HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Happy New Year!!!

I hope 2012 brings everyone joy and blessings.  2011 is behind us and 2012 is ahead. 

God Bless us all!

Is anyone out there addicted to the TV show Revenge as much as I am?  There has not been a new episode in a few weeks and I am having withdrawals.  I have DVR'd all of the episodes.  Maybe I can refresh my memory of previous episodes. I always watch each episode twice.  I watch it Wednesday night as it is being shown and then I watch my recording on Thursday night.  I don't want to miss anything.

Have a great Thursday.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Merry Christmas!

Best of Tidings to All!!!

Tonight BFF MAB and I went to eat at Highland's Bar and Grill. The food was absolutely delicious.  I always get the NY Strip, but tonight I decided to try the flat iron steak.  It did not disappoint.  And, a meal is not complete without the baked grits.  For dessert, I got the chocolate hazelnut mousse cake with praline ice cream.  I chose as my beverage Harney & Son's Paris tea. 

BFF MAB gave me a woody Christmas tree ornament, a canister of Williams Sonoma peppermint hot chocolate and a beautiful jewelry box.  I gave her a Fleur de lis key pendant from Lovell Designs. We just love the jewelry from there.  It is classic and affordable.

Tomorrow night, I will do my last minute grocery shopping and Thursday, I will clean house. 

I hope everyone has a great Wednesday.

It's less than a week until Chirstmas.  I'm almost ready. I just have to wrap two gifts  I went to my mother's house this weekend.  We went nonstop.

A family friend passed away on Thursday, and the visitation and funeral were held on Saturday. My mother was asked by the church to make a dessert for the lunch held after the funeral.  My mother made a banana pudding.  My mother makes the best.  After we attended the visitation, we went home and made the banana pudding.  We wanted it to be warm when it was served to the family.  After we delivered the pudding, we came home and started cooking some holiday treats.  I made two Williamsburg Queen's cakes.  My mother took one to her across the street neighbors.  The couple across the street are so nice.  The man pushes my mother's garbage can in each week, plus they were just a phone call away on the days that I had to stay home alone while there recuperating from a broken foot and foot surgery.  Fortunately, I never needed them, but it was nice to know that they would be there in a few seconds if I needed them.  The other Queen's cake was for us to enjoy, which we did.  My mother and I attempted to make some divinity.  It had been so long since we made it that we were not sure how long to cook the syrup or how long to mix it after we added it to our egg whites.  It tasted okay, but did not look too pretty.

Today, after church, we took her car to be washed and vacuumed.  Tomorrow, she is driving my late father's 85 year old cousin and her husband to Huntsville to the funeral of another cousin.  These people are the nicest people that you can ever meet.  They are so afraid of inconveniencing people.  I told my mother that if they do, they don't need to worry about it.  Everyone owes these people a favor.  They go beyond the call of duty to be gracious.

Tuesday, there is another funeral at church.  The widow of another of my father's cousins passed away.  We really don't know her, but I am friends with her son and daughter-in-law. (I guess they are my cousins also)  She doesn't have to take food, but she's going in my place since I have to work.

It seems so much sadder when people die this time of year.

I am getting excited about next weekend. 

I hope everyone has a great Monday.  Try not to stress out too much preparing for the holidays.

I have two quick questions.

Number 1:  Does anyone have a good recipe for Blondies that they will be willing to share?  I love them but have never made them.

Number 2:  For some reason, I'm sort of worried about Preppy 50 and Loving Lilly.  Has anyone heard from her?  She hasn't had a blog post in over two weeks.  She also hasn't been on Twitter.  I hope everything is okay and she is just taking a blogging break.

Have a great day!

This has been a busy week.

Monday, I drove back to Birmingham...in the rain...for the second weekend in a row.  I hate driving back in the rain.  It used to not bother me, but now it does.

Wednesday, I went to a Christmas Party at Costa's.  The service was slow, but the food was outstanding.  I had the baked ziti.  I had enough left over for dinner tonight.

Last night, Queenie and I took our team leader to Bottega Cafe.  I had a gift certificate that I received about 4 1/2 years ago.  All of a sudden it was burning a hole in my pocket.  We had the holiday punch, side salads and shared a pizza.  It was yummy!

Today, our team leader was in our office all day.  She did our yearly reviews and took us to lunch.  We chose Silvertron Cafe.  We are lucky to have a great team leader.  I have heard horror stories about some of the team leaders. 

Tomorrow, I have errands in the morning and then to a party at BFF MAB's house.  She has the best parties.

Sunday, I think BFF MAB and I are going to the Alabama Theatre to see the 1951 version of Miracle on 34th Street.  I think Birmingham is lucky to have such a cool theatre.  During mid December, they show classic Christmas films, such as What a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Carol, Miracle on 34th Street, Home Alone, etc.

I hope everyone has a great Saturday.

Today, we went to All Saints Chapel on the campus of the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee to attend the Festival of Lessons and Carols.  It was fantastic.  We got there about 1:30.  We got a good parking place.  We got in line at about 1:40.  The church doors opened at 3:45 and the program started at 5:00.  Yes, we waited in line for over 2 hours to get in.  I could not believe some of the people. Some had chairs, some had picnic lunches on the ground.  One group of people even set up a table and chairs.  They even had a red and white checked tablecloth.  The wind was horrible while we were in line.  One time there was a gust so strong that I almost fell down.  I'm ready to go back.

I hope everyone has a great Monday.

If you are like me, you are getting geared up for the holidays.  I'm almost finished with my shopping and can now get really into the spirit of the holidays.  I've been kind of holding back and have decided that starting tomorrow, I'm going to really try to get in the spirit of everything.  I don't know why I've set a date to do it, but I have.  I guess I don't want to get burned out on the holidays.  Last year, I got everything done early so that I could really do things.  I did so much, I almost burned out.  I guess last year I was so excited because I spent November and December of 2009 sitting in a chair with my broken, wired together foot propped up on an ottoman and pillow.  Thank goodness for online shopping.

I really want to do some baking, but I'm so obsessed with sticking to my diet and eating smart that I can't bring myself to bake shortbread and Queen's cake.  Maybe in a couple of weeks, I'll bake a few goodies to enjoy.  I want to bake something different this year.  I think that different thing will be blondies. I've never baked blondies before, so I am searching for a good recipe.

My supervisor is going to be in town next week.  I'm going to be spending the next few work days getting everything ready for that visit.  I hope it is a great visit.

I hope everyone has a great Friday.  Until next time....

Tomorrow is the Auburn-Alabama game.  Y'all know who I am pulling for...my Auburn Tigers.

War Eagle!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!!

In about 36 hours, I will be sitting in a comfortable chair watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade.  I love parades. I rarely ever miss Macy's parade.  It is the granddaddy of all parades.  Luckily, our Thanksgiving dinner has been moved to 5:00 pm.  After the parade, we can take our time preparing our dishes.  We may go to my sister's house early and offer our help. 

Tomorrow should be quiet at work.  Only three of us are scheduled to be in the office after noon.  Maybe we will be able to sneak out early. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. 

We were supposed to have bad storms today, but fortunately the conditions were not there.  The schools closed early.  I think everyone is a little bit gun shy since the April 27 tornadoes.

I hope everyone has a great Wednesday.  If you are travelling, please be careful.

I've been a bad blogger lately.  I just haven't had much to report.  I have been reading your blogs on a daily basis.

I can update you on my search for foundation to replace my trusty old Clinique SuperFit.  After trying many samples, I have decided to switch to Chanel Mat Lumiere.  It looks fabulous on my face, and it also feels great.

This afternoon, I almost went to Gus Mayer to buy a pair of Tory Burch Revas, but as I was getting ready to go, I talked myself out of it.  I can't decide if I want the goldtone or silvertone logo medallion.  I can't believe that all of a sudden, I had this hesitation.  You see...on October 20, 2009, I had planned to go to Gus Mayer or Saks Fifth Avenue on my way home from work to try on a pair of Revas.  As I was showering, I all of a sudden did not feel very well.  I decided that I was going to stay home.  As I was walking back to the bedroom, I fell and broke my foot.  The next week, I had surgery.  I could not walk on my foot for 8 weeks.  Then I had to learn to walk again.  For about a year, I wore Tretorns, even with dresses.  I then was able to wear a couple of pairs of old shoes.  Now, 2 years later, the swelling is finally gone.  Now, I can wear my normal shoes.  To celebrate, I want to treat myself to a pair of Revas.  Which color logo medallion do you think I should get?  I wear both gold and silver jewelry.  I have neutral black shoes that I can wear with either jewelry. 

