Monday, December 26, 2005

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!

Sunday, December 25, 2005

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

Saturday, December 24, 2005


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!

Wednesday, December 21, 2005

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!

Monday, December 19, 2005

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!

Thursday, December 15, 2005

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!

Wednesday, December 14, 2005

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.



Tuesday, December 13, 2005

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!

Sunday, December 11, 2005

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!

Saturday, December 10, 2005

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.

Friday, December 09, 2005

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.

Thursday, December 08, 2005

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.

Monday, December 05, 2005

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