To Ava's Mamma:

Heather,
I found this polaroid this morning and was dying to find an excuse to use it somewhere. Since Ava is new to the world, I thought it was a perfect opportunity!

Congratulations to you all! Here's hoping that this picture is amusing enough to relieve some of your post-baby ails!

Love and kisses
Me

The Often Overlooked Genius of Robbie Williams

So, am I a Robbie Williams fan? The answer is an unabashed yes! I first heard of him in the band Take That and the only thing I knew about him is that when the band was interviewed, he kind of stole the show. It's not that he is necessarily charming but his personality is so over the top that it's irresistable. His constant hilarious tongue-in-cheek stabs at fame are my favorite. If you've seen his two episodes of 'MTV Cribs', you know what I mean.

Musically, I really like his brand of 'british pop'. The first album I heard, The Ego Has Landed had a few really great tracks like Angel, Mellenium, and Let Me Entertain You-the latter two of which each had excellent videos. When I saw his much touted and controversial video to Rock DJ, in which he performs a disgustingly brilliant (and hysterically funny) striptease, I was a fan. The 2nd album, Sing While You're Winning was also a worthy pop contribution to his catalogue. But it was the 2001 release, Swing When You're Winning (which I recently extricated from my basement-thus the belated review), that really impressed me with his talent.

Swing While You're Winning is an album that consists principally of big band era classics that Williams has given his own style and sarcasm. The first track, "I Will Talk and Hollywood Will Listen' impresses on the listener not only his egotistical sense of humor but his abiding love for showbiz that can't help but shine through. It is the only 'pop'song on the album. The rest of songs alternate between solo reworkings of classic songs that may not have necessarily been of the swing era ('Mr Bojangles'), big band classics ('Ain't That a Kick in the Head'), and duets with some of Hollywood's biggest stars. A much publicized duet with Nicole Kidman (Frank and Nancy Sinatra's hit, 'Something Stupid') is actually one of the weaker songs of the album but duets with Rupert Everett, Jane Horrocks, Jon Lovitz, and especially rock-opera star Jonathan Wilkes are all immensely entertaining and skillfully delivered. 'Me and My Shadow' with Wilkes is probably my very favorite version of the song that I've heard. In addition, Williams adds something wonderful to Bobby Darin classics 'Mack the Knife' and 'Beyond the Sea'(featured at the end of Finding Nemo). The great 'Have You Met Miss Jones' from Bridget Jones Diary also makes an appearance on the album, the song which, I believe, served as the starting point for this endeavor.

Make no mistake, I LOVE this album! I have listened to it countless times since I got it and still get just as much enjoyment now. Little bits of dialogue captured in the recordings between he and his 'friends' make you feel as if you are present at a great party instead of just listening to a song. Though I haven't kept up faithfully with Williams's recent work, I feel that he will be around for a long time to come.

Vegas Pictures

Here are just a few of our pictures.

This was a poster for the Bodies exhibit at The Tropicana. Yes, it's a real human. We didnt get to see it but we will next time.





At every tourist destination, you will find gag gifts like this one-he blows bubbles from his rear...yuk yuk yuk.








Below: one of the Bally's Jubilee girls














Our View from our room-night was better

The stratosphere view from observation deck.







Me and some famous faces









Flip flopped feet-ahhhh sweet relief











The ceiling of the Venetian-or part of it anyway.










He was smiling at me!











How do I love thee, Gregory? Lemme count the ways: Number 1, Number 2...

'Holiday Road..."

Ahhh Vegas. Here I am nursing my sore feet ( I've never walked so much in my LIFE! It puts Disneyworld in the dust, believe me.) and attempting to put into words the amazing time that I had for my first 'free' days in years.

My mom and stepfather agreed to keep the kids for us, so they came in Thursday night and Friday we left around 11am so

we could make our 3pm flight w/ no trouble. The flight was smooth as it could be and the view of the Grand Canyon was remarkable-I've never seen it before. We arrived around 5:45 LV time( good ol' Pacific Time Zone) and after getting seperated briefly at the airport, made it to Bally's by 7pm. Bally's is a super-nice hotel, on the four star borderline, that is absolutely monstrous in size and pretty in a vegas-y kind of way. I'd read on trip advisor that I must ask for a north tower room since these are all remodelled and truly, they were much better than I expected. We got a room on the 23rd floor (great view!) and it was really big w/ an all granite-tiled bathroom that was very cold on the feet-but looked nice. The following is the basic gist and highlights of our stay:

Friday night-Dinner and Bottled Kirin Ichiban at Ichiban Sushi in the Bally's shopping mall. It was a typical 'shopping mall' restaurant w/ very little privacy and slightly better than average sushi (albeit loosely rolled). Afterwards, we explored Bellagio and Caesar's Palace. Caesars was my favorite of all the hotels I saw while I was there...sooo pretty.

Sat-we rented a car (Jeep Laredo, not to bad) and drove to the Las Vegas Speedway for the event we had planned this trip around, The Rockabilly Rod Reunion. Unfortunately, the weather was not so enjoyable. It was about 65 degrees with a crazy wind. The show was great though, replete as it was w/ beautiful gals, gorgeous cars, and good good music. Lee Rocker of the Stray Cats was there as were another great band called The Southerners that I had never heard before. The wind really wreaked havoc on the whole day but it was still an amazing time. We had planned to go see Big Bad Voodoo Daddy that night but my dogs were BARKIN' by then and the idea of cuttin' a rug was a little ludicrous. We went back to the hotel to change and then went to The Alladin for a burger and a yummy Hawaiian Brew. Their shopping was pretty good too. Incidentally, driving in Vegas wasnt bad at all...even during heavy traffic, it seemed to flow nicely.

Sun-was my spa day. I had a nine o'clock appointment and may I just say...ahhhh. I got a foot and leg massage (sorely needed-no pun intended) and spent some time in the hot tub and steam room before i headed over to the 'prep' area to make use of their styling products and cosmetics. It was so nice to have that option. I didnt have to do anything but change once I got back to my room. The rest of the day included a visit w/ the Mirage Dolphins and Tigers, lunch at Caribe Cafe (the BEST Cobb Salad ever!), another quick car show at the Hard Rock, and some 9.00 coctails by the pool. For dinner, we ate at Tao, a eastern themed restaurant at The Venetian. Amazing food and another yummy Kirin later, we headed downtown where I was quickly compelled to purchase some 5.00 flipflops to replace my heels. Downtown was smoky, cramped, and a little depressing. The Freemont Street Experience was a bit overrated as well. But it was very bright and shiny...so, ok.

Mon-We had lunch reservations at Emeril's Fish House in the MGM. I loved the MGM hotel and all its hollywood memorabilia. Even the toilet stalls were decked out w/ famous faces. I purposely chose a toilet where a young Gregory Peck could overlook my business...heh heh. Emeril's was beyond good...beyond great...the lobster bisque was the stuff of dreams. And that caramel creme brulee? Dear Lord. Next, it was time for the Manhattan Express, a crazy rollercoaster that envelopes the New York New York Hotel. Very fun, fast, and a little rough. Luckily, it did me some good because I got a good neck adjustment that left me all loosey goosey. That night, we went to the Stratosphere to experience the view and (gulp!) one of those rides. We chose the Big Shot because it seemed the most thrilling and it didnt actually HANG OFF the edge of the building. It was one of the most exhilarating things I've ever done and I honestly feel like I've conquered my fear of heights! The view was beyond description.

Tuesday was departure day and after our one and only buffet, La Village Buffet at The Paris (another GREAT hotel and attatched to Bally's so very convenient), we were ready for another smooth flight home in the midst of which I completed three crossword puzzles!

Whew. That was long winded. I'll see if I can find some good pictures to post in seperate entries . I'll conclude by saying that Vegas is one of my new favorite places-and we don't even gamble. Some of the typical things I was led to expect such as scads of drunkards and public mayhem were completely false. The flyers for hookers and scantily clad showgirls were there but not as 'in your face'as I expected. It was an adult vacation but also a peaceful one.

"That's so money, baby "

Bright light city gonna set my soul
Gonna set my soul on fire
Got a whole lot of money thats ready to burn,
So get those stakes up higher
Theres a thousand pretty women waitin out there
And theyre all livin devil may care
And Im just the devil with love to spare
Viva las vegas, viva las vegas

My New Love

(Insert ethereal choir music of choice here)

'He felt himself put outside the pale of life.'

