Wildcat Mom

The High School Graduate Who is Now in College

2009-09-11T21:39:00.002-04:00

So what, I'm late posting this...but here is Matt in all is glory as he finally graduated from High School, which was the only thing my mom made him promise. Now he is a Delta Chi at the University of West Georgia!

2009-08-29T20:20:00.002-04:00

Wow! It's been a very long time since I have posted and much has happened. To recap, here are the highlights:

Andrew scored so high on the CRCT he was invited by Duke University to take the SAT as a 7th grader. He took in December 2008 and scored higher than 33% of the graduating seniors. His math scores were good enough to be invited into an online summer class, which of course he declined because who wants to do school work in the summer. He called it Nerd Camp.
Matt graduated High School - whew! We had a big party with way too much Sonny's Barbeque and I haven't eaten at Sonny's since (that was in May). I just can't stomach the thought of barbeque yet.
Andrew's basketball team made it to the championship game but didn't win. They came in second overall for the season. I believe he had the most assists on the season and was second in points overall.
Matt managed the Duluth Baseball team in his Senior year. He really enjoyed it and I think the players really enjoyed him. Sadly their record was not a winning one and they got a new coach midway through the season.
Just after graduation we headed off to Las Vegas with my friend Anne-Marie. I was attending a conference and thought it would be a fun get-away for the boys. We stayed at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and saw The Blue Man Group. By far this was the best show I have ever seen. The boys and Anne-Marie also took a helicopter tour of the Hoover Dam and Grandy Canyon. The boys saw The Lion King and Anne-Marie and I saw Zumanity. As for gambling, well Matt won $111 and I won $141 on the slots. Of course I lost all of mine continuing to play. Matt decided to stop and bring his home (he won that on the last night).
Just before school started back we took off for a week to St. Augustine, Florida. My sisters, Sara and Carey (and her husband Kevin and daughter Lindsay) were there as well. They all went parasaling, we played some poker and hung out at the pool. We really enjoyed spending time with them.
Andrew is now in 8th grade and doing well so far. He says his Social Studies teacher is "hot" and he really likes his math teacher. He's even going in early on Tuesday and Thursday for 8th grade only intramurals.
Matt is now a freshman at West Georgia. He's in a dorm with a roommate and loving every bit of the college life. He's hoping to pledge the fraternity Delta Chi. Life at home is certainly quieter without Matt...I think it's because there is no arguing between the brothers.
Me, well I am just working so I can continue to be the ATM for both boys and now the University of West Georgia.

I'll try to be more timely so when Deanna reads this she won't be able to chastise me for delayed posting.

The Teenage Stud!

2008-10-17T20:17:00.002-04:00

When your baby is all of a sudden a teenager you have to wonder where the years went. I can't believe Andrew is 13 this year and in 7th grade. Only 5 more years until I have an empty nest. I had to share his picture because he is so stinking cute! Well, at least to me he is. Enjoy!

My New Financial Plan

2008-10-10T13:29:00.002-04:00

With the current financial crisis, I've done some evaluation and here's my new plan:

If I had purchased $1,000 of shares in Delta Airlines one year ago, I would have $49.00 today.
If I had purchased $1,000 of shares in AIG one year ago, I would have $33.00 today.
If I had purchased $1,000 of shares in Lehman Brothers one year ago, I would have $0.00 today.
If I had purchased $1,000 worth of beer one year ago, drank all the beer, then turned in the aluminum cans for recycling refund, I would have $214.00.

Based on the above, the best current investment plan is to drink heavily & recycle. It is called the 401-Keg.

Better Late Than Never

2008-08-27T17:14:00.005-04:00

Ok, so we went to Tampa for vacation on July 19th and returned the 25th. It's only been a month since then so I guess it is about time to report on the adventure. We went to escape the sadness that seemed to fill our daily lives just after my mom died. We had originally scheduled a trip to St. Louis, MO but when my mom got sick I canceled those plans.

So my friends at work gifted us with some extra spending money and we took off to Tampa for a week. We saw a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game, where Matt caught a home run ball bare-handed and became a new fan favorite. We went to Adventure Island water park where Andrew had tons of fun sliding down twisty curvy rides. We went to Busch Gardens (pictured) and Andrew was nuts for all the roller coasters. At four o'clock that day we got caught in a downpour that we thought would last a few minutes, like most afternoon storms in Florida, but at six we decided we'd had enough and headed back to the hotel. Andrew didn't like missing some coaster time, so I took him back the next day and he rode Montu - three times!

We ate at Landry's on my birthday (yes I am now 41) and drove around Clearwater Beaches and St. Petersburg. If you ask the boys what they remember most about our vacation, I bet they'd say bowling since we went a record 3 times in 3 days!

Anyway, it was a long drive and we were exhausted once we returned home but it did us a world of good. Both Matt and I commented that we weren't sad anymore and we pronounced ourselves ready to return to normalcy. I'll let you know if we ever find normal - we didn't have that even before my mom was sick. Nonetheless, we are all doing well now. In fact I think we laughed so hard with each other during this trip that we came dangerously close to busting a gut.

Back To Reality

2008-07-17T00:48:00.003-04:00

Well, my mom died July 5th and we had her memorial service on the 8th. Then my sister-in-law and nephew returned to England on the 10th and my brother followed on the 12th. I returned to work this week on the 14th and it all seems so surreal. I feel like someone else is in my body controlling my movements. I feel like an outsider looking in and wondering when I will feel "normal" again.

I didn't think I would have a hard time with my mom gone because when she was here all I wanted was for her to leave me alone. She would call almost everyday to see what the boys and I were doing for dinner and now of course she doesn't call, for anything.

My brother has called me several times and told me it is okay to grieve and to grieve for as long as we need too. I think I am might be in the anger stage because it seems so unfair that my mom won't get to enjoy retirement or spend any of the Social Security money she worked so long and hard to earn.

I'm not really questioning my faith, or my mom's, I know she is in heaven and I know this is God's will and His timing. It's not for me to question, but rather to trust. And I will get there eventually, but I just am having a harder time than I thought I would.

I'm grateful to my many wonderful friends who support me. I would be lost without you all. Keep us in your prayers please, I think the boys and I are still adjusting to life without "Nana".

I did want to mention two good things that have come from this:

I reconciled with my half-sister Sara. Most of you know she lived with me for a while until she made a terrible decision to purchase alcohol for Matt and his friends. That was two years ago, almost to the day my mom got sick. But now she is living with our other sister, Carey, and has saved some money and holding down a good steady job. She's really gotten herself together and I am very proud of her.

I got to spend good quality time with my brother, Chris and his wife and son, Caitriona and Harry. It's possible I have the most amazing sister-in-law on the planet and certainly one of the cutest nephews ever (see picture with Matt & Andrew). I've never really spent time with my brother or discussed in depth anything, but now I have a much greater respect for him as an adult, a husband and a father. My brother and his family are a class act!

So, that's all for now. Guess I need to get on with writing all the thank you notes I have piled up here. For those reading this, THANK YOU!

Mom

2008-07-04T17:55:00.002-04:00

I know it isn't Mother's Day but as I sit here in my mom's hospice room watching/waiting for her death I felt it only appropriate to reflect on her life. Over the past month as her health has rapidly declined, many of her friends and family have passed through to see her. As June ended and July began she really lost her ability to speak so now the visitors are more for our family than her. It's been great hearing stories about her life and it has taught me a few new things as well:

Choose friends wisely. My mom has friends visiting from elementary school - yes 5th grade friends that she has kept in touch with for years. Not only do they visit, but the send her flowers, cards, and check her website daily for updates. Make sure the people you surround yourself with, are the ones who will be with you until the end.
Never underestimate the importance of family. When my mom was first diagnosed she wanted me to call every family member and let them know. But I didn't know all the third cousins twice removed. She of course had all the information for them because she went to all family reunions and really cared about them. She knew the names of their kids and in some cases grand kids. Likewise, they all knew and cared about her. Some of her family she would also consider as friends.
Keep the faith. Stay close with God and lean on Him. It doesn't make sense to waste time trying to determine what His purpose is in taking someone to heaven. God has a plan, it is perfect and He deserves our trust. Period.
Let others help you. So many people have been great about bringing food, sending cards, visiting, or sharing stories even when we said we didn't need anything. The truth is we don't want anything, but we need to know our mom's life meant something and touched someone else in some way.
Laugh. That's it, laugh - especially at yourself. Reflecting back on my mom's life has been entertaining for my brother and I. Never lose your sense of humor, most days it will be the only thing keeping you going.
Say "I Love You" everyday. Say it to everyone you love every time you see them. Don't expect that because you rub their feet or do their laundry without being asked that they know you love them. Tell them, hearing it is very important.
Don't work too hard. If you do, you won't be able to really enjoy life and living.

