Q & A

Sometime back I mentioned that I would do a Q and A post. Well, here it is! I enjoyed the questions, I hope I can offer some somewhat intellectual answers. Remember, its all opinion. Mine. SO proceed with extreme caution. You can do the research to prove facts. :)

Leigh, Please let me know the color of your living room paint. It is lovely and just what I am looking for. Thanks, Swampgirl's Mom
Hi Geraldine!
The color we used is called “Bejeweled” #D26-2 of Ace Paint chip. I like it because it changes colors throughout the day because we have a lot of windows. At sometimes it is grayish, others green. I like change, so with this I get it. My sister in law came over the other day and insisted I had painted again. I told her, “No. The color’s different depending on the time of day and the sunshine. “ I liked the color so much, I painted 6 rooms of my house with it. It’s a nice neutral color, all other colors (you night use in accessories) will work with it…even red! Very pretty! Thanks for asking, Geraldine. PS I think your daughter is absolutely precious! One day I hope I can meet her in person.


Bonnie asked, "I am trying to add your button to my page, do you have the html code?"

"I'll try and figure out how to get your button on my blog:) -Andy Porter"

  I don't have an HTML code, and I need to get one.  I had a wonderful friend who is a graphic artist create my button, Charnita Scott.  Many thanks to Charnita for her mad art and computer skills. However, To add any button to your post or sidebar, you will first need to save it to your computer. Just right click on the button, select "copy." Decide where you want to save it on your computer...it could be to your picture file or desktop. Once you decide, right click again and select "paste." This copies and pastes the button to the spot you chose on your computer.
If you wish to use the button in an upcoming post, just upload it to your blog post as you would any other photo of picture you might want to use in your post. If you wish to display the button in your sidebar, you will go to your Dashboard, Click on "Layout," Click on "Add a Gadget" and select "picture" from the long list of options available. Don't forget to click on "save." That's it!

 I got this sweet an helpful email from Bonnie, that I thought might be of service to some of you too:
I used this site to make my button and it was really easy (and I am just learning all this stuff). Good luck!

Bonnie Donahue
DonahueWellness.MyShaklee.com
Creating a House of Grace


"Leigh, one of my favorite post you did was the chalkboard plates! Where can I find a square plate?"
I purchased my square plate for the Chalkboard plate Craft at TJ Maxx for $3.99. I am sure you can find square plates just about anywhere, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Home Goods, etc. Also, check your thrift-you never know what you will find!


"Leigh, I just can't figure out how to work, raise kids, keep a clean house and blog!! How do you do it all?" Amy Hickman
 Amy,  you make me blush because it simply isn't true. WHO DOES?  If you think I do it all, I have you fooled. I am no different than any other working or stay at home mom. I juggle.  And I fail at any number of things on a daily basis. But life is a learning experience, right? Try and Try again! My grandmother once offered this great advice to me when I was a young mom and fretted about there not being enough hours in a day. She said, " Do what's important.  As for the rest...It'll keep. ". And she was right. I prioritize and I make list of what I need to get done. But at the top of that list is family. Family comes first with us. My house is not the neatest house on the block all the time, but what I hope my children will remember are the memories we make with one another....not that the laundry has gone unwashed for days. :)   I can also honestly say that my husband is a  real time manager, which is to my benefit, it makes me keep myself on track.
 
What kind of camera and equipment do you shoot with? :) I have been checking out your photos lol.
Fantacy Bryant

Leigh,

Hi. I found your blog while searching for photos of Lisa Rhina, whose hair style I love. I think your blog is very cool. Also I see you're a photographer and your pictures are great as well. At 46 I decided to return to college to obtain my degree in Media Technology with my concentration on photography. I didn't see anything, or I missed it, but what DSLR camera do yo use? I need to buy one and I'm looking at Pentax and Olympus. Your thoughts would be appreciated. I also love that your haircut looks exactly like Lisa's. I hope mine looks that good when i get it done. Have a great weekend~ Judi Taylor
Fantacy, I've seen your photography. You need no help from me. But I have been asked about my camera. In fact. I have a few. You can read more my camera and some tips here.
Judi, thank you for the sweet words about my hair. Its an ongoing thing with me....as you can see here.

