Happy New Year 2008!

It's been a wonderful holiday season and I've been really blessed this year. I wish for all my blog friends a new year filled with happiness, love, success, and joy. Your love, friendship, and support were an encouragement to me and I thank you.





Auld Lang Syne



Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and never brought to mind ?
Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and auld lang syne ?


For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
And surely you’ll buy your pint cup !
And surely I’ll buy mine !
And we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.


We two have run about the slopes,
and picked the daisies fine ;
But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,
since auld lang syne.

For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
And surely you’ll buy your pint cup !
And surely I’ll buy mine !
And we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne

We two have paddled in the stream,
from morning sun till dine† ;
But seas between us broad have roared
since auld lang syne.

For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
And surely you’ll buy your pint cup !
And surely I’ll buy mine !
And we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne

And there’s a hand my trusty friend !
And give us a hand o’ thine !
And we’ll take a right good-will draught,
for auld lang syne.

For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
And surely you’ll buy your pint cup !
And surely I’ll buy mine !
And we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne

Feed the World

Last year, I shared some of my favorite Christmas songs as I've been doing this year as well. There is one that's very special to me and I'm sure I've mentioned this song several times, "Do They Know It's Christmas". Why do I love this song so much, well partly it's because it reminds me of my teenage years, which I think I consider my "glory days". Back then, it inspired me to want to help my fellow man. Fast forward to present day, and still this song inspires me. Recently I was reading some news articles on the internet when I ran across a Best/Worst list of Christmas songs. And there near the top of the Worst list was this song. I was crushed. How could anyone not like this song? Apparantly, it's not cool to think of starving children at Christmas. Well, could there be a time any more appropriate that at Christmas time, I ask? What other time of the year should we do more for those less fortunate? I find this thought disgusting! Yes, Jesus birth is the reason we celebrate Christmas, but let's not forget that his message was/is equally as important. Love one another, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, welcome the stranger, visit the sick/imprisoned. What better time than during the celebration of his coming?

Feed the World. Let them know it's Christmastime again.

Our Tree

After many requests (mainly just Vickie ;)), here are some pictures of our Christmas tree this year. As you will notice, it's a black, white, silver, and grey kind of theme this year and much bigger since we have more room. (Thanks, honey) I just love this tree, I think it's my favorite of the last several years. You may remember, I change colors every year. So, here's our tree and a few of my favorite ornaments.

Buffemaspolooza

I.Love.Jimmy.Buffett. AND I.Love.Christmas. Well, DUH! If anyone has paid any attention to anything posted on this blog in the last two weeks, you've picked up on that! So, what better way to combine my love of Buffett and Christmas than with a selection of Buffett Christmas songs. It's hard to think of Christmas without frigid temperatures, but how nice would it be to experience Christmas on the beach? Bliss, pure bliss.

So without further delay, here's "Mele Kalikimaka" and "Christmas Island".

A Dedication

This song goes out to my wonderful, adoring husband, Mr. Grinch. Now, he's naturally a wee-bit cynical, but if it were up to him we'd have no Christmas tree, no decorations, no presents etc. I think it's a facade, that he truly loves Christmas and the meaning of the season, but he can't show those emotions, cuz you know, it's not manly. Anyhoo, he's my Grinch and I love him, not to mention that he 's a great gift giver! :)

Here's to you, babe!

John and Paul

I've been working on a post for over a week now. Writing, re-writing, I just haven't been able to put into words exactly what I wanted to say. It was about the Beatles, specifically John Lennon and Paul McCartney. I have loved the Beatles since I discovered them when I was a teenager. I decided I was a flower child, and totally immersed myself in the 60's pop culture. But it was the music of the Beatles that spoke to my soul. While I love Paul's fun and melodious tunes, it's John's lyrics that truly speak to me. His anthems still linger and are just as pertinent today as they were 30 years ago. Peace and love, that's what's really important. How we treat each other, equally, and with no regard as to race, nationality, religion, or gender. So, for this week, I give you two pieces, one each by both John and Paul. John's piece, while written during the Vietnam War era, speaks to us now during the Iraqi War. So, this is Christmas, what have you done? Another year over, a new one just begun.... War is Over... if we want it. Peace. Give it a chance.






And now for something completely different... Paul's piece. A more lighter piece, fluff really, but anything that's catchy and can be sung along with, I love. So for fun, I turn to Paul... 'scuse me, Sir Paul. Simply having a wonderful Christmas time.

Music News

So, Frank Sinatra, Ike Turner, and Madonna walk into a bar.. the bartender says, 'Hey, what's kind of menage a trois is this?' Frank and Ike beat up the bartender while Madonna nonchalantly replies, 'No, just strange news".

Sorry, bad joke there, but how weird that Madonna, Ike Turner, and Frank Sinatra all make the headlines in the same week. First there was the news of Ike Turner's death, then Ole Blue Eyes being memorialized with a U.S. Postage Stamp, and then weirdest of all, Madonna is elected into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame.


I don't know much about Ike Turner and what I do know is not flattering, aside from the well-known fact that his recording of "Rocket 88" is considered to be the first rock n roll song recorded. Unfortunately, I think his legacy will be that of a philandering, abusive scoundrel. I still pray his soul rests in peace and his family finds comfort in their hour of grief.

And, on the day of what would have been his 92nd birthday, ole blue eyes himself gets his own stamp. How cool. Gotta wonder what Frankie would've thought about this.




And finally, Madonna is elected to the Rock n Roll hall of fame. This pretty much verifies what my husband has been saying for years. The rock n roll hall of fame is a joke. Nothing in Madonna's discology is even remotely rock n roll, tho' I suppose her rock n roll attitude and longevity could qualify her for the hall. But, still, there's something about it that's just not right.

Interesting news.

DollyPalooza

I. Love. Dolly. Parton. I think I've said this numerous times on this here blog, but I absolutely love her. She was my role model as a child. I wanted to be her, or at the least be her daughter. I thought she was the prettiest little thing and her voice was like that of an angel, simply beautiful. My aunt always told me while I was growing up that "Pretty is as pretty does" and that suits Dolly. Not only is her appearance beautiful, but her soul is as well. She has revitalized the area where she was raised and has continued giving back to that community and to our state. She's known affectionately as "the Book Lady" for her reading and book program that gives every newborn child a book a month for the first five years of their lives. This program, Imagination Library, started in Sevierville, Tn is now in 36 states, Canada, and 566 other countries around the world. So, this little Tennessee mountain girl has done good. These are but a very few of her songs I love.


Christmas Without You




I"ll Be Home With Bells On




Hard Candy Christmas




I Believe in Santa Claus

Country Christmaspalooza

Continuing on our journey through favored Christmas music, thus I present my favorite Country Christmas songs. Yes, they're the lying, cheating, drinking, stalking type songs, but as I've discussed before this is the music I was raised on, so look over my redneck side.


