Christmas, etc

Well, another Christmas pageant is behind me. After months of preparation and endless rehearsals, The Celebration Choir shared a concert of inspirational Christmas songs. After a short intermission, we presented a short play about The Journey to the Manger. It's all about the 'true' meaning of Christmas. Needless to say, we are all exhausted after it is over, but it is worth every minute!

Anyway, besides working in the world of hair, that's where I've been the last few months.

The wreath is on the front door, the mantel is done and that is the extent of my Christmas decorating because I'm headed for sunny Florida in a few weeks to spend Christmas with 'The Girls'! Yay!!

Today, my little doxie, Elvis is 1 year old. I wanted to get him a cake and take pictures, but I have been grounded to the house today because I caught a stomach virus that was going around during pageant. At least I didn't get sick during that time, though.

Later, Ya'll!

Still Kickin'

I just have not been in the mood to write much lately. A lot has been happening, though. My niece moved back home with her Mama almost a month ago. Let's just say it was a learning experience for both of us and leave it at that. She went for a weekend visit and decided to stay. It must have been something I said! All her clothes are still here. Princeton, (the cat) is here also, and will be staying for a while longer. He will be moving to his new home in about a month. By then, the new puppy should be here. Yes, I am getting another mini doxie...a bro for Elvis. His name will be Presley. I hope The King accepts him and that they become buddies.

I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas. It's hard to believe that this will be my second holiday season in the new house. Even though things haven't turned out the way I expected, I have enjoyed being here. The neighborhood has changed considerably in the last year, too. Many of the families that have moved in relocated here from Louisiana, in the wake of hurricane Katrina.

There are lots of kids, running all over the cul-de-sac. I wish their parents would teach them to get out of the street when a car is approaching. The little ones are allowed to run amok all over the place. The big ones move their portable basketball goals out to the curb and shoot hoops in the street, almost daring me to hit them! At least they could step to the side and allow me to pass. I'm going to go to the next home owners meeting and say something. I'm not a mean, old, grouchy woman yet, and I realize that children need to play outdoors, but NOT IN THE STREET where I have to drive to get to my home! That's what driveways, yards and parks are for.

Enough ranting about the juvenile delinquents. I'm still looking for a Halloween costume for Elvis so I can take his picture. All I want is a black t-shirt with something on it. I'm afraid he might eat/tear up anything else. He is such a destructo-puppy! It would be cute to get Princeton a matching shirt, too. I'll go look tomorrow after work.

I'm going to go read cookbooks. I'm having a luncheon here in a few weeks and I need to work on my menu. I'm thinking pasta salad and stuff to go with it. Pumpkin bread or mini pecan tarts sound good, too. I found some brownish/amber plastic plates at Target today that will go perfect with my Fall theme. They were marked down to 98 cents each! I bought 14 of them and a salad bowl to match. I love finding a bargain like that!

It's almost time for Dr. G, Medical Examiner....I love that show!

Take care, ya'll

Life Goes On

I'm still painting! I was almost finished in the family room when I started getting sick with a sore throat. I laid on the couch Sunday and Monday looking at a half painted wall! Hopefully, I can wrap it up next week. I'm having a luncheon for a few of my girlfriends the first week in November, so I still have time. I've been in my new home for a year and none of my friends have seen it. Mainly because I'm just now getting it decorated properly. Until recently, All the 'domestic issues' kept me from really having the desire to do anything. Now that things are finally getting resolved and I plan on staying in the house, it's time to get on with my projects.

The window treatments in the family room look great. I like them even better than I thought I would. I'll take pictures soon. I found some velvety looking moss green panels for the window in the front room/sitting room at Ross. They are perfect! I still need to decide on a wall color for this room, too. It just never ends! One thing leads to another, but it's so much fun. Anyway, I need to get it all done asap.

The holiday season is fast approaching, which means Christmas Pageant, which means lots of work and rehearsals. A friend and I have been asked to re-work and repair about a dozen or so large banners to be used in the pageant. It sounds like a fun project, but will take some time. We will need to ask for volunteers to help, I'm sure. This Friday evening and all day Saturday is our Choir retreat, where we will really get into the music and CRAM! Lot's of work, but oh so rewarding!

My niece moved back home a few weeks ago. She missed her family and they missed her, in spite of their differences. She is still searching, but hopefully, she will find her way. I hope I made some sort of impression on her, although she thought I had too many 'limitations' (her word). What she called limitations I called expectations. Live and learn, Miss Sophie.

Yes, Life goes on, ya'll

High Maintenance Women

Here's the question: Are guys intimidated by attractive women? I recently asked a gentleman acquaintance this question. He said, 'Yes, in most cases they are, because an attractive woman usually means 'high maintenance'...(which, of course means Big Bucks). I said facetiously, 'You get what you pay for'!

It is possible to look H.M. without being H.M. However, the reverse is also true!

This debate reminds me of a quote by Dolly Parton, ' It takes a lot of money to look this trashy'.

Or, to quote my Mama, 'You can't judge a book by its cover'. I had a hairdresser friend that used to say, 'You cant make chicken salad out of chicken s***'!

Aunt Era used to tell me that it doesn't matter how pretty you are on the out side, if you're not pretty on the inside.....She'd say, 'Pretty is as pretty does'.

As for me personally, I love to dress, love my jewelry, love my having my nails done, love pedicures and facials, love playing with my hair color..I love all that girly stuff, but that doesn't make me high maintenance because I don't ask or expect anyone to bankroll my personal indulgences. In fact, I call it 'creative marketing'. I am, after all, in the beauty business. I must constantly endeavor to perfect the art and science of looking high maintenance, while not breaking the bank. I love my job!

So guys, the next time you see an attractive woman, don't judge a book by its cover. But, FYI, if you happen to run into a gold digger, their motto is: 'If you wanna play, you gotta pay'! Hmmm, come to think of it, that doesn't sound like such a bad idea! Just kidding...maybe!

Excuse me while I go attempt to balance my checkbook. I need to see if I can afford to go to SteinMart tomorrow. It's the perfect place for girls like myself, who have Champagne taste on a beer budget!

Just doing a little creative marketing, ya'll

My New Walls

I love this taupe color in the Family room. It's Martha Stewart 'Tumbleweed'. You can see the contrast with the unpainted wall to the right. I'm still looking for just the right window treatments. On the mantel, I arranged a colorful Fall swag with red votive candles nestled among the leaves, enhanced by clove scented pillar candles. I'm thinking about antiquing the mantel...what do you think?
Here is the entry hall. The wall color is actually a bit darker than the picture shows. It too, is a Martha Stewart color called Jasper, a soft sage green. It contrasts beautifully with the creamy taupe in the family room. I love the way it brings out the richness of the dark brown metal side table and other accessories.

I love it Ya'll!

Me and My Chicas

A few of my good buds met me for lunch today. My birthday isn't until Saturday, but Wednesday is the day we all get together to celebrate special days.

Of course, if you go to a Mexican place, they always sing and make you wear a silly hat!

Ole! ya'll

Where Were You?

What a perfectly beautiful morning, I thought as I hung up the phone and looked out the back door. A perfect day for flying...I had just finished talking to my daughter in Florida. We were both excited and making plans about our visit. I was scheduled to fly out the next morning, September 12, 2001. My birthday is on September 16 and my son in laws' is on the 14th. We thought it would be fun to celebrate together. I remember thinking, as I continued to get ready for work, 'I wish I had left yesterday (the 10th), I would already be there having fun'.

