Oh that Holiday Season! In my particular family there are many reasons to celebrate! My Brother's birthday was on the 18th, Christmas, MY birthday (30th) and then New Year's...finally to top it off-Mardi Gras!!! Whew...I am tired just typing all of it!
My family has a different kind of Christmas tradition-we eat Steak on Christmas Eve rather than the traditional meal. We all gather together, go to Church for Communion, and then eat steak and linger after to open a few presents and catch up. After the majority of the family leaves it is just my immediate family and Janice and Gene (Dog) Strickland. We all trade presents and then the other different tradition begins-we roll Mom's change. Yes, I know it's rather strange. In fact, I would need to ask Neil because I honestly can't tell you when this started! I know we have been doing it for at least 5 years-the giggles at Dog and Neil struggling to get down & roll the money are so worth it to DeAnn and me!
I love to get presents for people that I know they will enjoy-it makes me so very excited! I enjoyed so many of the presents that I got for people this year! It was a very Merry Christmas! I loved the extra time with my family and friends!
On the horizon-is my birthday on Friday and then New Year's, which also happens to be FAB's Birthday. Finally Mardi Gras. This is my last year on the float so I am going out with a bang!! Ready for my Float 4 girls!! :)
Talk to you sooN!
Reese
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Monday, December 19, 2011
SKYDIVING!
So I booked this right as I was starting this whole journey. And although it is good for 2 years I am going to be jumping on my birthday!!! I am so excited! I get to pick 2 songs...wonder what I should choose!
Talk to ya soon!
Reese
Talk to ya soon!
Reese
Sunday, December 18, 2011
GRAND Canyon! (part 1)
Mother Nature was just a show-off.
Mom and I knew it was going to be cold and we packed accordingly. We lost basically a dayflying there and a day coming back. But we planned it so that I didn't have to take much time off work at all. When our plane touched down in Flagstaff we knew we were in for a rollercoaster-there was snow everywhere. And not just a little snow...a few inches.
We went to Enterprise to get our car and we had heard that the I-40 was closed, so we asked if there was another way to get to the Canyon. Now before I go further let me tell you that we made plans for ourselves which is why we got the car. We thought we would be able to do some driving and go to see the Painted Desert, Montezuma's Castle, and other things. The nice gentleman at Enterprise said that there was another way and we got those directions.
On the way up we stopped at a Target to get necessities (at least for us) Diet Mt. Dew for Mom and Sobe water for Me and a few snacks for us both. And off we went. Mom and I were both a little worried about driving on the snow/ice. But there were others out driving in cars that were smaller than ours-plus there was someone in front of us almost the whole way there. We liked that too.
Once inside the park we slowly made our way to the lodge. It was dark and very cold by this point. I think we were both ready to put our stuff down and chill out from the plane ride to the car ride, it was taking a toll on us. So we took our luggage inside and checked-in, where we were promptly told our cabin was just down there and we could drive if we wanted to. I think Mom and I both wanted to laugh hysterically or sob-but we "womaned" up and took our stuff down to the cabin. OHHHH the warmth when we opened that door! They hadn't left the light on for us, but they had left the heat on! We unloaded and got comfortable! It was great but we were starving. We hadn't eaten since our quick breakfast on our layover in Charlotte. So we decided to go to the lodge for dinner and we were in bed by 8 that night!
We had looked over the options of lectures and things at dinner so we knew we wanted to do the nature walk at 10 and it was a great place to start-because it was at the visitors center. We got there early enough to catch the movie and then we went on our walk and got our very first glimpse of the canyon! Ty, the park ranger who gave the lecture, we informative and funny. He told us about the plant life, wild life, and how the canyon impacts them all. He answered all of our silly questions and I had tried to convince Mom that we should try the trail to the geology museum. Ty helped me out and told us that he thought it would be clear so off we went! During the walk one of us would just stop because we saw something that just took our breath away. Pictures do not exactly do it justice because the scale is something that is very hard to catch.
The day started out a little overcast and gloomy-but as you can see the sun is starting to peek out!!
Mom and I knew it was going to be cold and we packed accordingly. We lost basically a dayflying there and a day coming back. But we planned it so that I didn't have to take much time off work at all. When our plane touched down in Flagstaff we knew we were in for a rollercoaster-there was snow everywhere. And not just a little snow...a few inches.
We went to Enterprise to get our car and we had heard that the I-40 was closed, so we asked if there was another way to get to the Canyon. Now before I go further let me tell you that we made plans for ourselves which is why we got the car. We thought we would be able to do some driving and go to see the Painted Desert, Montezuma's Castle, and other things. The nice gentleman at Enterprise said that there was another way and we got those directions.
On the way up we stopped at a Target to get necessities (at least for us) Diet Mt. Dew for Mom and Sobe water for Me and a few snacks for us both. And off we went. Mom and I were both a little worried about driving on the snow/ice. But there were others out driving in cars that were smaller than ours-plus there was someone in front of us almost the whole way there. We liked that too.
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| Mom driving up...a little white knuckled!! |
Once inside the park we slowly made our way to the lodge. It was dark and very cold by this point. I think we were both ready to put our stuff down and chill out from the plane ride to the car ride, it was taking a toll on us. So we took our luggage inside and checked-in, where we were promptly told our cabin was just down there and we could drive if we wanted to. I think Mom and I both wanted to laugh hysterically or sob-but we "womaned" up and took our stuff down to the cabin. OHHHH the warmth when we opened that door! They hadn't left the light on for us, but they had left the heat on! We unloaded and got comfortable! It was great but we were starving. We hadn't eaten since our quick breakfast on our layover in Charlotte. So we decided to go to the lodge for dinner and we were in bed by 8 that night!
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| Our little lodge! |
We had looked over the options of lectures and things at dinner so we knew we wanted to do the nature walk at 10 and it was a great place to start-because it was at the visitors center. We got there early enough to catch the movie and then we went on our walk and got our very first glimpse of the canyon! Ty, the park ranger who gave the lecture, we informative and funny. He told us about the plant life, wild life, and how the canyon impacts them all. He answered all of our silly questions and I had tried to convince Mom that we should try the trail to the geology museum. Ty helped me out and told us that he thought it would be clear so off we went! During the walk one of us would just stop because we saw something that just took our breath away. Pictures do not exactly do it justice because the scale is something that is very hard to catch.
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| Our first view of the Grand Canyon!! |
The start of the hiking!!
Elba Tigers were playing for the 2A State Championship and we were supporting them in our way!
ELK!!!
These were both taken at one of our favorite overlooks! Mom wouldn't go out quite as far as I would but the view was amazing!
We loved this! We thought it looked just like a deer!!
