forward to 2009. Brian informs us that his unit is again being deployed in January 2010. Destination- Afghanistan. This pill was hard to swallow. His time in Kuwait was fairly uneventful- always a good thing in a war zone. Afghanistan is a different setting entirely. All I could think was that my brother would be hunting Bin Laden in the mountains and trying to avoid suicide bombers. Not something one wants to ponder as they hug their loved one goodbye. Oh, did I mention that his second child was going to be born while he was halfway around the world? Grace Kay arrived in March.
Fast forward to November 12, 2010. I woke up at 4:40AM to make sure I was at the Columbia Airport at 5:30 to welcome my brother home. I'm not a morning person at all! But I jumped out of bed when the alarm went off! I couldn't wait to see Brian with my own 2 eyes and give him a big hug. You see, he was coming home. This tour was officially over. The mission had been carried out.
Why do I consider Brian my hero? He willingly chose to serve his country both at home and abroad. He could have gotten out after his first deployment, but he felt a calling. He considers himself nothing more than an American doing his job. Yet he has sacrificed personal experiences (like being present at the births of his 2 children) to do his job. He put himself in harm's way so that I can sit in my home and type whatever I want on my blog and not worry about being arrested. He carries a gun in dessert heat and looks out for potential bombers so that we can complain about our elected officials and have an opportunity to vote them out of office.
Nothing I ever do will be that awe inspiring. I'll never wear a uniform and put myself in between a bullet and my battle buddy. I'll never have to respond to enemy fire at the end of a seemingly peaceful day. But people like my brother and the men & women in his unit make those decisions every day, and they ask for nothing in return. Because of these men and women, we live in freedom. Now that is what I call the actions of a hero. You can bet that this Thanksgiving and Christmas season will be celebrated like never before in our family. Our soldier came home. For that, I will be forever grateful!
October 30, 2010
Pugfest + Fry's = Happiness
As I write this, I'm relaxing after a very eventful day at Pugfest 2010 and watching a very exhausted Pug catch some ZZZZ's. For those who don't know, Pugfest is an annual fundraising event for Southeast Pug Rescue & Adoption, Inc. (SEPRA). They are a non-profit organization that rescues and fosters abandoned and surrendered Pugs while trying to place them in their forever homes. For more information, check them out at http://www.rescuepug.com
Today was our 4th Pugfest trip. I can honestly say that this was the best one by far. To hit the highlights: We spent the day with awesome dogs & their owners. I got some awesome items in the silent auction, and Sophie won 3rd place in the Homemade Costume category dressed as a nun. Pictures will be included in a future blog post. She was adorable (and yes- I am totally biased!). People loved her and kept taking her picture. She was a fan favorite. Now she is completely worn out and enjoying sleeping in the hotel bed. Not sure why, but Sophie loves hotel beds. Maybe it's because it's bigger than our bed at home and she can have more room. Maybe its because there is no kitty to share the space with. Who knows. All I do know is that she is sleeping like a champ.
In addition to Pugfest fun, this trip also marks our annual shopping excursion to Fry's Electronics. If you are not familiar with Fry's (which I wasn't until I began attending Pugfest 4 years ago), it is like a gigantic Best Buy. Jamie loves all the computers and electronic gadgets. I love the amazing selection of DVDs at wonderfully low prices. (This is not a paid advertisement for Fry's Electronics. Although they should pay me to spread the word about their greatness.) If you've ever been to our house, you understand why I appreciate a bargain on DVDs. We have almost 300 DVDs in our collection plus many of our favorite TV shows on DVD. Our collection continues to grow (thanks to me and the great deals I find) so we are never without entertainment in our house. Not to be completely selfish, most of what I purchased today was gifts for other people. I can't turn down a bargain and Christmas is just around the corner.
I'll close this post now and try to catch some ZZZZs with Sophie. She has the right idea.
Pug out!
Today was our 4th Pugfest trip. I can honestly say that this was the best one by far. To hit the highlights: We spent the day with awesome dogs & their owners. I got some awesome items in the silent auction, and Sophie won 3rd place in the Homemade Costume category dressed as a nun. Pictures will be included in a future blog post. She was adorable (and yes- I am totally biased!). People loved her and kept taking her picture. She was a fan favorite. Now she is completely worn out and enjoying sleeping in the hotel bed. Not sure why, but Sophie loves hotel beds. Maybe it's because it's bigger than our bed at home and she can have more room. Maybe its because there is no kitty to share the space with. Who knows. All I do know is that she is sleeping like a champ.