Santa Claus is Watching You... Ray Stevens



Santa Looked A Lot Like Daddy .... Buck Owens





Merry Christmas from the Family .... Montgomery Gentry



and you can't be a redneck without Jeff Foxworthy's 12 Days of Christmas

Christmas Meme

My dear sweet husband tagged me to do this meme... so here goes.


What are your three favorite Christmas songs & who sings them?

To narrow my favorite songs down to three, regardless of the genre, is extremely difficult. But, for me, I can't fully enjoy the Christmas season until I've heard these "Christmas in Dixie" by Alabama, "Do They Know It's Christmas" by Band Aid, and this by Jose Feliciano




What are your three favorite “Christmas” foods?

My husband selected eggnog here, but I'm more of a boiled custard kind of gal. Less spicy than the nog, I love it. My second would be whatever candy item my aunt makes for me, she makes candy for "special" people at our church and because I'm her choir director, she gives me a tin. She usually makes peanut brittle, which I love, but because I hate the peanuts, she makes me something different. Last year, it was homemade toffee and all I can say is YUM! Third favorite isn't necessarily a Christmas food, but I just love turkey and dressing, and a good baked ham and all those trimmings that go with it. And I'm gonna pick a fourth here and go with the breakfast foods because that was always my family tradition growing up. We had breakfast at my parents house at like 7am and all my brothers and sisters and their spouses and children would descend upon our home and we'd eat and just enjoy each other's company. This is our first Christmas without both parents and it's gonna be hard, this breakfast was a big deal to our Dad and in his memory, I'm going to start this tradition with our children.


What are your three Christmas secrets?

In general I don't have secrets. Well, let me say that anything I would keep secret would be intimate things, if you know what I mean. So, instead of secrets I'll tell you a few things about me.
1. I change the decorations on my Christmas tree every year. Last year, it was a white tree with pink decorations, the year before it was all blue, one year I made the decorations and the kids painted them, and this year our tree is black w/silver and white. I'll post some pictures of it later.
2. Starting right before and after my birthday in October, I start dropping hints of things I'd like for Christmas to my darling husband. From just mentioning things I'd like to have, to circling items in a catalog and leaving it in obvious places, he somehow picks up on all these hints, he's good! VERY!GOOD! and...
3. I am not a snoop! I have never snooped to find my presents. Why? Because I love surprises. I love the unwrapping of the paper and uncovering the surprises beneath. I love to be surprised so much that I pick out numerous items I'd like to have so that no matter what my husband selects for me, I'll be surprised. It's wonderful!

Christmapalooza

As my dear, sweet husband so eloquently put it, I'm doing a Christmapalooza. Last week my selected artist was the big E, Elvis Presley. This week, it's Amy Grant. It is not Christmas for me until I've listened to her Christmas CD's. I had misplaced my very favorite one, gave up looking for it, and finally bought a new one. It's hard for me to select my favorite song on that particular CD because the entire CD is great, but here are a couple. I do have a couple songs I'm more partial to, but unfortunately couldn't find them to share with you. The first one is a jazzy/swing type number that gets me in the Christmas mood, the second one is a beautiful hymn reminding us of the sacrifice God made in that miracle of his precious child, and the last one is special to me because it conjures up childhood memories of my Tenneesee Christmases. I hope you enjoy Amy Grant's "Christmas Can't be Very Far Away", "Breath of Heaven", and "Tennessee Christmas".

Carpe Diem

I make a big deal about my age. I obssess over it, I'm constantly in the mirror plucking gray hairs, smoothing out imaginary wrinkles, and in general making a fool out of myself. For all intents and purposes, I am young. Now, I realize that I'm no "spring chicken", but I'm also not ready for the rocking chair and actually, I think I can say I'm somewhat comfortable with where I am age-wise. After the shocking news I received today, my behavior has been embarrassing. Today, I learned that a friend of mine from jr. high and high school died. He was the sweetest boy, the cuter of a set of twins, so intelligent, athletic, and caring. Boys wanted to be like him and girls, well, we wanted to be with him. Struck down in the prime of his life. We'd lost contact over the years, a natural course of life after school, so I don't know if he was married or had children. Still, my heart goes out to his family. We are never given a promise of a tomorrow, but at the same time, we never expect to die young. We plan for long successful lives, marriages that last, children and lots of grandchildren, but it's at moments like these when we should realize that life is short. Take time to smell the roses, as the old cliche says, carpe diem and all that stuff. Appreciate those you love and make sure they know you love them.

Christmas Time Pretty Baby

I Love Christmas! And being the music lover that I am, there's nothing like good ole Christmas music, from traditional carols, to Christmas hymns, and then the more popular pieces. I just can't get enough. I've already gotten my Christmas CD's out (actually did that before Thanksgiving) and am listening religiously to a radio station playing nothing but Christmas music 24/7. So, from now til Christmas, I'm starting a new series. I'm planning to share with y'all some of my favorite Christmas songs. First up in this series are my faves by.... one of my alltime favorite artists...... ELVIS!

While this video presentation leaves a little to be desired, it's the words and their meaning that are really touching...

If Every Day Could Be Just Like Christmas...
What a Wonderful World This Would Be


Now, Santa Claus is Back in Town to bring me lots of presents, cuz I'm always a good girl!


Let's not forget that no Christmas by Elvis collection would be complete without
Blue Christmas so...



Now, it's your turn... what are your favorites?

Poor Tad

We had some exciting news this last week. A week ago, after some prodding from his Dad, Tad informed me that he had a girlfriend. "A Girlfriend" I shouted. All the while thinking my baby is too young to have a girlfriend already (even tho' he's a handsome devil like his Dad). He shushed me saying "Mom don't say it out loud". We were in our home alone in our kitchen, like anyone else would hear me. Apparantly his little girlfriend, Jaci, is a little forward because as I was told the story she came up to Tad and asked if he liked her, because little Ms. Jaci liked him and they could be boy/girl friend. Well, Tad was all excited about his first girlfriend, and approached Shelby about donating some of her jewelry she doesn't wear anymore so he could give it to Jaci. He found a little ring and gave it to her yesterday and then today... his heart is broken. That little witch broke up with him. Typical female, hold out for the gifts and then dump the fellow. So, Tad is a little down in the dumps tonight. Maybe some brownies and ice cream will cheer him up a little.

Say It Ain't So!

I can't believe it! Emeril Live! starring Emeril Lagasse will no longer be airing on the Food Network channel. I used to just love Emeril. And in some ways, I still do, though now he's become a caricature of himself. All those "BAM's!", "Pork Fat Rules", "Kick it up a notch", and his myriad of other sayings just became too much. It's taken up so much time, he doesn't do the real cooking anymore. And that was the best part, he was an excellent teacher. Emeril made the Food Network what it is today. Before his show, there were repeats of older food shows and new ones with hosts that seemed more like a mannequin than an actual chef. Now, the Food channel is so well known we know the chef's names from Paula, to Rachel, Bobby, Giada, and Mario, I could go on and on. Largely thanks to Emeril. He's not leaving the channel entirely, not yet anyway. His current contract expires in summer '08, so we'll have to wait and see, but for the meantime Emeril Live is gone and his Essence of Emeril will remain with new shows upcoming.