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| I like to put things into perspective! There is zoomed all the way in....see the people on the ridge?! |
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| This is the same perspective just zoomed out! Hope that gives you an idea of what we were looking at!!! |
Happy Birthdays & Kudos!!!
Today is my Baby Brother's Birthday! I know I was a happy girl the day he was born and little did I know the roller coaster ride I would go on! I remember fighting with Neil when we were young-but no one was ever able to mess with him. Big sister to the rescue if that happened. When we were both in school at Troy-I know I drove him crazy, but we had some wonderful times together. I know that for many reasons this is why we are such great friends. I know he is always there when I need him, and even though sometimes I am sure he thinks I am strange, he loves me and knows I am there for him. When Neil had his amputation surgeries he asked for me and DeAnn. I know that this might have hurt Mom's feelings but Neil knows he can be well...let's say "frank" with D and me. That's how we are. I just revel in getting the perfect gift for someone and Neil heard about his present all weekend! I had reasons to be so proud he loved it! The Kudos are for DeAnn-we just found out that she passed a BIG test in her profession and she can breathe a sigh of relief after a month or so of waiting!
One thing some of you may not know is that today-29 years ago there was another celebration going on. After Mom had Neil-she picked up the phone to call Daphne where her niece Helen was living. Helen answered the phone and Mom told Helen that she had the best BIRTHDAY present ever for her....a NEW BABY COUSIN! That's right Neil was born on our cousin Helen's birthday! I have called her and wished her a Happy Birthday. One of the great things about my moving around is that living in the Daphne/Fairhope area for 4 years I really got to know Helen and her brood, Bryan & Joey, and Uncle Lewey and Aunt Sharon. I treasure those friendships and in fact called today to plan a trip down there!!
As I wrap this up, I realize how blessed I am with such wonderful family and friends! This year has been a wonderful ride! Thank you to everyone for your help and support!
One thing some of you may not know is that today-29 years ago there was another celebration going on. After Mom had Neil-she picked up the phone to call Daphne where her niece Helen was living. Helen answered the phone and Mom told Helen that she had the best BIRTHDAY present ever for her....a NEW BABY COUSIN! That's right Neil was born on our cousin Helen's birthday! I have called her and wished her a Happy Birthday. One of the great things about my moving around is that living in the Daphne/Fairhope area for 4 years I really got to know Helen and her brood, Bryan & Joey, and Uncle Lewey and Aunt Sharon. I treasure those friendships and in fact called today to plan a trip down there!!
As I wrap this up, I realize how blessed I am with such wonderful family and friends! This year has been a wonderful ride! Thank you to everyone for your help and support!
Monday, November 28, 2011
Black (& Gold) Friday
Thursday was a wonderful day to spend with my family. The sun was out, there was a nice breeze and we had a slew of Granthams at my Dad's house. We ate some of the best food I have ever put into my mouth and when it was over I seriously considered piling up with Dad on the couch and sleeping the rest of the afternoon. But I knew I would be disappointed with myself if I did this. I put my boots on and got into the car with Roxie and we drove back to Tuscaloosa.
I got home and started piddling with a few things that I knew needed to get done and finally I checked in with "Command Headquarters" in Dothan. See, after Mom and Dad's divorce Dad got the "Thanksgiving" holiday. Mom would drop us off, kill a little time and head to Dothan to do some "Black Friday" shopping with Aunt Jenny. I'm not sure it was called "Black Friday" when they started but they have perpetuated it. Last year was my first time participating as it was in Tuscaloosa with the Iron Bowl being in town. I had a TON of fun so I knew I had to check in with them to see how things were going and if they needed anything from me. They assured me they were good, but 30 minutes later they were calling asking me to go to Wal-Mart. I have been looking for a good opportunity to do some walking/standing in my new hiking boots so I threw them on and off I went for the 10 o'clock sale for sheets, pillows and towels.
When I got to Wal-Mart I immediately found the sheets and got right behind this woman who I later found out was from Louisiana. We of coursed talked about wanting to play each other again in football and great talk being as we were with each other for at least another hour and 1/2. I promise I will NEVER again in my life do this-but at 10 to 10 one Wal-Mart person was saying go and the other was saying stop. The crowd pushed in and I really do have a bruise on my hip from hitting the bin that the sheets were in. First of all there were only about 7 king and 7 queen sheets and most of those had been sorted and the people only had to pick them up. Secondly the bin was so deep that for me to help this one woman get her king sheet set (the last in the bin) that she had to work it up from the bottom with her fingers through the bin and I leaned over 1/2 way into the bin. Then a woman tried to steal it from me and I gave it to the lady and said "Let's get out of here" as a set of Full Sheets came grazing across my ear. Yes the lady who tried to steal the sheets threw them at me. I thanked her as nicely as my southern belle mother taught me and didn't look back. I will NEVER again do that but I LOVE to see what people are getting, help when I can and just watch. I know I shouldn't but this one woman was SO excited about the play Barbie car she got for her daughter and many other situations like that! I got out of there and was home and in bet by 11.
Friday morning was gorgeous and a great day for some football. I busied myself getting everything ready and when Neil, DeAnn, Dad, Jerry, Buford and Tommy pulled into the driveway I was just pulling the Buffalo Chicken Dip out of the oven! Perfect timing.
It took Neil a few minutes (and some grumbling) to get what he wanted on the TV (I apparently didn't have 1 station he wanted) but then we were off! I had chicken balls on the grill that were hot and ready to serve right as the LSU v Arkansas game was kicked off!
Throughout the game more and more Elba fans showed up! I was in heaven! I love to have people over and it was great. Finally FAB and her parents showed up and the party was on! After the LSU game we loaded up to head to ACA for the REAL football game! Elba vs ACA. The Elba Tigers showed what a great football team they are although they again struggled with penalties that cost more than just yardage. However they won and will be playing here in Tuscaloosa this Friday at 3.
Unfortunately I won't be here as Mom and I had planned our Grand Canyon trip for this weekend. We fly out early Thursday morning! I am STOKED! However life keeps you grounded by reminding you that there are MANY things that need to be done before you leave and that is just NO fun! It reminds me a lot of getting that paper done before Spring Break or Christmas.
Just wanted to update you all on what all was going on! It's going to be a crazy end to a fabulous year...and the good thing about NOT finishing my list...it leaves something to look forward to for next year!