Chandy has left a comment "Leigh, I didn't know you met Marlee Matlin! I love her! Were you photographing or just hanging out or what? I don't watch much of DWTS, but I remember her from Reasonable Doubts and just a big fan! "

   Hi Leigh,

I've added you to my Blog Candy page! I enjoyed visiting your blog this morning over my first cup of coffee.I must ask - do you know Bo?? Because my sis and I are HUGE HUGE HUGE fans of Bo Bice! OMG - ridiculously so. We saw him when he performed in Orlando too.
Anywho, just thought I'd ask.... if you are please tell him that he has many fans in Lakeland, Florida and one of them is me.
Have a great day!
xo,
Kimberly McCole
DAISY COTTAGE
http://www.deardaisycottage.com/

Hey Leigh!  I have stopped by yours in the past and enjoy it a lot. I also realized you live in Helena - I live in Vestavia. Small world, huh? I also am a huge Fabian/Marlee fan and then saw your pictures of them!  Maybe we'll "meet" for real one day! ~3GirlsMom

Friends, Big Daddy and  I went to high school with the Sanchez brothers, Freddy and Fabian. Both are  wonderfully talented, sweet, kind, genuine people who have mad dance skills. Fabian has made it his career, most recently making a cameo appearance on "So You Think You can Dance" just a few weeks ago (August 2010). Prior to that you might recall him from his stint on Dancing with the Stars. His dance partner was the incredibly talented Marlee Matlin.  Which, incidentally is how I met Marlee, one of my favorite actresses. Fabian telephoned me from LA and said he had someone who wanted to speak with me.....it was Marlee Matlin. Technology is awesome!  I have met Marlee several times since then, she still keeps in close contact with Fabian and comes to town to visit him. It is a great honor to be able to use my sign language skills to communicate with her (though she reads lips. Didn't you see that Seinfeld episode? LOL)

Bo Bice is from my hometown of Helena, Alabama. I met Bo following his win on American Idol and many times since. He too is an extremely talented person and a very gracious, authentic individual.  He is a great guy that has done our hometown proud. We in Helena still collectively say "Go Bo!" with pride.

And while I am bragging on my "famous friends", be sure to watch for my dance instructor Chesney Matthews in the opening scene of the Hannah Montana movie (2010)  I am so proud of her!!!

Do you eat your cornbread with sweet milk or buttermilk? -Derek
Neither. I prefer mine with a big cold glass of sweet iced tea!

Several Beach Questions:
Hey Leigh,

We're thinking about spending a weekend at Gulf Shores, AL. I've never been there before. And can you recommend any good places to stay? Maybe a house since it's us and two other couples going.
Thanks so much!
Your Georgia blogging buddy,
Kelly


Ahh Orange Beach. I can't believe how white the sand is when we go there, the only thing my Husband misses is the waves. Any other stores you go to that is a must IF we should get down there this summer? I love FAIRHOPE!!
ellie


I have a girlfriend flying out in late May for a 7 day visit....she would like to take a road trip through the south....I thought maybe you could help me plan it:)  What I have in mind is taking a scenic route for and hour or two; making a stop to antique or have lunch, drive back home...On another day, do the scenic drive with a stay-over in mind with the motel or inn at our destination..Any and all suggestions will be much appreciated:)~SANDIE

Hi Leigh...
We are just wondering if you can help us out, with info about Gulf Shores. We're thinking about taking off for a little winter vacation, after Christmas. For the most part we like to walk, explore, shop and eat,:-). We'd love to stay in a place where we can see the gulf and walk to the beach. The plan would be to go in Jan. or Feb. I think we need a real person to tell us what is good and you came to mind.We've been talking about going to Gulf Shores for at least 10 years.
Thanks so much, in advance!
Pat and Jim

I emailed each of these people individually with my own recommendations, and I am thrilled  to do so.  The Gulf Coast is an amazing place...I guarantee you will be pleased you spent any time there.
I also recommend clicking on the "Vacations" and "Day Trips" tabs on the TFB  right sidebar at the bottom of the page. You can also "search" using the search tab on the top left of my blog. For example, if you are planning a trip to Fairhope, search Fairhope. It will include shops, restaurants, etc. Same for Savannah, or where ever you journey may take you. :)


HEY! i had a question for you....i am thinking about starting a blog so i can keep family members and friends updated on whats going on with us with travel and of course anew  baby. anyway, i was going to see if you could give me some advice on where and how to get started.....website? any advice would be greatly appreciated. thanks so much!
talk to you soon,
april g

The best way I know to start your blog is to go to any Google blog out there and once there, click on the orange "B" up in the top left corner of the blog. It should take you to what's called the Dashboard. You will see the words: "Create a Blog." Just click on those words and Google Blogger will guide you through the process of starting a blog.
For anyother blog related questions, I highly recommend visiting my friend Susan, of Between Naps on the Backporch. Susan has written a very informative post regarding almost any blogging question one could have. I refer to it very often, its even bookmarked. Everyone with a blog should read it.