I am looking forward to Thanksgiving.  We are going to eat at my sister and brother-in-law's house.  It will be us and my brother-in-law's siblings and their children.  My mother is preparing hen and dressing and sweet potato casserole - she makes the one with the pecan topping.  I'm baking a fudge pie and a chocolate pecan pie.  I am also making a green bean casserole - not the regular with green beans, cream of mushroom soup and french fried onions.  My recipe is green beans and water chestnuts topped with a mixture of cream of mushroom soup and sour cream.  The final topping is grated cheddar cheese and cracker crumbs. As it bakes the soup/sour cream mixture melts into the green beans. It reminds me of the green bean casserole served at Andy's in Opelika.  I ate my fair share of Andy's green bean casserole when I was a student at Auburn.  For the first time in many years, I am not making a cranberry salad.  My mother and I discussed that she and I are the only ones that like it, so why bother. 

I hope everyone has a great Monday.

Remembering Grace Kelly aka Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco on her 82nd birthday. 

So sad that she left us so young.

Thank You Veterans!

Thank you to all who gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we can be free.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LILLY!

Happy Birthday Lilly!

The other day, I asked your opinion of Burberry.  Today, I am asking your opinion of another brand, Kate Spade.

I bought my first Kate Spade pocketbook about 12 years ago.  I bought a black microfiber Sam bag.  I loved it and still have it.  It is still in great condition.  On the same day, I bought a wallet.  Over the years, I have purchased several other bags, including two Quinn bags, one black microfiber and the other black leather.  Last year, I purchased another wallet and have been really pleased with the purchase.

I have always felt that Kate Spade was designed just for me. In the early years, I would visit the website just to read it.  I was introduced to many things, including a music group called Pink Martini.  I'm still a fan today.

BFF MAB bought a couple of pocketbooks a few months after my first purchase.  She was very pleased with them.  They were later replaced by Prada.  She is not a big fan of the brand.  Her sister had a friend who started out with the company at the very beginning.  She later left and went to work for a major high end department store as a designer for their in store line of handbags.  When she got laid off, Kate Spade sent an HR rep to see her to ask her to come back.  She was offended that Kate herself did not personally ask her, seeing that she was with her from the very beginning.  I have to agree with her. 

It seems like after a few years as a successful leather goods designer, Kate sold herself.  Even though, I still like the original simple styles that made the company a success.  Another think I like about the company is their commitment to the war on fakes.  I hate to pay my good hard earned money for something and then see someone with a fake that was made in a sweatshop by child labor.  That is one of my pet peeves.

What do you think about Kate Spade?

This morning, as I was putting on my Burberry hooded raincoat, I got to thinking about the Burberry brand.  A few days ago, I was reading comments on another blog about the brand.  Someone said that it is considered chav to wear Burberry.  I only have a few items, but I really like to wear them.  Besides my raincoat, I have a nova plaid wool scarf, a navy plaid wool scarf, several cardigans, a navy wool coat and an umbrella.  To tell you how old the umbrella is, it is a Burberry's.  The cardigans and the navy coat are not obviously Burberry.  The coat has the charging knight pattern embossed on the lining.  I find most pieces to be classics.  I do realize that the brand has been overdone. 

Do you have Burberry and what is your opinion?  I'm curious to know.

Have a great Friday.

I've been out of town for the past week.  My mother wanted to go with her friends to San Antonio.  She didn't want to be a fifth wheel, so I went with her.  We had a great time.

We went to the Alamo, Riverwalk, the Mexican Market, Mi Tierra's Bakery, LBJ Ranch, Luckenbach, Rudy's Barbecue, and the San Antonio Zoo. The two men that went also visited the Toyota plant.  We wanted to tour Cowboys Stadium, but they were not doing VIP tours on Friday.

We got back home Saturday afternoon.  Even though we had a great time, it was good to get back home.

Back to work tomorrow.

I hope everyone has a great Monday.

Today my boss's boss is in town.  I'm going to wear a navy Austin Reed skirt, light blue Brooks Brothers merino wool twinset, big pearls, big pearl earrings and my navy Ferragamo Varas.  It's cold outside, so I need to find an appropriate jacket to wear.  I have a long black Geiger boiled wool jacket.  Maybe that will do.

Since I am having to tell you what I'm wearing, I'm taking more time putting things together.  Maybe in a few weeks, it will just happen.

I hope everyone has a great Thursday.

Two days in a row for dressing better for work.

I wore a navy Brooks Brothers' dress, a light blue Lands' End cardigan, pearls, pearl stud earrings, and navy Ferragamo Veras.  I felt like I looked nice.

I had to go sit on another floor for four hours.  Everybody was in a meeting.  I had to sit there just in case there was a visitor.  Nobody came onto the floor.  I felt glad to help out.  It's all about team work.  My coworker does not understand the concept of team work.  She does not work outside of her little box.  That has always been hard for me to understand.  Oh well.  I can't worry about her.

I hope everyone has a great Wednesday.

Lazy weekend.

I did a few errands, watched TV and read magazines.  It was so nice.

Today, I'm starting my plan to change my routine so that I look better when I go to work.  I normally just wear whatever.  I need to start dressing better...just because.

Today, I'm wearing a Austin Reed black skirt, a red turtleneck sweater and a Brooks Brothers black quilted jacket.  I can't decide between my Ferragamo Vera's or my Ferragamo loafers.  I'll decide when it is time to put on my shoes.  Since my jacket has gold tone button and the shoes have gold tone bows/trim, I'm going to opt for gold jewelry.

Now I need to decide what to wear tomorrow. 

I hope everyone has a great Monday.

This past weekend, my mother and I went to Sevierville/Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.  We wanted to do a little bit of shopping. 

At Pendleton, I was able to find a pair of glen plaid slacks and a couple of merino wool sweaters.  At Ralph Lauren/Polo, I bought a set of four glen plaid highball glasses and four glen plaid double rocks.  They were on sale and I had a coupon.  I also bought some Lauren cologne.  We hit most of the shops at the outlets in Sevierville.

For dinner, we ate at Applewoods Farmhouse Grille.  It is a very popular restaurant in Pigeon Forge.  We were going to eat breakfast there on Sunday, but decided that we were not in the mood for a large breakfast. 

Sunday, we did more outlet shopping.  As we were leaving, we went to Orvis and The Apple Barn.  We had apple pie for lunch.  YUM!  My mother stocked up on apple butter and corn relish.  Maybe it will last until our next trip to the mountains.

We were lucky that it was a pretty weekend.

I hope everyone had a great weekend and have a great Wednesday.

I'm sorry that I've been bad about posting lately.  I've had something going on at work.  It's over, so now I can get back to normal.  I hope to be able to post more often, or at least until the next round of stress at work.

Have a great Thursday!

I need some advice.

Clinique has discontinued the foundation that I have used for years.  I have oily skin and have used the Superfit for many years.  Now, it has been discontinued and I don't like what they are recommending.  I think it is called Perfectly Real.  I like how it goes on and how it looks on my skin, but by midday, my skin is greasy.  I have always liked Clinique and hate to buy another brand, but I hate to have greasy skin.  Any suggestion?

Does anyone else have oily skin and use something that they are happy with?

Thanks for any suggestions.

Have a great day!

I've been enjoying the new season on TV.  So far my old favorites have not disappointed.  I have enjoyed the season premieres of my favorite shows:  Gossip Girl, Desperate Housewives, Big Bang Theory, and Mike & Molly.  I watched Pan Am and really enjoyed it.  I think it is going to be scandalous, don't you? 

I didn't enjoy Hart of Dixie.  I thought the stereotypes were a little too much.  What's so bad is people probably believe those stereotypes.  I didn't understand her arriving on a bus.  The only buses that I see here in Alabama are tour buses. What bus would let her out 3 miles from town.  The bus would drive into town and drop her off at the bus station that also doubles as a diner or gas station.  Even in small towns, attorneys drive expensive cars, not beat up pick up trucks.  And, I've never heard of an alligator in Alabama.  I know that they've been spotted, but those were brought in from Florida and let out in a creek.  It didn't really hold my interest either.  Oh well, I don't have to watch it.

What are your new favorite shows?

I hope everyone has a great Wednesday.

Happy First Day of Fall!

I just love fall.  I can't wait for the weather to cool down some more so that I can wear corduroys, sweaters and turtlenecks.  I bought several sweaters while in Maine.  I can't wait to wear them.  It's still a little warm here, with highs expected to be around 80 for the next few days.

I've been enjoying the apples that I bought at the orchards.  I hope I have enough to last until next weekend.  I may go back to the orchards.  I can't wait for the Fuji apples to be available.

I hope everyone has a great Saturday!

I am so glad that this weekend is over.  It was busy.

We had planned a surprise party for my sister's 40th birthday.  We have spent weeks planning and getting ready for it.  We took a break Saturday morning and took my sister's 3 1/2 year old to see the parade of motorcycles that were participating in this year's Trail of Tears.  In the past, the motorcycles go through town around 9:00, so we got to the a parking lot at 8:45.  We found out that we were about 15 minutes late.  They changed the schedule and we were unaware of it.  We were able to see about 10-15 motorcycles that were late to the parade. 

