Songe Cafe

Happy Birthday Princess Sylvierella!

2012-02-06T19:24:00.008-06:00

I am a little late with this post. It's unforgivable, I know! But I have to take a little time and blog space to wish my babygirl a very Happy 11th Birthday! Eleven years....there are people who spend their whole life waiting for a little bit of wonderful. People who long for a little bit of love. I have had eleven years to savor the wonder that is my Sylvie!

When this picture was taken, I was so busy soaking her in. I was memorizing the curves of her face and counting her fingers and toes. I was basking in the glory of all things new baby and trying to figure out what I did to deserve something so perfect.

She was a great thinker even as an infant. It was almost as if there was so much to contemplate about the world she felt the need to start early. I began to see the world through her eyes and I was amazed. Blues seemed bluer and the sun shone brighter.

But I am most blessed because she loves her Momma! There are some days I know I fail herl when I don't give her enough attention or I react to harshly to something. I have high expectations of her and worry that it is too much a burden for her to bear. But no matter what, she loves me in spite of my faults. It's as if she has reached in and read my soul and knows that no matter what, she will always by My Princess!

And she is right...because at the end of the day, my greatest achievement is a beautiful, brown-eyed beauty named Sylvie!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T15:25:00.002-06:00

Well, according to the Mayan calendar, this was the last New Year's Eve ever. So how did I spend it? Curled up on the sofa, snoring! LOL My hubby woke me up with 15 seconds on the big clock so I could watch the ball drop in Times Square, and he and the kiddo managed to sneak outside for a little firework display courtesy of the neighbors, but I was perfectly content snuggling on my sofa. I have a few more days off until I have to get back to work, but I'm making the most of this sleepy vacation. I hope that the New Year brings many blessings to everyone. Happy New Year!

The Hubs

2011-12-19T07:57:00.005-06:00

Did you read the last post and think the only changes at Songe Cafe were those I made myself? NOPE! The Hubs has been reassigned. His new employment locale is Brazil. So he gets to spend a month or so chilling in South Louisiana only to fly away to Brazil for an equally long time. I hate that he is gone so long and I really hate the lack of communication that exists when he is south of the equator, but I love that his trips home last over a month now versus the two weeks we used to get. Does he like his new assignment? Well, we've learned to be grateful for him still having a job! He has more time to work on projects (aka...a podium for my new classroom) and since he was home for Halloween, he had plenty of time to go trick or treating with the kid. I think I got lucky y'all, because the tin man, the one without the heart, yeah he's missing it because he gave it to me!

New Life, Same ol' me!

2011-12-18T17:54:00.004-06:00

So, it's been over a year since I've posted anything on blogger. I would say that I feel like such a slacker, but it really has been a busy year. Let me fill you in....

Me...I'm a college graduate. After 4 1/2 long years of re-training myself to study, I finished my B.A. in Social Studies Education. There were so many days that I never thought I'd get there, but alas, it finally happened. I was so excited to don the ugliest, most unflattering robe ever and what may be the tackiest hat I've ever seen to enjoy the pomp and circumstance of it all. It took everything I had not to do the "Brad Wing" walking down the aisle at graduation, but I was worried they would recall my degree like they had his touchdown. I am now employed full time as a high school teacher and I LOVE IT. I was born to be a teacher, I know it! My colleagues are phenomenal and my students are equally praise-worthy. I am blessed beyond belief to have a job that I enjoy waking up to go to.

I hope that I become a better blogger and you can come along on this exciting journey into my new career with me!

And the emmy goes to.....

2010-11-24T21:05:00.002-06:00

ME....

I LOVE MY DAUGHTER! I mean that, with everything in me, I love my daughter. She is smart and strong and beautiful and funny and everything I've always wanted for her to be. So when the doctor informed me that she would need surgery again (the fourth in 9 years) I was so sad. No parent ever wants that for their children. But I have faith in my doctors and believe it is for the best.

Today was surgery day. Today my beautiful Angelface bravely held her head high and cracked jokes as they wheeled her back. When she was out of sight, I cried. I cried A LOT! I had so much fear and anxiety trapped inside a heavy heart that I cried. When the doctor came to tell me how awesome she did, I cried. I cried A LOT! I felt the weight of the world wash away with every tear that trickled down my face. When I heard her crying beyond the recovery room doors, knowing I could not go beyond the room I was in, I cried. I cried A LOT! Every ounce of overbearing, overprotecting Momma Bear mentality flared with a vengenance. But when I saw my beautiful daughter being rolled through the doors coming at me, I smiled. I smiled REALLY BIG like I hadn't a care in the world.

And tonight, when she went to bed, and my need to be strong closed her eyes, I cried. I cried A LOT! But tomorrow is a new day.......

Turbinates? Isn't that like in an engine?

2010-11-01T10:33:00.004-05:00

Anyone that knows me knows that Sylvie is perpetually sick. She lives in a state of constant stuffiness. She can be healthy one day and the next, her ability to breathe seems to elude her. I get the infamous, "I can't bweathe momma" or "I feewe reawwy reawwy bad momma." We have spent hundreds of dollars after years of sudafed, steroids and a slurry of other pharmaceutical treats designed to heal. We'd probably have had more luck with one of those crazy television evangelicals placing his sweaty palm on her feverish head and screaming "YOU'RE HEALED!"

Whatever the case, the doctor has informed us that Sylvie has enlarged turbinates. Besides thinking that turbinate was some type of engine, I felt a little overwhelmed. Do you know what always helps me, a picture. Luckily the doctor provided a nifty little guide to the nose. Let me say I know more about noses than I ever really cared to know. Today I was informed that Sylvie needs a Submucosal Resection of the Turbinates. Basically the doctor is going to make an incision inside her nose, cut away some of the enlarged tissue & some of the bone in her sinus cavity, pack her nose with gauze and send her home for mom to provide some TLC. Surgery has been scheduled for Wednesday, November 24 (the day before Thanksgiving).

So while everyone else dines on turkey and rice dressing, we'll be feasting on homemade chicken noodle soup.

And then hopefully, one week later, when the doctor removes the nasal packing, I will have a healthy, happy daughter once again! Let's keep our fingers crossed!

I HATE DIRECTV!

2010-10-29T13:00:00.000-05:00

Ok guys, let me start by saying that I consider myself to be a reasonable person. I try my best to hold in my anger if at all possible. This of course, is not one of those times. We signed up for Directv 6 months ago. According to the "promotional offer" that we signed up for we would get a $29 discount per month for the first 12 months then $14 per month for 12 months the second year. After that we'd pay full price. Fantastic I thought, I love a good bargain! The only requirement was once our service was connected I had to fill out an online rebate form within the first 90 days.

Well I tried to fill out that rebate form. Everytime I went to the link they told me to go to it would say "you are ineligible for rebates at this time." So the first month I got my bill, there was no credit. I called Directv and talked to some lowly customer service representative who told me sometimes it takes a month before it shows up on the bill. Imagine my disappointment when the next month's bill revealed no credit. So again I called. I was told they would fix it and by the next month, it would be there. Third month rolls around and well, you guessed it, NO REBATE!

I called again and again and again, every month waiting for Directv to figure things out. Today I'd had enough. I had decided that I was technically owed $174 worth of rebates for the past 6 months. Of course that total was too much for the lowly customer service rep I spoke to today. I say I spoke to him because what little he the foreign man said to me was virtually unintelligble because his English was so bad.