Not to sound obsessively redundant, but this is just a little reminder to my readers to please check the page-a-day blog I have going of this wonderful book, The Man Who Laughs.

www.themanwholaughs.blogspot.com

The pages that are currently being entered are some of the best of the book as the ten year old Gwynplaine, having been abandoned on the seashore, makes his way through the frozen wilderness in search of shelter. The pages are full of thought provoking imagery, detailed characterization, and a gut-wrenching sense of loss. This part of the story is further enhanced by an eerie description of a dead man hanging from a gibbett-a spectre that the child happens upon as he wanders. His struggle to stay alive is starkly contrasted with the eerie peace of the corpse.

Even if you are not following the story thus far, these few pages are worth reading.

Ode to Paula Dean

Today will be the day of days
When Paula Deen receives the praise

She so deserves for lending me
the recipes that let me be

much loved by all who taste the likes
of krispy kreme bread pudding, yikes!

'Not yo mama's' banana pudding,
shrimp pie, grouper club, and apple dumpling

And chocolate gooey cakes, unholy bliss
my guests eat you and I get a kiss!

O Paula with thy snowy hair
That rosy cheek and smile so fair

It took your show to make us see
that lard is not the enemy!

To heck with scales and bathroom clutter
give me that unsalted butter!

So let's all chant with heartfelt purrs
'Best Dishes!' Paula,
From our bellies to yers.

Movin' Pitchers!

h'lo all.

Just to inform: I started a 'movie review blog' for my own reviews as well as contributed. Any who would like to submit a review may do so at my email address.

The blog address is www.movinpitchers.blogspot.com

la la la

The Corn is Green (and the 'bacca is yaller)

So, here is our neighbor's tobacco/corn field. This is a very large crop, only about 1/3 of it made the picture. He actually has more corn than tobacco. I love August around here because no matter what sordid purpose the crop may fulfill, it is downright beautiful.

This particular field of tobacco is directly across from our land so it's nice to wake up each morning to this lovely expanse of yellow. This morning the mist was settled over it in a way that made it especially pretty. The fog over the hills kind of makes everything that much more serene and spectacular.

In about a week, this field (which is harvest-ready) will be cut down and little teepees of drying tobacco will be scattered over the dark soil. Then the teepees will be hung to dry in a barn and the field will be naked and sad. But while it lasts, it's awfully nice.

So the next time you see a cadaver-ish woman in cut offs and tank top standing stoop shouldered in front of your neighborhood wal mart, frowning as she lights her cigarette and pursing her wrinkled lips over that first tast of poison-just remember that at one time, the tobacco at least was pretty.

For Heddo...

My old friend Heather (Heddo) is expecting lovely little Ava in the not to distant future.

The other day I rediscoverd a song on Fiona Apple's album, Tidal, that moves me greatly. I thought other mothers would also appreciate the lyrics to this lovely tune and therefore decided to post it here. Keep in mind that without the lazy melody, it lacks something. So if you are in a position to errrr....download the song- I strongly recommend it.



PALE SEPTEMBER
lyrics by: Fiona Apple

Pale September
I wore the time like a dress that year
The autumn days swung soft around me like cotton
on my skin

But as the embers of the summer
lost their breath and disappeared
My heart went cold and only hollow rhythms resounded
from within
But then he rose brilliant as the moon in full
and sank within the burrows of my keep

And all my armour falling down
in a pile at my feet
And my winter giving way to warm
as I'm singing him to sleep

He goes along just like a water lily
Gentle on the surface of his thoughts his body floats
Unweighed down by passion or intensity
Yet unaware of the depth upon which he coasts
And he finds a home in me
For what misfortune sows, he knows my touch will reap

And all my armour falling down,
in pile at my feet
And my winter giving way to warm,
as I'm singing him to sleep

Tag!

To those I've tagged:

Instructions below:
1. Grab the nearest book
2. Open the book to page 123
3. Find the Fifth sentence.
4. Post the text of the next three sentences on your blog, along with these instructions.
5. You are not allowed to dig that cool, intellectual book out of your closet! Just pick whatever's nearest.

My response-to get the ball rolling:

'To its claws and their gashings succeed soft intervals of velvet paws. Sometimes the story hurries on a wreck, at others it works out the problem with care; it might almost be said that it caresses it. The sea can afford to take its time, as men in their agonies find out.'

from THE MAN WHO LAUGHS by Victor Hugo (the best book ever and ALWAYS the closest one to me since I keep it at my desk.)

Finish the Sentence...

Saw this on a fellow blogger's site ( trusty ol' bookyeti ) and thought I'd adapt it again...I'm such a coattail dragger.

Those of you who read this blog should do the same...ya dig?

i feel: determined
i am a: lover
i am wearing: 'style-less' jeans and tank top
i hate: a messy house
my best friend is: Jehovah
i look: quizzical
i am often mistaken as being: self centered
i am becoming: a bit obsessed with fifties style
the song that is playing right now is: 83 by John Mayer
my favorite memories are: Disneyworld, my wedding, the birth of my children, and eating sushi for the first time
my worst memories are: those of family conflict
my favorite vacation place is: Disneyworld, of course
the song that best describes my life is: I'm a Woman by Peggy Lee
i want: to be loved
i am making: my children clean up the living room
i want to be: remembered by Jehovah and my family as someone who tried hard even if they didnt always succeed
i try hard to: get along with everyone while still stating my opinion freely; it's a very difficult thing
my fear is:not worth mentioning
my hopes are: to raise children who love Jehovah
i enjoy: peeling the labels off of bottles and putting them inside
when i get older, i: would love to donate my time on a intenational level
i am trying to decide: which Las Vegas hotel will best suit my romantic vacation plans in Oct
the leisure book i’m reading now is: The Brothers Karamozov and a Shakespeare Biography
little luxuries of mine are: Tide laundry detergent (the price warrants it a luxury, believe me) dvd's, expensive vitamins, a down comforter, imported beer
when i fall for someone, i: gush
one of my weakneses is: crying over songs, movies and the like
my favorite colour is: peacock blue
my favorite television shows are: Seinfeld, Lost, Paula's Home Cooking, GIlmore Girls, and a variety of talent shows
a person i adore is: my old man
places i would go in a heart-beat are: Disneyworld, just about anywhere in Europe, Books a Million, and the movies.
the person that i’m thinking about is: bookyeti, who i really don't know and wish I did
i love the way: my 2 year old's mouth turns into a little 'o' when he sees something exciting
i hate the way: my jeans fold up at the waist after sitting
a vexation of mine is : people who don't respect the car seat law
my favorite time of the day is: dawn
summer time is: the smell of parched grass seeds, which reminds me of baking bread
i try to block out: the disdain of my fellow man
my life is: perfect for me
my favorite season is: summertime (sing it Janice!)
after school, i: watched Little House on the Prairie and Inspector Gadget
one thing i can’t be happy without is: cleanliness
i’m trying to:be more patient
it hurts when: something you say is misconstrued and people refuse to listen to or believe an explanation
like my father always says: everyone must see The Black Stallion at least once
the hardest thing i’ve ever had to do was: defend myself
i need: to be held at least once a day
before bed i: whisper 'I love you'
the first thing i do in the morning is: work out
the best thing about life is: love and showing it
i never knew that: i could use power tools
my room is: horrendously unfinished
i cannot: whistle
i love going to: the theater or a book store
I dislike: most tv dramas
i cry when: scout sees boo
it’s: a shame there were not more good 'winnie the pooh' movies
i love the movie: Urban Cowboy
i am feeling: a crick in my neck from holding the phone like I am
i listen to: the song Wagon Wheel every day
something that makes me smile is: the knowledge of an inside joke
something about a person that attracts me is: when they don't take themselves too seriously...and a regard for human frailty
love is: was an underrated song by Alannah Myles
traveling is: therapeutic
it is time to: get back to work
i'm ticked off because: I didnt buy airfare to Las Vegas when it was cheap!

Singing and Sal and Pickles...OH My!

I wanted to donate a whole entry to Sal.

Sal is a gentleman who was singing Karoke at Yosemite Sams in Memphis last Saturday night. Karaoke is one of my favorite ways to spend an evening. There is no end of entertainment when slightly inebriated patrons of a bar decide they have developed great vocal skills with each swig of Jager. They really pour their hearts into it too. I have to admit, I don't need to drink to make a fool of myself though and I got the impression that Sal was of my sort. He was really feelin' it, as you can sort of see from the picture.

The crazy thing about Sal is that somehow, each time he belted out a ditty it sounded as if he had some type of crazy echoing effect on his voice. You couldnt understand a word he said but the effect on his vocal was mezermizing. We are still trying to figure it out. It wasnt the mike...believe me, I used it. Somehow, it's just something he could do. Wow. Bravo, Sal. Bravo.

