My Journeys

First post for 2010

2010-12-04T00:21:00.004-05:00

OMG Not one blog post in 2010. My heart just wasn't into it. My heart hasn't been into much of anything this past year. Between my husband and myself, we experienced five family deaths in six months. Nov 2009 to May 2010. It's been pretty tough to take.

The legal process in one situation is painfully slow. With the strength of family and friends, we are getting through it, but the end is nowhere in sight. We have yet to bury him, so there has been no sense of closure either. He was close to my age, so his death in particular, and the manner in which he was killed, has really shaken me up.

LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST.

2009-12-31T19:26:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!!!

2009-12-16T22:54:00.003-05:00

I haven't posted since July ?!?! Yikes, I hope to do better in 2010!

What's on my mind today? My cellphone got wet. The touchpad is not functioning. It's only a couple months old.

Oh no - will it be okay? Stay tuned ...

The Pots & Pan War

2009-07-11T17:11:00.003-04:00

My friend's thoughts about wanting a conveyor belt to wisk the ever-growing dirty dishes outside inspired my return after a very long absence. Aren't you all lucky?

My problem, however, isn't the ever-growing dirty dishes .... it's the ever-growing CLEAN pots & pans!

Each evening, I wash the pots and pans that were used for dinner and leave them in the dishrack to dry. Hubby, when not travelling, will make himself breakfast. Most of the time I find them left dirty in the sink. But, once in a while, he'll wash them and place them ON TOP of what's already by now dried in the rack. And, if I don't put the stuff away, he'll just keep piling whatever he's washed on top of it.

Hence, the pots & pan war has evolved. Let me explain the chain of events in the picture below.

1) The two large pots were placed on the counter so he could get to something that was underneath. I've left them there.

2) The next day, the two pans and spatula were removed from the rack and placed on the counter, again, so he could retrieve an item that was underneath them.

3) He did end up washing the small pot, blue plastic cup, and coffee travel mug. Instead of emptying out what was already there, he just placed everything on top. The coffee mug and small pot lid are especially driving me crazy.

Did you remember to spring forward?

2009-03-08T08:57:00.002-04:00

Will daylight saving time boost profits?

I never thought about golf being the only sport you can't play under lights!

2009-03-06T18:39:00.005-05:00

Ickitt? Why would one name their baby Ickitt ?

Perhaps it's a family name? or a foreign word with a beautiful meaning?

In any event, this baby's gonna have a lot of 'splainin' to do when he's older... !

UPDATE

I don't even know who this woman is ... just happened to see these articles... :o)

2009-02-22T18:46:00.001-05:00

Was in the North Georgia mountains this weekend and saw a bit of snow. A very little bit ....

2009-02-17T20:53:00.001-05:00

Daffodils have been up for a week ... However, they're a little droopy in the current chilly weather!

Daffodils

2009-02-06T19:34:00.000-05:00

They started popping up last week...

First Post of February

2009-02-02T18:41:00.002-05:00

and the first sight of Robins.

A very plump robin was perched on our fence when I pulled into the driveway tonight...

Spring is around the corner!

Where did January go?

2009-01-31T21:03:00.004-05:00

I want to get one post in before the month is over, not to mention remove the Christmas picture off the blog. LOL

Being absent from my blog doesn't necessarily mean I was busy. Time just got away from me. A couple bullet points to cover the month and what's been on my mind...

New Year's Eve I called my parents to wish them a happy new year. My mother told me my uncle was in hospice care and didn't have long to live - throat cancer. That was rough to hear.
My manager returned to work after 1 1/2 months medical leave. She had 5 stints put in. Shortly before her return, a coworker in our dept. went out on a 3-month medical leave (foot surgery).
The company announced there is a salary freeze, no overtime, and all temps were let go. Can't say I'm surprised, as the economy continues to crumble. I, like everyone else, hopes the company can keep afloat so there are no layoffs or office closings. Sad thing is, if the employees did their job all along instead of letting things slide, we'd be in better shape.
My husband has an interview next week. This same individual approached him before about a job, hyped it all up and then, next thing we knew, someone else got it. So, my husband knows to take what this guy says with a grain of salt and not get too excited. But, he also has to go with the flow and see where it leads.
Last Saturday I sent a card to my uncle. I wanted him to know how much he meant to me. He died the following day. He will forever be in our hearts.
It's cold and damp, however, I see the plants starting to sprout some growth along the back of our house. Daffodils will be up soon and the hummingbirds won't be far behind. My hummingbird feeder will be hung back up tomorrow.

I'm ready for February...

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2008-12-31T20:12:00.002-05:00

Ringing in the new year at the cabin. Hope you are all safe and warm and with loved ones!

Wishing all good health and happiness in 2009...

2008-12-30T20:21:00.002-05:00

We are at the cabin in the mountains of No. Georgia to ring in the new year.

I am currently waiting for my chicken to cook. I am baking it, and I am getting impatient. (just look at the timestamp and you'll understand)

I am not fond of cooking with an electric stove!!

2008-12-28T11:14:00.003-05:00

So many ideas running through my head, and it's taking forever to get moving on any of them.

When did I become such a procrastinator??

2008-12-24T21:53:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas

Last Business Trip of 2008

2008-12-21T11:20:00.004-05:00

Hubby went to the Bahamas on business in July one year, and he couldn't figure out why I didn't jump at the chance of going. I had been to the Bahamas right after college. My memories of it - while fun - was quite hot, dirty, and expensive - and the locals were pushing their tourist junk at me to purchase. I wasn't impressed and had no desire to go back. Upon his return from that first trip, he understood why I didn't want to go. He was miserable (he is not a sun-sand-and-beach sort of guy) - it was too hot and humid for him. Places were not air conditioned.

So, when the second opportunity came-a-knocking, he wasn't terribly surprised I didn't go with him. I figured it, being December, was a better time to go weather-wise, but I'm looking forward to taking the last of my vacation and spending it quietly at the house and, hopefully, getting some much-needed organizing done.

Off hubby went for his last business trip of 2008. The first part of the week was spent in Nassau (still pretty pitty); the latter part of the week in Freeport (the nicer side).

The guys generally frequent the same hotels when traveling, but hubby vowed not to stay in the same place in Freeport because it was really awful. The corporate travel agent found another place that was more expensive but still within the accepted rate that will be covered.

When hubby checked in, the desk clerk saw he was there on business and only staying one night. She was smart and, since it's the slow season, she upgraded him to a suite. Hubby says he was in heaven. Not only was the weather beautiful (no humidity) - he stayed in nice accommodations with fresh pastries placed in a special compartment so as not to disturb him if he was still sleeping. He just opened a "trap door" and there they were.

So, let's just say I opted to stay home and organize paperwork, closets, kitchen pantry, etc. as opposed to enjoying this:

It May be Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas - but sure doesn't feel like it!

2008-12-18T22:07:00.009-05:00

It's difficult to believe Christmas is one week away when we hit 70 degrees today. We finally put up our tree and a few decorations this week, but not as much as I usually do. It's still nice, though, and is "Christmasy." I finally got my cards out, too.... Way late for me!

2008-12-17T19:40:00.003-05:00

Although I don't recall getting care packages, I feel like I'm back at college ...
When we lived in Indianapolis, there were no Dunkin Donuts stores (they had all closed). So, family members started sending us their coffee beans. Hence, the DD in the box --even though we are now in Georgia :o).

As for the Yodels and Ring Dings - I have come to learn this is a Northeast thing. Drake's does not distribute outside of NY and New England.

I called Santa and asked, "Since I don't drink coffee, do I have to share the Drake's?"

2008-12-13T13:29:00.004-05:00

This picture does not do the house justice, but I wanted to record it in my blog so that I can look back at it and remember the warm feeling I've gotten this holiday season every time I see it. It reminds me of softness and peace and blessings and joy. It represents the true spirit of Christmas.

Wreaths and lighting. So simplistic, and I don't think I ever really noticed before. I wonder if they realize what an impact it has made on me and, hopefully, many others.

