Wow! What a rush. Saturday night was that and more. We, being Still Magnolias, opened for Cowboy Crush at the RiverCenter. I cannot tell you how awesome that was. We had to be there at 3:30 for a sound check. The sound check did not actually occur until after 4. Until the sound check we were nestled away in our OWN DRESSING ROOM complete with lights! How cool is that? Anyways, our sound check time came and we went out on the stage and I thought I would die. I could barely catch my breath. I looked out into the auditorium and realized how enormous this place really was, locked my knees, and almost tossed my cookies. We checked the sound....it sounded terrible in my ears from the monitor on stage....but Frank and Randy assured us that it sounded great out in the audience. We were escorted off stage and Trenna from Cowboy Crush appeared from behind the curtains and told us we had a great sound.
Back in the dressing room, Amanda decided to run get some Bare Minerals make up with Randy somewhere near the Center...and Frank, Becca, and I went and walked the Spring Fest exhibits in front of the River Center. We ended up at the Cantina....for some chips and something cool to drink. Relaxing was a good thing for me....although....my stomach was still tied in knots.
We headed back to the dressing room to get ready....make-up time....I let Amanda have her way with my face....a true rarity. I don't wear make-up....but occassionally like to play dress up. Today was one of those days....I know that without a lot of make-up on....you looked washed out on a stage under the lights. We dressed, socialized, vocalized....and before we knew it....the stage guys was coming to get us.....and to the wings we headed....we heard our names....and all of a sudden the lights were in my eyes...and we were standing in the middle of a stage I had dreamed of performing on....the concert of my dreams had begun.
We started off with Almost Home....and kicked into Patti's Song....I wish she had been there....she would have loved the fact that her song was being done from the big stage.....Dixie Man was next....and my great kazoo talent was a hit....I can't remember what else we sang....I just know that it was about that time that I truly began having fun....and the rest was just icing on the cake....we were treated like dignitaries...hugged by Cowboy Crush members....and it was a dream come true. We had our pictures made with some fans...and even signed some autographs....Amazing!
Sunday morning..sigh!..I was back in the real world....Sunday morning I woke up.....just plain ole Karen....my makeup was the only remnant I had of the night before....had it really happened?.....Yep....I touched my very made up face....and knew it was not a dream......checked my calendar....and remembered....we were opening for Michael Martin Murphy on June 6th.....yep....we are STILL MAGNOLIAS!....and I hope to be one for a long, long time!
Peace Out!
Monday, April 28, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Lunch with an Internet Friend
Today I had lunch with someone I met on the Internet.
Tom was not pleased when I let him know.
"Be careful," he warned. "Do I need to give you some mace?"
I explained that I had met the person on CafeMom. That we had been e-mailing back and forth for months and that she seemed perfectly sane.
"Anyone can pretend to be sane online," Tommy answered gruffly.
Which is true. Believe me, I've seen enough Montel, Oprah, Dr. Phil and the news to know that this is true.
But I just knew that the person who I was going to meet was perfectly normal.
Her name is Theresa and her husband actually works at the base an hour from here. But they're moving down to this base in June. And her husband is in security forces as well.
My husband has been pushing me to meet people.
See, I can be extremely anti-social. And my husband wishes that I'd go out and make friends.
When we went to his squadron BBQ he kept pressing me to talk to people.
"I'm not just going to butt into a conversation," I hissed at him.
"Why not? Just DO it. You need to MEET people," he hissed back.
But it's just not my style to butt into a conversation. Kudos to those who can do it but I'm just not comfortable enough.
If I just forced myself into a conversation I can just imagine everyone else stop talking and staring at me with a confused expression. Then you would hear crickets in the background and I'd slowly slink back saying, "Sorry..heh...carry on.." with my face bright red.
Anyhow, Theresa and I decided to meet at the China Buffet.
We both love to eat.
And I especially love buffet style restaurants.
Natalie and I arrived a little early and waited out front for Theresa. She came a few minutes later and then we walked inside and were shown a booth.
Natalie seemed baffled. She kept flicking glances to Theresa.
Who are you? the looks clearly said.
I loaded up my plate. There was delicious dish after delicious dish. I gave Natalie a pile of rice and noodles which she basically played with. She put one of the noodles in her mouth and chewed thoughtfully. But the rest were sprinkled onto the floor.
Theresa and I fell into an easy conversation. Natalie started to get impatient towards the end. She'd stand up in the highchair and try to climb down. As if she were saying, "I'm done eating. I'm outta here!"
When I'd get her to sit down she'd start to give me her warning whine.
"I am two seconds away from embarrassing the crap out of you," the warning whine tells me.
I moved her over to the booth to see if she'd cruise along it.
She did not want the booth.
She wanted to crawl along the floor.
"Sorry Natalie," I said. "You can't."
She did not like that answer.
"EEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" went the whine.
I tried to get her to stand beside my seat but she immediately crumpled to her butt and then tried to crawl off.
See ya!
"Natalie," I said, gathering her up.
"EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" the whine got louder.
Thankfully we were just about finished.
So I buckled Natalie into her carseat (yup she still fits in hers being that she's only 16 lbs) and we headed out.
Theresa was going to come to the mall with me to check out the Gymboree sale.
I love spreading my sickness for children's clothing to everyone obviously.
We got to the mall and I buckled Natalie into the umbrella stroller. She immediately scooted down so that her feet were dangling just inches from the ground.
"Natalie," I said, re-arranging her. "Sit up."
"EEEEEE!"
She gave me a dirty look as we started to wheel into the mall.
I didn't think my Gymboree would have a lot. For one, it's a small store. For two, we're in Wyoming.
Sure enough, they didn't have as many good deals as other stores.
But I did find a good number of things.
I think I only paid over $10 for one item. The rest were under.
I spent a total of $45 which is good for me.
Because I had a $25 enrollment bonus for signing up for the Gymboree Visa as well.
Plus since I use the Gymboree Visa I get an additional 5% off.
My arms were filled with clothes by the time I was done.
A sickness, I tell you.
It's all for the fall and winter though.
That's what I told myself when I set all the clothes on the counter.
"Not for now. For LATER," I was telling my Voice of Reason because it started to get it's panties in a knot. "For later in the year."