Thanks for the memories, Emeril. BAM!

Give Thanks

Give Thanks with a grateful heart
Give Thanks to the holy one
Give Thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His son


Give Thanks with a grateful heart
Give Thanks to the holy one
Give Thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His son

And now, let the weak say, "I am strong"
Let the poor say, "I am rich"
Because of what the Lord has done for us.

And now, let the weak say, "I am strong"
Let the poor say, "I am rich"
Because of what the Lord has done for us.

Give Thanks.... we Give Thanks

Being Thankful

We can all find things to be thankful for this year. Even though this has been a difficult year for me, I am still so very blessed. I have a nice home (even tho' it's topsy turvy now because of the remodel), a sweet ride, two children that drive me crazy, and a wonderful man that loves and accepts me for who I am, and does his very best to spoil me. We are so blessed with wonderful, supporting friends and family, careers we enjoy, and a faith that stabilizes our crazy lives. So, take a moment this Thanksgiving and find one thing for which you are truly thankful.

Fashion

I love fashion. At one time, when I was much younger, I wanted to be a fashion designer. There was a tv show on CNN called Style with Elsa Klench and I loved that show. It introduced me to the world of fashion and design and ignited that spark within me. Unfortunately, I was never able to explore that desire, but I now live vicariously through my new favorite tv show... Project Runway. It stars supermodel, Heidi Klum as the host, Tim Gunn as the design director and advice guru for the contestants, designer Michael Kors, fashion magazine editor, Nina Garcia as judges, and of course the contestants all vying for the opportunity to win enough money to start their own fashion line. If you're even remotely interested in fashion, you've got to check out this show!



Oh, and Beth, I agree with you, Rami may be it.. I also liked Chris, but that Christian is a little intense, talk about diva!

Blades of Grass.....

In honor of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, I solemnly submit this moving piece. It was written as a tribute to our fallen heroes by Senator Orrin Hatch. While I may not agree with his politics, I respect his musical talents and as the child of a veteran, I am thankful for this piece. Our daughter, Shelby, performed this selection with the West Middle School chorus during part of their Veteran's Day program. This weekend, and on Monday in particular, let us take a moment to remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice to ensure our freedom and let us be thankful for them and their families.

God rest their souls.

Of Course!

Get a Cash Advance

*Hat tip Gavo (who may I add is only Jr. High School level)

All Saints Day

FOR ALL THE SAINTS




For all the saints, who from their labours rest,
Who Thee by faith before the world confessed,
Thy Name, O Jesus, be forever blessed.
Alleluia, Alleluia!

Thou wast their Rock, their Fortress and their Might;
Thou, Lord, their Captain in the well fought fight;
Thou, in the darkness drear, their one true Light.
Alleluia, Alleluia!

For the Apostles’ glorious company,
Who bearing forth the Cross o’er land and sea,
Shook all the mighty world, we sing to Thee:
Alleluia, Alleluia!

For the Evangelists, by whose blest word,
Like fourfold streams, the garden of the Lord,
Is fair and fruitful, be Thy Name adored.
Alleluia, Alleluia!

For Martyrs, who with rapture kindled eye,
Saw the bright crown descending from the sky,
And seeing, grasped it, Thee we glorify.
Alleluia, Alleluia!

O blest communion, fellowship divine!
We feebly struggle, they in glory shine;
All are one in Thee, for all are Thine.
Alleluia, Alleluia!

O may Thy soldiers, faithful, true and bold,
Fight as the saints who nobly fought of old,
And win with them the victor’s crown of gold.
Alleluia, Alleluia!

And when the strife is fierce, the warfare long,
Steals on the ear the distant triumph song,
And hearts are brave, again, and arms are strong.
Alleluia, Alleluia!

The golden evening brightens in the west;
Soon, soon to faithful warriors comes their rest;
Sweet is the calm of paradise the blessed.
Alleluia, Alleluia!

But lo! there breaks a yet more glorious day;
The saints triumphant rise in bright array;
The King of glory passes on His way.
Alleluia, Alleluia!

From earth’s wide bounds, from ocean’s farthest coast,
Through gates of pearl streams in the countless host,
And singing to Father, Son and Holy Ghost:
Alleluia, Alleluia!

Happy Spooks Day

Here are my spooks!



Little Red Riding Hood



Pirate Boy


They had loads of fun at our church's annual Fall Festival/Block Party. They each won something from the cake walk, so I ended up bringing back home the chocolate fudge cake I made, but that's okay! Tad also won two 2-liter drinks from the ring toss game and they have loads of candy. My ingenious teenager has decided to take part of her bag of goodies to school to sell for five cents a piece. She's got bills! She's in deep to the landlord for running up her cellphone bill. All in all, it was a lot of fun, now I'm ready for a break!

Poetry

I like poetry, however, I am not one to contemplate it, nor do I even attempt to understand all the symbolism, hyperbole, metaphors etc. contained within the poem. Possibly, it's because my reading comprehension is total crap, or that I'm just not a "deep" person. But I do appreciate a limerick, or a sonnet, rhyme, song, or verse. That being said, here's a poem written by my brillant teenage daughter. (she takes after her mother, of course)




A Poem

Blowing in the wind
green and grassy far
over hills and through the field

running, running fast
away from nothing
away from everything
maybe something, maybe nothing

now it's getting dark
running, running back
scared of something
scared of nothing
maybe something, maybe nothing
scared, scared of everything

Shelby Ruch

He's Soo GOOOD to me!

My husband is soo good to me. He's thoughtful, he's attentive, and he's a great gift giver. In fact, here's what he gave me for my birthday.



In case you can't tell cuz the photo isn't so great, that's the new IPod Nano, along with Rascal Flatts new CD, a Bob Marley compilation CD, and the old Michael Jackson CD Thriller. Yes, I have eclectic taste in music, and my dear, sweet husband knows that and even tho' I wouldn't buy the Jacko cd myself because I didn't want to add to that pedophile's money stash, my thoughtful husband knew I really wanted it. And he's sooo good at knowing what I want and making sure I get it. He spoils me terribly! I forgot to add the dozen red roses and balloon he sent to me at work the day before my b'day. Like I said, thoughtful and attentive. I'm so blessed.

Thank you, Art Ruch for making my birthday so special!

Birthdays and Vacations

Yes, I'm now officially a year older...it SUCKS!

Now, I'm on vacation, heading to Memphis to see Elvis and Martin Luther King, Jr....