Just wanted to let you know I don't know you but I love you. Well, I love your blog. You are such an inspiration to me. I love all that you do for your family. I'm the one that wanted the strawberry cake for the place you visit. If you are ever any where near Winston-Salem, NC, please let me know. I would love to meet you.

Nancy in North Carolina

Nancy you are sooo sweet to say that. Blogging is an amazing thing. Had anyone told me that I would have had a blog four years ago, I would've laughed. And had someone told me that I would communicate with people I had never met ...except for online, I would've accused you of sipping the sauce a little to heavily. But today I can say that I am blessed by each sweet soul that drops by Bloggeritaville. I have been blessed by having been able to actually meet some of you and count now as friends even beyond Bloggerville. I hope that one day we can meet Nancy. I am always on the go. I will let you know if you are in my neck of the woods, if you will let me know if you are in mine. I'd be thrilled to get to know you over a piece of Ashley Macs Strawberry cake (which is the most amazing thing you can imagine eating!)

I went to your blog and heard Jason Mraz -- he's a "hometown" boy who went to school with my son! Love him!~Martha

Love the music..I'm hanging around for awhile =) Stephanie Lynn

Everyday I get many sweet comments on my music playlist. I am so glad that many of you enjoy it! (If you don't just press pause on the playlist or mute on your home computer). Music is a big part of my life on numerous levels. It inspires me. It's magical, transforming. And it really has been a sound track for my life. When I hear certain songs it immediately allow me to travel back to another place and time.  It moves me. I hope it moves you too. I am happy when I get a comment that says, "I came by and read and am sticking around awhile for the music." Thank you! I am glad you enjoy it. Here is how you can get music for your blog too:



First create your playlist at Playlist.com...Click HERE to go to their site. Next, click on "Post My Playlist" which is at the top of their website. Then choose "E" which is how you get the code to post the playlist to your blog in Google Blogger. Next, click on the green "Get Code" button. You will see a box with a bunch of gobbly gook in it...that's the code that represents your playlist. Right click in the box, which highlights all the code, select "copy."

Next, go to your Dashboard, Click on "Layout," Click on "Add a Gadget", Select "HTML/Javascript" from the long list of available gadgets. A big empty box will pop up. Right click in the box and select "paste." Then click on "SAVE." Your playlist should be posted...hopefully I haven't left out a step. I personally like putting the playlist at the very bottom of the blog because it doesn't "run off" the page down there like it tends to do on the sidebar.




Hey! My name is Hailey. I stumbled upon Jessica McCash's blog and saw the beautiful necklace that you sent her. Where did you find such a beautiful necklace? I would love to get one with my two girls names.
Thanks in advance!
Hailey Lafone
http://thelafones.blogspot.com/

Jessica's necklace was created by t the Nashelle Studio courtesy of Penelope Poet. The virtual baby shower link to Penelope Poet's blog page: http://penelopepoet.com/blogcoverage.html
The name of the necklace is the  Nashelle Love Charms Necklace. It's THE quintessential mom gift. The necklace is designed by fellow entrepreneurial mom Heather Beeson of Nashelle jewelry. The personalized necklace is made of recycled gold, each inscription is individually hand-stamped, and each natural gemstone is delicately wire-wrapped with love. Here's the product page from the store:Nashelle Love Charms Necklace
http://www.penelopepoet.com/nashelle-love-charms-necklace.html


Just came across your blog. Makes me want to walk in sand, put a beach hat on and an umbrella in my lemonade!I love it!~creationsbyladeeda.blogspot.com

Ladeeda, THAT is the intention. Life is short...and many times stressful....but attitude is everything. If Bloggeritaville can be a quick escape for whatever reason, then I take that as a complement. Its not the beach, but it is inspired by the beach. So, sit down, have yourself a cold one and I hope you find your time here enjoyable. Thank you so very much for such a kind comment!!!!!

Thanks for dropping by Tales from Bloggeritaville, and thank you for your questions. If you have more, shoot them my way.  I am blessed by YOU! May God blessings reach you too!
Leigh

"Sure, I'll Do it!" (Marlee Matlin, Seinfeld)

I was interviewed by Mari from My Little Corner of the World. Here are her questions for me and my answers.