In conclusion, I'd like to add a link to one of the most hysterical things I've seen in a while. THIS, my friends, is why we are all guilty of enjoying reality tv at one time or another. Without reality tv and it's blatant desire to humiliate, we could never have the pleasure of the following:

http://www.break.com/index/maurypickle.html

( I can't help but think Maury will have to follow this one up. Perhaps the girl will be wanting to address her problem and have a good heart to heart with the Vlasic Stork. )

...dreams of Harbortown

For the last weekend of June, I took a little hiatus of sorts to the place of me birth, Memphis Tn. Since I was there longer, I was able to spend more time with friends and family as well as taking a much needed break from caring for my own house and wifework.
I also got to do something I've always wanted to do: Take a little tour through the streets of midtown and luxuriant harbortown. The houses there are my ideal houses. Some of them are very New England in style, with pristine paint jobs and perfect lawns.
Some have a 'cottagey' appearance and some are just the quintessential southern shotgun houses.


In Midtown, the houses are somewhat spotty. You'll have a street full of trashy worn out dwellings exactly one street over from some of the beautiful houses here pictured. It's one of the only cities in which the slums are within spitting distance of the upper class and in my opinion it's probably the reason there is so much crime. There have been nine murders since the beginning of June and there were three more while I was there. The city is a little on edge due to this activity and you feel it. People are defensive and blatantly predjudicial-quite sad.

But Harbortown is like a nonexistent fairy tale community. It pays heavily for its security and its riverfront location as I'm sure its resident do as well. But the result is a stunning group of individually beautiful and unique houses with hankerchief lawns and brick lined streets. There are tiny parks with lovely gazebos, gourmet food stores that charge 3.00 for a bottle of water, apartment buildings that rival anything seen in the French Quarter, and New Orleans style Mansions sitting directly next door to houses that look like they're literally made of gingerbread.
It's fun to imagine what the insides look like.

The city of Memphis is also much improved over the memphis I left in 1995. It has been cleaned up and added a few great hotels and attractions to its downtown area. Sunday, we visited Peabody Place to see the Disney movie Cars and were able to enjoy Tower Records right after-which is very nice. (Incidentally, Cars is a big disappointment for Pixar. It was shallow and mostly unfunny...I'd rate it 6/10 mainly due to Paul Newman, Larry the Cable Guy's silly ol' Towtruck, and the lovely desert landscapes.)

Regardless, I'd never want to live there. I enjoy my country home and I actually enjoy visiting Nashville when it comes to choosing a big city. It has a more comfortable laid back feel to it, in my opinion.

Home Sweet Home and all that bunk.

Deliverance At Hand! 2006 District Convention

Convention dates in Huntsville Al were June 16-18, a great date since it's a bit cooler than our usual July fourth weekend dates. It was at the Von Braun Civic Center in Huntsville, a great place for conventions. There is a gorgeous park by the place with a huge pond that is absolutely swarming with carp, coy fish, goldfish, minnows etc. Big nasty ducks as well that were not so nasty this time since they were carting some babies. Could kick myself for not getting a picture of the cuteness.

Little ones were pretty good. Six year old is very very well behaved at meetings and we had very little trouble from him. Litt'lun is a different story, much as he is at the KH, because he detests sitting still and we have to fight a literal battle with him to get him to do so. But, we worked out a system. I took him the first part in the morning, Jew takes him the 2nd half and so forth for the afternoon session as well. Worked great and what I didnt hear, hubby recorded via radio frequency on his MP3 player so I could hear it later. I also had a system when I was taking care of my crazy kid so that I didnt go crazy myself and run my poor high-heeled feet ragged. Get up...go to bathroom...let him play in water just for a decent hand-washing interval...walk (holding onto his hand so he didnt go berzerk) for a while...sit...hope he falls asleep...no?...start over. This allowed me to have enough energy to still take notes after the song. Jew also discovered that if he put his MP3 player ear-pieces into littlun's ears, tuned to the session, while holding him-he seemed to like it and calm down. Sometimes he fell asleep. Yesterday he took a long nap in the morning and afternoon so both of us got a good ammount more than the previous two days. We also found the perfect seats...box 26, up against the wall. There are two rows we confiscated, one with three seats and one with two. We discovered that by sitting 'stacked', we could communicate better with each other and had lots more storage than anywhere else. And we need storage!

We saw so many people we knew, more than we would ever see at our own convention. Our actual dates were fourth of July weekend again but we missed the meeting where our dates were announced and we made the mistake of not asking someone from our own hall for the dates; we asked a cousin. They were unfortunately assigned to different dates and we had already gotten rooms when we discovered the goof-up. But we're super glad we went to this one. My dad and brother came in for this one as well as a few other friends from alt conventions. The hotel was Courtyard Marriott. Very pleased with that! Refrigerator in room, great private pool, wonderful hot tub, etc. Great for relaxing after dinner.

Information was more pointed and personal...LOVED that. We needed a little 'kick into gear' after this long ongoing house project because even though we have never become inactive, we have slacked up a little in our zeal. Tired, I guess. This program made me feel very rejuvinated and bold! By the time it was over, I was ready to start wearing placquards and carrying a phonograph like the days of yore! Locusts with the tail of a scorpion indeed! There is no where on earth I would rather be and no organization I would rather support. It saddens me to see so many people fall away and become victim to their own imperfect thoughts. After all, Jehovah's law is perfect and there are no mistakes in it. People can make mistakes and we love them for it, but with Him there are none. It is the one constant in this life. The DRAMA on Sunday was a definite highlight and conveyed this point beautifully. To those of you who haven't attended yet, you are in for a lovely treat.

My faith is now strenghthened and my resolve is more focused. Jew has also made some life-changing decisions that were simply confirmed by this info. So we're very happy.

Speaking of faith, a friend had this link on their blog:

http://cbs2.com/video/?id=19057@kcbs.dayport.com

It deals with the oldest concentration camp survivor...and he isnt a jew. It's wonderful to see and encouraging as well.

Love to all my brothers and sisters all over the world!

Bloggy Bio

I saw these little 'bio' entries on a fellow bloggers site. It makes me feel a big 'me-absorbed' to fill them out (though it's fun thinking of the answers) but my real reason for doing so is in the hopes that my readers will get the itch to post them on their own blog-page. Have at it!

'favorites':
Toy: the computer, unfortunately
Furniture: refinished geisha girl table
'wear': hollywood bombshell dress from daddy o's
accessories: pearl earrings, mickey mouse watch, wedding set, toenail polish
chocolates: truffles
cookies: double stuff oreos (store boughts) monster choc chip (homemade)
ice cream: maggie moos 'udderly' cream with chocolate chip and cherry mix-ins
sashimi: that's raw right? I like the cooked stuff in a sushi roll
nail polish color: peacock blue (toenails only)
lipstick color: deep red
flower: cornflowers and cala lilies
writer: Victor Hugo
indoor hobby: painting, watching movies, reading a book
outdoor hobby: swimming, hiking, camping
type of book for leisure: mysteries (fiction)
time of day: mid morning
sports: figure skating, diving, gymnastics (to watch) volleyball, swimming, aerobics (to do)
drink: water, coca cola classic, keirin light beer, korbel brut
fruit: apple (dark red and crispy), canteloupe
sandwich: Schlotzkey's original or vegetarian.
pet: a horse, of which I have none


and another litle questionairre...I'll call it 'Looking back':

10 years ago I was:

celebrating my one year wedding anniversary
planning a December trip to Disneyworld
living in an apartment
scoffing at the idea of children
working as a skiptracer for a collection agency
going to lots of movies and shows
buying my first 'new car'
adjusting to my new congregation

5 years ago I was:

dealing with a one year old child
living in my first real house
adjusting to yet another new congregation
working in Nashville at another collection agency
feeling like a real woman, for good

1 year ago I was:

dealing with a five year old and a one year old child
living in the same house but building a new one
feeling very stressed due to those two things
pushing to stay active in service and meetings
trying to understand the ins and outs of a construction loan
loving 'Lost'

Yesterday I was:
working on my computer
visiting with the Falcones and serving them pie
getting back into the weekday routine
watching Finding Nemo for the umpteenth time
running around in the basement
reading the bible and the daily text with my family
laughing at my boys

5 snacks I enjoy the most:
a crunchy apple
buttery popcorn
cheetos
cheese
olives

5 songs Iknow all the words to:
'The 59th Street Bridge Song'-Simon and Garfunkle
'In Your Eyes'-Peter Gabriel
'Circle Game'-Joni Mitchell
'Escape from the Prison Planet'-Clutch
'So Long Dearie' from Hello Dolly

5 ideal places for running away to:
Barnes and Noble
the top of my hill
The movie theater-early afternoon on a weekday
my car with all the windows down and the radio loud
Botanical gardens or museum

5 items you will never see me wear:
stirrup pants
tapered jeans
pleather
gaucho pants
smart alleck tee shirts (i.e.'i just kissed your boyfriend'-'you can't afford me'-'i love my bad attitude' etc.)