Also, I've found new respect for my mom and her struggles as a single mother. I can honestly say I was blessed to have her as a mom because she sacrificed everything for my brother and I and the only regret I have is that she will be gone too soon and unable to enjoy all she worked so hard for. So remember to live, laugh, and love all those close to you.

And Happy Independence Day to you all.

Difficult Decisions

2008-06-03T23:54:00.002-04:00

My mom has brain cancer. There I said it. I wish she could. It's bad that it is inoperable. It's bad that it is aggressive. It's bad that it is likely going to claim her life in less than 2 years taking her before she's even fully eligible for Social Security. It's bad that she is only 62. It's bad she's had to work so hard to end up with no time or the ability to really enjoy life. The worst part is that the location of the tumor affects her vision, hearing, speech and emotion. So even though we've never gotten along like the Bradys or the Cleavers, it is now far worse than even Rosanne.

I've always felt like I disappointed her, never living up to the dreams she so badly wanted for me. I know she wanted more for me, but instead of appreciating who I am, she continued to try to change me to be more like her. I guess it explains why I am so difficult now. But I am okay with who I am. Yes, I am sarcastic but rarely do I ever intend to hurt someone else. I enjoy laughing - loudly - and she thinks I am silly. I like to let my hair be wild, she thinks I should have it styled weekly and tape it at night. I like to eat out or try new things, she thinks I should cook at home every night with a meat and two veggies (at least one must be green) and serve bread and milk. I like CSI, she likes Matlock. I like baseball, basketball and football, she likes watching or listening to the Bill Gaither Homecoming. Seriously, how many days in a row or month can be considered a homecoming? Get home already and stop singing about it!

Anyway, she's lost the ability to reason well and tonight was a prime example. I mentioned at 10:00 p.m. that she needed to take her medication. She immediately snapped at me that she knew exactly what to take - one pill. I tried, very nicely, to explain that because we had gone out for dinner she missed her 8:00 dose and needed to take it plus the other pill she takes at 10:00. Naturally she didn't trust me, and although my brother backed me up and I said nothing else, it escalated to ridiculous proportions and had my mom and brother yelling at each other, she started crying and Matt ended up getting her pills.

Here's the difficult part...my brother will be leaving Thursday to return to England which means all her care will fall to me solely. The one she hates and doesn't trust. We did all agree that we need to get her into an assisted living place for round the clock care - but it's not like we can move her in tomorrow. We've got a house, a condo, and a car to sell. We got furniture to get rid of, stuff to pack, and things to organize. Additionally we need to get her disability to begin, her retirement to start, and her insurance issues settled. I've got to shuttle her to doctor appointments, radiation, and chemo while trying to keep my job. I have to schedule sitters and drivers and worry about meals. I've had to cancel the vacation I was planning with the boys since it is in the middle of her treatments. I'm not looking to whine, I just feel overwhelmed.

It makes the most sense financially to move her into my house - we have enough room. But the real question, do I have enough patience to move her here while I sort out the other stuff and then put her in assisted living? Can I tolerate the mood swings, the yelling, the cursing, and the complete distrust she has in me? I know it is the right thing to do but is it worth my sanity?

Please, please be in prayer for her and me.

Goggle Boy

2008-05-27T01:02:00.002-04:00

Forget Batman, Superman, Spiderman, or that new guy Ironman. Check out this new super hero - Goggle Boy. Apparently when you can't decide which ones you like better, you just wear them both. Deanna thinks Ironman might be cool according to these pics...but Goggle Boy has two sets, Ironman just the one. Sometimes less is more but in the case, more is more. Go Goggle Boy - save the world from too much chlorine in pools across the world.

It's All About Me

2008-05-20T18:19:00.002-04:00

Today is finally my day! No, it wasn't Mother's Day because neither of my *ahem* wonderful children got me anything. That's right, not a present, not a card, not even an acknowledgement. Both of them however enjoyed eating out along side me when I took my own mom out and presented her with a present and a card. Ok, enough whining. Here is why it is my day...

I am a C.H.A.M. That means I passed my test and am now officially a Certified Healthcare Access Manager. The test was harder than I originally thought and yes, it took me a second time to pass. What makes it so great is that I am the first one at my hospital to have this certification. Yep, of the 4000+ employees I am the only one who is a CHAM. I get to add some initials to my email signature. I get to have my name printed in the NAHAM (National Association of Healthcare Access Managers) Directory and not everyone there has this certification. I get a certificate for framing and pin to wear on my name badge. I feel special.

Sure today Matt found out the girl he has been dreaming about is finally single and yes I am excited that Andrew got a 92 on his math notebook (previous quarters have not seen the notebook grade above a 70), but today is mine. I'll celebrate them tomorrow, right now, it's all about me!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T00:23:00.002-04:00

A friend of mine reminded me that God gives you the children you're supposed to have. I believe that too, but seem to forget it in the madness of school, homework, laundry, skinned knees, bee stings, broken bones, outrageous grocery bills, football, basketball, baseball, soccer, video games, missing curfew, sleepovers, and dirty dishes.

But with all that comes the most amazing unconditional love. From the early days when only mom's arms will stop the crying, when a mother's kiss takes the hurt away, and when a hug is all you need, children bring the greatest memories and love into a family.

For every grocery bill and dirty dish I am thankful my children did not go hungry today.
For every sleepover I am thankful my children have friends.
For every homework assignment and school I am thankful my children are being educated.
For every load of laundry I am thankful my children have clean clothes to wear.
For every skinned knee, bee sting, and broken bone, I am thankful my children have access to quality medical care.
For every sporting event they participate in, I am thankful for their ability and good health.
For every video game, I am thankful for their dexterity and coordination.
And for every missed curfew, I am thankful they still arrived home safely so I can hug, kiss and punish them!
For both of my children, Matthew and Andrew, I am eternally grateful and thankful to God for entrusting His children to me.

Happy Mother's Day to all the amazing moms I know and thank you for continually inspiring me to be better!

Better is One Day Out of Court

2008-05-08T22:44:00.004-04:00

It was bad enough I knew the fine for Matt's speeding (52 in a 35) was going to be $176.25, but did we REALLY have to go to court also? Yes! If a driver under 21 is ticketed for a reportable offense (one that carries points which will be assessed against your driver's license) then court appearance is mandatory. Now, here is some advice for those of you who've not had the pleasure of traffic court:

Arrive Early. Just because the ticket says court begins at 9:00 a.m. don't wait until then to go. In Duluth you are seen by the order of your arrival.
Do NOT under any circumstances expect that you can take your cell phone in the court room, even if you have it on silent and it is in your pocket.
If you have a metal belt buckle, expect the metal detector to alarm and know you shall suffer the subsequent search and fondling by the police.
If the row says "Reserved" do not attempt to sit on the edge, even if no other seating is available. Simply wait for someone else to be arraigned and leave.
Bring something to read or you will be forced to listen to lame stories and apologies from people who refuse to admit guilt.
If you can't pay your fine, no worries, you can be put on probation where you have to report every month and it's like a "pay as you go" plan. But be careful, that line is as long as the one to get in the courtroom.
Expect to see people you know, but do not attempt to make eye contact or give a nod of recognition. Apparently if you are caught with marijuana you don't want your friend's mom eyeballing you.
If you want to go first, hire an attorney - they always get to the front of the line. In our experience, everyone charged with DUI had an attorney so we heard all those cases first.
Do not expect justice to actually be served.

