I am packing my bag, ya'll! My flight to Florida departs early tomorrow morning. I travel light, with just a carry on bag and backpack purse. I also check in online and print out my boarding pass, so I can just sail on through to the gate. I still like to arrive at the airport an hour or so before boarding time because it gives me time to unwind and 'psyche' myself up for the flight. Did I mention that I DON'T like to fly?? Even though I have made the flight to Tampa many times, I still get a little nervous. I like to people watch, too...I wonder where everyone's going. I wonder if some folks, mainly females, look in the mirror before they leave the house, especially the view from the rear? Meow, I'm getting catty now, so I'll just move on!
Well, the last of the Christmas 'mess' in my kitchen has been cleaned up and put away. I went over to my sister's after I finished and visited with her for a while. She was washing and putting away all her Christmas dishes, so I helped her dry and we had a nice chat while we worked. We always seem to want to spend a little extra time together when either of us is going on a trip.
I kind of 'spilled my guts' to her about my 'domestic predicament'. Of course, she already knows the story, but is always ready to listen when I need to vent or need another perspective. She and her husband, who is like a brother to me, are so supportive and encouraging to me. I know they will be there for me, no matter what. They are such a blessing to me! Thank you Lord, for my sweet sister.
I will be so busy while I am on vacation, as we are going to see Mickey and Minnie and whatever else we can think of. You know? Like shopping, eating out , shopping and eating out some more! I won't be posting while I'm gone, but I'm sure I will have plenty of exciting stuff to talk about when I return.
Happy New Year, Ya'll!

Oh my goodness, ya'll, my pork roast and sausage/apple stuffing was delicious, if I do say so myself! Sister and nieces were equally impressed, also. After dessert, we opened gifts. They gave me a beautiful ceramic cross/tea light holder. The girls loved the things I gave them.
We all went to my other sister's house later for MORE dessert and gift exchanging. I do love being with my sisters and nieces, but there's always an empty spot since Mom is no longer with us, and of course, my daughter and her family rarely get to be here at the holidays. My daughter called while we were all sitting around the table and I held the phone out so everyone could tell her hello. She misses her family so much! Hopefully, she and the girls can come out this summer.
Well, I'm glad Christmas is over for another year. There were times when I didn't think I would make it through, but I just kept my mind on the 'reason for the season' and carried on with all the preparations. My decorations were all beautiful, the food was wonderful, the shopping was fun, performing in the Christmas pageant at church was fun, even working myself half to death in the world of hair was fun. But, even as I went through the motions, there was always this feeling of emptiness in the background, of something missing. It's funny how one can be surrounded by people and all the 'busyness' of the season, yet be so alone. It goes without saying that I miss my kids and their families being in town, especially for holidays and special occasions. However, I know what is 'missing' and I must face the cold, hard reality that it is gone, gone, gone, never to be found again! I truly believed that we could make it work....now my hope is fading fast. Lord, what am I to do? I can't let him destroy me!
Oh boy, did I get down in the dumps, or what? I will be joyful, I will be joyful, I will be joyful!
There, I feel a teenie bit better, now!
Merry Christmas, Ya'll

Some of my Christmas
Creations.

I love the fresh greenery on my back porch.

I have had this 'skinny' tree for several years.
It has a real wood trunk. Easy to decorate, too.

It's a Merry Christmas eve
And I hardly can believe
How the times does fly
Has a year gone by
Since we trimmed the Christmas tree?

First thing this morning I made chocolate chip cookies. It's Christmas eve, afterall, and one MUST make cookies on Christmas eve. As I went about mixing the batter, I thought of all the times I made Christmas cookies with my kids when the were little. We made decorated sugar cookies, red and white candy canes and spritz. For the candy cane cookies, color half of the dough red and leave the other half plain, roll out one of each, twist them together, shape like a candy cane and bake. I wondered at the time why I bothered with the whole mess, but apparently the tradition 'stuck' with then. So, guess what they were both doing when I called today? Making cookies! Daughter was making iced snowflakes and bells, Son was making gingerbread men and sugar cookies. They both are good cooks, too. I taught them well!
The weather is absolutely glorious today, so I went for a walk in the woods out back. I found lots of yaupon holly with red berries, pine branches and pine cones. I brought it all back and made a large freeform arrangement for the table on the back porch. I took a rustic wooden angel and placed her in the midst of the greens. I filled a weathered, old basket with pinecones. Lovely, I must say!
I saw lots of deer and raccoon tracks! I would like to go out later in the evening to see if I can spot them, but I'm afraid to go alone. Spooky!
I will be busy, busy tomorrow, preparing my Christmas dinner, then spending the afternoon with my sisters and their families.

