Jill's Real Life

And this is why I hate cooking!

2012-02-11T20:33:00.001-06:00

I just don't understand what my problem is with cooking. Something ALWAYS goes wrong so I usually just don't do it. Occasionally, I may make a pot of chili, spaghetti, or even a chicken and rice casserole but I don't make a habit of it.

But this morning, I looked at some blueberries in the refridgerator and decided I would like to try making blueberry muffins. I looked online and found a healthy recipe that had 16 ingredients - that would be SIXTEEN ingredients! I almost moved on but decided to give it a try. My last attempt at making muffins turned out really good so I was feeling pretty confident.

I wrote down all 16 ingredients, went through my cabinets and marked off what I already had and then went to the store to get all the rest. A few minutes ago I went in the kitchen to get started and as I was measuring out the flour I noticed that it said "BETTER IF USED BY 03JUL10". For the stinkin' love! As you can see, the bag was full. How could I have not used flour in over a year and a half???

Obviously, I decided I better check all the ingredients I already had and the Wheat Germ was no better.

It occurred to me that the last time I used any of this stuff was my last attempt at making muffins - which when I looked back turned out to be March 8th, 2009. I'm just gonna call it. This is flat-out embarrassing. Of course, I was ready to throw in the towel but Hubs was having none of that. Bless his heart, he's at the store now. These better be some good muffins!

In Sickness and in Health

2012-02-07T05:00:00.008-06:00

Have I mentioned before that Hubs has every illness known to man - at least in his mind? The internet is a cruel tool that allows him to look up every ache and pain, real or imagined.

This is a text I got last week:

"I consulted web md and I think I'm having what is called 'Braxton hicks' contractions. It says I shouldn't be worried"

My reply:

"Baby, I hope you're not PG. I might have to leave you..."

I wish I could say this isn't normal for us.

I love it when a weekend comes together

2012-02-06T05:00:00.001-06:00

I don't usually consider it a good thing when things don't work out the way I planned but this weekend was an exception. I had anticipated working all day Saturday but was pleasantly surprised when I was able to get it all done Friday night. That left me with a completely open Saturday! I celebrated by being quite lazy and treating myself to a trip to Target where I went down every.single.aisle that struck my fancy. I know, I know... I'm a party animal.

My running partner was on vacation last week which left me running solo. I went to bed Saturday night thinking how embarrassing it's going to be when I tell her that I only ran one time. So I hauled myself out of bed Sunday morning at 5:30 to hit the pavement. And how about it started raining after I took about 10 steps. The greatest thing was that I didn't even mind because surely running in the rain is the equivalent to running 2 normal days, right??

I had a wonderful day at Church, a great lunch, and just an overall great day with Hubs on Sunday. I think my favorite part was when he decided he wanted to learn how to walk on his hands after seeing the half-time show of the Superbowl. Unfortunately, I'm not the best spotter. We'll keep working on that - it's sure to be a crowd pleaser at parties! :)

Weekend Wrap-Up

2012-01-22T18:44:00.000-06:00

The past couple of weeks have been busy, busy, busy. I've learned to be thankful when I'm busy at work because that means we're making money - which you know, is kind of good when you have a family business!

(Just a note - that last sentence is a testament to monumental changes the Lord has made in my life in the past couple of years. He is teaching me that changes in my "normal" routine are not cause to cry, be angry and generally feel like the world is coming to an end. This girl has learned that willingness to say, "OK God, You're shaking it up. You must have something really awesome in the works." allows me to ENJOY changes in my day.)

I've been blessed with a wonderfully lazy but productive weekend. Saturday morning I met my running buddy, Melissa for a long run - IN THE RAIN! We missed a couple of days this week and decided that we would run no matter what. It actually felt kind of good.

I kept James and Abbie for Mama Hen till around lunch. We spent the morning making pillow houses in the living room and a trip to Wal-mart to buy things that drive Mama Hen crazy. It's the joy of being an Aunt!

After they left Jay and I cleaned out a couple of closets. I can't tell you how good it feels to just get rid of "junk".

Saturday night the girls in my Sunday School class got together for a painting party. We all found pictures online and hoped for the best. This is my attempt at "Sassy Girl". She'll be making her home in the Laundry room with the rest of my "masterpieces".

After Church today I was able to get under the covers and just read and read without feeling a lick of guilt. And you know what made it a tish more wonderful? Wearing these sweet treats for my feet that J2 gave me for Christmas.

Hubs even got the toilet fixed in our bathroom. It only took 2 trips to Lowe's for a $7 part. (Sometimes I think they get the wrong part on purpose the first time just so they can go back.)

And that's it for our weekend. We're all settled in for the night waiting for the storms to roll through. I'm even excited about my busy week ahead!

The New Year Has Rolled On In

2012-01-02T18:39:00.000-06:00

Well, the holidays are officially over and now I feel like I need about a week to rest!

Hubs was so sweet to surprise me with tickets to the Alabama Theater to hear the Alabama Symphony Orchestra for New Year's Eve. It was such a treat!

(Hubs is so cute!)

I might have said our night was perfect except for the prize I found in my seat AFTER I had already sat in it. Some little lovely left their big wad of flourescent green gum right in seat 102 especially for me. The people behind us were so nice to let me know when I stood up.

Needless to say, we decided not to eat out after the concert but did enjoy some Carside to Go from Applebees. I think it turned out better that way. I got to get home and get in my jammies earlier than expected!

Yesterday I got to keep my newest nephew for a couple of hours. There's no doubt I have the cutest nieces and nephews in the world! Look how sweet he is!

Today it was back to work. Thankfully, it went by really fast which was good since I'm suffering with "the Sinus". Unfortunately, my car wouldn't start when I started to leave but my brother-in-law was my hero and jumped my car off. I made it home and now Hubs has gone to get the battery replaced. Not a great way to start the New Year, but hey, if that's the worst that happens in 2012 - I'll be sittin' pretty!

Never a dull moment

2011-12-21T20:08:00.000-06:00

Earlier tonight I caught Hubs setting a Frito on fire. Yes, you read that right. When I asked him about it he said a guy at work told him it could be done. Two thoughts: One, how did this even come up in
conversation and two, who tried it the first time?

And if you're wondering - a Frito can catch fire.

Life on the Ranch

2011-12-20T05:00:00.008-06:00

This past Friday night I had the opportunity to go to the Big Oak Ranch for Girls. The Women's Ministry at my Church has gone a few Friday nights this year to eat and watch movies with the girls so the house parents could have a night out. This was my first time to go and what a treat! We had a Christmas dinner and did some fun crafts.

The Ranch sits on 325 acres. It has 8 residential homes (where the girls live with their foster parents), a gym, pool and equine center. It is so beautiful there. Even the name is beautiful, it comes from Isaiah 61:3 "And they shall be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord that He may be glorified." I praise God for men like John Croyle who followed God's calling to minister to these children.

I had no idea the scope of the Big Oak Ranch and the ministry it is. I also had no idea how much a couple of these girls were going to get under my skin and take residence in my heart. One was 14-year old Nara. She's one of those larger-than-life personalities who attached her hip to mine right from the get-go. She kept me laughing and at one point said she wished she could get a hold of my hair and fix it. Hmmm...

Towards the end of the night we were paired with a girl to talk and pray. I was paired with Vanessa. She's in the 10th grade and from the moment she opened her mouth, I wanted to take her home. She told me she and her sister have been at the Ranch for 10 years. That's so hard for me to comprehend. I don't know her story - all I know is that she looked happy and the things she asked me to pray for were normal teenager things like school and a boy at Church she has a crush on. 10 years ago her list was probably a lot different.

I hope I have many more opportunities to go back. I can't get these two girls off my mind. God arranged our meeting and I'll forever be greatful.

My favorite week!

2011-12-19T08:17:00.001-06:00

The week before Christmas is by far my favorite week of the year. Even though things are always extremely busy and rushed, the time with my family and friends makes it all worth it.

I had the best weekend. Saturday night Hubs and I had our Sunday School party which is always fun. I love playing Dirty Santa with this group. It's cut-throat and we're not afraid to steal~ No Mr./Mrs. Nice Guy in this group. It's good to laugh so much your stomach hurts!

Yesterday after Church we headed over to my Mama and Daddy's for a Christmas lunch and presents with our immediate family. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this day. Mama made 3 different types of soup and cooked a ham and turkey for sandwiches. I made hot baked spinach dip and Oreo balls and Mama Hen made a homemade blackberry cobbler. We ate ourselves silly before opening gifts.

(I didn't get good pictures of the kids opening their gifts because I was the hander-outer.)

We always spend the afternoon hoppin' the kids up on as much sugar as we can and then send them home with Mama Hen. I firmly believe this is my role as self-proclaimed BEST AUNT EVER and of course, we all know that's what grandparents do.

Abbie and James were our cookie decorators.

Someone was pretty proud of his creation.

Tyler is getting too big and needs to stop growing PRONTO!

Apparently, Matt was being too mischievous for a good shot because I couldn't find one on my camera.

After that, I stopped by a friends for her Christmas Open House and had some apple cider that made me smile. And if that wasn't good enough, I passed a live nativity with a real camel on the way home. It was a wonderful reminder of the real reason for the season. Thank You God for Your precious Son.

Today I'm linking up with Carissa for Miscellany Monday.

This doesn't deserve a title

2011-12-14T18:50:00.000-06:00

I cannot tell you how happy I am to finally be home. December has been treating me like I'm a social butterfly and dropping more festivities in my homebody lap than I know what to do with. I decided to come home straight from work instead of going to Church because I didn't think I could "turn it on" till 8:30. You know what I mean - all the smiling and talking. Oh I kid, I was just really tired.

I did make one little detour through the Taco Bell drive-thru. I never thought I'd go back there since we broke up after the stomach revolt of 2009 after eating a Nachos Supreme. I think that may have been when I first realized my stomach had officially entered adulthood.

Thinking back, Taco Bell hasn't been my friend for a long time. I met my one and only stalker there the summer before my Senior year of high school. We used to hang out there on Sunday nights after Church and I met a real cutie. Unfortunately, things didn't go so well and I ended up dodging him for months. The last straw was when he showed up at my dorm my Freshmen year of college wearing a doo rag.

Needless to say, I didn't go for the food. About 3:00 today I started craving one of their Strawberry Frutistas and I made a commitment in my heart to move heaven and earth to get one. Only in Alabama does it make more sense to get a frozen drink in the middle of December rather than hot chocolate. It was a sweet 61 degrees as I sat in the drive thru with the window down at 5:30.

I'll go ahead and apologize now for writing a post about my trials and tribulations with Taco Bell. It says a lot about the excitement in my life. So I'll go now. I plan on spending the rest of my night snuggled up on the couch under my electric blanket watching TV with Hubs.

The day where nothing really happened

2011-12-01T20:11:00.000-06:00

Surprising, huh? I knew my day was going to be less than spectactular early this morning when I tried to fix my hair and it ended up looking like a big pile of poo. It has fully entered an "in-between" stage and is undeniably dreadful.

Somehow me and my hair managed to make it through the 8 to 5 grind without any of my coworkers running away in horror. I will say that the day did go by fairly quickly and before I knew it, me and my hair were off to the gym. The nice thing about the gym is that I can wear my cap and therefore, devote that hour and 10 minutes to counting down each and every one until it's over.

Hubs and I got home about the same time and promptly popped corn dogs in the oven because we have high food standards. We had a lovely time discussing our day as we stood in the kitchen and anxiously watched the timer countdown for the longest 20 minutes ever. And then, we enjoyed our corn dogs on paper plates while we watched recorded episodes of Judge Judy.

Yes, I know - the excitement is almost more than I can take too. Here's hoping to a good hair day tomorrow. It makes all the difference.

2011-11-30T22:16:00.000-06:00

Normally, I'm not real fond of cold weather, but I have to admit - it's kind of put a smile on my face this week. Especially, when my mom showed up at work yesterday with a Caramel Apple Spice. So, so good. A gift of love....

What was not a gift of love was what McDonald's gave me today. About once a month I feel like I just have to have a Quarter Pounder with Cheese and today was that day. What I thought would be a reunion with an old friend turned out to be a brutal betrayal. Apparently, the QPw/C decided it didn't want to be my friend anymore and made war with my stomach. I have decided to breakup with McDonald's. It is now dead to me. It was that bad.

Thankfully, I was feeling much better by the time I got to Church. I'm doing Beth Moore's "Here and Now... There and Then" study on Revelation. Each week I am amazed that I get to see a small glimpse of Heaven. It is humbling and exciting all at the same time.

Now I'm home and all toasty because Hubs has a fire going. I think I'll keep him. He makes my heart smile.

It's gettin' cold up in here!

2011-11-29T05:00:00.025-06:00

It's officially winter here in Alabama! We've had some below freezing weather and you know what that means.... massive amounts of people flocking to the grocery store to stock up on milk and bread. Thankfully, we have milk and bread at our house and more importantly - grape Fanta.

I made our first pot of winter chili and it did not disappoint. I love it when it's so spicy that my nose runs. I just can't decide if I'd rather have chili or taco soup. Love, love, love them both.

On another note, Hubs got an Airzooka. If you're super geeky like us, you might have a lot of fun with it! I apologize in advance for the horse laugh you'll here at the end.

11-28-11 Airzooka from Jill Sharpe on Vimeo.

My Pants Feel a Little Tighter

2011-11-28T05:00:00.004-06:00

So, I decided to wear a skirt today. That's how I'm dealing with my big, bloated belly full of turkey, ham, dressing, apple pie, etc.

I have LOVED this long weekend. After I got off work Wednesday night I got my hair done, convinced Hubs to go to the grocery store with me and then came home and made a chicken cheese ball. (I refused to go to the in-laws with just ice.)

We had a great time with Hub's family Thanksgiving Day. It was my newest nephew's first holiday and we loved having a baby in the house! It was so sweet to look over and see Hubs with his niece and 2 nephews on his side of the family all on the couch together.