Even Matt didn't receive justice (he should have suffered under his original charge as he was guilty), but he did receive mercy. His speeding was reduced to "going too fast for conditions" which carries no points. The fine is the same amount and he must complete a defensive driving course within 30 days and then return June 4th with certificate in hand to have his case closed.

The worst part of the day for me was my disgust at the DUI offenders who ALL got their sentences reduced and none of them lost their license. How is that even possible? Caught drunk driving but only slapped with a fine and time served at the initial arrest. It somehow seems wrong that these people could leave court for a DUI and go celebrate their freedom with a drink. I guess they have to actually hurt someone or something for justice to be served.

Bent, Broken and Booted

2008-05-03T06:28:00.002-04:00

Have you ever watched your child from afar and thought, "Wow, he (or she) is really graceful," or "this kid is so amazing I'll bet they could be a professional athlete." I used to think that about Matt but then he became a teenager and all hope was abandoned. Tuesday morning, as he prepared for school, he managed to step wrong, fall down the stairs, and break his ankle, AGAIN. He broke it this same time last year in a freak play at third base. This time when we went to the ER (and were greeted with the red carpet treatment of the frequent visitors who have paid enough in copays to qualify as a donating foundation member) the doctor made it clear that his ankle would not be supportive of long term athletic dreams. There is just too much "junk" in there with scar tissue and calcium deposits. Fortunately Matt had already given up aspirations of being a professional athlete. Now he is officially on the DL and sporting a lovely boot. Maybe that will earn him some sympathy when we face the judge Monday for his speeding violation. If not, I might have to borrow the boot to kick his...well you know.

Laminin

2008-05-03T06:15:00.004-04:00

Google Laminin, but watch this clip first - absolutely amazing.

What's Your Worth?

2008-04-19T19:54:00.002-04:00

I've never really thought about how much I am worth. Most folks I know measure it in dollars. How much you have in stocks, properties and other investments all add value to your worth. I don't have much in my 401k, only a small retirement so far, no stocks, and barely enough left in my bank account each month to enjoy a family fun night at the movies. But today as I passed by the Duluth Church of God I was humbled, excited, and awe stricken all at once. Their sign this week reads "Your worth to God, His own son". WOW! I had never really thought about it like that. I am worth so much to God that he allowed His only son to die so that I could find my way to Him. As a mom I can't imagine giving up the life of my child to save another person, but that's exactly what He did. I'm not sure I'll ever really comprehend it while I am here on earth, but I will forever be grateful that God thinks I am worth that much. You're worth that much too!

V-I-C-T-O-R-Y!

2008-04-13T19:11:00.002-04:00

Remember this post Bracketology...Well, in case you haven't heard, Memphis and Kansas played in the final game of the NCAA Championship. Matt and Andrew had both picked North Carolina and UCLA in the final game...I picked Memphis and Kansas. So before the game even began I had won! Yes, I was the victor in college basketball bracketology against the two self-proclaimed greatest statisticians and basketball historians of this era. (Stealing a line from Deanna's Blog) The heaven's shone, the angels sang and little bunnies nibbled on clover. (That still makes me laugh when I envision the bunnies.) Anyway, I WON! Me, the mom who didn't know anything and was sooooo stupid for picking Memphis and Kansas. Well, I won with 115 points, Andrew was second with 84 and Matt was last with 83. It didn't even matter that the one I picked to win - Memphis, didn't because I already had enough points from the final two I picked. Ahhh, victory really does taste sweet, as did the massage I got from Andrew. Still waiting to collect my $5 from Matt. If he doesn't get a job and cough it up soon I'm going to have to get Guido after him. I'm so ready for Fantasy Baseball season!

Retirement

2008-04-08T23:20:00.002-04:00

This past weekend my Uncle Craig retired after 29 years at Lockheed-Martin. My crazy cousin Janissa, his daughter, along with Aunt Margaret (the wife) and Jamie (also my cousin and Craig's son) threw him a surprise party. They live a good ways from us and we so love hanging out with Janissa and Johnny (her husband) and their daughter Katie that we made a weekend out of it. After the torrential downpour we drove through to get there, we had a weekend of cards, country breakfasts, guitar hero, and extreme laughter. When we get together with them we literally could be Olympians in competitive laughter. Once we get started it takes the need for oxygen or an aneurysm to get us to stop laughing. Even the boys laugh hard and never want to leave.

The party was Saturday night and it was catered by the Varsity, who of course lost their way and we had to wait an hour for them. But it was all you could eat so we made sure they left nothing on the truck. Craig got the standard retirement gifts: wrinkle cream, golf balls, and lots of cards about enjoying the time. We gave him pecans - 2 large bags from Sam's, because Margaret never lets him eat them because they are too expensive. My uncle started as a machinist at Lockheed and Johnny got his original tools and had them cleaned and then presented them to him at the party. Janissa had some of his other items framed, and Margaret announced he was paying for the party!

It was a great time and reminded me how lucky I am to have such a great extended family. It also made me realize that while I started working at 15 and have been working for 25 years, I still have another 25 to go before reaching retirement age. YIKES! I've only worked half as long as I need too and I'm exhausted. Guess I better start playing the lottery.

Locked Out

2008-03-31T23:10:00.002-04:00

Andrew had a make up soccer game tonight. It was a make up for one which was rained out - but we need the rain so I wasn't upset. We played Saturday and at halftime it started pouring and Matt and I were soaked since we only had one umbrella between us, he ended up using his chair to cover his head. My friend, Anne-Marie was there getting soaked as well. Both our purses were drenched and the game was finally called before the start of the 4th quarter.

So when I was at Andrew's game tonight and felt the first of the raindrops I told Matt I was headed to the car and would wait it out there. No way I wanted to be soaked again, nor have my purse dripping wet. Well, it never really started to rain hard and about the second quarter it stopped even misting so I left my purse in the car, grabbed my phone and keys and locked the car and returned to the sidelines to watch the remainder of the game.

It was my turn to bring snack and Andrew already had the cooler with drinks but I had left the chips in the car in case of the aforementioned rain. So towards the end of the 4th quarter Matt went to get the chips. When he returned I asked for my keys and he said he didn't have them. I told him to stop joking but he really didn't have them, they were in the car, the LOCKED car. He asked sarcastically if I had a spare...so I answered sarcastically that yes it do, it's in my purse in the LOCKED card. Then my sarcasm turned to anger and I said other things, which I won't print here.

I called my mom to get the number for a locksmith. She offered to come get me to take me home to get the spare, but the spare is in my purse in the LOCKED car. And the keys to my house are in the LOCKED car. She said she'd take to me to a Honda dealership and have them get me another key...except that my proof of ownership is in the LOCKED car, along with my house keys to show any other proof of ownership and all my money. So she finally gave me a number, I called and they wanted $35 for the service call and then $195 for the labor. Yikes, never mind.

So I called the Norcross Police, they won't do it. I called my friend Tina, her husband is a Sheriff's Deputy with Gwinnett County. She didn't answer. So I called my friend Cindy, whom I hoped would know someone in Norcross who could boost a car. I was totally willing to pay a criminal $20 to break into my car. Anyway, she got Tina who got her husband and finally luck was on my side. He was in Norcross serving warrants, so he and another officer came over. But neither had tools. However, he called a wrecker service for me and they charged me $55 which was way cheaper than the locksmith.

So, about an hour and a half after the game ended, we finally got back into our car. It's no fun being locked out. The good news, Andrew's team won the game 4-0. And yes, I have apologized to Matt.

Duped

2008-03-30T09:44:00.002-04:00

Wednesday, the 26th, I had tickets to the Hawks game (compliments of some long hours I have been working). Anyway, the boys, a girl from work and I headed to the game. Because of the recent tornado and construction downtown we opted to take MARTA. Upon arriving at the Doraville Station we proceeded to the machine to purchase our tokens. MARTA no longer issues tokens they have the Breeze Card...which was new to me, but nonetheless I figured we could handle it. A man, dressed like MARTA employees was standing there and asked what he needed and offered his help. We said we needed 4 round trips or 8 one-way passes. Someone mentioned we were headed to the Hawks game. He told us to follow him as he had our tickets. So he scanned us through the gate, handed me four tickets and asked for $16. My brain had already calculated the cost to be $14 but figured he was getting some handling fee. Like an idiot I paid him and in a flash he was gone.

