tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18332924506349898792024-03-05T23:20:23.783-06:00YankeeBayouA Yankee fan's journey into the Deep South and beyond.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.comBlogger133125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-89866782781072252322016-04-13T08:34:00.000-05:002016-04-13T08:34:27.944-05:00Women Are Elephants<center style="text-align: left;">
It was a hot summer in Upstate New York. Summer was the time filled with tiny town fairs and fields of lightning bugs. Most of this particular summer was spent with my friend Lori. I'll never forget the night I learned how to hate something about myself.</center>
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We were at yet another county fair. The two of us loved to get all sassed up at around age 12 running around looking at boys. I never really learned the hair thing very well, though Lori with her gorgeous chestnut locks tried to help. My hair typically laid flat and limp having no body to speak of, though I am positive we tried to get the rainbow bangs happening. It was no different that night.</center>
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There was a dunk tank. Fun right? You know chuck the ball at the target and watch the dope in the tank sink into his little pool of doom. This guy did his job well. He threw you off your game by insulting you. He called my friend "zipper-lips" something we both giggle about today. Then he focused his target on my hair. </center>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: red;"><b>"Hey little girl, you have kind hair. The kind nobody wants."</b></span></center>
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<span style="background-color: white;">It stung. I was 12, clueless, and completely unsure of myself. This one incident didn't make or break me, but there it is still hidden in my memory bank. Women are like elephants in that we never forget. Every time I try to make my hair look like those flowing tresses of my friends, that memory stings me again. Could it really be that I just never learned to fix my hair or do I just have kind hair?</span></center>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I'm approaching 40 and my self-esteem has never been more solid. Losing those pounds that I always wanted to lose helped me tremendously. Having a team of people believe in me and support me has helped me remember the powerful woman that was hiding inside. I DO NOT CARE what that clown said about my hair. I continue to suck at making it flow, but I do my best. That round brush may have been trapped in my nest of hair at some point. </span></center>
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<span style="background-color: white;">It does make me concerned about my kids though. What little jabs they hear will remain with them throughout their lives? Are there enough "I LOVE YOUs" to counteract the nasty grams people send? The truth is there aren't enough. Me loving them matters, but them loving themselves matters more. </span></center>
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<span style="background-color: white;">That's the job of a mother. Teaching your kids to love themselves, teaching them to show kindness to others, and teaching them to overcome the tough things that inevitably happen in life is the job. In this particular job, there is no payment better than watching them succeed. Maybe one day I'll get this hair thing figured out.</span></center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-37929395491661563842016-01-22T13:23:00.001-06:002016-01-22T13:23:12.178-06:00Hiatus Apologies & Our NOLA Bucket List<center style="text-align: left;">
I apologize for the hiatus. Been busy with a new lifestyle adventure and helping people get healthy, which has been inspirational and fun! In this new year though, a resolution was made to post at least once per week and I've already failed at it for half the month. This doesn't mean that it's time to throw in the towel; it means it's time to get busy managing my time a little better.</center>
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This tour is flying by! The bayou has embraced us and we've all made some new friends and have new favorite things about the area. We're focusing less on what we've been missing and more about what we need to see while we're still here. Living a life of gratitude makes every day better!</center>
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That being said, we are developing our NOLA bucket list. Before our time drifts past too quickly, as we're constantly moving with our buzzing busy bee lives, we need to make time to do things that we can only do in the land of jazz and gators. It's never cool leaving a billet when you haven't seen what you should before you move away. I have a list of regrets from previous spots and that's not going to happen here.</center>
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The <a href="http://www.nojazzfest.com/" target="_blank">New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival</a> has a line up that makes me want to pitch a tent on the grounds and just stay there all week! I don't think I've been this excited for a music festival since Lallapalooza '92 (oops aging myself a bit there). This year is our year for sure! We'll likely take the RV on down to New Orleans and have a local spot to chill while we move in and out of the venue. My kids' minds are going to be blown! Hopefully they won't inhale anything wafting through the air.</center>
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Everyone talks about their <a href="http://www.voodooboneladytours.com/" target="_blank">tours</a> through the crypts. We haven't done ours yet, so we're searching out the best scary stuff we can get! The kids will complain at first. Thank goodness we're so good at pushing them past their comfort zones. </center>
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We've seen the <a href="http://www.nationalww2museum.org/" target="_blank">World War II museum</a> once. It was so enjoyable, that we need to see it twice! We are still hoping that we'll be indulged with some more visitors, so we have a good excuse to go back and do it all again. </center>
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John and I have never spent a night out on the town in NOLA. We're not big drinkers and we're a tad squeamish about the crime, but we need to do a little of the night life before we leave. This needs to include the House of Blues. Same requests here for visitors!!</center>
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There's a <a href="http://www.lastrawberryfestival.com/" target="_blank">Strawberry Festival</a> in Pontchatoula in the Spring that I don't want to miss this year. The RV will be helpful again on this one! This one is mainly for the kids, but who doesn't love strawberry shortcake?</center>
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A new tour is developing in Avery Island at the <a href="http://www.tabasco.com/avery-island/" target="_blank">Tabasco</a> company!! As a huge fan of tabasco in and on EVERYTHING, this is a must see. Plus I think they give out teeny, tiny samples. I NEED teeny, tiny bottles of tabasco in my life.</center>
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The list will expand, but these are the "musts" for upcoming months. This spring is going to be fantastic!! Any suggestions are always welcome! So are guests. Seriously, come and visit.</center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-69402860980205011552015-11-13T11:58:00.000-06:002015-11-13T11:58:37.398-06:00Sibling Rivalry And The Murder Of Mother's Love<center>
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They're trying to murder me. The bickering and nasty back biting is killing the very spirit that I enjoy as a mother. The teacher, the inspiration, the cheerleader, and the provider of unconditional love were all in jeopardy this morning.</div>
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Homeschooling is not for the weak. Controlling my frustration and aggravation has taken more willpower than anything I have ever done in my life. We chose homeschool because my kids are worth it. The only problem arises when I feel like I'm worth more than this. </div>
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I'm worth more than the apathy and the angst I get from the students. I'm worth more than being cooped up in a tiny room in my home. I'm worth more than having no time for anything, but them. Sounds resentful doesn't it?</div>
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That was me this morning. Then I stopped and listened to my whiney self. </div>
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"Suck it up buttercup!" ran through my head and those boot straps got yanked up.</div>
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All of the Grandmas would say, "They'll be gone in a blink." I'm trying to remember these types of comments in the moments when I would rather string these kids up by their toenails. </div>
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When I have to nag 50 times to get them to do something I will say to myself, "they still want you around." </div>
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After I discover a wet towel on a bedroom floor (something we have tried to change since they were 3), I will simply say to myself, "they are clean and healthy."</div>
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After a meal when they retreat to their electronics leaving me and my husband to clean up I'll say, "they have full bellies."</div>
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When they argue with me I'll say, "they know I love them."</div>
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In the midst of a sibling WWF event I'll say, "remember when you found them reading to each other?"</div>
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After a trying day getting them to do their schoolwork I'll say, "you get to stay home and know that they'll understand it eventually because you don't quit."</div>
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This homeschooling thing isn't forever. It's a short lived opportunity to get my kids to understand the value of their role in their own education. This is a gift. I KNOW what they are learning. I KNOW that this education will be used in their futures. I KNOW that they will one day thank me for it. </div>
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With any luck their rivalry will not murder my maternal instincts first. Instead something will click and they will strive for the greatness I see in them. Oh heavens let me hear the click!! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-59789011817747386952015-11-09T07:02:00.000-06:002015-11-09T07:02:09.575-06:00Sometimes I Suck At Being A Girl<center style="text-align: left;">
There they are! Those beautiful women who make it look so effortless. Their hair is perfect. Their outfits are from stores, I clearly don't shop in. They know how to use accessories. They rock their heels like it's their job. Then, please scan to the left and envision yours truly. </center>