The party went great.  My sister was totally surprised.  It was nice to visit with friends and family.  We did not get home until 2:00 am.

Today, we went to the orchards and bought two pecks of apples. 

Now it's time to get ready for my week ahead.

I hope everyone has a good Monday.

Maine Shopping

It is not surprising that I did some shopping while in Maine. 

First of all, when we were in Deerfield, we stayed right next door to the Yankee Candle Palace.  We've always made fun of Yankee Candle, but BFF MAB and I both love the Fresh Mint candles.  We went in there and stocked up.  I also like apple and fall scented candles.  I got a few for this fall. 

At "The Mount" in Lenox, MA, I bought Victoria's The Essential Tea Companion and an Edith Wharton key fob for my sister.

In Freeport, I visited Bridgham & Cooke, the British goods store that I read about on Muffy's blog.  I bought a Black Watch plaid throw, some gloves, a Mars bar and a Milky Way bar.  I like the British version of Mars bars so much better than the American version.  I wanted to try the Milky Way and for $0.50, why not?  It tasted like the American version without the caramel.  At the Brooks Brother's outlet, I bought a chocolate brown merino wool cardigan and a gray merino wool cardigan.  I also bought a kelly green cable knit crewneck pullover.  I can't wait to wear it.  We didn't hit too many stores on our first trip to Freeport.  Later in the week, we went back just to go to LL Bean.  I didn't have high expectations for LL Bean.  If you read Muffy's blog, you will know why.  I was able to find three pairs of corduroys, a couple of cardigans, some turtlenecks and some long sleeved tees. 

A trip to Maine is not complete without a visit to the Maine State Prison Showroom.  Prisoners make items out of wood and sell them in the store.  The funds go to pay child support and other restitution.  I bought a few things for my mother and I, plus some wooden cars for the nephews. 

I went to a store in Camden called Camisole.  I found a Lanz gown and a couple of turtleneck sweaters.  I love Lanz gowns and they are hard to find these days. I ventured into Admiral Buttons, but was not impressed.  I didn't like the clothes, plus the staff were a little bit uppity.  Sorry.  I know that this is a popular place.

One of my favorite stores in Portland is LeRoux kitchen shop.  I got a basket and went all over the store stocking up on things that I need/want.  I bought a mixing bowl, gadgets, Mrs. Meyers Lemon Verbena cleaners, tea, etc.  I also went into a similar kitchen shop in Bath.  There I bought a tea kettle and a place setting of dishes for fall.

One afternoon, we went to Stonewall Kitchen.  I bought baskets, jams, mustard, crackers, cookbooks and gadgets.  It is such a fun store filled with great products.

I also discovered Reny's, a Maine department store.  I went crazy.  I bought six tubes of Tom's of Maine toothpaste, two boxes of Bromley's tea, peppermint and a toy for Bo.  The prices were almost too good to be true.

A few weeks ago someone sideswiped my car.  Yesterday, I took it to have it repaired.  We have laughed about the rental that I got.  I thought I would get a car that is smaller than a Ford Focus.  No, they gave me a Chevrolet Silverado pick up truck with an extended cab.  I've never driven a pick up truck before.  I am the queen of the road in that thing.  Too bad that I don't have anything to haul this week.  I hope to have my car back Thursday afternoon.  I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

I hope everyone has a great Wednesday.

I love this video.....

Let us never forget.....

Today, we went to Sabbath Day Shaker Village and Portland Head Light House.  I had my third meal in 3 days of fried Maine Shrimp.  YUM!!  I may have it again for dinner tomorrow.

Tomorrow, we plan to go to LL Bean, Kittery and then sailing. 

Sunday, we start our long journey back home.

Greetings from Portland, Maine.  BFF MAB and I have been here since Sunday.  We left home last Thursday and drove directly to Roscoe, New York...Trout Town, USA.  Friday, we drove to Stockbridge, MA where we toured the Norman Rockwell Museum.  We then drove to Deerfield, MA and checked into our hotel.  Saturday, we went to Lenox, MA.  We saw a play at The Mount, Edith Wharton's home.  After the play, we ate lunch and then toured the house.  That night we went back to Deerfield.  We ate at the Deerfield Inn.  The food was delicious.  Everyone was preparing for Irene.  The owner was kind enough to give us directions out of town in the event that we decided to leave. 

Sunday, we woke up to rain.  We decided that we were going to stay another night in Deerfield.  After watching the weather channel, we decided that we were going to outrun Irene.  We showered, packed and were in the car in 15 minutes. We drove to Portland during the storm.  It was not too bad.  We called ahead to the hotel and were told that it was going to be worse in Deerfield than Portland.

Monday, we woke up to sunny and warm weather.  We walked around town, toured the Wadsworth-Longfellow home and then back to the hotel. The afternoon was spent shopping in the Old Port area.
Tuesday, we went to Bath and Freeport.  We didn't hit LL Bean, but we had good luck at the British Goods store.

Wednesday, we toured Victoria Mansion.  After lunch, we headed to York to stock up at Stonewall Kitchen company store.  A trip to York would not be complete without a look at the light house.

Today, we left the hotel at 8:30.  We drove the 81 miles to Camden in about 5 hours.  We stopped at Edgecomb Pottery and the Maine State Prison Store.  We also stopped in Rockland to look at the lighthouse. We ended our trip in Camden.  We didn't like Camden.  Most of the people were real uppity.  We ate at a harborside restaurant.  We were seated and given menus.  After a few minutes, MAB commented that the waitress had not been by.  A woman that was chatting with someone at the next table turned around.  It was the waitress.  We were mortified that she heard MAB make the statement.  The waitress just kept on with her conversation.  She then poured a glass of water but placed it on the opposite corner of the table.  She then continued to chat with the people at the next table.  She then filled the other glass with water and then took our order.  The food was delicious, but her attitude was appalling.  She was nice, only because she was probably raised to be nice to people.  But..she was uppity.  Act like they won the war....

Tomorrow, we plan to venture to a shaker village and maybe travel some more on US 1.

I hope everyone enjoys their Friday.

I was fairly busy this weekend.  I had so much stuff that I wanted to do.

Saturday:  farmers' market, breakfast at the bake shop, made soup, went to see The Help, church and lunch afterwards, gave Bo a bath, and then back home. 

I really enjoyed The Help.  I think my mother enjoyed it also.  I read where the actress that played Minnie is also an Auburn graduate.  She was my favorite character.  If you haven't seen the movie, you need to go soon. 

I have one question.  The battery on my laptop is plugged in but not charging.  I checked and it says it is normal.  Last week it had zero charge and not charging, but somehow managed to get 100% charged.  Has this ever happened to anyone?  If so, how do I remedy the problem.  I don't want to have to buy another battery.

I hope everyone has a great Monday.

Yes, I'm here.  I promise I'm going to get better.  I just can't think of anything to post.

I've been busy at work, plus I have been dealing with my car.  Two weeks ago a woman merged into the passenger side of my car.  The damage was not that bad, but it is going to cost a bunch to fix.  Her side view mirror scraped down the side of my car.  They are going to have to remove the front door and the back door.  In order to fix the back quarter panel, they are going to have to remove the bumper and tail lights.  A lot of labor.   I just found out the other day that the other driver actually had insurance.  She acted so vague.  I was finally contacted by her agent.  He acted like everything will be taken care of.   I'm going to take it to the shop in a couple of weeks.  After a few days, hopefully, my car will be back to normal.

This past weekend, my mother, sister and I attended the reunion of my late father's military unit.  The food was good and the entertainment was great.  We thought the entertainment was going to be before the meal so we got there early.  It ended up being after the meal.  We did have a nice visit with a couple of other widows.  My sister was supposed to leave early, so my mother and I planned to leave with her.  We were going to drop her off at home and then head to see The Help.  My sister's plans changed at the last minute and she wanted to stay.  Oh well. We hope to see it this weekend.  I started reading the book today.  So far, it is really good.

I hope everyone has a great Wednesday.

I have been so bad lately about posting.

I, like everyone else, have become addicted to the facebook page, "If you are from ____, you remember...".  I think about every town has one of these.  I have re-connected with so many people.  I think a lot of people are having fun reminiscing about the old days.

I found out through facebook that a guy that graduated from high school with me has written a couple of books.  I started reading one of them today.  So far, I like it.  As soon as I finish, I'll tell you how I liked it.  His father wrote Violent Saturday, which was made into a movie.  I haven't seen the movie, but read the book.  It was very good.  I can't wait until it is on Kindle, so that I can read it again.

Queenie is on vacation this week.  Today was very quiet.  I was supposed to go with some coworkers to a new restaurant/bar after work, but I ended up being the only girl going, so I made the excuse that I had too much to do at home.  I'm glad that I didn't go.  About the time that I would have left to come home, it started pouring down rain.  According to the weather radar, it will rain for a good while.  I hope it is raining when I get ready to go to bed.  I love to sleep when it is raining.  I think everyone does.