Ring Christmas Bells

#2 Down

2008-12-07T11:03:00.005-05:00

The second room is painted. We purchased a blue a couple shades lighter than we originally picked for this room (room #1 blogged about earlier). It's a little too blue for me; I wanted something a little grayer, but the color works. It actually brightened up the room and makes it feel bigger. Couldn't have done that if I tried! I was originally thinking of putting in a pedestal sink in order to open up the space, but now I don't think it's necessary -- plus it would have been a little too extravagant and more money we certainly don't need to spend.

We removed the mirror the builder put up and replaced it with the one in the photo. That, and the faucet we changed out a while ago, made quite a difference. The "stock" mirror the builder put in was large, square with no frame, and glued to the wall. The glue was eating through the backing and you could start to see it behind the glass. It is also happening to the mirror in the upstairs hall bathroom, so that will get replaced and painted (room #3) next. Hubby is beyond thrilled. LOL

2008-12-06T16:11:00.019-05:00

I purchased new Christmas lights for outside our house. They are LED - supposedly using less energy to burn - "green" (better for the environment) - and I really liked the way they looked lit on the in-store display. Hubby, however, was none to impressed when I brought them home. But, he humored me and put them up mainly because we've been married long enough that he knows not to argue - and that he'll like what I've planned. We've also been married long enough where he now voices his opinion. It used to be he didn't say anything and did whatever made me happy. I'll admit, I liked it better when he kept quiet and just did whatever made me happy! LOL

Anyway, I really like them during the day when not lit. They look like real icycles - which is a blast here in Atlanta where the 'native Atlantans' don't ever get to see real icycles and where 'northerners' are getting a treat seeing these authentic-looking ones. I'm not keen on how they look when lit, however. They are bright white. I thought they'd be more subdued, being LED. They certainly don't give me the impression they're using less energy!

I agreed I'd put color lights on our bushes, which I have not done yet. I'll have to do that tomorrow so that I can have them on when hubby returns home. He is currently in Tennessee on business.

Our friends from Maine send us a wreath every year. It is always beautiful, but somewhat of a challenge keeping it green. Although, if it stays as cold as it has been (27 degrees this morning!!) it will last longer than past years.

Well, without further adieu (is that right?!)... here are some pictures ...

There is no flash. There are no lights on. This is how much light these "icycles" are throwing off. Our front porch is completely illuminated:

2008-11-30T23:20:00.002-05:00

I am a bit spoiled having had Thursday and Friday off and spending four whole days with my husband!! I do NOT want to go back to work tomorrow!

2008-11-30T00:08:00.002-05:00

Just returning home from a great show at Atlanta Symphony Hall put on by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Cirque de la Symphonie. We didn't really know what to expect, but were pleasantly surprised. The night wasn't without incident, however...

The people next to us came late, then her cell phone rang and she had to dig through her purse to find it and change it to silent. But what I'm really wondering is ... Why does one need to bring a crinkly bag of snacks -- to the symphony of all places?! Can one not eat for even two hours??

Wishing Everyone in Blogland a Happy Thanksgiving!!

2008-11-23T22:18:00.000-05:00

I Don't Get It

2008-11-22T18:35:00.011-05:00

Please explain it to me. Am I wrong? I really want to know...

This afternoon, after an enjoyable shopping excursion, I approached the checkout counter to purchase all my great finds. The young girl started to ring me out as another shopper behind me was putting her items on the 'belt.' The woman recognized the cashier and they engaged in conversation.

I stood quietly as the cashier continued to ring my stuff.... and talk.... not to me, but to the customer in line behind me. I picked up a bin out of my carriage and asked her to scan it twice (there were two bins - one inside the other). This request didn't even break their conversation. Gee, sorry, I didn't mean to try to interrupt.

I had to watch closely and stop the cashier from scanning the other woman's items. The idiot never put one of those 'bars' in between our orders. Guess she was in too much of a hurry to start babbling with the cashier.

They continued talking as I tried to swipe my credit card. Wait. Continued talking? They had never stopped. For some reason, my card swipe was not being accepted and, again, I had to wait for a slight break in their conversation to tell the cashier I couldn't get my card to go through. She stopped talking, took my card, swiped it, and handed it back to me.

The woman started talking again and by now I had had enough. I said to the woman, "Can you just wait a minute?" The cashier handed me my receipt and when I looked at the woman, she looked shocked. What? Was I not supposed to say anything?

They talked the entire time my order was being rung up. I never felt so invisible.

I thought it was awfully nervy of them to just push me aside like they did, yet they acted as if I was the one with the nerve for expressing my annoyance. It really made me feel as if I was the one who did something wrong.

Nope. I don't get it.

P.S. In case you're wondering, I am not exaggerating. Not even the slightest bit!

2008-11-19T22:05:00.002-05:00

I went to the grocery store during lunch today and what was in front of the entrance??

A person standing next to a Salvation Army donation bucket, ringing a bell and yelling "Merry Christmas."

I kid you not!

2008-11-17T18:30:00.001-05:00

I saw Christmas decorations on my way home from work tonight. Christmas lights? One day after my birthday? This is THE earliest I've ever seen them!!

Lunch Breaks

2008-11-11T21:36:00.003-05:00

There is a shopping mall and every imaginable retail store within a couple mile radius of my office building. This makes it very convenient to run errands during my lunch hour. It can get expensive, though, if I allow it. I try to buy only what I need.

This week, however, I hit a sale on seasonal items. I am by no means a crafty person but, from my recent purchase, I made the following. I'm pretty sure my husband was impressed :o)

One of Life's Embarrassing Moments

2008-11-11T19:08:00.003-05:00

I've had some duzies in my time, and if I stopped and thought real hard I could probably come up with a few of them. But, no need to think of past embarrassing moments when I've got one fresh on my mind.

At work, we often reference a toll-free customer service number. In a recent e-mail, I provided both the customer service e-mail address and number. I received a reply on that e-mail today. Unbeknownst to me, the number I provided was one digit off of our number -- and the customer informed me I gave him a no. to a phone sex line!!!!

Top THAT one!

Today's Position

2008-11-06T20:51:00.003-05:00

It is upright again. Cord still askew. Pledge and cloth stationary. All hubby.

He left today and won't be home until Sunday. So you-know-who will put everything back where it belongs.

Ah, the games we play. LOL

2008-11-05T22:31:00.005-05:00

Hubby and I went out to dinner this evening. Just a quick bite to eat, which was nice since he leaves tomorrow and will be gone through the weekend.

When we returned home, he walked toward the stairs, stopped and said, "What happened here?" He stood just long enough for me to look and respond. He then proceeded up the stairs.

It stays as is for the time being...

One down - it only took 4 years!

2008-11-04T17:16:00.010-05:00

We were pretty psyched, when we purchased this house, that the interior was painted a color other than white. The three homes prior were all white interior. Every room. And we never got around to painting any of them, mostly because we weren't there past the 4-year mark. Apparently, it takes us 4 years to get around to it.

This first picture is an attempt to show the color of every wall in our home. Depending on the light, it can look a brownish tan, beige, or even a mustardy yellow. Don't you just love my descriptions? This picture really doesn't do it justice, because it doesn't look half bad here.

The door to the right is our downstairs full bath and the french doors are a "sun room" which we use as an exercise room. My plan was to match the paint to one of the suttle colors in the shower curtain. A cornflower blue is what I was calling what I pictured in my head. I figured we'd paint both those rooms the same color blue. Hubby brought home a bunch of blue paint chips. I had no idea there were that many hues of blue!!

He decided to paint the exercise room this past weekend. I was sick and spent most of the weekend in bed -- probably better that I wasn't in his way! He emptied the room, laid plastic over the carpet, removed vent, electrical and lightswitch plates and taped around the trim. He finally starts painting and calls me to come down. I walk in the room and he says, "Is this right? It's awfully gray." OMG It was a dark gray! I said to go with it, since the paint was purchased.