Now, if you didn't know MARTA had Breeze Passes now then you likely don't know you have to use them to "tap" out or leave the station when you arrive. So we got to Phillips Arena and were stuck inside the MARTA station. Do you know where the machine is to buy tickets? Yep, on the other side of the gate we were stuck behind. We were in MARTA prison, forced to ride trains forever. Sure we could go anywhere the trains went, but we could never leave...it was like Hotel California of MARTA.

Fortunately a very nice MARTA policeman came along and we explained out dilemma. He laughed but let us out and told us to find him when the game ended and he'd let us back in so we didn't have to pay additional money. The Hawks won, we had a great time and got back home on MARTA without paying any more money, thanks to a couple of other MARTA employees who opened gates for us.

Although I felt like an idiot I thought it was a good lesson for the boys to realize that you can't trust everyone, but there are still people out there willing to help when you are down on your luck.

Bracketology

2008-03-22T23:44:00.000-04:00

That's what ESPN calls the March Madness NCAA Basketball Tournament. The boys and I are doing a Fantasy bracket via Yahoo! We've each picked winners in all of the games and when it's all said and done the one with the most points wins. What does the winner get? Well, if Andrew wins I owe him $5 and Matt has to take out the trash 5 times for him. If Matt wins I owe him $5 and Andrew has to do the dishes 5 times. And if I win...I get a 10-minute massage from Andrew and $5 from Matt. Anyway it ends I'm a winner...either I get a massage and money, or I get to watch one child appreciate the chore of the other. And the best part - we are all doing something together. I love college hoops!

They're Blogging like Flies

2008-03-17T23:30:00.001-04:00

Dropping like flies didn't seem quite for me to introduce yet another blogger convert. I'm taking full credit for this one as I have been bugging Kim to get to blogging for months. So check out life with the baseball/softball loving Dowell clan at Who's on First?

Political Correctness

2008-03-12T03:12:00.002-04:00

In thus an election year, I thought it best for me to post some important information on political correctness. So relax and take a break from deciding if you should "go bitch" or "go black" (sorry for the language but I so loved hearing that on Saturday Night Live - I nearly shot diet coke out of my nose) and be either entertained or chagrined by the following tips:

HOW TO SPEAK ABOUT WOMEN AND BE POLITICALLY CORRECT:
She is not a 'BABE' or a 'CHICK' - She is a 'BREASTED AMERICAN'.
She is not a 'DUMB BLOND' - She is a 'LIGHT-HAIRED DETOUR OFF THE INFORMATION SUPERHIGHWAY.'
She has not 'BEEN AROUND' - She is a 'PREVIOUSLY-ENJOYED COMPANION.'
She is not an 'AIRHEAD' - She is 'REALITY IMPAIRED.'
She does not get 'DRUNK' or 'TIPSY' - She gets 'CHEMICALLY INCONVENIENCED'
She does not have 'BREAST IMPLANTS' - She is 'MEDICALLY ENHANCED.'
She does not 'NAG' you - She becomes 'VERBALLY REPETITIVE.'
She is not a 'TWO-BIT HOOKER' - She is a 'LOW COST PROVIDER'

HOW TO SPEAK ABOUT MEN AND BE POLITICALLY CORRECT:
He does not have a 'BEER GUT' - He has developed a 'LIQUID GRAIN STORAGE FACILITY.'
He is not a 'BAD DANCER' – He is 'OVERLY CAUCASIAN.'
He does not 'GET LOST ALL THE TIME' - He 'INVESTIGATES ALTERNATIVE DESTINATIONS.'
He is not ' BALDING' - He is in 'FOLLICLE REGRESSION.'
He is not a 'CRADLE ROBBER' - He prefers 'GENERATIONAL DIFFERENTIAL RELATIONSHIPS.'
He does not get 'FALLING-DOWN DRUNK' - He becomes 'ACCIDENTALLY HORIZONTAL.'
He does not act like a 'TOTAL ASS' - He develops a case of 'RECTAL-CRANIAL INVERSION.'
He is not a 'MALE CHAUVINIST PIG' - He has 'SWINE EMPATHY'
He is not afraid of 'COMMITMENT' - He is 'RELATIONSHIP CHALLENGED.'
He does not show his 'CRACK' – He has 'REAR CLEAVAGE'

A Real Writer

2008-03-09T19:56:00.003-04:00

Ok, this fellow left a comment on my blog so out of curiosity I checked his out. Mail Call was the first of his posts I read and now I am hooked. So, check it out, but be warned, it's lengthy and heart-wrenching.

**UPDATED 04/11/2008**Thsi guy removed his blog, so guess he doesn't really want to be a writer after all. SORRY!

A New Convert

2008-03-04T23:12:00.003-05:00

I'm sure Deanna had more to do with this conversion than I did, but whatever it was be grateful. My friend Angelee now has her own blog. Get her insights and some inspiration here Garner Antics

Are You A Good Apple?

2008-03-02T23:20:00.005-05:00

My friend Kim sent this to me. I so loved it I thought I would share it with whomever reads my random thoughts:

Apples & Wine

Women are like apples on trees. The best ones are at the top of the tree. Most men don't want to reach for the good ones because they are afraid of falling and getting hurt. Instead, they sometimes take the apples from the ground that aren't as good, but easy. The apples at the top are thinking something is wrong with them, when in reality, they're amazing. They just have to wait for the right man to come along, the one who is brave enough to climb all the way to the top of the tree.

Now men...men are like fine wine. They begin as grapes, and it's up to the women to stomp the shit of out of them until they turn into something acceptable to join with for dinner.

Nothing Much

2008-02-15T21:40:00.002-05:00

Regular week, nothing exciting, no funny stories, rather boring I must say. Although, my cell phone has been recharged so I think my mom has called every day this week. What's up with everyone else, is it just me who is boring?

Finding a Church Home

2008-02-10T10:15:00.000-05:00

Well, be in prayer for us...the boys and I are seeking God's will for a new church home. We need a dynamic youth group with other students their ages and a college group for Matt soon. I also need a single moms or singles group for support. It's never easy to leave one church for another and we haven't made it official or public outside of this blog but we are seeking God's direction. Will keep you posted.

Water Basketball

2008-02-03T09:36:00.000-05:00

Sometimes physical therapy can be downright fun. In an effort to return my back to normal I have been doing aquatic therapy. It's fabulous because you certainly feel like you weigh less in the water, but your joints don't hurt either. Plus, I am told by my doctors and therapist that the resistence of the water gives you a better workout. Anyway, once my insurance "approved" visits to the therpist ran out, I continued on my own at a local indoor pool. Now Andrew is going with me and we decided to take in a game of water basketball.

Michael Jordan's got nothing on me now. I can block, shoot, dunk - yes I said DUNK and never even break a sweat. And Andrew is also amazing. He can even dunk. Who knew so much talent resided in my family. Between water basketball and our rock band, we could really be superstars...or sideshow freaks.

Ahh the silence

2008-01-24T23:48:00.000-05:00

That's what happens if you lose your cell phone charger and the battery finally dies. I thought I was really going to miss the ring tones, message alerts, and text requests from my sons about what's for dinner, when will I be home, and can I have some money to go here and there.

I'll probably panic if my car breaks down, I have a flat, or it gets stolen. I mean have you even seen a pay phone these days? But that wouldn't help either since I never have change thanks to my trusty debit card that even McDonald's will take when I get a $1 sausage biscuit.

But then I think...my mother hasn't called me in four days...ah the silence. No worries, I mean she is alive, she has email and I have thus been contacted with jokes and chain mails.

I also bought a cell phone charger that works in the car today, but don't tell anyone, especially my family. I'm going to enjoy the silence a bit longer.

Weekend Getaway

2008-01-23T02:19:00.000-05:00

Back at Christmas I had mentioned to the boys we should get away on MLK weekend since they would be out of school. I thought we'd head to North Carolina and visit my dad who now lives in Cary near Raleigh-Durham. Well work forced me to cancel my Monday day off plans, and then last Thursday they changed gears again and decided I could be off. Then it snowed here Saturday so I thought we'd be content to hang out in Georgia, but on Sunday after church was canceled we decided to head for Maggie Valley in North Carolina and take in some fun with snow. It was VERY cold Sunday night when the boys were tubing, but Monday was beautiful as Matt and I watched Andrew snowboard for the first time ever at Cataloochee Ski Area. We had a blast. It was only a three hour drive and we even found a cheap hotel and a great place to eat - Peter's Pancakes & Waffles.