Still, my Voice of Reason couldn't help but say, You have two huge bins in Natalie's closet full of clothes for the fall and winter. She has ENOUGH.
Oh shut up, you, I told the Voice of Reason.
Someone has a sickness, a sickness la-de-dahhhh, my Voice of Reason sang. For some reason my Voice of Reason sounded like Dolly Parton when it sang. Huh??
I actually got clothes for Tommy too though.
Some of the Easter stuff was also dirt cheap and the kid loves to dress up. I got him the blazer for $12.99. That was the most expensive item that I bought today.
Pictures will come tomorrow, I promise.
Theresa even found some stuff too.
After that I had to leave because Natalie was just pissed off beyond all reason by that point. She did NOT want to sit in her stroller. She did NOT care to be held. She WANTED to crawl, dammit, was that so hard for me to comprehend??
I wished I could have stayed longer but Natalie was full out crying at that point and I knew it was only going to get louder.
So we parted ways and I imagine we'll get together again.
Natalie cried dramatically all the way out to the car.
She cried dramatically as I strapped her into the carseat.
All I wanted, she was basically telling me, was to crawl around. That's ALL I WANTED!!!
Sorry kid.
She fell asleep on the way home. And then when I got her out of the carseat she assumed that those ten minutes were all the nap she needed.
"I don't think so," I told her.
I offered her some breastmilk, which she happily took. She still hates regular milk. I tried everything. Cold milk, warm milk, chocolate milk, strawberry milk..it's all CAH-RAPPPP in her eyes.
Then I set her in her crib.
The minutes I turned to leave the waterworks started.
"WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
"Natalie, it's naptime. That little sleep you got in the car was not enough. I know you. You'll be a royal terror at around 6 and be like that for the rest of the night. And it's not fun for Mommy. So please, get some more sleep," I told her, walking out.
"WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
She cried for a full minute and then I heard her play with her toys. She babbled at her books and her stuffed animals that share a crib with her.
Then, "WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
I went up to get her because I cannot stand to hear my child unhappy for too long.
I gave her more breastmilk.
She tried to bite me towards the end. She finds it amusing when I shriek, "OUCH!"
I try not to shriek but I can't help it. I mean sharp razors on my nipple hurts, yo.
Then I set her back down.
This time she complied.
She's still sleeping now, thank goodness.
I better go clean while she is sleeping.
Tom was not pleased when I let him know.
"Be careful," he warned. "Do I need to give you some mace?"
I explained that I had met the person on CafeMom. That we had been e-mailing back and forth for months and that she seemed perfectly sane.
"Anyone can pretend to be sane online," Tommy answered gruffly.
Which is true. Believe me, I've seen enough Montel, Oprah, Dr. Phil and the news to know that this is true.
But I just knew that the person who I was going to meet was perfectly normal.
Her name is Theresa and her husband actually works at the base an hour from here. But they're moving down to this base in June. And her husband is in security forces as well.
My husband has been pushing me to meet people.
See, I can be extremely anti-social. And my husband wishes that I'd go out and make friends.
When we went to his squadron BBQ he kept pressing me to talk to people.
"I'm not just going to butt into a conversation," I hissed at him.
"Why not? Just DO it. You need to MEET people," he hissed back.
But it's just not my style to butt into a conversation. Kudos to those who can do it but I'm just not comfortable enough.
If I just forced myself into a conversation I can just imagine everyone else stop talking and staring at me with a confused expression. Then you would hear crickets in the background and I'd slowly slink back saying, "Sorry..heh...carry on.." with my face bright red.
Anyhow, Theresa and I decided to meet at the China Buffet.
We both love to eat.
And I especially love buffet style restaurants.
Natalie and I arrived a little early and waited out front for Theresa. She came a few minutes later and then we walked inside and were shown a booth.
Natalie seemed baffled. She kept flicking glances to Theresa.
Who are you? the looks clearly said.
I loaded up my plate. There was delicious dish after delicious dish. I gave Natalie a pile of rice and noodles which she basically played with. She put one of the noodles in her mouth and chewed thoughtfully. But the rest were sprinkled onto the floor.
Theresa and I fell into an easy conversation. Natalie started to get impatient towards the end. She'd stand up in the highchair and try to climb down. As if she were saying, "I'm done eating. I'm outta here!"
When I'd get her to sit down she'd start to give me her warning whine.
"I am two seconds away from embarrassing the crap out of you," the warning whine tells me.
I moved her over to the booth to see if she'd cruise along it.
She did not want the booth.
She wanted to crawl along the floor.
"Sorry Natalie," I said. "You can't."
She did not like that answer.
"EEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" went the whine.
I tried to get her to stand beside my seat but she immediately crumpled to her butt and then tried to crawl off.
See ya!
"Natalie," I said, gathering her up.
"EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" the whine got louder.
Thankfully we were just about finished.
So I buckled Natalie into her carseat (yup she still fits in hers being that she's only 16 lbs) and we headed out.
Theresa was going to come to the mall with me to check out the Gymboree sale.
I love spreading my sickness for children's clothing to everyone obviously.
We got to the mall and I buckled Natalie into the umbrella stroller. She immediately scooted down so that her feet were dangling just inches from the ground.
"Natalie," I said, re-arranging her. "Sit up."
"EEEEEE!"
She gave me a dirty look as we started to wheel into the mall.
I didn't think my Gymboree would have a lot. For one, it's a small store. For two, we're in Wyoming.
Sure enough, they didn't have as many good deals as other stores.
But I did find a good number of things.
I think I only paid over $10 for one item. The rest were under.
I spent a total of $45 which is good for me.
Because I had a $25 enrollment bonus for signing up for the Gymboree Visa as well.
Plus since I use the Gymboree Visa I get an additional 5% off.
My arms were filled with clothes by the time I was done.
A sickness, I tell you.
It's all for the fall and winter though.
That's what I told myself when I set all the clothes on the counter.
"Not for now. For LATER," I was telling my Voice of Reason because it started to get it's panties in a knot. "For later in the year."
Still, my Voice of Reason couldn't help but say, You have two huge bins in Natalie's closet full of clothes for the fall and winter. She has ENOUGH.