So he transferred me to someone "higher up!" By "higher" I can only assume he meant stoned because she was of no use to me either.

She offered to give me a $29 credit this month and wait and see what happened next month. After all, if she credited that big amount now and the credit goes through next month, they will have given me more than what I was contracted to get. When I kindly explained that calling Directv every month about my bill was not convenient, she suggested I speak to her supervisor. That's when the real fun began.

This BEOTCH (and I use that term as the nice version of what I really wanted to call her...C U Next Tuesday anyone?) informed me that I was no longer eligible for the rebate because 90 days had passed. WTF? It was not my fault I could not file the rebate. After much complaining she offered to figure out the total amount the entire 2 year rebate would be and then credit my bill. Isn't that sweet? I thought so until she got back on the phone and informed me she could credit my account for $200. $200? Seriously...I'm not a math wizard or anything but me and my handy dandy calculator can do some basic math facts. $29 X 12 = $348. $14 x 12 = 168 If I add that together $348 + 168 = $516. What happened to the other $316 that Directv owed me? I guess I am supposed to eat that amount. Now folks I'm a chunky girl and I'm from the South. But even if she deep fried that $316 then coated it in powdered sugar, I still wouldn't eat it.

So, I accepted the $200 credit and am looking into our local cable company. It was either that or do this....

Walt Whitman

2010-10-28T02:00:00.000-05:00

Walt Whitman once said, "I no doubt deserved my enemies, but I don't believe I deserved my friends."

Never has a statement been so true. I can look back upon my life and see the times when I've been judgmental and harsh. Heck, I can look back at yesterday and see where I've been judgmental and harsh. But when I look at my life and the wonderful people that I have been blessed with, I realize that I am lucky. Lucky because I probably don't deserve them. Lucky because they haven't figured that out. I am a horrible friend. I push people away. I write them off when I get upset. I fight the need to need people. But every once in a while people come into your life and for whatever reason, you hold on for dear life. Those people...the ones who accept the white knuckle grip you have on their hand...the ones with your tears dampening their shoulders...the ones that come running at the first sign that you're in trouble...those are the ones I'm talking about today. So to all my friends (and family that I call friends) I am here to say Thanks. I know it doesn't begin to cover it...but THANK YOU!

Blog Day of Silence

2010-10-26T10:00:00.006-05:00

In honor of my dear friend Summer many of us are getting together to host a Blog Day of Silence tomorrow. If you have been lucky enough to have this very special lady be a part of your life in some way or another, I hope you will join all of us and show your support. Summer, we love you!

Star light, star bright

2010-10-25T01:07:00.007-05:00

The first star I see tonight...I wish I may, I wish I might, have this wish I wish tonight!

I love to read. I love to read children's books. Patricia Polacco writes children's books. She wrote "Thank you, Mr. Falker." It is the autobiographical tale of her own struggle to overcome dyslexia and learn to read. It seems silly really that I am talking about children's books right now. But you see, my friend Summer, she's hurting because today, her Dad went to Heaven. And children's books have a way of entertaining us, providing a different viewpoint on the world and teach a moral lesson...all in about 30 or so pages. In her story, Ms. Polacco relates talking to her grandmother. They were lying in a field on the family farm looking at the sky. Her grandmother told her that stars are holes in the sky where the light of Heaven shines through.

My wish is that tonight, and every night from here on out, when Summer looks to the sky, she'll see the twinkle in the stars and know her Daddy is winking at her.

First Day of Fourth Grade

2010-08-06T11:41:00.004-05:00

Today is Sylvie's first day of the fourth grade. She was so excited leaving the house this morning. She had a big smile on her face in spite of her summer cold. She is ready to get the new year started and is really excited about meeting her new teacher. I hope things go better with her this year than they did last year!

Notice those feet people, we are talking a 9 year old with a size 9 1/2 in ladies shoes. Hopefully that's a clue that she's gonna be tall because if she's gonna have my hips, she better have her dad's height!

Summer vacation is almost over

2010-08-04T23:31:00.003-05:00

With the summer vacation coming to a close and Sylvie returning to school on Friday, I wanted to have a special evening with her. We decided on dinner and a movie. The movie was Ramona and Beezus.

Let me tell you now, it is one of the most wholesome family movies ever. The lead character Ramona from the Beverly Cleary series of books is an impetuous third grader with a heart of gold. She is as frustrating as she is adorable and you fall in love with her and her family. I love any movie that I can bring Sylvie to and she can learn a lesson. We see lots of cartoons with jokes far beyond her head and more innuendo than I ever care to explain. This movie had none of that. We laughed out loud and even cried quietly. It was a refreshing movie that I consider a must see for families and for anyone who is looking to gain a better perspective of life. Because as Ramona's sister Beezus reminds us, sometimes it's okay to color outside the lines.

Never hit a man with glasses, hit 'em with a baseball bat

2010-07-27T09:42:00.005-05:00

Sylvie played machine pitch softball again this summer. She loves it and she's actually pretty good at it. Most of the season she played first base but the coach was really fair about giving all the girls a chance to play the various positions so below is a pic of her playing outfield. Her team was comprised of 12 girls; 4 of which had never played any form of baseball before. Yet despite the odds, they placed second in the recreation department tournament. I was so proud and not even because they did so well, but because she worked hard for it. As a parent, you hope you instill the value of hard work in your children. The concept that anything worth doing is worth giving 100% and she really did. She played through overwhelming odds and heat and turned out to make some really good friends out of it.

The coach taught them to step into a pitch when you are batting and she took him at his word. When she's not holding the bat like a wand, she can really nail the ball. And for the first year, she wasn't the only "lefty" on the team.

It's Deere Season!

2010-07-27T09:07:00.004-05:00

Our yard isn't huge, but man, it's a lot of incline and uneven. It was beotch to mow when we had a push mower and even worse when the self-propelled in that baby broke. So hubby said, "ya know, if we gotta get a new mower, we should get a riding mower." And so it was to be.... Each week I brave the heat to edge, weed eat and mow the lawn. To the heat I say, "Bring It!" To the humidity I say, "I ain't afraid to sweat!" To the neighbors I say, "Don't come close because I'm smelling pretty funky!" No matter what I'm saying or who I'm saying it to, I love when my hubby is home to provide some sort of assistance. It can shave up to an hour off the time. So this week was no different. Well, actually it was very different. I hadn't been outside long but the sun was already showing me who was boss...and let's be clear, it wasn't me! So, I was stringing the weedeater when what do my wondering eyes should I see, a nine-year old daughter who asked to help me. Yes, you read that right, SHE ASKED to help me. There was no way in heck I was gonna squash her desire to help and the product of her desire turned into a great photo-op!

Huge thanks for an improved look....

2010-07-14T06:30:00.001-05:00

In case you haven't noticed, my blog has gotten a total overhaul. When I decided to re-dedicate myself to blogging, I knew that I needed to update the blog look. I mean, don't get me wrong, I loved the SongeBirds. It was a beautiful reflection of my life at the time it was created, but now I am at a different place in my life. I am in the "sit back, relax and enjoy a cup of coffee with a friend" mode. I enjoy reading all of your blogs in the morning while I enjoy a cup of coffee. So it seemed befitting that my blog be all about sharing my coffee with you. I owe Becky a world of thanks for all of her hard work on the new look. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for making the blog look as wonderful as it does. I still have to send out your package which will hopefully go out this week. With my husband getting hurt at work I have been in caregiver mode and fell behind in the rest of my duties. But thanks again Becky for everything.

Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans....

2010-07-13T10:36:00.004-05:00

I told myself that I would be a better blogger. I would post more often and really work to find my inner blogger peace again. I did good for about a week until life got in the way. First hubby came home which means we get up early, go to bed late and are busy every minute in between. I do love my husband so much but I have to admit that he is a bit exhausting. And while I am so happy when he is home, sometimes I sleep more when he's at work. So when he was due to go back to work I was okay with that because it meant that I could get back to my regular routine. Of course he was at work for all of 4 hours before he got hurt. I met him at the emergency clinic and brought him home; he pulled a muscle in his back and basically needed to alternate ice and heat for a few days till he was feeling better. The next day, the company found a place for him to work till he was 100% again so off he went again.

He was gone for 4 hours when disaster struck again, this time at home. Seems as though Sylvie got into a fight with the fire pit and the fire pit won. So she runs inside with tears and blood streaming down her face. I call the Dr's office and let them know we are on our way. After several xrays it was determined that her nose was not broken...the official diagnosis is "nasal contusion." As you can see from the photo, her nose is swollen and she is not a happy camper, but it could've been worse.

The good news is her nose is healing well and hubby is feeling well enough that the company sent him back to regular duty. The great news is we have passed the 4 hour mark and no new disasters.

I don't cook food, I assassinate it!

2010-06-22T16:05:00.009-05:00

Do you know a good cook? What about a great cook? Someone who can make your stomach growl simply by telling you what's on the menu that night?

I love food. More than that, I love that God made a requirement for life. I even like cooking food. What I don't like is when I go into the kitchen to cook and realize that the recipe that I'm using is far to advanced for my particular culinary skills. I love to watch the Food Network and while some of the food seems simple enough, it usually requires ingredients that I would never have in my house. I mean I don't mind having to grocery shop and pick up a few new ingredients or spices, but if I have to buy 10 new ingredients to make one dish, it's probably not a dish I will ever make.

So I am now on a mission to create what I call a "Cammie Friendly Cookbook." I want to gather a series of recipes that are yummy and delicious that can be made by even a novice cook. My goal is that once a week I will try a new recipe and post both the recipe and the outcome here on my blog. I figure it will serve as help to all other culinary challenged folks like myself plus it will help to keep me accountable.

So with this new mission in mind, I am calling all cooks for a little assistance. Let the recipe exchange begin. Please respond with the recipe for a "family favorite" dish. I am hoping to be inspired to love my kitchen (or at least not hate it)!

Everyone is beautiful if you squint a bit....

2010-06-18T11:06:00.005-05:00

My husband says I'm gorgeous. That sweet, visually impaired man of mine! When I'm soaking in the tub with some crazy goopy (that's the technical term) mask on my face, he still thinks I'm sexy. Now, if only I felt as beautiful as he believes me to be.

Let me start by saying that I have never been a "small" woman. I am "big-boned" as they say but here lately, whew I got lots of big meat wrapped around those big bones. Some people use the term "thick" but I'm more inclined to go with "fluffy" because these days, there's a whole lotta softness going on.

This bunny has the exact same "bed head" as I do!

I put on a tank top the other day and realized I have the infamous "bye-bye arm." You know, when you wave bye-bye, long after you stop your arm is still waving. It could also be called a McFat arm since I probably got it from so many McMeals! SCARY folks, just scary!

So, I have to ask, do you work out? What do you find works for you? Is it fun or do you do it simply because you have to?

Forgotten how to blog

2010-06-17T18:15:00.003-05:00

Is it possible to forget how to blog? I don't mean forget to blog, as in, oops, it's midnight and I didn't post a blog today. I mean, forget how to blog...I think I have. I struggle with sharing my feelings with the world. I have to really work and letting myself be open to all the greatness that blogging brings. But, I also know how therapeutic it is for me. I stalk several blogs daily and am constantly amazed how so many of you put your heart out there for all of the world to read. I weep when I read about how Summer struggles with fertility and as Megan faces a mother's worst fears. I sympathize with Bonnie and that feeling of loneliness that surrounds us in a new town with a newborn. I giggle when I see photos of Becky's bundle of joy and I rejoice with Kim as she celebrates her new family! Yet somehow, I can't think of anything I can possibly write that can draw as much emotion from anyone as these women who excite and inspire me. So today, I am making a resolution, to write whatever pops into my head each day (and by each day I mean at least a few times a week, LOL) and post it for no one but myself. My goal is to find the joy and peace that blogging once brought me.

I have no clue what happened???

2009-12-28T22:31:00.001-06:00

I had three blogs that were "scheduled" to post and not only did they not post, they were deleted. Either blogger went haywire or I'm not as computer savvy as I thought. I promise, I will do my best to repost my thoughts soon! Hopefully tomorrow I can catch up!

A year ago today....

2009-12-15T21:58:00.003-06:00

I debated on whether or not to blog about this but figured things couldn't get any more depressing since my last post so why not.

I have a beautiful 8 year old daughter named Sylvie. She is my little bit of imperfect perfection. She is my sun and moon and stars. She is everything I didn't know I wanted till I had it. But my husband and I wanted another child. We had several failed attempts before seeking help from fertility specialists. It was determined that I had numerous fibroid tumors embedded in the muscle of my uterus. There was no longer a viable location for implantation and no way to remove the tumors and maintain viability of the uterus. In short, nothing could be done to help us conceive but the doctors could stop the pain.

One year ago today I had a hysterectomy. One year ago today, the dream my husband and I had of turning the "extra room" into a nursery was shattered. We considered adoption, we really did, but we couldn't justify the financial burden. I mean, if we didn't have children already (he has one from a previous marriage), then maybe; but we couldn't take away from the children we already have. So now I live vicariously through my friends.

Several are currently expecting...some have newborns...some are still trying. To all of you, please know that my prayers are with you all in your various stages of parenthood. I love you and wish you all the joy and warmth that my family has brought to me.

Me

2009-12-14T00:45:00.004-06:00

I write this blog...and it's ok. There are a few people who read it, but not many. I don't know why you few who follow me do so. I haven't figured that out yet. I don't do or say anything exciting, my life is pretty mundane. I go through the motions of trying my best to be a good wife and mother and all the while ranting and raving about the things that drive me nuts. Yet for some reason, you guys seem interested in my mundane life. I've asked myself why many times. I haven't really figured out the answer but I have decided to use you guys for a little test. I know a few of you in real life, but most of you are virtual friends...blogger buddies! And I have to know...if you knew the real me, would you still be there? You see, I keep everything to myself all the time...I don't trust anyone. I have lived my entire life believing that if you give someone long enough, they will let you down.

My mother died almost 14 years ago. Her birthday is coming up soon. She loved me, but not the way you should love a child. She loved me the way I love my pet. In the "I wouldn't want anything to happen to you but I wouldn't really care if you were gone" way. And because of this I have spent years feeling like if my mom couldn't love me, something must be wrong with me. I have this intense need to please people and I measure my own self-worth by the opinions of those around me. I have a fear of failure that is immeasurable and a fear of death that is often paralyzing.