Have a Merry, blessed Christmas one and all!

I am so looking forward to my vacation! I have been so busy at work this week and I am just tired of the whole world of hair! Most of my clients are wonderful, but there are those who do try my patience. I had one in the salon today....I can't even find the words to describe the whole ordeal. Wait..the words are coming to me! Are you ready? Teenage son of a friend of mine, who dyed his hair blue/black and wanted it corrected back to his natural color ( medium brown) before he went back to his 'alternative school'. Can I say 'pain in the posterior'? End of story!
Talked to daughter this morning. We are both getting all excited about our visit. I miss her and my sweet grand daughters so much! I wish I had stayed there with them and not come back here! There, I said it and I feel so much better. I hope she and I can finally talk about everything that has transpired in the last two years. I think the hurts have healed enough that we can have a heart to heart chat. She means more to me that any one, but I feel like have failed her in so many ways over the years. Ah, the mother/daughter relationship is rife with pain and heartache at times, but it is also the sweetest bond two females can share. She will always be my 'Baby Bumble Bee'! My heart swells with love and anticipation as I look forward to smelling her sweetness when I give her a great big hug! Her two sweet little girls are the icing on the cake, a beautiful extension of her. What was I thinking when I left them and came back? That's another story, for another time. Right now, I am just looking forward to shopping, doing lunch and playing with 'MY GIRLS'
Christmas is almost here and I am ready, set, go! I can't wait to make my delicious dinner of Roast Pork, Sausage & Apple stuffing and all the trimmings!
Merry, Merry, Ya'll!

Hey Ya'll, I'm finished with my Christmas shopping. Today was my last opportunity to get it done. But first, I had to get my nails done and wouldn't you just know, my girl was running almost 30 minutes behind?? Her first appointment was late, which made her late, etc,etc. Arghhh! Being in the 'beauty biz' meself, I know what a bummer it is when your first client of the day is late. It throws you off the entire day, or at least until you somehow manage to catch up, which usually means you get to skip eating or taking a potty break. Since I got off on this tangent, you know what else bums me out? When I get to the shop early, so I can fix my hair, start the towels, get the place ready for the day, check my voice mail, return calls, tinkle, etc, etc, etc...my first client beats me there, is sitting in the car waiting, follows me in and says, 'Oh, I know I'm early, go ahead and do your thing' then proceeds to follow me around talking to me. I know they love me so much they can't wait to see me, but I really need a few minutes to gather my thoughts and get ready for my day. The moral of this story? If you arrive earlier than your scheduled appointment time, please have a seat in the reception area, unless your stylist invites you to 'come on back'. You never know, she/he may be trying to recover from a stressful morning commute and probably needs a little time to calm down before attacking your hair!
Ok...Now where was I? Oh, I was all excited about getting an early start with my shopping, but it was almost 11:30 before I got to Sam's Club. I don't like to buy groceries at Sam's because of buying in bulk, but I was looking for a pork roast and a few other holiday goodies. I did find a nice hunk of pork and a beautiful cheesecake assortment, plus artichoke cheese dip, smoked salmon, chips and mixed nuts. The man likes to go to the grocery store, so he'll go Krogering tomorrow evening and get the rest of the things I need for Christmas dinner. I must say he has been extra nice lately. I still feel the need to keep my distance, though, because I know his MO.
I ran across an interesting blog today. It's called 'Look Who's Tattling Now'. Makes me wonder about my nieces being on the internet. I think they have blogs on Xanga and Myspace. Hope they don't get into any weird stuff. It's too bad that there are so many predators and perverts out there preying on our teenagers.
I saw a story about internet perverts on Dateline the other night. A lot of the guys they busted are professionals: ie, doctors, lawyers, rabbis, teachers. What sad, pathetic creeps!!
Well, I've ranted enough for one evening, so I'll go kick back and get ready for another day in the world of hair tomorrow. I'm 'slammed' ( booked solid). Can't wait to see what the day brings. I'll let you know if I hear anything exciting!
Ciao Ya'll!