I had the radio on, as usual, listening to my favorite DJ's on KSBJ, a Contemporary Christian station. I looked at the clock, it was about a quarter to eight. I was running a little late because I had stayed on the phone too long. As I ran to get dressed, the DJ broke in to announce that there had been some sort of explosion at the World Trade Center in New York City. I quickly turned on the TV to get more information. To my horror, there it was; live coverage of this horrible event. I couldn't believe what I was seeing and hearing! Suddenly, I saw an airplane heading toward the second tower, the first tower already in flames. The plane crashed into the building and appeared to come out the other side. I watched in utter disbelief as pandemonium broke loose.

I had to leave for work and by the time I got to the salon the whole world seemed to come to a halt. All of the local radio stations were broadcasting live reports. Everyone seemed to be in shock as we listened to this unbelievable tragedy unfold. As the day wore on, I realized that I wouldn't be boarding a plane the next day because all flights were grounded...every airport in the nation was shut down. At the end of the day, I went home and turned on the TV, once again seeing the Towers being assaulted, watching as they tumbled to the ground. Over and over, they showed them as they fell. By this time, the reality of what had happened became clear. The hijacked planes, the attack on the Pentagon, people running in the streets. I finally had to turn it off. I was numb. I called my daughter, my son...every one in my family.

The next morning I got up to another perfect day, weatherwise, but I wasn't going anywhere. I turned on the TV. There it was again, footage of the Towers coming down. Stories began to unfold...it seemed to go on and on. I was so sad and angry. I had to turn it off and get out of the house. I put my bathing suit on and went out to the pool and floated around all morning. I lived close enough to the airport that I could hear the planes as they took off. They flew over my house as they coasted in to land. The noise of the airport was just a part of our daily life. But not this morning. As I floated around looking at the perfect, cloudless blue sky, there were no planes, no noises coming from the big airport. The world was eerily quiet. The trees were almost perfectly still. There were no birds chirping or flying about. No dogs barking, very few cars passing by. It was as if the whole universe had been paralyzed by this tragic turn of events. I began to pray; God help us all! Then came the tears. Our world was forever changed that day. Now, five years later, we are still shaken...WE WILL NEVER FORGET!

Remember the heros and those who lost loved ones, ya'll

The OTHER Sister

Aw, ain't he cute? His Auntie just wants to give a big ole birthday kiss! It's kinda hard to pucker up with these buck teeth, though.

Seriously...

Recently I crossed paths with a young man whose political views and philosophy on life is totally opposite from mine....someone who, if I encountered him on the street, or saw him hanging out at the mall, I would label as a skater or a punk. He's a 19 year old kid after all! Why would he and I have any inclination to want to know each other?

Well, certain events lead us to meet, along with a few of his friends. They seemed uncomfortable, even though I tried to make them feel welcome in my home. I'm sure I represent a lifestyle that they have had very little exposure to. Nevertheless, I tried to make them feel comfortable for the short while they sat in my living room. I admit I was a little uncomfortable myself.

I silently sized him up while the introductions were being made. I immediately noticed the cold, blank look in his eyes. He seemed emotionless, as did his buddies. It was as if he didn't want to make eye contact. There were none of the usual social gestures made. No "Hello, pleased to meet you" from him or the other boys. He had a small boom box with him and began checking the batteries. He then asked me if I had any extra ones he could borrow, as the batteries were dead. How weird, I'm thinking. So, for the remainder of his brief stay he concentrated on changing out the dead batteries.

Because of circumstances that I can't go into because of privacy issues, I felt it necessary to find out "where he was coming from". Through Myspace I started a dialogue with him. ( I had checked out his site and was a little shocked and concerned at what I saw). I began by telling him it was nice to meet him and that I hoped they enjoyed the reggae concert. I asked about his family. I asked about the *ska* lifestyle. He told me his people were a bunch of rednecks from Mississippi and that he didn't fit in with them. He came here to visit his brother and decided to stay. He's more punk than ska...he's also an anarchist, not into religion and believes that the bible was written by some random guy, and just like Harry Potter, it's stupid. He has morals, he says, but people judge him and call him a satanist when they find out what he believes. Politicians invented religion to control us, America is the next Hitler and on and on! The boy was getting fired up! I'd heard enough! I never could get him to tell me why he believes as he does. Ironically, he signed each post; peace. I wonder, how can a person who believes in chaos and lawlessness have true peace in their life?

No, it's not up to me to judge him or anyone. That's God's job. As a Christian I feel sad for him...for his young soul. What a shame and a waste to be filled with such negativity and bitterness. Of course, I pray that his heart will soften and that he will come to know that there is a better way to live. I wanted to tell him more but he stopped communicating with me when I (politely, I might add) called him down for being disrespectful. The *Mother* in me was starting to kick in!

If the eyes are the windows of the soul, I saw nothing but emptiness and darkness when I looked into his. There's only one thing that will light up that lost soul...the light of God's love and grace! I pray that he finds it!

Know God
Know Peace

No God
No Peace

Bless Ya'll!

Goofin Off

I've been painting my entry hall all day. No, this is not what I look like right now. Let's just say that I look like I've been painting all day and leave it at that. A lovely Martha Stewart sage-y green. I'll take pictures when I'm done.

I like my hair color this week, so I took a few pictures so I wouldn't forget what to mix when I touch it up next time. I hate my nose! Oh well, I'm not going to bother getting it 'fixed', so I'll just live with it. If I were going to spend money on plastic surgery, I would have *the girls* whittled down and made to stand at attention. I still dream of wearing a hippie halter top. Anyway, back to the hair...I never can remember from one time to the next what I've done. I'm always experimenting..to see what I come up with. Better on me than my client, dontcha think?

I like to name all my hair colors after desserts, spices and other food. I did a tri color hilight/lowlight combo the other day...called it gumbo, you know, two shades of spicy red, and golden roux . My client is from Louisiana originally. That's why I called it gumbo. She liked it!
I do a choco-latte/french vanilla combo that is yummy. Then there's gingersnap and cinnamon.
Golden vanilla is pretty. Clients love it!

I love these sunglasses. I found them in Dallas when I was at a Hair Show. In the bottom picture I'm saying something goofy so I enhanced the picture when I edited it. That's not dirt on my lips, it's just the 'cartoon' effects on my editing program. My hair looks rather brassy too.
I don't do brassy...ever!

I'm pooped! Can't you tell from the content of this post...such randomness!

Think I'll go soak these weary bones in the garden tub and crash.

Night, ya'll

I'm Being Random

Don't worry 'bout me
I'll get along
Forget about me
Be happy my love

Let's say that our little show is over
And so the story ends
Why not call it a day, the sensible way
And still be friends

Look out for yourself
Should always be the rule
Give your heart and your love, to whomever you love
Don't you be a fool

Darling why stop to cling, to some fading thing
That used to be
If you can't forget
Don't you worry 'bout me

I ran across this poem at www.girlontheright.blogspot.com. I don't know whether she wrote it or not. Whatever, it's good.