Friday was absolutely wonderful. I spent the entire day in my pajamas napping, reading, and watching TV. I did get online early that morning and did about 95% of my Christmas shopping. Total score for not having to battle the crowds (or get out of my pajamas)!

Saturday, Hubs and I ran a few errands before he went to watch the game with friends. (If you're from Alabama you know exactly which game I'm talking about.) Sunday, I woke up to the most beautiful sound - RAIN - and it hasn't stopped all day. I know it's not ideal to most, but I absolutely love it.

Can't wait to see what this week holds!

Ice Ice Baby

2011-11-23T05:00:00.004-06:00

We're spending Thanksgiving Day with Hub's family this year. I called my sweet mother-in-law last night on the way home from work and asked what I can bring. She told me all the things she and my sister-and-laws will be making. And then told me to bring ice.

ICE

Should I pull a Phoebe?

Phoebe: Yeah well, that's 'cause I'm in charge of cups and ice, and Monica is gonna rue the day that she put me in charge of cups and ice.

Run Baby Run

2011-11-22T05:00:00.009-06:00

I have really started to love running. For some, it comes easy. Me, not so much. I struggled for 2 years to even be able to run 3 miles and every.single.second of it was stinkin' HORRIBLE. I mean, pretty much every step left me wanting to turn around and crawl back to my car begging for sweet mercy the entire way.

But, I kept at it and a couple of months ago, Hubs convinced me to sign up for the Vulcan Run. 6.2 miles seemed impossible at the time. I thought I would run as long as I could and then walk the rest. I was good with that because my personal running goal didn't go past 3 miles. (Yes, I am an overachiever.)

About a month before the Run, I went out running by myself on a Sunday morning before Church. Normally, J2 runs with me but she wasn't feeling well. I headed down to an area close to my house with the intentions of running 2 miles. It was wonderful - I was listening to my praise and worship music, talking to my Lord and before I knew it, the 2 miles were up. I decided to try two more and after that, another two. 6 MILES!! Holy Cow, I think I became a runner that day.

The next Sunday we ran 7 and the next 8. The Vulcan Run has come and gone and I look forward to my morning runs with my friends. It's hard to get up so early (we all work) but I love being out as the sun comes up. It feels like a sweet treat God gives us. It really has become a special time of prayer and worship.

I never thought I'd be a runner. I especially never thought God would use it to give me more time with Him.

I caught my Mom telling someone the other day that I had run a marathon. I had to explain to her that I ran a 10K, not a marathon. BIG DIFFERENCE - BIG! So, if my Mama told any of you I ran a marathon, you probably already guessed that wasn't true. Or maybe you just thought I had turned into Super Girl. If that's the case - I'm good with that.

It's been a while...

2011-11-21T05:00:00.003-06:00

Hello, my name is Jill. You may remember me. I used to post here somewhat regularly.

Well, life got in the way for a while and I let this blog take a back seat. Actually, it's more like I left it crying on the curb. I may not have left comments as much as usual but I have been keeping up with all of you. I think I've now rectified this broken blog relationship and I think we're on good terms again.

I've missed being able to tell you all the mundane details of my life. Like how there's an hour of my life I desperately wish I could get back that was spent watching Top 20 Most Shocking Moments - the Backyard Boneheads edition with Jay. #12 was the story of a man who pulled his tooth by tying a string from his tooth to a board and then taking a hammer to the board. He said he used to use pliars but "it hurt too much". I would expand on that but there are no words.

Thankfully, that wasn't the most exciting part of my weekend. Yesterday, we had Thanksgiving with all my family at my Mom and Dad's house. It was wonderful! I do believe my Mama may be the best cook in the world. Her dressing is out of this world! Hubs and I had leftovers for lunch and it was just as good today as it was yesterday.

Unfortunately, Mama Hen's youngest hadn't been feeling good and threw up not too long after we got there. He spent the rest of the afternoon in the back bedroom watching Kung Foo Panda. He did come out long enough to blow the candles out on his birthday cake but then turned around and walked out of the room. You know a 5 year old is sick when he blows the candles out and then makes his way back to the bedroom without any cake. We all thought about his recent projectile experience, the amount of spit that probably came out while blowing out the candles and decided it might not be in our best interest to eat that cake. I had Mama Hen's apple pie instead. Yes, I think that was a wise choice.

All in all, it's been a great weekend!

You might be a maw maw if...

2011-08-10T06:35:00.001-05:00

1.   You record Judge Judy everyday. And you looked on Netflix to see if you could get Season 1.

2.   There is no such thing as "too much" moisturizer after you take your makeup off at night.

3.   You find yourself not drinking anything after 7 for fear you'll be going to the bathroom all night.

4.   You go for your annual physical and the doctor starts his sentence with "women your age...".

5.   You go to a restaurant and don't recognize one single song that plays the whole time you're there.

6.   The 90's are the "good ole' days".

7.   You blink and it's your birthday again. And you have to really think about how old you'll be.

8.   College students look like babies.

9.   You're too tired to think of a 9 and 10 and decide to go to bed instead.

I'm not saying any of these relate to me in any.way.whatsoever. It's just an observation...

Miscellany Monday

2011-08-08T05:29:00.000-05:00

Today I'm linking up with Carissa at lowercase letters for Miscellany Monday.

ONE - Weather - I can't believe this heat. Sometimes I walk outside and it almost feels suffocating. The 20 feet or so I walk from my office to my car in the afternoons is enough to do me in. I've said it before, but I will forever be grateful to this man, Willis Haviland Carrier - inventor of the air conditioner.

TWO - Running - After almost 4 years, I'm really starting to love it. Don't get me wrong, it's still EXTREMELY hard to get up at 5AM and get started. And I still ask myself a dozen times while I'm running what is wrong in my fool head to put myself through that BUT - the feeling afterwards is indescribable.

THREE - I'll be an Aunt again in November! (No, not Mama Hen.) Hubs sister, Kay is PG with a boy! I just can't wait for him to get here!

FOUR- I caught an episode of Toddlers &Tiaras this weekend and I've gone from being speechless to ranting to back to speechless. It would be interesting to see a "Where Are They Now" on these little girls in 20 years. Do they even have a chance? So sad...

FIVE - My baby brother turned 34 yesterday. It's amazing how that can happen when I'm just 29...

Have a great Monday!

A Perfect 10

2011-06-11T15:40:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe but my sweet niece, Abbie Grace, turned 10 today. Where has the time gone???

If I could bottle up her enthusiasm for EVERY.SINGLE.THING I would be a millionaire. She is Anne of Green Gables, Laura Ingalls, and a princess all rolled into one.

I picked her up last night for some girl time. We checked into a hotel and I'm not going to lie, I was T.I.R.E.D. I could have laid down on that hotel bed right then and been out! I had not slept good the night before and it was a long week at work. But, I told my old lady bones to get it together and we headed out to eat. I told Abbie we could eat anywhere she wanted and all she wanted was a cheeseburger. So, that's what we did. Then we spent the next few hours going to every single shoe store in Hoover looking for this ONE pair of shoes that she was dying to have. Thankfully, we finally found a pair that she liked and that fit.

This girl had me laughing all night. I love it that she totally confident in herself. She even talked me into taking her to Toys R Us before heading home.

After we woke up and got ready we headed to IHop for breakfast. She couldn't resist the funny face pancakes.

Our day ended with manicures and pedicures. I can't believe I didn't take a picture of her fingers and toes because she got the cutest color with flowers and polka dots. Thanks for letting me be a part of your day Abbie girl! I'm the luckiest Aunt in the world!

Catching Up

2011-06-08T18:47:00.000-05:00

If there was a Worst Blogger of the Year award, I'm pretty sure I would get it. I'm not quite sure why I can't seem to post more than once a month... It could have something to do with my unique ability to waste more time than the average person. It's good to be above average at something, right?

I'm also pretty sure it has something to do with the heat. Usually getting in my car to leave work is a happy, happy time. Now I spend the first few minutes of my drive home trying to hold my legs up so the seat doesn't burn my skin off. Yes I know, I somehow can't remember to grab a towel or something before I leave home.

I have had a busy couple of months. In May I wrapped up my 12 week exercise class (started another last night!), finished leading Beth Moore's David study on Wednesday nights and... took a trip to Vegas with my sister-in-laws.

Should Bible Study and Vegas be in the same sentence??? J/K. My sister-in-law Kay had to do an audit for work and was sweet enough to invite Amy and me along for four nights of sister-in-law togetherness. I certainly had a great time with Amy and Kay but I think it's safe to say I'm not a Vegas kind of girl.

I did enjoy laying out by this fabulous pool

and seeing the Hoover Dam

and my favorite Sister-in-Laws

and these two kissing turtles that we saw at Red Rock Canyon.

Till next time...

Old Man Sharpe

2011-05-15T19:19:00.000-05:00

A few days ago Jay and I were sitting in the living room watching TV when I commented that I wished the big light wasn't on. I started to get up and had to do a double-take.

Apparently, I need to start calling him Paw Paw. I also might need to limit his time on the internet - or at least hold onto the credit card.

Mama Mia

2011-05-08T05:00:00.053-05:00

I'm not very good with writing my thoughts so it will be impossible for me to explain how much I love my Mama. I'm not sure how I got so lucky. I guess the Lord knew I would have been totally whacked out without her. (Well more whacked out than I already am.)

It's amazing how our relationship has evolved through the years. We've become true friends. I wish all of you knew her. To know her is to love her. And for those of us who do, we are so blessed!

Happy Mother's Day!

The Painful Truth

2011-04-25T21:05:00.000-05:00

I had my first mammogram today. I was NOT sufficiently warned. I was NOT prepared. I didn't know this was going to happen when I went to my appointment. They should have told me. Someone should have told me.

I love how the nurse said there would be some "slight discomfort". Um yeah, sure if slight discomfort means PAIN.LIKE.NO.OTHER!

If we can put a man on the moon, why can they not find a better, less painful way to do this??? Just something to ponder.

No Means No

2011-04-12T20:49:00.000-05:00

In case you didn't know, I'm not much of a rebel. I've pretty much been a plain Jane my entire life. My wardrobe consists of white, black, gray, off-white, brown... get the picture? Everytime my BF and I go shopping she tries and tries to get me to buy some clothes that are bright colors but I always end up buying my "safe" pieces.

I think I might have just taken a baby step. I can't help but smile when I look down at my bright colored toes peaking out of my brown shoes (and of course, brown pants)! You gotta love a polish called "No Means No"!

Watch out y'all! Who knows what's next!

Yes, I'm Alive

2011-04-09T08:46:00.000-05:00

To those of you that checked on me to make sure I'm still alive - the answer is Yes. I won't post a pic to prove it because I seriously need to get my hair and eyebrows done. If I was a cool chick I would spend the next few minutes recounting the amazing things I've had going on which caused me to have no time for blogging A SINGLE THING for almost two months. But I think we all know better than that. So, I'll just give you the facts m'am, just the facts.

Things that have happened since I last blogged:

I joined a 12-week exercise class that has kicked my hiney in every possible way. It meets on Tuesday and Thurday nights and for almost 2 hours I do a workout that causes me to sweat more than I would have previously thought humanly possible. I just completed week 7 and since I'm still alive, I consider that a success!

I've discovered PMS in my 30's is completely different than PMS in my 20's. There are now 2 days of every month where my world feels like it's caving in. I think it's in my best interest (and everyone around me) to take a medical leave from life on those 2 days and remain holed up in my bed with books, magazines, the remote control and every possible kind of chocolate known to man.

Hubs and I took a quick trip to Tampa a couple of weeks ago to see a Yankees Spring Training game. We flew out on a Friday morning, saw the game Friday night and flew back Saturday afternoon.

I'm leading Beth Moore's David: Seeking a Heart Like His study on Wednesday nights at Church. It's so good and I've met the sweetest ladies through it. I'm learning so much.

I've found that having something going on Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday nights every week is throwing me for a loop. My homebody self doesn't really know what to do.

So there you have it, all my ~~excuses~~ reasons for not blogging. There are more that include the likes of sheer laziness but we won't get into all that. I missed you guys and thanks to those of you who checked in!

And another week begins

2011-02-21T07:49:00.000-06:00

It's 7:06AM and I'm sitting on my couch in my jammies. Obviously, this is not a normal Monday or I would be preparing to go to work. But I'm not! It's a random vacation day because I'm hosting Bunko at my house tonight! Joy and bliss...

I feel like I'm still recovering from the last few days. I'm a creature of habit and when I'm out of routine, nothing about me feels right. Thursday morning I left on an 8 hour drive to High Point, NC to meet with a new client. This isn't something I normally do and I felt really bad for Hubs. I wasn't sure how he would make it 2 nights without me. Right...

I left early in the morning and was loving that the weather was so beautiful. It was probably around 12 or so that it started getting a little warm. But guess what wasn't working - um hmm, that's right, the air conditioner. It wasn't bad though. I kept the fan on and there was a little cool air blowing so I was totally comfortable. I think this was also around the time that my head started hurting - not bad, just enough to be annoying.

I checked into my hotel around 4:00 that afternoon and considered taking some pics to give you a hotel tour like PW, but really, when you've seen one Hampton, you've seen them all. It's just not the same as seeing a pic of this.

Around 5:30 or so I was getting really hungry and my headache was getting worse. I drove around until I found a Wal-Mart so I could get some Tylenol. At this point, I was getting that feeling - that feeling that I might throw-up. It's rare that I get a headache like that but I was well aware of how it would play out if I didn't get some medicine and food in me and I get my hiney in the bed.

I've never been so thankful for a place where you can get your Tylenol and a Subway sandwich in one stop. I got back to the hotel as fast as I could and it's a testament to how bad I felt that I didn't stop in the lobby and grab one of the fresh baked cookies they had just put out for the guests.