1) Why do you blog? I blog there fore, I am. HA! Not really....I had no clue what blogging was. I had never even been to a blog. But in sending out articles to both employers and clients of newspaper and magazines, I thought it might be easier to have a place to post my stories and direct people there. Well, never for even a minute would I do that now. Obviously, the things I am writing about here are a smorgasbord of stories taken from pages in my life. Pretty boring to any employer, client, and probably anyone reading this. But I genuinely enjoy it. I have met the nicest people all because of blogging. People who blog and people who read. I find it a blessing.

2) If you could meet any person, living or dead, who would it be?
Meet? The obvious answer here, of course, if Jesus Christ my savior. But I have a few others. Not to change the question, but I love to ask people who would you invite to dinner (5 guest) living or dead. Mine would be Katherine Tucker Windham, the author. I have met her several times (does that count then?) and each time I am in awe. I literally hang on her every word. She is an amazing author and story teller- a natural talent. Others, Jimmy Buffett, Stevie Nicks, Loretta Lynn. No surprises here. Finally, Charles Barkley. I find him fascinating and would love to have him over to supper. Charles, if you are reading this (and why wouldn't he be? Yeah, right....LOL!!!) Consider this an open invitation.

3) What is your greatest fear, and why? Dying Young or having a close family member to die. I know that sounds terrible but it is the truth. From the age of 17 to the age of 24 I had 6 close friends of mine to die. It greatly affected me. And I often wonder where they would be today, what they would be doing, what lives would they be leading. I know God has far greater plans for them, though. My other fears and I have two- roaches and heights.

4) Who has had the greatest influence on your life? Two answers, My mom and my husband. Parenting, specifically being a mom (I am a SAHM) is both the hardest and most rewarding job. I just try and be half the mom my parents were to me, in particular, my mom because she stayed home with my brother and me. I have huge shoes to fill.
And my husband, who is my biggest influence on me now. Honestly, God chose him for me. He never wavers with his support, his great advice, his compliments, his help, his guidance. He is my rock, my soulmate. Figuratively speaking, He always has a hand extended to pick me up, or a hand across my shoulders for strength. I can always count on him. We truly have a mutual admiration and respect for one another. I could not ask for a better man. My man, among men.

5) If you could go back in time, what time period would you like to visit? Oh, the 1930 or 1940's. I know it was hard times, but I am drawn to the clothes, the romance of writing letters, the imporatnce of family, the formality of society, the courtesy that lacks in today's world.
Watch the movie, Somewhere in Time. Oh, I am mesmerized.

Getting to Know You.......Christmas Edition

My friend, "the Boss" sent me this questionnaire relating to Christmas. I love these "getting to know you things". I am addicted to learning more about people. Please, leave your answers in the comments or let me know if you post on your blog. I am curious like that!

Welcome to the Christmas edition of getting to know your friends. Okay, here's what you're supposed to do, and try not to be a SCROOGE!!!......Tis the Season to be NICE!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Bags unless it calls for a wrap (and I have some pretty paper and ribbon I am dying to use), which some do.
2. Real tree or Artificial? artificial one but I have candles that make my house smell like the real thing.
3. When do you put up the tree? weekend after Thanksgiving
4. When do you take the tree down? New Year's Eve
5. Do you like eggnog? Hate it!
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Any Barbie stuff and my Madame Alexander doll, Ashley. Oh, and my bike.
7. Hardest person to buy for? The men in my life. And my MIL
8. Easiest person to buy for? Sister Sledge and my mom.
9. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes, a few
10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail. Email, tacky! Unless of course it is some forward interactive card which my kids love. But actual cards I mail. And I love to get them. I save each year's. The cards go on my Christmas tree.
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? A talking flowerpot that sang the Macarena song. I gave it back the next year! Take that! Ha!
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? A Christmas Story. OBSESSED (and my family and friends know this). I also am a big fan of the animated cartoon, Nester. I would advise tissues.
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Throughout the year. Can begin the day after. I am done well by Thanksgiving. I hate crowds.
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yes that flower pot....
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? All the homemade goodies the women in my family make. And what my friends and neighbors send my way.
16. Lights on the tree? Yes, lots!! Who has a dark tree?
17. Favorite Christmas song? I love 40's era tunes, Marshmallow World, Santa Baby, Blue Christmas....those but I also love Faith Hill's one from Grinch and Jimmy Buffet Christmas Island and have mercy- All I want for Christmas is a Real Good Tan for by Kenny Chesney. I get nostalgic listening to Christmas in Dixie.
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? I'm very thankful that we don't have to travel and get to stay at home.
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Only if I sing the beginning of Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer!!!Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Rudolph.
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Big bow and a star
21. Open presents on Christmas eve or morning? Christmas morning.
22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? That people loose sight of what the holiday really means.
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? I collect blown glass ornaments. I like the color of them. My fav's are the ones with an island theme. I also have some vintage glass balls that I love.
25. What do you want for Christmas this year? Peace, really. .......and a cruise to Mexico and the virgin islands. Its not asking a lot. Is it?

