Any Wife

I Feel His Pain

2011-02-01T12:51:00.000-08:00

Why is it I can be as mean to my hubby as I want, but if someone else irritates him I feel the pain and my blood pressure goes up?

A Do Over

2011-01-29T14:41:00.000-08:00

Ever went through a day and determined you wasted it away and need a do over.

A migraine and fatique from a long week are my excuses. What was yours?

Someone should have given me a kick in the pants we shouldn't waste days.

My Husband Raises Worms

2011-01-28T16:48:00.000-08:00

Golf, Racing, Football, Stamp Collecting not my husband. I asked him to compost and we started vermicomposting and now he is obsessed!!

At least the hobby is good for the environment.

Three Texts and a Trip to The Grocery

2011-01-27T18:17:00.000-08:00

Worked late tonight, the hubby texted three times, the last time during my meeting asked what I suggested for supper, I ignored thinking the pantry and freezer are full, no worries.

45 minutes later I call and he is returning from the grocery store where he bought four boxes of Zatarans Pasta. When I asked why pasta since he doesn't like pasta and he said he accidently bought the wrong thing. Again I say he bought four boxes, what is up with that??

Husbands and Their Ideas

2011-01-26T18:51:00.000-08:00

My husband and his past times...BBQ, every direct marketing idea ever created, verimocomposting, backyard gardening, key words,blogging, motorcycling, reading, surfing the internet, shaving his head, buying product to put on his bald head. I make me tired.

Things written in my Junior High Annual #1

2010-04-05T17:51:00.000-07:00

Doing a bit of spring cleaning and before I trash my annual from 1982. I thought I would make note of the insightful and meaningful notes...NOT!!!

1. Your a nice girl & a nice friend. Hope to have some classes with you next year.
P.S. John Deere #1 HA HA, Your friend, MT

Please remember I am copying this word for word so the spelling and grammar errors are not mine!!

2. You're a real nice & sweet person & it has been nice to have known you over the years. Hope to see you over the summer, if not see your next you next year, hope we have some classes togethernext ear, See ya! Love ya, JG

Wow apparently I never noticed the Love ya or I might have been married at the age of 13!!

3. It's been so so knowing you since 4th grade, but next year I won't have to worry. You are going to fail aren't you? Kidding, RU

Wonder if this one grew up to be a comedian!!

4. It's been really neat knowing you. You were really sweet to me in 3rd. I think you are really pretty and I'm not saying that to be nice. I really mean it. Good luck, next year with the guys. Friends, JQ.

Apparently I had low self esteem in 3rd period

Can you cook raw meat and vegetables in same pan?

2009-05-30T12:34:00.000-07:00

Raw Meat and Veggies I have always heard not to cook together, but recently I found a recipe which instructs you to do so.

I can not tell a lie I followed the directions to the tee not once but twice, but I still wonder if what I grew up hearing people say is true.

Do you or do you know cook raw veggies w/raw meat??

Local Food

2009-02-16T14:42:00.000-08:00

What do you consider "Local Food"?

Super Bowl in Tampa

2009-02-01T16:55:00.001-08:00

My husband and I have decided to market ourselves to cities to aid them in getting the Super Bowl the second year we live in their city.

I know it is planned out years in advance, but in Detroit and now in Tampa in our second year of residence the Super Bowl came to town. I only wish Nashville had a stadium large enough to handle it because ultimately that is where we want to live.

Our other claim to fame in second year of residence is the baseball teams going to the World Series, now mind you neither the Tigers or the Rays won, but just the fact in getting the final games seems notable.

The Guy Not Taken

2008-05-10T11:24:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Weiner fooled me. I checked out The guy not taken from our wonderful library thinking to myself I liked In Her Shoes so I am sure I will like it, too. I didn't read the inside of the jacket so I was expecting a novel ( yes the on the bottom of the cover it says stories, but I just didn't think or read).

So imagine my surprise when I got to Chapter 3 and all the characters changed. I was at the beach with my husband and I thought I had gotten sun poisoning and was dazed. Of course at that point I did my research and found that it was a book of short stories by Jennifer Weiner.

Once figuring that out I was in love with the whole idea of the compilation of short stories based on love and the different varieties and the tribulations of said love.

Plus it was the perfect book for the beach. Easy to read stories that you could complete between roll overs (you know front tanning to back tanning).

I also enjoyed the section at the end that told a little about how each of the stories was completed.

It is a definite to take with you on vacation.

CiCi's Pizza

2008-05-03T17:03:00.000-07:00

CiCi's Pizza not for us.

With the watching of the budget we have made a pack to treat ourselves to only one meal at a restaurant a week. This of course does not take into account my husband's lunches a Subway, but not packing a lunch is another whole post.

So back to this one, we received a coupon in the mail for CiCi's Dinner for 2 plus drinks $10.99. Now we have ventured to CiCi's twice in the past once in Casselberry Florida and it was a horrible experience: crazy crowd, dirty, and not enough pizza and second Buena Vista Florida and it was okay we were with kids and it was easier because they could just get the pizza they wanted and the adults weren't relegated to eating cheese pizza to make them happy.

The restaurant itself was nice, bright clean, with friendly neat employees, but the pizza was blah the pasta with alfredo sauce was lumpy wear it was not hot enough and really come to think of it the pizza wasn't hot enough for me.

We decided we had given it enough chances and would not be back no matter how convenient. There are enough Pizza places in the area that we like better. It is so sad that we wasted our eating out on this outing, but at least it was only $10.99

Are you stimulating the economy?

2008-04-29T10:49:00.000-07:00

The Tax Stimulus check or direct deposits start this week according to the news.

Are you stimulating the economy?

Not me...Last year we did our part a house, a refrigerator, a washer and dryer, and a trip out west.

This year with me without a job a huge tax payment (isn't that ironic) that I sent a check for over $3500 and now I wait for whatever we are eligible to replenish a bit of our money market account.

So no I am not turning down our deposit I refuse to buy something we don't really need. I need to feel better about what we have saved in case of emergency.

My hope is that the rest of the world wide web at least that which is in the United States stimulates the economy. Maybe then I will be able to find some kind of a job.

So help little ole me and SPEND!!

No Reservations

2008-04-28T14:17:00.000-07:00

To pay my husband back for "21" I got to choose what movie we rented and it was "No Reservations". It was a hit for me. Although I can't imagine any woman no matter how career oriented would leave a child alone in New York City after her mother had just died, but it is Hollywood.

The man of the house even had a few chuckles. At $4 for rental and the comforts of my house it was a steal compared to the $18 we spent at the theatre.

With the cost of gas included it was definitely a better deal. Now I figure in fuel cost before doing or buying anything.

21

2008-04-26T11:03:00.000-07:00

For our big 10th Wedding Anniversary we went to the movies to see "21". The husband got to pick since I chose bowling in the a.m. Yes, you are thinking how lame these folks are, but we have no money and we still wanted to do something with my husband's day off. So shove it if you are making fun of us.

Back to "21", it was the longest movie I think I have ever watched on the big screen and I don't mean time wise. I wanted to be sympathetic to the MIT senor lured into playing 21 in Las Vegas because of his card counting skills and his need for $300,000 to pay for Harvard, but I just couldn't. I wanted to feel the sexual tension between fellow card counter and Ben, but I just couldn't. I was just extremely glad I was subjected to any bedroom scenes. I did kind of dislike the Kevin Spacey character, but not enough to cheer when the tides turned.

I actually left the movie for about 10-15 minutes and sat in the lobby to people watch for a change in scenery. That should tell you something.

The truck might be dieing

2008-04-23T13:20:00.000-07:00

So today was a outside of my little neighborhood day. I planned to venture to the KOHLS, Joann's and maybe Michaels. Unfortunately after putting on the breaks to let a merging card in front of me the truck began to sputter every time I tried to accelerate past 45.

I went ahead to KOHLS and spent about an hour there. No so much shopping but praying that by letting the truck rest it would by some miracle fix itself. WRONG!!

The good thing about the trip though if I might search for the positive is that I found 4 packs of white napkins on sale for $1.19. So I picked up 6 packs for the Bridesmaids luncheon.

Okay back to the truck I drove immediately home and called the husband. Yes it was insane to call him at work thinking he could diagnosis over the phone, but I felt better getting it off my chest.

Let's hope it is something small. We must have 2 vehicles, but we have no $$ for another car payment. YIKES

Earth Day

2008-04-22T08:40:00.000-07:00

What are you doing?

We are so not green in my house, but we are doing little things. Or at least i think we are.

We definitely recycle. I have always recycled and continue to do it.

We are changing out our lightbulbs to the energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs, but only as the ones we have burnout. I can't bring myself to waste the ones that are still working.

We do not have efficient vehicles, but we have began the research process. Until this wife gets a job we can not afford two car payments, so we have to use our heads.

I have found myself being better about turning lights off as I exit a room and I am coaxing my husband into installing motions sensors in closets and laundry room.

How can we do more on our limited budget?

No Direction

2008-04-16T08:28:00.000-07:00

This blog is like me, no direction.

What comes first my direction or the blog direction?

Gas Prices $3.31, How to save money elsewhere?

2008-04-15T16:53:00.001-07:00

Sorry Barnes and Nobles and Borders, but my book buying budget has been taken to 0.00.

My solution: Go to the Public Library and enjoy the many resources there that your tax $$ have already paid for you to use.

Primetime-The Last Lecture

2008-04-11T09:25:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday and Wednesday while at home I saw several interviews with Diane Sawyer talking about "The Last Lecture" and the Primetime special on Randy Pausch. I am ashamed to say I had not heard of it before sequestered in my little stucco home. Seems like I have been totally absorbed in job hunting, television and going to the grocery. Roll you eyes if you will it is true.

So it wasn't hard from my to tear myself away from "Idol Gives Back" to watch the Primetime Special. My husband joined me and we sat in almost total silence except for statements of awe and amazement discussions during commercials.

What strength the Pausch family displays and what purpose they live their lives. I suggest you watch the lecture if you haven't already.

My hope is that I truly learned from this interview/lecture. To see what really matters and to live. With me who knows, but I hope by writing it down I will be forced to look at it occasionally and stay on track.

Sister In Law's Wedding, What should I wear?

2008-04-05T13:50:00.000-07:00

These are my choices for a dress to wear to my Sister In Law's Wedding. I know this is silly but I have asked my sisters for their virtual opnion. It is so hard to shop alone for clothes or at least it is for me.

Dress 2 had 2 votes (by the way it is blue not black)

Dress 3 has one my husband.

Why do we as women obsess (maybe a strong word) worry over things like this? Really it is the brides day, no one will remember what I wore except in the family portrait.

Maybe I should go back to the drawing board.

Macy's, Dillards, and Bealls

2008-04-04T13:33:00.000-07:00

Macy's, Dillards, and Bealls the customer service I received today.

I am looking for a dress for my sister-in-laws wedding. Somehow my body has shifted(couldn't be that I am a coach potato) and all the dresses I like don't like me. But I am digressing from the reason for the post.

Bealls, I really didn't expect to find the dress for the occasion, but the store was new and I hadn't been in a Bealls since returning to Florida. The store was beautiful with a very upscale appearance. From what I could see there were some good values, too. I know I got a pair of leather Docker shoes for $18. But what floored me was the lack of customer service. I saw lots of associates. I actually stood next to one while she straightened the purses on the same rack and she didn't even say HI. The same thing happened in the shoe department. At several of the departments I did see buttons you could push if you needed help. I really didn't after seeing the dress selection was a bit casual(cute but casual) for what I wanted. I'll shop there again and hope that at least the folks working there say HI!!!

Macy's, again a beautiful store. I was greeted at the front door with a Good Morning and I bet that every department I went into someone said something to me. I like that. It wasn't a pressure greeting, simply a HI, Hello, How's your day. Although I didn't find the dress I wanted I did find the service I appreciate. I'll be back.

Dillards, trusty Dillards, another beautiful store. I wasn't greeted at the door(but I don't really expect that), but I was greeted throughout the store. Once when a group of employees were talking they stopped the conversation and one of them greeted me. Here the dress department was phenomenal. I actually had to split my trip because I was having lunch with the better half. The associate was gracious to hold a couple of dresses until I returned to finish my search. Although the associate didn't help me find dresses she was available at both my visits.

I worked retail for many years and I am always surprised now when I go into a store and no one says Hello. Don't get me wrong I was in management I know all the cuts in payroll to decrease the budget, but I always told my people you can at least say HI and make yourself available if needed then go about your other duties. Today some stores did better than others. My husband says I am just picky because I had to be cheerful and helpful for all those years that I want payback now. Who knows maybe I am just a jerk customer who wants too much.

But to Dillards I say, I walked out with 4 dresses today because of the selection and service.

Snoring,How do you handle it in your marriage?

2008-04-03T10:25:00.000-07:00

Snoring, we all seem to want to deny that we do do it and are quick to pronounce it to everyone when your bed partner does it.

Well Tuesday morning I realized how much my husband loved me, when he informed our bird and me that I had snored the last hour. I asked why he didn't he wake me up or nudge me. He simply said he knew I hadn't been sleeping well and he didn't want to disturb what must be a great sleep. How unselfish since he had to get up to go to work and I planned on going back to bed once he left.

If the shoes had been reversed and there have been times when they were I would have nudged, hit, pushed and pulled until he moved or woke up.

Luckily we neither snore every night so I won't have to deal with the issue soon. I wonder if I will be unselfish the next time he wakes me up. In the early years maybe but now I am not so sure.

We Survived the 1960's and earlier

2008-04-01T09:25:00.000-07:00

I received this as a forward in an email just a moment ago. I have heard similar to this before. Instead of forwarding to every one's email I thought it would be easier and more considerate to just post here.

TO ALL THE KIDS WHO SURVIVED the 1930's, 40's, 50's, 60's and 70's!! First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they were pregnant. They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes.

Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-based paints.

We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, the risks we took hitchhiking.

As infants &children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, booster seats, seat belts or air bags. Riding in the back of a pick up on a warm day was always a special treat.

We drank water from the garden hose and NOT from a bottle. We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this.

We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank Kool-aid made with sugar, but we weren't overweight because, We Were ALWAYS Outside Playing!

We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on. No one was able to reach us all day. And we were O.K.

We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.

We did not have Playstations, Wiis, Nintendos, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 150 channels on cable, no video movies or DVD's, no surround-sound or CD's, no cell phones, no personal computer! s, no Internet or chat rooms..... We Had FRIENDS and we went outside and found them!

We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents. We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever.

We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays, made up games with sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told it would happen, we did not poke out very many eyes.

We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them!

Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!!

The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law! These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever! The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas.

We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned
HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL! If You are one of them CONGRATULATIONS!

From this maybe I didn't take enough risks, since I sit here unemployed. Maybe I should take part of this as incentive for me personally.

March 27, 1967 Happy Birthday

2008-03-27T08:15:00.001-07:00

Well today is my birthday. 41, unemployed, and thankfully healthy and with a terrific husband.

My mother sent me with a wonderful check a book on what was going on in 1967.

U.S. Troops in Vietnam increased from 300,000 to 474,300
Three U.S. astronauts die in flash fire
U.S. Population reaches 200 Million
Elvis and Priscilla marry in Las Vegas (wondered if they ever dreamed of "Dancing with the Stars"
Thurgood Marshall becomes the first Black to be appointed to the Supreme Court
Green Bay Packers won the Super Bowl
Cardinals won the World Series
Average Income $7305.00 (I don't make that now)
New Car Cost $2,724.00
New House Cost $14,425.00 (Wish I could refinance my house on that amount, heck I could pay it off)
Gas Cost .33 ( I paid 3.19 on Monday)
Gallon of Milk Cost $1.15 ( I paid $3.00 for half gallon yesterday)
Minimum Wage $1.40
Life Expectancy 70.2 years ( I hope it is a bit longer now)

I wonder what it will be like in another 41 years.

Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

2008-03-26T14:28:00.000-07:00

On the way this weekend to visit my niece in Columbus, GA my husband and I passed by a sign that said Plains, GA. I made a comment like "Wow there is Plains GA" and my husband said what so special about Plains. I was astonished that he didn't know the town. Growing up in the 70's even though he wasn't in the South I assumed he had heard of it.

When we got to my nieces and were deciding what to do on Saturday, I mentioned Plains and my niece was excited to go visit the historic site.

It was a beautiful Spring Georgia day when we pulled up to the Plains High School that is now a museum for President Carter and his family. From there we went to eat at "Mom's Kitchen" where I am told by my touring partners the best onion rings they have ever eaten are made. We drove by the depot that served as the Carter Campaign headquarters and headed to the boyhood farm of the Carters.

Whether Democrat or Republican I think it is important to visit our historic sites that pay homage to our history. In fact I am surprised some tour company hasn't devised a tour of President's home.

NASCAR-Husband's Hobby

2008-03-16T13:45:00.001-07:00

As a single woman I would I watch enough football, basketball, nascar etc. to be able to maintain an intelligent conversation with any potential dates I might have. I got married 10 years ago and assumed that I was through with that.

WRONG!!!

Today as I sit waiting for my husband to come back from a class I find myself watching NASCAR. Well admittedly during commercials I flip to HGTV and watch Design on a Dime and Divine Design.

Back to the point which I believe I might have discussed before today, how wives and I guess husband's adjust their interests to their significant others. I play fantasy football and watch NASCAR , and aid him in his BBQ habit, he will go to an occasional flea market with me. He has recently developed an interest in Bonsai. I have put my foot down and told me that has no interest for me and he is on his own.

Annie Freeman's Fabulous Traveling Funeral by Kris Radish

2008-03-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

I wasted my morning in bed. Told my husband that I didn't plan on leaving the room unless he planned something cheap for us to do. A waste right? I did get out of bed only because I was worried about my man. If he didn't go out and do something we would be in for one terrible day. So off on his motorcycle he went and I waited. When he returned after a brief visit to Sonic for a Sundae we came home for together time.

So I sat down to finish Annie Freeman's Fabulous Traveling Funeral. About a wonderful giving friend who dies of cancer, but before dying plans a traveling funeral for her closes friends. Who might I say were all giving loving above average woman that even in fiction make me look wasteful of the life god has given me.

I read the final pages on my screened in lanai with my husband next to me reading Fahrenheit 451. A slight breeze blowing through the Grand Live Oak behind our house and our little bird "Riley" in his cage trying to talk to the mocking birds. Although no work was being done, no lives being saved it was a great way to spend time on a Saturday afternoon. Yes, maybe a bit selfish, but still a time I will remember for the closeness and warmth I felt from my husband.

My sister shared this book with me. She said she bought it strictly because she loved the title, but then fell in love with the book. It is a kick in the pants for me. Being unemployed and $$$ poor I have taken for granted family, friends and neighbors. I hope no more. No more of the mornings that I had this beautiful Saturday. to think I wasted 4 hours of a great day and a great life.

Buy the book, borrow the book, go to your local library where you can check out the book for free. But please read it.

Ford F-150 Maintenance

2008-03-14T13:54:00.000-07:00

Routine maintenance on the F-150 turns into a possible $1700 estimate on repair.

With no job I am trying to stay busy and do all those things that are easier to do in the middle of the week while the husband works. So being a good little wife I take his truck into the shop for an oil change and to get the tires rotated.

Why was I surprised when out walked the manager walked out and told me the things that needed to done.

1. 1 BR Clean and Adjust $29.99 ( I don't even remember what this one is)
2. 4 Shocks (Front and Rear) $649.80
3. 1 Alignment $69.99
4.1 LF Tie Rod Outer $85.45
5. 2 Upper Cont Arm Bushing $170.08
6. Oil Pan Gasket $717.45

These include parts and labor.

I stuck to my guns and went for what I came in for today, but I do figure that some or all of this should be done. Unfortunately with me having no job $1700 is out of the question. So now we have to sit down and decide how much to spend on a 1998 Ford F-150 with 123,000 miles on it.

Jobless and Cooking

2008-03-13T14:07:00.000-07:00

My temporary job ended last month. I have cleaned, ironed, cleaned, took care of the cars, went to the dentist and now to refrain from going crazy as I search for another job I took up cooking again. My husband and I need to be losing the 20-30 extra pounds we have gained instead of eating my desserts I make.

I occasionally send stuff to my husband's job so that we don't get where they will have to get a wheel barrow to tote us out of the house.

Let's hope a job comes soon. Don't worry I am not just looking to the heavens for one to come to me I am putting resumes out in person, online,and in the mail.

Echo Park by Michael Connelly

2008-02-18T06:49:00.000-08:00

My husband passed this book along to me. This was a one day read for him and he was very excited me to read it, too.

Well I started in October and finished Sunday. To my husband's dismay I had a hard time getting through Part I once I hit part II I couldn't put it down.

Maybe it was a detail thing Or a Male Female thing.

I would definitely recommend for a gift for the male reader in your family.

Foaming Hand Wash Hint

2008-02-15T09:18:00.000-08:00

I love the Dial Complete Foaming Hand Wash. It has been a non-negotiable part of my household budget since it came out a few years ago.

Since moving back to Florida I have found that CVS has a 32 ooz refill of foaming hand wash. I have to say that I am not a big store brand user. But since I have not worked regularly in over a year I have to budget where I can so I tried it. To my surprise I was happy with it. So now I also actually feel that I am being a bit environmental aware because by purchasing the refill larger size that does me about 6 refills I am eliminating some of the extra waste I would be putting into our landfills.

The Kingdom

2008-02-03T12:59:00.000-08:00

The final movie from Saturday Movie Night rolled over to Sunday afternoon pre Super Bowl. It is The Kingdom.

I remember the commercials and it caught my eye because of names involved in it. My husband and I I seldom agree on what to rent. Jamie Foxx is so talented that I thought surely this one will be a mutually acceptable one. I was correct. It is a definite must rent. Sometimes I wonder why certain moviese succeed and others go straight to DVD.

My standard movie comment is that it was well worth renting but glad I didn't pay movie theatre prices. Well this one I think I would have enjoyed in fullscreen.

Let's just say that Jennifer Garner is the best tough girl around!!

Movie Night

2008-02-02T18:15:00.000-08:00

It's a Saturday night and my husband and I are spending our night in a movie marathon.

First up was my choice License To Wed. Cute and funny, but of course when you see that Robin Williams is starring in it you have to assume that funny will be a word you can use to describe it. The ironic thing is that although the trials and tests that the Reverend put the two young newlyweds through are totally outlandish there is still some realism to the lesson learned. We laughed and snuggled and compared him to "Father Ed" who did our premarital counseling.

Second on the list is Cellular my husband's choice. Gives a whole new meaning to answering the phone from a number you do not recognize.

Crafts Show

2007-09-29T17:32:00.000-07:00

Craft Shows..... to me this means booths of vendors who have products that they have created. From Soap, Candles, crochet, painted items to fudge.

So imagine my disgust when my husband went to a show today paid $5 to park and $10 to get in and to find that half the vendors had items that although looked very Americana but had big MADE IN CHINA tag on the back.

Don't get me wrong I have many many items that I love that were made in another country. That is not why I am irritated. It was a craft show. I expected as I said before to see hand made items. Creative items sometimes wacky items and althought there were a few of these booths (i.e roses made from wood shavings or candy corn dispensers made out of chicken feeders) In my opnion there was not enough to warrent the $$ we spent.

Just a rant.

Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark

2007-09-23T13:58:00.000-07:00

Wow this is a 24 hour read.

Way back in June my husband and I vacationed with my parents. My mother got off the plane with "Two Little Girls in Blue" by Mary Higgins Clark. She had bought it as a vacation read. By that night she was walking into our hotel room giving me the book. She said once you start you won't stop.

I came home and put it by my bed and there it has sat until yesterday afternoon. My husband was having a quiet Saturday at home and I went and grabbed it and we both read our repective books. By midnight I was 3/4 thorough and by 2:00pm Sunday afternoon I finished.

The story about the kidnapping of twin girls had me sure I knew who the kidnapping mastermind was with every passing chapter. But let me say that my idea changed with almost every chapter. I liked that it kept me quessing and had me reevaluating my choices and why I made them. It kept me engaged.

My husband has even decided to add it to his reading list.

False Pretenses

2007-09-17T07:24:00.000-07:00

So besides movie watching I read a book this weekend.

I love Catherine Coulter and at the library last week I found one of her earlier books that I had missed, "False Pretenses".

A classic pianist is accused of murdering her much older husband. When it looks like a conviction is eminent a stranger comes forward with a alibi. The heroine goes through a metamorphosis from a wife indebted to her husband to strong think for yourself business person who fights for her company and her life.

It is a good read. I definitely see how Ms Coulter's writing has matured into her FBI Thrillers.

I only hope I find another new read from her on my next trip to the library.

By the way remember to visit your local library and use some of its many resources.

Bourne Ultimatum

2007-09-17T07:16:00.001-07:00

Took in a Saturday Matinee with my hubby, his choice this week. So off we go to "Bourne Ultimatum". I had seen "Bourne Identity" and enjoyed it so I was not upset at his choice.

I had heard that his was best of the Bourne series. From my point it wasn't, it was definitely enjoyable (as long as I got my eyes closed before people got gutted or shot). Like the others you had to really keep you mind active to keep up with what you thought would happen.

It has been in the theatres for awhile so I am sure that soon it will be on DVD. If you miss on you next matinee outing rent the DVD.

The Nanny Diaries

2007-09-02T17:04:00.000-07:00

Went to a matinee this afternoon. Yes from the title you are already aware that it was "The Nanny Diaries".

It was not exactly what I expected. I think I expected a bit more comedy, maybe a dramedy, but I got more drama.

Glad I saw it, but also glad I only paid matinee price!!!

The Bird

2007-08-29T09:03:00.000-07:00

Well it is Day 4 with the bird. So far it isn't too loving. I feel sorry for my husband, but we are working on gaining its trust and now at least we can stand close to the cage without scurrying to the corner.

It is also apparently spoiled. Being at home by myself it chirps unless I am in the room with it.

This is why I have tried to stay away from pets.

Love Birds

2007-08-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

I gave in on a pet for my husband. After 9 years of marriage on top of three dating in which I said no animals in the house I gave in a few weeks ago.

So tomorrow we go to pick up a love bird and cage.

More to this story to come I am sure.

Backflow Valve on our Irrigation System

2007-08-23T12:56:00.000-07:00

8:45 pm last night our doorbell rang and our neighbor informed us that some pipe outside our house was spewing water and it had obviously been for awhile since our beautiful St. Augustine Grass was saturated.

My husband was able to stop the water flow, but we were unsure of it would cause some backup in the house (at that time we didn't know it was part of the irrigation system). We called the 24 hour emergency plumbing number that our builder gave us 3 times with no return call. Finally we decided that we knew they got our message and if they didn't call back then it wasn't an emergency. We were right our warranty rep called this a.m. to explain that it was on our irrigation system and the valve had gone bad and we did the right thing to turn it off.

I hate it that we have no common sense when it comes to fixing stuff around our house.

This weekend I might get bold and try to put up a ceiling fan.

"Stranger Than Fiction"

2007-08-21T09:26:00.001-07:00

We are so worn out on reruns and reality TV that yesterday I went out to rent a couple of DVDs. I came across "Stranger than Fiction" starring Will Ferrell with a supporting cast of some big names like Maggie Gyllenhaal, Dustin Hoffman, Queen Latifah, and Emma Thompson. My first thought was actually an unselfish one, I hate comedies, but my husband loves them and I just knew anything with Will Ferrell would be hilarious. It wasn't, but it was wonderful just the same and my spouse praised my choice.

Will Ferrell plays Harold Crick an unwitting participant in a novel in progress. He soon learns he will be killed off at the end of the novel. It was a thoughtful film and well worth the money to rent. I actually hate we missed it in the theatre ( I don't say that much)

A New Broom

2007-08-01T10:04:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought that one day the highlight of my day would be an oil change and buying a new broom?

The broom is a environmentally sound broom with bristles made of recycled plastic bottles made by O Cedar.

The Valvoline Oil Change guys were nice and friendly too.

So I guess it is a good day. I'll let you know how the broom works later!!!!

Friday the 13th

2007-07-13T09:26:00.000-07:00

YIKES!!!!

What to do when your husband has a bad bad day?

2007-07-13T09:15:00.001-07:00

My better half had a bad bad day as a part of a bad bad two weeks.

He blames the fact that for the first time in 9 years he took a week off of work. He told me that will NEVER happen again.

He thinks that a bad two weeks will ruin 11 years of being an excellent employee.

I have tried to tell him that everyone has bad days his just came in one large bunch. In reality I don't think he feels well and I think that is effecting him more than he wants to admit.

My husband's strength has always been to take constructive criticism and build on it and grow from it. It is something I admire about him. I shared this with him and the fact that as they say "This to will pass" and things will get better.

Let's hope I was not blowing smoke and he comes home tonight with a better story to tell.

Best Starch for 100% Cotton Shirts

2007-07-11T11:25:00.000-07:00

What is the best starch to use on my husband's 100% cotton shirts?

Since I don't have a job currently and the closest dry cleaners was turning out sub par shirts ( in my husband's opinion), I have started ironing his shirts. In this endeavor has lead my on a search for the best spray starch.

I've tried several of the Faultless products, Faultless Starch, Faultless Premium Starch, Faultless Professional. I definitely did not like the professional kind, although I did not have to worry with the white flakes, but it was not a heavy starch and was definitely not worth the few extra cents for me.

Now I am starting on the Niagara products. Today I used the heavy professional finish. I like the weight of the starch but I seemed to have a bit more trouble with the white flaking.

Let me know if you have any suggestions. My mother recommended I use the cold water starch and go back to the yesteryear's!!

Back from vacation and visitors

2007-07-11T06:16:00.000-07:00

We made it through our vacation two weeks ago and had a great time.

After trekking over the width of South Dakota, Wyoming and a short visit in Colorado I have to say I truly have a greater appreciation of "America The Beautiful".

Three days after our return my sister and her daughter came to visit and we vacationed some more.

This week has been recovery work so far, but it also has to be get cracking on a job week.

Green Horned Worms

2007-06-21T12:42:00.000-07:00

My patio farming days are numbered I fear and all because of a green horned worm.

I have been growing cherry tomatoes, red peppers, jalapenos, and banana peppers on my patio in pots. It has been therapeutic to get up every morning and water them and watch them grow. They aren't supplying me with enough veggies to survive on , but they are fun additions to my cooking and I had envisions of expanding my little garden next year if this was a success.

Tuesday morning as usual I went out and did my watering. Every thing looked fine. So imagine my surprise when I looked out the patio door around 2:00 to see that the jalapeno plant had four leaves on it. In their place were four huge hideous green horned catepillarlike worms. YIKES I hate worms. For a moment I paused to decide if I should wait for my husband to come home in three hours to take them off my veggies. Then I remembered the days pre -husband and thought suck it up and kill the buggers. They oozed the brightest green goo ever when I squished them. My nephew would have loved this job.

Then as I turn to go back in my house to try and disinfect myself of these gross critters out of the corner of my eye I see three small green horned things on my tomato plant. Words went through my mind that I should not share with the public. I threw my shoulders back and went after the things again. Boy do they have some suction cups on their little legs.

Immediately after a hand washing in very hot soapy water I go to the computer to learn about these disgusting things. I found out they are common and was advised that a powder called BT powder could tackle them or to try soapy water sprayed on the leaves especially the back of the leaves.

Yesterday after finding three more of the worms that nightmares are made out of I tried the soapy water idea. I really hope it works. I chose the non chemical method trying to avoid the insecticide method on my plants. We will see how it turns out.

Best Buy - Good Or Bad

2007-06-20T13:45:00.001-07:00

This morning I set out to do a return at Best Buy or at least try to do the return. I walked in expecting that I would be walking out unhappy.

As I have written we are leaving on vacation soon. A week ago we decided that I needed a larger memory card for the digital camera. We had seen a Best Buy advertisement for a 4 GB High Capacity Memory card for $39.95 so off we went. When we got there we found the item very easily. We knew the physical size for the card was correct but were concerned that because our camera was not brand spanky new that it might not work. My husband went and found a sales associate who said we were buying the correct thing. Being the sceptic of the duo I asked another associate who asked what kind of camera we had and we I told him Canon he told me that was designed for a Canon and there would be no problem. Famous last words, luckily I decided to try it out prior to leaving town and of course it didn't work.

After working many years in retail I knew that it was almost impossible to return items that had been broken out of the plastic containers so I went into Best Buy expecting that I had blown $39.95. Imagine my surprise when the young man said he knew exactly why the memory card didn't work and he had had to return several of these (I thought to myself maybe because your sales staff is telling people the wrong thing, but I kept quiet). He recommended a 2 GB memory card that should still be able to help me make it through our vacation without downloading. He did the exchange with no questions asked and was very gracious and customer friendly. I even walked away with a bit of a refund. Before I left the store I did recommend that maybe he tell someone in the camera area in management to school the associates on these cards to help Best Buy control the number of returns of the item.

Now I am writing this because I had heard some negative things about Best Buy and doing returns there so I wanted to share my positive experience. Since March we have purchased a refrigerator, washer and dryer, weather radio and now this media card and can say that all have gone smoothly.

Highlights and Lowlights

2007-06-19T13:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday on the spur of the moment I decided I needed to get my roots taken care of before vacation in four days. You see my father who is 75 hates it when I let my 40 year old gray hairs start to show. He says I make him look old!!! So to avoid 8 days of this joke about my graying hair I called and booked an appointment.

My stylist who I really love because she referred me to a great gynecologist advised that I should do a combo of highlights and lowlights because if not I was going to become a blond. I said my hair is in your hands do as you see fit.

I am home now and when I look in the mirror I feel like I still have roots. Since I have not had lowlights before is this the way it is suppose to appear?

RV

2007-06-17T13:33:00.001-07:00

RV with Robin Williams is the movie for both genders.

In an earlier post I discussed how my husband and I never like the same movie. So I have been on a quest to find a happy medium. Today I succeeded in RV.

Now this is not an award winning movie and I am glad I didn't pay full movie theatre rate for it, but it is a definite rental A+.

We also decided that it would make a perfect addition to my father-in laws DVD collection. Being a big RV'er they often have moments when they get a good laugh out of the newbies out on their first road trip.

Shop until you drop

2007-06-17T13:19:00.001-07:00

My wonderful husband did something yesterday that made me sooooo happy.

He spent the morning at the PRIME OUTLET MALL with me. Something so simple made me so happy. He went into the girly stores china, kitchen, etc and didn't act bored or cross his arms in disgust.

We were shopping for some vacation clothes and he even patiently tried on shorts in every store until I found a pair that fit him well. Equally enjoyable was the fact that he waited while I tried on shorts and even encouraged me to try on a dress.

Yes this seems like such a little thing and when I was single I would have said that exact thing and probably would have rolled my eyes at my married friends. Now ,I see it as a sign of love.

Vacation in a week

2007-06-15T11:31:00.000-07:00

One week from today my husband, parents and I will be in Omaha, Nebraska ready for a 8 day tour through South Dakota. From the Corn Palace to Mount Rushmore we plan on seeing it all.

What has my husband gotten himself into?

Movie Choice

2007-06-11T17:49:00.000-07:00

Why is it that my husband and I can never agree on a movie?

Every so often I get in the mood to rent movies. But it doesn't take long to remember why I don't do it on a regular basis.

Tonight my husband is in one room watching Borat. It offends me so I can't even grin and bear it while he watches this most stupid movie. So here I am writing while I hear him laughing his head off. He has had such a bad couple of weeks at work I am glad he is laughing.

Paris Hilton's latest comment

2007-06-10T16:23:00.000-07:00

I heard this morning that Paris asked her attorney's not to appeal her going back to jail for the complete sentence. That people should be focusing on other important issues.

Good For Her!!!

My guess is within 6 months she will have a book out by the experience. She probably has already met with a ghostwriter.

Paris Hilton in My Life

2007-06-08T12:42:00.001-07:00

Paris Hilton is in the news and it got me to thinking. What would she be like really like in an average middle class household? How would she manage a budget? How would she handle going to the grocery store? What would she have purchased for her family at the Publix or Winn Dixie? Somehow I don't think grocery store champagne and sushi from the deli would settle on her stomach too well.

Do we really think that she is as airheaded as she appears on her show? I don't, really I think she is pretty savvy. I think her lifestyle is affording her a hefty bank account and that she has gone with it and gone with it. Now it has reached the extremes and she is stuck. I vowed to turn the channel every time a story came on about her and I ended up with the TV off. I came to the computer and there her name was again. Then what do I do? I sit down to write a bit and whose name comes to my mind. How could it not?

Just think, if everyone who reads an article about Paris would then read an article about a presidential candidate platform imagine how educated Americans would become on our upcoming election. Then if these same folks voted we would have the largest turnout in American history. Do you think it will happen?

Bachelorette Party Ideas

2007-06-06T06:53:00.000-07:00

I seem to be on a wedding theme. My niece has now asked me for ideas for a Bachelorette Party. She is in three weddings in the next year and for one she is in charge of the Bachelorette Party.

My Bachelorette Party was a very active party. I had to do a Photo Scavenger Hunt to obtain points to receive prizes. We had it in downtown Nashville so it was easy to go from place to place on foot. Each attendee brought a new pair of pretty panties as a prize. I was given a list of photo opts for points. (i.e. me with a bartender, me with a cowboy, me with a bouncer, me dancing with a stranger, me with a sidewalk vendor ) I received extra points for finding a clown and a street musician on my own to catch a photo opt with. I believe I had to get 6 points then I got a prize (pair of panties). It was great fun and when it finished I had new lingerie for my honeymoon!!!

So that was my idea for her, do any of you have suggestions?

Garden Party It Is

2007-06-05T14:38:00.000-07:00

Well I now have a year to plan a small Garden/Patio Party for my sister in law. This Morning on Good Morning America Diane Sawyer gave some ideas for some cute table settings. I like the idea of choosing a color pallet then going with coordinating place mats and napkins instead of all matching.

Then on The View, Martha Stewart gave some crafty ideas for place cards, gifts and favors and cupcakes. I would love to give a link to her ideas, but I can't seem to find it on The View website. Probably just my being blind to the link.

Anyway I took it as a sign that I need to be taking notes so I started a paper file as well as a computer file of ideas. Planning parties makes my stomach ache so maybe if I start over a year in advance and pin down some ideas all will be well.

I think my fear is that people will compare it to other parties and say "Poor Girl she thinks she pulled it off but really she didn't"

Bridesmaid Luncheon Ideas Needed

2007-06-02T17:11:00.000-07:00

My husband's youngest sister is getting married in a year. Since she was in my wedding 9 years ago and attended a bridesmaid luncheon my sisters hosted for me she has wanted one similar.

I will be traveling to another state to host this event and will using my in-laws home.

There are a few themes I have come up with:

A Garden Party (which is pretty much what I had)
Champagne Brunch
Picnic
BBQ
Mexican Fiesta

I know these range in the formality, but I want it to be perfect for her and special.
Any ideas out there for possible themes?

I have read about the tradition of hiding charms in a cake and think I might just do something like that and since they are suppose to be hidden in a pink cake is perfect because that is my sister in laws favorite color.

Customer Service, Is It DEAD?

2007-06-01T11:52:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday I received a bill from my optometrist in Michigan saying that the insurance had rejected a claim. Worried because we I had seen the Dr. in December and they still hadn't been paid. I hate unpaid bills. I called them ASAP and was told the insurance said they had paid another doctor for the exact same amount and on the exact same day. I was worried that someone was using our insurance.

I immediately called the insurance company, who confirmed they had paid a different provided. I was told and I quote " I have to request the claims for review and will call you tomorrow". She even said she might call back that same day.

That was Tuesday and This is Friday and I hadn't been so I called back. I got the same rep on the phone she supposedly had my info in front of her. When I started talking she acted like she didn't know what was going on. I called her on it and she said she dealt with many calls and had no memory of me. Being my ever on edge self said "Don't you notate the policy" she said yes then put me on hold came back and did read what it said. I was then told that claim had been requested and sometimes it takes time. I asked " Why did you tell me you would call back in 24 hours?" She put me on hold again told me the person who had the claim was on break and she would call me back.

She did call me back this time and they did take care of it yesterday. So I was back to HAPPY forgetting that she had not done what she said. But then the customer service person said. Again I quote "We talk to many people and we don't have time to follow-up on calls" I quickly hung up the phone for fear I would go off.

My questions that popped into my mind after her comment was if you don't follow-up why tell me you are going to call me? If it takes a long time to get copies of claims why tell me you will call in 24 hours? How the heck is someone suppose to know the issue is resolved?

Customer service is NOT hard. Why do people make it hard?

Bridesmaid Luncheon

2007-05-30T18:54:00.000-07:00

Just found out I am going to be hosting a Bridesmaid's Luncheon for my sister in law in a totally different state. Good think I think she is great because I think logistically it is going to take some organization. Luckily I have been given a year's notice and my mother in law wants to have it at her house so at least location is marked off.

Any ideas are welcome.

Searching for a Generator

2007-05-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

My job today as an unemployed wife was to scout out generators. Living in a hurricane prone area we have decided to purchase one. We've looked at the big box stores and they have the loud generators starting at about $600 and going up depending on your desired size.

Today I was in search of a Honda and Yamaha dealers. I found both and also found that to get a quiet generator which both of these offer will cost us well over $1000. Boy I know more about generators than I ever thought possible from wattage required by every appliance in my house to inverters to noise level.

So now tonight we have to discuss what to do. We really don't have the money for either. But I have gone through a minor hurricane where I did not have electricity for over 48 hours. This is nothing I know compared to the folks in LA, MS in 2004. But because of this I want to be as prepared as possible.

Our budget with me not working says the cheap version, but for all around use the more expensive ones might be more handy.

We will have to see what the man who makes the $$$ says.

Why did I want a full length mirror?

2007-05-27T11:16:00.000-07:00

My wannabe handy husband installed a full length mirror in our closet at my request. A request I had made every weekend since April 1st. I think it got done yesterday because I didn't feel well and he was trying to find a way to improve my mood.

Of course I could have installed it on my own, but it is a man's job.

But back to my question as to "Why I wanted a mirror in the first place?" As I opened the closet door this a.m. to get my robe. YIKES is all I can say. Why did I want that to look at every morning.

Maybe it will inspire me to keep up the Exercise Gazelle everyday and my walk with the husband at night after work. It definitely lets me know I need to do something.

Friends with Money

2007-05-24T11:21:00.000-07:00

Okay I just did something very extravagant. I rented a movie to watch in the afternoon, "Friends with Money" with Jennifer Aniston, Catherine Keener, Frances McDormand and Joan Cusak. I thought , How can I miss with this one?

My friends have more money than me and we are kind of funny, so I thought this would be an interesting feel good movie. WRONG!!! Well I don't think it was meant to be a feel good movie. I was very confused. The critic from Rolling Stone called it "Smart, Witty, and Alert".

If you have watched this movie did Jennifer Aniston's character in up in her own tortured happiness with another scarred person?

Forever Young

2007-05-23T11:55:00.000-07:00

It is so funny to me that my husband and I still view ourselves as if we were twenty something. I can't count the times he looks at someone on television and says "Boy aren't they looking old". Then I have to sadly remind them that they are our age or even younger. Somehow he forgets that he is close to having to shave his head because of hair loss or that I have to keep my hair highlighted not to show the graying roots. They say you should always think youthful thoughts so I guess we are doing just that.

How fast time flies came to light today for me. My niece is in London for the summer. She just arrived there about a week ago and the first few days were hard, so I have been trying to give her a call in the afternoons. Today she was giving me career advice. As she sat there and gave me ideas for employment I kept thinking this is the girl who use to sit on my lap when I was doing my college homework, the little girl who wore pigtails and pink cowboy boots. Now she is 21 and telling me the 40 year old aunt what to do with her life. Here is hoping she is smarter than her aunt.

I need headache relief

2007-05-22T09:09:00.001-07:00

With all my worrying yesterday about how I was going to ruin my husband's life I have given myself a headache. That is a bit melodramatic really the headache is a hormonal headache that I get every month. It lasts anywhere from 24 hours to 72 hours.

I have tried every home remedy and a variety of over the counter pain relievers. At the recommendation of former co-works I tried Exederine Migraine and that does give some relief. But I hate to take pills. From cold rags to warm rags, to Watkins Menthol on my temples, to pulling on the skin between my thumb and pointer finger to finally just crawling in bed and covering my head. I read that you should take Magnesium and B6 and I did that for a bit but it really didn't cause any change in my monthly go around with the headache.

Getting of the computer and turning off the TV is my next step. Quiet always helps a bit.

How to Stop My Negativity

2007-05-21T11:59:00.000-07:00

This weekend I really began to feel like a let down to my husband. Not that he said anything, but I thought of how I was when we met. What he thought he was getting and what he got 9 years down the road.

Now all my husband has ever wanted was to own a business. I've described earlier how he latches onto an idea an searches for anyway for us to afford to do it. Me I am afraid to invest everything into one idea. He gets so excited and I immediately bring him down with some negative thought of how the business will fail. I've ruined many a weekend for him because of this. I ruined this weekend. He works so hard on weekend he should be able to be happy and relax, but no I ruined it. As I do many of them.

Here I sit with no job at all and him going to work everyday and dreaming of ideas to become a business owner. Who am I? What makes me smarter? Nothing, but yet I just can't jump on the band wagon. I think of his insurance, his paid vacation, his retirement account and then I think of us losing everything to bankruptcy because of business failure.

I get my negativity from my mother I see it I feel it and some days I change it and some days I can't.

Boy this is a downer, maybe it is the huge headache I have or maybe it is my conscience.

Home Improvement Help

2007-05-17T07:36:00.000-07:00

How frustrating is it to try to get work done on the house?

Our house is new but just getting little things fixed has been so time consuming. The one good thing about me being unemployed is not having to ask off work a zillion times a week.

Let's see it started with the mirror in the Master that had a scratch on it. A scratch that would not have bothered me but drove my husband crazy. I had to wait between 8-12 one day to have the owner come and just measure, the next day 8-12 to have the guys come to install, but surprise to me once they had the scratched mirror ripped off the wall they didn't have my mirror on their truck, so once again another 8-12 wait for the mirror to get there be installed (after the installer scratched my wall) , but to my surprise after he had it up it had a scratch on it plus it was the wrong style mirror so that meant another 8-12 for the mirror to finally be installed correctly.

The countertop in the bathroom which started out with a chip. The installer comes and saws off the existing countertop then he comes out with a blush to say they sent the wrong color replacement. YIKES!! So I had to wait another week for the correct one to arrive.

This doesn't count the days I had to wait for the corian guy, the grout guy, the HVAC guy, the lighting guy and the drywall guy. How do people do it that have to ask off work? Bosses would have to get so mad about it.

Now we have decided that we need to screen in our covered patio. Like most consumers I want to get a few bids. I called someone that was a member of the better business bureau and it took a week to get a call back, although he did come the next day to give me the estimate. Then I called a company whose flyer I received in the mail and I have yet to get a call from them and it has been two weeks. Last Friday I got a name from our home builder and gave them a call and was told it would be 72 hours for a call back just to set an appointment. Well now we are looking at 96 hours and I just called the company and was told it would be 30 minutes. I am not betting that my phone will ring that quick.

Now I understand that the guys that were handling the warranty stuff on the house probably weren't in any rush. The jobs were small and I am sure the $$ was too. But the screening contractors I don't get. I believe that maybe they need to take a operations management class. How many customers are they losing? I am two seconds away from calling the first estimate and going with it.

Where is customer service these days?? TELL ME PLEASE

Which side is my gas tank on?

2007-05-16T12:59:00.000-07:00

Have you ever driven your husband's car, a friends, or a rental and pulled up to the gas tank and wondered which side is my gas tank on?

A couple of weeks ago I was watching "ELLEN" and she shared a helpful hint.

Take a look at you gas gauge and right next to the little gas pump desigating that area you will see a small arrow pointing either to the left or the right. This is your little hint as to where your gas gauge is.

I am not sure if that is for every make or model, but we have two FORDS and it works for them and I think that Ellen said she was driving a LEXUS.

My Husband's Hobbies

2007-05-14T05:15:00.000-07:00

My husband's brain never stops. The smallest thing can set him off in a direction that can result in days or weeks of research, money spent and hours of planning. Sometimes it dies with that other times it expands into years of hobby accessories. Other times it ends in him having a great depression.

Two weeks ago I asked my husband to buy a "money tree". There was a plant booth that had them on sale for $8. I told my better half that recently that I had purchased one for a friend of ours for $50. Once the words came out of my mouth I knew that would send him off on a tangent. Now for the last two weekends he has been researching bonsai's. He discovered that there were many varieties and some common plants can be used to create beautiful mini trees.

Now we have spent $40 on books another $40 on pots luckily only $8 for two plants and he has some soil mixture components he must buy the ingredients for this week. He has spent a ton of time and it is all he talks about.

Let's see some of his other hobby's are: BBQ Competitons which has resulted in about $2000 in smokers, $6000 for a trailer (we don't even have a place to park and it is at my in-laws in another state) and each competition results in about $600-$1000 for a weekend. His novel writing hobby is his cheapest hobby and only cost about $20 for a couple of books. I guess it is not a hobby but a continous searching for a get rich quick scheme tests my patience. Before we married he spent much money on these plans, but I have curtailed that for the last seven years. In the garage I have the parts to a drag racing bike from prior to a marriage. I have moved this bike to 3 states. I have never seen him do a thing to it except help me move it from one side of the garage to another.

I am tired. Why can't he choose a hobby like home repair that would actually save us money or auto repair which again would save the family budget.

Guess I don't have much room to talk I am still unemployed. Simply selling a few items on ebay and doing a bit of mystery shopping, but with this said you would think he would not spend extra $$$ on new hobby accessories.

Best Tourist Value Attraction in Florida

2007-04-25T18:08:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we headed off to Mykka City, FL. The couple who was traveling with my in-laws had found out about Herrmann's Lippizan Stallions. My husband and I went there not really knowing what to expect. It was FREE, they only ask for donations, so that threw up a red flag for us. After living in Florida we couldn't imagine that anything that was FREE could bring that much entertainment, but boy were we WRONG. It was a beautiful Florida Spring day, sunny and breezy. We sat in our favorite lawn chairs and watched the Herrmann family showcase their horses. I grew up on a family farm and to hear their families stories and heritage seemed familiar to me. This will always be on our list for our vacationers to visit. After leaving the Herrmann's Farm we headed for Rosa Fiorelli Winery. Here we enjoyed a wine tasting. Although the shop was a bit crowded we all enjoyed ourselves and the wine.

Sunday was the beach tour day. We started at St. Petersburg Beach and headed north stopping at several beaches before reaching Clearwater Beach. At Clearwater we pulled out the beach chairs and sat for awhile enjoying the breeze, sand and sun. It was definitely crowded Sunday, but everyone was happy and basking in the joys of mother nature.

Well that ends the itnerary of our mini vacation. It was definitely hard to get back to the real world on Monday.

Site Seeing With The In Laws

2007-04-24T10:25:00.000-07:00

My inlaws have been visiting for the last 5 days. They left for Savannah, GA yesterday a.m. to tour the beautiful historic city.

We started off Thursday by touring the Ringling Circus Museum. Friends of my husband's parents suggested we go there. The grounds were beautiful and the information on the Ringling Brothers Circus was interesting. For the admission fee of $15 we were able to tour 4 buildings and a beautiful in bloom rose garden. There were restaurants on the grounds, but we decided to head toward the beach and grab fast food. My husband and I had decided we would go to Fort Desoto Beach. Personally we liked this one because it is not commercial. After several hours in the sun we headed back to the RV park for the evening.

Friday we headed to the Florida Aquarium. Now my husband and I were semi regulars at the National Aquarium in Baltimore when we lived in Ellicot City, Maryland so we had high expectations. Tampa's version was smaller, but well thought out with several well timed shows. Our walking tour was perfectly timed from seeing the penquin parade to the shark exhibit. We are thinking of getting a membership because we are sure it will be a regular spot for visitors to tour. Our Friday afternoon was one of leisure at the RV catching a nap and stocking up at the grocery store.

A Great Gift Idea

2007-04-23T14:52:00.000-07:00

Last week I got a late birthday slash housewarming gift from an old friend.

It was a self-inking return address stamp. What made it even more unique was that it was round.

The stamp came from a local vender who sells Three Designing Women products. Check them out.

The postmaster today said she had not seen one like it.

A Season Beyond A Kiss by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss

2007-04-14T09:48:00.000-07:00

Okay don't laugh, but I read this Historical Romance and liked it.

With the move I haven't had time to go to the library and I found this book in a box of yard sale stuff that got moved from one house to another. Another story but I am addicted to having yard sales. I will tell more about that another day.

Today I am going to tell you that "A Season Beyond A Kiss" is has intrigue, thrill, mystery and yes romance a bit of graphic at times(although it doesn't consume all 485 pages). I got to point that I just skipped those sections to get to on with who was after the hero and heroine.

I have often thought myself superior at figuring out the who done it and why of books and television shows, but this one kept me going until almost the very end.

20/30 Fat & Fiber Diet Plan

2007-04-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

My husband heard about 20/30 Fat & Fiber Diet Plan by Gabe Mirkin, M.D. and Barry Fox Ph.D. when we lived in Maryland some 8 years ago. For the 10 months we were there we were fairly strict followers of the plan and it worked, but then the bad habits came back and we slowly began to cheat.

I can say that we still tried hard to keep our fiber intake up we neglected the fat gram count. So Tuesday night he, being my husband, and I decided to keep track with what we were eating to see who was closer to the 20 grams of fat and 30 grams of fiber.

Let's say I quit keeping tract about 3:00 o'clock due to my own embarrassment. I am hoping by sharing my horrid eating habits it might motivate me to do better.

Chocolate milk- 0 fiber but it was lowfat milk
3 Glasses of water (over a 6 hour period)
3 Diet cokes (over a 6 hour period)
Wavy Lays and Dean's Low Fat Dip (Yikes have you noticed no fiber as of yet)
Spinach Salad w/ tomatos, mushrooms, red peppers carrots, radishes, but instead of the vinigerette I over did it on Ranch..
2 Brownies

At this point I quit. Although I did have a lowfat Pompano Sauce over whole wheat linquine

Today has been better except I have not had enough water.
Again I started with Chocolate Milk
3 Diet Cokes, but I have stopped for the day and will only drink water I promise.
A large spinach salad w/ veggies, but with very little dressing
A oatmeal breakfast bar for snack.

I have a big pot of SOUTHERN WHITE BEANS in the crock pot and fruit for dessert. So if I can hold out until bedtime I will have passed the test for today.

Samsung Washer and Driver

2007-04-08T16:53:00.000-07:00

After 20 years with the same washer and dryer I requested we leave our old ones at our old house. We went to Best Buy before moving into our new home and purchases a new set. Unfortunately they were back ordered and they just arrived on Saturday.

Now I know that I am truly wifey. These new Samsung Washer and Dryer made me so happy that I found myself yesterday stopping working to just simply look at them and enjoy the fact that they were quiet and that during the spin cycle I didn't have to sit on the washer.

Never in my life prior to meeting my husband did I think I would describe a good day as one washing clothes in new appliances. I guess it is good that such a simple thing albeit expensive one could make me happy.

Our first visitors

2007-04-03T13:43:00.000-07:00

A week after move-in our first visitors arrive. My sister and her family came in for a long weekend and the start of my nephew's Spring Break.

What a creative sister I have, within 2 hours of her arrival she immediately had my house feeling warm and comfortable. It was so simple for her. I can assure you that I would have been in this house for years before I did half as much as she did in such a short time.

Sunday we went to the Airshow at MacDill Airforce Base. The day was a wonderful Spring Florida day with bright sun and breezy. We all had a wonderful time and couldn't believe that the event was free. Then came the exit from the parking area. It was the most unorganized fiasco that I have ever witnessed. It was so disorganized we thought surely it was a group of new recruits that had been left to attend to this portion of the show and they just didn't have the experience needed to plan for the mass departure. Then after returning home and speaking to friends and co-workers we found that the AirShow is always associated with horrible traffic and parking. Ultimately we all decided that the day was worth it even with the negative experience in the parking lot.

The boys went to Busch Gardens on Monday and reported back that it was the BEST Theme Park that they had every been too. Now they have done all the Disney's, Universal, Six Flags in 3 different cities so I consider them a pretty good judge of Theme Parks.

My sister and I went to the Old Time Pottery, Dockside and Target to purchase some other items for my new home.

They left today so the house is quiet, but now I can start on unpacking the garage.

The life of a moving wife!!!

IKEA ,where are you??

2007-03-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

Still bogged down in boxes. I know when my husband comes home from work he will have that look on his face wondering what I did. It seems every box I open creates a new problem on where to put the stuff. I know he is not observant enough to realize that it is different items sitting on the floor waiting for me to have a lightbulb moment on where to put it.

We moved to a larger house if you count living space from 1400 sq feet to 2002 sq feet, but we lost storage space in a basement and a large garage. I knew this would happen before we moved and I threw away and donated a ton of stuff so purging is not the answer.

Where is my IKEA? We use to live less than 2 miles from an IKEA and they would have the answer to all my prayers for drawer, cabinet and closet organizers. So I guess some online shopping is required because what I need is organization. Unfortunately it will not arrive before my first guest arrive on Friday. They have been previously warned what the house will look like. My guess is it will still be in some sort of disarray.

We have Verizon FiOS

2007-03-27T04:26:00.000-07:00

We moved to a neighborhood already wired for fiberoptics, so we jumped on the bandwagon and got Verizon FiOS. TV, Phone, and Internet all under one umbrella of Verizon. It has just been a day but so far it has been great. Let's hope it stays that way.

The installers were friendly and quick. When a problem arised, such as my garage being full of boxes instead of complaining while Imoved them for them to get to where the thought they needed to go, they simply offer a plan B. They never complained just jumped in and found a solution that worked for all of us.

Boxes, Boxes and More Boxes

2007-03-27T04:19:00.000-07:00

Well North American Vanlines pulled into our sub Friday and delivered our personal belongs packaged in brown boxes. We only lost a dolley that we use during our BBQ competitions, although the movers say they think they know where it is and will bring it to us otherwise we will file a claim.

The unpacking began immediately. Now I really don't like help from my husband. He seems to get under my feet and complains totally too much. Although the weekend was not productive because I had to keep stopping and entertaining the man of the house because he had no phone, internet and only 20 channels on the TV!!! We had to go to the store, then to find a race track, then to eat, etc.

Yesterday I think I accomplished more on my own in one day than I did in two days with him !!

TWELVE MILE LIMIT by Randy Wayne White

2007-03-21T10:10:00.000-07:00

Recently I was loaned "Twelve Mile Limit" by my sister who lived on Sanibel for several years. She thought I would enjoy reading about some of the places we visited while she lived on the island. Unfortunately her description was a bit too indepth about the first 1/3 of the book. So it made reading that portion a bit predictable, but as Carl Hiaasen wrote about this novel

"A Doc Ford novel has more slick moves than a snake in the mangroves"

I started reading because I knew Sanibel, but kept reading because just when I thought I had it all figured out I realized I was wrong. Anyone who loves intrique and investigative reporting or simply loves to read about human dynamics will enjoy this novel.

As a side note...When you recommend a good read to your friends and family remember to be a bit vague when describing the book. Don't make your recommendation like your 6th Grade Book Report!!!

Alice at heart

2007-03-14T06:36:00.000-07:00

"Alice at Heart" was a pleasant surprise. After reading the first chapter I realized that although the format was the same their was a bit of fantasy mixed in the with life lessons of reality. Now the tales of merfolks or fantasy have never truly interested me I thought oh no and I headed into Chapter Two. Well I was immediately hooked. Mixed in with the stories of waterfolk and landers there were stories based on real life. Again the hero and heroine had lonely childhoods and searched to find their life partner. Never Give Up.

My favorite quote from the book is:

" Perhaps we bring many of our sorrows on ourselves. The talent lies in bringing many joys on ourselves, as well."

On Bear Mountain by Deborah Smith

2007-03-12T07:03:00.000-07:00

Hi Again,

It is just so easy to go to my public library and pick out a book. I've taken to just reading through an author's offerings. I thought this might explain to you my continuous reading of Deborah Smith Novels.

ON BEAR MOUNTAIN at first sent me trudging through the backstory of the two main characters. And I did trudge that is for sure it seemed a bit too detailed, but since I make it a goal to never not complete a book I kept going and was happily surprised with the second half.

Charming Grace by Deborah Smith

2007-03-09T09:35:00.000-08:00

Well I am through with another book by Deborah Smith. I am getting use to her main characters both writing in first person. It definitely makes me pay attention.

"Charming Grace" was better than last weeks "Sweet Hush", but I have to say I figured out the twist pretty into the book, but the other details kept me interested enough to keep reading. Interesting human dynamics. It does answer the age old question of "Can you have 2 Great Loves in your lifetime?" Yes, it is the answer we all hope for!!!

Next Book is On Bear Mountain again by Deborah Smith. When I get on a author I seem to stick with them.

Sweet Hush by Deborah Smith

2007-03-06T10:52:00.000-08:00

A fine way to begin my reading binge. It is a light read and would be great for Spring Break Trips and Summer Vacations or if you are a fan of APPLES and love. Yes I said Apples.

Enjoy!!!

From border to border

2007-03-06T10:49:00.000-08:00

Well as any good wife does I have relocated with my spouse. We have found a new home but do not close for a few weeks. So how am I entertaining myself.....The Library. A resource that most American's ignore.

Not only am I able to use their computers for free and start my search for a new job, but I am also on a quest to read as much as possible until the reality of bills, unpacking, and a new job set in.

He ate it

2006-11-15T19:55:00.000-08:00

Well I wouldn't eat it , the smell was just not for me, but my wonderful husband took out that pork roast and potatos and ate it. He then promptly through the left overs down the garbage disposal.

That is one recipe I will not repeat. When the smell finally disappeared I settled for a tuna fish sandwich.

Crock Pot Gone Bad

2006-11-13T15:08:00.000-08:00

I made a meal in the crock pot today that smelled absolutely (you think I am going to say GREAT) AWFUL!!

What should I do feed it to my husband or tank it and go out to eat?

From Curious George to A Big Breasted Wench

2006-11-01T13:32:00.000-08:00

Now that was a captivating title wasn't it. I am speaking of my Trick or Treat visitors last night. My husband missed all the fun while at school although I think he would have gotten a kick out of the wench!!!

Trick or Treators were out in a large number in my neighborhood my microvable popcorn was a hit, but quickly ran out so I jumped into my stash of chocalate. From my best quess I had about 80-90 and would have had more but closed the door after one rude preteen.

The early treaters were young and dressed in the cute princess, pirate, power ranger type costumes. They politely said Thank You and one neighbor about 3 let out a joyful noise when I placed Butterfingers in his bright orange pumpkin. Of course Curious George was my favorite probably based on having that book read to me when I was a tot and the most eyepopping was the young teenage girl wearing a wench's outfit that the corset she wore literally pressed her breasts up and together and made me fear that one wrong move could send them popping out of her low cut top. I couldn't imagine that parents let her out of the house, but to my surprise they were walking around the neighborhood with her.

My Halloween Light went out after a teenage boy not wearing a costume took my candy then told me to "Get out of his Grill" when I asked why he didn't dress up (his friends had made a small attempt to make costumes. I will say that after he left his friend dressed in a scream mask and black robe apologized for him. But after that I decided that we would rather eat the rest of our chocolate than to give it to rude teens.

What were the best costumes at our door? Did you have any inappropriately dressed treaters?

Del Monte Refund

2006-10-29T13:42:00.000-08:00

As a wife I have become chief financial officer for my husband and myself. Even though he brings home the majority of the bacon as they say I do the serving it up in the pan.

Ways that I try to save is by watching sales, clipping coupons (only on the items that I use) and doing refunds.

Now I know that many of you wives out there might shun my use of canned veggies. My grandmothers both are probably rolling over in their graves being avid gardeners. But I can not lie, I use these easy side items to round out many a meal.

With the Holiday's coming and cooking seeming to increase during this time I found that this refund offer was easy to fulfill. Read the products that apply it is more than just Del Monte veggies. Hope you guys find it useful.

DOG VS NO DOG

2006-10-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

Okay I am throwing this out there with a huge risk of ridicule.

First, let me say I do not hate animals. I grew up on a farm and give me a outside pig, cow, sheep or horse and I am happy. But put me with a dog in a house and I am miserable. Now we live in the city and our yard is not large enough for an outside dog, plus it is Michigan and the winters would be brutal.

Second, on the side of my husband when he was a child his family always had pets. They actually had a cat that had its' own chair and if you happened to be sitting in it when he decided he wanted it, you GOT UP ASAP!!!

Third, on our third date, I specifically told my husband that I NEVER wanted an inside pet, dog, cat, or bird. So he did not go into this arrangement blind.

Fourth, he is so particular about anything that we have getting a scratch on it. No joke he actually double checks our leather furinture after each visit to make sure no one scratches it and if they did he never wants to invite them over again. So what would he do if a cat or dog ruined out stuff which they inevitably will?

So now all he tries to do is force me into having an inside pet. Who is wrong? Him or Me

There is a sidebar to this story in which I will give in to his demand. I offered him a deal that if he moved me back to Tennessee (my home state) this year 2006 then he could have a pet.

It's been a week

2006-10-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

Boy what a terrible blogger I am to be out of the loop for an entire week. This was also my last week of freedom before I start my new job so you would think I would be writing everyday. Much to my husband's joy I got offered a job after one interview. With the economy the way it is I am very lucky.

When marriage wasn't even in my mine I was so ambitious. I had decided I was going to be the first female vice president of the company that I was working for at that time. Working 70 hours a week didn't phase me. Working with a fever of 102 didn't delay my arrival and departure (of course I bet the employees had wished I had kept my germy self home). Missing family functions, not having time for dates, taking work home, drinking beer and eating Swanson Turkey and Dressing Frozen dinners were all normal activities for me.

Then one day at a friend of mine's house I see this cutey watching a UT vs. LSU ballgame and my momenum shifted. It was harder to put in those hours, easier to really take time off to be with him, but with that came a sense that I wasn't putting my all into my job. That I was letting down the company because I wasn't there. Sounds weird, but I felt quilty about having a life.

We became serious and I thought I needed to make the decision between being a future VP and being a good girlfriend and fiance. I left that job because I couldn't leave him and I felt it was one or the other.

At that point my career equilibrium began to waiver and now after 8 years it is all but gone.

I had a friend recently change her whole career choice. Spurred by a layoff she went back to school obtained her masters and became a teacher. She is so happy. She told me that I needed to find something I really want to do and then go after it. Pretty cliche, but I repect her and I thought on it a while. I can't answer the question.

So off I go on Monday to a new job, a job not a career.

Detroit- Let's say something positive

2006-10-12T13:20:00.000-07:00

Well after looking at the title I guess I should say Wayne County.

For the first time in my adult life I got called for jury duty. I alternated between it is my civic duty and I really don't want to do this. With dread my Explorer and I headed to downtown Detroit to the Courthouse with my Mapquest directions beside me in the seat. Arrival time was set for 7:45am so I left home at 6:30am still in the dark (making it hard to read my directions and drive with the flow of traffic on I-275 and I-96 and I- 75 and I-375). With no problem I navigated to the vicinity of where I was suppose to be but of course finding the exact location was not in the cards. So unlike many a man that I know I pulled into the nearest gas station (still dark in downtown Detroit) and tried to decide what my safest option was for getting directions (getting out of the car, calling someone over). Luckily I look over from my parking spot to see a Smart Moves Van that was having mechanical difficulties a mechanic with his head under the hood. I asked for help. This wonderful man gave me specific directions and made me repeat them twice to make sure I had them. Can you believe I was heading away from my destination? Anyway I wish I had gotten his name because he should be commended for his polite demeanor and his precise directions. With the Baseball Playoffs coming it is nice to know we have people on the street who will help.

So I made it to the courthouse found a parking space across the street for a bargain price of $8 and headed to duty. My guess is about 150 people where in the room dressed from suit to sweatpants from every rank and file, but all , well at least the ones I sat next too where there to serve even though they hoped not to be selected. Our county employee that organized these ranks had a wonderful soothing voice and delivered out instructions in an informative yet funny manner (somewhat like that of a Southwest Flight Attendent). Then I begin the wait with my book and snacks I am ready to endure.

Low and Behold my name is called in the second group only 2 hours 15 minutes after my arrival. We were directed to the appropriate floor and stood outside a courtroom. This was actually the worst thing that happened in my day, because I had worn the wrong shoes for standing so my feet hurt and my stomach was beginning to growl. After standing there for about 40 minutes out comes the court officer to say that the case was resolved and we were sent back to our original assembly room.

Time for my Diet Dr. Pepper from the snack shop ($1 for a can) and to finish my book "Islands". I sat next to a nice man who was hoping for an early dismissal and then took a nap and began to snore. What is the appropriate action for this? Me the ever polite Southern Girl just let him rest, if he wasn't bothering me I figured everyone else could live with it. Oh back to my book, Wow how an ending can change your whole idea on whether a book is good vs. great. When I was just about to start on my crossword puzzles the soothing voiced worker announces we can go home. YEAH!!!

Out the door I headed with my letter showing that I had been there stopping only to ask a court officer "HOW DO I GET OUT OF THIS PLACE?" Once again I received specific directions and was asked to repeat them. Do you think it is my strong southern accent in Downtown Detroit that causes people to think I have to repeat everything? Maybe they think I am from a foreign country, don't laugh since I have lived here I have gotten that question a number of times.

My point of this post is to say today I ran into many polite, happy, nice folks in Detroit. Many times only the negative is publicized and then that is what we expect to see, but today I saw none of the negative and it made me smile.

2006-10-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

I once was a doer not a sitter. Where did I go? I fight it for a second, a minute, hour, a day then fear overcomes me.

Good Things for the Day

2006-10-10T19:20:00.000-07:00

1. Lunch with my husband
2. I have a part time job for tomorrow
3. My parents made it safely home from their vacation

Let's show a little gratitude

2006-10-09T18:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I saw a blog in passing, I think it was called Three Beautiful Things. The blogger wrote about just that three beautiful things that happened that day.

It got me to thinking that my husband and I spend a lot of time complaining or lamenting about how bad our day was, or how much money we DON'T have, or that it is too cold, or too hot.

So today as I was outside raking those ever present fall leaves I leaned on my rake and thought what was I thankful for today. Besides the obvious of waking up, there was the beautiful day with a deep blue sky and a slight breeze just enough to blow your hair but not enough to ruin your leaf pile a warm 70. Then there was the phone call about a job interview and the smell of my pot roast simmering in the crock pot. My parents call from their mini vacation to the Biltmore to tell me how much fun they were having, so much fun my mom said she wasn't sure that she could get my dad to head home tomorrow. To the joy in my sister's voice who like me was so happy that our parents were happy.

Gosh that is quite a list for the day. Let me say as I read back that in my single days the smell of a pot roast would not have been that exciting to me, well unless I was in college and had come home for Sunday lunch and mom was the cook and I had only eaten Ramon Noodles all week!!! Boy how life changes.

My South

2006-10-09T07:09:00.000-07:00

My husband and I on Saturday drove to the university that he is obtaining his Masters Degree. He needed something from the bookstore. While we were in line I scanned through a stack of $1 books. On top was one titled "My South". Standing in Michigan to see that title caught this southern girl's eye.

"My South A People, A Place, A World Of It's Own " Based on Works By Robert St. John this book of poems shows the south through the eyes of it's inhabitants. Many of the poems touched on how I fell about my south.

As I read this book I might occasionally share with you some of my favorites.

"My South is a peace abiding in me offering her song of silence,
her word of welcome, her tree of comfort, her sky of spirits, her
peace of living where I belong, despite my birthplace.
Knowing all along this is my heritage."
This is my home

Carol Furtwangler

Tire Time

2006-10-05T09:26:00.000-07:00

My morning was spent in the waiting area of Belle Tire while they put four new tires on my husband's truck.

When I go to do such errands I pack a bag of items to keep me occupied(food, soda, crossword puzzles, books, cross-stitch, etc) and calm just as a mother would for her child on a long car trip. It always amazes me how has you sit there you can watch your co-waiters blood pressure go up. Today at least there was a television set on a station that I watch so I got caught up on my Regis and Kelly, Martha, and The View.

My co-waiters today consisted of a retired lady who was a diabetic and didn't eat before coming to the tire shop so you can imagine her impatience that it took them longer than the one hour promised. After hearing that I felt guilty that I had sat there and ate my snacks in front of her. If I had known I would have shared( although I don't know how healthy my Nutter Butters would have been). There was the impatient business man who brought his own large coffee and was totally disinterested in the television, and did not begin his pacing until he had throuroghly read the newspaper. There was the young woman who came to get a new tire, but didn't bring the rim of the old tire?? The older couple came in when I was about to leave and were totally annoyed that The View was on , not being fams of Rosie O'Donnell, they called her motor mouth. And me who spent my time watching, listening, crosswording and reading. Really of those waiting I am sure I had the best time and the lowest blood pressure.

My philosophy is when you go to do something where you know there is a high probability to have to wait then be prepared, be calm, and not schedule something else for the day. We have become a society of people that want everything immediately and infortunately not everything can be done in a matter of seconds. I for one dont' want them speeding through putting tires on a vehicle that my husband might be driving 75 mph on a busy interstate.

Dynamics of a vote

2006-10-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

Once again Tuesday rolled around and I found myself voting for Sara Evans on "Dancing with the Stars". In all honesty I voted for her because I am a fan and my husband is from Missouri. It is sad to say she was not the best not even in the top 5 but still I voted for her.

As I sat down to write a bit I thought about this. How many Americans when they cast their vote on election day vote similiar to the way I did on last night? Once when I was young as I went to watch my mother vote as we stood in line I heard a person who had just voted say that she cast her vote for governor because he was cute!! While the lesson my mother was trying to teach me was a good one, the importance of voting, I am afraid that the one that the lady in line taught was not such a good one.

Although the voting on this show is not important in the big picture I wonder how many children who see their parents choose who they are voting for on this light subject relate that to voting in our political elections?

Off We Go to the Mother In Law's House

2006-10-03T16:00:00.000-07:00

Thursday night we flew out to see the in laws.

We seem to always fly Southwest Airlines. We left late and got there early I can never figure that out, but I am sure not going to complain. The plane was full and that is a nice thing to see. It is so much fun to sit in an airport and watch people. We left from Detroit and as we waited for our flight we saw a couple in shorts (we knew they were headed south), a woman with a sophiticated business suit and Nike's (you can only assume she had been in pumps all day and wanted comfort for the flight home), a family going to grandmas house and us of course too early we always get to the airport too early headed to my inlaws.

They had eased the restrictions for liquids in your carry ons the day before we left, but to make things simple I thought I had taken out my lotion, lipstick, chap stick from my purse and put it in the checked bags. Thought being the key word. As my bag went through the security check it was pulled out for further review. So much for me being prepared. Apparently in my side pocket of my purse down in the very corner was another lipstick. The security agent was so nice almost as if he was prepared for me to yell that he was digging in my purse. Personally I was glad to see such thoroughness and it was nice that he was polite. I bet those guys and gals are often treated with disrespect and anger. So travelers be nice!!

I have no mother in law stories because I have a wonderful mother in law, but if there is Any Wife out there that would like to share a story good, bad or ugly let us know.