Texas weather is crazy! Today was an absolutely beautiful, sunny winter day. Not a cloud in the sky, after yesterdays' downpour.
When I went out to check my bird feeder early this morning, I looked to the west and saw a big, full moon setting just above the trees. I ran back in the house, grabbed my camera and took a few pictures of it as it went down. It looked awesome! I'll have to wait til tomorrow night to download them, 'cause I left my camera at work.
When I left work around 6:30, the moon was full and on the rise. Maybe I'll bundle up and go out on the back porch later and see if I can hear Mr. Owl. He may just be out on this clear, moon lit night. I haven't seen or heard from him in a while. I wonder if owl's migrate? I'll have to research my bird book and find out.
Yesterday was number one son's birthday. I called him early, but he was already in Dallas on the job. He has grown into a fine, young man. He works hard and takes good care of his family. I still pray that one day he will find a place in his life for the Lord. I try not to 'preach' to him about it, but every now and then I feel that I need to remind him of the importance and responsibility upon him, as a father, to teach his children about Jesus and the things of God...
Especially at this time of year, the Christmas season and celebration of Jesus birth.
I just talked to daughter in Florida. She has the sniffles, probably caught from her students! She was busy getting things ready for their Christmas party at school tomorrow. Granddaughter made a 'Happy Birthday Jesus' cake to take to her class party. I am so glad that they are in a Christian school, where their mommy teaches. I can hardly wait to see them!! I'm counting the days....I leave on Dec. 28th. I love, love, love being with MY GIRLS!
Time to get the jammies on and chill out.
MERRY CHRISTMAS, MERRY CHRISTMAS'
And to all a good night!

It has been raining all day long! I normally don't work on Wednesday, but went in to 'do' a few ladies. When I left the shop it was really coming down. I had to drive thru some high water in a few places so was glad I hadn't scheduled any more appointments. There's nothing worse than driving home in rush hour traffic in heavy rain with street flooding.
So, I arrived home safely, changed into my sweats and started a pot of chili. Then I remembered that I need to take a goodie to choir practice tonight. I found a package of brownie mix, stirred it up, threw in some extra chocolate chips and pecans and popped them into the oven. When they were done, I tossed a few more choc chips on top, let them melt and spread them out. Meanwhile, the chili is simmering and the kitchen is all warm and cozy, but
this weather makes me feel so blah! Puts me in a bad mood, too. Or maybe it's the atmosphere around here. This nice, new house feels so empty...I wonder why I came back.
Think I'll go take a nap.

Our girls night out/Christmas party was fun! We exchanged gifts first, then had ceviche and chile con queso, fajitas and FOUR kinds of desserts. Not to mention....drinks! The girls are so much fun. I am so blessed to work with such a fine group of ladies.
I did a new client today. I have seen her at church and spoken to her casually in passing many times. She recently found out from a friend ( a new client of mine) that I am a hairdresser and called me for an appointment. She recognized my daughter's picture and come to find out, they went to the same high school and graduated the same year. She liked her hair, too! I love it! I have so much fun at work every day! Each day brings something new. I never get bored, that's for sure.
It's almost time for Boston Legal! I have really gotten into that show. James Spader and William Shatner are such a case! I'm gonna go get comfy in front of the TV now.
Night Ya'll!

I was so glad to see the sun when I went to the kitchen to make coffee this morning! I woke up later than usual...a little too late to go to church. I probably could have made it to the late service, but I must confess, I went to the mall instead. I still needed to buy a few more Christmas presents and my sister's birthday present. Foley's had their usual 15% off coupons in the paper, so off I went. I bought sweaters and gloves and a pretty Christmas pin.
My 'room mate' friend invited me to go to her grand daughter's dance recital this afternoon. I finished my shopping and met up with her. I enjoyed watching the girls perform, especially the little ones. They are so cute in their pink tutus!
I stopped by Stein Mart on the way home and found a beautiful Christmas tablecloth and some pretty gold coasters. I love Stein Mart, ya'll!
I hope it is sunny again tomorrow. I have to go to the grocery store. Yuck! It is such a chore, however it is a little more pleasant this time of year because all the holiday goodies are out.
We are having our salon Christmas party tomorrow night at Pappasito's. Just the five of us...no husbands or kids. We'll exchange gifts, eat, gossip about our clients and enjoy being 'lose' on the town. Yeah, like we're that wild! Three of the girls have young children and the resident youngster is single. My kids are grown, of course. I'm sure we'll all make it until about 9:00 pm, then call it a night. Besides, I have a long day on Tuesday. I'll wear my new black sweater with the faux fur collar and sparkly snowflake pin with my French Dressing jeans. Found the sweater at Kohl's (on sale, of course) Saturday on the way home from work. My black bangle sequin purse (found at Harwin last week) will be 'the icing'!
I need to wrap his up and go surf foodnetwork or cooks.com and find a recipe for sausage & apple stuffing.
I wonder if anyone reads these blogs? I enjoy reading a few now and then, but rarely comment on any. I'm still learning how to navigate the whole process, so I haven't figured out how to do links yet. Oh well, I enjoy journaling my thoughts even if no one else reads it.
Think I'll read a few before I look for recipes!
Later, Ya'll!