Oh shut up, you, I told the Voice of Reason.
Someone has a sickness, a sickness la-de-dahhhh, my Voice of Reason sang. For some reason my Voice of Reason sounded like Dolly Parton when it sang. Huh??
I actually got clothes for Tommy too though.
Some of the Easter stuff was also dirt cheap and the kid loves to dress up. I got him the blazer for $12.99. That was the most expensive item that I bought today.
Pictures will come tomorrow, I promise.
Theresa even found some stuff too.
After that I had to leave because Natalie was just pissed off beyond all reason by that point. She did NOT want to sit in her stroller. She did NOT care to be held. She WANTED to crawl, dammit, was that so hard for me to comprehend??
I wished I could have stayed longer but Natalie was full out crying at that point and I knew it was only going to get louder.
So we parted ways and I imagine we'll get together again.
Natalie cried dramatically all the way out to the car.
She cried dramatically as I strapped her into the carseat.
All I wanted, she was basically telling me, was to crawl around. That's ALL I WANTED!!!
Sorry kid.
She fell asleep on the way home. And then when I got her out of the carseat she assumed that those ten minutes were all the nap she needed.
"I don't think so," I told her.
I offered her some breastmilk, which she happily took. She still hates regular milk. I tried everything. Cold milk, warm milk, chocolate milk, strawberry milk..it's all CAH-RAPPPP in her eyes.
Then I set her in her crib.
The minutes I turned to leave the waterworks started.
"WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
"Natalie, it's naptime. That little sleep you got in the car was not enough. I know you. You'll be a royal terror at around 6 and be like that for the rest of the night. And it's not fun for Mommy. So please, get some more sleep," I told her, walking out.
"WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
She cried for a full minute and then I heard her play with her toys. She babbled at her books and her stuffed animals that share a crib with her.
Then, "WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
I went up to get her because I cannot stand to hear my child unhappy for too long.
I gave her more breastmilk.
She tried to bite me towards the end. She finds it amusing when I shriek, "OUCH!"
I try not to shriek but I can't help it. I mean sharp razors on my nipple hurts, yo.
Then I set her back down.
This time she complied.
She's still sleeping now, thank goodness.
I better go clean while she is sleeping.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Chicken Fries Rock
Guess who came to the door a few minutes ago?
CHAD the UPS man.
Of course I looked like utter crap. I really should track packages from UPS so I know for sure when they come. That way I can look presentable.
Chad came bearing the Nikes that Tom ordered last week. Even though Tom has perfectly good shoes.
"They're not good shoes anymore," Tom grumbled. "I need new ones. I can't believe you're even saying a word miss 'buy kids millions of clothes when they don't need them.'"
Touche, Tom. Touche.
"Howdy," Chad said when I opened the door. He handed over the package. "Have a good day."
Then he turned and walked away.
I bet his real name is Wayne or something.
Anyhow, I went and got Burger King for lunch. I woke up with a hankering for chicken fries.
I have no idea why.
Because we ate at Burger King so much in England--because it was pretty much just Burger King, Subway and Taco Bell on the base--I am so sick of it. I'm not a fan of their flame broiled burgers to begin with. Usually when we went to Burger King in England I would just have a garden salad or their spicy chicken tenderloin sandwich. Or the chicken fries, of course. Tom and I would usually get a six piece and share those on the way home. Dipped in honey mustard sauce.
On the drive there I had to stop to let a pedestrian walk across the crosswalk.
Normally people rush across. That's how I use a crosswalk: if a car is waiting for me I rush across. It's really that simple.
But this chick sauntered across very very slowly.
Any slower and she'd be walking backwards.
She was probably one of those types who calls herself a diva and thinks it's cute.
It's not.
Calling yourself a diva is no longer cute after the age of ten. Sorry.
She was talking on her hot pink cell phone that was decorated with those little crystal thingies. She had on tight jeans, a tight top and those sunglasses that make you look like a bug.
Seriously, how did those come into fashion? I don't think it's attractive to cover up 75% of your face with sunglasses.
"Oh I know Benji, I know. I'll be there later to party," the girl was saying into her sparkly phone as she took baby steps into the crosswalk. Her eyes flicked briefly to my car which was waiting impatiently for her to cross. "I'll bring the vodka, don't you worry," she continued and gave a laugh which reminded me of Cruella deVille.
At this point she was only in the middle of the crosswalk.
I mean ??
How full of yourself can you be to take that long?
If I had been a self-proclaimed diva then I probably would have laid on the horn.
As it is, I'm not a diva, I'm too nice so I just watched the irritating lady cross with a shake of my head and my fingers drumming impatiently against the wheel.
"It won't be like last time..." was the last thing I heard DivaLady say before she finally, MERCIFULLY stepped up onto the sidewalk.
I wonder what happened last time?
She probably had a mini-freak out because Benji looked at another woman.
Divas tend to get pissy if they're not the center of attention, you know.
I drove on my way to Burger King and opted to park and go in.
Because apparently the drive thru confuses the workers inside. I used the drive thru once because I had a craving for a chocolate milkshake and waited for five minutes before someone burst onto the speaker.
"HELLOWELCOMETOBURGERKINGCANITAKEYOURORDER?" the voice blasted.
I nearly jumped out of my skin because as most people know, I scare very easily.
"I'd just like a small chocolate shake," I said, my heart racing from the shock of the sudden voice.
"AWHAT?SORRYTHISTHINGISN'TWORKINGRIGHT!"
"A SMALL. CHOCOLATE. SHAKE!" I practically screamed into the intercom.
"FRIES?"
Huh?
Where did she get fries from a small chocolate shake?
"No, a SMALLLLLL. CHOCOLATEEEE. SHAKKKKKKKEEE!" I repeated. I paused after each word. It's like what people do when they assume another person can't speak English. They speak very very slowly as though that'll help the person comprehend. (I don't think it does..I mean if I went to France and someone spoke French words very very slowly in my face I'd still look at them blankly and go, "Je ne sais pas.." Which is like the only phrase I remember from taking two years of French in high school..)
"ACHOCOLATESHAKE?" boomed the voice.
"YESSSSS!"
"OKAYPULLFORWARD!!"