Ok, now that it's been a year since **Katrina** can we move on? How long do the leeches and whiners think someone should pay their light bills for them. I don't care if their meat IS defrosting in the freezer! BTW, I don't have a freezer full of meat. I had to pay my light bill instead of buying meat!!

And......where was Jesse Jackson when Nagin was popping of on 60 minutes the other night about New Yorkers and the 'big hole in the ground'? Hmmm???

And......I'll be glad when the weather gets cool, so I can plant some pansies, and a few crape myrtles.

Poor H-town weathermen, Ernesto kinda fizzled...but I'm glad he didn't come this way. I think I'll go to Galveston this weekend after all.

Ok, I'm done, ya'll!

Your Aura is Blue

Your Personality: Your natural warmth and intuition nurtures those around you. You are accepting and always follow your heart. You in Love: Relationships are your top priority, and this includes love. You are most happy when you are serious with someone. Your Career: You need to help others in your job to feel satistifed. You would be a great nurse, psychologist, or counselor.

What Color Is Your aura?

I don't have a degree in psychology, but I I use a lot of it in my profession. And yes, I do a lot of counseling. Helping others look their best gives me a lot of satisfaction.

Meet Princeton

This is the newest member of the family. He is a rescue kitty from a vet's office in the area.

I have been so busy since my niece has been here, getting her all settled in and working has been taking up most of my time. I must say it's nice to have a girl in the house again. We went shopping last Saturday after work. It was the tax free weekend and the mall was packed! We literally shopped til we dropped! She likes Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe, of course. We went to another store called Buckle. Found Sophie a cute pair of sunglasses with rhinestones on them.

We had a good time, but I was exhausted when we got home at 9:00 pm!

Between Sophie, Elvis and Princeton I have my hands full, so I may not be writing as much. After I come home from work, someone wants/needs my
attention. Sophie, just like all teens these days, communicates with her friends on the computer and MySpace, so we have to take turns with the computer, too.

Guess I'd better go see about Elvis. He and Princeton are still getting acquainted and he's a little too rough with the little guy.

Night, ya'll!

My New 'Roomie'

This lovely young lady is my niece. She recently moved in with me. She is also my assistant (slave) at the salon, sweeping hair, washing and folding towels, cleaning color bowls, 'ripping' foils, ( doesn't that sound like fun?) and anything else we need her to do. She has been a great help to me and the other stylists. We enjoy having her there and she loves hanging out with us.

My clients have also enjoyed getting to know her. She's quiet and a little shy, but we're working on her. Before long she'll be just like the rest of us goofy, air head hairdressers. Who knows....she may just decide to become a full fledged twister of hair one of these days. I became a hair dresser like my aunt before me. Wouldn't it be neat if my niece carried on the tradition? Of course, I want her to be what ever she chooses.... but ya never know!

And how about that hot haircolor she's sporting? It's a dark, rich red brown with copper highlights. Very tres chic!

She's been keeping me busy, showing me the ropes over at MySpace and teaching me the names and songs of all the current music artists, who is Gnarls Barkley??? But then, she has to listen to me nag her about school, going to bed at a decent hour so she can get up and go to work. Remember? She's my slave! Ya gotta love her! She's a keeper!!

Girls just wanna have fun, ya'll!

More Florida Pictures

Bathing Beauties!
This pair of Sandhill Cranes wandered through the yard one day. When they saw me taking their picture, they curiously came closer, as if they were posing for me. Very beautiful, majestic birds.

Fun in Florida

This was fun. T and I went to a place called DinnerDone. http://www.dinnerdone.com. Check it out. I want to find a place like this in the Houston area.
My girls in their formals. I made the pink satin and lace one for T when she was in the eighth grade. She is wearing her purple prom dress, which still fits, albeit a little snug. C-B is wearing my gold lame cocktail dress. I wore it one time at a hair show.
The big thing in Florida is Vera Bradley purses http://www.verabradley.com. Here are the girls modeling theirs. Cutie patooties!

This is me and my 'gurlfriend', Barbara (she's the blonde). Her daughter and my daughter are friends and we hit it off, too. We had a multi-generational slumber party at her apartment with our daughters and grand daughters. We stayed up late and watched the Disney Channel...'Hannah Montana' and 'Read it and Weep', ate junk food, danced and caught up on all the happenings in our lives.

More later, ya'll... Elvis wants to play

A Few Words Before I Go

What a week this has been. I must have cut, colored and highlighted a ton of hair this week. It never ceases to amaze me how busy I get right before vacation. I mean, most of my 'regulars' pre-book so they can get in before I go. So, I'm already busy, but then I get calls from people I haven't seen in ages, new referrals plus all the procrastinators who always call at the last minute ( mainly men!) They wake up one morning and suddenly realize they need a haircut, or their wife tells them they have a wedding or some social event to attend, which of course requires them to get the hairs trimmed out of their ears. (I don't do nose hairs!) I even have to wax a few uni-brows occasionally. It is soo funny the first time I rip that wax off from between their eyes! I know it hurts like the dickens, but heaven forbid that they let me see them wince in pain. I really do love my male type clients, though! Hey Mike, ( you know who you are) ever had anything waxed? How about you, Jason?

Well, friends, I must finish packing. I bought some of those Space Bags that you put your clothes in and suck all the air out with the Hoover. They are so neat! I'm taking my daughters' prom dress to her, she's getting all nostalgic, I guess. It's been a few years since she wore it, but I ain't sayin' how many. Anyway, I wanted to to be able to get away with just a carry-on bag, so I sucked that frock down flatter than a pancake! I figured I had room for her pink satin and lace formal, so I sucked it flat, too. What fun, ya'll! I can't wait to suck the life out of some pillows...oooh, do I sound sadistic?

But that will have to wait until I return, for I must go find my sparkly flip flops and beach wrap. Florida is beckoning me. My girls await my arrival, 'cause
Mema Texas made lots of moolah this week and we gonna shop 'til we drop!
And do lunch, and do hair, and go to the movies, the beach, have a slumber party, etc. etc. etc!

Back in a week or so!

Ciao for now, ya'll

Vacation's All I Ever Wanted!

Just six more days ya'll! I'm going to Florida to play in the sun and sand with my girls.

As always, before I go away, I get extremely busy at work. Everyone wants to come in and get their cuts and color done before I get out of town. It's the same way when I return. I'm already booked solid the week I come home. That's ok, because I will be completely broke by then!

I haven't been posting very much lately because I have been pre-occupied with a family crisis concerning my 18 yr old niece. She has been staying with my son since Father's day when I took her, her mother (my sister) and her two younger sisters with me for a visit. Now, she doesn't want to go home. I won't go into the details, but we have all seen this coming for several years, so I wasn't surprised when things came to a head. To make a long story short, she is coming to stay with me. I will go get her when I come back from Florida. She's not rebellious, just misguided and confused. She has wanted to live with me for quite some time, but because of all my marriage issues, it hasn't been possible. Now that all my drama is about to be resolved, the time is right to reach out to her. It's a little scary, but at the same time, I know that it is the right thing to do. I hope that I can be the positive influence that she needs at this precarious time in her young life. Pray for me... It's been a while since I've had a teenager in the house!

Meanwhile, I'm ready for a Florida tan, ya'll

Friendship Garden

As I was rummaging through some files, I ran across this poem I wrote a few years ago. Thought I'd share with ya'll.