Under Rated-Bo Bice

This meme was created by the ever talented Troll, as explained here,

"Introducing a New Troll Meme: Overrated/Underrated

Who: You

What: Any topic whatsoever that you believe is woefully overrated or underrated. People, places, things, ideas. It’s entirely up to you.

Where: Your own blog.

When: FIRST and THIRD Fridays of the month (Da Troll will post reminders).

Why: Because a scientific Troll Poll indicated people would enjoy having an organized format for their rants and raves.

How: Subject line of your post should be crafted thusly: Overrated Fridays: French Wines (or Underrated Fridays: Puffy Cheetos). Then, in 500 words or less, tell us why. Unlike Mute Mondays, you’ll need to use actual words, although feel free to post a photo or two if you want. When you’re finished, head over to Da Troll’s and post "I'm UP" in the comments section. Then visit other players to agree or disagree with their selections."

I have a multitude of underrated selections. For real, it will take me a year to post on under rated. But this week I chose Bo Bice. A "hometown boy", from the town in which I live, he was runner up to Carrie Underwood on American Idol, season 4. This guy is the real deal. He is genuinely talented. To stay true to the Bo Bice that people got to know through his musical selections on AI, he putted threw his promised Idol album which was largely controlled my "the man" and then went Indie so that he would not have to put out a manufactured sound but one that was truly Bice. He is currently looking to move back "home" to Helena and I couldn't be prouder. Yet he still is hitting the roads with his band giving listeners a joyful tune as he passes through.

His new album, "See the Light" is both a nod to the musical industry "man" (the title) and it is truly Bice that is featured in some incredible lyrics and musical riffs. To read more on the review I did for his most recent album, click here.

And so this week of under rated, my pic of the week- Bo Bice a raw, yet gentle ,spirited southern rocker. Real and undeniable.

(Photo Credits: The top photo is by my fran, Lindey Massey. The middle is his album cover. The third, I do not know who took it. I wish I could give photographic credit. If you know, please share.)

MM-"Old Man"

Trolls MM theme today is Old Man....(but not so old IMHO..)
To participate, go to Trolls and comment "I'm up". Please let me know too so I can swing by!

Happy Father's Day, "Old Man"! To a few of my favorite "Old Men"....

I love ya'll!

Four ! for Thursday Thirteen

Sandie tagged me for this meme:
Four, Four, Four, Four...

A) Four places that I go to over and over: grocery store, gas station, moms, San Antonio Grill (all convenient-save on gas)

B) Four people who regularly e-mail me: Sandie, mom, blogger frans, clematis club members

C) My favorite places to eat: moms, Ichiban's, Mario's in Jacksonville, and Nabeels

D) Four places I'd like to be right now: On a Mediterranean cruise to Greece; US Virgin Islands-island hopping, Abacos Bahamas, Port St Joe/St George Island

E) Four people you will tag: ???? If you want to play along, let me know so I can be sure to see your answers.

F) Four TV shows I watch all the time: Just about anything on HGT , anything on TLC, Animal Cops, Seinfeld reruns (I know that surprises you)

G) Top four priorities in life are: God, Family, Friends, fun

H) Four people I would like to meet in my lifetime: author Kathryn Tucker Windham (met her but need more time), Jimmy Buffett, Charles Barkley, Stevie Nicks

I)If you could bring back the dead, what four would you invite over to chat with? Jesus Christ (but he isn't dead, he has risen! so not sure that counts), Eleanor Roosevelt. I am one that cannot stand to have answers, so I would want to talk to two people that went missing, so that their families could have answers and peace. I won't name them here, but if you read my blog-you know who they are.