5 biggest joys in my life:
being part of a worldwide brotherhood
serving Jehovah
my children
the relationship i have with my husband
my health

The Siren Countdown

I recently started a countdown of my top 100 movies. Being a movie buff and a chronic list-maker, this was right up my alley.

You can reach the countdown here:

http://www.joblo.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=101359

'Nick-Marks' Restored

In the mid-fifties, my grandfather commissioned a table from a scottish gentleman. It was round and sturdy, made of (I believe) red cedar and sitting on stout little legs. It had an asian appearance and soon my grandfather had put his own personal stamp on it-painting it red and adorning it with a lovely geisha girl. Over the years, it has been handed down from household to household, family member to family member, suffering pretty badly in the process. I wish I had a before picture (could kick myself!) but those of you who have visited will definitely remember the condition it was in.



I am VERY proud of it now.












My front room in my new home is the room that I am displaying all of papa's paintings. Recently, my mother gave me a beautiful painting that was badly in need of restoration. It had no frame and so after we refurbished the painting the best we could, I had a custom frame made for it that would suit the style and age of painting that it is. I think it's perfect.














I hope papa would be proud.

I choose to be skeptical!

I was just watching Good Night and Good Luck, the very good (but overrated) directorial effort by the very dishy George Clooney and starring the even dishier David Strathairn. The movie concerns the McCarthy hearings and the communist 'witch hunt' of the early fifties. I've always been interested in this odd bit of history and appreciated the film for its great camerawork (more than 90% of the movie is shot in closeup), excellent music, and impeccable acting-particularly by Straithairn. The story was actually very easily followed by simply looking at old news footage and brought little fresh stuff to the table. However, I did appreciate one very valid point . That television has become our (and by 'our' I mean developed society) only window to much of the outside world. It's true that we tend to remain wholesomely skeptical of things we hear on tabloid shows like Entertainment Tonight or the like, but when it comes to 'news' footage, how many of us truly question what we see? Locally, this isnt really an issue but on the worldwide scale-I sometimes wonder. Of course, in the US we only get portions of the worldwide news and where there is little actual footage, it is usually generously supplemented w/ predjudicial subtext. We are not a people generally capable of researching every news item we hear, so we tend to say 'well, it's on the news so it must be true' and let it go at that.

Things that were stated as 'fact' 20 years ago have since been, in many cases, disproved-so why do we except things so blindly now? I have made it my personal vendetta to refuse to take things at their face value unless the facts are clearly presented. And I need to understand the facts and all their terminology.

I want more evidence as to why we know so much about dinosaurs from staring at their bones! How much of this stuff is manufactured? Why haven't we been back to the moon? Why is the rest of the world content w/Americans being the only ones to do it? How can we put so much stock in Carbon Dating when it still so imperfect? How do we KNOW how old the earth is?

I find myself thinking along these lines almost every time I catch the news. It seems so glossy and exaggerated these days. Half the time, I almost think I catch a smirk on the anchorman's face.

So, I will continue to be skeptical about things someone cannot explain sufficiently. Because I think it's natural to be that way. And because it's lots more fun.

The quiz of five thingies-adapted

A fellow blogger had a great entry today consisting of a quiz-to self. I liked it. I'm adapting it. I hope she doesnt mind...heh heh.

Five things I've been called:
naive nelly (it's a little more endearing w/ the 'nelly' attatched)
optimistic
loud
funny
self-absorbed (sigh)

Five things to my name:
Ashley-is overly concerned with how people feel but remains obvlivious to the fact that she is sometimes the one that did the hurting
Ashley-is content but not complacent.
Ashley-hates buffets and all they represent.
Ashley-psychotically loves her children but would prefer never to babysit anyone else's
Ashley-thinks her husband is cocky, a little rude, but always wonderful.

Five places I've been:
Disneyworld
Hawaii
New York
California
Gatlinburg (I'm a local girl)

Five things I've learned in my life:
Boys are more fun than girls
Jehovah knows what you need, even if you don't
Money is a nusiance
Natural Childbirth makes you feel omnipotent
Listen-instead of thinking about what you'll say next

Five things on a short-term 'TO DO' list:
Finish reading my dad's screenplay
Create a 'finished' house
Increase service time
Bump up fitness level
Hand-write a letter

Five things on long term 'TO DO' list:
Prepare my children's book, 'Albert', for husband's art
Teach 6 yr old to swim
Go to Europe or Japan
pioneer
Learn a foreign language

Five words I like saying:
brilliant
purty
kooky
theocratic
loverly

99.9 Jiggawatts of looooove

Meet Marty. He is the newest addition to the household and my oldest son's special pet. We found him on Saturday after field service in the Wal Mart parking lot. The Humane Society of Smith County sets up there every Saturday and we always like to go by and look at the dogs they have scattered throughout the grass. But this time they had kittens and my six year old fell inlove with this little ball of cuteness.

We told the lady present to hold onto him while we went inside the store for some kitty necessities. On the way in, I asked him- 'So, what are you gonna name your kitty?'
He thought a second and said 'Tiger?'

"Tiger?" I said, "that's such a boring name. Lots of people have kitties named Tiger...why don't you name him something unusual?

"well, what can I name him then?"

" I don't know. You got him at Wal Mart. You could name him Wally.'

"Or Marty-yeah, I like Marty."

So, Marty he is. Of course my husband would rather say he was named after Marty Mcfly, being an avid Back to the Future Fan. He just calls him 'Butthead'.

Jane Austen-at the movies

This is a doozy of a post...mainly for the girls.

I just finished watching the BBC miniseries Pride and Prejudice for the second time and realized as it was ending that Jane Austen has had a really good run of movies lately.

The six hour miniseries from 1995 definitely impressed many. Jennifer Ehle was such an exquisite interpretation of Elizabeth Bennett and Colin Firth certainly made a dashing Mr. Darcy. Our mothers and grandmothers had witnessed Greer Garson and Laurence Olivier in those roles many years before BBC attempted it's mammoth adaptation, and they were understandably leery. The 1940 film was stately and romantic. Olivier was gorgeous and Greer Garson is hard to beat in the looks department. But the great thing about the miniseries is that it never tried to compete w/ the classic film. It stayed extremely faithful to the book and in accomplishing that, succeeded in winning over its audience. Ehle is lovely but human. Her 'fine eyes' are always speaking, even when she is not. Firth is handsome but always a little awkward, an endearing trait. He stays austere but still manages to draw the viewing audience in, making them completely understand Elizabeth's quandry.

Pride and Prejudice is such a satisfying love story that it is difficult to screw up a film adaptation of it, as was evident in last year's shamelessly romantic version starring Keira Knightly. I went into it expecting to be underwhelmed but was every bit as enamoured of Knightly as I was of Ehle. She was a little more giddy and vivacious but still retained that wonderful intelligence I love, with an absolutely beautiful smile. The scene where she sees Pemberly for the first time is my favorite of both movies, I think. It was my favorite part of the book (oddly enough) and translated perfectly to film. I loved Matthew MacFayden as a darker, brooding, Mr Darcy...a little more to my physical taste as well. The romantic atmosphere was prevalent throughout the movie; lots of figures standing against sunsets, emerging from fog, enjoying the elements. Once again, Jane Austen SCORES!

Let's backtrack a bit. To another Jane Austen classic, Mansfield Park. The book was not my favorite of Austen's works. I found Fanny to be a tepid, bland sort of heroine. But lo' and behold! Here comes Frances O' Conner to prove me wrong. The 1999 film is a sheer delight, in spite of the quiet story from which it comes. Some fans of the book have really given me a dirty look about this, but there it is. The movie gave Fanny a new voice, a very hot love interest in Johnny Lee Miller, and a formidable family that you just love to hate. There were some liberties taken with the story that got alot of flack, but I actually enjoyed the slavery angle. Not the slavery itself, mind you, but the human quality it gave some of the more one-dimensional characters of the book. Another Touchdown for Jane!

Backtracking a little more: Sense and Sensibility was nominated for 7 oscars in 1995. And for good reason. While I don't believe it merits the same consideration as a book that Pride and Prejudice does, I believe this movie is one of the five best of the nineties. Every time I watch it (and we're in the double digits now, people), I am more impressed. Ang Lee has proven himself to be a brilliant director (gay cowboys aside) and this is , I believe, his best film. If you haven't seen this movie, if you hate Emma Thompson and Hugh Grant gets on your nerves, if you aren't a hopeless romantic, if period dramas aren't 'your thing', you will still love this movie. The screenplay is impeccable, the acting is superb by everyone involved (even Hugh Laurie's tiny role is standout), and it's gorgeous to look at. It's hard for me to pick out another movie that succeeds in making you love as many of its characters, as this one. GOAL!