Thankfully, my head was much better when I woke up Friday morning. My meeting with the client was uneventful but SO LONG. I think I was probably asleep that night by 9. I wanted to be up and on the road by 7 to get home for my nephew's Crossing Over ceremony for the scouts. I'm sure I would have been well-rested if I had not BEEN WOKEN UP at 1:30 in the morning by some teenagers knocking on each other's doors yelling "house keeping". I kid you not.

I did manage to get on the road by 7 but the ride back did not go as well as the ride up. It was unbelievably hot and the fan was no longer blowing cool air. And then... all traffic on the interstate completely stopped - for 40 minutes. I was hot, I was sticky, I was tired and I was completely "done" with this trip.

Needless to say, I stayed at home Saturday night and didn't make it to the Crossing Over ceremony. After reading this, I think I'll be ok with just looking at the pictures.

Letting go...

2011-02-12T18:28:00.000-06:00

Hubs and I got new carpet in the bedrooms this week and I must say, I think I'm in love with it. Of course, in an effort to save money, Hubs decided we'd move all the furniture in and out of the bedrooms ourselves rather than have the carpet people do it. It didn't turn out to be as bad as I thought but let me just tell you - it wasn't fun.

It did turn out to be the perfect time to clean out some things. I mainly concentrated on a couple of my closets and my bookshelves. Remember my bookshelves? It seemed right after I got the new ones, they were already getting full. I just KEEP buying more books. And lately, I've been getting a little convicted about the amount of money I spend buying them. It's spurred me to start using my library card a lot more which is great because the library is one of the greatest places on earth!

Before I put my books back on the shelves, I looked at each one and made a determination - would I want to read this book again? I started putting the "no reads" in a pile and before I knew it, I had a pile of about 100 books that I WILL NEVER READ AGAIN! I made a decision right then and there to get rid of them. I bagged them up before I could change my mind. I'm going to offer them up first to my Bunko girls and any that are left will go straight to the Thrift Store.

And that my friends, is progress.

Giveaway Winner

2011-02-10T19:05:00.001-06:00

Thanks to all of you who participated in my first Giveway in 2011! And the winner chosen with Random.org of

The Pioneer Woman's Black Heels to Tractor Wheels is....

Bonnie!

Bonnie said...

Favorite book is: "Cross Creek" by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings. A lovely book about life in the deep south back in the 30's. Very well written.
Bonnie, shoot me an email (jill.w.sharpe@gmail.com) with your address and I'll get your book out to you ASAP!

Giveaway!!!

2011-02-05T06:59:00.000-06:00

Guess what showed up in my Inbox a couple of days ago... an email from Amazon letting me know that my copies of Black Heels to Tractor Wheels had been shipped. Did you get that??? COPIES! Which means I have one to give away. Oh yes, I was thinking all about you guys when I placed my pre-order a few weeks ago.

You have up to 3 chances to win. Leave a separate comment letting me know:

What's your favorite book?
And/Or You're a follower.
And/Or You blogged about this Giveaway.

Comments will be closed Thursday at 7:00 Central time and I'll select a winner using Random.org.

The Essentials

2011-02-03T19:03:00.000-06:00

Today we've had snow, rain, sleet and ice and I had absolutely no idea that any of it was coming. We left work early because they were starting to close roads in sections of Birmingham and it was just plain ole' yucky outside.

Hubs stopped by the store on his way home to pick up the essentials. This is what he came home with.

And I wonder why I can't lose weight.

PMS

2011-02-02T21:24:00.000-06:00

Dear PMS,

You are not my friend. In fact, I have nothing for you. You make me miserable by making me feel bad about myself. You affect my emotions, my skin, my weight and my BRAIN! That is the worst part. When you come around, all my thoughts become irrational. And somehow EACH and EVERY month you manage to sneak up on me and it takes me 3 or 4 days to realize why everything has gone haywire.

But you have not defeated me! Today I got an App for that. Oh yes I did. From now on, I will have a countdown for when you're coming. And I'll be ready! I'll be on alert and believe me when I say - YOU HAVE LOST YOUR HOLD ON ME!

Sincerely,

Jill

(OK, that's a lot of big talk. I might be setting the bar a bit high...)

A cut above

2011-01-31T19:04:00.000-06:00

Hubs + pocket knife + work = trip to the doc + stiches

I can already tell he's gonna milk it for all it's worth!

I know you're curious

2011-01-30T20:40:00.000-06:00

Most of the blogs I read are written by some very fabulous mama's. Oh yes, I'm talking about you, and you, and you. At our age, and being married as long as we have, Jay and I get a lot of questions about what we do with our time since we don't have kids. It's like everyone thinks we should have these crazy, exciting lives.

It always makes me laugh when Mama Hen and I talk and she asks what we're going to do over the weekend. My usual answer is pretty much nothing and then she goes into this long deal about how we don't have kids and she just can't believe we don't go out and do stuff. Of course, when I ask her what she thinks we should be doing, she can't come up with anything. That's when I say EXACTLY.

So in case any of you wonder what you'd most likely be doing if you didn't have kids - this is a typical Friday night (except we don't normally take a picture). I get home from work and immediately put on my pajamas. And yes, they're flannel and plaid. Then I get the contacts out and the glasses on. My next order of business is to wait for Hubs to call and tell me he's on his way so we can talk about what he's gonna pick up and bring home for supper. Once he's home, we eat, watch TV or a movie and then I head off to bed to read.

And I wouldn't have it any other way.

Twice as "SNICE"

2011-01-11T09:56:00.000-06:00

It's hard to believe, but I'm on my second snow/ice (aka SNICE) day. I went to bed Sunday night in Alabama but it appears I've woken up the past two mornings up North! Of course it only appears that way. All I have to do is turn on the TV and see all-day coverage of how we're in a "state of emergency" when we have a couple of inches of snow and I know I'm right where I'm supposed to be.

And if there was even a smidgen of doubt left after that, I just needed to keep the TV on or check Facebook and check out the 1,893,548 times I heard or read War Eagle or Roll Ducks Roll. Don't get me wrong. I'm proud of our Auburn Tigers and their National Championship win. I even sported some Auburn sweatpants yesterday (a gift from a friend for Christmas).

(That gasp you just heard was my Mama.) I'm just not a football fan. I can only devote so much brain power and excitement to sports and my beloved Yankees got it all.

So, it's another day at home. Hubs went on into work. I think the excitement of driving his work truck with chains on the tires was just too much. I'm choosing to believe that over the possibility that he didn't want to hang out with me for one more day. Surely it's not because I made him watch Steel Magnolias, hmmm?

I'm gonna get in the kitchen in a few minutes and see what I can cook good for supper the rest of the week with things I already have in the freezer and/or pantry. It's a challenge from Leanna over at Thoughts and Whatnots. Who knows? This might be my year for cooking!

Jill Sharpe's Alabama

2010-12-27T20:47:00.001-06:00

We spend Christmas Eve at my Grandparent's every year. We get there pretty early and spend the whole day. This year was WONDERFUL. I couldn't believe how great the weather was. It was sunny, crisp and cool. Welcome to Jill Sharpe's Alabama!

Mama and Daddy - the BEST parents in all the world!

There was no shortage of presents. Check out Granddaddy's tree. The ornaments were a little sparse.

The kid who stole my heart 12 years ago.

Renee (sweetest Aunt ever!) and Abbie

James got a bike.

Matt and Paw Paw shooting the breeze. (That Alabama afghan has been on that loveseat for as long as I can remember.)

Hubs and my Bro - not sure what they were doing with that basket.

You will 100% of the time find Granddaddy napping at least 3 times on any given Christmas Eve (actually on any given day).

And who doesn't do a little skeet and target shooting on Christmas Eve? Check out Mama Hen shooting the glock. Her Hubs, Mark had to hold her ears because it was so LOUD!

Marty & Casey

Have you ever seen a better homemade target?

My bro, me and Mama Hen - I think we're tough enuff. Doesn't everyone have raccoon pelts hanging on the front of their barn?

And the best part - Aunt Affie's Christmas getup. This year she paired a Christmas sweatshirt with a Christmas vest and a Christmas scarf. Well done, Aunt Affie. Well done.

I totally realize that I'm the luckiest girl in the world!

If I'm lyin', I'm dyin'

2010-12-22T19:17:00.000-06:00

I was having lunch with my Mama a couple of months ago and somehow we got to talking about the music on her IPOD. All of a sudden she said she had heard this song on the radio that she really wanted to download but she didn't know who sang it. And y'all, I just about busted a gut when she said the main words were "Take it to the Limit".

I said, "Mama, that's by The Eagles" and no lie, she didn't know who The Eagles were. Needless to say, I brought her the greatest hits CD the next day and now she can "take it to the limit" to her heart's content.

And that would be reason #321 of why I love my Mama so much!

40 Years and Counting!

2010-12-19T20:51:00.000-06:00

Guess what happened 40 years ago today.... yep, my parents got hitched. All the kids and grandkids descended on their house this afternoon after Church and celebrated. I'm so thankful to have two parents who love each other and have stayed together through thick and thin.

Check them out leaving for their honeymoon.

All I can say is that I truly hope my marriage will be as strong as theirs. I love you Mama & Daddy!

Good food, good shopping

2010-12-17T17:32:00.000-06:00

Today we had a Christmas lunch with Jay's family at The Rucker Place in downtown Birmingham. Before last week, I had never even heard of it, but it was amazing. Apparently, a General Rucker had it built for his daughter for a wedding present. Her family lived there for about 50 years before it was sold to a Doctor who used it for his practice. The current owners bought it in 2002 and renovated it for events. You can read the full history here.

It was just beautiful and I'm pretty sure I had the best-looking date there!

We also braved Bed Bath & Beyond, TJ Maxx, Wal-Mart and Target. There is no doubt it's the last weekend before Christmas - the traffic was insane! Thankfully, I only have one more gift to get and I'll be done! I'm not gonna lie, shopping wears me out. It took me all of about 2 seconds to get my jammies on once we got home and now I feel snug-as-a-bug on the couch.

Have a great weekend everybody!

Bliss and Pain

2010-12-06T05:10:00.010-06:00

This weekend was total bliss. I had nowhere to go, nothing to do and let me just tell you, it was beautiful to behold. Hubs had weekend coverage so he was M.I.A. during the day Saturday and Sunday. I lit cinnamon candles, turned on all my Christmas lights and read, and read and read as the wind actually howled outside. It was so cold going to Church - there were actually a few little snow flakes on my windshield!

I will say, I don't think I've ever been so glad to get home from Church. I wore a new sweater dress and it was the most uncomfortable thing ever. Well, the dress wasn't uncomfortable - it was what I had to wear UNDER the dress that was the problem. I think we all know that sweater dresses are very unforgiving and I have quite a few areas that need a lot of forgiveness! I thought I would be all smart and wear Spanx - OH.MY.WORD! I think next time I'll just let my stomach hang out. Oh dear, I don't need to do that either. I'll have to give that some more thought.

Just curious, what's the most uncomfortable thing you've worn?

They like me! They really like me!

2010-12-03T09:44:00.000-06:00

Well, at least one blogger does! I know posts have been scarce around here lately and I've been seriously pondering whether I should "shut er' down". I've gone back and forth because let's face it - I really have NOTHING TO SAY!

And then this - an award from Miss Stacy over at Stacy's Snippets and Random Thoughts. I've been reading this chick's blog for a long time now and she's one of the few people who can make me laugh out loud. If she didn't live 1500+ miles away, I'm sure we would be fast friends and "thick as thieves". (I've been wanting to say that ever since Bravo replayed Carolyn saying it approximately 500,000 times.)

Apparently, I need to tell you 7 things you've ~~never~~ always wanted to know about me. Well Stacy, be careful what you wish for...

I'm becoming obsessed with tacky Christmas decorations. I'm not sure when it started but I can totally see myself in a few years becoming the old lady who leaves her blue lights up year round. No, I don't have any blue lights - yet.
After reading this and this, I think I've had PMS for about 2 years straight. I'm sure you don't think that's possible. Just trust me.
I bought a Middleton Doll at FAO Shwartz a couple of years ago when Hubs and I went to New York. I've always wanted one. I did the whole shebang: picked out my baby, sat in the chair and rocked it while the nurse went over the adoption papers as I promised I would take care of my "baby" for the rest of my days. I did all this while Hubs pretended he didn't know me.
I cut bangs a couple of weeks ago (yes, I did it myself) and can't seem to stop. I think they're about halfway up my forehead right now.
I've been known to waste huge amounts of time whenever I have a day off. Today may or may not be one of those days seeing as how it's 9:30, I'm still in my pajamas and I have a list a mile long of things I need to do.
Apparently I need 9+ hours of sleep to have a sunny disposition. I never get it which leads back to #2 on this list.
I may secretly wish I was cool enough to be in the CIA.

Thanks Stacy! Bless your heart for being a faithful reader.

The best laid plans...

2010-11-07T16:52:00.000-06:00

I didn't intend to go another week without posting but somehow it just happens. In my defense, a small part of my week included some sickness. Thursday I was sitting at work and in a flash my body went cold, my face got clammy and my stomach started churning. A stomach virus has been going around our office so I knew what was coming. I got in my car and headed home as fast as I could. Let's just say, it's a good thing that I did. Thankfully, I didn't seem to have it as bad as my coworkers and it didn't last over 24 hours.

I finally ventured out of the house Saturday afternoon and did some shopping with J2 while Jay and Mickey watched the Alabama game. We both had some Kohl's cash and a JCP coupon burning holes in our pockets so we were women on a mission. It had been a while since we had been shopping together and we definitely needed the retail/friend therapy.

I cannot tell you how thankful I was for the extra hour of sleep last night. Of course, I woke up at 5:45 but it was so wonderful to just be able to sit around and not be rushed before getting ready for church. And this day! The weather was perfect. Anytime the weather allows me to wear a sweater, jeans and boots - PERFECTFECTO!

Here's to a good week!!!