In addition to Pugfest fun, this trip also marks our annual shopping excursion to Fry's Electronics. If you are not familiar with Fry's (which I wasn't until I began attending Pugfest 4 years ago), it is like a gigantic Best Buy. Jamie loves all the computers and electronic gadgets. I love the amazing selection of DVDs at wonderfully low prices. (This is not a paid advertisement for Fry's Electronics. Although they should pay me to spread the word about their greatness.) If you've ever been to our house, you understand why I appreciate a bargain on DVDs. We have almost 300 DVDs in our collection plus many of our favorite TV shows on DVD. Our collection continues to grow (thanks to me and the great deals I find) so we are never without entertainment in our house. Not to be completely selfish, most of what I purchased today was gifts for other people. I can't turn down a bargain and Christmas is just around the corner.
I'll close this post now and try to catch some ZZZZs with Sophie. She has the right idea.
Pug out!
October 29, 2010
Happiness is a Hotel Full of Pugs!
Today we made the annual trek to Atlanta for Pugfest 2010. Pugfest is an awesome fundraiser for the Southeastern Pug Rescue. This is our 4th year attending. You know you've made it to the right hotel when you see Pugs everywhere. Sophie is among friends here and that is what makes the trip so fun.
Pug owners are cool people. We are obsessed with our babies and do anything and everything to make them happy. It probably goes back to Pugs being bred to serve as lap dogs for the Chinese royal family way back in the day. They entered the world as part of royalty and demand to still be treated as such. I can't blame them. I'd have the same demands if I was from a line of royalty.
So tomorrow we'll head to the fairgrounds and see what fun is in store for Sophie this year. Her costume is adorable and we are hoping for a prize this year. Last year, she got Honorable Mention for her Lucy van Pelt outfit so we are hoping for a repeat performance.
Stay tuned for more Pugfest news! Pugs and Kisses!
Pug owners are cool people. We are obsessed with our babies and do anything and everything to make them happy. It probably goes back to Pugs being bred to serve as lap dogs for the Chinese royal family way back in the day. They entered the world as part of royalty and demand to still be treated as such. I can't blame them. I'd have the same demands if I was from a line of royalty.
So tomorrow we'll head to the fairgrounds and see what fun is in store for Sophie this year. Her costume is adorable and we are hoping for a prize this year. Last year, she got Honorable Mention for her Lucy van Pelt outfit so we are hoping for a repeat performance.
Stay tuned for more Pugfest news! Pugs and Kisses!
October 20, 2010
Insomnia sucks, but it gave me a reaosn to update this.
It's a little after 5 AM and I'm wide awake. Been that way since 1:30. I don't usually suffer from insomnia, but tonight (aka this morning) I do. So what better to do than update my blog which I've neglected.
So.... where to begin? I'm still going strong with Weight Watchers. Lost 13 pounds which has made me very happy. I'm almost halfway to my weight loss goal!! I've had some frustrating weeks but my leader keeps reminding us that we need to celebrate the small gains (or losses in WW lingo) of -0.3. We can't lose whole pound increments every time we weigh in and we didn't gain it overnight. I keep plugging along and know that I'll get to my goal- even if it takes a while.
I've always said that I wouldn't discuss my work on this blog b/c I like to keep my social network life & professional life separate. All I will say is that I'm starting to get the swing of the new job but it still challenges me every day. Lots of long hours the last couple of months have been one reason I haven't blogged a lot. Too much stuff on the brain that I can't blog about or nothing fun & frivolous on the brain to blog about. It's a catch-22.
I have learned an important lesson recently. Maybe not so much a lesson as truth that I had hoped would be untrue. Adults can be very childish. Really- I have to ask myself if someone is 50 or 5 on a more regular basis than I prefer. Seriously people- you are adults. ACT like it! No, don't act- actually BE an adult! The world would be a much better place if that would happen.
I'm still alive and well (although I'd prefer to be sleeping and having wonderfully pleasant dreams instead of typing this right now). Hoping the inspiration will come more frequently than once a month so I can maintain this thing and keep my loyal followers (Are you still there?) engaged and enchanted.
Peace out!
So.... where to begin? I'm still going strong with Weight Watchers. Lost 13 pounds which has made me very happy. I'm almost halfway to my weight loss goal!! I've had some frustrating weeks but my leader keeps reminding us that we need to celebrate the small gains (or losses in WW lingo) of -0.3. We can't lose whole pound increments every time we weigh in and we didn't gain it overnight. I keep plugging along and know that I'll get to my goal- even if it takes a while.