My fear of death is a bit about the unknown but mostly it's about my precious Sylvie. What would happen to her if I was gone? If I wasn't there, would she forget me? Would she know how much she meant to me? I have moments when I can't breathe...when I feel like the air has been sucked out of the room and it takes everything I have in me to fill my lungs. I have moments when I look at Sylvie and I can barely swallow because the lump in my throat makes it impossible. There are times when I look at her sleeping face and all I can do is cry because my heart is so full of love for her that I have to release tears to free the pressure in my chest. I am in therapy to learn to cope with my fears and face the world head on. I try my best everyday to live by my husband's motto "breathe in and out then repeat as necessary." I pray that God will grant me the courage, strength and wisdom I need to be the best mother, wife and friend I can. But most of all, when I say my prayers all I really ask for is more time with her, my precious Sylvie.

So my virtual friends, my blogger buddies...there you have it. I hope you know that if you are reading this, I toyed with the idea of pressing the "publish post" button. I wasn't sure whether or not I was ready to have others know about the "snakes in my head." I have let you in...I share the brightest parts of my life with no trouble, but the darkness is another story. So knowing what you know, what do you now?

Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity

2009-12-11T11:21:00.004-06:00

When I decided to go back to college I knew it would be difficult trying to juggle family and school. I was fortunate that I didn't have to throw a full time job into that mix. With the economy like it is, I've decided that I should work as hard as possible to get it done as soon as possible so this past semester I scheduled 20 hours. What on earth was I thinking?

Finals are finally over...all classes are compete and all I have to do is wait on grades to be posted.

I am hoping that if all goes well, I will have a 3.5 this semester but as for right now, all I really care about is that it's done. I have one month to think about how I'm gonna handle 21 hours next semester but in the meantime, all I wanna do is take a nap!

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

2009-12-04T10:19:00.000-06:00

I LOVE Christmas! I love all of the decorations and lights. I love the presents and egg nog. I love stockings and Christmas carols. But I really absolutely positively love Christmas Trees. I was struggling to come up with a topic to write about and then I read Sum Sum's Blog about her Christmas tree and well, BAM Inspiration! We have a pre-lit 9' tree and I love love love it. The fact that it's pre-lit makes things so much easier on me and the fact that it reaches far above my head makes me happy (except when it's time to take the decorations down). It is the same tree we had last year that we bought not long after moving into the new house. The living room has 12' cathedral ceilings so the tree fits perfectly in the corner. By the time you put it in the stand and put a topper on, we're just under the height requirements. Our Christmas tree has nothing but blue, white and silver ornaments (both traditional balls and snowmen). I love the color combination and I just had to share photos of my tree with all my blogger buddies. I hope it helps to put you all in the Christmas spirit!

Closeup of the ornaments on the tree

The final product

Snowman are Snazzy

2009-12-03T22:36:00.003-06:00

At first I thought, surely I can't do another post about Christmas. But then I thought, well heck, it is December. If not now, WHEN? With that in mind, I have to tell you, Snowmen are Snazzy. I love them. I don't know why. Maybe it's because I'm a chunky chick and I love their roundness. Maybe it's because I live in South Louisiana and we rarely have snow so I like the idea. Maybe it's because Frosty the Snowman is one of the coolest Christmas songs of all time. Maybe I just like 'em and shouldn't have to explain. LOL Whatever the case, I love snowmen. Well, this year for Christmas, I decided that I wanted to decorate the front yard with a snowman nativity scene. Everyone I told and showed the picture of the yard art hubby was making told me how adorable they look. That is except for my Granny. Now before I tell you everything, let me tell you that my grandmother is kinda like my moral meter. I contact her (sometimes at inappropriate hours of the day) just to ask her opinion. She offers the best advice that I usually don't take. It's a great relationship that way. Well, anyways, I contacted Granny and asked her opinion and she said she thought the nativity scene was a bit offensive and I was liable to tick off my neighbors. So I did what any self respecting Christian would do, I sent an email and picture of the nativity scene to our priest. He says make two, one for him. With that in mind, hubby is busy as a bee making lots of yard art (which most probably won't be finished in time for this year's season...boohoo) to decorate the house. So, I present you with an picture of the anticipated product and wait for your opinion.

These are a few of my favorite things....

2009-12-03T10:12:00.000-06:00

(ahem....channeling my best inner Julie Andrews)

Hugs from daughter, from hubby it's kisses
Starry night skies and wells for my wishes
The way Sylvie sounds when she tries to sing
These are a few of my favorite things

Cozy pajamas, a mug full of coffee
Me on the sofa and Dexter on TV
Warm summer nights and the changes Fall brings
These are a few of my favorite things

Decorating lots of holiday goodies
Dressing in sweaters and warm comfy hoodies
Wrapping gifts in paper of bright red and green
These are a few of my favorite things

When the day sucks
And gloom it brings
When I'm feeling sad
I simply remember my favorite things
And then I don't feel so bad!!!!!!

What are a few of your favorite things?

Goodie Goodie Gadgets!

2009-12-02T12:00:00.001-06:00

As Christmas fast approaches and I spend more time shopping, I am constantly seeing new gadgets in the stores and online. Sylvie's Christmas list includes robotic animals and a laptop so I guess that means she's a gadget freak like the rest of us. But this got me thinking...what gadgets could I just not do without?

For sure my laptop (as I use it for school, blogging and all around fun). I love the world of instant gratification and the ability to find information (especially useless information) at a moment's notice. As long as I have my laptop and wi-fi, I'm all set!

Of course there is also my cellphone (when hubby is at work, it is our lifeline). I love the Blackberry Curve and have investigated the iphone but iphone is only on AT&T and we are on Sprint. So, when iphone realizes the market it is leaving out and makes a Sprint compatible phone, I'm in!

Last but not least, my bluetooth (I have made many of people believe I was crazy for talking to myself). The handsfree option allows me to keep two hands on the wheel (or one on the wheel and one holding my Starbucks) while chatting up the latest gossip. It also lets hubby and I talk on the phone while I'm cooking and cleaning!

What is on your wishlist this Christmas? What gadgets could you not live without? Which are you hoping to upgrade this Christmas?

We Ain't the Aints No Mo'

2009-12-01T07:25:00.005-06:00

For so long, the unofficial state motto of Louisiana has been "Thank God for Mississippi" because when we were 49th in education, or any other craptastic statistic, we could always count on Mississippi to be 50th. Being from Louisiana meant being last in just about everything....until now! Now, Louisiana's own New Orleans Saints are undefeated and are ranked first in the NFC. Seriously folks, FIRST! So for all of you asking the question WHO DAT!?! The answer is WE DAT!?!

The New Orleans Saints dominated the New England Patriots during Monday Night Football last night. As a matter of fact, they played so well, guys I didn't even know were on the team were making touchdowns. When Dinkins scored, I looked at my hubby and asked, "Who's he? The waterboy?" Drew Brees is about as accurate as they come. His ability to "air it out" is stellar and the number of weapons he has in his offensive arsenal is impressive. It makes me so proud to be a Saints fan.

Who Dat? Drew Dat!

Two Thanksgivings and Some Leftovers

2009-11-30T06:00:00.001-06:00

On Thursday we celebrated Thanksgiving with my side of the family and on Saturday we did the same with Hubby's side. While I love any reason to entertain at the house, this means twice the leftovers. I must admit that I planned appropriately (GO ME!) and was fortunate enough not to have too many side dishes left over but what to do with all this leftover turkey??? Well, Sunday was a yummy delicious turkey and sausage gumbo. I don't know about you guys, but I love a meal that basically cooks itself. That gumbo simmered away in the background while I caught up on some homework. By nightfall is was a perfection in a bowl. But unfortunately, turkey leftovers are just like one of those infomercials on TV..."there's more." So what now? I checked out the food network and came across this little recipe from Sandra Lee of Semi-Homemade and I am considering trying it out.