I hope everyone has a great Tuesday.

Where has the time gone?  I didn't realize that I have not posted since last Sunday. 

This week, I received my Kensington sleigh bed and dresser from Pottery Barn.  I didn't have high expectations, but was pleasantly surprised.  I really like my new bed and dresser.   I am so glad that all of the installations and deliveries are complete. 

This weekend, I went to my mother's house.  Friday night, my brother-in-law called us to come sit with their 3 year old while he took my sister to the ER.  She had a migraine and could not keep her medicine down.  I know...TMI.  He wanted to ride in the "big twuck".  He had to settle for my mother's car.  We went to Sonic for ice cream and then to my cousin's house.  We didn't stay long because the sugar from the ice cream kicked in.  On the way home, we noticed that the doors were open at the fire station.  We pulled in the parking lot to let him look at the fire truck.  A fireman came out and told us to park the car and come in.  They let him sit in the seat and pretend to drive.  They also turned on all of the blinking lights.  He really enjoyed it.  My sister got a shot and is much better now.

Saturday, we went to Huntsville.  Since this week is my mother's and my birthday week, we bought each other a present.  I bought her two pairs of capris and three tops at Belk's on sale.  She bought me the 3 bowl set of coupe serving bowls from Pottery Barn.   I went to Dillard's and purchased a few items of Kiehl's.  After a stop at the Pink Pelican to get my new Lilly Pulitzer planner, we went to the Fresh Market and Publix.  On the way home, we stopped at GiGi's for cupcakes.  My mother got the Coconut Ball and I got Scarlett's Red Velvet.  YUM!!!

Today, we just sat around and relaxed.

I hope everyone had a good weekend.  Have a great Monday!

I now have my telephone back to normal..knock on wood.  AT&T was able to get it repaired by noon.  Some nice technician worked on it for a couple of hours.  While I was waiting on the telephone to be repaired, I hung up and threw away some clothes that I had in a "maybe" pile.  I wasn't sure if I wanted to keep them or not.  I developed a strategy and got busy.  I also cleaned my master bedroom.  I was using it for storage until I could get unpacked. 

I ordered a bed and small dresser from Pottery Barn.  It is supposed to be delivered Wednesday afternoon.  Tuesday afternoon, I'm going to Mattress King to buy a new mattress and box springs.  I've picked out a Stearnes & Foster.  After it is delivered, I'm going to move into the master bedroom.  I can't wait.  I'm going to use my front bedroom as a guest room.  After I get that settled, I will feel like I'm finally settled in my new apartment.  I still have boxes in the den, but I'm going to wait to tackle that in a few weeks.  I'm going to use the den as an office and a storage area.  I also have pictures stacked in the floor.  I'm not going to decide about them until after vacation next month.  I may come across something that I like better.

I hope everyone has a good week.  Maybe the horrible heat will go away soon.

Update on my AT&T problem.  I called on Tuesday and was on hold for over an hour and a half and talked to 6 people.  Finally, I got Valerie who told me that she could solve my problem.  She found the problem and told me that everything should be fixed by Friday, which is today.  I got a call at work from someone who said that the problem was fixed and the ticket would be closed.  When I got home, I had no telephone service.  I went online and chatted with someone who told me that I should have service after 8:00 pm.  He told me to plug my phone into the router and call a 877 number and follow the prompts.  I did.  I didn't call the 877 number because I had no phone service.  I went online again and chatted with "Allen" and he told me that it looked like I should have service.  He told me to call the Sales Department and gave me their hours.  I asked him how I could call when I didn't have telephone service.  I wasn't going to use my cell phone minutes when it is their fault.  I guess I will have no choice but to call them tomorrow morning. 

BFF MAB is supposed to come over tomorrow.  I guess I need to email her and tell her that we will have to communicate via email or cell phone.  I don't like to use my cell phone.  I share hours with my sister and she uses most of them.

I hope everyone has a good Saturday.  If you have to go out in the heat, please be careful and don't get overheated.

I've been thinking that I was lucky because I haven't been having any trouble with AT&T like everyone else that I know.  Well, tonight my mother called me on my cell phone and said that she had been trying to call me on my regular telephone, but I never answered.  I called my telephone from my cell phone and it never rang.  I looked at my bill to get the telephone number for support and noticed that they had a different telephone number for me.  Of course, that department is closed for the day.  I'll have to call tomorrow.  I can't believe that they changed my telephone number without letting me know.  How stupid is that?  We'll see what they say.

I hope everyone has a great Tuesday.

Today was a good day at work.  Queenie and I, along with our other office mates, went to a meeting conducted by the CEO of the bank that is buying ours.  The meeting was so positive.  We came back really excited.   That's all that we talked about the remainder of the day.  This acquisition is going to offer a lot of opportunities to many people.  I hope that we don't get our hopes up too high.  I am trying to learn new things so that I can take advantage of any opportunities that will arise. 

I felt like I looked nice for the meeting.  I wore my black Austin Reed skirt, a white short sleeved Brooks Brothers blouse, a 3/4 sleeve green Talbots cardigan, big pearl choker, large pearl earrings and my black Ferragamo loafers.  I even wore pantyhose in the Alabama heat.  Queenie looked nice also in her gray dress and jacket.  We both wanted to make a good impression.

Tomorrow will probably be back to normal.

I hope everyone has a great Thursday.

I'm back!!!

I cannot believe how addicted I am to television and internet.  I have been having withdrawals all week.  As of 3:45 this afternoon, I have cable and internet.  I decided to upgrade to UVerse.  Of course, with all of those channels, what am I watching?  The Britcoms!!  I love Keeping Up Appearances, To the Manor Born, Are You Being Served? and The Vicar of Dibley.  I used to watch May to December, but it is not aired in our area. 

I am making progress with my unpacking.  I worked really hard last night.  I worked from 6:00 until 10:45 with a short break for dinner.  I got up early this morning and worked from 6:30 until 11:00.  Then all I wanted to do was take a nap, but the cable man was supposed to be here any minute.  I did do some work while the cable man was here.  After he left, I started watching TV.  I was supposed to meet BFF MAB for dinner, but when I called her, she wasn't feeling well.  We may try and schedule for tomorrow.  I really want her to come over here and help me sort through some clothes.  I threw away 4 garbage bags of old clothes.  I have a large stack of "Maybe" clothes on which I need a second opinion.

I hope everyone has a great evening.

I hope everyone had a nice Fourth.  We really did.

We cleaned up after our Sunday night visit from my 22 month old nephew.  We didn't have a traditional 4th of July meal, but it was delicious.  We had fried pork chops, green beans, fresh corn on the cob, new potatoes, fresh cucumber and fresh tomatoes.  We had it both Sunday and Monday. 

After lunch yesterday, we had a visit from my sister and her 3 year old.  He had fun visiting with us.  After they left, we went to Sonic to get a Sonic Blast, but they closed at 7:00 and it was 7:04.  We then went to the Dairy Queen and got blizzards.  YUM!  We then went to visit my mother's friend and drop off some agendas that I typed for her.  As we were leaving her house, my sister called and they were on their way to watch fireworks and told us to join them.  We didn't want to fight the crowd at the park, so we parked in the breakdown lane on the highway bridge and watched from there.  For once it was cool outside.  We opened the windows and the sunroof and enjoyed the cool, fresh air. 

Today, we just piddled and did a few chores.  I wanted a nice relaxing weekend, and I got it.  I'm not looking forward to going to work tomorrow, but I guess I have to.  Only 7 more weeks until my vacation to Maine.  I can't wait.

I don't get my internet and cable until Saturday.  I didn't realize how addicted I was to both until I didn't have either.  I've been reading, listening to the radio and watching DVD's.

I hope everyone has a great remainder of the week.

I'm back for a couple of days.  I'm at my mother's house, so I have internet...and cable.  I've been trying to catch up on missed TV shows, blogs and facebook.

Friday night, I stopped at Jim N Nicks and got us a family BBQ meal.  It was supposed to be four servings, but we were able to get six. 

Saturday afternoon, my mother, my cousin and I went to Huntsville.  My sister gave us all gift cards to Bonefish Grill for Christmas in 2009.  We finally coordinated our schedules so that we could go.  We had a wonderful meal.

Today has been spent relaxing. 

Tomorrow, we plan on going to the fireworks at the park.  I hope that they don't disappoint.

I hope everyone has a nice and safe 4th of July.

Today, I'm going to start moving boxes over to the new place.  My mother, sister and brother-in-law are coming down tomorrow to help.  My nephew will be here on Sunday to move my furniture. 

After Sunday, I won't have cable or internet access until July 9.  Yikes!  I'll keep up with your blogs when I can, but I won't be commenting or posting. 

I'll check in when I can.