Of course when I got to the window there was more confusion. The lady leaned out the window and went, "I'm sorry. We're having issues with the milkshake machine. Could you pull forward and park in a spot and we'll bring it out to you as soon as we can?"
As soon as they could was nearly fifteen minutes later!
Finally a woman walked out the front door bearing my small chocolate shake. I got out of the car and waved because she looked baffled as her eyes scanned all the cars. She noticed me and walked forward.
"Here," she said, practically shoving the cold dessert into my palm. Then she turned and stomped back inside.
Well okay then.
So you can see why I preferred to walk inside.
I gathered Natalie and headed indoors. Thankfully there was only one person in line. Since it was just turning 11 I had beat the lunch crowd. If you come anytime after 1130 you might as well not even bother. Because there is usually a 20 minute wait if you come during the lunch rush.
While we were waiting a couple came in and stood behind me. The woman had a little girl that looked around Natalie's age in her arms. I could see her staring at Natalie and then a few seconds later she went,
"Excuse me?"
I turned slightly. "Yes?" I was hoping I didn't have something embarrassing going on with me. Like toilet paper sticking from the bottom of my shoe or a booger on my cheek.
"Where did you get that outfit?" she gestured to Natalie's Spring Rainbow outfit from Gymboree. Oh phew. Clothes talk.
Natalie was wearing this:
She had everything in the picture on. Including the sunglasses. I think she's been noticing that I wear glasses and lately she's been reaching for hers so she can be like Mommy. It's flattering, really.
"Oh. Gymboree," I said with a grin. My pulse raced a little in excitement over one of my favorite words being uttered: Gymboree.
The woman looked at her husband, who stood with his hands jammed in his pockets and was staring intently at the above menu.
"Mike," she hissed. "We have to get that outfit for Anna." She pointed at Natalie's outfit. "It's at Gymboree."
Mike didn't seem to care. He gave a little shrug, his eyes never leaving the menu.
"Thanks," the woman told me. "We'll be going to Gymboree later today."
I did see Mike scowl slightly.
Oops.
See, at least five of my readers have told me that they've gone to Gymboree because of me. And spent over $100 on the same outfits that I've bought Natalie.
So I have at least five husbands who are probably not pleased with me.
Well six now, including Mike.
Sorry Mike.
I ordered my chicken fries with the buffalo and honey mustard sauce. I was surprised when they actually handed over my order less than five minutes later.
Then I came home and happily devoured my chicken fries. I offered one to Natalie and she just twisted it around her fingers, took a lick, looked utterly disgusted and tossed it on the ground. And mashed it with her palm for good measure.
When Natalie takes her nap I think I'm going to watch The Tudors. I've discovered OnDemand. It already has the episode that would usually air on Sunday up. I always assumed OnDemand meant you had to pay but you don't! So I'm going to get my Jonathan Rhys Meyers love. I mean yum. Although I like him better when he speaks in his Irish accent. Although I looked him up and apparently he's an alcoholic which is a huge no no for me. But then again, I'm a children's clothing addict so...I don't think it would go well if we got together. He'd be all, "I need a drink!" and I'd be all, "I need that outfit!" Then we'd be all, "Okay you can have one drink and I can have one outfit," because we'd think then it would be okay.
It would be a messy messy relationship I think.
Here are pictures of Natalie:
CHAD the UPS man.
Of course I looked like utter crap. I really should track packages from UPS so I know for sure when they come. That way I can look presentable.
Chad came bearing the Nikes that Tom ordered last week. Even though Tom has perfectly good shoes.
"They're not good shoes anymore," Tom grumbled. "I need new ones. I can't believe you're even saying a word miss 'buy kids millions of clothes when they don't need them.'"
Touche, Tom. Touche.
"Howdy," Chad said when I opened the door. He handed over the package. "Have a good day."
Then he turned and walked away.
I bet his real name is Wayne or something.
Anyhow, I went and got Burger King for lunch. I woke up with a hankering for chicken fries.
I have no idea why.
Because we ate at Burger King so much in England--because it was pretty much just Burger King, Subway and Taco Bell on the base--I am so sick of it. I'm not a fan of their flame broiled burgers to begin with. Usually when we went to Burger King in England I would just have a garden salad or their spicy chicken tenderloin sandwich. Or the chicken fries, of course. Tom and I would usually get a six piece and share those on the way home. Dipped in honey mustard sauce.
On the drive there I had to stop to let a pedestrian walk across the crosswalk.
Normally people rush across. That's how I use a crosswalk: if a car is waiting for me I rush across. It's really that simple.
But this chick sauntered across very very slowly.
Any slower and she'd be walking backwards.
She was probably one of those types who calls herself a diva and thinks it's cute.
It's not.
Calling yourself a diva is no longer cute after the age of ten. Sorry.
She was talking on her hot pink cell phone that was decorated with those little crystal thingies. She had on tight jeans, a tight top and those sunglasses that make you look like a bug.
Seriously, how did those come into fashion? I don't think it's attractive to cover up 75% of your face with sunglasses.
"Oh I know Benji, I know. I'll be there later to party," the girl was saying into her sparkly phone as she took baby steps into the crosswalk. Her eyes flicked briefly to my car which was waiting impatiently for her to cross. "I'll bring the vodka, don't you worry," she continued and gave a laugh which reminded me of Cruella deVille.
At this point she was only in the middle of the crosswalk.
I mean ??
How full of yourself can you be to take that long?
If I had been a self-proclaimed diva then I probably would have laid on the horn.
As it is, I'm not a diva, I'm too nice so I just watched the irritating lady cross with a shake of my head and my fingers drumming impatiently against the wheel.
"It won't be like last time..." was the last thing I heard DivaLady say before she finally, MERCIFULLY stepped up onto the sidewalk.
I wonder what happened last time?
She probably had a mini-freak out because Benji looked at another woman.
Divas tend to get pissy if they're not the center of attention, you know.
I drove on my way to Burger King and opted to park and go in.
Because apparently the drive thru confuses the workers inside. I used the drive thru once because I had a craving for a chocolate milkshake and waited for five minutes before someone burst onto the speaker.
"HELLOWELCOMETOBURGERKINGCANITAKEYOURORDER?" the voice blasted.