And then, there's Emma. Emma of the muddled mind and good heart. Yes, the book is brilliant even if the lead character does make us shake our heads a few times. And all the movies are worth watching. I say 'all' because since 1995, there have been at least 3. Clueless, starring Alicia Silverstone is the loosest adaptation of the story. But it still, despite all its silliness, tugs at the ol' heartstrings a little. This could partly be due to Amy Heckerling's deft handling of superficial teen angst (ala Fast Times at Ridgemont High) but I credit most of it to the timeless story of a young rich- girl attempting to better herself through matchmaking.

In 1996 Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Beckinsale both tackled the role; Paltrow in the much touted cinematic adaptation and Beckinsale in the A & E version. While Paltrow was very good in her first (of many) british accented performances, Beckinsale was the winner here. Why? Well, there are a few reasons. The beautiful, pastel landcape and costumes of the big budget version are very appealing and like I said, Paltrow was very good. But the rest of the cast falls a little flat. Jane Fairfax was sadly overlooked in this version and barely says two words while Harriet (ably played to a klutzy turn by Toni Collette) is a bit too wide-eyed and klunky for the waifish Harriet of the book. Alan Cumming was sufficiently smarmy in his role but it was overdone for comic value...a little too overdone. Northam is beautiful and was every bit the stately aristocrat he should have been. But he and Paltrow both came up a little short in their ability to provide a 'human' quality to their characters and chemistry. And Ewan McGregor (with his dreadful hair extensions) was horribly miscast.

I can speak quite freely about that movie because, in my opinion, the A & E version is so superior in every way (excepting the aesthetic). Beckinsale is fantastic as Emma, providing just the right mix of priss and philanthropy. She's a wonderfully human, endearing, and coquettish little snob. Mark Strong lacks the physical good looks that Northam posseses but his Mr Knightly is absolutely engaging. I was truly in love with him by the end. Olivia Williams as Jane and Samantha Morton as Harriet are both perfect. They are given large, meaty roles that truly require intelligent delivery. Raymond Coulthard's 'puppy' of a Frank Churchill is so memorable that I am astonished I've never seen him since. And Mr and Mrs Elton are two of the funniest 'baddies' to grace the screen. Jane shoots-she SCORES!

Persuasion starring Amanda Root and Ciarin Hinds was also released in 1995 and is another worthy film. I saw it once, the year it was released, and it isnt fresh enough in my mind to justifiably review. Suffice it to say that Jane Austen would be proud.

So what about Northanger Abbey? I'm sure in the next few years we will hear it is indeed being adapted, possibly w/ Joel Schumacher at the helm and Lindsey Lohan tackling Catherine Morland (ach-can you imagine?). But until then, we will patiently wait.

Because hey, it's bound to be good.

My space, shmy space!

So many of my friends weere joining my space that my initial aversion to it has waned and now I'm a registered member! I'm so gullible.

Anyway, visit me at myspace.com/jewlover2

Now get outta here!

Closing in on Duran-Duran

So, how is my journey to Barbarellasville? For those of you who checked in at the beginning of the year, my physical goal was to get fit, namely-to look like Jane Fonda at her bulemic best...without the bulemia, of course.

This little update is more a note to myself than readers so bear with me:

How am I doing? Well, I was approximately ten lbs over where I wanted to be. I joined a website called dietwatch.com that provides meal plans (if you want them) and also (for a small fee) allows you access to a great little calendar where you can enter your food consumption, weight log, and exercise agenda for each day. Being a chronic list-maker who revels in organization, I felt this was my best bet. I have stuck to it pretty well and have now lost my weight (admittedly with the help of a couple of nasty viruses). Getting toned and such is of course more difficult but I have a pretty good workout schedule that can be suited to my routine as well as the inevitable changes having a job, house, and kids will bring.

I've discovered a wonderful work-out show on Fit Tv called Cardio Blast. The instructor is Cathe Frederick, a fitness enthusiast with a tight little body and poofy eighties hair. Her workouts are EXTREMELY difficult and because there are so many, I don't get tired of them. I record them on my dvr and do them whenever Nathan is napping during the day. My goal is to get up around 5am and get my exercising out of the way before the kids wake up but I'm not quite to that point yet...heh heh. All Star Workouts is another good hour-long Fit Tv show that I appreciate but the routines are sometimes confusing and dont seem to work my body as well as Cathe's.

Typical week of exercise goes:
Monday-Cardio (step, kickbox, etc)-usually high/low impact one hour
Tuesday-Weight Training (full body or upper body) depending on what I feel like-one hour
Wednesday-Cardio (again w/ the step, kickbox etc.)-one hour
Thursday-Weight Training (full body or lower body)-one hour
Friday-Conditioning (hour-long pilates or stretching techniques. Occasionally I do a good core workout if I havent gotten much of that in during the week)
Sat-22 minutes Pilates (dvd)
Sun-22 minutes pilates (dvd)

If I miss a day of cardio, I do cardio plus strength training the next day since Cathe has several workouts that mix the two.

Anyway, that is where it currently stands. I'm not super optimistic about the visual results because I'm not really super-strict with my diet (though I do count the calories) but I feel great and am really happy to be back in a routine.

Look out Duran-Duran! I'm a-comin!

"This is YOUR life...!"

Sometimes seeing your life and family in pictures can give you a whole new sense of 'being'.

An old shoebox suddenly appears from a long-forgotten hiding place and now your very existence is validated. Yes. This is me. This is my family. See? You were there! And you were loved and so were they!

Questions come up. 'Now, why exactly did mom think that was attractive? ' or 'Where were we ?' or better yet, 'Who was taking it?'

How is it that I could possibly have felt left out in this group of loving and obviously overjoyed people? What got us so tickled?

Sometimes, a memory completely eludes me. It's almost there, on the tip of a neuron, and then it slips away. But, find a photo, and here it comes prancing back as if to say : "see? I knew you could do it! You aren't crazy. That DID happen...only, not quite as you thought it did."

Cameras became such a novelty. It got to where we were taking pictures just to have them, no matter how rediculous. This one was actually the sanest looking one in the bunch...remember Heather? Remember loading yourself down w/ sports equipment? Posing with 'Aunt Sally'? The shower picture? WHAT were we thinking???
The thing that will always make me happiest is knowing that even though the pictures speak of times and places far away, there are so many more to come. And knowing that friends like these are likely to be present in those as well...it's just ...just...(sigh).

The Violet Hour

Since my little cousin Violet was just born on Friday, I've devoted this little post to her. This is one of my favorite poems by the indomitable Longfellow:

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
The Children's Hour

Between the dark and the daylight
When the night is beginning to lower,
Comes a pause in the day's occupations,
That is known as the Children's Hour.

I hear in the chamber above me
The patter of little feet,
The sound of a door that is opened,
And voices soft and sweet.

From my study I see in the lamplight,
Descending the broad hall stair,
Grave Alice, and laughing Allegra,
And Edith with golden hair.
A whisper, and then a silence:Yet I know by their merry eyes
They are plotting and planning together
To take me by surprise.

A sudden rush from the stairway,
A sudden raid from the hall!
By three doors left unguarded
They enter my castle wall!
They climb up into my turret
O'er the arms and back of my chair;
If I try to escape, they surround me;
They seem to be everywhere.

They almost devour me with kisses,
Their arms about me entwine,
Till I think of the Bishop of Bingen
In his Mouse-Tower on the Rhine!
Do you think, o blue-eyed banditti,
Because you have scaled the wall,
Such an old mustache as I am
Is not a match for you all!

I have you fast in my fortress,
And will not let you depart,
But put you down into the dungeon
In the round-tower of my heart.
And there will I keep you forever,
Yes, forever and a day,
Till the walls shall crumble to ruin,
And moulder in dust away!

Walt and Me

A dear friend posted an entry today about her favorite vacation. I hadnt really thought about a vacation in so long that when I read her comments about Mexico, it immediately got me thinking about my favorite place...the 'happiest place on earth...Disneyworld.

Now some people may think that is a very bold and naive statement but may I just say...ehem. When I think of vacationing, I think of Disneyworld. And Walt. And the smells, sounds, and sights that automatically make me feel young and innocent.

My love of Disney started when I was an infant. I saw The Rescuers at the theater and became completely inconsolable at the sight of Madame Madusa who scared the pixie dust outta me! My mother carried me out crooning Wish Upon a Star in my ear, hoping against hope that I would not be forever scarred by the apparition of that crazy red-haired woman and her pink slipdress. Now, when I see it, she still gives me the willies. But I digress. I grew to love other Disney classics that are so appealing to little gals: Snow White, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty etc. I also became very attached to Swiss Family Robinson and Mary Poppins, still am actually. Disney appeals to two of my many sides...the artistic and the whimsical.