J) Four favorite pieces of Clothing: flip flops, a comfy t shirt, hoop earrings and a good supportive bra is a friend of mine. It may not be comfortable, but it sure beats the alternative.

K)If you were stuck on a dessert island, what four Cd's would you hopefully have with you?
Kenny Chesney:Live:Those songs again, Monsters of Rock Platinum Edition, Some 70's songs CD stuff like I'd Really Like to see you Tonight, Diamond Girl, Island Girl a bunch of singers and songwriters stuff, and finally Jimmy Buffett Meet Me In Margaritaville: The Ultimate Collection you cannot be on an island without some Jimmy. This was a hard one because I like so many.

L) You can have four things for breakfast, what do you order? Who thinks of this stuff? Well, I am not a big breakfast eater. But, if I had my choice....homemade buttermilk biscuits with butter, hash browns or a beignet or homemade granola-basically any starch. Oh! But I do love fruit! Dang, that is five......

M) Four things you often say: "Oh, have mercy!". "Bless her Heart", "Please and Thank you" (my momma taught me well) and "Love you!"

20 Things I Will Always Do

(a follow up to the things I will probably never do)

1. Carry anti-bacterial in my purse (my friends can vouch) Read and scroll.
2. photography. I truly love it.
3. Dance when I feel like it. I was at the hospital the other day and a nurse commented on my moves. It humiliated my children.
4. sing. I cannot help it. Even if I am in the middle of a conversation, if a phrase is used that reminds me of a song I start to sing. That too annoys my family.


5. Love the beach. I have salt in me veins. I feel closest to God there.
6. Kiss/hug my family goodnight. (I am a real "family type" and will always love them unconditionally and make time for them)
7. Pray
8. Be a proud card caring member of the Clematis Club. Love them girls.
9. Listen to 80's "Monster Rock"
10. TRAVEL!
11. have a crush on Big Daddy
12. brush my teeth before bed
13. Make my bed-even on vacation.
14. prefer riding shotgun (unless it is with my son....)
15. love starches.
16. Garden. I love the rewards
17. Have a weakness for animals
18. second guess myself (should I have included that in the list,Freddy?)
19. Go Home. There's no place like home.
20. Enjoy going out to dinner. Who likes to clean the kitchen up?

What about you?

MM Beauty

Today is Trolls Mute Monday, today's theme is BEAUTY. This is certainly in no certain order....




Nature (flowers)


Hummingbirds (as welll as all of God's creatures)


even *some*bugs



Summers bounty




Friendships (not only what is pictured here, but representative of all)




My Family (pictured here as well as extended)





Audrey Hepburn




The Dance




The Beach




Sunsets (God's canvas)




The Cross and what it represents

Thursday Thirteen 13 Things I will (probably) Never Do

Lindsey had a post on her blog with 20 things she would never do. I thought I would make my Thursday thirteen mine. And without further ado....here is my Thirteen Things I will (probably) Never Do....

1. Eat meat. I just can't. It's the texture. I have been like this all my life. The #1 question I always get -"Are your parents vegetarians?" No. They are all carnivorous. #2 "Does your family eat meat?" Yes. Every day. I cook it. I do not eat it.

2.Get a tatoo. "Not that there's anything wrong with it". (Seinfeld) I hate needles. I had three children without epiderals-all because I hate needles. I have a high tolerance for pain, but not needles.

3. Give up cheese. Love it. Give me a hunk of cheese over any dessert.

4. Eat sushi. Again with the meat, but it's also bait. Eww.

5. Dance on Dancing with the Stars. I know you thought so, but its true. American Idol doesn't look promising either.

6. Bungee jump. I am terrified of heights. I always think I would like to go para sailing, but know if I got up there I would freak. I freaked on my 6 foot ladder this weekend when I painted my den. Of course Big Daddy made fun of me.

7. Add another dog to our pack. We are maxed out. Really, it is ridiculous. But I love them.

8. Sadly enough, convince any of my Top Five people of "if you could invite anyone" to dinner, dinner party over for dinner. Did you follow that?

9. Have a personal invite from Katheryn Tucker Windham to drink sweet tea on her porch while she spins tales. (sniff, sniff) Really, can you imagine. I would be in true bliss.

10. Enter my daughter in a beauty contest. She's beautiful, but I think they send the wrong message to young girls. In high school there is a pageant and if she wants to enter it is up to her, but I won't be pushing it. If she should decided, of course I will support her.