Turkey Chilaquiles

Ingredients:

2 TBSP vegetable oil

1 1/2 cups red onion, chopped

1 (4 ounce) can diced green chiles (recommended: Ortega)

1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chiles (recommended: Ro'tel)

3 cups leftover cooked turkey, shredded

1 (16 ounce) jar chunky salsa (recommended: Pace)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

5 cups tortilla chips, crushed

1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican 4-cheese blend

1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped

1/4 cup sour cream

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Heat vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet, over medium-heat. Add onions and saute until soft. Add green chiles, diced tomatoes, leftover turkey and salsa. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, to taste. Top with tortilla chips and then cheese. Place skillet in oven and bak for about 20 minutes.

Remove from oven. Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately with side of sour cream

This sounds really yummy and will probably be on tonight's menu but I have to ask...what do you do with all of your Thanksgiving day leftovers?

I'm ashamed what I'd do for a Klondike bar!

2009-11-29T03:30:00.000-06:00

Ok, so maybe I'm not that ashamed and as a matter of fact, I've never actually eaten a Klondike bar. But well, I have to admit that in our household, Christmas is the season of sweets. I love chocolate dipped pretzels, chocolate dipped ruffles and chocolate dipped nuts. If I were to be completely honest I'd have to say that if it sits still long enough, it will be dipped in chocolate. This is kinda what happens around my house. I haven't always been a cook but here lately, the thought of making scrumptuous foods for my family has me experimenting in the kitchen. My daughter loves to get into the kitchen with me. I bought a plain white apron for her to design as she sees fit and besides drawing all over it, she wrote, "Kiss the eight-year-old chef." All I can say is it's a good thing she has that apron to remind me she's a person, if not, I'd probably dip her in chocolate!

Be naughty...save Santa the trip!

2009-11-28T09:09:00.000-06:00

"He's making a list, he's checking it twice, he's gonna find out who's naughty or nice"

Ok, I don't know about you guys, but when I was a child from about the middle of November till December 24th, all I heard was, "You better behave...don't forget, Santa can see everything you do and he's keeping a list." How evil can a parent be by threatening their child's Santa visit? The answer, as evil as me because it seems that I have become my mother. I find myself using that same threat with my own darling daugther. In early November the threat was heard once weekly. By Thanksgiving day that threat was heard daily. No doubt, by mid-December, that threat will be heard hourly. This leads me to the conclusion that the number of times the threat is used is directly proportional to the number of days left to Santa's visit. Unfortunately, I think children are smarter than we were as a children, or at least Sylvie is smarter than me, because she said, "If Santa won't bring it to me, maybe you and Dad can pick it up for me?!" How do you suppose I fight that logic?

The legacy lives on....

2009-11-25T07:52:00.000-06:00

My grandfather was a great man...just ask me, I'll tell ya! He was a warm and loving man who thought the sun rose and set in my eyes. I couldn't have asked for a better grandfather/father figure/confidant/mentor in all the world (except for maybe my grandmother but that's another post). You see, my grandfather had faults, but to me, well, I had the luxury of being the center of his world for quite some time so I'll just say he was perfect-"ish." But when it comes to candy making, well, that was one thing that he did so extraordinarily that there was no doubt perfection had been achieved.

My grandfather's fudge recipe is delicious and perfect and like little squares of heaven on a plate. The problem is, his fudge is almost as difficult to make as it is to get to heaven. Now I'm sure some well versed culinary master has no problem with it. I'm sure someone who spends lots of time making candy would see it as a breeze, but for the "culinary challenged," as I like to call myself, it's kicked my candy-loving butt....UNTIL LAST NIGHT! You got that right, last night it was less a challenge and more of a vendetta; it was time for me to have a little one-on-one with the candy. I needed to succeed and that mean through any means necessary. First, I tried being friendly...I told it these heartwarming stories of my grandpa as I cooked away to the "soft ball stage." But then I got nervous, like it wasn't gonna happen so I did what any self respecting candy lover would do; I trash talked the heck out of it as I beat it till it lost its gloss. When it was all said and done, I still my miss PawPaw, but I sat on my sofa with a heavenly memory on a plate!

My BFF

2009-11-24T17:25:00.000-06:00

Today I realized something...I realized that I spend a lot of money in therapy that I should just give to my husband. There is no advice she gives me that my husband hasn't told me about already, but somehow I am always more willing to listen to it if it comes from a "professional." Hubby says it's the same reason Sylvie thinks the teacher knows everything and I know nothing. He's probably right...but let's not tell him that!

Whatever the case, it got me thinking about my husband. He really is a doll. He's always there for me and really goes out of his way to see me smile. I almost feel guilty when I'm in a bad mood because my sadness makes him sad. We are two peas in a pod....like Calvin and Hobbes or Spongebob and Patrick, he's my best friend.

So as Thanksgiving gets closer, I want to make sure he knows just how thankful I am for him. I love you, Canoe!

A giveaway to be thankful for...

2009-11-23T18:25:00.001-06:00

Do you love Starbucks? It's a staple in my life. I've become friends with my local baristas and they are very quick to fix my favorite "skinny mocha latte with a splenda." I've even gotten my daughter Sylvie addicted to the non-coffee beverage "mocha cream frappucino with chocolate chunks on top." My friend over at the Branches is having a Thanksgiving giveaway! Go check it out! After all, no holiday season is complete without a little Starbucks!!

FOREVER

2009-11-17T11:33:00.000-06:00

So it has been forever since I've posted anything...and for good reason, I lacked inspiration. I had nothing worth reading about. I mean, really, why would anyone blog about something if they thought no one would be interested. But then I realized something, call it an epiphany if you will...I can blog as a means to vent! So today that's what it is. If you aren't big on listening to the rants of the mentally insane, press the home button and get off this page...if you don't mind, listen in my world and offer suggestions. **Disclaimer, when I say suggestions, I really mean agree with me on this one, if you don't, keep your thoughts to yourself** Most of the time I mean offer suggestions but today I not so much!

Friday when I went pick up my daughter from elementary school (third grade, 8 years old folks), she informed me that some kid beat her up that day. She's a bit dramatic so I had to find out what she meant by beat up. Seems as though she was punched in the face and the stomach, one time each. Well, immediately I went around and parked and went in to see the teacher. At the risk of saying way more than I should, her teacher was unaware that my daughter was hit. Wanna know why? Sure you do...because after she was hit, she was crying hysterically and some kids were making fun of her. Through her tears, she hollared at them to leave her alone. The teacher heard her hollar, punished her for misbehavior, wrote her up and never questioned why she was upset but instead gave the rest of the class a treat while she was outside the room crying. YES you read that correctly. This pillar of society, educator of young minds, Nationally Board Certified Teacher...aka, poor excuse for a teacher (on Friday at least) told punished my daughter but the kid who hit her, he got candy!

I have had one meeting with the guidance counselor since then and a phone call to the assistant principal and they are trying to get to the bottom of it. I am at a loss for words and instead am at a point where action is necessary. Yesterday, I sat across the street from the school and watch my daughter play on the playground...why you ask? Well, if the teachers (there were three that were supposed to be covering the entire playground but instead were all in a group talking amongst themselves) won't watch her, I will.

