To get where I want to be...

Weekend weather...

2010-05-02T17:13:00.000-07:00

I heard my fair share of tornado sirens this weekend. Friday night was spent glued to the couch, flipping back and forth between news channels. Last night I hit the road in hopes of avoiding another night of bad weather, but quickly turned around when I saw what was in front of me... this...

Unsure of what exactly I was looking at, I headed back the

other direction. Didn't feel like pushing my luck.

What are you afraid of?

2010-05-01T08:59:00.000-07:00

Saturday odds...

The odds an adult is afraid of spiders or insects are 1 in 3.7.

The odds an adult is afraid of...

needles or shots are 1 in 4.7.

snakes are 1 in 2.78.

flying are 1 in 2.86.

public speaking are 1 in 2.5.

And the likelihood an adult is scared of crowds? 1 in 5.56.

Give a listen to...

2010-04-29T20:39:00.000-07:00

needtobreathe.

This South Carolina band is definitely worth listening to. I have "Something Beautiful" on repeat.

Two things...

2010-04-22T15:04:00.000-07:00

Hulu and Aziz Ansari's character, Tom Haverford, on Parks and Rec. Hulu, a website that has tv shows and movies available to watch online. No cost. No downloading. And I love it. If you haven't already- you must ch-ch-check it out. Now for Tom Haverford. He's funny, and I like him. And you should check him out too.

At home...

2010-04-19T17:41:00.001-07:00

When my world starts moving too fast I retreat to my parents' for the weekend. It's the one place I can truly rest and relax. And mom's cooking smells better than whatever I have burning in my kitchen.

"There's nothing half so pleasant as coming home again."

-M.E. Sangster

Dad at home, enjoying the view.

Thou shall be impressed...

2010-04-11T09:45:00.001-07:00

I fixed my broken vacuum. All by myself.

Here's 10...

2010-03-01T18:01:00.000-08:00

Okay, 43 Things is a "social networking site," but I think it's neater than just that. It's a website where people make a list of their goals and hopes for life. After a long day with sixteen (make you want to pull your hair out) five year olds it's nice to take a breather, refocus, and think about the things I want out of life.

Here's ten of my goals. Some silly. Some serious.

Dust of Snow...

2010-02-08T22:09:00.000-08:00

The falling of snow brings me a sense of enlightenment...

a feeling that, today, anything is possible.

The way a crow

Shook down on me

The dust of snow

From a hemlock tree

Has given my heart

A change of mood

And saved some part

Of a day I had rued.

-R. Frost

In 2009 I...

2010-01-19T16:22:00.000-08:00

Lost my voice at a Brad Paisley concert.

Cried the first time I held Ike.

Turned twenty-two.

Danced on stage with a stranger.

Rafted white waters.

Attended a biker's rally.

Flew like an eagle.

Celebrated my brother's graduation.

Ate raw oysters.

Chased waterfalls.

Rocked a Velma costume.

Laid in an open field star gazing.

Karaoked my heart out.

Stood on the Cowboy's 50-yard line.

Bring on 2010....

"csat-tap"

2009-12-24T20:22:00.001-08:00

Keeping with the Santa letter posts, today I found a Christmas wish list that I wrote when I was six. All I asked Santa for was three little triplets, a cat that purs, a stroller, a baby bed, a bike, and a cassette tape. The "csat-tap" I wanted was the Talkboy Tape Recorder from Home Alone 2. I must have been a good girl that year because I remember Santa bringing me everything on my list- I also remember naming my bike magic ribbon dancer (it was a pretty sweet ride).

Lit Up!

2009-12-23T22:44:00.000-08:00

The neighbors took Christmas lights to a new extreme this year- forget keeping up with the Joneses. Hope this video brings you as much happiness as Little Jimmy has brought to our street! Merry Christmas!!

(Disclaimer: Little Jimmy is not my neighbor. This is just a cool video I found on youtube.)

All I want for Christmas is...

2009-12-20T19:21:00.000-08:00

Mr. Claus,
I would like a 1,000 cartons of Marlboros and a new Bowflex for Michelle, she broke the old one. I would also like some new jeans.
Barack

Father Christmas,
I understand the media isn't painting a pretty picture of me, but before placing me on the "naughty list" please remember I was selected the PGA Tour Player of the Year for the 10th time. Also, for Christmas I would like a time machine.
Sincerely, Tiger

Deer Santa,
I would like the power to grow another mullet, and have #1 hit single on the Billboard Charts.
Think you, Billy Ray Cyrus

Kris Kringle,
We would like to replay the game against Dallas.
New Orleans Saints

Dear Santa,

2009-12-19T13:06:00.000-08:00

One of the best things about Christmas this year is counting down the days with five year olds. Experiencing the Christmas season with my kindergarten class has been a blast! Here are a few of my kids' Christmas letters to Santa.