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My legs do not go on for days. My hair is a disaster most of the time. Trying to wear make up is like me trying to paint the Mona Lisa, I usually don't know where to start. Heels make me want to cry. It's as if I missed the day they taught how to be a girl. </center>
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This is not a criticism for those beautiful people, it's more of an observation about myself. The most comfortable I feel in my own skin is when I'm in some jeans (not skinny jeans) and rocking a concert t-shirt and a pair of chucks. Being almost 40, I'm coming to realize that my "I can hang with the boys" look is not as desirable for me anymore. </center>
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I want to look clean and sophisticated without looking like I tried too hard. There was a woman who breezed through the mall last month who is my new "look idol." She must have been in her 60s, and she was gorgeous! She was sophisticated, simple, and confidence oozed out of her. Maybe that's just it, the confidence accessory.</center>
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There have been moments that confidence sat on my shoulders like a proud mountain cat. Real confidence tends to ebb and flow in any human because situations change and put us in a different mental space. My new goal is finding that cat and letting her be with me each and every day. It's time for me to purr through my daily life knowing that what I've accomplished is enough. </center>
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My husband brings out that inner cat. He sees the "me" I want to be. I don't know how he does it, but he looks at me like I'm a shiny penny most of the time. For that I will always be grateful. I'm a fortunate person to have found someone like him so early in my life.</center>
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Wanting to be more accomplished and more sophisticated comes from a deeper, personal place. It's not built of envy. It's not built of regret. It's built more of the stuff that is driving at the innermost workings of me. It's a desire to know what I'm truly capable of. There has not been a pinnacle yet. </center>
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She's inside trying to claw her way to the surface. She's that girl who wanted to be a profiler at the age of 18. She's the girl that was fearless. She's the girl that wasn't scared to speak her mind and confront someone who was being passive aggressive. She's the girl that got buried beneath years of being sweet, little mommy. She's the girl who would get in a car and drive, not knowing the exact destination though a concert was probably it. She's the girl I'm searching for, but in a much more realistic and grown up version. </center>
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My make up will never be perfect. My outfits will not likely be like the cover of Cosmo. My feet will likely be sporting some chucks. My legs will forever remain short. What will change is the way I carry myself. That inner cat is going to help me reach some goals I never thought possible. Perhaps my 40s will be my best years to date.</center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-3808170800668969572015-10-11T12:15:00.001-05:002015-10-11T12:20:14.059-05:00Happiness Is The End Game<center style="text-align: left;">
This billet is tough on me. My family gets together and I miss it. My friends get together and I miss it. The foliage is beautiful in the North, and I miss it. It just plain sucks when you feel homesick for your people and your places that you love.</center>
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That being said, what do you do when you know your situation sucks, and you have to bring yourself from the pits? You scratch, claw, and curse your way through it! There is no other solution for happiness than hard work. It doesn't hit you like a train on a track, like Florence says. You have to find it in every moment your children laugh. Or in your husband's loving embrace. Or an unexpected day of fun. The end game is holding on to a series of tiny moments.</center>
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My son and I had one of those moments this morning. We were both covered in mosquito bites (a regular occurrence for those of us who like being outside in the bayou). We were wrapping up a Boy Scout camping event and a lovely gentleman delivered a message that we both needed. </center>
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The blue sky glowed through the Spanish moss hanging from the limbs above our heads as he talked about the difference just one person can make. He asked how much our devices were stealing our family time and what else we could be doing with that time. We stood there feeling an actual cool breeze together, receiving the message. </center>
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Now my devices are required for my job, but that doesn't mean that I should be glued to them 24/ 7. This motivates me to continue utilizing my 5:00 AM wake up to get myself connected with those I'm trying to help before homeschool starts. That way there is no distraction while I am wearing my teacher hat. I also get my work out in and get showered before any of the family even opens their eyes. It's MY time. Now I just need to stick to it, as I fall off sometimes in favor of my comfy bed and the snooze bar.</center>
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As for my boy, he got the message too. His grades were not what either of us was hoping for on his first test. He'd been hurrying through the academics to get to the video games on his laptop. That's no longer an option. We are both dedicating ourselves to our goals. We are in this together. We will not be defeated by circumstance!</center>
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Sure situations can be tough from time to time. It just means that we have to be stronger and vigilant in our pursuit of happiness. Though I'd love to say it gets delivered each month, like my wonderful food does, but that just isn't true. Hard work is the key. Dedication to the moments of clarity and savoring them is how we'll get to that end game. A little more light will let itself into our worlds with every one of those moments. </center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-20785992737834184842015-09-29T08:12:00.003-05:002015-09-29T08:12:51.463-05:00<center style="text-align: left;">
It's been awhile! For anyone who actually reads my little musings, I apologize for my absence. My new venture (independent consultant for health and wellness) took most of my time last week and well before that, I had nothing to write about. Things are different today, though we remain in Houma.</center>
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Not too much changes in the bayou country, so we took a break and headed to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Tetons last month. It was a mind blowing trip! We loved every second and I thought I'd share a little of Yellowstone with you today.</center>
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RV road trips aren't the same as other road trips. My husband is a beast driver and just keeps going because he can! Seriously, I only drive 2 hours of the total. We all know our geography right? Montana is FAR! We had books on CD though, so we felt very accomplished and well read by the time we arrived.</center>
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The kids were very well behaved the entire way. After our nights in the Walmart parking lots, we were thrilled to have a real campsite with electric and everything. The first night was great because we stepped out of the Big Montana and heard the wolves howling. We knew right away the trip was going to rock!<br />
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Our campground for the week was called Grizzly RV Park. It's a nice park, if you ever get to visit. They have a dog walk area and there are even folks available in town to help you with dog walks during the day if you're hiking all day like we did.<br />
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The first day was the geyser loop. We did the museum and awaited Old Faithful's eruption. It was so cool to be sitting there all together in such a historic and amazing spot. We did the whole loop! My husband and my son shared a special bonding moment when they witnessed the grand geyser and old faithful going off at the same time later in the day. The rest of us missed it. It's just as well because those father/ son moments are special. Why do I have NO pictures of this in my cloud? I know we took them!<br />
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We all did see animals though, which was most of the fun of this place! My Uncle is adept at putting us in the right spot to find them. We all sat still as our rental car became part of a herd of buffalo and another herd passed us out in a field. The best sighting was our hike in the middle of nowhere on a tiny path that belonged to the buffalo. We moved quickly out of his way.<br />
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My squared away man wrote all of the stats down on all of the hikes we did and it was around 30 miles for the whole week. Needless to say, it wasn't the typical vacation where you gain a ton of weight and then feel bad afterward. No, we actually lost weight! Portable nutrition is a wonderful thing.<br />
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Though there are a few wonderful shots of our trip here, I may have to revisit this post and do a strictly photo add on. If you have never made your way to Yellowstone, you should put it on your bucket list. I wouldn't mind doing it twice.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-5265540400997878552015-08-10T06:33:00.002-05:002015-08-10T06:33:27.463-05:00Some "Houmasapiens" Are Fun!!<center style="text-align: left;">
Though the past few days were spent dealing with FB rants and my general dismay at the stupidity of mob mentality, I am choosing to concentrate on the fun that I had with my new Houma friends. It is a constant desire to concentrate on the positive, as it keeps me sane. The major positive of this weekend was hanging out with some genuinely kind and wonderful people at a back to school bash.</center>
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Since we moved here last year, I've been meaning to try out a treat unique to Louisiana, the drive-thru daiquiri. Yes anyone North of this area will immediately tilt their head with a bewildered and questioning look on their face. In Louisiana, you can pick up booze in a styrofoam cup on your way home from work!</center>
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As I had never tried Daiquiris To Go and my friends found this amusing, they decided to "pop my cherry." We had a sober driver take us on down to try it out. As we waited in the drive-thru line (still shaking my head), one of my friends insisted on taking pictures with the Mardi Gras krewe that was enjoying their Saturday afternoon treat via bus. This place truly never ceases to amaze me.</center>