I got home and started piddling with a few things that I knew needed to get done and finally I checked in with "Command Headquarters" in Dothan. See, after Mom and Dad's divorce Dad got the "Thanksgiving" holiday. Mom would drop us off, kill a little time and head to Dothan to do some "Black Friday" shopping with Aunt Jenny. I'm not sure it was called "Black Friday" when they started but they have perpetuated it. Last year was my first time participating as it was in Tuscaloosa with the Iron Bowl being in town. I had a TON of fun so I knew I had to check in with them to see how things were going and if they needed anything from me. They assured me they were good, but 30 minutes later they were calling asking me to go to Wal-Mart. I have been looking for a good opportunity to do some walking/standing in my new hiking boots so I threw them on and off I went for the 10 o'clock sale for sheets, pillows and towels.
When I got to Wal-Mart I immediately found the sheets and got right behind this woman who I later found out was from Louisiana. We of coursed talked about wanting to play each other again in football and great talk being as we were with each other for at least another hour and 1/2. I promise I will NEVER again in my life do this-but at 10 to 10 one Wal-Mart person was saying go and the other was saying stop. The crowd pushed in and I really do have a bruise on my hip from hitting the bin that the sheets were in. First of all there were only about 7 king and 7 queen sheets and most of those had been sorted and the people only had to pick them up. Secondly the bin was so deep that for me to help this one woman get her king sheet set (the last in the bin) that she had to work it up from the bottom with her fingers through the bin and I leaned over 1/2 way into the bin. Then a woman tried to steal it from me and I gave it to the lady and said "Let's get out of here" as a set of Full Sheets came grazing across my ear. Yes the lady who tried to steal the sheets threw them at me. I thanked her as nicely as my southern belle mother taught me and didn't look back. I will NEVER again do that but I LOVE to see what people are getting, help when I can and just watch. I know I shouldn't but this one woman was SO excited about the play Barbie car she got for her daughter and many other situations like that! I got out of there and was home and in bet by 11.
Friday morning was gorgeous and a great day for some football. I busied myself getting everything ready and when Neil, DeAnn, Dad, Jerry, Buford and Tommy pulled into the driveway I was just pulling the Buffalo Chicken Dip out of the oven! Perfect timing.
It took Neil a few minutes (and some grumbling) to get what he wanted on the TV (I apparently didn't have 1 station he wanted) but then we were off! I had chicken balls on the grill that were hot and ready to serve right as the LSU v Arkansas game was kicked off!
Throughout the game more and more Elba fans showed up! I was in heaven! I love to have people over and it was great. Finally FAB and her parents showed up and the party was on! After the LSU game we loaded up to head to ACA for the REAL football game! Elba vs ACA. The Elba Tigers showed what a great football team they are although they again struggled with penalties that cost more than just yardage. However they won and will be playing here in Tuscaloosa this Friday at 3.
Unfortunately I won't be here as Mom and I had planned our Grand Canyon trip for this weekend. We fly out early Thursday morning! I am STOKED! However life keeps you grounded by reminding you that there are MANY things that need to be done before you leave and that is just NO fun! It reminds me a lot of getting that paper done before Spring Break or Christmas.
Just wanted to update you all on what all was going on! It's going to be a crazy end to a fabulous year...and the good thing about NOT finishing my list...it leaves something to look forward to for next year!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
We Love Those Elba Boys!
It has been a while!
So here is my not so great excuse...I have taken over a new caseload at work. I am back to working with high school students and I am really excited! Although it is a large caseload and you know it takes a while to make new work things your own after taking over for someone else.
Mom and I leave for the Grand Canyon on December 1st!!! We are both SO very excited! We have been planning and shopping and getting ready for the trip.
It's the season of Thanksgiving and I am so thankful so many things. The older and get the more thankful I am for the childhood I had. Elba, Alabama was a great place to grow up and the football team is playing here in Tuscaloosa on Friday night! How do I not come back from Thanksgiving and NOT support my ELBA TIGERS!!! If you are unable to make it to Tuscaloosa on Friday you can listen to the game live at WEEVIL 101 http://weevil101.com/
So yes....We love those Elba boys cause their from Elba High! They were most anything from blue jeans on down! We go out on Friday nights just to see the Tigers fight We love the Elba Boys cause their from Elba HIGH! Yeah BLACK YEAH GOLD! Yeah Tigers LETS GO!!!
I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving and I will talk to you soon! I hope you all have safe travels!!
So here is my not so great excuse...I have taken over a new caseload at work. I am back to working with high school students and I am really excited! Although it is a large caseload and you know it takes a while to make new work things your own after taking over for someone else.
Mom and I leave for the Grand Canyon on December 1st!!! We are both SO very excited! We have been planning and shopping and getting ready for the trip.
It's the season of Thanksgiving and I am so thankful so many things. The older and get the more thankful I am for the childhood I had. Elba, Alabama was a great place to grow up and the football team is playing here in Tuscaloosa on Friday night! How do I not come back from Thanksgiving and NOT support my ELBA TIGERS!!! If you are unable to make it to Tuscaloosa on Friday you can listen to the game live at WEEVIL 101 http://weevil101.com/
So yes....We love those Elba boys cause their from Elba High! They were most anything from blue jeans on down! We go out on Friday nights just to see the Tigers fight We love the Elba Boys cause their from Elba HIGH! Yeah BLACK YEAH GOLD! Yeah Tigers LETS GO!!!
I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving and I will talk to you soon! I hope you all have safe travels!!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Catch Up with Pictures!
So to recap on what I have posted-but haven't shown the pictures of...
UGH! I hate the picture but yes...it is me acting like I am throwning a ball on the field of Bryant Denny Stadium! Yes I did actually throw it once we were done playing and taking pictures...so I can check that one off the list!
That is my brother and me at the Alabama vs. Ole Miss game! We went up to Tunica MS on Thursday night, Graceland on Friday and down to the game on Saturday! It was a whirlwind road trip but sooo much fun hanging with Dad and Neil!!
Although Dad wasn't on my list for this item specifically he is probably the biggest reason that I know as much about Elvis as I do (and he knows so much probably because of my Aunt B). It was great him being with me at Graceland and checking this one off my list! The tour was wonderful and the car museum was just amazing!!! 
A Phi Mu thing...the Lion in front of Graceland was begging for me to have my picture taken with it!
Dad and Neil at the back of Graceland...listening to their tour!
Elvis' logo on his grave
More pictures of Memphis to follow later...hope you enjoyed this quick catch up!!!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Thankful
October 30th will be exactly 2 years since I moved to Tuscaloosa and bought my house. It has been an amazing two years and I have so much to be thankful for! I have made new friends, had some wonderful experiences, and before 2 years ago I think the total amount of time I had hung out with Amy was about 2 days over the total of our lives!
I really wanted to share one recent story.