I was a bit nervous that I really messed up. But, I really like it! It dried bluer than we thought it would. I will, however, have to go a shade lighter when picking colors in the future, I think, just to be on the safe side. It turns out better that he started with the bigger room, because this blue would be too dark for the small bathroom. Now we can purchase a shade or two lighter for it.

Okay, enough talk ... here's the new color...

Hubby vacuumed and wiped all the equipment down and polished the furniture when he put everything back in. Great, huh? I guess I can't complain about where the vacuum cleaner ended up (in the middle of where you would enter the living room) ...

And what is that white thing on the floor next to the end table????

They will stay there until I put them away. The question: do I have the right to be mad at that? Oh, and, what do you think of the color?

Thank you Metro-Atlantans for Voting Early

2008-11-04T15:54:00.002-05:00

Certain locations have been open for early voting during the month of October. I do not know whether this was happening in other states. The lines were crazy long and people were waiting hours upon hours.

I kind of put it out of my mind and never gave much thought to it. Every once in a while, a coworker would mention, as an example, they voted "last night" and it took 3 hours.

Time passed and most of the office personnel voted in the evenings after work. I never did. To tell you the truth, the closer it got to Election Day, the more I figured everyone will have voted already so there will be little to no lines on Nov. 4.

Last Wednesday, my boss comes in from a doctor's appt. She tells me she has to return for tests Tuesday a.m. She asks if I was planning to stop to vote on my way in that morning. If I was, she would cancel her appt. and reschedule. THEN she tells me the company is allowing 2 hours (to be made up later) to allow people to be late or leave early in order to vote.

Well. Heck. What do you think I did?! I told her not to cancel her Dr. appt. To go Tuesday morning and I'd come in no problem. We then agreed I'd leave 2 hours early (2:30) in order to get in line to vote.

I find it interesting that this information was not made public by the managers in our office until most everyone voted on their own time! (Guess it's typical)

But, luckily for me it worked out.

2:30pm out the door
2:35pm out the parking garage
3:20pm pull into voting place
3:25pm walk out of voting place
3:30pm pulled into my garage

Now I'm taking it easy and will, probably, fall asleep as I'm still nursing a cold that I've had since last week!

2008-11-04T15:43:00.002-05:00

I signed on to post about something, but before I get to that.... I have to say this ....

I'm home early today (the reason why will be blogged about next). And I figured, since I'm home in time to catch the last 1/2 hour of a soap opera I watched ions ago, I'd put it on.

Well. One of the characters from way-back-when is still on the Soap. And, my immediate reaction was, "Wow. She's gained weight." I mean, I know it's been many years and we age and put on some pounds so it's just a fact of life. But, in the same token, she IS an actress and they are always so careful about their weight.

Then she speaks. And she says, "You have to help me. I'm pregnant with your child."

OH. That explains it. HA HA HA HA HA HA

I assume they wrote her pregnancy in. Maybe I'll google her to see....

There's No Mistaking Where I'm From!

2008-10-26T15:21:00.006-04:00

Thanks to the person packing my groceries and loading my cart, there is no mistaking where I'm from. First off, have you ever seen anyone do that with six-packs before??!!

If you are unfamiliar with Atlanta, let me share something that I've learned since moving here... Atlanta is the headquarters for Coca-Cola. Hence, every soft drink is referred to as "Coke." I'm not kidding. They don't refer to it as "soda" or "pop" or "soft drink." It's Coke. ("I'll have a hot dog, fries, and Coke." "What kind?" "Sprite.")

And if the quality is any good in the photos, you'll see that I purchased Pepsi. A dead giveaway that I am from the North!!!

Las Vegas

2008-10-18T11:39:00.004-04:00

This is the pool at Mandalay Bay. It has a wave simulator and sandy beach! (Pic was taken w/my cell phone, so quality not the best.)

We gambled a little --- very little. Neither one of us is keen on throwing our money away - they're not exactly rigged for you to win - but, we were in Vegas after all, so you gotta gamble some!

We met our friends from CT out there and had lots of fun. I went to Vegas many times for business, but never as a tourist, so this was my first time walking around and really checking out the sights.

The guys attended the barrett-jackson car auction. No, they did not buy a car - they just watched everyone else buy one :o)

Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives

2008-10-04T23:14:00.004-04:00

If my husband could visit every establishment featured on that show, he would!

CLOSE-UP

2008-09-25T21:47:00.002-04:00

(I forgot this one...)

2008-09-24T21:40:00.003-04:00

Here are some pics of our recent trip to Maine. We had a great time, as always!!

2008-09-20T00:21:00.001-04:00

I am in New York for the weekend, staying with my parents and visiting with my brother. He misses me .... awe... :o)

Operation Back in School

2008-09-17T18:01:00.002-04:00

Just saw on the news seven parents were arrested today for their children's truancy. Short article can be found here Crack Down on Truancy .

This is the first I've heard of this. Are other states doing this?

It's amazing what I learn is going on around here when I am home to see the news!

Another Journey, both personally and professionally

2008-09-10T18:33:00.003-04:00

I leave tomorrow for our annual trip to Maine. I am excited to see our friends - it is the only time we get together. When I lived in CT, I saw them maybe a couple other times a year at some kind of work function (our hubbies all work together). But, it's not possible now that I'm way down South.

I am taking a different position at work, and my new boss has been very patient with the transition. We agreed that I would take extra time to train my replacement since my former boss does not know my job at all and will be of little assistance to my replacement. He was always going to sit with me but, no surprise, that never happened.

There is a customer service dept. in our Chicago office that is supposed to field all calls, but little-by-little customers have gotten our direct contact info and bypass customer service. I put an out-of-office message on my e-mail today that basically states all e-mails should go to the group e-mail address or call the toll-free customer service no. and that upon my return I will be starting a new position in a new department. It was probably to no avail because I know customers will not take the hint and will still expect to be able to come directly to me and get answers. Never mind the fact that I will probably be spoken to about putting the message out there. I did not ask for approval - I just did it.

Not sure if I'll like my new position, but I worked with this boss when I first started so I know her personality and work ethic and all. I don't think we'll have any issues. I needed to make this change for so many different reasons and am looking forward to a "new job" without the hassle of changing companies. I like the office and most everyone in it (there's always going to be one or two "problem children"), and I especially like the location. I am able to get a lot of errands done during lunch.

When you mention "Atlanta," the number one comment is "Horrible traffic." True. It is not good. However, I have found a decent route in to Atlanta. That, coupled with the time I commute - before the majority of commuters hit the road and before the school buses come out - I actually have an enjoyable commute. (ha!)

This is the last I will think of work until I return to it Tuesday a.m.

Thoughts are now on the Maine coastline, peace and tranquity, lobster, New England clam chowder, good wine, good friends, good talks, and lots of laughter.

Bonaventure Cemetary, Savannah, GA

2008-09-06T00:40:00.014-04:00

Let's see... I've blogged about the Confederate Cemetary, the Union Cemetary, and even the cemetary in my hometown, so I guess it should be no surprise that I'd post pictures from the Bonaventure Cemetary in Savannah.

The statues, twisting tree trunks, and spanish moss blowing in the breeze make this an awsome sight. I would not, however, want to be there at night! (spooky enough during the day!)

My Passenger on the Way Home from Work Tonight

2008-09-05T21:18:00.004-04:00

Hubby sent them to me at work on Tues. Sept 2 (our 19th wedding anniversary).

19 years. Wow. Saying it and seeing the number in writing makes me - for the first time - feel old ....

Happy Labor Day

2008-08-31T09:52:00.003-04:00

We are spending the weekend in Savannah, GA. Hubby forgot the digital camera. Luckily, I packed our traditional camera, ol' faithful! So, hopefully, we'll have some good pics from that camera that I can post. I will, however, have to get them developed --- remember that process? LOL

Hope everyone is having a most enjoyable weekend!!

2008-08-21T19:11:00.000-04:00

I started feeling bad Tuesday afternoon. All day Wednesday I thought it was allergies. But, this morning I work up with a full-blown summer cold.