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We decided to get the full experience and walk inside to see what was what. Another krewe was inside partying. I understand why people would want to drive thru too because you can apparently still smoke inside bars in Louisiana, P-U. The "cherry" piece were cherry bombs that were sitting on the counter awaiting our arrival. It was a vat full of cherries that had been soaked in Everclear. We each (not the driver) did a cherry bomb and ordered our daquiris to go. My drink (the smurf, with an extra shot) was tasty, if perhaps a bit sweet for me.</center>
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The only way you get to have your daquiris in your car is by having a straw taped on top of your cup. Who are they fooling? What is to stop someone from lifting the plastic lid on the styrofoam to indulge while driving? Integrity? It's hilarious!!</center>
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My friends had a good laugh at me because of my bewilderment at the whole experience. In New York, if you have a bottle open in the trunk of your car and you get caught you're in trouble. Louisiana sure is different. These constant discoveries make me wonder if I'll ever get used to this place. The people of Louisiana do love to have fun.</center>
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What I could get used to is being around people like my Houmasapiens. They are fun people, these new friends of mine. When we got back to the party, we kicked the kids off of the waterslide we'd rented and had a go ourselves. My whole family had a blast and felt so welcome.</center>
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What makes any one of our moves bearable is the group humans that we find. We got lucky when we found people that are kind and fun loving. They tolerate our "foreignness" with a laugh as tour guides to help us discover our inner Louisiana. I look forward to more adventures like these.</center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-63899279016845415042015-08-05T14:35:00.001-05:002015-08-05T14:35:40.362-05:00I Still Love New York<center style="text-align: left;">
There's no doubt that I still have a great affinity for my native state. Our recent trip merely solidified my love for all things New York. Don't know why it took so long to post about it. As I won't get to step foot in the Empire State for quite a long time, here's a recap of our trip and the reasons why it remains so dreamy.</center>
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Our first stop was to drop off my son at Boy Scout Camp in Trumansburg. My brother, uncle, and their families live in this wonderful, little town. We happened to arrive on the first day of the Grassroots Festival. I've never actually attended, but it sure seemed fun. There's tons of music, hippies, and festival fun at this annual event. Maybe next year.....</center>
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We then drove to Saratoga Springs for a college girlfriend's wedding. As if my husband and I alone in a hotel room for three days wasn't enough! We got to be tourists on beautiful North Broadway and then we got to reconnect with college friends. Dinner, drinking, and dancing with my love and my college girls. Watching my old roommate tie the knot made me quite teary. It was a beautiful, happy weekend.</center>
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After dropping off the hubs for his return home, I returned to my hometown to hang with my parents for a few days. My daughter and I got to hike in the woods that were consistently and lovingly explored as a child. Her squeals of delight while playing in the waterfall above my house took me on a little nostalgic journey. The love of hiking erupted out of those woods. As a youth, it was just my dog Ninja and I running our secret world out there. Now my little girl was reliving my, little Narnia.</center>
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We ate our favorite New York foods (mostly pizza). Thank goodness I'd brought shakes with us, so that I could feel great most of the trip. We met up with high school friends and I did a drum solo, for real I rocked out on drums. We saw more family and had a huge bonfire. My daughter got to play with cousins! It was a massively fun time. </center>
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Then I travelled back to Trumansburg for my kid's birthday and watched him flourish at camp. I am grateful to my brother for taking him under his wing that week. I am grateful for my Aunt and Uncle letting us borrow their car all week and for housing us for a few days. I am grateful to my folks for hanging with my peanut while we were away and for housing us as well. </center>
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Apparently whenever we make the trip we get a renewed sense of what we're missing with family and friends. My kids are ready to move up there yesterday. No biggie though because that's the life of a military wife. We'll keep trucking and know how lucky we are in so many other ways. We'll concentrate on cherishing the special times we do get with family. Until next time.....</center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-6493053836491853052015-07-15T07:42:00.001-05:002015-07-15T07:42:10.286-05:00Yes, I Ate Rainbows For Breakfast<center style="text-align: left;">
When you look back at a dark period of your life and you're in a profoundly happier place, you project a ring of light. There is no turning back from facing the sun. What do you do when this seems to cause an eye roll or two?</center>
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Oh the IDGAF should rule supreme when someone wonders about your elevated mood. It is not drugs. It is not stimulants. It is not a secret. Sharing joy is a lifestyle choice. </center>
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Someone once asked me if I eat rainbows for breakfast. Yes I am the Pollyanna. Everyone has moments of sadness. Everyone goes through troubles and worries. Yet everyone can choose to live their life in the light. Most don't and the eye rolls I'm guessing come from not knowing how. Here's another list (yes I know, my favorite) of how to practice happiness every day. </center>
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1. Eat rainbows for breakfast. Okay sorry for the snark.</center>
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2. Choose the type of day you're going to have, just like my Grandpa used to say.</center>
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3. Pay attention to the little things, they matter.</center>
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4. Be grateful for everything you have.</center>
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5. Make little changes to improve yourself every day.</center>
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6. Celebrate the victories of those little changes.</center>
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7. Stay away from negative people. They will suck the joy right out of you. I call them the fun suckers.</center>
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8. Get a hobby that makes you smile.</center>
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9. Find a creative outlet.</center>
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10. Talk to your friends more often.</center>
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11. Reconnect with your family and make it a priority.</center>
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12. Reduce intake of stimulants, they are false joy.</center>
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13. Take a walk, outside daily. Even if it's nasty outside. Fresh air does wonders.</center>
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14. Think kind thoughts toward yourself.</center>
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15. Think kind thoughts toward others, you don't know what they're battling.</center>
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16. Set goals. Reach goals.</center>
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17. De-clutter because less is more.</center>
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18. Give to your spouse and show them you love them. Guaranteed they'll give back.</center>
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19. Give to your kids. They feel your attention more than they feel the toys and other junk they don't need.</center>
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20. Smile at strangers.</center>
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21. Drink a chocolate shake. (Oh that's just me and #teamanchored). </center>
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22. Use my kid's mantra. "This is the best day EVER."</center>
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23. Read inspirational books. Watch inspirational movies. Look for inspiration everywhere.</center>
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24. Remember that the only person you have control over is yourself. Really the only thing about yourself that you can control is your behavior. Choice makes the difference.</center>
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Thoughts frame your life. If you take the time to eat some rainbows for breakfast and really appreciate what is around you, most days will turn out happy. Some will not be, but if you work it the average day could truly be spectacular. </center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-86124152406205530032015-07-09T00:38:00.000-05:002015-07-09T00:38:03.600-05:00Be More Like Aries<center style="text-align: left;">
Writing about the loss of my teammate has been on my mind since he passed, I just couldn't find the right way to word it. The memories swirl around my head in that nostalgic way you reflect on your friends you've left behind. For a month, I selfishly kept wondering if he knew how much I admired him. Now is the time to take that admiration and send it back out into the world in his honor.</center>
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His brave and beautiful widow has been sharing her grief. I'm impressed by so many things in her <a href="http://www.radlove.net/" target="_blank">words</a>. The thing that has struck me the most is the strength she has for their boys. I'm positive that my friend would not have wanted her or their sons to be sad for any amount of time. He loved them so much. </center>
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The pain of his loss is always there, yet she gets up and is a rock for her family. She faces her days with such dignity, and I see him in her strength. His quiet pride will forever be reflected in the faces of his family. </center>
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My memories of him are all pleasant. They could serve as a guideline for a great way to approach life. This is what I send out into the world. I will forever try to be more like Aries, though he was one of a kind.</center>
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1. When you're facing adversity, do it with dignity. Use your swift feet to avoid contact and help your teammates by always supporting them. Always make your passes count.</center>