Sunday Michael, Amy and I went to the movies to see Paranormal Activity 3. Bless Michael, he had to sit between Amy and me-she had one arm and I had the other. He is so sweet to put up with us...and obviously he is ok with it because we have planned to watch scary movies on Friday night! So...Last night I was going to the grocery story really quickly to return some movies-when I opened my garage door it BROKE. I am working so hard on a promotion at work and things at home seem to have gone a little crazy. So I freaked and locked my house since I couldn't let the door down. I called Michael, Amy's fiance on the way to the grocery store. They hopped in the car and came over. In the last 2 years we have gotten to be wonderful friends! Amy is my "cousin by marriage"....that is the easiest way to explain it. My Mom's brother, John, is married to Amy's Mom's sister, Jenny! Haha Amy graced me with the honor of asking me to be her Maid of Honor for her wedding! I tell her that I am the Old Maid of Honor since I am 8 years older than her!!!
Basically it has been amazing to have Amy in my life and Michael is an added bonus! We made sure he knew early on that we were a package deal and that our family is included in the package! It has just been great getting to know "this side" of the family and I am really very thankful.
I really wanted to share one recent story.
Sunday Michael, Amy and I went to the movies to see Paranormal Activity 3. Bless Michael, he had to sit between Amy and me-she had one arm and I had the other. He is so sweet to put up with us...and obviously he is ok with it because we have planned to watch scary movies on Friday night! So...Last night I was going to the grocery story really quickly to return some movies-when I opened my garage door it BROKE. I am working so hard on a promotion at work and things at home seem to have gone a little crazy. So I freaked and locked my house since I couldn't let the door down. I called Michael, Amy's fiance on the way to the grocery store. They hopped in the car and came over. In the last 2 years we have gotten to be wonderful friends! Amy is my "cousin by marriage"....that is the easiest way to explain it. My Mom's brother, John, is married to Amy's Mom's sister, Jenny! Haha Amy graced me with the honor of asking me to be her Maid of Honor for her wedding! I tell her that I am the Old Maid of Honor since I am 8 years older than her!!!
Basically it has been amazing to have Amy in my life and Michael is an added bonus! We made sure he knew early on that we were a package deal and that our family is included in the package! It has just been great getting to know "this side" of the family and I am really very thankful.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Halloween?!?!
I hope your Monday is almost over too!!!
Friday, October 21, 2011
THINK PINK!!!
Ok...don't hate me because I am typing in PINK!
This afternoon after rushing through lunch I stood outside tie dying t-shirts for our Making Strides for Breast Cancer walk on the 29th! We have all shades of pink. I just wanted to share how wonderful and giving everyone has been.
We started with a goal of $1000 and quickly passed it. I bumped it up to $2000-right now we are $99 away from that goal. And I know for a fact that there are 3 BIG donations that are on their way or haven't been uploaded yet!
This afternoon after rushing through lunch I stood outside tie dying t-shirts for our Making Strides for Breast Cancer walk on the 29th! We have all shades of pink. I just wanted to share how wonderful and giving everyone has been.
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| Look at the colors! |
We started with a goal of $1000 and quickly passed it. I bumped it up to $2000-right now we are $99 away from that goal. And I know for a fact that there are 3 BIG donations that are on their way or haven't been uploaded yet!
This is just so wonderful that everyone is so eager to participate and support our survivors here in the Tuscaloosa VR office.
Thank you to EVERYONE who has donated and anyone who still wants to donate it's not too late!!!
THINK PINK and ROLLLL TIDE!!!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
WHOW!
Time flies when you are BUSY AT WORK! I have officially taken over a new caseload at work that coincided with the end of our fiscal year. I feel like I have been in a haze until today...it's like coming up for air.
So here I am-Realizing it's almost the middle of October and wondering what I might NOT get done on my list:
1. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon
2. OAR Concert
3. Jason & Beach
4. Loose 50 lbs
5. Whitewater Rafting
6. Pat Conroy
7. Food Fight
8. Dega
I have tentatively scheduled a trip to see Jason, but who knows if it will work. OAR, well I was sick with Staph/MRSA for the concert in B'ham and I don't think anyone can go with me to the one next weekend, 50 pounds is taking longer to loose than I hoped. The thing I keep reminding myself is it took longer than a year to put it on-so of course it will take longer for it to come off! Whitewater-the summer just got away from me to plan this, it just may have to roll over into 31! Dega, well everyone has just spent so much money that I think we all overlooked Dega. Dad and Neil just got back from a huge trip to Key West and we leave this Thursday to go to Tunica, Memphis and Oxford, so this just didn't happen. There is an outside chance, but the numbers are stacked against us! I have e-mailed Pat Conroy's wife to see if there is a time that I can meet them...this is DEF something I will not give up on. Meeting him would be like meeting a celebrity for me!!!
I'm by NO means giving up....just being a little realistic. This year has flown by and honestly without completing my list I have already accomplished what I wanted. To push myself and start my 30's off with a bang rather than feel miserable about them! The rest of this will just be icing on the cake!!! Have a great week!!!
So here I am-Realizing it's almost the middle of October and wondering what I might NOT get done on my list:
1. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon
2. OAR Concert
3. Jason & Beach
4. Loose 50 lbs
5. Whitewater Rafting
6. Pat Conroy
7. Food Fight
8. Dega
I have tentatively scheduled a trip to see Jason, but who knows if it will work. OAR, well I was sick with Staph/MRSA for the concert in B'ham and I don't think anyone can go with me to the one next weekend, 50 pounds is taking longer to loose than I hoped. The thing I keep reminding myself is it took longer than a year to put it on-so of course it will take longer for it to come off! Whitewater-the summer just got away from me to plan this, it just may have to roll over into 31! Dega, well everyone has just spent so much money that I think we all overlooked Dega. Dad and Neil just got back from a huge trip to Key West and we leave this Thursday to go to Tunica, Memphis and Oxford, so this just didn't happen. There is an outside chance, but the numbers are stacked against us! I have e-mailed Pat Conroy's wife to see if there is a time that I can meet them...this is DEF something I will not give up on. Meeting him would be like meeting a celebrity for me!!!
I'm by NO means giving up....just being a little realistic. This year has flown by and honestly without completing my list I have already accomplished what I wanted. To push myself and start my 30's off with a bang rather than feel miserable about them! The rest of this will just be icing on the cake!!! Have a great week!!!
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Tuesday's...
I have not been posting on Tuesdays...I have been so busy with work that my postings have been hit and miss. I am up today and I am waiting until I am BACK DOWN to where I was previously before moving that scale again.
However over the past few weeks weight has been on my mind. Just the in's and outs, ups and downs and the struggles. With 1 out of 3 adults in America falling into the range of "Obese" it's a scary world when it comes to weight. Especially when you put the judgements and criticisms on top of that.
