When Life Interrupts

I've missed you all so much! SO. MUCH. *Sending many, many, many huge hugs to you all*

Um, I've been so bogged down that I TOTALLY forgot to post the following before Christmas. *hides head in utter shame* So, here's a little pre-holiday-post-holiday post. I know, I know, I'm awful. 

Share your traditions surrounding the Christmas stocking.

We hang our stockings everywhere! Three that my mom made when I was little hang above the fireplace every year; my mom’s stocking from when she was a little girl hangs in the family room; and one my dad got me also hangs in the family room.

We even have one that belonged to my puppy—it’s so tiny and sweet. Every year, he knew when it was time for the “stocking box.” He’d jump on my lap, watch me take each stocking out, and when it got to his, he took it out of the box, ran to the fireplace, and waited for me to hang it up. From then until Christmas morning, he slept, sat, and stared up at it.

In his honor, we still hang it up every year…and I still cry every time I remove it from the box.

On Christmas Eve, Santa fills them with goodies (you know, because it’s ALWAYS Santa), and come Christmas morning, we’ll open them first thing.

How many hours of sleep do you average at night? Is it enough?

*Bwahahahahaha* Oh. Sorry about that. Yeah, me and the old fart Sandman aren’t exactly BFFs. It varies—4, maybe. And no, it’s never enough. But, when I can sleep in—dude, I can crash for 10 hours. Lol

If you had to give up one thing for the remainder of this year what would it be?

BBQ potato chips…and Cheetos…and, well, soda.

I’m going to definitely give this a go…starting on December 31st.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (or Wills and Kate as I like to call them) have announced they're expecting a baby. Do you follow news of the Royals?

Well, I adored Princess Diana, so I do follow Wills, Harry, and Kate a bit, but not overly so. I’m SO happy for them, though! I think Wills and Kate make an absolutely stunning couple!

For me, the sound of childhood is__________________.

Gotta go with laughter.

Fruit cake-yay or boo? What's your favorite dessert made with fruit?

Boo, oh, very big boo!!! I gag if it gets near me. Not kidding.

Uh, well, I’m not much of a dessert-with-fruit kind of gal. I’ll be blunt: I don’t want goody-goody good for me fruit in my dessert. No. Just no. If I’m gettin’ dessert, give me chocolate layer cake, chocolate crème pie, chocolate peanut butter cake…

What is one thing you want to accomplish before 2012 comes to an end?

Honestly, the more you look around, the harsher things appear lately. For some reason, I’ve noticed some pretty ugly things recently, not just in a personal capacity, but universally with friends, family, and people I don’t even know. For those of us who continue to abide by that good old Golden Rule, we can’t allow others to knock us down and keep us down.

So, I’m thinking we learn to adopt the “Sometimes you have to say, ‘WTF,’” mentality. Sticks and stones, remember?

Insert your own random thought here.

I want to fly on Santa’s sleigh. Never claimed I wasn’t dorky enough to wish for these kinds of things. It’s like wishing on a star, Pinocchio-style…until you realize it wasn’t a star…it was a plane. You wouldn’t believe how many times I’ve done this…and, no, I ain’t tellin’ the number.

Happy *Almost* Thanksgiving!!!

Okay, I COMPLETELY lost track of time from my last post until now. HOW did it get to be Thanksgiving so quickly?! My head is spinning at how fast time is flying!!!

I'm thinking my schedule (and accompanying stress) has quite literally taken over. :/

NASCAR ended Sunday with Brad Keselowski winning the Championship. I'm really happy for him, especially since Dale Jr. gave him his big chance. It has to mean Dale's championship is around the corner...in fact, I'm sure of it.  :)

I do have some humiliating--albeit hilarious (after the fact)--moments to share in the coming weeks. Oooh, so embarrassing. 

Sooo, for now I just want to wish everyone a VERY, VERY Happy Thanksgiving!!!! Be safe, have fun, enjoy the parade, food, and football, and then...

...we get ready for The Most Wonderful Time of the Year...with cookies. :)

Love and big, cuddly turkey hugs to you all!!!

Truth Is Thursday: The Eyes Have It

Truth Is: I *think* I see the light at the end of the tunnel where my blogging absence is concerned. I CAN'T WAIT to catch up and read blogs again. I MISS YOU ALL.

Truth Is: My printer ran out of ink at the absolute worst moment. Here's the thing: it didn't even let me know it was running low. Usually, the print will look lighter or something. Nope, nothing. It looked fabulous, then just stopped and said, "Black Ink Out." I pushed the on/off about a zillion times because I didn't trust the whole "black ink out" thing. Still, nothing. I'm convinced there's black ink still in there somewhere.

Truth Is: Wilderness Guy wanted to teach me how to pluck a chicken.  I can't emphasize the "no" enough, here.

Truth Is:  Never, ever have a cheesy nacho snack at night. Made this mistake. Won't make it again. There's a reason I'm not a snack person, apart from cereal. Must stick to cereal.

Truth Is: Mom was all excited about some diner-like mustard and ketchup bottles she found. She said they were super cute...with faces. Sadly, I didn't remember this little detail over the weekend. Had I remembered, I might have avoided a rather spastic me moment.