Dear Santa,
I will decrat my Chistmas tree and I will lev you some cookies and milk. I want a bat man toy.

Dear Santa,
I love you. I wat a nu toe (toy)!

Dear Santa,
Wut is your favrit randeer? Santa I wunt a alen gun and a hampstr for Miss Cambell and a golf ball.

Dear Santa,
I wont a sqishe anml! Bcase they r sqishe. I ben good.

The Ninth Reindeer

2009-12-16T21:53:00.001-08:00

License and registration please...

2009-11-16T17:24:00.000-08:00

Unless you're Bo and Luke Duke chances are you don't feel a rush of excitement when you see flashing blue lights. This weekend I wasn't racing in the General Lee, but I was stopped for speeding... twice. It's like the saying goes, "It's not the cards you're dealt, it's how you play them." Luckily, I drove away with two warnings.

Here are a few strategies that may help you get out of a ticket.

1. The Jedi Approach-
If Obama is able to convince the House to pass his health care bill, you should be able to convince the highway patrol you don't deserve a ticket. Tell the officer, "This isn't the speeding car you're looking for" and slowly wave your hand in front of him.

2. The Dramatic Approach-
While we'll agree that a woman crying can create a strong feeling of sympathy, the site of a man breaking down on the side of the road could have the same impact. Broken, stripped of all his manly man pride- it's worth a shot.

3. The Humorous Approach-
If it wasn't for humor Larry the Cable Guy would be sitting at home watching reruns of MacGyver eating Twinkies. So why not use the same skills to make the 5-0 laugh and, hopefully, let you off.
On an empty country road...
Officer- "Where are you going in such a hurry?"
You- "Just keeping up with traffic, officer."
Officer- "I don't see any traffic."
You- "That's how far behind I am, I was trying to keep up!" (Insert drum noise- bad dum cha)

4. The OJ Simpson Approach-
"Am I glad to see you! I was just run off the road by this crazy guy in a black Dodge Viper. I'm almost positive he was wearing an orange jumpsuit! I was trying to catch up with him to get his license plate number, but he was just too fast!"

5. The Honest Abe Approach-
Sometimes you're speeding for a good reason. You robbed a bank. You're the groom and you're late for the wedding. Police are people too. They also hear a lot of stories so maybe the truth will impress them.

Catchy tune...

2009-10-25T20:13:00.000-07:00

Every time I listen to this song I catch my foot tapping along.

Episode #912 "The F-Book Debate"

2009-10-14T17:04:00.000-07:00

I'm a huge Seinfeld fan. A show about nothing- genius. In any episode you'll hear one of Jerry's silly reasons to stop dating a woman, see Elaine shove someone, hear George whine and complain, or see Cosmo Kramer in his vintage clothing sliding through Jerry's apartment door. Had the show lasted another eleven years I bet you would've seen an episode play out like this...

Interior, Jerry's Apartment, Evening

ELAINE and JERRY are standing around JERRY'S kitchen counter. GEORGE is sitting on the couch typing on a laptop.

Begin scene.

JERRY: Again with the facebook chat?

GEORGE: What? I can't be on facebook?

ELAINE: No one said you can't be on facebook.

GEORGE: Jerry did. Jerry's got a problem with me f-booking.

JERRY: F-booking? Go ahead, please, f-book away. F-book all you want. F-book your heart out.

GEORGE: I will.

ELAINE: Fine, but enough with the application requests! Enough already! And stop poking me. Poke one of your other twenty friends.

GEORGE: Who are you? The queen of facebook?

JERRY: You know, to spend so much time on facebook you would think one would have more friends than the twenty-two you have. And your interests, quail hunting? Quail hunting!

GEORGE: I got a lot of friends, baby!

KRAMER enters, nearly knocking over JERRY as he stumbles into the living room.

KRAMER: Giddyup. (Notice George.) What's up with him?

ELAINE: He's facebooking again.

KRAMER: You mean f-booking?

GEORGE: THANK YOU KRAMER! I f-book just as often as the next guy. No one stops George Costanza from facebooking!