When my husband and I went to Disneyworld on our honeymoon it was such a singular experience...and somewhat surreal. We were only 19 and kept looking around for our chaperone the whole time, feeling kinda naughty for being on our own, free to canoodle and cuddle as much as we liked . Something about the place made me feel even younger than I was which resulted in my skipping about like an pea-brain most of the time. I remember so well the smells of Epcot, the sunburnt raft ride and cold chicken at Tom Sawyer Island, the song on The Carousel of Progress, the mickey mouse ice cream bars.

On our one year anniversary, we visited again, this time with family and friends. The memory that stands out the most is riding a six-person bike at The Boardwalk Resort, endlessly honking our horn and annoying all of the retired guests. I've never laughed so hard...kind of like the giggles you get when you jump on a trampoline. Touring the 'world' with my brother and his wife was even more fun that it had been on the honeymoon because their energy added a different vibe to the trip.

On September 11th of 2001, three of my girlfriends and I were trying to figure out why terrorists had to choose the date of our vacation to attack. We were supposed to leave for Disneyworld on the 12th and planes were grounded. When we finally did leave, on the 19th, we were understandably scared to death to fly. My palms were sweating as we landed and I truly felt that this trip was a mistake. It turned out to be the best so far. The staff was endlessly helpful, the guests more determined than ever to be happy, and the lines nonexistent. We did all the girly things like night-clubbing and shopping to our heart's content. Our hotel was within walking distance of Epcot and my most precious memory of the trip was strolling around The WOrld Showcase by myself in the dark during Illuminations. Only if you've been there, do you know how that feels.

Finally, in 2003, I took my three year old son. And seeing The Magic Kingdom thru his eyes was just as fabulous as people say it is. Now I did all the cheesy things like take pictures with the characters and watch the silly 'Broadway-style' shows without feeling like time was being wasted. The Swiss Family Treehouse seemed bigger, the animals on the Jungle Cruise seemed real, Splash Mountain was terrifying suddenly, and playgrounds were crazy-cool! The pool at the hotel was actually visited multiple times and nobody hurried. Naps were taken during the day. Ice cream was eaten at leisure. Parades were viewed for the first time...and thoroughly enjoyed! Disneyworld with a child is a wonderful thing.

Now I find myself planning my friend's vacations there when I'm not going on one myself. Something about planning out their trips makes me feel like I'm still a guest. I'm always reading up on new 'hidden mickeys' and reading the Unofficial Guide.

To sum up: I know there are many other places in the world to visit. I know I'm missing out on so much by spending my vacations so single mindedly. But when I look at my photos I'm immediately grasped by a strong urgency to visit again. And you know what they say: 'If it ain't broke...'

Plugging my new Blog

So. I got this idea from a fellow blogger and after careful consideration, I've decided to undertake it as well.

I'll be posting one page a day of my favorite book Victor Hugo's 'THe Man Who Laughs' for your reading pleasure.

Enjoy.
http://www.themanwholaughs.blogspot.com/

I'll be adding it as a link as soon as I figure out HOW!

...to get BUSY again!?

heh heh.

A friend of mine brought to my attention a little google 'game' called '(blank) wants...'

The challenge (her word,not mine) is to type in your first name and the word 'wants' into the google search engine . Seriously, these are the first three that came up:

'Ashley wants to get BUSY again!' (yes, the capital 'busy' was theirs, not mine)

'Ashley wants help for hockey'

and my favorite:

'Ashley wants to know what we're doing'.

It was kind of funny. Take a stab at it. It might be worth a snort or two.

Absence and Arbitrations

It has been a while since my last post, I see. Not much has occurred. We are still settling in to our new house and last weekend I made a much needed trip to Memphis to see my neglected family and allow my husband time to paint the open areas of our house. I was able to see little friends I've missed alot, the panda exhibit at the zoo, an old friend that I have not seen in years, the parents of me, and (gasp) the mall. It was nice and I rented a new Impala so the trip was smoooooothe like a speed-boat ride.

I have a dread of driving because of a couple of wrecks (no such thing as a car ACCIDENT, people!) I've been in and the nice, big, car was a pleasure and lent me an air of confidence I wish I always had.

In 1996, husband and I (and a friend ) were on our way back from the meeting and a lady in a tan Nissan Quest decided to make her left hand turn across our lane w/out checking first. We smacked into her really hard and my purty new Civic was utterly destroyed. We received a little settlement and eventually another car but I was severely rattled by that. Then, in 2002, another friend and I were hit by a gentleman (this time I was driving the tan Quest...wierd huh?) who decided to run a red light in Memphis and though physically my injuries were limited to a mild concussion and twisted ankle, I was really messed up emotionally by the unpredictability of most of the drivers with which I'm forced to share the road! My attorney insisted that I pursue the matter and so here I am, in 2006, attending an arbitration for the very first time.

Technically, an arbitration is like a cross between a mediation and a formal trial. The arbitrator (or judge) sits at the head of a conference table and gets to decide the outcome of the proceedings.

I walked into the Court Square building in Nashville yesterday, well dressed and sweaty palmed, and not even a little sure of what was going to happen. My attorney is young but sounds old and bitter (like Joe Don Baker) so I was impressed. This time though, looked windblown and uncomfortable in his ill fitting suit , a fact that perturbed me since the arbitrator lady (whose named was Tracy) was also sure to notice.
But lo and behold! Tracy is a man...a sexy older man w/ piercing blue eyes and an understanding head-bob that was instantly appealing. Not at all what I'd imagine a judge to be like.
State Farm's attorney was also young but dressed immaculately w/ wire-framed glasses that I wanted to steal. He never looked at me (not used to that, I must say) and this was irritating, obviously. My attorney was quick w/ his opening statements but I was again impressed by how matter of fact he made the case sound. Hey, he convinced me.

I was asked a million questions about the accident, both by my attorney and the cross-examining one, and eventually the arbitrator asked for closing statements. Both attorneys were equally succint (unfortunately) and made a great case for themselves. State farm does NOT want to give me any money. But, we'll see the way that turns out. Blue-eyes is supposed to contact my attorney on Tuesday and finally this rediculously long ordeal will be over.

My feelings on court proceedings are a little more positive than previously. No longer are 'opening remarks,' 'objections', and 'closing statements' relegated to the realm of tv-land. I feel like I've been thru the trenches and come out w/ a better understanding of the weaponry.

But I hope to never have to go thru it again.

Decompressing

Wow. I never thought I would be the woman on the 'verge of a nervous breakdown' but, there it is. Wednesday of last week I had a now hilarious 'mommy meltdown' in which I found myself sobbing to my six year old and being far too impatient w/ the baby. Thursday night I had a pounding stress headache and was incapable of dealing w/ even small disruptions. My husband relocated the couch and I found myself lying on the floor in tears about it! Yes, I was finally cracking up. I can say this light-heartedly now because today is altogether different. Friday morning at about 2am I lay awake w/ my small son's feet in my ribs and realized I needed to decompress in the biggest of ways!

I woke up my husband at 5am crying once again and completely unraveled. It was like all the bottled up stress that I thought I was handling so well over the past year came out in one fell swoop. He held me like a daddy and patted my back. I told him I needed to get away for a whole day and maybe a night too to relax and reflect. 'I vant to be ahlone'. We agreed that I should go to Nashville Saturday, visit a salon, and stay at a nice hotel. I also made plans w/ some girlfriends to meet up on Saturday night for a few hours.

Although it probably isnt necessary to post each detail of this little sojourn, each detail actually contributed to the finished product so post it I shall.

Friday night the old man came home w/ a bottle of extra dry Korbel and ran me a hot bath by candlelight. Have I mentioned how much I dig him?

Saturday morning I enjoyed breakfast w/ the boys, packed a little overnight bag, and headed off to Nashville and my salon appointment (after making a quick stop at Marti and Liz for a darling pair of ballet flats...ha). Salon Fx in Nashville is a somewhat upscale full-service salon that excels in great customer service. A plump little lady w/ a soothing scottish accent gave me a collagen facial (girls w/ dry skin...you MUST TRY). The room was dark and warm and smelled of lovely eucalyptus-type extracts. As the collagen mask melted on my face I thought about small things. Things that tend to be pushed aside when you're stressed like my dislike of buffets and my love of Grace Kelly. The pedicure that followed was even more relaxing though I seem to have become more ticklish in my old age. I sighed my lazy way to my car and decided it was much too dirty to escort my queenly personage so off I went to the local 'crackhead carwash' where the personell is a bit raw but the services superb. In my now clean automobile, I headed to the Hilton and was thrilled to discover warm cookies and cold milk at the check-out desk. Need I say that I'll be visiting this hotel again? The room was nice and immediately after dropping my stuff I headed down to the hot tub which was completely empty and super hot. I read my current C.S. Lewis Chronicle and watched the sun set in brilliant hues of red. Already I'm a different person.