I walked into the kitchen, opened the fridge for some milk, and was face-to face with this:

My reaction: Funky-freaked face, yelp, stumble, and butt-slam into the dishwasher. I swear, for a second, I thought something had possessed the contents of the fridge, like some Poltergeist movie.

The next time I face the blinking duo will be Memorial Day Weekend, and though I will not be spooked again, I'm pretty sure they will take great pleasure in mocking me...don't they have a mocking kind of look? Don't get me wrong, they're cute and all, but...they are a little creepy when you're not expecting them. lol

Anyway, I hope everyone has a WONDERFUL Memorial Day! God Bless all of our brave men and women, past, present, and future.

Truth Is Thursday: Life Is Quite Nosy

Truth Is: Dear Willoughby, I have so much to say to you, but I'm not going to whisper a single syllable. You simply cannot see what you do. It's okay. Humans are beautifully complex that way. But I cannot, and will not, be your Marianne. No, this Marianne needs her Colonel Brandon.

Truth Is: CSI: Miami was cancelled! Very sad. No more Horatio. :(

Truth Is: I miss my Mavs. When I think back on this time last year…the stress, nausea, pacing, heart pounding, and rocking back and forth on the edge of my seat; the highs and lows of wins and losses; the utter thrill of victory…it's a great feeling. Good luck to all you fans whose teams are still in the hunt--enjoy every single second, good, bad, and in between. There's nothing like it.

Truth Is: Mom got her Kindle for Mother's Day…with "wee-fee." She's hilarious with it. At first, she was completely clueless. Now, she's zooming around the thing like she's had it for years. Dad and I are very proud of her.

Truth Is: Life sent me a message on Mother's Day. Not joking.

Woke up Sunday to a little text jingle.

"Hmm, wonder who that is," I said, checking the number. "Don't recognize that number, but it is local. Maybe BFF got another new number."

I clicked on the text and very nearly fell out of bed.

"HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! Love, Life"

"Screw you, Life. Screw you." Yep, that was my spontaneous reaction.

Being single doesn't suck--beats being alone in a relationship. Still, Life needs to stay the hell out of it and shut the blank-ity-blank up.

So Much For Regular Blogging...

I really thought I'd be able to return to regular blogging.  So wrong.  I'm trying, y'all, I promise. 

Updates and random things:

* My Mavs got the big bad sweep handed to them by the Thunder. :( Sigh. Kind of a tough way to end the season. On the bright side, the first two games could have easily been wins for the Mavs. Yeah, I'll look ANYWHERE for that stupid bright side.

* Dale Jr. snagged another top ten finish! Whoop! One thing I don't get: When you have a man who is completely brilliant on restrictor plate tracks, why won't drivers work with him? (his teammates, for the most part, were out of the race) I don't get it. If there's anyone I'd want pushing my butt around the track, it's him. Or vice versa. Um. I didn't mean that the way it sounded. *big time blushes*

* Explain this to me: WHY is it when life gets hectic in one area of your life, the other area of your life suddenly and inexplicably decides to get interesting...right when you have the least amount of time to, you know, be interested in the interest? Hmm. Did that make sense?

* Have you ever met Wilderness Guy? I have. Known him for years.  Didn't really realize the extent of his load-the-gun-and-bow ways.  Wilderness Guy is showing an increasing interest. Have I mentioned I'm not Wilderness Girl? Yeah. I like my food de-feathered, you know? And he likes fish. I hate fish. Fish + me = copious amounts of embarrassing badness.

* Oh, Lord, my dad pulled one on my mom. Just to mess with her, he started skip-hopping along the porch smack dab where their new neighbors could see him. LOL My mom was mortified. She said the neighbors probably think he's out of his mind. My dad's response? "That's the point." LOL The funniest part? My mom thought he looked a little like E.T. when he scurries. LOL

Okay, that's it for now. I just wanted to check in. I have tons to write up--I just need to carve out some time. And please know I love you all, and I'm not trying to go all invisible woman or anything--it's just hectic right now.

Truth Is Thursday: Empty Words, Scum, and An Odd Crush

Truth Is: I've been getting quality sleep...yay...just not enough...boo.

Truth Is: I know I didn't get to mention this earlier, but my Mavs are back in the playoffs! Whoop!

Truth Is: Dear Sorta Friend, if you truly want a forever kind of love, as you claim, then you are going to have to learn to keep your word.  Women cannot possibly fully trust you if you maintain the practice of empty words.  I'm not sure why this is so difficult for you to see, and why you insist on blaming the women for not handing over the keys to their heart.  Trust is earned.  Empty words?  So not the way to earn it. I should know, since you pulled that act on me a time or two.

Truth Is:  Dale Jr. finished 7th this past Sunday. So loving the consistently good finishes.

Truth Is:  Have y'all heard about the website that encourages married people to cheat on their spouses?  Scummy.  Yeah, well, now it's apparently offering $1 million to any woman who can prove she has had sex with Tim Tebow.  Double scummy.  As you may know, Tim has stated he is waiting until marriage to have sex.

Why do this?  I mean, he is who he is.  Let him be.  Let him live HIS life the way HE sees fit.  Perhaps some people on the opposite end of the moral spectrum--like those who encourage infidelity--feel threatened by people like Tim Tebow. And why?  He's not bothering them. He made a choice--we ALL make choices that are best for us, for our lives, and no one, not a single person on this planet, has the right to make you feel bad about it. 