I nearly jumped out of my skin because as most people know, I scare very easily.
"I'd just like a small chocolate shake," I said, my heart racing from the shock of the sudden voice.
"AWHAT?SORRYTHISTHINGISN'TWORKINGRIGHT!"
"A SMALL. CHOCOLATE. SHAKE!" I practically screamed into the intercom.
"FRIES?"
Huh?
Where did she get fries from a small chocolate shake?
"No, a SMALLLLLL. CHOCOLATEEEE. SHAKKKKKKKEEE!" I repeated. I paused after each word. It's like what people do when they assume another person can't speak English. They speak very very slowly as though that'll help the person comprehend. (I don't think it does..I mean if I went to France and someone spoke French words very very slowly in my face I'd still look at them blankly and go, "Je ne sais pas.." Which is like the only phrase I remember from taking two years of French in high school..)
"ACHOCOLATESHAKE?" boomed the voice.
"YESSSSS!"
"OKAYPULLFORWARD!!"
Of course when I got to the window there was more confusion. The lady leaned out the window and went, "I'm sorry. We're having issues with the milkshake machine. Could you pull forward and park in a spot and we'll bring it out to you as soon as we can?"
As soon as they could was nearly fifteen minutes later!
Finally a woman walked out the front door bearing my small chocolate shake. I got out of the car and waved because she looked baffled as her eyes scanned all the cars. She noticed me and walked forward.
"Here," she said, practically shoving the cold dessert into my palm. Then she turned and stomped back inside.
Well okay then.
So you can see why I preferred to walk inside.
I gathered Natalie and headed indoors. Thankfully there was only one person in line. Since it was just turning 11 I had beat the lunch crowd. If you come anytime after 1130 you might as well not even bother. Because there is usually a 20 minute wait if you come during the lunch rush.
While we were waiting a couple came in and stood behind me. The woman had a little girl that looked around Natalie's age in her arms. I could see her staring at Natalie and then a few seconds later she went,
"Excuse me?"
I turned slightly. "Yes?" I was hoping I didn't have something embarrassing going on with me. Like toilet paper sticking from the bottom of my shoe or a booger on my cheek.
"Where did you get that outfit?" she gestured to Natalie's Spring Rainbow outfit from Gymboree. Oh phew. Clothes talk.
Natalie was wearing this:
She had everything in the picture on. Including the sunglasses. I think she's been noticing that I wear glasses and lately she's been reaching for hers so she can be like Mommy. It's flattering, really.
"Oh. Gymboree," I said with a grin. My pulse raced a little in excitement over one of my favorite words being uttered: Gymboree.
The woman looked at her husband, who stood with his hands jammed in his pockets and was staring intently at the above menu.
"Mike," she hissed. "We have to get that outfit for Anna." She pointed at Natalie's outfit. "It's at Gymboree."
Mike didn't seem to care. He gave a little shrug, his eyes never leaving the menu.
"Thanks," the woman told me. "We'll be going to Gymboree later today."
I did see Mike scowl slightly.
Oops.
See, at least five of my readers have told me that they've gone to Gymboree because of me. And spent over $100 on the same outfits that I've bought Natalie.
So I have at least five husbands who are probably not pleased with me.
Well six now, including Mike.
Sorry Mike.
I ordered my chicken fries with the buffalo and honey mustard sauce. I was surprised when they actually handed over my order less than five minutes later.
Then I came home and happily devoured my chicken fries. I offered one to Natalie and she just twisted it around her fingers, took a lick, looked utterly disgusted and tossed it on the ground. And mashed it with her palm for good measure.
When Natalie takes her nap I think I'm going to watch The Tudors. I've discovered OnDemand. It already has the episode that would usually air on Sunday up. I always assumed OnDemand meant you had to pay but you don't! So I'm going to get my Jonathan Rhys Meyers love. I mean yum. Although I like him better when he speaks in his Irish accent. Although I looked him up and apparently he's an alcoholic which is a huge no no for me. But then again, I'm a children's clothing addict so...I don't think it would go well if we got together. He'd be all, "I need a drink!" and I'd be all, "I need that outfit!" Then we'd be all, "Okay you can have one drink and I can have one outfit," because we'd think then it would be okay.
It would be a messy messy relationship I think.
Here are pictures of Natalie:
Monday, April 21, 2008
Prom Week Has Passed
Ok, I know I did not blog last week. I have a good excuse though, I was tied up with getting ready for the Junior - Senior prom. What a job! I was not in my classroom at all during the entire week. I was in the girl's gym working. I was afforded the luxury of this this year....because I have an intern. She taught....and I worked on the prom. The best of both worlds. Everyone should have an intern when they take on a major enterprise like the prom. I am also very fortunate to work with a Dream Team. Our prom is in the girl's gym which is a Cinderella gym. It has been long forgotten and abused. Yet, with a little help from some black plastic, some decorations, rental tables and chairs, lights, a fountain....it was transformed into an elegant place. Our theme this year was "A Night to Remember" and it truly was. The kids all arrived in their party attire and danced their hearts content. My Dream Team: Mary Jean Fagan, Marie Parks, Ed Allen, Beth Dewberry, Jan Meyer and Dwayne Riddle....all made my job so easy. I am fortunate to have them....and at the moment a bit sad....the let down after a job well done....and my final let down. This year's prom was my swan song. I will not be in charge of the prom next year.....the end of an era. In my 18 years here at BRHS I have been the prom sponsor....12 of those years....it is time for the youngsters to take it on. Funny, I was once one of those youngsters....and now...I am one of the senior members of our staff....I never thought I would see that day. Anyway....I am rambling. I have loved doing the prom all these many years....my favorite part....is waking up the morning after....and finding out they all made it home safe and sound. I don't know about you guys....but things are not like they were when I was in school. Kids spend a major amount of money to stay at the prom less than an hour.....the true event of the prom....is the parties that follow. The kids buy fancy party dresses, rent tuxes, buy flowers for their dates....buy tickets, have pictures made...and then....by 10 are on their way to the other party. You want to be invited to one of the big parties...that means you are part of the in group. Some don't care....they go bowling and enjoy themselves...no matter what they do. When I was in school....back in the stone ages....we went to the dance....and went home....period! Oh well....things go in circles...in a few years....it will be back to the old way....thus is life! Here is to a great week. I am just glad prom is over.