As I was getting ready for my 11:30 perm, I heard the loud bang of vehicles hitting each other. A guy in the reception area saw the accident as it happened. So we all ran to the window to see how bad it was. Yep, it was my lady! Poor thing was trying to make a left turn into the parking lot and was almost in when when a pick-up plowed into her right rear fender, spinning her around in the opposite direction. She's in her late 70's so we called the paramedics to come check her out. But guess who got there first? The wreckers! Those guys have their own radar, for sure. Poor little thing was pretty shaken up, but not hurt, thank God. Needless to say, she didn't feel like getting a perm. The cops came, the wreckers drivers flipped to see who got to tow the vehicles and we went on with our day.
The 'hot topic' these days seems to be over the controversy of replacing Christmas with 'holiday'. It IS Christmas that we celebrate on Dec. 25th isn't it? It's always been called Christmas because it Jesus Christ's birthday that we are celebrating. We don't celebrate 'winter' as in 'Winter Holidays' ( That's what the schools call it now). I know there are other religions and customs and that not everyone believes in Jesus Christ and that's OK with me. I would never try to change their traditions and customs, so why are they trying to force me, a Christian, to change mine ? We used to have Christmas parties at school, now we have to call them 'holiday' parties.
Christmas cards, Christmas shopping, Christmas cookies, Christmas candy, Christmas stockings, Christmas trees, Christmas lights, Christmas carols, Christmas decorations, Christmas wreaths, Christmas parties, Christmas eve candle light services, Christmas gifts, Christmas, Christmas, Christmas!!!!!!!
It's a Christian holiday, OK?? It's Christmas to me and I will wish everyone a Merry Christmas!
Ok, I feel better now, getting that off my chest!
I'm gonna go make some Christmas cookies.
PS I like Santa Claus, too, but he's not the reason we celebrate.

Well, what can I say? My client came in today at her usual time, 10:30 am. Her surgery is scheduled for Monday morning. She seemed to be in good spirits. She said she plans on keeping her December 23 appointment. I pray that all goes well for her in the next two weeks.
Other than that, it was just another routine day in the world of hair. I was tired all day...my ears still feel stopped up and my head hurt. I was glad my last appointment re-scheduled until Tuesday. I just wanted to get home and crash!
I vegged on the couch and watched 'Trauma-Life in the ER'. Memorial Hermann in Houston was featured on this episode. How cool is that? I don't know why I watch that gross stuff, but it was neat to see my hometown med center on TV.
The man came home shortly after I arrived. I fixed something to eat, we ate in silence, then he retired to his room. Silence can be so loud sometimes, especially when there is nothing left to say. He did mention that he didn't feel well... I think he's got 'the crud'. I don't know what else to say, so I just mumble a quiet 'good night'. It's emotionally exhausting!
Thank God tomorrow is Saturday! I have to be at work early, so I'm calling it a night.