KRAMER: I ever tell you about my friend Sam Sacamano? Facebooked way too much. (Getting animated). Facebooked like there was no tomorrow!

GEORGE: So?

KRAMER: (high-pitched) He went blind!

ELAINE: GET OUT!

GEORGE: Because of facebook?

KRAMER: You said it, buddy.

JERRY: Ugh, let's go or we're going to miss the movie.

GEORGE: Wait! Wait! Newman just messaged me. Can I see if he wants to go?

JERRY: I don't think so.

End scene.

All is Fair in Love and War

2009-10-12T17:23:00.000-07:00

For men relationships are like going into battle. Chances are it’s going to end up ugly. Someone’s going to be the victor, and the other- a POW. Just like the confederates in the Battle of Wilson’s Creek men all too often find themselves in the heat of battle (a relationship), quickly retreating. Why? Blame it on being gun-shy, they have their assignment but hesitant to fire... Inexperience, it’s their first rodeo… Low on artillery, they’re left feeling defenseless against the opposing sex… or Ill equipped, they have to get their ducks in a row before they can pursue the enemy. Whatever the reason, once they step in front of enemy lines they turn running for higher ground before the first cannon is shot.

However, the love affairs of women aren’t much different. For women- it’s a battlefield too. (Can refer to Pat Benatar’s song, Love is a Battlefield.) We’re wounded from previous battles, but continue pressing forward. That’s the difference. A woman will not be caught waving a white flag before the first sound of fire. No, the fear of being wounded doesn’t scare her. She lost an arm fighting in the “Battle of What Movie to Watch” and a leg in the “Battle of Where Were You Last Night”.

Bottom line... A woman won’t settle for being a POW, she’ll keep fighting until she gets her man of honor. Besides, we all know which side wins in the end.

One Funny Guy...

2009-09-28T19:25:00.000-07:00

Faking it...

2009-09-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

Research completed at Rutgers University found that a great number of cell phone users are faking it.

That's right. A nod and "Sorry, I'm on the phone" look... all planned. There's not someone on the other end of the line. The person just doesn't have time for a ten minute conversation with you in the middle of the canned goods aisle. Someone who's late for work may enter the office talking to "an important client" to cover their tardiness. And not surprisingly, men will pretend to be on a call as they walk over to hit on a woman. While women will pretend to be on a call to avoid getting hit on by men.

Note to fake talkers-

1. Make sure your phone is on silent. Heaven forbid your phone rings in the middle of a fake conversation. Cover blown.

2. Leave time for the pretend person on the other end of the fake phone call to respond. It wouldn't sound realistic if you're the only person talking- listening is important too, just like in a real call.

3. There's a website dedicated to the art of staging phone calls. The site lets you choose to have your phone called at particular times of the day at your preselected time. Let's be honest, your phone will ring in the middle of a movie, sitting in church, or waiting in the doctor's office... but never when you need it to. This is where the website comes into play- a call can be set up as a backup plan for a first date, or the answer to a drawn-out meeting.

www.popularitydialer.com

Pageants in the pokey...

2009-08-08T11:31:00.000-07:00

Matching pajamas, bunk beds, pillow fights (without the pillows)… It’s the ultimate sleepover for women in the big house. And now they get to play dress up too. After a day of sewing lingere and leisure wear for companies like Victoria’s Secret and JCPenney, inmates like to make the most of their free time. And what’s the best accessory to an orange jumpsuit? A satin sash and a rhinestone tiara. Women’s prisons are now hosting beauty pageants- it’s not Miss America, it’s Miss Captive. Contestants are judged on their physical beauty, personality, and special talent. I’m sure the warden frowns upon competitors listing breaking and entering as a talent, but hey… it is a talent. The prize? Participation in the contest can count as good behavior come parole time, while also boosting prison morale. While pageants in the pokey hasn’t hit the United States yet, I’m sure it will soon… and I’m even more sure that it will be made into a reality television show.

More Movies...

2009-08-03T10:43:00.000-07:00

Funny People... You definitely won't spit your drink out or choke on popcorn laughing, but you'll smile, nod approvingly and occasionally chuckle. My take? A two hour and fifteen minute film that felt like four hours, I checked my phone throughout the movie willing time to fast-forward to the end.

Movies I can't wait to see...

The Time Traveler's Wife

...opening August 14th.

Starring, Rachel McAdams and Eric Bana

I'm currently reading the book... it's good, really good!