Where have I been???

2010-10-31T17:29:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm sure you all have been on pins and needles wondering where I've been for the last couple of weeks. I know my riviting posts about cutting off my mole and forgetting to wear deoderant have kept you on the edge of your seats wanting more.

But seriously, it's been a little crazy around these parts lately. I've been working a lot - a whole lot. Thankfully, that seems to be slowing down some and I can hopefully get back to my normal amounts of laziness.

I commited to finishing an unfinished sewing project in the month of October on Joy's blog. She's going to have a giveaway for all the participants. I decided that this would be a great time to finish a rag quilt I started for my friend, K's youngest. It's way overdue seeing as how she turned 2 in July. Yes, the depth of my procrastination has no bounds.

Last Sunday afternoon I decided to finish it up. I only had 3 rows left to sew so I knew it wouldn't take long. I had just finished it up, opened a drawer to look at some fabric and found a stack of squares that I had started sewing and never finished. I have no idea who I started this quilt for, but somewhere out there I assume there's a 5 year old who will never be the same for not getting a quilt lovingly made with my own two hands.

I'm not sure where it came from, but I was overcome with a need to finish it too. All I can say is I really hope I win. Here they are Joy!

I really do love sewing and wish I could do more of it. Unfortunately, I have to balance it with all my TV watching. Priorities.

Is this post for real?

2010-10-13T18:21:00.000-05:00

I'm having one of those weeks. Actually, more like one of those months. Pretty much everything I do is wrong, or afflicted, or just plain psycho.

And why does it seem like all of a sudden absolutely everything needs to be done all at one time. My hair desperately needs to be colored. I'm sporting some serious gray roots. My toenails need to be painted. My eyebrows need to be waxed. The list goes on and on.

And then today, I forgot to wear deoderant. Thankfully, I sit in a freezing office all day so there's no chance of sweating. My mom was there and I think she came in my office several times just to make sure I wasn't stinking. The sad thing about it is that just yesterday I bought a 3 pack of Secret deoderant at Target. Oh the irony.

Speaking of deoderant, I was in the grocery store sometime when I was in middle school and I heard this girl yell out, "Hey Mom, I need some deo for my b.o." Crack me up. I'll never forget it.

You Can Quote Me

2010-10-07T19:06:00.000-05:00

All I have to say is BASEBALL Playoffs baby! I am absolutely loving that my Yanks are on TV every night. It's like a little treat for working all day.

I got my hair cut last night - about 2 inches. My niece is going to the Xcell Academy in Hoover and it tickles me pink to have someone who does hair in the family. The best part of her going to Xcell is that a haircut is only $10. Oh yes - you read that right - TEN DOLLARS!!!

Sometimes I wish I had gone to school to do hair. I would want a shop like Truvy's in Steel Magnolias. I mean, how fun would that be??? I watched Steel Magnolias not too long ago and I really do think that might be my favorite movie of all time. I laughed. I cried. I laughed again. Ouiser has the best quotes EVER! Here are a few of my favorites.

" I do not see plays, because I can nap at home for free. And I don't see movies 'cause they're trash, and they got nothin' but naked people in 'em! And I don't read books, 'cause if they're any good, they're gonna make 'em into a miniseries."

"This is it, I've found it, I'm in hell."

"I'm not as sweet as I used to be."

"You are a pig from hell."

"I'm not crazy, I've just been in a very bad mood for 40 years!"

"Oh! He's a real gentleman! I bet he takes the dishes out of the sink before he PEES in it!"

"He is a boil on the butt of humanity!"

Please tell me y'all love it as much as I do! OK, that's it. I'm gonna go have to watch it again - right after baseball's over.

Poop and Love

2010-10-03T19:38:00.000-05:00

When our new Sunday School year started at the end of August, I decided not keep the nursery and go back to my Adult class with Jay. I did agree to be put on the Parent's rotation. Yes, I'm fully aware that I'm not a parent - it was a moment of weakness.

Today was my duty day and I was put in with the 2 year olds. There were 12 of them with 3 adults. Not a bad ratio - or so I thought. The problem with this age group is that they are half diapers, half panties and the ones that are in panties really aren't fully potty-trained.

We had one little girl who tee-teed in her panties. All I could think is that her parents must have given her a liter of water before she came in because it was a river all over the floor. I got her cleaned up but bless her heart, there wasn't a change of clothes in her bag so she just had to walk around in her shirt.

A little later, I actually had a little girl come tell me she had to go potty. How awesome is that? What she didn't tell me is that she had already POOPED.ALL.UP.IN.HER.PANTIES! I cannot even tell you how gross it was. I may or may not have vomited a little in my mouth. By the time I got those panties off, there was poop all down her legs, poop on the toilet, poop on the floor and yes, poop ON MY HANDS!

It took me about 20 minutes to get her, me and the bathroom cleaned up and I'm just gonna be honest, I threw her panties away. They was just no way I was going to try and rinse them out. It was just more than i could stomach. I was sweating like a crazy woman and when the last one left, I was out of there like lightning.

And with that, I would like to wish my Hubs a Happy Anniversary. The past 12 years have been more than I could have ever hoped and most definitely more than I deserve.

A meme about ME

2010-09-24T05:44:00.001-05:00

The lovely, Joy over at Joy's Quilts tagged me in a little "getting to know you" meme.

What would be your dream job?

Hands down - a librarian! I started college with the intentions of getting my Masters in Library Science. Due to lack of maturity and a lack of interest in 'learnin', the thoughts of continuing on to get a Masters after my college graduation were just more than I could fathom. So for the past 14 years, I've been Programming - and it's not all that bad!

Where would you like to live?

I LOVE living right here in Trussville, Alabama.

In what century would you like to live?

This one of course!

What would be your last meal?

Now this is a hard one! If I had to pick, I think I would go with some Pasta Milano from Macaroni Grill and garlic bread. For dessert, blackberry cobbler with vanilla bean ice cream!

What made you start a blog?

I was reading Mama Hen's blog everyday and well, who doesn't want to be like their big sis???

What is your favorite piece of clothing?

My cowgirl boots!

What's your favorite film?

Just one??? Gone With the Wind

What would you like to do before you turn 100?

run a 10K, hold my niece and nephew's babies, meet Derek Jeter, go to Niagra Falls... oh, the list just goes on and on

Now it is your turn!I tag...

Hope y'all will play along! If I didn't tag you, I hope you'll do the Meme and leave me a comment. I would love to read your answers!

R.I.P. to my Mole AND GIVEWAY WINNER

2010-09-10T04:40:00.056-05:00

Yesterday morning I was able to leisurely get ready for work because I had to wait around for the bug lady to show up. I laid in bed too long (got caught up in a book) and didn't realize the time until about 10 minutes before she was supposed to be here. I decided to jump in the shower and get that done before she arrived.

I was hurrying and before I realized it, I had started shaving my legs. Habit, I guess. I really started hurrying then and before I knew it, I had SHAVED A MOLE OFF MY LEG! I felt the cut and then the sting. Oh the wretched sting! I couldn't tell how bad it was at first because of all the shave gel so I went ahead and started rinsing the conditioner out of my hair. When I looked down again I saw blood running like a river down my leg. And then I heard the doorbell. That bug lady - she's got great timing.

I slapped my washcloth on it and applied pressure (I didn't watch ER all those years for nothin'.) I hobbled to the door, let her in, and spent the next few minutes trying to get it to stop bleeding long enough to get a bandaid on it. I'm not sure why, but I didn't get ANY SYMPATHY WHATSOEVER from the bug lady.

I had my whole night planned - several ways I could milk my injury with Jay. And do you know that stinker made plans to go watch the Auburn game with some friends!!! I propped my leg up on the ottomon all night anyway and pretended there was someone there who cared.

Now, for the important news! The winner of the personalized lap desk from The Southern Belle Boutique is

Rebekah

from In the Heart of Our Home!!! Congratulations Rebekah! Leave me a comment or email me and let me know which desk you would like to have and with what name/initials!

I labor, therefore I give

2010-09-06T15:27:00.000-05:00

I am so in love with Monday holidays that I just can't stand it. I LOVE going to bed on Sunday night knowing that I get one more day of being at home. So, in honor of my blissful feelings - I think it's time for a GIVEAWAY!!!

I was perusing Etsy the other night and came across The Southern Belle Boutique. I wanted to add pretty much everything to my cart because it's so stinkin' cute! I saw these personalized lap desks and I just knew all of you wuold like to have one. How cute are they??? I can't decide if I like this one better

or this one??? They even have a cup holder!

Regardless of which one I like - the important question is - Which one do you like? Just leave me a comment and let me know which one you would love to have. I'll close the comments Thursday night, randomly select a winner and post Friday morning. Good luck!!!

I cried today

2010-09-04T14:30:00.002-05:00

It started slow - just a few trickles sliding down my cheecks. Before I knew it, I was sobbing, my shoulders shaking. I was on my way home from running errands and for some reason, she flitted across my mind - my Grandmother. She's been gone for a few years now, but it can still hit me with powerful force.

This woman, she was like no other - not the typical grandmother you hold in your mind from old movies and books. She was better. She was strong and country. She grew up poor and some of the stories she told me still break my heart.

Like most southern women, she showed her love with food. She never thought we ate enough, even after we all sat around sleeping after a meal because we had gorged ourselves with so much food that it was impossible to do anything else. I don't ever remember there being a time when there was just one meat or casserole or dessert. There was at least 3 of everything. And it was all good - everytime.

My Granddaddy called her Pearlie-Girl and it was the cutest thing you ever heard. He can barely hear but she could be two rooms away, call his name, and he would immediately answer. She was 16 when they got married and loved him with all her heart until the day she died. He will love and miss her until the day he dies.

She wasn't shy about giving her opinion and she was usually right. She was tough and did what needed to be done. She wasn't sentimental. She drove a truck that had a tag on the front that said "Let me tell you about my grandchilden." It's still on that truck. And I hope I can have it someday. I don't know why. I just do.

She had a garden. She made jellies and canned vegetables. I was in college before I ever ate a green bean that didn't come out of her garden. I still have one quart of her vegatable soup in my pantry but I can't bring myself to cook it. I can't stand the thought of there not being anymore left.

Me and Mama Hen and my brother stayed at their house a lot in the summer growing up. We would say "we're going to the country." They didn't have cable and just a window air conditioner but we couldn't wait to get there and were sad when we had to go home. At one point, Grandmother played softball for the church. She was the pitcher and she was good. I remember going to the games and then we would stop by Dairy Queen and Granddaddy would buy us a hotdog.

I would give anything to have her back for just one day, or one phone call. Praise Jesus, I will have eternity with her in Heaven.

Vacation Recap

2010-09-01T16:55:00.000-05:00

Obviously we had a wonderful time in Hawaii but OH.MY.WORD. the recovery has been oh-so-hard. I'm not kidding, that 7 hour plane ride kicked my bootay.

It's unbelievable to go to a place where it's beautiful everywhere you look. Just riding down the road (in a black convertible mustang) is amazing. I can't believe what the locals get to see just driving to work! We got to do some really fun things like...

Take a plane over to the Big Island for a volcano tour where we stood on lava and walked on black sand. We were supposed to get up close and personal with the active volcano but apparently it got crazy the Thursday before and spewed enough lava to destroy 96 homes. We steered clear.

Loved this waterfall. I'm crazy about them.

On Maui, we drove the Road to Hana where we saw beautiful waterfalls and flowers. Imagine our surprise when we saw this on the side of the road.

We loved walking in Old Lahaina, relaxing on the beach, and driving to the top of the Haleakala crater at a whopping 10,023 feet! It was completely crazy to think we were walking ABOVE the clouds!

I had a great time with my man in Hawaii!

Aloha!

2010-08-25T21:40:00.000-05:00

Did you think I'd fallen off the face of the earth??? No, I'm still around. Just not in my beloved Alabama! Guess where I am... Yep! Hawaii!!! Jay and I got here late Saturday after an EXTREMELY LONG flight and we've been vacationing in paradise ever since. I can't even begin to tell you how beautiful it is so I'll just show you. This is the view from our front balcony. (Disregard the date - obviously we had the wrong date set in the camera.)

This is the view off the side balcony.

I can't believe I got to spend my 36th - I mean 29th - birthday in Maui! We've had fun and done some "interesting" things. I'll definitely post more about this trip but for now I better get back to paradise! We'll be back on the mainland Sunday.

In the mean time, check out Mama Hen's A Southern Girls Giveaway!

Aloha!

A-HA

2010-08-11T19:24:00.000-05:00

Today something hit me with such stark clarity that you would have thought a bomb went off in the sky. I.am.a.horrible.person. No, I haven't murdered anyone or robbed a bank. Mostly, it's the thoughts that go on in my head and unfortunately make their way out of my mouth on way too many occassions.

I am a SINNER! Of course, I've always known I'm a sinner - we all are. But I guess I just thought I was basically a good person and trying to be in God's Will and do the right things. I know I am a child of God and my salvation is secure but I think the Lord has been slowly revealing to me over the past month that I have not been in His will. And today, oh today - it hit me like a ton of bricks. I think God got tired of me taking so long to "get it"!

I feel like so many things that I have taken such a strong stance on are just STUPID! I have a tendency to make up my mind about something and that's just the way it is. Well guess what - it's not always the way it is. I'm not always right. My way isn't always the best way and FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THAT'S HOLY - could I just please remember that I am NOT THE BOSS OF EVERYTHING!!!

My preacher has brought up the song "I Did it My Way" in his sermons a couple of times. Well guess what happens when I try to do it "my way"? It's a big ol' mess! NOTHING good comes from it. I don't want to live my life my way, I want to live it His.PERFECT.Way.

I have seriously been knocked down a peg or two and I can't think of a better way for it to happen than by my precious Lord and Saviour, who does it in love and desires to restore me to Himself. How can I possibly feel completely different tonight than when I woke up this morning? It's my heart. I think it got picked up, dusted off and put back all shiny again.