Peace to you all, K
Peace to you all, K
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
The Return of Chad
So Chad stopped by today.
Remember Chad?
He's the UPS guy. The hot UPS guy.
I don't even know if his real name is Chad. Probably not. But he looks like a Chad.
For starters, he scared the living crap out of Max, who was sitting by the front door. Max was in the middle of a cat nap (haha) and his eyes flicked briefly to the screen door. He must've seen Chad strolling up because he immediately leaped on all fours and his fur stood up.
"MEEEOOOWW!" Max said towards the door before darting off behind the couch.
I leaped to my feet and brushed off my jeans, thankful that I was wearing jeans. Usually I'm in my sweatpants but I had just returned home from grocery shopping. I even tried to pat my hair down but it was useless, it was a mess thanks to these Wyoming winds.
Our weather makes no sense. Yesterday it got to 83. Today it's 32 with high winds that are currently rattling the windows.
I appeared at the screen and opened the door.
"Howdy," Chad said, heaving the heavy box up the one stair that leads to the front door. I noticed his muscles bulging as he did this and tried not to stare.
Stop it, Amber. Not appropriate..
"I have a big one for you," Chad said with a grin, thumping it down in front of me.
I bet you do, Chad. I bet you do..
AMBER! For shame. You're a married woman! came my Voice of Reason. The same voice that pipes up when I try to buy another outfit for my kids. It's the Voice of Reason that reminds me that the children have enough.
Remember, the Voice of Reason will say, The children's closets are stuffed. You're having to start folding things at the bottom of their closets. They have enough. So back away from the outfit. Yes it may be cute but they don't need it. Amber. AMBER, why are you bringing the outfit to the cashier? Do you not HEAR me??
I don't think my Voice of Reason likes me very much.
"Thank you," I said brightly. I'm sure I was blushing. I was about to add "Chad" but I imagine he'd have given me a confused look and say something like, "My name's not Chad. It's Brian.." or something like that.
Though it would amuse me greatly if he really was Chad.
"I hope you can stay warm," I said stupidly. "Because of the winds.."
Shut UP, Amber.
Chad gave me a bemused smile. "I'm used to it."
He still had on his expensive looking sunglasses and I noticed he had one of those Bluetooth things behind his ear. He had on his color of Poo uniform and was in the shorts, which is why I mentioned the weather. Especially because the truck has no side doors. I can imagine the winds must make that unpleasant.
"Well thank you again," I said and lifted up the vacuum.
Holy CRAP.
It was heavy.
I pretended that it was nothing, that I lifted things like this all the time.
"Have a nice day," Chad said politely and turned and hurried towards his rumbling UPS truck.
I huffed and puffed the thing inside.
Isn't it pretty? I ended up getting it for around three hundred or so. The original price was $569 or something like that but with the discounts, it knocked down the price.
Tom was actually awake and he set to putting the thing together.
It was really simple.
"It looks like a robot," I commented. "Hello new vacuum," I cooed, stroking the handle.
"You're weird," Tom told me.
I marveled at all the pieces that came with it. There's even a mattress attachment. I am so cleaning our mattress as soon as Tom wakes up. Because as soon as Tom put the thing together he announced that he was going back to bed. I was thisclose to pushing him out of bed and saying, "Excuse me, I'm cleaning off our mattress with my ultra powerful Dyson."
Of course I tried it out right away. I just vacuumed up a little patch of carpet. Then I switched it off and eagerly peeked in the filter.
And was promptly disgusted.
In just a small patch of carpet it picked up a lot of crap.
The thing was already half full!
I cannot believe we've lived in this filth for so long.
I'm appalled.
The thing is, I just vacuumed yesterday with our dippy old Bissel.
Gross, gross, gross!
"Tom!" I called, rushing up the stairs.
He was about to fall asleep when I threw open the door.
"HUH?" he grumbled, buring his face in his pillow.
"I just vacuumed a small patch of carpet," I said, throwing my arms around for emphasis, "and the filter is nearly HALF FULL with dust. I can't believe it."
"Mmmm," Tom said into the pillow.
"I can only imagine what the entire living room is going to pick up," I said, walking out the door.
"Mmmm," Tom repeated.
Clearly, he wasn't as impressed as I was.
But then again, his idea of fun is watching The Military Channel.
The other day we sat and watched this program on how Kevlar helmets are made.
Most.Boring-ist.Show.EVARRRRR.
I'm not kidding.
And the narrator was speaking in this slow voice.
"First..the..helmets...are..put..through...the..blah..blah..blah.."
I was bored out of my mind.
But because we have DVR my excuse of, "My show is coming on!" doesn't fly anymore.
Because Tom just says, "DVR it."
I did manage to watch Big Brother and I am hoping Natalie goes home today.
I'm embarrassed that my daughter shares a name with her.
I'm off to go finish vacuuming.
And see what other crap it picks up.
Remember Chad?
He's the UPS guy. The hot UPS guy.
I don't even know if his real name is Chad. Probably not. But he looks like a Chad.
For starters, he scared the living crap out of Max, who was sitting by the front door. Max was in the middle of a cat nap (haha) and his eyes flicked briefly to the screen door. He must've seen Chad strolling up because he immediately leaped on all fours and his fur stood up.
"MEEEOOOWW!" Max said towards the door before darting off behind the couch.
I leaped to my feet and brushed off my jeans, thankful that I was wearing jeans. Usually I'm in my sweatpants but I had just returned home from grocery shopping. I even tried to pat my hair down but it was useless, it was a mess thanks to these Wyoming winds.
Our weather makes no sense. Yesterday it got to 83. Today it's 32 with high winds that are currently rattling the windows.
I appeared at the screen and opened the door.
"Howdy," Chad said, heaving the heavy box up the one stair that leads to the front door. I noticed his muscles bulging as he did this and tried not to stare.
Stop it, Amber. Not appropriate..
"I have a big one for you," Chad said with a grin, thumping it down in front of me.
I bet you do, Chad. I bet you do..