Friendship Garden

As I tend my friendship garden
And go about its care,
I so lovingly appreciate
The pretty flowers there.

I till the soil so carefully,
I plant the seeds with love.
As my friendships grow, I see,
They're blessings from above.

My lovely friendship garden,
I watch it as it grows.
I don't expect a marigold
To smell just like a rose.

I give each friend lots of room
To grow in her own way.
With tears of empathy and prayer
I water every day.

I fertilize so generously
With laughter and with cheer.
As each and every friendship grows,
I hold them all so dear.

My pretty friendship garden,
In it I persevere.
When I spend my time there,
I know that God is near.

I have been blessed with so many wonderful friends over the years. However, I also know that friendships need to be developed and nurtured in order to flourish. Friends come in many 'varieties'. Just like flowers in a garden, each one is unique in it's own way. I even have a few cacti in my garden...prickly on the outside, but all mushy on the inside.

In recent months I have added another dimension to my friendships, through blogging. I have enjoyed getting acquainted with people from other parts of the country and even this city... even people whom I may not have associated otherwise, because we are from such different backgrounds, ages or social circles. It has been a learning experience, for sure!

That's a good thing, ya'll

What Happens When I'm Bored

Since I have decided to stay in the house, I thought it was time to get back to decorating. I've been wanting to paint the guest bath, so I stopped by Lowe's after my nail appointment this morning and picked up this beautiful shade of garnet paint for one wall and a neutral taupe for the remaining walls. The towel bar was originally on the red wall where the picture now hangs. It was a cheapo, so I want to replace it with a new polished pewter one I saw at Lowe's. I'll hang it above the toilet.

I get nervous when I first start painting because it always looks so dark. This red really scared me but I got a semi gloss finish so it would have a little shine. Once it dried completely it looked perfect. The taupe looked dark also, but once again, it dried to a perfect shade. When I put all the pewter accessories back in, everything came together beautifully. I added a small lamp with a beaded fringe shade in the corner of the vanity to give an extra punch of illumination.

I love it, ya'll!

Go Eagles! Number One!

Birthday Girl

Like my hair cut?


Make a wish! Big brothers Jacob, 8 and Jared, 4 watch while Payton blows out the candles.

On The Road Again

Elvis and I are going to northeast Texas this weekend. I invited my sis and her girls, so it should be a fun trip. We will be celebrating Payton's 2nd birthday. I bought her two tops, a pair of lime green shorts and a darling pair of Stride Right sandals. Isn't she a doll?

Be back Monday, ya'll

"Medical" Road Rage?

www.Chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/nation/3940309.html


There is now a medical definition for 'road rage'. It's called intermittent explosive disorder.
This disorder involves angry outbursts that are way out of proportion to the situation. Threats, property damage and aggressive actions are involved in these angry outbursts.

I'll bet the pharmaceutical companies are happy with this news...They can sell even more pills.
Lawyers will be getting in on the money making action, too...They now have one more defense strategy to pull out of their hats when some IMD (intermittent explosive disorder) 'victim' winds up in court.

I find it interesting that most people 'suffering' from this malady have other emotional disorders or drug or alcohol problems. Consequently, could this type of behavior be the result of making poor choices? Even if a person truly has a mental illness or chemical imbalance, they make a personal choice to use illegal drugs and alcohol. What happens when anti-depressants are mixed with drugs and alcohol?

Not everyone who does these things is afflicted, so, what about taking responsibility for one's actions? Do we really need one more 'disease' to blame for bad behavior? Being stuck in traffic is stressful, but there are more positive ways to deal with it than to re-act like a two year old!

Remember the Golden Rule?

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you"

Be nice, ya'll!

Happy Birthday, Andy

I found this picture of Andy, whom I spoke of in my previous post. This was taken on Thanksgiving, 2005, his 92nd birthday. I made him this little cake. He couldn't wait to blow the candles out and dig in!

Where's Feathers?

I have been blogging for several months now and have come to 'know' and read some interesting and entertaining blogs. It really does feel sort of like a neighborhood or community as one becomes familiar with other bloggers. We all have our favorites, our buddies that we visit regularly. We look forward to hearing what is going on with them, or just keeping in touch. Occasionally, someone will take a break from blogging for a while, maybe a week or a month, but they will let their buddies know that they will be "off" for a while. Even if someone decides to quit completely, they usually let others know. It's kind of like moving, you tell your neighbors, etc that you're leaving. Unless, heaven forbid, you have had to enter the witness protection program! So, imagine my concern when I check in with Tickle Feathers at http://featherstickle.blogspot.com/. After several visits to her blog the last week of April, and after reading comments to her last post, it seems that she has vanished into thin air. There's not a clue as to where she is or what might have happened to cause her to so abruptly abandon her site. In fact, her site is still up, with her last post on Monday, April 24. I just hope and pray that "Feathers" is safe and well. I certainly hope that she hasn't met with some sort of catastrophe or tragedy in her life. Even though I have never met her in person, I know that she is a woman of faith...I will continue to pray for her.

Miss Litzi at http://misslitzi.blogspot.com/ is on sabbatical from her blog, but she let everyone know that she wouldn't be posting for a while. I miss her and hope she returns soon. I trust that she is getting all the things done that she has on her agenda.

As for me, I'm staying busy, busy, busy in the world of hair, as always. Saturday afternoon I went to the funeral of a dear, sweet man, my sister's father-in-law. He was 92 years old and had a wonderful life. It was truly a celebration of great family man. His legacy is an inspiration to his children and all who had the privelege to know him.
He is now dancing with the angels...Rest in peace, Andy.

Have a blessed week, Ya'll

Riding the Merry-Go-Round

That's what I've been doing the last week or so...riding the merry-go-round of life. The hair show in Dallas was fun and interesting. Hair styles are still about the same...lots of straight, fringy hair. Lots of bold hair color and accent colors in jewel tones. It seems like the primary purpose of these shows is to sell and introduce new products rather than showing anything useful as far as hair cutting and styling. The 'platform artists' are interesting to watch, but there are only so many ways to cut hair, and I think I've seen them all. However, I still like to see the 'show' and hopefully pick up some new techniques. I think my clients like to know that I am interested in keeping up with the currents trends. It does motivate me to try new things and be more progressive and creative 'behind the chair'.

The show was held at the Gaylord Texan Hotel http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylordtexan/. Check it out...it is awesome! I want to go back, just to stay at the resort and spa.

I had an extremely busy week in The World of Hair, but I had to race home Tuesday night to see the final showdown between Taylor and Kat on American Idol. I voted for Taylor! Then, I got home on Wednesday night at 8:45, just in time to see the results. When Ryan announced that Taylor won, I jumped up and let out the 'Taylor Howl' Woooooo! Scared poor little Elvis to death! He jumped back and looked at me like I had lost my mind. Now, we'll have to wait and see if Taylor can live up to the title. I think he has a good shot at it. He's cute, has personality and a unique voice. I'll buy his first CD. Go Taylor!