Saturday night, a dear friend and I made a little detour to Opry Mills where I allowed myself the further freedom of purchasing a few sale items at Banana Republic. My retro style was wholly satisfied by their new spring collections...who knew? We left there to meet other dear friends at The Flying Saucer, a loud and cozy (yes it makes sense) beer emporium downtown. Flying Dog Pilsner is my new favorite brew, by the way! Afterwards it was dancin' time at Decades, a club that caters, evidently, to older yuppies w/ a fetish for the eighties. There were some youngns there too but did they know all the lyrics to 'Footloose' and 'You Give Love a Bad Name'? I think not. My awkward left feet were in their element for sure. But by one a.m. I was burned out on that stuff and pretty happy to discover that the others were too. I returned alone to my hotel and drank champagne and read until my Opry Mills friend returned and chatted w/ me until 4am.

8A.M. Sunday. I'm lying awake wondering if I would be better served by a couple of extra hours sleep or another dip in the hot tub. I opted for the latter and Friend accompanied me down to the otherwise empty pool area. When we were significantly pruny, we made our way back up to the room and prepared to check out and get breakfast.

By 1pm I was back in the lovin' arms of my family and completely rejuvinated. Was this really enough, you may ask? Well, yes actually. I don't know that any more time away would have been beneficial as I was already missing my boys dreadfully and I'm equally sure that any less time would not have been sufficient.

The hotel time in the hot tub seemed the most therapeutic though the facial and pedicure run a close second. The dance club and its patrons only reaffirmed my appreciation for my own early-to-bed life. The frivolous mall inhabitants seemed shallow and swarmy. The buzzing city and its crackhead carwash made me hunger for the clean smells of cow patties and cedar trees. As I drove back home w/ my friend talking of prayer and important things, I felt calm.

And yesterday afternoon, a manchurian ring-necked pheasant wandered in our back yard. As we stared at it silently and in wonder, I couldnt help thinking that this was a very positive thing. No matter where it came from, could it possibly find a better place in the world to visit? Nah.

purrr-teee

So here is the view from my front door. We've been here a week now and it was very nice this morning to wake up to a light snow. We were promised 3 to 6 inches and though it's still coming down pretty hard (which may or may not be evident from the picture), I doubt that's gonna happen. I think it was a little too warm at about 34 degrees. Anyway, I have never been so happy with my surroundings before. Being raised in the suburbs has its advantages but views are hardly one of them. And now, I feel I'm in my element w/ this view from my bedroom window and another equally pretty one from the bathroom.

I took advantage of my gargantuan tub this morning for the first time. Lying in the steamy hot water (finally the water heater can accomodate a full bath!) and staring out the window at the snow was something I never expected to experience in my own house. Sigh.

But there is still a lot to do and I am supposed to be pulling boxes out of the basement as I type, so off I go. More later?

Notes from the past week: The Grammy's were a disaster. Is music really this mediocre? And is it sacriliege that I enjoyed Kelly Clarkson's performance more than the much touted 'reappearance' of Sly Stone? At least she stuck around for the end. I thought the lost look on all those big stars' faces when he took off was pretty great though. And the blonde mohawk was classic stuff, of course. Anyway, the show itself had a few high points (Madonna's legs-good lord) and a significant ammount of low (Christina Aguilera trying to wrap her tonsils around a jazz classic and failing miserably) so all I can say about that is -thank goodness for Tivo!

'Ten Years We've Been Rusting'?.....

I recognized a pretty obvious mistake in Disney's Beauty and the Beast today. My youngest has developed a love for it (ALMOST as much as Seven Brides...) and so I'm treated to the chorus of Belle and Be Our Guest repeatedly throughout the week.

I have to say, I am pretty fond of Beauty and the Beast. I remember seeing it for the first time at the theater and thinking the opening sequence was the best I've seen yet. The lovely english voice telling the story of the spoiled prince is really enthralling, as are the stained class story pictures and the moving shot of the Beast ripping up his beautiful portrait. Remember that portrait? The young man w/ the blue blue eyes and the shoulder lenth locks? I've always loved that part.

Anyway, I was listening to the lyrics of Be Our Guest and recognized quite a big goof. I guess the screw-up is more the fault of the lyricist than the artist but, who knows? In the lyrics to the song, Lumiere says : 'for ten years we've been rusting/ needing so much more than dusting', right?

Well, the story goes ' the rose was actually an enchanted rose that would bloom until the Prince's twenty-first birthday. If he couldnt learn to love and get someone to love him in return; he was doomed to be a beast forever.' So the BEAST is not yet 21. If they've been 'rusting' for ten years wouldnt that have made him about 11 at the time the spell was cast? Does that prince at the beginning look like a child to you? Hmmmm......


OOPS! (I love finding stuff like that. Such glee.)

Vargas

I've recently become very attached to the incomparable art of Vargas.

Though I've seen it for years, it wasnt until recently that I really began to research his style and more obscure works. This, for instance, was one of the legacy nudes of his career and truly showcases how brilliant an artist he was! I don't think anyone else has been able to capture the female form w/ such exquisite (and forgiving) detail before or since. His ideal ladies were not too thin but very human and altogether gorgeous!

Bettie Page and others of her generation of pin-up model used Vargas girls' to set the standard and small wonder. Thanks to Sabina and Heidi Van Horne (whose respective sights are super stingy w/ photos or I would have posted some eye candy for the boys) for keeping the image alive!

Viva La Vargas!

The Last Leg

So, some of you may be wondering what is going on w/ our 'house' sitch-ee-ayshun'.

We are finally on the home stretch. Our deadline is Monday and we are doing the 'finishing' touches right now, though we will barely just make it.

Today we have painters and carpet-layers coming in. Tomorrow we will finish up the plumbing and Friday the builder is coming in for his final carpentry products like built-ins.

This has definitely been a learning experience and we have run into a few major hurdles along the way but I can honestly say that I now have my dream house! There isnt one inch of that I don't love! Though there are some things concerning the process that I would have changed; the actual finished product is exactly what I wanted. The paint colors are all completely satisfying (ranging from a very deep peacock to a soft sea-green) ocean colors and I was able to splurge where I liked and get the granite countertops and lovely hardwood floors I always wanted. The fluctuation of golds, greens, and blues seems to convey exactly the soothing feeling I wanted. I have very traditional taste in most respects so the majority of my decor is along those lines but I also have a deep attraction for mid century modern design so I gave in to that when I liked. Therefore, my kitchen has granite countertops and pale wood cabinets but the floors are black and white tile and the fixtures are 'fifties-chic'. It's wonderfully incoherent. I made the most of my ebay membership by buying the majority of my new furnishings over the past year from different ebay stores that offer great deals on clean, modern furniture and window coverings. Bamboo shades are my absolute favorite thing and I was able to purchase them cut-to-order for a fraction of what most companies charge. Thank you payless decor!
I have one more major purchase to aquire: an oriental rug for my front room (the room that will house all of my grandfather's precious art). I am very picky and and holding off on this intentionally, to see what the paint, pictures, and furniture will require once everything is put together. I also don't want to hide my ash floors too much.

So, that is that. I'm looking forward to finishing up the decorating when we move and finally getting settled in. I feel like my life has been on hold for so long!

Then I can 'sound my barbaric YAWP over the rooftops of the world' from simple relief!

WWCND

There is absolutely nothing to say about this. But I strongly suggest that you do yourself and everyone you love a favor by visiting this site.

Evidently, the fate of the world may well be at stake!

http://chucknorrisfacts.com/

The Perfect Childrens' Movie???

When my six year old was about two, he noticed Bambi. Every day he wanted to see Bambi two or three times. Later on, he became obsessive about Dumbo. When he was about 3, Star Wars was his favorite thing in the world and I was greeted w/ the Imperial March on a daily basis (which I don't mind actually...great movies, all). My point is, kids seem to thrive on repetition. They find a thing they love and then they want it all the time. Usually by about 2 years old they become super stubborn in this area and woe to the one who stands in their way. And eventually most of us find that giving in can buy us much needed 'me' time.

Since I work at home, I've kind of been on a mission to find the ideal 'distraction' for my 19 month old. He has a much shorter attention span then his older brother had at the same age. I've tried every Disney movie I could find and the tried-and-true Star Wars saga as well. Nope. He will have none of the 'sitting still' thing (meetings are CRAZY)! Then, last week, I discovered IT! The only movie that my little one will watch almost to completion and stay as happy as a clam. What is this 'balm' of Hollywood, you may ask?