Truth Is: So, my mom wants a Kindle with--are you ready?--"Wee Fee" capability.  Wee Fee instead of Wi-Fi (why, fye--rhymes with eye).  lol

Truth Is: I have some unusual crushes.  My latest one? Horatio Caine on CSI: Miami.  *blushes*  He's just so manly man-man, totally protective, with a great voice, and super one-liners.  Of course, I totally wouldn't turn away Eric Delko from CSI: Miami, either. ;)

Want To Laugh?

I know my blogging has been sporadic at best. I'm thinking it's the change of seasons--if the weather isn't attacking my sinuses, it's distracting my brain cells.  Of course, it doesn't help that my free time is sort of limited right now.

Just have to have a GO DALE moment--he finished 3rd Sunday at Martinsville, placing him 2nd in Cup Standings. Whoop! Truthfully, I thought Hendrick would finish first, second, and third...until a completely avoidable caution set off a series of unfortunate events, including one that took out Jimmie and Jeff.  Dale made it through, but not without pretty significant damage.  Awesome job by Dale getting through that mess and finishing 3rd.

My mom is a big fan of the Food Network, and, over the years, she has introduced me to some awesome shows, including Chopped, Restaurant Impossible, The Next Iron Chef, Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, and Paula Deen.  Yes, I watch Food Network about as much as I do HGTV.  What can I say?  I like watching people cook up yummy food and house hunt.

Anyway, my mom showed me this spoof of Paula Deen, and I about lost it.  If you're in need of a good laugh, tears and all, then this just might do the trick. Hope you enjoy.

Here's Melanie Hutsell, of Saturday Night Live fame, as Paula Deen (who was a great sport during this segment.) 

Truth Is Thursday--Sinuses Suck

Truth Is: I know I haven’t been blogging much this week.  I’ve been fighting a ferocious sinus infection.  We’re talking the ice bag on face, Anbesol on gums, Advil every chance you get kind of thing. Honestly, I haven’t had one this bad in a long, long time. 

                                                                                                    

Truth Is: If someone cancels a date due to a sinus infection, please know it’s actually in your best interest.  Please don’t respond with the following: “Really?  You’re bailing over a sinus flare up?  If you don’t want to go out with me, just tell me.” 

Here’s the thing:  Unless you would like your date carrying a drippy ice bag, downing Advil, snotting, drooling from a numb mouth thanks to copious amounts of Anbesol, and likely face-planting in her food, be happy about a cancellation.

Truth Is: I’m really looking forward to seeing The Hunger Games, but I would love for people to stop saying it’s the next Harry Potter. No, it isn’t. They’re two completely different stories set in two totally different worlds. Besides, Harry Potter stands alone. 

Truth Is: Tim Tebow is now a Jet, not Bennie (B-B-B-Bennie and the Jets…sorry.  Great song, though).

I’ve heard people say that Tim “needs to change to fit the NFL.  He needs to act more like a football player.” These folks aren’t talking about his game; they’re talking about him as a person.  Ooh, it really boils my blood!

Change to fit in? Well, bah on them!  I say dare to be different.  No one should ever, ever, ever make you feel like you have to fit some absurd standard “they” deem appropriate.

Tim Tebow is a true role model, and if people don’t like it, then maybe that reveals a little something about their true selves. I hope more than anything Tim has the chance to shine in New York. 

Truth Is: My dad is hilarious.  He brought out his fan and there were two big “X’s” drawn in Sharpie marker over two of the buttons.

Me: “Um, Dad?  Why are there two big X’s on your fan?”

Dad: “Because they remind me those two buttons are evil.”

Me: “Evil?”

Dad: “Yeah, well, they screw up my settings, make the thing go WHOOOOOSH, and then it just stops.  Thought it was broken a time or two.  And you know I always end up pushing one of those two stupid buttons.  Not anymore,” he said grinning like the Cheshire Cat.

Classic.

Eleven, Part Two

Today, we have questions from my dear friend Jewels, along with a few more random facts. I knew Jewels would have some awesome questions--she didn't disappoint.

Jewels' Questions:

1. What side of the bed do you sleep on? 

Middle. Yep, I’m that single.

2. Do you believe in ghosts? 

Absolutely, no question. 

3. Would you be willing to go on a cross country (driving) trip with me? 

As willing as I’d be to accept an invite to a Mavs game or NASCAR race. (Translation: Absolutely.)

4. If you could only watch one show for the rest of your life what would it be?

Wow.  Tough.  Friends, I think.  Laughing is what it's all about.

5. If you could only read one author until the end of time who would it be?  

J.K Rowling.  I love her writing style.  Her words move like movies in your mind.  Can’t wait for her upcoming novel for adults!

6. If you HAD to get something pierced what would it be?

I have my ears pierced, so I guess I’d get ‘em done again.  

7. Given a choice of a mystery meaning Chinese symbol, butterfly, or zodiac tattoo which would you pick? (You HAVE to pick one)

Butterfly. I love butterflies.

8. Would you rather have sex with Wilford Brimley/Susan Boyle or give up sex for good?

Well, since this is so not applicable to me, I think it’s safe to say I’d stay the course—no sex.