11. Use the word F-A-T to anyone or about anyone. It is a bad word in our house.

12. Regret being a stay at home mother. My mom was able to be home with me and I feel fortunate to be able to be home with my kids. That's not a slam to working moms. To each his own. I admire any woman who can do both. I can hardly handle this job. For my family it is a personal choice and I am so glad I am able to be available to my children 24/7-well most of the time I am grateful. The times I am not, I hide in the bathroom, LOL!

13. Develop a fondness for rap music.

What's in Your Car?

In the spirit of "What's in your car?" over at Rocks in my Dryer and Lindsey who brought it to my attention....

So? What's in Your Car/ For my brother in law, "the artist", it would be a better question to ask, "What's NOT in your car". Literally, a pack rat (gross), his back seat used to be filled to the ceiling with what not-and to scared to know. One year after Christmas we helped to pack his car and there in the trunk was a half eaten pizza in the pizza box, along with a birthday cake, also half eaten. "How long has that been there?" I asked him. "I dunno, just throw that stuff on top of it...". That is my brother in law. Though with the addition of two kids, he has cleaned up a little bit. You can at least see the kids in the backseat now.

Anyway-back to topic- because I know you are dying to know (and it is a slow post day for me...)Here's what you would find in my car....

Fortunately I cleaned mine out recently...but at this moment:

1. Clothes for consignment (Hello Michelle and her fab store!)
2. Tennis rackets 5 of them-one for each of the circus members. A family who plays together....
3. Caprison drink boxes (we got to alot of sports stuff so I keep them in there)
4. 6 pairs sunglasses (it is a weakness and I am very sensitive to light. I buy em cheap at Dollar General for 5-8 bucks and stash in the glove compartment)
5. Chick fil a calendar (from my mother in law-it has coupons in it)
6. Coupon book the school sold
7. 3 CD cases (LOVE MUSIC and thanks again to "Tom Sawyer" for his contribution to the library)
8. a box (to mail off eBay stuff)
9. a box of Kleenex
10. safety kit/first aide, maps, flashlight, hat and gloves
11. dog eared brochure of 100 Places to Eat Before you Die
12. Blankets-3 so there is no fighting. Good for car trips.

Play along? Post you are and I'll come and visit at your place-OR-leave your answers in the comments. Just don't tell me a body. I don't want to know...

Meme

This came by way of Travis' Blog.

The rules:
1. The rules of the game get posted at the beginning.
2. Each player answers the questions about themselves.
3. At the end of the post,the player then tags 5 or more people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know they've been tagged and asking them to read your blog.
4. Let the person who tagged you know when you've posted your answers.

And on with it....

1. What was I doing 10 years ago?
Ten years ago today I was a mother to a new baby Sledge-2 months old. Bama was 8. We were looking for our first new home. I was delighted and felt blessed in the fact that I was able to be a stay at home mother to my two precious children. Time passes quickly and they grow up fast. I am so glad I was able to relish it.

2. What are 5 things on my to-do list for today?
Buy teacher gifts and party stuff for kids end of year parties
cook supper-BBQ
Watch Dancing with the Stars
Unpack my suitcase
Household stuff: laundry, strip beds, mop floors, hug the kids, kiss the Hubby....

3. Snacks I enjoy:
chips & salsa, cheese, welchs sparkling grape juice, spicy nuts, fat free Pringles, air popped popcorn, lifesavers, fruit, raw veggies with ranch dip, cheeseball with triskets

4. Things I would do if I were a billionaire:
Buy a beach house, a boat and a good fishing rod. Buy a jeep for beach drives with my sweetie so we can feel the wind on our hair and the sun on our backs. Pay my kids college and all my nieces and nephews schooling as well. Pay off my parents house, their beach house and any debt. Put my mother in law through a womens tennis camp (Sanddestin) every summer. I think she'd love that. Begin a scholarship program for children that work to better their world through community service and "pay it forward" acts of kindness. (those who Lead by example) Have a good summer bash with a killer band and great food with lots of friends and family.

5. Three of my bad habits:
signing (sign language) when I sing a song on the radio as I drive. I just sing and sign away.
washing my hands or using anti bacterial soap constantly
breaking out into song when someone uses a word(s) in a sentence that reminds me of a song. They look at me as though I have flipped.
(another bad one is reading blogs instead of doing housework. BAD!)