Click! To watch the trailer here!

All About Steve

....opening September 4th.

Starring, Bradley Cooper, Sandra Bullock and that guy from Wings- it's bound to funny!

Click! To watch the trailer here!

Status Updates...

2009-07-28T08:49:00.001-07:00

It's there on the home page- Facebook asks, "What's on your mind?" And many are always eager to respond... PCWorld came up with the most common Facebook updates, and here are my favorites.

#1 The 'Passive Aggressive' Update.

"Tyler Hanes could do without THAT in his life."

---Posters suggest they're angry, but they won't say why; or they'll express frustration about something or someone in their life, but they won't provide any specifics about who or what is getting on their nerves. Girl's fall victim to this update... usually after a breakup.

#2 The 'I'm Tired, and Here's How Many Hours of Sleep I Got Last Night' Update.

"Jeremy Jones was up till 4 partying hard! Need sleep now!"

---We're all tired, always. But it seems this poster is out to prove that while everyone else may be in a sort of mild daze, they're genuinely sleep-deprived (and deserve some sort of recognition).

#3- The 'You Never Seem This Happy in Real Life' Update.

"Megan Lane had the best DQ Blizzard and now gets to see her besties! I love life!"

---Posters get excited over finding an extra quarter at the car wash, or catching all the green lights on their way home from work.

#4- The 'Song Quote' Update.

"Sarah Clark is saying if you liked it then you shoulda put a ring on it!"

---Posters use song lyrics to convey what they're feeling at the moment. For example, it's much easier to use Beyonce's lyrics, than to say, "You should've married me when you had the chance!"

#5- The 'Look How in Love I Am' Update.

"Rachel Mayer gets to see him in three days! Love him!"

---These posters love to gush, and naturally we love hearing about it every day. This update is sometimes the product of a person overcome by joy and appreciation for their significant other, but... it can also be an attempt to get a jab in at an ex.

And one more for fun...

#6- The 'Big News Break' Update.

"Lisa Carrs can't believe Jillian picked Ed!"

---This is how I learned of Billy May's death. These posters are on top of their game, and the go to news source.

In case you missed it...

2009-07-26T10:30:00.000-07:00

While we knew Obama did not have a future in the Professional Bowling Association, looks like Major League Baseball is a passing dream too. Red Sox’s pitcher, Jonathan Papelbon, said it best, “If you’re throwing out the first pitch, you can’t throw it in the dirt.” What you didn’t see before the All-Star Game on FOX was Albert Pujols moving up to catch Obama’s pitch before it hit the ground. A sad comparison to the strike President Bush threw during the 2001 World Series. I wouldn’t say he throws like a girl, that would be misogynistic… But I might say he throws like a little girl.

Bad day Tuesday...

2009-07-08T09:05:00.000-07:00

What could be worse than getting a flat tire? How about getting a flat tire on your bicycle- nope, no donut to slap on. And no, it can't be patched with tire slime, it's a blowout and you have to push that baby (in hundred degree weather) two miles to the nearest gas station.

Riding downhill it quickly came to my attention that my front tire was flat and this wasn't going to end pretty. My knee jerk reaction of hitting the brakes was the result of me being impelled over the handlebars. My bike, my body, and my ego suffered great damage in all of three seconds. With no cell phone and no emergency flares to send out I had to push my bike for what seemed to be twenty miles (but in actuality was only two or so). After the first couple hundred feet of pushing I started seeing mirages... like in the movie Fievel Goes West. Lesson to be learned? Stick to a stationary bike in the comforts of your home or a gym.

Must go see...

2009-06-27T22:12:00.000-07:00

One thing I love about summer... all the great movies that hit theaters.

The Hangover... Hilarious. Expected to be just another raunchy guy movie I was hesitant to see this one, but given it didn't have Will Ferrell in it (not a big Ferrell fan) I decided to wait in line, pay my seven dollars, and hope for the best. The storyline? A groom and his groomsmen head to Vegas for a night of tomfoolery. And then wake up the next day to a trashed hotel suite and a missing groom (glad I wasn't the bride to be). I spent the entire movie laughing my head off and constantly worrying about how they were going to pay for all the damage done to the hotel suite. All in all, it's a funny movie- flat out, but I'd suggest skipping the end credits.