9. What would you pay for a vaccination that prevents kids from being bitchy, sassy, dickheads?

LOL--So long as there aren't any dangerous side effects...or, you know, so long as it doesn't turn them into zombies *shivers*...I reckon I'd cough up a good amount of dough to ensure we don't release any more asshats into society. 

10. Would you rather serve a week in prison or try and survive for a year alone in a jungle?

I’m going to the jungle--swing on a vine, sing a little Phil Collins, and hope for a half-naked Tarzan.

11. What is it about nice people that attract total idiots?

Would LOVE to crystal ball this answer somehow—in other words, not a friggin clue.  

Random facts: 

6) I keep a box of Lucky Charms in the pantry at all times because it reminds me of my childhood.

                                                                                             
7)  I love watching Murder She Wrote.  Stop laughing.  It has always been a Mom & me kind of show, along with Love Boat and Little House on the Prairie.   Really, stop laughing. ;)

8)   Top Gun is supposed to be a manly-man’s movie, right?  I respectfully and hormonally disagree.  Let’s see: Fighter jets, sexy men in bum-hugging uniforms, and, hello, volleyball scene.  Yeah, it’s eye-candy for women.  "Maverick, you big stud..."

Credit: Paramount Pictures Promotional Images

Tomorrow we have questions from Catherine!

Eleven, Part One

Since there a few of these to do, I thought it would be better to split them up over a few days. Otherwise, this would be a very loooooong post. ;) 

The Rules

1) Post these rules.  
2) Post 11 random things about yourself. (I'm splitting these up over several posts).
3) Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post. (Again, split up)
4) Create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer. (Will do in the last post)
5) Go to their blog and tell them they've been tagged.
6) No cop-outs in the tagging section like “if you are reading this/follow me,” blah blah blah. you have to legitimately tag people. (Last post, again)

So, today, we have Jay's Questions. 

Jay's Questions:

1) Do you like staying in hotels?                

Yes, but not the creepy ones with doors on the outside, facing the street.  Yeah, I saw Psycho.  Never.  Again.

2) Beach or swimming pool?

Beach.  I love standing in front of the ocean and feeling so tiny, like a little action figure.  The sound of the sea is like a lullaby. Plus, sand is a great natural exfoliant.

3) Which movie can you watch over and over and over again? 

Honestly, probably too many to count.  Right now, it’s been Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part II.  I just think it’s an exquisite film.

4) Why do people do these tags?

They’re fun and really good for a brain that just refuses to think on its own.

5) Have you ever seen an eclipse? 

Not really sure.  I vaguely remember seeing one, I think, but that could have been a dream or something.  I do remember seeing comets.  Awesome.

 
6) What is your favorite word? 

Christmas—it encompasses everything: love, family, tradition, hope, miracles, and the list goes on. It’s just such a happy word. :)

7) What is your least favorite word?

It’s more like a category—cruel, hurtful words, across the board.

8) What sound or noise do you love?

My mom and dad laughing—cutest thing ever.

The LSU Tiger Marching Band would be a very close second. The Golden Band from Tigerland. :)

9) What sound or noise do you hate? 

Nails on a chalkboard.

10) What profession other than yours would you like to attempt?

Sideline reporter for ESPN or Fox Sports…or an imagineer for Disney.

11) What is your favorite curse word?

Sh*&  It just sums things up so nicely. 

Random facts: (Part one)

1) I can drink apple cider vinegar straight.

                                                                                
2) Favorite salad dressing is my papaw’s garlic vinegar dressing (my mom makes it now—it’s so yum).  Would not recommend prior to a date. 

3) I don’t like wind storms.  They make the trees crackle and the house makes shifty, popping sounds...oh, and the branches slam onto the roof.  Scary stuff.

4) Absolutely loathe drying my hair right after I get out of the shower.  It takes so long!  So, I try to let it air dry as much as possible.

5)  When I was little, I used to think I could fly. 

Tomorrow, we'll have questions from the wonderful Jewels!

Truth Is Thursday--Rant Time

Truth Is: Yeah, yesterday didn’t happen.  At least, that’s how it felt. It was one of those days where every hour passes by so fast, you think you’re in Doctor Who’s TARDIS. 

Truth Is:  The state of customer service is for crap today, and I’m especially ticked because this circus of elephant crap involves my parents. 

My parents found a spiffy new dishwasher on sale at Best Buy.  Upon purchasing it, BB scheduled a delivery for Tuesday, with installation to occur on Wednesday.  My parents waited around all damn day (from 6:45 a.m., mind you) for nothing.  Never showed. 

Dad called.  Now, it could come Wednesday, and, if not, for sure on Thursday between 8 a.m.-6 p.m. 

Can you guess?  Another no show. 

Dad called and he keeps getting the same response: “I’ll check and get back to you.” Predictably, there’s no “get back to you.”

I’ve had it up to here (indicating over my hair).  It’s not so much the no-shows, but the lack of communication that infuriates me.  Can’t make it?  Call/e-mail/text.  Have to reschedule?  Call/e-mail/text.  It’s really very simple and requires very little effort, and even less time. 

{{{See next Truth Is for the conclusion to this little drama}}}

Truth Is:  Major miscommunication, not a lack of customer service.  Dad gave them two numbers: home (required local number) and cell.  Dad thought they were going to call the cell, but they kept calling the home phone.  Problem?  Mom and Dad keep the ringer off on the home phone, since they mostly use cells. 