AMBER! For shame. You're a married woman! came my Voice of Reason. The same voice that pipes up when I try to buy another outfit for my kids. It's the Voice of Reason that reminds me that the children have enough.
Remember, the Voice of Reason will say, The children's closets are stuffed. You're having to start folding things at the bottom of their closets. They have enough. So back away from the outfit. Yes it may be cute but they don't need it. Amber. AMBER, why are you bringing the outfit to the cashier? Do you not HEAR me??
I don't think my Voice of Reason likes me very much.
"Thank you," I said brightly. I'm sure I was blushing. I was about to add "Chad" but I imagine he'd have given me a confused look and say something like, "My name's not Chad. It's Brian.." or something like that.
Though it would amuse me greatly if he really was Chad.
"I hope you can stay warm," I said stupidly. "Because of the winds.."
Shut UP, Amber.
Chad gave me a bemused smile. "I'm used to it."
He still had on his expensive looking sunglasses and I noticed he had one of those Bluetooth things behind his ear. He had on his color of Poo uniform and was in the shorts, which is why I mentioned the weather. Especially because the truck has no side doors. I can imagine the winds must make that unpleasant.
"Well thank you again," I said and lifted up the vacuum.
Holy CRAP.
It was heavy.
I pretended that it was nothing, that I lifted things like this all the time.
"Have a nice day," Chad said politely and turned and hurried towards his rumbling UPS truck.
I huffed and puffed the thing inside.
Isn't it pretty? I ended up getting it for around three hundred or so. The original price was $569 or something like that but with the discounts, it knocked down the price.
Tom was actually awake and he set to putting the thing together.
It was really simple.
"It looks like a robot," I commented. "Hello new vacuum," I cooed, stroking the handle.
"You're weird," Tom told me.
I marveled at all the pieces that came with it. There's even a mattress attachment. I am so cleaning our mattress as soon as Tom wakes up. Because as soon as Tom put the thing together he announced that he was going back to bed. I was thisclose to pushing him out of bed and saying, "Excuse me, I'm cleaning off our mattress with my ultra powerful Dyson."
Of course I tried it out right away. I just vacuumed up a little patch of carpet. Then I switched it off and eagerly peeked in the filter.
And was promptly disgusted.
In just a small patch of carpet it picked up a lot of crap.
The thing was already half full!
I cannot believe we've lived in this filth for so long.
I'm appalled.
The thing is, I just vacuumed yesterday with our dippy old Bissel.
Gross, gross, gross!
"Tom!" I called, rushing up the stairs.
He was about to fall asleep when I threw open the door.
"HUH?" he grumbled, buring his face in his pillow.
"I just vacuumed a small patch of carpet," I said, throwing my arms around for emphasis, "and the filter is nearly HALF FULL with dust. I can't believe it."
"Mmmm," Tom said into the pillow.
"I can only imagine what the entire living room is going to pick up," I said, walking out the door.
"Mmmm," Tom repeated.
Clearly, he wasn't as impressed as I was.
But then again, his idea of fun is watching The Military Channel.
The other day we sat and watched this program on how Kevlar helmets are made.
Most.Boring-ist.Show.EVARRRRR.
I'm not kidding.
And the narrator was speaking in this slow voice.
"First..the..helmets...are..put..through...the..blah..blah..blah.."
I was bored out of my mind.
But because we have DVR my excuse of, "My show is coming on!" doesn't fly anymore.
Because Tom just says, "DVR it."
I did manage to watch Big Brother and I am hoping Natalie goes home today.
I'm embarrassed that my daughter shares a name with her.
I'm off to go finish vacuuming.
And see what other crap it picks up.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Seeing Clay Again
Last night was a sad night for me. I went to the funeral home for a viewing of my friend, Jimmy Brown. Jimmy was a firefighter for the Auburn Fire Dept. so it was a very symbolic viewing. There were two Honor Guards posted at the head and foot of the coffin. They rotated off every 15 minutes. Well, after going through the viewing I ended up in the coffee room to visit....and there...sitting at one of the tables....was my former student Clay Carson! I was floored. I havge not seen this young man for 15 years. He did not look a day older than he did at graduation.
We hugged, told each other we loved each other, and sat down and had a rapid fire conversation. Our conversation was interrupted every fifteen minutes when he had to go and stand guard.
Who was Clay Carson? Well...in a teacher's life there comes along a student or two if you are lucky that really touch your heart. Clay was mine. I loved him from the first day he walked into my class. He was an awesome young man....with a heart for Jesus....and today, he is still an awesome young man with a heart for Jesus. What a guy!
I had Clay in Spanish class and he was a model student. He worked hard, gave 100% of himself everyday, and just made life wonderful! It does a teacher's heart good to see a student they had in the past....and how they are in the present! So many times we never know what happens to our former students.
Even though last night was a time of saddness, for me there was a touch of joy. Joy that I got to see that I made a small impact on someone's life. Joy that I truly had touched a life during his formative years....and made a difference. The words to the song, "What a Difference You Made in My Life" came to my mind...while I was waiting for Clay to return from Honor Guard duty. The chorus to the song goes something like this:
We hugged, told each other we loved each other, and sat down and had a rapid fire conversation. Our conversation was interrupted every fifteen minutes when he had to go and stand guard.
Who was Clay Carson? Well...in a teacher's life there comes along a student or two if you are lucky that really touch your heart. Clay was mine. I loved him from the first day he walked into my class. He was an awesome young man....with a heart for Jesus....and today, he is still an awesome young man with a heart for Jesus. What a guy!
I had Clay in Spanish class and he was a model student. He worked hard, gave 100% of himself everyday, and just made life wonderful! It does a teacher's heart good to see a student they had in the past....and how they are in the present! So many times we never know what happens to our former students.
Even though last night was a time of saddness, for me there was a touch of joy. Joy that I got to see that I made a small impact on someone's life. Joy that I truly had touched a life during his formative years....and made a difference. The words to the song, "What a Difference You Made in My Life" came to my mind...while I was waiting for Clay to return from Honor Guard duty. The chorus to the song goes something like this:
What a difference you?ve made in my life.
What a difference you?ve made in my life.
You?re my sunshine day and night.