This weekend was sort of good. 

Friday, right before we left work, we found out that our company had sold.  I think it may be a good thing for our department.  After work, I drove up to my mother's house.

Saturday, we ran errands and did a few chores.   My mother had not talked to my sister at all on Friday, so she gave her a call.  She had some bittersweet news for us.  My sister and brother-in-law are foster parents.  A couple of years ago, they became foster parents to a 17 month old little boy.  He stole not only our hearts, but everyone that he met.  He lived with them for 15 months and was then transitioned back into the home with his biological parents.  It almost killed us.  In the past couple of months, he has spent a couple of nights with my sister and brother-in-law.  Friday night, he was taken out of the home of his parents. The parents are not abusive, but have other issues. While we are excited to have him back, he is real confused about everything.  There is a hearing tomorrow to see what will become of him.  I have a feeling that he will be staying with my sister and brother-in-law for a while.  My sister may bring him down here this weekend.  It will be a nice distraction for him.  My sister and brother-in-law had a cookout in his honor last night.  Everyone had a good time. 

This morning after church, we went to lunch and then home to give Bo a bath.  After that, we went to the cemetery to visit with my mother's nieces and nephews.  It was nice to see everyone again.

I'm home now.  It is good to relax.

I hope everyone has a great Monday.

Happy Father's Day!!!

Happy Father's Day to all the special fathers out there, and especially for my late Father.  I had the bestest Daddy in the world.

I have been working hard all week trying to get things packed.  My mother and sister came down yesterday so that my sister could attend a conference.  While my sister was at her conference, my mother stayed at my place and packed a lot of things.  We ran out of boxes, so I am just relaxing tonight.

I'm going to my mother's this weekend.  We always meet up with family at the cemetery where her parent's are buried.  Her two older brothers are also buried there.  As weird as the setting, it is always nice to visit with relatives that I don't get to see very often.

Right now, it is storming outside.  We have not had much rain in several weeks.  We really need the rain, but we don't need the excessive lightening.  Of course, it will be hot again tomorrow.  I'm already ready for fall weather, but I have to wait three months.

I hope everyone has a great weekend.

I hope everyone had a good week.  I was not too motivated at work.  Friday, I decided to tackle a project that I had hope to finish by the end of the month.  I'm almost finished.  I worked hard all day.

Today, I had planned on getting a lot of packing done.  I had to go to a luncheon at 11:00.  I was going to pack around it.  I didn't do anything before I went.  I had hoped that I would be back home by 1:00, but a friend that I haven't seen for awhile was there.  She is going through a hard time with her mother.  Her mother was always spry, but a couple of years ago, she started going down...fast.  The doctor took her mother off of all of her medicine last night.  Now, they are waiting for her to die.  I felt so bad for my friend.  She acted like she needed someone to talk to, so I stayed behind to talk.  When I got home, I worked for about 45 minutes. Then the power went off.  Since I was working in the closet, I had to stop.  I couldn't see what I was doing.  When the power came back on, I worked until it was almost done.  Tomorrow, I am going to clean house and then pack until I get tired.  I hope that I can get everything packed before I move in two weeks.  I've been sort of lazy about packing.

I hit a major plateau on my diet.  I decided to go back on the Mayo Clinic Diet this past Monday.  Not because of my plateau, but because I was craving a lot of the foods that are allowed.  This morning, I put on a Lilly Pulitzer shift to wear to the luncheon.  It was a lot looser than it was a couple of weeks ago.  It made me feel so good.  I'm going to keep up the good eating habits.

I hope everyone enjoys the remainder of the weekend.

Does anyone else have trouble commenting on certain blogs?  I am not able to comment on blogs that have the word verification.  It won't even allow me to comment as an anonymous commenter. 

Maybe it will return to normal soon.

I didn't realize it had been so long since I posted.  I've been fairly busy.

Saturday, my mother and I went to Huntsville to do a few errands.  My mother was in need of a new iron.  She likes Rowenta irons.  We went to Target where she found just what she wanted.  Then it was on to Belk's and Dillard's.  Not much luck.  I ran into Trade Secrets to see if they had a certain shade of Essie nail polish.  All they had were a few leftover colors for $1 and $2.  I bought 3 bottles.  At Dillard's, I got some Kiehl's moisturizer.  I also got a few samples while I was there.  After lunch, we went to Publix and then home.  Saturday evening we babysat with my sister's 20 month old while my sister and brother-in-law went to a retirement party. 

Sunday, we went to Guntersville for lunch.  While there, we ran into Belk's.  My mother had better luck there.  I bought a red polo and two pairs of Monet goldtone earrings.  We usually don't shop at that Belk's because they usually only have junk, but this time, they had a good selection of basics.  On the way home, we stopped at the pet store to get Bo a new harness and some treats. 

This morning, I went to Huntsville to the dentist.  I got a good report.  Then I drove back to Birmingham.  Tonight, I have just laid around and watched TV. 

Tomorrow night, I think I may organize and pack away a few things.  I need to get myself motivated.

I hope everyone has a great Tuesday.

What is it with this heat?  100 degrees on June 1.  It's too early to be this hot.  It gives me an excuse to wear my Lilly shifts...like I need an excuse.  I think the temperature is going to ease off a bit and just be in the mid 90's this weekend.    Gee, break out the sweaters! 

I am glad that this is a short week.  I'm already looking forward to the weekend.  I think my mother and I are going to Huntsville to run errands.  I need to go to Dillard's to buy Kiehl's.  My mother and I have gift cards for Bonefish Grill.  We may have dinner there.

I hope everyone has a great Thursday.

What a busy weekend.

When I got to my mother's house Thursday night, we immediately headed to visitation for my cousin's widow.  She was always good to sit with the sick and go to the funeral home.  I felt like we owed it to her.  Afterwards, we stopped by Wendy's for me to get a salad.

Friday, I got ready and we went to another visitation.  I wore a black Austin Reed skirt, white LL Bean tee, a apple green Lands' End cardigan and my black/white Jack Rogers sandals.  I also wore my pearls, apple green/pewter earrings, my "Return to Tiffany's" bracelet and my narrow Tiffany ID bracelet.  After lunch, we went to my cousin's widow's funeral.  I'm glad that we went, because there was a small crowd.  We drove through the cemetery where my father is buried.  We heard reports of vandalism in the cemetery and just wanted to check on things.  We decided to get chicken fingers from Jack's for dinner.  We changed clothes and headed to graduation.  Graduation was at 7:00.  We got there at 6:00 and had a hard time finding a seat.  In this town, people go to graduation just because it is Friday night and they don't have anything else to do.  Some don't even have a connection to any of the students.  I wore a blue/yellow/green print Lilly Pulitzer shift (I don't remember the print name), an apple green Lands' End cardigan, Ermine with sable Stephen Bonanno sandals, pearls, gold scallop shell earrings and a gold single charm bracelet.  After graduation, we went with my sister, brother-in-law, nephew and his friend to Ruby Tuesday's.  Since my mother and I had already eaten, we just ordered cupcakes.  YUM!  While there we visited with my cousin's family.  My cousin was also my godfather.  He was killed in Vietnam.  His children are my age range. One of the granddaughters graduated this time. 

Saturday, we decided to rest.  My cousin called and asked if we wanted to go to lunch.  We went to a barbecue place.  I wasn't in the mood for barbecue so I got a cheeseburger and onion rings.  The onion rings were what I wanted.  My food was really good.  Then we came home and ran a couple of errands.  After dinner, we just sat around and watched Britcoms.

Today, we went to church and then to lunch.  I wore my Lilly Pulitzer Creme Fraiche shift, Lilly Pulitzer hot pink cardigan, pink/green plaid Jack Rogers sandals, pearls, gold scallop shell earrings and gold single charm bracelet.  After church, we gave Bo a bath.  We then went to the cemetery to check on things and check on the vandalism.  None of our family had any vandalism.  As we were leaving for the cemetery, we noticed that our neighbors were outside painting their house.  We went to Sonic and bought them lemon slushes.  They seemed very appreciative.

Now we are laying under the air conditioning watching TV.

I hope everyone has a great Memorial Day.

My nephew graduates from high school Friday night, so I'm taking a vacation day on Friday.  I just found out that a cousin's widow passed away. I think she was in her mid to late 70's.  My parents were both change of life babies, so all of their nieces and nephews are close to their age.  Visitation is Thursday night and the funeral is Friday.  I'm not sure if I'm going to the visitation or the funeral or both.  I was not particularly close to this woman, but I always thought she was nice.  She was always good to go to everyone else's funeral/visitation.  I feel like we need to do for her what she did for others.

I feel like I'm getting back to my old self finally.  I wore Lilly every day this week.  I plan on wearing it tomorrow and then again Friday night.  I even wore my Jack Rogers and Stephen Bonanno sandals.  Now if I can just lose enough weight to get back into my twill skirts, then I will feel like I'm set.  Maybe in a few weeks.