It is kicking my butt. I am exhausted.

Yes, I Know, It's About Time

2008-08-09T21:22:00.008-04:00

Where have I been? No where, really. Busy, but not busy. Let's try some random bullet points to figure out what exactly I've been up to...

Dinners out. It's turning into a weekly ritual with a group of women I used to work with. I keep referring to them as former co-workers, but let's just officially say they are my friends :0)

Movie night. One Saturday night we went and saw "The Dark Knight." I hadn't seen any of the Batman movies, but I'm up for a night out any time! I must say, Heath Ledger did a fantastic job in the role. We're going to try to make going to the movies a ritual, too, now.

Shopping for babies. Not mine, silly. Attended one baby shower today for a girl I used to work with (oops, I mean friend! -referring to bulletpoint 1). She is due October 1. Next week is baby shower for a friend's daughter who is due October 6. I had loads of fun shopping for them - one is a boy and one is a girl.

Major goings-on at work. We have been hearing about this new global system that would be in place since, well, at least since the two years I've been there anyway. Last week it hit. And, with it, all h*ll broke loose. Everything is great in theory, and they can think they've worked out all the bugs, but until you actually go live, you just don't know what's going to happen. My major headache begins this coming week when my portion goes live. At least we are all going through this together, and we're all in a learning stage.

With the official switch to the global system comes lots of frazzled nerves. I dread hearing the groans of one coworker mentioned in earlier posts. She is not adept to change - any kind of change, even the littlest. Can you just imagine one as huge as this?! Do you think I can bring in earplugs? Afterall, my hair is long enough to hide them. ha ha ha (hey, why am I laughing?? That idea isn't half bad. hmmm...) At least, however, we only have to listen to her six hours a day (7-hour workday minus a one-hour lunch) ..... her husband has to put up with her the rest of the time! (I never met the man, but know he must be a saint)

Do you have any idea just how often professional baseball teams play? Just about every day. How do I know this? I agreed to DirecTV's MLB package, which brings them into my home every night hubby is home. Oh, yes, the teams get a night off here and there (travel time), which I am sure they are grateful for - and I can assure you I am grateful for!

Hubby started traveling again. He was home for five weeks (hence, the ridiculous amount of baseball games on tv). He has never been home for that stretch of time, and never would've been if it weren't for the trial (juror, not defendent - just thought I'd clarify that for those of you who missed previous blog about it). I got accustomed to his being here, and I'm sure he got used to being here, too. Although, I have to admit, it is kind of nice to get the main tv back !

And, future events that will keep me busy (just getting my excuses ready for being absent on the blog in the future LOL):

More shopping for -and attending a- bridal shower for a co-worker. It won't be as fun as shopping for babies, but I will enjoy!
Our annual trip to Maine in September, and another weekend will be spent with my brother in NY.

A trip with friends to Las Vegas in October.

A trip to the No. Georgia Mountains with our friends coming down from Maine.

Maybe a trip abroad? Not sure about this one, but I loved our trip to Germany and would love to go somewhere abroad again.

Well, I hope this has somewhat answered the puzzling question as to what I've been up to. Or, at least given you an idea.

I hope not to be away as long the next time!

....Hmm, look at that, I am done with this post at the same time the baseball game ended on tv.....

How To Tell if You Are Mom's Favorite

2008-07-22T21:58:00.001-04:00

Received in an e-mail. Photographer unknown.

2008-07-10T22:00:00.002-04:00

I just ran across this slideshow of photos taken during the Memorial Day service at the Marietta National Military Cemetary. (I was not in attendance, I was at the cemetary the day before.)

I find it very moving and wanted to share....

Memorial Day at Marietta National Cemetary

2008-07-07T19:07:00.001-04:00

He is on the jury.

Does not know if he is the alternate or not.

Trial is expected to last three weeks.

2008-07-02T21:41:00.001-04:00

You appreciate the finer things in life. You have a split personality - wild or conservative, depending on your mood. Wherever you go, you like to travel first class. Luxury, style, and fun - who could ask for more.

Which Sports Car Are You

Pedicures

2008-06-30T22:16:00.003-04:00

Pedicures are as common as breathing here in the South. I've never had one before. Call it cheap, call it practical, call it being a Northerner, call it whatever you want, but I'm a do-it-yourselfer. I've always given myself pedicures - and manicures, too, for that matter.

Sitting in a roomful of strangers was odd. Having a stranger touching my feet was totally weird. And, the girl kept "oggling" my fingernails, but those are hands off!

On my way home, I sent a text to one of my friends here. It read, "I am no longer a virgin. Had my first pedicure."

She asked what color I chose. I told her I went easy for my first time with pale pink. She replied she goes "plain jane" on her fingernails, but "lets loose" on her "tootsies" with either red, orange, or purple. Yes, she said purple.

Only time will tell if this becomes a way-of-life for me as it seems to be for everyone else around here. But, even if it does, I highly doubt I'll ever do purple!

Trivia about Myself

2008-06-28T19:50:00.006-04:00

Stealing this from "Y" ....

What is in the back of your car? A Travel-size pillow and blanket for driving long distances with my husband, who cranks the air conditioning.

What color is your toothbrush? Yellow (received from my dentist office during my appt. last week!)

Name one person that made u smile today? Monique

What were you doing at 8 am this morning? Making fresh hummingbird nectar

What were you doing 45 minutes ago? Having dinner with my former co-workers

What is your favorite candy bar? Hersheys w/almonds, to name one

What is the last thing you said aloud? "See you next Thursday" (doing dinner again with the same women)

What is the best ice cream flavor? There is a place down here that has a White Raspberry Truffle which is awesome.

What was the last thing you had to drink? Diet Pepsi (a restaurant that actually serves Pepsi!! That's a big deal as most serve Coca-Cola products, as Coke is king here)

What are you wearing right now? Red t-shirt and beige capris, barefoot

What was the last thing you ate? Potato Skins (yes, that was my dinner!)

Have you bought any new clothes this week? No, but last week I did!

When was the last time you ran? I cannot remember - probably through a rain storm last month.

The last sporting event you watched? Ironically, the Yankees/Mets game JUST ENDED (on t.v.) as I got to this question! Live game? Atlanta Braves at Turner Field last Fall.

How do you like your popcorn? Lightly buttered and salted

Ever go camping? Yes, those were our family vacations when I was growing up

Do you take vitamins daily? I am bad and forget alot, but vow to do better!

Do you go to church every Sunday? No

Do you have a tan? Yes, a slight one, but not on purpose. The sun is just very strong here!

Do you like Chinese food over pizza? The pizza is horrible here, so I do tend to eat more Chinese food here. But, back in New York?? PIZZA, hands down!!

Do you drink your soda with a straw? Only when at a restaurant

Are you some-one's best friend? Yes

What are you doing tomorrow? Laundry, cleaning, reading the Sunday paper

Where is your dad? New York;950 miles from me

Look to your left, what do you see? A window, and a basket with a couple of magazines in it - and the card to my laptop plugged in to the outlet.

What color is your watch? square silver watch with a thin, dark-brown leather band

What do you think of when you think of Australia? Boomerangs (is that Australian?!)

Do you use chap stick? Sometimes

Do you have a dog? Not currently

Last person you talked to on the phone? My mother

Have you met anyone famous? Once upon a time I worked with Joe Gibbs, Bobby Labonte & Tony Stewart - and a bunch of other NASCAR people

Any plans today? I met four former co-workers for dinner. (I guess I should just call them "friends" as "former co-workers" is a mouthful)

How many states have you lived in? Four: New York, Connecticut, Indiana, Georgia

Do you dye your hair? It's been highlighted a bunch of times over the years.

Can you say the alphabet backwards? No, and I'm not even going to try unless you want a real good laugh.

Do you have a maid service clean your house? Yeah, right .... that's hilarious

Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time? I typically wear a pair of brown "weave" sling-back sandals. Comfy, practical, and go with most everything :)

What color is your car? Dark blue (not the most practical in the South)

Do you like cats? Yes, and my neighbor's cat must know that because he comes up my driveway for a sratch behind the ears when he sees me.