When I get back from vacation, I'll fill you all in on how my birthday went, what my wonderful husband gave me, and what Memphis was like.... so stay tuned.

My Sweet Baby

God knows what God is doing. Cuz she certainly knows that if Tad had been our first child, Tad would have been our ONLY child. Sometimes all I can do is shake my head in wonder and amazement at some of the things he says and does. I suppose he is like me in that regard because my loving husband has said something similar about me, however, I am not a wild storyteller, nor am I an energetic 9 yr old.

So, that being said, let me relate to you an exchange between our youngest and myself. I was getting ready for work this morning, hair, makeup, etc. when that sweet child looks me in the eye and says, "Mom, I know how to french kiss". I just about poked my eye out with my mascara wand and I'm thinking, O God, how does he know this, does he have personal experience with it? I replied with, "No you do not!". To which Tad said, "Oh yes I do". Now, I'm thinkin, okay buddy, let's just see what you think you know. "Show me" I replied. Let me just say I wish I hadn't said that because he proceeded to give me a visual. Let's just say it was a VERY GOOD visual. I. WAS. SHOCKED!!! As I stumbled to get the words out, all I could say was, "Well, I guess you do and just who did you learn this from anyway". Turns out he's been listening to some fifth graders out on the playground. I'm just dumbfounded that even 5th graders know about french kissing, I guess that just shows how old I am.

I suppose I should be comforted by the fact that Tad told me not to worry, that he never planned on french kissing with anybody anyway. Of course, I realize that he'll change in mind in a couple of years, but I am not ready to face that yet. He's still my baby....

I Love My Husband

I love my husband. And I am the luckiest girl in the world because he picked me to be his girl, but... there are those moments (Ladies, you know what I'm talking about). Those moments when he thinks he's being "cute". So, Sunday morning in church he has one of those "moments". Let me set the stage here, some of you may remember that I have a slight problem with aging. Well, my birthday is coming up at the end of this week, so knowing that, my husband has his moment. During our prayer concern time, our Pastor invites the congregation to share thoughts, joys, and concerns, so my sweet, wonderful husband raises his cute, ginormous hand and as he is recognized by the Pastor says, and I quote, "We need to remember those who are turning a year older this week and are having a hard time with it". Well, the congregation roars with laughter and my best friend says, "oh no, he's done it now.... she's cuttin them eyes at you, you're in trouble now, Art". Meanwhile, her husband, who's birthday is the day after mine and who I am constantly aggravating, but whom I love dearly is choking because he's laughing so hard. Even the Pastor is cracking up, all I can do is shake my head and sigh.
I.Love.My.Husband. God bless him.

Mayberry, Part Deux

Well, it seems Andy and Barney were a hit at Harris Chapel UMC last night. I don't think I've ever heard this group of people laugh so heartily like they did last night. I forgot how genuinely funny that show was. As I said before, the lesson was about how we tend to worry about thigns that may or may not occur, when instead we should have faith and trust that God will love us, protect us, and supply our every need (not want, NEED). Sometimes that's easier said than done, but we must at least try. Thanks everyone for your kind thoughts and good luck wishes.

So, as Gomer would say

Gaahhh-leeee.... ya'll folks sure is nice.

I Miss Mayberry...

Remember the Andy Griffith Show?



That was great television. Still is. Would you believe there's been a Bible Study built around that wonderful show? There has. And my church will begin this study tomorrow night. With ME, yes ME as the leader. (Yes, the pastor is out of town, and yes he's out of his mind asking me to fill in.)

So, the basic premise of this study is that you view one episode of the show and some scripture is inserted in between some of the scenes and then there's discussion time afterwards. The episode we'll be watching is entitled "High Noon in Mayberry". Briefly, Andy receives a letter from an ex-con that he was in a gun fight with years ago in which Andy wounded the man in the leg, thereby rendering his leg lame. In this letter, the ex-con informs Andy that he'll be coming to Mayberry to set things straight between them, well, as usual Barney jumps the gun and assumes the man is coming to hurt Andy and deputises Gomer and Otis. In the end, the con and Andy meet, Andy finds out he's been reformed thanks to their run in and comes to thank him. Barney and the boys stake out Andy's house, cut the power, and end up tied together on Andy's living room floor. The study focuses on worry and about how we deal with problems in our lives. How we sometimes are like Barney, frantically worrying and blowing things out of proportion but that we should be more like Andy, concerned, but believing and trusting that things will work out and giving over to God our fears.

I hope and pray that this goes over well and that I'm able to do it justice. I'll let you know how it goes.

History

My husband and I are quite the history buffs, he more so than me because History was his major in college. I didn't quite get that far, but as a child I was interested in historical facts, things, people etc. I went through different phases, focusing on different eras from the antebellum/Civil War period, to the free loving 60's, to the Jazz Age, back to Revolutionary times, and now to what has been termed the "Greatest Generation".

To that end, I tuned in tonight to view Ken Burns, "The War". History is important and if we don't learn from our mistakes we are bound to repeat them (Hello... President Bush are you listening? Irag? Viet-Nam?)

Sorry, I digress. I feel it's my responsibility to aid in my children's education by exposing them to media outlets that will teach them about our history as a nation, and as a culture. So, I allowed them to watch the documentary with me this evening. Afterwards I thought that maybe I shouldn't have becuase there were a few images that could be described as disturbing, but they're to the age that I thought they would somewhat understand the violence of war and if they didn't have that understanding beforehand, maybe now they do. Equally disturbing to me were the images of segregated troops. I made a point to my children to notice the pictures of the all black troops. It is so hard to comprehend the division of people because of skin color and I suppose that should be considered a good thing.

Shelby informed me later that she didn't really want to watch anymore of it because it was depressing. Tad, meanwhile, is cheering on the American troops and is excited about the next night, which we will probably miss because of a prior engagement. Hopefully, I'll get to watch more of it and if anyone has the chance to get a glimpse of it, I highly recommend The War by Ken Burns.

What?

Wow... it's hard to believe that the end of September is upon is and it's been almost a whole month since I last posted. In case any of you have wondered where I've been.. Well, I've been here at home reading your blogs and keeping up with what's going on the news and well, that's about it. I've had lots of ideas for posts, but just haven't felt like blogging lately. So, if any of you missed me, thanks.

Long Weekend

I.Love.Long.Weekends! Except for having to go back to work on Tuesday, because it will be phenomenally busy, but right now, I'm ready for the extra day off! And I'm excited because my wonderful Prince Charming is taking me away for the weekend. Just the two of us! We're not going far, just to Nashville. We're going to do all those "touristy" things that tourists do. We've lived in Tennessee all our lives, but have neglected to visit those 'landmarks' unique to our area. Maybe I'll share some details later, but as a wise old scribe said, "What happens in Nash-Vegas, stays in Nash-Vegas"
Enjoy your Labor Day!