Sometimes I feel that people think that I am lazy and that is why I am the size I am. Before I had my lapband surgery my doctor told me that I am the "Most FIT FAT person" she had ever met. I know that struggle with weight runs in my family, although you would never know that if you met my mother. But over the last few years I have come to realize that between genetics, metabolism and lifestyle it's like the odds are stacked against me.
Only one of those do I have complete control over to change--and that is lifestyle. Now it's hard to admit, but this can be scary to change. I vividly remember the first time I drove up to a gym at my highest weight. I cried in the car not wanting to go in because I knew nothing about a gym. I had been a band geek in high school-I didn't know how to use any of the equipment and the 5 seconds of instruction the gentleman at the gym gave me was NO help at all. It was just way too overwhelming. I called two people who told me to suck it up and go inside. The thing is....the longer I sat in the car the worse it got. I learned that day that although I get uncomfortable I just have to make myself do things.
Much of this is the reason my 30 in 30 list was created. I honestly have let my weight hold me back in life. I haven't done things I have wanted to do and I think in many ways-that has kept me from being or becoming the person I want to be. I want to be outdoors, adventurous, and sspontaneous!
I recently read an article that talked about weight and how many people with weight issues also have emotional issues. Here is an excerpt:
“If I lose weight, how will people know how that I am in pain?” So lamented a patient to Deannie Jennings, director of the clinical programs at my weight clinic. Deannie repeats the lament often, because it seems to express a message often sent by what she calls the “language of obesity.” Inside the fat, someone is probably in pain, and in a morbidly obese person, the pain may be close to intolerable. So, the next time you see an obese person, try offering compassion. Who knew? We fat people have feelings, too.
http://fitbie.msn.com/2011/09/26/do-americans-hate-fat-people-fight-prejudice-against-overweight?gt1=50002
I think that much of this is true-however I can say that as I have changed that even though I might be better emotionally it doesn't mean that the weight is just dropping off. Which in turn does affect me emotionally-"cyclical" is the hardest part of breaking weight issues. It's like you have to wake up daily and make a commitment that no matter what the scale says or how tight your pants may be-that you are going to love yourself enough to not fall into that cycle.
I encourage everyone to work daily on breaking the cycle. And if you aren't able to today, don't beat yourself up over it. We are human, will make mistakes or miss the mark, just wake up tomorrow and try again!
Have a great day! And don't forget to laugh! Laughter makes life better!
However over the past few weeks weight has been on my mind. Just the in's and outs, ups and downs and the struggles. With 1 out of 3 adults in America falling into the range of "Obese" it's a scary world when it comes to weight. Especially when you put the judgements and criticisms on top of that.
Sometimes I feel that people think that I am lazy and that is why I am the size I am. Before I had my lapband surgery my doctor told me that I am the "Most FIT FAT person" she had ever met. I know that struggle with weight runs in my family, although you would never know that if you met my mother. But over the last few years I have come to realize that between genetics, metabolism and lifestyle it's like the odds are stacked against me.
Only one of those do I have complete control over to change--and that is lifestyle. Now it's hard to admit, but this can be scary to change. I vividly remember the first time I drove up to a gym at my highest weight. I cried in the car not wanting to go in because I knew nothing about a gym. I had been a band geek in high school-I didn't know how to use any of the equipment and the 5 seconds of instruction the gentleman at the gym gave me was NO help at all. It was just way too overwhelming. I called two people who told me to suck it up and go inside. The thing is....the longer I sat in the car the worse it got. I learned that day that although I get uncomfortable I just have to make myself do things.
Much of this is the reason my 30 in 30 list was created. I honestly have let my weight hold me back in life. I haven't done things I have wanted to do and I think in many ways-that has kept me from being or becoming the person I want to be. I want to be outdoors, adventurous, and sspontaneous!
I recently read an article that talked about weight and how many people with weight issues also have emotional issues. Here is an excerpt:
“If I lose weight, how will people know how that I am in pain?” So lamented a patient to Deannie Jennings, director of the clinical programs at my weight clinic. Deannie repeats the lament often, because it seems to express a message often sent by what she calls the “language of obesity.” Inside the fat, someone is probably in pain, and in a morbidly obese person, the pain may be close to intolerable. So, the next time you see an obese person, try offering compassion. Who knew? We fat people have feelings, too.
http://fitbie.msn.com/2011/09/26/do-americans-hate-fat-people-fight-prejudice-against-overweight?gt1=50002
I think that much of this is true-however I can say that as I have changed that even though I might be better emotionally it doesn't mean that the weight is just dropping off. Which in turn does affect me emotionally-"cyclical" is the hardest part of breaking weight issues. It's like you have to wake up daily and make a commitment that no matter what the scale says or how tight your pants may be-that you are going to love yourself enough to not fall into that cycle.
I encourage everyone to work daily on breaking the cycle. And if you aren't able to today, don't beat yourself up over it. We are human, will make mistakes or miss the mark, just wake up tomorrow and try again!
Have a great day! And don't forget to laugh! Laughter makes life better!
Friday, September 16, 2011
Cha-Cha-Cha-CHANGES!
So I needed to make room on the blog for another goal/cause that is very important to me. So #10 the 1/2 Marathon is going to be changed...
In the last year- 4of the women that I work with have been diagnosed with breast cancer. This has given all of us at work a scare about the "Big C" and that is why Deborah planked Connie's desk a while back!
On October 29th Tuscaloosa will be having a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and many people from our office will be participating! I have put together a team for the Tuscaloosa Vocational Rehabilitation Office-with our agency we are categorized with numbers and our unit number is 3/2. So our team name is 3/2 The Unit.
I would appreciate anyone who is able to give helping us with this. You can read about Deborah on the like provided with "Planked" and there are other blog posts that she shows up in...I have found a home in Tuscaloosa and need to support the people who have helped me make that home! Anything you can give will be appreciated! You can GIVE HERE ....who will be the FIRST?!?!?!
Thanks so much and have a WONDEFULLY PINK DAY!!!
In the last year- 4of the women that I work with have been diagnosed with breast cancer. This has given all of us at work a scare about the "Big C" and that is why Deborah planked Connie's desk a while back!
On October 29th Tuscaloosa will be having a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and many people from our office will be participating! I have put together a team for the Tuscaloosa Vocational Rehabilitation Office-with our agency we are categorized with numbers and our unit number is 3/2. So our team name is 3/2 The Unit.
I would appreciate anyone who is able to give helping us with this. You can read about Deborah on the like provided with "Planked" and there are other blog posts that she shows up in...I have found a home in Tuscaloosa and need to support the people who have helped me make that home! Anything you can give will be appreciated! You can GIVE HERE ....who will be the FIRST?!?!?!