Where Have I Been

2009-08-20T08:34:00.000-05:00

Well, I'd love to say that I have been galavanting around the world on some crazy non-stop vacation, but in reality, I've just been busy with life. This summer really flew by and now school has started again for both me and Sylvie. She is a third grader this year...can you believe? Already?! Sometimes, I think back to the way she was as an infant and I long to cradle her in my arms. Other times I am just so darn thankful that since she's not an infant I can finally get some sleep. No matter the case, I think it's time that we get back to blogging. So many of my blogger friends are having adventures. With new babies on the way and new babies being made, I have been saying my share of prayers for healthy wee ones to grace all of your homes. There are some new adventures going on here in our world, nothing I can disclose yet, but I'll keep you posted. But know that it has nothing to do with babies (God and my surgeon have taken care of that).

One thing did happen recently and I just had to share with you guys (as you know I love love love posting about Sylvie). We went to the Jonas Brothers Concert. They are more Sylvie's style than mine but I was actually impressed that they put on a good show. The last concert I went to (other than the Cheetah Girls one that I brought Sylvie to) was AC/DC back in 1996. Whew that really was a long time ago huh? Anyways, Sylvie absolutely loved the JoBros and thinks that they are the next best thing to sliced bread. The number of screaming girls was really reminiscent of Beatle Mania (which I am happy to say I was not born yet but did see enough E! True Hollywood Stories to know about LOL). Till next time....

Happy Fourth of July!!!!!

2009-07-04T10:47:00.001-05:00

I cannot even begin to tell you the enormous amount of respect that I have for any man or woman who puts on a uniform and stands for the principles on which this country was founded. So today, I honor you, the American Soldier, the greatest of all American Heroes!

My Little Slugger

2009-06-27T20:24:00.000-05:00

Ok, I guess I owe everyone an apology as I have not posted in a few weeks. Summer is always a busy time, in spite of thinking it's a vacation from life. Between getting everything ready for the next school year (both Sylvie and I) and enjoying the warm weather, we've been hustling to and from ball games. Sylvie is playing softball this year. She played t-ball for a couple years when she was younger, but she missed last season because of our move so she was anxious to get back into the game when this summer rolled around. That of course was before she realized that her age group utilized the pitching machine. She was very confused as to why the coach kept "rocketing those balls" at her. The first few games were a bit rough, but she has since gotten the hang of it. She plays first base most often (because she's a lefty) and she does quite well in the batting department. I must admit, she definitely doesn't have my competitive spirit though. When one of her former classmates was playing for the opposite team and made a base hit, Sylvie promptly congratulated and high-fived her when she made it to first base! Everyone in the stands got quite a chuckle and well, maybe she'll win the "sportsmanship award."

If your dog doesn't like someone, you probably shouldn't either!

2009-06-04T17:58:00.000-05:00

Today I write a mournful entry about the loss of a family friend. Tater Tot was my neighbors' dog. A beautiful black lab with the kindest demeanor of any animal you could meet. He was so friendly and kind and well, just a great family friend. This morning, he went on to doggie heaven. I am sure because as Sylvie so swiftly reminded me, "All dogs go to Heaven, Mom, they say so in the movie!" Having never had to suffer a loss, Sylvie is trying very hard to grasp the concept of death. I don't think she truly gets the finality of it all, but I'm hoping that when it clicks, she'll be at peace. In the meantime, I think this photo says it all....

SUMMER in Louisiana

2009-05-29T21:10:00.000-05:00

I will be the first to admit that summertime in Louisiana is killer. The heat is bad and the humidity is worse. However, SUMMER in Louisiana is a joyous thing! Are you confused yet? The SUMMER I am refering to is one of my dearest friends in the entire world. She took a trip all the way from the big apple to grace us with her presence. Now, I know she came down for a wedding and spent time with the rest of us because she had the time, but in my mind, she's in town to spend time with ME and is gonna make the wedding too. My hubby unfortunately was unable to make it my precious little one has not stopped talking about her Aunt Summer and new best bud Sydney.

And before I show you a picture of me and my gang (Rascal Flatts reference to anyone who caught it), let me tell you what I know. I know few people could stop traffic like this woman. I did not think it possible for anyone to be more beautiful on the outside than she is on the inside, and well, I'll be darned if she didn't prove me wrong. Her hubby, well, he may not be from the South but I believe he is a "good ole boy" and he'd fit in pretty well with the likes of us. Her sister was just delightful and her neice Sydney, well, I'd like to take her home and raise her with my own. Lastly, her mom...well, her mom had me hypnotized throughout the entire lunch ;) I tell you all about them because although SumSum lives in my heart, the rest of the clan was new to me and well, I may possibly have cleared out some room in the ticker for them too!

From L to R: Me, Summer, Adam, Mom, Shelley, Syd and Sylvie down in front

My "Wild" Life

2009-05-26T10:26:00.000-05:00

Ok, for all of you who truly know me, I love the outdoors but I don't love animals. I'm not an animal lover...there, I said it. I try to be (for the sake of our dog) but I'm just not. I grew up with flushable pets like fish and that was fine by me. I don't like the stinky, smelly mess that comes with animals. I am not even real keen on visiting the zoo...although, I will make the sacrifice for my daughter. Well, yesterday was her school field trip. The day started out with some concerns...Sylvie woke up at 5am with clogged sinuses and said, "I don't wanna miss my pield twip momma!" So, against my own better judgement, I filled her full of medicine and allowed the trip to continue as planned.

It was raining outside and continued to do so until we reached the Global Wildlife Center in Folsom (almost 2 1/2 hours away). Luckily, by the time we got there and our tour began, the rain had finally subsided. I have learned however that the only thing that smells worse than "wildlife" is "wet wildlife." WHEW! It was so much fun to watch the excitement on Sylvie's face as she got to feed all of the many animals that bombarded our wagon train in hopes of food, but it was much more enjoyable to hear her tell me, "Maybe I shoulda stayed stuffy so I didn't have to smell the camels!" Whatever the case, you can look at her face and tell she enjoyed it, so on the success/fail scale, the field trip was a success. **Sidenote - She's home sick today though!**

Semester is finally over

2009-05-24T15:21:00.000-05:00

Woohoo...The semester is over, grades are posted and I'm ready for a little summer R&R. GPA this semester, 3.6...I'll take it! Tomorrow Sylvie has a field trip with her class and I am a chaperone at the little outing. If you ask me, 2 1/2 hours in a bus each way sounds more like a trip on a bus more than a trip in the field, but we'll see how it goes. There is not much to comment on right now, but I figured I'd better write something soon or some of you would forget I was alive. I'll post pictures of Sylvie's field trip either tomorrow evening or Tuesday morning!

God's Cake

2009-05-07T11:52:00.000-05:00

Have you ever gotten a message at just the right time? I did today so I thought I would share! I hope you enjoy!

Sometimes we wonder, "What did I do to deservethis?" or "Why did God have to do this to me?"
Here is a wonderful explanation!

A daughter is telling her mother how everything is going wrong:
She's failing algebra, her boyfriend broke up with her AND her best friend is moving away.
Meanwhile, her Mother is baking a cake and asks her daughterif she would like a snack, and the daughter says,"Absolutely, Mom, I love your cake."
"Here, have some cooking oil," her Mother offers.
"Yuck," says her daughter.
"How about a couple raw eggs?"
"Gross, Mom!"
"Would you like some flour then? Or maybe baking soda?"
"Mom, those are all yucky!"
To which the mother replies:"Yes, all those things seem bad by themselves.
But when they are put together in the right way,they make a wonderfully delicious cake!
God Works The Same Way.
Many times we wonder why He would let us go through such bad and difficult times.
But God knows that when He puts these things allin His order, they always work for good!
We just have to trust Him and, eventually,they will all make something wonderful!
God is CRAZY about you.
He sends you flowers every spring and a sunrise every morning.
Whenever you want to talk, He'll listen.
GOD can live anywhere in the universe and He chose your heart.