After The Show...

2008-01-15T19:07:00.000-05:00

Well, it's been a couple of weeks since we became Rock Stars and I became the latest American Idol. Tonight the search for the next American Idol (on Fox) begins but I'm confident none will be as good as me. I mean I now have platinum on all 40 songs I have recorded...the only other thing I can with this game now is make them all Diamond Records by achieving a perfect score on each one. I already have 5 Diamond Albums so probably by the next post I will have completely finished. Ha!

Anyway, we've also mastered the Rock Band and I've even found myself in a "Bass Groove" while strumming along. Andrew blew us away with a 706 note streak - yes he hit 706 notes in a row on the drums. It was amazing and he was sweating like a, well like a drummer.

I went to the Game Stop tonight looking for some more games with songs I can sing but they didn't have anything new...sigh...guess I'll have to watch TV.

We Are Rock Stars!

2008-01-04T17:10:00.000-05:00

Yes, Matt, Andrew and I are ROCK STARS! In fact, we are great at being Bon Jovi, Boston, or even The Ramones. Now when someone tells me I sound like Garbage, I'll take it as a compliment since I have the high score on their song I Think I'm Paranoid.

Here's how it started...for Christmas the boys surprised me with a store bought gift (yes, this is the first time they have ever given me something they bought with their own money). They got me SingStar 80's. It's a game for the PlayStation where you sing into a microphone and it scores you on whether or not you sing it properly. Well, they made the mistake of getting the 80's version, because they knew I'd like it, and they were right. Of course I totally KILLED them on the score, because I knew all the songs. Then I was hooked. I started looking for cheat codes online because I wanted to unlock more songs to sing. Yes, I said it, out loud, in my blog, and to my children...I am a cheater, and I need the codes. Sadly, SingStar has no cheat codes to unlock more songs.

Anyway, while online I found another game, Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol. OMG!! I always wanted to be on that show, and of course based on my shower singing I am qualified. So I spent the $20 for the game because this one lets you go from the audition room, to Hollywood, and you get feedback from the judges, and yes it's really Simon and if you don't sing well he will tell you. Anyway, I was up until midnight last night but I finally won and I am your 2008 American Idol now. Thanks in part to the Captain and Tennille who proved that while Love Can Keep Us Together, it can also make me an American Idol. I was rewarded with trophies, and I unlocked more songs, videos, and characters. I am good, in fact I have 23 platinum records now. I really think I might need to go to Hollywood. I've also cured my need to cheat...I'm so good on this game stuff unlocks based on my score, no need to enter codes.

The boys had also been talking about the game called Rock Band. So once again we used money given to us for Christmas (courtesy of my brother) to get this game. This one has a guitar, a drum set and a microphone. So we've got Andrew on the wireless guitar, Matt banging the drums, and I am belting lyrics. We've started our World Tour, right from our living room. And we are good. You should hear the crowd, sure they're animated, but they LOVE us!

These games are so much fun, I recommend them to everyone. Even if you can't sing, you'll love them, because you can just hum and get the points, you don't even have to sing the right words, just sing something close and you're credited. It's a total ego booster. OK, I've got to get back to the living room, I mean studio, we are about to perform another song. If you'd like to book us for an event, call our agent.

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T18:58:00.000-05:00

Well it's a new year but I sadly have nothing new to report. Well, unless you count the coolest reaction by a child for a Christmas present. See, Andrew really wanted a bike, and after spotting the one he REALLY wanted at Wal-Mart just a few days before Christmas, I told him we'd wait and see if it would be on sale after Christmas. He said that was fine. As we walked away, he reminded me he didn't really HAVE to have a bike, he was riding Matt's old one now. The further we got from the bike and the more he thought on it, he also reminded me that while he didn't need a new bike the one he had was hard to pedal because the tires were always going flat and one of the brakes didn't work anymore. I said I knew but we'd still wait. Later that evening he went to spend the night with a friend and Matt was more excited than me about returning to the store to get the bike and hide it and make it a surprise for Andrew. So Matt went it got it himself, hid it in the basement (because no one ever goes in the dark scary basement to snoop), and then brought it up Christmas Eve and put it in the mudroom off of the kitchen.

Christmas morning when all other presents were opened I asked Andrew to get me something to drink (knowing this would force him to the room where the bike would be seen). As he went to get my drink (what a good kid for doing that) Matt, my mom and I sat silent waiting to hear his reaction. His reaction was completely unexpected...while I was expecting wails of excitement what he did instead was come running back into the living, jumping probably 5 feet in the air into my arms as I sat on the sofa. Then he burst into tears while giving me the biggest bear hug of his life. It's the stuff dreams are made of, it's the reaction every parent wants when they give their child a gift. Even Matt and my Mom were misty when they saw his pure and innocent gratitude for the gift he didn't know he was getting.

I told him how Matt had worked to get his gift and he gave Matt the same big bear hug and has told us both countless times, "Thank You!". It was definitely a Christmas to remember, and though the surprise was for Andrew, Matt also learned how much fun it is to give rather than receive.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

2007-12-25T12:39:00.000-05:00

More than 2,000 years ago my Savior was born, in the City of David, wrapped in swaddling clothes, and laid in manager. From His humble beginnings to His humiliating death Jesus was blameless and perfect. His birth, celebrated today, and His death are treasures given to each of us. But the best gift of all was his rising after three days in a sealed tomb. Today we celebrate the birth of a RISEN SAVIOR. May the Peace of God surround you all this Christmas.

My Boy is Seventeen!

2007-12-20T22:42:00.000-05:00

Today Matt turned 17. He also failed Physics. So Happy Birthday to the newly enrolled summer school attendee. I wish I had a more current picture of the beast but this will have to do. Good thing he plays football, because he has blown his chance of any academic scholarship. Ah, the pains of parenting that begin with the labor and never end. Fortunately he's so stinking funny I can't hardly stay mad at him. Happy Birthday my wonderful son, I love you!

On the 12th Day of Blogging

2007-12-19T00:23:00.000-05:00

Finally the end,
As day twelve is here.
No need to cry,
Don't shed a tear.

Because just like Frosty,
A snowman who plays.
I'll be back to blog,
Another cold winter day.

It has been real,
And it has been fun.
To all others I say,
Keep your eye on the Son.

I'll return next year,
For it's in my soul.
I live to blog,
That's how I roll.

On the 11th Day of Blogging

2007-12-17T23:23:00.000-05:00

It's after eleven,
On the eleventh day.
I'm ready for bed,
No more time to play.

All of my blogging,
Is just about done.
I'll finish tomorrow,
with all this jargon.

It's been fun entertaining,
Deanna and friends,
Perhaps Kim will catch on,
To the blogging trend.

A word of advice,
Before you start.
Write anything here,
Just use your heart.

On the 10th Day of Blogging

2007-12-16T22:37:00.000-05:00

Day ten is a win,
For all those who read.
Here's some advice,
For those in need.

Shopping online,
Is easy and fun.
No standing in line,
And in no time, you're done.

Your purchase arrives,
It's already wrapped.
Then you can settle in,
And have a night cap.

The presents under the tree,
Are pretty and fine.
So stop going to the mall,
And shop for all online.

On the 9th Day of Blogging

2007-12-15T19:06:00.000-05:00

Finally it's here,
The wonderful nine.
Have you put up a tree?
We have a fake pine.

We made one shopping trip,
to a small gift store.
I bought something for grandma,
And for me, some decor.

It's really just towels,
with snowmen on them.
I do love my snowmen,
I think they're all gems.

Tomorrow we head out,
to my aunt's house.
I hope we all get along,
And no one gets doused.

On the 8th Day of Blogging

2007-12-14T23:55:00.001-05:00

Believe it or not,
We are on day eight.
I forgot to post earlier,
But it's never too late.