I've always said that I wouldn't discuss my work on this blog b/c I like to keep my social network life & professional life separate. All I will say is that I'm starting to get the swing of the new job but it still challenges me every day. Lots of long hours the last couple of months have been one reason I haven't blogged a lot. Too much stuff on the brain that I can't blog about or nothing fun & frivolous on the brain to blog about. It's a catch-22.
I have learned an important lesson recently. Maybe not so much a lesson as truth that I had hoped would be untrue. Adults can be very childish. Really- I have to ask myself if someone is 50 or 5 on a more regular basis than I prefer. Seriously people- you are adults. ACT like it! No, don't act- actually BE an adult! The world would be a much better place if that would happen.
I'm still alive and well (although I'd prefer to be sleeping and having wonderfully pleasant dreams instead of typing this right now). Hoping the inspiration will come more frequently than once a month so I can maintain this thing and keep my loyal followers (Are you still there?) engaged and enchanted.
Peace out!
September 28, 2010
September Synopsis
I'm still alive... just been crazy busy with work and stuff. My September has been hectic and chaotic. However, I'm surviving and thriving. Quick synopsis of my month:
- Work has taken a front seat to pretty much everything else, but at least I have job security.
- Weight Watcher's has been a great change of pace for me. I've started to really take stock of what I eat and how active I need to be. I've lost almost 9 pounds after 8 weeks. I'm super excited about my progress!
- Started back with my Beta Sigma Phi activities. I love spending time with this great group of ladies!
- Had the chance to spend time with a dear friend from my USC days during his visit to Columbia. Facebook has allowed me to reconnect with old friends that I thought I'd never see again.
- Been reading every free minute I get. Have read some really great books this past month.
- Our Girls have had some health issues. Kira & Sophie seem to be doing better now, and we are getting used to living with geriatric animals.
August 29, 2010
Take Me Home Country Road
Anyone who knows me well will tell you that I am quite impatient. I don't like to wait for anything or believe that anything should take too long. I can thank dear old dad for my lack of patience. I earned it honestly.
However I realized something recently. I was headed back home on a Sunday afternoon to celebrate my Granny's 91st birthday (rock on, Granny!). As usual, I-26 was slow, slow, slow. So I took a detour down 176 which isn't an unusual part of any drive home. The only difference is that usually Hubby is the one behind the wheel. Yet due to issues at work, he couldn't go with me so I had to drive by myself. My impatience was rearing it's ugly head the whole way down the road- people were pulling out in front of me and driving 10 miles UNDER the posted speed limit, turning with little or no turn signal, etc. I finally made it to Granny's house for the festivities and had fun with the family.
Then it was time to head back to the big Cola. Taking 176 from Granny's house is the easiest way to get back home. As I drove back with no time constraint hanging over my head and little traffic on the road this time, I started thinking about all the times I'd driven that road. In my driving years, I have spent a lot of time on 176. I drove it endlessly to visit my BFF in high school, head back to USC when there was a major traffic malfunction on I-26, or just take the long way somewhere. I started to remember how I was filled with so much anticipation for the fun that BFF and I had planned that day/night and the mischief that we were sure to find together. I remember driving that road with tears in my eyes when I had the realization that my first significant crush didn't feel the same way. I remember taking that road with another childhood friend to attend high school football games at an arch rival school and visit with friends we had there. I was overwhelmed with memories crashing through my mind like waves on the beach.
I had an Ah-Ha moment. Life isn't about how fast we can get somewhere and how fast we'll get back home. It isn't about what I can get now. It's about the time we take to slow down and breathe. It's about the memories- both good and bad- that have shaped our lives and make up our past. It's about just enjoying life.
So I encourage you to take the slow way to somewhere when you have the chance and enjoy the scenery. Even if you've seen it a million times or it's a brand new path, it's those moments when we slow down and reflect that make us thankful for the roads we've traveled. They have all led us to the people we are now.
Happy travels!
However I realized something recently. I was headed back home on a Sunday afternoon to celebrate my Granny's 91st birthday (rock on, Granny!). As usual, I-26 was slow, slow, slow. So I took a detour down 176 which isn't an unusual part of any drive home. The only difference is that usually Hubby is the one behind the wheel. Yet due to issues at work, he couldn't go with me so I had to drive by myself. My impatience was rearing it's ugly head the whole way down the road- people were pulling out in front of me and driving 10 miles UNDER the posted speed limit, turning with little or no turn signal, etc. I finally made it to Granny's house for the festivities and had fun with the family.