Oh, what a difference you?ve madeIn my life.
This is truly what all teachers want to hear their former students say to them at some point down the road of life. I sat there with my former student last night though....and thought those things about him. He truly did make a diffence...he truly was my sunshine....he was that ray of hope that make me still want to teach. I touched a life once...and I am forever changed.
Friday, April 11, 2008
I'm Tired....or Am I?
“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
Have you ever noticed that a large number of my blogs seem to revolve around being tired? I seem to be blogging about how busy I have been, or how busy I currently am.... then I seem to launch into some tirade about how tired I am. You know in this fast– paced society we just don’t take the time to get the rest our bodies need. It is like being on an eternal merry-go-round. It continues to go round and round and never stops so that I can get off. I have to laugh because here I am on this busy roundabout thing called life, and I just keep going and going, like the Energizer bunny....never taking the time to just halt all the craziness and rest.
God showed me the error of my thoughts this past summer. I had so much to do, my dad was sick, my mom was sick, I was working overtime trying to get ready to go to Philly for a week long conference. Two days before leaving for the conference....I was jolted into reality. I was diagnosed as hypertensive...and a type II diabetic. The words fell like lead. I was told I had to begin a medicine treatment and get some rest....well, I was actually thinking that the conference would be a great rest period....depending on the definition used of rest....that's a joke! I was in Philly! So much to see and do....and eat....so little time. So there I was....getting ready for my trip, a whole week without the responsiblity of my parents. I was leaving it all for my husband to deal with....and was feeling a bit guilty because of this. I would deal with my problems when I returned. I would watch my sugar levels while I was gone...but I was going to eat a Philly Steak and Cheese.....from Geno's....or bust thunder.
Needless to say, by the time I boarded the plane in Atlanta, I was tired (physically, mentally, and emotionally). We hit the ground running in Philly. Our first day there was free until the afternoon so we used the time to sightsee. We did a lot of sightseeing. We saw all the things first time tourists must see. There were two things that really hit me....and none of them were the traditional things... The first thing that made me stop and take notice was the Love statue in the park. Love...when was the last time I actually thought about that word. Oh, I use it....with my family....but here it was....larger than life...staring at me. As I stood there....I softly sang...Jesus Loves Me....hum I wondered....where did that come from? I Corinthians 13 - the love chapter also entered my head....Love is patient, kind....etc....one has to rest in order to shower others with love.
Our second stop was the Rocky Balboa monument. Here was a man....who overcame the things in life that should have defeated him.....hummmm....that was kind of me right now. I felt a tear slide down my cheek as I looked at the bronze statue. A burst of energy ran through me and I ran up the stairs Rocky runs up in the movie....at the top...I threw my hands in the air....I am one of God's chosen....I too can overcome the things in life that should defeat me. I spent a lot of time that day just reflecting and silently praising God for my salvation and just enjoying a slower pace. That night when we finally fell into bed I got some much needed rest. I could not remember when I had slept so soundly or deeply.
What a week Philly was. I loved every minute....and returned home so rejuvenated. Why? Just as God promises me in Matthew 11:28, I came to Him that week in Philly and He gave me the rest I so needed. All I have to do to get filled up and replenished is to spend time with Him. His strength is my strength. I just have to slow down!...and remember to check my blood sugar!
Happy Trails, Karen
Have you ever noticed that a large number of my blogs seem to revolve around being tired? I seem to be blogging about how busy I have been, or how busy I currently am.... then I seem to launch into some tirade about how tired I am. You know in this fast– paced society we just don’t take the time to get the rest our bodies need. It is like being on an eternal merry-go-round. It continues to go round and round and never stops so that I can get off. I have to laugh because here I am on this busy roundabout thing called life, and I just keep going and going, like the Energizer bunny....never taking the time to just halt all the craziness and rest.
God showed me the error of my thoughts this past summer. I had so much to do, my dad was sick, my mom was sick, I was working overtime trying to get ready to go to Philly for a week long conference. Two days before leaving for the conference....I was jolted into reality. I was diagnosed as hypertensive...and a type II diabetic. The words fell like lead. I was told I had to begin a medicine treatment and get some rest....well, I was actually thinking that the conference would be a great rest period....depending on the definition used of rest....that's a joke! I was in Philly! So much to see and do....and eat....so little time. So there I was....getting ready for my trip, a whole week without the responsiblity of my parents. I was leaving it all for my husband to deal with....and was feeling a bit guilty because of this. I would deal with my problems when I returned. I would watch my sugar levels while I was gone...but I was going to eat a Philly Steak and Cheese.....from Geno's....or bust thunder.
Needless to say, by the time I boarded the plane in Atlanta, I was tired (physically, mentally, and emotionally). We hit the ground running in Philly. Our first day there was free until the afternoon so we used the time to sightsee. We did a lot of sightseeing. We saw all the things first time tourists must see. There were two things that really hit me....and none of them were the traditional things... The first thing that made me stop and take notice was the Love statue in the park. Love...when was the last time I actually thought about that word. Oh, I use it....with my family....but here it was....larger than life...staring at me. As I stood there....I softly sang...Jesus Loves Me....hum I wondered....where did that come from? I Corinthians 13 - the love chapter also entered my head....Love is patient, kind....etc....one has to rest in order to shower others with love.
Our second stop was the Rocky Balboa monument. Here was a man....who overcame the things in life that should have defeated him.....hummmm....that was kind of me right now. I felt a tear slide down my cheek as I looked at the bronze statue. A burst of energy ran through me and I ran up the stairs Rocky runs up in the movie....at the top...I threw my hands in the air....I am one of God's chosen....I too can overcome the things in life that should defeat me. I spent a lot of time that day just reflecting and silently praising God for my salvation and just enjoying a slower pace. That night when we finally fell into bed I got some much needed rest. I could not remember when I had slept so soundly or deeply.
What a week Philly was. I loved every minute....and returned home so rejuvenated. Why? Just as God promises me in Matthew 11:28, I came to Him that week in Philly and He gave me the rest I so needed. All I have to do to get filled up and replenished is to spend time with Him. His strength is my strength. I just have to slow down!...and remember to check my blood sugar!
Happy Trails, Karen
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