How did you get your worst scar? Riding a banana-seat bike, with my best friend on the back, down her stone driveway; hit the front brake and we both went flying over the handle bars. My knee was cut up real bad. My friend? She landed on me and wasn't hurt!

2008-06-27T20:44:00.003-04:00

You have eight seconds to answer each question.

smartorstoopid

Jury Duty

2008-06-26T20:47:00.009-04:00

I received a jury summons 1 1/2 years after moving here. I reported for four days, sitting 2 1/2 of them in a voir dire process for a murder case, but they picked the jury before getting to me.

We hit the four-year mark this month, and hubby received his first jury summons here. He reported Monday and was sent home at noon. He reported Tuesday and was sent home at noon. He had to call at 11:00am on Wednesday to find out if he had to report that afternoon. At 11am, the message told his "panel" to call back at noon. At noon, it told his "panel" to call back at 3:00 to find out if they have to report back on Monday, June 30. What? It goes into next week?!

I did not realize it, but his summons states this will last "typically one week," leaving it wide open to extend into the next week. Wow.

We have work being done at our house June 30/July 1. It's been scheduled for two months, and he knows not to even dare ask me to take off work and stay home for it. Anyway, he had to obtain a letter from the company to prove they will be performing the work and bring it to the courthouse at 1:00pm today. He showed up, not realizing that he would have to stay this afternoon and go through the voir dire process for an upcoming trial, since he can't make it in on Monday. At 5:00pm he called to tell me they did not excuse him, and he must report back Monday, July 7, for final jury selection.

His stomach is in knots. And, after he told me a little bit about what the case is about, I can understand why. I will not mention it here, as I do not want individuals I do not know googling about it (on the slight chance they get a hit). But, let me know if you are curious and, if I know who you are, I'll tell you...

A Couple Rang True

2008-06-21T19:59:00.004-04:00

25 Ways to Tell You're Grown Up

1. Your houseplants are alive, and you can't smoke any of them.

2. Having sex in a twin bed is out of the question.

3. You keep more food than beer in the fridge.

4. 6:00am is when you get up, not when you go to bed.

5. You hear your favorite song in an elevator.

6. You watch The Weather Channel.

7. Your friends marry and divorce instead of "hook up" and "break up."

8. You go from 130 days of vacation to 14.

9. Jeans and a sweater no longer qualify as "dressed up."

10. You're the one calling the police because those @!%$ kids next door won't turn down the stereo.

11. Older relatives feel comfortable telling sex jokes around you.

12. You don't know what time Taco Bell closes anymore.

13. Your car insurance goes down and your car payments go up.

14. You feed your dog Science Diet instead of McDonalds leftovers.

15. Sleeping on the couch makes your back hurt.

16. You take naps.

17. Dinner and a movie is the whole date instead of the beginning of one.

18. Eating a basket of chicken wings at 3:00am would severely upset, rather than settle, your stomach.

19. You go to the drugstore for Ibuprofen and antacid, not condoms and pregnancy tests.

20. A $4.00 bottle of wine is no longer "pretty good sh*t."

21. You actually eat breakfast food at breakfast time.

22. "I just can't drink the way I used to" replaces "I'm never going to drink that much again."

23. 90% of the time you spend in front of a computer is for real work.

24. You drink at home to save money before going to a bar.

25. When you find out your friend is pregnant, you congratulate her instead of asking, "Oh sh*t, what the h*ll happened?!"

......nos. 4 & 11!

.... oh, and .... 5, 15, 21 .... LOL

Marietta National Military Cemetary

2008-06-01T17:48:00.005-04:00

Matchbooks

2008-05-31T22:39:00.004-04:00

So tonight I finally went through a huge bag of matchbooks that have been on a closet shelf since we moved here. Lots and lots from bars/dance clubs from the "single" days. And bunches from restaurants/hotels/vacations. I even have a few from funeral homes - how morbid is that?!

It was quite fun to spend a little time going down memory lane.... dinner dates, vacations, nights out on the town.... but, with age comes forgetfulness. I really had to think hard to remember a lot of places and drew a complete blank on more than I care to admit.

The wedding matchbooks I have really struck me, though (no pun intended). As I read the couples' names, I realized that maybe half or more are no longer together. How sad.

Let's see who's lasted and for how long so far:

1969
X Sue (family) & Ken

1979
X Anna & Rob (family friends)

1984
AnnMarie (high school friend) & Carlo

1985
? Sharon (work associate) & Pat
X Leslie & John (boyfriend's friend)

1986
X Dina & Rich (boyfriend's friend)
Susan & Bobby (boyfriend's family)
Phyllis & Ed (boyfriend's friend) ... sadly, Phyllis passed away two years later
Amy (family) & Keith
? Joanne & Tom (boyfriend's friend)

1987
X Lisa (college friend) & Keith

1988
Karen (family) & Kevin

1989
me & hubby
Sylvia (high school friend) & Lawrence
Kari (college friend) & Tim

1990
X Pam (high school friend) & Frank

1991
X Susan (college friend) & Donald

1992
X Laurene & John (husband's family)
X Cathy (high school friend) & Gary
? Stephanie (work associate) & David

The tally: 9 divorced, 7 married, 3 don't know, 1 death

Not the very best statistics.

Memorial Day - Georgia sytle

2008-05-26T13:50:00.009-04:00

As a kid, I always participated in the local Memorial Day parade. First, as a Brownie, then with Girl Scouts, and then with the high school marching band. And for years, we went to my aunt and uncle's house for a picnic. So much fun!

Now, we have a quiet day. I usually get a lot of stuff done around the house that I just don't seem to otherwise.

Three years ago, I dragged my husband, on his birthday no less, to the Confederate Cemetary.

Yesterday, hubby suggested we go to the Marietta National Cemetary. This is where union soldiers are buried as a result of the huge Kennesaw Mountain Battle. I guess he figured I waited long enough to go.

Hubby took a few pictures with the digital, but hasn't e-mailed to me yet. Don't know how they came out, but will post if there are any good ones.

We missed the ceremony they had for veterans of Pearl Harbor, but we were able to listen to some of the veterans talk afterward. There was a boy scout troop there for the ceremony, and the men just loved having an attentive audience in these young boys.

I suspect that may be the same troop that placed an American flag at every gravestone for Memorial Day. It was truly a remarkable sight.

2008-05-18T20:35:00.000-04:00

Here is the current picture ... see previous post to see what I'm talking about ;)

The Mountains

2008-05-17T10:39:00.004-04:00

Spending the weekend in the mountains. It's still quite chilly up here, but love the peace and quiet !

P.S. There are leaves on the trees ... I downloaded this winter pic from the website ... I will update with a current picture when I get home ... so check back :)

A Little Confession...

2008-04-22T21:16:00.003-04:00

.... I tried to ignore it, but I finally broke down and watched some episodes of "Real Housewives of New York City." There, I said it. Now, having said that, I must continue with "They have nothing on my (NY) friends!"

Where did the producers find these women??

2008-04-08T18:55:00.002-04:00

It's been forever, I know. Time management is really taking a back seat in my life and that is so unusual for me! Still, no time to write anything of substance ... but had to at least pop in and say hello.

Flower Garden

Sugar, Sugar

2008-03-25T18:17:00.003-04:00

by The Archies

There is a new oldies station that I tune to during my commute home from work. Tonight I was a bit stressed when I left the office (which I hate to admit ... but I guess I'm only human and the job is going to get to me at times). Anyway, "Sugar, Sugar" came on. It immediately transported me back in time and my (slight) troubles washed away. It brought me back to the carefree days of my childhood. Amazing how one little, simple song could do that!