I got off work early on Friday so I could get on the road to College Station. One of my clients was getting married in Aggieland. Both she and her fiance just graduated from A&M and wanted to be married at their church in Bryan, Tx. I stayed at the Hilton Hotel, along with the other out of town guests. The room was very nice and elegant. I loved the cushy down comforters, fluffy pillows and thick, plush towels. After checking into my room, I went to the local mall and did a little shopping, then got a pedicure. I then stopped at a deli and had a Greek chicken salad before returning to my room and nestling into my comfy, soft bed. I had to get up early Saturday morning and go to the bride's home and do her and her attendants hair. After the girls were all done, I went back to my room and got myself ready to go to the two o'clock ceremony. The reception was held at 'The Kyle House', an old Victorian home turned 'event venue'. The wedding ceremony itself was beautiful and inspiring. These are two young people who are dedicated to each other and to the Lord. May God bless them abundantly and keep them in His care as they begin their life together. Her mom is also a dear, sweet friend whom I treasure greatly, as is her sweet little sister.
It was an honor to be able to share in their special day.

So, here it is Memorial Day week-end...a time to remember all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our great nation and for those veterans who survived and came home to enjoy this great land we call America

Thanks Veterans!

Enjoy your time off, ya'll!

Random Acts of Living

I had a busy few days in The World of Hair after the Spring Tea last week, so I just came home and crashed every night after work. I did watch American Idol last Wednesday when Chris got the boot. Talk about a shock!

I had the most fun Mother's Day weekend. Since both of my kids live out of town, my sister's daughter had to work and our Mom is in heaven we decided to hang out together, doing what we love to do, which is shop and eat. After working a few hours Saturday morning I went to sis's house and we headed to the mall. We had lunch at Los Cucos Mexican Restaurant, then shopped till we dropped. I found a tiered print skirt and top at Foley's. Sis found an orange tailored jacket. As we made our way through the cosmetics department, it was crawling with prom girls having their make-up done. There were perfume reps all over the place giving out samples, gift baskets were lined up on the counters, all ready to be purchased and presented to some lucky mother. We were just passing through, so we made a bee-line for the exit into the mall. Dillard's was our next stop. We found Liz Claiborne earrings on sale and each bought a pair. It was time for a break, so went stopped at Starbuck's and had coffee and chocolate pound cake. From our table by the window, we had a perfect vantage point for people watching. After a stop into Kirkland's where I found a mirror and sis found a metal 'thingy' for the wall, we decided we had had enough retail therapy for one day and went back to her house where we both crashed and snoozed for a while.

Guess what we did Sunday? The same thing, only we went to Pappa's Seafood and had fried shrimp and oysters. They gave all the mom's a Pappa's coffee mug. We then went to the Woodland's to check out the Market Place, a new outdoor shopping venue. It was OK, but very 'high dollar'. The weather was getting stormy, so we decided to try and make it to Stein Mart before the bottom fell out. The sky to the north was black and lightening was flashing like crazy. I raced down the feeder road and into the parking lot, just barely parking the car before the first raindrops began to fall. With umbrellas in hand, we ran for the door. Outside the sky turned black and the wind began to blow as torrents of rain came down. The lights flashed a few times, but we never lost power, so we just kept on shopping. I found a white shirt with silver buttons and a pair of denim crop pants and sis bought an 'undergarment'. By the time we finished, the storm had blown over. Neither rain, nor wind nor flashing lightening could keep us from our appointed rounds to our favorite retail therapy places. What an adventure and a most memorable Mother's day my Sis and I had!

Monday I had my regular eye check-up and decided to try contacts again. I got the bi-focal progressive disposable lenses. At first they felt weird in my eyes, but I'm getting used to them. It is so nice not to have to bother with glasses. I mainly need them for working and close up, so I was constantly taking them on and off. Now, I'm free!

Ok, I watched Americal Idol last night. I'm afraid Elliot is going to be the next to go, but I hope it's Kat. Taylor was pretty hot, so he will be safe. The phone lines were overloaded, but I kept on until trying I got through. We'll see, later this evening what the results are.

I have a long 12 hour day tomorrow and a busy day Friday because I'm taking off Saturday to go to a Hair Show in Dallas with a friend of mine. We will be back late Monday, so I won't be posting for a few days. I'm sure I'll have a few good stories to tell when I return. When a bunch of hairdressers converge upon a city, there is bound to be something exciting happening. Of course, we do go to learn new things and see new products, but there is definately a 'party' atmosphere wherever we go. Woo Hoo!

My nails are done, my hair is colored and highlighted, I have some new duds, I have new contacts......

I'm ready to go to the Hair Show, ya'll

My Table

I made chair back covers to match the tablecloth. The ornament was made from gold metal medallions from an old belt. I glued two medallions together for the base then added beaded fringe along the bottom, glued a small mosaic medallion in the center and added a small jewel. I glued on a bar pin back to attach it to the fabric. I love it when I come up with a clever idea like this!
My friend and I designed and created this 'desert oasis' for the Spring Tea. We used a metal canopy frame and covered it with fabric. The striped tent front and other props were borrowed from the music department. The stage was covered with yards of gauze to get the illusion of sand.
Here is my table. This picture doesn't show all the fine details. There were smaller jewel boxes filled with jewelry and brightly colored glass stones placed between the red votive candles. The large hammered metal tray was filled with more jewelry and stones, along with a glass mosaic candle holder. Airy asparagus fern was nestled underneath the tray. The shimmering gold and green organza table squares were scattered with more glass stones and faux jewels, adding an extra sparkle. Copper gold glass chargers were enhanced by red and copper beaded napkin rings holding creamy sateen napkins. Candle light danced off the stones and jewelry, creating a casually elegant ambiance. We dined on a delectable array of salads, consisting of pasta with grilled chicken, tossed garden and fresh fruit. For dessert, we had our choice of chocolate or carrot cake. Yours truly chose the chocolate, of course!

These events take a lot of planning and work, but it is so rewarding to see the ladies come and enjoy an inspiring evening in a beautiful setting. It brings me joy to share my talents in this way, surrounded with friends, who delight in joining me at my table for an evening of fun, food and fellowship.

A good time was had by all, ya'll!

Tea Time

I am hosting a table at the annual Spring Tea at church is next Tuesday evening and I have been in decorating mode for the last several weeks. Being a table hostess is nothing new to me. I enjoy coming up with a theme, color scheme and then co-ordinating all the various elements that make a beautiful tablescape. In fact, I have ladies clamoring to sit at my table because of my unique, elegant settings. The theme for my table this year is 'Precious Jewels', done in jewel tones, of course. For the centerpiece I am using a metal tray on a pedestal, on which I have placed a gold box filled with jewelry, colorful glass stones and loose faux jewels. Greenery will be incorporated under the tray, along with red glass votive cups and a collection of smaller jewel boxes filled with more glass stones and jewels. I found some beautiful beaded napkin rings in shades of red and copper at Target. They will look stunning with my copper glass chargers and beige sateen napkins. I have been busy sewing moss green table cloths and chair back covers. The over-all look will be sort of 'Old World', but elegant. It is customary to give each lady a small gift. I bought tiny gold drawstring bags and filled each one with a red heart shaped stone and some colorful faux jewels. I'll make a place card to co-ordinate with the bag of jewels.
Doesn't it sound lovely?

Work is picking back up since every one has recovered from income tax time. I'm booked solid for the next three days. I have two prom up-do's this Saturday.
What fun!!

My work and decorating projects keep me sane, in spite of the 'domestic issues'. I am determined to 'have a life', no matter what 'the man' does. I am still keeping my distance.....I ain't going near that fire any more!