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2. If you are mad, leave it on the pitch.</center>
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3. Always give others the opportunity to do their best.</center>
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4. Take time to dance.</center>
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5. Encourage your friends to sing, even if they aren't the greatest karaoke singers.</center>
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6. Talk about your family and how much you care about them. People are listening.</center>
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7. Pick up the tab.</center>
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8. Let your friends pick up the tab for you too.</center>
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9. Try a guinness, or something new once in awhile.</center>
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10. Be a great listener.</center>
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11. Smile more than you frown.</center>
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12. Use your spirit gently.</center>
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13. Always, always tell your friends what you think of them, especially when you admire them. </center>
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14. Be reliable.</center>
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15. Act like a brother.</center>
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16. Be a moral compass.</center>
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I hope this happy list ( reflections of Aries) will bring his widow a smile. Though he was taken far too soon, his inspiration will live on. I'll certainly always make the effort to send it along and be reinspired by his friendship.</center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-18433502756026507532015-06-30T08:13:00.000-05:002015-06-30T08:13:14.063-05:00Covert Anger And The Inner Girl<center style="text-align: left;">
We are all a result of our experiences. Some choose to overcome difficulties by facing them head on. Some choose to swim in them until their hands are pruney. Some ignore them and party on like they're not even there. What happens when the difficulties that you face include passive-aggressive behavior?</center>
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When I was a child, I recall an incident where a little boy stole my rainbow pencil. It was very upsetting at the time, especially when he refused to give it back. Rather than tattling or whining about it, I punched him in the nose. He bled and ran home to his mother, who later called my mother to complain. </center>
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Here are two good examples of ways to deal with a problem. One was direct and aggressive and usually inappropriate. Nobody should ever clock someone out of anger or frustration. The other was direct confrontation through verbal communication. Seems simple enough right?</center>
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The passive aggressive person is an angry person, but they don't seem to be able to confront the stressor directly. An example is the lady who's at the checkout line who has her husband's TV remote in her purse because he refused to go shopping with her. She hopes he gets the message, but it certainly wasn't sent directly.</center>
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While watching an episode of 'Orange Is The New Black,' it occurred to me that women are exceptional at playing these mind games. Women are generally more likely to be the passive-aggressive type, so keep your wits about you when dealing with the XX Chromosomes. A study was done recently that suggested women are more passive-aggressive because they want to avoid physical harm. I bet that kid I punched would have appreciated some more covert anger.</center>
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Human beings typically don't have the ability to read minds. Shocking, I know! So when dealing with someone who is passive-aggressive, it is very strongly recommended that you utilize 4 strategies to get out alive! </center>
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<b>#1 Look for the warning signs.</b> Some psychologists call it "sugar-coated" hostility. Here are some examples: intentional procrastination, the silent-treatment, sulking & withdrawal, and gossiping.</center>
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<b>#2 Once you're aware of what you're dealing with you can choose to just simply not engage. </b> This is the place where you choose not to be manipulated. You get to be the adult and manage your own emotional response. Being "the bigger guy" without muscle is usually the way to go.</center>
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<b>#3 Point out the anger directly.</b> Say something like, "It seems that you're angry with me." This forces the passive-aggressive person to acknowledge the anger that they've been hiding. </center>
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<b>#4 Expect that they will deny having the anger. </b> Accept that they won't acknowledge its existence. </center>
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Being assertive is a skill that most of us have trouble mastering. We're taught kindness, but do we really know what to do when something pisses us off? There are resources everywhere on how to be effectively <a href="http://psychcentral.com/lib/5-tips-to-increase-your-assertiveness/" target="_blank">assertive</a>. I strongly suggest that we all freshen our skills and that we all teach our children a more effective way to handle their anger too. </center>
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<Thanks to www.psychologytoday.com for the great advice and unlimited material to read.</center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-25120101442699452662015-06-23T08:22:00.001-05:002015-06-23T08:22:31.091-05:00The Birds All Chirp At Us The Same Way<center>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">There are great levelers in this world. They are events and occasions that make us all equal. While living through a tornado, earthquake, or a hurricane doesn’t make anyone want to sign up to try them out, they level us all the same. Riding on an airplane this weekend, it occurred to me that there doesn’t have to be a traumatic event for us to experience the same level.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Some travelers are friendly. Some are anxious. Some just want you to get out of their way because they have business to attend to. It’s fun to meet them and talk to them about their lives and their destinations. My layover in DC was a short 20 minutes and it was a fun 20 minutes because of a woman named Kim. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">She had an open seat next to her at the gate. I politely asked if it was open and indeed it was. As I happily sat down and began to enjoy a naughty vegetable sandwich with cheese from Five Guys, we quickly found kindred spirits within each other. She was so excited to get to New Orleans to visit with her friend. I had just come from a super fun weekend with a friend of my own.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Kim was from Maryland. A flight attendant had walked by with a beautiful and natural afro. I commented on how beautiful it was. Anyone who knows me understands that I have a profound envy of anyone who can wear their hair that way. Mine is flat and boring and I wish I could have beautiful poofy hair. She explained, “that’s what we call going natural.” I then complimented her on her braids and how I would look ridiculous wearing my hair in braids. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Kim said that she knew white women who wear their hair that way. She was very open minded about it and claimed that they rocked the look just fine. We giggled when I joked that I’d likely get a sun burn in my rows if I rocked the braids.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We went on talking about race in the wake of the horrid tragedy in Charleston, SC. Neither of us could understand why people hate. If we two strangers could sit and have a fun conversation with one another, anyone could. We chatted on and on, enjoying each other’s company. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">As we boarded the plane, we wished each other well. She of course ended up in the seat directly in front of mine on board. Next to me was an Asian pilot from Southern California, but living in Arkansas. On the other side was a man from Upstate New York. Behind us was a woman pilot. We were all different, but we were all on the same level. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Each of us was in coach. Each of us hoped that the pilot hadn’t used anything perception altering prior to entering the cockpit. Each of us wanted the air conditioning to work properly. Each of us knew that a 2 1/2 hour flight would put us all to sleep at some point. Each of us could care less about the race of the person next to us. Each of us had a comment on the missing murderers from Dannemora Prison.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Perhaps that is what the media needs to focus on a little more. There are human levelers all around us that distance us from the difference of race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation. The birds all chirp at us the same way. Everyone appreciates a beautiful sunset. Everyone can see a genuine smile will brighten their way. A dog will always love a new person to meet and greet. A baby will giggle at you if you make funny faces at it. We all love our children. We all struggle with something from time to time.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Being friendly and kind is a choice. Understanding the opportunity in meeting strangers is a gift. You may only cross paths for a tiny amount of time, but the impression they make can change your life. The next time you’re out on an adventure and you meet someone new, pay attention to the levelers. They are everywhere.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-48285491303527941022015-06-04T12:27:00.000-05:002015-06-26T08:30:19.639-05:00Give Me One Good Reason<center style="text-align: left;">
Sometimes the rut in which we find ourselves is so deep that it resembles the bottom of a cliff in Zion National Park. You stare up at the trail head just knowing you'll never reach the summit. What happens when you break yourself out of that rut can be the most amazing gift that you could ever give yourself. Here's a little music appreciation to explain how I got out of my rut.</center>
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Staring at the mirror last month was not something that I enjoyed doing. Being vain was never one of my strong traits. I was always the girl with the personality. Not exactly the 'DUFF' (Designated, Ugly, Fat, Friend), but my friends are gorgeous. My husband always tells me I'm beautiful and I believe him. I just hadn't felt that way for most of last year.</center>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtrPzQwN_QE" target="_blank">Bubba Sparxx said it best....</a></center>
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I hit a real low. Bad food, wine, beer, and lack of exercise became a steady way of life. Occasionally I tried to reboot and get healthy, but nothing stuck, except the pounds. Misery, bigger clothes, and self-loathing were ruling my little world. It was dark.</center>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5GYOsKLp6o" target="_blank">It felt something like this song....</a></center>
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30 days ago I started a journey thanks to my husband's dear cousin. She had found the fountain of youth and prosperity. I'll admit I was curious and now I am so grateful that she had posted her results on Facebook, so that I can share mine now. This song has motivated me since I started. </center>
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A month of a complete and total health overhaul has brought me to a very happy end to this 30 days. I have lost 14 pounds! My waist is 6 inches smaller! I am shopping in my closet for clothes that I've not been small enough to fit in in years! My energy is through the roof! In order to take care of all of this extra energy, I am running like the wind! I sleep better. My skin is smoother. My hair is shinier. My husband keeps calling me the incredible shrinking woman, which I will never be sick of hearing. My entire family is eating healthier, organic food by preference! My husband has witnessed the transformation and is starting his own 30 day journey!!! </center>
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Sorry for that enormous paragraph, but I do believe that I am obsessed with the positive results and just had to share my joy with you. We are the results of the effort we put into anything we do. I can hardly wait to see what happens next! 30 days have passed, but my journey is not over. </center>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-87SJXMpRfE&index=4&list=PL02UobHo0HmbcnwFwS8yfbQtcwGmyrq_n" target="_blank">This one too!</a></center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-41487928669439321102015-05-20T08:00:00.001-05:002015-05-20T08:00:09.769-05:00Gratitude In My New Latitude<center>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Gratitude may just be the key ingredient to happiness. In thanking the universe for last night's Channing Tatum dream, I started to reflect on all of the gratitude I have for my new friends down here in the bayou. There may never be a day that I can fully repay them, but I will certainly try.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In a time of crisis and pain, all you want is your mother, or your husband. Well, my Mom is in the distant, magical land of New York. My husband was in the far away, bustling land of Virginia last week when that pain filled crisis hit. My mother-in-law is in the sunny land of Florida. The isolation of being way down south started to strangle me when I drove myself in tears to the the ER.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Two nights with no sleep and one full day of vomiting from pain killers (I’m bad at doing drugs), I had to ask for help. Little did I know that an army of helpers arrived. My gratitude is unending for these lady soldiers who have made Houma feel more like home.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The help spanned from watching and transporting my kids, to offering to cook me dinner, and to holding my hand while that 6 inch needle entered my frozen shoulder. After going through this, I actually feel like more of a warrior because they helped me do it without my Mom or my husband. I am very proud to call them friends and gracious that they were there for me when I needed them most. After all, they barely know me. Although some of them know me better now and could probably answer some medical questions, if asked.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">When new and alone no longer feels that way, the light can finally come in. The people in this place are my favorite thing about this place. Kindness seems to grow here straight out of the soil.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Being on the back side of that dark cloud, I am smiling ear to ear. I am thankful to have new friends. I am thankful that the pain is gone. I am thankful that tomorrow looks like a brighter day because yesterday was so dark. Living life with gratitude is pretty easy and very cheap, and it makes happiness appear. Now back to reflecting on that Channing Tatum dream….</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-56947741711462974002015-05-18T07:06:00.000-05:002015-05-18T07:06:30.203-05:00Things I Learned in Albuquerque<center style="text-align: left;">
I sure love my lists. Here's one for you straight out of Albuquerque. We love to learn and learn we did. Happy travels!</center>
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1. Mountains are beautiful everywhere, but especially in New Mexico.</center>
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2. Hiking is still the best form of exercise and Albuquerque provides many opportunities.</center>
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3. Green chiles make everything more flavorful and in Albuquerque, they are in EVERYTHING.</center>
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4. Hot Springs have a healing factor (for real).</center>
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5. Burritos for breakfast need to catch on in Houma. Yum!</center>
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6. Deserts are pretty cold at night. Those used to swamp pits really appreciated it.</center>
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7. Native Americans have many, many talents. If you haven't had the pleasure, take a trip to a pueblo.</center>
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8. Learning about other cultures can start at home (USA). Get to know a little more about Native Americans and use reverence.</center>
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9. Goat heads suck. We went on a little hike upon arrival, in flip flops, and that turned out to be a big mistake. These little buggers get stuck in your shoes and your feet (poor Rusty dog).</center>
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10. Grass isn't something to take for granted. (Darn desert of dirt).</center>
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11. Coyotes sound super scary in the desert at night.</center>
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12. Everyone should know a little more about art. When we toured Santa Fe, my son felt proud and knowledgeable when we saw a bunch of sculpture. He was excited that homeschool came to life!</center>
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13. If you've never attended the Gathering of Nations or any sort of Pow Wow, go. ASAP, go and soak up the very unique and thrilling experience.</center>
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14. Meeting a transgender person isn't any different than meeting a cisgender person. Nice people are nice people and that's all you really need to know.</center>
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15. Margaritas are delicious at the El Dorado restaurant in Santa Fe. </center>
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16. Taking a tram to the top of a mountain is just, good fun.</center>
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17. My family is awesome, but this one I already knew.</center>
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18. The New Mexico state symbol is cooler than other state symbols.</center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-16720185625532477092015-04-30T08:35:00.000-05:002015-04-30T08:35:09.483-05:00Family Love<center style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We resilient bunch of military folks know how precious time with family can be. Our kids know it and feel it too. A fun filled, family fest took place this last week and I wanted to share the love with you.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Two of my cousins, who are my age, have been a couple of best friends since we were born. I’ve donned the name Kissin Kuzzin Kelly for as long as I can remember. I assume it’s because there must have been some kissing of my beloved family. I don’t remember how the name erupted, but it has always stuck.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Getting to spend days together touring Albuquerque was a gift. As if just being in the same zip code wasn’t enough; our hosts showed us New Mexico with gusto! I give them a ton of credit because maneuvering 6 adults and 3 children was no small task. Oh and did I mention that there were 3 dogs in our midst as well? Yet we all got along and shared laughter, great food, and fun. We will be forever grateful for the effort that our hosts put into our visit.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Memories of handstand contests, canine shenanigans, art appreciation, and baby glee are just a few of the things that will make me smile for weeks because we got to share them with family. My children’s questions about the next time we’ll see each other hurt my heart. They love my cousins too.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We were all lucky to be given the chance to love each other and have fun together. Being far away from all of my wonderful family just plain stinks. This family has always been a source of great pride because of its big and loud and creative fun.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">From time to time families have trouble getting along and because old resentments wrap around hurt feelings like a kudzu strangle hold. It’s unfortunate because it prevents the love from growing. My kids know no such resentment. We are all too grateful when we’re given the opportunity to be around family, all family.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Being around my cousins this past week merely reminds me that the love for family isn’t muted by distance. There is no vine holding the love we have for all of our family inside. If anything it makes me want to reach out to each and every one of them and let them know how much we love all of them. I am left wishing that we could make every family event and have holiday dinners together like we used to.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Unfortunately, we live way down here in the Bayou and it is just not possible to be as physically present as we'd like. Those old holiday traditions we used to enjoy so much are a thing of my past. Some have been carried into my children’s worlds, but their perception of the extended family will never be what we had growing up. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Our little military family will continue to be resilient and soak up any family time with can get with as much joy as we can muster. Family resentment and drama are just simply not an option. We can only feel love and appreciation for the times we can be together because we only get it in doses that drift away far too quickly.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Take a little advice from this Kissin Kuzzin and thrash away at any kudzu that is holding back your love for your family. The older we all get, the more we are going to need the people who were important to us when we were young. We can’t recreate the past, but we can create a “love”ly family future. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-35260596633724897282015-04-29T08:06:00.001-05:002015-04-29T08:06:08.118-05:00National Park Love<center style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Vacation lifted the dark clouds that kept trying to set up camp above my head. Since it was so exciting and there is so much to share, the next three posts will be my vacation series. First is National Park love. Second is family love. The third will be things we learned in Albuquerque.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">RV life is a secret society kind of life. Who knew that there would be an existence of apps that show which WalMarts and Casinos allow you to boondock through the night? How about that there's an app that tells you which Flying J Travel Centers have dump stations? RV people that’s who!</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">As we departed for New Mexico, we didn’t really know what it was like to travel a great distance inside a 38 ft. land yacht. We were not disappointed. The panoramic views were great even when there was nothing, but desert for miles and miles. When Carlsbad, NM came into view our excitement could hardly be contained. Luckily we could pee along the way, so there was no bladder stress as we drove into our temporary spot at the local KOA, complete with green aliens.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><a href="http://www.nps.gov/cave/index.htm" target="_blank">Carlsbad Caverns National Park</a> is a great park. There is a bat cave! We searched and searched for the bat mobile to no avail. There were mountain goats and ring tails lingering in the mountainous terrain on our way up to the visitors center. Surely there were rattlesnakes and luckily they kept their locations to themselves.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Upon arrival we hiked down the natural entrance to the cave. It’s a series of switchbacks that take you deep into the mouth of this natural wonder. There are petroglyphs along the way. The bats weren’t active at the time of our visit. If you ever get the chance, I would recommend watching the bat flights out of this entrance. I can only imagine the sight.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">We toured the cave on our own and the kids earned their <a href="http://www.nps.gov/kids/jrRangers.cfm" target="_blank">Junior Ranger badges</a>. There was more variety in cave formations in this park than any other we’ve seen. The Big Room was the size of 14 football fields! </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The second day was dedicated to a Ranger led walk through the King’s Palace and the Queen’s Chamber. We got to experience total darkness and the gentle drip of the cave growing at a glacial pace. The stories of the cave’s founder were funny and well told. I still secretly hope that my son follows his dream and becomes a Park Ranger one day.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The second National Park was <a href="http://www.nps.gov/gumo/index.htm" target="_blank">Guadalupe Mountains National Park</a>. Luckily we’d borrowed a car and could make it up there without the Big Montana. El Capitan is the highest of the range showing that with elevation comes a very different environment. Surrounded by desert, this mountain range is home to a variety of hardy creatures.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">This range must have seemed so strange to people crossing the country by stage coach. Nothing, but desert for hundreds of miles and then BAM a huge range of mountains with life giving resources. The sun hits this ridge at different times of day illuminating its beauty throughout its seasonal changes.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The following day the Montana delivered us through Roswell and into Albuquerque where we got to visit <a href="http://www.nps.gov/petr/index.htm" target="_blank">Petroglyph National Monument</a> with family! Imagining the original Americans creating these images in a special ceremony out in those hills was pretty cool. Getting to hike it with family made it even more fun.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">You dear readers know my continued love for our National Parks. Getting to do three in one trip was nothing short of a thrill. I love to share our experiences as we support the parks. Hopefully you’ll support them too and plan to get out there this summer. </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-88173631129442884872015-04-16T09:07:00.001-05:002015-04-16T09:07:53.050-05:00Own Your Emotions!<center>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Knowing your emotions and owning them, rather than letting them own you is part of being a functional adult. It’s easier with age because you start to care less and less about things that upset you in your youth. It’s a perk of getting older because it’s freedom to truly be yourself. Here are a few of my “owned” emotions in their current state.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>I’m sad</b>…that I miss my friends and family because I’m so far away.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>I’m excited</b>….to be seeing a few of them in a few short days!!! Also that a new National Park awaits!!</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>I’m happy</b>…that my kids have finished their second to last test of our homeschooling year! One more to go baby!!</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>I’m angry</b>…that I still have 5-10 pounds to lose. I may start not caring about that soon too.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>I’m elated</b>…that Spring has brought such beautiful flowers to my back yard and that my friend moved closer! Six hours compared to across the sea is a vast improvement.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>I’m fearful</b>…that we will not find a viable candidate for President and we’ll be stuck making the decision about the lesser of 2 evils again.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>I’m confident</b>…that my fitness routine will increase exponentially after the homeschool year is finished.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>I’m ecstatic</b>…that I will see my family this summer.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>I’m surprised</b>…that finding gators in the wild excites me so much.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>I’m disgusted</b>…by twerking.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b>I’m proud</b>..that yesterday my daughter gave a homeless man some food yesterday because she knew he was hungry.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Analyzing how you feel and knowing how to move the negatives into the positives category is a skill. Being a functional adult can be fun if you let it. It’s fascinating that all of these emotions drift in and out of you throughout a single day. Let’ s push the happy harder so that it is the biggest of the bunch.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-54916389782573282702015-04-15T10:43:00.001-05:002015-04-15T10:43:16.329-05:00Imagine If Mom Quit<center style="text-align: left;">
My kids hated this letter, but I wrote it to them to make a point. Obviously I would never quit my kids. They are my world and that's part of the problem. They are spoiled by my unending affection and devotion. Maybe a little reality will bite them and they will remember that I'm a human too.</center>
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Dear Children, </center>
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Due to recent events, I regret to inform you that I am submitting my letter of resignation. My current state of mind (insanity, frustration, exhaustion) will no longer allow me to continue in my line of work. Please consider this my official two week notice.</center>
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As my unappreciative wardens you understand, due to your lack of respect, the situation in which I find myself. There will be no more dinners lovingly prepared by yours truly. Your laundry will go unwashed. Feel free to throw whatever you want on the floors of your rooms because I will no longer be monitoring them. School? Do whatever you want. If you fail, YOU fail. I've already done my time as a student. </center>
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The dog will be coming with me. He deserves attention and I fear that he won't get it at this house without me. Plus, the constant love and affection from the fur baby surpasses the appreciation from my natural offspring lately. The dog listens and does what he's told and he hardly ever makes a mess.</center>
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When your shoes no longer fit, find someone else to buy new ones. If you find a replacement Mom (good luck with that), have her call me so that I can warn her about the bathrooms. Please let your Dad know that this is no reflection on him. He's the best husband a wife could ever have.</center>
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When you feel sad, I suppose you'll have to suck it up, or go find a cheerleader. Perhaps she'll try to push you toward victory as hard as I've tried. Mostly what I always wanted was for you to push yourselves.</center>
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When you need a ride to one of your sporting events, there is the number of a taxi service on my desk. You may need to start a paper route or some other means of income because the service costs money. Oh and because I'm no longer going to be around to watch you, your Dad will likely have to save money in some places so say goodbye to your electronics. It's great you appreciated them while you could.</center>
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I look forward to finally following my own path and letting my own dreams come true. The frame that I've provided for you the past ten years was no doubt great for you. Now this woman I once knew is coming back in to focus and she's going to rock her new job. She will get an actual paycheck! She will get appreciation for her hard work! She will have time to work out again and find the figure that she's lost caring for you people. </center>
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I wish you all the best. I love you with all of my heart. Hopefully what I've taught you so far will be the voice in your head. Good luck in your future endeavors.</center>
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Love, </center>
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Mom</center>
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*As I let you read this and you said that you reject my resignation, I will stay if we can turn this around to the tower of success and love I want it to be. You are very wonderful children and I know that you love an appreciate me. What do you want for dinner?</center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-16976037060133216182015-04-10T06:00:00.000-05:002015-04-10T06:00:05.985-05:00Go Find A Gator<center>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">It’s 3:00 AM and rather than getting that vital shut eye, here I am plugging away at this keyboard. It’s frustrating to be in a land where my brain won’t shut off. Instead of staring at the ceiling, I may as well put the whirling thought cloud to work. Memories seem to be their brightest before the dawn.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">A few months back I was battling to keep the smile on my face. A situational cloud of depression loomed over my head. For the most part I’ve kept it at bay. At times it tries to sneak back up on me. Blowing that dark spot away from my head requires some effort. The solution all comes back to what made me happy as a kid.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Growing up in Upstate New York, it never occurred to me how incredibly fortunate I was. Sure my family loved me. Sure my school system was exemplary for a small town public school (my graduating class was 28 kids). Sure my friends then remain my friends today. What I really think about the most is my woods. My Grandfather’s ashes are spread there, as I hope someday mine will be as well. It is a peaceful, wonderful place that brings me comfort even as I close my eyes to take myself back there.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZHlzhl5ljVtcVr1ufC26KJgIAbDlFKvZZU_4mvJmnF259rm86W2bx1e33V_tMg8kKZ63Hh2ote6wujKutV4BrnEmjZyF0_zGdY1aO78aVYtxpJcWzlC1yhDy-Lki8USIJEyS3stQ6NE/s1600/253741_2114960882822_7998261_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZHlzhl5ljVtcVr1ufC26KJgIAbDlFKvZZU_4mvJmnF259rm86W2bx1e33V_tMg8kKZ63Hh2ote6wujKutV4BrnEmjZyF0_zGdY1aO78aVYtxpJcWzlC1yhDy-Lki8USIJEyS3stQ6NE/s1600/253741_2114960882822_7998261_n.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">At my son’s age, I was always outside. There were no cell phones to distract me and it didn’t matter what season it was. The creek that runs through my family’s property held the gates to my own, personal Narnia. My dog Ninja and I would travel into this mystical land and stay out there exploring for hours, the only sound was the stomping of our adventurous feet and the animals that lived in our special world.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In the Spring, the birds yelled their warning signals through the canopy of deciduous trees as we happily trudged through the sprawling field above our house. We giddily found the wild strawberries that weaved their way along our path. The smell of that open air welcomed us like an old friend.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In the Winter my brother and I would happily work our legs through the knee deep snow to adventure out on a blessed snow day. We’d find the blanketed tree limbs that hung low enough and pull the avalanche of snowy fun down on our heads. It didn’t matter that our toes were turning to ice. The adventure kept us moving forward.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In the Summer, the hot air would help us drift off down to the Hermit’s place where the creek’s bend might just be deep enough to offer relief from the humid days. The quiet days when I climbed to the top of that fallen tree and silently watched as my father entered the fishing hole and happily cast his line are like a moving picture in my head. Even the scenery of that place has changed, yet it remains the same in my memories.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">In the Fall we’d bundle up on those bright, crisp days to crunch the falling leaves beneath our feet. We’d climb to the top of that hill that opens to a vast clearing to capture the views of the colorful, changing trees. Breathing in all of that beauty made everything calm and peaceful in my happy, young world.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0px;">Now I’m no longer that kid loving my Narnia because it’s almost 1500 miles away. The truth is, I’ve had to create my Narnia wherever we’ve moved throughout this crazy military wife life. The doors to that outdoor mystical land have been found in the waterfalls on Oahu. They were floating on down Crystal River searching for Manatees. They were on the Appalachian Trail in Shenandoah National Park. They were walking over the Brooklyn Bridge on a sunny day. They were on the hikes with my Aunt and Uncle </span><span style="font-size: 14px;">throughout the</span><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0px;"> country. Now they are in my searches for the gators down here in the bayou.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmd1cOvvJkO3RgyL5n0BmNriwGCXrz2MS3Pnk1ihIItw21V7_KtqGGdMZTzBCOCqbdbF_VQDxJC42ll18XCGezMiXOMsKsnVHvhRt_sEMolyLkITTFNGLFB7TIU2sFptwmS9syCABrHRU/s1600/10806193_10203868343763829_3054315712140899964_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmd1cOvvJkO3RgyL5n0BmNriwGCXrz2MS3Pnk1ihIItw21V7_KtqGGdMZTzBCOCqbdbF_VQDxJC42ll18XCGezMiXOMsKsnVHvhRt_sEMolyLkITTFNGLFB7TIU2sFptwmS9syCABrHRU/s1600/10806193_10203868343763829_3054315712140899964_n.jpg" height="270" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">When a dark cloud tries its level best to cover your sunny day, you have to fight to keep it away. My smile almost instantly returns when I find a space outside that can bring back the whimsy of my childhood Narnia. When you have the same trouble take my advice, get over it and go find a gator. There is no reason that we can’t find the happiness that we found as children. It’s out there to discover, it just takes a little more will power.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-45495757337186363652015-04-09T07:44:00.001-05:002015-04-09T07:44:12.934-05:0011 Things That My "Houmies" Might Say<center style="text-align: left;">
This fun topic has been covered before, but there are more Houma colloquialisms that need to be shared! It can get confusing for Northerners because there really is no guide book for us to fully cover the vast plain that is Louisiana culture. We're merely breaking the surface as people share peculiar vocabulary with yours truly. </center>
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1. Nanny = Godmother</center>
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2. What sounds like "bald" = boiled</center>
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3. Cold drink = Soda (usually Coke)/ Pop for you midwesterners</center>
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4. Buggy = Shopping cart</center>
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5. I'm making groceries = I'm grocery shopping</center>
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6. My son made 12 = my son turned age 12</center>
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7. krewe = group of Mardi Gras revelers on a float or at a ball</center>
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8. Chadron = thistle or weed type plant that is supposedly delicious. Can't wait to try it actually.</center>
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9. Snowball = snowcone, but with the addition of condensed milk. This has been described as addicting as "crack." </center>
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10. Go now = Geaux and is typically connected with the LSU tigers.</center>
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11. Swamp knees = Stumps of Cypress trees</center>
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These are just 11 little examples of the culture that we've been soaking up. We enjoy meeting the friendly people down here. I'm not sure if they're called Houmians, but I really like Houmies better. Hopefully they'll keep on teaching us more things they say in Houma. </center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-67028034113466469112015-04-08T08:36:00.000-05:002015-04-08T08:47:55.964-05:00My Ideal Candidate<center style="text-align: left;">
Elections are not just for our parents. It is our responsibility, as well as our right to be involved in the process of the election of a new President. As the season for announcements of candidacy ramp up, I am left with wanting the ability to create my own candidate. </center>
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Let's call him Mr. USA. He could be called Mrs. USA, if she also meets the same criteria. He has a love for this country that matches our own. This is not a phony "I'm waving a flag" kind of love, but rather the kind that would have him sacrifice himself to save others. Perhaps this means that he served in some capacity in the armed forces. If he has been in the trenches in some other capacity, that would work too. His resume would be a hero's resume. Reading in the grass studying in Harvard yard isn't quite enough for me. I want a real patriot.<br />
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Mr. USA can be religious, but he would never presume that his voters had to be the same. Mr. USA respects America's ability to separate worship from the floor of the Senate or from the swing of the door into the oval office. He believes that the spiritual upbringing of America belongs with America's parents. Mr. USA listens to his constituents and genuinely tries to keep their best interests at the forefront, ALL of his constituents.</center>
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Mr. USA understands the importance of reducing the role that Government plays in the personal decisions of his people. He "gets" that he isn't running for office to save us, but rather to lead us with smart decision making and a full understanding of who real Americans are. Mr. USA wants to make America a proud nation, rather than a pedantic one.</center>
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Mr. USA knows how to balance a budget. Lining the pockets of the mega rich is not a priority, but he is more interested in strengthening the middle class. Encouraging young America to make the change in their own lives to make this place better is more of a "Grand Torino" type of approach from Mr. USA. He wants America to change itself, not change because he says so.</center>
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Mr. USA apologizes for mistakes. He doesn't back peddle, he just simply says that he was wrong if he has chosen wrong. We have to expect that our leaders from time to time need to take an alternate route. A real leader can admit that his current course isn't working and can gather the smartest people in the room to help find a better result. We know he's not an expert on everything because that would just be faking it. Mr. USA can put ego aside in order to get it right.</center>
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Mr. USA needs to be an eloquent speaker, but not a slippery one. He tells the truth, not a "version" of the truth, just the truth. His integrity shines more than his dashing smile. This integrity will shine through his past. He will be free from character attacks because he has nothing to hide. He is actually a good person, a real boy scout if you will. </center>