The Proposal... Ryan Reynolds is in it- enough said. In sight of being deported to Canada, Sandra Bullock's character, Margaret, convinces (more like blackmails) her assistant, Andrew, (Ryan Reynolds) to marry her. In their attempt to successfully scam the immigration service they set off to Alaska to meet his parents. The picturesque mountains and trees made me want to book a flight to Alaska, until I googled it and learned that the movie was filmed in Massachusetts- so Massachusetts, here I come! All in all, cute movie, and Ryan Reynolds isn't bad to look at for an hour and a half either.

Michael and Ochocinco

2009-06-25T21:47:00.000-07:00

It's the news, it's everyone's facebook status, it's what Bengal's wide receiver Chad Ochocinco is tweeting about... Michael Jackson.

And it's what the guy on the treadmill beside me wanted to talk about... "Dear, did you know that Michael Jackson died today? You look like someone who enjoyed listening to his music."

I don't tweet. But obviously Ochocinco does and he had a lot to say, comparing today to 9/11. Here's his take on the passing of Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson...

"Okay, first Mrs. Fawcett now Mr. Jackson, please tell me that this is a mistaken rumor, if not this is just as sad as 9/11"
"okay not as bad as 911, its sad period, both situations my goodness people, hey just said he is okay in the hospital," (not really apologizing as much as believing Michael Jackson was still alive).
"The 9/11 was a bit over the top, i am just in an emotional state right now, bare with me while i regroup people, be back in 10 minutes".

Ohh Ochocinco, a man very much in touch with his feelings.

If I had a million dollars...

2009-06-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

What would you do with a million dollars?

(Assuming it was after taxes)

I would like to think a million dollars could get me a mansion that resembled Richie Rich’s, complete with a rollercoaster, catapult, and a McDonalds. But after crunching the numbers, that’s not likely… So I’ll settle for a waterslide and swimming pool in my backyard, or my own sno cone hut. It’s hot outside!

Trees for Mena

2009-06-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

When? June 17, 7 p.m.

Where? George's Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville

Who? Benefit Concert featuring Benjamin Del Shreve, 3 Penny Acre, Randall Shreve, The Sarah Hughes Band, Smithstonians, Cletus Got Shot, Tanya and Dave, Keith Nicholson and Apartment 5.

*All proceeds go to buying native trees to replace those lost in the April 9, 2009 tornado in Mena, Arkansas.

http://www.experiencefayetteville.com/events.php

Fashion oops, circa 1993

2009-06-07T18:16:00.000-07:00

I crossed a boundary of style. Had I not seen the picture as proof I would have sworn that I had not fallen victim to.... da da daaa, sandals with socks. Remember folks, if it's cold enough to wear socks, it's too cold for sandals.

Praise the Lord! School's out!!!

2009-06-02T19:21:00.000-07:00

As their last assignment for the year I had my students write about what they imagined their life would be like at age twenty-five. Here's what they had to say...

-If I was 25 years old I would be a veteranean, spy, and a zoo keeper. I would live in Alaska, and have the biggest igloo on the block. I would have a hosbend. I would be rich. Why am I rich? Because of all those jobs! Plus I sing for the homeless and give quilts and hot coco every year. That's what I would do if I was 25 years old.

-I am 25 yers old. My house is right next to my worke. I am a mucanic. I open my shop at 5 a.m. and close at mednight. I really like my job. My house is 25 feet wide and 32 feet tall. I have a blue Dodge Ram. I also have a black lab, named Sam. I've been marred 3 times and devorced them all. That is how my life wood be if I was 25.

Side note- At age twenty-five, I just want to have a nice home with a dog in the backyard. And nice landscaping.

2009-06-01T18:38:00.000-07:00

My book review...Y City...

2009-05-31T17:57:00.000-07:00

"Y City is more than just a fork in the road. For some, it's a place where there is no turning back."

For me, Y City is only a mile marker... marking twenty miles till home. But in Wade River's novel, it's where the plot forms. Aptly accused of Leah Taylor's murder, Harley Wright's plans of evading to Mexico are quickly put to an end by the Texas Rangers. Brought to Mena for questioning, Harley's story starts to unfold.

If you can get past the hick names given to the characters, i.e., Lucian, Duke, Tater, and Rip- it's a good, easy read. Being based in Mena it was entertaining to follow along as the characters ate at Cruizzers, and drove past local business on highway 71.

From chapter two... "The image of her sitting in the car next to his at Cruizzers drive-in suddenly flashed in his mind. One time she parked next to Harley, and he looked over at her smiling with a triple thick shake in her hand and a French fry dangling out of her mouth. Harley shook his head as if coming out of a bad nightmare."