So, as Best Buy kept calling the home phone, and Dad kept staring at his non-ringing cell, a big wad of stress built up inside my mom, which, of course, reached me.  And y’all know how I protect my parents, so, naturally I didn’t like anyone messing with them.

The big wad of stress soon turned into an enormous wad of duh when Dad realized what had happened. I can’t even begin to tell you my mom’s reaction. lol

Eventually, everything was sorted and the rep from BB showed up, installed, and even talked a little LSU.  He was a great guy, my parents have a dishwasher, and all is well.  The End...until the next.

Truth Is: BFF got all territorial on me.  He and I were in the middle of a text-fest when, to one of his jokes, I mentioned a guys name.  Enter crickets.  No more texts for a while.  The catch is he should have known EXACTLY what I was talking about—it wasn’t a guy; it was the name of a team mascot.  Later, I get a text asking who this guy is—Dear God Almighty, BFF!  When I texted the obvious answer back, he was all, “ugggggghh.” 

Mom says she’s not sure how he’s going to handle it when I find someone.  And it’s not because he has feelings any deeper than friendship—I think sometimes he’s afraid the friendship will vanish when I find the one, marry, etc.  I’ve seen that happen too much to ever let that happen.  He’s part of my life, always will be. Convincing him of that is a whole other matter.

Truth Is:  I hate the Yoplait swapportunity ad (or however you spell it).  I really just want to take that spoon and smack her on the head.  They need to stop that ad immediately.

Truth Is Thursday--Emotional Dweeb, Yoda Dale, & Random Life Stuff

Truth Is:  I read something that suggested meditating on feelings as a way to de-stress.  WTH?  Feelings are the things that send us into orbit!  How the frig can that calm me down? See, a little irked right now…

Truth Is: Dale Jr. ripped it up in the Duels today, finishing second. 

Truth Is: Dale Jr. ripped it up in the Budweiser Shootout, but was unfortunately collected in a foolish wreck.  And, I gotta say, I think Jeff Gordon’s a great driver and all, but he seems to get a little wobbly-kneed when Dale pushes him.  During the shootout, radio communication reports said that Jeff asked Dale to back off.  Thing is, when Dale was pushing him, they were up front.  If the Yoda of restrictor plate racing was on my rear end, I’d let him Jedi my butt all the way around the track, no questions.  If there was ever someone to trust, it’s him.

Truth Is: Very happy that the two-car tandem stuff seems to have diminished at Daytona.  Give me pack racing any day. 

Truth Is:  Dad.  Sigh.  Yeah, he apparently decided to “lightly drizzle” queso (cheese/salsa) on tater tots. 

My response to Dad: “E. R.  I. C. U. Do those letters ring a really loud bell, by chance?” 

Dad, totally playing coy: “Huh, can’t say they do at the moment.”

*Shakes head*

Truth Is: I love my Mavs.  Just had to say that.  They fight so hard.

Truth Is:  Harry Potter better bring home an Academy Award this Sunday.  It will be a travesty in the film world if this series doesn’t have an Oscar to its name. 

Truth Is: Moisturizer update!  The smell—same.  The result—vast improvement already.  I’m shocked.  Obviously, I’ll need to give it more time, but the drastic difference in my skin has me cautiously optimistic that this stuff will abolish the dryness entirely.  

Truth Is:  AMC is showing Sleepless in Seattle later today.  I should have added it to my top five movies.  Anything Tom Hanks & Meg Ryan, I adore, and this is one of my favorites.  Cry every single time.  I know, I'm a romantic dweeb. I accept this.

Truth Is Thursday--Puppies Bark It, Mom Says It, & Whitney Sings It

Truth Is: Little Malachy, the darling, wobbly Pekingese, won Best In Show at Westminster this week.  This was his 115^th best in show title.  He’s such a precious little peanut!

Credit: Craig Ruttle/AP

Truth Is: Me: “Just once, I’d like to be a dog handler at Westminster.”

Mom: “You’d be great.  Animals love you.  But—”

Me: “But what?”

Mom: “Well, you’d look lovely out there…until you trip and face-plant on the carpet in front of the judge.” 

Me: “Great.  Thanks.”

Mom laughs.  I sulk…then laugh at the mental imagery.  

                                                                                                

Truth Is: The weather is seriously screwing with my sinuses.  Can Mother Nature kindly make up her mind on what season this is?

Truth Is: Mom never ceases to amaze me with some of her out-of-the-blue sayings.  The other day, in the middle of conversation, she blurts out, “Oh, holy Jiminy Crickets, I forgot to make my Jell-O.” Holy Jiminy Crickets?! She has never said that a day in her life! LOL  

Truth Is: My Mavs are on a roll!!!!!!! Whoop! Whoop! Love watching them play!

Truth Is:  NASCAR.  Budweiser Shootout.  Saturday night.  I’m so there.  Let’s go 88—rip it up.

Truth Is:  Last weekend, music lost a legend.  Whitney Houston’s voice was a once in a lifetime phenomenon.  I’ll never forget the time my mom, dad, and I went to see her live in concert.  She still had that powerhouse voice and put on quite a show, singing all her classics.  I even remember our section winning the “shoop-shoop” contest.  It was a great night with my family, watching a musical icon.  