What a busy day I had! I just love it, though! Everyone is in a festive mood because of Christmas, getting ready for parties, shopping and all the other activities pertaining to the holiday. And of course, they bring me gifts! One of my ladies brought me some chocolate truffles and fudge. Just yesterday someone brought Hershey's dark chocolate with almonds. My 'girls' know what I like! I also get lots of candles, bath and body products and extra cash, etc.
I am so blessed to have such a loyal, generous clientele. I make every effort to accommodate and take care of each and every one throughout the year. Many are long time friends, some are almost like family. Each one holds a special place in my heart. One of my dearest 'weekly' ladies was diagnosed with colon cancer last week. I knew she had not been feeling well and had undergone tests. I could tell when she walked in the door last Friday that it wasn't good news. When she told me, we hugged and cried. She will be in tomorrow morning, but will be having surgery the following week. Then they will get her on a course of treatment. I guess that means chemo, which usually means hair loss. I hate it!! She's the second one in the last six months to get cancer. I still miss seeing her every Thursday at 11:00. It seems weird to book someone else in her place. I wonder how she is doing or if she is still with us. She chose not to undergo chemo and moved back to Louisiana to be with her family. I'm sure they were affected by the hurricanes, but I have no way of knowing. All I can do is pray that they are OK.
Makes me realize how precious life is.
It was very cold this morning. I didn't see many birds...just a red tailed hawk and the little greenish bird that sits on the fence every morning waiting for a grasshopper to pounce upon. There was a light frost last night and it will be cold again tonight. All the bugs will freeze, too! I think I'll get some suet cakes and fresh seed to put out this weekend. I did see the American kestrel and blue birds recently, but they have been keeping a low profile since it got really cold. Yesterday morning I saw a neat looking little bird, so I went and looked him up in my book. It was a song sparrow. They are prettier than an ordinary house sparrow.
Birds are so cool to watch! They are truly some of God's most beautiful and intriguing creatures. I am continually amazed at His wonderful creation and the way He orchestrated nature. We should all be good stewards of this earthly environment He has given us. It makes me sad when I see the trees clear cut, just to develop more, more, more! Progress is good, I suppose, but why cut ALL the trees down! Oops, I'm starting to preach now, so I'll just stop before I get too riled up.
It's getting late and I have another long day tomorrow in the world of hair.
I'm gonna go get comfy and watch a little TV before I call it a night.

What a busy weekend! Christmas pageant went very well. We played to a packed house Saturday and Sunday night...To 'rave' reviews, I might add. What a celebration of our Lord Jesus' birth! We will sing Christmas songs and carols every Sunday until Christmas, then have a Christmas eve candlelight service. What a beautiful time of year! I think I am finally in the mood! I choose to be joyful, no matter what!
The man is still keeping his distance, which works fine for me right now.
I spent most of the day finishing my Christmas tree and mantel. I made a new wreath for the front door, too. I still need to decorate the buffet in the dining area and maybe add a few festive touches in the bedrooms and bathrooms.
Baby sister and I made a menu for our Christmas day dinner. I wanted to do something different than turkey or ham, so here's the menu:
Pork roast
Sausage & apple stuffing
Sweet potato balls ( I didn't get around to making these for Thanksgiving )
Fresh green beans
Corn casserole
Assorted desserts
Now I need to find a good recipe for the stuffing as I have never made it before. Any suggestions? We always have 'regulation' cornbread dressing/stuffing.
Tomorrow is another day in the world of hair. I am booked solid all week! Everyone wants to get beautiful for the holiday festivities and parties. It will be this way for the next three weeks which is fine with me. I will be off for over a week when I go to Florida, so I need to make lot's of money while I can. I won't be back to work until January 6th, 2006. Wow, where has the time gone? I remember going to Fla for Y-2K. I wanted to be with my daughter just in case something weird happened.
The weather has finally turned cold here in south Texas, so that should help everyone get in the Christmas shopping mood, I suppose. The weather guys always start speculating about a possible white Christmas at the first cold snap. I think I just heard him say it might freeze tonight! My friend and I are still planning on going shopping this Wednesday to Harwin. It's going to be really cold..In the 30's! Brrrrr! I've already been wearing my gloves while driving. I don't think I could take the cold up north, or even Dallas for that matter! I would surely freeze to death!
Think I'll go work on the buffet decorations.
Christmas Cheer, Ya'll

Beautiful sunrise!

Just You and Me Lord

First light of dawn, a brand new day
I arise and read your word
In every promise that I see
Good or bad, come what may
Lord, it's just you and me today
You tell me to place my trust in you
Your word will get me through
Don't worry about what is to be
Or what happened yesterday
My cares, they seem to melt away
As I read your words of hope
I know you'll calm this stormy sea
You'll help me as I cope
You're my only strength and stay
Lord, it's just you and me today

Rehearsals have gone very well! We are all 'getting it'!
We 'revelers' have finally gotten our dance in sync!
Tonight & tomorrow night is dress rehearsal, then Friday night is a special performance for a yet to be announced group.
Saturday & Sunday are open to the public.
The message of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, our Saviour is what this season is all about!
Halleluia!