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Mr. USA will get respect because he gives respect. </center>
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Mr. USA will give speeches from National Parks because he knows how important they are. He will encourage people to not only support them by visiting, but he will promote them. Programs for their continued upkeep will get troubled youth involved in taking care of their country.</center>
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Mr. USA will already have a favorite team. It doesn't have to be my team. He will stick by that team through thick and thin. There's no bandwagon jumping for Mr. USA.</center>
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Mr. USA will have a strong spouse. This spouse will also lead. Mr. USA's spouse will be graceful, eloquent, and real.</center>
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Mr. USA will already have a plan. He will be able to discuss this plan during his campaign in specific terms. No broad strokes here for Mr. USA. He will outline his first steps and how they'll go into action. </center>
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Mr. USA will destroy the velvet rope dividing the parties. He will have the ability to get foes into the same room and help them work as a team. There will be a rise in cooperation!</center>
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Am I dreaming? Of course I am. Politics is kowtowing. Politics is baby smooching. Politics is smoke and mirrors and Americans are sick of it. We thirst for something genuine. Americans are tired of being lied to. Americans work hard and play hard and expect integrity in our leaders, though we rarely receive it.</center>
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Where are you <span style="background-color: blue;">Mr.</span> <span style="background-color: red;">USA</span>? You're our only hope.</center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-6225452892448375612015-04-06T07:38:00.001-05:002015-04-06T07:38:05.948-05:00Weekend Adventure #1<center style="text-align: left;">
The Big Montana took its first weekend adventure! The whole family participated in The Color Run in Baton Rouge this past weekend. The capital is close enough for us to drive, do the race, and return home in one day. What's the fun in that?</center>
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We arrived at our RV park on the lake, just a bit outside Baton Rouge to spend the weekend testing out this bus sized toy. Without a doubt, this thing is going to be a main source of family fun for a few years. Being outside makes us happy.</center>
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Here's our fun weekend in pictures....</center>
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First we toured the State Capital</center>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's a pencil that got stuck up there in the '70s due to an explosion! It's still there!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The kids had a fishing lesson.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretending he's not a city dog.</td></tr>
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We ran the Color Run in the morning! Our son kicked our butts!</div>
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We chilled out next to the lake with a friendly swan.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you spot the bald eagle? I think it was stalking the dog.</td></tr>
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We had a great first adventure and cannot wait for our next trip! The fresh air and leaving our regular scenery behind brings us closer as a family. Spring in Louisiana is superb.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-38876175555239960162015-04-02T08:21:00.001-05:002015-04-02T08:21:17.275-05:00Do I Need A Label?<center style="text-align: left;">
I've tried for several years to figure out what bubble to darken on a questionnaire about religious affiliation. Never really wanting to label myself one thing or another, my status has been undecided. Then my Dad said this term "seeker" to me and somehow I'm more at ease with my beliefs.</center>
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No organized church has ever felt like home to me. During my Presbyterian days as a kid, I enjoyed singing Psalty's songbook with the other Sunday Schoolers. At this point, the tunes elude me and the main lasting memory is of my swinging legs accidentally loosing my brown shoe into the back of my classmate's head. </center>
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When we switched churches and "became" Lutheran, I recall crying when I was passed over for communion because I'd not yet been confirmed, though I'd received communion at the previous church. This was likely more embarrassment than anything else. No tween wants to feel left out. </center>
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There are fond memories of being an acolyte at this church where I was later confirmed. The pastor was a delightful man who was always engaging with his sermons. Christmas Eve was always magical and I remember feeling ease in the silence and the grip of my flickering candle. My son was later baptized in this very church. </center>
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A few years down the road, there was an affair between the deacon and the new pastor's husband. This began the destruction of my towering belief system. I can't stomach hypocrisy. Still clinging to the conceptual "belonging" to a religion, I later had my daughter baptized in a cove in Hawaii by a Lutheran pastor. He was a cool guy who was willing to "overlook" the facility's rules about holding the ceremony on their property. He also wore a rash guard that had a collar. He was awesome.</center>
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When my Dad said he was a seeker, I sort of realized that I've been a seeker for a very long time. In my college days I attended various types of churches with friends, I'm open minded that way. Not one of these visits yielded a comfortable sense of belonging. If anything, it elicited the opposite reaction. That same tension I felt when I had been passed over at communion erupted in my shoulders. Organized religion and I are just not meant to be together. Though I continue to read and learn as much as I can about all forms.</center>
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Where then does that leave me? Science doesn't have all of the answers and neither does any one organized religion. All religions have the potential to create wonderful human beings. The original Seekers formed as a group because organized religion was corrupt in the 1620s. They eventually became the Quakers. For the most part, they wanted power to get out of the way of individual's connections with God.</center>
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Being at ease with myself is something that came with age. It is the most blessed feeling to no longer care about being judged for being me. The daily decisions that I make are based in kindness and humility. The only rituals I have are my morning cup of coffee, a few keystrokes on this site, and an imaginary sun salutation as I stand outside and breathe in deeply. Floods of joy are what I seek. Maybe this is God. Maybe with dogma out of the way, I can feel more of what this world has to offer. It's okay for me to live without a label.</center>
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Maybe God is in that mysterious cloud formation. Maybe He is in the laugh of a baby at the supermarket. Maybe He is in the embrace of a friend. Maybe He is in the motivation to stay healthy. Maybe He or She is in all of us and the words and other people get in the way. I'll keep seeking and feeling quite comfortable in my way of being a decent human being. </center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1833292450634989879.post-7449992176451107792015-03-30T08:42:00.001-05:002015-03-31T10:46:44.813-05:00I Farted, So I Stopped Eating Wheat<center style="text-align: left;">
There are unexplainable things happening to my pre-40 self. I suppose if I actually felt like pursuing an answer a doctor could shed some light on these things, but I'm not really sure I want to hear the word "permimenopause" just yet. The ridiculously radiating internal heat that is occurring in the middle of the night is somewhat concerning, considering that this heat could likely fuel a dwarf planet. All of that mess aside, I was farting!</center>
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Yes farting is embarrassing. Loud, soul crushing farting is worse. Soy and oats were my worst enemies and we learned this years ago. My kids could tell you stories of Fiber One Bars. It was a little rough knowing that no soy had passed my lips, yet I was Dr. Nefario making the minions drop after emitting a shot from the fart ray gun. Plus, there was this gut thing happening that was even more disturbing. My waste line was expanding inexplicably!</center>
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Short of going on Atkins to change my waste size, I decided to just give up on wheat and most sugar, like I had last year's Lent. Though I'm not Catholic, I tend to use this time of year to refocus on health and get rid of Winter's hibernation weight. This year's elimination of all alcohol didn't really work out. Please don't judge me and remember that I homeschool.</center>
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It turns out that giving up wheat and sugar is actually easier than giving up an occasional cocktail. Go figure! I stopped farting! I have dropped five pounds! I started running with energy again! My mood has been uplifted! My pants fit better! My complexion has been flawless! If you couldn't tell, this was likely a renewed best decision ever.</center>
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Finding gluten free alternatives is not so hard these days. Brown rice has become a source of great pleasure when I feel the strong desire for a bagel. More vegetables is always a good idea. The organic section at the local market makes this big change much easier. Thank you quinoa for being a tasty alternative to pasta. Thank you corn flakes for existing when I miss cereal. Oh and cauliflower, you are the best thing to happen to the produce aisle.</center>
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Sometimes I miss the ease of grabbing a sandwich. I miss the flatulence less. Sometimes I miss grabbing a bowl of yummy cereal (a personal and lifetime favorite). I miss the farting less. Sometimes I miss cookies. I will eat one once in awhile with no ill effects. Hooray!</center>
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Hopefully this diet switcharoo will hold off the changes that are inevitably coming. I accept the fact that I'm no longer 21 and my waistline will never look like that again. Dr. Nefario will have to take a backseat for awhile though because that fart gun is out of commission. </center>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13227826656323609470noreply@blogger.com0