It is what it is, ya'll

The Latest Fashion Trend?

All the hoopla and hype about whether the Houston Texans would pick the hometown boy, Vince Young or Reggie Bush from North Carolina State is finally over. The shocker! They picked neither! Read all about it at: http://houstonchronicle.com.

I'm not a football fan, so I could care less who they pick. However, I don't live in a cave either, so I have been sort of keeping up with the story. The subject comes up at the salon occasionally and I need to at least know a little about what's going on in the sports world.

Anyway, as I opened the paper this morning, there, emblazoned across the front page, were the pictures of all three athletes; Vince, Reggie and Mario Williams. All three are handsome, clean-cut looking young men. I'm sure their mothers (and fathers) are extremely proud of them. Then something about each one caught my eye. All three were sporting sparkling diamond studs in both ears! I'm guessing they are at least 2-3 carats each. Which leads to my question(s): What is up with that? Have earrings re-placed gold chains? Are they the real thing or CZ's? Were they a gift or is that the first thing they buy when they start raking in the cash? Does anyone else think it looks weird for a guy, especially a big hulking football player, to wear big ole diamond studs in both ears? I'm not trying to be mean, just making an observation. I'm curious about this strange phenomenon purely from a fashion standpoint, that's all.

One thing's for sure, after signing a $54 million 6 year deal, you can bet Mario Williams won't be wearing no honkin' CZ's!

Go figure, ya'll

She's Gone

Well, Kelly Pickler, the "naughty little minx" finally got the boot after butchering the last two songs she sang. Check it out on http://www.americanidol.com . I'm sayin'...It's about time! I voted for the first time this week. I thought Elliot Yamin was fantastic, so he got my vote. I would like to see him win because he has a wonderful, soulful voice and he is so humble. Besides, his Mama would be so happy! Chris and Catherine are both unique and talented, but my money is on Elliot. Either Paris (hopefully) or Taylor ( he's cool) will be next.

American Idol is about the only thing I really get into and keep up with. I love Boston Legal also. William Shatner and Candice Bergen are a hoot. In fact, the entire cast rocks! I tried to watch Desperate Housewives a few times, but just didn't get interested. I stopped watching CSI and all those other 'who dunnits'. They're just too depressing. I have enough to be depressed about with my own drama. I don't need to see people getting shot, stabbed and dissected every night of the week! Now, I could watch Food network 24/7! Especially Paula Deen. That girl can coo-ook, ya'll! I've also been keeping up with the Next Food Network Star. I predicted that Guy Fiori would win...and he did!

The World of Hair has been a little off the last few weeks because of the dreaded income tax filing deadline. It will pick up soon because of Mother's Day, proms, graduations and weddings. I's a fun time, to be sure. And, I make mucho dinero! I'm traveling to College Station on Memorial Day weekend to do a wedding party and attend the wedding. I think this occasion calls for a new outfit.

Bye for Now, Ya'll

PS: A Toe Story

http://Texas Goodies brought up a good point in her comment about sanitation in nail salons. It is true that proper cleaning of equipment is very important. All kinds of funguses (fungi) and bacterial diseases can be transmitted from one patron to the next if precautions aren't taken. The pedicure spa tubs especially are a perfect breeding ground for all this yucky stuff. We've all heard stories of women getting severe infections because of poor sanitary practices. That's why The Texas State Board of Cosmetology has a very stringent set of rules and guidelines that must be followed. They also perform routine inspections on all hair and nail salons on a regular basis. Hefty fines can and will be levied if these rules are not followed. In fact, State Board doesn't care how we do hair or nails. We can stand people on their heads as long as we are clean about it. Hee Hee!

The women who came in yesterday did have legitimate concerns about the cleanliness of the spa tub, as do I. I frequent this salon on a regular basis and feel certain that it is being kept clean and sanitary. I have even seen the girls cleaning the spa tubs after finishing a service.

My 'gripe' was they way in which these two patrons came in and interrupted the calm aura in the salon and then continued to make their presence known by being demanding and loud the entire time they were there.

So, TXGoodie and all you other gals, go get them tosies done, 'cause it's sandal time once again. Why not live dangerously and get some little flowers or a palm tree painted on while your at it. Hopefully, you won't run into these two pit bulls or any of their militant sisters!

It's not what you say, it's how you say it. Or, like my mama used to say "You can catch more flies with honey than you can with vinegar."

How's your 'aura'? How's your 'energy'? I don't care who you are or where you come from, some people just seem to go around with a dark aura, emitting negative energy. That's what I'm talking about!

Peace, love and good energy, ya'll

A Toe Story

I treated my tootsies to a spa pedicure this morning. That's not a bug on my big toenails, it's a little jeweled flower with black and gold metallic accents. And, check out the new thongs...er flip flops. I found them at DSW Shoes on the sale rack. Those are wooden beads on the straps, along with some shiny black ones in between. I'm ready for summer now!

I was all zoned out in the massaging spa chair while the technician was working on my feet. The music was 'contemporary soft rock', all was quiet and serene. Then, two 'sistas' came busting in, wanting pedicures. They immediately began complaining about the 'ring' around the spa tub and asking about the methods of sanitation used in the salon. I think the Vietnamese girls were a wee bit intimidated. In their quiet, gentle way they assured the two Big Berthas that the tubs were freshly sanitized, after which both hauled themselves into the chair and began soaking. Cell phones started ringing and loud talking ensued for the duration of my visit. They were also being very demanding and nit-picky with the techs. So much for relaxation! What ever happened to civility, sensibility and just plain old manners?

Ok, just one more thing and I'll be finished. At the risk of sounding racist, why is it that 'people of color' are usually the ones who behave in the way I described above? Why are the Vietnamese generally a quiet, reserved people? I'm just asking.

I know that God made us all, but some of his children just don't know how to behave in public!

Hope I didn't step on anyone's toes.. I really just wanted to show ya'll my freshly polished ones!

Oh well!

A Good Day!

I'm still OK, ya'll. After all the drama last week, things have settled down a bit. Now, I must 'stick to my guns' and take the next step. Even though this is want I want to happen and what needs to happen, it will not be with out a certain amount of pain. I must stay focused and strong. I have come too far to weaken and risk being sucked back in. Meeting with my pastor last week gave me encouragement and insight. I will heed his advice and do what I need to do.
I am so blessed to have my church family and friends to draw strength from and to pray for me. I even have a few blogging friends who have shown their concern for me, offering a listening ear and prayers...Thanks, ya'll. I will keep you all up-dated from time to time, but I won't allow this to completely consume my every thought. Like I said before, this is just one facet of my life that I need to deal with, but I won't let it define who I am.

Now, on to other stuff. Life goes on...I worked yesterday, but got off early because I had two cancellations. It was a beautiful sunny day, so I went straight to the car wash and had my car cleaned up, inside and out. Is it me, or does a clean car just seem to drive better? I opened the roof and cranked up the music! That shiny black 3 1/2 yr old 300M was lookin' good, ya'll!
I called my good friend S, to see if she wanted to go to Joe's Crab Shack and get some bar-b-qued crab legs. She turned me on to them a few years ago when I was staying with her (that's another story). She was game, so off we went. Yum!