Christmas blessings Ya'll


PS I realize that some may not share my beliefs, but my faith is what sustains me. I'm just sharing what's in my heart, not trying 'force' it on any one!
Peace, Lainey

I guess people really do read these blogs! I noticed that someone commented on my Thanksgiving poem, but deleted it. Hmmm......Oh well, I'll never know.
This blog thing is still new to me and I enjoy reading others' blogs. I even got the nerve to comment on one recently.
I am so trying to get into the Christmas spirit, but my heart just isn't in it. Things are rather tense between the man and me and I have been having some serious doubts about whether I made the right decision to come back. Let's just say we are definitely not on the same page, much less in the same book! Like Mama always said; 'A leopard never changes its spots'...Me thinks she was right. What to do? Whatever happens, it will have to wait until after the holidays. I am too busy to put up with any of his craziness right now. I'm very busy at work and have rehearsals every night this week for Pageant, plus getting all the make-up ready and co-ordinating my helpers. Ok, I feel better now, so I'll shut up about it, 'cause I was beginning to get mad all over again after last nights 'episode'.
So, I thought I would start decorating the tree anyway. Maybe the house won't feel so empty after I'm all done.
Now, on a more positive note, I have this written in my bible. I don't know who wrote it, but it helped put things in perspective for me today.
Happy moments,
Praise God
Difficult moments,
Seek God
Quiet moments,
Worship God
Painful moments,
Trust God
Every moment,
Thank God

It was a rainy morning here in the 'burb of the big city and I had to get out and go to work for a few hours. I wasn't very busy because of the Thanksgiving holiday, so I left early.
So, what did I do when I came home? Yep...started unpacking and taking an inventory of my Christmas decorations. Looks like everything survived all the moving back and forth so I'm ready to get started. Maybe NOW I'll get into the spirit of the holiday. It just doesn't seem 'real' to me yet. I haven't done any shopping, either. Actually I don't have that much to do because I will take daughter and the girls shopping when I go for my visit. I'll send gift cards to son and his family.
Hooray, my 'room mate'friend (I lived with her during 'the separation')just called and asked if I wanted to go to Harwin with her and her daughter week after next. I can buy for all the girls on my list. I don't have that many guy gifts to buy...I never know what to get the boys, so I just fall back on the handy, dandy gift cards.
Well, I must get back to the mess in the living room. But first I think I'll go nibble on some of that leftover roasted hen.

Another view of the pot rack.
The flower arrangement is perfect on this table. I found it in Canton, also.

 

my new wrought iron pot rack

I woke up to a foggy, damp day. I thought about going shopping, just to see if I could find some bargains, but talked myself out of it when I looked outside. It seemed more like an 'inside day', so I spent the morning putting away Thanksgiving/Fall decorations, cleaning and dusting. The plump hen I bought earlier in the week was still in the 'frige waiting to be roasted...Now she's in the oven, getting all brown and crisp. I brought a bit of sister's cornbread dressing home, but it's not enough for a meal, so I'm making up my own version of rice dressing after reading several recipes. It'll go good with the roasted bird. Green beans will round out the meal, along with a little giblet gravy and some of that succulent cranberry sauce I made Wednesday night. You would think I was having a houseful for dinner! Oh well, we can nibble on it for several days. And, Oh yes, there's Pumpkin-Applebutter pie for dessert! Oh me, I can feel myself gaining weight already!
Now, I'm ready to start on Christmas! Speaking of which, the man just returned from storage with a truckload of decorations. I can see right now I'm going to work off a lot of the calories from that delicious meal when I dive into all those boxes. I hope most of it is still usable, since it has been moved from Texas to Florida and back in the last few years (but that's another story!)
Time for some college football, ya'll! Longhorns & Aggies are at it! Hook'em horns!
Here's a funny:
When I run Spellcheck, it wants to change ya'll to Yale, Aggies to anguish and hook'em to hokum. Isn't that a hoot?