Tonight we baked cookies,
with my good friend, Kim.
I ate way too many,
I'll just never be slim.

But who cares I say,
It's holiday time.
And we should just party,
Whilst I write my rhymes.

But for now I must go,
It's time for my bed.
But check back tomorrow
To see what I've said.

On the 7th Day of Blogging

2007-12-13T21:37:00.000-05:00

Woo hoo we made it,
All the way to day seven.
It's like I have died.
And gone to blog heaven.

Here you just type,
And recap your days.
And here in blog heaven,
There's plenty to say.

Talk about children,
Your pets and your job.
These are all fun things,
Others read on your blog.

So enjoy while you can,
The power you hold.
Sharing your life stories,
That will be changed and retold.

On the 6th Day of Blogging

2007-12-12T22:37:00.000-05:00

Today is day six,
We've made it halfway.
I think I can make it,
Join me as I pray.

Today was a shock,
but a joy none the less,
My friend Kim has relieved
Some of my holiday stress.

She called and she offered,
Two TVs they had.
And if I'd take them for free,
She'd be oh so glad.

So Matt got the big one,
A twenty-seven inch screen.
But Andrew's twenty inch,
Is also a dream.

Now if only they'd clean,
Their rooms - what a mess!
We'd be done shopping and cleaning,
I wouldn't have to obsess.

So to Kim I must say,
Thanks - YOU MADE MY DAY!
And that's two less things
Santa will have on his sleigh.

On the 5th Day of Blogging

2007-12-11T20:30:00.000-05:00

It's already day five,
But no golden rings here.
If I can't shop real soon,
There'll be no presents I fear.

So it's off to the mall,
I went in a hurry.
I needed some gifts,
There was no time to worry.

The parking was full,
That was no real surprise.
I could not let this problem,
Be the presents demise.

So I stalk those who are leaving,
As I troll through the lot,
And of course some old geezer,
Gets my front row spot.

Fine, I'll wait 'til tomorrow,
To return to this place.
And in between shopping,
I'll blog without haste.

On the 4th Day of Blogging

2007-12-10T23:40:00.001-05:00

Day four is now here,
And I have a busy week.
The career can be draining,
Because I work with freaks.

If people would listen,
And do as I say,
The world would be better,
I'd have brighter days.

But instead they insist
On doing things wrong,
Then calling me up,
To sing their sad song.

Stop downloading crap,
No more playing of games.
Don't change your settings,
End users drive me insane!

So long for now,
I must say goodbye.
I have general failure,
Reading the C drive.

On the 3rd Day of Blogging

2007-12-10T00:24:00.001-05:00

Day three has arrived,
And the joy abounds.
Is that water leaking?
What is making that sound?

Oh great! I exclaimed,
When the source I did find,
"It spilled all in the hallway,
I hope you don't mind."

Why should I mind,
That's just more to clean.
And everyone loves,
Using the steam machine.

So for now I must go,
As the carpet is wet.
But check back tomorrow,
I'll have it all set.

On the 2nd Day of Blogging

2007-12-08T20:46:00.000-05:00

For the second day of blogging,
The fun had only begun.
I was just getting started,
No where near being done.

I had shopping to do,
But decided to rest.
So I propped up my feet,
I thought that was best.

I sure wish the presents,
Could buy and wrap themselves.
Or I had my own workshop,
And a passel of elves.

For now I must go,
Parting is such sweet sorrow.
But check back again,
Day three is tomorrow!

On the 1st Day of Blogging

2007-12-07T11:45:00.000-05:00

On the first day of blogging,
A thought did come to be.
How would I get this started?
When it's really all about me.

No worries I heard,
from the voice in my head.
You'll find the right words,
You have nothing to dread.

So I thought for a moment,
Then took paper and pen,
And made up this rhyme,
For Deanna, my friend.

I'll return tomorrow,
With more wisdom and wit.
And Deanna can count,
How many times E has spit.

For Deanna

2007-12-06T21:59:00.000-05:00

I've often wondered what it would be like to be famous. I'd like to know the rush of excitement to have cameras shoved in my face everytime I step outside. I'd love to be rumored to be dating George Clooney, or the woman who is stealing Brad from Angelina. And wouldn't it be great to have people seek you out to hear what you have to say?

So far, I'm not famous, hate having my picture made (the camera does add 10 pounds), and I'm not dating anyone. But I do have one thing going for me, and one fan too - Deanna. She actually encourages me to blog. Clearly she's tired of reading "Hop on Pop", "Horton Hears a Who", and "Red Fish, Blue Fish". Ironically her blog is titled "Always Read the Manual".

Since she is the only one reading my blog, or at least commenting, I'll dedicate the month of December to Deanna. I'm no Dr. Suess but I can make a rhyme or two and instead of 12 days of Christmas, I promise 12 days of blogging. So check back tomorrow for the "official" start of 12 Days of Blogging.

God Answers Prayers

2007-11-11T01:02:00.000-05:00

Remember my post about being Broken Hearted? Well, I received an email apology from the person but it was half-hearted to say the least and not a true apology it was a "sorry if you misunderstood" instead of a "sorry for what I said".

I had talked to my pastor about the incident and he prayed for me and it was during that prayer I turned it over to God and decided not to respond or retaliate in any way.

Today I received this email from him:

"Board
After much consideration.. and for a variety of reasons.. I will NOT be the president next season. I think it is best of the program overall that we seek another person to fill this role. I appreciate all the support the parents, those few, who have stepped up this season and given their hearts and blood sweat and tears to this program.

Thanks for all your help."

I didn't pray for this man to resign, but I believe it is the right thing for him to do. I love it when I get to see God work and wish I paid attention to Him more. It sure would make life easier!

Thanks to those of you who prayed for me.

Quarters Count

2007-11-09T23:39:00.000-05:00

For those of you familiar with High School football, you might know that in order to letter you must be in on at least one play in 12 different quarters. At least that is the rule in Gwinnett County. You aren't guaranteed a letter just for showing up for practice and games, you have to actually play since no one is cut and everyone makes the team.

So with 10 Varsity games on the schedule it means you have 40 quarters to play your 12. After the 5th game of the year Matt still hadn't played in any. Although he was the starting center for the Junior Varsity he had not been entrusted with the snap at the Varsity level. I was okay with that for the first few games, I mean he was getting his feet wet again since he had taken his sophomore year off, and the starting Varsity center was doing okay.

But in the 6th game I thought I was going to lose my mind. In the first half alone the center had not one, not two or three, but five bad snaps, one of which resulted in a safety for the other team. And still Matt didn't get in, until the second half. He got in for a couple of plays and so the countdown to the letter began.

As the games rolled on, and our deficit of points increased, I expected junior players to get more play time since we weren't going to win anyway. My mistake, starters remained in the game even with scores like 59-0. Crazy! Still by the end of 9 games Matt had 9 quarters, only three more were needed for the coveted letter.

Tonight was that final game against Peachtree Ridge. Duluth lost 46-14 bringing the season record to a pitiful 1 win and 9 losses. This coach has only won 5 games in 4 years - time for a new coach I think.

Not only did Duluth lose the game, but Matt lost his hope for a letter as he did not get in the game at all. So, even though he started this time last year with Winter Workouts, missed non of the Spring Practice, missed only one day of Summer Practice because of church camp and never missed a practice or JV game or Varsity game since school started, he will not receive a letter. Sad isn't it?

The only thing worse than being disappointed in your child for things like grades, or bad decisions they've made, is having to witness their own personal disappointments in themselves.

Well, there's always baseball.

Broken Hearted

2007-10-30T11:11:00.000-04:00

Have you ever admired or respected someone? Have you ever wished you had people skills like someone else or that special repoire that makes everyone want to be around you? Have you wished you could take back a day and have a do over?

Monday was that day for me and the President of the Touchdown Club was that person. We've had a rotten season as far as W-L go, and worse we've got some bad apples spoiling the bunch of good boys. Funds are dramatically low and unless we find some green somewhere we are going to take this debt into the next year/season. I understand every Touchdown Club Board member is feeling the stress. But does that give any right to one of them to yell and curse at another?