Mom's Birthday...

2009-05-28T19:41:00.000-07:00

No one has ever accused me of being a tidy cook. If there's an oven, mixer, or frying pan involved my kitchen will end up resembling a war zone... sauce splattered on the walls, sugar on the floor, noodles dangling from the vent-a-hood. The last battle my kitchen saw- cupcakes for Mom's birthday. There were no injuries in the baking process, and the cupcakes were delicious!!

Idol critics...

2009-05-21T18:49:00.000-07:00

This morning I was bombarded by twenty-five of American Idol’s toughest critics- my students. The girls thought Adam’s costume during his performance with Kiss was a fashion faux pas!! “Those wing thingies really creeped me out!” And the boys didn’t approve of Adam’s platform boots. “Did you see his shoes? They were like four feet high!” On the other end of the spectrum, Kris’ choice of outfits got a resounding- “Soooo cute!” Last night reported by the news, (but then retracted today) Arkansas voted a booming thirty-eight million times. So for bonus students calculated how many times each person in Arkansas would have had to vote to reach the total. The answer? An estimated thirteen times. Well, I did my part!!

And the winner is...

Pressing send...

2009-05-19T21:09:00.000-07:00

Curious to see if I could get in, I started calling… With the first successful call, I continued dialing. With the second, I grew more excited. It only added to the thrill that my calls were getting in, while friends were still having no luck. With the third call, it became a competition- Me against the millions also trying to cast their votes. With every, “Thanks for voting for contestant two…” I congratulated myself on beating all the others who had tried dialing American Idol at that time. My thirteen votes are all due to persistence and excellent finger dexterity…. and a night of nothing better to do.

Monday again...

2009-05-18T19:33:00.000-07:00

A song to listen to when you are....

driving to work- "Takin' Care of Business", BTO
running on the treadmill- "The Long Run", The Eagles
waiting in line at McDonald's- "The Waiting", Tom Petty

A man's heart...

2009-05-17T19:56:00.000-07:00

Made this afternoon, my chocolate chip cookie brownies.

While I’ve been cooking and baking my little heart out, according to recent studies the old saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through is stomach” is w-r-o-n-g. Apparently the way to a man’s heart is through his left ear. Research suggests that declarations of love, jokes, or words of anger are best remembered when they are heard through the left ear, while instructions, directions and non-emotional messages have more impact on the right side. It all has to do with how our brains process information. But that’s where I think lays the problem… With many of the opposite sex, I think their brain leaves that little (but very important) step out.

Kris mayhem...

2009-05-14T17:25:00.000-07:00

Hot topic at the water cooler- American Idol. I don't have to watch the show to know what's going on, because everyone is eager to give the play by play. I was one of the proud and few who had not succumbed to the Idol craze, but last night I was stuck with two avid watchers. After catching the last five minutes of the show, I had no choice but to become a fan. Now that my team has made it to the Super Bowl, I'm jumping on the bandwagon. And I would be jumping on a flight to Los Angeles if I didn't have twenty-five little darlings counting on me to educate them next week. Instead my friend slash Fox 24's stud reporter, will be enjoying In-N-Out Burger and all the American Idol madness without me. Lucky... lucky dog.

Bowling today...

2009-05-10T18:37:00.000-07:00

Forget the clown shoes, now bowling alleys have high heel bowling shoes. However, I don't need a two inch heel to better my odds of slipping down the lane. Spray some disinfectant in a pair of mismatched eights, give me the gutter rails, and I'm on my way to breaking a hundred!

Now, my question is would they have helped Obama? But then again, shoes may not have been the problem. Remember that great Jay Leno interview?

For a good laugh...

2009-05-07T18:50:00.000-07:00

Just think of how many people she

made smile throughout the day.

It's Monday...

2009-05-04T18:36:00.000-07:00

In hearing Aaron Shust on the radio this morning I was reminded that in a life ever changing, never constant, my Savior remains the same. When I'm unsure of what today's decisions will bring tomorrow, I can trust in knowing that He has and will always be there for me.

And be sure to listen to Gomez's Little Pieces, very... very good.

Taking necessary precautions...

2009-05-02T09:14:00.000-07:00

The US Center for Disease Control recommends that you

NOT do this for controlling the spread of the H1N1 flu virus.

Don't sit by me...