Queen of Hearts

Princess Diana.. I.LOVED.HER. She was the epitome of every little girl's fantasy to grow up, marry the prince of her dreams, and live happily ever after. She had style. She had class. She was simply beautiful. I've always been an anglophile, but Diana intensified my interest in all things English. Although I was a very small child when she and Charles began their courtship, I remember it vividly. She was so shy, seemed so in love with him and it seemed like she would be the perfect princess. I remember getting up at the break of dawn to watch her wedding. I remember how the commentators commented on her beauty that day, how long the train of her wedding dress was, and who her attendants were, how she included the children that she had taught at nursery school. They seemed like the perfect couple, the kind you read about in fairy tales, but alas, life is no fairy tale. We've since heard all the sordid tales of Charles' and Diana's marriage. I admit, I kept up with her through the tabloids. The very ones that caused her such distress. The ones who are probably responsible for her death ten years ago this Friday. A death that should not have happened. A death that was too soon. I remember the exact moment I heard she had died. It's one of those seminal moments that define our lives, like the moment you heard JKF died, or when the space shuttle, Challenger, exploded. It was late at night, and Art and I had been up watching the BBCAmerica channel on television. The program was interrupted with the news that Princess Diana had been in a car accident and had died. I could not believe it. I skimmed other news channels for confirmation because I simply could not believe that she was dead. Someone so full of life, just gone in an instant, it didn't seem possible, but it was. And I grieved. I was pregnant with my own son then and I grieved for the young sons she left behind. Having lost my own mother at about the age her oldest son was, I could empathize. I remember the outpouring of grief and love for her and her boys. The mountains of flowers at her estate, she was truly the Queen of hearts. Again, I was up early to watch her funeral service, her boys walking with their father, uncle, and grandfather to the service, and the drive to Althorp for her internment. The image of the horse drawn cortege bearing her body to the church with flowers and loving notes from her children on the casket is burned into my memory. She was many things to many different people. A comfort to the sick, a crusader for the injured, a role model, a fundraiser for needy charities, a wife, a mother, a woman. Let us remember her not only for her physical beauty, but for the beauty that she possessed within that reached out to others.

Rest in peace, Queen of Hearts.

'Cause She's Got PERSONALITY

I'm a sucker for those quiz thingys. So, for what it's worth, here's my personality type score. Like I didn't know this stuff already.

Crazy Notion

My husband has this crazy notion. He's of a mind that if a word, say a slang word for instance, is in the Bible, then it's okay to use said word. Case in point, the word ass for example. My dear, sweet husband says that because this word is used numerous times in the Bible, that it's okay for him to say it, and say it, he does. Now, before you get the wrong idea, he's not a regular cusser. I mean, he doesn't use curse words often, neither do I, or we try very hard not to, but occasionally they slip out. And when they do, he's always careful to only utter those that are in the Bible (in front of the children anyway), therefore, he uses the above notion as justification.

Now, let me tell you what happened this week. Tad was in the kitchen, doing something he wasn't supposed to, I'm sure, when I hear him use the "A" word.

Shelby hollars at me, "Mom, Tad used the "A" word".

"Tad, you're not supposed to use words like that", his sister and I say simultaneously.

"So what, Dad says it's okay 'cuz it's in the Bible".

Thanks, Dad!

'Tis the Season

Hurricane season has arrived and as we are coming upon the second anniversary of one of the most destructive hurricanes in recent years, I think it fitting we take a few moments to remember the victims of Hurricane Katrina. During this time, we should also reach out and help wherever we can. There are many organizations out there that prepare in advance for disasters like hurricanes. UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) and the American Red Cross are just two examples of such organizations. Funds donated are used exclusively for the intended purpose of extending aid to victims, so please visit their websites to find out how you can help.

Now for your reflection:


Breathe In, Breathe Out, Move On


I bought a cheap watch from the crazy man
Floating down Canal
It doesn’t use numbers or moving hands
It always just says now
Now you may be thinking that I was had
But this watch is never wrong
And if I have trouble the warranty said
Breathe in breathe out move on

And it rained
It was nothing really new
And it blew
We’ve seen all that before
And it poured
The earth began to strain
Ponchartrain
Leaking through the door
Tides at war

If a hurricane doesn’t leave you dead
It will make you strong
Don’t try to explain just nod your head
Breathe in breathe out move on

And it rained
It was nothing really new
And it blew
We’ve seen all that before
And it poured
The earth began to strain
Ponchartrain
Buried the Ninth Ward
To the second floor

According to my watch the time is now
The past is dead and gone
Don’t try to shake it just nod your head
Breathe in breathe out move on
Don’t try to explain it just bow your head
Breathe in breathe out move on

(Jimmy Buffett/Matt Betton)

Run Forrest

So, guess who I saw in the bank today?

Forrest Gump.

Well, what I would picture Forrest to be if he were a elderly gentleman. This gentleman came in today, with an Alabama ball cap on, walked like Forrest, acted like Forrest, and sounded like Forrest. IT. WAS. STRANGEUH. The whole time I was processing his transaction he was rambling about our lottery and figuring how he'd split the money if he won. He walked out still mumbling about it. I reckon Forrest's mama was right. "Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get!"

SO-A

SO-A (Soap Opera-holics Anonymous)

My name is Stacie

It's been one hour and forty-one minutes since my last viewing.

My addiction is Soap Operas.

My soap of choice is 'General Hospital'.

I have been watching it for the last fifteen years. Before GH, I watched 'Days of our Lives' or DOOL as it's known to it's fans and I watched 'As the World Turns', 'Guiding Light', and 'Bold and the Beautiful'. It started when I was a child. My mother got me addicted. She was a fan of ATWT and would proudly state that she was watching it the day President Kennedy was murdered. She remembered vividly the program being interrupted and what was going on with the characters on the soap. When I started back to work outside the home a couple of years ago, I had to miss my beloved General Hospital, and my favorite characters, Sonny, Jason, Jax, Carly, but thank God for the SoapNet channel because now I need never miss my show. I faithfully watch every night at 9pm. My friends know not to phone me during that time, my children do not interrupt me (mainly because I send them to bed as I have never let them watch GH), and my dear sweet husband doesn't call me at that time either. He's so good to me that he'll even watch with me on his night off work. Am I missing something in my life that makes me watch? No, I don't think so. My husband is sexy, spoils me plum rotten, and we have a wonderful marriage so GH is not an escape for me, instead I think it is a connection to my dearly departed mother that keeps me watching. This is one connection I still have with her and I don't think it's such a bad thing, no matter how stupid other people think soap operas are.

So there! I'm not going to hide anymore! I'll continue to watch General Hospital, and dang it Young and the Restless, or All My Children, and even DOOL if I feel like it!

**SIDE NOTE** I don't mean to make light of those 12-step groups, I truly believe they are a genuine help to addicts. I apologize to anyone who reads this blog for any offense, it was not intended.