Monday night after the meeting I was speaking with another mother and we were privately sharing our dissatisfaction with something regarding the coaches. The president completely went nuts and began yelling and cursing at the both of us and said things that damaged my heart. After I tried explaining myself to no avail and seeing the absolute hatred in his eyes I left to avoid any further confrontation. It was an explosive situation that did no good for any of those involved.

Please be in prayer I can let this go and let God handle it.

Fake Bake Ziti

2007-10-28T01:54:00.001-04:00

Ok Deanna, here it is...I got this from Rachel Ray but have changed to suit my family's taste.

Ingredients
Olive Oil (to coat the pan)
1 lb ground meat (I use beef but it's up to you)
1 small jar spaghetti sauce or tomato sauce (I use Prego Garlic & Parmesan)
Fresh garlic, minced (I use about 2-3 cloves unless I use the Prego sauce, then I skip this ingredient all together))
1 box Ziti Rigate(although lately I've been using Penne Rigate)
3 tablespoon butter
3 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk or half/half (substitute beef broth if you want to reduce calories)
1/2 shredded Asiago cheese
1/2 shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
1-2 cups Mozzarella cheese (depends on how cheesy you want the top)
1/2 teaspoon fresh nutmeg, grated
Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions
Boil water and add pasta, cook until al dente (about 6 minutes).

In large saucepan, coat with olive oil and then saute garlic. Add ground meat and brown. Drain fat. Return to heat and stir in spaghetti sauce or tomato sauce. Season to taste, reduce heat to simmer.

In medium pot, melt butter. Add flour and cook for one minute to create roux. Once flour and butter are mixed well together, whisk in milk or broth. Whisk together well to avoid lumps. Once mixture begins to thicken, reduce heat and add asiago and parmigiano-reggiano cheeses and nutmeg. Whisk until cheese is melted. (You can really use whatever cheeses you like here, however I would avoid cheddar.)

Drain pasta and combine in large skillet with beef mixture. Coat all pasta with beef mixture and pour into baking dish. Pour cheese sauce on top of pasta and beef and mix together. Top with mozzarella cheese and broil in oven until cheese browns on top (about 3-4 minutes).

Enjoy!

8 Random Cooking Things

2007-10-24T21:49:00.000-04:00

Ok, so Lara tagged me in her blog to name 8 random cooking things so here you go, feel free to laugh out loud if you actually know me:

1. I love to cook with Pampered Chef products I bought when Lara was in town and my consultant. Haven't bought a thing since she moved to Minnesota.

2. My buddy Anne-Marie gave me the most awesome bamboo cutting board for my 40th (ahem!) birthday this year - love it!

3. My oldest son loves for me to make baked ziti or broccoli macaroni and cheese from scratch so I do that for him occasionally.

4. My youngest son loves my spaghetti and chili which are both from cans and jars. Nothing from scratch just heat, mix and eat.

5. Our favorite thing to cook as a family is tacos, although we usually get Matt to do this.

6. I love Tastefully Simple products - especially the beer bread and key lime cheese ball, these should be outlawed.

7. I shop at Kroger every other Tuesday for two weeks at a time. It's like a ritual and I hardly ever shop anywhere else unless I want something fresh or run out before the two week time period.

8. I miss my friend Lara and her YUMMY peanut butter cookies.

Lara tagged Deanna and Melena already so I have no one left to tag. Oh well, hope this wasn't too boring.

I'm so NOT a morning person!

2007-10-17T18:02:00.000-04:00

Today I had an upgrade on a system that started at 6:00 a.m. So I woke up at 4:30 and got to work by 5:30 a.m. The only good thing about being up that early was the reduction in traffic, but sadly no drive-thru was open before 6:00 a.m. for some much needed caffeine.

The upgrade was okay, although it took a while and I still have some after effects. All I want now is sleep people, so stop calling me! I promise if I can sleep then by tonight, when the vampires are out I'll be in a much better mood.

Seriously, all you morning people, raise your hand...it will make it easier for me to find and shoot you.

A (Bad) Day in My Life

2007-10-09T00:00:00.000-04:00

Wouldn't it be great if I could find something positive to post about? I wish I had the "always look on the bright side" mentality but some days just stink. Today was that day...here's how it went..

7:00 a.m. - Alarm goes off, have to get up early (yes 7 a.m. is VERY early for me) because I have to meet with Andrew's math teacher about his grade.
8:00 a.m. - Yell at Andrew to hurry up and let's go because traffic will be awful headed to the school
8:17 a.m. - Finally get in car
8:37 a.m. - Arrive 7 minutes to conference to hear about how Andrew is not responsible (which clearly he gets from his always prompt and very responsible mother). Then I have to listen to how smart but apathetic he his. Well if doesn't care, why should I? Just kidding, I do care about his grade, so I'll just start doing his homework.
8:55 a.m. - Return to car and get stuck in middle school parental drop-off SUV nightmare.
9:15 a.m. - Arrive to chiropractor for adjustment to aching back only to learn my insurance benefits for this plan year have expired and I'll need to pay full price going forward, plus the amount insurance didn't pay in September.
9:50 a.m. - Arrive to work and several voice mails about how my system has been crashing all morning and where the heck have I been?
10:30 a.m. - Decline lunch invitation from friend as I cannot leave the ball and chain attached to my desk.
11:30 a.m. - More calls only this time about forms that haven't been processed and what the heck am I working on that could be more important than a form printed in Korean? Never mind I had a system crashing, the system that prints forms nonetheless.
12:45 p.m. - Thank my good friend Annie for bringing me lunch.
2:00 p.m. - More calls and emails about how everything I support isn't working as it should. Plus interruptions from an on site vendor with stupid questions.
5:05 p.m. - I've had enough, headed home, grab a cupcake from friend Cindy's desk so my blood sugar can rise on the ride home.
5:30 p.m. - Arrive home and yell, then wait again on Andrew to be ready for football practice - even if you tell him 30 minutes ahead of time he's never ready on time. I'm thinking he's definitely in touch with his feminine side when it comes to getting ready.
5:45 p.m. - Drop Andrew off with Matt so he can take him to football practice.
5:46 p.m. - Call from Mom, can Matt help with some work at her house, not until he's finished my errands, he's mine first.
6:00 p.m. - Attend Touchdown Club Board Meeting so I can once again hear how many people haven't paid their dues, how much in the red we are, and what am I going to help do about it? I don't know, I paid my money! Maybe they could print a form or something and when that doesn't work I can be blamed.
7:00 p.m. - Attend the general Touchdown Club Meeting along with like 9 other parents, ones who have also paid, and listen to them complain about how it's not fair they paid and others haven't. Here ya go sister, share my book cause we are singing the same song!
8:30 p.m. - Rush to pick up Andrew from practice and drop his friend off at home, then drop him off at home.
8:35 p.m. - Call Matt, who is still at my mom's, not helping but eating dinner and watching football. Ask him to meet me at Kroger for grocery shopping, but of course he doesn't want too and then says "but if I don't you'll gripe at me".
8:35.01 p.m. - Tell Matt not to come and hang up on him.
9:30 p.m. - Complete grocery shopping only to learn my total of $176.54 is $26.54 over the approved limit for my new checking account. But this account isn't new, just the checks are....manager please. So check for $150, then another check entered as cash for $26.54 and I'm out the door.
9:45 p.m. - Stop for gas, surrounded by police, but I didn't do anything! Thank goodness for the green truck behind me, he was the one they were after.
9:52 p.m. - Arrive home, force boys to unload car, scan groceries for stupid home scanning project I am part of, and make boys put them away.
10:45 p.m. - Gobble down some Hamburger Helper because again, I'll need to eat right before bed if I want my blood sugar to really rise.
11:15 p.m. - Yell at Andrew one more time for the day, because I apparently have a quota I must meet, and forbid him to sleep in or around my bed, or even downstairs since he failed to take a shower after practice and now smells much like his socks.
11:45 p.m. - Begin typing this blog and after reliving my day realizing the only thing keeping me focused was knowing what a long boring blog this would be.

Now I get to do it all again tomorrow. Don't you just wish you could be me for a day?

Andrew is a Minister!

2007-09-23T15:29:00.000-04:00

****WARNING - VERY LONG POST****

You might find this title misleading but allow me to explain...today Andrew was baptized.

Our pastor, Allen Taylor, spoke on baptism today knowing that 10 people (ranging in age from a young girl of eight to an older gentleman in his late fifties, early sixties) had made their professions of faith and were going to be baptized. In his message he spoke of the significance of baptism, why Jesus had to be baptized before becoming a priest and beginning his ministry, and how when you are "dunked" you die but when you arise behold all things are new and at that point you become a minister for Christ. It was wonderful to hear him explain it in that way. I've never thought myself a minister but you don't have to be a preacher to be a minister. In everything we do we should mimic Christ and all our behaviors should minister our love for Him.

Well, it has been an amazing day...let me recount the highlights...Andrew literally jumped out of the bed this morning when I woke him and asked, "Ready to get baptized today?" He was so excited. He had carefully planned his wardrobe, down to the sandals so that no socks were necessary (thank goodness)! He had his bathing suit, his shirt from camp, and his towel. He was ready and not nervous at all. We arrived at church and spoke briefly to the pastor to ensure we knew what to expect. He explained everything to Andrew and so we picked seats close to the front for the best view. My mom and Matt were there of course and Kim brought her camera to capture the moment on film so I can of course scrapbook it later. I had also invited some others I felt were important in Andrew's spiritual journey. Not all of them could make it so I want to be sure to include their names here as they mean a lot to our family.

First up, the McCains, Mark and Sheila - Mark was the first pastor of our church and Sheila was the first nursery worker Andrew would know. She spent precious hours with him as he was the oldest toddler and at the time there was no other class until you were in kindergarten and could move on to Adventure Kids. Mark and Sheila took us in to their family immediately and still hold a special place in our hearts even though we don't see them regularly.

Next, the Fransens, Britney and Lara - although physically in Minnesota much of their spirit remains in Buford. Britney and Lara opened their home (and hearts) to me and my family for small group. What began as a bible study grew into a friendship I will always treasure. They are a beautiful family who truly exemplify what it means to serve the Lord.

Now, for those who were able to attend: The Wards, Darryl and Chris - Darryl and Chris served as the Children's Pastor and Director at our church for many years. They spent countless hours with Andrew in Adventure Kids and various camps. They were and are shining examples of God's love and mercy and I will be forever grateful for the love they have shown my entire family. Fortunately they were able to attend the service today to share in Andrew's big day.

The Dowells, Eric and Kim have been great friends to us over the past few years. Eric has been leading Adventure Kids and Andrew is very close to him. Kim is one of my dearest friends and a great source of strength. They've even taken Andrew on vacation with them so Matt and I could attend camp. I value their friendship a great deal.

The Garners, William and Angelee, have also been important to my family. They have been a constant source of strength and guidance and true examples of Christian parenting. Even though they are only a couple of years older than me, I feel like they have many years of wisdom above me so I count on them often.

The Sclafanis, Steve and Belinda are Andrew's (and Matt's) second family. Without Steve's fatherly influence and Belinda's motherly love blessing our family as well as their own, I don't know that Andrew would have understood so clearly God's plan of salvation. Steve cared enough about Andrew to talk with him and help him understand everything Jesus had done. Belinda remains a strong Godly woman and an amazing example for all mothers.

Finally the Taylors, Allen and Melena - What a tremendous blessing God gave The Journey when he brought this family to us. I've laughed, cried and worshipped with this family and have enjoyed every minute. They truly have a heart for seeing the lost come to Christ and to simply love people. Allen led Andrew in the prayer for salvation after ensuring he understood what it meant and Allen had the great pleasure to baptize him today.

OK, that's my shout out to the people who planted God's seeds of love and salvation for Andrew. Back to the festivities...

So as Allen nears the close of his message he asks those who are being baptized to come over to the side of the stage. On the stage is not the normal baptismal pool...cause we are the Journey Church and that just wouldn't be us...no we have a horse trough we use for baptism. It had been filled with water (and heated by resident electrical guru Steve) and fancied up a bit with a black cloth surrounding it. When Andrew left my side to join the others for baptism he somehow seemed taller. I didn't know when I woke up this morning, the mother of a boy, that I would go to bed the mother of a young man. The tears began welling in my eyes.

First Allen called up Tina, a wonderful and delightful woman I have come to know since her son Jamie first talked her in to coming to church. She spoke from her heart when Allen asked if she wanted to say anything and the tears began to fall. Her story is a beautiful one if you ever get to hear it. Next another woman, Cheryl and then a youth, Jeremy both of whom took the microphone and stated their name and then also stated they weren't much for talking.

Then it was Andrew's turn. Ever since Tina had spoken he was a nervous wreck thinking he might be required to say something. Andrew is NOT a public speaker, nor does he even like having a spotlight on him. When Allen called Andrew, the church broke into applause and I could hear Matt, who was at the other end of the row, shouting encouragement for Andrew. Most of the folks at the church know Andrew as we are some of the longest attenders at almost 10 years now. As Andrew walked onto the stage he quickly grabbed Allen around the waist and buried his head in Allen's chest. Andrew was overcome with emotion and began crying. That's when I noticed everyone on my row, my mom, the Wards, Matt and even some of the youth in front of me were also crying. Even Allen had to take a deep breath and wipe away some tears. Andrew's heart for the Lord is so tender and in that moment I realized how blessed I was for him to be baptized by a man who knew and understood his tender heart and could help him through it. Allen held him tightly and the baptized him and of course I had as much water on my face as Andrew did on his body. The waterworks were in full force.

Next a family of four, then a mom, a young adult man and then the older man I mentioned earlier were all baptized. In total Allen baptized 11 people today - what a blessing!

Like the other people today, Andrew went down into the water and washed away the old and arose a minister. It truly was amazing. Thank you to everyone who played a part in Andrew's road to salvation. It takes a village to raise a child, friends and family to love them, and the grace of one God to save them!

See pictures here

Concession Work

2007-09-21T13:30:00.001-04:00

Ok, if you ever have a child in sports and someone says, "Hey, would you like to be in charge of concessions?", run away and never look back. I stupidly let Matt talk me into becoming the VP of Concession for the Touchdown Club at his High School. No one else wanted the job, it was open for over six months - you'd think that would have been the only red flag I needed to turn it down. But I also incorrectly thought it might give him an edge on the team if I was on the Board. That so is not the case!

So I asked if running the concession was a lot of physical labor. I have issues with my back but the President assured me all they needed was some organization. So I took the thankless volunteer position.

Since that time I've organized myself into a lot of physical labor. Yes, so far I've stocked over 200 cases of soda into coolers. I've been shopping at Sam's Club every week since the games began and spent well over several thousand dollars in supplies. Then you have to bring all that to the concession, get it unloaded and stored. Arrange for workers, cooks and ensure someone remembers to bring you the cash box each week so you can make change. Then of course after each game you have to clean and restock, reshop, count money and prepare to do it all again the next week.

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention you also get to sweat - A LOT. I've even gotten my eyelashes to sweat. Stop by some Friday night, I'm happy to share the experience with any and all volunteers.

First Post

2007-09-08T10:43:00.000-04:00

A friend, Deanna, suggested in another blog (Fransen Follies) that I should start a blog as well. Thought it might be fun since I am a lover of language and love a good story.

So, what will I write about? Probably mostly my two boys, Matt who is approaching 17 very quickly, and Andrew who just turned 12. They should provide some decent entertainment and I can share some embarassing stuff on them as well - like the fact that Matt thinks Asian people come from Europe! Yes, he's been in school since 1994, however it is public school so maybe there is something to be said for private school. Oh wait, it has nothing to do with school, I forgot to mention he is blonde - deep to the roots.

I'll also have to write about the folks I work with - this for stress relief. It's obvious to me that God exists and was obviously the intelligent design behind the creation of the human body. See, only a creator with His wisdom would know to design the body so that breathing was involuntary - I know too many people who would be dead if they had to think for themselves and remember to breathe.

Of course I'll relay information on my church, The Journey Church in Buford, Georgia, and other friends and family. You'll need to understand I am often sarcastic but never intend to offend - I just like to laugh.

So, thanks for stopping by!