She personified talent--no gimmicks, no publicity stunts...just one massively powerful voice.  

Though Whitney’s gone, her music will live on.  I hope she has found peace. 

I remember watching this performance live on MTV with my mom—it was probably my favorite LIVE performance she gave (apart from the National Anthem).  If you haven’t seen it, take a listen when you have a second, and remember her for her God-given talent.  Peace to you, Whitney.

Whitney Houston, Why Does It Hurt So Bad

             

Checking In...With An Award Announcement!

So, it's still holiday time until the last bowl game is over (a bowl game that may very well make me sick to my stomach by game's end--I really don't know how I'm going to get through it. Geaux). 

Dallas Cowboys: However, my Dallas Cowboys failed to make the playoffs.  They lost to the Giants.  Bad.  It wasn't a huge surprise, to be honest.  Frankly, until the Cowboys go back to the formula that worked in the 1990s, I'm not confident we will ever see another playoff run or Super Bowl.  What is shocking (and, yet, not so much) is how our owner/GM can't see what's wrong with this team. 

The formula that worked in the 1990s is the same formula that the last 15 Super Bowl Champions have had and continue to have. Just look at the Packers, Patriots, and Saints! It's not rocket science.

I miss my Cowboys of old.  

Dallas Mavericks: However, I am ELATED to report my Dallas Mavericks are coming together! I tell you, I'm seeing some major growth in a very short period of time. The Mavs are going to be just fine.  I knew they would--it takes time for a team with new players to create a chemistry that turns into something magical.  Um, they beat the Thunder (almost twice--dang that buzzer shot in the first meeting)!

Never count out the Mavs...actually, I kind-of hope the talking heads count 'em out because they sure as heck did last year and we all saw how that turned out. ;)

Award Announcement: Tomorrow will be an award day! Hurray! I'd like to give one award to the wonderful new bloggers who found my blog--thank you so much and I can't wait to get to know y'all! 

Yeah, this was a boring post, I know.  I'm sorry. 

Um, here are some fun-facts to cut down the bore factor:

1. Mom keeps singing Write This Down by George Strait, only she totally butchers the lyrics: "Write this down, send me a little letter, put it on the fridge..."

2. BFF is so pissed at the Cowboys that he's pulling for the Saints. WHO DAT? WHO DAT? WHO DAT SAY DEY GONNA BEAT DEM SAINTS? Yep, he's all in. Saints are doing it right--from management down, they've got the formula.

3. Dad has been adding Worcestershire sauce to his tomato juice--very bad and against doctor's orders.  He's in big trouble with Mom.

4.  Did you know that it's good luck to keep your Christmas tree up until February 2nd? I heard this the other day and was pretty floored. I guess some believe if you take it down beforehand, you put a hex on your family and if you keep it up past this date, it could be bring back luck.  If you have a real tree, you can just break off a branch and keep it until February 2nd.  Interesting, huh?

5. Oh! I saw a couple of Christmas facts that I had to share!!

* In 1930, Minnie and Mickey Mouse handkerchiefs were the number one Christmas present. How simple and sweet is that?!

* In Hungary, the Christmas Eve feast cannot be served until they see a twinkling star in the sky. Now I'm singing When You Wish Upon A Star.

Nothing Like A Little Frosting

Well, so much for catching up on blogs over the weekend. Slowly, but surely, I’ll catch up. Hate when I fall behind on reading.

When Mom and I get going on a topic, we tend to resemble Lucy and Ethel (of I Love Lucy).  This weekend was no exception.

During the holidays, Mom’s kitchen most closely resembles what you would envision Mrs. Santa’s cooking domain to look like: cookies, candies, cakes, and, on this particular weekend, cupcakes.

There were only a few cupcakes left (Dad inhaled them, very bad) when Mom said to grab one while I could.

The cupcake had the cutest Frosty the Snowman ornament adorning the icing. Except it wasn’t an ornament. Oh, no.  It was a ring. Now, this might not seem like much, but with literally everyone, everywhere getting engaged, it’s a little…ironic. 

This is where Lucy and Ethel took over.

Me: “It’s a ring.”

Mom: “Fine catch.”

Me, not missing a beat: “Isn’t it beautiful,” I said, slipping it on my left ring finger. “So lucky.”

Mom: “There are many benefits to marrying a snowman.  He’ll never forget your birthday.”

Me: “Hell, he’ll think my birthday is everyday—could be beneficial in the present department—and I’ll never appear to age.”  Pause. “If he ticks me off, all I have to do is take off the hat and hide it.”

Mom: “Or stick him in a greenhouse.”

Me: “I’ll always have an ‘in’ with Santa.”

Mom: “The best part?  He goes away at least nine months out of the year. Honey, it’s a dream marriage.”

Laughter-snorts followed.

Behold my lovely ring—note the delicate blue and pink plastic. Bit narcissistic that he had to have his face on said ring, but, you know, you make concessions. ;)

Truth Is Thursday...On Friday.

Truth Is: Stress was the main ingredient this week. It's like everything lands on your shoulders all at once.