Thanks so much and have a WONDEFULLY PINK DAY!!!
Monday, September 12, 2011
Renewal...Changes...Transformation...Revolution...
Yesterday was the 10th Anniversary of Sept 11. I know anyone who has a TV knows that. I must admit that with everything that has been going on up here in the last 6 months (tornadoes) that seeing the footage of Sept 11th was tough. I think it would have been rough no matter what-but it just feels like there has been a lot of tough stuff lately. I think that Sept 11th for my generation will be the same as JFK being shot for my parents generation. I know that most of us remember where we were when we heard and saw the towers being hit and falling. I know we were all glued to the television that day and huddled with the people we care most about.
I have begun to think of Sept 11th as a time of Renewal (thus the title of this post). I urge everyone to take the purpose of this blog to heart. We should all work to become the people we want to be. We all should be a little nicer to our neighbors, smile at strangers, learn to laugh at yourself, and try everyday to something good for someone else. That is my challenge to the world. Starting today be a better version of yourself-I will be Reese2.0!
Working in a field that is about "helping" sometimes I miss the mark when I am not at work. Tonight I joined a gym (mine was blown away in the tornado) and it has some wonderful classes. I went to the BodyPump class and I can barely walk, but while I was there I just talked to everyone about being sore tomorrow, that I had just joined the gym, that I hadn't done BodyPump in years. There was an older lady there who was a little nervous and I continued to turn around, smile and talk about how sore my legs were she opened up. After the class she told me she had just joined the gym again after being gone for a while and she was nervous. She thanked me for being so open about being nervous and just being honest. That is what being here is about-supporting each other and making it a little easier to make it through this life!
I hope you all have a wonderful week and I promise to be better at posting. I have a lot of things left to check off so I am about to head into the final push!
I have begun to think of Sept 11th as a time of Renewal (thus the title of this post). I urge everyone to take the purpose of this blog to heart. We should all work to become the people we want to be. We all should be a little nicer to our neighbors, smile at strangers, learn to laugh at yourself, and try everyday to something good for someone else. That is my challenge to the world. Starting today be a better version of yourself-I will be Reese2.0!
Working in a field that is about "helping" sometimes I miss the mark when I am not at work. Tonight I joined a gym (mine was blown away in the tornado) and it has some wonderful classes. I went to the BodyPump class and I can barely walk, but while I was there I just talked to everyone about being sore tomorrow, that I had just joined the gym, that I hadn't done BodyPump in years. There was an older lady there who was a little nervous and I continued to turn around, smile and talk about how sore my legs were she opened up. After the class she told me she had just joined the gym again after being gone for a while and she was nervous. She thanked me for being so open about being nervous and just being honest. That is what being here is about-supporting each other and making it a little easier to make it through this life!
I hope you all have a wonderful week and I promise to be better at posting. I have a lot of things left to check off so I am about to head into the final push!
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
The Upper Room
I remember when Mom would bring the "Upper Room" to me in Troy and Auburn while I was in school. A few years I ago I found out it is online. Every morning I try to take the time to read the short thought for the day. Sometimes it's just good to take time out and think about God, but other days it hits home.
Today is a day that I went, I do something like that but I can take it to the next level! Below is the excerpt of the Upper Room from today...enjoy!!!
WALKING is my favorite exercise, both physical and spiritual. While walking I can talk to God and give thanks for my health that allows me to take this walk, for a wonderful job that still leaves enough time each day for a walk, for the motivation to spend that time walking, and for . . . trash.
Today is a day that I went, I do something like that but I can take it to the next level! Below is the excerpt of the Upper Room from today...enjoy!!!
WALKING is my favorite exercise, both physical and spiritual. While walking I can talk to God and give thanks for my health that allows me to take this walk, for a wonderful job that still leaves enough time each day for a walk, for the motivation to spend that time walking, and for . . . trash.
Trash has changed my way of thinking. Not long ago, I saw trash only as an eyesore on the lovely green grass or the freshly fallen snow. I saw only how it interrupted my walk because of my having to stop and pick it up and carry it to a trash can. One day after stretching to reach a discarded beer can, I thought of persons who struggle with alcohol addiction and prayed that God would heal them. As I picked up a fast-food restaurant wrapper, I prayed for persons who don't have enough to eat or who need to learn to eat more healthfully. An empty diaper box reminded me of young parents who may be struggling to hold their family together, and I prayed for God's strength to uphold them.
With each piece of trash, I became aware of new persons and their needs. I have become grateful for the way God shows us where we can serve. I still wish those who throw out trash would learn that God's beautiful world is not a garbage dump. But I will continue to use their trash as reminders to pray for them and for others.Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Up 1...1 Day Late
Well I can handle one whole pound. Especially since I have been stood up for the "Wedding Workouts"!! Every time I plan to start I get cancelled on! I told Amy and FAB that because they have cancelled on me so much that FRIDAY is their punishment and we will be working out! Hopefully I can bring the hurt...I know I'm not my old trainer but I hope to channel her.
I will keep you updated on the "Wedding Workouts"...Hope you are having a good week, afterall it is HUMP Day!
I will keep you updated on the "Wedding Workouts"...Hope you are having a good week, afterall it is HUMP Day!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
That Fall Feeling...
Last night in northwest Alabama a wind blew and I promise it was a good Fall wind. I grew up knowing things like that, smelling rain (I know but you really can), and many other country-type of things...but I love the time of year that is on the way. I can keep my windows open at night, football season, winter-ish clothes, and well it's just a different feeling.
It is officially 17 days until Bama kicks off the 2011 season! When I was a little girl I remember sitting in the living room of my parents house with the sun coming in our huge windows (a blanket over the bottom windows because it put a glare on the TV), the screen door open letting the smell of whatever meat was on the grill come in, and the TV tuned to the Bama game with the sound turned down and Eli on the radio!
Now most of you outside of "Alabama Football" may be scratching your head at who Eli Gold is...but if you are NASCAR fan you have probably heard him. Eli is like a member of the family during football season. When I got my first "grown-up" job and was living in Daphne, AL I was able to find Eli on the radio and I knew it was going to be a good day no matter the outcome of the game. A football game starts when Eli gives his colorful discription of what the "Crimson Tide" is wearing down to the shoes-he describes the game, players, and field so vividly that you can see the game in your mind. I am very glad to know that his contract has been extended through 2017!
Click on Eli to watch a Youtube Video of Bamea with Eli calling the game against Tennessee
I am currently sitting in my office listening to the radio as I work and I heard my first "University of Alabama Football" Commercial with good ol Eli...it just tells me that that wind I felt last night was the coming of Fall...