2008-03-12T23:50:00.002-04:00

An uneventful day, as far as things go, however I did notice something... For being so overworked (her constant complaint), this woman sure spends a lot of time talking, goofing off, just generally being away from her desk, especially between 11am-1pm --- yet she doesn't "take" a lunch. I'm not quite sure how her food is getting prepared, heated, and to her desk. It's a miracle, I tell you.

It's also funny how she can get upset that I take my full hour lunch and leave on time. Arriving on time and actually working the full day might have something to do with that, in a rational person's mind anyway.

Our manager is out of town tomorrow and Friday. I can already guess what's going to happen. Absolutely nothing. She will be useless. But what's the difference, because he doesn't do anything to control the situation when he's here...

2008-03-11T19:11:00.005-04:00

She came in today because she "just couldn't stand staying in bed one more day." When she arrived (late), she had to b*tch -- all day -- about how she still can't keep anything down, blah, blah, blah. (oh, and she left 1 1/2 hours early to go to the dentist - a previously scheduled appt. Guess her tummy was up for the endurance)

This woman acts as if she's the only one with problems. You know the type; making every ache and pain and gripe known to the universe. I am so the opposite -- with the exception of this blog ;o). But, speaking specifically about work, no one ever knows what, if anything, is going wrong in my life. It's extremely unprofessional. One compliment I received once was a caller asking me if I'm ever in a bad mood - because, she said, I always sound like I have a smile on my face.... Praise I can guarantee she has never gotten. LOL

P.S. Our human resource representative is in the office this week (we are a regional office and he visits once a month) ... I'm debating whether I should speak to the manager first or ask for a meeting with the manager and the HR rep. I best speak to the manager first -- go through the proper channels ...

2008-03-10T19:15:00.002-04:00

She called out today (!) (I assume "sick")

Yeah, she's sick alright!

2008-03-07T21:05:00.003-05:00

Quick post to those of you who might be concerned about Day 5 at work. She was in an absolutely wonderful mood all day. Laughing and joking and carrying on ALL day. What's up with that??? I shouldn't question it, because it was a most pleasant day -- but they are so few and far between!!

However, that's not the best part. We had a raffle, and I won two tickets to the NASCAR race this Sunday here in Atlanta. It includes the Kobalt (Lowes) hospitality tent, the big sponsor of this race. Not that winning so great for me per say but, since hubby was in Daytona at the time of the Daytona 500 and didn't get to go, maybe he'll enjoy this.

Woke up to it snowing (again) today. Crazy weather. Just absolutely crazy.

Our friends from Maine are coming to visit at the end of the week. Should be loads of fun.

2008-03-06T18:50:00.005-05:00

Today was Day 4 of the new internal structure, and it was bad. Forgive me for talking about it here, but I figure this is the safest way to sound off ... so that I remain professional at work.

The other woman in my department must be manic depressive. I have never seen anyone with such highs and such lows. I grew up with my mother being extremely moody. I had to put up with it then, but I do not have to - and will not - put up with it now. Especially in a work situation.

She has been irritable all week. You know, the nasty under-the-breath type comments. The comments and the attitude have continued to get worse, and today was the boiling point. Mind you, I know none of her ravings are aimed directly toward me -- but it makes for such an unpleasant working environment!

Our manager called her in to the conference room this morning. They were in there for 45 minutes. When she came out, she went to talk to someone in the sales dept. (another irrational woman) to discuss a work situation. She returned to the department and the "sales" woman came down shortly after and they got into a heated discussion. Right outside my door!!

When I returned from lunch, my coworker was out to lunch (something she never does, but should do because we all know you need to take that break at work - and that might be part of her problem). Well, when I say she returned from lunch a COMPLETELY DIFFERENT WOMAN, I am not talking her appearance. Her mood was ridiculously silly! If I didn't know any better, I'd swear she had a liquid lunch!!

Thank goodness hubby came home a day early. He had just pulled in to the garage when I rounded the corner and pulled in to the driveway :o) The only problem with this is it feels like Friday night(!), but I have to endure another day at work!

Monday

2008-03-03T20:51:00.004-05:00

Well, the dreaded Monday has come and gone. It was a bit stressful; something I haven't experienced in quite some time! I'm sure things will settle down. Change never seems to be easy, and it is especially difficult since everyone in the office is affected ....

I didn't have a glass of wine when I came home from work (ha!), though the thought occurred to me this afternoon.

Instead I'll watch some of the Osmond 50th Anniversary special on PBS... is that too corny?! Hey! I'm from the Donny & Marie era!

Friday night post

2008-02-29T18:08:00.002-05:00

Our reorganization takes place Monday. I had my first meeting with my new boss. I'm not so sure about this. Change usually doesn't bother me, but this one does ... if only a little. I keep thinking if I wanted a change I would have looked elsewhere for another job! I guess I'm just not accustomed to decisions being made without my input or knowledge!! I'm usually involved in the decision-making (or, I should say, I was involved in previous jobs).

Time will tell ... and I'll roll with the punches how ever things turn out ...

Enough of that. The weekend is here and I don't have to think about work until Monday morning!!

Tonight, my first e-bay sale ends. It's quite exciting watching the last-minute bidding frenzy!!

2008-02-17T18:22:00.002-05:00

Pretty Close to Paradise

2008-02-16T10:15:00.003-05:00

Sun shining ... in the 70's ... the sound of the waves crashing on the beach ... priceless.

We're Off Again ...

2008-02-13T22:00:00.003-05:00

... to Florida, for the long weekend (I have Monday off for President's Day). We'll leave after work tomorrow. It is an 8-hour drive.

We will visit my parents, who winter there (Jan.-Mar.). I can't say I blame them for ditching the snow and ice and frigid weather in NY!

We haven't seen them since October. Long overdue, I know.

I'm also very psyched to get away from the job for a day or two. We've known for quite a while that big changes were coming. We were finally told on Monday some of the changes that are going to take place. I know to keep an open mind, but at this point it's hard to do. A couple days away will clear my head, which will be good.

I'm not sure if I'll be able to post while in Florida... miss me! :o)

2008-02-10T18:01:00.000-05:00

A few weeks back, we had two snowstorms. I had taken movies with my camera phone, and am finally getting around to posting, although I don't think the quality is that great. It may not be terribly interesting, but I think it will be fun to look back on it and remember how hard it snowed on January 16, 2008.

2008-02-08T20:21:00.001-05:00

So here I am. Bound and determined to post. I've been at a loss for words lately. Nothing really popping into my head to talk about. But I figure if I just sit with the laptop, maybe thoughts will start flowing and I'll contribute something. It might not be worthwhile, but at least you'll know I'm still kicking :o)

We'll try the bulletpoint thing:

A friend of mine texted me the other day to say she's going to be a grandmother. I'm having a hard time comprehending I am grandmother-age. Wow.
My neighbors across the street are going to be grandparents, too. They were going to start breeding their boxer, but have put that on hold since a new, precious, sweet baby is on the way. (I'm a little relieved because I fear a boxer puppy would have made its way over to our house ... and I'm content on no pets for now ... to my hubby's chagrin.)
I'm sitting here looking around the room trying to find inspiration. LOL
My husband is currently watching "Gone Country." OMG It is the silliest reality tv show. They have the strangest group of people participating.
Thank goodness "Gone Country" has ended. I've changed the channel to "Dog Whisperer." Although I really should get up and start a load of laundry!
Tomorrow we are going to start the car search. We won't actually get one for another couple of months, but hubby researches and researches and then researches some more before we make a decision. Tomorrow is to bring me around to look and get an idea of what he's talking about. I'm one of those "turn the key and go" people. Makes and models mean nothing to me. When he mentions a certain car, I rarely can picture what it looks like. So, woohoo, the long, painful process of car shopping starts tomorrow and will last, oh, probably the next three to six months.
The birds were out in full force today, singing their little hearts out. We'll start seeing some color pop soon, too.

Okay. That's it for now. Time to relax and read a magazine (don't remind me I said I should do some laundry)! I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend!

2008-01-20T10:30:00.001-05:00

some more visitors this morning.... nuthatches and bluebirds.