The Pumpkin-Applebutter pie looks yummy. The banana nut bread smells divine! The cranberry sauce is simmered to perfection. I'm off to sister's house where the Turkey and dressing and all the trimmings await to be enjoyed. I'm sure the house is filled with all the wonderful smells associated with a holiday meal.
Daughter called earlier, she was already in the kitchen, working on Memaw's dressing recipe.
Oh, how I wish I could be there! She is such a blessing to me and I miss being with her on special days. She and her friend are getting up early in the morning to go shopping, too! I want to go!
The girls were outside playing and walking the dog, waiting for all their friends to arrive.
Time to get going! Lot's of good food and being with family... what better way to spend the day....(unless it's shopping)
Blessings, Ya'll

Thanksgiving Prayer

Dear Lord as we gather

Around this feast today,

We thank you for our blessings

As we bow our heads to pray.

We thank you for our family,

And for our friendships, too

We thank you for our country

And the red, white, and blue.

We thank you for the freedom

To travel anywhere

For no matter where we go

We know you're always there.

We thank you for our loved ones

In heaven up above

They're gathered at your table

And they feast upon your love.

We thank you too, for family

Who live so far away

Grant them a special blessing

On this Thanksgiving day.

We thank you Lord, for your son

Who loves us all the same

For all these things we ask you

In Jesus' precious name.

Amen

'Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done' 1 Chronicles 16:8

Bless Ya'll! Lainey

What a beautiful day it was! It would have been a perfect day to work in the yard...maybe plant some pansies. My mums need to be cut back so they will bloom some more. Early this morning as I was getting ready for work I watched the blue birds sitting on the back fence , waiting for an unsuspecting grasshopper to become breakfast. They share the fence with whitewing doves and another little bird that I haven't been able to identify. He eats grasshoppers, too. He is greenish gray on his back with a white breast and a solid black head. A white stripe runs from his eye to his neck. It makes him look like he's wearing a black cap. I think he must be some sort of fly catcher. The bluebirds even flew close to the back porch. Since there are no trees in the back yard yet, the birds stay mostly on the fence, so it was a pleasant surprise to see them so close to the house. There are lots of woods and an open meadow in back of the house. I had better enjoy it while I can. I'm sure it's just a matter of time before it gets sold and developed. I have also seen and heard a great horned owl in the early morning just before daylight. He's so big he looks like a cat sitting up in top of the pine tree. It will soon be time to put out the bird feeders for the winter. Wonder what feathered friends will visit me in my new place? Did I mention that I love to watch birds (and butterflies)? They are so free...Just flitting around all day looking pretty!
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving...a day to spend with family and/or friends, eat good food and gives thanks for the blessings we have. I must admit that I'm sort of sad that neither of my kids will be here, but at the same time I am thankful that they both have their own families and friends to share the day with. I will be seeing them soon, anyway.
I didn't stop by Ross after work. I don't need another purse! I need to buy for others, anyway.
Must go get the cranberries ready for tomorrow and ice my cakes.
Happy Thanksgiving eve!

Another fun day in the land of hair. It was a rather slow day, just one color and a few haircuts, but it's OK, cuz I still feel cruddy. More of same tomorrow......blah, blah, blah. Sometimes I just get so tired of talking! Can you tell I don't feel good?
I meant to stop by Ross on the way home today... the girls at work found some great purses..but I forgot and passed right by...didn't want to turn around so I headed on home. I was all engrossed in listening to my practice CD for Christmas pageant. It was obvious after rehearsal last night that I really need to cram. The performance is weekend after next. Yikes, only four more rehearsals, every night next week! Must finish sewing jewels on my costume, also.
Maybe I'll run in to Ross after work tomorrow, then I must get home and make the cranberry sauce and birthday cakes for the nieces. I'll give them cash for their birthdays...they are 16 and 18 and love to shop. Girls after my own heart.
I'm looking forward to spending time with my sisters and their families. Holidays still are not the same with out Mom, though. Hard to believe it's been five years....alas times flies.
Think I'll go have a cup of hot tea and throw my jeans in the dryer.
Later, Ya'll

The Empty Nest

Baby birds, when they're hatched

They're naked as can be

But, soon as the have feathers

And learn to flap their wings

Mama says, 'Now fly away'

Go find another tree

She never gives them one more thought

They're out there on their own

Her work is done when they take flight

She won't be waiting up all night

For someone to come home!