2009-04-30T18:44:00.001-07:00

I have become "that fan." The one who thinks they're better qualified to call the game, the one yelling, "Where's your glasses ref?" I have laughed at, mocked, even been embarrassed for "that fan," but never have I been on the other side... That is until my brother started playing soccer. Now you're sitting by a crazed fan hanging on every second, every play... and for your sake, we better be cheering for the same team.

Derek takin' hits and kickin' butt in last weekend's game.

The first "Download it Monday!"...

2009-04-27T18:14:00.000-07:00

In stealing Jonnie's idea of "Shout Out Wednesday" posts, I'm claiming "Download it Mondays!" Each week I'll throw a couple of songs your way. Songs I can't get out of my head... songs I'm humming in the self check-out line... songs I'm blasting in my car... songs that are getting me through the week.

Happy listening!

A sucker for cheap movies...

2009-04-26T14:43:00.000-07:00

What started out as a guilty pleasure has now turned into a full force addiction, clearance DVDs. I can spend an entire hour pilfering through Wal-Mart’s $5 movie bin, and I did in fact spend an afternoon combing through Hasting’s used movies. I walked out with $36.97 less in my banking account, but six movies richer. Do the math, I made out like a bandit! Currently, I'm looking to add Jurassic Park and Heavyweights to my ever fast growing collection, two cinematic masterpieces in my book.

Keeping faith...

2009-04-20T22:02:00.000-07:00

To see the community reach out to those suffering from the tornado’s destruction is to see God’s love. In helping the church deliver meals, I saw first hand the need for God’s guidance. After losing their homes many were left with little or no hope. It is my prayer that the town of Mena will find their peace and assurance in God’s amazing, redeeming love. His strength is sufficient for any trial.

Although Mena has seen an outpour of volunteers to help with the tornado relief many are still without assistance. In 2 Corinthians 8:3-5, Paul speaks of believers joining to help others in need. “For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. And they did not do as we expected, but they gave of themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God’s will.” In this time of great need we have the opportunity to show a heart of servanthood, and assist in the recovery efforts. If you would like to volunteer some of your time to the tornado relief call (479) 394-3534 or 211.

After the storm...

2009-04-14T20:40:00.000-07:00

The April 9^th tornado brought in emergency response teams and electrical crews from across the state. The EF-3 traveled fourteen miles, leaving over a hundred homes destroyed and six hundred damaged. Driving into Mena Friday evening streets quickly became unrecognizable. Power lines and trees were heavily scattered across homes and business, leaving only the outline of the tornado’s path. The town I was returning to was a much different place than the town I grew up in. Truly heartbreaking.

This is a satellite view of Reine Street before the devastation of the tornado. Click on the arrows to travel down the street. Below the satellite feed are pictures taken from this weekend.

View Larger Map

For information about donations or how to help out with tornado relief, contact Dallas Avenue Baptist Church at (479) 394-2697.

Unspoken words...

2009-04-09T18:01:00.000-07:00

The heart clings to unspoken words,

words never said, words never heard.

They stay hidden deep inside...

Weighing on the heart,

taking hold of the mind.

As silence fills the distance,

and time continues on...

The words become more difficult

leaving them left to be unknown.

-DSC

Joyride...

2009-04-06T19:44:00.000-07:00

My Sunday afternoon could have been a scene from a movie,

a bad horror flick.

Caused to swerve to the shoulder of the road, girl honks at man

in beat up Ford- girl being me, man being scary backwoods

Neanderthal. Man quickly becomes outraged, jumps out of old

junker, beats his chest, and uses a limited vocabulary of four

letter words. Story doesn't end there. It picks up ten miles down

the highway when I realize the man who ran me off the road

is now behind me in a Grand Marquis, a step up from the beat up

Ford. Apparently he still had a a lot to say- yelling obscenities

out his window and shaking his fist violently into the air. No cell

phone service, and a blinking fuel light only added to the

excitement. But in between thoughts of "Who would get Murphy?"

and "What is this crazy capable of?" I couldn't help but think if

only this was Mario Kart all I would need is a few banana peels...

The chase continued for a good twenty miles, finally lost him in

traffic once I made it to Fort Smith. Lesson definitely learned,

to some people driving is transportation; to others it's a contact

sport.

Refrigerator Worthy...

2009-04-02T21:46:00.000-07:00

My refrigerator stays covered with my student's artwork. The latest- "Get Well" notes for Murphy, who recently underwent surgery. They're the sweetest. I'm very blessed.

2009-03-31T22:56:00.000-07:00

My third graders remind me to not take life too seriously.