Truth Is: Last weekend was traditional decorating time with the family! I took care of the family room, while Mom was in the kitchen setting up a wrapping station and Dad was hanging stuff around her (like fun Christmas signs and wreaths).  All was fairly quiet, apart from the occasional giggle or Mom telling Dad where to hang stuff.  Next thing I know, both Mom and Dad start singing like two holly jolly reindeer...to Mariah Carey's All I Want For Christmas. We're talking duet.  It was the most adorable thing--I only wish I could have recorded it. 

Truth Is: Fate is trying to put me on Santa's Naughty List indefinitely. You know how I can kind-of, sort-of have a potty mouth while watching sports. Lord help me I try, but when those referees cut loose, so does my mouth.

Christmas Day...the holiest day of the year...and the Dallas Mavericks will play the Miami Heat.  Really? Christmas Day? Really? Have you ANY idea how badly I'm going to have to bite my tongue? Sigh. Having said that, GO MAVS!!!! SO happy to have them back!

Truth Is: Ah, well, while helping my parents decorate I sort-of had one mishap after the other.

1. The little train set that sits by the fireplace EVERY year might be ruined because I forgot to remove the battery. Yeah. When I removed it from the box, a blue goop oozed into my hand.

Brought it to Dad to fix.

Me to Dad: "Bet you never thought you'd still be tinkering with batteries and toys..."

Dad, with a chuckle: "Not at this stage in the game."

Me, a little embarrassed: "Well, it has to be kind-of...refreshing."

Dad began belly laughing.

2. Removed a little musical ornament that plays It's A Small World, pressed the button, and...no song.  But, I did get an incredibly loud, non-stop buzzing sound.

Brought it to Dad to fix.

Me: "Um, it won't stop buzzing."

Dad just looked at me. He was still working on trying to get the battery out of the train. Mom eventually shoved something up under the bottom of it and stopped the thing from making any sound...possibly forever.

3. While trying to vacuum the area around the tree, the hose thing detached from the suck-part thing...as in, it broke. Um, I hid it.  Dad doesn't know yet. Thank God they have two.

Well, my eyes are beginning to glaze over--I'll catch up on blog reading over the weekend. I apologize if there are any mistakes in this post, but I'm seriously zombie-like...even though I really do hate zombies.

Oh, and I'll post the Christmas fun facts tomorrow. :) 

Happiness Survey!

Jay had this survey on his blog and his answers were so much fun to read, he said we could do the same. So, here we go!

What makes you happy?

* Christmas makes me sublimely happy. Christmas music, movies, shows, decorations, food…everything.

* My parents, who mean the world to me.

* Football, NASCAR, Basketball, Baseball, etc.

* Soda. Yeah, I know. Bad for me makes me happy.

* Dreams.

What was your childhood like? Honestly, I couldn’t ask for a better childhood. It was a childhood full of love, laughter, and so many traditions. I miss it everyday.

What was your first crush like? Mind-numbing.  It’s actually funny to think back on it now—how every little look held a hidden message or how every “and, the, huh, uh, and um” he uttered just had to mean something.

Did you ever have a celebrity crush? What was that like? Troy Aikman was my big crush in the 90s. Well, and The Right Kind of Love singer, Jeremy Jordan.  Honestly, especially with Troy, the crush filled a void…it kept me company. I guess, while others had boyfriends, I had an unrealistic crush—the best kind, really, because they can’t hurt you—which is why I’ll be hanging on to my Bing Crosby crush for eternity. ;)

Do you like sports? Um, do we remember how I was during the Mavericks’ run for the Championship? Need I say more?

Have you ever done sports? Yeah, no. I watch, not play.

What music do you like? Everything, really. From Indie and instrumental to R&B and country, I listen to it all.  I love American Standards (Big Band) as well—it’s something I grew up with and hold very close to my heart.

What instruments do you play? Yeah, none, unless you count tapping out songs with your nails on the keyboard when boredom sets in? Yeah, didn’t think so.

Did you like school?  I didn't like how cruel kids could be growing up.  As I got older, it became more about grades than anything else, especially in college and beyond. People didn’t call me Hermione for nothing. I was obsessed with getting A’s. To this day, I have dreams (nightmares?) that I’ve forgotten to study for an exam. I’m very glad to awaken from those dreams, I tell you.

                            

What is your favorite color and why? Pink! I have no idea why, but I just love it!

Do you like where you are living? Yes, it’s a great little town.

                                     

If you could live anywhere else in the world, where would it be? Ooh, that’s tough. I would say Diagon Alley or maybe Santa’s village. ;)

What was your favorite book growing up and what is your favorite now? Growing up, I loved the classics like Charlotte’s Web, Anne of Greene Gables, and The Boxcar Children. I also loved the Nancy Drew books and Babysitter’s Club series. Today, I love the True Blood series.  Until I find a new book love, my present day favorite must go to the Harry Potter series. 

               

What is the answer to life, the universe, and everything else? Not sure there is an answer, but if I had to guess, I would say: do the best you can, be the best person you can, remember The Golden Rule, have faith, be true to yourself, love and cherish your family…oh, and count your blessings instead of sheep. ;)

Do you know where your towel is? Um, huh? I feel stupid. Am I missing something with this one? Anyone know what this means? Uh, it’s hanging in the bathroom. I feel off the charts on the stupid meter right now.  Do they mean the kind you whoosh around during a football game??? 

Lion King Cuteness, Blog Award, & Kiss It.