All I can say is thank you God - over and over. I wonder if He got a good chuckle when I had my A-HA moment.

Just Lovin'

2010-08-04T19:00:00.000-05:00

Have you ever just glanced over at your man and had overwhelming love? I just did. It wasn't anything he did or said at that moment - just that feeling. Hubs can drive me crazier than any other human in the world, but let me just tell you - he makes me happier than any girl has the right to be.

Just a few things about Hubs that makes my heart smile.

He turns the bed down every night and tells me the Bed Fairy came. He had to go out of town a couple of weeks ago and when I got home from work I found a letter on my pillow letting me know that he made arrangements with the Bed Fairy to come early.
He gets rid of any leftovers that have been in the fridge too long because the smell makes me gag.
He thinks I'm cute when I'm wearing my glasses and no makeup.
He searches the channels every night to see if there's a Yankee's game on to surprise me.
He's been putting up with me for years and says he wants to keep on for the rest of his life.

I know - I'm a lucky gal!

Friends

2010-08-02T05:54:00.019-05:00

It has come to my attention that I've been neglecting the ole' blog for quite a while now. I really do feel bad because I know so many of you are on the edge of your seats daily wondering if I've posted a nugget of brilliance that will make you laugh. Oh wait, for a second I thought I was The Pioneer Woman.

I think one of my problems lately is the fact that I haven't had my beloved Diet Mtn. Dew or Diet Coke since Wednesday. I can't tell you how sad I am about it but I was stupid enough to make a bet with Hubs that I could give them up. I feel like I've lost a friend. And that's just not right. Friends should be friends forever. There's even a song about it. I just decided, I'm going to rekindle my friendship today - first thing - as I stop by Sonic on the way to work and get a Route 44 Diet Coke.

I really am going to try to do better with my blogging. You never know how exciting I might get once the aspartame is flowing freely through my veins again. I wouldn't want you to miss out.

I'm in the Zone

2010-07-15T19:39:00.001-05:00

5 Reasons I think I've entered the Twilight Zone:

A couple of Sunday's ago I was getting ready for Church and realized I put my bra on inside out. I took it off and put it back on and realized I put it on inside out again. If I'm lyin' I'm dyin' - I did it again a third time.
Tuesday I changed clothes after work to go to Zumba. When I got there, I went to the bathroom and realized I had my shorts on backwards.
Today I changed clothes after work to go to Zumba and guess what? My bra was inside out.

Seriously?

4. I haven't changed out my toenail polish in about 3 weeks. Usually I do it every 4 or 5 days.
5. I just took a shower and my stick-straight hair is drying curly????

I have no more words.

The Nerd in Me

2010-07-14T18:38:00.000-05:00

Have I told you that books are a passion of mine? I heart them, swoon for them and can't imagine life without them. I can lose myself in books for hours at a time and a perfect vacation is me, by a pool, with an endless supply of books. Believe it or not, I started college with the intentions of getting a Masters in Library Science. Oh yes, my dream was to be a librarian. But then I got sick of school around year 2 and it was all I could do to just graduate with a degree. I changed my tune real quick about getting a Masters.

Needless to say, I have quite a few books. I try to purge every once in a while - usually when Mama Hen has a yard sale - but there's just some books that I can't part with. Unfortunately, storage for these books has been a dilemma for quite a while. I had this one bookshelf in my bedroom that was completely filled to capacity. Each shelf had books double-rowed and books laying on top of other books. It made me sad.

I also had this baby bookshelf in my sewing room where I kept Bible studies and commentaries. I'm almost embarrassed to show you this picture - it's terrible.

Jay and I looked forever for a really nice double bookshelf that wouldn't put us in the poor house but we were sadly not successful. I got fed up a couple of weeks ago and ordered two new bookshelves from Overstock. They came in last week and Hubs was sweet enough to put them together.

I ended up putting them in my sewing room and they went from this

to this

to this.

Next I moved the stuff from my baby bookshelf to the one in my bedroom. Better, huh?

I'm not gonna lie. I'm in love. And I'll admit it - I just go back there and smile. I'll leave you with this becauseI have felt this way so many times:

You know you've read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend. ~Paul Sweeney

Party like You're 39!

2010-07-13T05:30:00.001-05:00

Guess what happened 39 years ago today... My Hubs came into the world and guess what? The world hasn't been the same since! Just look at this adorable chunk of baby goodness!!!

We had a little party Sunday night and it was really fun. It was just our families and J2's family. We laughed a TON!

I will have to say though, my favorite part of the evening came a little later when Jay opened a card from Kay and Keith that told him he is going to be an Uncle!!! Oh my word, I can't tell you how excited I am to have a little baby on the Sharpe side of the family!

Jay and I decided we're gonna get pregnant real quick and make an announcement on Kay's birthday in September. OK, I'm kidding. Really. I promise. We're gonna wait till Christmas. OK - kidding again! I know, it's just too much fun!

A Weekend of Happiness

2010-07-05T07:57:00.000-05:00

It's Monday at 7:24am and I'm sitting on my couch half-watching a Law & Order: Criminal Intent rerun. That can only mean that it's a work Holiday and I can blessedly stay in my pajamas all day if I want to. I'm not sure that's going to happen but it could, and that's all my little heart needs to be happy right now.

I had a really good weekend. Saturday morning I woke up sans the alarm clock and got ready for an afternoon at Mama Hen's. Unfortunately, a big ol' zit decided to wakeup on my face too. I also decided that my eyebrows needed a little attention and when I got through, I looked like Dylan McKay from 90210.

(Also, I made a quick trip to Publix and I just can't describe how excited I was when I used my coupons and got some French's mustard for FREE! The fact that I don't like mustard makes absolutely no difference because it was FREE YA'LL! )

We were about 20 minutes into our 30 minute drive to Mama Hen's. when Jay said, "Did you get the Boston Butt out of the fridge?" The fact that we didn't get in a fight as we made a 45 minute detour back to the house says a lot about the state of our 11 year marriage these days. It ended up being a perfectly great day.

Yesterday we went to Church, watched a Yankee's game and then I sat out on my back porch and read a book. DOESN'T.GET.MUCH.BETTER.THAN.THAT! Amen and Amen.

A Peach of a Good Time

2010-06-27T17:56:00.000-05:00

A couple of Saturdays ago, I participated in the Peach Run in Clanton, AL. It was my 3rd 5K ever and it had been a LONG time since my last run. Anyway, I was really excited about it because - get this - I was doing the run with my GREAT AUNT Affie. (Just in case you didn't notice the words in all caps - she's my great aunt!)

She's 65 and has been running for years. And when I say running, I mean long-distance running. I had no idea what to expect since we had never done a run together but let me just say, I could not keep up with her. AND, I did the 5K and she did the 10K. She did awesome but it was just downright sad for me.

Here's us after it was all over. Notice my face is as pink as my shirt. As you can imagine, it was unbelievably hot. It is June in the Deep South after all. Also notice that her face isn't red at all.

These 4 ladies had the fattest time in each of their age categories. Aunt Affie is on the left. She had the fastest time for ladies 51 and up. They each got a basket of peaches and some of them just happened to go home with me! (I am surprisingly missing from this picture. I think I might have been last in my age category.)

I've decided I'm gonna get really good and get in that picture next year! HA!!!

The King of Cool

2010-06-22T23:30:00.000-05:00

I know it's been a while (again), but it's not my fault. OK, it is my fault but seriously, how can my brain function at full capacity when there's all this wretched heat! I get home from work and I feel absolutely drained from the 11 minute drive I make from work to home. It's like the heat is zapping all my brainy goodness.

Dear Heat, could you please leave my brainy goodness alone. But please, feel free to take some of my luscious fat...

I think it's appropriate to pay homage to a man that hasn't been given his fair share of props and I, for one, will stand for it no longer. I proudly stand up and salute Willis Haviland Carrier - the Father of Cool. Oh yes, my sisters and brothers, this man developed the first air conditioner for private home use. Can I get an AMEN???

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I love you Willis and if I was the President, or a member of Congress or whoever actually makes the laws (I'm not sure if the public school system failed me or if I've failed the public school system.), I would declare a national holiday in your honor.

Let's face it, without Willis, we may never have been able to hear Earl Smooter in Sweet Home Alabama tell us to keep the door shut so we don't let out all the bought air.

The Good, the Bad and the Funny

2010-06-14T19:47:00.000-05:00

You know how sometimes you have your day all planned out and for the most part everything goes according to plan and then WHAMMO! that one thing happens.

Well...

Work was really good. I actually got everything done that I needed to do and I felt pretty relaxed all day. (This is major for me because I have this psycho tendency to get a teensy-weensy stressed out.) Anyway, it was good. And the best part was that I had a "date" with my Daddy after work. We went to Chili's for supper.

Here's the WHAMMO! part. I got home and was locked out of the house. The worst part was that I really had to go to the bathroom bad - and I mean, really bad. I called Jay to find out how close he was to home but he was at the hospital visiting a friend. I told him I was so sorry but I really needed him to come home quickly. No lie, he actually said, "Can't you go to the gas station and use the bathroom?" The old me would have snatched him through that phone and jerked a knot in him. The new me said, "Baby, you need to get home fast." And he did - because he loves me!

And on a totally unrelated note - please tell me somebody else watched The Bachelorette tonight and saw that dork, Kasey, singing to Ali. It took me a second to realize that my mouth was hanging open. I literally couldn't believe what I was hearing and seeing. And then I just busted out laughing. The funniest part was that he stopped and then started again. Oh my word - he just started again!

I feel like that was just a little gift!

Business as Usual

2010-06-06T20:58:00.000-05:00

Well, tomorrow it's back to work. I'm pretty sure my house is going to miss me. I just can't imagine how sad my couch is going to be to not get its daily nap. And don't get me started on the TV. Maybe I should just leave it on so it doesn't go into shock.

Seriously though, it's been a great week. It felt like it lasted forever and I wouldn't mind having about 3 or 4 or a hundred more just like it. (Well, maybe I would try to be a little bit more productive!)

Now, it's back to the grindstone. Back to the world of programming - business as usual.

Dinner and a Movie

2010-06-04T17:31:00.000-05:00

Well, today is the official last day of my vacation. It's been a week filled with all the laziness that I could possibly get in and more TV than should ever be allowed. I thought long and hard about what I wanted to do on my last day and couldn't think of a better way to spend it than with my niece and nephews.

Our first stop was at Chick-Fil-A for lunch. I think we had been sitting at our table for all of 20 seconds when Abbie dropped her drink and her cup busted on the floor.

A little later I noticed an older couple looking at our table and snickering. When I looked up, this is what I saw. James was lapping his ice cream up like a dog. I just about busted a gut laughing. Needless to say, we had to make a trip to the bathroom when it was all over to clean him up.

Next we headed over to movie theater to see Shrek. We were super cool in our 3D glasses. It was cracking me up to hear the kids laughing all through it - could possibly be the best sound in the whole world.

Loved today!

Crazy for Coupons

2010-06-02T17:54:00.000-05:00

I was sitting around today and finally realized why I've been a bad blogger lately. (I mean, other than just being lazy.) I think it's safe to say I have a new passion. Some might say I've become obsessed. With what, you say?

COUPONS!

The other night when I was over at J2's, she helped me make my "Coupon Binder". I think I'm in love with it.

I have all kinds of tabs inside that are relevant for things that I buy. One problem I've always had with coupon organizers is that they have several tabs that I don't use. I know I could just cross them out but then that makes them ugly and that makes me sad.

I used baseball card holders inside to hold my coupons. I can easily see my coupons in a glance without digging them out like you have to do with an accordian organizer.

I can't tell you how much money I've saved since starting this binder. Oh wait, yes I can. I've made two shopping trips to Publix and I've saved around $70. The best part about that is I've only spent $100!!! Since, it's just Jay and me, I feel like we have food out the wazoo!

Living Leisurely

2010-06-01T12:45:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I keep letting so much time go by between posts! I would like to say that it's because my life is so exciting and jam packed with one adventure after another, but I think you all know me better than that by now. It's pretty much pure laziness.

I'm on vacation this week - woo hoo!!! I'm at home and enjoying doing pretty much nothing. I can't tell you how great today has been so far. I slept till 7, made myself presentable enough to let the bug lady come in and do her thing at 8, logged into my computer at work and worked a couple of hours (I know, it's a sickness), loaded the dishwasher, and cleaned out the junk drawer in the kitchen - all before 12:30! Amazing, huh?

Last night I got crazy during the commercials while watching The Bachelorette (can't help myself, I'm already rooting for Roberto) and started pulling clothes out right and left of everything in my closet and drawers that doesn't fit anymore. I wish I could say it's all things that are too big now but that's not the case. I've been hoarding a ton of clothes thinking I'll lose weight and get back in them but it's been so long that they're all pretty much out of style. I've got a huge garbage back to donate.

I'll try to come up with something more interesting than cleaning out my junk drawer tomorrow!

Miserable

2010-05-16T17:56:00.000-05:00

First let me say, I am not pregnant. I repeat. I am not pregnant. (Sorry Mom)

Friday morning I woke up with a case of nausea like nobody's business. It was horrible. I laid on the couch and was sad, so sad. Luckily, my sweet Mama came over around 11 and brought me a Phenergan. I had never taken one before and within 30 minutes I was out. I didn't wake up till 5 when I heard my cell phone ringing. And even then, I felt like I had just woken up from a coma. I just laid on the couch for about an hour trying to get the energy to get up and go to the bathroom. I was in the bed and out again at 8:30.

Saturday was good. No nausea. Jay and I had a good day and then went over to J2's house to hang-out. (J2 helped me with a project that I have been wanting to do forever - more on that later in the week.)

This morning I woke up and ate some breakfast before getting ready for Church. I never made it to the point of getting ready because of all the time I spent hugging.the.toilet. It's been a miserable day.

I would like to take this opportunity to blame two people from my work for the sickness I have indured over the weekend.

1. JG - I blame you for coming to work with your cooties and germs that made me throw-up.
2. DG - I blame you for not letting me go home Thursday and take a nap when I asked. (A reasonable thing to ask your boss, right?)

I think both of you should get me a prize to make up for it. I'm just sayin'.

Vampires aren't the only thing that suck out your blood

2010-05-12T18:57:00.000-05:00

Something else happened at the hospital Saturday besides my people watching. I had my fill of crazy clothes and hair, so I mosied on down to the 2nd floor where all the excitement was happening. And I think you know me well enough to know that by excitement I mean - food. To be honest though, I wasn't searching for food. I was searching for some caffeine. I had the beginnings of a headache and wanted to head it off at the pass.

When I got downstairs I was accosted by an older lady wearing a Nascar racing outfit. (It turned out there was a Red Cross Blood Drive going on and you could enter to win 10 laps around the track if you donated.) And although the lady came on a bit too strong, I was excited. I've always wanted to donate blood but never had. So, I got in line and read a little booklet they require you to read.

Finally, they called my name and I was taken into this little booth where they took my temp, pricked my finger and then I answered some questions on the computer about my sexual habits in the year 1978 when I was 4. Finally, it was time and I was a little nervous. I've heard some people say it's no big deal and others who say it was the worst ever. I laid back and the nurse got started. I was relieved when the needle was in and it didn't really hurt at all.

I'm not gonna lie. At this point I was loving myself. I felt great as I squeezed my little red ball. The nurse came over every few minutes and told me what a great job I was doing. At one point she said my bag was 90% full and I was excited because it would be over soon. And then I noticed that people who came in after me had already finished. Hmmm. Then the nurse came back over and said I was still at 90%. Another hmmm. And then she started digging that big fat needle all up in my arm because apparently it had come loose from my vein. The blood started flowing again and it felt like no time before the nurse said we were at 95%. And then... the flow stopped and there was more digging and I watched it.

This is the point where I became queasy and light-headed. She gave me a garbage bag and leaned me all the way back. She was kind enough to let me rest before she started more digging and then got another nurse over to dig. I was at 99%. I was so nauseous. They told me to start squeezing the ball again but when I tried, my hand was tingling and I couldn't move it. They had the blood pressure cuff so tight on the top of my arm that I had lost all feeling. They decided to stop.

She took the needle out and told me that I only got 99% of the bag full and they wouldn't be able to use it because it wasn't 100% full. WHAT???!!! I grabbed my free T-Shirt and got the heck out of there. Too bad Edward Cullen wasn't around...

Things you should never have to see at the hospital

2010-05-10T19:46:00.000-05:00

Saturday, I went to the hospital with Jay so he could visit a friend. His friend is in the trauma unit so it wasn't "prudent" for me to go back with Jay to see him. Instead, I sat in the waiting room and did a little people watching. I would almost say I have no words, except I do. I need to tell you that it is appalling at some of the things people will wear.

I'm not talking about a difference between someone's style and mine. I'm talking about a matter of good ole' plain decency and modesty. I did have my camera with me but I didn't feel it appropriate to whip it out in the
trauma waiting room. (Plus, I'm pretty sure any and all of those girls could have kicked my hiney from here to China - and I don't want to go to China - ever.) You'll just have to use your imagination.

One girl had on this one-piece jumpsuit getup that appeared to be acid-wash denim material but upon closer inspection (yes, I got closer) was something that resembled Spanx. It was tight enough to be an extra layer of skin. I decided to look for a picture so you could really see what I'm trying to describe and I couldn't believe I found one. What I couldn't believe even more was that someone would actually pay $350 for this. Please note, this one is about a hundred times nicer than what the girl at the hospital was wearing.

source

A way to small spaghetti-strap night shirt worn as a shirt on a very large and well-endowed girl. Yes, I am positive it was a night-shirt. It was so small that it didn't come down low enough to meet the top of the super
short jean skirt. There was lots of shall we say "loose skin" showing between the two. A whole lot I didn't care to see. I'm pretty sure no picture is needed.

And why is it that these people feel the need to walk around the WHOLE TIME THEY'RE THERE? Why can't they just sit in their seat like the rest of us. I promise I saw one girl go to the bathroom 6 times in about a 30 minute period. And I know she wasn't "using" the bathroom because she was only in there for about 15 seconds each time. She was just going in there to check her hair - which was about as big as the waiting room itself.

Here's the deal. If someone is sitting in the trauma waiting room, they've been through enough. Don't subject them to having to watch you prance around in your crazy clothes and tricked-out hair. I just don't get it.

My Mama is the Best

2010-05-09T17:33:00.000-05:00

It's pretty much been a perfect day. We went to church and then headed over to my Mom's for lunch. (Yes, my Mam is absolutely the type of Mom who wants to cook lunch for her family on Mother's Day.) I love, love, love when my whole family gets together.

This is my Mama and me.

She is THE most wonderful woman in the world. She loves the Lord, my daddy and oh how she loves her kids and grandkids. I think she should teach a class on how to be a perfect mom that every new mother should have to take. She's that good.

Happy Mother's Day sweet Mama. I love you more than you'll ever know!

Remember me???

2010-05-02T20:34:00.000-05:00

Hi, remember me? No? My name is Jill and I write rambling posts about pretty much nothing. Now do you remember? Sure you do.

Seriously though, I'm not even sure where to start to catch up. I feel like I had PMS for about 3 weeks and my head was everywhere except where it should be. I've been tired, I've been blah, I've been on an emotional roller coaster. Is it possible to go through the "change" at 35?

Fortunately, the Hubs and I were able to leave Thursday night after work and head down to Orange Beach for a 3 day weekend. Unfortunately, I am the curse of beach trips. I'm not sure how I do it, but I bring bad weather with me every single time. It rained like crazy and when it wasn't raining, it was foggy and overcast.

We still had a great time. We talked and laughed and shopped (outlets at Foley) and laughed and talked. Obviously, no one wants to go to the beach and not see the sun, but I chose to look at the upside. I didn't have to put on my bathing suit!

Speaking of bathing suits... I have to be honest with ya'll. I've been doing terrible with my self-imposed 20 Pounds N 20 Weeks challenge. I think I might weigh more now than when I started. I know! I could kick my own butt. I haven't been to Weight Watchers in 2 weeks so I don't know my exact weight but I promise I'm back on track now. I'll give you an upate after I go next Saturday.

I do want to thank all of ya'll who left me a comment or sent me an email saying you missed me. You know, stuff like that will bring a tear to the eye of a PMS'er. Hug, hug, kiss, kiss. Ya'll are the best!

A Mee Maw who Runs

2010-04-15T19:09:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's been almost a week since I've posted! I totally intended on posting every single night this week but it just didn't happen. Everytime I picked up my laptop and logged in, I got sidetracked reading all of your blogs and well, you're bloggers, you know how it goes. You'd think since it's been so long that I'd have a million and one exciting things to report but - not a chance.

Did I tell you I started running again? I'm on my 3rd week of Couch to 5K in 9 weeks. I ran my first 5K ever in December of '08. I did one more right after that and pretty much never ran again. Before when I ran, I stuck to the track or the treadmill. I didn't love it because it was so boring. People would tell me to run on trails or sidewalks but I was obsessed with knowing exactly how many laps I was running and just in case you don't know this about me, but I'm not big on change.

This time though, Hubs convinced me to run on the sidewalks. We live really close to this awesome area in Trussville where sidewalks abound, beautiful flowers are blooming, and people actually smile and wave when I run by. LOVE IT! I also started downloading books to my MP3 to listen to while I run. Books are something I'm passionate about so it's like a prize to get to go running. I know! Crazy!

I can't tell you how glad I am that tomorrow's Friday. I have a very exciting house guest coming tomorrow night (more on that in a future post) AND I'm getting my hair done Saturday! I'm in desperate need of color. Pretty soon people are gonna start saying my hair is silver instead of dark brown and I'll be answering to Mee Maw.

Catching Up

2010-04-07T19:18:00.000-05:00

I just got home from being out of town for work (just a day trip) and am beat. Does driving long distances make ya'll just feel tired? I feel like I do after I keep the nursery at church on Sundays! Anyway, it was a great trip. It's nice when you get positive feedback from a client.

You just don't know how excited I was when I got home and realized my beloved Yankees are on TV tonight! Woo hoo!!! I plan on sitting my rear in my chair and enjoying approximately 3 hours of good TV. Not only do I get to see my Jeter baby, but Petitte is pitching and that's just sheer eye-candy.

Jeter Petitte

It's been so busy this week that I haven't been able to post about my weight loss results from my self-imposed 20 Pounds N 20 Weeks challenge. I lost 1.2 last week and was .4 away from reaching my goal of having lost 3 pounds by this past Saturday.

I feel good though and am just keeping on keeping on. I started running again last week and hope to be able to do a 5K by the end of May.

Oh! One more thing. Our ironing board has pretty much been setup in our bedroom for about um... 5 years. We just don't have a good place to store it that's easily accessible. Look at what my sweet Hubs did! He hung up one of those iron/ironing board holder thingies for me!

And my heart is happy.

Do You Remember Pac-Man and Simon?

2010-04-01T20:25:00.001-05:00

I know I said I was going to post about sports this week but I didn't get a chance to get over to my parent's house and get the pictures. I was looking through some of my old boxes to see if I could find some and look what I found! Do you remember Pac-Man and Simon?? I got these for Christmas back in middle shool. I wish knew how many hours I spent playing these games. The wear and tear is definitely evident!

What were your favorite games growing up?

2010-03-29T19:33:00.000-05:00

This has been a poopie day. I woke up several times during the night with my throat hurting when I swallowed. Then when I woke up this morning, I had chills and a sore throat. I did what every good Southern girl would do and I called my Mama. She prescribed Nyquil which I downed and slept, and slept, and slept. Oh Nyquil, how I love you. Of course, when I woke up around 2, I was so groggy.

I guess it was around 5 when I felt like I had enough energy to take a shower but of course, after that, I had no energy left. Now I'm propped up in my recliner reading blogs while the Hubs watches O'Reilly. I know, rock star exciting.

I do want to share something with ya'll that I'm lovin' these days. Have ya'll tried the Clean & Clear Warming Daily Pore Scrub? It is wonderful. It's one of the last things I do in the shower and my face has thanked me a thousand times. It really is so warm. I wish I knew how they did that! Unfortunately, this isn't a paid endorsement. This is a freebie from me to you.

Weekend in Review

2010-03-28T20:55:00.000-05:00

This has been a great weekend. My youngest nephew spent-the-night with us. He's 3 and ADORABLE! When I asked him where he wanted to go eat Friday night he said Chick-A-Lay (Chick-Fil-A) so he could eat Chickit (chicken). Isn't that the cutest? So we went, ate, and he played on the playground.

After we came home, I gave him a bath and put on his cute little pajamas. He loved watching cartoons in bed with me. (Ok, all you Moms - how in he world do you stay sane watching those cartoons???) We made Uncle Jay sleep on the couch and James slept with me. I pretty much got no sleep because that little booger moved ALL.NIGHT.LONG! I must have drifted off at some point though because I woke up to him laying there with his chin propped up on his hand staring at me. I think my heart did a little flip-flop when he said "Hey Aunt Jill". Precious. And then I promptly took the sheets off the bed and put them in the washer when I realized little precious had tee-teed in the bed. Love it.

We had a fun morning. We dyed Easter Eggs and watched more of those terrible cartoons. And then, it was time to take him back to his Mama. I told him we could go through a drive-thru for lunch on the way. You guessed it, he wanted Chick-A-Lay. So of course, Chick-A-Lay is what he got. I love that sweet child!

Since I had little man, I wasn't able to go to Weight Watchers but my scale at home says I lost 1.2 last week which gives me a total of 1.6 which is .4 less that my goal BUT I'm still trying and I know I can do it! I am still commited to 20 Pounds N 20 Weeks! I don't have a picture of my poster because I'm just too lazy to go in there and take one real quick.

And today I have spent a wonderful day with the Hubs. Church, got my car cleaned up, and a little exercise. Wonderful weekend!

Do You Remember Prom?

2010-03-26T05:00:00.005-05:00

OK, ya'll. Lately I have been noticing that I've been "forgetting" a few little ole' things. I decided that I might need to blog about some things in my past so that when the day possibly comes where I forget everything... I can just look back and remember how ~~lame~~ great and exciting my life was. It will be like Noah's notebook for Allie. Yeah, it will be just like it.

I couldn't think of a better thing to start with than the Prom. Who doesn't want to remember that??? "What about prom, Blaine?" Ahhh, memories - oh wait that's not my memory. Moving on.

I thought ya'll might a kick out of this pic. This is me in the 8th grade with my date to the B4 High prom. Get it, "Before High School". We were full of some major coolness. B4 High was a... well, I really don't know what it was, but kids from 3 middle schools in our area would get together once a month for a dance. But, let me clarify - I NEVER ONCE got asked to dance in all my years at B4 High. How sad is that? All my friends did. I personally feel responsible for keeping the four walls up.

And since I know you're dying to, let's talk about this pic. It's 1988 in all it's glory.Yes, he has on a white tux. Yes, he has on a gold cumberbund and bowtie. And yes, he has a mullet. What you can't see is that my dress had little gold sparkles and my wrist corsage had gold ribbons. Check out my farmer's tan. The top part of my arms are pasty white. I know what you're thinking - we had it going on!

Spring forward a couple of years. This was my Sophomore year of high school in 1990. I was loving my first and only Jessica McClintock dress. My date - didn't like him so much. I'm not sure why I thought it looked good for my bangs to be completely covering my eyes. I hate that you can't see my mouth full of braces.

1991 - My Junior Prom - By far my favorite one. My date was so.much.fun! I'm rocking a perm, baby! And since my bangs completely covered my eyes the year before, this year I completely pulled them back with a barrette - nice. I loved, loved, loved my purple dress. No farmer's tan this year - I was full-on pasty white.

And last - My Senior Year - 1992 - My date was about 50 feet tall. I'm still pasty white but check out the bangs - they're finally in the right place! Don't even ask, I have no idea why I wore white pantyhose. There's just nothing right about that.

Next week I'm gonna remember my lovely life of sports. Would ya'll be interested in joining me? I'm thinking about doing a Mr. Linky if any of you think you might want to join in. I think it will be fun!

Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy

2010-03-24T19:54:00.001-05:00

It was such a beautiful day which made it so hard for me to concentrate at work. I wanted to just stare out the window which is pretty sad since my only view is the Dialysis place next door. Also, I'm not facing the window so I have to actually turn sideways to get that good view. But just the sun streaming in makes me feel so happy!

I'm making progress in my attempts to workout for my self-imposed 20 Pounds N 20 Weeks challenge. Tonight when I came home and got ready to do The Shred, I put my pants on backwards, my bra on inside out but thankfully was able to get my shoes on the right feet. (I have no idea where my brain is these days.) In the old days, I would have taken all that as a sign that I didn't need to workout that night but the new and improved me worked out anyway. So proud! I'm thinking this week's weigh-in is going to be much better than last week.

Oh! Thanks so much to those of you who left me some recipe ideas on the last post. But based on some of your comments, several of you are in the same boat as me. So, in response to that, I've decided to find and cook a simple dinner recipe each week and share with ya'll. I'm gonna try to post one each Monday night.

Not a whole lot goin' on

2010-03-23T21:49:00.000-05:00

Oh ya'll, I so wish I had something fun and exciting to blog about but I just don't. Today was just a typical workday. A friend did come over tonight to do The 30 Day Shred and oh my word it's so much better doing it with a friend!

Now I'm just chilling with the Hubs watching The Biggest Loser and admiring my newly painted toenails. I just painted them with my new favorite polish. It's a nude color called Bryant Park by NYC. Super cheap and I LOVE it!

I know this is random but do any of you have any quick and easy supper recipes? Please note - I am a below average cook and don't really love doing it. I need to gain some confidence in the kitchen!

A perfect weekend

2010-03-21T18:34:00.000-05:00

This has been a wonderful, long weekend! Friday was my sweet Mama's birthday. I took off work for a day of fun with her, Mama Hen, Abbie and James. It was such a great day. The weather was absolutely perfect!

First, was a stop at the Galleria where we watched Abbie try on dresses and pick out a really cute one for Easter. Next, we had lunch at the Olive Garden (where I ate way too much) and she opened her presents.

Then we headed to Old Time Pottery in Pelham which is a huge store of home goods where we could walk around forever. And finally, we hit the Thrift Store in Alabaster, found some bargains and headed home.

All of our men have been gone since Wednesday to South Carolina. They got home around 5:30 Friday and I can't tell you how happy I was to see Jay-Baby! We've had such a good weekend. More great weather yesterday. Now today has been super rainy but I love that too.

If next week is as great as this weekend - I'm gonna be one happy gal!

Not what I hoped for

2010-03-20T18:00:00.001-05:00

As promised, I'm reporting in on my 20 Pounds N 20 Weeks challenge.

I went to Weight Watchers this morning and let's jut say, I didn't hear what I wanted to hear. I only lost .4. Yes, you read that right - point 4.

What?! I'm not gonna lie, I was sad. I failed on Week 1. But, I know the things I did wrong and I will not make the mistakes again this week. Here's what I did wrong:

I only exercised twice.
I went over on my points every single day.
I didn't drink enough water.
I didn't eat enough fruits and vegetables.

This week I commit to:

Exercising 5 days.
Staying in my points each day.
Drink more water everyday.
Eat my fruits and vegetables everyday.

Thank you so much to all of you who left me encouraging comments last week. I REALLY appreciate it. And, a special thank you to Amy for becoming my accountability partner. (Although, she may want to rethink that now that I didn't meet my first week goal!) Speaking of Amy, she's having an awesome giveaway right now so head on over!

This week, it's On like Donkey Kong and Ping-Pong and anything else you can think of that rhymes!

Daddy's Birthday

2010-03-15T19:51:00.000-05:00

Saturday was my Daddy's 6oth birthday. We had a surprise party for him at the bowling alley and it was so much fun! Here's a few pics.

Dad loved his gift cards

Mama, Daddy and the Grandkids

Everybody knows it's impossible to blow out the candles without help! (If you've never had strawberry on strawberry cupcakes from Edgar's, you haven't lived.)

Mama and Daddy

Mama Hen, me and my bro

Just wondering... is your bootie sore after you bowl? I feel like I've done a million squats.

20 is my Number

2010-03-14T20:30:00.000-05:00

What a weekend! It has been full of birthdays and fun that I'll be blogging about later in the week, but tonight I need talk to you about me and a goal I've set for myself. It's called:

20 pounds -n- 20 weeks

Here's the deal. Jay and I are going to Hawaii August 21st and I can't even begin to try to explain to you how excited I am! Here's what I'm not excited about - the fact that I'm 20 pounds overweight. So, I made myself a plan. I have 20 weeks between now and the end of July and I am determined to lose this weight. In theory, it shouldn't be hard to lose a pound a week but I've been on this weight loss journey for a few years now and I know it won't be easy.

I started Weight Watchers a couple of years ago with a goal to lose 10 pounds. I did it fairly quickly and made Life Time. But then like an idiot, I quit going and gained it all back - plus 10. I've started back and weighed in Saturday morning. Ya'll, it was 155.0.

I know that as women, we tend to NEVER reveal our weight and I almost can't believe I just did it, but I need to. I need you to help me meet my goal. Will you? Will you keep me accountable?

I made this poster and hung it in my bathroom.

I'm going to report in to you each weekend after I weigh in. I'm hoping that ya'll will encourage me and really help me to do this. Thanks ya'll!!!

May all your weeds be wildflowers!

2010-03-07T16:30:00.000-06:00

Jay's parents took us and my Sis-in-law and Bro-in-law to Rising Fawn, GA for the weekend. It was so beautiful and we had so much fun. It was just one night but we ate enough food for about a week. I feel like I'm going to explode.

This morning we had brunch at a place in Mentone called The Wildflower Cafe & Country Store. It was the cutest place. None of us were hungry (we had already had breakfast) and thought we would just look around at the store. Of course, after we got in and heard the brunch special, we had to stay. They had an appetizer called Sweet Potato Biscuits which I have to say, was OUT OF THIS WORLD!

We had just gotten seated by the sweetest girl when we realized we knew each other! It turns out we went to high school together and she and her husband now own the place! How crazy is that!? We were even entertained with live music.

Ya'll totally need to check out Laura's website http://www.mentonewildflower.com/. Make sure to peruse the lunch and dinner menus. You'll be wishing you were in Mentone!

And the winner is....

2010-03-03T19:53:00.000-06:00

Me! I can hardly believe it but I have received The Beautiful Blogger Award from Stephanie at Still Waters and Stacy from Random Musings of a Single Gal. Thank you SOOOOO much!

I'm supposed to pass this on to 7 beautiful bloggers, and list 7 random things about me.

Here goes!

I am completely and totally fascinated with people's lives. If I meet you, I'll probably ask you a million questions. The crazy thing is - the people don't even have to be real. I can read a book or watch a movie and I find myself wondering about the characters way past the point of normalcy.
I'm pretty much an open book. What you see is what you get. I have very few secrets - mainly because it's hard for me to keep one.
I opened every single Christmas present under the tree for years when I was growing up. I perfected the art of unwrapping and rewrapping without leaving a trace. Don't worry, I confessed this to my Mama years ago.
I have very long, skinny fingers and toes (too bad the rest of my body isn't). My brother says I have chimpanzee hands and feet.
If I could only have one dessert for the rest of my life, it would be blackberry cobbler with vanilla bean ice cream.
I am the middle child of the two best parents in the world.
I'm the happiest I've ever been in my entire life. God is SO GOOD!

I'm passing this award on to:

Mama Hen

Janna

Amy

Becky

Meg

Lois

Again, thank you so much Stacy and Stephanie!!!!

It's like Christmas all over again

2010-03-02T21:18:00.000-06:00

I got a wild hair after work today and went and got my nails done. I keep them short because I type all day and I have to admit that I haven't been doing a good job of making sure they're prettyfied. It had been several months and they were in BAD shape. I had all kinds of hang-nails and my cuticles were out of control. I was super excited when I got there because I was the only customer and I didn't have to wait. Oddly enough, I was the only customer the entire time I was there. Hmmm...

I think I zoned out for a while as the Chinese chatter almost lulled me to sleep. Just about the time she started putting on the polish, the door opened and a young lady (and I use that term loosely) came in and started telling them that she had been in there last night and left her money by the nail dryer. The girl that wasn't doing my nails started looking around the dryer and said she didn't see any money. The "lady" just kept saying over and over that she left her money there last night. FINALLY, she left.

About 2 minutes later, the door flew open again and she came back in behind another girl who can only be described as a tornado in a woman's body. Let me try to paint you a picture.

Her acrylics looked about 2 inches long
They were alternating colors of red, green, and orange.) I don't even have the words to describe the craziness that went on from there.
She had on fleece pajama pants that had pictures of the Grinch on them
Her hair matched her shoes and they were gold.

Basically, there was a HUGE fight and half of it was in Chinese and half of it was in Jive. I pretty much had no clue what they were saying but I was loving every.second.of.it!!! And then, it seemed my mouth had a life of its own and I yelled as loud as I could, "How much money was it?" Tornado whipped her head around and screamed, "NINE DOLLARS!" What! Are you kidding me? All of this for nine dollars! (Don't get me wrong - I don't take nine dollars for granted, but for the love! There's no telling how much she forks out every month on her nails and hair alone.)

Anyway, after the Chinese girl heard it was only nine dollars she walked over to the register, took out the money and handed it to Tornado. There were a lot of "Umm, hmm - that's what I thought" and they were out the door. I personally feel like I should be given some kind of peace-keeping award.

For those of you who know me well, this was the equivalent of being a kid on Christmas morning and getting everything you asked for. I wish this for all of you the next time you get your nails done.

I fought the clay, and the clay won

2010-03-01T20:33:00.001-06:00

I did something Saturday that I've never done before. I made pottery in a real studio! I know!!!

The lovely, Rachel invited a few local bloggers to Earthborn Pottery in Leeds for a few hours. This place is awesome! It's a huge warehouse where artist's can rent studio space and where regular people like me can go and feed their creative beast. Check out these beautiful pieces. These are the kind of things they sell.

It was so great! Tena Payne owns the studio and she was so sweet to teach us how to use the wheel and hand-form. Yes, you read that right. I used a pottery wheel. Not only did I use it, but I took a piece of clay and created a masterpiece. OK, maybe that's a bit of an exaggeration, but it was a masterpiece to me. IT IS SO MUCH HARDER THAN IT LOOKS!

Tena gave us a demonstration on the wheel and made it look like a breeze.

And then.... I tried it. For some reason, mine didn't work exactly like Tena's. I don't think the clay was supposed to jump right off the wheel.

This was me after Tena told me my piece of clay was beyond repair and went to get me another one.

Never fear, I eventually wound up with my masterpiece and I was MUCH better at hand-forming. This is Mama Hen and me getting started.

I can't even begin to tell you how much fun I had at my very first blogger's event. I met some great girls and did something I've always wanted to do. We won't be able to pick up the pieces we made for 4 to 5 weeks because they have to be fired and glazed. I can't wait to see how they turn out. Oh, and don't worry, you all will see them too. And when you see them, you'll get to see the great piece Tena gave me for a GIVEAWAY!!! You'll love it, and you'll want to win it!

And, just in case you're wondering, it was NOTHING like Ghost.

Who says romance is dead?

2010-02-28T16:11:00.001-06:00

Hello everyone! I'm so excited to be back. My project deadline has come and gone and I'm so thankful to get back to normal life - whatever that is! I can't believe how fast February has flown by. I know I haven't been posting but I've been reading your blogs to keep up with what's going on with all of you.

I really wanted my first post back to be ~~better that my usual lame post~~ awesome and meaningful so you'd ~~hopefully not consider leaving me forever~~ think about how glad you are that I'm back and how much you missed me. I tried, I really tried, but I feel compelled to tell you about something I saw yesterday.

I stopped at a gas station and while I was pumping my gas, I was discreetly watching this young guy and gal. They looked like they were in high school and since I'm fascinated with people's lives and I had on my big sunglasses which allow me to ~~stalk~~ stare to my heart's content, I was able to witness young love in action. They were so cute talking and laughing and I just smiled thinking about young love.

And then something happened that was totally beyond my comprehension.

This guy pulled a tin of dip out of his pocket, got some out and ya'll, if I'm lyin', I'm dyin' - this young, cute girl opened her mouth and let that boy put it in her mouth. I didn't know what to do. I wanted to yank her up by the arm and ask her why??? What are you thinking?? Don't you know how cute you are? You don't have to DIP for a guy! Oh.my.word.

It gets better. As they smile and hug on each other (with a lump sticking from below each of their bottom lips), he took that tin of dip and put it in her back pocket. A gift - no card needed.

Confession

2010-02-16T20:11:00.000-06:00

I have a confession to make. This is really hard for me to say because I know there are many of you out there who will think I'm crazy or even unAmerican. But I have to say this - I hate the Olympics!!!

I just think they're boring and it makes me so mad that all my regular shows aren't coming on. Do you know what's not on right now and won't be on again next Tuesday because of the stinkin' Olympics?

So theres you have it. You now know my heart about the Olympics. I hope you still love me anyway.

Valentine's Day Already?

2010-02-14T17:37:00.005-06:00

I got a call a few minutes ago from a friend who told me she wanted to verbalize a complaint. I thought I was in for some good gossip, but really she wanted to complain about me. What! A complaint about Moi??? She told me I better get a post up tonight and she would be checking before she went to bed.