I hope everyone has a great Thursday.  Let's all keep the folks that have been effected by the recent tornadoes in our thoughts and prayers.

Saturday, my mother and I were walking Bo.  A friend of the family stopped her car and started chatting.  She was on her way to her DAR meeting.  Something was mentioned about me getting involved.  Then the friend scolded me for being lazy and not getting my stuff together.  I decided that I would attempt to get my ducks in a row and then I would express interest in joining. 

A few years ago, I helped a cousin's widow with information to get her daughter in Colonial Dames.  In one of our last conversations, she mentioned that she would make copies of everything and send to me.  She said that she could certify them since she was a regent.  I never received them.  I'm thinking about getting up my nerve to ask her for assistance.  She had no problem asking me for help.  I need to work on composing an email to her.  I hope she remembers mentioning it.  Maybe the information that she has will also assist me in getting into the Colonial Dames.  You never know.

I am taking Friday off, so I only have three more days this week.  I hope it doesn't drag.

I hope everyone has a great Tuesday.

I had a fairly busy weekend.

Friday night, I went to Relay for Life.  I stayed for about an hour.  The only thing that I bought was a cheeseburger and drink from our church's booth.    Next year, our family is planning on having a booth to sell barbecue sandwiches.  We took my sister's 20 month old home with us.  He stayed with us until about 11:30.

Saturday morning, my mother went to a pancake breakfast.  Afterwards, we ran some errands and then went to a fish fry.  My mother bought a catfish plate.  I don't like catfish, so I opted for a salad from Wendy's.  Saturday evening, we went over to my sister and brother-in-law's house for dinner.  All of my brother-in-law's family plus a few friends were there.

This morning, we went to church.  My brother-in-law's family sat with us.  My sister's oldest foster son is graduating from high school.  He was one of the seniors that was honored by the church.  He received a study Bible, along with a few gifts from church friends.  He will be with my sister and brother-in-law for at least another year.  He plans on attending the junior college that is close to home.  He has already received three scholarships.  After church, my mother and I went to lunch with my cousin.  Afterwards, my cousin and I went for a long walk while my mother went to Baccalaureate service for my "nephew".

I hope everyone has a great Monday.

Where has this week gone?  It has just flown by to me.  Tomorrow is Friday already.

Tomorrow night, I was supposed to help my mother's team sell barbecue sandwiches at Relay for Life.  Her team captain decided that she didn't want them to have a booth and sell sandwiches.  My mother and I decided that we are going to go and just walk around and support all of the others who have booths.  My sister is entertainment chairman.  She walks around with a clipboard all night.  I'm sure she will find some work for us to do.  Relay for Life was originally scheduled for May 6, but with the storms it was postponed until tomorrow night.  My sister is not expecting a good turnout, but they have managed to raise over 75% of their goal so far.  Maybe they can get the other 25% tomorrow night.

I hope everyone has a great Friday.

I stayed up late last night and watched Gossip Girl and Hawaii Five-O.  I enjoyed both, but was disappointed that it was the season finale.  I cried when Chuck and Blair said good-bye.  I couldn't believe that Charlie was a fake.  I have a feeling she'll be back next season. I yelled, "NO!" at the end of Hawaii Five-O when they were booking McGarrett and all of a sudden across my TV screen were the words: ...to be continued.  Now I have to wait until September to see what happens.  Plus, I thought Jean Smart looked kind of rough.  How many of you watch these shows and what did you think of the season finale?  I must have liked them, because I am rewatching them tonight.

I hope everyone has a great Wednesday.

Even though I was lazy this weekend, I got a lot of stuff done.  I started packing a few things for my move at the end of June. 

Saturday, I went to Target and got cleaning supplies.  Fun, fun!!  After that, I relaxed and watched TV.  Sunday, I packed some more and did laundry.  During the afternoon, I made a trip to The Fresh Market.  I just love that store. 

I had a good dinner over the weekend.  I cooked grilled chicken and roasted squash and zucchini.  It was so good.  For those of you who like Cracker Barrel's grilled chicken tenderloins, click here for a copycat recipe.  To me, it is better.

I was not disappointed in the season finale of Desperate Housewives.  Tonight is the season finales of Gossip Girl and Hawaii-Five O.  I hope that they do no disappoint.

I hope everyone has a great Tuesday.

I hate that blogger has been down for repairs.  I came home last night and got my chores done so that I can sit and read all of your blogs.

Tonight, after dinner, I drank a pot of Harney & Son's Paris Tea.

I was still thirsty after I drank the tea, so I decided to drink a Diet Grapico.  Whenever I drink Diet Grapico, I feel like a kid.  All I need is a bologna sandwich...on white bread, of course.

I hope everyone has a great Saturday.

Do any of you eat McCann's Irish Oatmeal?  I've eaten it in restaurants and it is always delicious.  The flakes are always tender and fluffy.  When I make it at home, it has the texture of grits.  I wonder if I am doing something wrong when I cook it.  I add 1 part oatmeal (I buy the Quick & Easy) to 3 parts boiling water.  I cook it on low for 5-7 minutes.  Then I turn it on warm for a few minutes. When I try to quick cooking rolled oats, they are like paste.  If you have tried McCann's, how do you cook it?  I hate to stress over oatmeal.

I hope everyone has a great Thursday.

This picture makes me want to starch and press one of my Brooks Brother's OCBDs and a pair of cuffed shorts.  I think I will on Saturday.  A old time favorite outfit is a pair of khaki shorts, a blue/white striped OCBD, white socks and Tretorns.  Summer equals Lilly, and I started wearing mine last week.

I think summer has arrived in Alabama.  It was 93 when I got home from work.  It is supposed to be in the 70's this weekend, but will warm up next week.  I guess I just need to bear it until September. 

I hope everyone has a great Wednesday. 

I had another busy weekend. 

Friday night on the way to my mother's house, I stopped off in Huntsville for the visitation for my coworker's husband.  When I got home, my mother and I went to dinner.

Saturday, we got up early.  My mother went to a pancake breakfast.  When she got home, we went to Huntsville.  I told her that I would let her pick out her Mother's Day present.  She wanted something to wear to church.  We went to Belk's, Dillard's and Christopher & Banks.  There was nothing to be found.  Everything at Belk's and Dillard's looked like leftovers that they were trying to unload.  Belk's didn't even have any decent Lilly Pulitzer or Vineyard Vines.  My mother used to have luck at Talbot',s but she complained that everything now was geared to size 2 twenty somethings.  Where is a good place to buy decent clothes nowadays?  We then went to Publix so that my mother could replace all of the refrigerated food that she had to throw away after the electricity was off for five days.  Then it was home to watch the Kentucky Derby.

Sunday, we went to church.  After church, my sister and brother-in-law took us to lunch at Ruby Tuesday's.  We had to wait almost an hour for a table.  After lunch, we came home and gave Bo a bath.  Then we went to the car wash for my mother to wash and vacuum her car.  Then it was time for me to drive back home. 

Tonight, I decided to relax and watch my shows.  Yes, tonight is Monday.  I have to watch Gossip Girl and Hawaii Five-O.

I hope everyone has a great Tuesday.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Have a wonderful day!

This has been a weird week.  For some reason, I am not able to get enough sleep.  I go to bed early and sleep until the alarm sounds.  I feel like I'm not getting enough sleep for some reason.  I could be stress from all of the bad news we've had.

People at work have been volunteering to help with the storm clean up.  I am going to help with the food drive.  Queenie is taking tomorrow off to help with a phone center.  She is not physically or financially able to help, and this is something that she will be able to do. 

A coworker's husband passed away last Thursday and she was in limbo for several days due to lack of electricity.  She finally got electricity Tuesday afternoon and could make funeral arrangements.  Visitation is tomorrow night in Huntsville.  I'm going to stop by on my way to my mother's house.  I have felt so bad for her.  She is exhausted from all of this.

The other day Charlie Sheen was in Tuscaloosa.  I thought, "If Alabama didn't have enough to worry about, now they have Charlie Sheen!"  I had to eat my words.  He actually wants to help these people.  He went to Best Buy and bought all of the flashlights and batteries, plus he has set up a website to take donations.  At least he is helping.

These people still need our thoughts and prayers.

I hope everyone has a great Friday. 

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

The excitement of the death of Osama Bin Laden has overshadowed the news of the tornadoes.  The news about the victims just keeps getting grimmer.

I have already donated bottled water and plan on donating food to the food bank at work.  I feel as if I need to volunteer, but I would only be in the way. 

My mother has been without power since Wednesday evening.  Friday night my sister met me halfway and brought her down to stay with me.  We had a nice visit.  We went shopping and ran errands on Saturday.  We had lunch at Edgar's Bakery.  We both had the chicken salad plate.  We came home and watched the recording of the Royal Wedding.  We both enjoyed it.  Sunday, we rode to Bessemer to have lunch at the Bright Star.  Afterwards, we just sat around and relaxed.