Then it was time to head back to the big Cola. Taking 176 from Granny's house is the easiest way to get back home. As I drove back with no time constraint hanging over my head and little traffic on the road this time, I started thinking about all the times I'd driven that road. In my driving years, I have spent a lot of time on 176. I drove it endlessly to visit my BFF in high school, head back to USC when there was a major traffic malfunction on I-26, or just take the long way somewhere. I started to remember how I was filled with so much anticipation for the fun that BFF and I had planned that day/night and the mischief that we were sure to find together. I remember driving that road with tears in my eyes when I had the realization that my first significant crush didn't feel the same way. I remember taking that road with another childhood friend to attend high school football games at an arch rival school and visit with friends we had there. I was overwhelmed with memories crashing through my mind like waves on the beach.
I had an Ah-Ha moment. Life isn't about how fast we can get somewhere and how fast we'll get back home. It isn't about what I can get now. It's about the time we take to slow down and breathe. It's about the memories- both good and bad- that have shaped our lives and make up our past. It's about just enjoying life.
So I encourage you to take the slow way to somewhere when you have the chance and enjoy the scenery. Even if you've seen it a million times or it's a brand new path, it's those moments when we slow down and reflect that make us thankful for the roads we've traveled. They have all led us to the people we are now.
Happy travels!
August 14, 2010
"We came, we saw, we kicked its ass!"
This classic line from Ghostbusters says so much about my day. We being mom & I. The ass we kicked being the Tanger Outlet in Sevierville, TN. We had quite the successful shopping trip this year. Got some Christmas shopping done for friends & family as well as bought a few goodies for myself.
I found some great deals and used coupons when I could. Did you know that you can show your AAA card at any Tanger Outlet mall office and get a free coupon book? Today, they gave me a coupon book AND a $5 gift card to be used in participating outlet stores. Oh happy day! I love a free gift card- no matter what the amount! Let's just say that gift card was put to good use rather quickly.
I won't discuss in great details all the wonderful deals I got b/c I'd hate to spoil surprises for my friends and family. I got myself 3 pairs of shoes (saved $60 on one pair alone), some books ( I know, I know... I have a habit that I can't seem to break), my very own Garden Gnome, and some magnets. I really worked hard to spend my money on other people this year.
Another shopping weekend goes into the history books as a success. Wonder what kind of deals I'll get next year?!
I found some great deals and used coupons when I could. Did you know that you can show your AAA card at any Tanger Outlet mall office and get a free coupon book? Today, they gave me a coupon book AND a $5 gift card to be used in participating outlet stores. Oh happy day! I love a free gift card- no matter what the amount! Let's just say that gift card was put to good use rather quickly.
I won't discuss in great details all the wonderful deals I got b/c I'd hate to spoil surprises for my friends and family. I got myself 3 pairs of shoes (saved $60 on one pair alone), some books ( I know, I know... I have a habit that I can't seem to break), my very own Garden Gnome, and some magnets. I really worked hard to spend my money on other people this year.
Another shopping weekend goes into the history books as a success. Wonder what kind of deals I'll get next year?!
August 12, 2010
My Favorite Place
Well, I'm in one of my favorite places in all the world- Pigeon Forge, TN. You are probably thinking that I'm totally sheltered if this "Myrtle Beach in the Smoky Mountains" is a favorite place of mine. Don't get me wrong- I love New York City with a passion that I can hardly put into words (I'll save that one for another post). I adore London, England and everywhere I've ever been in Canada.
Pigeon Forge is one of my favorite places because of what it means to me. It means a long weekend of precious time with my mom. We've been coming here for about 20 years. My granny used to come with us but since her heart attack many years ago, she stays home. We shop at the outlets, eat so much good food that it hurts, and just spend time together. We laugh and talk about everything. I believe that we actually solve 99.9% of the world's problems during these annual excursions, but no one will listen to us.
It's just an amazing weekend full of life & love. I know that these weekends are going to be some of the most precious memories I'll have when the time comes that we can't come here together anymore. So, I'm posting this from one of the best places in the world. Good night & God bless!
Pigeon Forge is one of my favorite places because of what it means to me. It means a long weekend of precious time with my mom. We've been coming here for about 20 years. My granny used to come with us but since her heart attack many years ago, she stays home. We shop at the outlets, eat so much good food that it hurts, and just spend time together. We laugh and talk about everything. I believe that we actually solve 99.9% of the world's problems during these annual excursions, but no one will listen to us.
It's just an amazing weekend full of life & love. I know that these weekends are going to be some of the most precious memories I'll have when the time comes that we can't come here together anymore. So, I'm posting this from one of the best places in the world. Good night & God bless!
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