The Body and Blood of Christ.....AMEN!

2009-04-20T11:47:00.000-05:00

Before you read this post, you should know that I am in no way trying to be disrespectful as I love our Savior Jesus Christ but if I didn't tell the whole story, you just wouldn't understand my need for a sigh of relief. I love my daughter as all of you who read this know...well, this weekend was her First Communion. All I can say is AMEN (insert sigh of relief now)! That beautiful child of mine has been asking me since she started the second grade, "Momma, when can I take communion?" and "Momma, what's Jesus taste like?" (yes she asked just like that) and "Momma, can you save me a piece so I can try it?" Well, her day has finally come...and she was a vision in white (I'm a little biased). She was so excited and the day was as gorgeous a day as I could ask for. I watched her take the Eucharist, place it in her mouth and proceed to the walk back to her pew, with the most solemn look she'd ever had. I was so proud, right up until the lady with the chalice of wine asked her if she wanted the Blood of Christ...what was a very solemn face turned into that of total fear and disbelief and had the church allowed photos inside, I'd have the greatest memory to share with you. Instead what I have is a picture of my sweetheart child prior to the ceremonies. And FYI to everyone out there, the Children's Bible she received as a gift to commemorate the event hasn't left her side. Last night I found her sneaking a read in her room after the bedroom door was closed!

Presents make me smile!!!!!

2009-04-17T14:10:00.000-05:00

Because I've never been there, I don't know if I love New York City; but, I know I love my friend Summer in New York City. I'd love her even if she hadn't just brightened my day with a fed ex package....but since she did, I felt it was definitely "blog worthy!" I love love love blue and brown, the combination is simply divine...and well, my adoration of coffee should be duly noted. That must have been her theme because the coffee scented soap is fabulous and the print will look lovely in my kitchen (notice the SONGe birds in the tree, one for each member of our family too)! Sylvie is oh so excited about her CRUMBS Bake Shop in a Box. She can't wait for the next mommy/daughter baking day! And well, anything with New York City written on it is just a way to add excitement to our pending trip so how awesome is the I heart NY pencil set and New York City Taxi Mini Mug? What a great way to end an otherwise rather mundane week! Thank you my Sum Sum for the perfect pick-me-up....and while I think the presents are lovely, never forget the real reward is the gift of your friendship.

The good thing about having a doctor that lives next door.....

2009-04-06T08:38:00.000-05:00

When hubby and I were looking for lots to purchase and build our home, we never imagined hitting the health care jackpot like we did. As luck would have it, a doctor and his nurse practitioner wife live a few yards away. Since we needed a new family physician after the move to a new town, he was the perfect choice. There are days I feel like I owe him some sort of apology for selecting him as our doctor. Saturday was one of those days! Saturday afternoon, after a long day of "mommy chores" and child events, I figured, heck, the day is already a bust anyways, why not cut the grass. We're gonna have to break down and get a riding mower soon, but till then, well, the push mower is what we're dealing with. Dressed in jeans and flip flops (as I usually am) I get started. So, I'm working through a rather stubborn patch of thick, wet clovers when I felt this painful burning, stinging feeling on my foot so I turned off the lawn mower, pulled my foot out of my flip flop and looked down only to find two pinholes in the top of my foot. My first thought was, "oh f*ck I just got bit by a snake!" Within a minute the pinholes were swelling a bit and within a few minutes my foot started to swell. Of course, I called our "handy dandy neighborhood physician" and he met me at the property line to look down and tell me I had been stung by a wasp...TWICE! Nothing a little benadryl couldn't cure. Now I tell you, had it not been for my "trusty doc" I probably would have been found at the emergency room with a tourniquet around my leg begging for someone to extract the venom. LOL Ok, maybe I'm not quite that bad..........

You might be a coonass if....

2009-03-26T10:30:00.000-05:00

So most of my posts include funny stories straight from the mouth of my beloved daughter. This one, well, this one we owe to my hubby. Canoe is the KING of making stuff work. I don't know how, but he comes up with stuff sometimes that makes me amazed at his keen mechanical skills. However, never has an idea of his made me giggle as much as this one.

Spring in Louisiana is often the most beautiful weather. Warm days with a cool breeze always blowing. I call it, "kite flying weather!" Well, when the desire to fly a kite exists, but kite string does not, what's a man to do? I'll tell you what....grab a fishing pole! That's right, a fishing pole. Here's a pic of my hubby combining his favorite outdoor activity with mine...

Of course, I can't leave out the fact that Sylvie wanted to know if this is what they mean by "fly fishing?"

A Mexican Leprechaun?

2009-03-20T01:38:00.001-05:00

Ok, so this post is a little late but it's still worth the read. As we all know, St. Patty's day was this week and well, for grade school children, this means another reason to do an art project. My daughter, Sylvie, is eight years old and every holiday she comes home with some new craft she made at school. As always, I sit outside and wait for my darling daughter to get off the school bus in the afternoon and tell me about her day. Tuesday was no exception. She got down off the school bus, ran full speed ahead and yelled, "Look what I made at school today Momma! Can you guess what it is?" It was of course easy to tell that my gifted child (yes, I'm a little biased) had made a very interesting, albeit completely identifiable, leprechaun. As her parent, the excitement in her eyes and voice at every accomplishment is so completely fulfilling. But, what amazed me the most was when she said, "Guess what I named him?" After guessing several very stereotypical Irish names, all being incorrect I was finally forced to give up. To my surprise, her reply was "Phillippe!" pronounced "full-ee-pay"! My daughter's leprechaun obviously hailed from south of the border. I wanted so desperately to correct her and did for a moment try to explain that leprechauns would have a more traditional Irish name but, in the end, the sparkle in her eye told me that she had considered his name almost as important a choice as I considered hers. And, honestly, I couldn't imagine her being called by any other name than Sylvie. So, to all of my internet buddies, I am proud to introduce to you, Phillippe the Mexican Leprechaun!

The ability to quote is a serviceable substitute for wit

2009-03-06T09:13:00.000-06:00

I am a move fanatic. We live for our netflix. It's a ritual when the envelopes come in, Sylvie gets to open them. She divides them out between what's for Mom, Dad and herself. Usually, Sylvie's movies are more for everyone. After all, who doesn't enjoy acting like a kid sometimes. My friend Summer posted a blog about how much of a kid she really is. In order to illustrate her point, she included a couple of quotes from Spongebob Squarepants. It got me to thinking, about some of my favorite movie quotes. My hubby is much better at recalling random movie quotes than I am, but here are a few of my favorites from some of my favorite movies.