It is officially 17 days until Bama kicks off the 2011 season! When I was a little girl I remember sitting in the living room of my parents house with the sun coming in our huge windows (a blanket over the bottom windows because it put a glare on the TV), the screen door open letting the smell of whatever meat was on the grill come in, and the TV tuned to the Bama game with the sound turned down and Eli on the radio!
Now most of you outside of "Alabama Football" may be scratching your head at who Eli Gold is...but if you are NASCAR fan you have probably heard him. Eli is like a member of the family during football season. When I got my first "grown-up" job and was living in Daphne, AL I was able to find Eli on the radio and I knew it was going to be a good day no matter the outcome of the game. A football game starts when Eli gives his colorful discription of what the "Crimson Tide" is wearing down to the shoes-he describes the game, players, and field so vividly that you can see the game in your mind. I am very glad to know that his contract has been extended through 2017!
Click on Eli to watch a Youtube Video of Bamea with Eli calling the game against Tennessee
I am currently sitting in my office listening to the radio as I work and I heard my first "University of Alabama Football" Commercial with good ol Eli...it just tells me that that wind I felt last night was the coming of Fall...
Monday, August 15, 2011
Bragging Rights!
I KNOW I am not the "World's Greatest Couponer" by any means, HOWEVER I do feel like I am starting to really grasp the concept! I told Mom today that I think if I had been couponing when I was younger that I probably would have been better at Math! (And I know it would have made my Dad happier as he was a Banker back then!)
So let me brag a little....
Yesterday I got 4 boxes of Hefty One Zip bags in 2 different sizes and here's the breakdown:
Hefty Bags Buy One Get One Free
2 for $3.29 so I got 4 for $6.58
I had 2 coupons that were $1.00 off 2
So that makes it 4 Boxes for $4.58 ($1.15 a piece)
In the mean time I picked up some Expo Markers (for a reason) $3.99
I had a $3.00 Walgreen's Coupon making them $.99
PLUS I had a manufacturers coupon for $2.00 which makes $1.01 MONEYMAKER!! HA!
So with 2 expo markers and the Hefty Bags my bill was at $2.56
I had a $2.00 Walgreen's Register Reward from a previous shopping trip so I paid $.56 (before taxes) for 4 Boxes of Hefty bags and 2 set of 6 Expo Markers!!! :) YEAH!!!
Tonight at CVS
I had $.50 off Gain Dish Liquid that was on sale for $.99 limit 5!
So on my way home from walking with FAB I stopped at CVS and on the way to the dish liquid I went by the coupon machine and got a coupon for FREE CVS Band aids and a FREE Hershey Bar! They were out of the band aids that were on sale, but for $.10 more I got 100 band aids instead of just 20!
So at CVS I got 3 bottles of Gain Dish Liquid (Got a rain check for the other 2-they were out), 1 Box of 100 band aids, and a Hershey candy bar for a total of $1.95!!!!
YEAH!!!
So let me brag a little....
Yesterday I got 4 boxes of Hefty One Zip bags in 2 different sizes and here's the breakdown:
Hefty Bags Buy One Get One Free
2 for $3.29 so I got 4 for $6.58
I had 2 coupons that were $1.00 off 2
So that makes it 4 Boxes for $4.58 ($1.15 a piece)
In the mean time I picked up some Expo Markers (for a reason) $3.99
I had a $3.00 Walgreen's Coupon making them $.99
PLUS I had a manufacturers coupon for $2.00 which makes $1.01 MONEYMAKER!! HA!
So with 2 expo markers and the Hefty Bags my bill was at $2.56
I had a $2.00 Walgreen's Register Reward from a previous shopping trip so I paid $.56 (before taxes) for 4 Boxes of Hefty bags and 2 set of 6 Expo Markers!!! :) YEAH!!!
Tonight at CVS
I had $.50 off Gain Dish Liquid that was on sale for $.99 limit 5!
So on my way home from walking with FAB I stopped at CVS and on the way to the dish liquid I went by the coupon machine and got a coupon for FREE CVS Band aids and a FREE Hershey Bar! They were out of the band aids that were on sale, but for $.10 more I got 100 band aids instead of just 20!
So at CVS I got 3 bottles of Gain Dish Liquid (Got a rain check for the other 2-they were out), 1 Box of 100 band aids, and a Hershey candy bar for a total of $1.95!!!!
YEAH!!!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
The "Not-So-Extreme" Couponer
Ok let me start off by saying that I scoffed at the idea when I first heard it! I mean really? It just couldn't be worth my time...could it? Umm...wellll.........
This website is very easy for me to understand. I took advice and started with CVS and Walgreen's. They are very close to my house and a limited amount of information to learn to get started. One of the biggest things I have learned it to change my thinking about shopping. I don't shop for what I need immediately. The goal is to have some of everything in "stock" at my house so to speak. Now I am NOT going to start putting things in my guest bedroom where I can't walk or anything, but it is great knowing that I have extra shampoo/conditioner, body wash, etc, when I need those things rather than having to come up with $10 here and there to pick the items up! I must say that it was a little thrilling! I can totally understand how people end up buying things they don't even need!
I did see an episode of "Extreme Couponing" and thought well I can try. I really would like to not have to get an extra job at the moment, but I will if I have to. So I thought I would try the couponing thing. There is a learning curve to this just like anything else. So I started doing my research...
Somehow I ended up finding the "Krazy Coupon Lady"...
This website is very easy for me to understand. I took advice and started with CVS and Walgreen's. They are very close to my house and a limited amount of information to learn to get started. One of the biggest things I have learned it to change my thinking about shopping. I don't shop for what I need immediately. The goal is to have some of everything in "stock" at my house so to speak. Now I am NOT going to start putting things in my guest bedroom where I can't walk or anything, but it is great knowing that I have extra shampoo/conditioner, body wash, etc, when I need those things rather than having to come up with $10 here and there to pick the items up! I must say that it was a little thrilling! I can totally understand how people end up buying things they don't even need!
I finally got a printer at my house so that I can print out coupons at home. So far I have bought Shampoo/Conditioner for $.79-$1.00, Lysol Wipes for $.75 a canister, hand soap for $.65 a bottle, Deo for $.65, toothpaste for $1.00 a tube (which I am told I can do better on) and a few freebies/moneymakers...contact solution FREE, I made $1.01 on Lotion, and Pens for Mom were FREE! As for give aways I got Dad some Shampoo/Conditioner that he likes for $1.25 and I am on the lookout for other deals!
I am branching out to Publix. I have heard that due to their Buy One Get One Free deals that they are a great place to coupon-PLUS they honor competitor coupons. SO That will be coming up in future coupon reports...just how do I do with Publix and food items!
WISH ME LUCK!
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Terrific Tuesday!
Yes ladies and gents today is a Terrific Tuesday! I am DOWN 2 lbs!! That is 8 pounds in 2 weeks! A new personal best! I did call about a new gym today. I have learned after the storm that I need the regulation of a gym. I need to know that I am expected somewhere. Although I won't have my personal trainer at this gym they do have BodyPump and Zumba classes. Oh and spinning-which I'm not sure I would like. I have been to BodyPump classes before and loved them so I am pretty sure I would like Zumba, but a bicycle inside...not so sure it's for me. I need things to be fun!
So I will keep you updated on that front. Amy may join with me and start shedding a few pounds for the wedding. She is getting so excited about the wedding-planning is in FULL swing and I am doing my best to field every question she throws at me!
TOMMORROW I am going to share some of my couponing experiences. It has been a lot of fun and something that I really think I will continue! Looking forward to it!
Here is your funny for the day!
So I will keep you updated on that front. Amy may join with me and start shedding a few pounds for the wedding. She is getting so excited about the wedding-planning is in FULL swing and I am doing my best to field every question she throws at me!
TOMMORROW I am going to share some of my couponing experiences. It has been a lot of fun and something that I really think I will continue! Looking forward to it!
Here is your funny for the day!
Monday, August 8, 2011
EXTRA EXTRA READ ALL ABOUT IT!
I have 2 VERY important NEWS Updates!
1st:
In case you haven't been in the know, my Mardi Gras co-horts Amy Ruddock and Michael Hall have gotten engaged!!! They have picked out there rings and the wedding party. The ring should be in in a few short weeks (pics to follow) and guess who is the "Old" Maid of Honor!??? That's right-yours truly-the 30 year old!
2nd:
In case you haven't picked up or logged online to the Tuscaloosa News this morning I thought I would share the picture on the front page:
1st:
In case you haven't been in the know, my Mardi Gras co-horts Amy Ruddock and Michael Hall have gotten engaged!!! They have picked out there rings and the wedding party. The ring should be in in a few short weeks (pics to follow) and guess who is the "Old" Maid of Honor!??? That's right-yours truly-the 30 year old!
2nd:
In case you haven't picked up or logged online to the Tuscaloosa News this morning I thought I would share the picture on the front page:
If you click on the picture it should take you to the article in the paper this morning. Unfortunately the paper doesn't mention me by name it could be because they were mesmerized by my beauty...or it could be because smelled so BAD because I had been in the bowels of the stadium waiting in line for HOURS in what felt like a sauna!
Because this little event happened to be held ON THE FIELD that's right I checked another item off my list! Throw a football on the field at Bryant Denny Stadium! I will post the pictures tomorrow when I get a chance but I just had to share this news today!
On a side note...
If you have met me you probably know I am not a faint-of-heart type of girl. My term last night was I am "stocky". I don't faint at the sight of blood, I love to do yard work or workout because I love to sweat and if there is water around I can play in I am there all day! But yesterday after church, couponing (a blog post for another day) and the stadium waiting I just got so worn out that I literally almost fainted at dinner! The sweet young waitress at the Tuscaloosa location of Mellow Mushroom was just so helpful! I think I scared my friends to death-luckily for all of us I didn't pass out completely but came VERY close! I rallied and we went on to have a great dinner and wedding talk!! I love you guys-thanks for taking such great care of me-and I still promise that it won't happen again!!
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Planking for Breast Cancer
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| Clink on the Ribbon for Breast Cancer Information |
No matter what the title I have to tell you that THESE are the people I work with. One lady who happens to travel in a wheelchair named "Connie G" she is also known as my "Work Mom" and the other is Deborah. The three of us make up the group known as "Larry, Mo and Curley" at work, which dates back to our time in Sign Language class. No matter what you call us, we all get along really well and you are about to get a glimpse into our work lives!
Remember a few days ago when I told you all about the Mailboxes and my friend with breast cancer? That is Deborah. She is one of the most wonderful people I have gotten to know since moving up here and she has had the best sense of humor about her breast cancer and treatments. Until she realized that Connie is PAST DUE for her mamogram. Well that just wouldn't do for Deborah after all she has been through, so like any good friend she has been pestering her about going to have one.
At work one of the best times is lunch time and it's not because of the food. We all gather up at one long table where we talk, laugh and cut up. We are even (trying) to grow tomatos out back! It's a good group of people. Today was the same kind of lunch day talking, laughing, and just enjoying being around each other when one gentleman who we refer to as "The Oscillator" asked us if we had heard about the game called "planking". Now, for those of you not "in the know", planking is this silly game where you lay face down with your hands by your side in strange places or on strange things and have your picture taken. I personally don't really get it, but it's all our lunch group needed to launch into a discussion. (Here is a description of planking from Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Planking_(fad)
After lunch was I was helping Connie with her couponing, I have been doing it about a month and she is trying to get started, and we were almost done when Deborah asked Connie if she had scheduled her mamogram. Connie ruefully said she hadn't had a chance to make the appointment---with that Deborah jumped up and as she was running down the hall she said "I'm doing it, I'm planking your desk!" Connie and I just looked at each other like HUH?!
When we quickly finished the coupons we went down to her office and this is what we found:
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| PLANKING for Breast Cancer!!! |
Deborah's only words of wisdom after dismounting the desk were "Don't plank on a full stomach!!"
A Day Late!
HI guys and gals!
I am SO sorry to have forgotten about the Terrific Tuesdays yesterday! I was so involved in getting the other things posted this week that I completely forgot about my regular posts!
I am DOWNNNN 6 pounds! Crazy I know but I have been working really hard! I played a lot of golf this past weekend with my Mom and had a blast while sweating away on the course!
I hate it when this happens!! Haha! I hope you all out there in cyber-land have a wonderful day!
I am SO sorry to have forgotten about the Terrific Tuesdays yesterday! I was so involved in getting the other things posted this week that I completely forgot about my regular posts!
I am DOWNNNN 6 pounds! Crazy I know but I have been working really hard! I played a lot of golf this past weekend with my Mom and had a blast while sweating away on the course!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Dumplings!
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| Workin' HARD! |
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| Starting the cornbread for the dressing! |
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| CORNBREAD!!! |
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| Grandmother is starting the dumplings for me! |
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| I've got DUMPLING talent! |
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| Dropping them in! |
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| Look at that masterpiece!!! |
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| Last Dumpling....Then the whole pot went to Dad's office and Dad and Neil polished them off! |
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