One Love

I'm pretty sure I've blogged about this before, but here I go again. I believe that in this life, God provides us with a life partner that is especially meant for just us. What I mean is that there is someone for everyone. I found my special someone very early in life and I praise God that I didn't have to spend a long time looking for him. I always knew he'd have to be an extra special guy to put up with my independent streak, my feminist leanings, my stubborness, my outspokenness, and let's not forget that spoiled brat still lingering inside of me. I cannot fathom why God blessed me with such a man that accepts me completely for who I am and loves me despite all my faults. I look around at other marriages where there is a lack of communication, lack of trust, competition, or where one spouse acts as the parent and wonder if and how they can survive. I look at my own and am thankful that we can communicate about anything, trust each other implicitly, and where we work as a team. I cannot imagine spending one day without my husband. From the way he looks at me, to the sound of his voice, or his gentle touch, words alone cannot describe how this man makes me feel. Even after all this time, I find him as attractive, if not more so than the very first time I saw him. While we may not have as much time together as other couples do, we maximize every moment. The journey we've been on together has not always been a bed of roses, but you have to experience the thorns to be able to fully enjoy the beauty of the rose.

Long Live the King of Rock n Roll!

All the days we've been together
All the days we've been apart
Add up to a bunch of nothing
If I'm not still in your heart
I never want you to be
Just a page in my history
Someone I used to love

Your voice breathed in my ear
Or on the telephone
All the tender things we've whispered
To keep from feeling alone
May they never come to be
Just cold gems set in memory
Of someone I used to love

This current flows between us
That will not be denied
You draw me in towards you
Like the moon pulls at the tide
May no shadow ever fall
That will make me have to call
You someone I used to love

August 16, 1977

I don't remember much about August 16, 1977. I don't remember what day of the week it fell on, if it was a sunny day or a day of rain, where I went or what I was doing that day. I was only four years old, but I do remember August 16, 1977 as the day my muse died, the day Elvis Presley died. Now, I didn't know what a 'muse' was, but what I did know was that this man stirred something down inside my little heart. Something that inspired me, that could console me, and something that filled me with joy. His chiseled features, his long flowing hair, eyes like pools of water, he was simply beautiful. His charm and outgoing personality were like a magnet drawing you towards him and I was totally in love with him, as far as I could comprehend the concept of love. Elvis was a big deal in our home, we had 8 track tapes of his music, my brother had a poster from the Hawaiian concert on his wall, we watched all his movies anytime and everytime they were on the television. We all loved Elvis.


I remember the outpouring of grief. The constant re-telling of his tragic death on the television and airplay of his old interviews,concerts, and movies. Seeing lines of people standing on the roadside as his funeral procession came their way. Women shrieking, tearing their hair, such grief I could not comprehend at my tender age.

Elvis meant many things to many people, and for me he was an inspiration and encouragement to express myself musically. Thank you Elvis for what you have meant to me and to the world and thanks be to God for sending this world such a blessing.

Rest in peace, E.

Interview with Art

1. So, Stacie, how did you meet your husband.
Short version: at a party
Long version: because I hounded our mutual friend to come to aforementioned party until he relented bringing along this tall, gorgeous, blond, green-eyed Greek god of a man. (I've always had a thing for blondes ;))


2. As a "musically inclined" person, what do you feel are the benefits or contributions of music to humankind.
The benefits and contributions of music to humankind are many. Music stirs souls. It has a way of breaking through the walls that we build around our hearts and empathizes with our struggles, soothes our hurts, rejoices in our triumphs, and awakens our consciences to seek justice. Of course, it also has groovy beats that you can really dance to, but seriously music, for some (myself included) can speak to a persons spirit in ways that the spoken word cannot.


3. 1st Corinthians 14:33-35 reads, "... As in all the congregations of the saints, women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the Law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church." Your thoughts on this?
Hot Damn, that church in Corinth finally let the women inside the door! Well, that's my initial thought. I feel that we should not take scripture out of context, that we must look at who a particular text is written to, the culture of the time in which it was written, and the author themselves. In this case, the text is written to the church in Corinth, which obviously had a problem with the women in worship service wanting more understanding of the gospel and accidentally disrupting worship. The author here, Paul, while admonishing the women, only does so to ensure that total chaos does not take over in Corinth. Another thought is that if Paul had intended for women to never speak in church, then he would have sent similar instructions to the other established churches, he didn't, which leads me to believe that this was a problem only for this particular church. Also, to say that a woman must be in submission is in some ways equal to slavery. Paul says, in other parts of scripture, that "there is no longer Jew, nor Gentile, slave or free, male or female, that we are all one in Christ Jesus". If that's true,and I believe it is, then man and woman are equally capable of proclaiming the gospel!


4. You have called yourself a liberal but many people who know you in "real life" consider you to be quite conservative. So which is it?
I'm a conserberal, or is that liberative? I consider myself more in the "liberal" area, even tho I despise those labels. The folks in "real life" that think I am conservative don't know the real me, or haven't taken the time to dialogue with me. I can understand why folks would think I'm conservative; I've voted Republican numerous times. For a long time, I straddled the fence, not really definite on what it is that I believe. Maybe that's because I was young and still trying to figure it all out for myself. Now, I know. I'm happy with who I am and what it is that I believe and quite frankly I couldn't give a good gosh darn what anybody thinks of me!


5. Have you ever met a celebrity?
Yes! I met Davy Jones of the MONKEES! when I was 16 yrs old. My much older parents took me to Nashville to the Hickory Hollow Mall where I had to stand in line for hours waiting to meet Davy. I had bought his book and was determined to get his autograph. I got it and I've got the pictures to prove it. Looking back, I realize how spoiled I was because my parents would probably not have driven two hours to wait in a mall for two hours just to meet some guy from a made up band off the TV. How blessed I was!

Here's the proof:

Just Another Day

My husband and I have tried instill manners in our children. "Yes Ma'am", "No Sir", "Please", "Thank you", etc. Sometimes, I think we've done a good job, sometimes, I'm not so sure. I've taught my son to open doors for ladies, never to ask a woman her age or weight, and a few other things. Now that's not to say that he hasn't learned from example becuase his dad does those things, but I just want him to be a polite, respectful man when he's grown. So this weekend while we were out doing our 'tax-free' back to school shopping, I noticed Tad performing a polite, respectful act. As we were walking up to the door of a department store, Tad saw an older lady coming towards the door from the inside. He ran up, opened the door and stood there long enough for the older lady, his sister, and myself to walk through. Immediately, I complimented him (we've always been big on positive reinforcement) for opening and holding the door for the older lady. He looked at me, shrugged his shoulders and said, "Ahh, Mom....it's just another day, No big deal". My co-worker upon hearing this story said, "That Tad sounds like a card".
If she only knew.....