"Anyone who ever gave you confidence, you owe them a lot." - Holly Golightly - Breakfast at Tiffany's

"He's gettin' beat like he stole something!" - Sheryl Yoast - Remember the Titans

"I am no one special, just a common man with common thoughts. I've led a common life. There are no monuments dedicated to me, and my name will soon be forgotten. But in one respect, I've succeeded as gloriously as anyone who ever lived. I've loved another with all my heart and soul, and for me, that has always been enough." - Duke in a voiceover - The Notebook

"Begin each day as if it were on purpose." - Hitch - Hitch

The list could go on and on....but I'm curious, what are your favorites, and why! As for me, Breakfast at Tiffany's is perfection...on my very first visit to New York, I've already informed Canoe that I need to be at Tiffany's window before they open, in a little black dress and tiara, eating a bagel. Audrey Hepburn is the best!

Remember the Titans is filled with the greatest music and lines so it was really hard to pick just one, but in the end, the movie is told through the eyes of Sheryl Yoast, the Assistant Coach's daughter and I felt a quote from her would be fitting. Besides, I love the analogy.

The Notebook...what to say about The Notebook. I fell in love with love watching this movie. I remember asking my husband, "do you love me that much?" Of course he responded with an emotional, "yes" (wise man if you ask me). I've always said that I believed Alzheimer's to be the worst of diseases. At the end of my life, I hope to have millions of memories to recall and can't imagine having the stolen from me.

Finally, Hitch! Fantastic movie...deep concepts, light and airy delivery. Perfect combination. I laughed, I cried and heck, I even laughed till I cried. So, those are just a few of my favorite movies. I hope you've seen them, and if not, are at least encouraged to do so. Thanks Summer for helping me take my trip down memory lane. I guess I'll be watching a few movies this weekend.

The best things in life are free...

2009-03-05T13:14:00.000-06:00

So, my friend Summer over at b is for brown is holding her very first giveaway. I love free stuff and the things she is giving away are just gorgeous. The address stamp will work out perfectly since we just moved and have a new address and stationary is a private fetish of mine. I just love pretty paper. I encourage everyone to enter if you haven't already. And if you have, get out some tissue to dry your weepy eyes, because, "I'M GONNA WIN!" Maybe if you're lucky, I'll send you a "too bad you lost" note on the pretty paper and address the envelope with my pretty new stamp! {insert evil laugh now}

A king size bed fit for a Queen!

2009-03-03T15:33:00.000-06:00

So, ever since moving into the new house, I've been trying to go room by room and do a little decorating. Unfortunately, I decorate like I shop...which is to say, I walk into a store, see a mannequin dressed appropriately (or a perfectly situated bedroom set), see if the items are available, then leave with the aforementioned items. However, as I have learned when purchasing our bedroom set, sometimes patience is a virtue. Almost three weeks after ordering, my bedroom set came in today. It includes the king size bed, two nightstands, an armoire to house the television and a new tempurpedic mattress that I am hoping will afford me many nights of well deserved rest. As everyone knows, I love brown with any color (as seen throughout my home) and my bedroom is no different. Blue and brown....aaahhhhh....how serene! I hope it's all as comfy as it looks. Now, I need bigger pillows and lamps!!!

She's a beautician, not a magician

2009-03-02T22:19:00.000-06:00

Prior to my hysterectomy in December, I went and got my haircut and my eyebrows waxed. It was so comforting to know that I could feel like a woman in spite of feeling so much of a failure at being a woman. Advances in technology mean I'd have only a short recovery time but, needless to say, the "blah" that I was feeling left me feeling with little desire for all things girly. However, the unibrow was taking over and something had to be done. I searched the internet and with the help of a friend, found a fairly maintenance free cut that I thought even I could pull off. You be the judge.....

The hopeful end result.....

The Cammie Version

The hair is the same length, although I notice the ends of her hair are much more playful than mine. I guess it's not as maintenance free a haircut as I thought it was! LOL But please note the fact that there are two, yes count them, two distinct eyebrows now!

For good, return good. For evil, return justice

2009-02-27T15:56:00.000-06:00

As you all may have read yesterday, my mailbox was taken out by some meanie who felt it unnecessary to let me know. This morning, when I spoke to hubby to tell him about the incident, he was highly ticked off. He wanted me to call the police and report the "hit and run." But I being the skeptic I am, didn't think the police would do anything about my mailbox....so, I did the next best thing. I called my police neighbor to get her opinion. Luckily, the wheels of justice were on my side because she happened to see the contractor truck who hit my mailbox. YAY I've got a witness....wait, a credible witness. So I called the general contractor for our subdivision and am waiting for them to purchase and install a new mailbox for me.....Justice, ain't it grand?

I can’t complain, but sometimes I still do.....

2009-02-26T15:44:00.000-06:00

Ok, have you ever had one of those days??? Today is mine. I ordered carpet tiles to make a rug for my bedroom only to realize that I was one tile short of my perfect rug. Then the security light in the back of my house, the one that has been blinking on and off, the one that the contractor was supposed to come fix hasn't been repaired yet. So, today, I decided enough was enough and I was gonna tell him exactly what I think of him. Well, I called the office and the office number has been disconnected. That's right, our homebuilder is out of business. I wonder who's gonna warranty the work on my house now? And to add insult to injury, someone actually hit my mailbox and now what once was a beautiful, albeit overpriced mailbox with our surname initial delicately placed on the front is a piece of scrap metal....now how will I ever get my netflix? Ok, well, I'll stop complaining for today and hope for a better day tomorrow!

If at first you don’t succeed, redefine success

2009-02-24T22:02:00.001-06:00

Ok, this blog started as a poor pitiful excuse for a blog....do you see any improvement? Probably not, but that's because you didn't see the insanely plain and uninspiring layout that was my blog spot. Luckily for me, it's not always what you know, it's who you know! A dear friend has re-emerged in my life and done more to help me through trying times than she can ever know. And it seems as though it is true that birds of a feather stick together because truly amazing people travel in flocks. Her magnetic personality has attracted wonderful people with impressive skills. Luckily for me, "Sum Sum," as Becky called her, is so awesome that people do favors for her. Luck was also on my side when she used one of those favors for me! So now, what once was uninspiring and well, BLAH, is now an absolutely gorgeous page with which I am eager to fill with posts. One that will hopefully draw you back for another look. So to Summer and Becky, I bid you the most grateful adoration for helping this blog take off and hopefully succeed.

Money is the root of all evil, and man needs roots!

2009-02-24T16:46:00.000-06:00

So I missed most of the President's speech this evening because I was playing Wii with Sylvie, but I was able to catch the end and the transcript on cnn.com and I have to say, the state of the economy is a deep concern of mine. I don't know if this stimulus package is gonna save the American economy, but I hope and pray it does. I also watched the Republican response by Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal. I have to say, the President and Governor Jindal reminded me of something. Republicans and Democrats all want the same thing, we just believe in different ways to go about it. I don't know which side is right and I surely don't believe either side is completely honest, but in the words of Julia Sugarbaker from Designing Women "One of the things that I pray for is that people with power will get good sense, and that people with good sense will get power... and that the rest of us will be blessed with the patience and the strength to survive the rest of the people in the meantime!" In my meantime, I'm relying on my husband to handle bringing in our economic fortunes. I am doing my part, clipping coupons and looking for bargains around every turn and think of the fortune I'm saving on my phone bill by keeping in contact with those I love via this blog!

The web isn’t better than sex, but sliced bread is in serious trouble

2009-02-23T14:39:00.001-06:00

My wonderful friend Summer, who seems to think way too highly of me, made me create a blog. I have no clue what I'll ever talk about, but by doing this, she has to enter a bacon cooking competition, and well, I love bacon. So, Summer, get cooking! Love ya! Walk Tall.....xoxo cammie