My babies, they have left the nest

They sprouted wings to fly

But I'm not like that mama bird

They're always on my mind

I wonder how they are

And pray that they're all fine

I'd just like to know, God

Why did they fly so far?

Sometimes I wish that I could be

More like that mama bird

I wouldn't have to worry

When I didn't hear a word

She puts them in your loving care

As they go and make their way

Help me be more like her

Father, this I pray

Written in 2004

Lainey

I stayed home from church today. Still trying to shake 'the crud', as we say in Texas. I don't have time to be sick!! Thought if I just took the day off, I will make it through the next couple of weeks. Lot's going on this time of year. Fortunately, we are having Thanksgiving dinner at my sister's house, so I don't have to do the whole meal. I've been asked to make the cranberries and also want to try a new recipe I saw on Paula Deen's show...Pumpkin-Applebutter pie. Sounds yummy, huh? She topped it with whipped cream and crushed praline pecans. Ya'll check it out on Foodnetwork.com. That lady can cook!
Both my kids live out of town and can't make it home this year. Son lives in north Texas, but I think he's going hunting. Daughter lives out of state, but I'm taking off the day after Christmas to spend a week with them. Can't wait to shop with my girls! Sigh, sometimes I don't like the empty nest. I wrote a poem about it. I'll have to look it up and share.
Well, it's back to the couch now. Or is that NASCAR I hear? The man must be watching a race. So much for the couch! Oh well, he went and got me some medicine and hung my wrought iron pot rack above the island in the kitchen, guess I'll let him watch his race in peace. (Yeah, like I could stop him...the guy is rabid about NASCAR!)

What can I say?

I stood all day

Behind the chair

In the world of hair

Snippin' here and

Curlin' there

Oh, the stories

That I hear

As I stand

Behind the chair

We laugh, we cry

Our thoughts we share

As I work my magic

Behind the chair

When smiling faces

I see there

All is well

In my world of hair!

Had a long day at the salon. Met a new client who hosts private wine tastings. I learned a few tidbits of information about wine. I enjoy a good merlot or white zin now and then, but I'd like to learn more about 'the grape'. I told her about a little winery in central Florida that I discovered several years ago. My sis and I stopped in a few years ago and had quite a nice time tasting and touring the place. The A/C in my car went on the blink around Mobile, Al so we were pretty warm by the time we reached Clermont, Fl the following afternoon. It was cool in the winery and we arrived just in time to taste the vintage.....What fun! We made our purchases and arrived at my daughters house feeling pretty good.
I like the Southern Red and Sun Blush.
My client loved her hair, too!
T'was a nice day, indeed.
Tomorrow's another day in the land of hair. Everybody's 'talking turkey' since Thanksgiving is next week. I'm sure I'll hear some interesting stories and share some good recipes.
Later, Ya'll

I just returned from the funeral of my friend's husband. It was a beautiful tribute to a man who loved the Lord, and was a devoted family man. He was still relatively young, hadn't retired yet. Reminds me that we should be thankful for each and every day.
Didn't go to the cemetery because it is so windy and kind of chilly. We finally got our first 'cold front' here in southeast Texas. Woo Hoo! It's gonna get in the 30's tonight. I feel like I'm getting the sniffles, so I'm making a pot of chicken vegetable soup and contemplating life! Must pull myself together so I can cut, curl and color all day tomorrow. Being at the salon is my 'escape'. I love the interaction with my clients and 'the girls'. Sorry, we have no guys working there. We had two at one time, but they moved on. They were too 'high maintenance' anyway. Poor things didn't know how to fold towels or sweep either!
Think I'll go make some cornbread to go with the soup... Yum!
Bye for now, ya'll

Monday... This is the first day of my blog! I spent the day at home, working on window treatments for my kitchen. Not happy with the results. Think I'll go to plan B and buy ready made.
Oh well, gotta go back to work tomorrow anyway. To the world of hair. What fun... I get to hear some juicy stuff at times. It's like show biz sometimes, too. Schmooze, schmooze, schmooze...Tell 'em how wonderful they are, stroke, stroke, stroke...But I love 'em all. (Especially when I go the the bank)!
Oops, better not give away all my secrets. I'll have every one wondering about their hairdresser.
Well ya'll ( I'm from the South, honey) It's time to say G'nite!
Lainey