Hmm, how could it possibly be over a week since I posted? This had to be the fastest week in the history of the world! It's like it was over before I even felt I really got started. Remember back in the day when summer seemed to last forever? Sigh...

It's been the craziest weekend here in Alabama. Friday we left work around 12 because it was SNOWING like nobody's business! It was so cold (I know, some of you northerners are just shaking your head right now) and beautiful!d As you can see, I was perfectly happy watching it from inside.

I have missed ya'll. My posts will be scarce for the next couple of weeks. I have a big project for work due by the end of the month so I'll be working like a maniac for the next couple of weeks.

I hope you all have had a great Valentine's Day. I loved waking up with my man and exchanging our love letters. My love wrote me a really good one. I'd share it with you but it's for my eyes only. (Silly grin on my face right now!) We went to Church and had lunch at our favorite Chinese place. Then we were super romantic and stopped by Target to pick up a few things. We've been relaxing all afternoon and all kinds of excited to watch The Amazing Race tonight. I know, I know... we are full of romance!

TGIF and a Giveaway Winner

2010-02-05T19:20:00.007-06:00

I don't think there's ever been a Friday where I felt it was more appropriate to say T.G.I.F. I think work mentally drained my brain so much that all that's left is a mountain of noodles. And if that wasn't enough, I had to go buy groceries after work tonight - in the cold - in the rain.

I'm not sure if I've ever told you, but I HATE buying groceries. Before Publix blessedly came into my life, I was almost to the point that we were going to have to eat every meal out or go on Jenni Craig so they would deliver to the front door.

Normally, I would have left work, considered the cold and the rain and driven my rumpus right home. But alas, I had already spent a considerable amount of time on my list and my coupons and some of them were expiring today. (By the way, I saved $20 with my coupons!) By the time I was all done, I was exhausted and a little shaky from some serious hunger. Thankfully, this sweet little angel of a boy took my groceries to my car and unloaded them for me.

Unfortunately, there was no sweet angel of a hubby at home to unload them for me because I'm flying solo tonight. Jay went to some type of Mixed Martial Arts thing with some buddies. After I unloaded everything and put it away, I popped a Kashi pizza in the oven and put my jammies in the dryer for about 5 minutes so they would be nice and toasty when I put them on.

Now my belly's full, I'm warm and comfy in my jammies and ready to announce the winner of my Valentine's Giveaway! The winner of these beautiful bracelets from Bella Regali is....

Stacy from Random Musings from a Single Gal!!!!

Congratulations Stacy! Shoot me an email with your address and I'll get these out to you pronto!

A Valentine's MEME

2010-02-02T19:49:00.004-06:00

All right ya'll. Mama Hen is having a super-dooper McLinky Valentine's meme. Ya'll scoot over there and sign-up too. I would love to read your answers!

Mama Hen's Valentine's Meme

1. Describe your Valentine in five words or less.
strong,good-looking,caring,HILARIOUS

2. Best Valentine present you ever received?
Love notes from Jay-Baby!

3. Worst Valentine present you ever received?
Jay gave me a book on how to be nicer to him. I think I may have mentioned that a time or two or a hundred.

4. Your favorite Valentine candy?
chocolate, oh baby, gobs of chocolate

5. Would you rather receive chocolate or flowers?
chocolate, every time

6. A dress-up candlelight dinner out or a movie snuggling at home?
definitely a movie and snuggling at home

7. Your favorite romantic movie(s)?
Gone With the Wind

8. Your favorite romantic song(s)?
Leather & Lace by Stevie Nicks and Don Henley

It's GIVEAWAY Time

2010-01-31T18:19:00.010-06:00

I can't believe it's already the Eve of February! Hello... 1/12th of our year is gone!

I'm sure everyone is like me and starting to see reminders of Valentine's Day everywhere you go. Hearts and Cupids in store windows, jewelry commercials and candy beckoning me from the store aisles! Let's face it, Valentine's Day can be the best day of your life, the worst day of your life, a huge deal or you forget about it completely. It all depends on your "situation". And I think we can all agree that regardless of your situation, everyone deserves a little something for V-Day.

A couple of weeks ago I ordered the cutest earrings from Stephanie's lovely Etsy Shop, BellaRegali. Aren't they pretty? The picture doesn't do them justice.

At the same time I ordered these earrings, I ordered these beautiful bracelets. (Again, the picture doesn't do them justice.) I thought they would be perfect for a Valentine's Day GIVEAWAY! (Edited to add: The bracelets are the GIVEAWAY. The earrings are all mine and they have been happily hanging on my earlobes since I got them!)

I mean, who wouldn't want to get a V-Day gift from someone they "met" on the internet? (Also, if you're a guy, this could save you some serious shopping time.) It's a win-win. All you have to do is leave me a comment letting me know your plans for VDay. I'll be randomly selecting a winner Friday night, February 6th!

It's Electrifying

2010-01-28T18:42:00.007-06:00

I have an affliction that hurts my heart. It's static electricity. It makes me crazy. I just took my sweater off and it sounded like Rice Krispies snapping, crackling, and popping times 100 all over the place.

I just went online to read about what causes this wretched phenomenon and before I nodded off, I read a lot about atoms, electrons, blah, blah, blah. Pretty much all they had to say is that dry air breeds static. And before you nod off reading this post, here's the reason I'm even writing about this (besides the fact that static makes me want shave my head).

Check out these tips to eliminate static from http://www.sciencemadesimple.com/

"1) Walk barefoot. (Or, as silly as it may sound, cover your shoes with aluminum foil when possible) to reduce the static buildup. " (I promise you won't see me out anywhere with aluminum foil on my shoes.)
"2) Wear a thimble on your finger, or carry a coin, and use them to touch grounded metal objects as often as possible. This will not eliminate the static discharge, but will stop the pain you feel in your fingertips." (Really, please don't any of you walk around with a thimble on your finger unless for real doing some sewing?)

Basically, these tips were a bust. Maybe I'll just put humidifiers in every room of my house. And I totally realize that in the big scheme of things, this is not a big deal. But in my little day-to-day world, it stinks up a big one.

Sleep, it's what's for dinner

2010-01-26T19:29:00.004-06:00

I wish I had something inspiring or meaningful or even just funny to say, but I'm struggling. I haven't fallen asleep before 1:30 the past two nights. Sunday night I thought it was just because I had some caffeine late in the afternoon and it had been so long since I've had any. But last night too????

Luckily, I'm off work tomorrow and I can sleep late and get caught up. Oh wait - that's not true. That was just me dreaming while I'm awake. Cuz I'm sure not asleep. Arrggg!!!

I know ya'll won't be able to believe this but I do believe this lack of sleep might be causing me to be a tad bit snippy. I found myself almost losing it today at work when I went to use a computer and someone had unhooked the mouse. Nice, huh?

Anway, that's all I've got.

Uni-Patooni

2010-01-24T19:01:00.003-06:00

It has been a good, relaxing weekend. I got a few things done - some clothes washed, got my exercise on, cooked a HUGE pot of taco soup and even got some research done for work.

Something I didn't get done (which is truly unfortunate ) was my eyebrows. I really need to remedy that soon because I'm starting to look like this:

I really don't think that's fair to Jay, me or anyone who has to look at me, do you? I'll try to get that taken care of this week.

Response to your Responses

2010-01-21T18:54:00.018-06:00

When the people speak, I feel it's my duty to respond. Here's my response to your comments to yesterday's post.

Peeperspage - Obviously, I am loving The Bachelor. It sucks me in every stinkin' season. At this point, Alli is my girl too. I love that he went ahead and sent Michelle home. Bless her heart, she needs help in the biggest way.

Cindy- I ended up buying the prizes for Bunko at the cutest little store called Peacocks in the Parlor. Not only is everything in there great, but they wrap it for you in these cute little polka dot bags with tissue paper and ribbon. Total bliss.

First Prize - $25 - A wrought iron planter that was shaped like a teacup and saucer. I wish I had taken a picture because it was so adorable. I added a kitchen towel that said something on it about Plan B. It was really cute.
Second Prize - $15 - Hot pink kichen towel that looked kind of like an apron and said something about taking or leaving dinner.
Third Prize - $10 - One of those list notepads that has the magnet on the back. It had a picture of a woman on it that said something about pulling your big girl panties up and dealing with it. (Obviously, I can't remember it exactly.) I also added one of those big nail files that had dice all over it.
Last Bunko Prize - $5 - candle with candle holder
Loser Prize - $5 - candle with candle holder

Kimberly - I called the Taco Salad "killer" because I was so proud that I didn't screw it up and everyone ate it. I followed the directions on the back of the McCormick Taco mix and then I had taco shells, shredded lettuce, sour cream, cheese dip, shredded cheese, guacomole, salsa, and tomatoes. I made brownies for dessert and of course I can't serve brownies without vanilla bean ice cream.

Janna, Mama Hen & Stephanie - Here's a pic of my new hair. Please don't judge - it's been a long day at work and I just didn't have it in me tonight to try and spiff it up a bit.

And... that's all I've got. It's a big TV night. I hope all ya'll get to enjoy it as much as I plan to!

Remember Me?

2010-01-20T20:42:00.002-06:00

I have seriously been an absentee blogger lately. It just seems like I haven't been able to get it all together lately. But, I feel better now. I just got caught up with all my blog reading and I feel all kinds of "connected" with all you good people again!

This is what's been going on with me the last few days.

Friday - Sick. Pretty much slept all day.

Saturday - Haircut. I now have Lisa Rinna hair. It's supposed to be my "growing out" style.

Monday - Spent 2 hours at the eye doctor. New glasses and new contacts. Praise the Lord, he finally found a contact for my afflicted left eye. I have been wearing it for the past 3 days and my vision hasn't blurred once. Seriously, it's like a whole new world. I then spent two hours in one store looking for prizes for Bunko. Made a killer taco salad for Bunko and had a blast with my friends. Stayed up till midnight watching The Bachelor after everyone left.

Tuesday - Barely made it through The Biggest Loser without falling asleep. Passed out in the bed about 2 seconds after it went off.

And now here I am. I wish I had some crazy exciting news to tell you but, well, do I ever? Love ya'll like crazy!

What day is it?

2010-01-13T18:14:00.003-06:00

Seriously, I don't know where my brain is this week. I thought yesterday was Wednesday and didn't realize today wasn't Thursday until about 1:00. And since I thought yesterday was Wednesday, I posted my GIVEAWAY winner a day early. So.Not.Right.

Anyway, I woke up this morning with a scratchy throat. On the way to work, I stopped by the store and got some cold medicine and Cepacol for sore throats. I felt pretty good till around 1 (the same time I realized it was Wednesday) and then started feeling weak. I refuse to be sick so this is what I say to the Cold Cooties:

Dear Cold Cooties,

Stay away from me. My body does not want to be your friend and invite you in for a snackfest of snot and phlegm. I have many important things to do this week which do not involve you in any shape, form or fashion. I have work and Jazzercize and a hair appointment. (Oh praise the Lord, I have a hair appointment!) So let the words of Gloria Gaynor serenede you as you leave.. Go. Walk out the door. Just turn around now. cause you're not welcome anymore.

Sincerly, Me

So now I'm off to take some nighttime medicine. Hopefully, my throat and brain will be up-to-par in the morning.

GIVEAWAY WINNER

2010-01-12T19:50:00.004-06:00

I didn't get all 5 things done that I had planned today but I did do this.

My piggies are no longer naked!

And, it's time to announce the winner of my 200th POST GIVEAWAY!!! I randomly chose a number (by asking Jay to pick a number between 1 and 15) and the winner is......

CINDY FROM PEEPERSPAGE!

Congratulations Cindy! Email me your address and I'll send out your $25 giftcard to Applebee's and 2 movie tickets to Regal Cinemas. FYI, Cindy was one of my college roommates and one of the funniest people I know. Check out her blog, she has the cutest little boy - adorable!

Tag-a-licious

2010-01-11T21:10:00.007-06:00

Before I get to my regularly scheduled post: Mama Hen is having a giveaway! Go on over and leave a comment to win. Make sure to come back though. I'll miss you while you're gone...

Hmm, Hmm, Hmmm. Just waiting....

Great! You're back! The lovely Jill over at Peeptoe Pumps and Pearls tagged me to answer these 5 questions with 5 answers each.

Question #1 – What were you doing 10 years ago? (Good grief, I can barely remember yesterday.)

In January 2000, I was 25 and had been married for a year and a half. This was about the time that things started clicking for us. We had gotten used to be married (yes, I know - we're slow) and really started enjoying each other.
I'm a computer programmer and about this time I was breathing a sigh of relief that our product didn't blowup during Y2K.
2000 was the year that Callie & Sissy came into our lives.
Felicity was my favorite TV show.
Jay and I were going to Lakeside Baptist and made a ton of new friends.

Question #2 – What are 5 things on your To-Do list today? (This is my list for 01/12/2010)

Work
Go to Academy on my lunch break to get some new tennis shoes.
Jazzercise at 6:00.
Watch as many shows as possible on the DVR.
Paint my toenails. (Oh yes, they're still naked.)

Question #3 – What 5 snacks do you enjoy? (Just 5?)

chocolate chip cookies
chips (all kinds)
string cheese
Wheat Thins
Butterfinger Blizzards

Question #4 – Where are 5 places that you have lived? I've never lived anywhere other than Alabama but Jay and I have lived in 5 different houses since we've been married.

Question #5 – What are 5 things you would do if you were a billionaire?

Buy my Dad's company.
Buy a Jazzercise franchise.
Give 10% to my Church.
Sponsor more children through World Vision.
Help as many people as I can.

I tag:

LeAnna at Thoughts and Whatnots

Stacy at Random Musings from a Single Gal

Cindy at Peeperspage

Rebekah at In the Heart of Our Home

Becky at Holiday in the Sun