Today, my mother stayed here while I went to work.  She found out that the power came back on at her house yesterday.  She was eager to get back home.  I left work early and met my sister halfway.  On the way up there all of a sudden we both started crying.  I think we had been putting on a brave face about the past few days and finally had to let it out.  We discussed how thankful we were that we were only mildly inconvenienced by the storms.  So many people have lost everything.

Until next time.....

Today has been one more day.  I woke up normal and did my normal morning routine.  About 5:45, it started raining...really hard.  Then the wind started blowing....really hard.  In 10 minutes, it was over.  During this "storm", I lost cable and Internet.  I had to listen to the radio.  They told about problems, but they were way worse when I came upon them.  I travel the busiest road (US 280) in the state.  There were trees down in areas and the traffic lights were out.  In Alabama, when the traffic lights are out, the intersection becomes a four-way stop, which means a nightmare on 280.  Traffic crawled.  Then when I got past the Summit, there were several trees and power lines laying across the outbound lanes. I finally got to work at 8:45.  It took me 1 1/2 hours to get there. 

Our offices closed at 1:00, due to the expectation of bad weather.  I knew that we were due, but hoped that it was a false alarm.  When I got home, I still did not have cable or Internet, but I was able to get weather on the radio. 

BFF MAB called a little bit after 5:00 to tell me about a tornado that was passing through Tuscaloosa, which is less than an hour away.  The tornado was over a mile wide. There was a tremendous amount of damage in Tuscaloosa.  It moved through the Birmingham area, but was on the north side.  I live south of town, aka "Over the Mountain".  Even though it was north of here, it was still scary.  As soon as it left, here came two more.   Right now, there are still tornado warnings in various parts of the state.  These storms are extremely dangerous.

I tried to call my sister and mother for over two hours, but could never get them.  I then tried to call my brother-in-law and couldn't get him.  I finally got in touch with my brother-in-law and he said that they have been dodging bad weather and the power was out.  He was at the grocery store trying to find food that didn't need to be cooked.  I finally got a call from my sister. My mother, sister, sister's children, and Bo were in the bathroom waiting out the storms.

I will probably be awake for a couple of more hours.  I don't want to go to bed until the bad weather is gone for the night.

Please keep the people of Tuscaloosa, Alabama; Cullman, Alabama and Pleasant Grove, Alabama in your thoughts and prayers.  From the news reports, there were multiple fatalities (at least 25).

I hope everyone has a good Thursday.  Please stay safe during this horrible weather.

I hope everyone had a great Easter.  I did.  It was busy but nice.

Saturday, my sister and I took her 19 month old to an Easter egg hunt at the church.  He loved playing with the games that they had to occupy the children while the eggs were being hidden.  He immediately figured out how the egg hunt worked, but after finding five eggs he found the playground equipment.  That was all she wrote.  He and some other little boys played on the equipment and then played in a sand pile.  He had a good time.  After the egg hunt, my mother and I attended an open house at a neighbor's house.  Her daughter was in town with her new baby and she wanted everyone to come see it.  It was sort of like a Sip and See.  That night, our supper club went to eat at a new restaurant.  The service was great, but the food was just okay.  To all events, I wore my LL Bean khaki capris and a pink with green fleece Brooks Brothers polo.  I also wore my pearls, a small gold heart pendant and RL goldtone button earrings.

Sunday, we got to church at 10:25 for the 11:00 service.  The church was packed by 10:45. I wore a navy Brooks Brother sleeveless dress and a light blue Lands End cotton cardigan.  I also wore pearls, pearl stud earrings and navy Ferragamo Varas.   After church, we went to my sister and brother-in-law's house for lunch.  I think it was hard for my brother-in-law and his brother and sister, but they made it through it just fine.  After lunch, there was an Easter egg hunt.  My sister's 19 month hold found several eggs, but was more interested in the candy that was inside.  My mother bought him a light blue and yellow plaid outfit to wear.  By the end of the egg hunt, it was covered with chocolate and jelly bean juice.  Luckily she has a full spray bottle of Shout.  To lunch and the egg hunt I wore my LL Bean khaki capris and a coral Lilly Pulitzer polo.

I hope everyone has a great Wednesday.

HAPPY EASTER!!!

I hope everyone has a Happy Easter.  I also hope you find the prize egg!!!

I haven't posted this week.  I forgot and left my wireless router at my mother's house.  I have been using my old computer.  It is sooooo slow.  I finally cleaned out a few files, so now it is a little faster. 

My sister's father-in-law's funeral went well.  It was sad, but nice.  A grandson did a fantastic job with the eulogy.  The music was great also.

This week, I have been busy running around getting ready for Easter.  I was going to get things done last weekend, but the funeral plans took up two days.  My sister and I are going to take her 19 month old to an Easter egg hunt at the Church.  He has to provide 24 filled plastic eggs.  I got the supplies at Target.  My sister reminded me that we can't have chocolate because it is going to be warm Saturday.  I hope he has fun.  I know we will.  It will be fun watching the children, especially the little ones.

I will finally be able to wear my sandals Monday.  I didn't wear them last summer because I was still recovering from a broken foot.  I spent the summer in Tretorns.  I even wore them with nice dresses.  I did wear my sandals to a wedding, but they came off as soon as the ceremony was over. I've tried to walk around in them and am doing fine.  Can't wait to shed the loafers for a few months.  When I lose a few more pounds, I will be able to get into my Lilly shifts.  They fit okay now, but I would rather them be a little bit looser.

I hope everyone has a great Friday.

Yesterday was a horrible weather day.  There were tornado warnings and thunderstorm warnings most of the day.  I planned on leaving work at 4:30, but was unable to leave until 5:20.  Every time that I would start to leave, they would issue a new tornado warning.  Finally, I decided to leave between storms.  I made it home safe.  I then ran and go dinner and went over to BFF MAB's house to spend the night.  Another friend spent the night also.  We got up at 4:00 to drive to Mississippi to an auction.

The auction was fun.  We really had a good day.  I bought a lot that contained about 5 pieces of silver for $20.  There were several bowls and a butter dish.  Three of the bowls were sterling.  I also bought a tea cart for $35.  BFF MAB bought a secretary.  She brought the base of it home today, but has to go back tomorrow to get the top.  It wouldn't fit in her SUV.  I would ride over there with her, but I have to go to my mother's house.  My sister's father-in-law passed away unexpectedly last night.  Her mother-in-law passed away about 14 months ago.  We think he probably grieved himself to death.

I hope everyone has a good Sunday.

The storms that came through on Monday night were not too severe.  I think the weatherman just wanted some drama.  We are expecting more on Friday.  I hope they make their way out on Friday. 

BFF MAB and another friend are going to an antique/estate auction in Mississippi on Saturday.  I'm not really into high Victorian furniture, but I am really excited about going to this auction.  I'm curious to see how much everything goes for.

I'm trying to figure out what to wear on Saturday. The high will be in the upper 60's. My experience in this area of Mississippi has been everyone dresses really nice.  I think I may wear khakis or jeans, a pink OCBD, and a kelly green with pink monogrammed Lands End cardigan.  Or, I may wear my LL Bean navy birds eye cardigan.  I think I want to get one more wear out of it before Easter.

I hope everyone has a great Thursday.

As I sit here writing, I am trying to figure out what type of storm warning I'm under.  Is it a severe thunderstorm warning or a tornado warning?  The weatherman says something different in every sentence.  Also, I have no idea where some of these places are that he mentions.  At least he didn't mention my area. 

For those of you who have never lived in the South, this is what we experience every year at this time.  It is either severe thunderstorms or tornadoes...or both.  It can get fairly scary.  Tomorrow, when I walk out my front door, the air will be fresh and clean.  I guess the bad storms blow and wash the bad air away.

If you are in a storms path, be safe.

I hope everyone has a great Tuesday.

I hope everyone had a great weekend.  Mine was fairly good.  I had planned on a nice lazy weekend, but my sister was sick.  She thinks she got food poisoning off of some undercooked chicken fingers.  My mother and I had to keep her 19 month old.  He was really good Friday night and Saturday.  We took him home about 3:00 Saturday afternoon. 

Today, we kept him for a couple of hours while my sister got caught up on some work.

Today at church, we had a visiting minister.  Our minister was out of town for a wedding, so a minister whose family has been in our church for five generations filled in.  The visiting minister is a little bit silly, but he is very well educated and always delivers an excellent sermon.  Right before we got there, a woman rushed out to go to another church.  I thought this was a little bit rude. Why show up at all?  What was even ruder was the woman that was put in charge of the children's portion of the sermon showed up late and left immediately after the children's sermon.  If she couldn't stay for the entire service, she should have gotten someone else.  I was always taught to be on my best behavior for church.  I think class and good manners are part of our best behavior.  I feel good that my mother and I chose to support this man.  He did not disappoint.