Kiss It: We have some randomness this Friday, mainly because my brain has declared an early weekend due to its state of pi** off.  A certain HE made a cameo and proceeded to, yet again, show just how incredibly screwed up he is about things, namely how to treat others. The funny thing is, I'm not convinced he even gets what he does or says. I'm not mad or hurt on a personal level, just ticked on a human-to-human level. There's a way of treating people, you know, and it doesn't involve impersonating the Riddler.  I know this is all cryptic, but, like I said, the brain has left its pink slip for the day. 

Lion King Cuteness: Mom told me Dad asked her if they had the DVD The Lion King.  She didn't think they had it, so Dad hopped on over to Target and came home with the DVD. 

Once home, Mom told me she had to ask him about his interest in the DVD:

Mom: "Honey, why did you get The Lion King?"

Dad, a little coy: "'Cause I like the music."

Isn't that cute? This is a man who likes war movies, action films, and comedy-type things, like Wedding Crashers and Stripes, yet here he is buying a Disney movie. Too darn cute.

Blog Award: I received a wonderful award from the super adorably kind Purple.Mist! Thank you so much, sweetie, and huge congrats on finishing your exams!!!

Now, I'm supposed to pass this pretty award to 15 bloggers, but you know I'm ridiculously bad about that.   So, with it being the holidays and all, EVERYONE snatch it up and enjoy.

Extra Random Fun: Here's what y'all have suggested so far for my superhero alter ego super powers...

With invisibility already in check...

Lost.In.Idaho: Super honesty (no sugar coating--brutal bluntness only).

J.Day: Knock sense into people (I'm thinking this could work with the super honesty--like the result of brutal bluntness is common sense.)

LOLA: Harry & Hermione powers. (So, here, I'm thinking about taking Expecto Patronum and Petrificus Totalus and combining them into one super spell).

Loving your suggestions!!!  If y'all have any others, bring 'em on!!!

So, this weekend, aside from sweating over sports, I'll be working up my superhero identity--very fun. Great idea, Lex!!!

Have a great weekend!!!

Truth Is Thursday!

 Truth Is: Mom always says the best things, like this one: “Now I know it’s the holidays when I’m eating chocolate chip cookies and drinking soda.”

And this one came after Dad wanted to talk about sad news stuff and Mom interrupted, simply saying: “I want to curl up in my own little euphoric world and pretend.”

Truth Is: This time of year especially, I tend to think there is so much more to this world than we can see with our eyes. (A little whimsical, I know, but where’s the fun in reality all the time?)

Truth Is: The brightened, surprised looks on the faces of elderly couples when I smile at them should make me happy, but really it makes me want to cry; it’s like they don’t get those smiles very often. My dad confirmed this when he once helped an elderly veteran and the gentleman’s chin started quivering. Simple things mean the world.

Truth Is: The Dallas Cowboys sit atop the NFC East!!! BFF is practically giddy (this is saying a great deal, considering he’s a grumpy Grinch this time of year and usually cheers for the Abominable Snowman in Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer).

Truth Is: I get to create a superhero alter-ego, thanks to Lex. And I get to draw me as a superhero! So excited! Not sure what powers I’ll have yet. I’m open to suggestions—what kind-of powers should I have? I like the power of invisibility, but, as otherworldly as it may seem, I’m pretty sure I already have that one…and I don’t even need a cloak. :/ I’m aiming for Monday to reveal my secret superhero identity because, you know, we all have one and Monday's usually suck.

Truth Is Thursday, Thanksgiving Themed!

First and foremost, I hope EVERYONE is having a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!

Truth is: COWBOYS WON! Whoop-Whoop!!! Turkey Day with a Cowboys win makes digesting much easier.

Truth is: After the game, CBS did a little tribute to all who work behind the scenes. They show pictures of everyone and their families while playing a song. It’s really nice.  Anyway, this year, they played Keith Urban’s Without You, which he wrote for his wife, Nicole Kidman.  I LOVE that song—who doesn’t want a man who loves like that?! I’ll post the video below.

Truth is: This morning, the Christmas music station I listen to did something that even made my mom’s jaw drop. 

In between songs, the DJ started talking about random stuff and then mentioned something about wish lists. I thought she was going to talk about the top toys kids are asking for this season, like they normally do. I couldn’t have been more wrong.  

DJ Lady: “…I’ll let you know what single people  are wishing for this holiday season.”

Really? We now have single-people specific wish lists for Santa? And here I always thought wish lists were specific to the individual, regardless of social status.

Couldn’t stick around and find out what topped the single person’s wish list, but I bet whatever it was didn’t match my wish list, since my #1 is sports related.  So…there…you sorta not nice DJ Lady person. *sticking tongue out*

Truth is: I really, really want to ride a float in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. 

Truth is: My mom’s kitchen smells so good…and the fridge with all the leftovers is the best smelling fridge this side of the moon.

Truth is: Will not be Black Friday shopping.  Will be sitting in front of television for football.  Must be ready for football.  Watching football right now, actually. I do love football.  Can I possibly type football any more times?  Probably. ;)

Truth is:  Think I over-stuffed my tummy.  It’s tradition to over-stuff on Thanksgiving. Definitely lived up to said tradition. 

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!!!

Here’s the video I mentioned above: