Try it again

Back from the beach...........

2010-03-21T21:40:00.000-07:00

Well, eight days later and I'm home from the beach. Not home because I want to be.. but because the weather turned cold and rainy and no one would stay a few extra days with me! But I guess for now I'm glad to be home. Now when I get to the office tomorrow and face 8 days of build up I may be singing a different song!

Moments to remember.....

Beach trip with family can really be nice! It was nice to see the smiles on the George and Zanna's faces as they played in the sand... and it was a hoot to watch Jocelyn keep from touching the sand with her hands OR her feet! This was the trip that George leaned to swim with out floaties and Jocelyn learned to like the floaties!!!!

Zanna announced that both her front two teeth are loose.... when they come out is a 'big day' and they never seem like babies any more................

Beach Count Down

2010-03-11T05:11:00.001-08:00

48 hours and counting...

Can I start again?

2010-03-09T21:20:00.000-08:00

Tonight I was reading a friend's blog about MOMENTS TO REMEMBER. And I realized that I needed to come back to a place where I shared (mostly for myself!!) moments in my day that are worth remembering.

Today: I realize how proud I am of Georgia! She has come to a point where she has realized that there are things you have to do..... even when they are the last things on earth you want to do. I mean who would want to study when they have a fever of 101.9 and have to be back up in about 4 hours? But yet she is studying her nursing!!!! I love you Georgia!

I also found out that Molly has passed all parts of the Graduation Exit Exam except History. She retook that part this week! Glory be.. there is a God!

Spring Carnival

2009-04-16T22:23:00.001-07:00

I just love going to the Fall and Spring Carnivals and watching all the faces, eating someone else's funnel cake, and wishing I was young enough to still WANT to ride all those twirling monsters!

Can You Jump Rope?

2009-04-15T20:09:00.000-07:00

I've spent many an hour jumping rope in my day. I've skipped to Cinderella dressed in yellow - more times than I can count. But never, NEVER EVER could I jump like these girls...... Amazing! (please be patient... it is slow to load... but I think it'll be worth your time)

Back to Back BAD Weather

2009-04-14T19:10:00.000-07:00

Tornado on Friday afternoon- major damage in area.

On Sunday night a major wind storm caused extreme property damage over a large area of North Alabama. It has been explained as a 'gravity wave' wind......

And neither of these photos does justice to the true amount of damage!

Happy Easter 2009

2009-04-12T12:34:00.001-07:00

Easter 2009! Our oldest daughter and her husband joined the church today. Their oldest daughter was Christened here about five years ago and today their four year old son and one year old daughter were Christened.

I've included a photo of the Christening gown. My first cousin Martha Pullen (www.marthapullen.com) had the gown made for our youngest Molly, sixteen years ago. The oldest granddaughter wore it and today the baby.

We will put it back in storage for the next baby to come along.

I can tell you that is one more hard to iron dress. It took me about 1.5 hrs to iron it. I counted last night and including the lace on the sleeves and neckline.... there are 31 ROWS of lace.
There are three rows of 3-pin tucks and two rows of 5-pin tucks.

We also have water that was brought back for us from the River Jordon that is used for the Christening

Great Spring Break 2009

2009-03-20T21:41:00.000-07:00

I have found my new vacation spot ---- Fort Morgan Beach! It was wonderful... like the beach use to be!!!! Laid back, quiet, beautiful!

Month of March Travels!

2009-03-04T20:55:00.001-08:00

Beach Bound-
ALL the KIDS and I will be heading to the beach for Spring Break! We are lucky enough to have the use of this beach house for the week for just the cleanup and linens fees!

We will leave here on a Saturday around noon and return the following Friday.

Supper Club
Then Steve and I will host our Supper Club on Saturday night at the cabin.

Nashville Bound -
Then I'm probably off again. I may have to attend a conference for/with a friend in Nashville from Sunday - Thursday as a stand in grant writer.

Then I'm already scheduled to be in Nashville from Thursday night through Sunday for a PETS (Rotary's President Elect Training Sessions) conference.

Looks like I'm going to have to buy some of that hand-washing laundry detergent!

Help???

2009-03-03T21:56:00.000-08:00

On March 21st, we will be Co-Host for our supper club. Supper Club is 17 couples (not all will attned). This event will be at our CABIN....

I need a special MENU. Host and CoHost will provide the main dish - meat ... with the other couples being assigned to bring the 'fixins' for the main couse, appetizers, bread, and dessert.

What should we fix? Should we have :

Oddles of Noodles with all the sauces
Over roasted Flank steak
Basic Spring time Ham

Come on... I need help... if each of you would offer at least one suggestion menu that would REALLY help me out!!!!

Well... If you call that snow..............

2009-03-01T11:57:00.000-08:00

Just a slight (and I do mean slight) dusting....

Let it snow, Let it snow, Let it snow......

2009-02-28T21:51:00.000-08:00

Doesn't seem like North Alabama ever gets snow at the times you would think you would... But the are now predicting from 1 - 4 inches for the first day of March.

Go figure...............

Have you cut back?

2009-02-06T22:02:00.001-08:00

With the economy on the down swing, have you made any cuts to your budget?

Some of us have! It almost been almost a week since we have been 'out to eat'. This is a major deal for us. When our youngest was a toddler, she one time found her coat and while trying to put it on, she said "Bite Bite"! Meaning it was time to eat and we needed to head to the car.

Now I think I'm as good a cook as the next, but heck this shopping, cooking, and cleaning up is getting OLD.

I plan on cooking chicken tomorrow night and with that done..... it will officially be one full week WITHOUT the family eating out! I know that it has eased the strain on one wallet and bitten into another.....! lol....

W

2009-02-06T22:02:00.000-08:00

A Question to Make a Monkey of You

2009-02-04T05:12:00.000-08:00

As most of you know.... I work with people trying to help them get from where the are today to where they want/need to be tomorrow. The title of this story caught my eye and I will save to use with when we do our "Mock Interviews"..

Hope each of you is having a GREAT Day---- and if you live anywhere that is as cold as it is here this morning--- I hope you are staying warm!

Now the story from the Wall Street Journal by Joann S. Lublin....
__________________________

A Question to Make a Monkey of You

Worldwide Panel LLC, a small market-research firm, is getting flooded with résumés for four vacancies in sales and information technology.

However, officials expect to reject numerous applicants after asking them: "What is your greatest weakness?" Candidates often respond "with something that is not a weakness," say Christopher Morrow, senior vice president of the Calabasas, Calif., concern. "It is a deal breaker."

Robin Eley

The weakness question represents the most common and most stressful one posed during interviews. Yet in today's weak job market, the wrong answer weakens your chances of winning employment.

Some people offer replies they mistakenly assume that bosses love, such as "I am a perfectionist." That response "will be used against you" because you appear incapable of delegating, warns Joshua Ehrlich, dean of a master's program in executive coaching sponsored by BeamPines Inc., a New York coaching firm and Middlesex University in London.

A careful game plan could help you cope with the shortcoming query in a way that highlights your fit for a desired position. Job seekers who field the question well demonstrate that they can "take initiative and improve themselves," Mr. Morrow says.

The key? Thorough preparation. Career specialists suggest you take stock of your weaknesses, focusing on job-related ones that won't impede your ability to perform your duties. Tony Santora, an executive vice president for Right Management, a major outplacement firm in Philadelphia, says an information-technology manager flubbed a 2007 interview by choosing a personal foible as his reply: "My true weakness is that I am a terrible cook."

Rehearse your responses aloud, role play with a friend or videotape yourself -- but don't memorize your words. As you review the video, look for aspects "you would like to change so you can continue to get better as you practice," says Peggy Klaus, a leadership coach in Berkeley, Calif.

The IT manager changed his tune after practice sessions with fellow job seekers and a counselor in Cincinnati for Right Management. He instead said he worked such long hours that he found it difficult to stay current with world events. So, he spent 30 minutes every evening catching up at home.

When the manager pursued an opportunity at a global drug maker, his revamped response "really resonated with the interviewer," says Mr. Santora. The manufacturer hired the man.

It's equally important that you consider an employer's corporate culture. While being interviewed by a start-up, "you could say, 'My weakness is I get bored by routine,'" says Ben Dattner, a New York industrial psychologist.

Last month, an aspiring executive director of a nonprofit group in suburban San Francisco nearly jeopardized his selection because his reply to a variation of the weakness question ignored one of its core values, according to Ms. Klaus, a board member there. Near the end of his interview, she wondered whether he might have problems with any aspects of the job. "No, I am confident I could do it all," the prospect declared.

Weakness Warnings

A sample of wrong answers to the most common interview questions:

"I have no weaknesses"

"I am a workaholic"

"I can't seem to meet tight deadlines"

"I am impatient with incompetent people"

"I lack judgment when I'm under stress"

"I sometimes make mistakes with my work"

"I'm detail oriented"

"I like to drink now and then"

"I can't tolerate trite interview questions like this one"

Source: WSJ reporting

His flip comment dismayed Ms. Klaus, because she felt he lacked awareness of his weaknesses. She says his response raised doubts among board members that "he would be able to take critical feedback," an attribute the organization values highly.

Because the man was well-qualified, the board gave him a second interview -- and demanded a fuller explanation of his weak spots. He said he had been "unprepared for that question and nervous about coming out with a big fatal flaw," then described his tendency to make decisions too fast during workplace crises. Board members' doubts disappeared, and they picked him for the nonprofit's top job.

Ideally, your reply also should exclude the word "weakness" and cover your corrective steps. Dubbing your greatest fault a "window of opportunity" signals your improvement efforts should benefit the workplace, says Oscar Adler, a retired Maidenform Brands sales executive and author of the book, "Sell Yourself in Any Interview." For instance, he suggests, a salesman might note that he sold more after strengthening his facility with numbers.

When an interviewer pops this nerve-wracking query, your body language counts as well. The wrong nonverbal cues undercut your credibility. Certain candidates hunch over, glance furtively around the room or wring their sweaty palms. "They sort of look like they're being asked a question they can't handle," says Mr. Adler.

Maintaining eye contact, regular breathing and a broad smile impress employers that "you're prepared for the weakness question," says psychotherapist Pat Pearson, author of "Stop Self-Sabotage!"

For the same reason, you seem thoughtful if you pause before responding. But don't wait too long. "If you're going to take a minute," Mr. Morrow cautions, "I've just identified your weakness."

The Drive to Go From the Factory to the Classroom

2009-02-03T05:18:00.000-08:00

Pamela Becker spent 13 years assembling Buick Skylarks, all the while studying part-time for two degrees as she looked for a way off the General Motors factory floor. Now, 29 years after starting her studies -- and at the height of the crisis in the auto industry -- Ms. Becker is a college instructor helping displaced Michigan auto workers reinvent themselves.
(MORE....)

Six MORE!!! ughhhhhhhhhhh

2009-02-02T05:10:00.000-08:00

Greetings from Punxsutawney

That silly Ground Hog said he saw his shadow..... even though it was very overcast. I'm wondering if it could have been from bright shine of the Steelers Victory?

Good Grades............

2009-02-01T22:04:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note that BOTH my girls are making the best grades they have in a long time!

G.... is making all A's on all her college classes!
M.... had the best progress report since 4th grade (she is now is 10th)

Answers to prayers are beginning to arrive!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank You!!!!!!

Little Progress on Adult Literacy

2009-02-01T20:45:00.000-08:00

One in seven adults lacks the literacy skills required to read anything more complex than a children's book, a staggering statistic that has not improved in more than 10 years, according to a federal study released last week.

The 2003 National Assessment of Adult Literacy surveyed more than 18,500 Americans ages 16 and older and found about 14 percent could not read, could not understand text written in English, or could comprehend only basic, simple text. This study's predecessor, 1992's National Adult Literacy Survey, also found that about 14 percent of the 24,000 adults interviewed lacked moderate or advanced literacy skills. Because the overall population of the United States has grown by about 23 million adults, the number of adults with low literacy skills has grown by 3.6 million since 1992. (more...)

Ohio Funeral.....

2009-01-23T17:53:00.000-08:00

Well, I made my trip to Ohio and made it home in one piece. This was not a trip I had wanted to take or even planned on. But when a family member passes away.... you get in the car and go.

My Aunt Pat passed away on Sunday night in her hometown in Ohio. She was my Mother's middle brother's wife and was well into her 80's. But still it was somewhat unexpected.

I am very glad that I made the trip! I was able to connect with family members that I had not seen in a very long time. I met the children and grandchildren of my cousin and realized we have a lot more in common than I thought. It was funny to realize that we all have some of the same traits even though we have never REALLY been around each other. (ie... After cooking a big meal my cousin didn't have a place at the table. When I was trying to rectify the situation... her daughter said "Don't worry... when Mother cooks she never eats".... Hey I thought that was just me!

The private internment and the Episcopal service were both very nice. Being from the South, it takes a little getting use to to realize how different funeral/burial traditions are in different regions of the country.

I also got to see my share of SNOW. Around here everything completely shuts down when there is an inch or less..... but there.. the world was moving at a regular pace with over a foot of snow on the ground. It snowed an additional 2 inches the first night I was there but they seemed to think nothing about it. ALL the roads (except in the cemetery) are plowed before anyone gets up!

Thanks for all the condolences and safe travel prayers!

On my way to Ohio.....

2009-01-19T21:56:00.001-08:00

I know that it will probably be a while before anyone checks in and sees this post... but wanted to post this picture...

I left the deep south a little worried about what the weather would be in Ohio... but I ran into snow less than an hour from the house! Crossing Monteagle was a little interesting but not bad. I hear there is snow on the ground in Akron but the roads are ok!.........

I ordered a new Gadget!!!!

2009-01-11T20:27:00.000-08:00

Actually I ordered two of them.... One for my oldest to use in her college classes.... and one for my youngest to use in her high school sophomore classes! Yes I wanted one for me but I really don't have any REAL use for one. Maybe they will let me play with theirs or borrow it if I go to a conference.

The Livescribe Pulse smartpen places a computer inside a writing stylus to deliver a pen and voice recorder that remembers everything it writes and syncs it all with your PC.

There is a tiny scanner in the tip of the pen that picks up invisible dots in the special paper to keep a timeline of where the pen comes into contact with the paper. The pen can have its voice recorder activated, so it records audio while the notes are taken and afterwards, simply by touching the pen to any point in the notes, you can play back what was being said at the time.

If this sounds amazing, it is and it works. A journalist colleague swears by the smartpen now. Livescribe sells notebooks of the special Dot Paper, and users can even print out their own Dot Paper using a 600 dpi or greater printer.

Here's a video to help explain (it's a bit cheesy but it is aimed at students).

The pen is designed to make note-taking - for journos and for students - really easy. What's more, the pen uses handwriting recognition to solve maths questions and translate words. No, I am not making that bit up.

The notes can all be downloaded onto your computer using the Livescribe Desktop. The system is Windows compatible and there is a public beta to download for Mac users. A starter pack of the pen, the software, some of the special notebooks and other bits of kits costs around $149 for the 1gb and $199 for the 2gb. The Livescribe website is here.

No one wants to talk education.... How about food?

2009-01-08T18:15:00.000-08:00

The 11 Best Foods You Aren’t Eating

Maybe you should be eating more beets, left, or chopped cabbage. (Credit: Evan Sung for The New York Times, left

Nutritionist and author Jonny Bowden has created several lists of healthful foods people should be eating but aren’t. But some of his favorites, like purslane, guava and goji berries, aren’t always available at regular grocery stores. I asked Dr. Bowden, author of “The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth,” to update his list with some favorite foods that are easy to find but don’t always find their way into our shopping carts. Here’s his advice.

Beets: Think of beets as red spinach, Dr. Bowden said, because they are a rich source of folate as well as natural red pigments that may be cancer fighters.
How to eat: Fresh, raw and grated to make a salad. Heating decreases the antioxidant power.
Cabbage: Loaded with nutrients like sulforaphane, a chemical said to boost cancer-fighting enzymes.
How to eat: Asian-style slaw or as a crunchy topping on burgers and sandwiches.
Swiss chard: A leafy green vegetable packed with carotenoids that protect aging eyes.
How to eat it: Chop and saute in olive oil.
Cinnamon: May help control blood sugar and cholesterol.
How to eat it: Sprinkle on coffee or oatmeal.
Pomegranate juice: Appears to lower blood pressure and loaded with antioxidants.
How to eat: Just drink it.
Dried plums: Okay, so they are really prunes, but they are packed with antioxidants.
How to eat: Wrapped in prosciutto and baked.
Pumpkin seeds: The most nutritious part of the pumpkin and packed with magnesium; high levels of the mineral are associated with lower risk for early death.
How to eat: Roasted as a snack, or sprinkled on salad.
Sardines: Dr. Bowden calls them “health food in a can.” They are high in omega-3’s, contain virtually no mercury and are loaded with calcium. They also contain iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper and manganese as well as a full complement of B vitamins.
How to eat: Choose sardines packed in olive or sardine oil. Eat plain, mixed with salad, on toast, or mashed with dijon mustard and onions as a spread.
Turmeric: The “superstar of spices,” it may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
How to eat: Mix with scrambled eggs or in any vegetable dish.
Frozen blueberries: Even though freezing can degrade some of the nutrients in fruits and vegetables, frozen blueberries are available year-round and don’t spoil; associated with better memory in animal studies.
How to eat: Blended with yogurt or chocolate soy milk and sprinkled with crushed almonds.
Canned pumpkin: A low-calorie vegetable that is high in fiber and immune-stimulating vitamin A; fills you up on very few calories.
How to eat: Mix with a little butter, cinnamon and nutmeg.

I know everyone is disappointed that the beloved 'lizard' appetizer didn't make the list! But I'm sure you eat SOMETHING on here. So... what do you eat of these and do you have any recipe suggestions?

Schools tap '21st-century skills'

2009-01-08T05:37:00.000-08:00

To prepare students for a fast-changing future, teachers are reaching beyond the R's.

By Stacy Teicher Khadaroo
For decades, the emphasis in public education has been on making sure that students can read, write, and do math. But can they apply those skills in a real-world scenario, such as designing a bridge? Can they identify what information they need and use digital tools to find it? (read more.....)

Wake up call..........

2009-01-07T05:04:00.000-08:00

My phone rings this morning at just about the same as my alarm clock. Oh no.... what's wrong with who- (is my thought). Those very early morning calls usually mean that someone at work is sick and won't be coming to work. OR someone you know has died during the night.

I couldn't get to the phone in time to answer it and I did not recognize the number. So when I got my eyes completely open and on my feet- I returned the called.

CALLER- *Hello
ME *Hello- I recieved a call from this number this morning.
CALLER *Oh I'm so sorry! I have a new phone and I put it in my pocket and realized I accidentally hit a button.
ME*- Oh that's ok.
CALLER- *Ann- What'sNext this is Lemonette...
ME - omgoodness Lemonette... You sure are up early.
CALLER - yep- just on my way to work....

So if anyone needs an early morning wake up call.... I can give you Lemonette's number.

To those that don't know - Lemonette is a Youtube person.

Rains and flooding......

2009-01-06T21:24:00.000-08:00

Today we have had more than our share of rains in this area. There are roads underwater, roofs leaking, and basements flooded everywhere. And they have even delayed schools 2 hours tomorrow due to water over roads.

I spent a good part of the afternoon on a ladder with my head in the ceiling at our office trying to pinpoint the source of our leaks. We now have 5 buckets in the ceiling catching drips from several different directions. Hopefully they won't overflow before morning.

I checked our basement a little while ago and found one very tiny leak where water is seeping through/under the blocks! Hopefully our walls and Mother Country's walls will continue to hold! Please say a prayer!!! Cuz I have no desire to start sweeping water!!!!

Fun afternoon!

2009-01-04T18:50:00.000-08:00

I had a great time this afternoon watching children play on this playground. It was shirt sleeve warm even though it was very cloudy. There is nothing like watching and listening to small children squealing with delight as they whirl around and round on the merry-go-round, or swinging high and trying to touch the sky, or zooming down the slippery slide!

New Year's Day GOOD LUCK Food by Mother Country!

2009-01-01T20:45:00.001-08:00

I hope you were able to have all the Good Luck Food for New Year's Day!

We were lucky enough to have ALL the Good Luck food (plus some) with Mother Country tonight. And EVERYONE had at least a tiny bite of all the 'important' foods. We should be in good shape for 2009!
Menu
Cornbread
Sliced Tomatoes
Cooked Cabbage
Mashed Potatoes
Sweet Cooked Onions
Hog Jowl
Pot Roast
Black-eye Peas
Turnips Greens
Fried Corn
(not shown)
Pecan Pie
Buttermilk Pie

New Year's Eve 2008

2009-01-01T12:32:00.001-08:00

January 1, 2009

2009-01-01T09:01:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year's to everyone! It's Going to be a Good Year! It's Going to be a Good Year! It's Going to be a Good Year! Yea!

Well we survived the big Gala. It actually was a lot of fun and I think we actually may have made some money. We had lots of people that called the last day and probably had more people this year than last! The auction items went good and every one had a good time.

The Band was very good.... and yes Sue - Blondie keep his clothes on. The dance floor was full pretty much from 10:30 till midnight. But they did not have that HUGE following that I was worried about but a good crowd. I'll post pictures a little later.

Fundraising in a down economy...

2008-12-30T21:47:00.000-08:00

As some of you know, I'm the Director of a non-profit that does not have any state or federal funding backing. We are supported with local funds through the Chamber of Commerce and our own fund raising efforts. (ouch!) Someday I'll tell you alllll the things that we do for workforce development and literacy in a southern rural county....

We sponsor two major fund raisers a year... 1) A golf tournament in the Spring and 2) A New Year's Eve Gala.

We usually raise around $14,000 from the Golf Tournament and around $20-25,000 for New Year's Eve.

Well tomorrow night is the night! We are all set with food, monte carlo entertainment, fabulous auction items, and a great band- "DownStroke- which are Velcro Pygmies prodigies). But as you can guess, our ticket sales are down. It seems that people are qualming over the $100 per person price for the Benefactor package (brings you in at 7:00p - includes everything including Beef Tenderloin dinner, 2 drink tickets, Mexican Buffet at 10:00, and BBQ buffet at midnight. A great band and lots of fun. And of course, most of it is Tax Deductible). We also have the Patron package which brings you in at 10:00p for the Band Party and Mexican and BBQ buffets all for only $30 person or $50 a couple. Luckily we have started having a bunch of last minute callers... and hopefully they will keep coming!

So how will we fare? Will we clear $25,000? Will we break even? How we do on this event could determine how many programs and to what extent, we will be able to offer in 2009. If you are so inclined - I would appreciate you saying an extra pray for us. Prayers that the evening for the non-profit is profitable and for the safety of attendees.

I will let you know how we do with our fundraising efforts in this down economy!

Internet Providers Move to Shape Broadband Push

2008-12-30T05:07:00.000-08:00

The US has slipped from 4th place to 15th since 2001. How do you feel about government money being used to bring us back up speed? And do you think that it should just be for unserviced areas or also to upgrade existing networks?

Internet Providers Move to Shape Broadband Push

By AMOL SHARMA

President-elect Barack Obama's call to improve the nation's broadband infrastructure has cable and phone company lobbyists maneuvering to get a leg up.

Lawmakers in Congress want a plan that will create jobs over the next two to three years while also tackling the longer-term goal of improving the availability and quality of high-speed Web access in the U.S. The U.S. has slipped to 15th from fourth place since 2001 in broadband penetration, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Advocates say broadband deployment is critical to the competitiveness of the U.S. economy.

Among the issues are what speed Congress should define as broadband and whether government money should be funneled only to areas that have no broadband access, or if it should also subsidize upgrades to existing networks. (more....)

Internet Access Turns School Buses Into Rolling Classrooms

2008-12-29T06:58:00.000-08:00

What do you think about this?

Internet Access Turns School Buses Into Rolling Classrooms

By STEPHANIE SIMON

As part of his economic-stimulus plan, President-elect Barack Obama has pledged to wire more schools to provide high-speed Internet access.

Ethan Clement, a student in rural Arkansas, has some advice: Don't forget to wire the buses.

Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

A program providing wireless Internet access on buses enables high-school senior Ethan Clement to do classwork online during long rides to and from school in rural Arkansas, and offers her advanced classes and far-flung mentors.

Ethan, a 17-year-old high-school senior, has been taking math and science classes online during her 90-minute ride to school as part of a pilot project to turn old-fashioned school buses into cutting-edge classrooms.

The project, known as the Aspirnaut Initiative, gives some high-performing students laptops or video iPods and sets them up with online courses and educational videos during their long bus rides to and from school -- a round trip that often starts before dawn and ends after dark. (more....)

Our Get Away Place!

2008-12-28T16:29:00.000-08:00

The CABIN!
Can you see why our Grandchildren use to call it GranGrans TREE HOUSE!

What are YOUR memories?

2008-12-27T20:32:00.000-08:00

Memories are a Great Thing. They make the past seem like the present. This is a survey that Waynette has on her blog and I've copied and put in my own answers....

Q. What is your best New Years memory?
A. I remember the year that our family spent New Year’s in Gatlinburg. We listen and danced to ‘Boogie Woggle Bugle Boy of Company D’ and Jim really enjoyed the ICED TEA and my Dad never knew.

Q. What is your best Valentine memory?
A. Valentine’s 1992. LOL… welcome Molly November 12, 1992.

Q. What is your best Easter memory?
A. Best Easter would be 1958 or 1959 when we lived in Texas and my Grandparents flew out to spend the week with us.

Q. What is your best memory of the Fourth of July?
A. This would probably be 1959 when we were living in Texas and we visited some friends of my father. They were the very first people I knew that had a ‘real’ in-ground swimming pool in their back yard. It was also the day that my baby rabbit, that we had gotten from the edge of the veggie garden, died.

Q. What is your best Halloween Memory?
A. This would probably be around 1976 when I went to my first girl/boy party at the Holland’s. I even tried to bob-for-apples.

Q. Do you have a favorite Thanksgiving memory?
A. My favorite Thanksgiving memory would be when we would go to my ‘cousins’ Chris and Mabel’s house. The children were allowed to sit at the grown up table with all the fine china. We would have punch tea, Leola rolls, real butter and tomato aspic. I really remember the real crystal stemware with the water condensation.

Q. What was your favorite Christmas memory?
A. That is a hard one to pinpoint. I remember when I was about 4 and getting a doll as big as I was. I remember the first Christmas after my Mother died and I helped my Dad put out Santa for my little brother. I remember the first Christmas that I didn’t stay at my parents home and cried that ‘Santa wouldn’t be able to find me!’. I remember helping my Nanny D. bring Christmas decorations out of the cellar and their deep rich earthy smell. I remember Christmas Dinner at my Uncle Andy’s where I was amazed there was actually food because no one cooked in that house. I remember my oldest waking me at 4:00am- saying “Oh Momma he really came!!” and I remember the Christmas where Steve gave me my fur coat because I had heard all over town “YOU ARE NOT GOING TO BELIEVE WHAT YOU HUSBAND HAS YOU FOR CHRISTMAS.”

What are YOUR favorite memories?

Emoticarolers

2008-12-27T16:54:00.000-08:00

I saw Martha - Just a Gal's emoticarolers and just had to try it myself!
Thanks for Martha!

New Background

2008-12-26T09:36:00.000-08:00

I'm playing around with new backgrounds.

He ATE it!!!

2008-12-24T22:32:00.000-08:00

Well.. he didn't really eat it. He really just tasted a little bit. What was it? Velveeta Cheese Fudge!

Jim's comments were "Ugggh... I can taste the cheese!" I said "No you can Not!". Jim "Well I taste something!".... "Well duhhhh, it's fudge!".... "Oh... ok... it's not bad! With this cold I couldn't be sure what I was tasting!" "Brothers!"

Tonight was great! We had the family gathering and amazingly enough everyone got along! The kids had a great time running and squealing while the adult filled their stomachs with lots of really good food. We managed to get through eating before we were instructed to help put away the tables and chairs and get everything cleaned up.

Then our immediate family went upstairs to open our gifts! Let me tell you that my brother is the best gift buyer ever! A FEW OF THE THINGS he got me were accessories for my new Blackberry Storm. I now will be one of those idiotic looking folks walking around talking to myself, since I am now the proud owner of Blue Tooth!

I'll post a picture tomorrow of the necklace that my hubby got me!!!! :-)

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T06:35:00.000-08:00

It seems that this year Christmas is taking on new meanings for a lot of us. We are holding on to some traditions and starting new. But no matter what is going on in our lives, we all have things we are truly thankful for during this Holy time of year.

What are you thankful for this year? How are you blessed?

Christmas Eve.......

2008-12-23T22:08:00.000-08:00

It's Christmas Eve.....
SO....
"CHRISTMAS EVE PRESENT"
(beat ya! l0l)

Final things to cook...

2008-12-23T20:14:00.001-08:00

What do you have left to cook for the Holidays?

I have to make cornbread dressing and gravy to take on Christmas Eve. (you can see that I just finished baking a very large pan of cornbread to use in the dressing. I would have used my seasoned iron skillet and made corn pons but the skillet is at the cabin... am I am in town)
We are being treated to Breakfast on Christmas morning.
For Christmas Day lunch, I have been instructed to bring Mashed Potatoes and Corn & Pea Casserole. (What Holiday meal is complete with out 10-lbs of potatoes mashed up with tons of butter and milk? And by looking at the ingredients you can tell that Jim probably wouldn't touch the Corn and Pea Casserole lol...)
For dinner/supper Christmas night most of you know that Jim and I cook Rib-eyes on the grill. I have to go to the meat market to pick up the steaks. (I'll have to do my yearly research on exactly how long to grill steaks so they are med-rare, medium, and well done.
For the night after Christmas gathering I am supposed to bring a very large salad to go with Lasagna. (I'm trying to decide if I should do a traditional tossed salad and take along a bottle or Ranch. Or if I should make a really good salad with several kinds of lettuce, toasted pecans, feta or blue cheese, green and red onions, maybe dried cranberry, all tossed with some type of balsamic dressing?)

So, are YOU ready? Packages all bought and wrapped?
Will you be one of us that just HAS to get out and buy at least one 'something' on Christmas Eve... JUST BECAUSE IT'S TRADITION?

Bring on Christmas!

2008-12-22T21:17:00.000-08:00

Except for my usual last minute Christmas Eve present buying I do ever year and wrapping a few gifts, I READY!

Actually I still have a bunch to do but I got the 'BIGGY' done tonight! The SAND TARTS are made! And I also made a batch of Bourbon Balls, and a pan of Fudge (yes it is the Velveeta kind just so I'll have some JUST in case Jim wants to taste).

Growing up I always knew it was almost Christmas when my Mother made a big batch of SandTarts! They have always been my favorites and now they are my hubbies favorite also. My Mother and Dad together always made an Orange Slice Cake but you can bet your bottom dollar I will not be attempting one of those! :-)

Do you have a 'Special Something' you make or do that makes you feel like it's finally Christmas?

Sue- Just so you can add to your Alabama recipe folder:

PECAN SAND TARTS

1 c. butter
3/4 c. sifted confectioners' sugar
1 3/4 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. chopped pecans
1 tsp. vanilla
Confectioners' sugar

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Cream butter and sugar. Add flour gradually and mix well. Add nuts and vanilla; mix well. Shape into balls. Bake on ungreased cookie sheet 25 minutes or until cookies are lightly brown. When done, roll in additional confectioners' sugar while hot. (Makes 4 dozen.) Enjoy!

HOLIDAY BOURBON BALLS

3 c. (12 oz.) vanilla wafers, finely crushed
1 c. pecans, finely chopped
1/4 c. light corn syrup
2 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa
1/2 c. bourbon
1/2 c. granulated sugar (I used confection sugar w/just a little cocoa mixed in)

In a large bowl, thoroughly mix all ingredients except for the 1/2 cup of sugar. Shape mixture into 1 inch balls. Roll balls in the sugar. Store in a tightly covered container for at least 3 days before serving to allow flavors to mellow. Keeps up to 2 weeks in a tightly covered container. Yields 3 1/2 dozen balls.

Photo taken with BlackBerry Storm

2008-12-22T17:33:00.001-08:00

Ok... So the learning curve has begun! I took this picture with it this afternoon and was really impressed with the quality... It sure beats the heck out of my other camera phone.

We'll have to see how it does with people and with the video......

How Smart is Your Right Foot?

2008-12-22T04:55:00.000-08:00

This is wild!! Try it! It takes 5 seconds.

How smart is Your Right Foot ?
Just try this. It is from an orthopaedic surgeon.......

This will boggle your mind and you will keep trying over and over again to see if you can outsmart yourfoot, but, you can't.

It's pre-programmed in your brain!

1. While sitting where you are at your desk in front

of your computer, lift your right foot off the floor and
make clockwise circles.

2. Now, while doing this, draw the number '6' in the

air with your right Hand. Your foot will change direction.

I told you so!!! And there's nothing you can do about it!!!!

You and I both know how stupid it is, but before the day

is done you are going to try it again?

If you've not already done so.

Christmas Came Early! Thank you family!!

2008-12-20T21:09:00.001-08:00

Christmas came early for me this year. See what my children and hubby handed me this afternoon!!!!! A Blackberry Storm!

I will have to get it activated next week but they wanted me to have some time to play with it. (And yes they want the box back to wrap it so I will have a package to unwrap on Christmas)

I know that I WILL get the hang of it but right now it feels funny. I can't find things on it and I'm having trouble getting the right touch on clicking the icons! But with some practice I'm sure I'll master it and I love it!!!!!

I am one of those people that live by their computers. I use OUTLOOK for nearly everything. My contacts- names addresses emails etc. are all on there. I run my life with my calendar on OUTLOOK..... one time my computer crashed and I had no idea where I was supposed to be or do for several weeks! Now with a Blackberry--- I will have all that with me all the time!!! (that is if I can get it to sync with my work email through firewalls...etc! )

Thank you FAMILY (all of you) for getting me something I will really like and use! :-)

IT'S GOOD!!! VERY GOOD!!!!

2008-12-16T19:11:00.000-08:00

Velveeta Cheese Chocolate Fudge is as good as any fudge around. I am NOT kidding!! But the best part is how easy it is to make.

I've made several different kinds of fudge in my time. I've made the kind you boil till you reach soft ball stage. I've made the kind where you mix and mix and mix and mix. I've made the kind where you do all this stuff and then fold in the marshmallow fluff. And some have been very good. Some turned out runny. Some where stiff. Some were grainy.

But the Velveeta Cheese Chocolate Fudge was by far the easiest I have EVER made. From start to finish, I think it took me about 15 minutes (and that was with stopping for 2 phone calls in the middle). It was perfectly creamy and just the right consistency. I changed the recipe just a little by using toasting walnuts instead of pecans. (Did you know that you can toast nuts in the microwave?)

So tonight at Bunco I didn't say anything about the recipe until after everyone had had several pieces (yep I cut them small). And when a couple of people complimented the fudge - then I explained the recipe. They were amazed.... No Process Cheese Flavor!!!!

I think that every one of you should try the recipe. And it does need to be filed as Great Recipes from Alabama BUT NOT beside Koolickles!!!!

Velveeta Cheese Fudge and Bunco

2008-12-16T04:33:00.000-08:00

I play Bunco with a group of ladies that really enjoy getting together mainly for the friendship and conversations. The game is secondary but we do enjoy the laughter that comes with 'BUNCO'. Tonight we are having the Christmas gathering and we are having dinner. Everyone is to bring a dish so the hostess doesn't have as much to do.

But when do you think I remembered this? Yep... about 5 minutes ago! And I'm supposed to take a dessert. There is not time to bake a cake, pie, or even a yummy pudding of some kind. I could cheat and stop by the grocery store and buy a ready made cheesecake and add my own topping but that wouldn't be quiet right. So I decided to make fudge..........

Well at least a 'version' of fudge. I'm going to make Paula Deen's Cheese Fudge. They say it is super easy, extremely creamy, surprising good and made with VELVETA CHEESE. A few comments on the recipe did mention that it has a 'strange after taste'...... hmmmmmmmm

So would you try CHEESE FUDGE?

Chocolate Cheese Fudge

1/2 pound Velveeta cheese, sliced
1 cup butter
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup chopped nuts, pecans, walnuts
2 (16-ounce) boxes confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup cocoa powder

Spray lightly the bottom of a 9 by 2-inch square pan with a nonstick spray.

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the cheese and butter together, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and add the vanilla and nuts.

In a large bowl sift together the sugar and cocoa. Pour the cheese mixture into the sugar and cocoa mixture and stir until completely mixed. The candy will be very stiff.

Using your hands, remove candy from bowl and press evenly and firmly into pan. Because of the amount of butter in this recipe, pat the top of the candy with a paper towel to remove the excess oil. Place pan in refrigerator until candy is firm.

To serve candy, cut into squares.

It's a Great Day to be Alive!

2008-12-15T15:59:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of you that sent up a few extra words for me! I know they are what got me through today!

So..... I sold the Restaurant today!!!!!!

Yes, this is a good thing. No, I didn't get a lot of money. But it is now in the hands of someone that actually knows restaurant work and I think has the real desire to keep it local tradition.

So It's a great day to be alive...!

Where do YOU find music?

2008-12-11T21:11:00.000-08:00

Where is the best place to find music for MP3 players? Is this the same place you find music for an Ipod?

Merry Christmas

2008-12-11T19:48:00.000-08:00

An old video of my youngest.

Snow Predicted and Cinnamon Rolls

2008-12-11T04:47:00.000-08:00

They say that the rain we continued to received overnight and this morning will be turning to snow by late afternoon. They even predict at least a dusting here in the valley and up to 3 inches in higher elevations.

So what do you do if they predict snow? I'm one of the first in line to grocery store for snow supplies. No, I'm not going for milk and bread...... I'm headed for ingredients for a couple of recipes. I nearly always cook a big pot of chili when it snows and then something else new and fun.

IF (notice I said IF with capital letters) they say that the rain is turning to snow and the roads are becoming slippery... it will off to the Piggly Wiggly for Chili makings and Cinnamon Rolls.

I've been waiting on just the right time to make Pioneer Woman's cinnamon rolls. They look divine and the recipe sounds like something even I can make!

Weather Radio...

2008-12-10T05:29:00.000-08:00

I going to give in and get a weather radio!

Last night I woke up to horrible wind, rain, thunder and lighting. I wondered what was Really going on but our power was off. I listened for a few minutes and fell right back asleep.

Apparently a tornado hit an area called Pikeville just north of here! One of the girls that works at the restaurant called this morning about 6:00 and said their house had been hit around 1:00am. She said that it was after 3:00 before the police could get there because of down power lines and trees. Luckily they are all ok but still no power, no windows, and very little roof.

I'm going again!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-12-09T20:31:00.000-08:00

I don't know exactly what my fascination is with the Chattanoogo Choo Choo... But I absolutely love that place. It brings back so many memories. I was trying to think about how many times I have stayed there but I got lost after about 20....

The hotel works with local colleges and provides a wonderful Christmas service.... They have Elf Tuck In. The college students dress-up like Santa's Elves and come by appointment to read to the kids, bring hot chocolate, tuck the kids in bed and take a message back to Santa about how good they've been and what they would like for Christmas.

I think my youngest (now 16) was 5 or 6 when we took her. She was memorized by the elves and also a little timid around them. But all in all, I think she loved it and talks about it to this day. (or wait.. I may have been the one so amazed and I KNOW I still talk about it!!)

Well, two of the GRANS are what I think about the right age and I've made reservations for this weekend. Yipeee!!!! (who do you think is the most excited??) We (probably just the two oldest GRANS and I are going--- hubby and 16 year old are not interested) will get to participate in the Elf workshop, have a picture with Santa, swim in the in-door pool, and have the elves tuck the children in bed! On Sunday we may go to the IMAX and see POLAR Express in 3-D!

(Alabama) Senators try to set priorities for session

2008-12-07T07:56:00.000-08:00

By Sebastian Kitchen • December 7, 2008
After several contentious, unpredictable legislative sessions, state Sen. Wendell Mitchell has a plan that he believes will lead to a smoother, more predictable Senate when lawmakers return to Montgomery in February.

Eight top Democratic senators will serve on a panel that will talk to lobbyists, interest groups, and public officials before the session to gauge which bills are their top priorities and which ones they have concerns about.

"Among the (Democratic) caucus, I sense a zeal to have a productive session," Mitchell said.

Sen. Lowell Barron, D-Fyffe, who is chairman of the committee that decides which bills come to the floor for debate, has agreed to put some of those priorities at the front of the line when senators start debating legislation.

"I think it's real important in this particular economic situation," Barron said. "We need to focus on those things that will help us budget-wise as well as help ...
(Read more......)

Obama Plans Largest Building Program Since 1950s

2008-12-07T07:37:00.000-08:00

By Hans Nichols

Dec. 6 (Bloomberg) -- President-elect Barack Obama said he’ll make the “single largest new investment” in roads, bridges and public buildings since the Eisenhower Administration to lift the sagging economy and create jobs.

Obama, in his weekly radio speech today, said his plan to create or preserve 2.5 million jobs will also include making public buildings more energy efficient, repairing schools and modernizing health care with electronic medical records.

“We won’t just throw money at the problem,” he said. “We’ll measure progress by the reforms we make and the results we achieve -- by the jobs we create, by the energy we save, by whether America is more competitive in the world.” (Read the rest of the story)

Christmas is Coming...

2008-12-06T20:09:00.000-08:00

Ok... I have finally gotten a little Christmas spirit. The Tree is finally up and decorated. And some cookies baked. But that's as far as I've gotten. (I left my camera at the cabin and these photos were taking with my crummy phone camera)

It continues to amaze me at how 'Traditions" continue to change. No one wants to participate in the decorating any more. We use to make it a family affair. Going to the woods to cut the tree, miles of hiking and precise selection. Then hauling it out, taking it home, getting it in the stand, and decorating. In the back ground you would hear Christmas music and smell Chili cooking. Everyone would be laughing and actually having a good time.

Then came the time where we bought the tree, fussed about setting it up, but still had the family time with music and chili. Now our oldest is grown with a family of her own, youngest is driving and off doing her own thing, foster son grown, in the military and living in Ky, and hubby at the cabin watching the ballgame.

So---- I started my own tradition tonight. I got out the fake pre-lit tree. Set it up and decorated. I was amazed as I hung each of the nearly 100 ornaments how each one of them brought back some kind of memory. The Red Bird on top, the ornaments with photos, the one we got on our honeymoon in Cancun, ones our children made in preschool and elementary school, ones we've bought for the grandchildren, ones my Mother always had on her tree, and my silly ropes of pearls. I actually enjoyed decorating the tree by myself. No one fussed about where I put what, or how long it was taking. Now they will all come in and say ..... Wow... that looks good! And everyone will be happy that it is all done.

Maybe I'll get more spirit tomorrow after we attend the Magnificent Festival Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at All Saints' Chapel on the campus of Univeristy of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. And have dinner at Al Capone's Hideout! (I hope that none of the waiters drop any Bananas Foster!)

What should I order?

I can't believe it made CHILI

2008-12-04T17:07:00.000-08:00

Today we hosted a Workforce Development meeting for approximately 40 people. We were looking at what it is going to take to have a 'prepared' workforce in the next 3-10 years. Needless to say, education was the key topic. But how to motivate students, how to educate parents to the positive side of 2 year technical degrees, and how to implement career education into K-12 continued to surface as the main concerns.

Since this was a 12:00 noon meeting, we had to have food ready. (Feed them and they will come!) I had been given a recipe for CHILI that we decided to try but I didn't think it would be CHILI. The way that I've always made it is pretty much the way my Dad made it for years ---- with Lots of Garlic and Lots of Chili Powder.

This recipe did not have ANY garlic OR chili powder. But when it was made it was very probably the very best Chili I have ever had!

Recipe:
Ground Chuck
Kidney Beans
Onions
Green Pepper
Canned Whole Tomatoes
Canned Stewed Tomatoes
Paprika
Red Pepper
Whole Cloves
Salt

And that is it! I'm sure the way it is put together contributed to the taste and texture. If you are interested in more detailed instructions let me know and I'll send it your way.

Tuberville Resigns..... 5.1 Million Dollar Buyout

2008-12-03T21:40:00.000-08:00

WHO'S NEXT? Auburn search is under way

Posted by Charles Goldberg, Birmingham News December 03, 2008 10:36 PM

Categories: Football

Who's going to replace Tommy Tuberville as Auburn's head coach?

We've got some names, but, first, we're going to tease and/or scoop Birmingham News columnist Kevin Scarbinsky from his Thursday column:

``Say this about the ending to the Auburn chapter of Tommy Tuberville's coaching career:
The divorce was more amicable than the marriage.

``After 10 years of a relationship that too often looked better in front of the neighbors than it did behind closed doors, both sides are better off going their separate ways.

``Tuberville can take a year off to reboot.''

The rest of the column is in Thursday's newspaper. Oh, yeah... The names:

But first, this is how my main story in Thursday's Birmingham News begins:

Tommy Tuberville's last day as Auburn University head football coach was one of reflection and tears.

Tuberville, who resigned Wednesday after a 10-year run that included the best season in school history, said he became emotional when he told his players of his decision during a short team meeting.

``I'm doing fine, but then you suddenly realize you're not a coach anymore,'' he said. ``I had a tough time with the players. I almost didn't get through it.''

The search for his replacement has begun. Someone familiar with the process said he expected a replacement to be named ``pretty quickly.''

The rest of that story is in Thursday's newspaper, too.

The names? OK. But first, at least four players who committed to Tuberville's staff have de-committed, according to recruiting websites. That's predictable after a coaching change. Many times those guys come back into the fold.

OK. The NAMES. Kevin Scarbinsky dug up this:

A coach becomes a realistic candidate for a head coaching job in one of two ways. Either he expresses an interest in a school or a school expresses interest in him.

Based on interviews with coaches, athletic officials and other college football insiders, The Birmingham News has identified five potential candidates who may be on Auburn's radar or might like to be as the school searches for a successor to Tommy Tuberville.

They are, in alphabetical order:

1. Derek Dooley
Head coach and athletics director
Louisiana Tech
May also be a candidate at Mississippi State.
Father, Vince, is a former Auburn player who might like to see his alma mater consider his son for the job the elder Dooley almost took in 1980 before Pat Dye was hired.

2. Jimbo Fisher
Offensive coordinator and head-coach-in-waiting
Florida State
$2.5 million buyout if he leaves FSU now before succeeding Bobby Bowden as planned.
Turned down the West Virginia head coaching job last year.
Former Auburn assistant under Terry Bowden.

3. Mike Leach
Head coach
Texas Tech
In his ninth year at Tech, has two years left on his contract.
Reportedly talking to Washington officials about that job.
Source said Auburn made unofficial contact with Leach's camp and Leach, a former Kentucky assistant, is interested in returning to the SEC.

4. Will Muschamp
Defensive coordinator and head-coach-in-waiting
Texas
Spent 2006 and 2007 in Auburn as Tuberville's defensive coordinator.
Recently named Mack Brown's future successor with an increase in salary from $425,000 to $900,000 starting in January.
Source said unlikely to return to Auburn with Jay Jacobs as AD.

5. Bobby Petrino
Head coach
Arkansas
Former Auburn offensive coordinator.
Auburn tried to hire him in 2003 to replace Tuberville as head coach.
Sources said Auburn made unofficial contact with Petrino's camp but his Arkansas contract would be hard to break.

What is CUSTOMER SERVICE?

2008-12-01T20:56:00.000-08:00

Customer service

Tomorrow I will be facilitating a workshop on CUSTOMER SERVICE for managers and front line employees of a group that has two Golf Courses, Cabins, Summer Swimming Pool, Campground, Marina, Bait and Tackle Shop, Restaurant, and a Civic Center.

What does Customer Service mean to you? Is it important? Why? What tips would you offer? Do you have any Really GOOD Customer Service stories? Any REALLY BAD experiences? At least any that I could share?

_______________

Wikipedia's defination

Customer service is the provision of service to customers before, during and after a purchase.

According to Turban et al. (2002), “Customer service is a series of activities designed to enhance the level of customer satisfaction – that is, the feeling that a product or service has met the customer expectation.”

It's already December...

2008-11-30T22:55:00.000-08:00

Oh me oh my oh... It's already December! Does anyone know what happened to November? Heck for that matter, where did October, September, and even August go? Seems like yesterday that we were swimming at the Beach!

Oh well, December is here and I guess it's time to think about Christmas! Country Comes To Town has already found the time to decorate and I guess I'll find a few lights and decorations before the Jolly Ole' Man climbs down our chimney.

But luckily I'm one step ahead of the curve on shopping. I've already ordered one for Mom, one for oldest child, one for hubby, three for youngest child, two for two of the grans and one for the other gran.

But what the heck do you get for a Country Comes to Town? Anybody got any ideas?

Ok... I Try it Again

2008-11-30T17:21:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note that I'm going to Try It Again. At least that way I won't be so Anonymous on my comments.