I went to church this morning. It was great. The pastor was out of town, so his father-in-law filled in for him. It was a good message, one I've heard many times. It never hurts to be reminded of these basic truths that he expounded on, though. The praise and worship time was wonderful. A time of refresing and renewal for the soul, giving all my worries and cares to God. We all have our crosses to bear and only He can make our burden lighter.

I made lunch, then spent the afternoon puttering around the house. I planted some dill seeds and watered my herb garden. Elvis was right there with me, digging in the dirt and getting wet from the hose. He smelled like a nasty little dog, so I brought him in and gave him a bath in the garden tub. He freaked at first, but finally resigned himself to getting his ears cleaned out! I had just watched a few episodes of 'The Dog Whisperer', so I was in control! LOL!

'The Man' is still here, but keeping his distance. I'm OK with this arrangement for now, but it does make for a certain amount of tension. Arghhh!

Night, ya'll

Your Linguistic Profile:

55% General American English

40% Dixie

5% Yankee

0% Midwestern

0% Upper Midwestern

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?

5% Yankee???? I've never been any further north than Dallas, ya'll!

I've FINALLY Been Tagged!

I've been tagged by Texas Goodies. Sounds like fun to me, especially after the depressing junk I wrote in my last post. My relationship may be on the rocks, but I refuse to let it define who I am. I'm still me and I like to have fun and make new friends. So here goes!

Here are the Rules:

1. Write 6 weird facts/things about yourself in my comments box and on your blog, then tag 6 more people.

2. Leave a comment that says "You are Tagged" in their comments telling them to read your blog.


Here's my list, ya'll!

1. All my towels and washcloths are taupe and sage green to match my bathroom. I like them all folded exactly the same direction and stacked by color. I fold them warm out of the dryer so they don't wrinkle.

2. I am always 5-15 minutes early to any appointment or event. If I don't show up, I'm either dead or have been in an accident.

3. I will not ever leave the house with out my make up and jewelry on. I am always co-ordinated and matched, but I will wear a baseball cap whenever I am out running errands. It has to match my outfit, too.

4. I absolutely hate Pepsi and Dr. Pepper. It's got to be Diet Coke or nothing.

5. I never use an alarm clock. If I do set the alarm, I always wake up before it sounds.

6. I have ESP. I can 'think' of someone and they will call me, even if it is someone I haven't heard from in a while. This happens a lot with my clients. Also, if a particular person is on my mind for a few days, I will run into them while I am out shopping, etc.


OK, I'm tagging http://featherstickle.blogspot.com/; Lynda at http://lkscherf.blogspot.com/ ; http://tanlucypez.blogspot.com/ ; http://www.dietcokeisgreat.blogspot.com/

I'm only tagging 4 people. Thanks for playing along, ya'll

History Repeats Itself

It's deja vu all over again... the same old song and dance. I've been down this road before, and once again, I don't like where it's heading, which is 'nowhere'. It's my life and I'm in the driver's seat, so I'm thinking it's time to make a U-turn before I run straight into the proverbial brickwall.
It's true, I chose to take this route again. I've even heard it said that "The road to hell is paved with good intentions", now I believe it!

Today, I layed my cards on the table . To quote Dr. Phil, "It is what it is". "You can't change what you don't acknowledge". Well, the dream is over, I'm no longer in denial. At least I can say I really did all I could. I took all I could. It's time to move on....

At times like this, I always seem to think of songs that speak of how I feel.

Here's a few that came to mind today:

• 'It's Too Late' by Carole King
• 'The Famous Final Scene' by Bob Seger
• 'Get Over It' by Don Henley
• 'Dirty Pool' by Stevie Ray Vaughn

I won't go into all the gory details of how it came to this. Suffice it to say that my Mama didn't raise no fool. Although, lately I have felt a little foolish for being sucked back in, I have recovered. I'm OVER it! If you can't play nice, I ain't gonna play with ya no more! Put that in your pipe and smoke it, Mr. Man!

So, now that I've cleared the air around here and mailed off my taxes, it's time to make a plan. I've done it once and I can do it again.

Here's to a new song, a new dance and definitely a smoother road!

I'm OK,ya'll!

Easter

Easter is my favorite holiday. For Christians, it is a time to remember why Jesus was crucified on the cross and to celebrate his resurrection. The story can be found in Matthew 27 & 28.
We, as Christians believe that He died on the cross of Calvary for the redemption of our sins, that He arose on the third day and ascended into heaven. Tomorrow is Easter Sunday, a day of celebration.


When I was a child, my mom or my aunt would make my sister and me an Easter dress. We always got a new pair of white sandals or black Mary Janes, too. One year our dresses were made out of pink taffeta with tiered ruffle skirts. We were so cute! We would get up early on Easter Sunday and go to sunrise service, then go home and see if the Easter Bunny had left any eggs for us to hunt. Daddy didn't ever go with us, so he hid the eggs while we were at church. My aunt would make us the most beautiful baskets filled with candy and little yellow (fake) chickies. She would put Wisteria petals in with the green plastic grass to make it smell nice. Later in the afternoon, after we had eaten lunch, my brother, sister and I would re-hide our eggs and hunt for them again and again. We used boiled eggs back then and by the time we got through with them, they were pretty much destroyed. Bubba liked to throw them at us. Of course, we would eat a few along the way, along with those big candy eggs with the colored outside and white stuff in the middle. Mix in a few chocolate bunnies and jelly beans and it became quite a lethal combination. I really hated those big marshmallow eggs, but I would eat them any way. I was usually the first one to throw up!

And guess what! We could have EASTER parties at school with real cupcakes and goodies made at home by our 'room mothers'! No one died from eating any of it, either. We could even talk about the real meaning of Easter and not be reprimanded, lest we 'offend' someone. Wow, how times have changed.

I carried on these family traditions with my children. I learned to sew and began making my daughter's Easter dresses. I even made my son a tiny little Easter suit when he was two years old. I still have their first Easter baskets, packed away in a box somewhere. Wish I still had their little outfits, but I can't remember for the life of me what I did with them. Probably gave them to my sister or put them in a garage sale.

After church, I will take my decorated sugar cookies, brownies and pork roast to my sister's house and spend the afternoon with her and her family.
I'm going to try really hard not to digress back into that little girl who used to stuff herself with too many candy eggs, chocolate bunnies and jelly beans. I don't want to throw up all over my new flip flops!

Have a Happy, blessed Easter, ya'll!

A Hairy Story

This is what happens when I try to be creative! One of my clients who is a blonde came in for her regular touch up last week. She's a level 8 (light blonde) with a lot of gray every where but the lower back, or nape area. I asked her if I could go two shades darker in the back, just to add dimension to her style. I mixed up a little dark blonde and applied it to the back. I thought it looked good and she agreed. Fast forward to this afternoon. She called me and said it looked like a Siamese cat back there and could I fix it when she comes in this Friday. I told her she would definitely be quoted in my book in the chapter on hair coloring faux pas. Her husband probably told her it looked weird! Reminds me of the time I colored a clients' hair the most beautiful shade of red, at her request, I might add. When she got home, her husband must have gone ballistic. He threatened to stop payment on the check if I didn't 'put it back' to her natural mousy brown. Seems he was afraid she was too attractive and some other man might notice her. What an insecure, controlling jerk!