6. Five places I have lived:
Sarasota Florida, Portland Oregon, Hoover Alabama, Helena, Alabama

7. Jobs I've had:
Law file clerk, dolphin rehabilitation, kindergarten teacher, tux rental "measurer" (always felt uncomfortable with the pants measurments), cashier, pet store, car detailer (the weirdest job), photographer, writer and the best-mom! (which entails many in that title)


I will not call people out, but if you decide to participate (& I hope you will) leave a comment and let me know so I can stop by and read your answers.

Under Rated TESLA

This meme was created by the ever talented Troll, as explained here,

"Introducing a New Troll Meme: Overrated/Underrated

Who: You

What: Any topic whatsoever that you believe is woefully overrated or underrated. People, places, things, ideas. It’s entirely up to you.

Where: Your own blog.

When: FIRST and THIRD Fridays of the month (Da Troll will post reminders).

Why: Because a scientific Troll Poll indicated people would enjoy having an organized format for their rants and raves.

How: Subject line of your post should be crafted thusly: Overrated Fridays: French Wines (or Underrated Fridays: Puffy Cheetos). Then, in 500 words or less, tell us why. Unlike Mute Mondays, you’ll need to use actual words, although feel free to post a photo or two if you want. When you’re finished, head over to Da Troll’s and post "I'm UP" in the comments section. Then visit other players to agree or disagree with their selections."

With underrated in mind, my nomination for today's underrated is one of the most underrated bands "evah!", in my opinion, that being TESLA.

Deep lyrically, musically gifted, vocally stellar. Completely interesting. I never did understand why they didn't receive more airplay and a following (but really it is one of the reasons I adore them, not overexposed and forced to "pop") . In this video, they sing "Paradise", my all time favorite song by them. I soooo want to do this one karaokee night.
I am a HUGE fan of the guys and the band. Tesla, my underrated pick of this first underrated meme.

watch video

Music video by Tesla performing Paradise: Final Version(C) 1990 UMG Recordings, Inc.

Thursday Thirteen-Beach Bound

Thirteen things you might hear if you were with me this weekend (ladies beach trip):

1. "If you like Pina Coladas " ....
2. Please pass the sunscreen.
3. I don't eat bait, but I do fish with it.
4. So that's what they mean by mullet toss!
5. You really should put a shirt on.....
6. Guys do it all the time....
7. Can you believe we escaped the kids?
8. Contessa likes being barefoot but not pregnant
9. No shoes, No shirt, No problems. Blues what blues..hey i forgot them! The sun and the sand and a drink in my hand with no bottom and no shirt, no shirt, and no problems!
10.Ok, PUL-LEEZ, Leigh! Quit singing that song!
11. KAROKEE! Who's in?
12. My nose ring feel in the spaghetti (*note no one has a nose ring, I will explain that one when I return*)
13. Sunday already?

Mute Monday-Change

Trolls Meme-(not really) Mute Monday. Play along? Let me know so I can visit!

click CHANGES

Paul, Brad, Brett, Marty & Kirk (taking pic) waiting to shoot "Change" video. Click on change.

Winds of Change (click it)

Before

(after)






Cha, cha, cha, cha, chan-ges (click)


(hope of change)

I know, probably not played fair...since it isn't all "mute". But this is what I thought of when I read the post theme.

Thursday Thirteen-Candy

Though I wouldn't classify myself as having a sweet tooth, I do have my vices. I can pass up a dessert table, but there are times when I crave a certain candy. It changes. These are my thirteen favorite candies, in no certain order:

1.Hot Tamales

2.Cool Mint Tamales

3. Cool Mint Life Savers-latest addiction

4.Tropical Flavored Life Savers (or the butter rum flavor)

5.Gummy bears (or any gummy)

6.Bottlecaps-I pick out all of the cola and rootbeer then give the rest to the kids..

7.Cherry Sours

8.Peppermints-Must have some in my purse

9. Banana Laffy Taffy-I recall going to the "Dime Store" with my mom in Vestavia. Antime we went there she would always buy me and my brother a square of this taffy.

10.Snickers..."the snack that satisfies."

11.Jelly Belly

12.Reeces Cups-out of the refrigerator.

13.Mint Three Musketeers (Have you tried it? Yum!)

All this being said, if given the option of candy or a raw vegetable, Veggie wins everytime. I am sure I was the only kid at Easter who wanted the bunny to share his treats with me instead of candy....LOL!

And before you ask, no cavities in this head. Not yet anyway...