Twice in One Week

2008-01-19T13:48:00.000-05:00

It is snowing again today. And again, a really, really good snow!! I, unfortunately, cannot get a good pic of it coming down because it is too bright out. You'll just have to take my word for it (when have I ever steered you wrong? LOL).

I filled the birdfeeder and suet feeder the other day, since I heard the freezing cold weather - and snow - was on its way. Generally, I don't get a lot of action on them because the birds can forage easily during the winter. HOWEVER, with snow blanketing the ground, I have quite a few visitors!

We've got a slew of tufted titmouse, some sparrows, juncos, goldfinches, a chicadee or two and, of course, our ever-faithful - and very large - male cardinal w/black mask on his face. (He usually makes an appearance before I leave for work and again at dusk.) I really wish I could get some pics of the birds, but no such luck. Again, you'll have to take my word for it :o)

I haven't seen the little downy woodpecker on the suet feeder, though. Hope he makes an appearance. He's taken drinks out of our hummingbird feeder during the summer, as well as eaten the suet last winter.

Some of these birds are northern birds wintering here in the South, so I can easily pick them out. You see, I learned everything I know about birds from my father, whether during a walk in the woods while camping or sitting in our living room watching the birds on his feeder. It's funny what you absorb and remember, that you have no idea you're even doing. My husband will look at me with this dumbfounded look on his face when I come out with this trivia rather matter-of-factly. Then, he'll look at me as if to realize it's "my father talking." Hhmmm, I don't know if that's a good thing or not! (yes it is. I'm just kidding. My Dad is great)

Snow in Atlanta !!

2008-01-16T22:20:00.000-05:00

There had been news reports for a couple days now of a "wintry mix" coming our way. I really didn't think much about it, because nothing really happens around here amounting to anything (as far as snow is concerned).

Coworkers started receiving phone calls around 3:30pm from friends and family members calling to report snowfall in their areas. It hadn't started in our area, but when I left work at 4:30pm, I was greeted by heavy snowfall -- big, big flakes. It lasted a couple hours and turned in to rain, which is still falling. We have a decent snow covering on the rooftops and lawns. The roads are wet and icing in certain spots.

Won't know until tomorrow what is in store for the commute to work. We may be delayed if it is icy. I will get a phonecall from my manager if it is too bad to come in. My Southern coworkers find it hard to believe I would set my alarm clock an hour early in order to get up and shovel my way out of the driveway when I lived in New York and Connecticut -- in order to get to work on time!

On my way home tonight, I opened the window and took video of the snow falling with my camera phone, but was not successful in my attempts to send to my computer in order to upload it here. But, I did find this video from a TV news broadcast. The traffic cam has a good shot of just how hard the snow came down, and continues with reporters in various parts of metro Atlanta.

As I drove through my neighborhood, I smiled at the site of kids running and playing in the snow, thowing snowballs -- bringing back my fond childhood winter memories. However, driving in tonight's snowfall brought flashbacks of driving in trecherous conditions all those years in the North and has most definitely solidified my preference of living in the South!

2008-01-09T22:22:00.000-05:00

Her death has deeply touched the Atlanta community. May the outpouring of support be of some comfort to her family and friends during this trying time.

R.I.P. Meredith Emerson

In case you are unfamiliar with this story, and would like, you can read the timeline here.

Hello

2008-01-09T22:13:00.000-05:00

Yes, it is me. I do still exist!

Everyone seems to be putting me to shame, posting regularly while I struggle to get to my laptop.

Recent trips have eaten up a lot of my time. My scanner has been down for quite some time, so I can't post any pics. One of these days I'll get busy with the digital camera, which will eliminate the scanning hassle!

Okay, enough with the excuses. Hope all those who faithfully check my blog are still around and haven't given up hope one me.

(Sidenote, it just started POURING out. Good!! Second night in a row that we are getting a decent rain. Still in a drought situation, but this has got to be helping!)

HAPPY NEW YEAR !

2008-01-01T22:31:00.000-05:00

Greetings from CA

2007-12-29T11:48:00.001-05:00

San Jose, to be exact.

Having a nice visit with my cousin and her three daughters. Got up to San Fran the other day and will go down the coast today. One stop will be Carmel for sure (hubby and I were there 21 years ago).

Quite chilly here. It's been in the high 40's to low 50's. Wasn't expecting that!!

Tomorrow we are all going to NAPA Valley. It's supposed to be in the 60's, so that will make it a nice, pleasant day weather-wise. We take the red-eye out tomorrow night.

Hope everyone is doing well. Haven't had a chance to visit any blogs. Will catch up when I'm home.

HAPPY NEW YEAR, if I don't get on here again before then!

We were NOT disappointed !!

2007-12-25T21:56:00.000-05:00

It was absolutely beautiful. Their performance brought many an audience member to tear up.

This is all I need at Christmas time. No fancy packages. Just breathtaking music.

P.S. Hubby was wide awake and in awe,

Oh, by-the-way, MERRY CHRISTMAS everyone!!

2007-12-22T17:06:00.001-05:00

Every once in a while, I drag my husband to the symphony. The last time we went was, I think, two or three years ago ... so we're due to go again. And, tonight is the night.

We are going to see the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra w/the Von Trapp Family Singers. I expect to be wowed. I hope I'm not disappointed. I'm sure I won't be!

Hubby is napping on the couch, which is probably wise so that he doesn't fall asleep during the performance.... he did that once when we were first married and I took him to Tanglewood to hear the The Boston Symphony Orchestra. I can laugh about it now ... but not if he does it again ... :o)

Checking in (about time, huh?)

2007-12-18T21:34:00.000-05:00

I'm in disbelief that Christmas is less than a week away. I just got my Christmas cards out -- which is ridiculously late for me.

Hubby flew to Connecticut on Sunday. Smack dab in the middle of a huge storm that was blowing through. I have no desire to go during the winter. They can have all that snow and ice. I've had enough of it. Boy - I hope we don't have to move back there because I'll have to eat my words!!!

We are spending the holiday at home - here in Georgia. Might be up in the North Georgia mountains; otherwise we'll just have quiet time here at the house. Then we fly out to California and will spend time with my cousin and her three daughters and their significant others. My cousin and I were extremely close growing up. She was like my older sister. I love her daughters. They are just so fun. When we all get together, it is just one big laugh fest. Can't wait.

We'll be back in Georgia to celebrate New Year's Eve. We usually make a really nice dinner and try to stay up until midnight !

Well, that's it for now. That was just a thrilling update now wasn't it?!

2007-12-14T21:15:00.000-05:00

My newest addition... I just LOVE these. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
P.S. S- I've tried sending e-mails to your new comcast address... have you received?

The Digital Age

2007-11-27T07:44:00.000-05:00

I know I blogged about this before, and I don't know why I want to point out this particular fault again. Well, actually, I do know ...... I suspect there might be a few people checking in to see photos of my most recent trips, and I don't have any ..... yet.

Once again, I forgot to bring my camera and, once again, I purchased Kodak disposable cameras. They take good pictures -- that's not the problem. The problem is ... now I have a couple of cameras with unfinished rolls of film!!

I'm working on it...

2007-11-20T19:57:00.000-05:00

Orlando was so much fun! We spent Saturday at Seaworld with my husband's coworker and his two daughters (14 & 10). The 14-year old's birthday was Friday, too. LOL

Saturday night I took the girls to a movie so they didn't have to stand around the show all night (how boring). We saw Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium.

I've never met these girls, but they took to me and hubby instantly. When I brought them back to the hotel, they gave me big hugs.

Sunday, hubby and I spent the day at Epcot. We flew home Sunday night.

Tomorrow night we are packing up all our food and heading to the No. Georgia mountains for the long weekend. Looking forward to it!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

The Night Before

2007-11-15T19:48:00.000-05:00

So here I am on the eve of my 45th b-day.

I'm always asked, by someone who's right behind me, what it feels like. Well..... This number doesn't bother me, but then I guess I shouldn't be surprised at that ... since I've been calling myself 45 for months!!