New Addition

The Lord works in mysterious ways. The birth of a baby is such a joyous occasion and sometimes we take the whole procreating ability for granted. We assume that everyone has the ability to have children, while in reality not everyone does. I have family members who have tried for the 18 years they've been married to conceive a child. You name the procedure, they tried it. I think they had come to accept that they would never have children together. He had a child previously and of course, she is considered "their" child as well, but they always wanted one together. So, it was last year on Christmas Eve, of all days, that she discovered that in fact she was pregnant. Not that they had been trying, but it just miraculously happened after all these years. It truly is a miracle.

So welcome to this world, Major Braxton.



Safe in the arms of big sister, Brandy

Jesus and Me

So, the vacation bible school event at Harris Chapel UMC has come and gone. Thank goodness. I say that as a very tired VBS Director. I didn't really want to take on the task of director this year for a variety of reasons, but I can never tell my pastor "no", so once again I took charge and got everything organized. This year was much better than past years because the time was shorter and we still managed to get every story told. We had Joseph, Mary, Martha, and Jesus, and Peter. Stories we've not learned about in vbs curriculum previously. It takes a village to put this shindig together and I must give a shout out to my wonderful husband, who pretty much acted out every bible story. I, too, got in on the storytelling action by portraying Mary to his Jesus while our very good friend played Martha. Our friend was a little perturbed at me because her part was very long while all I had to do was act like I was cleaning up, answer the door when Jesus knocked and say "Why hello Jesus, I'm so glad to see you. I'm so excited you've come to visit us, won't you please sit down and relax". Whew...I didn't think I'd remember my lines. Art, fabulous as always, came inside, greeted everyone, sat down and we pretty much just talked to ourselves for the rest of the storytelling time. As you can see by this picture, Jesus (Art) appears to be laughing while I am seated at his feet holding my broom. I figure this was when Jesus asked Mary where she got her 1st century red broom and I said at the downtown Jerusalem Wal-Mart of course. I'm not sure why Jesus thought this was funny, but oh well. Have I mentioned how relieved I am that VBS is over?

I See God!

My husband has already posted his sunset photo, but I must post mine. I snapped this photo a couple of weeks ago using my cellphone as I was leaving home for a quick trip to town. I just happened to look over to my left and saw this beautiful scene. As I was soaking up the wonder of God's creation, my brilliant 9 yr old son says, "Wow Mommy it's like I can see God".




Thanks be to God for moments like these.

I Want This!

My husband laughs at me when he catches me ogling this Thing! But I can't help it! I WANT IT! I don't know why, but I'm drawn to it. Art thinks it's ugly, and it is. Maybe that's what it is, it's so ugly and unusual. See, I have this "thing" about wanting things that noone else has, or being different. And I like "classic" cars, now I realize that the Volkswagen Thing may not be on a list of the most "classic" cars, but it is old enough to be considered an antique. I have hinted around about how much I'd like to have this vehicle, stopping just short of saying I WANT IT! I've been hoping that my wonderful husband will pick up on the hints and try to find out all the details about it. I'd do it myself, but I have this "thing" where I think men try to swindle women when it comes to vehicles. I know cars, but when it comes to the inside parts, well, I'm the typical female. I know nothing, except where to put the oil and gas. So, if you try to talk to me about horsepower, or torque, or pistons, etc it sounds to me like Charlie Brown's mother.... Wah Wahh Wah Wah....
So, maybe my wonderful, adoring, fantastic husband will get this hint and check on it for me.. I love you honey!

Condolences Please

Send condolences to me. I am now the mother of a teenager. I do not know how this happened. Well, I do know how it happened, but I am much too young to be the mother of a freaking teenager! I remember turning 13 and thinking it was a milestone, so I wanted to make this birthday one she would remember. I hope it was everything she hoped it would be. Now, she's away at church camp, the first time she's ever been away from home for more than a couple of days. I'm excited for her beause I never got to go to church camp. I know she'll have loads of fun. But to be honest, I'm enjoying the peace around here. No fighting, no attitudes, just quiet. Ahhhhhh... I think I'll go sit back and relax.

Live what?

So, the big Live Earth concert was this weekend. Big deal. I watched a little part of it, but I just couldn't get interested in it enough to stick around through the whole thing. Maybe because Al Gore had a part in it and he's not one of my favorite fellas. Maybe it's because I'm not all that interested in being "green". I don't mean to sound like an idiot here, but I don't think seeing celebrities encouraging people to recycle, car pool, etc. is going to change the world. I have a very hard time taking the word of a millionaire, in some cases multi-millionaires. Like any of these people are going to car pool. I mean really, do you think Jon Bon Jovi will pick up old Al, and P Diddy, or Madonna, and Alicia Keys, or Melissa Etheridge and car pool in his limo to some event? Nope, don't think so! Nor do I believe that these people have energy efficient vehicles, homes maybe, but what about their private planes? It just seems hypocritical to me.

I remember a little concert to stop hunger. It was called Live Aid. I remember being engergized to do something to end hunger. I remember the desire to end hunger resounding through entire nations. I remember seeing on television the starving people being given sacks of food. Maybe it's the imminent threat of death from hunger that spurred people into action. I don't see an imminent threat of death in this case of gloabal warming. Yes, I know that over time the ice caps are melting and chemicals are escaping into the atmosphere changing our weather cycles, and yes I would like to do something about it. But I am selfish and spoiled, so I will continue to drive my BMW (Big Momma Wagon) Pathfinder SUV that gets abysmal gas mileage because I love it. Maybe when all the additions and renovations are done on my house, I can get myself together and have a recycling bin. I would like to leave the earth a better place for my children and their children.

Liberty

Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of Exiles.
From her beacon-hand Glows world-wide welcome;
her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!"
cries she With silent lips.
"Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"


These words are engraved on the base of a beautiful monument celebrating the gift of friendship and the blessings of liberty. This lady has long been a welcoming beacon to the world, inviting the impoverished, the persecuted to a land of freedom, democracy, and opportunity. "Other lands," wrote the Polish emigrae; Henry Sienkiewicz, "grant only asylum; this land recognizes the immigrant as a son and grants him rights." When they were "sickened at last of poverty, bigotry and kings," wrote another immigrant, "there was always America!"



Why have we replaced this sentiment for a mentality of exclusion, isolation, arrogance, and hostility to the alien? Why will we gorge ourselves on hamburgers, hot dogs, ribs, potato salad and the like while there are those among us who will go hungry? Why will we shoot fireworks and wave our flags while there are those in wartorn nations hiding from the sounds of gunfire and threats of violence?

Yes, I am proud to be an American and yes I thank God daily for the blessing of living in a free society. But, I am equally appalled by our behaviors. We have let innocent people die in genocides, from disease, and hunger. We are intolerant and belligerent towards people trying to better themselves in a free country full of opportunity. And we are quick to violence and slow to negotiate.