They're great!

From the mouths of eight year olds...

-"Do you have an attic? Oh well, I was going to tell you if you had one to check it for rats. I found ten in our attic this weekend."

-"Oh, it's natural for my family to have big mouths. I've never seen anyone with a bigger mouth than my grandpa. He can eat deer meat with no teeth."

-"I found my shining knight in armor at recess today."

-"Is that a bible on your desk? There's Jesus' birth in that thing.

I read that every time I'm in the doctor's office."

I wait for you...

2009-03-18T23:43:00.000-07:00

Through every disappointment...
You were there waiting to give me peace.
Through every decision...
You were there waiting to show me the way.
Through every success...
You were there waiting to share my joy.

Tonight, I will be still and wait for you.
-DSC

"Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him."
Psalm 37:7

Be my way...

2009-03-10T17:34:00.001-07:00

Be my eyes when I can't see the plan you have for me... my hope
when I lose perspective... and my strength when I grow weak.
-DSC

"Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth." Genesis 9:16

Secret Agent Man...

2009-03-03T20:23:00.000-08:00

This started with assigning my students to write about their weekend...

A student raises their hand to tell me they cannot write about their weekend because it is top secret. Instantly I am all ears, "top secret?" I ask. "Yes, this weekend I became a secret agent. I have been undercover since Saturday, but I'm not allowed to tell you my name." By this time he has not only caught my interest, but now has the attention of those sitting around him. Very quickly a classmate interjects, "There's no way they'd let an eight year old in the CIA!" Without missing a beat, the self-proclaimed agent speaks up, "Well I'm the only eight year old that knows about it." Still disbelieving the classmate tells him he is too young to be a secret agent. Undeterred, the new agent releases some information that I would consider to be highly confidential, "A friend of mine who was eight told me all about it. He's out of it now- he's fifteen. You have to be eight to be in the secret eight year old agency." I'm sure he thought he was in the clear, but his classmate was quick on her feet- "You're not eight! You're nine! So you can't be in it either!" He quickly recovered, "Oh yea, yea, that's right, but you have to be eight first to be in it. They kick you out when you turn ten." And with that said it was time for lunch...

Today before school was dismissed I asked the little guy if he had secret agent training today, he looked at me with as much seriousness as a third grader could muster and said, “Yes, today we receive our first mission.”

In search of relief...

2009-02-22T17:29:00.000-08:00

Head cold? Sinus infection? Flu? I'm just covering all of my bases.

Tonight I'm just me...

2009-02-12T21:30:00.000-08:00

This song was definitely written by a woman. : )

Looking for direction...

2009-01-28T22:57:00.000-08:00

My foundation shakes, I begin to crumble, but remember to call out your name. You will never leave me nor forsake me, this I know. But today, I can't help but feel so alone. The world has knocked me down again, down on my knees to pray. Help me find the words Lord, as I don't know what to say. The darkest nights are here, give me the light I need. Point me in your direction, take my heart to lead.
-DSC

In Molly's World...

2009-01-27T20:16:00.000-08:00

My part...

2009-01-24T09:14:00.001-08:00

Today is your day and mine, the only day we have, the day in which we play our part. What our part may signify in the great whole we may not understand; but we are here to play it... It is a part of action, a part of love... A part that takes strength and courage to play.
-DSC

Faith tested...

2009-01-18T09:46:00.000-08:00

There’s a lot to be learned from the book of James. In James’ letter he speaks out to Jewish Christians, encouraging them in their faith during difficult times. In studying James I’m reminded that James, even today, is speaking to me. How strong is my faith? In James 1:6-7, he reminds Christians to seek the Lord for wisdom, but he also reminds us that we must put away our critical attitude when we come to Him. That we must believe, have faith, that God will align our desires with his purposes.
-DSC

A Song Remembers When...

2009-01-13T20:52:00.000-08:00

Some are blessed with musical talents, whereas I was blessed with only ears to hear those more musically inclined. My singing is best left to the confines of my vehicle. A couple of weeks ago the cd player in my car decided to take a hiatus, leaving me only to listen to the radio. Much to my dismay, apparently the workings of a cd player are far too complex for anyone to fix... so now I'm bound to two or three stations that need new announcers and less commercials. But like today, sometimes through the static and annoying furniture ads you catch a song that takes you back to another time and another place. I can only hope that years from now, when that song finds my ears... I'll be back in that moment, reliving it all over again.