Hubby has been away on my birthday often. This year is no different. He is in Orlando, FL. He did, however, arrange flights for me to join him. I didn't really think it necessary, and co-workers thought I was such an ungrateful wife.

Now, I'm happy to report, I am looking forward to it. It will be a real quick trip - fly out after work tomorrow and return Sunday night - but, it will be a funfilled weekend, I'm sure. Despite my supposed 'mature' age, I'm going to be a "little kid" in Orlando!

Gotta run and pack...

it's a miracle!

2007-11-14T22:59:00.000-05:00

Georgia's Governor rallied state officials, religious leaders, and the public to the steps of the capitol yesterday, where they conducted prayer for rain.

I kid you not. read here

About 5 minutes ago, I heard the biggest clap of thunder I've ever heard.

It is now raining. I mean, full on downpour.

Hooray for Governor Sonny Perdue!!

Identity

2007-11-10T14:46:00.001-05:00

My husband's name is very common. I, on the other hand, grew up with a very uncommon name. I remember having a conversation with him about not really having an identity. I asked him if it bothered him knowing there are others out there with the same first and last name as him. He said "no" and I couldn't understand that. He elaborated and said, "There is only one of me." Totally befitting him. Only he would think like that.

I was reminded of that conversation today. My doorbell rang and, before I could get to the door, they knocked. Geez, give a person a chance will ya? Oops, that's not the point...

The mailman was at my door with a certified, return-receipt-requested letter addressed to me. What the ?? Who could this be from?

I open it up and it's from Atlanta Properties. At first I'm thinking it's junk mail, but they spent $6.00 on postage so I quickly realized it's not junk.

As I read the letter, I realize they've got the wrong person. Here's where my fears of having such a common name come in to play. Mistaken identity!! I believe they did a search and came up with my name and address. This letter advises me I have until December 23 to claim my property (some lot in Atlanta) or it will go into foreclosure.

So, what do I do? I don't think I can ignore this. They'll have my signature that I received this. Is that enough for them to say I acknowledge this is my property? Will I end up with some type of financial mark with this foreclosure?

Or would it be worse to respond with a certified letter that they've got the wrong person? As there is no phone number or contact name. Just a P.O. Box address -- which I find really weird. If I respond, I may become a mark.

Hubby comes home tomorrow night, so we'll have to discuss what to do. Poor hubby, because I'll bring up - again - the whole paranoia of having such a common name.

P.S. I hyphenated my name ... not because I'm some women's libber ... but precisely to keep my identity distinct. So, I suppose I can prove the unhyphenated version is not me.

my decorations

2007-10-27T11:19:00.000-04:00

I figured I'd share a couple of my decorations, too ....

Centerpiece:

S, I know you're going to like this one:

2007-10-24T20:41:00.000-04:00

We've gotten some rain. Not enough to get us out of trouble, but it's a start!

Nothing to talk about, really. I was just playing around with signatures and came up with this one....

2007-10-24T06:40:00.000-04:00

I visited The National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, VA.

I was honored to walk through this memorial with two of my uncles who served (one infantry, one airborn). I'm sure their brother, who also served in the infantry but passed several years ago, was walking alongside as well.

When exiting the gift shop at the end of our visit, I looked at the guestbook at what one uncle had written under the comment section.... one word.... memories

Lots to do tonight

2007-10-18T17:58:00.000-04:00

Laundry & pack, make something for dinner, straighten up the place, put the finishing touch on a homemade gift, etc. etc. etc. Going here for the weekend for a family reunion. Lots of family members driving down from NY, some driving up from NC, a cousin flying in from CA ... all to celebrate my Aunt's 90th birthday. Can't wait to see everyone. I haven't seen some of these people in 15 years.

I thought hubby would be home today... but he doesn't fly home from St. Maarten until tomorrow a.m. Yes, you heard me correctly, St. Maarten. He claims it was business (yeah, right!). Anyway, this means he flies in, unpacks, has to do laundry for anything he's going to need, and re-pack again. We'll start the 8-hr drive after I get off of work and stay overnight somewhere along the way. We'll return home on Monday, and hubby will fly out on Tuesday.

We are in a serious drought situation. The county I live in, and surrounding counties, went on restricted water use (no outside watering or washing vehicles) at the end of September. A state-wide water ban followed shortly thereafter. What I don't get is ... why didn't the ban go into effect way earlier?? We haven't had substantial rain in months. They only made the decision to restrict use after the reservoir was 13 feet low. And, why is Georgia still supplying water to Alabama and, particularly, to Florida to -- get this -- assist in the plight of endangered mussels??

Seriously, people. I am not making this up. Governor Purdue to Sue Corps Over Water Release

We are expected to get rain tonight, but we're going to need a heck of a lot more...

Hope all have a nice weekend!

Maine Coastline

2007-10-16T22:45:00.000-04:00

What lies at the end of the path?

Nature's beauty!

Mt. Katahdin, Baxter State Park, Maine

2007-10-02T21:42:00.000-04:00

Hubby and friend climbed Mt. Katahdin. The wives shopped in Bar Harbor.
Talk about two different worlds colliding!!!!

I didn't buy anything to speak of, but lunch was fabulous. Below are some pics hubby took to prove he actually made it. Some 'through hikers' were at the summit as well - they completed their summer-long trek of the Apalachian Trail!

Boy, do I feel like a slacker !

2007-09-20T23:20:00.001-04:00

I probably won't have time to blog tomorrow night because I'll be packing.

We leave Saturday for our annual trip to Maine.

Miss me :o)

Antiques, Cars, Cats, Crafts, and Crashes

2007-09-15T15:57:00.000-04:00

Well, it didn't quite happen in that sequence. Our plans were to attend two events that were taking place in Marietta. First, it was off to Marietta Square for an antique fair and car show, but before we got there.... We were sitting at a light in front of the Gone with the Wind Museum, and *BAM* were hit from behind. Hubby got out to assess any damage while I fumbled for something to write with. He and the other driver walked around and looked at the back of our car, exchanged names & phone numbers, and we left.

I have to tell you, I was shaking and really thought my husband might lose it. You see, he takes VERY good care of his vehicles, I mean maticulous care inside & out and mechanically. I thought, "This guy is toast if there is even a SCRATCH on our car," but there was no damage that he could see.

It wasn't until later that I thought, "I should have taken a picture with my cell phone camera. What if he contacts the police and says WE hit him?!" Sorry, can't help it -- that's the non-trusting side of me (translation: the New Yorker in me). But, then again, he could be sitting home worried that we're going to sue him for some trumped-up injuries.

The rest of the day was uneventful (thank goodness). We walked around the square in the center of Marietta and checked out the antiques. The antique car show was really lame -- maybe a total of 10 cars. I think the storms over the past couple days kept alot of owners from bringing their cars out, even though weather reports said it would clear up and be a fabulous weekend. And today was just that - fabulous - no humidty and a nice, cool breeze.

Then we headed to an arts & crafts and car show. Lots of jewelry booths and a number of holiday-themed craft booths. I didn't purchase anything, but sure was tempted!! There were more cars at this car show - maybe 25.

On our way home, we made an impromptu stop at the animal control center. It's been over a year since our dog passed (July 19 '06) and hubby wants another pet. I'm kind of still heartbroken. Hey, it's been 9 years since my cat died and I haven't had the heart to get another one yet! (I guess I'm a little crazy?) I think I'm leaning towards getting a cat this time around. I think it's time now.

It was really tough walking around all the cages and seeing all those eyes looking up at us. How can you take just one (or two) and leave all the rest behind??? I've thought about volunteering and taking dogs out for walks, but not stop there. I would want to take them to the park and have some kind of advertisement that the animals are available for adoption. But, again, how could I bring them back and leave them in those cages?

Now it's time to check the hummingbird feeder, which I'm sure is bone dry. They (at least 10 immature males) are emptying it every four hours!

P.S. I think I have a cavity ... but, I've never had one before so I really don't know what it feels like.....