I will pray God's continued blessings upon this nation and her people. May we embrace the tired, the poor, the homeless, and the alien as our brother or sister and assist them in seizing all the opportunities available.

cool as a.....

We have air conditioning once again!! Well, let me clarify, we had the a/c all along, but the coils or something was all gunked up so the unit wasn't running to it's utmost capabilities! Now it is and I'm downright cold in here, but that's okay I won't complain. I'd much rather be cold than hot any day because it's easier to warm up than it is to cool off. So, thanks to my wonderful husband for getting on the ball with this and getting it fixed.

~*~H*O*T~*~!!!

It is H*O*T here! I mean it is !@#@^#&*@^%@! HOT!! (excuse my french) Our a/c unit is on the fritz, and my husband has plans to call a repairperson, but until then, it is so freaking hot! I'm one of those people that doesn't take the heat real well. If I overheat, I become very irritable. VERY! Any little thing can set me off, I hate that I am that way, but it can't be helped. So, here I sit at my computer with two ceiling fans, and two box fans blowing on me wondering how long it will be before our a/c unit is fixed. Hopefully, it won't be very long.

Dad's Day

Today is Father's Day. A day I have dreaded for the last month. For the most part I think I'm dealing with my dad's recent passing very well, but then I have a moment. While picking out a birthday card for my father in law at an upscale grocery store, I almost fell apart. And the same thing happened when I picked out Father's Day cards back in May. I just knew I would collapse into a crying heap, but I haven't. I had a moment, very slight moment today at church while leading the singing and again when I played my father's favorite hymn, but I'm okay. I am so thankful for a loving, Christian father who instilled in me the values of hard work, faith in God, love for family, and loyalty to friends. I only hope that I can give my children one-tenth of what Tommy Tipps gave me.

And I'm very thankful for the husband that the good Lord blessed me with, and what a wonderful father he's been to our children. I couldn't have asked for a better man and how I got so blessed is beyond me.

Art, thank you for all you do for me and our children. I cannot imagine my life without you. Your constant love and support, patience and encouragement are an inspiration to me. You are my hero and my rock. My heart will always belong to you.

We're Back

We're back from the beach and I'm ready to go again. ALONE this time! Well, alone with my husband. Those children about drove me CRAAZY!! But, I did have a very relaxing day at the spa where I enjoyed my very first massage (it was wonderful), a manicure and a pedicure all while Art took those children to the "Track" to ride go-carts, play in the arcade, ride the water bumper boats, miniature golf, and whatever else they wanted to do. Bless him! I have a wonderful husband! I'm sure he'll post a few pictures and maybe I'll get to post a couple here. Now, it's back to the old daily grind. Oh boy!

Live Blogging, Part Deux

Well, there's another vote being taken, still on the Clergy Jurisdictional, and soon there'll be a break and I'll be heading home. For only a few hours, just long enough to pack, clean up a little, rest for a few hours and then FLORIDA here I come. Art and I may try some live blogging from the beach.

Til then... ta ta!

Live Blogging

How cool is this... I'm sitting in the balcony of the "Methodome" with my laptop listening to reports being given and having a dandy time. I can see Gavo across the balcony. We're getting ready to celebrate our connectional ministries, i.e. youth, camping, corrections, hispanic, etc. This is one of the best reports, so I'll report more later.

Conference Day 1

Well, it's the end of day one of Annual Conference, although officially yesterday evening was the beginning. I suppose I should say today was the first full day of sitting, listening, popping up and down in the seats, singing, etc. As I stated earlier, this is an election year and we are electing delegates to General Conference. I can report the clergy has elected all their delegates, but now we, the laity, have got to get it together and elect 2 more delegates. I must confess I got angry today in the middle of the voting. I am angry because I feel that the younger generation (folks my age) are being discriminated against. It seems to me that the conference is uncomfortable voting for anyone under the age of 50. I realize that a large percentage of the delegates to AC are older (read retired) and are more likely to vote for their contemporaries, however, if we do not start giving the younger generation a voice, there will be no younger generation and our church will be dead! They (the majority) decided to only consider candidates who had already received 40 votes or more, well, I am not doing it!! I refuse! I have made my mind up and if I have to go down with a sinking ship, so be it. I will continue to vote for the person(s) of my choosing, whether they're winning or not! Call me stubborn, hard headed, whatever!
Maybe tomorrow will be better. Then I'm headed to Florida....yay!

Edit: I misspoke earlier when I said the conference decided to only consider folks with 40 votes or more. What I meant to say was that they were only reporting people with more than 40 votes. However, in essence, it's the same thing because not reporting all votes removes those other candidates from view, thus rendering them ineffective.

Brentwood Bound

For the next couple of days, I'll be representing my church, Harris Chapel UMC at the Tennessee Annual Conference in Brentwood, Tn. This will be my fourth time as HCUMC's delegate and the second time I've been during an election year. At this ann. conf. we will be electing our delegates for General Conference. For you non-Methodists out there, General Conference comes around every four years and it's a time when Methodists the world over convene to decide our ministerial focus, deal with any problems facing our church, and make changes to our Book of Discipline. Of course, this just gives you an idea of what all goes on at GC. Since I've never , been, I can't give you a complete list of what exactly happens during GC. A fellow blogger, Gavin, will be campaigning to become a delegate for GC representing the Tn Conference. Hopefully, he'll be elected. So, I'm off to sit for hours listening to reports, watching videos, singing songs, nudging my pastor so he won't fall asleep, and enjoying the fellowship. Since my wonderful husband hooked me up with a laptop satchel, a wi-fi, and some other computer stuff I'm not exactly sure how to work yet, I'm going to try to blog from conference. So, you'll hear from me on the road.

Lucky Me!

As if I weren't lucky enough to be married to Mr. Art Ruch, how lucky am I that he bestows such wonderful presents upon me? Talk about BLING! BLING!

Thanks honey!

Happy Anniversary

Here's the scene fifteen years ago. Our wedding took place in the same church where we attend presently. As I think back on it, this was the happiest day of my life. Did things go wrong? Yes, of course there's always something that doesn't go exactly as planned, but it was a beautiful day, I felt like Cinderella at the ball meeting her Prince Charming. While it hasn't been "happy ever after", it's been "mostly happy ever after". I don't believe in fairy tales, but this life, this marriage comes pretty darn close.


Here's the entire wedding party, with best friends, cousins, and parents.


This is one of my favorites. We still have this plate displayed in our home. It was a gift from Art's mother.


While I hate this cake, I love this picture. This was one of those things that went wrong, horribly wrong. It was supposed to be red velvet cake (our favorite), it was supposed to be heart shaped and stacked, NO columns. Well, the caterer called me at 12am the morning of my wedding to tell me we weren't having the red velvet cake, that she had been up trying to make it and couldn't get it to work out, so she just went ahead and made a white cake. Hope that was okay....Um NO! I would've preferred chocolate. Well, at least it tasted good.