It is none other than the silly, colorful, and somewhat rediculous (but marvelously fun) Seven Brides for Seven Brothers! The moment Howard Keel starts to belt out 'Bless Your Beautiful Hide', I can count on at least 40 minutes of quiet time from the child who would initially only give me about five. Yay Stanley Donen!

"...they ain't even Old Timey!"

Sure am lovin' this stuff!

The Old Crow Medicine Show have been around for years but it's really a shot in the arm to rediscover them. Their cover of Bob Dylans 'Wagon Wheel' is nothing short of brilliant but it's their 'old timey' stuff like 'Tear it Down' that really gets the 'mule kickin' in my soul.

Visit the site provided and enjoy some samples!

http://www.crowmedicine.com/

The Upchuck Funnies

I've been slimed!

My kids have both come down w/ the same nasty stomach ailment at precisely the same time. They are puking in unison and crying in harmony. It is very sad but at the same time very funny because kids are so different when they are sick than we adults are prone to be. They can heave until it sounds like they're about to lose something and then immediately be up and around, laughing and singing. My little one has it the hardest. He is throwing up every few minutes but doesnt quite know when it's coming so he trots around leaving little blue piles of slime all over the place. I always give my kids gatorade when they're sick (so they won't have to experience the angst of dry-heaves) and the silly little store up the road only had two flavors, both w/ the most intense pigment possible for a beverage. Fierce grape (an electric blue) and Fierce berry (hawaiian punch red) were the only ones available...(what happened to that nice arctic frost?!). I have used up every towel and every wet-wipe in the place! But he remains oh-so-happy, running around laughing and talking and even trying to clean it up all by himself.

My six year old has an equally positive 'sick' attitude. He throws up heartily and then immediately tells stories...long ones that don't end until he runs out of ideas. I picked him up early from school today and he was so pitiful but right now he's lying on the couch drinking that ghastly blue gatorade and watching Attack of the Clones. He asks me non-stop questions about the dialogue (as if he hasnt seen it a dozen times already) and quietly runs to the bathroom every so often. But again, he remains in better spirits than when he is well. I think it's because he knows mommy will always be especially tolerant when he's sick...true, true.

On the other hand, when I am sick, I am useless and melancholy, as is just about any adult I know. I think we take advantage of being laid-up to get away from the chores of the day and we feel compelled to pretend it's alot less fun than it really is. The next time I have the stomach flu (which is bound to be soon), I'm gonna watch the Star Wars movies in their entirety and call everyone I know to tell them I'm sick. Then maybe I'll pull out all the stops and find some great, pointless anecdotes to bore their resigned ears. So, everybody beware!

Blog Bonus:

A great recipe for busy moms who don't have the time or desire to make their youngn's a hot breakfast before school:

Crockpot Oatmeal

1 cup Oatmeal (old fashioned oats)
3 cups water
1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk or half and half but they're kids so why bother with that)
1/4 cup brown sugar
pinch salt

At night , put oatmeal and water in crockpot on low. In morning, add cream or half n half and salt; stir to blend. If desired, add raisins, cinnamon, or vanilla. Dish up and sprinkle w/ sugar.

Yum Yum, oatmeal as creamy as tapioca! Just like Grandma used to make (well, not my Grandma, but somebody's I'm sure).

Mr Pritchard's Scale

I've never been that 'into' poetry. I've never understood the appeal of reading it aloud or even just reading it at all. Don't get me wrong, I love poetry when I see it but I just don't seek it out all that much. I get bored kind of quickly if there isnt a story to keep me interested.

Last night I was pondering this and wondering what I truly considered great poetry. The movie Dead Poets Society had this hilarious scene where Mr Keating instructs his students to rip a 'forensic' explanation of poetry out of their books and I stand by this as well. Poetry should not be dissected since its beauty is actually in the 'ear' of the beholder. Though I may voice my own opinion about it I certainly don't state it as fact. But I digress.

When I was young, I loved Shakespeare's Sonnets. Now, I still love them but more mildly. They bore me after awhile (though I believe they are considered technically perfect?). I like the one that says 'love is not love that alters when it alteration finds...' Isnt that pretty? Later, I really started loving Alfred Noyles' 'The Highwayman' ,since it's a story and kept me very interested. 'The Lady of Shallott' is another of these great story poems....and 'the jabberwocky', come to think of it. The Song of Solomon is a beautiful example of lyrical prose...another form of poetry, in my book. E.E. Cummings has a wonderful way with words as does Robert Frost...especially when it comes to nature. My husband loves Charles Bukowski's realistic approach to poetry and I love Theodore Rhoetke for the same reason. Rhoetke can write beautiful things about love (i.e. 'I think the dead are tender, shall we kiss?') and equally beautiful things about drinking the contents of a spittoon, on a dare (see 'The Golden River'). I certainly like Walt Whitman and Lord Byron but I couldnt name a poem of theirs that really 'gets me'. Maybe if they were set to music?

So what is the best poem ever written, according to me? At the risk of oozing w/ literary sacriliege, I'll tell you. The name of the poem is 'What was I Afraid of?' by Theodore Geisel (also knows as Dr Seuss) and it goes like this:

What Was I Afraid Of?

Well,I was walking in the night
And I saw nothing scary.
For I have never been afraid
Of anything. Not very.

Then I was deep within the woods
When, suddenly, I spied them.
I saw a pair of pale green pants
With nobody inside them!

I wasn't scared. But, yet, I stopped.
What could those pants be there for?
What could a pair of pants at night
Be standing in the air for?

And then they moved! Those empty pants!
They kind of started jumping.
And then my heart, I must admit,
It kind of started thumping.

So I got out. I got out fast
As fast as I could go, sir,
I wasn't scared. But pants like thatI did not care for. No, sir.


After that, a week went by.
Then one dark night in Grin-itch
(I had to do an errand there & fetch some Grin-itch spinach).
Well, I had fetched the spinach.
I was starting back through town
When those pants raced round a corner
And they almost knocked me down!

I lost my Grin-itch spinach
But I didn't even care.
I ran for home! Believe me,I had really had a scare!

Now, bicycles were never made
For pale green pants to ride 'em,
Especially spooky pale green pants
With nobody inside them!


And the NEXT night, I was fishing
For Doubt-trout on Roover River
When those pants came rowing toward me!
Well, I began to shiver.
And by now I was SO frightened
That, I'll tell you, but I hate to.
I screamed and rowed away and lost
My hook and line and bait, too!


I ran and found a Brickel bush.
I hid myself away.I got brickels in my britches
But I stayed there anyway.
I stayed all night. The next night, too.
I'd be there still, no doubt,
But I had to do an errand
So, the next night, I went out.


I had to do an errand,
Had to pick a peck of Snide
In a dark and gloomy Snide-field
That was almost nine miles wide.
I said, 'I do not fear those pantsWith nobody inside them.'
I said, and said, and said those words.
I said them. But I lied them.

Then I reached inside a Snide bush
And the next thing that I knew,
I felt my hand touch someone!
And I'll bet that you know who.
And there I was! Caught in the Snide!
And in that dreadful place
Those spooky, empty pants and I
Were standing face to face!

I yelled for help,I screamed. I shrieked.
I howled. I yowled. I cried,
'Oh, save me from these pale green pants
With nobody inside!'

But then a strange thing happened. Why those pants began to cry!
Those pants began to tremble; they were just as scared as I!

I never heard such whimpering
And I began to see
That I was just as strange to them
As they were strange to me!

I put my arm around their waist
And sat right down beside them
I calmed them down.
Poor empty pants
With nobody inside them.

And now we meet quite often,
Those empty pants and I,
And we never shake or tremble.
We both smile
And we say'Hi!'


There you have it. A wonderful poem that would have to rate pretty high on even Mr Pritchard's nasty scale. Of course without the artwork, it suffers some.

Barbarella Bound!

I've never been one for 'new year's resolutions'. However, it's impossible not to write '06 on your checks and not feel a slight sense of motivation. I usually have one 'new' thing in my head to accomplish, which prevents me from being bogged down w/ a list.

This year, thanks to this blog, I can share it with the world. I'm trusting that none of my readers will take advantage of my generosity by asking about or otherwise sneaking a look at my progress...heh heh.

In 2006 I would like to look like Barbarella. Well, maybe not the white leather jumpsuit or go-go boots. I might could also forgo the giant gun and the big hair. Let's just say, I think Jane Fonda's striptease in the beginning of that horrible movie revealed the best looking physique committed to celluloid. Not too 'hard'-just toned enough...somewhat attainable? Well, we'll just see about that.