Tomorrow is Monday already.  I hope this weekend does not drag. 

I hope everyone has a great Monday.

 

Don't forget to watch Upstairs, Downstairs on PBS this Sunday. Check your local listing.  I'm going to set my DVR.  I don't want to miss it.  I've been a fan of Jean Marsh for years.

I hope everyone has a great Friday.

I hope everyone's week is going well.  So far so good this week.

I have to go to a meeting tomorrow evening.  Yesterday afternoon, a woman called and asked if I would bring refreshments.  Yikes!  I wasn't prepared.  I decided that I would go to Publix tonight and grab a few things.  I got layered dip and spinach dip from the deli, sugar cookies with sprinkles from the bakery, chips, mixed nuts and jelly beans.  When I got home, I realized that I had forgotten drinks.  After I did my household chores and ate dinner, I ran out to Walgreen's and got drinks.  I was so mad at myself.  I decided that everything can be served from the packages.  I'll take spoons for the dips, nuts and jelly beans.

BFF MAB is thinking about starting a blog.  She wants one that makes money.  I'm not sure if she is going to have a theme.  She doesn't know about my blog.  I guess she'll soon find out.  My theme was going to be preppy attire, but it has turned into my ramblings.  Maybe one day, I'll get back to my theme.

I hope everyone has a great Thursday.

I don't know about where you live, but it was absolutely beautiful here.  I decided to get out and enjoy the wonderful weather.  I took a leisurely trip to the Fresh Market and Publix. 

The Fresh Market had some beautiful strawberries.  I bought a box and ate on them for snacks.  They were delicious.  I always enjoy browsing at the Fresh Market.  I saw a few things that I am going to add to my next grocery list from there. 

I hate to sound excited about a trip to the grocery store, but I have been on South Beach for a few weeks and am always looking for different things to eat.  I enjoy fresh produce, especially this time of the year.  I can't wait until blueberries are in season.  I eat about 3-4 pints a week during the summer. That is probably my favorite fruit.

Tomorrow is Monday...all day long.  I hope this will be a good week.

I hope everyone has a great Monday.

Today did not start very well, but it ended up being a good day.

First of all, I woke up at 5:15 with a headache. I got up, ate a snack and took some aspirin. In a few minutes, it was gone. Later, I got up, showered, ate breakfast and made it to the Volvo dealership by 7:55. They open at 8:00 and I was the second one in line. I wanted to be first. When it was my turn to check in, the guy said since I had called yesterday, he would go ahead and put me first. Yay me. As I was going into the lounge, I noticed that my headache was back. It felt like sinus. I got some peanuts out of the machine to eat so that I could take some sinus medicine. By the time that they were finished with my car, I was so sleepy that I couldn't hold my eyes open. I came home and laid down, but I never went to sleep. After I felt better, I got up and did some housework. After lunch, I just laid around and watched TV. I fell asleep for a little while. I woke up when a phone rang on the TV show that I was watching. A few minutes later BFF MAB called and we had a nice chat.

Tonight, I went to a wedding reception for a coworker at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. It was a nice reception and the bride was beautiful. It was nice to visit with coworkers away from the office, along with their spouses. We have such a nice group of folks in our area. The good thing about it was that I was able to stick with my diet. I had chicken on skewers, fruit and cheese. I drank diet coke instead of wine. I wore my black Austin Reed skirt, a Barney's New York camel cashmere cardigan, a black brooch, Talbot's large faux pearl choker with matching earrings, and my Salvatore Ferragamo flats. This was the first time that I have been able to wear these shoes in almost two years. By the end of the evening, the right shoe was beginning to feel a little bit tight, but I made it.

Tomorrow, I have a few errands to run. Then it will be home to do laundry and a few chores.

 I hope everyone has a great Sunday.

I know, I know. I have been really bad about posting lately. I keep telling myself that I am going to get better, but I still fail to post. The past few weeks have been really busy at work. When I get home, I'm so tired. For a while, I was trying to dress better for work, but since we've been busy, I've been wearing twill pants and loafers. In time, I'll get better. Tomorrow, I have to take my car to the Volvo dealer to get the oil changed, then back home for housecleaning. After that, I'm going to relax. Tomorrow evening, I am going to a wedding reception for a co-worker. Sunday, I'm going to catch up on laundry, read and watch TV. I hope everyone has a good Saturday. It is supposed to be a nice day down here.

I had a very interesting weekend. Saturday, our dinner club went on a field trip to Monteagle, Tennessee. Monteagle is just east of Sewanee, which is home to the University of the South, a very highly rated Episcopal college and it's prep school, Sewanee School. Unfortunately, we did not have time to go to Sewanee. If you are ever in the area, you need to drive through the campus. Anyway, back to the field trip. A local historian took us on a small trip through the county. He talked about the controversial Highlander Folk School, the coke/coal mines and the convicts that worked in the mines. He then took us to his museum. I never saw so much stuff in so small of a place in all of my life. It was really interesting. We then went to a Dutch bakery where we bought fresh baked bread. Then through a settlement called "The Assembly". It is an extensive neighborhood of old clapboard houses that have been restored. They can do what they want with the inside, but the outside must stay the same. The settlement is used by a group of United Methodists from up north as a retreat area. It was a really beautiful area. We stopped and gazed at a restaurant called High Point. It is housed in a old house that Al Capone purchased for his mistress. He always stayed there on his trips from Chicago to Miami. After the field trip, we ate dinner at Jim Oliver's Smokehouse Restaurant. It would have been a lot better trip, had it not rained all day. About five minutes after we got home from Monteagle, it started storming. It stormed off and on until about 4:00 am. Tonight on the way back to Birmingham, I stopped at Cracker Barrel to get dinner. While I was in there, the bottom fell out. I got soaked running out to the car. As soon as I got home, it stopped raining. Then about thirty minutes later, it started again. This morning our minister said, "Whoever in the congregation that is praying for rain, please stop". I hope everyone has a great Monday.

I am on the second day of the fourth week of the South Beach Diet. My pants are getting looser. I am going to keep it up until I lose the extra weight that has crept up on me in the past couple of years. I didn't gain it overnight, so I shouldn't expect to lose it overnight.

I've been exercising to Jack Lalanne online when I can. It has really been effective in helping me get my foot and leg back to normal. I can run in place with no effort. To me that is an accomplishment. I was beginning to think that I was going to be slightly crippled for the remainder of my life. I guess it just takes time. My doctor told me that it would take about a year. Everything that I read online said that it should take from 6 months to 2 years. It's been almost a year and a half. My foot is still slightly swollen. I'm don't have to wear sneakers all of the time anymore. I have a couple of pairs of shoes that I wear almost every day. I'm hoping to go shoe shopping in about 6 weeks. I want a pair of Tory Burch Revas. I'm not sure what color, but it will have to be something that I can wear with a lot of different things.

It has been busy at work this week. Queenie is on vacation and I am covering for her. Of course, she goes on vacation when we have to get files ready for auditors. It's not too bad.

I hope everyone has a great Wednesday.

Today was another gorgeous day. I was lazy this morning, but got out this afternoon and enjoyed the nice day.

I don't know if I ever mentioned this, but I live in an apartment. I own real estate, but I like apartment life. I am outgrowing my current apartment and went to find a new one. A former neighbor recommended her new apartments. The complex was built in the 70's, but has been kept very nice. The unit that I looked at was about twice the size of what I have now at relatively the same price. The manager showed me one that was recently vacated. At first, I was disappointed, but realized that they still needed to clean and paint. After I imagined new paint and clean floors, I began to like it. I really didn't like the building where this one is located, but the manager showed me the building where one will become available in a couple of months. I liked that area so much better. This complex is built very well, and the utilities are very low. I think I will like it there. It is in the middle of a nice neighborhood. I have a few more questions. I may call on Monday and depending on the answers, I may sign up.

After apartment hunting, I went to Ulta and then Home Goods. At Ulta, I bought some Essie nail polish and some cotton pads. At Home Goods, I bought a Laura Ashley ironing board cover and a plate rack for the sink. How exciting! Ha!

There used to be a restaurant near my parents that had a dish called Chicken Rosa. It was similar to Chicken Parmesan. It was a pan fried boneless chicken breast covered with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. It was served on a bed of spaghetti noodles with a side of green beans. Today, I had a craving for it. I decided to make it South Beach friendly. I baked the chicken with no breading. I added about 1/2 tablespoon of Italian seasoning to a large can of Publix brand of crushed tomatoes. I covered the chicken with the tomatoes, topped it with a slice of mozzarella cheese and heated it in the oven. I served it with a side of green beans. It was delicious. YUM! If I have any tomatoes leftover, I'm going to freeze them for another day.

I hope everyone enjoys the remainder of your Saturday.