My client who has been taking chemo still has a little hair left. She may have to get a hair piece before it's all over with. She wears her hair teased up in a sort of French twist bun. I hope it stops before she goes completely bald. She thinks I can work magic. I need more clients like her! Seriously, I rarely get complaints about my work, so I must be doing something right. If I do mess up, my clients are very forgiving and know that I will make it right. It's only hair, people, not rocket science!

I'm booked pretty solid all week because of Easter. I love it!

He is Risen, ya'll!

The Exciting World of Hair

What a lovely day I had in the world of hair. My first client is always a pleasure to see. She started coming to me again about 8 months ago. After I moved back to Texas from Florida I contacted all my clients, but it took a while for some of them to make their way back to me. One day, out of the blue, she called to make an appointment. I was thrilled to hear from her. I don't know who was cutting her hair while I was gone, but I'm glad she came back!

Before I moved, I referred my clients to several of my friends, including the two of the girls I work with now. A few clients decided to stay with them, but most wanted to come back to me. It can be an awkward situation, but we tried to reassure every one that what ever they chose to do was fine. We wanted them to feel comfortable coming to our salon, no matter which stylist they see. It has worked out really well, because we all know one another's clients and are able to cover for each other if need be.

Some stylists are very 'territorial' when it comes to their clientele. Fortunately, we have established a level of trust and integrity, and we respect each other's boundaries. The comfort of our clients is our main priority, so we would never 'fight' over someone! Believe me, I have worked in salons full of backbiting, 'clientnapping' prima donnas who think they are above folding towels or cleaning up after themselves. Crazy!

I'll be the first to admit that hairdressers are an interesting bunch. We are stereotyped as flighty, egotistical, and temperamental artistes. We dress weird and have extreme hair colors. We move around from salon to salon like herds of cattle. We're slightly twisted, or we wouldn't be in this business, I suppose. It's kind of like show business, in a way. We have to be *on* when we are behind the chair. We entertain, we listen to problems, we laugh and we cry with our clients. Not to mention, that everyone wants their hair to look like Jennifer Aniston's or Lisa Rena's! I used to work with a girl whose favorite line to that was: "You can't make chicken salad out of chicken sh**!" And no, she didn't say that to her client, ya'll. She'd say it later in the back room while we were all sitting around 'discussing' our clients and their hair.

And would you believe that we all have clients who are, shall we say, a challenge? We wonder, if they are so unhappy with their hair, why do they keep coming back to torment us? We think they need a good therapist, cause it ain't always the hair, honey. I swear, I have one or two who I should charge $100.00 an hour, just to listen to their problems. But seriously, that comes with the territory, so I just continue to listen and offer an occasional tibit of advice. Most people don't really want advice, anyway. They just want some one to listen. Everyone has a story and honestly, I love to hear them. Someday, I'm gonna write a book!

I love it, though. Every day is different. I get to laugh and 'cut up' (pun intended) with people I like, yes even the challenging ones. I make them look and feel better. They bring me food and gifts at Christmas and other special occasions. They share their most intimate thoughts and feelings with me, knowing that it will be kept in complete confidence. Besides, I forget half of what I hear because my hairdresser pea brain can't hold it all. I work people in when I am so booked I can't see daylight, because they have an emergency or have to go out of town. I get invited to their weddings and other happy occasions, but have also been to a few funerals.

I could go on, but it's getting late. I want to go watch Saturday Night Live. Antonio Banderas is the guest tonight. He's hot! I'll probably pass out on the couch after the first fifteen minutes, though!

Night, ya'll

Food, Glorious Food!

Our beautiful Sunday brunch of French toast and fresh fruit salad made from fresh pineapple, strawberries, apples, tangerines and green grapes. A garnish of chopped mint leaves enhanced the sweetness of the fruit. The french toast was drizzled with fresh local honey and chopped walnuts. Cinnamon swirl coffee and white grape juice were the perfect compliment to these delectable dishes.
This is absolutely the best chocolate cake in the world! 'Perfectly Chocolate' chocolate cake and frosting. It is so moist! Garnished with sliced strawberries and mint leaves it is heavenly, ya'll!!

The House is Quiet

What a fun filled week I had, ya'll! The rain stopped us from going to Galveston so we had to go the mall instead. The girls wanted to go to the Build a Bear store. One got a puppy and one got another bear. They are so cute. I still needed to get daughter a birthday gift so we looked at clothes. Nothing 'worked'! We stopped in a store that sells oil and vinegar and all kinds of spices, seasonings and condiments. I bought some apple balsamic vinegar, olive oil and Sicilian dipping spices. You mix the spices with olive oil and dip your bread in it. Yum-o! I used the apple balsamic vinegar in a marinade for some country style pork ribs. Very tasty!

Later that evening, daughter and I hit another local mall, still in quest of clothes. We hit the jackpot! We found a cute skirt for her at Foley's. We made our way to Dillard's and found the same skirt, but it was 10.00 more than at Foley's....cha-ching! As we were looking for a top to go with the skirt, would you believe she found another skirt! It was a cute swirly hemmed denim. Of course, it needed just the right blouse too, which we found. Then, I found a cool looking white pant suit. Loved it! Got it, along with a bright orange tank! Ok, then I had to have shoes to go with it. I found some cork wedges, need I say more? Why does every outfit need it's own accessories? It's called 'The snowball effect'. One thing leads to another! We are two peas in a pod when it comes to shopping, my baby girl and I. I taught her well!

On Thursday we went to Old Town Spring and looked around all the little shops. I found a cute animal print harness for Elvis at a pet boutique. The girls spotted a cute shop called Libby Lulu's. It was decorated in bright pink with chandeliers and girly stuff all over the place. Lot's of hats, purses and jewelry. Son in law requested Wunsche Bros Cafe for lunch. They have killer burgers and onion rings!

The girls stayed with me on Friday while their Mom and Dad went fishing with PaPa. We went to the hair salon and I colored my friends' hair who was visiting from west Texas. I took the girls to lunch at Landry's Seafood, then we stopped at Toys R Us to look for a board game called Sequence. We ran in Wal-Mart for a few things, including Floam. The girls said it was neat to play with, so I did what any Memaw would do, I bought them each a pack of it. That kept them busy for the rest of the afternoon. They went to the movies that night to see Ice Age, the Meltdown.

Saturday was the Big Bar b Que. I made potato salad, beans, salsa and guacamole to go with the brisket, ribs and chicken. We made a 'Perfectly Chocolate chocolate cake' for dessert, garnished with fresh strawberries. The recipe is on the Hershey's cocoa can. It is the BEST chocolate cake you will ever eat! My sisters and nieces came over and we all sat around the table, eating and talking. The girls had fun getting re-acquainted with their second cousins.

As we were sitting there, having dessert and coffee, my daughter shared the most exciting news! She and her husband have made application to adopt a baby girl from China. She had already told me earlier and I got emotional all over again. I am so happy for them. They feel very strongly that this is God's will for them and their family at this time. I pray that He blesses them with their baby as soon as possible. The process takes about a year

So, tonight the house is quiet. Little Elvis has been looking for the girls all day. He had so much fun with them, and they loved playing with him. The remnants of a fun filled week are still strewn about. Games boxes are still on the table, empty build a bear boxes and shopping bags are in the bedroom. A forgotten pair of jeans in the laundry....but it's OK...It means that they were here. I will clean up and put things away later. Right now I just want to savor the sweet memories of the past week.

Blessings, ya'll